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Dark Earls #1
Subterfuge
Ben Redbourn needs to take his seat at the Vampire Council as the 3rd Dark Earl of Crofton, whether he likes it or not.
Under investigation, Ben has to contend with Senior Warlock Ashley Niven invading his home. But there is more hidden at Crofton Hall than Ashley could have imagined with Ben having a demon valet, an elf secretary, and a werewolf in the archive.
Tempers are raised and sparks fly in all the wrong ways until a spell misfires and the tension shifts in a different, passionate, direction which has Ben and Ashley fighting to ignore their instincts.
Subterfuge is the first in a paranormal gay romance series. Come and experience a darker side of Crofton Hall.
Under investigation, Ben has to contend with Senior Warlock Ashley Niven invading his home. But there is more hidden at Crofton Hall than Ashley could have imagined with Ben having a demon valet, an elf secretary, and a werewolf in the archive.
Tempers are raised and sparks fly in all the wrong ways until a spell misfires and the tension shifts in a different, passionate, direction which has Ben and Ashley fighting to ignore their instincts.
Subterfuge is the first in a paranormal gay romance series. Come and experience a darker side of Crofton Hall.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 30, 2024
57 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Cohen
52 books227 followersREBECCA COHEN spends her days dreaming of living in a Tudor manor house, or a Georgian mansion. Alas, the closest she comes to this is through her characters in her historical romance novels. She also dreams of intergalactic adventures and fantasy realms, but because she’s not yet got her space or dimensional travel plans finalised, she lives happily in leafy Hertfordshire, England, with her husband and young son. She can often be found with a pen in one hand and sloe gin with lemon tonic in the other.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
May 20, 2024
I haven't read any previous books by Rebecca Cohen so I can't comment on the supernatural spin to this existing series, but this was such an interesting story!
I really liked Ben and Ashley, and the way they go from antagonising each other to needing to be near each other.
The side characters were so intriguing and I'm hoping to see more of them in future books - I especially liked Sebastian and his psychotic ways.
Definitely looking forward to more in this series.
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
I really liked Ben and Ashley, and the way they go from antagonising each other to needing to be near each other.
The side characters were so intriguing and I'm hoping to see more of them in future books - I especially liked Sebastian and his psychotic ways.
Definitely looking forward to more in this series.
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
June 15, 2024
I have never read anything by this author and i thought it would be hard figuring things out but turns out it wasn’t and i was living for all the vibes the darker side of Crofton was offering .
Subterfuge is fun tale about a vampire and his warlock in their quest to sabotage and find out respectively who’s preventing a particular throne ascendancy.
“You are not as stupid as you look.”
“Is that meant to be an insult? Or do you think that with great beauty cannot come brains?”
“It certainly comes with arrogance.”
You would get MM enemies to lovers, beautiful banter which i was living for, insta lust kinda but you wont be mad at it because they’re fated mates. A whole lot of fun characters who make this reading journey even more pleasant . I can’t wait for the next installment so i can return to Crofton for more shenanigans
“How can you be so certain we had not met before?”
“Because I would not have forgotten someone like you, who is able to give the dead indigestion. A feat unparalleled I assure you.”
Thank you GRR for this ARC . All thoughts are mine💜
Subterfuge is fun tale about a vampire and his warlock in their quest to sabotage and find out respectively who’s preventing a particular throne ascendancy.
“You are not as stupid as you look.”
“Is that meant to be an insult? Or do you think that with great beauty cannot come brains?”
“It certainly comes with arrogance.”
You would get MM enemies to lovers, beautiful banter which i was living for, insta lust kinda but you wont be mad at it because they’re fated mates. A whole lot of fun characters who make this reading journey even more pleasant . I can’t wait for the next installment so i can return to Crofton for more shenanigans
“How can you be so certain we had not met before?”
“Because I would not have forgotten someone like you, who is able to give the dead indigestion. A feat unparalleled I assure you.”
Thank you GRR for this ARC . All thoughts are mine💜
June 15, 2024
2.5 stars
The first chapter of this novel did not appropriately set the stage for the remainder of the book. It was unnecessarily complicated and the characters unpleasant. They were made out to be bored vampires who partied hard all the time which was not what they really were like at all. In addition, in the first chapter—10 pages—22 characters were named, three more in the first two pages of Chapter 2, most unnecessarily. They certainly didn’t need to be introduced all at once. The relationships were all over the place, too. It wasn’t like, “Here are my ten sycophants named…” No, it was Earl this and father that and thrall so and so, and the back lawn night gardener such and such, that guy who was the Dark Lord whomever.
The overlapping houses and the names Dark Lord of something else was also confusing. It was like coming in in the middle of a regency romance series which it kind of was. But this is supposed to be a reimagining of a previous series as paranormal. Even if it were a continuation, the info dump was ridiculous. If the second chapter hadn’t resolved into something simpler and more interesting, I would have stopped right there.
But the story morphed into more what I was expecting. The writing was excellent, formal in “I learned to speak English at a different time and not the present,” but informal enough to be speaking with friends. I actually learned a few new words which virtually never happens and is incredibly exciting when it does. Most were British slang but one or two were formal words I wasn’t familiar with.
The plot made sense and was a little unusual which was wonderful. The premise as established in chapter two sounded reasonable to me not ridiculous as it was to the second MC or really, any of the other characters. I think I’m the only one who thought it a good idea. I think oversight of someone about to be named successor to an Earl whose rule would probably last 200 years is reasonable. I don’t think the previous earl should get to pick whomever he (of course) wanted. Something like how the US chooses its Supreme Court Justices at the very least.
But since installing the new guy was automatic, it made sense that someone could anonymously request a review without risk of retaliation. Yes, it could be used maliciously but I’d rather have someone investigated to sure they weren’t dirty and were competent than have 200 years of Trump. And it being anonymous to avoid retribution makes sense. It’s just what was entailed that was ridiculous.
I didn’t like how Ben treated his donors. At one point he lets one drop to the floor “with a thud,” not dead but almost. He later admitted to having holding cells and occasionally completely draining his victims. It was also mentioned that he signed a contract type thing had to have a blood sacrifice of a human which sounded like murder, and it was just mentioned in passing. I don’t like morally ambiguous MCs.
And I don’t like how he appeared more competent in Ashley’s milieu than the man himself. The latter came across as someone of middling competency not a senior Warlock.
A history of a couple of the vampire houses was recited at one point, several pages about how men built them. The book mentioned a couple of women, one the sister competent to be Earl, but pretty much all the leaders and people in power were men. The only females to appear on page was the sister who wasn’t a sympathetic character, a thrall in a couple of paragraphs and one powerful one, a house leader, who was described in half a sentence.
The whole book felt like a set up to future books with main protagonists taken from this novel. There were lots of characters who were lonely or pining or having mysterious pasts not revealed. I wanted less of that and more with the two MCs together. We didn’t have enough. The romance felt forced. They went from enemies to lovers awkwardly and too fast. They had no chemistry.
I think this creative world building had potential and maybe future books will be better, but there was too much name dropping and parts with too much exposition. It took away from the story. It probably would have been a lot more enjoyable if I’d read all of her other huge backlist first.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. These words are my own.
The first chapter of this novel did not appropriately set the stage for the remainder of the book. It was unnecessarily complicated and the characters unpleasant. They were made out to be bored vampires who partied hard all the time which was not what they really were like at all. In addition, in the first chapter—10 pages—22 characters were named, three more in the first two pages of Chapter 2, most unnecessarily. They certainly didn’t need to be introduced all at once. The relationships were all over the place, too. It wasn’t like, “Here are my ten sycophants named…” No, it was Earl this and father that and thrall so and so, and the back lawn night gardener such and such, that guy who was the Dark Lord whomever.
The overlapping houses and the names Dark Lord of something else was also confusing. It was like coming in in the middle of a regency romance series which it kind of was. But this is supposed to be a reimagining of a previous series as paranormal. Even if it were a continuation, the info dump was ridiculous. If the second chapter hadn’t resolved into something simpler and more interesting, I would have stopped right there.
