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Victorian Erotic #1
Vampire Dreams
Homeless and without any family, Arden Stephens must live on the streets of mid 19th century London, never a safe place for a young woman. One night, as she is running for her life from an attacker, she is rescued by Brandon Ridley and offered a place in his home as his maid. Brandon is enchanted by Arden from the moment they meet, but just as she has secrets, so too does he. A vampire hundreds of years old, he yearns for the companionship she can give him. But for that he must make her one of his kind.
Nightly, he visits her in her sleep, preparing her for the night he will finally make her his own. For Arden, the wanton dreams she has about her handsome employer seduce her and each day when she wakes up, she finds herself more drawn to him. But love and desire aren't enough for Brandon to sire her. He must first obtain the approval of his maker, an ancient vampire named Vasilije who has thwarted his chance for happiness before.
But if Brandon can convince him, he may finally find the love he's been without for centuries.
Nightly, he visits her in her sleep, preparing her for the night he will finally make her his own. For Arden, the wanton dreams she has about her handsome employer seduce her and each day when she wakes up, she finds herself more drawn to him. But love and desire aren't enough for Brandon to sire her. He must first obtain the approval of his maker, an ancient vampire named Vasilije who has thwarted his chance for happiness before.
But if Brandon can convince him, he may finally find the love he's been without for centuries.
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First published May 28, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
January 8, 2012
4/5 hotness rating
I won this from Nanny over at http://gnbstacks.blogspot.com/
The year was 1850 and 20 year old Arden Stephens was homeless. Her mother had passed away years before and her father had died before she was married, leaving her with nothing. She now lived on the streets, witnessing things that no proper woman of the times should see. One night, as she was being chased through the dark streets of London, she literally ran into Brandon Ridley. He protected her from her attacker and offered her a job as his maid. Arden now had a home but what was she to think of her new employer? His hot and cold behavior towards her confused Arden and at night she was having sinfully erotic dreams about him. Little did she know that what was really happening to her was more then just a dream.
I was pleasantly surprised by this story. I usually don't go for historicals but with the allure of an erotic PNR, Vampire Dreams called to me. I'm so happy that I read it!
Vampire Dreams is full of romantic and sexy scenes. It even has some action in it. By the time that I got to the middle of the story I was breathless. I read on, anxiously awaiting for what would come next.
The vampire rules of the story were interesting and they held my attention. Meeting Brandon's sire was a great addition to the story. IMO it's turned this from a good read to a great read.
Vampire Dreams is the first of Gabrielle Bisset's works that I've read and I plan on reading more. I would totally recommend this to people who want a short and spicy read with some good old vampiric drama.
I won this from Nanny over at http://gnbstacks.blogspot.com/
The year was 1850 and 20 year old Arden Stephens was homeless. Her mother had passed away years before and her father had died before she was married, leaving her with nothing. She now lived on the streets, witnessing things that no proper woman of the times should see. One night, as she was being chased through the dark streets of London, she literally ran into Brandon Ridley. He protected her from her attacker and offered her a job as his maid. Arden now had a home but what was she to think of her new employer? His hot and cold behavior towards her confused Arden and at night she was having sinfully erotic dreams about him. Little did she know that what was really happening to her was more then just a dream.
I was pleasantly surprised by this story. I usually don't go for historicals but with the allure of an erotic PNR, Vampire Dreams called to me. I'm so happy that I read it!
Vampire Dreams is full of romantic and sexy scenes. It even has some action in it. By the time that I got to the middle of the story I was breathless. I read on, anxiously awaiting for what would come next.
The vampire rules of the story were interesting and they held my attention. Meeting Brandon's sire was a great addition to the story. IMO it's turned this from a good read to a great read.
Vampire Dreams is the first of Gabrielle Bisset's works that I've read and I plan on reading more. I would totally recommend this to people who want a short and spicy read with some good old vampiric drama.
June 25, 2011
WOW, what an amazing read, this is why I love vampire erotica stories, as much as you love a dangerous vampire it's mainly about the sensuality and seduction of a vampire that makes you enjoy the read. I have never read anything by this author as she is new, but when an author can amaze you with their first release you know you can expect only more good reading material.
Arden was homeless on the streets, in the opening scene of the book she is being chase by a man, as she desperately tries to escape she is stopped by another man Brandon, who then rescues her, that alone engaged me immediately, also as to the way he rescues her is very very interesting. Brandon then offers Arden a job as a maid in his home where he sensually and seductively seduces Arden in her sleep at nights until he can fully have her, Brandon seems to be a sexy vampire who is lonely and who wants to have a companion to share his life with, Arden is a very shy and eager to please woman who falls in love with Brandon. As I said this book is why I/you would love vampire romances, it's a short novella that's to the point, you have vampires, sex, seduction and a little scuffling between vampires. Very good read and I am impatiently waiting on the author's follow up books being release the ending of June and July.
*****************
www.romancenoveljunkies.com <----- visit here authors & readers. While you’re there check out link to Facebook group with 800 members consisting of authors and readers. Hope to see you there.
Arden was homeless on the streets, in the opening scene of the book she is being chase by a man, as she desperately tries to escape she is stopped by another man Brandon, who then rescues her, that alone engaged me immediately, also as to the way he rescues her is very very interesting. Brandon then offers Arden a job as a maid in his home where he sensually and seductively seduces Arden in her sleep at nights until he can fully have her, Brandon seems to be a sexy vampire who is lonely and who wants to have a companion to share his life with, Arden is a very shy and eager to please woman who falls in love with Brandon. As I said this book is why I/you would love vampire romances, it's a short novella that's to the point, you have vampires, sex, seduction and a little scuffling between vampires. Very good read and I am impatiently waiting on the author's follow up books being release the ending of June and July.
*****************
www.romancenoveljunkies.com <----- visit here authors & readers. While you’re there check out link to Facebook group with 800 members consisting of authors and readers. Hope to see you there.
