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Vampires in America #5
Duncan
Washington, D.C. … capital of an empire. Powerful. Exhilarating. Corrupt. And in the shadows … vampires far older than the nation itself.
A power unto himself, Duncan has served at Raphael’s side for a hundred and fifty years. But long laid plans have finally borne fruit, and the time has come for Duncan to leave Raphael and tackle the greatest challenge of his life. He will face treacherous vampires and murderous humans. He will rock the halls of human power if necessary. But Washington, D.C. will be his.
Emma Duquet cares nothing for vampire politics. She just wants to find her missing roommate and best friend, Lacey. But Lacey’s been playing with vampires of a particularly dangerous kind, and Emma will have to deal with the new vampire in town if she’s going to find her friend.
Battling powerful enemies who will stop at nothing to keep their secrets, Duncan and Emma will dig beneath the corruption and depravity that is Washington, D.C. and uncover the most heinous conspiracy of all…
A power unto himself, Duncan has served at Raphael’s side for a hundred and fifty years. But long laid plans have finally borne fruit, and the time has come for Duncan to leave Raphael and tackle the greatest challenge of his life. He will face treacherous vampires and murderous humans. He will rock the halls of human power if necessary. But Washington, D.C. will be his.
Emma Duquet cares nothing for vampire politics. She just wants to find her missing roommate and best friend, Lacey. But Lacey’s been playing with vampires of a particularly dangerous kind, and Emma will have to deal with the new vampire in town if she’s going to find her friend.
Battling powerful enemies who will stop at nothing to keep their secrets, Duncan and Emma will dig beneath the corruption and depravity that is Washington, D.C. and uncover the most heinous conspiracy of all…
333 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 9, 2011
116 people are currently reading
1559 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 285 reviews
May 4, 2019
5 OMG I love me some Duncan Stars
First Read 3/2014
Reread 5/2019
Let me just start by saying that Duncan is one of my favorite books in the whole series. I love me some southern charm, and Duncan has that in spades. Duncan and Emma are my second favorite couple in the series right after Cyn and Raphael of course. I loved that Duncan went in right at the start of the book, kicked vampire ass, and became Lord right away. Which left the rest of the book to be about Duncan and Emma. Not that it lacked in action or plot because there is plenty, and it was awesome. But it was nice that the book focused on the relationship build up more than the plot.
I have loved Duncan since book 1 and my love for him has grown with each read. It was great getting his HEA. Emma was perfect for him. She was southern, sweet, smart, and a bit sassy. They were amazing and sexy together. I loved them as a couple. I loved this book and didn't want to put it down. I can't wait to read the next one. I will say that this book was very lite on Raphael and Cyn, but for once I didn't mind because Duncan was strong enough to carry the book without Raphael's help.
First Read 3/2014
Reread 5/2019
Let me just start by saying that Duncan is one of my favorite books in the whole series. I love me some southern charm, and Duncan has that in spades. Duncan and Emma are my second favorite couple in the series right after Cyn and Raphael of course. I loved that Duncan went in right at the start of the book, kicked vampire ass, and became Lord right away. Which left the rest of the book to be about Duncan and Emma. Not that it lacked in action or plot because there is plenty, and it was awesome. But it was nice that the book focused on the relationship build up more than the plot.
I have loved Duncan since book 1 and my love for him has grown with each read. It was great getting his HEA. Emma was perfect for him. She was southern, sweet, smart, and a bit sassy. They were amazing and sexy together. I loved them as a couple. I loved this book and didn't want to put it down. I can't wait to read the next one. I will say that this book was very lite on Raphael and Cyn, but for once I didn't mind because Duncan was strong enough to carry the book without Raphael's help.
August 23, 2017
It's a funny theme in these books that the human woman is all "plucky" and demands to go with the gang of vampires into extremely dangerous situations to "help". Yes, these vampires are practically indestructible, move so fast that a human can't track them, are stronger than Superman on steroids, and have been around fighting since the days when they literally fought lions... but a 20-something chick who has shot a gun at target-practice is totally needed when the going gets tough.
makes this much sense
If it were me, I'd be like,
"Okay, babe. You go do your vampire revenge thing... Yeah, yeah, kill everyone.... bathe in the blood of your enemies... much too dangerous for a woman. I agree! I get it. Less talky-talky, more killy-killy...Have fun, now! Don't let the door hit you in the ass on your way out."
And then take a nice hot bath and read for a while.
So, this book was pretty good, and I liked both characters. The only thing that was missing was some actual chemistry between them. I felt no heat at all. Yes, there were tons of sex- scenes. Enough to make me start skimming them, but there was no build-up. Just insta-lust to insta-love.
makes this much sense
If it were me, I'd be like,
"Okay, babe. You go do your vampire revenge thing... Yeah, yeah, kill everyone.... bathe in the blood of your enemies... much too dangerous for a woman. I agree! I get it. Less talky-talky, more killy-killy...Have fun, now! Don't let the door hit you in the ass on your way out."
And then take a nice hot bath and read for a while.
So, this book was pretty good, and I liked both characters. The only thing that was missing was some actual chemistry between them. I felt no heat at all. Yes, there were tons of sex- scenes. Enough to make me start skimming them, but there was no build-up. Just insta-lust to insta-love.
May 10, 2014
*3.5 stars*
I'm mildly disappointed by this book but I think that has largely to do with the fact that Duncan has been a favorite of mine forever and so this book was hyped to the nth in my head.
Duncan was his usually sexy, charming self but I thought that Emma was only so-so. She wasn't nearly as engaging as Cyn and I found her to be a bit TSTL. I almost put the book down when I read that she has "violet eyes" (<--- never again do I want to read that!) but I'm glad I continued. Though I didn't feel the love between Emma and Duncan, the bad ass vampires and tight writing made up for it.
I think that Duncan could have used a more formidable opponent, but I enjoyed how the mystery played out. It kept me guessing and had a few unforeseen twists and turns.
All in all, another well done book by one of the most underrated paranormal authors, the fabulous D.B. Reynolds.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I'm mildly disappointed by this book but I think that has largely to do with the fact that Duncan has been a favorite of mine forever and so this book was hyped to the nth in my head.
Duncan was his usually sexy, charming self but I thought that Emma was only so-so. She wasn't nearly as engaging as Cyn and I found her to be a bit TSTL. I almost put the book down when I read that she has "violet eyes" (<--- never again do I want to read that!) but I'm glad I continued. Though I didn't feel the love between Emma and Duncan, the bad ass vampires and tight writing made up for it.
I think that Duncan could have used a more formidable opponent, but I enjoyed how the mystery played out. It kept me guessing and had a few unforeseen twists and turns.
All in all, another well done book by one of the most underrated paranormal authors, the fabulous D.B. Reynolds.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
September 24, 2012
Fantastic! I really enjoyed seeing a multi-faceted side to Duncan. His power, personality, and his life story. Absolutely loved it!
November 16, 2011
5 Huge Stars. Excellent!!! Start to finish…it was perfect, just like Duncan!! *swoon* This series is still going strong and this book might be the best one yet. Duncan has found the ideal match in the snarky, determined Emma. She has so many Cyn traits, but she’s still her own person, tough, yet mischievous. I enjoyed the playful banter between Duncan and Emma. He really lets his guard down with her, and his desire for Emma is undeniable. He’s so passionate and possessive…WOW, just WOW!! I knew Duncan was going to be good, but he was even better than I expected, and he burned up the pages with her!! The first half he was a “clit tease” *snort*, Emma’s words not mine; the second half he was all action…again and again and again.
“ Duncan didn’t think he could move. A hundred and fifty years of making love to some of the most beautiful women in the world, and for the first time he actually felt drained”.
An exhausted vampire…now that’s HOT!
Along with all that hotness is a great story, interesting secondary characters, and a little bit of Cyn and Raphael. I would have liked more, but this was Duncan’s book, he deserved to be featured, and the author did him justice. Duncan and Emma’s story wrapped up nicely, but I have no doubt that they will be a part of the continuing saga, which is so appealing for me. I love catching up with my favorite characters.
We also got a peek at the next vampire lord, Lucas Donlan and I like what I see, or rather what I read. He likes to annoy Raphael, in a smart-ass way, and he’s Duncan’s friend, sounds good to me. Great writing, terrific dialogue, this series is one of the best in this genre and I can’t recommend it enough!
“ Duncan didn’t think he could move. A hundred and fifty years of making love to some of the most beautiful women in the world, and for the first time he actually felt drained”.
An exhausted vampire…now that’s HOT!
Along with all that hotness is a great story, interesting secondary characters, and a little bit of Cyn and Raphael. I would have liked more, but this was Duncan’s book, he deserved to be featured, and the author did him justice. Duncan and Emma’s story wrapped up nicely, but I have no doubt that they will be a part of the continuing saga, which is so appealing for me. I love catching up with my favorite characters.
We also got a peek at the next vampire lord, Lucas Donlan and I like what I see, or rather what I read. He likes to annoy Raphael, in a smart-ass way, and he’s Duncan’s friend, sounds good to me. Great writing, terrific dialogue, this series is one of the best in this genre and I can’t recommend it enough!
February 16, 2016
4 solid vampire-ishly sexy stars
I really like these series...
like, no shit Snow, who could tell, huh?
Anyway, Duncan (Raphael's longtime liutenant) is being appointed as a new "ambassador" of Washington D.C. but before he takes over that duty he need to "clean" the twisted mess that his previously appointed vamp Lord made, including him. Dealing with the sex tapes of twisted orgies involving the high ranking politicians, Duncan accepts the pleads for help from a young spunky and stubbornly determined woman Emma Duquet to find her friend who was a part of the orgies and vamps parties that ended up badly. Finding the murderer is not going to be easy for Duncan cause Emma is not the one who'll easily stay away from her own mission to resolve the same issue. Sparks fly as they work together in joined forces to bring the wrongful ones to justice - vampire justice.
what's there not to like - alpha male vamp and a spunky, sassy southern mischief of a woman
there are so many things that go wrong and trouble with a capital T is lingering around them but somehow every wrong ends up being right. :)
and the sex is great...well, so I've read...
March 5, 2012
I was SO sure I would never be able to love this book as much as I did the ones about Raphael and Cyn... Well I'm glad to say I was wrong. If I didn't like it a bit more I liked it just as much, probably because I've been waiting for Duncan's book since I begun reading the series. Duncan was a character that completely captivated me. You just can easily see the leader in him on the first books, it's impossible not to notice how he will be discovering and making a path of his own very soon. And he really did it, and in such a compelling and beautiful way... I was fascinated with every page of this book.
DUNCAN:
Oh, Duncan, how much I adored you. What's not to love? He's an alpha to the core and isn't afraid to show it. Nobody messes with Duncan, Nobody. He knows what he wants and he just wont stop until he gets it. I guess I was really absorbed with this read because it was an admirable thing to see how this fine character started his own reign from scratch, and not only that but he also had to make some amends after the terrible things the previous Lord did.
The plot:
I've been hopelessly in love with the different plots from all the books of this series, but I think this one was my favorite. Not only do we have this alluring and compelling vampires who aren't afraid of showing their power or doing what they have to do in order to achieve their goals, but we have now some politics threw to the mix. Washington DC is not a land which will allow the vampires to remain hidden, politicians will want to meet and get to know them better. Do you know what was best about this all? That Duncan and his people still managed to do whatever they wanted and to hell with consequences. Nothing better than to see people taking justice into their own hands, specially when some corruption is involve, and more than anything if that corruption happens to come from the people you should be admiring and following.
I really like this series and can't wait to read more about the Lords.
DUNCAN:
Oh, Duncan, how much I adored you. What's not to love? He's an alpha to the core and isn't afraid to show it. Nobody messes with Duncan, Nobody. He knows what he wants and he just wont stop until he gets it. I guess I was really absorbed with this read because it was an admirable thing to see how this fine character started his own reign from scratch, and not only that but he also had to make some amends after the terrible things the previous Lord did.
The plot:
I've been hopelessly in love with the different plots from all the books of this series, but I think this one was my favorite. Not only do we have this alluring and compelling vampires who aren't afraid of showing their power or doing what they have to do in order to achieve their goals, but we have now some politics threw to the mix. Washington DC is not a land which will allow the vampires to remain hidden, politicians will want to meet and get to know them better. Do you know what was best about this all? That Duncan and his people still managed to do whatever they wanted and to hell with consequences. Nothing better than to see people taking justice into their own hands, specially when some corruption is involve, and more than anything if that corruption happens to come from the people you should be admiring and following.
I really like this series and can't wait to read more about the Lords.
February 7, 2013
Duncan
Emma
Maru: And we´re back!! Yes, we know you´ve missed our joint reviews so we´ve decided to grant you another one. Aly, are you read to rock the review world?
Aly: As ready as I can be :D
Maru: So we´ve finished Vamps in America #5, Duncan
Aly: How would you describe your feelings for it?
Maru: Totally awesome, I can´t believe all the bad boy attitude Duncan had! By the end of the book, I was like...I want one like him! What about you Aly?
Aly: :)) you weren't the only one! I didn't expect him to be so… cool!
Maru: Yeah me either! I think it´s one of my fave books of the series
Aly: He seemed so standoffish when he worked for Raphael that I was skeptical about his book.
Maru: Totally agreed! I thought he was going to be super cynical and cold towards his heroine, but NO, I couldn´t have been more wrong! Any fave scenes?
Aly: Hmm… Maybe the one after the fire, it was sweet and hot and... loving I think.
Maru: Yes!! I absolutely agree!!! I loved that scene
Aly: Since the ones before it were so adrenalin filled this one was a good way to decompress
Maru: Anything you didn´t like?
Aly: I can't say there was... Just that Emma's friend really was gone. How about you?
Maru: I would say Emma´s friend being gone too, it was sad. I liked the storyline with all the lies and deceptions of the political world
Aly: How about the villain. Did you expect it to be that one? I didn't
Maru: Not at all!! I was surprised!!! And I love when that happens! Don´t you love it when you´re surprised by the author?
Aly: Me too! I didn't like that character in the book, but didn't expect it to turn out like that. If it's a good surprise yes :)) Otherwise.... ;;)
Maru: Yeah agreed! LOL Like terrible cliffhangers and having to wait a year to read the sequel...love those not. Sooo back to the story...did you like Duncan as the hero of the book?
Aly: I did! I loved his possessive, you-are-mine side. Didn't think he had it in him :))
Maru: Me too!! Chica, it´s like you´re reading my mind!
Aly: And I didn't expect his power to be that... It was a cool turn. You do the same to me sometimes, so we're cool :P
Maru: Anything else you want to discuss?
Aly: I think we touched everything... Rating?
Maru: 4.5?
Aly: Yep.
Maru: Awesome! Ok, peeps that´s all for now! We´ll be back shortly!! Try not to miss us a lot.
Emma
Maru: And we´re back!! Yes, we know you´ve missed our joint reviews so we´ve decided to grant you another one. Aly, are you read to rock the review world?
Aly: As ready as I can be :D
Maru: So we´ve finished Vamps in America #5, Duncan
Aly: How would you describe your feelings for it?
Maru: Totally awesome, I can´t believe all the bad boy attitude Duncan had! By the end of the book, I was like...I want one like him! What about you Aly?
Aly: :)) you weren't the only one! I didn't expect him to be so… cool!
Maru: Yeah me either! I think it´s one of my fave books of the series
Aly: He seemed so standoffish when he worked for Raphael that I was skeptical about his book.
Maru: Totally agreed! I thought he was going to be super cynical and cold towards his heroine, but NO, I couldn´t have been more wrong! Any fave scenes?
Aly: Hmm… Maybe the one after the fire, it was sweet and hot and... loving I think.
Maru: Yes!! I absolutely agree!!! I loved that scene
Aly: Since the ones before it were so adrenalin filled this one was a good way to decompress
Maru: Anything you didn´t like?
Aly: I can't say there was... Just that Emma's friend really was gone. How about you?
Maru: I would say Emma´s friend being gone too, it was sad. I liked the storyline with all the lies and deceptions of the political world
Aly: How about the villain. Did you expect it to be that one? I didn't
Maru: Not at all!! I was surprised!!! And I love when that happens! Don´t you love it when you´re surprised by the author?
Aly: Me too! I didn't like that character in the book, but didn't expect it to turn out like that. If it's a good surprise yes :)) Otherwise.... ;;)
Maru: Yeah agreed! LOL Like terrible cliffhangers and having to wait a year to read the sequel...love those not. Sooo back to the story...did you like Duncan as the hero of the book?
Aly: I did! I loved his possessive, you-are-mine side. Didn't think he had it in him :))
Maru: Me too!! Chica, it´s like you´re reading my mind!
Aly: And I didn't expect his power to be that... It was a cool turn. You do the same to me sometimes, so we're cool :P
Maru: Anything else you want to discuss?
Aly: I think we touched everything... Rating?
Maru: 4.5?
Aly: Yep.
Maru: Awesome! Ok, peeps that´s all for now! We´ll be back shortly!! Try not to miss us a lot.
July 4, 2019
Spoilers ahead
I haven't had a good night's sleep since I started this series 😂
This one is going to be quick
Raphael's right hand man ,Duncan gets his own territory as he kills a vicious and cruel Lord to take over the political capital
Young ladies are being prostituted and their minds wiped
Emma's beast friend disappeared and she goes to the vampire embassy looking for help and finds Duncan and his team
They're instantly attracted to each other but the pace of the romance was actually a bit slower than in previous books
No OW or OM or vampire feeding from anyone else
Emma was stubborn with a capital S, to the point of annoying sometimes
No Raphael and Cyn times *boo*
I liked it well enough, moving on
I haven't had a good night's sleep since I started this series 😂
This one is going to be quick
Raphael's right hand man ,Duncan gets his own territory as he kills a vicious and cruel Lord to take over the political capital
Young ladies are being prostituted and their minds wiped
Emma's beast friend disappeared and she goes to the vampire embassy looking for help and finds Duncan and his team
They're instantly attracted to each other but the pace of the romance was actually a bit slower than in previous books
No OW or OM or vampire feeding from anyone else
Emma was stubborn with a capital S, to the point of annoying sometimes
No Raphael and Cyn times *boo*
I liked it well enough, moving on
April 28, 2019
Another nice read with a good dose of mystery, investigation and romance!
August 8, 2014
Hm...I think I'm too bored to write a full review so I'll try to be fast.
My Duncan...
I decided Duncan is a younger Brad Pitt, and then I found a picture of Brad Pitt from Troy because let's admit it, he was at his hottest moments in this movie! (Not to mention that he wasn't the only drool worthy male character in the film.)
Meh...Got off track. So, Duncan was, as always, delicious. In this book we see him without the shadow of Raphael's awesomeness over him and boy does he shine. Although I usually go for the "tall, dark, mysterious" type, I have to admit that Duncan did for me from day one. A born and bred Southern Boy he could kill you with his kindness and patience until the moment he decided to kill you literally. Powerful, loyal and cunning he will steal our heroine's heart in ten seconds flat.
My Emmaline...
After giving a lot of thought I decided Olivia Wilde will do as Emma. Emma is my kind of heroine, stubborn, independant, smart and a badass if the situation demands it. She isn't the "martial arts" kind of heroine or the "I will kick your ass with my eyes closed", she is however a strong woman with good survival instincts and can shoot a gun if the situation demands it from her. She is after Cyn my favorite female so far in this series!
About the story...It was good although I felt some things were left unfinished but not enough to make a bad impression.
I love Miquel and Louis from the beginning and Baldwin later on.
I hated that bitch Phoebe from her first appearance.
And I can tell from now that I will like Lucas.
*I feel like I should have added "stop" at the end of each sentence there at the end!:p*
My Duncan...
I decided Duncan is a younger Brad Pitt, and then I found a picture of Brad Pitt from Troy because let's admit it, he was at his hottest moments in this movie! (Not to mention that he wasn't the only drool worthy male character in the film.)
Meh...Got off track. So, Duncan was, as always, delicious. In this book we see him without the shadow of Raphael's awesomeness over him and boy does he shine. Although I usually go for the "tall, dark, mysterious" type, I have to admit that Duncan did for me from day one. A born and bred Southern Boy he could kill you with his kindness and patience until the moment he decided to kill you literally. Powerful, loyal and cunning he will steal our heroine's heart in ten seconds flat.
My Emmaline...
After giving a lot of thought I decided Olivia Wilde will do as Emma. Emma is my kind of heroine, stubborn, independant, smart and a badass if the situation demands it. She isn't the "martial arts" kind of heroine or the "I will kick your ass with my eyes closed", she is however a strong woman with good survival instincts and can shoot a gun if the situation demands it from her. She is after Cyn my favorite female so far in this series!
About the story...It was good although I felt some things were left unfinished but not enough to make a bad impression.
I love Miquel and Louis from the beginning and Baldwin later on.
I hated that bitch Phoebe from her first appearance.
And I can tell from now that I will like Lucas.
*I feel like I should have added "stop" at the end of each sentence there at the end!:p*
February 25, 2016
4.5 Stars - Great addition to the Vampires In America series. Raphael gives Duncan his blessing to move on and take control of his own territory and thus, we now meet Lord Duncan. He's walked into a hornets' nest of crime and corruption in our nation's capitol, and it's now Lord Duncan's duty to clean it up. Who can he trust to pledge allegiance? While trying to sort things out, Duncan meets Emma as she is searching for her best friend after she didn't return home from a big weekend party where it was rumored that senators, congressmen, and even "higher ups" were doing depraved things. What is going on at these parties? Emma is determined to find her friend. Duncan vows to help her because he knows the odds of finding her friend alive are slim to none. He will be there to protect & console Emma when she needs it...hmmm...and isn't that strange? It seems our Duncan is falling fast for this little human who refuses to take orders from him.
The chemistry is off the charts in Duncan. The heat licking at these two characters is burning hot - and like like a wildfire - out of control. You will enjoy the journey as these two dance around each other, learn about each other, and open their hearts to see if there's a chance they "fit" within each other's world. Sizzlin, Smokin', Explosive Read! A Must Read! One of my favorites!
The chemistry is off the charts in Duncan. The heat licking at these two characters is burning hot - and like like a wildfire - out of control. You will enjoy the journey as these two dance around each other, learn about each other, and open their hearts to see if there's a chance they "fit" within each other's world. Sizzlin, Smokin', Explosive Read! A Must Read! One of my favorites!
November 10, 2014
3.5
Duncan takes over another lord's territory and discovers all the despicable things that vampire lord had done. Combine a very sick vampire lord with powerful and rich politicians and you'll get the picture.
I loved Duncan when he was Raphael's right hand. The problem in this book is that he is way too powerful for the things he is facing here. He is too powerful for anything the author throws at him. He is still great, but when he beats everything and everyone with almost a flick of his finger then the story loses a lot. Even Emma is too strong for the things she faced. It is the greatest weakness of this story. They definitely needed a stronger enemy.
We do get to hear Duncan's story though; how he became a vampire.
I wasn't much interested in Sophia's story in Sophia, so I wasn't too upset when Raphael and Cyn took over almost the whole story. Here, there are only Duncan and Emma, not enough of Duncan's past and one very lame lame antagonist. Even the surprise near the end wasn't really a surprise.
The world is still interesting and great with vampires slowly emerging from the shadows, where some know about them, but a lot still don't.
Duncan takes over another lord's territory and discovers all the despicable things that vampire lord had done. Combine a very sick vampire lord with powerful and rich politicians and you'll get the picture.
I loved Duncan when he was Raphael's right hand. The problem in this book is that he is way too powerful for the things he is facing here. He is too powerful for anything the author throws at him. He is still great, but when he beats everything and everyone with almost a flick of his finger then the story loses a lot. Even Emma is too strong for the things she faced. It is the greatest weakness of this story. They definitely needed a stronger enemy.
We do get to hear Duncan's story though; how he became a vampire.
I wasn't much interested in Sophia's story in Sophia, so I wasn't too upset when Raphael and Cyn took over almost the whole story. Here, there are only Duncan and Emma, not enough of Duncan's past and one very lame lame antagonist. Even the surprise near the end wasn't really a surprise.
The world is still interesting and great with vampires slowly emerging from the shadows, where some know about them, but a lot still don't.
June 5, 2017
Every time I read a book from this series, I always ask myself, "Why in the world did I wait so long to read the next book?" Duncan reminds me why I love this series so much. D. B. Reynolds' writing is so vivid. The world of vampires and men seem present and real as today's paper. Putting a vampire lord in the seat of America's political power is smart and necessary. But this book is about how vampires deal with their own power struggles. Well, that is not exactly true. This book is about the relationship between Emma and Duncan. I never thought that any couple could come close to Cyn and Raphael in intensity, but these two are close. Their interaction is like a rocket going off. The sizzle comes off the page. Hopefully, it will not take me as long to get to LUCAS, the next book in the series. In fact, I'm due for a binge read. Maybe I will start now.
May 2, 2016
Ducan isn't Raphael and Emma isn't Cyn, but they're okay. I miss Raphael and Cyn!
January 7, 2012
4.5/5
The tragic thing about this wonderful series is that the atrocious covers are killing it. How many of you will look at this book and no matter how much I'll plead with you to try the series you'll not touch it with a ten foot pole?
Yeah, that's what I thought.
You know I rarely read paranormal romance, but this is creme de la creme of it. There is no woe is me and she is my mate and let's be Neanderthal. Instead there are clever, cunning and strong men and women caught in a power play akin to mafia wars and making the best of it.
The only difference is? Some of them have fangs.
In this book Raphael (my favourite vampire!) makes another move by sending his Second, Duncan, to grab hold of a weak Washington, D.C. territory. The move is successful, but now Duncan has to sort out the horrendous mess his predecessor left behind, including Emma's missing friend and roommate.
Duncan, as a proper Southern gentleman takes Emma under his wing without coddling her, and allows her to help any way she can, because he knows that it will make her feel better to be in control of something.
Their chemistry is undeniable, and without pompous declarations of undying love they slip into an easy friendship and some fun in bed, which turns into something more and more serious the more dangerous their investigation becomes.
The thing that I like most about D.B.'s books is that all relationships are about partnership, there is equality and respect. Strong sides of character, intellect and experience are not only admired but UTILISED not to prove something, but because it's a natural and logical thing to do.
For me, these books are level-headed and refreshing, passionate and humorous without excessive testosterone and drama. Duncan is no exception and for that I'm extremely grateful.
The tragic thing about this wonderful series is that the atrocious covers are killing it. How many of you will look at this book and no matter how much I'll plead with you to try the series you'll not touch it with a ten foot pole?
Yeah, that's what I thought.
You know I rarely read paranormal romance, but this is creme de la creme of it. There is no woe is me and she is my mate and let's be Neanderthal. Instead there are clever, cunning and strong men and women caught in a power play akin to mafia wars and making the best of it.
The only difference is? Some of them have fangs.
In this book Raphael (my favourite vampire!) makes another move by sending his Second, Duncan, to grab hold of a weak Washington, D.C. territory. The move is successful, but now Duncan has to sort out the horrendous mess his predecessor left behind, including Emma's missing friend and roommate.
Duncan, as a proper Southern gentleman takes Emma under his wing without coddling her, and allows her to help any way she can, because he knows that it will make her feel better to be in control of something.
Their chemistry is undeniable, and without pompous declarations of undying love they slip into an easy friendship and some fun in bed, which turns into something more and more serious the more dangerous their investigation becomes.
The thing that I like most about D.B.'s books is that all relationships are about partnership, there is equality and respect. Strong sides of character, intellect and experience are not only admired but UTILISED not to prove something, but because it's a natural and logical thing to do.
For me, these books are level-headed and refreshing, passionate and humorous without excessive testosterone and drama. Duncan is no exception and for that I'm extremely grateful.
February 24, 2012
4.5 stars
Duncan is such a great character. I had felt attached to him after reading Raphael's books, and even during Sophia's, when he just seemed like such a rock solid guy. Yet he was always in the background, upstanding citizen of Raphael city that he was. Now he gets the focus, and I'm so glad that he did!
I love the way that Emma thinks of him when they first meet:
"Duncan laughed softly, his warm brown eyes dancing. He sure didn't look like a vampire. Miguel she could buy. He'd growled for God's sake. Duncan looked like a blue blood Harvard business graduate with an expensive tailor and enough rebellion in his soul to let his hair grow long."
Ha! That's exactly how he is! There's this calm, controlled man on the outside, very charismatic and seemingly at ease. But behind that stoic demeanor is a very (very!) passionate man. Up to now, Ms. Reynolds has kept her stories mostly to the action of the plot, with a couple of smokin' love scenes thrown in for those interested. And Duncan, of all people, breaks out of that box and shows Emma that yes, he IS a fantastic lover, he just saved the savagery for her. He seems to like walls, too.
Emma was great, a perfect match for Duncan. She seems very sweet, almost timid. But she sure can be stubborn, and knows when to put her foot down. The relationship between these two felt very natural, with little to no angst. It was slow and easy, then quickly solidified into something that just felt lasting. They fit perfectly.
Duncan is such a great character. I had felt attached to him after reading Raphael's books, and even during Sophia's, when he just seemed like such a rock solid guy. Yet he was always in the background, upstanding citizen of Raphael city that he was. Now he gets the focus, and I'm so glad that he did!
I love the way that Emma thinks of him when they first meet:
"Duncan laughed softly, his warm brown eyes dancing. He sure didn't look like a vampire. Miguel she could buy. He'd growled for God's sake. Duncan looked like a blue blood Harvard business graduate with an expensive tailor and enough rebellion in his soul to let his hair grow long."
Ha! That's exactly how he is! There's this calm, controlled man on the outside, very charismatic and seemingly at ease. But behind that stoic demeanor is a very (very!) passionate man. Up to now, Ms. Reynolds has kept her stories mostly to the action of the plot, with a couple of smokin' love scenes thrown in for those interested. And Duncan, of all people, breaks out of that box and shows Emma that yes, he IS a fantastic lover, he just saved the savagery for her. He seems to like walls, too.
Emma was great, a perfect match for Duncan. She seems very sweet, almost timid. But she sure can be stubborn, and knows when to put her foot down. The relationship between these two felt very natural, with little to no angst. It was slow and easy, then quickly solidified into something that just felt lasting. They fit perfectly.
November 15, 2011
She shoots, She Scores!!! Another fantastic read in the Vampire's in America Series. I bought this book on my Kindle and settled in for the night with Duncan. I did not put it down until I was finished. ( I was a wee bit tired the next day but, it was so worth it) I was suprised at the twists and turns in this book, I actually thought I had it all figured out and then WHAM! I was so wrong.
The leading lady is Emma and she is desperately looking for her missing friend, what she didn't plan on finding is our man Duncan, but, lets just say she was sooooo glad she did! Duncan is a gentleman in Vampire's clothing, all Mr. Chivalry except when the possessiveness kicks in and then, he is not. There is a particular scene in his office that I wouldn't mind re-living a time or two. Another great tidbit is we get to see our friends Raphael and Cynthia, even Rajmund and Sophie make an appearance. This book is a perfect fit to the series. I would definitely say....get this book!!!!!
The leading lady is Emma and she is desperately looking for her missing friend, what she didn't plan on finding is our man Duncan, but, lets just say she was sooooo glad she did! Duncan is a gentleman in Vampire's clothing, all Mr. Chivalry except when the possessiveness kicks in and then, he is not. There is a particular scene in his office that I wouldn't mind re-living a time or two. Another great tidbit is we get to see our friends Raphael and Cynthia, even Rajmund and Sophie make an appearance. This book is a perfect fit to the series. I would definitely say....get this book!!!!!
December 2, 2012
Originally reviewed at http://prufreads.blogspot.com/
My rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
"I'm not a man at all, Emma. And while some may consider me bad, I'm very good at what I do."
~Duncan
Seriously. Hands down, my favorite so far. I love it when a series seems to get better as it progresses instead of burning out. Duncan doesn't miss a beat. It picks up right where Sophia left off. Duncan...my mind was sent reeling immediately. Since the beginning of this series, Duncan was my crush, my cutie, my aww factor. He's still all of those things, and then some! That being said, that sweet, quiet demeanor, don't feel bad. Shy Duncan had me fooled too!
Duncan's personality jumps off the page in this 5th installment of D.B. Reynolds' Vampires In America series. While his relationship with Raphael remains just as tight as ever, Duncan's days as #2 are long gone. Embarking on a new territory and a new role isn't the only thing Duncan has on his plate these days.
Emma's best friend is missing and she demands answers, sneeking onto the local vamp 'embassy' for starters! It is there where she first lays eyes on Duncan, and Duncan lays eyes on her. I will admit, there was really no build up at all. The attraction was instant but that was perfectly fine by me. This was still a fast paced, action packed, steamy read. It was gritty and had me trying to 'guess who'. I love how it continues to become more and more apparent just how much Raphael means to Duncan and how much he has influenced his immortal life. Even his choice in women, has Raphael's influence written all over it. There is some brief Cyn/Emma interaction that had me giggling at the possibilities of those two coming face to face. Cyn has grown quite fond and protective of Duncan afterall.
It seems that even the vamps in Washington D.C are corrupt. Just how corrupt is quite disturbing and the more Duncan and his people uncover, the more disgusted he becomes. The situation in D.C. pushes his limits, making it most difficult to maintain that cool composure we've come to love from him. Though a little rushed, Duncan and Emma still make for a great pairing who challenge and humble one another at the same time. There are more fantastic characters introduced in this book, characters that I hope to hear more from down the line. Great read!
My rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
"I'm not a man at all, Emma. And while some may consider me bad, I'm very good at what I do."
~Duncan
Seriously. Hands down, my favorite so far. I love it when a series seems to get better as it progresses instead of burning out. Duncan doesn't miss a beat. It picks up right where Sophia left off. Duncan...my mind was sent reeling immediately. Since the beginning of this series, Duncan was my crush, my cutie, my aww factor. He's still all of those things, and then some! That being said, that sweet, quiet demeanor, don't feel bad. Shy Duncan had me fooled too!
Duncan's personality jumps off the page in this 5th installment of D.B. Reynolds' Vampires In America series. While his relationship with Raphael remains just as tight as ever, Duncan's days as #2 are long gone. Embarking on a new territory and a new role isn't the only thing Duncan has on his plate these days.
Emma's best friend is missing and she demands answers, sneeking onto the local vamp 'embassy' for starters! It is there where she first lays eyes on Duncan, and Duncan lays eyes on her. I will admit, there was really no build up at all. The attraction was instant but that was perfectly fine by me. This was still a fast paced, action packed, steamy read. It was gritty and had me trying to 'guess who'. I love how it continues to become more and more apparent just how much Raphael means to Duncan and how much he has influenced his immortal life. Even his choice in women, has Raphael's influence written all over it. There is some brief Cyn/Emma interaction that had me giggling at the possibilities of those two coming face to face. Cyn has grown quite fond and protective of Duncan afterall.
It seems that even the vamps in Washington D.C are corrupt. Just how corrupt is quite disturbing and the more Duncan and his people uncover, the more disgusted he becomes. The situation in D.C. pushes his limits, making it most difficult to maintain that cool composure we've come to love from him. Though a little rushed, Duncan and Emma still make for a great pairing who challenge and humble one another at the same time. There are more fantastic characters introduced in this book, characters that I hope to hear more from down the line. Great read!
February 3, 2019
3 It’s-me-not-you-stars
Even the second time around, Duncan was my most anticipated of the series and ended up being my least favorite (but still a 3). Obviously I am the exception to the rule, since all my friends loved it.
I just never felt the chemistry between Emma and Duncan until close to the end of the book. Emma had some TSTL moments, like wanting to stay by herself at her apartment and refuse Duncan’s help following a dangerous event there. Duncan’s empath skills that were separate from mind reading skills didn’t always make sense to me. He had no problem getting information from bad guys, but told Emma he could only sense her feelings, not read her mind. It just seemed inconsistent.
Duncan’s early history that was supposed to be post U.S. Civil War was labeled the 1820’s and 1830’s but should have been 1860’s. I don’t know how I missed that the first time around, but I think I read an earlier edition this time. Hopefully that was corrected. I have always found D.B. Reynolds’ writing to be excellent, and an error like that is an aberration.
Nonetheless, I do recommend the Vampires in America series, and I am off to read the next one. :-)
Even the second time around, Duncan was my most anticipated of the series and ended up being my least favorite (but still a 3). Obviously I am the exception to the rule, since all my friends loved it.
I just never felt the chemistry between Emma and Duncan until close to the end of the book. Emma had some TSTL moments, like wanting to stay by herself at her apartment and refuse Duncan’s help following a dangerous event there. Duncan’s empath skills that were separate from mind reading skills didn’t always make sense to me. He had no problem getting information from bad guys, but told Emma he could only sense her feelings, not read her mind. It just seemed inconsistent.
Duncan’s early history that was supposed to be post U.S. Civil War was labeled the 1820’s and 1830’s but should have been 1860’s. I don’t know how I missed that the first time around, but I think I read an earlier edition this time. Hopefully that was corrected. I have always found D.B. Reynolds’ writing to be excellent, and an error like that is an aberration.
Nonetheless, I do recommend the Vampires in America series, and I am off to read the next one. :-)
November 21, 2014
Duncan has been a favorite for me in this series, I have been really looking forward to his book and I was not disappointed.
Duncan fits the look I like in a guy, blond, tall, smart, did I say BLOND?lol
Mmmmm just like that. You see my fascination.
Well fortunately his book did actually live up to my anticipation, it was real good. Awesome in fact.
Emma the heroine in this book was just the right kind of girl for him and she captured my heart too. Sweet as sugar and hard as nails, got to love a girl like that. She was smart too and strong willed.
The story had a nice pace and the mystery story in it was really good and I did not guess who the killer was. I was really taken by surprise.
So I am going to give 4,5 to 5 solid stars.
Duncan fits the look I like in a guy, blond, tall, smart, did I say BLOND?lol
Mmmmm just like that. You see my fascination.
Well fortunately his book did actually live up to my anticipation, it was real good. Awesome in fact.
Emma the heroine in this book was just the right kind of girl for him and she captured my heart too. Sweet as sugar and hard as nails, got to love a girl like that. She was smart too and strong willed.
The story had a nice pace and the mystery story in it was really good and I did not guess who the killer was. I was really taken by surprise.
So I am going to give 4,5 to 5 solid stars.
April 29, 2019
Duncan has been my favorite vamp since I first read Raphael. He is the most 'human' vamp because of his gift of empathy. In this novel we find that Raphael has encouraged Duncan to take over the D.C territory and oust Victor the current and evil Lord. This book takes us through that take over and into the darkside of politicians and the victimization of young women. Emma's roommate Lacey was killed during one of Lord Victor's "parties" and she wants revenge. Duncan meets Emma and boom we have chemistry. Duncan stays true to what DBR has portrayed him as in the first 4 books and still is the most likeable Vampire in America:)..Emma who at first I thought was gonna be a shy, mousey thing actually is a stubborn, political aid and a very strong female lead. Perfect for Duncan.
DBR, in the epilog also gives us a peak into what to expect in her next novel.
As alway D.B. Reynolds has written a great story with exciting characters and great plot twists. The only thing I found is that I think she brought up the hidden vamp too late and didn't make as big a deal out of the show down between Duncan and her. It felt like it was slapped in there kinda in a hurry.
A strong 4 1/2 stars for this exciting book. Can't wait for Lucas's story!
DBR, in the epilog also gives us a peak into what to expect in her next novel.
As alway D.B. Reynolds has written a great story with exciting characters and great plot twists. The only thing I found is that I think she brought up the hidden vamp too late and didn't make as big a deal out of the show down between Duncan and her. It felt like it was slapped in there kinda in a hurry.
A strong 4 1/2 stars for this exciting book. Can't wait for Lucas's story!
July 21, 2012
This was my favorite VIA books in the series so far! The relationship between Duncan and Emma was wonderful. It was a pleasure to have no conflict about how they felt about one another. They both seem to embrace the fact that they desired each other and then eventually fell in love with one another. Most romance books have the couple fighting their feelings and taking awhile to come to terms with how they feel. I loved the humor as well. It was an awesome book!
February 9, 2017
4.5 stars
If it wasn't for something that happened in the last few pages, I would have given this 5 full stars!
One of the best in the series so far.
If it wasn't for something that happened in the last few pages, I would have given this 5 full stars!
One of the best in the series so far.
June 8, 2017
(RabidReads.com)4.5/5 stars Fifth in D.B. Reynolds exciting Vampire’s in America series, Duncan is a book most (if not all) of us that read this series have been waiting for. Yes, the books usually feature (but not always prominently) vampire master Raphael and his human mate, Cynthia, but Duncan has been right beside him in most of the books. He’s Raphael’s second in command of a huge territory of America. So it was time for Duncan to shine, and he did!
It’s time for the vampire master of Washington D.C. to be uprooted and done away with. Victor is corrupt and is no longer fit to be the master of anything, much less the part of America with so many powerful people inhabiting it. He probably never really was fit for the job, truth be told. Raphael has been grooming Duncan for the job for over fifty years-which is not long when you are immortal. Not just anyone can take over, the vampire must be a more powerful master vampire than Victor. Of course, Duncan more than fits the bill. Emma is a lawyer that works for a senator in Washington. Her housemate and closest friend, Lacey, didn’t come home after going away for a weekend party. The party was given at one of Victor’s homes not far from D.C. Emma comes to Victor’s home to try and find Lacey shortly after Duncan takes over. And that begins this story of just how corrupt Victor had been, and how equally depraved. Duncan has quite the mess to clean up.
Duncan is the debonair, impeccably dressed vampire at all times-even when he wears jeans, he still conveys that he’s a leader. He’s fiercely loyal to those he loves, Raphael and Cynthia being his closest friends. He also is sire to a few vampires that he is equally caring about. But he’s been alone for a very long time after losing his human family. When he meets Emma on her quest to find Lacey, he is attracted to her immediately. Of course, he agrees to help her. Emma is determined, attractive, and kindhearted. Lacey is her only family although they aren’t really related, having met in foster care. She doesn’t let it bother her (much) that she has to enter the vampire stronghold in order to find Lacey. It’s scary sure, but losing Lacey is scarier. She never expected to be attracted to a vampire, in fact, she had always been on Lacey to stay away from vampires.
What follows is both partially urban fantasy and partially paranormal romance. All of this author’s books feature a couple, even if it’s another Raphael and Cynthia book. I can’t just say this is is PNR, as the action, violence, mystery, and supernatural characters-both good and bad-are a major part of the story. On the other hand, the love story between Duncan and Emma is also an important part of the plot. I was really happy to see Duncan get his happily ever after finally. I did have a bit of a problem when Duncan would allow Emma to go on some very scary side trips in their quest to find Lacey. I know it furthered the story, but sometimes I really wondered at how much danger he put her in. But then I guess the story would have suffered, so there’s that.
I highly recommend this book and series to adult UF and PNR readers. I guess this could standalone, but if I was just starting these, I would start with book one, Raphael. Not only is it Raphael and Cynthia’s story, but it also introduces Duncan. I have already bought the next books, or in some cases, audios. This is one series I plan on reading to the end. Fascinating reads, all of them.
It’s time for the vampire master of Washington D.C. to be uprooted and done away with. Victor is corrupt and is no longer fit to be the master of anything, much less the part of America with so many powerful people inhabiting it. He probably never really was fit for the job, truth be told. Raphael has been grooming Duncan for the job for over fifty years-which is not long when you are immortal. Not just anyone can take over, the vampire must be a more powerful master vampire than Victor. Of course, Duncan more than fits the bill. Emma is a lawyer that works for a senator in Washington. Her housemate and closest friend, Lacey, didn’t come home after going away for a weekend party. The party was given at one of Victor’s homes not far from D.C. Emma comes to Victor’s home to try and find Lacey shortly after Duncan takes over. And that begins this story of just how corrupt Victor had been, and how equally depraved. Duncan has quite the mess to clean up.
Duncan is the debonair, impeccably dressed vampire at all times-even when he wears jeans, he still conveys that he’s a leader. He’s fiercely loyal to those he loves, Raphael and Cynthia being his closest friends. He also is sire to a few vampires that he is equally caring about. But he’s been alone for a very long time after losing his human family. When he meets Emma on her quest to find Lacey, he is attracted to her immediately. Of course, he agrees to help her. Emma is determined, attractive, and kindhearted. Lacey is her only family although they aren’t really related, having met in foster care. She doesn’t let it bother her (much) that she has to enter the vampire stronghold in order to find Lacey. It’s scary sure, but losing Lacey is scarier. She never expected to be attracted to a vampire, in fact, she had always been on Lacey to stay away from vampires.
What follows is both partially urban fantasy and partially paranormal romance. All of this author’s books feature a couple, even if it’s another Raphael and Cynthia book. I can’t just say this is is PNR, as the action, violence, mystery, and supernatural characters-both good and bad-are a major part of the story. On the other hand, the love story between Duncan and Emma is also an important part of the plot. I was really happy to see Duncan get his happily ever after finally. I did have a bit of a problem when Duncan would allow Emma to go on some very scary side trips in their quest to find Lacey. I know it furthered the story, but sometimes I really wondered at how much danger he put her in. But then I guess the story would have suffered, so there’s that.
I highly recommend this book and series to adult UF and PNR readers. I guess this could standalone, but if I was just starting these, I would start with book one, Raphael. Not only is it Raphael and Cynthia’s story, but it also introduces Duncan. I have already bought the next books, or in some cases, audios. This is one series I plan on reading to the end. Fascinating reads, all of them.
April 26, 2012
Excellent rebound from the prior novel
I just recently posted about how I've noticed my hometown, Washington, D.C., becoming a more prevalent setting for urban fantasy novels, and this book further supports that!
A change for Duncan was far from a surprise. Serving Raphael for nearly two centuries, he was more than ready to become a Vampire Lord and manage his own territory. With Raphael and Cyn's blessing, he's sent from the west coast to the east coast on a mission to overtake the current Lord in Washington, DC and clean up the territory while he's at it. Politics, corruption and secrets are big characteristics of the city, and the vampire community has its hand in all of it. Duncan will have to prove that he has what it takes to turn things around.
Enter Emma Duquet. She infiltrates the world (or at least she tries) in an attempt to locate her best friend and roomate, Lacey. Lacey's a bit of a social buttery, but she may have landed herself in the center of a complicated web that is the vampire underground, and Emma wants to do all she can to get her out of it even if that means teaming up with the mysterious Duncan to find her.
I do have to give D.B. Reynolds credit for moving all over Anglo-America in her books. You might not appreciate it unless she's written about your hometown, but a lot of thought goes into describing the settings correctly. I haven't read her biography but I wonder if she's lived in these places for a time herself. It's a little trippy to read a book about D.C. while IN the city myself. I was actually in the park facubg one of those famous landmarks as I was reading the book (though I won't say which one). That makes it a little more fun.
Once again she seems to have returned to her roots featuring a story on about a missing female, but there is more of a twist to it this time around. Duncan's character was great and I liked seeing him in the driver's seat this time, being a natural leader. You think about how far he's come since the first book a lot. Emma's character isn't really that distinguishable from any other heroine, but the chemistry between her and Duncan was natural at least. While she has a tragic back story, she doesn't really let it get her down, and through that we learn about Duncan's past as well which is great for character development.
The cover is bad, yet again (though this time it's the female model that's the worst of the two), but at least this time I can see the subtitle! We're making progress!
This book is an absolute must-read for the fans. Though it's the penultimate book in the series, you don't really get a sense of building tension until the end. But once you read the last page you will be totally pumped to see how everything plays out in the finale.
*Review also posted to Amazon
I just recently posted about how I've noticed my hometown, Washington, D.C., becoming a more prevalent setting for urban fantasy novels, and this book further supports that!
A change for Duncan was far from a surprise. Serving Raphael for nearly two centuries, he was more than ready to become a Vampire Lord and manage his own territory. With Raphael and Cyn's blessing, he's sent from the west coast to the east coast on a mission to overtake the current Lord in Washington, DC and clean up the territory while he's at it. Politics, corruption and secrets are big characteristics of the city, and the vampire community has its hand in all of it. Duncan will have to prove that he has what it takes to turn things around.
Enter Emma Duquet. She infiltrates the world (or at least she tries) in an attempt to locate her best friend and roomate, Lacey. Lacey's a bit of a social buttery, but she may have landed herself in the center of a complicated web that is the vampire underground, and Emma wants to do all she can to get her out of it even if that means teaming up with the mysterious Duncan to find her.
I do have to give D.B. Reynolds credit for moving all over Anglo-America in her books. You might not appreciate it unless she's written about your hometown, but a lot of thought goes into describing the settings correctly. I haven't read her biography but I wonder if she's lived in these places for a time herself. It's a little trippy to read a book about D.C. while IN the city myself. I was actually in the park facubg one of those famous landmarks as I was reading the book (though I won't say which one). That makes it a little more fun.
Once again she seems to have returned to her roots featuring a story on about a missing female, but there is more of a twist to it this time around. Duncan's character was great and I liked seeing him in the driver's seat this time, being a natural leader. You think about how far he's come since the first book a lot. Emma's character isn't really that distinguishable from any other heroine, but the chemistry between her and Duncan was natural at least. While she has a tragic back story, she doesn't really let it get her down, and through that we learn about Duncan's past as well which is great for character development.
The cover is bad, yet again (though this time it's the female model that's the worst of the two), but at least this time I can see the subtitle! We're making progress!
This book is an absolute must-read for the fans. Though it's the penultimate book in the series, you don't really get a sense of building tension until the end. But once you read the last page you will be totally pumped to see how everything plays out in the finale.
*Review also posted to Amazon
February 7, 2013
Buddy read with Aly
Duncan
Emma
Maru: And we´re back!! Yes, we know you´ve missed our joint reviews so we´ve decided to grant you another one. Aly, are you read to rock the review world?
Aly: As ready as I can be :D
Maru: So we´ve finished Vamps in America #5, Duncan
Aly: How would you describe your feelings for it?
Maru: Totally awesome, I can´t believe all the bad boy attitude Duncan had! By the end of the book, I was like...I want one like him! What about you Aly?
Aly: :)) you weren't the only one! I didn't expect him to be so… cool!
Maru: Yeah me either! I think it´s one of my fave books of the series
Aly: He seemed so standoffish when he worked for Raphael that I was skeptical about his book.
Maru: Totally agreed! I thought he was going to be super cynical and cold towards his heroine, but NO, I couldn´t have been more wrong! Any fave scenes?
Aly: Hmm… Maybe the one after the fire, it was sweet and hot and... loving I think.
Maru: Yes!! I absolutely agree!!! I loved that scene
Aly: Since the ones before it were so adrenalin filled this one was a good way to decompress
Maru: Anything you didn´t like?
Aly: I can't say there was... Just that Emma's friend really was gone. How about you?
Maru: I would say Emma´s friend being gone too, it was sad. I liked the storyline with all the lies and deceptions of the political world
Aly: How about the villain. Did you expect it to be that one? I didn't
Maru: Not at all!! I was surprised!!! And I love when that happens! Don´t you love it when you´re surprised by the author?
Aly: Me too! I didn't like that character in the book, but didn't expect it to turn out like that. If it's a good surprise yes :)) Otherwise.... ;;)
Maru: Yeah agreed! LOL Like terrible cliffhangers and having to wait a year to read the sequel...love those not. Sooo back to the story...did you like Duncan as the hero of the book?
Aly: I did! I loved his possessive, you-are-mine side. Didn't think he had it in him :))
Maru: Me too!! Chica, it´s like you´re reading my mind!
Aly: And I didn't expect his power to be that... It was a cool turn. You do the same to me sometimes, so we're cool :P
Maru: Anything else you want to discuss?
Aly: I think we touched everything... Rating?
Maru: 4.5?
Aly: Yep.
Maru: Awesome! Ok, peeps that´s all for now! We´ll be back shortly!! Try not to miss us a lot
Duncan
Emma
Maru: And we´re back!! Yes, we know you´ve missed our joint reviews so we´ve decided to grant you another one. Aly, are you read to rock the review world?
Aly: As ready as I can be :D
Maru: So we´ve finished Vamps in America #5, Duncan
Aly: How would you describe your feelings for it?
Maru: Totally awesome, I can´t believe all the bad boy attitude Duncan had! By the end of the book, I was like...I want one like him! What about you Aly?
Aly: :)) you weren't the only one! I didn't expect him to be so… cool!
Maru: Yeah me either! I think it´s one of my fave books of the series
Aly: He seemed so standoffish when he worked for Raphael that I was skeptical about his book.
Maru: Totally agreed! I thought he was going to be super cynical and cold towards his heroine, but NO, I couldn´t have been more wrong! Any fave scenes?
Aly: Hmm… Maybe the one after the fire, it was sweet and hot and... loving I think.
Maru: Yes!! I absolutely agree!!! I loved that scene
Aly: Since the ones before it were so adrenalin filled this one was a good way to decompress
Maru: Anything you didn´t like?
Aly: I can't say there was... Just that Emma's friend really was gone. How about you?
Maru: I would say Emma´s friend being gone too, it was sad. I liked the storyline with all the lies and deceptions of the political world
Aly: How about the villain. Did you expect it to be that one? I didn't
Maru: Not at all!! I was surprised!!! And I love when that happens! Don´t you love it when you´re surprised by the author?
Aly: Me too! I didn't like that character in the book, but didn't expect it to turn out like that. If it's a good surprise yes :)) Otherwise.... ;;)
Maru: Yeah agreed! LOL Like terrible cliffhangers and having to wait a year to read the sequel...love those not. Sooo back to the story...did you like Duncan as the hero of the book?
Aly: I did! I loved his possessive, you-are-mine side. Didn't think he had it in him :))
Maru: Me too!! Chica, it´s like you´re reading my mind!
Aly: And I didn't expect his power to be that... It was a cool turn. You do the same to me sometimes, so we're cool :P
Maru: Anything else you want to discuss?
Aly: I think we touched everything... Rating?
Maru: 4.5?
Aly: Yep.
Maru: Awesome! Ok, peeps that´s all for now! We´ll be back shortly!! Try not to miss us a lot
February 25, 2012
Once again, in the interest of being fair to D.B. Reynolds, I feel that it is necessary to disclose that I am not a fan of paranormal romance, so please keep that in mind when reading this review.
Duncan, Raphael's longtime second in command is finally ready to become a master vampire. Though he will always see Raphael as his sire, it's time for him to have a territory of his own. With that in mind Duncan travels to Washington with a few people loyal to Raphael and is met by some of his own children. He kills Victor and becomes not only a vampire lord, but the representative of Vampires in government because his territory is Washington.
Duncan quickly discovers that Victor, the former lord was very corrupt. Emma Duquet, who has no interest in vampires or their politics arrives in what she calls the embassy to find out what happened to her best friend Lacey. It appears that Victor invited Lacy to one of his special parties and no one has seen her since. Duncan promises Emma that he will look into the disappearance of her friend.
When Lacey is discovered dead, Duncan promises Emma vengeance - the only thing that can hope to bring peace to her broken heart. Though Emma and Lacey are not actually related, Emma considered her, her sister. They were both children of the foster care system. Once again, we have a woman whose parents are missing, and who had a troubled background fall in love with a vampire. Can this trope be anymore cliché at this point?
Speaking of cliché, this book is filled with a lot of flashback scenes to give us a stronger sense of who Duncan was in his human life. It turns out that Duncan was a soldier for the confederate army, who would have died on the battlefield were it not for Raphael. I don't understand the obsession and the constant desire to romanticize the confederacy. Can we all just remember for a moment that this is the side that fought to ensure that African-Americans enslaved. D.B. Reynolds never addresses this, or even gives us any idea of where Duncan stands on racial politics today.
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Duncan, Raphael's longtime second in command is finally ready to become a master vampire. Though he will always see Raphael as his sire, it's time for him to have a territory of his own. With that in mind Duncan travels to Washington with a few people loyal to Raphael and is met by some of his own children. He kills Victor and becomes not only a vampire lord, but the representative of Vampires in government because his territory is Washington.
Duncan quickly discovers that Victor, the former lord was very corrupt. Emma Duquet, who has no interest in vampires or their politics arrives in what she calls the embassy to find out what happened to her best friend Lacey. It appears that Victor invited Lacy to one of his special parties and no one has seen her since. Duncan promises Emma that he will look into the disappearance of her friend.
When Lacey is discovered dead, Duncan promises Emma vengeance - the only thing that can hope to bring peace to her broken heart. Though Emma and Lacey are not actually related, Emma considered her, her sister. They were both children of the foster care system. Once again, we have a woman whose parents are missing, and who had a troubled background fall in love with a vampire. Can this trope be anymore cliché at this point?
Speaking of cliché, this book is filled with a lot of flashback scenes to give us a stronger sense of who Duncan was in his human life. It turns out that Duncan was a soldier for the confederate army, who would have died on the battlefield were it not for Raphael. I don't understand the obsession and the constant desire to romanticize the confederacy. Can we all just remember for a moment that this is the side that fought to ensure that African-Americans enslaved. D.B. Reynolds never addresses this, or even gives us any idea of where Duncan stands on racial politics today.
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December 23, 2011
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson:
O.K, I've lusted after Raphael, I've swooned hard over Raj, and now I'm even more hopelessly in love with Duncan. :)
I simply do not know how D.B does it, but the books of this series just get better and better!
As a fan of the series, you can't help but fall in love with Duncan in earlier books with him as a supporting character. He was much too charismatic to stay that way though, so him getting his own book was simply a work in progress. The fact that his book was SO incredible though was a bit of a surprise. It fascinated and captivated me throughout...
Duncan is one of those fabulous heroes. He's supremely alpha (almost as much as Raphael, but in a different way), super smart, sexy, and competent. He's also got that sweet yet sarcastic side that I adore in my alpha males.
Our heroine, Emma, was delightful as well. I definitely related to her. She's one of those people that others don't always read correctly at first glance - she's a bit of a nerd, proud of it, and yet she's not timid.
The storyline of Duncan's book was one of the best in my honest opinion. I've adored them all to date, but there was just something about this one that I loved even more. We get more of the alluring and compelling vampires that we've come to know and love doing whatever is necessary to achieve their goals, but they must tread a bit more carefully in this book. Washington DC requires that the vampires be a bit more public, and yet politics be damned, Duncan and his entire crew stayed true to themselves throughout.
Vampires in America is simply wonderful!
LITERAL ADDICTION gives Duncan a well deserved 5 Skull.
O.K, I've lusted after Raphael, I've swooned hard over Raj, and now I'm even more hopelessly in love with Duncan. :)
I simply do not know how D.B does it, but the books of this series just get better and better!
As a fan of the series, you can't help but fall in love with Duncan in earlier books with him as a supporting character. He was much too charismatic to stay that way though, so him getting his own book was simply a work in progress. The fact that his book was SO incredible though was a bit of a surprise. It fascinated and captivated me throughout...
Duncan is one of those fabulous heroes. He's supremely alpha (almost as much as Raphael, but in a different way), super smart, sexy, and competent. He's also got that sweet yet sarcastic side that I adore in my alpha males.
Our heroine, Emma, was delightful as well. I definitely related to her. She's one of those people that others don't always read correctly at first glance - she's a bit of a nerd, proud of it, and yet she's not timid.
The storyline of Duncan's book was one of the best in my honest opinion. I've adored them all to date, but there was just something about this one that I loved even more. We get more of the alluring and compelling vampires that we've come to know and love doing whatever is necessary to achieve their goals, but they must tread a bit more carefully in this book. Washington DC requires that the vampires be a bit more public, and yet politics be damned, Duncan and his entire crew stayed true to themselves throughout.
Vampires in America is simply wonderful!
LITERAL ADDICTION gives Duncan a well deserved 5 Skull.
February 26, 2014
As Duncan is cleaning up a mess left by the previous vampire lord in Washington D.C., a woman walks in to the embassy to ask where her best friend is. The last time Emma has seen her was when she was headed to a party with vampires. Because of the things Duncan finds out about the previous lord, he agrees easily to help Emma.
Later while investigating all of the prior lord's properties, the vampires find a dead body buried in the backyard... Things start moving quickly from there...
I know I keep repeating myself when I say I love this series & I have no clue how it got past me the first time around! I am very thankful for the re-release! YAY!!
I can see it coming though! A point where I wait in misery for the latest book of the series! It could be a long time!! Aden is out now, but then what?!? AHHHHH!!! It's too good & I am too impatient.
The writing is excellent with very descriptive scenes, like tossing the keys on the counter & the noise it makes, without sooo much overkill it gets boring! I was never bored. EVER!! It's a fast paced, action packed, & awesome vengeance book!! There isn't an "Oh, I forgive you because I am a great person & I'm better than you not to stoop to your level!" It's an "Oh YA!! I'm going to hunt you down and KILL YOU!" book!
Kind of refreshing having a series that doesn't get all "explainey" as to why the characters were thinking this way & now we have to explain the steps of forgiveness & why you chose the way you did series!! Not an overkill on inner dialog either! LOVE IT!! Deep dark, with not so much of the grotesque descriptions some authors want to shock you with & it's own format, not overplayed like some series can be! GREAT!!
Not much more to say except... DON'T MISS OUT!!
Later while investigating all of the prior lord's properties, the vampires find a dead body buried in the backyard... Things start moving quickly from there...
I know I keep repeating myself when I say I love this series & I have no clue how it got past me the first time around! I am very thankful for the re-release! YAY!!
I can see it coming though! A point where I wait in misery for the latest book of the series! It could be a long time!! Aden is out now, but then what?!? AHHHHH!!! It's too good & I am too impatient.
The writing is excellent with very descriptive scenes, like tossing the keys on the counter & the noise it makes, without sooo much overkill it gets boring! I was never bored. EVER!! It's a fast paced, action packed, & awesome vengeance book!! There isn't an "Oh, I forgive you because I am a great person & I'm better than you not to stoop to your level!" It's an "Oh YA!! I'm going to hunt you down and KILL YOU!" book!
Kind of refreshing having a series that doesn't get all "explainey" as to why the characters were thinking this way & now we have to explain the steps of forgiveness & why you chose the way you did series!! Not an overkill on inner dialog either! LOVE IT!! Deep dark, with not so much of the grotesque descriptions some authors want to shock you with & it's own format, not overplayed like some series can be! GREAT!!
Not much more to say except... DON'T MISS OUT!!
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