But the story morphed into more what I was expecting. The writing was excellent, formal in “I learned to speak English at a different time and not the present,” but informal enough to be speaking with friends. I actually learned a few new words which virtually never happens and is incredibly exciting when it does. Most were British slang but one or two were formal words I wasn’t familiar with.
The plot made sense and was a little unusual which was wonderful. The premise as established in chapter two sounded reasonable to me not ridiculous as it was to the second MC or really, any of the other characters. I think I’m the only one who thought it a good idea. I think oversight of someone about to be named successor to an Earl whose rule would probably last 200 years is reasonable. I don’t think the previous earl should get to pick whomever he (of course) wanted. Something like how the US chooses its Supreme Court Justices at the very least.
But since installing the new guy was automatic, it made sense that someone could anonymously request a review without risk of retaliation. Yes, it could be used maliciously but I’d rather have someone investigated to sure they weren’t dirty and were competent than have 200 years of Trump. And it being anonymous to avoid retribution makes sense. It’s just what was entailed that was ridiculous.
I didn’t like how Ben treated his donors. At one point he lets one drop to the floor “with a thud,” not dead but almost. He later admitted to having holding cells and occasionally completely draining his victims. It was also mentioned that he signed a contract type thing had to have a blood sacrifice of a human which sounded like murder, and it was just mentioned in passing. I don’t like morally ambiguous MCs.
And I don’t like how he appeared more competent in Ashley’s milieu than the man himself. The latter came across as someone of middling competency not a senior Warlock.
A history of a couple of the vampire houses was recited at one point, several pages about how men built them. The book mentioned a couple of women, one the sister competent to be Earl, but pretty much all the leaders and people in power were men. The only females to appear on page was the sister who wasn’t a sympathetic character, a thrall in a couple of paragraphs and one powerful one, a house leader, who was described in half a sentence.
The whole book felt like a set up to future books with main protagonists taken from this novel. There were lots of characters who were lonely or pining or having mysterious pasts not revealed. I wanted less of that and more with the two MCs together. We didn’t have enough. The romance felt forced. They went from enemies to lovers awkwardly and too fast. They had no chemistry.
I think this creative world building had potential and maybe future books will be better, but there was too much name dropping and parts with too much exposition. It took away from the story. It probably would have been a lot more enjoyable if I’d read all of her other huge backlist first.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. These words are my own.
May 18, 2024
This was a great read, set in the highly political paranormal world of vampires, fae, warlocks and more! What I didn’t realise, is that this new series is a re-write of sorts of other series that the author has written - she has imagined the Lords of Crofton series both historically, in contemporary times and now in a paranormal setting! I haven’t read any of her other series, and this worked perfectly well as a standalone, but I imagine for those who have read the other series, it would be fun to see all your favourite characters reworked as supernaturals!
Vampire Ben Redbourne is set to take over as the 3rd Dark Earl of Crofton, when someone raises a legal challenge against him and he finds himself having to play host to two warlock investigators… one of which is the handsome yet infuriating Ashley Niven. Ben has plenty that he needs to hide, and Ashley is furious that he’s been taken away from his research so watching these two play cat and mouse with each other was a lot of fun!
I also enjoyed the (often complicated!!) vampire politics, with the different houses, bloodlines and alliances. There were a huge range of supernaturals in this series and I think it’ll be fun to see how they all work together (or not as the case may be!) as the series continues!!
The reason this loses a star for me is because even though Ben and Ashley were mean to be Eternals (fated mates) I never truly got that bond between them. Sure they wanted each other, but there wasn’t that pure lust and obsession between them. Plus, in vampire novels, the main draw for me is the biting and (slight spoiler) Ben never bites Ashley because he considers him as a lover not food… WHY NOT BOTH THOUGH?? 😭😭😭
Read Subterfuge for:
✨ Vampire x Warlock
✨ A whole host of paranormal side characters
✨ Vampire politics (regency style - Earls, Lords, Viscounts etc)
✨ Unwanted fated mates
✨ Potion making as a love language
Subterfuge is available on 30th May! Thank you to the author and GRR for an ARC copy of this book 💕
#Bookstagram #books #book #bookish #booksbooksbooks #bookaddict #bookgram #queer #readqueerallyear #queerbookstagram #LGBT #pridebooks #gaybooks #gaybookstagram #LGBTbooks #mmromancebooks #mmromance
Vampire Ben Redbourne is set to take over as the 3rd Dark Earl of Crofton, when someone raises a legal challenge against him and he finds himself having to play host to two warlock investigators… one of which is the handsome yet infuriating Ashley Niven. Ben has plenty that he needs to hide, and Ashley is furious that he’s been taken away from his research so watching these two play cat and mouse with each other was a lot of fun!
I also enjoyed the (often complicated!!) vampire politics, with the different houses, bloodlines and alliances. There were a huge range of supernaturals in this series and I think it’ll be fun to see how they all work together (or not as the case may be!) as the series continues!!
The reason this loses a star for me is because even though Ben and Ashley were mean to be Eternals (fated mates) I never truly got that bond between them. Sure they wanted each other, but there wasn’t that pure lust and obsession between them. Plus, in vampire novels, the main draw for me is the biting and (slight spoiler) Ben never bites Ashley because he considers him as a lover not food… WHY NOT BOTH THOUGH?? 😭😭😭
Read Subterfuge for:
✨ Vampire x Warlock
✨ A whole host of paranormal side characters
✨ Vampire politics (regency style - Earls, Lords, Viscounts etc)
✨ Unwanted fated mates
✨ Potion making as a love language
Subterfuge is available on 30th May! Thank you to the author and GRR for an ARC copy of this book 💕
#Bookstagram #books #book #bookish #booksbooksbooks #bookaddict #bookgram #queer #readqueerallyear #queerbookstagram #LGBT #pridebooks #gaybooks #gaybookstagram #LGBTbooks #mmromancebooks #mmromance
December 23, 2025
2.5 stars
I enjoyed Cohen's fae series Fang & Fae and it connected lightly to characters from this series, Dark Earls. So I was curious to check it out as well. I know that this is sort of alternate paranormal universe from Cohen's Modern Crofton series, but the author notes that this could be read without having to read the other one's first.
Well, the first few chapters I was LOST! So many characters introduced and it felt like they were already familiar with each other, that I thought "WAIT, was there an introductory section somewhere that I missed, or maybe a prequel or something??". And the reason for the investigation was absurd - I mean, , really?!? Like the author couldn't think of any other more believable reason?
It took me quite long time to get into this book - A COUPLE OF WEEKS - I kept being distracted with other things. But I was given all three books and I still AM curious with the series. So yeah, the first book didn't blow me away but I hope maybe book #2 and book #3 will be better
PS: Also see my friend review here
Thank you Top Secret Santa from Goodreads Secret Santa Gift Exchange 2025 for this book
I enjoyed Cohen's fae series Fang & Fae and it connected lightly to characters from this series, Dark Earls. So I was curious to check it out as well. I know that this is sort of alternate paranormal universe from Cohen's Modern Crofton series, but the author notes that this could be read without having to read the other one's first.
Well, the first few chapters I was LOST! So many characters introduced and it felt like they were already familiar with each other, that I thought "WAIT, was there an introductory section somewhere that I missed, or maybe a prequel or something??". And the reason for the investigation was absurd - I mean, , really?!? Like the author couldn't think of any other more believable reason?
It took me quite long time to get into this book - A COUPLE OF WEEKS - I kept being distracted with other things. But I was given all three books and I still AM curious with the series. So yeah, the first book didn't blow me away but I hope maybe book #2 and book #3 will be better
PS: Also see my friend review here
Thank you Top Secret Santa from Goodreads Secret Santa Gift Exchange 2025 for this book
May 29, 2024
Benjamin Howes was once an introverted chemistry scholar with interest in the occult which had led him to being turned by Charles Redbourn and eventually baptized Redbourn and part of the House of Hewel. Now, he’s known as Benjamin Redbourn, Dark Viscount of Crofton. The current Dark Earl of Crofton, Charles, is ready for Ben to take his position in the Vampire Council as the 3rd Dark Earl of Crofton. Charles had taken his Eternal, Timothy Thorne, some two centuries before and now he want’s to spend more time with him.
