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Vigilare #1
Vigilare
Book #1, The Vigilare Series. Where one system fails, another never gives up! Detectives Gina DeLuca and Tony Gronkowski investigate a string of murders among Vanguard's most loathsome population, rapists and pedophiles. With fed up citizens, the city is on the verge of a vigilante uprising in support of their seemingly superhuman Vigilare with the sparkling emerald green eyes. Friend or foe, Vanguard Police Department has a job to do in bringing the vigilant one to justice, causing their own internal battle with right and wrong, immoral and just. Following their leads, Detectives DeLuca and Gronkowski find themselves pulled into a mysterious world of super blood and super powers, and closer to the Vigilare than ever expected. It's a race to the finish between Detectives DeLuca and Gronkowski and the Vigilare to figure out who she is and why. The first in a trilogy, Vigilare—the one who watches over—comes to light.
261 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 12, 2011
8 people are currently reading
515 people want to read
About the author
Brooklyn James
12 books228 followersWife, mother, author, singer-songwriter, daydreamer, night-thinker!
Brooklyn's first novel, The Boots My Mother Gave Me, has an original music soundtrack, making for a unique Audible experience. Out of Boots grew a platform where it was her honor to serve as a guest speaker with a focus on awareness and prevention of domestic violence and suicide.
She holds an M.A. in Communication, and a B.S. in both Nursing and Animal Science.
@brooklynjamesauthor
Brooklyn's first novel, The Boots My Mother Gave Me, has an original music soundtrack, making for a unique Audible experience. Out of Boots grew a platform where it was her honor to serve as a guest speaker with a focus on awareness and prevention of domestic violence and suicide.
She holds an M.A. in Communication, and a B.S. in both Nursing and Animal Science.
@brooklynjamesauthor
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
May 1, 2012
What a fun way to spend Labor Day!
All I can say is that this book is absolutely terrific! I don;t normally read thrillers but this is different. I was fortunate to have been given the chance to review this masterpiece. Why do I say so? Because this is book is definitely many things that compose a great novel and hopefully, a masterful series.
This is the first book in the trilogy about the Vigilare, superhumans gifted with some kind of unnatural strength among things and this race may have been altogether another breed of human beings or highly-evolved humans. Anyway, the story centers about strange crimes and murders, the usual mystery of a good suspense and thriller book. But what is different is that this book shows the perspective of the would-be criminals, and also of the detectives and people who want to solve these mysterious circumstances. The characters are very human and of course, superhuman if you count the Vigilare. Gifted or cursed with being notably different, they must live their lives with an unbelievable strength that could kill without their control and obvious intent.
I also love the portrayal of women here. Some may be affected or outraged of the amount of violence, rape and abuse that women experienced in this novel but they are very relevant to the plot. What more is that it shows that women can be empowered in many ways and they are also capable of taking action against the torture that men and society are inflicting upon them. They can be vigilants, hungry for revenge and justice, the way that real vigilants would kill and murder for the sake of their beliefs and their self-righteous acts.
I won't say more. You should read it. Here, you would find another unique creation of creatures similar to the Taltos of Anne Rice, The Others of the Night Watch series by Sergei Lukyanenko and Angelology by Daniel Trussoni. I can say more but definitely, this book conjures an entirely unique and fantastic race that would definitely rank as one of the best new species in contemporary literature. What is more, I love the way that the Vigilare could really be among us, normal-looking creatures with very human guises but possess unnatural capabilities. It makes me feel so warm inside.
I will definitely reread this book again in the future. It is so interesting and will definitely leave you wanting for more. I hope the writer is now busy making the next books or else, I will become a vigilant myself!
All I can say is that this book is absolutely terrific! I don;t normally read thrillers but this is different. I was fortunate to have been given the chance to review this masterpiece. Why do I say so? Because this is book is definitely many things that compose a great novel and hopefully, a masterful series.
