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Sons of Navarus #0.5
Vampire Dreams Revamped
A Prequel to the Bestselling Dark Urban Fantasy series, The Sons of Navarus!
A vampire for hundreds of years, Brandon Ridley is surrounded by others of his kind who enjoy their world to the fullest. Orgies, debauchery, and sensual delights leave him empty, though. What he wants is that one woman who will share his life.
Homeless and without any family, Arden Stephens must live on the streets of mid 19th century London, never a safe place for a young woman. One night, as she is running for her life from an attacker, she is rescued by Brandon and offered a place in his home as his maid. Brandon is enchanted by Arden from the moment they meet and yearns to make her one of his kind.
Nightly, he visits her in her sleep, preparing her for the night he will finally make her his own. For Arden, the wanton dreams she has about her handsome employer seduce her and each day when she wakes up, she finds herself more drawn to him. But love and desire aren't enough for Brandon to sire her. He must first obtain the approval of his own sire, an ancient vampire named Vasilije who has thwarted his chance for happiness before.
But if Brandon can convince him, he may finally find the love he's been without for centuries.
Look for all of Gabrielle Bisset's books available for the Kindle!
Vampire Dreams Revamped (A Sons of Navarus Prequel)
Blood Avenged (Sons of Navarus #1)
Blood Betrayed (Sons of Navarus #2)
Longing (A Sons of Navarus Short Story)
Blood Spirit (Sons of Navarus #3)
The Deepest Cut (A Sons of Navarus Short Story)
Stolen Destiny
Destiny Redeemed
Love's Master
Masquerade
The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy
Want three novellas about the sensual Victorian Period? Pick up the Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy, which contains the original Vampire Dreams novella (not found in any format but in the Trilogy), along with Love's Master and Masquerade all for $4.99! And the one volume set of The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy ebook includes the entire first chapter of Blood Avenged, the first book in the Sons of Navarus series.
A vampire for hundreds of years, Brandon Ridley is surrounded by others of his kind who enjoy their world to the fullest. Orgies, debauchery, and sensual delights leave him empty, though. What he wants is that one woman who will share his life.
Homeless and without any family, Arden Stephens must live on the streets of mid 19th century London, never a safe place for a young woman. One night, as she is running for her life from an attacker, she is rescued by Brandon and offered a place in his home as his maid. Brandon is enchanted by Arden from the moment they meet and yearns to make her one of his kind.
Nightly, he visits her in her sleep, preparing her for the night he will finally make her his own. For Arden, the wanton dreams she has about her handsome employer seduce her and each day when she wakes up, she finds herself more drawn to him. But love and desire aren't enough for Brandon to sire her. He must first obtain the approval of his own sire, an ancient vampire named Vasilije who has thwarted his chance for happiness before.
But if Brandon can convince him, he may finally find the love he's been without for centuries.
Look for all of Gabrielle Bisset's books available for the Kindle!
Vampire Dreams Revamped (A Sons of Navarus Prequel)
Blood Avenged (Sons of Navarus #1)
Blood Betrayed (Sons of Navarus #2)
Longing (A Sons of Navarus Short Story)
Blood Spirit (Sons of Navarus #3)
The Deepest Cut (A Sons of Navarus Short Story)
Stolen Destiny
Destiny Redeemed
Love's Master
Masquerade
The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy
Want three novellas about the sensual Victorian Period? Pick up the Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy, which contains the original Vampire Dreams novella (not found in any format but in the Trilogy), along with Love's Master and Masquerade all for $4.99! And the one volume set of The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy ebook includes the entire first chapter of Blood Avenged, the first book in the Sons of Navarus series.
84 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 6, 2012
11 people are currently reading
469 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
September 10, 2012
Rating: 4.5
Heat Rating: 4 out of 5
Vampire Dreams Revamped (pun intended) is the rewrite of the first novella in Gabrielle Bisset's, Victorian Erotic romance trilogy. While I liked the original Vampire Dreams I found that I enjoyed the revamped version more.
This novella is about Brandon Ridley and Arden Stephens. Brandon, a 200 year old vampire, is lonely and longs for nothing more than someone to share his life with. When Brandon met Arden he immediately desired her. Her beauty and obvious intelligence thrilled him and he thought that perhaps he had finally found THE ONE. Unfortunately though, he wasn't allowed to "make" another vampire to join him without his Sire Vasilije's permission. But for some reason Vasilije wouldn't give it to him. Would he be forced to be alone forever?
When I found out that Gabrielle Bisset was rewriting Vampire Dreams I was a little confused. I had liked the novella and had given it a four so to me everything was fine and dandy. But then I got to thinking. The original Vampire Dreams was Bisset's first vampire story and since then she's written 2 more. Plus she's polishing off the third ATM. Though all the stories take place in the same vampire world, Blood Avenged and Blood Betrayed have a different "feel" to them. They also defined the rules to Bisset's world better. This is when I realized that Bisset might be thinking the same thing.
OK, so I said that I liked this version better right? Here's why...
In the original version, Brandon's Sire, Vasilije, grabbed the readers attention. His hold over Brandon was unlike any other Sire/vampire that I've read and it felt a little odd to me. In this version, Gabrielle Bisset spends more time discussing this relationship, making it easier to understand. We also see a lot more of Vasilije in this version. This is a man who takes hedonism to new heights. Can you say orgy?
Another reason why I liked this version better is that it clearly paints Brandon's longing to share something meaningful with someone else. His loneliness was much more palpable for me in this version.
