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Gentlemen Vampyres #1
It Happened One Bite
He'd bite her in a heartbeat, if she'd only set him free...
He's lost, trapped, doomed for all eternity...
Rich, titled, and undead, gentleman vampyre James Maitland, Lord Kettering, fears himself doomed to a cold and lonely existence—trapped for decades in an abandoned castle. Then, beautiful Scottish witch Blaire Lindsay arrives, and things begin to heat up considerably.
Unless he can persuade her to set him free...
Feisty Blaire Lindsay laughs off the local gossip surrounding her mother's ancestral home—stories of haunting cannot scare off this battle-born witch. But when she discovers the handsome prisoner in the bowels of the castle, Blaire has no idea that she has unleashed anything more than a man who sets her heart on fire...
He's lost, trapped, doomed for all eternity...
Rich, titled, and undead, gentleman vampyre James Maitland, Lord Kettering, fears himself doomed to a cold and lonely existence—trapped for decades in an abandoned castle. Then, beautiful Scottish witch Blaire Lindsay arrives, and things begin to heat up considerably.
Unless he can persuade her to set him free...
Feisty Blaire Lindsay laughs off the local gossip surrounding her mother's ancestral home—stories of haunting cannot scare off this battle-born witch. But when she discovers the handsome prisoner in the bowels of the castle, Blaire has no idea that she has unleashed anything more than a man who sets her heart on fire...
385 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2011
65 people are currently reading
1614 people want to read
About the author
Lydia Dare
12 books658 followersLydia Dare is the pseudonym for the writing team of Tammy Falkner and Jodie Pearson. Both are active members of the Heart of Carolina Romance Writers and have sat on the organization's Board of Directors. Their writing process involves passing a manuscript back and forth, each one writing 1500 words after editing the other's previous installment. Jodie specializes in writing the history and Tammy in writing the paranormal. Both live near Raleigh, NC.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
March 7, 2011
There aren't very many historical paranormal romances, so I try to check them out when I see them. This one is really well done and lot sweeter than modern day paranormals in my opinion.
The romance takes center stage, while the paranormal world of witches and vampyres (that's how it's spelled here) is created around them. Honestly, witches interest me much more than vampyres, so I was more interested in Blaire's powers and mythology than James'. Vampyres just have that ick factor that I can't get past. While there were one or two ick moments in this one for me, I managed to get past it.
For a vampyre, James is incredibly sweet and love the way their story turns out- I'm not telling, you'll have to read it! James is, of course, very handsome, and I love that blurts out his feelings without thinking first. It's a little awkward and cute.
Blaire is so strong, both on the inside and outside. She's a battle-born witch, so she has super strength. It's a teeny bit strange to me that she's stronger and taller than most men, but she manages to find the one supernatural male who is both stronger and taller than her. So there's the traditional gender roles creeping back in. It would have been interesting to see how they would have dealt with things otherwise.
The secondary characters are lots of fun and really brighten up the story. Blaire's brothers and James' friend add spice to the story, and even Bruce the cat adds some comic relief.
Overall, this is a real page turner with a lot of paranormal action while a sweet, loving romance is still the heart of the story.
ARC sent by publisher in exchange for honest review
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com
The romance takes center stage, while the paranormal world of witches and vampyres (that's how it's spelled here) is created around them. Honestly, witches interest me much more than vampyres, so I was more interested in Blaire's powers and mythology than James'. Vampyres just have that ick factor that I can't get past. While there were one or two ick moments in this one for me, I managed to get past it.
For a vampyre, James is incredibly sweet and love the way their story turns out- I'm not telling, you'll have to read it! James is, of course, very handsome, and I love that blurts out his feelings without thinking first. It's a little awkward and cute.
Blaire is so strong, both on the inside and outside. She's a battle-born witch, so she has super strength. It's a teeny bit strange to me that she's stronger and taller than most men, but she manages to find the one supernatural male who is both stronger and taller than her. So there's the traditional gender roles creeping back in. It would have been interesting to see how they would have dealt with things otherwise.
The secondary characters are lots of fun and really brighten up the story. Blaire's brothers and James' friend add spice to the story, and even Bruce the cat adds some comic relief.
Overall, this is a real page turner with a lot of paranormal action while a sweet, loving romance is still the heart of the story.
ARC sent by publisher in exchange for honest review
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com
January 18, 2012
2 ½ stars. Nothing creative or different. I felt like it was a copy of all the other stuff out there.
STORY BRIEF:
A coven of witches causes a vampyre to be unconscious and imprisoned in a castle basement for twenty years. Twenty years later these witches have died and their daughters are the new coven. One of the daughters Blaire accidentally finds the vampyre and sets him free without knowing any details. Apparently the mother thought this vampyre would be a danger to Blaire and others. Now Blaire and James begin to fall in love. Two other vampyres appear who want to harm Blaire and James.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
Lydia Dare is a pseudonym for two authors Tammy Falkner and Jodie Pearson. I sometimes wonder if two authors co-writing is a good idea. Are they such good friends to the point that they don’t want to criticize each others’ work? And therefore the result is not as good as it should be? I don’t know. It’s just a thought. The heroine is headstrong and feisty. The hero vampyre loves her from the very beginning. The best I can say is that for the first half it kept my interest but only out of curiosity. During the last half, I wanted it to be over.
I became tired of translating the historical Scottish words. It took energy. It was more of a chore than being fun or cute. Following are examples of the words used throughout the entire book: ta ye (to you) ken (know) kent (known) isna (is not) doona (do not) willna (will not).
The plot used stupidity more than once which was not necessary. It could have been done differently. An example follows. Blaire by herself is not strong enough to fight a vampyre. James (the vampyre) is protecting her and her two brothers. She decides she must leave James and travel to where her coven is, so the coven can protect her and her brothers. She sneaks away in the middle of the night so James won’t know she is leaving. Now she has no protection while she travels.
