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Real Vampires #2
Real Vampires Live Large
It's not easy to keep a boyfriend, run a business, and survive for centuries as one of the immortal undead. Glory St. Clair knows-ever since a sexy Scottish vampire bit her while she was a tad...bloated. But when a frustrated vampire hunter firebombs her vintage clothing boutique, she's ready to pitch a fit. Then her long-time, part-time lover takes off in a rage to hunt the hunter and prove himself worthy of her. And that's only the beginning of her troubles.
The Energy Vampires want her-and not in a good way. They're paranormal drug dealers, selling thrills to those who've lived for ages, been everywhere, and done everything...and they want to suck Glory dry. But it'll take more than a few super-suckers to get the goods out of her.
The Energy Vampires want her-and not in a good way. They're paranormal drug dealers, selling thrills to those who've lived for ages, been everywhere, and done everything...and they want to suck Glory dry. But it'll take more than a few super-suckers to get the goods out of her.
297 pages, Paperback
First published July 3, 2007
32 people are currently reading
1812 people want to read
About the author
Gerry Bartlett
32 books920 followersGerry Bartlett figures that vampires are pretty much like everyone else except for the liquid diet.
Eternity or Mexican food? Tough call.
Gerry’s a native Texan and lives halfway between Houston and Galveston. Pictured with her is her late wonder dog, a Bedlington Terrier named Belle.
When she started writing, she was still teaching and used the pseudonym Lynn McKay. You can probably still find her historical and two romantic suspense books for a penny on-line. Now that she’s no longer in the classroom and discovered the fun of writing about vampires, she uses her real name. Too bad some people think Gerry is a boy's name or short for Geraldine. No, it's not. Really.
She's still writing her Real Vampires series but is back to romantic suspense and contemporaries. Her Texas Heat series starts in Houston, her home town. Then there's her Lone Star Suspense series set in Austin where she went to the University of Texas. She loves the hill country there and brought some of her favorite characters from the Texas Heat series to Austin for the fast-paced suspense in the three books in that series.
You can check out Gerry’s website at gerrybartlett.com to find her blog and articles for writers. Her Perils of Publishing gives the scoop on what happens once "the call" comes. Oh, did you think it would be all roses and champagne? Well, of course it is.
When Gerry's not writing, she's treasure hunting for her antiques business in Alvin. Her favorite finds? Vintage purses and jewelry. It's a struggle not to keep it all. Be sure to sign up for her newsletter for the latest info about her books at http://ymlp.com/xgeyeewwgmgw
Eternity or Mexican food? Tough call.
Gerry’s a native Texan and lives halfway between Houston and Galveston. Pictured with her is her late wonder dog, a Bedlington Terrier named Belle.
When she started writing, she was still teaching and used the pseudonym Lynn McKay. You can probably still find her historical and two romantic suspense books for a penny on-line. Now that she’s no longer in the classroom and discovered the fun of writing about vampires, she uses her real name. Too bad some people think Gerry is a boy's name or short for Geraldine. No, it's not. Really.
She's still writing her Real Vampires series but is back to romantic suspense and contemporaries. Her Texas Heat series starts in Houston, her home town. Then there's her Lone Star Suspense series set in Austin where she went to the University of Texas. She loves the hill country there and brought some of her favorite characters from the Texas Heat series to Austin for the fast-paced suspense in the three books in that series.
You can check out Gerry’s website at gerrybartlett.com to find her blog and articles for writers. Her Perils of Publishing gives the scoop on what happens once "the call" comes. Oh, did you think it would be all roses and champagne? Well, of course it is.
When Gerry's not writing, she's treasure hunting for her antiques business in Alvin. Her favorite finds? Vintage purses and jewelry. It's a struggle not to keep it all. Be sure to sign up for her newsletter for the latest info about her books at http://ymlp.com/xgeyeewwgmgw
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
December 31, 2008
Glory is getting settled in her life in Austin. She has her cute little vintage clothing boutique (Vintage Vamps Emporium) and her apartment up above it with her friend and fellow vampire Flo. That lasts for all of two seconds before her place of business is firebombed. Suspecting it is the jerkface Westwood - the relentless Vampire Hunter who thinks it's cool to put the fangs from his vampire on a string around his neck - Glory's "complicated relationship" AKA boyfriend (Jerry) heads out to Africa to try and get Westwood before he can hurt any more vampires.
While he is gone Glory faces all kinds of challenges. The first being the bodyguards stationed to Glory by Jerry. The first and longtime companion for Glory is Valdez - a shape shifter in the form of a Labradoodle. He can talk but only in people's heads. And in this book a second guard is placed on Glory - Will is a shapeshifting Vampire that Glory is none too fond of and he has a bad habbit of getting out of his dog form and walking around in his yummy naked human form.
Glory also has someone out there trying to put the whammy on her - calling to her in her head, giving her headaches. And then it appears in addition to Westwood, the Energy Vampires are after Glory as well. They make potent drugs out of stored energy from vampires - and after 400 years of trying to blend in with Humans - Glory has a lot of built up Vamp energy that they would just love to tap.
Add to all this that Glory has to get her shop put back together so she can make a living, has roommate problems and what is up with Richard Mainwaring - the hot Vamp who Flo dumped and is still coming around...
I really enjoyed this! The first book was a hoot. The second book was a double hoot. I am getting ready for the third and hoping for a triple hoot on that one. ;)
Having my introduction to vampires in the form of Bram stroker and then later Anne Rice, I find these modern day girl power vampire books refreshing. Like a glass of vodka drenched lemonade on a Friday night at a bar with good friends and you know you are going to dance your butt off and have the best time. That's what these books are like.
While he is gone Glory faces all kinds of challenges. The first being the bodyguards stationed to Glory by Jerry. The first and longtime companion for Glory is Valdez - a shape shifter in the form of a Labradoodle. He can talk but only in people's heads. And in this book a second guard is placed on Glory - Will is a shapeshifting Vampire that Glory is none too fond of and he has a bad habbit of getting out of his dog form and walking around in his yummy naked human form.
Glory also has someone out there trying to put the whammy on her - calling to her in her head, giving her headaches. And then it appears in addition to Westwood, the Energy Vampires are after Glory as well. They make potent drugs out of stored energy from vampires - and after 400 years of trying to blend in with Humans - Glory has a lot of built up Vamp energy that they would just love to tap.