June 23, 2011
http://www.bittenbyparanormalromance....
Ollie's review below
Set in Victorian England Brandon Ridley discovers a young woman who stirs him like no other before, but the question that remains is will he be able to have her for eternity.
As Arden Stephens runs from danger she is unaware that she may be running into another. Saving Arden from possible death, Brandon give her employment as his maid to tend to his needs, however, Arden is unaware how much she will be tending to his needs and what it may cost her.
The encounters between Arden and Brandon were so intense at times that not only did Brandon leave Arden weak and drained, but also had the reader wishing to trade places with her. The deep passion that develops between the two doesn't go unnoticed by a nemesis that is bent on destroying their happiness.
Both Brandon and Arden have suffered so much in their lifetime and have felt lost and alone in the world until now. The only thing that may keep them apart is their fear of what lies ahead for them and a force bent as keeping them apart. A very hot, paranormal erotica novella that any vampire fan will enjoy and who loves her vampire strong, powerful and knowledgeable in pleasuring his love
Ollie's review below
Set in Victorian England Brandon Ridley discovers a young woman who stirs him like no other before, but the question that remains is will he be able to have her for eternity.
As Arden Stephens runs from danger she is unaware that she may be running into another. Saving Arden from possible death, Brandon give her employment as his maid to tend to his needs, however, Arden is unaware how much she will be tending to his needs and what it may cost her.
The encounters between Arden and Brandon were so intense at times that not only did Brandon leave Arden weak and drained, but also had the reader wishing to trade places with her. The deep passion that develops between the two doesn't go unnoticed by a nemesis that is bent on destroying their happiness.
Both Brandon and Arden have suffered so much in their lifetime and have felt lost and alone in the world until now. The only thing that may keep them apart is their fear of what lies ahead for them and a force bent as keeping them apart. A very hot, paranormal erotica novella that any vampire fan will enjoy and who loves her vampire strong, powerful and knowledgeable in pleasuring his love
June 25, 2011
Rating: 3.5, I think. Or maybe 4. Either way, it was satisfying.
Quick Take With sweet characters, satisfying action sequences and easily accesible language, this book is certainly please vampire- and PnR fans. A quick and dirty read, both literally and figuratively. ^_^
Review:
This novella by Gabrielle Bisset is nothing if not straight to the point. :o) The story gets down to business immediately, putting the two romantic leads in each others' paths and keeping them there for the duration of the tale. Given the shorter length (and thus quicker speed in plot development), the book reads quite like a fairy tale, or perhaps a naughty bedtime story; it's light on the expository details and only covers the storytelling essentials, but packs in a lot of heat and sweet romance.
And oh, what heat! There are some super hot scenes contained within this novella. I was pleased to find that their frequency and tone seemed to fit in nicely with the rest of the story; no encounters for their own sake or love scenes out of sync with the plot. (I will note that the book some under-the-mystical-influence encounters...I doubt it'll be a problem for most...but who knows, maybe someone will want a heads-up on that sort of thing.)
A very small part of me wishes the characters and the romance were fleshed out a bit more, particularly given that the main characters seem to "develop" feelings in a flash and in a place where the reader can't follow (that place being "between the lines" ^_^). But as it is, both still satisfy, as long as one doesn't mind the fast sequence of strong emotion.
The language was very clear and accessible, and I felt like the dialogue had just the right touch of period elegance. I found the action sequences (of the fighting/fleeing kind) exciting and engaging. The tone of the scenes throughout the book shifted and changed, but did so smoothy.
I quite enjoyed this quick cup of hot, steamy lovin'. ^_^ I'm very much looking forward to the next two books in the series; fortunately, the wait for the next release in the trilogy will be over by mid-July. Woop!
Quick Take With sweet characters, satisfying action sequences and easily accesible language, this book is certainly please vampire- and PnR fans. A quick and dirty read, both literally and figuratively. ^_^
Review:
This novella by Gabrielle Bisset is nothing if not straight to the point. :o) The story gets down to business immediately, putting the two romantic leads in each others' paths and keeping them there for the duration of the tale. Given the shorter length (and thus quicker speed in plot development), the book reads quite like a fairy tale, or perhaps a naughty bedtime story; it's light on the expository details and only covers the storytelling essentials, but packs in a lot of heat and sweet romance.
And oh, what heat! There are some super hot scenes contained within this novella. I was pleased to find that their frequency and tone seemed to fit in nicely with the rest of the story; no encounters for their own sake or love scenes out of sync with the plot. (I will note that the book some under-the-mystical-influence encounters...I doubt it'll be a problem for most...but who knows, maybe someone will want a heads-up on that sort of thing.)
A very small part of me wishes the characters and the romance were fleshed out a bit more, particularly given that the main characters seem to "develop" feelings in a flash and in a place where the reader can't follow (that place being "between the lines" ^_^). But as it is, both still satisfy, as long as one doesn't mind the fast sequence of strong emotion.
The language was very clear and accessible, and I felt like the dialogue had just the right touch of period elegance. I found the action sequences (of the fighting/fleeing kind) exciting and engaging. The tone of the scenes throughout the book shifted and changed, but did so smoothy.
I quite enjoyed this quick cup of hot, steamy lovin'. ^_^ I'm very much looking forward to the next two books in the series; fortunately, the wait for the next release in the trilogy will be over by mid-July. Woop!
July 2, 2011
Review by Ollie for bittenbyparanormalromance
Set in Victorian England Brandon Ridley discovers a young woman who stirs him like no other before, but the question that remains is will he be able to have her for eternity.
As Arden Stephens runs from danger she is unaware that she may be running into another. Saving Arden from possible death, Brandon give her employment as his maid to tend to his needs, however, Arden is unaware how much she will be tending to his needs and what it may cost her.
The encounters between Arden and Brandon were so intense at times that not only did Brandon leave Arden weak and drained, but also had the reader wishing to trade places with her. The deep passion that develops between the two doesn't go unnoticed by a nemesis that is bent on destroying their happiness.