Other things I did not like. The reason James was imprisoned didn’t work for me. It was based on someone lying to someone else. But why they lied was never explained. The reasons for the two bad guys wanting to harm James was also not well thought out. The resolution for the first bad guy wasn’t shown. The resolution for the second bad guy was too convenient and not very interesting. The thing that happened with James’ condition at the end was weird. It didn’t fit. I felt like the authors were trying to do something that had never (or rarely) been done before. To me, there’s a reason it hasn’t been done before. It didn’t feel right.
DATA:
Story length: 385 pages. swearing language: mild. Sexual language: mild. Number of sex scenes: 2. Total number of sex scene pages: 7. Setting: 1797 and 1817 Scotland. Copyright: 2011. Genre: historical paranormal romance.
STORY BRIEF:
A coven of witches causes a vampyre to be unconscious and imprisoned in a castle basement for twenty years. Twenty years later these witches have died and their daughters are the new coven. One of the daughters Blaire accidentally finds the vampyre and sets him free without knowing any details. Apparently the mother thought this vampyre would be a danger to Blaire and others. Now Blaire and James begin to fall in love. Two other vampyres appear who want to harm Blaire and James.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
Lydia Dare is a pseudonym for two authors Tammy Falkner and Jodie Pearson. I sometimes wonder if two authors co-writing is a good idea. Are they such good friends to the point that they don’t want to criticize each others’ work? And therefore the result is not as good as it should be? I don’t know. It’s just a thought. The heroine is headstrong and feisty. The hero vampyre loves her from the very beginning. The best I can say is that for the first half it kept my interest but only out of curiosity. During the last half, I wanted it to be over.
I became tired of translating the historical Scottish words. It took energy. It was more of a chore than being fun or cute. Following are examples of the words used throughout the entire book: ta ye (to you) ken (know) kent (known) isna (is not) doona (do not) willna (will not).
The plot used stupidity more than once which was not necessary. It could have been done differently. An example follows. Blaire by herself is not strong enough to fight a vampyre. James (the vampyre) is protecting her and her two brothers. She decides she must leave James and travel to where her coven is, so the coven can protect her and her brothers. She sneaks away in the middle of the night so James won’t know she is leaving. Now she has no protection while she travels.
Other things I did not like. The reason James was imprisoned didn’t work for me. It was based on someone lying to someone else. But why they lied was never explained. The reasons for the two bad guys wanting to harm James was also not well thought out. The resolution for the first bad guy wasn’t shown. The resolution for the second bad guy was too convenient and not very interesting. The thing that happened with James’ condition at the end was weird. It didn’t fit. I felt like the authors were trying to do something that had never (or rarely) been done before. To me, there’s a reason it hasn’t been done before. It didn’t feel right.
DATA:
Story length: 385 pages. swearing language: mild. Sexual language: mild. Number of sex scenes: 2. Total number of sex scene pages: 7. Setting: 1797 and 1817 Scotland. Copyright: 2011. Genre: historical paranormal romance.
April 3, 2011
I discovered this book after my good friend; Dee was reading it and was totally raving about it. This is the first is a new series for Lydia Dare, with two more exciting books due out this year.
The first surprise is that it is set in the Regency era. Our heroine is Blaire Lindsay - a witch. Our hero is, James Maitland Lord Kettering, who is a delicious Vampire. James has just been woken up from a 20 year long. When Blair discovers James she releases him from his prison only to figure out that he was put there originally by Blaire’s mother and her cloven of witches after a vision about James and Blair in the future. You don’t find out the true reason why James was imprisoned until the end of the story. There was also a secondary story line where James and his Master, the Earl of Blodwell are being hunted down by two other Vamps that are set out for revenge. The reason behind this is also not revealed until the end.
The pacing of the book was well thought out. I didn’t find any spots in the book lacking or slow paced. The only thing I can point out is that everything came to light at the end very quickly. It sought of all boiled down to a couple of pages. And I would have liked the reveal about why the two rouge vamps were chasing James to have been a little more shocking.
James is not your average run of the mill Vamp. He is a gentleman and has always been taught to behave so. He wasn’t a dark broody character and if I didn’t know he was a vampyre, I would not have thought otherwise. He was very dashing, but I felt that there wasn’t enough of a description of him. We were told of his characteristics but not his looks per say.
Blaire is a battle witch. So she is straight up a tough nut. She went against the grain for her era. Not lady like at all. But that just made me love Blaire all that much more. Sometimes the snootiness of these Regency women just gets too much for me. She is smart, and strong willed and has a wicked talent of forming fire balls in her palms. Only down side – as a battle born witch I would have loved to have read a scene where she used these talents in the true sense. Not just play with fire.
James and Blaire really complemented each other. They wasn’t too much fighting of their feelings for one another either which is always nice. There was a lot of cute stolen kisses – which were always conveniently interrupted (but aren’t they always?) and only one sex scene, but it was a good sex scene. I wasn’t panting while reading it, but it was.......sweet?
Overall, this was a light read. But it was a well worth it read. I will defiantly be reading her next book in the series which is due for release July 2011 –In the Heat of The Bite.
March 7, 2011
Years ago, vampyre, Lord Kettering James Maitland was put under a spell but five witches. When James awakes, he finds himself locked up in a dusty basement. James has been just bidding his time until he is released and can get his revenge.
Blaire Lindsay is convinced by her brother, Aiden to travel to Briarcraig Castle. They inherited the castle. Once Blaire and her brothers, Aiden and Brannock arrive, Blaire is already wanting to turn back. Blaire does feel a strong connection to the castle. It might because of the prisoner in the basement of the castle. When James meets Blaire, he just might wish he was still a prisoner.
It Happened One Bite is the latest release from writing duo, Tammy Falkner and Jodie Pearson as Lydia Dare. I read these ladies werewolf series and really enjoyed it, so I was looking forward to their latest series about vampires and witches. I was not disappointed.