Add to all this that Glory has to get her shop put back together so she can make a living, has roommate problems and what is up with Richard Mainwaring - the hot Vamp who Flo dumped and is still coming around...
I really enjoyed this! The first book was a hoot. The second book was a double hoot. I am getting ready for the third and hoping for a triple hoot on that one. ;)
Having my introduction to vampires in the form of Bram stroker and then later Anne Rice, I find these modern day girl power vampire books refreshing. Like a glass of vodka drenched lemonade on a Friday night at a bar with good friends and you know you are going to dance your butt off and have the best time. That's what these books are like.
July 26, 2016
This one seemed disjointed from the first book for me. There’s some connection (the store, Cheetos and Westwood trying to kill her). But other than some interesting harassment incidents, it’s like Westwood’s been put on the back burner and Blade’s been sent away so the new crisis (and male temptation) can take place.
Also somewhere between book 1&2, Glory’s amazingly managed to find the large amount of money and time to repair her broken down car, though it’s only been a short time since she ate the Cheetos (bad idea) since she’s still sick. But I guess the storyline had to let her so could handle the motorcycle and the firebombing expenses (which also faded away).
‘Beware of Greeks/EV’s bearing gifts”. Glory’s just not suspicious enough. For a centuries old vampire, she hasn’t learned much from history. She played right into their hands. Good thing Richard was there.
This time ‘perfect’ Flo made a big mistake. Not really her fault though, since Simon tricked her while she was on a rebound from Richard. And there’s several interesting surprises with the other members of the group.
Speaking of, I’m not sure about Richard. He just kind of ‘appeared’. Not sure if he’s a good guy or just pretending to be. He’s so secretive. He’s supposing chasing the EVs, but when that’s done, how is he going to fit in with the rest of the group? And how does he compare to Blade energy/skill wise.
Glory has enough guy competition with Blade and Damian. I hate that she’s being tempted while he’s gone. But Blade sure has some passionate phone skills to make up for it.
I’m sorry, but I just don’t like the vampire mural. I love the store the way it was and that just ruins it for me. It’s too ‘in your face, vampireish’.
Vampires attending church on Sunday. Interesting concept. No reason why not, just haven’t come across it before. Definitely makes them seem more normal. And is another place for action to happen.
Fave scenes: the rooftop wet sheets, Glory’s phone call to Blade, Glory’s VV dance and her first shape shift.
Also somewhere between book 1&2, Glory’s amazingly managed to find the large amount of money and time to repair her broken down car, though it’s only been a short time since she ate the Cheetos (bad idea) since she’s still sick. But I guess the storyline had to let her so could handle the motorcycle and the firebombing expenses (which also faded away).
‘Beware of Greeks/EV’s bearing gifts”. Glory’s just not suspicious enough. For a centuries old vampire, she hasn’t learned much from history. She played right into their hands. Good thing Richard was there.
This time ‘perfect’ Flo made a big mistake. Not really her fault though, since Simon tricked her while she was on a rebound from Richard. And there’s several interesting surprises with the other members of the group.
Speaking of, I’m not sure about Richard. He just kind of ‘appeared’. Not sure if he’s a good guy or just pretending to be. He’s so secretive. He’s supposing chasing the EVs, but when that’s done, how is he going to fit in with the rest of the group? And how does he compare to Blade energy/skill wise.
Glory has enough guy competition with Blade and Damian. I hate that she’s being tempted while he’s gone. But Blade sure has some passionate phone skills to make up for it.
I’m sorry, but I just don’t like the vampire mural. I love the store the way it was and that just ruins it for me. It’s too ‘in your face, vampireish’.
Vampires attending church on Sunday. Interesting concept. No reason why not, just haven’t come across it before. Definitely makes them seem more normal. And is another place for action to happen.
Fave scenes: the rooftop wet sheets, Glory’s phone call to Blade, Glory’s VV dance and her first shape shift.
January 26, 2011
I'm liking this series more and more (I only gave the 1st book 3 stars, I think). But I'm not sure if the books are really that great or I'm just enjoying reading books set right up the highway from me in Austin, Texas. Think about it, tho; if vampires left NOLA for any southwestern city, I believe it would be Austin! The city who's proud to be weird and prints up the t-shirts to prove it. Plus there's TONS of nightlife, Bat Cave Road and politicians to feed from *snark*.
Glorianna is a size 12 vamp who owns a vintage clothing store called VintageVamps - who better to get great consignment clothing from those friends who lived those years with her? She has a real can-do attitude, knows and plays to her best assets (the girls) but has many of the same misgivings we "real" ladies do (dislikes her body size, worries about her man when he's around beautiful, skinny female vamps, stresses about how to pay her bills while feeding her vintage clothing addiction, etc.). Glory has many problems I gladly don't, however, such as being the target of a billionaire vampire hunter (the same guy who had VintageVamps firebombed, ruining all those beautiful clothes!) and the target of an EV(emotional vamp)ring who wants to steal all her unused and untapped power to make ... VV - Vampire Viagra (no, they definitely don't need it for THAT, just to make sex a little different after all those hundreds of years).
I know this sounds kinda corny but it really isn't. This series is well-written, charismatic and just light-hearted enough to be a change from all those angsty vampire books I've been reading lately. I also happen to love the hunky vamp guys Glory keeps runing into while trying to decide whether to keep trying to keep her independence from Jerry, her loooong time boyfriend (like from the Crusades). He is a Scottish warrior who is very protective of Glory and can't seem to get the hang of independent modern women; they break up when she can't take any more of his telling her what to do (old habits are hard to break) instead of asking her or believing she can take care of her self.
So I intend to read the next book and see if Ms. Bartlett keeps getting better. And if not, I'll at least enjoy reading about one of Austin's most unique vintage clothing stores!
Glorianna is a size 12 vamp who owns a vintage clothing store called VintageVamps - who better to get great consignment clothing from those friends who lived those years with her? She has a real can-do attitude, knows and plays to her best assets (the girls) but has many of the same misgivings we "real" ladies do (dislikes her body size, worries about her man when he's around beautiful, skinny female vamps, stresses about how to pay her bills while feeding her vintage clothing addiction, etc.). Glory has many problems I gladly don't, however, such as being the target of a billionaire vampire hunter (the same guy who had VintageVamps firebombed, ruining all those beautiful clothes!) and the target of an EV(emotional vamp)ring who wants to steal all her unused and untapped power to make ... VV - Vampire Viagra (no, they definitely don't need it for THAT, just to make sex a little different after all those hundreds of years).
