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The Vanguards, #5

To defend and protect, at any cost.

Sam is Sigma of his pack, defender of the innocent and frail. Too bad the one time it mattered most, though the urge to guard the weak runs strong in his shifter blood, he failed to protect his best friend from an attack. Just when his self-confidence can't go any lower, he becomes entangled in a vampire skirmish and is left with an injured female in his arms.

ampire accountant for Pal Robi, Inc., Clementine can't believe her master would ask her to commit corporate espionage. She’s shot when discovered, but a shifter comes to her rescue. It's as if he's made of her fantasies, and in the few hours with him she lives more than the decades she's spent among her clan.

Hiding with him on the streets of Chicago, in the midst of fighting together to stay alive, can a petite vampire break through her hero’s jaded heart?

Hot dominating sex, an action packed evening, and a first date gone all to hell.

60,000 Words

103 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2012

52 people are currently reading
354 people want to read

About the author

Annie Nicholas

73 books1,134 followers
Annie Nicholas hibernates in the rural, green mountains of Vermont where she dreams of different worlds, heroes, and heroines. When spring arrives the stories pour from her, in hopes to share them with the masses one day.

Mother, daughter, wife are some of the hats she happily wears while trudging after her cubs through the hills and dales. The four seasons an inspiration and muse.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Profile Image for Amanda.
804 reviews184 followers
April 24, 2020
3.5 stars

The fifth book of her Vanguard series, Sigma is the story of Sam, a rare Sigma wolf shifter, and Clementine, a vampire accountant. Not every pack has a Sigma, a protector who cares for the young, elderly, and those unable to protect themselves. You would think everyone would be falling all over themselves to be with a wolf like that, but Sam is alone and not loved in the way he wants to be. Poor guy. Clementine wants nothing more than to be protected, after being made against her will by a horrid-sounding vampire. But despite backing D. and pledging her loyalty to him—earning his protection—she doesn't feel very secure in her world. The two together have a really interesting dynamic.

This one was a bit of a slow-starter for me; the first couple chapters just felt...off, maybe awkward, I guess? Some of it may have been revealing Sam had feelings for Sugar back in the first book, and that seemed to come out of left field, since no indication had been given in her own story. But once things clicked in, it was fine from there on out. Sam and Clementine are super cute together, and I like them as a couple. There's a lot of action in this installment, and we find out D. is having even more issues than he's hinted at in previous books. Foremost is a certain blonde human who is hell-bent on remaining human—even though every other person in her life she loves is either a wolf or a vampire—and all of the angst and hurt she's causing them in the process. You can add me to team Sick of Sugar and Her Hand-Wringing.

Nicholas' PNR is definitely softer than a lot of the genre, but it's nice to have short cozy reads once in a while. Now to wait for the rerelease of Prima and see how this nonsense with Sugar resolves.
Profile Image for Jeannie Zelos.
2,851 reviews57 followers
August 4, 2012
Sigma (the Vanguards book 5) Annie Nicholas

I was given this copy free for review, but as always on the basis that my opinion is honestly held, and whether paid for or free my views are not influenced by that. Integrity is important to me and gushing false reviews do neither author or reader any favours. As always my views are what I honestly feel about this book.

Sigma is fifth book in the Vanguards series. I haven't read any of the series previously but found it easy to read and understand story and characters although I think I would have felt more empathy with the characters if I’d read the previous series. Its a paranormal romance book, with some quite erotic content so if you don't like sex scenes you may be offended. Personally I think they fit well within many of this genre – in most fantasy novels both werewolves and vampires are very sexual creatures and this book has them both.

Sigma is written in 3rd person point of view and focusses on Sam, the Sigma (defender of weak and innocent) for the pack. Sam’s feeling lonely and introspective, blames himself for Human Sugar's injuries as he was looking out for her when they were attacked by a rival pack, and then while collecting Sugar from hospital he encounters and rescues Vampire Clementine from a vampire gang shooting at her There's an instant attraction between them and some very hot sex scenes to follow. We meet and catch up with some of the other pack members and Sugar's vampire lover Daedalus, who it turns out is Clementine's Master. The book focuses on a plot to steal data and Clementine needs to hide out with Sam, Sugar, and her sister Spice.