This is the first book in the trilogy about the Vigilare, superhumans gifted with some kind of unnatural strength among things and this race may have been altogether another breed of human beings or highly-evolved humans. Anyway, the story centers about strange crimes and murders, the usual mystery of a good suspense and thriller book. But what is different is that this book shows the perspective of the would-be criminals, and also of the detectives and people who want to solve these mysterious circumstances. The characters are very human and of course, superhuman if you count the Vigilare. Gifted or cursed with being notably different, they must live their lives with an unbelievable strength that could kill without their control and obvious intent.
I also love the portrayal of women here. Some may be affected or outraged of the amount of violence, rape and abuse that women experienced in this novel but they are very relevant to the plot. What more is that it shows that women can be empowered in many ways and they are also capable of taking action against the torture that men and society are inflicting upon them. They can be vigilants, hungry for revenge and justice, the way that real vigilants would kill and murder for the sake of their beliefs and their self-righteous acts.
I won't say more. You should read it. Here, you would find another unique creation of creatures similar to the Taltos of Anne Rice, The Others of the Night Watch series by Sergei Lukyanenko and Angelology by Daniel Trussoni. I can say more but definitely, this book conjures an entirely unique and fantastic race that would definitely rank as one of the best new species in contemporary literature. What is more, I love the way that the Vigilare could really be among us, normal-looking creatures with very human guises but possess unnatural capabilities. It makes me feel so warm inside.
I will definitely reread this book again in the future. It is so interesting and will definitely leave you wanting for more. I hope the writer is now busy making the next books or else, I will become a vigilant myself!
March 27, 2013
It's official, I'll read pretty much anything that sounds interesting. I am not tied to one or two genres and I'm definitely not tied down to specific authors either. My friend raved highly about this book and told me that I should read this book! I put it off for a bit before I took his advice, because of two reasons. 1. It was free (sad, huh). I thought how good can a free book really be? And 2. It sounded...weird. But now that I've finished it, I wished I just listened to him and read it the day he told me just how much he enjoyed this book, along with the second one of the trilogy. Only two are out at the moment. Anyhow, it dealt with multiple genres, which were all handled well and made for a good story. It dealt with crime, mostly in the form of rape and molesters, detectives and mystery, semi-aliens, superpowers, a kick-ass heroine and some court room drama. Yes, all that fused into this book, and it all worked quite well. This was a fun book to read and after reading this and other less known books, I surely wish more people sought books that aren't marketed heavily more often, because believe you me, I've had tons of enjoyment reading books that don't get .01% of the marketing books that are plastered everywhere, almost forcing you to read them. This book was well worth my time and I will start the next book in the series immediately.
June 6, 2012
This was a really cool read.
When I started reading Vigilare and discovered it was in present tense I was a bit apprehensive, but I soon discovered that James' choice for present tense was a good call for this story. It created a distance that gave this supernatural story a more realistic mood.
The story is both suspenseful and intriguing. It explores the concepts of good and evil and all the grey areas in between in a way that has you invested in the story and that makes you think.
The first part of this story is full of action while Gina and Tony try to catch this Vigilare. Then the mood and pacing chance and we get a better view on who and what Vigilare is and people are trying to decide what to do with Vigilare. I really liked this part of the story as it's here that you get stimulated to think about things and to pick a side. (And it has a trial! I will confess I have a weakness for trial/courtroom scenes.) And just when I had come to my own conclusions about Vigilare, the action started again and my ideas were rattled.
The ending left me a bit flabbergasted and eager to know what will happen next.
All in all this is a story that keeps you on your toes. I most probably will give the second book a try if I can fit it in somewhere in my huge tbr-pile.
When I started reading Vigilare and discovered it was in present tense I was a bit apprehensive, but I soon discovered that James' choice for present tense was a good call for this story. It created a distance that gave this supernatural story a more realistic mood.
The story is both suspenseful and intriguing. It explores the concepts of good and evil and all the grey areas in between in a way that has you invested in the story and that makes you think.