To be sure Ben is worthy of every aspect, Niall Nivens, Senior Warlock and Head of the Invigilators, has come up with a plan to call a Vedette. The Warlock Ruling Committee can instigate an investigation where there are two members of the same family on the Committee. An anonymous complaint about Ben will also be investigated. Niall will be sending his son, Sr. Warlock Ashley Niven and his ex-boyfriend, lawyer/investigator, Warlock/Siren, Jack Webb to Crofton. Ben will be under strict observation as Ashley and Jack will move into House of Crofton. If Ben refuses he will not become the next Dark Earl and the findings of the investigation will weigh heavily against him.
Jack Webb doesn’t treat Ben so badly, but Ashley is a whole different type of pain. Ashley does everything possible to irritate Ben, talk about bratty! Ben has to be on his toes with Ashley, as they both try to outsmart and out-snark each other. He can’t let Ashley discover all the secrets he’s hiding. The one thing Ben want’s is more time to complete his secret project, but more time with Ashley Niven is a dangerous thing. Sparks will definitely fly!
Rebecca Cohen out does herself with “Subterfuge” the first novel of the “Dark Earl’s” series. This is like the “who’s who” in the world of Royalty in the World of Crofton. The author maps out the Houses of the characters: House of Hewel, Whetford, Marchent, Cartwright and Devereaux and what positions individuals hold, relations as who turned/sired who, and what they are in the paranormal world and more. In this novel ancestors from the “Earls of Crofton” will return and they are different. There’s all kinds of surprises as to who shows up.
There’s a mystery surrounding Ben as he has to worry about the roles his two siblings Caitlan and Harry, play. Harry being younger, many felt he should be the next Dark Earl. There’s those who want to protect Ben too and will conjure up ideas to protect him. Ashley and Ben will also have to figure out who’s trying to kill Jack Webb? Can they save him?
So many great characters to meet in new roles: Vampires: Marcus Winter - Duke of Marchent - close friend of Ben; Robin Flint - Viscount of Whetford; Simon MacLove - Dark Earl of MacLove - Vampire/Fae; Alex Reynolds - private secretary - Sarurna Faction - Elf; Dorian - Dragon Shifter; Karl Vinter - level 3 demon - valet; Dr. Dara Callahan - Historian/archivist - werewolf; Mrs. Weather - Head housekeeper - Human; and Billins - Butler - Ghost and more.
I highly recommend this spectacular, epic novel “Subterfuge” the start of the “Dark Earls” series. Even if you have never read about the Crofton world, this is an excellent read for anyone who likes the paranormal. Rebecca Cohen doesn’t miss a beat as she brings the paranormal world to Crofton with: potions, magic, vampires, warlocks, sirens, elves, ghost, fae, a demon, werewolf and a terrifying shape shifter/doppelganger to the mix. There’s lot’s of Crofton history, with prime brattiness, individuals popping in and out, an intense love affair and humor. I cannot wait for “Destiny” the next book in the “Dark Earls” series. The stunning cover of “Subterfuge” by artist Morningstar Ashley certainly tells the story. Excellent read!
To be sure Ben is worthy of every aspect, Niall Nivens, Senior Warlock and Head of the Invigilators, has come up with a plan to call a Vedette. The Warlock Ruling Committee can instigate an investigation where there are two members of the same family on the Committee. An anonymous complaint about Ben will also be investigated. Niall will be sending his son, Sr. Warlock Ashley Niven and his ex-boyfriend, lawyer/investigator, Warlock/Siren, Jack Webb to Crofton. Ben will be under strict observation as Ashley and Jack will move into House of Crofton. If Ben refuses he will not become the next Dark Earl and the findings of the investigation will weigh heavily against him.
Jack Webb doesn’t treat Ben so badly, but Ashley is a whole different type of pain. Ashley does everything possible to irritate Ben, talk about bratty! Ben has to be on his toes with Ashley, as they both try to outsmart and out-snark each other. He can’t let Ashley discover all the secrets he’s hiding. The one thing Ben want’s is more time to complete his secret project, but more time with Ashley Niven is a dangerous thing. Sparks will definitely fly!
Rebecca Cohen out does herself with “Subterfuge” the first novel of the “Dark Earl’s” series. This is like the “who’s who” in the world of Royalty in the World of Crofton. The author maps out the Houses of the characters: House of Hewel, Whetford, Marchent, Cartwright and Devereaux and what positions individuals hold, relations as who turned/sired who, and what they are in the paranormal world and more. In this novel ancestors from the “Earls of Crofton” will return and they are different. There’s all kinds of surprises as to who shows up.
There’s a mystery surrounding Ben as he has to worry about the roles his two siblings Caitlan and Harry, play. Harry being younger, many felt he should be the next Dark Earl. There’s those who want to protect Ben too and will conjure up ideas to protect him. Ashley and Ben will also have to figure out who’s trying to kill Jack Webb? Can they save him?
So many great characters to meet in new roles: Vampires: Marcus Winter - Duke of Marchent - close friend of Ben; Robin Flint - Viscount of Whetford; Simon MacLove - Dark Earl of MacLove - Vampire/Fae; Alex Reynolds - private secretary - Sarurna Faction - Elf; Dorian - Dragon Shifter; Karl Vinter - level 3 demon - valet; Dr. Dara Callahan - Historian/archivist - werewolf; Mrs. Weather - Head housekeeper - Human; and Billins - Butler - Ghost and more.
I highly recommend this spectacular, epic novel “Subterfuge” the start of the “Dark Earls” series. Even if you have never read about the Crofton world, this is an excellent read for anyone who likes the paranormal. Rebecca Cohen doesn’t miss a beat as she brings the paranormal world to Crofton with: potions, magic, vampires, warlocks, sirens, elves, ghost, fae, a demon, werewolf and a terrifying shape shifter/doppelganger to the mix. There’s lot’s of Crofton history, with prime brattiness, individuals popping in and out, an intense love affair and humor. I cannot wait for “Destiny” the next book in the “Dark Earls” series. The stunning cover of “Subterfuge” by artist Morningstar Ashley certainly tells the story. Excellent read!
May 15, 2024
I want to thank GRR for provide the ARC
Rating: 4.5 stars.
It´s a new author to me. I'm not used to read books with nobility characters, but i liked in this case, because, it´s a facace for more of them. I like the writing, the banter between the main character was delightful. It´s a enemies to lovers, after all. The magic element added to the plot is a success.
Ben Redbourn will be the Dark Earl of Crofton, he has cultivated an image of a posh boy. At the proclamation as future count, he encounters an anonymous complaint that questions his right . This complaint opens an investigation by the vampire council, conducted by Ashley Niven and Jack Webb.
At the beginning, the rivalry between Ben and Ashley flares up, but it becomes something else.
I will continue reading the series because I really like the author's writing style and the story she will continue with seems interesting.
Rating: 4.5 stars.
It´s a new author to me. I'm not used to read books with nobility characters, but i liked in this case, because, it´s a facace for more of them. I like the writing, the banter between the main character was delightful. It´s a enemies to lovers, after all. The magic element added to the plot is a success.
Ben Redbourn will be the Dark Earl of Crofton, he has cultivated an image of a posh boy. At the proclamation as future count, he encounters an anonymous complaint that questions his right . This complaint opens an investigation by the vampire council, conducted by Ashley Niven and Jack Webb.
At the beginning, the rivalry between Ben and Ashley flares up, but it becomes something else.
I will continue reading the series because I really like the author's writing style and the story she will continue with seems interesting.
