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Dirty Blood #4
The Forsaken Vampire
My task is simple—kidnap Princess Rolfe. But the second I lay eyes on her…I realize she’s anything but simple.
Rancor, Leader of the Teeth, has commanded I fetch her in exchange for the Golden Serpent venom. But my plan is immediately derailed when I feel it. When I feel how much she wants me…
I’ve had many lovers in my lifetime, but her passion puts them all to shame. One night turns into two…and then three…and then it becomes clear all my nights will be reserved for this woman. But I gave Rancor my word—and I have to keep it.
She’s too ferocious to take by force so I drug her before I steal her from Delacroix. I escort her all the way to the Teeth and leave her there until Rancor tells me his plans. “We’ll play with her for a bit…and then we’ll eat her. And once her father comes for her, we’ll eat him too.”
With my obligation fulfilled, I’m free to go. But can I leave such a beautiful woman to a horrible fate?
Rancor, Leader of the Teeth, has commanded I fetch her in exchange for the Golden Serpent venom. But my plan is immediately derailed when I feel it. When I feel how much she wants me…
I’ve had many lovers in my lifetime, but her passion puts them all to shame. One night turns into two…and then three…and then it becomes clear all my nights will be reserved for this woman. But I gave Rancor my word—and I have to keep it.
She’s too ferocious to take by force so I drug her before I steal her from Delacroix. I escort her all the way to the Teeth and leave her there until Rancor tells me his plans. “We’ll play with her for a bit…and then we’ll eat her. And once her father comes for her, we’ll eat him too.”
With my obligation fulfilled, I’m free to go. But can I leave such a beautiful woman to a horrible fate?
414 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2023
1404 people are currently reading
1652 people want to read
About the author
Penelope Barsetti
32 books950 followersPenelope Barsetti is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. Her beloved novels have sold more than 5 Million copies, and her work has been translated into a dozen languages. Readers may know her by another name, Penelope Sky, where she writes contemporary dark romance.
An avid wine drinker, napper, and Netflix junkie, she lives in California with her family, but if she could live anywhere, it would be Florence, Italy. For those familiar with her work, you’ll know exactly why that’s the case.
Fantasy Romance is her favorite genre to read, and she’s excited to release her own novels into the world.
An avid wine drinker, napper, and Netflix junkie, she lives in California with her family, but if she could live anywhere, it would be Florence, Italy. For those familiar with her work, you’ll know exactly why that’s the case.
Fantasy Romance is her favorite genre to read, and she’s excited to release her own novels into the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 241 reviews
May 6, 2024
3.75 Stars
A quick and steamy read!
In this installment, we follow the story between Harlow and Aurelias. While I found their relationship to progress quickly, I feel that there is still room for further character development, particularly for Aurelias. However, I am optimistic that the next book will address this issue. Additionally, I believe that the author could have maintained a consistent point of view by focusing solely on Harlow and Aurelias' perspectives, which would have enhanced the flow of the novel. Despite these minor issues, I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the next novel.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Penelope Barsetti, and Dreamscape Media for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
A quick and steamy read!
In this installment, we follow the story between Harlow and Aurelias. While I found their relationship to progress quickly, I feel that there is still room for further character development, particularly for Aurelias. However, I am optimistic that the next book will address this issue. Additionally, I believe that the author could have maintained a consistent point of view by focusing solely on Harlow and Aurelias' perspectives, which would have enhanced the flow of the novel. Despite these minor issues, I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the next novel.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Penelope Barsetti, and Dreamscape Media for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
May 24, 2024
Not impressed
Wtf was this dialogue. What year is it? I did not expect to have to read the word “situationship” in this book but here we are.
Wtf was this dialogue. What year is it? I did not expect to have to read the word “situationship” in this book but here we are.
November 30, 2023
Loved Harlow and Aurelias
Okay I loved the parts of the book with Harlow and Aurelias, but Huntley mansplaning to Avice about child loss, despression, infidelity and spousal commitments, made me want to throttle him. The entire Ian and Avice, side plot stalled the book, and made me rethink my love of Huntley. The Fogotten was a fabulously series, but destroying the HEA of characters in this book sucked. If I wanted martial strife in a book I’d watch reality t.v..
The book has some continuity errors in it, that a good editor should have caught. I truly don’t understand the editing quality of this series. As continuity issues pop up a lot.
Okay I loved the parts of the book with Harlow and Aurelias, but Huntley mansplaning to Avice about child loss, despression, infidelity and spousal commitments, made me want to throttle him. The entire Ian and Avice, side plot stalled the book, and made me rethink my love of Huntley. The Fogotten was a fabulously series, but destroying the HEA of characters in this book sucked. If I wanted martial strife in a book I’d watch reality t.v..
The book has some continuity errors in it, that a good editor should have caught. I truly don’t understand the editing quality of this series. As continuity issues pop up a lot.
January 21, 2024
THIS WAS FUCKING PAINFUL TO READ.
This review is based on the entire Trilogy of Aurelias and Harlow's story.
The story was angsty, but also unnecessarily tear-your-heart-out painful. I was immensely disappointed with THE FORSAKEN VAMPIRE, because I had high expectations and delusions - so that one's one me - but THE BROKEN PRINCE and CLASH OF KINGDOMS managed to mollify me, somewhat. TFV was so superficial and smutty. It didn't start out with a bang, just plenty of fucking and sex. I DIDN'T BUY INTO IT.
Why the disappointment?
I had it in my head that Aurelias's character was regal, reserve and austere compared to his brothers, seeing how he was the favourite son, and despised humans. In other words, he had a stick up his ass. But sadly, I was sorely disabused of my illusion when we got a very 'playboy' type of Aurelias here that didn't ring true with his original character in Kingsnake's story - THE REASON WHY I FELL IN LOVE WITH HIS CHARACTER IN THE FIRST PLACE.
