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Jess Vandermire, Vampire Hunter #1
Grave Illusions
Tough vampire cop, Jess Vandermire, fights against her unholy brethren in New York City to protect the two men she loves more than life itself. But Jess is waging a personal war, too—to save the tiny shred of soul she has left. If she loses, so does the city...
New York City is in the grasp of a deadly, unseen enemy. But Lieutenant Jess Vandermire, New York City police officer, is uniquely specialized to recognize and fight this threat. It’s her job to forge a black ops team—a team that is tough and, if need be, expendable. Jess understands what she’s fighting and what’s at stake. For her, it’s all about retribution...until she recruits ex-cop John Brittain...
Suddenly, her priorities aren’t quite so easily definable. John Brittain has a chip on his shoulder and is as strong as they come. But is he ready for the whole truth? That combating “super” vampires whose primal need for blood and the addictive drug “Sunshine” is only the beginning of their problems?
Because Jess has a secret. And when John finds out, will he stay and fight with her? Or will he realize that she’s the enemy, too?
New York City is in the grasp of a deadly, unseen enemy. But Lieutenant Jess Vandermire, New York City police officer, is uniquely specialized to recognize and fight this threat. It’s her job to forge a black ops team—a team that is tough and, if need be, expendable. Jess understands what she’s fighting and what’s at stake. For her, it’s all about retribution...until she recruits ex-cop John Brittain...
Suddenly, her priorities aren’t quite so easily definable. John Brittain has a chip on his shoulder and is as strong as they come. But is he ready for the whole truth? That combating “super” vampires whose primal need for blood and the addictive drug “Sunshine” is only the beginning of their problems?
Because Jess has a secret. And when John finds out, will he stay and fight with her? Or will he realize that she’s the enemy, too?
204 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 15, 2007
63 people are currently reading
936 people want to read
About the author
Lina Gardiner
15 books79 followersLina Gardiner was born and raised in New Brunswick. She has a deep appreciation of the beauty and the special attributes of her province. As a test to see if she could make it as a writer, she wrote an article on the Fundy Trail Parkway and got the cover story in the magazine We're Home New Brunswick.
That was her sign to dive into her lifelong dream of writing. After that, she wrote a short story for an anthology entitled New Brunswick Short Stories by Dorothy Dearborn. It took six years of serious writing to finally sell her first novel. Her editor liked the characters so much she offered Lina a series before the novel even hit the shelves. Lina continues to write every day and appreciates every chance she gets to make her writing stronger and better.
That was her sign to dive into her lifelong dream of writing. After that, she wrote a short story for an anthology entitled New Brunswick Short Stories by Dorothy Dearborn. It took six years of serious writing to finally sell her first novel. Her editor liked the characters so much she offered Lina a series before the novel even hit the shelves. Lina continues to write every day and appreciates every chance she gets to make her writing stronger and better.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
January 10, 2016
Disclaimer: The eARC for Dead Rising (Templar #I) was kindly provided to me via Netgalley.
Cover Art:
Unimaginative & unappealing
POV:
Alternating POV (Jess & Britt)
Location:
Grave Illusions is set in NYC.
Characters:
The hero is a human named John "Britt" Britain. Britt's life took a turn for the worse when he made the mistake of confronting his partner of corruption. During which Britt & his partner got into a physical altercation resulting in his partner's death & Britt's removal from the NYPD.
The heroine (turned 1953) is an 80 year old vampire (@ the time of the story) named Jessica"Jess" Vandermire. Jess is a NYC police lieutenant for a black-ops team.
Plot:
NYC is being overrun by vampires. The once careful solo hunters are becoming pack hunters & in the process losing the ability to stay under the public's radar. Jess attempt to recruit Britt into her black-ops team. However, it be unwise to take anything at face value. *brings out smoking jacket & pipe* Theiris a mystery afoot.
Romance:
The author made attempts with a romantic subplot between Jess & Britt that unfortunately fell short.
Overall Thoughts:
No major editing issues. Pacing was unfortunately slow & the characters lacked depth imo. The mystery was sufficiently mysterious &as mentioned above the romance felt unwarranted. I didn't feel any romantic tension between the H/h. They seemed physically attracted but otherwise they felt to me as the reader romantically uninterested. The author practiced a lot of tell & not enough show. The most interesting part of this book was the paranormal world unfortunately the story didn't include much world building. Perhaps this will change in book 2. I found it difficult to read this story in its entirety.
Warning: Cliffhanger ending
Rating: 2 stars
=======================
This book counts towards my Cliterary Genius 2016 A to Z reading Challenge. Letter: G
Cover Art:
Unimaginative & unappealing
POV:
Alternating POV (Jess & Britt)
Location:
Grave Illusions is set in NYC.
Characters:
The hero is a human named John "Britt" Britain. Britt's life took a turn for the worse when he made the mistake of confronting his partner of corruption. During which Britt & his partner got into a physical altercation resulting in his partner's death & Britt's removal from the NYPD.
The heroine (turned 1953) is an 80 year old vampire (@ the time of the story) named Jessica"Jess" Vandermire. Jess is a NYC police lieutenant for a black-ops team.
Plot:
NYC is being overrun by vampires. The once careful solo hunters are becoming pack hunters & in the process losing the ability to stay under the public's radar. Jess attempt to recruit Britt into her black-ops team. However, it be unwise to take anything at face value. *brings out smoking jacket & pipe* Theiris a mystery afoot.
Romance:
The author made attempts with a romantic subplot between Jess & Britt that unfortunately fell short.
Overall Thoughts:
No major editing issues. Pacing was unfortunately slow & the characters lacked depth imo. The mystery was sufficiently mysterious &as mentioned above the romance felt unwarranted. I didn't feel any romantic tension between the H/h. They seemed physically attracted but otherwise they felt to me as the reader romantically uninterested. The author practiced a lot of tell & not enough show. The most interesting part of this book was the paranormal world unfortunately the story didn't include much world building. Perhaps this will change in book 2. I found it difficult to read this story in its entirety.