There was just one thing that I disliked about this novella and it was the ending. This story took place in 1850 but at the very end we are fast forwarded to modern times. This was awesome. I loved seeing the HEA was still in place over a century later. The problem? The passage was a little bit too long IMO and held too much foreshadowing for me. Of course, that just might be because I know what lies in the future for this couple.
To old readers: This revamped (love the pun) is a lot more smooth. Read it and you'll fall for Brandon, Arden and Vasilije all over again.
To new readers: This story will open your eyes to the wonderful world of vampires that Gabrielle Bisset has created. Be prepared for a treat!
This book was provided by the author for a honest review.
Heat Rating: 4 out of 5
Vampire Dreams Revamped (pun intended) is the rewrite of the first novella in Gabrielle Bisset's, Victorian Erotic romance trilogy. While I liked the original Vampire Dreams I found that I enjoyed the revamped version more.
This novella is about Brandon Ridley and Arden Stephens. Brandon, a 200 year old vampire, is lonely and longs for nothing more than someone to share his life with. When Brandon met Arden he immediately desired her. Her beauty and obvious intelligence thrilled him and he thought that perhaps he had finally found THE ONE. Unfortunately though, he wasn't allowed to "make" another vampire to join him without his Sire Vasilije's permission. But for some reason Vasilije wouldn't give it to him. Would he be forced to be alone forever?
When I found out that Gabrielle Bisset was rewriting Vampire Dreams I was a little confused. I had liked the novella and had given it a four so to me everything was fine and dandy. But then I got to thinking. The original Vampire Dreams was Bisset's first vampire story and since then she's written 2 more. Plus she's polishing off the third ATM. Though all the stories take place in the same vampire world, Blood Avenged and Blood Betrayed have a different "feel" to them. They also defined the rules to Bisset's world better. This is when I realized that Bisset might be thinking the same thing.
OK, so I said that I liked this version better right? Here's why...
In the original version, Brandon's Sire, Vasilije, grabbed the readers attention. His hold over Brandon was unlike any other Sire/vampire that I've read and it felt a little odd to me. In this version, Gabrielle Bisset spends more time discussing this relationship, making it easier to understand. We also see a lot more of Vasilije in this version. This is a man who takes hedonism to new heights. Can you say orgy?
Another reason why I liked this version better is that it clearly paints Brandon's longing to share something meaningful with someone else. His loneliness was much more palpable for me in this version.
There was just one thing that I disliked about this novella and it was the ending. This story took place in 1850 but at the very end we are fast forwarded to modern times. This was awesome. I loved seeing the HEA was still in place over a century later. The problem? The passage was a little bit too long IMO and held too much foreshadowing for me. Of course, that just might be because I know what lies in the future for this couple.
To old readers: This revamped (love the pun) is a lot more smooth. Read it and you'll fall for Brandon, Arden and Vasilije all over again.
To new readers: This story will open your eyes to the wonderful world of vampires that Gabrielle Bisset has created. Be prepared for a treat!
This book was provided by the author for a honest review.
July 10, 2012
"Vampire Dreams Revamped" is an amazing Prequel to a new series by Gabrielle Bisset called "Sons of Navarus. It is an extended and much improved version of the original Vampire Dreams which leads into the "Sons" series and introduces you to some of the Sons that you will meet in future books in the series.
Arden is a young homeless woman in the dangerous streets of 19th century London. As she is walking alone at night, she is accosted by a man and then rescued by our Hero, Brandon. When Arden explains that she is homeless, Brandon offers to take her into his home as his maid.
Brandon, our hero, a hot, sexy seducer, becomes very attracted to Arden and wants to Sire and bring her into his world to become his own. Unfortunately, his hedonistic sire, Vasilije, a very powerful ancient, holds the power to deny Brandon his request. When Brandon goes to his sire with his request, Vasilije sees Arden's innocence and beauty and threatens Brandon that he wants to claim her as his own.
"Vampire Dreams Revamped" is well-written and sensual erotic romance that will definitely be a keeper and re-read.
Following Vampire Dreams Revamped, you will definitely want to read..."Blood Avenged" the story of Vasilije, which is followed by ..."Blood Betrayed" a heart wrenching story of Declan (Saint) and Solenne.
August 1, 2012
Review by Ollie for bittenbyparanormalromance
Vampire Dreams Revamped is in fact a revamp of Gabrielle Bisset's Vampire Dreams, but why revamp the story? Since Vampire Dreams Ms. Bisset has introduced readers to the "Sons of Navarus" vampires series and Vampire Dreams Revamped provides a better understanding for the set up of this series. When I read the original story I gave it 5 stars and thought it was wonderful, but I have to say this story had me more emotional involved with Brandon. In Vampire Dreams Revamped we get a much better picture of Brandon's loneliness and his desire to have that one special person in his life which make him even more endearing. As the the rest of the story remains the same Vasilije is portrayed in a different light. A sire who truly cares about the ones he has sired and at the same time a very, hot and sexy vampire who feels that life is all about indulging in carnal pleasures however, deep inside he realizes that a part of him can see the beauty of having a special connection with one person.
Set in Victorian England Brandon Ridley discovers a young woman who stirs him like no other before, but the question that remains is will he be able to have her for eternity.
As Arden Stephens runs from danger she is unaware that she may be running into another. Saving Arden from possible death, Brandon give her employment as his maid to tend to his needs, however, Arden is unaware how much she will be tending to his needs and what it may cost her.
The encounters between Arden and Brandon were so intense at times that not only did Brandon leave Arden weak and drained, but also had the reader wishing to trade places with her. The deep passion that develops between the two doesn't go unnoticed by a nemesis that is bent on destroying their happiness.