May 18, 2025
Ξεκίνησα με καλές προθέσεις την ανάγνωσή του. Από την πολύ αρχή μου έγινε σαφές πως πρόκειται για μια σύγχρονη δημιουργία...τόσο σύγχρονη που εμένα προσωπικά δε με ευχαριστεί. Του λείπει θα έλεγα η ευρυματικότητα. Μοιάζει με προσχέδιο της ιστορίας, η αληθοφάνεια του κόσμου του "παραβιάζεται" από την προχειρότητα της αφήγησης, πράγμα που σημαίνει πως μια καποια τυχόν ενδιαφέρουσα απόδοση της πλοκής ματαιώνεται από έναν επιτηδευμένο αισθησιασμό που πρέπει οπωσδήποτε να ξεπηδά ανά πάσα στιγμή. Βέβαια, γι' αυτό γράφτηκε. Οπότε η γραφή γίνεται ξεκάθαρα "στρατευμένη", υπηρετώντας τον ανάλαφρο ερωτισμό, αλλά λίγο δουλίτσα θα την ήθελα, έστω και μέσα στο πλαίσιο του πολύ συγκεκριμένου σκοπού για τον οποίο γράφτηκε. Πολλή θυσία έχει πέσει για το "φαίνεσθαι", ρε παιδί μου πια.
May 31, 2024
I was sorely tempted to DNF @ 66% but I decided to just skim and see where the MCs land.
In the foreword the author writes, and I quote:
“If you’ve never read a Crofton book before you have a whole universe to explore”. Well, there is little to no world building or universe building to explore. Supernatural and paranormal creatures, portal jumping, magic are just there, no explanation given.
There are 4 important side characters when it comes to Crofton, Charles and Timothy, Anthony and Sebastien, that are mentioned often enough but we have gotten the bare minimum of info, mostly on how Anthony was turned, and little else. The impression though, from how things are phrased, is that obviously we know what is going, which we don't! I won’t even go into Alex the fey, Karl the demon, the MacLove supposed vampire-fey etc.... just a huge dump of names, creatures, situations that we all obviously know everything about and can follow along.
The same at the very beginning when Ben was talking to Robin and Isaac about Isaac having been allowed to be out and about the House of Cartwright. There was a situation there that happened and somehow we should have knowledge about it but really we have NOT ONE FREAKING CLUE!!! But it was mentioned like we are in the know.
Then there are terms and institutions like the Invigilators, that is a part of the story, but beats me if I know WTF it is, what it means or if it has any significance.
And OMG the complete immaturity of both MCs. How are they more than 100yo? Teens are more like!
Ashley is over 400yo and not only is quick to judge and prejudiced but for someone that must investigate a person on whether he is suitable for a position of power or not, he is a very, VERY poor investigator with almost no deductive skills!!! If Jack hadn’t served to Ashley the whole situation of Evelyn Howes on a silver platter, the guy would be chasing his tail round and round trying to put together VERY obvious clues. Clouseau was a brilliant detective compared to him. But when you think with your d**k well no higher mental functions are used.
As far as Ben goes, I’m gonna have to agree with Ashley because Ben is a child, and it is obvious with the way he reacts. He almost has a teenage tantrum whenever something doesn’t go his way.
There was no chemistry between the MCs, the UST had taken a hike to greener pastures and their dirty talk was basic and uninspiring.
Lastly I hope a second look is given to the book because there are sentences that need reworking as they have extra words and/or the way they are structured, it's confusing, and I don’t think it’s to blame the fact that English is my second language. I’m not new to reading.
All and all I was pretty excited to start a new series from a new to me author, especially since those pairings can be found in other universes, but alas the storytelling and at times the writing, fell short.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
In the foreword the author writes, and I quote:
“If you’ve never read a Crofton book before you have a whole universe to explore”. Well, there is little to no world building or universe building to explore. Supernatural and paranormal creatures, portal jumping, magic are just there, no explanation given.
There are 4 important side characters when it comes to Crofton, Charles and Timothy, Anthony and Sebastien, that are mentioned often enough but we have gotten the bare minimum of info, mostly on how Anthony was turned, and little else. The impression though, from how things are phrased, is that obviously we know what is going, which we don't! I won’t even go into Alex the fey, Karl the demon, the MacLove supposed vampire-fey etc.... just a huge dump of names, creatures, situations that we all obviously know everything about and can follow along.
The same at the very beginning when Ben was talking to Robin and Isaac about Isaac having been allowed to be out and about the House of Cartwright. There was a situation there that happened and somehow we should have knowledge about it but really we have NOT ONE FREAKING CLUE!!! But it was mentioned like we are in the know.
Then there are terms and institutions like the Invigilators, that is a part of the story, but beats me if I know WTF it is, what it means or if it has any significance.
And OMG the complete immaturity of both MCs. How are they more than 100yo? Teens are more like!
Ashley is over 400yo and not only is quick to judge and prejudiced but for someone that must investigate a person on whether he is suitable for a position of power or not, he is a very, VERY poor investigator with almost no deductive skills!!! If Jack hadn’t served to Ashley the whole situation of Evelyn Howes on a silver platter, the guy would be chasing his tail round and round trying to put together VERY obvious clues. Clouseau was a brilliant detective compared to him. But when you think with your d**k well no higher mental functions are used.
As far as Ben goes, I’m gonna have to agree with Ashley because Ben is a child, and it is obvious with the way he reacts. He almost has a teenage tantrum whenever something doesn’t go his way.
There was no chemistry between the MCs, the UST had taken a hike to greener pastures and their dirty talk was basic and uninspiring.
Lastly I hope a second look is given to the book because there are sentences that need reworking as they have extra words and/or the way they are structured, it's confusing, and I don’t think it’s to blame the fact that English is my second language. I’m not new to reading.
All and all I was pretty excited to start a new series from a new to me author, especially since those pairings can be found in other universes, but alas the storytelling and at times the writing, fell short.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 5, 2024
Reviewed for Love Bytes – 5 Hearts
Following an enjoyable night out, Ben is waylaid by his sire with news of his inheritance. It was time to take his rightful seat on the vampire council as the new Dark Earl of Crofton. That is unless the council finds him unsuitable. One of the investigators is Ashley Niven - a senior warlock and a powerful SOB. Ashley intended to unnerve Ben but found himself on the back foot. What begins as an investigation to discover hidden secrets could find something with farther-reaching consequences.
Rebecca Cohen is one of those authors who always writes a good story. There will be at least four in the series (wuhooo), all depending on the inspiration that pops into the author's head. Oh, I soooo hope there is plenty of inspiration. The Dark Earls series is a welcome return to a well-loved revamped series that has been given a paranormal twist – and what a superb treat it was to read. Each book will have a specific storyline, but characters will span the series.
The story is told in the third person from the viewpoints of Ben and Ashley. Technically, the tale is in good order, and the worldbuilding was not too much or too little for my taste. If a reader is new to the series, there is enough to form a picture, and for those well versed in anything with Crofton attached to it, the vista is enhanced. Oh – loved the book cover too. As much as I like the view of a semi-naked man, it makes a lovely change to have a cover that tells me everything that I need about the contents – not just steamy times ahead.
Ben and Ashley are crackin’ protagonists – men who know what they want and aren’t afraid to go after it. Stubborn, protective, and brutal in a delightful package. I loved how the vampire world was portrayed - like ordering a pint of human vintage was as easy as ordering a well-aged wine. Then there’s the behind-the-scenes plotting while aware of who the dangerous people are with unexpected twists – a sheer delight to read.
The extended cast was delicious. Each one deserves a shoutout, but I’ll leave you to discover those gems for yourselves. However, I will say that Jack was adorable, and I hope he is the feature of a future book. Then, Sebastian's appearance was short and sweet but, oh, so memorable. He was the icing on the cake for a beautifully well-rounded novel that has me excited about future books.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
Following an enjoyable night out, Ben is waylaid by his sire with news of his inheritance. It was time to take his rightful seat on the vampire council as the new Dark Earl of Crofton. That is unless the council finds him unsuitable. One of the investigators is Ashley Niven - a senior warlock and a powerful SOB. Ashley intended to unnerve Ben but found himself on the back foot. What begins as an investigation to discover hidden secrets could find something with farther-reaching consequences.
Rebecca Cohen is one of those authors who always writes a good story. There will be at least four in the series (wuhooo), all depending on the inspiration that pops into the author's head. Oh, I soooo hope there is plenty of inspiration. The Dark Earls series is a welcome return to a well-loved revamped series that has been given a paranormal twist – and what a superb treat it was to read. Each book will have a specific storyline, but characters will span the series.