Its quite a short read – Novella- at 25,000 words and is well written and edited. Its what I would describe as Paranormal Chick-lit.... something not too heavy and taxing to read, just what you want for the beach or a hot summer afternoon in a hammock in the garden – that’s where I read it. In general I prefer books that are longer – I'm happy with this writing style but like to get really engrossed into a book and as a quick reader Novellas are over so quickly for me. For slower readers its perfect though – the old one man’s meat proverb comes into play here, as it does with those that do/don't like sex in their books. I'm firmly in the Do camp – I love to escape into another world and paranormal books like this allow me that fantasy. I really enjoyed reading this and would like to read the earlier ones in the series at some point to get the full view of who they all are and what’s happening. If I do I plan to read them all back to back, it would be like reading one good long novel for me and I'd get the most enjoyment that way. I didn't really get too attached to the characters and I think that’s because I hadn't read earlier books and got the full back story of how they all got together and how they integrated with each other. Its not a reflection on the writing but more on the fact I’m coming into a series cold and not knowing about all the little incidents that build into relationships.

As ever we end with stars – I'm giving this book 4 stars – its well written and edited but on a personal level I'd have liked it to be longer. There's enough in the storyline and characters to have expanded it without making it feel “padded” in my view and that would have upped my star rating. Again though that’s a personal prejudice and someone wanting a quick read may give it 5 stars.
Profile Image for Nikki Brooks.
3,556 reviews54 followers
April 7, 2020
Sam cannot shake the shame of failing Sugar. He was supposed to protect her as her Sigma (essentially bodyguard/protector) but he failed and now she is trying to recover from her paralysis. Daedalus seems to have ore trouble brewing, Sam can't think of any other reason for the Nosferatu to again entrust the safety of Sugar to him.

But Fate is a fickle female and she is about to put Sam and Sugar on a collision course with more trouble, in the shape of one cute, number crunching vampire on a mission.

Clementine would do anything for her Master. He saved her from a fate worse than sunlight at the hand of her Maker. Getting some evidence to him to act on didn't sound that dangerous but before she knows it there are bullets flying, cars crashing and a very hunky, hairy bodyguard stepping in to protect her.

I felt really sorry for Sam, not only has his reputation been made out to be one level down from manwhore but he also feels like he let down his family. Sugar I really wanted to slap this time around! Lady grab life by the fangs, quit feeling sorry for yourself - you knew what Daedalus was and what he wanted but you're coming over all "Woe is me!" Spice is still trying to take on the world, pregnant or not. Clementine is a great character - coming across meek and mild but BLAM, she'll go for what she wants.
Profile Image for Coral Mitchell.
3,188 reviews
April 11, 2020
Sam feels guilty for failing to protect Sugar and is resentful of Daedelous. In drops Clementine. A well matched pair. My heart breaks for Sugar and her deep fear.
Profile Image for Shayay.
2,800 reviews55 followers
April 9, 2020
Enjoyed wolf shifter Sam and vampire Clementine’s passion and like the bit of action with the bad vamps coming after Clementine. She was tasked by her Master; I’m with Sam on the use of the term Master by the way, it’s no good and dated, she was tasked with stealing computer data from some other vamps. She does that, but now they are out to kill her. Sam ends up helping her out, but becomes involved in the fray. Lots of sexy times between these two; I would’ve liked a bit more connection before they got together. Sam was a bit too sad sack in the beginning, but he got better, and it’s great when his protective nature comes out. I liked Clementine fine; well, except for her views on humans, but I get her point in regards to Sugar. Another character from this series, Sugar, is also given some story time. I didn’t like how this part of the story went, and I’m not liking Sugar. She insists on remaining human, and it causes so many issues. I’m not excited to read about her selfish pity party. Just turn into a vamp already; if you are going to hang out in this type of world with vamps and shifters, you are just a liability otherwise. Sugar’s selfishness put others in danger because they needed to take care of her because she can’t take care of herself. If she’s not going to change, she needs to leave Daedalus and not associate with non-humans. This story only shows her weak, so I’m not too sure I care if she finally realizes how selfish she’s being. For the most part though, this was an entertaining read with some fun ideas; definitely a story focused on the romance aspects. I’ll probably give the next book a chance despite my thoughts on Sugar.
Profile Image for Sheila.
536 reviews10 followers
April 14, 2020
Sigma
We all have heard of the Alpha, the Beta, the Omega but did you know there is a lesser known rank in wolf hierarchy, the Sigma. Stigmas protect the innocent, the weak, the elderly, those that cannot or will not fight. Not all packs have them they are rare.
Sam one of the original Omega Pack of misfit wolfs that now belong to the larger Chicago Vasi pack lead by Eric their Alpha. Sam has loved Sugar for a while, his heart is broken but he will do his duty. She loves a Nosferatu warrior named Daedalus. Daedalus trained the Omegas to become the fierce wolf pack they are now.
Sugar is a human entrusted in his care. Recently she was attacked by a rival pack on his watch. She is being released from the hospital. Daedalus should be here but is busy so Sam will protect Sugar and bring her home.
Sugar lives with a wolf pack and is the fiancé of a powerful vampire. She could become a wolf or a vampire and heal, she has not chosen either, yet.
Leaving the hospital Sugar and Sam become entangled in a car chase and save a young vampire. Clementine has just stolen valuable information for her vampire master and is being chased by vampires that will kill to get the information back.
Sam becomes enmeshed in saving Clementine and incurring Daedalus’ wrath for not protecting his fragile very human Sugar. Can he save Clementine? Can he survive long enough?
If you have not read the Vanguard series, you are missing out. You can still read this book and enjoy it but it will make you want to read them all to find out more about this wonderful, quirky fun characters.
Engaging series, fun fallible characters. Escape into Chicago and explore!
Profile Image for Jen.
1,088 reviews13 followers
May 6, 2020
For this volume, we return to the tried-and-true formula of the series, with one of the original pack members (in this case, Sam) meeting and having to win over their mate. Actually, Clementine is rather quickly enamoured of Sam. Not only does he save her life, but then he continues to protect and take care of her. He nurses her back to health after an injury, and then he takes care of her other needs.