Both Brandon and Arden have suffered so much in their lifetime and have felt lost and alone in the world until now. The only thing that may keep them apart is their fear of what lies ahead for them and a force bent as keeping them apart. A very hot, paranormal erotica novella that any vampire fan will enjoy and who loves her vampire strong, powerful and knowledgeable in pleasuring his love.
Set in Victorian England Brandon Ridley discovers a young woman who stirs him like no other before, but the question that remains is will he be able to have her for eternity.
As Arden Stephens runs from danger she is unaware that she may be running into another. Saving Arden from possible death, Brandon give her employment as his maid to tend to his needs, however, Arden is unaware how much she will be tending to his needs and what it may cost her.
The encounters between Arden and Brandon were so intense at times that not only did Brandon leave Arden weak and drained, but also had the reader wishing to trade places with her. The deep passion that develops between the two doesn't go unnoticed by a nemesis that is bent on destroying their happiness.
Both Brandon and Arden have suffered so much in their lifetime and have felt lost and alone in the world until now. The only thing that may keep them apart is their fear of what lies ahead for them and a force bent as keeping them apart. A very hot, paranormal erotica novella that any vampire fan will enjoy and who loves her vampire strong, powerful and knowledgeable in pleasuring his love.
June 29, 2011
I have to say this novella surprised me. I don’t like historicals. I stay away from historicals as much as I possibly can. This novella is set in 1850 London. The date is the only aspect that is historical, although I guess the mention of a carriage as transportation could be seen as another. I enjoyed this short story. Brandon is a very lonely vampire. He wants to sire a forever companion. After aiding a damsel in distress one night he finds exactly what he has been looking for. Arden is happy to not be living on the streets any longer. As each day goes by in the home of her new employer she finds herself more and more drawn to him.
This is a very sweet tale. Brandon is not your typical chest pounding alpha male. He is sweet. He is never demanding of Arden. He waits for her to realize the attraction and for her to come to him. Sometimes he even gives off a vibe that he is shy. I liked this novella and look forward to reading more from this author.
This is a very sweet tale. Brandon is not your typical chest pounding alpha male. He is sweet. He is never demanding of Arden. He waits for her to realize the attraction and for her to come to him. Sometimes he even gives off a vibe that he is shy. I liked this novella and look forward to reading more from this author.
October 21, 2011
Passionately Hot!
Desire is a beautiful thing when love is involved and this cute and passionate story about Brandon, a vampire who is tired of being alone finds he is not just attracted to Arden (Human) because of her body, but because of her gentle and sweet personality. As he discovers all those qualities he has never had before from the other women beforehand, he realizes that he must make Arden his.
Brandon and Arden’s passion grows deeply every awakening moment as Brandon prepares Arden for his world. To top it off, he has to deal with his crazy maker and convince him Arden is the right one for him.
This is one enjoyable hot little story. I loved the story line and found Brandon’s maker very interesting as well. I just wanted More! More! More! Great Paranormal Erotic Romance.
Desire is a beautiful thing when love is involved and this cute and passionate story about Brandon, a vampire who is tired of being alone finds he is not just attracted to Arden (Human) because of her body, but because of her gentle and sweet personality. As he discovers all those qualities he has never had before from the other women beforehand, he realizes that he must make Arden his.
Brandon and Arden’s passion grows deeply every awakening moment as Brandon prepares Arden for his world. To top it off, he has to deal with his crazy maker and convince him Arden is the right one for him.
This is one enjoyable hot little story. I loved the story line and found Brandon’s maker very interesting as well. I just wanted More! More! More! Great Paranormal Erotic Romance.
June 17, 2011
Romancing the Dark Side Review:
A satisfying erotic, vampire romance!
Arden is a young woman, homeless in the dangerous streets of 19th century London. One night while walking, she's accosted by man and is rescued by a handsome stranger who has some less than conventional rescuing methods! After assuring she is safe, the handsome stranger introduces himself as Brandon Ridley and offers Arden a maid's position in his home.
As a centuries old vampire, Brandon has a longing for a life companion and is bewitched by Arden from their first encounter. He plans on seducing her through her dreams until she succumbs to his charming ways and gives herself to him freely. Arden is satisfied with her fantasies in dreams of Brandon, but the more attention he shows her, the more enamored she becomes with him in her waking life. Brandon is pleased his plan of seduction has won Arden over, but in order to share his gift of eternal life with her, he must face his jealous sire and seduce him into approving this union or surrender to a lonely existence once again.
Arden and Brandon are two souls from different worlds, longing for the same thing, companionship. Their story is a mix of sweet but highly erotic. Brandon's game of seduction is a wonder to behold, he is one sensual vampire. Arden might seem pure and innocent at first glance, but there's a vixen waiting to get out and Brandon is just the man for the job! The twist and addition of a potential villain makes the story a little more interesting and keeps you on the edge. Vampire Dreams is a short novella that wastes no time in delivering a romance with vampires, seduction and enough eroticism to have you fantasizing for the rest of the day!
{ebook courtesy of author/Bewitching Book Tours for review}
A satisfying erotic, vampire romance!
Arden is a young woman, homeless in the dangerous streets of 19th century London. One night while walking, she's accosted by man and is rescued by a handsome stranger who has some less than conventional rescuing methods! After assuring she is safe, the handsome stranger introduces himself as Brandon Ridley and offers Arden a maid's position in his home.
As a centuries old vampire, Brandon has a longing for a life companion and is bewitched by Arden from their first encounter. He plans on seducing her through her dreams until she succumbs to his charming ways and gives herself to him freely. Arden is satisfied with her fantasies in dreams of Brandon, but the more attention he shows her, the more enamored she becomes with him in her waking life. Brandon is pleased his plan of seduction has won Arden over, but in order to share his gift of eternal life with her, he must face his jealous sire and seduce him into approving this union or surrender to a lonely existence once again.