The story is told in the third person from the viewpoints of Ben and Ashley. Technically, the tale is in good order, and the worldbuilding was not too much or too little for my taste. If a reader is new to the series, there is enough to form a picture, and for those well versed in anything with Crofton attached to it, the vista is enhanced. Oh – loved the book cover too. As much as I like the view of a semi-naked man, it makes a lovely change to have a cover that tells me everything that I need about the contents – not just steamy times ahead.
Ben and Ashley are crackin’ protagonists – men who know what they want and aren’t afraid to go after it. Stubborn, protective, and brutal in a delightful package. I loved how the vampire world was portrayed - like ordering a pint of human vintage was as easy as ordering a well-aged wine. Then there’s the behind-the-scenes plotting while aware of who the dangerous people are with unexpected twists – a sheer delight to read.
The extended cast was delicious. Each one deserves a shoutout, but I’ll leave you to discover those gems for yourselves. However, I will say that Jack was adorable, and I hope he is the feature of a future book. Then, Sebastian's appearance was short and sweet but, oh, so memorable. He was the icing on the cake for a beautifully well-rounded novel that has me excited about future books.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
May 28, 2024
This is an easy to read book set in a supernatural world. Apparently the story is linked to the authors other Crofton books. Not being familiar with those, I don't think I have been missing out on anything. It might be nice to know the other books, but not necessary for this one.
Ben and Ashley meet because Ben is under investigation by Ashley, who is end by the Council to assess if Ben is worthy of being the next Earl of Crofton. Ben is a vampire and Ashley a warlock. There's a whole host of other supernatural creatures popping up and I really liked the eclectic range of Ben's household.
However, I had expected a bit more of this book. The plot didn't really hold my intention, as there was hardly any suspense. Instead, the author seems to have given away the clue just moments after there having been a problem. Maybe some people like this, but I want a bit more action & suspense in a story. That being said, the pacing in this book was quite steady and the characters amiable enough. I just didn't really feel the romantic interest Ben and Ashley were supposed to be feeling for each other. Perhaps this was due to the them going from sort of enemies, to wanting each other in very short amount of time, coupled with the few romantic scenes being really short. All of this didn't really make for a passionate and lovable relationship.
I liked Ashley more than Ben. I thought the vampire was a bit whiny, wanting to eat his cake without having to work for it. He just wanted to be able to do whatever he wanted to do, whenever he wanted. Spoiled much? There also seem to be missing a couple of answers as to how, when and why Ben did pick up such extraordinary members in his household.
Overall, I didn't feel like there was much character growth to be seen and Ben and Ashley still seemed a bit bland to me. I wish the author had taken a bit more time to really flesh the story out and give the main characters just a bit more. I'm not saying it was a bad read, it was still enjoyable and I might be interested in reading the next book as well, but it also didn't really stand out to me at all.
The politics and names of everyone can take a bit to get used to and I kept wishing for a reference page. This could just be me, as I'm never good in remember political stuff ;)
3th POV Ben & Ashley
Ben and Ashley meet because Ben is under investigation by Ashley, who is end by the Council to assess if Ben is worthy of being the next Earl of Crofton. Ben is a vampire and Ashley a warlock. There's a whole host of other supernatural creatures popping up and I really liked the eclectic range of Ben's household.
However, I had expected a bit more of this book. The plot didn't really hold my intention, as there was hardly any suspense. Instead, the author seems to have given away the clue just moments after there having been a problem. Maybe some people like this, but I want a bit more action & suspense in a story. That being said, the pacing in this book was quite steady and the characters amiable enough. I just didn't really feel the romantic interest Ben and Ashley were supposed to be feeling for each other. Perhaps this was due to the them going from sort of enemies, to wanting each other in very short amount of time, coupled with the few romantic scenes being really short. All of this didn't really make for a passionate and lovable relationship.
I liked Ashley more than Ben. I thought the vampire was a bit whiny, wanting to eat his cake without having to work for it. He just wanted to be able to do whatever he wanted to do, whenever he wanted. Spoiled much? There also seem to be missing a couple of answers as to how, when and why Ben did pick up such extraordinary members in his household.
Overall, I didn't feel like there was much character growth to be seen and Ben and Ashley still seemed a bit bland to me. I wish the author had taken a bit more time to really flesh the story out and give the main characters just a bit more. I'm not saying it was a bad read, it was still enjoyable and I might be interested in reading the next book as well, but it also didn't really stand out to me at all.
The politics and names of everyone can take a bit to get used to and I kept wishing for a reference page. This could just be me, as I'm never good in remember political stuff ;)
3th POV Ben & Ashley
June 2, 2024
Independent reviewer for GRR, I was gifted my copy of this book.
So, here's the thing, right? This is a kind of rewriting of The Modern Crofton Hall books, but with a darker edge. And I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about this book, but I knew I had to read it. I liked SAving Crofton Hall, the first in that series but I didn't love it.
But this one?? Loved it!!
Ben is a vampire, and Ashley is a warlock sent to Crofton Hall to assess Ben's suitablity to become the 3rd Dark Earl of Crofton, as requested by his sire. Someone found an old protocol and it must be followed. But things are not as they seem. And a spell meant to get Ben to do one thing, misfires and they both find themselves fighting attraction.
Vampires, warlocks, dragons, demons, elves and a whole manner of beings make up this world, and once I settled in, I was hooked.
Ben and Ashley's attraction creeps up on them, and the misfiring spell exasperates the issue. Getting it out their system was the only way to get rid of it. However, that backfires, and Ben and Ashley find themselves unable to keep their hands off each other!
Ben is hiding things from Ashley, but he gives Ashley enough clues to piece together, and once he does, Ben does come fully clean with him. I loved that Ashley KNEW Ben was hiding *something* but was waiting for Ben to tell him. And I loved why Ben used the name he did.
It's steamy, cos Ben and Ashley! They are well matched, in all ways. But it does take them time to give in, and I liked that.
What I especially loved about this, was, as I was reading, I can see the original characters in the other books, and I was comparing them to these new characters. The pairings will be the same, that won't change, but now I'm intrigued as to how it will all come together!
AND!!
We get Anthony and Sebastian, the original Earl of Crofton and his lover. I haven't read their books yet, and I loved that they appear here. Sebastian is a character here, and a scary one by all accounts, so I wonder what he was like in the original books, hmm? I still want to read them!
If you never haven't read the other Crofton Hall books, this is a great starting point. If you HAVE, then jump in, buckle up and hold on tight cos this is a wicked side to Crofton Hall and I bloody loved it!
5 full and shiny stars!
So, here's the thing, right? This is a kind of rewriting of The Modern Crofton Hall books, but with a darker edge. And I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about this book, but I knew I had to read it. I liked SAving Crofton Hall, the first in that series but I didn't love it.
But this one?? Loved it!!
Ben is a vampire, and Ashley is a warlock sent to Crofton Hall to assess Ben's suitablity to become the 3rd Dark Earl of Crofton, as requested by his sire. Someone found an old protocol and it must be followed. But things are not as they seem. And a spell meant to get Ben to do one thing, misfires and they both find themselves fighting attraction.
Vampires, warlocks, dragons, demons, elves and a whole manner of beings make up this world, and once I settled in, I was hooked.
Ben and Ashley's attraction creeps up on them, and the misfiring spell exasperates the issue. Getting it out their system was the only way to get rid of it. However, that backfires, and Ben and Ashley find themselves unable to keep their hands off each other!
Ben is hiding things from Ashley, but he gives Ashley enough clues to piece together, and once he does, Ben does come fully clean with him. I loved that Ashley KNEW Ben was hiding *something* but was waiting for Ben to tell him. And I loved why Ben used the name he did.
It's steamy, cos Ben and Ashley! They are well matched, in all ways. But it does take them time to give in, and I liked that.
What I especially loved about this, was, as I was reading, I can see the original characters in the other books, and I was comparing them to these new characters. The pairings will be the same, that won't change, but now I'm intrigued as to how it will all come together!
AND!!
We get Anthony and Sebastian, the original Earl of Crofton and his lover. I haven't read their books yet, and I loved that they appear here. Sebastian is a character here, and a scary one by all accounts, so I wonder what he was like in the original books, hmm? I still want to read them!