Warning: Cliffhanger ending
Rating: 2 stars
=======================
This book counts towards my Cliterary Genius 2016 A to Z reading Challenge. Letter: G
March 15, 2011
The life of ex-cop John Brittain is circling the drain since getting tossed off the force two years ago for the suspicious death of his partner. Since then he's been driving a cab and drinking too much, lost his wife and is living in near squalor in a questionable part of town. Even worse is his lack of concern for how far he's fallen. Then one night he slips out of the bar and is approached by a gorgeous leather-clad woman who presses him up against the wall and turns him on, propositions him, then disappears when he turns her down. If that wasn't a far enough step outside the norm of his miserable life of late, his former captain calls and asks him to come see him. Britt doesn't have the first clue what that's all about, nor does he have an inkling of just how much his life is about to change.
She'd been watching him for weeks, following him and aware of the others who were also on his tail. Coming face to face with him in that alley off the bar just proved to Jess that she wanted Britt on her team. Well, she wanted him for more than that but that's all she would allow herself. And after fifty years as a vampire, Jess had gotten very good at schooling her most unwanted - and unholy - desires.
The vampires in the city were joining together and acting in ways that Jess had never seen before. It was up to her to assemble and train more hunters and put a stop to the growing number of casualties. And given the interest the vampires have shown in Britt, she may have found the key to the whole mess. Convincing the man to join her cause without explaining what she or that cause is, though, may not be so easy. With the lives of her team, her baby brother, and the humans of the city on the line, the ease of the task has nothing to do with Jess' grim determination to get it done.
Though I liked the idea of the concept for the plot of this series debut, several issues prevented me from being able to enjoy it. The narrative plodded a bit, and seemed dry and stilted. I never really got a clear picture of the world of the series beyond the basics and I wish there had been more attention to detail offered in the creation of the mythos of vampires within it. There seemed to be some conflicting information and a lot of vague references, some religion-based, without many absolutes or thorough explanation.
The characters also suffered from a lack of definition. I had a hard time connecting to them because of that, and that caused the romantic subplot to fall short for me. Britt was the most three dimensional and clearly defined of the bunch, I thought, with his past and many of his motivations and aspirations covered in detail...but as the series is named after Jess I found that odd. The main character in this book doesn't seem to be the one in which the series is centered around. I don't think it would have felt quite so disparate had Jess been given more page time and her past been more thoroughly described. A few more scenes slanted from her perspective would have helped, too.
Unfortunately, those weren't the only issues I had with this book. For a story that is supposed to contain an investigation with a crack detective and a vampire, way too many pieces of the investigation were ill defined, fit together poorly, were based on wild assumptions with no supporting evidence, or were handed to the characters from nameless third party sources. Other parts made no sense and/or conflicted with logic and previously established information. The police procedural aspects of the plot failed for me on that level.
Actually, too many things failed for me in this book. There were just too many plot holes, contradictions, illogical progressions, and character issues, and the end was riddled with supposed twists that I just felt were random and bizarre. I wanted so much to like Grave Illusions, but ended up struggling to finish it. I'm sorry to say I doubt I'll be continuing this series.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for One Good Book Deserves Another.
She'd been watching him for weeks, following him and aware of the others who were also on his tail. Coming face to face with him in that alley off the bar just proved to Jess that she wanted Britt on her team. Well, she wanted him for more than that but that's all she would allow herself. And after fifty years as a vampire, Jess had gotten very good at schooling her most unwanted - and unholy - desires.
The vampires in the city were joining together and acting in ways that Jess had never seen before. It was up to her to assemble and train more hunters and put a stop to the growing number of casualties. And given the interest the vampires have shown in Britt, she may have found the key to the whole mess. Convincing the man to join her cause without explaining what she or that cause is, though, may not be so easy. With the lives of her team, her baby brother, and the humans of the city on the line, the ease of the task has nothing to do with Jess' grim determination to get it done.
Though I liked the idea of the concept for the plot of this series debut, several issues prevented me from being able to enjoy it. The narrative plodded a bit, and seemed dry and stilted. I never really got a clear picture of the world of the series beyond the basics and I wish there had been more attention to detail offered in the creation of the mythos of vampires within it. There seemed to be some conflicting information and a lot of vague references, some religion-based, without many absolutes or thorough explanation.
The characters also suffered from a lack of definition. I had a hard time connecting to them because of that, and that caused the romantic subplot to fall short for me. Britt was the most three dimensional and clearly defined of the bunch, I thought, with his past and many of his motivations and aspirations covered in detail...but as the series is named after Jess I found that odd. The main character in this book doesn't seem to be the one in which the series is centered around. I don't think it would have felt quite so disparate had Jess been given more page time and her past been more thoroughly described. A few more scenes slanted from her perspective would have helped, too.
Unfortunately, those weren't the only issues I had with this book. For a story that is supposed to contain an investigation with a crack detective and a vampire, way too many pieces of the investigation were ill defined, fit together poorly, were based on wild assumptions with no supporting evidence, or were handed to the characters from nameless third party sources. Other parts made no sense and/or conflicted with logic and previously established information. The police procedural aspects of the plot failed for me on that level.
Actually, too many things failed for me in this book. There were just too many plot holes, contradictions, illogical progressions, and character issues, and the end was riddled with supposed twists that I just felt were random and bizarre. I wanted so much to like Grave Illusions, but ended up struggling to finish it. I'm sorry to say I doubt I'll be continuing this series.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for One Good Book Deserves Another.