I know this sounds kinda corny but it really isn't. This series is well-written, charismatic and just light-hearted enough to be a change from all those angsty vampire books I've been reading lately. I also happen to love the hunky vamp guys Glory keeps runing into while trying to decide whether to keep trying to keep her independence from Jerry, her loooong time boyfriend (like from the Crusades). He is a Scottish warrior who is very protective of Glory and can't seem to get the hang of independent modern women; they break up when she can't take any more of his telling her what to do (old habits are hard to break) instead of asking her or believing she can take care of her self.
So I intend to read the next book and see if Ms. Bartlett keeps getting better. And if not, I'll at least enjoy reading about one of Austin's most unique vintage clothing stores!
May 2, 2010
The second book in the Gloriana St. Clair series delves into her world's rules.
Full-figured (I wouldn't keep going on about it but she does - constantly) Gloriana's beloved store is fire bombed and it's clear to the vamp community, that a local vampire hunter is the perpetrator. BTW, the paranormal population is flourishing in Austin despite the previously mentioned local vampire hunter who is also a billionaire has them all up in arms.
Jeremiah Blade, Gloriana's on-again, off-again lover is after the hunter who he knows won’t stop hunting. Despite his reservations, he leaves Austin to find the hunter, leaving Glory to her own devices as she rebuilds. He does contract a shapeshifter to serve as an additional bodyguard, to help Valdez, her current bodyguard in a labradoodle’s body. Despite these precautions, Glory discovers that human hunters aren’t the only thing she has to worry about. Energy vampires (vampires who drain power from other vamps) have targeted her and want a power donation, whether she wills it, or no.
While I liked this book, I found Glory's lack of knowledge a bit irritating. I understand some of it was for exposition purposes, but she's been a vampire for over four hundred years and while I could buy some of the gaps in her knowledge of the paranormal, IMHO, this book makes her sound like an idiot at times. It seems as though she's trying to be ignorant which is not an attractive quality.
Despite some reservations, I am planning to read the third book in the series. Take from that what you will.
Full-figured (I wouldn't keep going on about it but she does - constantly) Gloriana's beloved store is fire bombed and it's clear to the vamp community, that a local vampire hunter is the perpetrator. BTW, the paranormal population is flourishing in Austin despite the previously mentioned local vampire hunter who is also a billionaire has them all up in arms.
Jeremiah Blade, Gloriana's on-again, off-again lover is after the hunter who he knows won’t stop hunting. Despite his reservations, he leaves Austin to find the hunter, leaving Glory to her own devices as she rebuilds. He does contract a shapeshifter to serve as an additional bodyguard, to help Valdez, her current bodyguard in a labradoodle’s body. Despite these precautions, Glory discovers that human hunters aren’t the only thing she has to worry about. Energy vampires (vampires who drain power from other vamps) have targeted her and want a power donation, whether she wills it, or no.
While I liked this book, I found Glory's lack of knowledge a bit irritating. I understand some of it was for exposition purposes, but she's been a vampire for over four hundred years and while I could buy some of the gaps in her knowledge of the paranormal, IMHO, this book makes her sound like an idiot at times. It seems as though she's trying to be ignorant which is not an attractive quality.
Despite some reservations, I am planning to read the third book in the series. Take from that what you will.
May 29, 2016
Much stronger plot than anticipated. More character development. Not sure I'm 100% comfortable with the open relationship thing. Maybe that will change further down the series. Entertaining read.
August 18, 2020
Parts of this book were interesting. Much of it was like watching grass grow. I wanted to find out how it ended, but at the same time I wanted to never have to read another word. Glory is the problem. She falls in instalust with every man she meets. She has absolutely no sense at all! She's a whiny wimp who makes me want to slap her. First of all, Damian. He basically mind-raped her. Now she's fine with that apparently and sees him as a friend (a really super sexy friend that she still kind of wants to sleep with). Then there's the guy who ALSO mind raped her (made her forget they ever knew each other AND tried to make her strip in public). She just invites him in her shop (even though pretty much anyone seems to be able to break through her mental barricade). She thinks he's super hot (of course), but golly-gee, she's so brave and scares him off with a fertility idol. Insert eye roll here. Then there's Simon. He's also super hot, because he appears to her as Blade (who is SUPER hot and she loves him but she doesn't love him but she does). He's been basically raping her best friend and drugging her until she's addicted and unable to think for herself, but Glory just can't bear the thought of HURTING him! Gosh, that would be "sacrilege"! She also accepts a case of fake blood (the expensive stuff!) from him as an apology...even though she knows he's an evil drug dealer who isn't above forcing his product on people. Of course it's drugged. She doesn't realize it till she's trying to hump her bff's ex. And on to Richard. She knows he still loves Flo. She thinks Flo loves him. Still, she wants to hump his brains out (even before the vampire viagra). Because, you know, that's what best friends do, apparently. Other things left me confused. HOW does she know that Valdez is a man? How do we suddenly know that Blade forces them to become dogs to "protect" Glory? Did I miss something. Did my brain zone out from boredom again? Also, Glory is carrying around a Cheeto baby because she made the mistake of trying to eat, but she can lick cake frosting off her fingers with no trouble. Is icing considered a liquid? I'm confused.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2020
Story is told in first person pov by voluptuous vampire, Gloriana 'Glory' St Clair.
Glory is busy running her boutique, Vintage Vamp's Emporium, while managing her on and off relationship with ancient vampire Jeremy Blade. Things are going well until a notorious vampire hunter firebombs her shop, nearly killing Glory and the other vampires who live in the apartments above the shop. They are saved by her shape-shifting guard dog, Valdez. Blade is enraged and goes after Westwood, who is rumored to be in Argentina. In the meantime, someone from Glory's past returns, her roommate, Flo, is acting out of character, and Blade assigns another guard dog to protect Glory. When she learns the man from her past is working with the Energy Vampires (EVs), Glory is alarmed, especially when Kaplan implies that she has a lot of untapped power that his boss would like to use. Glory worries that Flo is becoming addicted to the illegal drug the EVs are creating by siphoning the power from other vampires, and she must still be on her guard against Westwood's hunters. Things come to a head when the leader of the EVs holds Flo hostage and demands that Glory surrender herself to him to save her friend. However, Gloriana St Clair isn't going down without a fight.