Both Brandon and Arden have suffered so much in their lifetime and have felt lost and alone in the world until now. The only thing that may keep them apart is their fear of what lies ahead for them and a force bent as keeping them apart. The ending of Vampire Dreams Revamped is different from the original story and takes us to modern times which was a pleasant surprise and presents the reader with a lead up to the “Sons of Navarus” series. This is a very hot, paranormal erotica novella that any vampire fan will enjoy and who loves her vampire strong, powerful and knowledgeable in pleasuring his love for of of eternity is possible.
5 Stars
Vampire Dreams Revamped is in fact a revamp of Gabrielle Bisset's Vampire Dreams, but why revamp the story? Since Vampire Dreams Ms. Bisset has introduced readers to the "Sons of Navarus" vampires series and Vampire Dreams Revamped provides a better understanding for the set up of this series. When I read the original story I gave it 5 stars and thought it was wonderful, but I have to say this story had me more emotional involved with Brandon. In Vampire Dreams Revamped we get a much better picture of Brandon's loneliness and his desire to have that one special person in his life which make him even more endearing. As the the rest of the story remains the same Vasilije is portrayed in a different light. A sire who truly cares about the ones he has sired and at the same time a very, hot and sexy vampire who feels that life is all about indulging in carnal pleasures however, deep inside he realizes that a part of him can see the beauty of having a special connection with one person.
Set in Victorian England Brandon Ridley discovers a young woman who stirs him like no other before, but the question that remains is will he be able to have her for eternity.
As Arden Stephens runs from danger she is unaware that she may be running into another. Saving Arden from possible death, Brandon give her employment as his maid to tend to his needs, however, Arden is unaware how much she will be tending to his needs and what it may cost her.
The encounters between Arden and Brandon were so intense at times that not only did Brandon leave Arden weak and drained, but also had the reader wishing to trade places with her. The deep passion that develops between the two doesn't go unnoticed by a nemesis that is bent on destroying their happiness.
Both Brandon and Arden have suffered so much in their lifetime and have felt lost and alone in the world until now. The only thing that may keep them apart is their fear of what lies ahead for them and a force bent as keeping them apart. The ending of Vampire Dreams Revamped is different from the original story and takes us to modern times which was a pleasant surprise and presents the reader with a lead up to the “Sons of Navarus” series. This is a very hot, paranormal erotica novella that any vampire fan will enjoy and who loves her vampire strong, powerful and knowledgeable in pleasuring his love for of of eternity is possible.
5 Stars
September 18, 2012
After I read “Blood Avenged” by Gabrielle Bisset, I thought that I had to read the prequel novella from this series. Oh god! I should have known better! This novella kept me awake all night! From the beginning until the end this story is what a paranormal romance novella should be: sensual and passionate.
When you’ll read the story it would be impossible not to fall in love with Brandon and not to crave Vasilije once again! And of course, you’ll love Arden, the heroine. Brandon, although a vampire, he isn’t like the others. He is very lonely and he wants a woman to spend his life with. He doesn’t enjoy to be with different woman every other night and he is angry with his sire, Vasilije, because he doesn’t let him be a sire of a vampire of his choosing. Brandon is kind and caring and when he meets Arden, a homeless young woman, he knew from the beginning that she is the one for him. Soon and after she comes home with him to work as his maid a sensual game begins and Arden finds herself quickly in love with Brandon.
She is a very nice person and I loved the way she acts around him. She is shy at first but soon she opens herself and join him in pleasure. Also, I loved the way she protects him although he is stronger and older than her. Of course, both of them are overprotective to each other!
I really liked the appearance of Vasilije here. He is the hottest vampire ever! But in this novella we can see another face of him. At first, I thought that he was cruel to Brandon because he didn’t let him make a vampire of his own, but soon I realize that he was protecting him. He just wanted to find the perfect woman first! Oh Vasilije, you are perfect indeed!!!
A very nice read that I am sure that all the fans of paranormal romance will enjoy!!
When you’ll read the story it would be impossible not to fall in love with Brandon and not to crave Vasilije once again! And of course, you’ll love Arden, the heroine. Brandon, although a vampire, he isn’t like the others. He is very lonely and he wants a woman to spend his life with. He doesn’t enjoy to be with different woman every other night and he is angry with his sire, Vasilije, because he doesn’t let him be a sire of a vampire of his choosing. Brandon is kind and caring and when he meets Arden, a homeless young woman, he knew from the beginning that she is the one for him. Soon and after she comes home with him to work as his maid a sensual game begins and Arden finds herself quickly in love with Brandon.
She is a very nice person and I loved the way she acts around him. She is shy at first but soon she opens herself and join him in pleasure. Also, I loved the way she protects him although he is stronger and older than her. Of course, both of them are overprotective to each other!
I really liked the appearance of Vasilije here. He is the hottest vampire ever! But in this novella we can see another face of him. At first, I thought that he was cruel to Brandon because he didn’t let him make a vampire of his own, but soon I realize that he was protecting him. He just wanted to find the perfect woman first! Oh Vasilije, you are perfect indeed!!!
A very nice read that I am sure that all the fans of paranormal romance will enjoy!!
July 19, 2012
This is my very first book I'v read by Gabrielle Bisset's. Vampire Dreams Revamped was surpisingly good. What I love about was that, there was no drama, like being shocked about vampires. I quite liked Arden and Brandon. His sire Vasilije, I hope he has a book coz he's very interesting guy :D. The book was fabulous, hawt and perfect. The ending was sweet and Gabrielle just introduced us to a new dangerous modern world for the Vampire citizens. I'm going to jump to The Sons of Navarus series soon. I'm in love with this world Gabrielle ;D.