If you never haven't read the other Crofton Hall books, this is a great starting point. If you HAVE, then jump in, buckle up and hold on tight cos this is a wicked side to Crofton Hall and I bloody loved it!
5 full and shiny stars!
May 31, 2024
This author and series was both new to me, so it was interesting to find out that this was a reimagining of previous characters in a new paranormal universe. That being said, I didn’t feel like I missed out having not read the other series, and it was a fun step into the paranormal world of vampires, warlocks, elves and more.
I really enjoyed the story and the mystery that unfolded, and I really loved the fact that Ben - the pompous, arrogant vampire on the surface - brought this on himself and was still shocked when the issue continued to snowball. I thought the characters were funny, and I was also really invested in the side characters.
That being said, in the previously written contemporary series I’ve noticed that Alex ended up with Dorian (who is only mentioned in passing in this book), and after what I’ve seen in this story, I’d loooove to see him end up with Jack.
One thing that knocked a star off for me? I don’t think Ben and Ashley’s attraction was really built on much. After a bit of wayward magic they sort of threw themselves at each other and stayed there, after getting on each other’s last nerve for a large portion of the book. By the end, they were still fairly “new” in their relationship, so don’t expect any major declarations of love. I just wish the developments between them had come a little earlier so it could have been built on a bit more and I could’ve felt a real connection between them - especially with the suggestion that they’re Eternals (fated mates).
Don’t expect too much spice. There is sexual tension, and there is spicy scenes, but I somewhat felt the way the spice was written was almost clinical. It was just very quick, wham bam thank you ma’am, which didn’t help build on the connection between them. I’m not saying a book has to be filled with smut for me to like it, because I don’t mind if a book is more plot than spice. I just still want to feel some affection and some connection between the characters getting freaky in the sheets.
Overall I did really enjoy the story and I’m looking forward to finding out a bit more about Robin and the vampire fae!
I really enjoyed the story and the mystery that unfolded, and I really loved the fact that Ben - the pompous, arrogant vampire on the surface - brought this on himself and was still shocked when the issue continued to snowball. I thought the characters were funny, and I was also really invested in the side characters.
That being said, in the previously written contemporary series I’ve noticed that Alex ended up with Dorian (who is only mentioned in passing in this book), and after what I’ve seen in this story, I’d loooove to see him end up with Jack.
One thing that knocked a star off for me? I don’t think Ben and Ashley’s attraction was really built on much. After a bit of wayward magic they sort of threw themselves at each other and stayed there, after getting on each other’s last nerve for a large portion of the book. By the end, they were still fairly “new” in their relationship, so don’t expect any major declarations of love. I just wish the developments between them had come a little earlier so it could have been built on a bit more and I could’ve felt a real connection between them - especially with the suggestion that they’re Eternals (fated mates).
Don’t expect too much spice. There is sexual tension, and there is spicy scenes, but I somewhat felt the way the spice was written was almost clinical. It was just very quick, wham bam thank you ma’am, which didn’t help build on the connection between them. I’m not saying a book has to be filled with smut for me to like it, because I don’t mind if a book is more plot than spice. I just still want to feel some affection and some connection between the characters getting freaky in the sheets.
Overall I did really enjoy the story and I’m looking forward to finding out a bit more about Robin and the vampire fae!
July 22, 2024
3.75/5 I came at this sideways from being drawn in first to Pining for Prince, which deals with far less lofty vampires in this same universe. This is actually my first Croftons book, and while the names flew a bit thick and fast for me at the beginning, I think it held up well as its own series (though I imagine there’s lots of Easter eggs if you’ve read the other series). (I’ll be honest, though, I didn’t try to keep all the names straight, I just waited until it settled out and the most important secondary characters stuck around.)
I’m not actually a huge fan of vampires these days, in part because of the general treatment of humans/food, which remains true here. There are parts that are cavalier and a bit dark for me, but that’s not the majority of the story, so I mostly overlooked them. But don’t expect humans to be treated well here.
Ben and Ashley have a solid mutual dislike that gets messed up by a lust-enhancing magical accident (lol), and it’s fun to watch them learn that there’s a lot more beneath the surface of their public personas. This makes them much more likeable and three dimensional, and it opens the door for them to actually like one another and not just lust after one another.
Ben is good at creating his own problems, but he also works at solving them. I loved the found family he has around him; Alex and Karl are quirky and fun. Similarly, Ashley and Jack have a great friendship (even if it’s not without its bumps). Ben might be privileged and cavalier in some ways, but he takes care of people he cares about, and he thinks about solutions for common ailments in a way lots of people don’t, which is a nice balance against some of the traits I find less appealing.
A note on the text copy: Although it’s still entirely readable, the book would definitely benefit from another editing pass. There are rather frequent comma splices, as well as some other grammar issues from time to time. I mentally corrected as I went, but they kept tripping me up a bit as I read.
I look forward to seeing Robin find his HEA next.
I received an ARC from BookSirens. This is my honest review.
I’m not actually a huge fan of vampires these days, in part because of the general treatment of humans/food, which remains true here. There are parts that are cavalier and a bit dark for me, but that’s not the majority of the story, so I mostly overlooked them. But don’t expect humans to be treated well here.
Ben and Ashley have a solid mutual dislike that gets messed up by a lust-enhancing magical accident (lol), and it’s fun to watch them learn that there’s a lot more beneath the surface of their public personas. This makes them much more likeable and three dimensional, and it opens the door for them to actually like one another and not just lust after one another.
Ben is good at creating his own problems, but he also works at solving them. I loved the found family he has around him; Alex and Karl are quirky and fun. Similarly, Ashley and Jack have a great friendship (even if it’s not without its bumps). Ben might be privileged and cavalier in some ways, but he takes care of people he cares about, and he thinks about solutions for common ailments in a way lots of people don’t, which is a nice balance against some of the traits I find less appealing.
A note on the text copy: Although it’s still entirely readable, the book would definitely benefit from another editing pass. There are rather frequent comma splices, as well as some other grammar issues from time to time. I mentally corrected as I went, but they kept tripping me up a bit as I read.
I look forward to seeing Robin find his HEA next.
I received an ARC from BookSirens. This is my honest review.
May 22, 2024
Subterfuge was bewildering on multiple levels, but unfortunately, not in a good way.
The cast is a colorful mix of species and descriptions: a potion-brewing warlock, a vampire heir with a secret, a siren lawyer, a demon valet, an elf secretary and a werewolf archivist. To me, that sounds intriguing, but unfortunately, there's not much more to the characters than these surface level descriptors.
There is absolutely no meaningful character development that happens throughout the book - apart from some outer circumstances, at the end of the book the characters are the exact same as they were in the beginning. This includes the two MCs, whose romantic arc was barely existent, and whose romantic feelings were also barely visible on-page.
The book also dragged unnecessarily. What is the point of describing the details of an investigation that the reader already knows is pointless? It doesn't help that there was SO much info-dump dialogue. I love dialogue when it reveals something about characters and their dynamic, but almost all dialogue, especially in the beginning of the book, seemed to serve to impart plot information to the reader, which a.) is NOT what I'm looking for when reading a book marketed as a romance and b.) was littered with ultimately irrelevant information, which is particularly egregious when it happens so early in the book when the reader isn't even hooked yet.
It was very disappointing, as the book sounded interesting and the prose was fine, but unfortunately, the heart of the book is missing.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The cast is a colorful mix of species and descriptions: a potion-brewing warlock, a vampire heir with a secret, a siren lawyer, a demon valet, an elf secretary and a werewolf archivist. To me, that sounds intriguing, but unfortunately, there's not much more to the characters than these surface level descriptors.
There is absolutely no meaningful character development that happens throughout the book - apart from some outer circumstances, at the end of the book the characters are the exact same as they were in the beginning. This includes the two MCs, whose romantic arc was barely existent, and whose romantic feelings were also barely visible on-page.