This was paranormal lite for the most part. It was a fun read with just enough danger to keep it from being too fluffy. Glory is a lively, spunky character, the plot moved at a good pace and made sense, and the sex scenes were hot. My only complaint is that having two main plots/antagonists was almost too much. One storyline/enemy per book, please!
Good read, four stars.
Glory is busy running her boutique, Vintage Vamp's Emporium, while managing her on and off relationship with ancient vampire Jeremy Blade. Things are going well until a notorious vampire hunter firebombs her shop, nearly killing Glory and the other vampires who live in the apartments above the shop. They are saved by her shape-shifting guard dog, Valdez. Blade is enraged and goes after Westwood, who is rumored to be in Argentina. In the meantime, someone from Glory's past returns, her roommate, Flo, is acting out of character, and Blade assigns another guard dog to protect Glory. When she learns the man from her past is working with the Energy Vampires (EVs), Glory is alarmed, especially when Kaplan implies that she has a lot of untapped power that his boss would like to use. Glory worries that Flo is becoming addicted to the illegal drug the EVs are creating by siphoning the power from other vampires, and she must still be on her guard against Westwood's hunters. Things come to a head when the leader of the EVs holds Flo hostage and demands that Glory surrender herself to him to save her friend. However, Gloriana St Clair isn't going down without a fight.
This was paranormal lite for the most part. It was a fun read with just enough danger to keep it from being too fluffy. Glory is a lively, spunky character, the plot moved at a good pace and made sense, and the sex scenes were hot. My only complaint is that having two main plots/antagonists was almost too much. One storyline/enemy per book, please!
Good read, four stars.
January 12, 2019
I don’t mind chick lit books but the thing that drives me crazy about this series is that it skips chunks of time in the same chapter without any kind of **** or warnings. One second Glory having a conversation in her shop, and the next, a week has gone by. It’s jarring.
Also reading these first two books, they don’t match up with what happened in the prequel book “When Glory met Jerry.” Conflicting histories.
Also reading these first two books, they don’t match up with what happened in the prequel book “When Glory met Jerry.” Conflicting histories.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2018
This series isn't thrilling me and honestly, if I didn't already have other books in it already I'd stop reading it. Glory and her flip-flopping regarding men is getting annoying rather than endearing. Other than that, the story is good and the side characters are enjoyable. I like it but I don't REALLY like it.
December 12, 2017
Love this series
February 14, 2018
Fun read and great story .
May 30, 2018
3,5 - 4 Sterne
February 6, 2019
Fun read.
December 25, 2019
Good book can’t wait to read more of glory st. Clair
August 14, 2024
Not a literary masterpiece, but so entertaining and funny.
September 5, 2025
This is a pretty fun read although it should be rated X. Its not for the faint at heart or young readers. I love the story line and the character development. Good read
February 22, 2015
It's been a while since I read the first book in the series so I thought it was about time that I continue on for the next Glory St. Claire and menagerie romp. It wasn't five pages in and I was snickering and curling up in my chair to get comfortable. Glory is the common woman's vampire and she gets herself hip deep in 'gators without even trying. This is book two and should probably be read in order though in a pinch the reader would do alright with starting here with this one.
This book picks up close to where the last one left off. Glory and her friends are settling back down after a huge menace is driven off temporarily or so they think. Glory and Diana's shops are firebombed in the day while the vamps are sleeping in their day sleep above the shop. Valdez comes to the rescue and Glory makes the six o'clock news. Her shop is ruined and she suspects Westwood out to get vengeance. Jeremiah her on again off again lover along with other friends are there to give comfort and help. Jerry is set on catching Westwood once and for all so off he goes to chase the man down leaving Glory with a second dog bodyguard that she doesn't want.
Meanwhile, she owes Richard Mainwaring for accidentally running over his vintage bike and she's being stalked by vampires who want to drain her for energy they can turn into drugs for paranormals. Glory has a friend behaving oddly, a homicidal vampire hunter trying to kill her, an unwanted ex who has a not so interesting proposition, a too inquisitive reporter suspicious about a little show of fang, and a shop to get back into shape. A curvy girl vampire's work is never done.
I'm not sure if Glory is growing on me or maybe I was in the right mood, but I had a much better time with this book than with book one. In book one, Glory came across as flaky a lot of the time to me, but it wasn't like that in this one. She still has a flaming libido that distracts her, a complex about being a curvy gal and she still struggles with her powers, but those things were balanced and not the only thing going on in her head. There was a lot more action and less explaining and mental monologue too. Glory is surrounded by a great cast of quirky regular characters that all just enhance the fun and mayhem. And Jeremiah Campbell- a lot more of the sexy Scottish vampire and Glory was a verra good thing. Jeremiah takes phone sex to new levels- just ask Glory about his phantom hands and erm other parts.
There is a new threat to Glory and also a new character. I loved Valdez the dog guardian in the last book, but he is joined by another dog guardian, Will, who is quite the character. Will is only on temporary assignment until he pays off a gambling debt, but he is a lady's man and gambler still even in shifted form.
There is lots of steam, humor and a whole new adventure for Glory and her friends in this latest installment. I'm now eager to progress to the next book. This series is a good one to pick up if you like light and humorous Urban Fantasy.
This book picks up close to where the last one left off. Glory and her friends are settling back down after a huge menace is driven off temporarily or so they think. Glory and Diana's shops are firebombed in the day while the vamps are sleeping in their day sleep above the shop. Valdez comes to the rescue and Glory makes the six o'clock news. Her shop is ruined and she suspects Westwood out to get vengeance. Jeremiah her on again off again lover along with other friends are there to give comfort and help. Jerry is set on catching Westwood once and for all so off he goes to chase the man down leaving Glory with a second dog bodyguard that she doesn't want.
