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The Draculia Vampire trilogy #2
Il marchio del diavolo
Londra, 1804. Dimitri, Conte di Corvindale, non può permettersi di provare dei sentimenti. Per amore ha stretto un orrendo patto con Lucifero, un patto di cui porta il segno tangibile impresso sulla pelle e che alla fine non è servito a nulla, perché la sua donna l'ha lasciato. Da allora ha deciso di chiudere il proprio cuore e di dedicare la propria vita immortale alla ricerca di un modo per liberarsi dell'infame marchio. Ma propositi iniziano a vacillare quando incontra la bellissima e caparbia Maia Woodmore e il desiderio di "assaggiarla" si fa sempre più intenso...
379 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 19, 2011
55 people are currently reading
1148 people want to read
About the author
Colleen Gleason
105 books1,679 followersAward-winning, NEW YORK TIMES and USA Today bestselling author Colleen Gleason (who also writes as Colleen Cambridge) has written more than fifty novels in a variety of genres…but always feature smart, strong women determined to right wrongs and get shit done.
Colleen lives in the Midwest United States where she is fortunate enough to be working on her next book.
She loves to hear from readers via her website, Facebook, or GoodReads.
Colleen lives in the Midwest United States where she is fortunate enough to be working on her next book.
She loves to hear from readers via her website, Facebook, or GoodReads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
July 25, 2020
I didn't enjoy this book as much as I did Voss and Angelica's story.
I'd have liked this a whole lot better if Maia hadn't been engaged to someone the entire time she was smooching and fantasizing about Dimitri. Her hypocrisy and holier than thou attitude grated on my nerves throughout the book.. Since when is dancing with a guy considered more scandalous than kissing someone who's not your fiancée?? I'm still wondering how Dimitri fell in love with her!
He was the only thing that made this book worthwhile..
I'd have liked this a whole lot better if Maia hadn't been engaged to someone the entire time she was smooching and fantasizing about Dimitri. Her hypocrisy and holier than thou attitude grated on my nerves throughout the book.. Since when is dancing with a guy considered more scandalous than kissing someone who's not your fiancée?? I'm still wondering how Dimitri fell in love with her!
He was the only thing that made this book worthwhile..
December 19, 2014
Dimitri or more offially the Earl of Corvindale, has been a vampire for many years. He seeks however to escape his covenant with Lucifer and go back to being a mere mortal again. To do so, he has dedicated his life to studying ancient tomes of wisdom and abstaining from drinking blood directly from people. He believes that self-denial is the only way that could set him free. Thus when Miss Maia Woodmore enters his life as his ward along with her two younger sisters, the last thing Dimitri is planning to do is give in to the inexplicable attraction he feels for her. He tries to ignore her as much as he can but Maia is too bossy, too opinionated to be ignored. She's also someone else's fiance.
I liked the book. I really did, especially the second half. I can't however help from feeling somewhat disappointed and let down since it didn't exactly come up to my expectations. Having read most people rave how this was even better than the first book (The Vampire Voss) and considering how much I loved Voss's book, you can understand how high those expectations were.
My problems have mainly to do with the fact that the first half is a repetition of the events that took place in the first book but from Dimitri's and Maia's point of view. Interesting as this was, the fact that I knew beforehand how these adventures would turn out each time cut down my excitement considerably. Besides, I didn't feel as if Gleason actually used the opportunity given here by the lack of suspense, to delve deeper into Dimitri's and Maia's characters. Dimitri was exactly the honorable, steady, strong and silent man we met in the previous book and Maia, still bossy and interfering but in a far less cold way than I'd first thought, making her more likable as a heroine.
Any question though that I had whether Dimitri and Maia were meant to be together, was answered in the second part of the book. The chemistry between them actually put the book on fire and I couldn't get enough of them. At the same time, Angelica and Voss were happily left in the background and Dimitri with Maia are left free -when not abducted- to pursue their own adventures. Any suspense that was missing during the first half was found here in abudance and more than made up for the slow beginning.
All in all a very nice book that has cemented my belief that Gleason's writing style and her dark heroes are a perfect match for my taste and has me looking forward to the next book with great excitement!
I liked the book. I really did, especially the second half. I can't however help from feeling somewhat disappointed and let down since it didn't exactly come up to my expectations. Having read most people rave how this was even better than the first book (The Vampire Voss) and considering how much I loved Voss's book, you can understand how high those expectations were.
My problems have mainly to do with the fact that the first half is a repetition of the events that took place in the first book but from Dimitri's and Maia's point of view. Interesting as this was, the fact that I knew beforehand how these adventures would turn out each time cut down my excitement considerably. Besides, I didn't feel as if Gleason actually used the opportunity given here by the lack of suspense, to delve deeper into Dimitri's and Maia's characters. Dimitri was exactly the honorable, steady, strong and silent man we met in the previous book and Maia, still bossy and interfering but in a far less cold way than I'd first thought, making her more likable as a heroine.
Any question though that I had whether Dimitri and Maia were meant to be together, was answered in the second part of the book. The chemistry between them actually put the book on fire and I couldn't get enough of them. At the same time, Angelica and Voss were happily left in the background and Dimitri with Maia are left free -when not abducted- to pursue their own adventures. Any suspense that was missing during the first half was found here in abudance and more than made up for the slow beginning.
All in all a very nice book that has cemented my belief that Gleason's writing style and her dark heroes are a perfect match for my taste and has me looking forward to the next book with great excitement!
March 30, 2011
I liked this one. I think I liked it more than book 1 and that's saying a lot since I thought book 1 was ridiculously fun. I did have a bit of a hard time getting into the beginning of this one but that was simply because it was a retreading of the events that led to Angelica and Voss getting together except that it was told through the eyes of Maia and Dimitri. Once we got past that and onto new ground the story flew.
Now, I flat out liked Dimitri. He was the vampire equivalent of a crotchety old man yelling at kids to stay off his lawn - although in his case he was yelling at Maia to stay out of his study - while burying himself in his books and self-inflicted agony. Maia was, if I'm being completely honest, a bit of a nag. Was there anything she wouldn't latch onto like a bulldog and beat into the ground? I especially loved how she berated Dimitri for wrapping her in a curtain to save her when the bad vampires put in an unexpected appearance. Of course a gentleman should take the time to explain his actions when he's trying to keep a young lady alive, you silly girl. What was he thinking?
All in all, it was a fun way to spend my afternoon. Dimitri had this studious, feral edge that I found fascinating. You know, those two things shouldn't have worked together but they did. He was all brainy and intelligent while battling his urge to sink his fangs into Maia. Yum.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Now, I flat out liked Dimitri. He was the vampire equivalent of a crotchety old man yelling at kids to stay off his lawn - although in his case he was yelling at Maia to stay out of his study - while burying himself in his books and self-inflicted agony. Maia was, if I'm being completely honest, a bit of a nag. Was there anything she wouldn't latch onto like a bulldog and beat into the ground? I especially loved how she berated Dimitri for wrapping her in a curtain to save her when the bad vampires put in an unexpected appearance. Of course a gentleman should take the time to explain his actions when he's trying to keep a young lady alive, you silly girl. What was he thinking?
All in all, it was a fun way to spend my afternoon. Dimitri had this studious, feral edge that I found fascinating. You know, those two things shouldn't have worked together but they did. He was all brainy and intelligent while battling his urge to sink his fangs into Maia. Yum.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
April 13, 2011
I hate to say it, but I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first one. If I had read it without having read The Vampire Voss, I would have given it 3 stars, but I found myself bored during the first half of the book. The Vampire Dimitri is written almost like Stephanie Meyer's Midnight Sun, where you get the same time period written from a different perspective. Most of the first half of the book is replaying scenes that you've read about in The Vampire Voss. Where this book went wrong was that during the Vampire Voss you got some scenes from Dimitri's point of view, thus it seemed redundant to have them replayed. It would have been okay if the scenes weren't going to be repeated, but it took a lot of the mystery and excitement away. I would have been more entertained if the first book had cut out the scenes from Dmitri's perspective. I was more interested in the second half of the book, when the plot was new and unique.
I like the idea that Gleason is trying to pull off, but I feel like it could have been executed more effectively.
I like the idea that Gleason is trying to pull off, but I feel like it could have been executed more effectively.
April 7, 2011
Everything that was wrong with
The Vampire Voss
is made right in this sequel. We've gone from a tepid love story featuring a hero I couldn't care much about --to a fiery, passionate story featuring a charismatic couple that set the page on fire. This book reads as a clear companion to its predecessor. The events from The Vampire Voss are featured in the first half of this installment, but we see the scenes from the perspectives of different characters and very little dialogue is repeated. That part of the book flies by and I didn't feel like I was re-reading the first book. In fact, in Voss, we're set up to see only the negative interactions between our hero Dimitri and the bold, pushy Maia. But obviously, their fiery exchanges were only laying the groundwork for their explosive relationship.