September 4, 2012
Words can not describe how much I LOVED this book. I was pulled in from the beginning and fell completely in love with the characters. I found it so impossible to put this book down, that I read it in one sitting.
I am so glad that I came across this book and can't wait to read the next one.
Gabrielle has definitely created a fan for life!! :)
I am so glad that I came across this book and can't wait to read the next one.
Gabrielle has definitely created a fan for life!! :)
February 8, 2013
A short and satisfying read that’s a great start to the Sons of Navarus series; it definitely had me wanting more! I loved the vibe Vasilije (love that vamp) threw off and his lifestyle, so very carefree. A different type of romance that will haunt your dreams and a must read for any paranormal romance fan.
Brandon is a different type of vampire then we are used to. He actually comes off more human than vampire right from the start (which is not a bad thing at all), even though he has vampire powers. He’s handsome, has a huge heart and knows what he desires to have for the rest of his eternal life and refuses to stoop to the level his fellow vampire comrades do. He mostly stays to himself and is not so free giving with his body. (He’s still a total hottie and I enjoy his ways.)
Arden recently lost her father and has been homeless ever since. Running away from a male that wants to do lord knows what with her, she runs straight into an unknown place and right into the arms of Brandon. Brandon offers his help to her and gives it in a rather… creative way, then offers her a job with him as a maid. From there things change for both of them in the most delightful ways imaginable :)
This can be read and enjoyed whether you are reading it as a stand-alone, in between books or after you enjoyed the other books in the Sons of Navarus series. I CANNOT wait for more!
Brandon is a different type of vampire then we are used to. He actually comes off more human than vampire right from the start (which is not a bad thing at all), even though he has vampire powers. He’s handsome, has a huge heart and knows what he desires to have for the rest of his eternal life and refuses to stoop to the level his fellow vampire comrades do. He mostly stays to himself and is not so free giving with his body. (He’s still a total hottie and I enjoy his ways.)
Arden recently lost her father and has been homeless ever since. Running away from a male that wants to do lord knows what with her, she runs straight into an unknown place and right into the arms of Brandon. Brandon offers his help to her and gives it in a rather… creative way, then offers her a job with him as a maid. From there things change for both of them in the most delightful ways imaginable :)
This can be read and enjoyed whether you are reading it as a stand-alone, in between books or after you enjoyed the other books in the Sons of Navarus series. I CANNOT wait for more!
December 14, 2018
Full Review posted on Book Lovin' Mamas
I recommend this book to paranormal readers out there, fans of Gabrielle Bisset who have yet to read the prequel, and vampire readers who need their vampire fix. =)
If you haven’t read Book #1 or Book #2 of the Sons of Navarus, yet, you definitely should read this book first. =) Believe me, you will not be disappointed. You will fall in love with the characters before you even read the other books.
Now, onto Blood Avenged because I do not think I can wait any longer. =)
I recommend this book to paranormal readers out there, fans of Gabrielle Bisset who have yet to read the prequel, and vampire readers who need their vampire fix. =)
If you haven’t read Book #1 or Book #2 of the Sons of Navarus, yet, you definitely should read this book first. =) Believe me, you will not be disappointed. You will fall in love with the characters before you even read the other books.
Now, onto Blood Avenged because I do not think I can wait any longer. =)
August 14, 2012
This series came highly recommended to me by people I trust, so I thought I would give it a try and I wasn't disappointed in the slightest.
A short little vampire tale that promises to lead into an even better series. I will be continuing on with these.
A short little vampire tale that promises to lead into an even better series. I will be continuing on with these.
September 23, 2012
This novella is a great start to Gbrielle Bisset's Sons of Navarus erotic romance series. The story is well written and easy to follow. The storyline flows well. The content is eroctic romance and there are some hot and steamy scenes to wet you erotic taste buds. The story started out a bit slow for me, but quickly picked up and drew me in.
The Hero, Brandon, is not the all out Alpha male I'm used too or normally attracted to, but somehow I found myself very much liking him. I liked the Heroine, Arden, too. She came into her own by the end. I was rooting for them both when it came down to whether or not Brandon would be allowed to sire Arden, and it was this scene that really drew me to Brandon. He really shows his spirit here. A storng subcharacter, Vasilije, plays several intricate and vital roles in the novella. He is a strong and downright sexy character. Vasilije is the type of character you'll hate to love but non the less love him I did. Fortunately, he's revisisted in later books and gets his own eventually.
Overall, I'd say this is a great prequel to the Sons of Navarus series. It's not action packed, but it is hot and steamy with of smexy scenes to give you a taste of the series and Bisset's writing style, a style I did enjoy. If you like erotic romance, smexy hereos with a bite (vampires), a dash of dark, then I recommend you try this series out with this prequel.
Note: Adult content!!! Not for young readers...18 and over only highly recommended.
The Hero, Brandon, is not the all out Alpha male I'm used too or normally attracted to, but somehow I found myself very much liking him. I liked the Heroine, Arden, too. She came into her own by the end. I was rooting for them both when it came down to whether or not Brandon would be allowed to sire Arden, and it was this scene that really drew me to Brandon. He really shows his spirit here. A storng subcharacter, Vasilije, plays several intricate and vital roles in the novella. He is a strong and downright sexy character. Vasilije is the type of character you'll hate to love but non the less love him I did. Fortunately, he's revisisted in later books and gets his own eventually.