Meanwhile, she owes Richard Mainwaring for accidentally running over his vintage bike and she's being stalked by vampires who want to drain her for energy they can turn into drugs for paranormals. Glory has a friend behaving oddly, a homicidal vampire hunter trying to kill her, an unwanted ex who has a not so interesting proposition, a too inquisitive reporter suspicious about a little show of fang, and a shop to get back into shape. A curvy girl vampire's work is never done.
I'm not sure if Glory is growing on me or maybe I was in the right mood, but I had a much better time with this book than with book one. In book one, Glory came across as flaky a lot of the time to me, but it wasn't like that in this one. She still has a flaming libido that distracts her, a complex about being a curvy gal and she still struggles with her powers, but those things were balanced and not the only thing going on in her head. There was a lot more action and less explaining and mental monologue too. Glory is surrounded by a great cast of quirky regular characters that all just enhance the fun and mayhem. And Jeremiah Campbell- a lot more of the sexy Scottish vampire and Glory was a verra good thing. Jeremiah takes phone sex to new levels- just ask Glory about his phantom hands and erm other parts.
There is a new threat to Glory and also a new character. I loved Valdez the dog guardian in the last book, but he is joined by another dog guardian, Will, who is quite the character. Will is only on temporary assignment until he pays off a gambling debt, but he is a lady's man and gambler still even in shifted form.
There is lots of steam, humor and a whole new adventure for Glory and her friends in this latest installment. I'm now eager to progress to the next book. This series is a good one to pick up if you like light and humorous Urban Fantasy.
August 2, 2014
I really enjoyed "Real Vampires Have Curves" even though I felt like many of the plot devices were used too frequently in other paranormal romances lately. But I liked Glory...and I loved Valdez her bodyguard dog. I still liked Glory here in the follow up novel. I was tired of her calling herself a 'sl..' and talking about how she was too easy. Worse yet, she kinda came off this way in this book and I didn't get that at all from the first one. The mystery was more dull in this one, if you could even call it a mystery. Glory's roomie and best friend Flo starts dating a EV- Emotional Vampire, who plys her with VV, vampire viagra. This drug sounds like a vampire combination of viagra and ecstasy. Glory has tons of power stored up in her body because she has never drained it by shape-shifting. Now the EV's want to harvest the power from Glory to make the VV. Damian, who I liked in the first book takes a small back seat role here. Blade, Glory's main squeeze, is absent for most of this book. The book introduces Will, another guard dog for Glory and he isn't nearly as appealing as Valdez. I am hopeful he won't continue to be in her services for much longer. Richard, the ex priest, turned vampire hottie dated Flo in the previous book. He didn't have much personality then. Now he is a main character and has the hots for Glory. (Damian had the hots for Glory in the first book). The problem with Richard is that he and Damian could be completely interchangable. I think their personalities are identical. Unfortunately this equated to me not really caring about either one. They were both very generic. Then there was another new character, who was Glory's lover a long time ago...and he is interested in Glory. It may be a personal preference but I just don't love books where every guy wants the heroine. Its not realistic and it reeks of Mary Sue syndrome. Two stars because I still really liked Glory and Valdez....and because I loved what Glory eventually did at the end of the story in regards to her shape-shifting problem. Other than these things, I just didn't feel the book. I have the third one in my TBR pile where I found it on clearance at the used bookstore for $2.00. Eventually I will probably get around to reading it.
April 11, 2010
Real Vampires Live Large is the second novel in the Glory St. Clair series by Gerry Bartlett. In the first novel (Real Vampires Have Curves) Glory St. Clair, a sassy full-figured vampire, opened up a vintage clothing store in Austin, Texas. Now there has been a fire in her store, and it wasn’t an accident! On top of that, Glory’s close friend Flo is getting involved with some seriously trashy drug dealing vampires. Oh, and don’t think she isn’t still dealing with a bunch of hunky male vampires being overprotective and frisky. As always, Glory gets herself into some tough, tricky situations being the independent woman that she is, but the results are hilarious and thrilling!
Real Vampires Live Large is packed full of exciting plot twists, unforgettable characters, steamy sex scenes, and laughs. One of the things I liked best about this novel was that Glory embodies a lot of qualities you don’t find in paranormal romance novels often. She’s full-figured, and yes, she does get a little self-conscious about it at times, but overall, she embraces her curves and knows she’s sexy. Glory is a positive figure because she represents a lot of women. She’s a very “real” character because even though she’s strong and independent, she still has her weaker moments, her doubts, and her fears. We all make mistakes, and so does Glory. She’s not perfect, but that’s perfectly alright. She is so easy to relate to, and her mannerisms are often things I do.
This novel featured a great cast of characters. Some were returning from the previous novel and some were making their debut. More information was revealed about a few of the more elusive characters from Real Vampires Have Curves, and I was pleased to learn more about Valdez’s back story. Real Vampires Live Large was a quick read that I found nearly impossible to put down. It had a lot of refreshing ideas about vampires and their preternatural abilities that appealed to me. This novel (and series) would be a perfect read for lovers of urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and vampires. I can safely say that I will definitely be continuing the series.
Real Vampires Live Large is packed full of exciting plot twists, unforgettable characters, steamy sex scenes, and laughs. One of the things I liked best about this novel was that Glory embodies a lot of qualities you don’t find in paranormal romance novels often. She’s full-figured, and yes, she does get a little self-conscious about it at times, but overall, she embraces her curves and knows she’s sexy. Glory is a positive figure because she represents a lot of women. She’s a very “real” character because even though she’s strong and independent, she still has her weaker moments, her doubts, and her fears. We all make mistakes, and so does Glory. She’s not perfect, but that’s perfectly alright. She is so easy to relate to, and her mannerisms are often things I do.
This novel featured a great cast of characters. Some were returning from the previous novel and some were making their debut. More information was revealed about a few of the more elusive characters from Real Vampires Have Curves, and I was pleased to learn more about Valdez’s back story. Real Vampires Live Large was a quick read that I found nearly impossible to put down. It had a lot of refreshing ideas about vampires and their preternatural abilities that appealed to me. This novel (and series) would be a perfect read for lovers of urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and vampires. I can safely say that I will definitely be continuing the series.