September 22, 2015
I realized a few pages in that this seemed familiar, but initially put it down to reading a short story in the same universe as this looked like it was only published in August. Unfortunately for me I discovered I'd read this some years ago, and still had the same opinion as before.
Jess is a vampire with a heart of gold... wait, I mean a good heart... and a loving brother who keeps reminding her of her innate goodness thereby preventing her from slipping into evil vampire mode.
Definite bonus points for an unusual protagonist and plot quirks, but it lost too many for some relationship issues.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Jess is a vampire with a heart of gold... wait, I mean a good heart... and a loving brother who keeps reminding her of her innate goodness thereby preventing her from slipping into evil vampire mode.
Definite bonus points for an unusual protagonist and plot quirks, but it lost too many for some relationship issues.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2011
(Storyline 4-Stars) (Writing 3 1/2-Stars)
Low-rent covers aside, this is a pretty good UF/Vamp series. The books lean a bit more towards UF than PNR, but there is a strong romantic element-without the sex. The first book has a couple of issues like: cheesy villain dialogue, mediocre writing, typos, & plot inconsistencies, which seemed to cheapen a relatively good book. The writing is greatly improves & the editing is much tighter as the series progresses, but a few typos & mistakes still remain.
John Brittain has been a man down on his luck, ever since being kicked off the police force for killing his partner. Life takes an unexpected turn, when he gets the opportunity to return to the job to serve in a unconventional way of riding NYC of vamps. Jes Vandermire, 50yr veteran of the force-& vampire, is charged in leading this covert Special OPs team, and pushing others to their limit. Hopefully, she won't inadvertently push Britt completely away in the process.. This stories is told in multiple 3rd person POV.
1-Grave Illusions
2-Beyond the Grave
3-Grave New Day
Low-rent covers aside, this is a pretty good UF/Vamp series. The books lean a bit more towards UF than PNR, but there is a strong romantic element-without the sex. The first book has a couple of issues like: cheesy villain dialogue, mediocre writing, typos, & plot inconsistencies, which seemed to cheapen a relatively good book. The writing is greatly improves & the editing is much tighter as the series progresses, but a few typos & mistakes still remain.
John Brittain has been a man down on his luck, ever since being kicked off the police force for killing his partner. Life takes an unexpected turn, when he gets the opportunity to return to the job to serve in a unconventional way of riding NYC of vamps. Jes Vandermire, 50yr veteran of the force-& vampire, is charged in leading this covert Special OPs team, and pushing others to their limit. Hopefully, she won't inadvertently push Britt completely away in the process.. This stories is told in multiple 3rd person POV.
1-Grave Illusions
2-Beyond the Grave
3-Grave New Day
December 18, 2008
Relationships are hard under “normal” circumstances. Add to the mix a top-secret black ops NYC police team, two dedicated and stubborn cops, and a dark and nasty strain of local vampires, and you have all the ingredients for a first-class paranormal mystery...
For the entire review please go to the Best Paranormal & Urban Fantasy Review site on the web, Bitten By Books for the review of Grave Illusions in it's entirety. You won't be sorry.
For the entire review please go to the Best Paranormal & Urban Fantasy Review site on the web, Bitten By Books for the review of Grave Illusions in it's entirety. You won't be sorry.
November 25, 2015
Good set up for the first book in this series. I liked the action scenes but couldn't honestly say I was riveted to the pages. While not as fast-paced as I would have liked, the characters are likable and I still thought it was fun. The cliffhanger ending has me intrigued enough to warrant reading the second book.
August 22, 2015
This was a real interesting start to a new series and I really liked it
October 21, 2017
Grave Illusions is the first book in the Jess Vandemire, Vampire Hunter series. The story has a lot of promise, but the execution needs some work. I found some of the scenes fell flat and left me scratching my head. I felt like I was missing things. And Jess and John had little to no chemistry. Hopefully the next book in the series will fill in some blanks, but I’m not sure I’ll give it a chance.
*ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
*ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
June 18, 2011
I know, I know. I only gave this two stars, and yet I'm writing a review.
I read it from digital cover to digital cover. And I enjoyed it. It isn't great literature, nor is it intellectually challenging in any way... and I love fluffy mind-candy stories as much as the next reader. But seriously, where was the editor? Granted, the typos and whatnot did not detract from the overall story, but again I ask, where was the editor? And why did they not catch so many of the typos and errors?
I liked the story well enough. I read it in stops and starts, but I kept thinking about it in between readings. Still. Not great literature, and it was often corny, and overly theatrical. And the plot progressed in ways that were awkward and amateurish. How can two characters go from hating each other, to suspicion, to making out madly and being head over heels in love despite the danger they were facing?
So why did I keep reading? Well, because it was interesting, despite the major flaws. The concept was good. The characters, though kind of predictable and often just flat-out cliche'd still kept my attention.
Seems that there is a possibility of a sequel. Let's hope the sequel has a better editorial team. There's real potential for the continuation of this story, it just seems like it rushes things too much, needs a better editor, and the author needs to put plot before the characters having a hot make out session and falling head over heels in love.
Not that I'm against falling head over heels in love, but just... really, hot vampire, hot ex-cop... there needs to be a bit more plot development and more complex character development before I can justify enjoying it as much as I did.
Would I recommend this to others? No, unless they really want a light fluffy read that involves vampires and trivial angst from characters who are interesting, but shallow and predictable.
I read it from digital cover to digital cover. And I enjoyed it. It isn't great literature, nor is it intellectually challenging in any way... and I love fluffy mind-candy stories as much as the next reader. But seriously, where was the editor? Granted, the typos and whatnot did not detract from the overall story, but again I ask, where was the editor? And why did they not catch so many of the typos and errors?
I liked the story well enough. I read it in stops and starts, but I kept thinking about it in between readings. Still. Not great literature, and it was often corny, and overly theatrical. And the plot progressed in ways that were awkward and amateurish. How can two characters go from hating each other, to suspicion, to making out madly and being head over heels in love despite the danger they were facing?
So why did I keep reading? Well, because it was interesting, despite the major flaws. The concept was good. The characters, though kind of predictable and often just flat-out cliche'd still kept my attention.
Seems that there is a possibility of a sequel. Let's hope the sequel has a better editorial team. There's real potential for the continuation of this story, it just seems like it rushes things too much, needs a better editor, and the author needs to put plot before the characters having a hot make out session and falling head over heels in love.
Not that I'm against falling head over heels in love, but just... really, hot vampire, hot ex-cop... there needs to be a bit more plot development and more complex character development before I can justify enjoying it as much as I did.
Would I recommend this to others? No, unless they really want a light fluffy read that involves vampires and trivial angst from characters who are interesting, but shallow and predictable.
June 6, 2011
I'm going to start by saying that I ultimately enjoyed this book. However- yes, there's a 'however'. However, the first 25% of the book was very repetitious. Jess wants Britt to join her uber-secret team, Britt wants to know why she's trying to keep it secret, Jess won't tell him, Britt declines to join. Until the next night when they meet up randomly and Jess asks Britt again to join her uber-secret team... lather, rinse, repeat. Throw in some repressed sexual desire- by both of the main characters- and you've made it 1/4 of the way through the book.
Remember, I did enjoy the story despite this so don't let all that throw you off. There's an interesting twist involving Britt's former partner that I didn't see coming. There's another interesting twist involving the vampires behind the drug that caught me by surprise. I liked Jess and Britt together, although I wouldn't have been adverse to less simmering sexual tension and more acting on those desires. What can I say? I like it when the main characters (or any of the characters, really) get down and dirty.
All in all, once you get past the repetitive start it's a solid urban fantasy. While not groundbreaking in the genre, it is entertaining and intriguing.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Remember, I did enjoy the story despite this so don't let all that throw you off. There's an interesting twist involving Britt's former partner that I didn't see coming. There's another interesting twist involving the vampires behind the drug that caught me by surprise. I liked Jess and Britt together, although I wouldn't have been adverse to less simmering sexual tension and more acting on those desires. What can I say? I like it when the main characters (or any of the characters, really) get down and dirty.
All in all, once you get past the repetitive start it's a solid urban fantasy. While not groundbreaking in the genre, it is entertaining and intriguing.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
April 14, 2011
Before reading this book, I briefly looked over the reviews. Some people gave the book 1 or 2 stars and I became hesitant to read it. However, the book was free on Amazon.com and I liked the book description. Boy, I am glad that I decided to read it. While the story was not stellar, it was pretty good. It has everything I love in a book: interesting characters, fast pacing, deviations on the vampire theme and mystery.
Jess Vandermere is a vampire turned over 80 years ago. Her younger brother is a priest and has dedicated his life to both protecting her and salvaging her humanity and soul. Prior to turning, she was one of the first female police officers and currently is working with the police as the leader of a covert operation hunting down vampires that are threatening to take over New York. With the assistance of the Chief of Police she recruits a former officer who accidentally killed his former partner, John Brittain.
Throughout their journey to wipe out the evil vampire community growing in New York, Jess and John uncover secrets, danger, evil plots and respect for each other. With this respect lead to something more? You will only find out by reading this first installment in the series. I enjoyed this book even though the dialogue and scenes were a bit cheesy at times. But I did have a good chuckle as well.
Jess Vandermere is a vampire turned over 80 years ago. Her younger brother is a priest and has dedicated his life to both protecting her and salvaging her humanity and soul. Prior to turning, she was one of the first female police officers and currently is working with the police as the leader of a covert operation hunting down vampires that are threatening to take over New York. With the assistance of the Chief of Police she recruits a former officer who accidentally killed his former partner, John Brittain.
Throughout their journey to wipe out the evil vampire community growing in New York, Jess and John uncover secrets, danger, evil plots and respect for each other. With this respect lead to something more? You will only find out by reading this first installment in the series. I enjoyed this book even though the dialogue and scenes were a bit cheesy at times. But I did have a good chuckle as well.
March 22, 2011
This book starts with a promising idea - a vampire who is a vampire with speical ablities because her brother, a priest, saved her soul when she was turned, hunts down other vampires in the City of New York. I have to Gardiner full credit for keeping vampires as overall evil, yet explaining how her lead vampire Jess and second vampire James, are different. It worked.
Sadly that was the best thing about the book. I should admit that I didn't finish this one.
The problems are many. First there is not a good sense of setting. Second, there is not a good sense of character; all secondary characters seem interchangable and clice. Jess, the female vampire, is flat and quite frankly, it is unclear how she has so much experience fighting vampires. New York is really Sunnydale? Third, the plotting is strange and the time movement of the book is jumping. Fourth, all Jess needs is a good - - - - bythe right man. Fifth, Jess dresses really sexy and in too high heels for a cop who wants people to take her seriously.
Sadly that was the best thing about the book. I should admit that I didn't finish this one.
The problems are many. First there is not a good sense of setting. Second, there is not a good sense of character; all secondary characters seem interchangable and clice. Jess, the female vampire, is flat and quite frankly, it is unclear how she has so much experience fighting vampires. New York is really Sunnydale? Third, the plotting is strange and the time movement of the book is jumping. Fourth, all Jess needs is a good - - - - bythe right man. Fifth, Jess dresses really sexy and in too high heels for a cop who wants people to take her seriously.
July 12, 2016
This was a pretty cool premise.
Vampire cop, Jess Vandermire, is recruiting a team to help her track down and neutralize a growing vampire army. Jess is not your typical vampire as her brother, a priest, fought for, and continues to help her fight for her soul. Through prayer and meditation, she is able to overcome some of the typical vampire weaknesses.
John Brittain is an ex-cop haunted by his past and the death of his partner. He's approached by Jess and has a chance to clear his name and become a part of the force again.
This was building solid momentum, sadly, it felt like the editor checked out about 2/3 of the way into the book as it started to become a bit more clunky and to show more errors.
Will possibly pick up book 2 to see how Jess & John's relationship grows.
*Digital review copy provided by NetGalley and the publisher.
Vampire cop, Jess Vandermire, is recruiting a team to help her track down and neutralize a growing vampire army. Jess is not your typical vampire as her brother, a priest, fought for, and continues to help her fight for her soul. Through prayer and meditation, she is able to overcome some of the typical vampire weaknesses.
John Brittain is an ex-cop haunted by his past and the death of his partner. He's approached by Jess and has a chance to clear his name and become a part of the force again.
This was building solid momentum, sadly, it felt like the editor checked out about 2/3 of the way into the book as it started to become a bit more clunky and to show more errors.
Will possibly pick up book 2 to see how Jess & John's relationship grows.
*Digital review copy provided by NetGalley and the publisher.
September 25, 2015
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. John Brittain is an ex-cop. He loved the job, but got into a fight with his partner, and his partner died. It was an accident, and he could never understand how a punch to the stomach could ruin his life. Now Brit makes his living as a cabbie. When his old boss Drake calls him about a job, he has no idea what the job could be. He meets Jess Vandermire, his new lieutenant if he takes the job. They won't give him any details until he joins the team. Will his desire to be a cop again win over the guilt he feels about being a killer? And what is so dangerous that they can't tell him about the job? This book was ok, but I didn't love it. I just didn't connect with the characters and I prefer less romance and more magic and excitement.
October 21, 2015
This is the first book of a promising vampire series. We are introduced to Jess, a police lieutenant in charge of a very special force, one that hunts vampires. Strangely enough she's also a vampire but thanks to her brother, she was able to save her soul and not turn evil.
One of the new recruits for the team is John, an ex-cop with a few issues, the bigger being that the rogue vampires have taken a rare interest on him.
Against the odds, they develop a strong connection. But being different species puts a lot of obstacles in their relationships.
It can be read as a standalone, as there isn't a cliffhanger.
One of the new recruits for the team is John, an ex-cop with a few issues, the bigger being that the rogue vampires have taken a rare interest on him.
Against the odds, they develop a strong connection. But being different species puts a lot of obstacles in their relationships.
It can be read as a standalone, as there isn't a cliffhanger.
February 8, 2016
I received a copy from NetGalley for an honest review.
This was a fun read, I love urban fantasy... the action, adventure, and a little bit of hotness. I love the fact that the vampire hunter is also a vampire, it adds a funky little twist to it. This takes place in New York City where most of the world doesn't know that vampires exist yet there is a special ops unit with the police to hunt them down. Even with having a unit very few cops know about the vampires and it makes for some interesting twists.
This was a fun read, I love urban fantasy... the action, adventure, and a little bit of hotness. I love the fact that the vampire hunter is also a vampire, it adds a funky little twist to it. This takes place in New York City where most of the world doesn't know that vampires exist yet there is a special ops unit with the police to hunt them down. Even with having a unit very few cops know about the vampires and it makes for some interesting twists.
April 2, 2011
This was quite good. A cop thriller with vampire division in the police department. I enjoyed it so much I finished it in 2 days. Can't wait to read something else by this author.
November 8, 2017
DNF 30%
I was not enjoying this book. I found it repetitive and too heavy on the tell. Mostly, I hate to say it, but I just didn't think it was very good. So, I opted not to read anymore.
I was not enjoying this book. I found it repetitive and too heavy on the tell. Mostly, I hate to say it, but I just didn't think it was very good. So, I opted not to read anymore.
Want to read
June 3, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/3/2020)! 🎁
January 30, 2021
Action and romance abound in this story of vampire fighters versus powerful vampires. Vampire fighters working from inside the NYPD are trying to learn why vampires are showing themselves. Why are they banding together against humans?
March 7, 2018
A nice fluff read if you like paranormal romance. Not heavy on the smut, but there's definitely a slow burn romance taking place. There's some grammar and typo errors that may bug some readers.
February 19, 2022
Very well written. I love vampire books
December 19, 2023
Somehow I concluded that this was perfect Bank Holiday fluff
December 31, 2015
First reviewed at Haunted Bookshelf
Grave Illusions is the First in the Series, Jess Vndermine, Vampire Hunter. This award winning series first started in 2007, but since I recently came upon a soon to be released e-reader ARC of the latest novel in this series I felt it right and wise to go back to the very beginning. There are hundreds of amazing series out there on the shelves unread by me, so I’m sure this will not be my last discovery of a series that is well worth the time and money to invest in getting caught up to date.
Jess is a vampire – and a hunter of the most vile, evil vampires to ever prey on humans. Jess was turned in 1952, then the first woman on the New York City Police force. Today she heads a Special Black Ops team that investigates crimes by the vampires that exist in and around New York City. It takes a special type of person to end up on Jess’ team. Someone who isn’t afraid to kill upon instinct and with complete accuracy and intent. Someone who will not hesitate to kill, for a second of hesitation could mean the difference between life and death on her team.
John Brittain, or Britt as he is most often called, was a good cop. Now he’s a cop killer. He had discovered that his partner was taking bribes and during the physical fight he landed a blow that killed his partner. Cleared of charges, Britt now drives a cab and lives in isolation with self-loathing as his only companion.
He is approached by his former captain and one beautiful woman intent on recruiting him to a Special Ops team. Except they are extremely closed-mouthed about what this team is investigating or fighting. The answer of, “If we tell you now we’d have to kill you.” was not intended as a joke, but as a blood chilling warning. They wanted him on the team badly, but he had to make the call based on gut instinct and without any knowledge of what he’d be agreeing to.
Britt wasn’t interested. Yet, the offer gnawed at him with the light of a promise just beyond reach. When it soon became apparent that he was in fact being targeted by those he would be fighting, his reluctance became less as Jess was forced to tell him little bits about the team for his own safety.
Grave Illusions quickly draws you into the story. The consistent, well done world building makes stepping into this New York City effortless and believable. Obviously, Jess is not entirely like the vampires she hunts. There is a reason she is seen in daylight and why she wants these creatures destroyed. The sexual tension between Jess and Britt builds slowly and steadily over the course of the story. They aren’t lovers yet, but the emotional ties are growing tighter every day and night.
This is the first of four (so far) stories in the series. While they do not end on a true cliffhanger, there is a hint of the next story to come at the very ending. That only gives the reader the teasing hint to be sure to follow up on Jess and Britt’s next adventures in this Special Ops team.
I enjoyed Grave Illusions very much and would not hesitate to recommend it to paranormal, mystery or romance readers.
Grave Illusions is the First in the Series, Jess Vndermine, Vampire Hunter. This award winning series first started in 2007, but since I recently came upon a soon to be released e-reader ARC of the latest novel in this series I felt it right and wise to go back to the very beginning. There are hundreds of amazing series out there on the shelves unread by me, so I’m sure this will not be my last discovery of a series that is well worth the time and money to invest in getting caught up to date.
Jess is a vampire – and a hunter of the most vile, evil vampires to ever prey on humans. Jess was turned in 1952, then the first woman on the New York City Police force. Today she heads a Special Black Ops team that investigates crimes by the vampires that exist in and around New York City. It takes a special type of person to end up on Jess’ team. Someone who isn’t afraid to kill upon instinct and with complete accuracy and intent. Someone who will not hesitate to kill, for a second of hesitation could mean the difference between life and death on her team.
John Brittain, or Britt as he is most often called, was a good cop. Now he’s a cop killer. He had discovered that his partner was taking bribes and during the physical fight he landed a blow that killed his partner. Cleared of charges, Britt now drives a cab and lives in isolation with self-loathing as his only companion.
He is approached by his former captain and one beautiful woman intent on recruiting him to a Special Ops team. Except they are extremely closed-mouthed about what this team is investigating or fighting. The answer of, “If we tell you now we’d have to kill you.” was not intended as a joke, but as a blood chilling warning. They wanted him on the team badly, but he had to make the call based on gut instinct and without any knowledge of what he’d be agreeing to.
Britt wasn’t interested. Yet, the offer gnawed at him with the light of a promise just beyond reach. When it soon became apparent that he was in fact being targeted by those he would be fighting, his reluctance became less as Jess was forced to tell him little bits about the team for his own safety.
Grave Illusions quickly draws you into the story. The consistent, well done world building makes stepping into this New York City effortless and believable. Obviously, Jess is not entirely like the vampires she hunts. There is a reason she is seen in daylight and why she wants these creatures destroyed. The sexual tension between Jess and Britt builds slowly and steadily over the course of the story. They aren’t lovers yet, but the emotional ties are growing tighter every day and night.
This is the first of four (so far) stories in the series. While they do not end on a true cliffhanger, there is a hint of the next story to come at the very ending. That only gives the reader the teasing hint to be sure to follow up on Jess and Britt’s next adventures in this Special Ops team.
I enjoyed Grave Illusions very much and would not hesitate to recommend it to paranormal, mystery or romance readers.
December 16, 2015
Where has this author been? How have I missed her books? Ms. Gardiner is a new to me author and she has been around for a while. Thankfully, I have found her now and I'm keeping an eye out for her books. Jess Vandermire is a cop turned against her will into becoming a vampire. She is putting together a task force to take down vampires. This is all covert and one of the men she wants on her team is ex-cop John Brittain. John is persona non grata because he is a cop killer. Even worse, he kills his own partner. When Jess and John's paths cross, it is the catalyst which brings dramatically changes both their worlds.
The world building is similar to a few other vampire heroine books. There are good and bad vampires. The bad vampires want to rule over the humans and treat them as blood slave. For those who enjoy the movie Blade with Wesley Snipes, think of Jess as a female Blade. She is a female who will not take crap from anyone. John is a man who is spiraling down in his life. He is an antihero who finds a new purpose in life. This second chance can be his redemption. His close encounters with the supernatural world makes him re-examine his beliefs. The way this book is written, this world is dark, gritty and a gives a Sin City vibe. I like it. The places in the book come to life in a black and white movie style. Whilst the dialogue isn't film noir, it isn't fluffy.
The budding relationship between Jessie and John follows a predictable path. Nothing about their hot then cold interactions is a surprise. Learning about their pasts builds a better picture of their motivations and gives them a depth which makes me want to learn more about them. I like both characters because they have lived a life with ups and downs. Even when they are down, they do not fully give up. This book nicely sets up for the next one. The tale does not end as a cliffhanger. After reading this first book, it hooks and reels me in. I rushed to read the next two books. Recommended for urban fantasy readers who like female vampires fighting against evil.
*provided by NetGalley
The world building is similar to a few other vampire heroine books. There are good and bad vampires. The bad vampires want to rule over the humans and treat them as blood slave. For those who enjoy the movie Blade with Wesley Snipes, think of Jess as a female Blade. She is a female who will not take crap from anyone. John is a man who is spiraling down in his life. He is an antihero who finds a new purpose in life. This second chance can be his redemption. His close encounters with the supernatural world makes him re-examine his beliefs. The way this book is written, this world is dark, gritty and a gives a Sin City vibe. I like it. The places in the book come to life in a black and white movie style. Whilst the dialogue isn't film noir, it isn't fluffy.