Blaire called all the shots in this book. She told her brothers how it was and they for the most part obeyed her. The only person who was Blaire’s equal was James. Right from the beginning there was something about James and his manner that had me intrigued by him. Though, I enjoyed this book, I felt that it was more romance than a romantic paranormal story. I can not wait to take a bite out of the next book. It Happened One Bite…delivers a tasty, mouthful of romance and intrigue!
Blaire Lindsay is convinced by her brother, Aiden to travel to Briarcraig Castle. They inherited the castle. Once Blaire and her brothers, Aiden and Brannock arrive, Blaire is already wanting to turn back. Blaire does feel a strong connection to the castle. It might because of the prisoner in the basement of the castle. When James meets Blaire, he just might wish he was still a prisoner.
It Happened One Bite is the latest release from writing duo, Tammy Falkner and Jodie Pearson as Lydia Dare. I read these ladies werewolf series and really enjoyed it, so I was looking forward to their latest series about vampires and witches. I was not disappointed.
Blaire called all the shots in this book. She told her brothers how it was and they for the most part obeyed her. The only person who was Blaire’s equal was James. Right from the beginning there was something about James and his manner that had me intrigued by him. Though, I enjoyed this book, I felt that it was more romance than a romantic paranormal story. I can not wait to take a bite out of the next book. It Happened One Bite…delivers a tasty, mouthful of romance and intrigue!
July 29, 2011
Off a star for the "saving" ending. If you love a vamp, keep it such.
November 1, 2013
When Blaine's brother is insistent on going to a estate that he has inherited, he brings her along, even though leaving Edinburgh is the last thing she wants to do. When they arrive, she and her brother are shocked when they discover its a abandoned castle. As they start to settle in, Blaine hears noises and a man's voice, but she doesn't know if its real and if its a ghost or not. James Maitland, Lord Kettering, was tricked twenty years previous when trying to feed on a young woman, and was then trapped in the deserted castle he awakens in. He starts to remember that it was five witches who trapped him here. When he senses others in the castle, he realizes that this may be his chance to free himself. Even though it goes against Blaine's instincts, she senses something good in James, and releases him from his prison, she has no idea who he is and why he has been trapped here. Even though she wants to remain aloof and distant from James, she starts to feel a deeper connection to him, and even though she knows he can be dangerous, she knows in her heart that he would never harm her or her family. When enemies of James come knocking on the door, she learns of his true identity and only when she accepts James into her heart will they be able to survive the danger and grab onto a chance of a future together?
It Happened One Bite is the first in the Vampire Trilogy by Lydia Dare. It is connected a bit to her Westfield Wolves series. I was really excited to read It Happened One Bite because I had recently read the first book in the Westfield series, so I had high hopes for this one. It started out a bit slower than I expected. As I continued with the story though, it picked up as the sparks started to fly between James and Blaine. Blaine is a witch and part of a five witch coven, and as such she protects her heart and is very practical, because she has had to be. When she meets James, a fire burns within her, and even though she wants to give into the desire she feels for him, she fights it. James, is burning with rage and desiring revenge, but his attraction to Blaine is undeniable and his anger turns into desire for a woman who seems to not want him, but he knows that she desires him as much as he desires her.
There is quite a bit going on in this story. In the beginning it seems to be just a romance between a vampire and a witch in the regency era in England. However we start to see there is more to it than a love story. There is a few twists and turns involving two enemy vampires, whose only desire is to kill everyone that James cares about. I liked the aspect of vampires in a historical setting, with a portion of witch lore. The setting was set up perfect to set the stage for the story. The characters were exciting to see together. James, is handsome and confident and powerful, yet very gentle at times, and I couldn't help but fall in love with him from the start. I couldn't help but be on his side for most of the story, seeing a character that even though is a vampire, has honest intentions and even though can be brooding, he isn't dark or sinister type of vampire. He is a gentleman through and through, because he started out as a gentleman before he became a vampire. So I admired him quite a bit, and in the way he handles Blaine is just precious. Blaine is strong willed, and fiercely independent and with her powers as a witch is intent on standing by James side even though she is mortal. At times it could be quite humorous, but there was such a enticing quality to their relationship and the way they worked together.
It Happened One Bite was a sweet and charming paranormal story set in the beautiful setting of Scotland. A heated read full of sensuality and a fascinating plot with twists and turns that puts together a memorable story.
It Happened One Bite is the first in the Vampire Trilogy by Lydia Dare. It is connected a bit to her Westfield Wolves series. I was really excited to read It Happened One Bite because I had recently read the first book in the Westfield series, so I had high hopes for this one. It started out a bit slower than I expected. As I continued with the story though, it picked up as the sparks started to fly between James and Blaine. Blaine is a witch and part of a five witch coven, and as such she protects her heart and is very practical, because she has had to be. When she meets James, a fire burns within her, and even though she wants to give into the desire she feels for him, she fights it. James, is burning with rage and desiring revenge, but his attraction to Blaine is undeniable and his anger turns into desire for a woman who seems to not want him, but he knows that she desires him as much as he desires her.
There is quite a bit going on in this story. In the beginning it seems to be just a romance between a vampire and a witch in the regency era in England. However we start to see there is more to it than a love story. There is a few twists and turns involving two enemy vampires, whose only desire is to kill everyone that James cares about. I liked the aspect of vampires in a historical setting, with a portion of witch lore. The setting was set up perfect to set the stage for the story. The characters were exciting to see together. James, is handsome and confident and powerful, yet very gentle at times, and I couldn't help but fall in love with him from the start. I couldn't help but be on his side for most of the story, seeing a character that even though is a vampire, has honest intentions and even though can be brooding, he isn't dark or sinister type of vampire. He is a gentleman through and through, because he started out as a gentleman before he became a vampire. So I admired him quite a bit, and in the way he handles Blaine is just precious. Blaine is strong willed, and fiercely independent and with her powers as a witch is intent on standing by James side even though she is mortal. At times it could be quite humorous, but there was such a enticing quality to their relationship and the way they worked together.
It Happened One Bite was a sweet and charming paranormal story set in the beautiful setting of Scotland. A heated read full of sensuality and a fascinating plot with twists and turns that puts together a memorable story.