The first part of this story is full of action while Gina and Tony try to catch this Vigilare. Then the mood and pacing chance and we get a better view on who and what Vigilare is and people are trying to decide what to do with Vigilare. I really liked this part of the story as it's here that you get stimulated to think about things and to pick a side. (And it has a trial! I will confess I have a weakness for trial/courtroom scenes.) And just when I had come to my own conclusions about Vigilare, the action started again and my ideas were rattled.
The ending left me a bit flabbergasted and eager to know what will happen next.
All in all this is a story that keeps you on your toes. I most probably will give the second book a try if I can fit it in somewhere in my huge tbr-pile.
my-kindle-freebie-to-read
February 23, 2013AUTHOR TO LOOKOUT FOR ->Brooklyn James has a new book!!!!
Kindle freebie on 10/21/12 and 10/22/12
If you have not read
The Boots My Mother Gave Me her debut novel, than you really need to catch up! LIKE NOW! The book is AWESOME, check it out!
Kindle freebie on 10/21/12 and 10/22/12
If you have not read
The Boots My Mother Gave Me her debut novel, than you really need to catch up! LIKE NOW! The book is AWESOME, check it out!
February 13, 2014
When the authorities do not handle cases in an acceptable way, who is going to get justice on those who have caused irreversible damage to a victim’s life? Who will step up when no one else will to punish rapists and sex offenders? Vigilare.
Vigilare is watching over everyone in Vanguard. Vigilare punishes sex offenders for their crimes when they get off too easy in the court system.
When Detectives Gina DeLuca and Tony Gronkowski are assigned to a case that appears to be serial murders, the details get weirder and weirder. There is talk of a vigilante, a superhero of Vanguard who is punishing these men for raping women in the city. The name they give this superhero, Vigilare.
They talk about Vigilare having glowing green eyes that captivate its victim. It can look into their soul.
When Detective Gronkowski goes investigating on his own one night in pursuit of a known molester, what he finds turns the case completely upside-down.
This book is completely different from Brooklyn James’s other book that I reviewed recently, The Boots My Mother Gave Me. That one was heavy and memoir-esque.
Vigilare is pure fiction mixed with paranormal and science fiction story lines.
It builds suspense well, and while I guessed the twist, I was never 100% positive that was it until it happened. I always love a good twist.
Also I am a sucker for a good courtroom scene, and this book delivered that.
The writing was great. It pulls you in right from the beginning. I really like how Brooklyn James goes into plenty of detail in her books, but it isn’t so overdone that the chapters drag on. Every detail is important to the story in some way and that really keeps it interesting.
It ended sort of abruptly, but there is a sequel to it so it makes sense to leave off where it does.
The character development was spot on. I liked the characters that you are supposed to root for, and I disliked the ones you are supposed to be skeptical about.
The dialogue flows naturally, it doesn’t feel forced which is one of my biggest turn offs with reading sci-fi/paranormal books. Sometimes the dialogue is really forced and hinders the flow of the novel. The dialogue complements the novel and was written very well.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. If you are a fan of sci-fi books or “superheroes” you might want to pick this one up.
It has a very strong female character, so if you like all of those things, I do not think you will be disappointed with this read.
4.5/5 stars
Vigilare is watching over everyone in Vanguard. Vigilare punishes sex offenders for their crimes when they get off too easy in the court system.
When Detectives Gina DeLuca and Tony Gronkowski are assigned to a case that appears to be serial murders, the details get weirder and weirder. There is talk of a vigilante, a superhero of Vanguard who is punishing these men for raping women in the city. The name they give this superhero, Vigilare.
They talk about Vigilare having glowing green eyes that captivate its victim. It can look into their soul.
When Detective Gronkowski goes investigating on his own one night in pursuit of a known molester, what he finds turns the case completely upside-down.
This book is completely different from Brooklyn James’s other book that I reviewed recently, The Boots My Mother Gave Me. That one was heavy and memoir-esque.
Vigilare is pure fiction mixed with paranormal and science fiction story lines.
It builds suspense well, and while I guessed the twist, I was never 100% positive that was it until it happened. I always love a good twist.
Also I am a sucker for a good courtroom scene, and this book delivered that.