BOO FUCKING HOO!
WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED?! It's like he turned into someone else, and I'm still wondering if that's because of his mission to kidnap Harlow, so he played the 'player' card. But after that, I felt weird when he kept calling Harlow 'BABY' because he didn't seem like the type of guy who would call his lover baby....it was too modern...too out of character in comparison with his supposedly 'rigid' manner. AND don't get me started by how AURELIAS and Harlow's father uses the same phrase BABY to call their lovers, and ATTAGIRL to praise Harlow. It's like...recycled shit!
Secondly, Harlow's initial impression was 'PROMISCOUS, FLIGHTY and IMMATURE' Princess. I disliked how she slept around too much, broke men's hearts and wasn't much of a responsible, dutiful Princess. In my honest opinion, she got what she deserved when Aurelias spurned her the first time. Karma's a bitch! And I stand corrected (partially) when the first book was just the MCs fucking. I failed to buy into them 'falling in love' with each other after a few fucks. In Book 2 and 3, she completely faded into the background while the men went out to save the day and she just cried over being rejected or moping over Aurelias. WHERE WAS MY BAD ASS HEROINE?!
WHY WAS IT PAINFUL TO READ?
While Harlow's character mellowed into acceptable in the next 2 books, AURELIAS turned into a woman's heartbreak nightmare. Now, if you haven't read Kingsnake's story, I urge you to do so before reading this because IT REALLY MAKES A DIFFERENCE TO KNOWING AURELIAS'S BACKGROUND AND RELATIONSHIP WITH HIS FAMILY, in order to understand his thoughts and actions. Aurelias's fear of turning a human into a vampire due to how he loss his fiancée hundreds of years ago became a sore point and dealbreaker of his relationship with Harlow. He drained the woman to death. SO SADLY WE WON'T GET ANY OF THE HOT INTIMATE FANG SUCKING ACTION HERE LIKE KINGSNAKE AND LARISA'S STORY BECAUSE AURELIAS was too cowardly to man up.
I missed that, sorely. How is this a COMPLETE VAMPIRE romance without the bloodsucking right?!
At that point, I thought HARLOW DESERVED BETTER. AURELIAS was more afraid of getting himself hurt and putting his heart out there than loving Harlow (not until the end), and the amount of times he constantly HURT HER, pushed her away and lashed out at her just for being curious about him, and wanting to talk things out??? WOW, that was almost the final straw for me. Obviously, I held on and wanted to see if things would change. Thankfully, yes, but it's still an uphill battle. Aurelias was stubborn and I felt so sorry for Harlow who was chasing after him like a helpless puppy dog.
As much as I'd love to say, THE BEST KIND OF LOVE ISN'T EASY....AND IS WORTH FIGHTING FOR...this wasn't it. If Aurelias never changed, then I would have told HARLOW to pull on her big girl panties and leave the man who refused to compromise the same sacrifices she was willing to do for him.
THE BEST PART OF THE STORY?
The plot, duh. While the romance was a bitter pill to swallow, I loved that we got to see Kingsnake, Larisa and Cobra again, and happy that their brotherhood and family bonds were getting better - seeing how estranged they were in the beginning. Also, they all have DADDY ISSUES, which plays a big role in this arc of the story. Also, I was happy to see FANG again - the cutie! And lastly, I adored Huntley's relationship with Aurelias. Huntley reminded me of a good father figure that Aurelias never had.
OVERALL THIS WAS BITTERSWEET. I wanted to love it, but I'll be lying to say I did. While the ending was good, and I think it was for the best what happened with Aurelias....it was A TOUGH FUCKING BATTLE to get there. I would have been uncertain about Aurelias deserving Harlow, but after everything he went through and the final sacrifice he made - IT WAS A FITTING, LOVELY ENDING. Everyone got their happy ever after.
PS : I RECOMMEND READING KINGSNAKE FIRST, AND KINGSNAKE IS BY THE FAR THE BEST BY BARSETTI, FOLLOWED BY THE FORSAKEN KING (HUNTLEY AND IVORY'S STORY). The reading order is best done with THE FORSAKEN KING and then DIRTY BLOOD series.
This review is based on the entire Trilogy of Aurelias and Harlow's story.
The story was angsty, but also unnecessarily tear-your-heart-out painful. I was immensely disappointed with THE FORSAKEN VAMPIRE, because I had high expectations and delusions - so that one's one me - but THE BROKEN PRINCE and CLASH OF KINGDOMS managed to mollify me, somewhat. TFV was so superficial and smutty. It didn't start out with a bang, just plenty of fucking and sex. I DIDN'T BUY INTO IT.
Why the disappointment?
I had it in my head that Aurelias's character was regal, reserve and austere compared to his brothers, seeing how he was the favourite son, and despised humans. In other words, he had a stick up his ass. But sadly, I was sorely disabused of my illusion when we got a very 'playboy' type of Aurelias here that didn't ring true with his original character in Kingsnake's story - THE REASON WHY I FELL IN LOVE WITH HIS CHARACTER IN THE FIRST PLACE.
BOO FUCKING HOO!
WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED?! It's like he turned into someone else, and I'm still wondering if that's because of his mission to kidnap Harlow, so he played the 'player' card. But after that, I felt weird when he kept calling Harlow 'BABY' because he didn't seem like the type of guy who would call his lover baby....it was too modern...too out of character in comparison with his supposedly 'rigid' manner. AND don't get me started by how AURELIAS and Harlow's father uses the same phrase BABY to call their lovers, and ATTAGIRL to praise Harlow. It's like...recycled shit!