February 20, 2015
When her brother drags her along to visit the remote Scottish castle he's inherited, warrior witch Blare discovers that her deceased mother didn't pass on all of her secrets. For Blaire starts discovering clues that the castle should have been her birthright as well as an English man who - judging from the dust and era of his clothing - has been ensorcelled and imprisoned there for several decades apparently for crimes the seer of Blaire's mother's coven saw that he would commit sometime in the future. James Maitland, Baron Kettering's last memories were of being surrounded by five witches, so he is understandably miffed for losing more than a score of his immortal years. Yes he is vampire, but he's not evil.
Initially, James' plans involve revenge on the coven who locked him away but quickly his focus turns to the Blare, the feisty woman who attracts him like no other he's met over the long centuries of his life. But though Blaire finds James equally fascinating, his interest may have put her in the sights of another group of immortals who are no where near as benign - and the danger her mother feared may now be headed Blaire's way.
In It Happened One Bite, the author team who write as Lydia Dare branch out from their regency werewolves to vampires - or rather vampyres, and trade England for Scotland, the connection between the two series is that Tall, Dark and Wolfish and The Taming of the Wolf saw two of Blaire's coven sisters gain Lycan mates. Even though this story is really vampire-lite, both James and Blaire are quite appealing, so I found their romance with its touch of steam and dab of peril to be enjoyable. Also fun, the authors bring back a few of the past characters, and I am pretty sure that the stars of the next two books were setup in Jame's vampire mentor and another character from the last two books who looks to be daylight-challenged in the near future.
So It Happened One Bite is a pleasant change of place if you are looking for a light paranormal romance with a touch of the historical. And since I am intrigued by both Blaire's remaining unmated witch sisters and the two vampire leading-men-to-be, I'll be checking out In the Heat of the Bite and Never Been Bit. If you don't mind fur instead of fangs Dare's Regency werewolf brothers are available for ereaders as Lydia Dare Wolf Bundle.
Initially, James' plans involve revenge on the coven who locked him away but quickly his focus turns to the Blare, the feisty woman who attracts him like no other he's met over the long centuries of his life. But though Blaire finds James equally fascinating, his interest may have put her in the sights of another group of immortals who are no where near as benign - and the danger her mother feared may now be headed Blaire's way.
In It Happened One Bite, the author team who write as Lydia Dare branch out from their regency werewolves to vampires - or rather vampyres, and trade England for Scotland, the connection between the two series is that Tall, Dark and Wolfish and The Taming of the Wolf saw two of Blaire's coven sisters gain Lycan mates. Even though this story is really vampire-lite, both James and Blaire are quite appealing, so I found their romance with its touch of steam and dab of peril to be enjoyable. Also fun, the authors bring back a few of the past characters, and I am pretty sure that the stars of the next two books were setup in Jame's vampire mentor and another character from the last two books who looks to be daylight-challenged in the near future.
So It Happened One Bite is a pleasant change of place if you are looking for a light paranormal romance with a touch of the historical. And since I am intrigued by both Blaire's remaining unmated witch sisters and the two vampire leading-men-to-be, I'll be checking out In the Heat of the Bite and Never Been Bit. If you don't mind fur instead of fangs Dare's Regency werewolf brothers are available for ereaders as Lydia Dare Wolf Bundle.
March 10, 2011
Blaire Lindsay is a witch - one of a coven of five powerful Scottish witches. Her brother has inherited Briarcraig Castle, so she must go with him to inspect it and see if it is hospitable.
James Maitland, Lord Kettering, has been in a magically-induced sleep for 20 years, in the bowels of the castle. The last thing he remembers is being surrounded by a group of five witches... When Blaire gets to the castle, Kettering stirs. He doesn't know how long he's been asleep, where he is, or why he woke up.
When Blaire finds him in the cellar, she is as confused as he is, but offers hospitality. She is curious about him and wants to find out why her coven's mothers would have trapped him. Kettering is intrigued by Blaire, she doesn't respond to his vampyre suggestions. As they spend more time together, attraction between them grows.
Kettering must find his ring - one of three given to his master by an ancient clan of witches, it allows him to roam in the sunlight. As soon as Kettering is awakened, his master can senses him and rushes to the castle, thankful that he is "alive" and anxious to find out what happened to him. The only problem with that is that the other vampyre tied to their group, Sarah, also senses Kettering. They know Sarah is seeking revenge and coming for Kettering.
My thoughts: I am a huge fan of Lydia Dare's werewolves, so when I heard they were doing vampires, I was thrilled! The story was cute, but did drag a bit in spots, such as hunting for the ring and pondering the reasons for trapping Kettering. I really liked the vamps though - Kettering and his maker, the Earl of Blodswell were both delightful. Of all the witches in the coven, I think Blaire has been my least favorite, and that was apparent in this book; she's very arguementative and I found myself a bit put-off by it. We do get to see some of our old friends again and catch up on what's been happening with the other witches; Alex MacQuarie has a big storyline in this book that I'm looking forward to following in future books. I'm not sure how I feel about Kettering's final situation; it's a happy ending, but seemed a bit too "easy" for this reader. All in all though, It Happened One Bite is a wonderful installment to this fabulous series!
James Maitland, Lord Kettering, has been in a magically-induced sleep for 20 years, in the bowels of the castle. The last thing he remembers is being surrounded by a group of five witches... When Blaire gets to the castle, Kettering stirs. He doesn't know how long he's been asleep, where he is, or why he woke up.
When Blaire finds him in the cellar, she is as confused as he is, but offers hospitality. She is curious about him and wants to find out why her coven's mothers would have trapped him. Kettering is intrigued by Blaire, she doesn't respond to his vampyre suggestions. As they spend more time together, attraction between them grows.
Kettering must find his ring - one of three given to his master by an ancient clan of witches, it allows him to roam in the sunlight. As soon as Kettering is awakened, his master can senses him and rushes to the castle, thankful that he is "alive" and anxious to find out what happened to him. The only problem with that is that the other vampyre tied to their group, Sarah, also senses Kettering. They know Sarah is seeking revenge and coming for Kettering.