November 29, 2010
Glory St. Clair's Vintage Vamps Emporium is firebombed while she sleeps. Luckily, her guard dog Valdez, comes to her rescue. The culprit of the firebombing? The billionaire Brent Westwood, who wants Glory and every other vampire dead. The same hunter who wears a necklace of vampire fangs around his neck.
Glory, however, has more problems than just Westood. There's a new group in town called the Energy Vampires, and they want Glory's power. They send a vampire for whom Glory supposingly had a trieste with in the 1960's in NYC. She, of course, can remember this since her memories were cleansed. The EV's have already siphered her roomie Flo's and got her addicted to a drug called the Vampire Viagra.
The chemistry between Glory and Jeremy is intense in this book. They can barely stand to keep their clothes on around each other. Of course, there's the whole Glory being sent a package of AB blood from the EV's leader Simon. After drinking some of the tainted blood, Glory throws herself at Richard, who then gets Glory to drink his blood to mute the effects of the VV.
This series is funny, and outlandish at times. Glory is finally becoming an independent and successful business owner, and has lots of friends that support her and she no longer has to fully rely on Jeremy, as much as he wants her to. For the first time, she actually shifts to save her dog Valdez, and her friend Flo from Simon's EV drain. These books are also quick reads. I finished this book in less than 5 hours.
Glory, however, has more problems than just Westood. There's a new group in town called the Energy Vampires, and they want Glory's power. They send a vampire for whom Glory supposingly had a trieste with in the 1960's in NYC. She, of course, can remember this since her memories were cleansed. The EV's have already siphered her roomie Flo's and got her addicted to a drug called the Vampire Viagra.
The chemistry between Glory and Jeremy is intense in this book. They can barely stand to keep their clothes on around each other. Of course, there's the whole Glory being sent a package of AB blood from the EV's leader Simon. After drinking some of the tainted blood, Glory throws herself at Richard, who then gets Glory to drink his blood to mute the effects of the VV.
This series is funny, and outlandish at times. Glory is finally becoming an independent and successful business owner, and has lots of friends that support her and she no longer has to fully rely on Jeremy, as much as he wants her to. For the first time, she actually shifts to save her dog Valdez, and her friend Flo from Simon's EV drain. These books are also quick reads. I finished this book in less than 5 hours.
May 21, 2011
Don't get me wrong with a two star rating, it was a cute book, I just really try not to over mark the books. Because then when I find one that's really amazing can get five stars like it deserves.
I read the first book a long time ago, can't say I remember it too well, but I imagine this was a good follow up.
Gloriana st clair is a vampire who is watched over by her on again off again lover and maker jeremy blade. In the last book a millionare mortal, Westwood, almost killed glory. So in this one jeremy is off to try and kill him since he's a danger to vampires and what not. Of course jeremy leaves her gaurded with two shapeshifting dogs. Gloriana is tracked down by an old boyfriend who she remembers nothing about bc he whiped her memory. Well he is trying to get her to his boss, a drug dealer. Energy vampires that use your energy to make vampire viagra. Well king of the EVs wants glorys power and does just about everything he can to get to her..including hooking her roomie/best friend Flo on the drug.
At first I thought it started out slow..all about vampire sex not enough about trying to catch westwood or the new plot with the EVs. But once it finally got to that I found it pretty good. Not amazing but pretty good, the ending was nice. and when I mean nice I mean described well, I imagined it like I was watching a movie or something. If you've read the first then I suggest getting this one too just bc its cute and fun and a quick read. You don't even really need the first book to read this one
I read the first book a long time ago, can't say I remember it too well, but I imagine this was a good follow up.
Gloriana st clair is a vampire who is watched over by her on again off again lover and maker jeremy blade. In the last book a millionare mortal, Westwood, almost killed glory. So in this one jeremy is off to try and kill him since he's a danger to vampires and what not. Of course jeremy leaves her gaurded with two shapeshifting dogs. Gloriana is tracked down by an old boyfriend who she remembers nothing about bc he whiped her memory. Well he is trying to get her to his boss, a drug dealer. Energy vampires that use your energy to make vampire viagra. Well king of the EVs wants glorys power and does just about everything he can to get to her..including hooking her roomie/best friend Flo on the drug.
At first I thought it started out slow..all about vampire sex not enough about trying to catch westwood or the new plot with the EVs. But once it finally got to that I found it pretty good. Not amazing but pretty good, the ending was nice. and when I mean nice I mean described well, I imagined it like I was watching a movie or something. If you've read the first then I suggest getting this one too just bc its cute and fun and a quick read. You don't even really need the first book to read this one
June 13, 2008
Real Vampires Live Large
Okay, I have to say: I think these books are a stitch. This is book 2 in a series, I’m already half way through book 3. They are difficult, but they are fun and witty. There are times when I laugh out loud at Valdez, the shape shifting guard of Glory – who is in the form of a labradoodle.
Here’s the gist:
Blade and Mara are off to Namibia to find Westwood and try to kill him. I can’t imagine they are going to be successful on that front for quite a while or who would the “bad guys” be? In the meantime, he leaves Will, another shape shifting guard, to help Valdez keep an eye on Glory.
Can you imagine that there are vampire drug dealers? Yes, there are. They call themselves “Energy Vamps” and they steal the energy from vampires – or buy it – to make “Vampire Viagra.” Yes, you read that correctly. Not to prolong endurance but to increase sensation in both men and women. Apparently, it is also quite addictive, as Glory’s friend and roommate, Flo, finds out.
The Energy Vamps want Glory since she hasn’t shape shifted so she has a lot of stored up energy. 400 years worth. Glory has to try to not get abducted by EVs all the while dealing with day to day life – like her store that has been vandalized and she must now rebuild, and weird emails and messages from Westwood.
Here’s a bit of a spoiler: Glory finally shape shifts and you will not believe the animal she chose. That’s all.
Okay, I have to say: I think these books are a stitch. This is book 2 in a series, I’m already half way through book 3. They are difficult, but they are fun and witty. There are times when I laugh out loud at Valdez, the shape shifting guard of Glory – who is in the form of a labradoodle.
Here’s the gist:
Blade and Mara are off to Namibia to find Westwood and try to kill him. I can’t imagine they are going to be successful on that front for quite a while or who would the “bad guys” be? In the meantime, he leaves Will, another shape shifting guard, to help Valdez keep an eye on Glory.