The book also dragged unnecessarily. What is the point of describing the details of an investigation that the reader already knows is pointless? It doesn't help that there was SO much info-dump dialogue. I love dialogue when it reveals something about characters and their dynamic, but almost all dialogue, especially in the beginning of the book, seemed to serve to impart plot information to the reader, which a.) is NOT what I'm looking for when reading a book marketed as a romance and b.) was littered with ultimately irrelevant information, which is particularly egregious when it happens so early in the book when the reader isn't even hooked yet.
It was very disappointing, as the book sounded interesting and the prose was fine, but unfortunately, the heart of the book is missing.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 10, 2024
A well-written and fast paced story, full of politics, magic and romance. I really enjoyed reading this, I liked all the characters, the plot developments and hints at side/ future stories. I liked the romance, though I wish the MC accepted their fate rather than denying it, the development from annoyance to desire to love was well done! I kind of wish the issue was fully resolved by the MCs we followed and got to know over the book, rather than the distant head of the house who was absent until that point, then swept in to resolve most of their problems. Still, really enjoyable, with a satisfying ending!
The plot was constantly developing, at first it alternated between investigations and secret keeping, then it changed to trust and slowly figuring everything out, then a reveal and readying to fight. It was intriguing throughout, dotted with friendships, difficult siblings and spicy tension (and release of it). Well balanced and easy to follow, with enough pieces to keep it all interesting but allowing for those slower moments of character development and growing relationships.
I really loved all the characters, even those we only saw for brief periods, each was different and interesting. I enjoyed learning a little about the odd mishmash of staff at the manor, glimpsing the background of the MCs friendships and family histories, seeing the dynamics at court. I wanted more though, I wish we had learnt the backgrounds of the staff, rather than everyone saying it was someone else's story to tell... Want more of these characters, their dynamics, backstories and interactions!
Really good read!
The plot was constantly developing, at first it alternated between investigations and secret keeping, then it changed to trust and slowly figuring everything out, then a reveal and readying to fight. It was intriguing throughout, dotted with friendships, difficult siblings and spicy tension (and release of it). Well balanced and easy to follow, with enough pieces to keep it all interesting but allowing for those slower moments of character development and growing relationships.
I really loved all the characters, even those we only saw for brief periods, each was different and interesting. I enjoyed learning a little about the odd mishmash of staff at the manor, glimpsing the background of the MCs friendships and family histories, seeing the dynamics at court. I wanted more though, I wish we had learnt the backgrounds of the staff, rather than everyone saying it was someone else's story to tell... Want more of these characters, their dynamics, backstories and interactions!
Really good read!
June 13, 2024
I’ve been fortunate enough to have begun reading Rebecca Cohen with two of her early series, the fantasy Reagalos and the Crofton Universe wherein several of the characters in Subterfuge first appear. As a major fan of fantasy, I loved Subterfuge! The main characters, Ben the would-be next Dark Lord and Ashley the warlock investigator are very different from characters of the same name elsewhere in the Crofton Universe. It was fun to see behind Ben’s party boy persona to the serious researcher and author. Ashley, on the other hand, fits well with my image of a warlock - a bit of a jerk. At first these two clash, with Ashley having no time for babysitting and Ben somewhat unwillingly going along with the investigation. Ben actually comes up with various items intended to prolong the case. Another part of the book that was catnip to me were the various paranormal staff Ben has in Crofton Hall. While the book is entertaining there are a couple of darker moments, as befits the Dark Earls. And the author used one of my favorite tropes - a major plot twist toward the end of the book. I’ve already preordered their next book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 24, 2024
3.5 stars
The book is the first I have read by this author. So I can't say anything about this being a new, paranormal angle on an existing story. It stood for itself though and I had no problem following the storyline. It was one of those books that slams you with names and information in the beginning which makes it a bit hard to slide into the story but once that was done the story had a good flow. I liked the diversity of characters and the colourful sidecast. The character-building of the two main characters did not go very deep beyond the surface unfortunately and there was hardly any character development throughout the story. The romance part seemed to just start and hasn't developed much either. While the side story was finished by the end of the book the romance and character development part seemed to only be about halfway done. That left me with an odd feeling in the end. Apart from that I really liked the world the author has built here and it has the potential for many more interesting stories.
The book is the first I have read by this author. So I can't say anything about this being a new, paranormal angle on an existing story. It stood for itself though and I had no problem following the storyline. It was one of those books that slams you with names and information in the beginning which makes it a bit hard to slide into the story but once that was done the story had a good flow. I liked the diversity of characters and the colourful sidecast. The character-building of the two main characters did not go very deep beyond the surface unfortunately and there was hardly any character development throughout the story. The romance part seemed to just start and hasn't developed much either. While the side story was finished by the end of the book the romance and character development part seemed to only be about halfway done. That left me with an odd feeling in the end. Apart from that I really liked the world the author has built here and it has the potential for many more interesting stories.
June 20, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
3 stars
This is the first book in the Dark Earls series, which involves vampires, ghosts, elves, dragons, shifters, werewolves, demons, warlocks, and humans. There is a spell for almost everything, and a magic potion when all else fails. The rules of the world are vague, but there are certainly chapters going into potion making, because Ben is a genius potion maker. He’a also rich, tall, dark, and handsome; he’s a vampire playboy who has no preference in gender or number of partners. The book feels like it very much wants me to be aware that he’s hot, desirable, and the best thing since sliced bread.
The writing is fine. The pace is fast, because there’s never any tension. There’s no need for a mystery or surprise, because everything will be explained in the first third of the book, and then it’s just a matter of having it rehashed in the last third.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3 stars
This is the first book in the Dark Earls series, which involves vampires, ghosts, elves, dragons, shifters, werewolves, demons, warlocks, and humans. There is a spell for almost everything, and a magic potion when all else fails. The rules of the world are vague, but there are certainly chapters going into potion making, because Ben is a genius potion maker. He’a also rich, tall, dark, and handsome; he’s a vampire playboy who has no preference in gender or number of partners. The book feels like it very much wants me to be aware that he’s hot, desirable, and the best thing since sliced bread.
The writing is fine. The pace is fast, because there’s never any tension. There’s no need for a mystery or surprise, because everything will be explained in the first third of the book, and then it’s just a matter of having it rehashed in the last third.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
June 30, 2024
Rating: 3.5/5
Finished: 1 month
This book did take me a while as I was in a reading slump but the whole time I liked where the story was going and I found the writing was well done. This book had a lot of world-building and extra details about families and the world but it added to the characters and I enjoyed learning along the way. The main couple and side characters, such as the castle's servants and the second main character's best friend, made me happy and I love all of their dynamics. The chapters were a good length and so was the book which didn't make me weary to pick it up and I didn't feel bored in any parts. I will happily read the next book in this series but first I want to read all of the Crofton Universe which is the original universe that this book has a paranormal spin-off of. Having read nothing from this author before and reading an alternative universe of a much larger series and it being a well-written book is a very exciting and genius idea on the author's behalf.
I received this as an ARC for free and am giving my review voluntarily.
Finished: 1 month
This book did take me a while as I was in a reading slump but the whole time I liked where the story was going and I found the writing was well done. This book had a lot of world-building and extra details about families and the world but it added to the characters and I enjoyed learning along the way. The main couple and side characters, such as the castle's servants and the second main character's best friend, made me happy and I love all of their dynamics. The chapters were a good length and so was the book which didn't make me weary to pick it up and I didn't feel bored in any parts. I will happily read the next book in this series but first I want to read all of the Crofton Universe which is the original universe that this book has a paranormal spin-off of. Having read nothing from this author before and reading an alternative universe of a much larger series and it being a well-written book is a very exciting and genius idea on the author's behalf.
I received this as an ARC for free and am giving my review voluntarily.
July 2, 2024
Well that was weird. Definitely entertaining, but a little surreal all the same. Having read all the Modern Crofton books, I was aware of some of the characters and had an idea of where the story would end. I have never known an author to take an existing body of work and re-write it in an entirely different genre. Oddly, it worked. I really enjoyed reading about Ben as a Vampire and Ashley as a Warlock. His friends the Duke of Marchent and Viscount Wexford are here as are many of the staff from Crofton Hall in various guises. The story was well thought out and interesting and the main characters were fun, BUT the first few chapters introduced far too many characters, even for one who knows the previous books. It was difficult trying to remember who they all were, how the fit into the story and whether they were even relevant. Add into that the poor editing (again) and the author not knowing the difference between I and myself, the reading of what should have been a good story was stilted and broken. Shame really - 3.5 stars
June 3, 2024
The blurb of this book was very promising with vampires and a potion gone wrong. I haven't had a good supernatural book in quite some time so I was excited.