My thoughts: I am a huge fan of Lydia Dare's werewolves, so when I heard they were doing vampires, I was thrilled! The story was cute, but did drag a bit in spots, such as hunting for the ring and pondering the reasons for trapping Kettering. I really liked the vamps though - Kettering and his maker, the Earl of Blodswell were both delightful. Of all the witches in the coven, I think Blaire has been my least favorite, and that was apparent in this book; she's very arguementative and I found myself a bit put-off by it. We do get to see some of our old friends again and catch up on what's been happening with the other witches; Alex MacQuarie has a big storyline in this book that I'm looking forward to following in future books. I'm not sure how I feel about Kettering's final situation; it's a happy ending, but seemed a bit too "easy" for this reader. All in all though, It Happened One Bite is a wonderful installment to this fabulous series!
March 11, 2011
This was my first book from Lydia Dare and I found it an enjoyable read with just the right amount of steaminess for me. Blaire was a take no prisoners warrior witch who could create fireballs out of thin air and who rarely backs down from a threat. James was an endearing character as well but I really felt like his maker and good friend, Blodswell, stole the show for me. He was charming, witty and just the perfect amount of angst and gentleman wrapped up in one delicious package. I honestly cannot wait to read his story.
The story dragged in certain parts but for the most part was delightful. The book opens up with Blaire's mother and her coven imprisoning James to protect the daughter she is expecting but when Blaire finds James she realizes what her mother has done but she has no clue as to why. This remains a mystery until the very end of the book and honestly I was not very satisfied with the explanation. It just seems so random and even though Blaire's mother seems to regret her actions I don't see why she didn't try to rectify the situation sooner. The other minor problem I had with the story was the part of the two vampyres who were the enemies of James. The way the confrontation ends with one of them was so sudden and we do not even get to see what happens. It's just referred to after the fact. You would think if this vampyre was such an enemy we would see more of the showdown. Still the wonderful cast of characters more than make up for this and will leave you eager to see what their stories will bring.
This comment has nothing to do with the story but the cover really bugged me. This is supposed to take place during the reign of King George III (1800s) and yet that guy on the cover looks very 21st century to me. I'm definitely not an expert on historical accuracy but that just doesn't look like the type of hair cut a guy from back then would have.
The story dragged in certain parts but for the most part was delightful. The book opens up with Blaire's mother and her coven imprisoning James to protect the daughter she is expecting but when Blaire finds James she realizes what her mother has done but she has no clue as to why. This remains a mystery until the very end of the book and honestly I was not very satisfied with the explanation. It just seems so random and even though Blaire's mother seems to regret her actions I don't see why she didn't try to rectify the situation sooner. The other minor problem I had with the story was the part of the two vampyres who were the enemies of James. The way the confrontation ends with one of them was so sudden and we do not even get to see what happens. It's just referred to after the fact. You would think if this vampyre was such an enemy we would see more of the showdown. Still the wonderful cast of characters more than make up for this and will leave you eager to see what their stories will bring.
This comment has nothing to do with the story but the cover really bugged me. This is supposed to take place during the reign of King George III (1800s) and yet that guy on the cover looks very 21st century to me. I'm definitely not an expert on historical accuracy but that just doesn't look like the type of hair cut a guy from back then would have.