Can you imagine that there are vampire drug dealers? Yes, there are. They call themselves “Energy Vamps” and they steal the energy from vampires – or buy it – to make “Vampire Viagra.” Yes, you read that correctly. Not to prolong endurance but to increase sensation in both men and women. Apparently, it is also quite addictive, as Glory’s friend and roommate, Flo, finds out.
The Energy Vamps want Glory since she hasn’t shape shifted so she has a lot of stored up energy. 400 years worth. Glory has to try to not get abducted by EVs all the while dealing with day to day life – like her store that has been vandalized and she must now rebuild, and weird emails and messages from Westwood.
Here’s a bit of a spoiler: Glory finally shape shifts and you will not believe the animal she chose. That’s all.
February 23, 2011
From: http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/b/g...
It's not easy to keep a boyfriend, run a business, and survive for centuries as one of the immortal undead. Glory St. Clair knows-ever since a sexy Scottish vampire bit her while she was a tad...bloated. But when a frustrated vampire hunter firebombs her vintage clothing boutique, she's ready to pitch a fit. Then her long-time, part-time lover takes off in a rage to hunt the hunter and prove himself worthy of her. And that's only the beginning of her troubles.
The Energy Vampires want her-and not in a good way. They're paranormal drug dealers, selling thrills to those who've lived for ages, been everywhere, and done everything...and they want to suck Glory dry. But it'll take more than a few super-suckers to get the goods out of her.
My Thoughts:
I have to agree with the other Authors who have sung her praises; Glory is every woman with fangs. Gerry Bartlett has created a relatable world and a character in Glory St. Claire that I can get behind.
The books move along at a comfortable pace, keeping you interested in what happens and the development of the other characters. It’s nice to see a vampire who isn’t perfect, and who has body issues. And when a book has me pulling the next one off the shelf to get started on it has moved to the top of my list of favorite Authors.
It's not easy to keep a boyfriend, run a business, and survive for centuries as one of the immortal undead. Glory St. Clair knows-ever since a sexy Scottish vampire bit her while she was a tad...bloated. But when a frustrated vampire hunter firebombs her vintage clothing boutique, she's ready to pitch a fit. Then her long-time, part-time lover takes off in a rage to hunt the hunter and prove himself worthy of her. And that's only the beginning of her troubles.
The Energy Vampires want her-and not in a good way. They're paranormal drug dealers, selling thrills to those who've lived for ages, been everywhere, and done everything...and they want to suck Glory dry. But it'll take more than a few super-suckers to get the goods out of her.
My Thoughts:
I have to agree with the other Authors who have sung her praises; Glory is every woman with fangs. Gerry Bartlett has created a relatable world and a character in Glory St. Claire that I can get behind.
The books move along at a comfortable pace, keeping you interested in what happens and the development of the other characters. It’s nice to see a vampire who isn’t perfect, and who has body issues. And when a book has me pulling the next one off the shelf to get started on it has moved to the top of my list of favorite Authors.
May 23, 2008
LOL, awesome!
I’m really enjoying this series. Lots of laughs, great action scenes (in and out of the bedroom), and great, likable characters.
I love Glory. Sharp, sassy, I love her attitude - not only about life but about the people she cares about and those she hates with a passion. Even when things get tough, she prevails and charges full steam ahead.
While Blade runs off to hunt the vampire hunter that’s after her, a whole new set of problems arise that Glory has to deal with. You get to learn a little more about Richard in this one, but not much. I truly adore Valdez, Glory’s bodyguard/dog, and I’ll be sorry if/when she loses him. A new ‘bodyguard’ also pops into the scene, as well as an old flame that takes her by surprise.
Even though the author wrote two different plots, one is for sure ongoing, the other could pop up at anytime - I liked how one is only sort-of resolved. It’s hard to talk about this novel without spoiling it for those who have yet to read it. Glory is finding her footing more and more, her independent streak shines on, but she isn’t afraid to ask for help. She conquers one of her fears in this one, and I truly liked how it played out. An excellent read!
I’m really enjoying this series. Lots of laughs, great action scenes (in and out of the bedroom), and great, likable characters.
I love Glory. Sharp, sassy, I love her attitude - not only about life but about the people she cares about and those she hates with a passion. Even when things get tough, she prevails and charges full steam ahead.
While Blade runs off to hunt the vampire hunter that’s after her, a whole new set of problems arise that Glory has to deal with. You get to learn a little more about Richard in this one, but not much. I truly adore Valdez, Glory’s bodyguard/dog, and I’ll be sorry if/when she loses him. A new ‘bodyguard’ also pops into the scene, as well as an old flame that takes her by surprise.
Even though the author wrote two different plots, one is for sure ongoing, the other could pop up at anytime - I liked how one is only sort-of resolved. It’s hard to talk about this novel without spoiling it for those who have yet to read it. Glory is finding her footing more and more, her independent streak shines on, but she isn’t afraid to ask for help. She conquers one of her fears in this one, and I truly liked how it played out. An excellent read!
May 15, 2009
Glory, beautiful and the larger than life vamp is back with her hilarious motley crew of undead friends and other shape shifters. Glory this time around has a little triangle going between Gerry, her maker and one true love, or at least lust and Richard who use to be her roommate's fling. Both men adore the person Glory is and they are not afraid to show it. They adore a woman with curves, and she has them, rightly so. It is about time an author showcased a "real" woman in a wonderful interpretation.
Along with the every day issues like running her store, dating and helping her friends out, Glory also has to watch her back because vampire hunters are after her and there is now a black market blood type Viagra, in which one night Glory drinks by accident and you can just imagine what happens (Richard is there this time and not Gerry).
The first person point of view of Glory is so funny and her attraction for Gerry and visa-versa is hot and cute. A true laugh a minute and if only Glory was a real person!
For fans of vampires that have fun and live life to the fullest, this is one read that won't disappoint!
Along with the every day issues like running her store, dating and helping her friends out, Glory also has to watch her back because vampire hunters are after her and there is now a black market blood type Viagra, in which one night Glory drinks by accident and you can just imagine what happens (Richard is there this time and not Gerry).
The first person point of view of Glory is so funny and her attraction for Gerry and visa-versa is hot and cute. A true laugh a minute and if only Glory was a real person!