Arden and Brandon are two souls from different worlds, longing for the same thing, companionship. Their story is a mix of sweet but highly erotic. Brandon's game of seduction is a wonder to behold, he is one sensual vampire. Arden might seem pure and innocent at first glance, but there's a vixen waiting to get out and Brandon is just the man for the job! The twist and addition of a potential villain makes the story a little more interesting and keeps you on the edge. Vampire Dreams is a short novella that wastes no time in delivering a romance with vampires, seduction and enough eroticism to have you fantasizing for the rest of the day!
{ebook courtesy of author/Bewitching Book Tours for review}
July 3, 2011
This is a short sweet story about a Arlen, homeless woman who is taken in by a vampire offering her a way off the streets. Brandon falls for her quickly and wants to make her a vampire so he will have her with him for eternity. It's a short story and the journey from lust to love is pretty quick and very intertwined. I enjoyed it in an hour. Ms. Bisset is a romantic which shows in how she described the vunderability and uncertainty associated with falling in love. I will read more of this author.
September 8, 2020
Disappointing and inconsistent. I tried this one as a prequel to the Sons Of Navarus series and I think I shall pass.
July 9, 2011
Book Synopsis
Homeless and without any family, Arden Stephens must live on the streets of mid 19th century London, never a safe place for a young woman. One night, as she is running for her life from an attacker, she is rescued by Brandon Ridley and offered a place in his home as his maid. Brandon is enchanted by Arden from the moment they meet, but just as she has secrets, so too does he. A vampire hundreds of years old, he yearns for the companionship she can give him. But for that he must make her one of his kind.
Nightly, he visits her in her sleep, preparing her for the night he will finally make her his own. For Arden, the wanton dreams she has about her handsome employer seduce her and each day when she wakes up, she finds herself more drawn to him. But love and desire aren't enough for Brandon to sire her. He must first obtain the approval of his maker, an ancient vampire named Vasilije who has thwarted his chance for happiness before.
But if Brandon can convince him, he may finally find the love he's been without for centuries.
A tale that rings familiar as others have penned works similar to Vampire Dreams but the romantic twist that author Gabrielle Bisset has given this novella makes it stand out... Not only that but I am a sucker for a Happy Ending, plus the villain of the piece Vasilije is pretty creepy and as the author has promised a full length story featuring him as the main character there will be more to look forward to in the future revisiting the sensual world created in this short story.
For more on this novella and other works in the making by the author go to Gabrielle's Blog where you can find an excerpt and other readers reviews as well.
December 6, 2015
I chose this short Victorian erotic novella because it had two of my favourite themes, historical romance and vampires! It was quick to read however, the plot was predictable and the characters were not well developed. Brandon Ridley (a 200 year old vampire) comes to Arden's rescue in the streets of London. After he finds out she is homeless, he promptly decides to keep her for himself no matter what but he tells her she can be his personal maid! And yes, our naive heroine doesn't question this disturbing offer because she thinks there is no other choice. The story went downhill from this point onwards for me as it skipped from the usual rapey themes in some romance books to just plain rape! Brandon Ridley takes advantage of Arden by putting her under some kind of hypnosis and having his wicked way with her until she became sick. Yes! I kid you not people! He does it because he can't bear to be separated from her. WHAT?!! I can't believe that this author thinks it is romantic to take advantage of a helpless woman! It’s not! Come to think of it, Brandon is the mirror opposite of Edward from the Twilight series in that he is anxious to make her one of his kind, continue to drink her blood and keep her with him forever. Arden’s character is weak and she is completely dependant on Brandon. She is entirely unaware of what’s going on and continues to fret about not doing enough to deserve her position in his house hold! The ending was unsatisfying for me, at the very least I expected Arden to question Brandon’s actions! But no, instead, she is alright with everything that has happened to her and it’s made to appear as if it was her secret wish after all and that she must've consented somehow. I would have liked this story a lot more if Brandon had not been a creep and instead tried to win Arden’s love without having to resort to coercion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2014
Disappointing.
I'm not sure about this book, Brandon Ridley is a vampire who wants a normal life he wants to find one woman and settle down so when he comes across the homeless Arden he takes her in, gives her a job and starts to 'prepare' her for the future he wants. Now the decision to sire is not just Brandon's he needs permission from his maker Vasilije and lately Vasilije has been refusing him.
There were several things I didn't like about this book, Brandon has sired before but when the lust ran out they left, I didn't feel any real connection between Brandon and Arden it felt more like convenience also the fact that he's been repeatedly trying to sire including his last maid just added to the convenience factor, one reviewer already mentioned the dubious consent and I agree some people would find that offensive, I didn't really like myself if I'm being honest, it wasn't exactly romantic!
I also didn't understand the part where Brandon states:
'He could have the blood of the one he sired, as it was supposed to be, instead of unknown humans, whose blood could never sustain him as well as the blood of one of his own...' Now I appreciate it's a vampire book and I maybe over thinking this but where does the fresh blood come from? Does he feed entirely from Arden for example and does she feed just from him or does she have to feed from humans in order to survive and provide for Brandon.
Since I didn't really bond or relate to either Brandon or Arden and I wasn't sure about the story I won't be continuing on with this series.
I'm not sure about this book, Brandon Ridley is a vampire who wants a normal life he wants to find one woman and settle down so when he comes across the homeless Arden he takes her in, gives her a job and starts to 'prepare' her for the future he wants. Now the decision to sire is not just Brandon's he needs permission from his maker Vasilije and lately Vasilije has been refusing him.
There were several things I didn't like about this book, Brandon has sired before but when the lust ran out they left, I didn't feel any real connection between Brandon and Arden it felt more like convenience also the fact that he's been repeatedly trying to sire including his last maid just added to the convenience factor, one reviewer already mentioned the dubious consent and I agree some people would find that offensive, I didn't really like myself if I'm being honest, it wasn't exactly romantic!