These two hit it off remarkably well from the very beginning, and only grow to care more for each other as a little time passes and they have more intense bonding experiences of one sort or another. Of course, there are things that get in their way, or attempt to, anyway. Some of the aforementioned events for one, Daedalus for another. But Sam & Clementine manage to survive everything that life throws at them. And eventually, they get a shot at their own happily ever after.

We do get minor glimpses of all the other original pack members, including Sugar who remains human. And this installment starts to move things along toward an ultimate resolution for Daedalus with his vampire clan. One way of another, things are going to have to be resolved there. Too bad it doesn't seem like Sugar cares enough to help or even be around. I sure hope her attitude changes in the next book! And that we get to see more of everyone again!

I received a free eBook copy of this title from the author, and have willingly provided an honest review.

This review originally appeared on the So Few Books blog at: https://sofewbooks.blogspot.com/2020/...!
Profile Image for Linda Levine.
4,640 reviews25 followers
April 24, 2020
Clementine is a vampire who works as an accountant and has tried to live a quiet life until her master requests her assistance in a dangerous mission. Sam's job is to protect others in the pack and he feels like a failure after Sugar's injury. He now feels a strong need to protect Clementine but is afraid he might let her down too.

This is part of a series and I have read them all from the beginning. I do recommend doing so as the characters and storyline build on one another.

She is not your typical version of a vampire and really has just wanted a safe life after her earlier years. She feels intense loyalty to the master who saved her. I really admired her loyalty. The little bit of her life exposed indicates one with great pain.

Sam and Clementine are an unexpected couple. He really cared for Sugar and had to accept she was not for him. Seeing her hurt and feeling responsible, has really haunted him. He didn't expect to fall for Clementine but there is a definite connection between them from the beginning. I enjoyed watching them fall in love.

I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
Profile Image for Shaly.
1,198 reviews
January 10, 2018
I know this book is about Sam and Clementine but I need to ask.. why the fuck is Sugar so stubborn? She's refusing to convert to a vampire after chasing after Daedalus when they first met, she knew what he was and what he would eventually want from her, so what's the fucking problem? She would rather die of old age or something worse or live her life half paralized while slowly dying inside, than to convert...and she has the audacity to call Daedalus selfish! He's such a patient man because I would have left her stupid ass a long time ago..her and her stupid convictions! (Rolling my eyes and shaking my head at her..)