For fans of vampires that have fun and live life to the fullest, this is one read that won't disappoint!
February 2, 2012
Firstly, let me take a moment to heave a large lust-filled sigh of longing for Jeremiah Campbell, AKA Jeremy Blade AKA Jerry... What a man/vampire!!! The guy gives new meaning to phone sex!!! And not to mention what he does with real sex!!!! Okay, enough with the exclamation marks, but I do love this man.
Truth is, I love these books! Glory St Clair is awesome. I especially love that this series is written in first person because I love being in Glory's head. She's funny, smart (although she and others don't always think so), she's brave and yet, she also isn't afraid to admit that sometimes she wants to be safe in Jerry's arms (and who wouldn't?). The supporting characters are also wonderful and provide great humour to the story. Especially the dogs and the ghosts!!
Can't wait to read book three and I'm very glad I bought them all in a sudden splurge after reading the first one "Real Vampires Have Curves". If you haven't read that one, make sure you read it first, as this one does mention events that happened in it quite a bit!
Truth is, I love these books! Glory St Clair is awesome. I especially love that this series is written in first person because I love being in Glory's head. She's funny, smart (although she and others don't always think so), she's brave and yet, she also isn't afraid to admit that sometimes she wants to be safe in Jerry's arms (and who wouldn't?). The supporting characters are also wonderful and provide great humour to the story. Especially the dogs and the ghosts!!
Can't wait to read book three and I'm very glad I bought them all in a sudden splurge after reading the first one "Real Vampires Have Curves". If you haven't read that one, make sure you read it first, as this one does mention events that happened in it quite a bit!
June 22, 2013
I have already said before that I love Glory and book 2 has not changed that opinion but in fact has probably just sealed that opinion.
I didn't seem to have the same problems I had with number 1, I was able to get into it straight away (probably as I knew what to expect) and even though the writing and dialogue was still simple it didn't detract from the book/story.
In Real Vampires Live Large we see Glory being a bit more independant and coming more into her own. Flo her best friend goes off the rails a little bit and Jerry (on again off again lover) has had to leave for various reasons, leaving Glory to defend herself. And what a fine job she does too!
We see a little bit more of the other characters in this book and also we get to know more of their histories - I always like this as it makes them seem more real.
Glory is still having her usual dilemas and issues and we even learn a few things about the great Valdez - love his character and the comic relief it adds to the book.
Glory gets another 4/5!
I didn't seem to have the same problems I had with number 1, I was able to get into it straight away (probably as I knew what to expect) and even though the writing and dialogue was still simple it didn't detract from the book/story.
In Real Vampires Live Large we see Glory being a bit more independant and coming more into her own. Flo her best friend goes off the rails a little bit and Jerry (on again off again lover) has had to leave for various reasons, leaving Glory to defend herself. And what a fine job she does too!
We see a little bit more of the other characters in this book and also we get to know more of their histories - I always like this as it makes them seem more real.
Glory is still having her usual dilemas and issues and we even learn a few things about the great Valdez - love his character and the comic relief it adds to the book.
Glory gets another 4/5!
November 6, 2008
Ugh. I thought the first one was bad but this one was worse. First off, we went from the first book having her dog Valdez be one of a long line that Blade bread for her. Now, on the back cover of this one it says Glory knows he's just a shapeshifter and not really a dog.
This whole book takes that attitude. Either things are just flat-out changed or, the author does the annoying one chapter ends on a cliffhanger and when the next chapter starts, it's an entirely different scene with a quick, "oh yeah, everything worked out ok" line. It's PATHETIC.
I only read this because it was sitting on the shelf and I had been waiting for books to come in at the library. I thought it couldn't be that bad. Turns out it was worse. Do yourself a favor and just don't read it. It really is that horrible.
This whole book takes that attitude. Either things are just flat-out changed or, the author does the annoying one chapter ends on a cliffhanger and when the next chapter starts, it's an entirely different scene with a quick, "oh yeah, everything worked out ok" line. It's PATHETIC.
I only read this because it was sitting on the shelf and I had been waiting for books to come in at the library. I thought it couldn't be that bad. Turns out it was worse. Do yourself a favor and just don't read it. It really is that horrible.
November 19, 2008
I did not like this book as much as the first one, until I got to the part with Glory on the Vamp Viagra. Her throwing herself at Richard was AWESOME! After that the book got more interesting. I think this book was not a good to me due tot he fact Blade was not in a prominant role. Him being out of the country was inconvienant to my lust for Blade action (although that phone conversation between him and Glory was HOT!)
Still love Glory and her spunkiness but the woman has got to calm down a bit. She is way too careless and is going to get herself or someone else killed. No wonder Blade is always worried about her and insists on the doggie bodyguards. Speaking of which, I did not like Will and I did not like Valdez not being able to talk. And if he leaves soon whatever will Glory do?
Still love Glory and her spunkiness but the woman has got to calm down a bit. She is way too careless and is going to get herself or someone else killed. No wonder Blade is always worried about her and insists on the doggie bodyguards. Speaking of which, I did not like Will and I did not like Valdez not being able to talk. And if he leaves soon whatever will Glory do?
February 4, 2012
It's not easy to keep a boyfriend, run a business, and survive for centuries as one of the immortal undead. Glory St. Clair knows-ever since a sexy Scottish vampire bit her while she was a tad...bloated. But when a frustrated vampire hunter firebombs her vintage clothing boutique, she's ready to pitch a fit. Then her long-time, part-time lover takes off in a rage to hunt the hunter and prove himself worthy of her. And that's only the beginning of her troubles.
The Energy Vampires want her-and not in a good way. They're paranormal drug dealers, selling thrills to those who've lived for ages, been everywhere, and done everything...and they want to suck Glory dry. But it'll take more than a few super-suckers to get the goods out of her
Oh wow I loved it, You really saw Glory grow and damn I even thought about richard in this book! Yumm
I honestly can't wait to start the next book!
The Energy Vampires want her-and not in a good way. They're paranormal drug dealers, selling thrills to those who've lived for ages, been everywhere, and done everything...and they want to suck Glory dry. But it'll take more than a few super-suckers to get the goods out of her
Oh wow I loved it, You really saw Glory grow and damn I even thought about richard in this book! Yumm
I honestly can't wait to start the next book!
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