Overall, I'd say this is a great prequel to the Sons of Navarus series. It's not action packed, but it is hot and steamy with of smexy scenes to give you a taste of the series and Bisset's writing style, a style I did enjoy. If you like erotic romance, smexy hereos with a bite (vampires), a dash of dark, then I recommend you try this series out with this prequel.
Note: Adult content!!! Not for young readers...18 and over only highly recommended.
September 11, 2014
MIXED FEELINGS
Brandon Ridley has been a vampire for over 200 years, unlike his sire Vasilije he's lonely he would love to find the one to spend all eternity with him. Then one night he rescues a young woman from being attacked and takes her home with him. He hires her to be his maid. Arden Stephens is homeless and despite the small niggle that maybe she shouldn't go home with this strange man she doesn't feel in danger. As the days pass by Arden becomes more attracted to Brandon, her erotic dreams about him consume her.
Brandon wants Arden to be his forever, but he cannot turn her without his sires permission, something Vasilije has always refused.
This is the first read for me by this author. While I liked the idea of the story, a vampire and human romance. There's little romance IMO. For the most part the vampires in this story which is set in Victorian London live a very hedonistic lifestyle. This entails them sleeping all day, then partying all night. Brandon is different he just wants one meaningful relationship, that one person to spend eternity with. So far his sire has refused permission to anyone Brandon had brought before him.
I found the characters of Brandon and Arden a bit wishy washy they floated across the pages without making any real impact for me. This definitely needed fleshing out more. What I feel I must add is that there's dubious consent in this which some readers might find offensive. I will read the next book to see where this series goes.
Brandon Ridley has been a vampire for over 200 years, unlike his sire Vasilije he's lonely he would love to find the one to spend all eternity with him. Then one night he rescues a young woman from being attacked and takes her home with him. He hires her to be his maid. Arden Stephens is homeless and despite the small niggle that maybe she shouldn't go home with this strange man she doesn't feel in danger. As the days pass by Arden becomes more attracted to Brandon, her erotic dreams about him consume her.
Brandon wants Arden to be his forever, but he cannot turn her without his sires permission, something Vasilije has always refused.
This is the first read for me by this author. While I liked the idea of the story, a vampire and human romance. There's little romance IMO. For the most part the vampires in this story which is set in Victorian London live a very hedonistic lifestyle. This entails them sleeping all day, then partying all night. Brandon is different he just wants one meaningful relationship, that one person to spend eternity with. So far his sire has refused permission to anyone Brandon had brought before him.
I found the characters of Brandon and Arden a bit wishy washy they floated across the pages without making any real impact for me. This definitely needed fleshing out more. What I feel I must add is that there's dubious consent in this which some readers might find offensive. I will read the next book to see where this series goes.
September 27, 2012
OMG what a fab start to an amazing series, such a great collection of character's and storyline of vampire desire and love that can build from a simple kind act. i love how these two character's interacted and yes he was a bit naughty at first he soon made up for it with the passion and expression shown to her when you find your soul mate. I loved how their love lasted a lifetime and stops ready for the next chapter in the form of the next book. A fabulous tale of how classes and differences can unite to make a bonding strong enough to last.
A must read for all romance lovers as well as vampire hottie's and some amazing well described bedroom scene's which may make you blush.
Can't wait for the next one xxx
A must read for all romance lovers as well as vampire hottie's and some amazing well described bedroom scene's which may make you blush.
Can't wait for the next one xxx
August 29, 2012
I am hooked , I fell in love with the characters , Brandon Ridley and Arden Stephens even with Brandon's sire Vasilije (talk about a sexual devil) .
It is times like this that I wish I had the gift of making magic with words to weave the imagination of a make believe world seem so real you feel you are living every sight sound or adventure that the characters are experiencing , but alas this is not my gift .
I can say that You will be in for a highly erotic and exciting time from the first page to the last and still feel this is JUST THE BEGINNING that is the wonder of this lovely book . I highly recommend you spend some time and like me read it over and over again. ENJOY
It is times like this that I wish I had the gift of making magic with words to weave the imagination of a make believe world seem so real you feel you are living every sight sound or adventure that the characters are experiencing , but alas this is not my gift .
I can say that You will be in for a highly erotic and exciting time from the first page to the last and still feel this is JUST THE BEGINNING that is the wonder of this lovely book . I highly recommend you spend some time and like me read it over and over again. ENJOY
February 15, 2013
Loved Brandons story. A man wanting a real relationship with hot dream sex thrown in for good measure. Had to say I wasnt liking Vasilije in this book but when it all comes together you see why he was doing what he did. Cant wait to get started on the next book in the series.
May 9, 2013
This was mostly sex and very little else. It lacked story. I didn't find any of the characters sympathetic and was appalled by some of the choices. I don't mind sex, but it shouldn't be the end all and be all of a book unless that is intended to be what it is.
March 4, 2021
Too rushed. There were things stated that had no root in the previous paragraphs.
E. g. Brandon thought of Arden as a lady, even though he met her in an abandoned house as she was on the run from another vamp. What gave him this impression? The reader doesn't know.
Then he took her home and she "congratulated herself on her luck" on the way, basically a street urchin just trusted and believed a rando she just met. The use of that phrase was so weird and just no way, not believable.
She met him two times and she already says
"I've never met a more infuriating man! He runs hot and cold..."
But they had only two interactions, exchanged 10 sentences of dialogue in total. Not clear where this came from and this is the point at which I abandoned the book.
Frustrating and not worth my 3 euro.
E. g. Brandon thought of Arden as a lady, even though he met her in an abandoned house as she was on the run from another vamp. What gave him this impression? The reader doesn't know.
Then he took her home and she "congratulated herself on her luck" on the way, basically a street urchin just trusted and believed a rando she just met. The use of that phrase was so weird and just no way, not believable.
She met him two times and she already says
"I've never met a more infuriating man! He runs hot and cold..."
But they had only two interactions, exchanged 10 sentences of dialogue in total. Not clear where this came from and this is the point at which I abandoned the book.
Frustrating and not worth my 3 euro.
February 6, 2016
I picked this up as a quick airplane read. The maid of a vampire prompt sounded interesting enough, but I didn't read or hear of any works by this author beforehand. I don't know about her other books, but this particular one was very rushed and the plot was thrown together rather poorly. "Vampire Dreams" (also known by other titles) is about a young girl of unfortunate circumstances, forced to live on the streets after the loss of her father and family fortune. She is soon rescued by Lord Brandon Ridley, an aristocratic vampire noble who desires nothing more than to sire a his own vampire (ie. a woman companion) but according to "vampire law" he first requires permission from his own sire to do so. And his sire is possessive, cruel, and keen on keeping Brandon isolated and dependent on him for as long as possible.
The story started out strong, but had a steady decline plot-wise. Once Arden (the young girl Brandon rescues) is brought to Lord Ridley's house, she becomes his maid and basically gets raped by him over the course of several nights. Some people might argue with me on this, but what happens is this: Brandon comes to her room at night and puts a spell on her so that she 1. comes awake, 2. does not remember anything he's about to do to her, and 3. becomes WILLING to do whatever he wants or asks of her. So it was never truly consensual and he explains later that by doing this several nights in a row the girl guaranteed to develop feelings for him, but for the sake of this review I digress. I would have been fine with this if he showed some concern for Arden and of her own feelings (not the artificial ones he forced on her) but Brandon was dead-set on forcing himself on her, and planned on turning her into a vampire regardless of if she wanted to or not. It got to a point where I doubted that he was even going to ask her, but before it happened (whoops spoilers) he basically just said (85% of the way through the book) "hey btw I'm a vampire. I want you to be one too. That okay? Cool, let's do this." The build up to this moment was not very exciting and Arden's days at the Ridley home were more or less the same.
The last thing I'll mention is the antagonist, Brandon's sire (who's rather exotic name I don't care to look up and reference right now). The object of all Brandon's hate and the cause of his unhappiness. Well, it turns out his sire was just misunderstood, and only rejected all Brandon's pleas to sire women in the past because he was dedicated to protecting Brandon from mistakes. Siring a woman he didn't truly love or care for, for example. When Brandon formally requests turning Arden (this was before she even knew Brandon was a vampire...), Brandon's sire hypnotizes her and decides to take her for himself. Brandon falls into a desperate frenzy and threatens to lung a stake into his sire, and then he just gives the girl up, just like that. "No need to stake me, you can have her. Sorry." That was the only conflict in this whole book. Maybe 3-4 pages of a pre-fight that never really happened. After that the sire just backs up and lets them be together.
"Vampire Dreams" was too rushed for my tastes, but it was a quick read that I could very quickly eliminate from my to-read list, and something I could use to pass an hour or two on the plane. No plans to read anything else by this author though, and definitely don't care to pick up another book from this series.
The story started out strong, but had a steady decline plot-wise. Once Arden (the young girl Brandon rescues) is brought to Lord Ridley's house, she becomes his maid and basically gets raped by him over the course of several nights. Some people might argue with me on this, but what happens is this: Brandon comes to her room at night and puts a spell on her so that she 1. comes awake, 2. does not remember anything he's about to do to her, and 3. becomes WILLING to do whatever he wants or asks of her. So it was never truly consensual and he explains later that by doing this several nights in a row the girl guaranteed to develop feelings for him, but for the sake of this review I digress. I would have been fine with this if he showed some concern for Arden and of her own feelings (not the artificial ones he forced on her) but Brandon was dead-set on forcing himself on her, and planned on turning her into a vampire regardless of if she wanted to or not. It got to a point where I doubted that he was even going to ask her, but before it happened (whoops spoilers) he basically just said (85% of the way through the book) "hey btw I'm a vampire. I want you to be one too. That okay? Cool, let's do this." The build up to this moment was not very exciting and Arden's days at the Ridley home were more or less the same.
The last thing I'll mention is the antagonist, Brandon's sire (who's rather exotic name I don't care to look up and reference right now). The object of all Brandon's hate and the cause of his unhappiness. Well, it turns out his sire was just misunderstood, and only rejected all Brandon's pleas to sire women in the past because he was dedicated to protecting Brandon from mistakes. Siring a woman he didn't truly love or care for, for example. When Brandon formally requests turning Arden (this was before she even knew Brandon was a vampire...), Brandon's sire hypnotizes her and decides to take her for himself. Brandon falls into a desperate frenzy and threatens to lung a stake into his sire, and then he just gives the girl up, just like that. "No need to stake me, you can have her. Sorry." That was the only conflict in this whole book. Maybe 3-4 pages of a pre-fight that never really happened. After that the sire just backs up and lets them be together.
"Vampire Dreams" was too rushed for my tastes, but it was a quick read that I could very quickly eliminate from my to-read list, and something I could use to pass an hour or two on the plane. No plans to read anything else by this author though, and definitely don't care to pick up another book from this series.
September 8, 2012
VAMPIRE DREAMS-Revamped (Sons of Navarus prequel) by Gabrielle Bisset
NOTE: Series contains mature adult content
VAMPIRE DREAMS is the prequel novella to Gabrielle Bissett’s Sons of Navarus series. Brandon Riley was a 200 year old vampire who had yet to sire another. Lonely in a world full of vampires and humans, Brandon thought he finally found the one he could make his own. Brandon wanted to find love.
Arden Stephens was homeless. Following the death of her father, she was left penniless with no experience or hope. Trying to make a life on the streets was next to impossible, yet when a complete stranger saved her from a stalker, Arden couldn’t refuse his offer of a job. But something about her new employer was different. And every night her dreams were becoming increasingly sexual and Brandon figured prominently in every one.
Vasilije is Brandon’s sire. For over 200 years, Brandon was Vasilije’s favorite. Cruel and sadistic, Vasilije needed his connection to Brandon, yet he refused to allow Brandon to sire one of his own. Night after night Vasilije held parties and orgies hoping to lure Brandon into the lifestyle demanded by most vampires. Even Delilah, another of Vasilije’s favorites despised Brandon-jealousy among vampires was lethal. But introducing Arden to Vasilije may have been a mistake when the ancient vampire demanded Arden for himself.
VAMPIRE DREAMS-REVAMPED is a short story that introduces Vasilije, an ancient vampire who has sired many vampires over the years. The Sons of Navarus series will focus on Vasilije and the vampires of The Sons of Navarus. The storylines are both sensual and erotic, with a little gothic horror to keep the vampire genre alive.
see all of my reviews at : thereadingcafe.com
NOTE: Series contains mature adult content
VAMPIRE DREAMS is the prequel novella to Gabrielle Bissett’s Sons of Navarus series. Brandon Riley was a 200 year old vampire who had yet to sire another. Lonely in a world full of vampires and humans, Brandon thought he finally found the one he could make his own. Brandon wanted to find love.
Arden Stephens was homeless. Following the death of her father, she was left penniless with no experience or hope. Trying to make a life on the streets was next to impossible, yet when a complete stranger saved her from a stalker, Arden couldn’t refuse his offer of a job. But something about her new employer was different. And every night her dreams were becoming increasingly sexual and Brandon figured prominently in every one.
Vasilije is Brandon’s sire. For over 200 years, Brandon was Vasilije’s favorite. Cruel and sadistic, Vasilije needed his connection to Brandon, yet he refused to allow Brandon to sire one of his own. Night after night Vasilije held parties and orgies hoping to lure Brandon into the lifestyle demanded by most vampires. Even Delilah, another of Vasilije’s favorites despised Brandon-jealousy among vampires was lethal. But introducing Arden to Vasilije may have been a mistake when the ancient vampire demanded Arden for himself.
VAMPIRE DREAMS-REVAMPED is a short story that introduces Vasilije, an ancient vampire who has sired many vampires over the years. The Sons of Navarus series will focus on Vasilije and the vampires of The Sons of Navarus. The storylines are both sensual and erotic, with a little gothic horror to keep the vampire genre alive.
see all of my reviews at : thereadingcafe.com
February 20, 2024
Vampire Dreams Revamped is an updated, redone, version of Vampire Dreams. I didn't read that so have no comparison, so instead, I will just review this book!
For a novella, Gabrielle Bisset manages to impart a vast amount of knowledge and world-building. You get a clear idea of how the 'average' vampire behaves, how Brandon is an oddity, and the close yet strange relationship he has with his sire. Brandon has never been one for the hedonistic lifestyle that the others seem to love, instead, he longs for just one person to spend the rest of his (eternal) life with. He seems to have found it in Arden - a homeless woman with no family. Although in a horrible situation, Brandon sees the innocence in her and wants her for his own. Whilst his methods may be dubious to some, it is all part of his plan to make her his forever... if that is what she wants too.
This is a good introductory novella into the world of the Sons of Navarus, and will definitely leave the reader wanting to know more. There are a number of characters introduced that, for whatever reason, are intriguing and captivating. With no editing or grammatical errors to disrupt the flow of reading, this is certain to capture your interest. Definitely recommended by me.
* Verified Purchase - November 2012 *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 1, 2016
For a novella, Gabrielle Bisset manages to impart a vast amount of knowledge and world-building. You get a clear idea of how the 'average' vampire behaves, how Brandon is an oddity, and the close yet strange relationship he has with his sire. Brandon has never been one for the hedonistic lifestyle that the others seem to love, instead, he longs for just one person to spend the rest of his (eternal) life with. He seems to have found it in Arden - a homeless woman with no family. Although in a horrible situation, Brandon sees the innocence in her and wants her for his own. Whilst his methods may be dubious to some, it is all part of his plan to make her his forever... if that is what she wants too.
This is a good introductory novella into the world of the Sons of Navarus, and will definitely leave the reader wanting to know more. There are a number of characters introduced that, for whatever reason, are intriguing and captivating. With no editing or grammatical errors to disrupt the flow of reading, this is certain to capture your interest. Definitely recommended by me.
* Verified Purchase - November 2012 *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 1, 2016
July 29, 2015
This is the first book that I have read by Gabrielle Bisset, and I have to say that even though I don't really read a lot of vampire books, I found that I really enjoyed this one. This book is a prequel to her "Sons of Navarus" series and now I am hooked. This is the story of Brandon Ridley and Arden Stephens. He is a vampire and she is a homeless woman with no family. He offers her a place in his home as a maid, but really has other plans for her. He wants to turn her and be her sire, so that he can finally have love in his life, that he has done without for so very long, but first he must get permission from his sire, Vasilije. And that will prove hard to get. Looking forward to more in this series, right now I have a love/hate relationship going on with Vasilije, but by the end of the book he had somewhat redeemed himself to me. He really has Brandon's best interest at heart. I highly recommend this book if you are a fan of vampire books, that are both sensual and erotic, while still staying true to the vampire ways.
September 6, 2012
I suppose if the purpose of a prequel novella is to entice you to read the rest of the series, Vampire Dreams Revamped did just that.
I really liked the premise and the set up. I even liked the characters, it just all seemed kind of rushed to me. I’m hoping that the rest of the series revisits Arden and Brandon. They were an interesting couple and readers were left with a bit of teasing tension at the end.
The first official book in the series, Blood Avenged, belongs to Vasilije. He was slightly redeemed by the end of Vampire Dreams Revamped, but he still has a long way to go for me to really like him. I’ll probably pick up the first book just to see how the actual series unfolds. I liked the vampire world that Gabrielle Bisset introduces readers to in this short novella so odds are it’s one that I will be watching.
I really liked the premise and the set up. I even liked the characters, it just all seemed kind of rushed to me. I’m hoping that the rest of the series revisits Arden and Brandon. They were an interesting couple and readers were left with a bit of teasing tension at the end.
The first official book in the series, Blood Avenged, belongs to Vasilije. He was slightly redeemed by the end of Vampire Dreams Revamped, but he still has a long way to go for me to really like him. I’ll probably pick up the first book just to see how the actual series unfolds. I liked the vampire world that Gabrielle Bisset introduces readers to in this short novella so odds are it’s one that I will be watching.
March 21, 2015
This is the prequel to Blood Avenged and other than two of the characters there really isn't much that carries over to Blood Avenged. It really didn't set anything up for Blood Avenged. It was just there and fairly lame at that. It was just there and fairly lame at that. However, I wanted to give the author another chance and purchased and started Blood Avenged.
March 28, 2013
I really enjoyed this novella, I was able to connect to the 2 main characters Arden and Brandon. Though their relationship happened quite quickly probably due to the shorter length of the book, it was a sweet connection they had. I am not quite sure what to think of Vasilije, he seems kind of pompous to me, but what is a book without that one character you love to despise. I am hoping for more back ground on the actual Sons of Navarus with the up coming books so looking forward to reading more. If you like paranormal/vampire romance give this series a try, that's what I am doing and so far I like it!!
October 7, 2013
A prequel to the Sons of Navarus series. The characters just didn't quite connect to me. Vampire Brandon Ridley saves homeless Arden Stephens from attackers. He takes her home with him and gives her a place in his household. It is instant attraction to her and he wants her to be his companion from now to eternity. He is even willing to fight his sire -a huge vampire no no- to keep Arden with him.
The thing is... I REALLY want to like this series. I think it has a lot of potential. So... I will read book one in hopes that in a full novel the characters will be better developed and the story has more room to grow and mature.
The thing is... I REALLY want to like this series. I think it has a lot of potential. So... I will read book one in hopes that in a full novel the characters will be better developed and the story has more room to grow and mature.
May 30, 2015
3,5 stars. A very good story, but a little too short. Also I was not entirely happy about how things started - when Brandon hypnotized Arden in her sleep in order to take her. In my opinion that's rape, even if the spell worked in way that she did things she would have done if she was awake.
I was not entirely thrilled about Vasilje either. Maybe he had a heart somewhere deep inside him, but mostly he was just cunning and manipulative, and I could not stand him.
But overall I liked the book and I will continue with this series.
I was not entirely thrilled about Vasilje either. Maybe he had a heart somewhere deep inside him, but mostly he was just cunning and manipulative, and I could not stand him.
But overall I liked the book and I will continue with this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2013
The orginal was a charming sensual read. What Gabrielle has done in the new revamp, is to give as more insight to the two central characters, Brandon is a vampire and Arden a human making their love story more exciting and hotter. With the added scenes of vampires from her Sons of Navarus Series and new female vampires it gives us insight into the interaction between them. If you love erotic sensual vampires. This is a must read.
November 29, 2015
This author writes well enough but I can't help but compare most vampire series to J.R Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood series. I just don't get sucked into the world created in the Sons of Navarus. I have read up through book 4 and I think that I'm done. I got all of the stories in the book sets and thought that I would like them more than I did by all of the 5 star reviews. Maybe the stories are okay for someone else but I just felt that they were lacking something.
May 22, 2015
A Sexy Vampire and his True Love
I was introduced to this series when I read the first boxed set. Never. Thought I would like this type of book, but now I'm hooked. Decided to go back and start at the beginning. Never thought a vampire could be so loving. As always another great one from G. Bisset. If you don't think you'll like this type of book, try this one. It's short and easy to read and it will hook you in.
I was introduced to this series when I read the first boxed set. Never. Thought I would like this type of book, but now I'm hooked. Decided to go back and start at the beginning. Never thought a vampire could be so loving. As always another great one from G. Bisset. If you don't think you'll like this type of book, try this one. It's short and easy to read and it will hook you in.
August 21, 2012
This book of gabrielle's didn't disappointment I couldn't put book down as a intro to sons of narvarus I can't wait to read next to books. Definitely a recommend to my friends super sexy read
September 26, 2012
This is a new to me series, I will definitely be reading the next book in the series soon!
I loved how Arden and Brandon fell in love. It was so sweet. I really wanted to punch Vasilje until the reason he was such an ass came out. Then I kinda liked him. :)
I loved how Arden and Brandon fell in love. It was so sweet. I really wanted to punch Vasilje until the reason he was such an ass came out. Then I kinda liked him. :)
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