Just a little backstory: Dimitri is a vampire who is playing guardian to Maia and her sister Angelica, while their older brother is missing. Another vamp is trying to get his hands on both girls to use them against their brother. And though they seem like oil and water, and despite the fact that Maia is engaged to another man... Maia and Dimitri are drawn together. Dimitri hates what he is, and denies his vampire tendencies. Before all hell breaks loose, Maia doesn't even know vampires exist. Add that to fact that Dimitri finds her overbearing and Maia finds him haughty and rude, their sexual tension is sky-high. And when they finally start to allow themselves to acknowledge it... Well, suffice it to say, there is a great scene in the carriage that left me fanning myself.
This one was so good, I'm almost afraid to read The Vampire Narcise . I just don't see how it can live up to this one. 4 1/2 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
Just a little backstory: Dimitri is a vampire who is playing guardian to Maia and her sister Angelica, while their older brother is missing. Another vamp is trying to get his hands on both girls to use them against their brother. And though they seem like oil and water, and despite the fact that Maia is engaged to another man... Maia and Dimitri are drawn together. Dimitri hates what he is, and denies his vampire tendencies. Before all hell breaks loose, Maia doesn't even know vampires exist. Add that to fact that Dimitri finds her overbearing and Maia finds him haughty and rude, their sexual tension is sky-high. And when they finally start to allow themselves to acknowledge it... Well, suffice it to say, there is a great scene in the carriage that left me fanning myself.
This one was so good, I'm almost afraid to read The Vampire Narcise . I just don't see how it can live up to this one. 4 1/2 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
August 20, 2018
A fantastic sequel to Vampire Voss. We already met the main characters in the first book where they spent all the time head-butting against each other. Dimitri, the Earl of Corvindale made the pact with the Devil, a century ago, when he tried to save the life of a woman he loved. Nothing good comes from selling your soul to Lucifer. The girl left Dimitri and he also lost his humanity, a mark on his back a constant reminder that he belongs to Lucifer. He abstains from taking blood from humans and lives a rigid life studying and trying to find a way to break his covenant with the Devil.
Maia Woodmore is the eldest Woodmore sister. Though she doesn't have the gift of sight she has a very strong intuition and a head strong personality. In Vampire Voss Maia came through as too rigid and up tight. In Vampire Dimitri we see a more softer and sensual side of her and the reason behind her behaviour. Being the elder sister she has too many responsibilities and taking care of her siblings. Her bossy and judgemental nature is grating on Lord Corvindales' nerves. He has to put up with her because he is her guardian, in her brother's absence and he can't wait to get her off his hands.
The Book starts with repetation of the events in Vampire Voss, told from Dimitri and Maia's perspective. At first I resented Gleason for using the same events but later on the plot had it's own twists and mystery. The chemistry between Maia and Dimitri was off the charts and I already love Colleen Gleason's writing style and her ability to set fire on paper. They both are stubborn and the constant arguing between them got a bit too much at times. But the author balanced it well with the love scenes and the suspence took the edge off from all the bickers. All in all, it was a very enjoyable read. Can't wait to start The Vampire Narcise and see how it all works out between Giordan, Narcise and Chas Woodmore.
Maia Woodmore is the eldest Woodmore sister. Though she doesn't have the gift of sight she has a very strong intuition and a head strong personality. In Vampire Voss Maia came through as too rigid and up tight. In Vampire Dimitri we see a more softer and sensual side of her and the reason behind her behaviour. Being the elder sister she has too many responsibilities and taking care of her siblings. Her bossy and judgemental nature is grating on Lord Corvindales' nerves. He has to put up with her because he is her guardian, in her brother's absence and he can't wait to get her off his hands.
The Book starts with repetation of the events in Vampire Voss, told from Dimitri and Maia's perspective. At first I resented Gleason for using the same events but later on the plot had it's own twists and mystery. The chemistry between Maia and Dimitri was off the charts and I already love Colleen Gleason's writing style and her ability to set fire on paper. They both are stubborn and the constant arguing between them got a bit too much at times. But the author balanced it well with the love scenes and the suspence took the edge off from all the bickers. All in all, it was a very enjoyable read. Can't wait to start The Vampire Narcise and see how it all works out between Giordan, Narcise and Chas Woodmore.
May 8, 2011
This is the second installment in the Regency Draculia series by Colleen Gleason, and is the reluctant, brooding Lord Corvindale's story...better known to us as the vampire Dimitri. Like the vampire Voss (hero from Book 1) Dimitri sold his soul to the devil over 100 years prior to 1804, when the story takes place. I did enjoy Voss's story but he was a fun, "devil-may-care" type of hero who absolutely loved being immortal. Dimitri, on the other hand, "turned" to save the woman he loved and himself from perishing in a fire...and immediately regretted that decision when the woman soon left him. Disgusted by a vampire's need to feed, Dimitri lasted a year without indulging. But when his willpower snapped and a victim lay dead at his feet, Dimitri withdrew from society and Gleason presented us with the classic tortured hero, albeit one with fangs.
Maia Woodmore and her sister, Angelica, were temporarily under Dimitri's protection because their brother Chas had stolen something of great value to Moldavi, the creepy bad vamp of the Dracule, who intended to take the sisters as hostages. Where Voss's story had expanded upon Moldavi's terrorism - and the threat still remained - the basis for Dimitri's story involved a vindictive ex-mistress who was seeking revenge for being jilted by the hero. I love this type of plot device! As Dimitri must continuously keep his eye on the headstrong Maia, he tries desperately not to fall in love with her....with no success. The feeling is reciprocated by Maia but she is engaged to marry another man and Dimitri, knowing that he cannot give Maia the life she deserves, spurns her.
Although the first part of the book was a little tedious as it rehashed the story from Book 1 but from Dimitri's point of view, the rest of the story rocked! It was sexy and steamy and the suspense had me riveted to my seat...eyes closed, earplugs on high volume...unable to function in the real world until my handsome, brooding vampire hero saved his lovely heroine and I was assured of their HEA.
Oh...and that valuable "something" Chas has stolen...her story is next. The Vampire Narcise.
Dimitri:
[image error] 5 stars
Maia Woodmore and her sister, Angelica, were temporarily under Dimitri's protection because their brother Chas had stolen something of great value to Moldavi, the creepy bad vamp of the Dracule, who intended to take the sisters as hostages. Where Voss's story had expanded upon Moldavi's terrorism - and the threat still remained - the basis for Dimitri's story involved a vindictive ex-mistress who was seeking revenge for being jilted by the hero. I love this type of plot device! As Dimitri must continuously keep his eye on the headstrong Maia, he tries desperately not to fall in love with her....with no success. The feeling is reciprocated by Maia but she is engaged to marry another man and Dimitri, knowing that he cannot give Maia the life she deserves, spurns her.
Although the first part of the book was a little tedious as it rehashed the story from Book 1 but from Dimitri's point of view, the rest of the story rocked! It was sexy and steamy and the suspense had me riveted to my seat...eyes closed, earplugs on high volume...unable to function in the real world until my handsome, brooding vampire hero saved his lovely heroine and I was assured of their HEA.
Oh...and that valuable "something" Chas has stolen...her story is next. The Vampire Narcise.
Dimitri:
[image error] 5 stars
dnf
October 19, 2012Like the first book, the ending was great (I skimmed) but I just could not get into these characters -- they were both pains in the ass. When you can't make me love a starchy hero, well something just aint right. Also, the replaying of scenes from The Vampire Voss was awkward, and parts of the story (the grossest parts) seemed derivative of the show "True Blood." I hope the third book is better.
February 21, 2011
I admit, I enjoyed this one much more than its predecessor, The Vampire Voss. It still had everything love about romance novels, with a much more likable hero.
What worked for me:
* As with the first book in the series, I was enthralled by the world of the Dracule, and the history and mythology surrounding the group. It was nice to see a world where vampires really were the result of a bargain with Lucifer, and where good ol' Luc was forever unseen in the background prodding his children to indulge in selfishness and evil.
* I love the circumstances surrounding Dimitri's original deal with Lucifer, and the reason that Lucifer chose him.
* I adored Maia. Staid and ever-so-proper, she hides a much more passionate side that she desperately tries to hide with strict adherence to what is considered to be "proper"
* I admit, I didn't like Narcise in The Vampire Voss, and was not happy to discover that she would be the heroine of the next novel in the series. After reading this book, however, I must say I'm actually interested in reading what comes next.
* The love scenes were quite well done, with the delicious earthiness that I love when it comes to vampire stories, but without an overabundance or unnecessary embellishment that so many stories fall victim to.
What didn't work for me:
* I don't care for love triangles in my romance novels
Overall, however, I truly enjoyed this story. While I do think that the series is probably best read in order, I think that Ms. Gleason did a good job of explaining things without a lot of infodump, and therefore it could be read as a standalone.
5 Stars.
What worked for me:
* As with the first book in the series, I was enthralled by the world of the Dracule, and the history and mythology surrounding the group. It was nice to see a world where vampires really were the result of a bargain with Lucifer, and where good ol' Luc was forever unseen in the background prodding his children to indulge in selfishness and evil.
* I love the circumstances surrounding Dimitri's original deal with Lucifer, and the reason that Lucifer chose him.
* I adored Maia. Staid and ever-so-proper, she hides a much more passionate side that she desperately tries to hide with strict adherence to what is considered to be "proper"
* I admit, I didn't like Narcise in The Vampire Voss, and was not happy to discover that she would be the heroine of the next novel in the series. After reading this book, however, I must say I'm actually interested in reading what comes next.
* The love scenes were quite well done, with the delicious earthiness that I love when it comes to vampire stories, but without an overabundance or unnecessary embellishment that so many stories fall victim to.
What didn't work for me:
* I don't care for love triangles in my romance novels
Overall, however, I truly enjoyed this story. While I do think that the series is probably best read in order, I think that Ms. Gleason did a good job of explaining things without a lot of infodump, and therefore it could be read as a standalone.
5 Stars.
May 16, 2011
Like I said on my review of The Vampire Voss... Colleen Gleason never disappoints! Some didn't like the parallel story with Voss' book, but I have to say I loved it! It was great to experience Dimitri and Maia's side of the story, even if Maia was as annoying as Dimitri thought she was! LOL
It did have some "Whoa!" moments, and others where "I knew that was coming...", but most of the time I had butterflies in my stomach. Just waiting to see when was he finally going to break down and admit out loud his love for her, kept me on edge the entire time.
As much I found Maia to be annoying with her stubbornness and know-it-all attitude, I could see how she had to step up to the plate and be in charge after loosing her parents, with Chas also being gone all the time. I felt like being in control allowed her to feel like she was doing her job of protecting her sisters. But I do agree she was a bit much at times!!
The angel's name was Wayren, and there was also a mention of Eustacia being another vampire hunter, now I know these are different worlds, but were the names mere coincidence? Humm, I wonder...
Another favorite of mine! I can't wait to read The Vampire Narcise. If I know anything about Gleason's writing style, I can see a big twist coming! ;)
It did have some "Whoa!" moments, and others where "I knew that was coming...", but most of the time I had butterflies in my stomach. Just waiting to see when was he finally going to break down and admit out loud his love for her, kept me on edge the entire time.
As much I found Maia to be annoying with her stubbornness and know-it-all attitude, I could see how she had to step up to the plate and be in charge after loosing her parents, with Chas also being gone all the time. I felt like being in control allowed her to feel like she was doing her job of protecting her sisters. But I do agree she was a bit much at times!!
The angel's name was Wayren, and there was also a mention of Eustacia being another vampire hunter, now I know these are different worlds, but were the names mere coincidence? Humm, I wonder...
Another favorite of mine! I can't wait to read The Vampire Narcise. If I know anything about Gleason's writing style, I can see a big twist coming! ;)
April 16, 2012
Okay... if you read The Vampire Voss then you saw this story coming.
But why was the first 3rd of the book a retelling of the same events as the Vampire Voss? The new perspective just didn't lend enough unique details to take that much of the story.
I was disappointed and rushed through the first part just waiting to get to something new.
With that said, I did like Dimitri's struggle and the way his relationship with our heroine built and grew. It was organic, natural, magnetic, and smoldering. All good things.
But the ending was just too... easy? Quick? "Good?" I was really hoping it wouldn't end the exact same way as The Vampire Voss, but alas, it did.
And I"m all for redemption stories, but two back-to-back? Ugh. Just ugh.
With all that said, I still read the book and am a HUGE fan of Colleen Gleason's narrative. She's amazing, and no matter how disappointing this novel was, I will continue to read anything and everything she publishes.
But why was the first 3rd of the book a retelling of the same events as the Vampire Voss? The new perspective just didn't lend enough unique details to take that much of the story.
I was disappointed and rushed through the first part just waiting to get to something new.
With that said, I did like Dimitri's struggle and the way his relationship with our heroine built and grew. It was organic, natural, magnetic, and smoldering. All good things.
But the ending was just too... easy? Quick? "Good?" I was really hoping it wouldn't end the exact same way as The Vampire Voss, but alas, it did.
And I"m all for redemption stories, but two back-to-back? Ugh. Just ugh.
With all that said, I still read the book and am a HUGE fan of Colleen Gleason's narrative. She's amazing, and no matter how disappointing this novel was, I will continue to read anything and everything she publishes.
April 24, 2011
After reading the first book, The Vampire Voss, of the Regency Draculia trilogy, I just knew I had to get my hands on the second! Book one set the stage for a most unlikely pairing -- a vampire who loathes what he is, desperate to find a 'cure', and an overbearing, head-strong human heroine under his care who does nothing but disrupt his orderly and very isolated life. Colleen Gleason delivers fervid passion, dangerous adventure, selfless sacrifice, and unmistakable love that will keep readers engaged and anticipating the conclusion of The Vampire Dimitri!
Lord Dimitri Corvindale has spent over a century trying to rid himself from his vampiric 'curse' laid upon him in a moment of human weakness by the devil himself. A horrific scar that adorns his shoulder represents his deal with the devil, and with each passing day that Corvidale tries to resist his vampiric nature and desires -- both through blood and body, the scar emanates a searing pain to remind him of who and what he is. His search for release has made him cold, distant, and isolated from the rest of the world. Imagine just how disjointed and chaotic his life becomes when he becomes guardian of three mortal, human young woman by means of a repayment for his friend -- and their brother -- Chas Woodmore, the vampire slayer! Yes, vampire slayer. But that's a story for the third installment (next book) of the Regency Draculia trilogy!
Maia Woodmore can't believe that she, the eldest sister of three woman, has been placed in the care of an aloof earl -- and by her older brother who is often gone himself. She's used to taking charge and control while her brother is away. But, little does she know that she was put in Lord Corvindale's care for a very important reason. Maia and her sisters have unknowingly become pawns in a dangerous war between Chas Woodmore the vampire slayer and a vicious vampire Lord Moldavi.
The tension -- and attraction -- that brews and bubbles between Maia and her new guardian Lord Corvindale, is nothing short of intense. Maia is annoyingly head strong and deeply disrupts Corvindale's distant world and hidden and repressed desires for human blood and a woman's body. But it's not just any blood and body that will do for Corvindale. No, Maia's constant fiery presence has gotten under Corvindale's skin and soon he finds himself breaking every vow and oath he has ever made -- literally and figuratively -- in order to have Maia for himself!!
And, Maia Woodmore feels the same way towards Corvindale. But she has a predicament all her own. She is betrothed to a man she hasn't seen in a over a years time. When he finally comes back to claim her and marry her, Corvindale and Maia will have to eventually put their wants, desires, and hearts out there.
Ms. Gleason approached the structure of the second book differently than usual when reading a subsequent in a series. She doesn't start off right at the end where the previous book left off, but rather takes us back to the beginning of how book one started; however, flips the POV to the hero, vampire Lord Dimitri Corvindale and the heroine Maia Woodmore. Readers are privy to their feelings on meeting one another, Maia's continuous badgering and persistence to get out from the care of her brotherly imposed guardianship to Lord Dimitri Covendale, their vehemently denied growing affection towards one another, and the fiery, passionate conclusion of a love that can't be passed-off.
Readers of book one will only find fractional moments during the beginning that tend to be slow, but because the light is completely shifted to the character and relationship development between Lord Corvindale and Maia Woodmore, readers that have read the first installment will be given a different angle of the protagonists meeting and interactions. After about a sixth of the way into the book, the plot thickens as both Maia and Dimitri find themselves in danger as Dimitri's past comes back to haunt them. This is a vital element that directly plays into Dimitri's own internal conflict, and which drives Dimitri's growth. Readers of the previous book will gain a much more substantial view of the relationship between the two and a new action and character driven plot.
But, what about readers who may be jumping in to book two without reading the previous? No need to fret! The set-up gives a healthy dose of how Maia and her sisters came to be under the guardianship of a wealthy Lord and vampire (albeit unknowingly) and what came to be with Maia's younger sister and the handsome Lord Voss (another vampire) from the previous book.
One of the most lovable aspects I have for this new addition to the trilogy is the fact that Gleason ups the bar with strong sexual tension, an explosive culmination of the passion between Maia and Corvindale (which readers from book one where all-to-aware of and anxiously awaiting), all steaming from the unraveling of character growth. Like previously mentioned, readers of book one who were anticipating the relationship between these two opposite characters will not be disappointed!
Readers will enjoy feeling as though they are part of a Regency world with a strong setting, dialogue, and consistent, fast-paced plot. The character development is front in center and shines true with the characters as they grow with each turn of the page. Fabulously wrote sexual tension will keep readers nice and warm and waiting on the edge of their seat for the 'moment'! :)
In conclusion, I have to say that this was a fantastic addition to the Regency Draculia trilogy!! I was highly anticipating the relationship between Dimitri and Maia, and Colleen Gleason delivered a dynamic story that completely met my expectations! Readers who delight in the combination of sub-genres in Regency historical and paranormal, and who can't get enough electrifying romance will find enjoyment in The Vampire Dimitri!
Lord Dimitri Corvindale has spent over a century trying to rid himself from his vampiric 'curse' laid upon him in a moment of human weakness by the devil himself. A horrific scar that adorns his shoulder represents his deal with the devil, and with each passing day that Corvidale tries to resist his vampiric nature and desires -- both through blood and body, the scar emanates a searing pain to remind him of who and what he is. His search for release has made him cold, distant, and isolated from the rest of the world. Imagine just how disjointed and chaotic his life becomes when he becomes guardian of three mortal, human young woman by means of a repayment for his friend -- and their brother -- Chas Woodmore, the vampire slayer! Yes, vampire slayer. But that's a story for the third installment (next book) of the Regency Draculia trilogy!
Maia Woodmore can't believe that she, the eldest sister of three woman, has been placed in the care of an aloof earl -- and by her older brother who is often gone himself. She's used to taking charge and control while her brother is away. But, little does she know that she was put in Lord Corvindale's care for a very important reason. Maia and her sisters have unknowingly become pawns in a dangerous war between Chas Woodmore the vampire slayer and a vicious vampire Lord Moldavi.
The tension -- and attraction -- that brews and bubbles between Maia and her new guardian Lord Corvindale, is nothing short of intense. Maia is annoyingly head strong and deeply disrupts Corvindale's distant world and hidden and repressed desires for human blood and a woman's body. But it's not just any blood and body that will do for Corvindale. No, Maia's constant fiery presence has gotten under Corvindale's skin and soon he finds himself breaking every vow and oath he has ever made -- literally and figuratively -- in order to have Maia for himself!!
And, Maia Woodmore feels the same way towards Corvindale. But she has a predicament all her own. She is betrothed to a man she hasn't seen in a over a years time. When he finally comes back to claim her and marry her, Corvindale and Maia will have to eventually put their wants, desires, and hearts out there.
Ms. Gleason approached the structure of the second book differently than usual when reading a subsequent in a series. She doesn't start off right at the end where the previous book left off, but rather takes us back to the beginning of how book one started; however, flips the POV to the hero, vampire Lord Dimitri Corvindale and the heroine Maia Woodmore. Readers are privy to their feelings on meeting one another, Maia's continuous badgering and persistence to get out from the care of her brotherly imposed guardianship to Lord Dimitri Covendale, their vehemently denied growing affection towards one another, and the fiery, passionate conclusion of a love that can't be passed-off.
Readers of book one will only find fractional moments during the beginning that tend to be slow, but because the light is completely shifted to the character and relationship development between Lord Corvindale and Maia Woodmore, readers that have read the first installment will be given a different angle of the protagonists meeting and interactions. After about a sixth of the way into the book, the plot thickens as both Maia and Dimitri find themselves in danger as Dimitri's past comes back to haunt them. This is a vital element that directly plays into Dimitri's own internal conflict, and which drives Dimitri's growth. Readers of the previous book will gain a much more substantial view of the relationship between the two and a new action and character driven plot.
But, what about readers who may be jumping in to book two without reading the previous? No need to fret! The set-up gives a healthy dose of how Maia and her sisters came to be under the guardianship of a wealthy Lord and vampire (albeit unknowingly) and what came to be with Maia's younger sister and the handsome Lord Voss (another vampire) from the previous book.
One of the most lovable aspects I have for this new addition to the trilogy is the fact that Gleason ups the bar with strong sexual tension, an explosive culmination of the passion between Maia and Corvindale (which readers from book one where all-to-aware of and anxiously awaiting), all steaming from the unraveling of character growth. Like previously mentioned, readers of book one who were anticipating the relationship between these two opposite characters will not be disappointed!
Readers will enjoy feeling as though they are part of a Regency world with a strong setting, dialogue, and consistent, fast-paced plot. The character development is front in center and shines true with the characters as they grow with each turn of the page. Fabulously wrote sexual tension will keep readers nice and warm and waiting on the edge of their seat for the 'moment'! :)
In conclusion, I have to say that this was a fantastic addition to the Regency Draculia trilogy!! I was highly anticipating the relationship between Dimitri and Maia, and Colleen Gleason delivered a dynamic story that completely met my expectations! Readers who delight in the combination of sub-genres in Regency historical and paranormal, and who can't get enough electrifying romance will find enjoyment in The Vampire Dimitri!
May 6, 2011
Quick Take:
This book, which parallels much of book one's story, does a decent job of balancing old and new information, resulting in greater depth of certain characters and unexpected twists. But the book definitely stands on the shoulders of its predecessor.
Review:
Parallel novels can sometimes be tricky. Prior to picking up this book, I was informed of the fact that at least half of this tale would run during the exact same weeks-long time frame as its predecessor The Vampire Voss, focusing on a different hero and heroine. I wasn't sure what to make of that: would this book assume you've read book one, thus leaving out chunks of crucial exposition? Or would it rehash materials from Voss making for a duller experience?
I'm happy to report that--at least in my mind--The Vampire Dimitri struck just the right balance in telling a story that was both old and new. In the previous book, Dimitri is portrayed as a stoic, scholarly vampire. He is that way indeed, but almost immediately his inner character and decision-making is fleshed out, changing much of what was previously assumed about him. Likewise, the more critical events (involving numerous characters) were given more depth by the change in narrative focus. Just when one thinks they know how a scene will progress based on book one, it goes in a surprising direction that still fits within the confines of the plot overall.
This only continues until about halfway through the book, however. Completely new content follows from there, and it's a wild ride. Of particular enjoyment was the interaction between Dimitri and heroine Maia. The story resembles the lore of Beauty and the Beast, albeit more in spirit than in specific plotting.
As with The Vampire Voss, the language used to paint the story is well-crafted. It's not particularly flowery or dramatic; rather, it uses precisely the right words to bring out the drama and allure of the era and setting. Author Colleen Gleason's eloquence goes to show that particular words and phrasing do still matter.
There's a version of the classic love triangle, though one "corner" of it spends most of the book as a distant thought rather than a flesh-and-blood person. I must admit, I wasn't hot on a couple of the elements related to its development. I'm not a big fan of too-easy-to-be-plausible resolutions, and I felt this book definitely had some of that going on.
Though this book could technically be read as stand-alone, it wouldn't be as effective or enjoyable without a read-through of the first book. Some of the drama comes from a readjustment of perspective, a re-living of previously visited scenarios. That said, I enjoyed The Vampire Dimitri even more than its predecessor. It runs the gamut of themes, touching on love, regret, redemption, thorns-to-roses romance, mystery, revenge, adventure and more. I definitely look forward to more Regency Draculia and more Gleason!
This book, which parallels much of book one's story, does a decent job of balancing old and new information, resulting in greater depth of certain characters and unexpected twists. But the book definitely stands on the shoulders of its predecessor.
Review:
Parallel novels can sometimes be tricky. Prior to picking up this book, I was informed of the fact that at least half of this tale would run during the exact same weeks-long time frame as its predecessor The Vampire Voss, focusing on a different hero and heroine. I wasn't sure what to make of that: would this book assume you've read book one, thus leaving out chunks of crucial exposition? Or would it rehash materials from Voss making for a duller experience?
I'm happy to report that--at least in my mind--The Vampire Dimitri struck just the right balance in telling a story that was both old and new. In the previous book, Dimitri is portrayed as a stoic, scholarly vampire. He is that way indeed, but almost immediately his inner character and decision-making is fleshed out, changing much of what was previously assumed about him. Likewise, the more critical events (involving numerous characters) were given more depth by the change in narrative focus. Just when one thinks they know how a scene will progress based on book one, it goes in a surprising direction that still fits within the confines of the plot overall.
This only continues until about halfway through the book, however. Completely new content follows from there, and it's a wild ride. Of particular enjoyment was the interaction between Dimitri and heroine Maia. The story resembles the lore of Beauty and the Beast, albeit more in spirit than in specific plotting.
As with The Vampire Voss, the language used to paint the story is well-crafted. It's not particularly flowery or dramatic; rather, it uses precisely the right words to bring out the drama and allure of the era and setting. Author Colleen Gleason's eloquence goes to show that particular words and phrasing do still matter.
There's a version of the classic love triangle, though one "corner" of it spends most of the book as a distant thought rather than a flesh-and-blood person. I must admit, I wasn't hot on a couple of the elements related to its development. I'm not a big fan of too-easy-to-be-plausible resolutions, and I felt this book definitely had some of that going on.
Though this book could technically be read as stand-alone, it wouldn't be as effective or enjoyable without a read-through of the first book. Some of the drama comes from a readjustment of perspective, a re-living of previously visited scenarios. That said, I enjoyed The Vampire Dimitri even more than its predecessor. It runs the gamut of themes, touching on love, regret, redemption, thorns-to-roses romance, mystery, revenge, adventure and more. I definitely look forward to more Regency Draculia and more Gleason!
February 24, 2011
The Vampire Dimitri by Colleen Gleason is the second book in a trilogy. The majority of the story takes place in tandem to The Vampire Voss. By brilliantly paralleling this story with the last, the author rewards the reader with a more in depth view to the events in the previous book. The story runs much smoother for the reader making it easier to follow the story.
The main conflict of the novel is very similar to the previous book. Chas Woodmore, who is a vampire hunter, abducted Cezar Moldavi’s sister, Narcise. Because of Chas’ actions, he has placed his three sisters in danger. To ensure their safety, Chas acquired Dimitri Corvindale’s promise to take guardianship of his sisters - Angelica, Maia, and Sonia. Dimitri attempts to keep the sisters safe from the faction of Dracule society led by Cezar who is retaliating Chas’ actions. The Dracule (vampires) are marked by Lucifer. The mark lends itself to immortality and the potential for debauchery. Added to the conflict is a jealous ex-lover of Dimitri’s which adds to the tension in the story.
This novel evolves around Dimitri Corvindale who is Dracule and Maia, the older sister of the heroine from The Vampire Voss. Dimitri is emotionally cut off from those around him. Maia has taken the matriarchal position in her family, seeing to the welfare of her family since the death of the Woodmore’s parents. Dimitri and Maia’s relationship is adversarial. They constantly snipe at each other since they are both used to getting their own way and being in charge. But, believe it or not, this makes the story more enjoyable and all the more sweet in the end.
I liked this book much better than the first. The Vampire Dimitri was much more engaging. Furthermore, the connection to the hero and heroine was much deeper for me than the couple in The Vampire Voss. I highly recommend this paranormal love story for its ingenuity and adventure.
Happy Reading!!
The main conflict of the novel is very similar to the previous book. Chas Woodmore, who is a vampire hunter, abducted Cezar Moldavi’s sister, Narcise. Because of Chas’ actions, he has placed his three sisters in danger. To ensure their safety, Chas acquired Dimitri Corvindale’s promise to take guardianship of his sisters - Angelica, Maia, and Sonia. Dimitri attempts to keep the sisters safe from the faction of Dracule society led by Cezar who is retaliating Chas’ actions. The Dracule (vampires) are marked by Lucifer. The mark lends itself to immortality and the potential for debauchery. Added to the conflict is a jealous ex-lover of Dimitri’s which adds to the tension in the story.
This novel evolves around Dimitri Corvindale who is Dracule and Maia, the older sister of the heroine from The Vampire Voss. Dimitri is emotionally cut off from those around him. Maia has taken the matriarchal position in her family, seeing to the welfare of her family since the death of the Woodmore’s parents. Dimitri and Maia’s relationship is adversarial. They constantly snipe at each other since they are both used to getting their own way and being in charge. But, believe it or not, this makes the story more enjoyable and all the more sweet in the end.
I liked this book much better than the first. The Vampire Dimitri was much more engaging. Furthermore, the connection to the hero and heroine was much deeper for me than the couple in The Vampire Voss. I highly recommend this paranormal love story for its ingenuity and adventure.
Happy Reading!!
April 6, 2011
Very romantic with some very sexy interludes. This series focuses on the power of love.I found my heart fluttering, burning and breaking.
The first half of the book parallels the previous book, The Vampire Voss, from Dimitri’s POV. Very interesting to see the same story through different eyes. Then we see his relationship with Maia while fighting the evil Moldovi. There are some very funny moments with this two stubborn characters. Moldovi is truly one twisted nasty vampire.
The first half of the book parallels the previous book, The Vampire Voss, from Dimitri’s POV. Very interesting to see the same story through different eyes. Then we see his relationship with Maia while fighting the evil Moldovi. There are some very funny moments with this two stubborn characters. Moldovi is truly one twisted nasty vampire.
September 19, 2018
"Lei lo circondò, il suo profumo dolce e speziato, l’atteggiamento sicuro di sé, le mani piccole e delicate, la veste scintillante e serica. La sua bocca… quell’entità che a tratti lo esasperava e a tratti lo intrigava, con la parte superiore appena più piena dell’altra, si ammorbidì, lasciando una spolverata di desiderio solleticante sulle labbra sensibili di lui, poi si allontanò. Dimitri la inseguì per prendere di più, ormai incapace di controllarsi completamente, e stavolta bevve più a lungo da quella bocca invitante, provocando un piccolo gemito delizioso che gli accese una nuova vampata di desiderio nel basso ventre. Il mondo era rosso e incandescente, il suo profumo floreale stuzzicante. Forse fu il riconoscere quel profumo, familiare e allo stesso tempo proibito, a consentirgli di aggrapparsi alle ultime tracce di controllo e ritrarsi. Per Dio e il Fato, non lei! Nessuno, ma soprattutto non lei!"
.
Questo secondo capitolo della serie Regency Draculia scritto da Colleen Gleason per la collana Harmony Blue Nocturne, ha come nome originale “the vampire Dimitri” proprio perché, i due protagonisti principali di questa serie sono il vampiro Dimitri nonché conte di Corvindale uomo duro e senza sentimenti e Maya, la maggiore e più cocciuta delle sorelle Woodmore.
Tutto ha inizio con un perfetto susseguirsi di azioni che terminano con il primo capitolo di questa serie, ma visti dalla prospettiva di questi due tanto opposti e alquanto simili personaggi. Troviamo una Maya petulante e impettita, un litigio unico e continuo con il suo tutore Dimitri; assisteremo al loro primo bacio clandestino e allo sbocciare della loro storia d’amore perché finalmente capiranno che insieme sono più forti.
Mi piace tantissimo questa nuova idea di vampiri, uomini che cercano continuamente di riscattarsi sul male per provare a riconquistare la loro ormai perduta umanità.
Quello che invece non ho amato, ma l’ho già sottolineato anche nel precedente romanzo della serie, è che la storia di base è identica in entrambi (e a questo punto direi tutti e tre) i romanzi, tranne che per i protagonisti citati nelle varie storie. Questo secondo me porta il lettore ad annoiarsi un po’ non riuscendone a stimolare la curiosità nel proseguire. C’è di positivo che le atmosfere che quest’autrice è in grado di creare e descrivere sono sempre molto affascinanti e magiche.
Dimenticavo… il finale è un qualcosa di spettacolare, che ti lascia a bocca aperta e con le lacrime agli occhi!
.
Maljka - per RFS
.
Questo secondo capitolo della serie Regency Draculia scritto da Colleen Gleason per la collana Harmony Blue Nocturne, ha come nome originale “the vampire Dimitri” proprio perché, i due protagonisti principali di questa serie sono il vampiro Dimitri nonché conte di Corvindale uomo duro e senza sentimenti e Maya, la maggiore e più cocciuta delle sorelle Woodmore.
Tutto ha inizio con un perfetto susseguirsi di azioni che terminano con il primo capitolo di questa serie, ma visti dalla prospettiva di questi due tanto opposti e alquanto simili personaggi. Troviamo una Maya petulante e impettita, un litigio unico e continuo con il suo tutore Dimitri; assisteremo al loro primo bacio clandestino e allo sbocciare della loro storia d’amore perché finalmente capiranno che insieme sono più forti.
Mi piace tantissimo questa nuova idea di vampiri, uomini che cercano continuamente di riscattarsi sul male per provare a riconquistare la loro ormai perduta umanità.
Quello che invece non ho amato, ma l’ho già sottolineato anche nel precedente romanzo della serie, è che la storia di base è identica in entrambi (e a questo punto direi tutti e tre) i romanzi, tranne che per i protagonisti citati nelle varie storie. Questo secondo me porta il lettore ad annoiarsi un po’ non riuscendone a stimolare la curiosità nel proseguire. C’è di positivo che le atmosfere che quest’autrice è in grado di creare e descrivere sono sempre molto affascinanti e magiche.
Dimenticavo… il finale è un qualcosa di spettacolare, che ti lascia a bocca aperta e con le lacrime agli occhi!
.
Maljka - per RFS
January 3, 2012
WARNING: This is a spoiler review. Please do not read if you wish to avoid spoilers.
DISCLAIMER: I am not a professional reviewer, nor was I solicited to review this book. I purchased this book at bn.com.
Score/Grade: 2.5 stars/C-minus
Reviewing this novel is an exercise in frustration because I enjoyed some elements and loathed others, but the bulk of the read contained stuff falling under "sorta good, but not really." Gleason invests tremendous effort and authenticity in her craft and the reading experience comes across as her attempting to do too much in one work. I found myself reading and getting interested in bit parts, then slogging through endless chapters to nowhere, giving up on the book for a while, then picking it up and getting interested again, only to be let down again. And again. And again.
Gleason writes good beginnings and satisfactory endings. Everything in between is just overdone, rife with distraction and irrelevance.
I sprung for this book because I really liked the primary characters, Dimitri Corvindale and Maia Windmore. They kept me reading "The Vampire Voss" because I found their scenes much more romantic and interesting than Voss and Angelica.
Gleason short-changed her audience in the worst possible way. "The Vampire Dimitri" spends more than 50% of its word count re-hashing all the events occurring in "The Vampire Voss." Only now they're perceived from either Maia's or Dimitri's viewpoints. How readers feel about this probably depends on how much readers like "The Vampire Voss." I thought the first book was okay, but I wasn't crazy about it. I bought and read "The Vampire Dimitri" because I liked the romantic tension and genuine comic moments between D and M. I wanted to read a story centered around them, not re-hash the story I wasn't crazy about.
The author does cover a little new ground as far as revealing more about Dimitri and Maia's characterizations and their relationship, not to mention buttloads of backstory on D's past failed romances. Some of it was relevant, but much of it struck me as tedious.
Once we got through all the re-hash, I breathed a sigh of relief and looked forward to a new, original novel (or at least half of one.) The end result was a compresed, rushed love story rife with melodrama and redundancy.
The seondary characters, a love triangle consisting of Maia's vampire slayer brother, one of Dimitri's "good" Draculae friends, and Narcisse, the fragile, steely sister and former sex slave of Dimitri's archenemy, get too much "screen time" because, in fact, they have nothing to do with the main plot and surprisingly little interaction with the primary characters. The author obviously threw them into the mix to guide readers to the series's third novel, "The Vampire Narcisse." None of them really contributes anything significant to the love story or to the rivalry between the "good" (or "less bad") Draculae and the truly evil Draculae.
Narcisse has a distinctive "Mary Sue-ish" feel to her characterization, and I can't help feeling that's what's wrong with both "The Vampire Voss" and the "The Vampire Dimitri." It feels like these books are written as build-up to Narcisse's adventures and Narcisse is probably the least compelling character in the series.
Gleason's world-building and historical authenticity are very good and one of the more enjoyable elements of the reading experience. Her Regency world and her Draculae mythos mesh nicely most of the time. She included good description and atmosphere to keep the era real. I actually would have liked more, but what she offered was good.
Plotting was so redundant I felt like screaming. Everybody gets abducted and assaulted (vampire violence) at least once in this book. Angelica is abducted twice, and we already read about these abductions in the first book. Then Dimitri is abducted and assaulted by an old flame. Then Maia is abducted and manages to rescue herself and Dimitri. Then Maia is abducted again and assaulted by Dimitri's old flame. I'm not making this up, that's a huge chunk of the book right there. Different people getting kidnapped, terrorized, and rescued.
The love story itself is enchanting and sexy. Dimitri and Maia are compatible and believeable, but the conflicts keeping them apart aren't gratuitous. Both of them are spoken for in different ways and readers will empathize with the couple. However, the solutions to their problems are convenient and don't involve genuine effort from either of them.
Dimitri struggles with a desperate quest to break his unsolicited contract with Lucifer and restore his humanity. Amazingly, he doesn't realize his solution in studying important books. Instead, the answer to his problem lies in reading "Beauty and the Beast." However, he still never understands anything until after his problem is solved via Deus ex machina.
Maia's engagement to Bradington, a respectable gentlemen of the ton, is resolved in an even more outrageous manner. The drama involved in this plot point falls flat because Gleason was too busy re-hashing "The Vampire Voss" and promoting "The Vampire Narcisse" to bother with fleshing out villainous characters relevant to this book OR even depicting most of their actions.
We know next to nothing about Bradington even before his betrayal occurs. We're told multiple times how gentlemanly and respectable he is, and that's it. Since the reader doesn't KNOW Bradington, his subsequent actions and fate have little impact on Maia or the reader. I would have found Bradington far more compelling if Gleason had bothered portraying B's character, demonstrating his sincere love/affection or his polite indifference to Maia. For all we know he secretly loathes her. If we knew his honest feelings for her, and were allowed to witness his "conversion" (or at least events leading up to his conversion) this would have increased tension in the story. Instead, I perceived the whole mess as, "Oh darn, here's another X pages I have to read before D and M live happily ever after."
The formatting in this book needs improvement. Most glaring errors are single words divided into separate words. Example: "managed" appears as "man aged." Dialogue is very confusing, sometimes featuring two or more characters exchanging words in a single paragraph. Paragraphs also seem separated at odd times, giving the impression of incomplete, choppy paragraphs.
I liked Dimitri and Maia. They deserved a better story than this.
DISCLAIMER: I am not a professional reviewer, nor was I solicited to review this book. I purchased this book at bn.com.
Score/Grade: 2.5 stars/C-minus
Reviewing this novel is an exercise in frustration because I enjoyed some elements and loathed others, but the bulk of the read contained stuff falling under "sorta good, but not really." Gleason invests tremendous effort and authenticity in her craft and the reading experience comes across as her attempting to do too much in one work. I found myself reading and getting interested in bit parts, then slogging through endless chapters to nowhere, giving up on the book for a while, then picking it up and getting interested again, only to be let down again. And again. And again.
Gleason writes good beginnings and satisfactory endings. Everything in between is just overdone, rife with distraction and irrelevance.
I sprung for this book because I really liked the primary characters, Dimitri Corvindale and Maia Windmore. They kept me reading "The Vampire Voss" because I found their scenes much more romantic and interesting than Voss and Angelica.
Gleason short-changed her audience in the worst possible way. "The Vampire Dimitri" spends more than 50% of its word count re-hashing all the events occurring in "The Vampire Voss." Only now they're perceived from either Maia's or Dimitri's viewpoints. How readers feel about this probably depends on how much readers like "The Vampire Voss." I thought the first book was okay, but I wasn't crazy about it. I bought and read "The Vampire Dimitri" because I liked the romantic tension and genuine comic moments between D and M. I wanted to read a story centered around them, not re-hash the story I wasn't crazy about.
The author does cover a little new ground as far as revealing more about Dimitri and Maia's characterizations and their relationship, not to mention buttloads of backstory on D's past failed romances. Some of it was relevant, but much of it struck me as tedious.
Once we got through all the re-hash, I breathed a sigh of relief and looked forward to a new, original novel (or at least half of one.) The end result was a compresed, rushed love story rife with melodrama and redundancy.
The seondary characters, a love triangle consisting of Maia's vampire slayer brother, one of Dimitri's "good" Draculae friends, and Narcisse, the fragile, steely sister and former sex slave of Dimitri's archenemy, get too much "screen time" because, in fact, they have nothing to do with the main plot and surprisingly little interaction with the primary characters. The author obviously threw them into the mix to guide readers to the series's third novel, "The Vampire Narcisse." None of them really contributes anything significant to the love story or to the rivalry between the "good" (or "less bad") Draculae and the truly evil Draculae.
Narcisse has a distinctive "Mary Sue-ish" feel to her characterization, and I can't help feeling that's what's wrong with both "The Vampire Voss" and the "The Vampire Dimitri." It feels like these books are written as build-up to Narcisse's adventures and Narcisse is probably the least compelling character in the series.
Gleason's world-building and historical authenticity are very good and one of the more enjoyable elements of the reading experience. Her Regency world and her Draculae mythos mesh nicely most of the time. She included good description and atmosphere to keep the era real. I actually would have liked more, but what she offered was good.
Plotting was so redundant I felt like screaming. Everybody gets abducted and assaulted (vampire violence) at least once in this book. Angelica is abducted twice, and we already read about these abductions in the first book. Then Dimitri is abducted and assaulted by an old flame. Then Maia is abducted and manages to rescue herself and Dimitri. Then Maia is abducted again and assaulted by Dimitri's old flame. I'm not making this up, that's a huge chunk of the book right there. Different people getting kidnapped, terrorized, and rescued.
The love story itself is enchanting and sexy. Dimitri and Maia are compatible and believeable, but the conflicts keeping them apart aren't gratuitous. Both of them are spoken for in different ways and readers will empathize with the couple. However, the solutions to their problems are convenient and don't involve genuine effort from either of them.
Dimitri struggles with a desperate quest to break his unsolicited contract with Lucifer and restore his humanity. Amazingly, he doesn't realize his solution in studying important books. Instead, the answer to his problem lies in reading "Beauty and the Beast." However, he still never understands anything until after his problem is solved via Deus ex machina.
Maia's engagement to Bradington, a respectable gentlemen of the ton, is resolved in an even more outrageous manner. The drama involved in this plot point falls flat because Gleason was too busy re-hashing "The Vampire Voss" and promoting "The Vampire Narcisse" to bother with fleshing out villainous characters relevant to this book OR even depicting most of their actions.
We know next to nothing about Bradington even before his betrayal occurs. We're told multiple times how gentlemanly and respectable he is, and that's it. Since the reader doesn't KNOW Bradington, his subsequent actions and fate have little impact on Maia or the reader. I would have found Bradington far more compelling if Gleason had bothered portraying B's character, demonstrating his sincere love/affection or his polite indifference to Maia. For all we know he secretly loathes her. If we knew his honest feelings for her, and were allowed to witness his "conversion" (or at least events leading up to his conversion) this would have increased tension in the story. Instead, I perceived the whole mess as, "Oh darn, here's another X pages I have to read before D and M live happily ever after."
The formatting in this book needs improvement. Most glaring errors are single words divided into separate words. Example: "managed" appears as "man aged." Dialogue is very confusing, sometimes featuring two or more characters exchanging words in a single paragraph. Paragraphs also seem separated at odd times, giving the impression of incomplete, choppy paragraphs.
I liked Dimitri and Maia. They deserved a better story than this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2011
The Vampire Dimitri is the second book in the Regency Draculia series by Colleen Gleason. The first book, The Vampire Voss, takes place in the same timeline as this installment with each providing additional details and perspectives of the same events. Both books cover the introduction of the Woodmore sisters into Voss and Demitri’s lives. Their brother, Chas Woodmore, has run off with a female vampire named Narcise Moldavi. Chas’s actions set off a chain of events similar to spilling a bucket of snakes. Narcise’s brother, Cezar Moldavi, is certifiable and he wants his sister back for all sorts of dysfunctional reasons. As well, Chas is an accomplished vampire hunter, so he needs to be taken out on general principal as far as Cezar is concerned. Before reading a single page, I already knew I was going to enjoy it. Demitri and Maia were constantly fighting and engaged in power struggles that I felt would make a splendid foundation for a love story. They did not disappoint.
The story begins with Dimitri becoming guardians of the three Woodmore sisters when Chas does not return from his latest mission. The younger sister is away at a convent school, so the invasion was only Maia and Angelica. In the first book, Voss sets his sight on Angelica and their love story gives us insight into the Dracule curse and how it can be broken. Unlike Voss, Dimitri does not enjoy his lot and wants out. He has spent most of his existence trying to find a way to break his deal with Lucifer. The arrival of the Woodmore women has upset Dimitri’s ordered life of research and solitude. He had agreed to become their guardian in the event something was to happen to Chas but he never expected the day to come. Maia also thought it would never come to this. She had been running the Woodmore household just fine and taking care of herself and Angelica for years. She resented moving into Dimitri’s home but mostly she could not force him into a civil conversation. For her part, she would enter in den uninvited and open the curtain to let sunlight into the house not realizing Dimitri was a vampire.
On a daily basis, Demitri found himself engaged in verbal sparring with Maia as she demanded answers and respect. Unaware of the danger she and her sister faced, she was trying to protect her family whom all had 'unique gifts' passed through their gypsy blood. The path leading to love between these characters was not easy. Dimitri fought Maia every step of the way when she was not putting the stumbling blocks down herself. It made my head spin in a fun way. The banter was very well done and reflected all the gentlemanly and ladylike rules of engagement of the Regency period with poisonous barbs strategically placed as necessary. I loved the fact that Dimitri’s wall of solitude was not easily penetrated and that at times, I wondered if it could even happen. Maia’s reaction to discovering that Dimitri was Dracule gave the reader an opportunity to see her personal strength and courage. Maia is a woman of honor and engaged to a man who has been away in the America’s for 18 months. The intended returns with the expectation that the wedding will go forward. Maia must then decide what to do because she has been deflowered by Dimitri who insists she stick with the wedding plan. After all, Dimitri had no intention of marrying her which he made painfully clear more than once. Like I said, I didn’t know if he was going to get with the program.
I found no weaknesses in this story. Even the cover was delicious. With a greater understanding of the Dracule world after reading Voss, I did not stumble over the complexities of the curse as much as I did in the first installment. Ms. Gleason masterfully captures Regency England as writers like Karen Marie Moning have captured Highlanders and Druids. As a result, I am eager to read the next book, The Vampire Narcise. This one will finally provide the events from Chas perspective and perhaps bring about the end of Cezar.
Complimentary copy of this book was provided via NetGalley.com
The story begins with Dimitri becoming guardians of the three Woodmore sisters when Chas does not return from his latest mission. The younger sister is away at a convent school, so the invasion was only Maia and Angelica. In the first book, Voss sets his sight on Angelica and their love story gives us insight into the Dracule curse and how it can be broken. Unlike Voss, Dimitri does not enjoy his lot and wants out. He has spent most of his existence trying to find a way to break his deal with Lucifer. The arrival of the Woodmore women has upset Dimitri’s ordered life of research and solitude. He had agreed to become their guardian in the event something was to happen to Chas but he never expected the day to come. Maia also thought it would never come to this. She had been running the Woodmore household just fine and taking care of herself and Angelica for years. She resented moving into Dimitri’s home but mostly she could not force him into a civil conversation. For her part, she would enter in den uninvited and open the curtain to let sunlight into the house not realizing Dimitri was a vampire.
On a daily basis, Demitri found himself engaged in verbal sparring with Maia as she demanded answers and respect. Unaware of the danger she and her sister faced, she was trying to protect her family whom all had 'unique gifts' passed through their gypsy blood. The path leading to love between these characters was not easy. Dimitri fought Maia every step of the way when she was not putting the stumbling blocks down herself. It made my head spin in a fun way. The banter was very well done and reflected all the gentlemanly and ladylike rules of engagement of the Regency period with poisonous barbs strategically placed as necessary. I loved the fact that Dimitri’s wall of solitude was not easily penetrated and that at times, I wondered if it could even happen. Maia’s reaction to discovering that Dimitri was Dracule gave the reader an opportunity to see her personal strength and courage. Maia is a woman of honor and engaged to a man who has been away in the America’s for 18 months. The intended returns with the expectation that the wedding will go forward. Maia must then decide what to do because she has been deflowered by Dimitri who insists she stick with the wedding plan. After all, Dimitri had no intention of marrying her which he made painfully clear more than once. Like I said, I didn’t know if he was going to get with the program.
I found no weaknesses in this story. Even the cover was delicious. With a greater understanding of the Dracule world after reading Voss, I did not stumble over the complexities of the curse as much as I did in the first installment. Ms. Gleason masterfully captures Regency England as writers like Karen Marie Moning have captured Highlanders and Druids. As a result, I am eager to read the next book, The Vampire Narcise. This one will finally provide the events from Chas perspective and perhaps bring about the end of Cezar.
Complimentary copy of this book was provided via NetGalley.com
April 18, 2011
3.5 stars
The Vampire Dimitri was a good read from a sensational author. Though I feel that this series can’t stand up to Gleason’s Gardella’s it is still an enjoyable read.
However, the first half of this novel I could of skipped with the exception of maybe two scenes. I would of thought that The Vampire Dimitri, being the second novel in the Regency Draculia series, would of started off after the events in The Vampire Voss but the first 150+ pages was a recounting of that first book from the two main characters, Maia and Dimitri, point of view. In The Vampire Voss, there were numerous scenes from their POV, so it was a bit redundant to go into it again here.
Once you get past that and into the second half of the novel though, it starts getting good.
I loved the main characters here, Dimitri and Maia. Dimitri has been searching for a way to break his convent with Lucifer from almost the very beginning and he utilizes all his time and resources for this purpose, leaving very little to socialize or leave his study - period. And because of the circumstances surrounding his pact with the devil he is wary to trust others, especially women. His loyalty, strength and sense of right & wrong though really made me admire him.
Maia is a strong, spunky, take-charge woman who sometimes got to be a bit long winded but entertaining. I really liked these two’s dialogues with each other, their back & forth, and the determinedness to do the right thing for those they care for despite the loss to themselves. Their relationship and romance was a bit slow going but it’s always nice to take a break from the hot & heaviness found in a lot of the romance genres.
The writing and world building was fantastic, just what I expect from Colleen Gleason. If it weren’t for my issues with the first half of the novel The Vampire Dimitri would have had a higher rating. Overall though it was a good read and I look forward to the next in the series. This one hinted at a possible love triangle in The Vampire Narcise, which I am a sucker for.
4/20
http://paranormalromanceaddict.blogsp...
The Vampire Dimitri was a good read from a sensational author. Though I feel that this series can’t stand up to Gleason’s Gardella’s it is still an enjoyable read.
However, the first half of this novel I could of skipped with the exception of maybe two scenes. I would of thought that The Vampire Dimitri, being the second novel in the Regency Draculia series, would of started off after the events in The Vampire Voss but the first 150+ pages was a recounting of that first book from the two main characters, Maia and Dimitri, point of view. In The Vampire Voss, there were numerous scenes from their POV, so it was a bit redundant to go into it again here.
Once you get past that and into the second half of the novel though, it starts getting good.
I loved the main characters here, Dimitri and Maia. Dimitri has been searching for a way to break his convent with Lucifer from almost the very beginning and he utilizes all his time and resources for this purpose, leaving very little to socialize or leave his study - period. And because of the circumstances surrounding his pact with the devil he is wary to trust others, especially women. His loyalty, strength and sense of right & wrong though really made me admire him.
Maia is a strong, spunky, take-charge woman who sometimes got to be a bit long winded but entertaining. I really liked these two’s dialogues with each other, their back & forth, and the determinedness to do the right thing for those they care for despite the loss to themselves. Their relationship and romance was a bit slow going but it’s always nice to take a break from the hot & heaviness found in a lot of the romance genres.
The writing and world building was fantastic, just what I expect from Colleen Gleason. If it weren’t for my issues with the first half of the novel The Vampire Dimitri would have had a higher rating. Overall though it was a good read and I look forward to the next in the series. This one hinted at a possible love triangle in The Vampire Narcise, which I am a sucker for.
4/20
http://paranormalromanceaddict.blogsp...
June 22, 2013
I liked it more than I thought I would. Maybe because I had just read Roaring Midnight and that book wasn't as good as I expected it to be. Also because I was under the impression that this was a totally different vampire series, not related at all to the Gardella world.
The vampires in the Draculia series were different than the ones Victoria had to fight. They became vampires because they made a direct deal with Lucifer, and for that reason, they could get their souls back.
Maia started off as an pain in the butt character and kind of rude and I wasn't a fan of hers. But she changed a bit and her stubbornness proved useful a few times. I quite liked Dimitri and in the end they made a perfect match.
Now I'm off to read Voss's book. I skipped initially because the reviews weren't that great, but after seeing him in The Vampire Dimitri, I'm kind of curious to read his story.
The vampires in the Draculia series were different than the ones Victoria had to fight. They became vampires because they made a direct deal with Lucifer, and for that reason, they could get their souls back.
Maia started off as an pain in the butt character and kind of rude and I wasn't a fan of hers. But she changed a bit and her stubbornness proved useful a few times. I quite liked Dimitri and in the end they made a perfect match.
Now I'm off to read Voss's book. I skipped initially because the reviews weren't that great, but after seeing him in The Vampire Dimitri, I'm kind of curious to read his story.
Read
May 6, 2011I really tried to finish this one. I read the Vampire Voss, which I didn't love, and had high hopes for Dimitri's book. I made it about a 3rd of the way through and found myself just not interested in the characters or the story. I've heard great things about Gleason's books but this series just wasn't for me.
-Stephanie
-Stephanie
August 22, 2015
I loved Dimitri even more than I loved Voss. He's tortured himself for over a hundred years trying to break his covenant with the devil. He sooo wants to correct his one big mistake in his life, but cannot seem to find a way out. And guarding those Woodmore sisters is a big distraction. Well worth the read and you will LOVE the ending. Couldn't put it down.......:)
February 10, 2017
To be honest historical paranormal romance books are not my favorite. Because I have a hard time adjusting to their time and period. I bought the books because I loved the covers. I thought the stories were just ok
September 19, 2011
Oh that was fun!
I'd never read a "series" where it starts where the first did. That was kinda cool.
I think Dimitiri is my fav!
I'd never read a "series" where it starts where the first did. That was kinda cool.
I think Dimitiri is my fav!
October 7, 2018
THIS STORY STARTED ONLY AFTER THE FIRST HALF OF THE BOOK.
WHY?
BECAUSE THE FIRST HALF WAS JUST A RECOLLECTION OF THE SAME EVENTS THAT OCCURRED IN THE VOSS'S STORY, SO WE ALREADY KNOW WHAT WENT DOWN THERE.
OUR HERO is a complete boor, and he lacks the qualification of what one can term a gentleman...well only where Maia is concerned. For some reason, the woman gets under his skin and he's always acting like there's a stick up his arse when she comes around - or God forbid talks to him. Now that he has guardianship over the two women, and they are somewhat living in his home, he has no way to avoid them. Throw in the complication of their brother's idiotic attempt of having the enemy's sister in his keeping, the women are now in trouble and Dmitri will do his best to protect them albeit reluctantly. Dmitri has been turned into a vampire for the sake of the woman he loved a century ago, yet after being abandoned by her, he turns bitter and no longer loves, desperately seeking for a way to revert to mortal. Maia's appearance in his life stirs up feelings best left forgotten yet little does he know she is the key to his real freedom, if only he wakes up and realises it.
OUR HEROINE is a gem. Despite her bossiness, I thought she was a rather brave soul that was needed in order to be pitted against a stubborn fool like Dmitri. She challenges him in all the right ways and vice versa, seeing as how he can handle her although he acts annoyed with her presence all the time. Their chemistry was smouldering through each page, forever present and just waiting for the right and ripe moment to strike. I enjoyed their moments AFTER the Voss events and I held my breath for a revelation where Dmitri will finally realize that he can't lose her, even after pushing her away every time she reached out to him.
OVERALL the antagonists were the same except for a visit from some old faces of Dmitri's past and finally we get to meet Maia's fiance. This was quite enjoyable and the ending was much more tense in a good way.
WHY?
BECAUSE THE FIRST HALF WAS JUST A RECOLLECTION OF THE SAME EVENTS THAT OCCURRED IN THE VOSS'S STORY, SO WE ALREADY KNOW WHAT WENT DOWN THERE.
OUR HERO is a complete boor, and he lacks the qualification of what one can term a gentleman...well only where Maia is concerned. For some reason, the woman gets under his skin and he's always acting like there's a stick up his arse when she comes around - or God forbid talks to him. Now that he has guardianship over the two women, and they are somewhat living in his home, he has no way to avoid them. Throw in the complication of their brother's idiotic attempt of having the enemy's sister in his keeping, the women are now in trouble and Dmitri will do his best to protect them albeit reluctantly. Dmitri has been turned into a vampire for the sake of the woman he loved a century ago, yet after being abandoned by her, he turns bitter and no longer loves, desperately seeking for a way to revert to mortal. Maia's appearance in his life stirs up feelings best left forgotten yet little does he know she is the key to his real freedom, if only he wakes up and realises it.
OUR HEROINE is a gem. Despite her bossiness, I thought she was a rather brave soul that was needed in order to be pitted against a stubborn fool like Dmitri. She challenges him in all the right ways and vice versa, seeing as how he can handle her although he acts annoyed with her presence all the time. Their chemistry was smouldering through each page, forever present and just waiting for the right and ripe moment to strike. I enjoyed their moments AFTER the Voss events and I held my breath for a revelation where Dmitri will finally realize that he can't lose her, even after pushing her away every time she reached out to him.
OVERALL the antagonists were the same except for a visit from some old faces of Dmitri's past and finally we get to meet Maia's fiance. This was quite enjoyable and the ending was much more tense in a good way.
February 27, 2018
So I totally fell in love with Dimitri's character in the first installment of this series and knew I had to read book two! Book one was pretty awesome and had a lot of page turners.
Colleen Gleason is a fantastic writer and books I've read from her in the past were awesome!
I will admit this book started of way too slow! As a book read stand alone it would be awesome! As a book read immediately following the first in the series it was horribly repetitive!!!! I was devastated at how repetitive! grrr!!!! I kept thinking OMG - when is this going to get to a fresh moment?!
It literally backfilled the areas from book one but showed Dimitri and Maia's perspective instead of the perspective of the two in book one. It just was not enough to keep the book interesting! grrr!! I mean, it had it's few moments but it was simply OVERKILL on the repeats!
That being said, once it FINALLY PASSED the repeats (literally half the book! grrr) it was awesome! Never saw the ending coming - and the back half was a page turner! FINALLY!
So if you read book one first don't loose heart! It does go from yawn to YAY! :-)
Not sure if I'll go on to read book three.. didn't become as invested in those characters. I don't see how much of it could be repetitive but the investment isn't there as much. We'll see...
Colleen Gleason is a fantastic writer and books I've read from her in the past were awesome!
I will admit this book started of way too slow! As a book read stand alone it would be awesome! As a book read immediately following the first in the series it was horribly repetitive!!!! I was devastated at how repetitive! grrr!!!! I kept thinking OMG - when is this going to get to a fresh moment?!
It literally backfilled the areas from book one but showed Dimitri and Maia's perspective instead of the perspective of the two in book one. It just was not enough to keep the book interesting! grrr!! I mean, it had it's few moments but it was simply OVERKILL on the repeats!
That being said, once it FINALLY PASSED the repeats (literally half the book! grrr) it was awesome! Never saw the ending coming - and the back half was a page turner! FINALLY!
So if you read book one first don't loose heart! It does go from yawn to YAY! :-)
Not sure if I'll go on to read book three.. didn't become as invested in those characters. I don't see how much of it could be repetitive but the investment isn't there as much. We'll see...
November 3, 2019
The first half has events that happened in the first book and because of that it felt really repetitive and tedious. I skimmed most of it. The story really picks up in the second half of the book and even then there were parts that were a bit slow and uninteresting, but i liked it better than the first book. Unlike the first book, the book is read mainly from dmitri and maia's pov, but there are still other peoples pov scattered throughout. Overall enjoyed it, but not as much as i hoped i would when i realized it was maia and dmitri's story. It was an okay hate-to-love story and i was expecting more romance/chemistry.
October 3, 2022
This book was fairly quick to finish since the first third of the book was exactly the same story as the first book but from other points of view. This annoyed me since I already read the first book and this recap of it didn't add anything to it. I skipped ahead to where the second book should have started. I didn't enjoy this book as much as the first one. 2 out of 5 stars.
December 6, 2017
I always did love me a good Beauty and the Beast retelling and this is just that! These two may be my favourite characters so far. Can't wait to start the next book! Colleen you definitely slammed it out of the park in my book!
October 24, 2021
Great. another different but unique way of looking at vampires. I loved it. It had great action great characters and a great storyline.
Another different but unique way of looking at vampires. I loved it. It had great action great characters and great story line.
Another different but unique way of looking at vampires. I loved it. It had great action great characters and great story line.
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