The writing was great. It pulls you in right from the beginning. I really like how Brooklyn James goes into plenty of detail in her books, but it isn’t so overdone that the chapters drag on. Every detail is important to the story in some way and that really keeps it interesting.
It ended sort of abruptly, but there is a sequel to it so it makes sense to leave off where it does.
The character development was spot on. I liked the characters that you are supposed to root for, and I disliked the ones you are supposed to be skeptical about.
The dialogue flows naturally, it doesn’t feel forced which is one of my biggest turn offs with reading sci-fi/paranormal books. Sometimes the dialogue is really forced and hinders the flow of the novel. The dialogue complements the novel and was written very well.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. If you are a fan of sci-fi books or “superheroes” you might want to pick this one up.
It has a very strong female character, so if you like all of those things, I do not think you will be disappointed with this read.
4.5/5 stars
January 19, 2013
This story begins as told through the eyes of an awakening superhero. The suspense is derived from reading about the Vigilare coming into her powers but not understanding how or why that power has been given to them. The direction the author takes this aspect of this story was definitely unexpected, especially in when almost all is revealed in the end.
The other side of the story, the police procedural, is driven by the dynamic personalities of Detectives Gina and Tony and their exchanges are full of biting sarcastic wit and competitive rivalry as they investigate the serial murders. Their rapport is very entertaining and the author has created two very appealing characters with great chemistry. The writing overall in this story is very sharp and vividly detailed, with an abundance of sarcastic barbs coming from most of the main characters. Because the story takes the point of view of both the police and the victims of the rapists and pedophiles that are being stalked by the Vigilare, there is an interesting commentary on the nature of justice and the roles of government officials. It's thought-provoking, and deals with the theoretical conflict between superheroes and the police very intelligently.
The story has fast-paced, thriller elements, and well-paced courtroom scenes which are balanced very well within the narrative. The mystery and suspense of who and what the Vigilare is builds til the end, when there are some very surprising reveals. I found this a very enjoyable read.
The other side of the story, the police procedural, is driven by the dynamic personalities of Detectives Gina and Tony and their exchanges are full of biting sarcastic wit and competitive rivalry as they investigate the serial murders. Their rapport is very entertaining and the author has created two very appealing characters with great chemistry. The writing overall in this story is very sharp and vividly detailed, with an abundance of sarcastic barbs coming from most of the main characters. Because the story takes the point of view of both the police and the victims of the rapists and pedophiles that are being stalked by the Vigilare, there is an interesting commentary on the nature of justice and the roles of government officials. It's thought-provoking, and deals with the theoretical conflict between superheroes and the police very intelligently.
The story has fast-paced, thriller elements, and well-paced courtroom scenes which are balanced very well within the narrative. The mystery and suspense of who and what the Vigilare is builds til the end, when there are some very surprising reveals. I found this a very enjoyable read.
May 12, 2012
Wow! I love reading thrillers and paranormal, but Vigilare is a real treat! The Vigilare is super human, seeking to protect those that can't protect themselves. But is she any better than those she stalks? It really makes one stop and think - is an eye for an eye really the solution?
The animosity between Detectives DeLuca and Gronkowski is entertaining, yet compelling but it is the way the citizens react to the horrific crimes being committed in their city that really makes you sit up and pay attention. The murders aren't pretty and the crime scenes horrific, but James writes with tact and class and the scenes are set without the possibility of nightmares. Not knowing who the Vigilare was had me up late turning the pages - I had to know! Such a creative and complex race, I yearn to know more about them. Looking and acting like humans, you wouldn't know if one was sitting next to you. The book really raises some discussion worthy questions, but the story itself is thoroughly entertaining, with an urban feel and an astonishing twist at the end, leaving this reader waiting for the next exciting installment!