September 27, 2012
It Happened One Bite ของลิเดีย แดร์
นับแล้วถือเป็นเล่มแรกในชุด Regency Vampyres นะคะ แต่ตามเรื่องราวความเกี่ยวข้องถือเป็นเล่มห้าที่ในชุดที่เริ่มต้นจาก A Certain Wolfish Charm
แบลร์ ลินเซย์เดินทางไปยังปราสาทอันเป็นมรดกของตระกูลที่อยู่ลึกเข้าไปในที่ราบสูงของสก๊อตแลนด์ ปราสาทแห่งนี้เป็นมรดกตกทอดจากมารดามาสู่พี่ชายคนโตของเธอ หากแต่ทุกคนในครอบครัวกลับไม่เคยรู้ถึงการมีอยู่ของมันเลยด้วยซ้ำ และถ้าไม่ใช่เพราะไอแดนพี่ชายขอร้องให้เธอเดินทางไปเป็นเพื่อน แบลร์ก็คงจะไม่ทิ้งเอดินเบิร์ค เมืองที่เธออาศัยอยู่มาตลอดชีวิตไปหรอกนะ
และเมื่อไปถึง ปราสาทแห่งนี้ก็ลึกลับราวกับเทพนิยาย เพราะที่่นั่นมีแวมไพร์นอนหลับไหลรอการถูกปลุกให้ตื่นขึ้นมา เขามีชื่อว่า เจมส์ ผู้ดำรงบรรดาศักดิ์บารอนแคทเตอร์ริงค์ ผู้ที่เมื่อยี่สิบปีก่อนโดนมนตร์สะกดจากมารดาของแบลร์ทำให้เขาหลับใหลไป
มารดาของแบลร์ และกลุ่มแม่มดในสำนักเดียวกับร่ายมนตร์ใ่ส่เจมส์ เพราะหนึ่งในสมาชิกแม่มดเห็นภาพนิมิตว่า เจมส์จะเอาชีวิตลูกในท้องของเธอไป (ซึ่งเด็กคนนั้นก็คือ แบลร์นั่นเอง) ทำให้แม่มดผู้รักสันติทั้งหมดตัดสินใจลงมือจัดการเจมส์ก่อนที่เขาจะทำอะไรร้ายแรง และหนึ่งในของที่มารดาของเธอมอบให้แบลร์ก่อนตายก็คือ แหวน ซึ่งแหวนนี้เองเป็นของวิเศษที่ทำให้แวมไพร์สามารถเดินท่ามกลางแสงแดด และใช้ชีวิตเหมือนคนปกติ (ที่ดื่มเลือด) ได้ เมื่อเจมส์ถูกถอดแหวนออก ผู้สร้างเขาก็ไม่อาจรับรู้ว่า เขาอยู่ที่ไหนได้อีก
เวลาผ่านไปยี่สิบปี แบลร์เติบโต และได้พบกับเจมส์ในที่สุด แต่คำทำนายไม่ได้เป็นอย่างที่คาดคิดไว้ เพราะเจมส์ไม่มีเจตนาจะทำร้ายแบลร์แม้แต่น้อย เขาแค่ต้่องการเธอ ในขณะที่ผู้สร้างเจมส์ เอิร์ลแห่งบอดเวลล์เดินทางมาตามหาเขา ศัตรูเก่าในอดีตก็ตามหาเขาเช่นกัน การเผชิญหน้ากำลังจะเกิดขึ้น
ปัญหาใหญ่ของเล่มนี้สำหรับเราก็คือ ไม่มีอะไรน่าสนใจเลยค่ะ มันราบเรียบไปหมด ตั้งแต่เริ่มต้นไปจนจบเรื่อง ไม่มีอะไรเลย กระทั่งมีตัวร้ายโผล่ออกมา ก็ยังไม่ได้ทำให้เรื่องมีอะไรมากขึ้น ทั้งคาแร็คเตอร์ของแบลร์และเจมส์แบบราบ เหมือนถูกสั่งมาให้ปิ๊งกัน อ่านแล้วน่าเบื่อมาก
คะแนนที่ 53
นับแล้วถือเป็นเล่มแรกในชุด Regency Vampyres นะคะ แต่ตามเรื่องราวความเกี่ยวข้องถือเป็นเล่มห้าที่ในชุดที่เริ่มต้นจาก A Certain Wolfish Charm
แบลร์ ลินเซย์เดินทางไปยังปราสาทอันเป็นมรดกของตระกูลที่อยู่ลึกเข้าไปในที่ราบสูงของสก๊อตแลนด์ ปราสาทแห่งนี้เป็นมรดกตกทอดจากมารดามาสู่พี่ชายคนโตของเธอ หากแต่ทุกคนในครอบครัวกลับไม่เคยรู้ถึงการมีอยู่ของมันเลยด้วยซ้ำ และถ้าไม่ใช่เพราะไอแดนพี่ชายขอร้องให้เธอเดินทางไปเป็นเพื่อน แบลร์ก็คงจะไม่ทิ้งเอดินเบิร์ค เมืองที่เธออาศัยอยู่มาตลอดชีวิตไปหรอกนะ
และเมื่อไปถึง ปราสาทแห่งนี้ก็ลึกลับราวกับเทพนิยาย เพราะที่่นั่นมีแวมไพร์นอนหลับไหลรอการถูกปลุกให้ตื่นขึ้นมา เขามีชื่อว่า เจมส์ ผู้ดำรงบรรดาศักดิ์บารอนแคทเตอร์ริงค์ ผู้ที่เมื่อยี่สิบปีก่อนโดนมนตร์สะกดจากมารดาของแบลร์ทำให้เขาหลับใหลไป
มารดาของแบลร์ และกลุ่มแม่มดในสำนักเดียวกับร่ายมนตร์ใ่ส่เจมส์ เพราะหนึ่งในสมาชิกแม่มดเห็นภาพนิมิตว่า เจมส์จะเอาชีวิตลูกในท้องของเธอไป (ซึ่งเด็กคนนั้นก็คือ แบลร์นั่นเอง) ทำให้แม่มดผู้รักสันติทั้งหมดตัดสินใจลงมือจัดการเจมส์ก่อนที่เขาจะทำอะไรร้ายแรง และหนึ่งในของที่มารดาของเธอมอบให้แบลร์ก่อนตายก็คือ แหวน ซึ่งแหวนนี้เองเป็นของวิเศษที่ทำให้แวมไพร์สามารถเดินท่ามกลางแสงแดด และใช้ชีวิตเหมือนคนปกติ (ที่ดื่มเลือด) ได้ เมื่อเจมส์ถูกถอดแหวนออก ผู้สร้างเขาก็ไม่อาจรับรู้ว่า เขาอยู่ที่ไหนได้อีก
เวลาผ่านไปยี่สิบปี แบลร์เติบโต และได้พบกับเจมส์ในที่สุด แต่คำทำนายไม่ได้เป็นอย่างที่คาดคิดไว้ เพราะเจมส์ไม่มีเจตนาจะทำร้ายแบลร์แม้แต่น้อย เขาแค่ต้่องการเธอ ในขณะที่ผู้สร้างเจมส์ เอิร์ลแห่งบอดเวลล์เดินทางมาตามหาเขา ศัตรูเก่าในอดีตก็ตามหาเขาเช่นกัน การเผชิญหน้ากำลังจะเกิดขึ้น
ปัญหาใหญ่ของเล่มนี้สำหรับเราก็คือ ไม่มีอะไรน่าสนใจเลยค่ะ มันราบเรียบไปหมด ตั้งแต่เริ่มต้นไปจนจบเรื่อง ไม่มีอะไรเลย กระทั่งมีตัวร้ายโผล่ออกมา ก็ยังไม่ได้ทำให้เรื่องมีอะไรมากขึ้น ทั้งคาแร็คเตอร์ของแบลร์และเจมส์แบบราบ เหมือนถูกสั่งมาให้ปิ๊งกัน อ่านแล้วน่าเบื่อมาก
คะแนนที่ 53
March 3, 2011
My thoughts:
I liked the werewolf books by Lydia Dare and I was curious about the vampire series and reading more about the witches. I never thought it, but I ended up liking this book even more than previous books.
In this book is Blaire's turn to find love. She can fight like a man, and she is not a lady even though her brother wants it. For that I did like Blaire, she was herself, she was strong and she was not about to let a man tell her what to do. Then there is James, the hero of the book, a vampyre that has been imprisoned in a dungeon for 20 years, put their by Blaire's mum and her coven. Even though he does hold a grudge, he is a sweet vamp.
But honestly the person I was the most fascinated by is Matthew Halkett, a very old vampire and who will be in the next book. I can't wait for his story.
Back to the book. James is hungry and not just for blood since he wants Blaire for more. They do their little dance. Then two more vampires show up and they are not nice at all. They want death and blood. There is danger, passion and at the end we meet up with old friends. Sorcha, who still love to flirt, Elspeth and Benjamin, and Alex, I am starting to get a bit interested in him, he is turning into something nice.
The best part about this book is that I just wanted more. I kept turning page after page to find out what is going to happen. The book has no dull moments and there is a flow, and you just want more.
Conclusion:
Dare manages to create a new fun series. Old friends, and no you do not need to have read the werewolf books, passion, magic and vampires. A fast read that I enjoyed.
I liked the werewolf books by Lydia Dare and I was curious about the vampire series and reading more about the witches. I never thought it, but I ended up liking this book even more than previous books.
In this book is Blaire's turn to find love. She can fight like a man, and she is not a lady even though her brother wants it. For that I did like Blaire, she was herself, she was strong and she was not about to let a man tell her what to do. Then there is James, the hero of the book, a vampyre that has been imprisoned in a dungeon for 20 years, put their by Blaire's mum and her coven. Even though he does hold a grudge, he is a sweet vamp.
But honestly the person I was the most fascinated by is Matthew Halkett, a very old vampire and who will be in the next book. I can't wait for his story.
Back to the book. James is hungry and not just for blood since he wants Blaire for more. They do their little dance. Then two more vampires show up and they are not nice at all. They want death and blood. There is danger, passion and at the end we meet up with old friends. Sorcha, who still love to flirt, Elspeth and Benjamin, and Alex, I am starting to get a bit interested in him, he is turning into something nice.
The best part about this book is that I just wanted more. I kept turning page after page to find out what is going to happen. The book has no dull moments and there is a flow, and you just want more.
Conclusion:
Dare manages to create a new fun series. Old friends, and no you do not need to have read the werewolf books, passion, magic and vampires. A fast read that I enjoyed.
September 14, 2011
I was more enamored by the evil guys story by the end of the book rather than the hero and heroine's story. It all has potential though.
Here's my problem: I keep coming across books that are border line young adult. This is one of them. I like YA books ... but I picked up this book for specific reasons that would not categorize it as YA. If not for a few key words and a few years age difference, this could be considered YA. Every one seemed a little too immature for me.
Like I said ... this is my issue and I tried not to rate the book on my issues with the book. I liked the story line, it just could have been better. I wasn't drawn in that much. I got bored with the love story portion. And I didn't think it was all that suspenseful.
Here's my problem: I keep coming across books that are border line young adult. This is one of them. I like YA books ... but I picked up this book for specific reasons that would not categorize it as YA. If not for a few key words and a few years age difference, this could be considered YA. Every one seemed a little too immature for me.
Like I said ... this is my issue and I tried not to rate the book on my issues with the book. I liked the story line, it just could have been better. I wasn't drawn in that much. I got bored with the love story portion. And I didn't think it was all that suspenseful.
October 28, 2019
Very good historical novel. An interesting twist with the vampyre. Blaire is a decent character but I felt her warrior status was used once or twice but the potential was not met. But at one point she used her heart over her strength. The witch and vampyre moments were fun. Lots of info on the coven tling me this may be first of this series but I really should have started with earlier books of the coven.
August 15, 2012
2.5 stars
This was just sort of meh. Not terrible...not good.
A lot of the story rested on some sort of a back story that wasn't explained, but honestly, I didn't care enough to be annoyed with all of the holes.
And as long as I'm being honest, I have to admit that I skimmed large hunks of it. Especially toward the end.
This was just sort of meh. Not terrible...not good.
A lot of the story rested on some sort of a back story that wasn't explained, but honestly, I didn't care enough to be annoyed with all of the holes.
And as long as I'm being honest, I have to admit that I skimmed large hunks of it. Especially toward the end.
May 22, 2013
All I can say is AVERAGE, and that is until the author made the huge mistake to go from average to WTF? Why am I so out of luck lately? All the books that should be ok they are bad or worse.
I like my vampires for that...and I hate the invention of turning back to human...I mean why? We all love the fantasy of vampires and not HUMANS!!!
I like my vampires for that...and I hate the invention of turning back to human...I mean why? We all love the fantasy of vampires and not HUMANS!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2011
TO much back and forth, I'm brave, I'm not. I want him, I don't, and on and on. All in all it was a pretty good story, but I will not be reading the rest.
September 29, 2011
A very interesting story, historical, paranormal and heartwarming. Lots of funny little twists and turns, passion, and subtle heat. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
July 29, 2022
Blaire's brother Aiden has inherited a castle after their mother passes away. He's excited to get to said castle, whereas Blaire is not so thrilled. But, her and their little brother Brannock head of to Aiden's inheritance and find that's it's pretty rundown and needs a lot of work. But they also find that it has a bit of a surprise, a man who has somehow gotten himself locked in the cellar. The more Blaire is around this man, James, the less she finds she can resist him, and the more mysterious he seems.
This is really the first Regency vampire story I've ever read. I have read one story by Colleen Gleason in an anthology, but that was it. What I liked was that not only does it combine two of my favorite genres (Paranormal Romance and Historical Romance), but it also mixes in Scots as well! I just love a good Scottish accent and it's been awhile since I've read a story with one. It was a bit disappointing that Blaire was the Scot, and not James (he was English), but oh well.
Some things I didn't like about this were mainly that the end was a bit abrupt. There is also one other thing… I'm not a big fan of vampires turned human for their destined mates. I just think this is backwards thinking. Now they can't be together forever, but just for a human life span. So I didn't like that.