That excitement kind of vanished with the amount of info dump that happens the first 3oish % or so in the book.
Information about the families thrown at us, names we are suppose to remember of obscure people that have no real meaning to the plot in this book.
Also the name MacLove gave me the ick.
There is story there that I liked when we got past the history lesson, characters that made me curious and I wasn't opposed to our MC's, they were a match with their back and forth bites.
I appreciate the spice being kept short and sweet.
Several side characters I liked, like Jack and Alex, along with Robin and Isaac.
It's so clear who they set up for future books, but I wish more time was used on making this book good rather than setting up the whole series from it.
Not sure I'll be giving the rest of it a try.
That excitement kind of vanished with the amount of info dump that happens the first 3oish % or so in the book.
Information about the families thrown at us, names we are suppose to remember of obscure people that have no real meaning to the plot in this book.
Also the name MacLove gave me the ick.
There is story there that I liked when we got past the history lesson, characters that made me curious and I wasn't opposed to our MC's, they were a match with their back and forth bites.
I appreciate the spice being kept short and sweet.
Several side characters I liked, like Jack and Alex, along with Robin and Isaac.
It's so clear who they set up for future books, but I wish more time was used on making this book good rather than setting up the whole series from it.
Not sure I'll be giving the rest of it a try.
May 31, 2024
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Well this was pretty fun! Granted, i did feel like i was dropped into an already established universe, but it was completely manageable! and while i am aware that book 1 in the modern crofton series features a ben and ashley (or some iteration of them) as well, i focused on what this book, Subterfuge (Dark Earls Book 1), was giving and i had a great time with it! There's a lot of magic here and supernaturals galore, but it was quirky and sexy and unserious and sometimes that's what you need your vampire/warlock mm romance to be lol! Just a fun romp with some lighthearted loving up and a delightful cast of side characters who will certainly make book 2 in this series an entertaining one to read!
Well this was pretty fun! Granted, i did feel like i was dropped into an already established universe, but it was completely manageable! and while i am aware that book 1 in the modern crofton series features a ben and ashley (or some iteration of them) as well, i focused on what this book, Subterfuge (Dark Earls Book 1), was giving and i had a great time with it! There's a lot of magic here and supernaturals galore, but it was quirky and sexy and unserious and sometimes that's what you need your vampire/warlock mm romance to be lol! Just a fun romp with some lighthearted loving up and a delightful cast of side characters who will certainly make book 2 in this series an entertaining one to read!
May 23, 2024
I liked this book but I didn’t love it. The characters going from I hate you to being enamoured with eachother was really sudden, and I mean aside from the magical mishap that initially caused it, it didn’t feel very natural to the characters or flow well to me and I think their relationship could have been fleshed out better.
What did I like? The banter the characters had with eachother, the mystery and overall storyline and how you got to know each character was interesting and enjoyable not just an info dump.
Overall I liked this book.
Would I read it again? Probably not.
Would I recommend it? Yes, especially if you’re looking for a m/m romance with mystery and supernatural aspects.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What did I like? The banter the characters had with eachother, the mystery and overall storyline and how you got to know each character was interesting and enjoyable not just an info dump.
Overall I liked this book.
Would I read it again? Probably not.
Would I recommend it? Yes, especially if you’re looking for a m/m romance with mystery and supernatural aspects.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 26, 2024
I thought this book was fantastic. Couldn't put the book down. Because the tension was increased every time. The story was well put together, tension, romance and magic. Benjamin Redbourn, 3rd Dark Earl of Crofton, a vampire who is more interested in his romantic encounters and making magical and healing potions. Then he meets Ashley, a warlock, who has to investigate him. It is clear from the start that these two do not like each other, but tolerate each other. The story reads well and is quite exciting. I can't tell you too much here, but believe me this story is really well put together and will keep you in suspense until the end. So a good book that is definitely worth reading. Recommended.
May 28, 2024
Subterfuge is a paranormal M/M romance with vampires, warlocks, demons, fae, elves and more.
I got this eARC from BookSirens. I am very grateful to have tried out this book.
Meet Ben Redborn, who is about to be inducted to the Vampire council as the 3rd Dark Earl of Crofton. Before this can happen an investigation is opened to determine if he should be named Earl. Warlocks Ashley and Jack are sent to his home to investigate.
I was entertained when I read this book but I didn’t love it. The enemies to lovers fell flat to me. They definitely didn’t get along in the beginning but they too easily got together. I wish there was more world building but this is a book 1 so maybe that comes later.
I got this eARC from BookSirens. I am very grateful to have tried out this book.
Meet Ben Redborn, who is about to be inducted to the Vampire council as the 3rd Dark Earl of Crofton. Before this can happen an investigation is opened to determine if he should be named Earl. Warlocks Ashley and Jack are sent to his home to investigate.
I was entertained when I read this book but I didn’t love it. The enemies to lovers fell flat to me. They definitely didn’t get along in the beginning but they too easily got together. I wish there was more world building but this is a book 1 so maybe that comes later.
June 1, 2024
I love the creativity behind the premise of this novel— a supernatural take on an established series (Crofton Hall). You don’t have to have read the original books to enjoy this one, but it does add a fun layer if you have. That said, I would have loved a bit more world building with the supernatural aspects— there are so many fascinating paranormal elements and possibilities here but the scaffolding/context isn’t always as robust as it could have been. That said, there are plenty of strong personalities and strong chemistry here, mostly in all the best ways (while I liked Ben, for me, a little bit of Ashley went a long way, but mileage will vary). Overall, an enjoyable read.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 2, 2024
Crofton Hall with Vampires
I love the Crofton Hall series and I love dark vampire stories so I was excited when I found out that Rebecca Cohen was combining the two. There isn’t really any crossover between them, just a different idea of what Crofton Hall could be if there were vampires there. I had wondered how she was going to fit vampires into the existing story line but I think she did the right thing just making it a different story altogether. It works and is even more fun than the original stories except obviously darker. The byplay between Ben and Ashley is a treat that just keeps on giving and it made the book lighter. A great beginning to what looks to be another great series.
I love the Crofton Hall series and I love dark vampire stories so I was excited when I found out that Rebecca Cohen was combining the two. There isn’t really any crossover between them, just a different idea of what Crofton Hall could be if there were vampires there. I had wondered how she was going to fit vampires into the existing story line but I think she did the right thing just making it a different story altogether. It works and is even more fun than the original stories except obviously darker. The byplay between Ben and Ashley is a treat that just keeps on giving and it made the book lighter. A great beginning to what looks to be another great series.
June 3, 2024
I've read all the Crofton Hall stories and have loved following the characters in them both historical and contemporary. I am so excited and delighted that Rebecca Cohen has now decided to give us a paranormal version of the world of Crofton! I loved seeing how things in this series both aligned and differed from things we know from the non-paranormal version but the world building here totally stands on its own. I'm a huge fan of series with lots of political scheming and jockeying for position and that's a major part of this book which I hope continues. As for the romance, Ben and Ashley are great characters and I loved seeing this vampire and warlock overcome their initial suspicion of each other as a result of magic gone wrong. Bring on lots more in this series.
May 14, 2024
I loved this book! It’s so funny, and snarky, and just the most fun enemies-to-lovers story. Preconceived notions, subterfuge, meddling forbears, UST, denial, and unexpected (and undesired) mates. And both MCs were so cute. Usually in an ETL trope, there is one party I don’t particularly care for, but in this story, I loved both Ben and Ashley, and I love Ben Redbourn as a vampire. I really like that the author decided to take a supernatural turn with Crofton Hall. I enjoyed this story, and I look forward to more. (Also, get a look at the cover...stunning.)
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
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