With that being said I can't help but feel that we've been mislead all this time by Sam and Clementine's characters! Sam wasn't the selfish manwhore the series made him out to be, he was very sweet and loyal. All he wanted was to find someone to love and who could love him back. Clementine wasn't the naive, shy vampire neither! She was a go-getter! She knew what she wanted and went after it with everything she had...meek my ass!!!
1,897 reviews13 followers
April 21, 2020
After Sugar was injured, Sam, her sigma, felt that he had failed her. But when they encountered a vampire in a dangerous situation, he was forced to protect her even risking his life. Clementine was on a mission that was not going well for her. Fortunately, she received help unexpectedly and much more! I liked this young vampire who according to how she viewed herself she only played with the numbers and it was not in her to risk her safety. A vampire accountant! But soon the wild shifter showed her that taking a risk might be worth it. Together they were a strong, hot and fun couple. Sugar and Daedalus are still between a rock and a difficult place and I have no idea what the Nosferatus will do because I think he needs to do something and soon. Sad for Sugar and her fears. Seeing how her sister handled her own situation, she should be more confident. Action, suspense, drama, good fights, funny comments, sad scenes, romance and passion.
Profile Image for Kristen Lewendon.
8,429 reviews63 followers
April 20, 2020
This book went by in a flash. I was so caught up in the story that I didn’t even realize how far I’d gone. I looked down and it was over already. My heart broke for Sam. He’s trying so hard to be a hero for the people he cares about, but the circumstances keep making that harder and harder to do. It was very easy for me to connect with Clementine even though she was a vampire. I found it very interesting to learn that her supernatural abilities didn’t negate any of her self-doubts. I thought these two were pretty adorable together. And now I’m even more desperate than ever to find out what comes next in Sugar’s situation.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author.
Profile Image for Denise.
1,268 reviews5 followers
April 21, 2020
This is a NON-SPOILER REVIEW. Sigma by Annie Nicholas is the fifth book in her Vanguard series. I read this book in it's original release years ago and was excited that Annie Nicholas tweaked the story and re-released it. I love the Vanguard series and just felt that Sam was a little lost (initially) in his position to protect and defend those that can not or will not fight for themselves. Enter Clementine. She flips his world on its head and Sam shows he is truly up to the challenge. This is such a fun and action packed series, I highly recommend escaping into the Vanguards. Annie Nicholas writes addictive stories and sexy characters in stomach clenching situations.

This honest and voluntary review was made possible by reading a new copy through Bookfunnel.
Profile Image for James Wharton.
141 reviews10 followers
April 20, 2020
This is the fifth book in the Vanguards series. Each book covers the paranormal romance of a different member of the Vasi (formerly the Omegas) wolf shifter pack. A connecting thread for the entire series is the romance between Daedelus and Sugar, a vampire and a human.

Sam is the pack Sigma responsible for providing protection for pack members. Clementine is a vampire performing a mission for Daedelus and chased by rogue vampires. While the story is enjoyable, it seemed more like filler material than a separate story.

I received this as an ARC in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jill.
491 reviews
April 22, 2020
This was such a great story. I recommend reading them in order or you may be a bit lost. You can catch up but it won't be as satisfying. Sam still feels guilty about Sugar but now he needs to get himself together and protect someone else. Can he pull it together long enough to keep her alive? Or his his self esteem too far gone? I loved Sam and Clementine. They were adorable together and the chemistry was off the charts. They really complimented each other well and I am on the edge of my seat waiting for the next book. We still need more about Sugar, alot has been left unsaid.
Profile Image for Georgiana.
683 reviews12 followers
April 22, 2020
I haven’t read any of the other books in this series, but I felt I was able to follow along with the story. I definitely want to read the other books as I really enjoyed this one and would love to know more about the overall storyline.

For a short story this packs a bit of a punch. It’s a love story with a bit of drama, emotion, and action.

Not only are Sam and Clementine well written characters, but I really enjoyed the other characters as well. I felt the attraction between the two and would love to read more about them. I was easily drawn into their world.
Profile Image for Alexis.
581 reviews6 followers
April 29, 2020
3.5 stars

Sam accepts that He may have been too hard on himself. That being Sigma is more than just keeping someone from getting hurt and that he needs resources to do that.
“Do you mean that?” “You doubt me?” “I’d rather not lay my heart on a platter to be feasted on.” “My dear shifter.” She moved closer until she straddled his hips and cupped his face. “I do not leave a trail of broken hearts in my wake.” She pressed a kiss on his lips, butterfly-light and sweeter than any other they’d shared. “And I plan on feasting on your whole body, not just your heart.”
Profile Image for Kim.
1,134 reviews9 followers
April 30, 2020
Wow, Sam! I just didn’t want to stop reading. I didn’t expect Sam’s story and for it to be like this. There was so much packed into Sigma. Lots of action, lots of questions about what is really going on with the vampires. This story helps to add the threads that will branch to the bigger story of Sugar & Daedalus. I was glad to see that Sam got a strong role as protector and the emotions that went into it. And that he got his girl.
3,067 reviews17 followers
April 15, 2020
Nice Addition to this Great Series!!