The budding relationship between Jessie and John follows a predictable path. Nothing about their hot then cold interactions is a surprise. Learning about their pasts builds a better picture of their motivations and gives them a depth which makes me want to learn more about them. I like both characters because they have lived a life with ups and downs. Even when they are down, they do not fully give up. This book nicely sets up for the next one. The tale does not end as a cliffhanger. After reading this first book, it hooks and reels me in. I rushed to read the next two books. Recommended for urban fantasy readers who like female vampires fighting against evil.
*provided by NetGalley
January 23, 2013
I really loved the concept of your leading lady, Jess, being saved by her brother through baptism. It was a completely different take on the world of vampires than anything I’ve read recently--something I found so refreshing. Though her outfit is a bit ridiculous for fighting, and I mean more so the six inch heels with the built in spike, who doesn’t like having a woman in leather kicking butt? I would have gone with cotton because it breaths, but we all have our different tastes.
You’re leading man, John Britain, is like any other man who was kicked off the force for having ‘accidently’ killed his partner, never going to prison because the body went missing, sends money to his dead ex-partners grieving widow anonymously, divorced from his cheating wife, drinks too much, and lives in a crummy apartment working as a night taxi driver. I think that just about covers it all! But he’s a hell of a man that begins to straighten up his life when Jess offers him a job after almost seducing him at the beginning. The down side is that for the first twenty percent of the book you are going back and forth between Jess trying to recruit John as a vampire hunter and John unable to make up his mind about it because he not only wants to know more information but doesn’t feel he deserves a second chance to work with the police.
As an added plus to the book, there were plenty of moments with sexual tension--though I was rooting for more in that department. Not to mention enough fights and surprises to keep you coming back for more. I know I did!
It was a fast read and easy to follow until you got to the last fifteen percent. Things began to not add up in conversation and some actions I wanted to ask the characters themselves, “what about that made sense” or “where’s the other guy”. Though a few started to not add up, and the battles seemed lacking at the very end, I found it to still be a good and enjoyable read.
I give this book a four out of five and I would recommend this to several people.
By Brenda Franklin author of the Pulse Trilogy
You’re leading man, John Britain, is like any other man who was kicked off the force for having ‘accidently’ killed his partner, never going to prison because the body went missing, sends money to his dead ex-partners grieving widow anonymously, divorced from his cheating wife, drinks too much, and lives in a crummy apartment working as a night taxi driver. I think that just about covers it all! But he’s a hell of a man that begins to straighten up his life when Jess offers him a job after almost seducing him at the beginning. The down side is that for the first twenty percent of the book you are going back and forth between Jess trying to recruit John as a vampire hunter and John unable to make up his mind about it because he not only wants to know more information but doesn’t feel he deserves a second chance to work with the police.
As an added plus to the book, there were plenty of moments with sexual tension--though I was rooting for more in that department. Not to mention enough fights and surprises to keep you coming back for more. I know I did!
It was a fast read and easy to follow until you got to the last fifteen percent. Things began to not add up in conversation and some actions I wanted to ask the characters themselves, “what about that made sense” or “where’s the other guy”. Though a few started to not add up, and the battles seemed lacking at the very end, I found it to still be a good and enjoyable read.
I give this book a four out of five and I would recommend this to several people.
By Brenda Franklin author of the Pulse Trilogy
November 28, 2015
Jess Vandermire is a vampire and the leader of a secret police force that keeps the bad vampires from killing humans. What she tries to keep quiet is that she is a vampire, too. Now, she needs to find more recruits to help and John Brittain fits the bill. Britt, as he is called, was taken off the police force two years ago because he accidentally killed his partner. Now he is full of guilt and feels his life means nothing except helping his dead partner’s wife and child by sending them money anonymously. When his is offered the chance to join Jess’ team, he isn’t sure, especially when Jess won’t tell him what kind of force it is until he accepts. Why do the vampires seem to be stalking Britt? Will they find the new leader of the vampires? Will Jess and Britt find a way to give in to the attraction they feel for each other?
This book was mostly a delight to read. The storyline and the characters were interesting, the romance was intense, and I can see good things in the future. However, there were a few things that were a little distracting. I really couldn’t stand the nickname “Britt” for John. I kept thinking it was a woman, and didn’t get used to it until later in the book. It was a little sluggish in the beginning with the push/pull of the job offer, and the end seemed a little rushed, and could have been a little more coherent/connected than it was; there really didn’t seem to be a good rhyme or reason for what the motivation was for Prometheus, including his…partner. Most of those issues I can put those aside for this being a freshman book in a series. They sometimes can have problems that are worked out in future installments. Please give this book a chance, it really is worth it. In fact, I’ve already bought the second book because I’m eager to see how well it is done and how it works out! 4 ½ stars.
Thanks to NetGalley and Belle Books/ImaJinn Books for the free e-book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was mostly a delight to read. The storyline and the characters were interesting, the romance was intense, and I can see good things in the future. However, there were a few things that were a little distracting. I really couldn’t stand the nickname “Britt” for John. I kept thinking it was a woman, and didn’t get used to it until later in the book. It was a little sluggish in the beginning with the push/pull of the job offer, and the end seemed a little rushed, and could have been a little more coherent/connected than it was; there really didn’t seem to be a good rhyme or reason for what the motivation was for Prometheus, including his…partner. Most of those issues I can put those aside for this being a freshman book in a series. They sometimes can have problems that are worked out in future installments. Please give this book a chance, it really is worth it. In fact, I’ve already bought the second book because I’m eager to see how well it is done and how it works out! 4 ½ stars.
Thanks to NetGalley and Belle Books/ImaJinn Books for the free e-book in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2016
Grave Illusions is the first book in the Jess Vandermire, Vampire Hunter series by Lina Gardiner. Lieutenant Jess Vandermire, New York City police officer, is uniquely specialized to recognize and fight an unseen threat. It's her job to forge a black ops team, an assortment of men and women who wouldn't be considered for the job under normal circumstances. For her, it's all about retribution until ex-cop John Brittain is recruited to her team. Suddenly, her priorities aren't quite so easily definable. John Brittain has a chip on his shoulder and is as tough as they come. But is he ready for the whole truth? When Jess tells him the truth about herself, will he stay and fight or will he turn against her and not only threaten their lives but destroy the fragile relationship developing between them?
Grave Illusions is an urban fantasy with a solid show or world and character building, and a good pacing. John is a well built character that kept my interest. I like that neither Jess nor John are perfect characters, or so completely flawed that redemption seems unlikely. The dangers they face, and the team they put together, and very well written and capture the attention and imagination. They face large challenges, but deal with them head on, forthe most part. My only problem with the book is that it felt like there might have been a prequel or relate series before it (none of which seem to exist) since some of the characters had such complex back stories and interconnected relationships which readers only get a glimpse of. However, I still greatly enjoyed the complex reveals of some of those pieces, and the depths of the characters and larger story arch.
Grave Illusions is a solid start to a urban fantasy series. The characters are story are intriguing, with some new twists to the well explored ideas about vampires and the law. I have added this series to my to be read list, and look forward to reading on.
Grave Illusions is an urban fantasy with a solid show or world and character building, and a good pacing. John is a well built character that kept my interest. I like that neither Jess nor John are perfect characters, or so completely flawed that redemption seems unlikely. The dangers they face, and the team they put together, and very well written and capture the attention and imagination. They face large challenges, but deal with them head on, forthe most part. My only problem with the book is that it felt like there might have been a prequel or relate series before it (none of which seem to exist) since some of the characters had such complex back stories and interconnected relationships which readers only get a glimpse of. However, I still greatly enjoyed the complex reveals of some of those pieces, and the depths of the characters and larger story arch.
Grave Illusions is a solid start to a urban fantasy series. The characters are story are intriguing, with some new twists to the well explored ideas about vampires and the law. I have added this series to my to be read list, and look forward to reading on.
October 31, 2015
"Grave Illusions" by Lina Gardiner introduces us to an alternate universe with vampires hiding in the shadows, a somewhat vanilla vampire world with no overt magic, no werewolves, and no zombies. Jess Vandermire is a cop who turned into a vampire, learned to cope with her condition, and became a cop again. She now leads a special ops unit that tracks and kills rogue vampires.
When I first read about this book, I was extremely excited. I love vampire books, the various flavors of vampirism, and unusual situations that different authors create to test out vampires. I also like a good romance, and "Grave Illusions" held the potential for an excellent romantic vampire murder mystery.
Alas, but the book doesn't quite measure up. John Britton stands up as a three-dimensional character, with Jess running a close second. But the rest of the people are not well defined; more than two-dimensional but not quite fully formed. The narrative also starts out rather slow, and takes about a third of the book before the pace picks up.
As for the plot, I wouldn't say Ms. Gardiner left plot holes, more like plot gaps. I found places where the narrative missed details that made the flow of the words stutter. For example, at one point John and Jess are talking in an office when Jess hears someone outside. Suddenly, John's taking his jacket out of an SUV without leaving the office. Too much of the intermediate action is implied, leaving plot gaps.
But the story has a lot of potential, and I intend to read the sequel to see if the pacing problems work out now that the universe is established.
I give this story a 3.5 stars out of 5.
When I first read about this book, I was extremely excited. I love vampire books, the various flavors of vampirism, and unusual situations that different authors create to test out vampires. I also like a good romance, and "Grave Illusions" held the potential for an excellent romantic vampire murder mystery.
Alas, but the book doesn't quite measure up. John Britton stands up as a three-dimensional character, with Jess running a close second. But the rest of the people are not well defined; more than two-dimensional but not quite fully formed. The narrative also starts out rather slow, and takes about a third of the book before the pace picks up.
As for the plot, I wouldn't say Ms. Gardiner left plot holes, more like plot gaps. I found places where the narrative missed details that made the flow of the words stutter. For example, at one point John and Jess are talking in an office when Jess hears someone outside. Suddenly, John's taking his jacket out of an SUV without leaving the office. Too much of the intermediate action is implied, leaving plot gaps.
But the story has a lot of potential, and I intend to read the sequel to see if the pacing problems work out now that the universe is established.
I give this story a 3.5 stars out of 5.
November 18, 2015
This is a vampire story, BUT not a run of the mill vampire story. The vampires in this story are all dark evil characters. There are sexy characters, just not the vampires, except Jess, of course. Jess was saved from this darkness by her baby brother Regent, who is a priest. When she was changed fifty years ago, Regent prayed over her, baptized her. He was able to recover part of her soul through hard work and prayers, daily. Regent fought side by side with her against the evil vampires, but now he’s in his seventies and too old and weak to protect her. Jess fights the darkness she is drawn to every day, she needs a new protector.
John Brittian was a cop, who killed his partner by accident and was kicked off the force. Now for the last two years he’s been a cabbie. Jess wants to recruit him to her black ops team, which is part of the police force, who hunt down the evil vampires and finish them. There is a strong attraction between Britt and Jess until Britt finds out she’s a vampire. He’s repulsed by her. This doesn’t usually happen in vampire love stories, so it was really refreshing to see a wariness and fear of Jess by Britt. Britt over comes his fear, but Jess is unapproachable to a relationship between them.
There has been an influx of new vampires and the black ops team needs to find out what or who is behind it. I really enjoyed this book. I really loved the new look and story line of vampires. It ends in a cliff hanger so it is not a stand alone, HEA story.
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
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