Secondly, Harlow's initial impression was 'PROMISCOUS, FLIGHTY and IMMATURE' Princess. I disliked how she slept around too much, broke men's hearts and wasn't much of a responsible, dutiful Princess. In my honest opinion, she got what she deserved when Aurelias spurned her the first time. Karma's a bitch! And I stand corrected (partially) when the first book was just the MCs fucking. I failed to buy into them 'falling in love' with each other after a few fucks. In Book 2 and 3, she completely faded into the background while the men went out to save the day and she just cried over being rejected or moping over Aurelias. WHERE WAS MY BAD ASS HEROINE?!
WHY WAS IT PAINFUL TO READ?
While Harlow's character mellowed into acceptable in the next 2 books, AURELIAS turned into a woman's heartbreak nightmare. Now, if you haven't read Kingsnake's story, I urge you to do so before reading this because IT REALLY MAKES A DIFFERENCE TO KNOWING AURELIAS'S BACKGROUND AND RELATIONSHIP WITH HIS FAMILY, in order to understand his thoughts and actions. Aurelias's fear of turning a human into a vampire due to how he loss his fiancée hundreds of years ago became a sore point and dealbreaker of his relationship with Harlow. He drained the woman to death. SO SADLY WE WON'T GET ANY OF THE HOT INTIMATE FANG SUCKING ACTION HERE LIKE KINGSNAKE AND LARISA'S STORY BECAUSE AURELIAS was too cowardly to man up.
I missed that, sorely. How is this a COMPLETE VAMPIRE romance without the bloodsucking right?!
At that point, I thought HARLOW DESERVED BETTER. AURELIAS was more afraid of getting himself hurt and putting his heart out there than loving Harlow (not until the end), and the amount of times he constantly HURT HER, pushed her away and lashed out at her just for being curious about him, and wanting to talk things out??? WOW, that was almost the final straw for me. Obviously, I held on and wanted to see if things would change. Thankfully, yes, but it's still an uphill battle. Aurelias was stubborn and I felt so sorry for Harlow who was chasing after him like a helpless puppy dog.
As much as I'd love to say, THE BEST KIND OF LOVE ISN'T EASY....AND IS WORTH FIGHTING FOR...this wasn't it. If Aurelias never changed, then I would have told HARLOW to pull on her big girl panties and leave the man who refused to compromise the same sacrifices she was willing to do for him.
THE BEST PART OF THE STORY?
The plot, duh. While the romance was a bitter pill to swallow, I loved that we got to see Kingsnake, Larisa and Cobra again, and happy that their brotherhood and family bonds were getting better - seeing how estranged they were in the beginning. Also, they all have DADDY ISSUES, which plays a big role in this arc of the story. Also, I was happy to see FANG again - the cutie! And lastly, I adored Huntley's relationship with Aurelias. Huntley reminded me of a good father figure that Aurelias never had.
OVERALL THIS WAS BITTERSWEET. I wanted to love it, but I'll be lying to say I did. While the ending was good, and I think it was for the best what happened with Aurelias....it was A TOUGH FUCKING BATTLE to get there. I would have been uncertain about Aurelias deserving Harlow, but after everything he went through and the final sacrifice he made - IT WAS A FITTING, LOVELY ENDING. Everyone got their happy ever after.
PS : I RECOMMEND READING KINGSNAKE FIRST, AND KINGSNAKE IS BY THE FAR THE BEST BY BARSETTI, FOLLOWED BY THE FORSAKEN KING (HUNTLEY AND IVORY'S STORY). The reading order is best done with THE FORSAKEN KING and then DIRTY BLOOD series.
September 7, 2024
DNF at 50%. Personally I loved book 1. Book 2 and 3 were okay. I cannot go much longer. Truly hate DNFing but I can't. The writing and editing needs to be reviewed it was difficult to read.
April 19, 2024
I've read a couple of books earlier in this series, but they aren't neccessary to enjoy this one.
My thoughts:
This one is really the story of three different couples:
• King Huntley and his wife Ivory (who I loved).
• Their daughter Harlow a who is seduced and kidnapped by Aurelias, a sexy vampire.
• And the king's brother, Ian and his wife, Avice.
There was a lot happening in this relatively short book.
I loved that we got to peek into the lives of two middle aged couples. Huntley and Ivory are amazing as rulers, as respectful spouses, and as parents. I loved their story.
The lead story here is really about Harlow and Aurelias. There initial meeting is smoking hot, but then things get confusing. Aurelias thoughts seem to be changeable. He's thinking and saying one thing at the beginning and something completely different by the end. Certainly an unreliable narrator. Still I want to see what happens next with them.
And then the Ian and Avice's story gave me the ick... especially when everyone was victim blaming Avice, who went through a major trauma, for her Ian's unfaithful actions. I really didn't understand this side plot at all and made me dislike Huntly and Ivory a little.
This one is a mixed bag and lacked some much needed depth. There was a lot of "almost," kind of like a sampling of a few chapters from a larger book. Not bad, but it just needed more.
My thoughts:
This one is really the story of three different couples:
• King Huntley and his wife Ivory (who I loved).
• Their daughter Harlow a who is seduced and kidnapped by Aurelias, a sexy vampire.
• And the king's brother, Ian and his wife, Avice.
There was a lot happening in this relatively short book.
I loved that we got to peek into the lives of two middle aged couples. Huntley and Ivory are amazing as rulers, as respectful spouses, and as parents. I loved their story.
The lead story here is really about Harlow and Aurelias. There initial meeting is smoking hot, but then things get confusing. Aurelias thoughts seem to be changeable. He's thinking and saying one thing at the beginning and something completely different by the end. Certainly an unreliable narrator. Still I want to see what happens next with them.
And then the Ian and Avice's story gave me the ick... especially when everyone was victim blaming Avice, who went through a major trauma, for her Ian's unfaithful actions. I really didn't understand this side plot at all and made me dislike Huntly and Ivory a little.
This one is a mixed bag and lacked some much needed depth. There was a lot of "almost," kind of like a sampling of a few chapters from a larger book. Not bad, but it just needed more.
November 18, 2023
Book felt short and ended abruptly in a weird place. Too many POV’s. Hard to care for FMC as far as character development. I think more substance could have been in this book. I really hope this isn’t a case where the author or publishing company (whoever makes that decision) tries to stretch out the story into many books when we know it could just be made into two amazing books and calling it a day.
I highly recommend the first two books that focuses on Larissa and KingSnake (there is a third one but I was not a fan, see other review). That was a good story, conflict, character development, writing pose, etc.
I highly recommend the first two books that focuses on Larissa and KingSnake (there is a third one but I was not a fan, see other review). That was a good story, conflict, character development, writing pose, etc.
November 2, 2023
I did enjoy this one very much!! I enjoyed reading about Aurelias and Harlow! I definitely recommend picking this up!!
December 26, 2024
Aurelias and Harlow
I love a well written vampire book! This has a fast paced and engaging storyline.
I enjoyed reading about Aurelias the youngest vampire prince in this addictive series.
Now I’m going to read the next book in this series.
I love a well written vampire book! This has a fast paced and engaging storyline.
I enjoyed reading about Aurelias the youngest vampire prince in this addictive series.
Now I’m going to read the next book in this series.
June 22, 2024
This book had a lot of really interesting elements and a fun and intricate plot with a lot of different POVs.
The problem is that this story has an entire cheating arc that’s insensitive and unnecessary. The worst part is that the entire cheating plot is focused on side characters in another kingdom and I can’t understand why it was necessary for the story other than to give the author a platform to say that when a woman falls into a deep depression after a miscarriage and her husband of more than 20 years cheats in order to “get her attention” she needs to apologize and forgive him. Yes you read that right, she miscarried and was dealing with a deep mental illness and not only does the author repeatedly demand that the character apologize for it, they also demand that they forgive the cheater because he said he was sorry and they had 20 good years together.
Here’s the thing y’all, I believe in a good redeployment arc and have read and loved books where cheaters (even ones in similar scenarios in a contemporary setting) committed the same exact act. But those characters showed their remorse, put in the work to make amends, and did it all because they loved their partner not because they believed they were owed forgiveness. The fact that this was not the case, the offending party just decided to drink themselves into a stupor (I’m unsure if additional cheating occurred but I think it did), yet when he decided to get his wife back all the other characters just supported the husband ruined the entire story.
I finished the book, the other elements would have put it at a solid 4 for me possibly higher, but I was so incredibly mad about this superfluous cheating arc that it just ruined the whole thing.
The problem is that this story has an entire cheating arc that’s insensitive and unnecessary. The worst part is that the entire cheating plot is focused on side characters in another kingdom and I can’t understand why it was necessary for the story other than to give the author a platform to say that when a woman falls into a deep depression after a miscarriage and her husband of more than 20 years cheats in order to “get her attention” she needs to apologize and forgive him. Yes you read that right, she miscarried and was dealing with a deep mental illness and not only does the author repeatedly demand that the character apologize for it, they also demand that they forgive the cheater because he said he was sorry and they had 20 good years together.
Here’s the thing y’all, I believe in a good redeployment arc and have read and loved books where cheaters (even ones in similar scenarios in a contemporary setting) committed the same exact act. But those characters showed their remorse, put in the work to make amends, and did it all because they loved their partner not because they believed they were owed forgiveness. The fact that this was not the case, the offending party just decided to drink themselves into a stupor (I’m unsure if additional cheating occurred but I think it did), yet when he decided to get his wife back all the other characters just supported the husband ruined the entire story.
I finished the book, the other elements would have put it at a solid 4 for me possibly higher, but I was so incredibly mad about this superfluous cheating arc that it just ruined the whole thing.
November 9, 2023
Easy Read, some changes though…
I was so confused starting this book as at the end of the three kings where this continued the story of Huntley and Ivory’s story, they had a son called Thomas and a daughter called Yennifer. So the author had completely changed these character names which I found odd in the beginning. I went back to this book and the ending has been changed.
Anyways back to this book, it was a fairly easy and quick read once you get into it. I do really enjoy this world that’s been built and looking forward to reading more about it, although sometimes it’s a bit fast paced n some extra detail would be good!
My only other gripe is does the author know any other endearing word for the partner that isn’t baby or sweetheart 🤦♀️ it’s really repetitive in every relationship.
I was so confused starting this book as at the end of the three kings where this continued the story of Huntley and Ivory’s story, they had a son called Thomas and a daughter called Yennifer. So the author had completely changed these character names which I found odd in the beginning. I went back to this book and the ending has been changed.
Anyways back to this book, it was a fairly easy and quick read once you get into it. I do really enjoy this world that’s been built and looking forward to reading more about it, although sometimes it’s a bit fast paced n some extra detail would be good!
My only other gripe is does the author know any other endearing word for the partner that isn’t baby or sweetheart 🤦♀️ it’s really repetitive in every relationship.
November 1, 2023
Penelope Barestti Sky is taking us on the 4th leap of Kingsnake series, but this is actually a crossover with the Forsaken King series and I love it.
We search for our rude brother Aurelias who was left with Teeth in exchange for the Golden Serphant's venom to save the human back home. His job was to kidnap King Rolf's daughter Harlow for the Teeth to hold to trade for the King.
Harlow is like her mother, Queen Ivory Rolf. She is gorgeous like her mother and tough like her father and fights like them both. Her desire to be free of Aurelias reminds me of her mother with Huntley prior to marriage.
That's how it start after some yummy time together. Penelope gives us a rip roaring ride to Hearthstone via Pyre with Ian. We visit Elora who's still making armor, Queen Rolf of Hearthstone. Then with now Storm ready to burn the hunt is on. We visit the Teeth then back home. But something is about to explode.
It's so hard not to write a review without telling everything. I'm amazed at the kids (young adults I should say). Each their own person yet the perfect blend of their parents.
The story is full of love and it's a perfect Penelope Barestti Sky Rollercoaster ride for all to enjoy. Of course I'm so glad the dragons have returned and it sounds like there had hatchling. I can't wait for Fang to meet the dragons.
Thank you Penelope Barestti Sky for another marvelous treasure, but it's only the beginning. It's an honor to be apart of this ARC group.
We search for our rude brother Aurelias, who was left with Teeth in exchange for the Golden Serphant's venom to save the human back home. His job was to kidnap King Rolf's daughter Harlow for the Teeth to hold to trade for the King.
Harlow is like her mother, Queen Ivory Rolf. She is gorgeous like her mother and tough like her father and fights like them both. Her desire to be free of Aurelias reminds me of her mother with Huntley prior to marriage.
That's how it starts after some yummy time together. Penelope gives us a rip-roaring ride to Hearthstone via Pyre with Ian. We visit Elora, who's still making armor, Queen Rolf of Hearthstone. Then, with now Storm, ready to burn, the hunt is on. We visit the Teeth then back home. But something is about to explode.
It's so hard not to write a review without telling everything. I'm amazed at the kids (young adults I should say). Each their own person yet the perfect blend of their parents.
The story is full of love and it's a perfect Penelope Barestti Sky Rollercoaster ride for all to enjoy. Of course I'm so glad the dragons have returned and it sounds like there had hatchling. I can't wait for Fang to meet the dragons.
Thank you, Penelope Barestti Sky, for another marvelous treasure, but it's only the beginning. It's an honor to be a part of this ARC group.
We search for our rude brother Aurelias who was left with Teeth in exchange for the Golden Serphant's venom to save the human back home. His job was to kidnap King Rolf's daughter Harlow for the Teeth to hold to trade for the King.
Harlow is like her mother, Queen Ivory Rolf. She is gorgeous like her mother and tough like her father and fights like them both. Her desire to be free of Aurelias reminds me of her mother with Huntley prior to marriage.
That's how it start after some yummy time together. Penelope gives us a rip roaring ride to Hearthstone via Pyre with Ian. We visit Elora who's still making armor, Queen Rolf of Hearthstone. Then with now Storm ready to burn the hunt is on. We visit the Teeth then back home. But something is about to explode.
It's so hard not to write a review without telling everything. I'm amazed at the kids (young adults I should say). Each their own person yet the perfect blend of their parents.
The story is full of love and it's a perfect Penelope Barestti Sky Rollercoaster ride for all to enjoy. Of course I'm so glad the dragons have returned and it sounds like there had hatchling. I can't wait for Fang to meet the dragons.
Thank you Penelope Barestti Sky for another marvelous treasure, but it's only the beginning. It's an honor to be apart of this ARC group.
We search for our rude brother Aurelias, who was left with Teeth in exchange for the Golden Serphant's venom to save the human back home. His job was to kidnap King Rolf's daughter Harlow for the Teeth to hold to trade for the King.
Harlow is like her mother, Queen Ivory Rolf. She is gorgeous like her mother and tough like her father and fights like them both. Her desire to be free of Aurelias reminds me of her mother with Huntley prior to marriage.
That's how it starts after some yummy time together. Penelope gives us a rip-roaring ride to Hearthstone via Pyre with Ian. We visit Elora, who's still making armor, Queen Rolf of Hearthstone. Then, with now Storm, ready to burn, the hunt is on. We visit the Teeth then back home. But something is about to explode.
It's so hard not to write a review without telling everything. I'm amazed at the kids (young adults I should say). Each their own person yet the perfect blend of their parents.
The story is full of love and it's a perfect Penelope Barestti Sky Rollercoaster ride for all to enjoy. Of course I'm so glad the dragons have returned and it sounds like there had hatchling. I can't wait for Fang to meet the dragons.
Thank you, Penelope Barestti Sky, for another marvelous treasure, but it's only the beginning. It's an honor to be a part of this ARC group.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2023
It's an amazing book! I couldn't put the book down. I read half of it when I had to put my ipad down. I had to adjust my eyes they slightly blurry.
I loved and enjoyed reading about Harlow story and getting to know her. It was nice to read about characters from the beginning of this series. You can feel the emotions of the characters. Huntley and Ivory raised a strong daughter. I'm still curious about Aurelias. He's not spilling everything about him. He's an intriguing. You can feel the steam for the heat that Harlow and Aurelias have. After 20 years Huntley and Ivory still have the the love and desire for each other. It's amazing they shown their children there is true love out there for you and hope to find him/her. In the meantime no harm in have some fun. I only hope that Ethan finds his person or not come completely insane. He seems to have an unhealthy obsession of Harlow. Let's hope he's not a crazy one since it seems there's going to be a lot of major problems coming along.
It's so sad reading about Ian and Avice. It's so hard to know how we would respond to their situation. I can see both views. I do love Huntley's talk he had with Avice. He wasn't wrong but neither is she. Ian did something so stupid. I hope we'll be able know the outcome of their situation.
My mind is racing trying to figure things out. There seems to be so many cliffhangers on this book lol. There certain things going on and you try to put things together to know what's going on or will happen next. I was devastated when I read the last page...now I must wait for the next book.
As always wonderful job Penelope!!!
I loved and enjoyed reading about Harlow story and getting to know her. It was nice to read about characters from the beginning of this series. You can feel the emotions of the characters. Huntley and Ivory raised a strong daughter. I'm still curious about Aurelias. He's not spilling everything about him. He's an intriguing. You can feel the steam for the heat that Harlow and Aurelias have. After 20 years Huntley and Ivory still have the the love and desire for each other. It's amazing they shown their children there is true love out there for you and hope to find him/her. In the meantime no harm in have some fun. I only hope that Ethan finds his person or not come completely insane. He seems to have an unhealthy obsession of Harlow. Let's hope he's not a crazy one since it seems there's going to be a lot of major problems coming along.
It's so sad reading about Ian and Avice. It's so hard to know how we would respond to their situation. I can see both views. I do love Huntley's talk he had with Avice. He wasn't wrong but neither is she. Ian did something so stupid. I hope we'll be able know the outcome of their situation.
My mind is racing trying to figure things out. There seems to be so many cliffhangers on this book lol. There certain things going on and you try to put things together to know what's going on or will happen next. I was devastated when I read the last page...now I must wait for the next book.
As always wonderful job Penelope!!!
November 1, 2023
Welcome to the World of Penelope Sky/ Barsetti!!! The Forsaken Vampire takes us back to the Kingdom of Delacroix where King Rolfe rules,this is the place Aurelias travels to fulfill his commitment to the Teeth. A Kingdom that Huntley and Ivory fought hard to conquer over 20 years ago!! We get to meet their children, Harlow and Atticus, and see our favorite dragons again.🐲🐲
Harlow seems to have the beauty and charm of her mother but also the capable talents of her father who has been training her to be able to defend herself and their people.
Harlow hangs out in the village with her friend and one night she gets a glimpse of this strong handsome man. She has a roaming eye of sort and enjoys having fun,not ready to settle down. She is intrigued by the new man in town and well let's say he knocks her socks off.🔥🔥🔥
While Huntley is on a mission back to HeartHolme with his brother Ian, to find out about the Black ship that was seen leaving their borders He finds out a lot more, but seeing his mother the Queen is his first priority.
Finding out that King Rolfe is leaving in the morning Aurelias makes a mental choice to take Harlow.
How will Aurelias get Harlow to the Teeth?
How does Aurelias feel about leaving Harlow behind?
What do they both experience on their travels?
How does Harlow feel and do after the long journey?
What happens when King Rolfe returns?
Does Harlow find out what Aurelias is and how will she react?
I do not want to spoil anything in this book
All I can say is that Penelope did a fabulous job on this crossover book.
Just another masterpiece of creativity, lust,love,hurt,desires and loyalty. She is so much more than a dark romance author. Penelope knows how to make you love and feel the characters she creates.
Get your copy Release day is the 1st and can be found on KU. Next book releases next month.
Harlow seems to have the beauty and charm of her mother but also the capable talents of her father who has been training her to be able to defend herself and their people.
Harlow hangs out in the village with her friend and one night she gets a glimpse of this strong handsome man. She has a roaming eye of sort and enjoys having fun,not ready to settle down. She is intrigued by the new man in town and well let's say he knocks her socks off.🔥🔥🔥
While Huntley is on a mission back to HeartHolme with his brother Ian, to find out about the Black ship that was seen leaving their borders He finds out a lot more, but seeing his mother the Queen is his first priority.
Finding out that King Rolfe is leaving in the morning Aurelias makes a mental choice to take Harlow.
How will Aurelias get Harlow to the Teeth?
How does Aurelias feel about leaving Harlow behind?
What do they both experience on their travels?
How does Harlow feel and do after the long journey?
What happens when King Rolfe returns?
Does Harlow find out what Aurelias is and how will she react?
I do not want to spoil anything in this book
All I can say is that Penelope did a fabulous job on this crossover book.
Just another masterpiece of creativity, lust,love,hurt,desires and loyalty. She is so much more than a dark romance author. Penelope knows how to make you love and feel the characters she creates.
Get your copy Release day is the 1st and can be found on KU. Next book releases next month.
October 30, 2023
This is a great start to Aurelias' story. It is full of deception, danger, adventure and of course the hot and dirty. In the previous books Aurelias was left behind to kidnap the Princess Hawlow in exchange of the venom from the Golden Serpent. He has been watching his target for weeks, studying her every move. When he acquires his target, something shifts and suddenly he is not so sure that he wants to turn her over to the Teeth.
The new characters in this book set it on a path of greatness. Princess Harlow's father and mother for example are the strong power couple. The true yin and yang. Her Uncle on the other hand is a great man of many mistakes. I enjoyed the introduction of these new characters and believe they played an integral part in the story development.
Princess Harlow is a strong and very independent person. She has a very stubborn mindset and is trained well. Aurelias is an amazing fighter, strong willed and loyal to a fault. He is very conceited and selfish at times, but that just adds to his appeal. Together these two would make a lovely power couple.
Ms. Barsetti has created an unusual world with a great back drop. A story setting in dark times with some very strong willed warrior type characters. It reminds you of a Viking story of sorts except with blood suckers.
The ending of the story is not a cliff hanger per say, but it will leave you wanting more. A well written adventure full of strong willed and inspiring characters. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
The new characters in this book set it on a path of greatness. Princess Harlow's father and mother for example are the strong power couple. The true yin and yang. Her Uncle on the other hand is a great man of many mistakes. I enjoyed the introduction of these new characters and believe they played an integral part in the story development.
Princess Harlow is a strong and very independent person. She has a very stubborn mindset and is trained well. Aurelias is an amazing fighter, strong willed and loyal to a fault. He is very conceited and selfish at times, but that just adds to his appeal. Together these two would make a lovely power couple.
Ms. Barsetti has created an unusual world with a great back drop. A story setting in dark times with some very strong willed warrior type characters. It reminds you of a Viking story of sorts except with blood suckers.
The ending of the story is not a cliff hanger per say, but it will leave you wanting more. A well written adventure full of strong willed and inspiring characters. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
October 30, 2023
I have read every one of Penelope’s books and let me tell you this one did not disappoint. You should read the Forsaken series first to get all the important details and also follow with the Dirty Blood trilogy so it can all make more sense. I wish I had the next two right now! I can’t wait!!
This book was so good! If you like a STRONG heroine then this is a book for you. This is another one of Penelope’s books that make sure that you understand that you don’t need a man to save you and don’t wait for one either. It helps that you see characters, like her parents, that make sure that they raised their daughter to be so strong and smart. Yes she has a more than steamy extra spicy love affair, but she also has respect from him even after all the twist and turns.
This keeps you on the edge the whole journey and makes you crave more and more, I know I did and I was rip, roaring, and ready to go! I devoured (no pun intended) this book and now I’m sad I have to wait for the others!
I highly recommend if you love a good dark-ish romance with a journey and seeing past characters from the other books.
This book was so good! If you like a STRONG heroine then this is a book for you. This is another one of Penelope’s books that make sure that you understand that you don’t need a man to save you and don’t wait for one either. It helps that you see characters, like her parents, that make sure that they raised their daughter to be so strong and smart. Yes she has a more than steamy extra spicy love affair, but she also has respect from him even after all the twist and turns.
This keeps you on the edge the whole journey and makes you crave more and more, I know I did and I was rip, roaring, and ready to go! I devoured (no pun intended) this book and now I’m sad I have to wait for the others!
I highly recommend if you love a good dark-ish romance with a journey and seeing past characters from the other books.
October 31, 2023
I’ll just go read all of Penelope’s books for the rest of the year, thank you very much. This was freakin amazinggggg!!!!
I knew I’d love Aurelias’ story but I didn’t know it’d be my favorite so far in the entire series. This book is soooo good, there was no putting it down. Penelope continues with multiple POVs in this one and I never realized how much more to the story that brings. Now I’m invested in all these different characters besides the main ones because they all have a story to tell! It’s fabulous. I want all books like this from now on.
Anyway, the story… as Aurelias tries to fulfill his promise to the Teeth, he comes across a feisty little problem he didn’t anticipate. Harlow! This girl was perfect! I loved her easygoing personality (opposite of Aurelias), her pride and her intelligence. She was a breath of fresh air. The interactions between the two of them were fantastic, so fun and spicyyy!! This little gem ends on a cliffy, but you never have to wait long with Penelope. Start this series immediately, you won’t regret.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I knew I’d love Aurelias’ story but I didn’t know it’d be my favorite so far in the entire series. This book is soooo good, there was no putting it down. Penelope continues with multiple POVs in this one and I never realized how much more to the story that brings. Now I’m invested in all these different characters besides the main ones because they all have a story to tell! It’s fabulous. I want all books like this from now on.
Anyway, the story… as Aurelias tries to fulfill his promise to the Teeth, he comes across a feisty little problem he didn’t anticipate. Harlow! This girl was perfect! I loved her easygoing personality (opposite of Aurelias), her pride and her intelligence. She was a breath of fresh air. The interactions between the two of them were fantastic, so fun and spicyyy!! This little gem ends on a cliffy, but you never have to wait long with Penelope. Start this series immediately, you won’t regret.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
October 30, 2023
Highly recommend reading the Dirty Blood trilogy prior to starting this, I don’t think it’s a necessity but it really adds to the plot because we know things that have happened that Aurelias doesn’t.
The characters in this are very different from each other. We go from lovers to enemies to something else. There are five different PoVs, which I thought would be a bit all over the place but it’s done pretty seamlessly and just left me wanting more from each person.
Harlow is a badass, but her parents might even be better than her. Huntley, her father, is a very standard “if I don’t know about it, I can ignore it” when it comes to certain aspects of his life but in others he is exactly what his people and family need him to be.
The world is similar to the Dirty Blood trilogy, and as much as I loved Fang, Storm might have potential to end up being my fave side character. Storm however, is not a snake, and I won’t spoil what he is, but it made me very happy.
Is a war coming? Yes. Do Harlow and Aurelias need to figure their life out? Also yes.
The characters in this are very different from each other. We go from lovers to enemies to something else. There are five different PoVs, which I thought would be a bit all over the place but it’s done pretty seamlessly and just left me wanting more from each person.
Harlow is a badass, but her parents might even be better than her. Huntley, her father, is a very standard “if I don’t know about it, I can ignore it” when it comes to certain aspects of his life but in others he is exactly what his people and family need him to be.
The world is similar to the Dirty Blood trilogy, and as much as I loved Fang, Storm might have potential to end up being my fave side character. Storm however, is not a snake, and I won’t spoil what he is, but it made me very happy.
Is a war coming? Yes. Do Harlow and Aurelias need to figure their life out? Also yes.
October 28, 2023
Let’s start at the beginning, Aurelia’s was my least favourite vampire, he was daddies golden boy, the only original of the brothers, the one with no heart but now WOW is he a hottie !!!! He has feelings .. who knew 😂
He’s tasked with kidnapping and delivering Harlow the princess of Delacroix, she’s feisty, fierce, unapologetically loyal and a match for any man, she’s the woman who thaws him and makes him feel although I don’t think he truly comprehends what he feels. He delivers her to Rancor the leader of the teeth only to find the deal has changed, she was supposed to be unharmed but now they intend to kill her. He rescues her, protects her on the long, dangerous journey back to Delacroix only to be double crossed yet again.
Promises and deals follow in the hope of his release, the king wants him dead, Harlow wants him released because she trusts him and the ever lovely Ivory is in the middle of her beloved husband and daughter.
WOW there’s just so much more including the dragons Storm and Pyre, can’t wait for the next chapter in this amazing story. If I could give this 10 stars ⭐️ I would !!
He’s tasked with kidnapping and delivering Harlow the princess of Delacroix, she’s feisty, fierce, unapologetically loyal and a match for any man, she’s the woman who thaws him and makes him feel although I don’t think he truly comprehends what he feels. He delivers her to Rancor the leader of the teeth only to find the deal has changed, she was supposed to be unharmed but now they intend to kill her. He rescues her, protects her on the long, dangerous journey back to Delacroix only to be double crossed yet again.
Promises and deals follow in the hope of his release, the king wants him dead, Harlow wants him released because she trusts him and the ever lovely Ivory is in the middle of her beloved husband and daughter.
WOW there’s just so much more including the dragons Storm and Pyre, can’t wait for the next chapter in this amazing story. If I could give this 10 stars ⭐️ I would !!
November 1, 2023
Harlow and Aurelias First Act
Story - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Steam - 🔥🔥🔥.5
This is the fourth book of the Dirty Blood Series. "The Forsaken Vampire" introduces us to Princess Harlow who is the daughter of King Huntley and Queen Ivory of Delacroix from "The Forsaken King" series. Harlow is sassy, brave, loyal, a fighter and feisty. She does not back down from anyone and has a heart for justice. Aurelia is daddy golden boy, the only original of the brother, and is a hottie. He has been the task to kidnap Harlow for exchange of the golden serpent venom from the Teeth (distance relatives). However, nothing goes as it should. The Teeth, especially their leader Rancor, are not good vampires and have their own agenda. The chemistry between Harlow and Aurelia is off the change. They are hot for each other, and the spice is off the chain. There are also dragons in this book. So, you have vampires. Dragons and chemistry from various couples. Looking forward to the next book.
Story - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Steam - 🔥🔥🔥.5
This is the fourth book of the Dirty Blood Series. "The Forsaken Vampire" introduces us to Princess Harlow who is the daughter of King Huntley and Queen Ivory of Delacroix from "The Forsaken King" series. Harlow is sassy, brave, loyal, a fighter and feisty. She does not back down from anyone and has a heart for justice. Aurelia is daddy golden boy, the only original of the brother, and is a hottie. He has been the task to kidnap Harlow for exchange of the golden serpent venom from the Teeth (distance relatives). However, nothing goes as it should. The Teeth, especially their leader Rancor, are not good vampires and have their own agenda. The chemistry between Harlow and Aurelia is off the change. They are hot for each other, and the spice is off the chain. There are also dragons in this book. So, you have vampires. Dragons and chemistry from various couples. Looking forward to the next book.
March 26, 2024
Audiobook &| eBook
♡ Audiobook Review ♡
♤ Release April.23 ♤
I am enjoying this series.
There are 4 different POV's, which could be a little confusing. I wish there were 4 different narrators so you could tell who is talking. So, if you're listening to the audiobook without the physical or eBook, you wouldn't get confused. It could be a little difficult telling who is talking. But overall, the storyline and plot are going to be good. This book is building the story up for what's to come.
♡ Audiobook Review ♡
♤ Release April.23 ♤
I am enjoying this series.
There are 4 different POV's, which could be a little confusing. I wish there were 4 different narrators so you could tell who is talking. So, if you're listening to the audiobook without the physical or eBook, you wouldn't get confused. It could be a little difficult telling who is talking. But overall, the storyline and plot are going to be good. This book is building the story up for what's to come.
March 4, 2025
This series gets better and better ima hate it when they’re over but I’ll buy the books and read them again and again they are definitely going on my reread lists arelis and Harlows stories are so good definitely in close competition with book 2 & 3 very good story line love that Harlow’s dad king Huntley loves her so much and puts her as the next ruler and never shuts her up and just because she’s a female needs to be a show pony then just for breeding
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2023
Another great story! Penelope never disappoints you with any of her books. They draw you in and keep you on the edge wanting more. I loved being able to read more about Huntley and Ivory and their children. I can’t wait to find out if Aurelia’s walks away after delivering Harlow to the Teeth. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
September 27, 2024
3.5⭐️
Not as good as the previous books, but it does give us insight into what Aurelius has been up to over seas while the battles have been going on at home… it’ll be interesting to see where this story goes when his brothers come get him!
🌶️/5
Not as good as the previous books, but it does give us insight into what Aurelius has been up to over seas while the battles have been going on at home… it’ll be interesting to see where this story goes when his brothers come get him!
🌶️/5
October 9, 2024
I really liked this one a lot but i wish there had been a little more push and pull between Aurelias and Harlow before they ended up in the sack....it made the romance feel a little more rushed and less believable. Hopefully some good angst will be added in the next book.
December 9, 2024
It’s like the conversation changed from one couples story to the next “ghosting” and the excessive use of “Baby” sound like we had jumped to the future. Overall okay but I preferred King Snake and Larissa.
October 28, 2023
Penelope has done it yet again!!! Forsaken Vamipre is sooo good. Ohhh how I missed my dragons. The FMC is sassy and strong. The MMC is moral grey and mysterious and sexy. The spice was top notch and the drama is bar none!!! I can’t wait for the next installment!!!
October 31, 2023
OMG. Penelope has bit me again. I read this book in one day. I just couldn’t stop. What an amazing gift to draw us into your reality. Come on with the next one. Love you.
November 5, 2023
The book was perfect!!!!! If you loved the forsaken king series I promise you will love this! The spice is off the charts! The drama! This is truly one of Penelope’s best works. The characters are fantastic. You need this book in your life!
December 23, 2023
The Forsaken Vampire (Dirty Blood Book 4)
This was a good story but it was one of the biggest cliffhangers I have ever read! I kept thinking I was not hitting the right thing when it called for a review! If you don’t mind cliffhangers, this was a good story.
This was a good story but it was one of the biggest cliffhangers I have ever read! I kept thinking I was not hitting the right thing when it called for a review! If you don’t mind cliffhangers, this was a good story.
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