I also didn't understand the part where Brandon states:
'He could have the blood of the one he sired, as it was supposed to be, instead of unknown humans, whose blood could never sustain him as well as the blood of one of his own...' Now I appreciate it's a vampire book and I maybe over thinking this but where does the fresh blood come from? Does he feed entirely from Arden for example and does she feed just from him or does she have to feed from humans in order to survive and provide for Brandon.
Since I didn't really bond or relate to either Brandon or Arden and I wasn't sure about the story I won't be continuing on with this series.
January 5, 2019
He literally rapes her in his sleep....
June 18, 2019
typical erotic vampire novel.
June 16, 2011
I'm always eager to read a new vampire story. And I do enjoy some erotica, the sexier the better. Gabrielle Bisset is a new author, and when I saw her novella Vampire Dreams was going on tour with Bewitching Book Tours, it sounded like something I'd enjoy. Wow, was I ever right! As I read in a review on Amazon, this one is hot!
Set in Great Britain in 1850, Vampire Dreams is a paranormal erotic romance. Here's the blurb: Homeless and without any family, Arden Stephens must live on the streets of mid 19th century London, never a safe place for a young woman. One night, as she is running for her life from an attacker, she is rescued by Brandon Ridley and offered a place in his home as his maid. Brandon is enchanted by Arden from the moment they meet, but just as she has secrets, so too does he. A vampire hundreds of years old, he yearns for the companionship she can give him. But for that he must make her one of his kind.
Nightly, he visits her in her sleep, preparing her for the night he will finally make her his own. For Arden, the wanton dreams she has about her handsome employer seduce her and each day when she wakes up, she finds herself more drawn to him. But love and desire aren't enough for Brandon to sire her. He must first obtain the approval of his maker, an ancient vampire named Vasilije who has thwarted his chance for happiness before.
But if Brandon can convince him, he may finally find the love he's been without for centuries.
If you've read any of my reviews before, you know I love vampires. I know weres and shifters are all the rage, but I will always love the vamp. Brandon Ridley is so sexy as the hero of Vampire Dreams. And the bad guy Vasilije? Deeelish. (I'm already wondering if there will be a story about Vasilije. He's so wonderfully bad, I have to believe there's a story there.)
Many times, novellas leave me wanting more, and this time is no exception, but I want more not because the story needed more but because the characters were so interesting. Arden is charming, and her sensual transformation at the hands of Brandon is truly erotic. And Brandon himself is honorable and sexy. What a great combination!
Beyond the sensuality is a well-written story. The author constructs a vampire world where there is a hierarchy that involves rules of who a vampire can sire. In this world, potential vampires must be vetted through one's sire, and Brandon has the difficult luck of having a sire in Vasilije who's selfish and cruel. The conflict that grows out of these rules is interesting and makes me want to read more about this world.
Vampire Dreams is a quick read but a very enjoyable one. The author tells me it's the first of a trilogy of erotic novellas set in Victorian England. The next one, Love's Master, isn't paranormal but contains some light BDSM, so that will definitely be interesting to check out, and the third one, Masquerade, is historical. Both are due out later this summer.
Vampire Dreams is well-written and sensual erotic romance. I enjoy Gabrielle Bisset's writing and can't wait for her next book. Until then, this one's a winner!
Set in Great Britain in 1850, Vampire Dreams is a paranormal erotic romance. Here's the blurb: Homeless and without any family, Arden Stephens must live on the streets of mid 19th century London, never a safe place for a young woman. One night, as she is running for her life from an attacker, she is rescued by Brandon Ridley and offered a place in his home as his maid. Brandon is enchanted by Arden from the moment they meet, but just as she has secrets, so too does he. A vampire hundreds of years old, he yearns for the companionship she can give him. But for that he must make her one of his kind.
Nightly, he visits her in her sleep, preparing her for the night he will finally make her his own. For Arden, the wanton dreams she has about her handsome employer seduce her and each day when she wakes up, she finds herself more drawn to him. But love and desire aren't enough for Brandon to sire her. He must first obtain the approval of his maker, an ancient vampire named Vasilije who has thwarted his chance for happiness before.
But if Brandon can convince him, he may finally find the love he's been without for centuries.
If you've read any of my reviews before, you know I love vampires. I know weres and shifters are all the rage, but I will always love the vamp. Brandon Ridley is so sexy as the hero of Vampire Dreams. And the bad guy Vasilije? Deeelish. (I'm already wondering if there will be a story about Vasilije. He's so wonderfully bad, I have to believe there's a story there.)
Many times, novellas leave me wanting more, and this time is no exception, but I want more not because the story needed more but because the characters were so interesting. Arden is charming, and her sensual transformation at the hands of Brandon is truly erotic. And Brandon himself is honorable and sexy. What a great combination!
Beyond the sensuality is a well-written story. The author constructs a vampire world where there is a hierarchy that involves rules of who a vampire can sire. In this world, potential vampires must be vetted through one's sire, and Brandon has the difficult luck of having a sire in Vasilije who's selfish and cruel. The conflict that grows out of these rules is interesting and makes me want to read more about this world.
Vampire Dreams is a quick read but a very enjoyable one. The author tells me it's the first of a trilogy of erotic novellas set in Victorian England. The next one, Love's Master, isn't paranormal but contains some light BDSM, so that will definitely be interesting to check out, and the third one, Masquerade, is historical. Both are due out later this summer.
Vampire Dreams is well-written and sensual erotic romance. I enjoy Gabrielle Bisset's writing and can't wait for her next book. Until then, this one's a winner!
September 7, 2012
VAMPIRE DREAMS-Revamped (Sons of Navarus prequel) by Gabrielle Bisset
NOTE: Series contains mature adult content
VAMPIRE DREAMS is the prequel novella to Gabrielle Bissett’s Sons of Navarus series. Brandon Riley was a 200 year old vampire who had yet to sire another. Lonely in a world full of vampires and humans, Brandon thought he finally found the one he could make his own. Brandon wanted to find love.
Arden Stephens was homeless. Following the death of her father, she was left penniless with no experience or hope. Trying to make a life on the streets was next to impossible, yet when a complete stranger saved her from a stalker, Arden couldn’t refuse his offer of a job. But something about her new employer was different. And every night her dreams were becoming increasingly sexual and Brandon figured prominently in every one.
Night after night Brandon would make nocturnal visits to Arden’s bedroom. Using his powers to bespell, Brandon would make love to Arden knowing she would never remember by morning. But Brandon was still lonely, and making Arden his own, was what Brandon wanted to do. Feeding from Arden each evening was making her weak and tired, but without his sire’s permission, Brandon would never be able to call her his own. He was falling in love
Vasilije is Brandon’s sire. For over 200 years, Brandon was Vasilije’s favorite. Cruel and sadistic, Vasilije needed his connection to Brandon, yet he refused to allow Brandon to sire one of his own. Night after night Vasilije held parties and orgies hoping to lure Brandon into the lifestyle demanded by most vampires. Even Delilah, another of Vasilije’s favorites despised Brandon-jealousy among vampires was lethal. But introducing Arden to Vasilije may have been a mistake when the ancient vampire demanded Arden for himself.
VAMPIRE DREAMS-REVAMPED is a short story that introduces Vasilije, an ancient vampire who has sired many vampires over the years. The Sons of Navarus series will focus on Vasilije and the Sons of Navarus. The storylines are both sensual and erotic, with a little gothic horror to keep the vampire genre alive.
see all of my reviews at : thereadingcafe.com
NOTE: Series contains mature adult content
VAMPIRE DREAMS is the prequel novella to Gabrielle Bissett’s Sons of Navarus series. Brandon Riley was a 200 year old vampire who had yet to sire another. Lonely in a world full of vampires and humans, Brandon thought he finally found the one he could make his own. Brandon wanted to find love.
Arden Stephens was homeless. Following the death of her father, she was left penniless with no experience or hope. Trying to make a life on the streets was next to impossible, yet when a complete stranger saved her from a stalker, Arden couldn’t refuse his offer of a job. But something about her new employer was different. And every night her dreams were becoming increasingly sexual and Brandon figured prominently in every one.
Night after night Brandon would make nocturnal visits to Arden’s bedroom. Using his powers to bespell, Brandon would make love to Arden knowing she would never remember by morning. But Brandon was still lonely, and making Arden his own, was what Brandon wanted to do. Feeding from Arden each evening was making her weak and tired, but without his sire’s permission, Brandon would never be able to call her his own. He was falling in love
Vasilije is Brandon’s sire. For over 200 years, Brandon was Vasilije’s favorite. Cruel and sadistic, Vasilije needed his connection to Brandon, yet he refused to allow Brandon to sire one of his own. Night after night Vasilije held parties and orgies hoping to lure Brandon into the lifestyle demanded by most vampires. Even Delilah, another of Vasilije’s favorites despised Brandon-jealousy among vampires was lethal. But introducing Arden to Vasilije may have been a mistake when the ancient vampire demanded Arden for himself.
VAMPIRE DREAMS-REVAMPED is a short story that introduces Vasilije, an ancient vampire who has sired many vampires over the years. The Sons of Navarus series will focus on Vasilije and the Sons of Navarus. The storylines are both sensual and erotic, with a little gothic horror to keep the vampire genre alive.
see all of my reviews at : thereadingcafe.com
July 9, 2011
Where to even begin... The synopsis seemed great and would have been interesting, but the execution was just horrible. It's like the author needed some sort of material to write out weak sex scenes- where is the actual story? This story was set in the 1800, but written like it was in the year 2000. There was no build-up, no character development, and hardly detailed descriptions. The writing was that of high school level, where words were thrown in to make sentences flashy and smart.
I've read quite a few PNR and if you want something good, read The Black Dagger Brotherhood.
I try to complete all the books I read, since I did pay for them. But this, I couldn't even get to half of the book- and it's a short book. Yes, it was that bad. It may not have been so bad if it was my first PNR, or even my first book ever.
Read The Soldier, by Grace Burrows (although this isn't a PNR, it is a romance story) and compare the writing techniques. It's as though she may have lived it herself, she does a great deal of showing rather than telling. I'm most certain that once you read The Soldier then read Vampire Dreams, you would agree with me. I only suggest The Soldier because of the time era, even though it's not in the same year; it's to show the way of speech, mannerism, formality, and lifestyle.
I've read quite a few PNR and if you want something good, read The Black Dagger Brotherhood.
I try to complete all the books I read, since I did pay for them. But this, I couldn't even get to half of the book- and it's a short book. Yes, it was that bad. It may not have been so bad if it was my first PNR, or even my first book ever.
Read The Soldier, by Grace Burrows (although this isn't a PNR, it is a romance story) and compare the writing techniques. It's as though she may have lived it herself, she does a great deal of showing rather than telling. I'm most certain that once you read The Soldier then read Vampire Dreams, you would agree with me. I only suggest The Soldier because of the time era, even though it's not in the same year; it's to show the way of speech, mannerism, formality, and lifestyle.
October 20, 2014
There were a lot of things I wasn't too keen on with this book, so let's get the good stuff out first. It was well-written. The author is talented, and I actually really enjoyed her style. However, that was where things stopped. The sort of... dubious consent of the sex scenes initially was a pretty big turn-off. I mean, he uses a little "chant" to wake her up and then bang, and I just... I wasn't super into that. I would have preferred there to be some sort of build to the erotic elements, and ending the book with a coming together of Arden and Brandon would have been great. Instead, I get to watch Arden eventually think they're having sex for the first time, when really they've done is several times already without her knowledge.
Everything happened really fast too. Fast for Brandon to fall in love, fast for him to decide to keep her as his mate, fast for his unwilling sire to relent. There wasn't enough tension for me. The stakes were high enough for me to really get behind the two characters.
In the end, I put it away and I think it will be one of those books on my kindle that I won't remember what happened, and won't be bothered to try. Bisset is a good writer, and I'd be willing to give her other books a try--hopefully the plots are better than this one.
Everything happened really fast too. Fast for Brandon to fall in love, fast for him to decide to keep her as his mate, fast for his unwilling sire to relent. There wasn't enough tension for me. The stakes were high enough for me to really get behind the two characters.
In the end, I put it away and I think it will be one of those books on my kindle that I won't remember what happened, and won't be bothered to try. Bisset is a good writer, and I'd be willing to give her other books a try--hopefully the plots are better than this one.
June 23, 2011
This was a short (72 pages) story, but it was also a pretty steamy story. I'm really starting to like vampire erotica. I'm also really beginning to like some of the twists on the vampire legend that I've been reading. I particularly liked Gabrielle's version here. My favorite twist is that the vampire has to seek permission from his sire before creating another vampire.
Gabrielle makes her version of the vampire legend more believable to her readers. I also liked the humanity Brandon displayed. He wasn't quite wishy washy, but there was still part of him that didn't like creature that he was. Just as Vasilije was the epitome of evil. The relationship between these two reminding me of Nick and Lucien from the TV show Forever Knight.
Arden was a good female lead. Her confusion at what was happening to her and her love for Brandon was very real.
At times I thought the story was too short, but it wasn't because of any problem with the story, it was just that I would have enjoyed getting to know both Brandon and Arden better, particularly Arden's backstory.
Anyone that loves vampires and erotica will love this story
Gabrielle makes her version of the vampire legend more believable to her readers. I also liked the humanity Brandon displayed. He wasn't quite wishy washy, but there was still part of him that didn't like creature that he was. Just as Vasilije was the epitome of evil. The relationship between these two reminding me of Nick and Lucien from the TV show Forever Knight.
Arden was a good female lead. Her confusion at what was happening to her and her love for Brandon was very real.
At times I thought the story was too short, but it wasn't because of any problem with the story, it was just that I would have enjoyed getting to know both Brandon and Arden better, particularly Arden's backstory.
Anyone that loves vampires and erotica will love this story
March 28, 2012
Substandard erotic paranormal novella. Rich gentleman vampire rescues distressed homeless gentlewoman, takes her back to his palatial London residence, and offers her employment as a maid. Brandon, the vampire, visits her bedroom every night, where he uses a magic chant to hypnotise her into enjoying sex with him while he feeds on her. (Can you say 'Rohypnol'?)
Far from being romantic, this series of date-rape couplings leaves a bad taste in the mouth. We're introduced to the staff of the vampire's luxury residence, all of them completely forgettable apart from the dreadful plot holes their presence creates in the story.
The pantomime ending, with Brandon trying to persuade his supercilious sire to allow him to turn Arden (the homeless gentlewoman) rings as true as a cracked bell.
And as for the historical goofs -- ouch! The dialogue comes straight from contemporary America, not Victorian England. Use of words like 'hassle' (post-1945, US) and 'okay' (early 20th century, US) makes the reader wince and question the author's research.
According to my Smashwords edition of this story, the author is a college history teacher. For real?
Far from being romantic, this series of date-rape couplings leaves a bad taste in the mouth. We're introduced to the staff of the vampire's luxury residence, all of them completely forgettable apart from the dreadful plot holes their presence creates in the story.
The pantomime ending, with Brandon trying to persuade his supercilious sire to allow him to turn Arden (the homeless gentlewoman) rings as true as a cracked bell.
And as for the historical goofs -- ouch! The dialogue comes straight from contemporary America, not Victorian England. Use of words like 'hassle' (post-1945, US) and 'okay' (early 20th century, US) makes the reader wince and question the author's research.
According to my Smashwords edition of this story, the author is a college history teacher. For real?
January 17, 2016
Gabrielle's writing is focused on actions and dialogs, making it a fast paced read with "OMG" moments.
After the "OMG" moment, when our hero and heroine meet, they get into a weird relationship. What does he want from her? What is she supposed to do? And then, a twist by the middle of the book...
Gabrielle was hiding the gold!Vajilise could've shown up earlier. His appearence was a surprise. I was reading and by the way things were going, I thought it would focus on their feelings for each other and about their decision (I can't tell you more or it would be a spoiler) and suddenly...the sire?! Where did he come from? What does he want? He's got that "Lestat" presence, a mixture between mentor and "maker", emanates fear.
I missed more character description and setting characteristics. It's imperative for the reader to connect with the story. Afterall you'll feel like Vampire Dreams is a steamy surprise you wouldn't wanna miss!
read the full post at: http://readingromances.wordpress.com/...
After the "OMG" moment, when our hero and heroine meet, they get into a weird relationship. What does he want from her? What is she supposed to do? And then, a twist by the middle of the book...
Gabrielle was hiding the gold!Vajilise could've shown up earlier. His appearence was a surprise. I was reading and by the way things were going, I thought it would focus on their feelings for each other and about their decision (I can't tell you more or it would be a spoiler) and suddenly...the sire?! Where did he come from? What does he want? He's got that "Lestat" presence, a mixture between mentor and "maker", emanates fear.
I missed more character description and setting characteristics. It's imperative for the reader to connect with the story. Afterall you'll feel like Vampire Dreams is a steamy surprise you wouldn't wanna miss!
read the full post at: http://readingromances.wordpress.com/...
July 13, 2011
Vampire Dreams, Gabrielle Bisset
Sweet, Sexy Dreams.....
Vampire Dreams, a novella by Gabrielle Bisset is a fantastic, although short, read. The author packs a whole lot of story into the approximately 60 page tale of sensual vampire desire.
Brandon, the hero is one-hundred percent seducer, beckoning the sweet, if down on her luck, Arden in her witching hour dreams, hoping and waiting for her to accept him in her daylight awakening. But winning Arden's heart is not our hero's only challenge. His hedonistic sire, the powerful and ancient Vasilje, holds the power to bequeath or deny Brandon's request to bring his lover into his world, and upon witnessing the lure of Arden's innocent beauty, Visilje's enthrallment threatens to claim her for his own.
Using each page wisely, Bisset ably created threads of sexual tension throughout her novella, and the hero's entrance into Arden's dreams allowed the author to write an erotic vampire seduction while maintaining the heroine's uncertainty of the darkly delicious unknown.Vampire Dreams
~ Moira Naveen
Sweet, Sexy Dreams.....
Vampire Dreams, a novella by Gabrielle Bisset is a fantastic, although short, read. The author packs a whole lot of story into the approximately 60 page tale of sensual vampire desire.
Brandon, the hero is one-hundred percent seducer, beckoning the sweet, if down on her luck, Arden in her witching hour dreams, hoping and waiting for her to accept him in her daylight awakening. But winning Arden's heart is not our hero's only challenge. His hedonistic sire, the powerful and ancient Vasilje, holds the power to bequeath or deny Brandon's request to bring his lover into his world, and upon witnessing the lure of Arden's innocent beauty, Visilje's enthrallment threatens to claim her for his own.
Using each page wisely, Bisset ably created threads of sexual tension throughout her novella, and the hero's entrance into Arden's dreams allowed the author to write an erotic vampire seduction while maintaining the heroine's uncertainty of the darkly delicious unknown.Vampire Dreams
~ Moira Naveen
November 27, 2012
Very good story and well written. All the characters were written so well that I could see them.
Brandon, a vampire, alone so long. His sire has denied him over and over again the permission to sire a companion for himself. His life is predictable, even when his sire, Vasilije, insists he accompany or meet him at one of his gatherings of debauchery and blood. Brandon rarely participates, except to partake of his sire's blood, and leaves early.
Arden is homeless after the death of her father and lives on the streets. She is being hunted down by a man who wants to hurt her. As she is almost cornered, a man comes out of the shadows to...what? Help? Rape? Murder her? No, instead he saves her and later offers her a job as his maid. She accepts. Life is finally getting better.
She dreams every night that he comes to her, makes love to her, loves her. It's just a dream.
He watches her every night, makes love to her, wants her for his own.
Read further to find out what happens next. You won't be sorry. Really enjoyed this book.
Brandon, a vampire, alone so long. His sire has denied him over and over again the permission to sire a companion for himself. His life is predictable, even when his sire, Vasilije, insists he accompany or meet him at one of his gatherings of debauchery and blood. Brandon rarely participates, except to partake of his sire's blood, and leaves early.
Arden is homeless after the death of her father and lives on the streets. She is being hunted down by a man who wants to hurt her. As she is almost cornered, a man comes out of the shadows to...what? Help? Rape? Murder her? No, instead he saves her and later offers her a job as his maid. She accepts. Life is finally getting better.
She dreams every night that he comes to her, makes love to her, loves her. It's just a dream.
He watches her every night, makes love to her, wants her for his own.
Read further to find out what happens next. You won't be sorry. Really enjoyed this book.
July 10, 2011
If you want a short, sweet but steamy romance, Vampire Dreams is the way to go. Though a fan of fantastical romance and historical fiction I do not usually love vampire stories. This novella is the exception. Bisset gives just enough detail to set the scene, but leaves the rest up to the reader’s imagination, which allows the reader to really live Arden’s tale of lust and love. Arden, a homeless woman in trouble stumbles upon Brandon, Vampire Dreams’ hero and Arden’s savior. The hero and our damsel in distress fall in love with each other over their innocent evening dinner conversations, as well as during their late night passionate escapades. Our hero uses his vampire power to clandestinely seduce Arden. This is where things get really steamy. There is but one true obstacle on their way to eternal love, but I won’t give anymore away.
Not only is this story really well written it is also both sexy and sensual! Hope there is more to come from this author.
A must read!!!
Not only is this story really well written it is also both sexy and sensual! Hope there is more to come from this author.
A must read!!!
May 12, 2013
I honestly think this is the first time I have ever given a one star review. I typically rate at least a three if it is a book that keeps me semi entertained. Unfortunately I was so confused by the disjointed storyline I couldn't get into it. I honestly have no idea how this book had such a high rating. Maybe my book was missing pages? I am hoping that is what it was. anyways beyond that two things that annoyed me. This story is about a 19th century maid but they have phones, computers and the Internet? Also the story line is about a vampire that needs his sires permission to turn a vampire but but he won't allow it but he used to and the hero had hundreds of vampires he made but he is alone because his sire had refused him converting anyone else for years. Out of no where.... What?
Do yourself a favor and skip this book. It will only give you a headache.
Two big things stood out at me
Do yourself a favor and skip this book. It will only give you a headache.
Two big things stood out at me
October 20, 2011
Short, but sweet. This was actually my first Vampire/historical and it was a very entertaining read. I really liked Brandon and Arden. She was really sweet and I could understand some of her reactions. Brandon's devotion to her was what really did me in. He was not the type of character to fall in love with just anyone and when he finally stood up to his sire for her it was so sweet. The writing was good and had a nice flow. I only wished it could have been a bit longer.
Check out Gabrielle Bisset's book "Vampire Dreams"! It's sinfully delicious.
Check out Gabrielle Bisset's book "Vampire Dreams"! It's sinfully delicious.
September 7, 2011
I know there a lot of positive reviews for this book, so I am in minority of not liking it. I rarely finish a book I don’t like, but since it was short and I hoped it got better, I did finish it. That’s about all I can say…
August 29, 2011
Novella length--erotic, historical vampire story. I liked the setting (Victorian London) and I like paranormal romance.
Couldn't really connect with the characters. May give more books in the series a try.
Couldn't really connect with the characters. May give more books in the series a try.
December 3, 2011
This was a short sexy story. Its a great easy read. I really like how the author protrade Brondon. You deffinatly feel his pain and loneliness. I would recommend this novella for a nice rainy day in bed. :-)
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