But overall, I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to the next one. I liked both the main characters, they were quite likable and had unique and captivating personalities. I thought their relationship was well written and well developed as well. I also liked the side characters a lot, and I'm pretty happy to know that this is actually a spinoff (of sorts) series from the Westfield Wolves series, which I hadn't heard of before. So I will definitely be checking that series out, as well as the future books in this one.
This is really the first Regency vampire story I've ever read. I have read one story by Colleen Gleason in an anthology, but that was it. What I liked was that not only does it combine two of my favorite genres (Paranormal Romance and Historical Romance), but it also mixes in Scots as well! I just love a good Scottish accent and it's been awhile since I've read a story with one. It was a bit disappointing that Blaire was the Scot, and not James (he was English), but oh well.
Some things I didn't like about this were mainly that the end was a bit abrupt. There is also one other thing… I'm not a big fan of vampires turned human for their destined mates. I just think this is backwards thinking. Now they can't be together forever, but just for a human life span. So I didn't like that.
But overall, I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to the next one. I liked both the main characters, they were quite likable and had unique and captivating personalities. I thought their relationship was well written and well developed as well. I also liked the side characters a lot, and I'm pretty happy to know that this is actually a spinoff (of sorts) series from the Westfield Wolves series, which I hadn't heard of before. So I will definitely be checking that series out, as well as the future books in this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2022
Really a 3.5 out of 5 Stars. This historical, paranormal romance is a great addition to the Lydia Dare writing teams series.
James Maitland, Baron Kettering, wakes in a dark cellar and the last thing he remembers is five women...witches surrounding him. He isn't sure how long he has been out, what he has done to deserve such treatment, and why he has suddenly awoken.
Blaire Lindsey is one of five sister witches who are a part of the Coig. She isn't sure why her brother has inherited this old castle or why suddenly her heirloom ring is glowing and warm to the touch until she releases the man from the cellar of the castle.
Blair must discover what and who James is while he is trying to locate his ring that was stolen and trying not to fall for the lovely Miss Lindsay at every turn. Attraction isn't one-sided though and fangs begin to fly when these two come together to settle an old debt against James.
I loved the characters. Their banter kept me reading & engaged in the storyline. Readers get glimpses of past characters and future plots. There are some minor surprises, but the one thing that remains a constant through this series is that so far the paranormal guy always gets his girl in the end, which is something that I truly love.
Best wishes on your next literary adventure,
Hill
James Maitland, Baron Kettering, wakes in a dark cellar and the last thing he remembers is five women...witches surrounding him. He isn't sure how long he has been out, what he has done to deserve such treatment, and why he has suddenly awoken.
Blaire Lindsey is one of five sister witches who are a part of the Coig. She isn't sure why her brother has inherited this old castle or why suddenly her heirloom ring is glowing and warm to the touch until she releases the man from the cellar of the castle.
Blair must discover what and who James is while he is trying to locate his ring that was stolen and trying not to fall for the lovely Miss Lindsay at every turn. Attraction isn't one-sided though and fangs begin to fly when these two come together to settle an old debt against James.
I loved the characters. Their banter kept me reading & engaged in the storyline. Readers get glimpses of past characters and future plots. There are some minor surprises, but the one thing that remains a constant through this series is that so far the paranormal guy always gets his girl in the end, which is something that I truly love.
Best wishes on your next literary adventure,
Hill
June 30, 2018
Lydia Date creates a full n rich world with wonderful characters! Five Scottish witches all with rich personalities are finding that one special man for each of them. With 2 headstrong stubborn personalities thrown together you get a complex, witty, & humorous connection. Throw into that some magical powers n friends a bit of paranormals, and you have a book story that plays out smoothly in the mind as if your right there living it with the characters themselves. Lydia Dare writes so WELL, that before you even realize it, you have just devoured chapter upon chapter to the end of the last page! A wonder book that stands on its own and yet an even more wonderful as a rich n full series. Highly recommended!!
June 10, 2020
The romance brewed in the Scottish Highlands and sizzled in the castle bedchambers. But, their story was a tale that had been foretold by prophecy. The lively plot combined with the spirited characters made this book hard to put down. Of course, the handsome vampire, James Maitland sparring with the beautiful, feisty Scottish witch, Blaire Lindsay, was humorous until their combined heat began to scorch the pages. Great Story! So Glad I Didn't Miss It!!!!!
March 20, 2017
I didn't realize going in that this is a series that spins off of another series. It is still able to be read as a stand alone. However, it took me a long time to get into it. Part of that was from all the characters that are thrown at you the first few chapters. It was too confusing, if you've read the other series though I guess you would know who they were already. 2.5
May 1, 2022
This book has been sitting on my shelf for months, maybe even a year, and I'm so mad at myself for waiting to read it for this long. It has everything I love, a badass heroine, a so-close-they're-almost-sisters group of friends, and supernatural creatures! Good thing I already have a few more books set in this universe in my collection.
June 3, 2018
Esta es la que menos me ha gustado, quizás su interpretación de los vampiros, la personalidad de Blair (se supone que es un fuerte en batalla) no termino de convencer, pero voy a continuar leyendo la serie me interesó más los otros personajes
June 13, 2018
Me gustó más cuando leí Hermanos Westfield, me parecía que era más coherente con una mejor trama. No me gustó el final, me pareció un poco predecible y sin sentido. No todo es malo, el libro entretiene, conocer a la protagonista y su magia es interesante pero no es suficiente.
March 7, 2021
The heavy use of Scottish dialogue was too much for me. The math of how chapter 2 was 12 years later when the protagonist is older than 12 (despite being in utero in chapter 1) was a little too confusing in terms of trying to understand the timelines for the story.
January 24, 2018
There's a very sad part at the end.
October 7, 2019
Awesome!
Very fun read! Liked the characters, the descriptions and journey. What a page turner! Liked the twist of a vampire turning human.
Very fun read! Liked the characters, the descriptions and journey. What a page turner! Liked the twist of a vampire turning human.
May 13, 2020
Great book 👍
Read
January 11, 2021Couldn't do it. The ignoring of the glaringly obvious to move the story along was too annoying.
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