We have a Sigma Wolf Sam guarding a human Sugar who is engaged to the Alpha vampire Daedalus. Wow. Mix in a gunfight, espionage, an additional vampire Clementine and you have the result of an entertaining story!

**I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book**
Profile Image for Elizabeth Connor.
1,465 reviews41 followers
April 14, 2020
This is a very brief story in the Omegas series, where Sam discovers his mate, Clementine. Both are guileless and immediately more than attracted to each other. The plot is somewhat predictable, but enjoyable. It's a fun story despite being so short. I wish it had been longer.
2,226 reviews4 followers
April 21, 2020
This is Sam & Clementine's story and it's a surprise to both of them. Sam is a natural born protector so when he's tasked to watch over Clementine, he does so with single minded focus. The girl's bring the snark & the guy's bring the beatdown when Clementine's attackers show up.
Profile Image for Sharon Noble.
2,192 reviews6 followers
April 22, 2020
Sugar is coming home & Sam has been given the job of picking her up. I the way home a car over takes them & nearly runs them of the road. Sugar makes Sam go after it, after another car over takes & starts shooting!
Profile Image for Suzanne Withers.
693 reviews4 followers
May 7, 2020
I loved this exciting tale as Sam and Clementine find their romantic life amid elements of danger, hot chemistry and many twists and turns. This is a well written and entertaining addition to an excellent series. This is my honest opinion
312 reviews8 followers
April 21, 2020
An enjoyable read with werewolves and vampires. A great author with action and growly men. I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC gifted by the author with no obligation
Profile Image for LuDena .
2,415 reviews4 followers
April 23, 2020
Sugar

Ok I know the author has a story line but at this time Sugars selfish suicidal behavior is just too depressing .
73 reviews
February 5, 2022
Great series

Im really enjoying this series love all the characters and the story line I can't wait to read the next one.
Profile Image for Olga Warachim.
332 reviews2 followers
November 22, 2024
Jakoś im dalej w las tym gorzej 🥲 I tak lepsza niż poprzednie ale szału nie ma 🤷‍♀️
Profile Image for T.M. Payne.
Author 37 books93 followers
April 23, 2020
Book Review: Sigma: Humorous Paranormal Romance (Vanguards Book 5)
Author: Annie Nicholas
My Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by: Tammy - Book Nook Nuts

REVIEW
I was so happy to finally get Sam's story. Sam is Sigma although he doesn't feel like it. He couldn't even keep Sugar safe. In this story, I feel he more than makes up for that face although Daedalus doesn't give him any credit. Sugar, however, doesn't feel he did anything. She is his best friend and always will be.
When someone doing a job for the Vamp is in trouble Sam will do all he can to keep her and Sugar safe even if it kills him.
This book was explosively good. Tons of action and the love that forms between Clementine and Sam is beautiful. A fantastic addition to the series and I for one can not way to get Sugar and Daedalus' book.

**I read this book via Kindle Unlimited and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book**

Annie Nicholas
Profile Image for DMCechak.
1,791 reviews24 followers
April 21, 2020
I adore Annie Nicholas stories for the PNR but even more for her character strengths. The struggles and humor that is found throughout the turmoil that these vampires and shifters feel is entertaining and enjoyable. Watching Alphas and Betas and Omegas interact, and fall in love, takes us to another place where we can just believe in a world outside our own.

Well done, Annie!
Profile Image for Carrie Vaughn.
Author 3 books22 followers
August 2, 2012
I didn't realize when I picked this book up to read that it was a book in a series. Even though I hadn't read the rest of the series, I could pick up the story and follow along without feeling completely lost and confused. I will be picking up the rest of this series so I can find out how things got to where they are and then continue with where they're going.

Sigma grabbed me from the first page and I couldn't stop reading. Shifting wolf Sam is assigned to protect Sugar, the human twin of the pack's Alpha female Spice. As he's bringing her home from the hospital, a high speed chase ensues and Sugar demands Sam help the driver. The resulting battle gets Sam in hot water with Sugar's boyfriend, a rather powerful vampire named Daedalus and Sam ends up assigned to protect the vampire victim, Clementine, who is a servant of Daedalus.



I am looking forward to seeing what happens with Sugar after her injuries and what happens with Daedalus and Pal Robi. This is definitely a series to follow.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews

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