The animosity between Detectives DeLuca and Gronkowski is entertaining, yet compelling but it is the way the citizens react to the horrific crimes being committed in their city that really makes you sit up and pay attention. The murders aren't pretty and the crime scenes horrific, but James writes with tact and class and the scenes are set without the possibility of nightmares. Not knowing who the Vigilare was had me up late turning the pages - I had to know! Such a creative and complex race, I yearn to know more about them. Looking and acting like humans, you wouldn't know if one was sitting next to you. The book really raises some discussion worthy questions, but the story itself is thoroughly entertaining, with an urban feel and an astonishing twist at the end, leaving this reader waiting for the next exciting installment!
May 7, 2012
This book was fantastic. I loved all he crime scenes and the characters. Some were even spooky. There is this scene about a lady at the grocery store. That is all I am going to leak, but boy that made me think twice. I have never read any books by Brooklyn James. She has a new fan for sure. The ending had a wonderful twist and she just had you guessing the whole time. I can't wait till the next book!!
June 12, 2012
WOW! This book had suspense, paranormal, superhero, romance. Little bit of everything. The Vigilare shows up when women are abused and kills the bad guy. Wished it happened in real life! The suspense/thriller aspect of this novel kept you going right to the end. Amazing twists & turns and the ending is amazing with the ending hopefully to a sequel. Really enjoyed this book.
November 17, 2012
What a well written book, the storyline was thought-provoking and the characters were so vivid, it was almost like they were jumping out of the pages. I was really drawn to the suspense of the novel and the ending left me really wanting to know what happens next.
I look forward to more from the author. :)
I look forward to more from the author. :)
September 23, 2012
Can right be wrong (and vice versa)? Just when I thought I had the plot figured out..all I will say is I didn't see that coming and starting book two..now!
October 3, 2013
One thing I couldn't understand is why you would want to stop a transformation if it's the only thing that could save you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2013
4 stars! Review to come! It's like a comic book and law and order all rolled into one, loved!
September 16, 2016
Interesting concept
A bit far fetched, you will need a large imagination for this one. The story was okay, grammar could have been better. Will not be reading any more of the series, just okay.
A bit far fetched, you will need a large imagination for this one. The story was okay, grammar could have been better. Will not be reading any more of the series, just okay.
August 7, 2012
"It is cold and sinister and heroic and is absolutely worth every single chill that will undoubtedly raise the hairs on your neck. Gritty, disturbing, Vigilare deftly sidesteps the clichés of the genre while offering up an uncommon anti-hero profile. Vigilare is a fast-paced, high-octane, supernatural thriller that has successfully managed to blend graphic novel grit with crime drama suspense. James has an infectious present-tense style that propels the story, always forward, though swinging back and forth between virtues and vices with such a ferocious and commanding stride she doesn’t give you a chance to catch your breath. If you’re looking for a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat, Vigilare is the book you’ve been looking for. It’s not for the squeamish. Vigilare is for the brave, rising to the challenge when others cannot." -Read-Indie-Books Blog
"CSI meets Batman. Gotham has Batman. Vanguard has Vigilare!" -Amazon Review
"Vigilare walks the line between a thriller and a supernatural adventure while safely anchored in a scientific discourse around blood that James put together so well that it's reminiscent of a Douglas Preston or Michael Crichton novel. With action, romance, a strong female hero and a likeable group of characters, Vigilare reads like a good action movie." -Gabino Iglesias, The Austin Post
"CSI meets Batman. Gotham has Batman. Vanguard has Vigilare!" -Amazon Review
"Vigilare walks the line between a thriller and a supernatural adventure while safely anchored in a scientific discourse around blood that James put together so well that it's reminiscent of a Douglas Preston or Michael Crichton novel. With action, romance, a strong female hero and a likeable group of characters, Vigilare reads like a good action movie." -Gabino Iglesias, The Austin Post
November 16, 2012
It's hard to categorise this book as it was trying to fit so many genres at once. It was a detective, thriller, supernatural, superhero, romance story in too many pages. I will not be looking for the second in the series.
September 16, 2013
Got this book for free on Amazon, and it wasn´t bad actually. I read it in my spare bored time, and although I didn´t like the whole rape-topic and cheesy banter between the characters, it got me through many a waiting line and if it´s free anyway, meh...
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews