What do you think?
A Vampire's Guide to Gardening #2
Vampires and Violas
Piper and Noah return in Vampires and Violas, the second book in A Vampire’s Guide to Gardening.
Hi, I’m Piper Edwards, and I’m pre-vampiric. Don’t worry—it’s not as bad as it sounds. Right now, my love life is far more complicated than my diet. Taking prescription blood three times a day? Easy.
Abstaining from nibbling on Noah’s yummy neck? Not easy.
You know what else isn’t easy? Tracking down Cassian's hundred-year-old ex-girlfriend, learning how to properly use a stake, and figuring out how to tell my parents I’m now a creature of the night.
But honestly, I don’t think anything could be worse than suffering through vampire support groups…until my ex-stalker’s favorite assassin decides to pay me a visit.
A Vampire's Guide to Gardening is a fun and flirty fantasy rom-com you can sink your teeth into. (Pun intended.) Full of humor, spark-and-smolder chemistry, and practical tips for growing your flower gardening business when you become allergic to the sun, this series is sure to delight fans of cozy paranormal romance.
The books in this series feature spicy-sweet closed-door romance. (Passionate kisses and some innuendo, but no on-page steamy scenes.)
Hi, I’m Piper Edwards, and I’m pre-vampiric. Don’t worry—it’s not as bad as it sounds. Right now, my love life is far more complicated than my diet. Taking prescription blood three times a day? Easy.
Abstaining from nibbling on Noah’s yummy neck? Not easy.
You know what else isn’t easy? Tracking down Cassian's hundred-year-old ex-girlfriend, learning how to properly use a stake, and figuring out how to tell my parents I’m now a creature of the night.
But honestly, I don’t think anything could be worse than suffering through vampire support groups…until my ex-stalker’s favorite assassin decides to pay me a visit.
A Vampire's Guide to Gardening is a fun and flirty fantasy rom-com you can sink your teeth into. (Pun intended.) Full of humor, spark-and-smolder chemistry, and practical tips for growing your flower gardening business when you become allergic to the sun, this series is sure to delight fans of cozy paranormal romance.
The books in this series feature spicy-sweet closed-door romance. (Passionate kisses and some innuendo, but no on-page steamy scenes.)
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 14, 2025
About the author
Shari L. Tapscott
69 books965 followersShari L. Tapscott writes young adult fantasy and humorous contemporary fiction. When she's not writing or reading, she enjoys gardening, making soap, and pretending she can sing.
She loves white chocolate mochas, furry animals, spending time with her family, and characters who refuse to behave.
Tapscott lives in western Colorado with her husband, son, daughter, and two very spoiled Saint Bernards.
Join Shari's newsletter, and be one of the first to learn about new projects, upcoming releases, sales, and specials.
She loves white chocolate mochas, furry animals, spending time with her family, and characters who refuse to behave.
Tapscott lives in western Colorado with her husband, son, daughter, and two very spoiled Saint Bernards.
Join Shari's newsletter, and be one of the first to learn about new projects, upcoming releases, sales, and specials.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
March 31, 2025
Reread: just as good as the first time! LOVED!!
That was so much fun! Absolutely loved it!
Plot- Plot is good. It took a back burner to the relationship, which I didn’t mind at all. Because the slow burn development of the relationship was awesome.
There are some shady things going on in NIHA and rival clans that introduce a new mystery about corrupt politics in the vampire world. An important additional character was introduced. All things that setup for the plot in Book 3.
Writing- Absolutely fantastic. Engaging, funny, and the BANTER! Loved it.
The humor and the swoon are my favorite parts of reading Tapscott’s books in this series. I’m ruined for other authors now!!!
A few examples of the witty writing and humor:
He’s rolled the shirtsleeves up to his elbows like he doesn’t have the patience for them. The look is half-professional and fully hot.
…
“Oh… cool.” I smile even though it’s actually creepy.
“It will be cute once I add the eyes,” she assures me.
Sure.
…
“Do I need to carry you?” he asks.
“Oh, absolutely.” I give him a wobbly grin. “Take off your shirt first, though.”
He rolls his eyes and wraps his arm around my shoulders. “I think you’re fine.”
…
I guess the only thing the writing lacked was in the fight scene. I like more details of hand-to-hand combat. Extend out the scene for greater suspense. Annette Marie writes fight scenes very well, and that’s the only improvement that I think Tapscott could make in her writing.
Characters- I really liked both of the main characters, Piper and Noah.
Olivia and Max weren’t in this book much, but I’m hoping we get a side romance in Book 3.
I liked Cassian a lot, too. He def grew on me.
Sophia, the new character and Cassian’s love interest, is harder for me to like. Mostly because she seems to lack integrity due to the fact that she passes the virus on to people willy-nilly. Apparently this is unethical, and I lose respect for her when I’m told what she’s doing is irresponsible and putting the world in danger. I really WANT to like her, tho. I like her personality besides her flippant attitude about something that Cassian is legit worried about. Idk how unethical it is, so I guess I need reassurance in Book 3 so I can like her.
Romance- I love them together! They are the perfect match. They have ALL the chemistry!!! 5 stars! Swoony and sexy. Loved their kissing scenes. :) Steamy clean is my sweet spot.
Content-
Language- no swearing.
Spice- Some make out scenes that were clean/appropriate while still being sexy. This is my favorite balance. Also, high standards of reserving sex for marriage. Very cool.
Substance abuse- none
Violence- none
Cover- ok
POV- single POV (which I liked a lot. But there are some scenes from Noah’s POV available from the author that I’ll read soon. I’m sure they’ll be fantastic.)
Cliffhanger- yes, with the broader plot points. But their relationship is in a good place. (They still have great chemistry, tho.)
Format- KU (1st time) and Audible (2nd time)
Narration- excellent female narration!
How I rated the series-
Book 1 - Blood & Buttercups - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Vampires & Violas- 5 stars
Book 3 - Hunters & Hydrangeas - 3.5 stars
That was so much fun! Absolutely loved it!
Plot- Plot is good. It took a back burner to the relationship, which I didn’t mind at all. Because the slow burn development of the relationship was awesome.
There are some shady things going on in NIHA and rival clans that introduce a new mystery about corrupt politics in the vampire world. An important additional character was introduced. All things that setup for the plot in Book 3.
Writing- Absolutely fantastic. Engaging, funny, and the BANTER! Loved it.
The humor and the swoon are my favorite parts of reading Tapscott’s books in this series. I’m ruined for other authors now!!!
A few examples of the witty writing and humor:
He’s rolled the shirtsleeves up to his elbows like he doesn’t have the patience for them. The look is half-professional and fully hot.
…
“Oh… cool.” I smile even though it’s actually creepy.
“It will be cute once I add the eyes,” she assures me.
Sure.
…
“Do I need to carry you?” he asks.
“Oh, absolutely.” I give him a wobbly grin. “Take off your shirt first, though.”
He rolls his eyes and wraps his arm around my shoulders. “I think you’re fine.”
…
I guess the only thing the writing lacked was in the fight scene. I like more details of hand-to-hand combat. Extend out the scene for greater suspense. Annette Marie writes fight scenes very well, and that’s the only improvement that I think Tapscott could make in her writing.
Characters- I really liked both of the main characters, Piper and Noah.
Olivia and Max weren’t in this book much, but I’m hoping we get a side romance in Book 3.
I liked Cassian a lot, too. He def grew on me.
Sophia, the new character and Cassian’s love interest, is harder for me to like. Mostly because she seems to lack integrity due to the fact that she passes the virus on to people willy-nilly. Apparently this is unethical, and I lose respect for her when I’m told what she’s doing is irresponsible and putting the world in danger. I really WANT to like her, tho. I like her personality besides her flippant attitude about something that Cassian is legit worried about. Idk how unethical it is, so I guess I need reassurance in Book 3 so I can like her.
Romance- I love them together! They are the perfect match. They have ALL the chemistry!!! 5 stars! Swoony and sexy. Loved their kissing scenes. :) Steamy clean is my sweet spot.
Content-
Language- no swearing.
Spice- Some make out scenes that were clean/appropriate while still being sexy. This is my favorite balance. Also, high standards of reserving sex for marriage. Very cool.
Substance abuse- none
Violence- none
Cover- ok
POV- single POV (which I liked a lot. But there are some scenes from Noah’s POV available from the author that I’ll read soon. I’m sure they’ll be fantastic.)
Cliffhanger- yes, with the broader plot points. But their relationship is in a good place. (They still have great chemistry, tho.)
Format- KU (1st time) and Audible (2nd time)
Narration- excellent female narration!
How I rated the series-
Book 1 - Blood & Buttercups - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Vampires & Violas- 5 stars
Book 3 - Hunters & Hydrangeas - 3.5 stars
April 20, 2025
3,4
gdyby nie to, że bohaterowie zachowują się jak nastolatkowie w pierwszym związku - byłoby znacznie lepiej. cholera, macie 28 i 31 lat, a nie 15 żeby słuchać się rodziców + clearly autorka próbuje przedłużyć serię idąc o krok do przodu i potem dwa kroki w tył
gdyby nie to, że bohaterowie zachowują się jak nastolatkowie w pierwszym związku - byłoby znacznie lepiej. cholera, macie 28 i 31 lat, a nie 15 żeby słuchać się rodziców + clearly autorka próbuje przedłużyć serię idąc o krok do przodu i potem dwa kroki w tył
April 1, 2025
A fun addition to the series, I enjoyed returning to this fun world and seeing what everyone is up to. I look forward to reading the next book in the series and seeing how everything wraps up!
Content Rated PG
Romance: Clean, kissing
Language: None
Violence: Mild
Content Rated PG
Romance: Clean, kissing
Language: None
Violence: Mild
March 11, 2025
Loved this one so much! Piper & Noah’s story continues and it’s everything I could have wanted! Their banter is so much fun and Cassian was an absolute hoot! This is such a fun, sweet take on vampires. Swoony kisses and a little bit of suspense!
March 15, 2025
Much in line with book 1, this book is funny, cheeky, and swift in pace. Piper is adjusting to her pre-vampiric life, settling into forced support groups, blood supplements, and her new vampire conservator (Cassian). Unfortunately, despite his imprisonment, her stalker hasn’t given up on their HPE and still has henchmen on the outside to do his bidding. There are plenty of lol moments and enough bad guys, danger, and action to make a gripping story that’s difficult to put down.
So… when I first read book 1, I absolutely loved it. Like on-my-top-10-books-of-all-time loved it. I reread book 1 yesterday in preparation for 2, and realized that there were more innuendos and sexual references than I remembered… Something that definitely continues with book 2, and even grows more prevalent. Perhaps my steam tolerance has lowered a bit with all the regency romances I’ve been reading of late, but I found the sexual tension excessive and uncomfortable. The book is absolutely still a 5, but I think it’s dropped off my-very-favorites list.
Content:
There are many innuendos, flirting, and ogling. There are a few steamy kisses, but it doesn’t go beyond kissing and embracing. The 2 MCs live in the same house in a roommate/renter arrangement.
The word “hell” is used once, but otherwise the language is clean. There is some violence and a couple assaults on the FMC (she is rescued each time). There is no magic. There’s no mention of faith or God.
So… when I first read book 1, I absolutely loved it. Like on-my-top-10-books-of-all-time loved it. I reread book 1 yesterday in preparation for 2, and realized that there were more innuendos and sexual references than I remembered… Something that definitely continues with book 2, and even grows more prevalent. Perhaps my steam tolerance has lowered a bit with all the regency romances I’ve been reading of late, but I found the sexual tension excessive and uncomfortable. The book is absolutely still a 5, but I think it’s dropped off my-very-favorites list.
Content:
There are many innuendos, flirting, and ogling. There are a few steamy kisses, but it doesn’t go beyond kissing and embracing. The 2 MCs live in the same house in a roommate/renter arrangement.
The word “hell” is used once, but otherwise the language is clean. There is some violence and a couple assaults on the FMC (she is rescued each time). There is no magic. There’s no mention of faith or God.
April 25, 2025
Okay, I’m kind of disappointed because I liked the first book in this series so much, and this one just left me kind of…meh? I was completely meh for the first half to 60% of it. It felt like there was zero plot except for Piper’s angst-ing back and forth over her relationship with Noah, and for whatever reason, I wasn’t all that invested. I figured they’d end up dating. It started to become super obvious how Tapscott was going to resolve the aging human together with non-aging vampire issue, and I wasn’t thrilled that so much of what I liked about Piper in the first book was going away. I wish the resolution to that issues had been more creative.
Then there were Piper’s parents. I hated them! I thought they were completely obnoxious and over the top and that they treated their adult daughter as if she were 16…or 14. I appreciated Piper standing up to them, but found Noah frustrating because he essentially overrode Piper’s own decisions regarding her family. So he irritated me as well. I did get engrossed in the plot toward the end, even though it was pretty predictable. I’ll probably read the third book - or at least skim it, since I have KU and it will be free. But I’m significantly less excited for it than I was for this one. (Updated September of 2026 - so far I haven’t read or skimmed the third book and probably won’t).
Then there were Piper’s parents. I hated them! I thought they were completely obnoxious and over the top and that they treated their adult daughter as if she were 16…or 14. I appreciated Piper standing up to them, but found Noah frustrating because he essentially overrode Piper’s own decisions regarding her family. So he irritated me as well. I did get engrossed in the plot toward the end, even though it was pretty predictable. I’ll probably read the third book - or at least skim it, since I have KU and it will be free. But I’m significantly less excited for it than I was for this one. (Updated September of 2026 - so far I haven’t read or skimmed the third book and probably won’t).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2026
Well, the conservative undertones became overtones.
I liked the story but the modern day 29 year old FMC's parents tell her they don't like her new boyfriend and that he should break up with her out of respect for them AND HE DOES??!?!! How a person dating has anything to do with respect for someone's parents is already beyond me but the fact that this wasn't a demonstration of how deluded the parents are made me *strongly* dislike this book.
Sadly I'll never know what happens in the rest of this series.
I liked the story but the modern day 29 year old FMC's parents tell her they don't like her new boyfriend and that he should break up with her out of respect for them AND HE DOES??!?!! How a person dating has anything to do with respect for someone's parents is already beyond me but the fact that this wasn't a demonstration of how deluded the parents are made me *strongly* dislike this book.
Sadly I'll never know what happens in the rest of this series.
March 15, 2025
Amazing!
Just as delightful as the first book! Can’t wait for the third! (And yes even though there are loose story threads no worries because there isn’t a cliffhanger ending). Perfect for fans of KM Shea’s Magiford series. I read the book early though an ARC, promising an honest review.
Just as delightful as the first book! Can’t wait for the third! (And yes even though there are loose story threads no worries because there isn’t a cliffhanger ending). Perfect for fans of KM Shea’s Magiford series. I read the book early though an ARC, promising an honest review.
March 26, 2025
Loved it!!
Bampires and Violas was such a fun book, but it was over way too soon! I seriously need the 3rd book to come out sooner rather than later. Piper is so cute, and I especially loved all the flirting between her and Noah.
An engaging storyline, interesting characters, no swearing, and no sex scenes. It's the perfect romance book! Thanks for another great one, Shari!!
Bampires and Violas was such a fun book, but it was over way too soon! I seriously need the 3rd book to come out sooner rather than later. Piper is so cute, and I especially loved all the flirting between her and Noah.
An engaging storyline, interesting characters, no swearing, and no sex scenes. It's the perfect romance book! Thanks for another great one, Shari!!
July 6, 2026
twisted
Lots to take in. Quirky humor with a sweet romance. This is a clean read from a great author. Next!
Lots to take in. Quirky humor with a sweet romance. This is a clean read from a great author. Next!
March 14, 2025
Good book!
I enjoyed reading this book! It was good to see what happens next, and now I can’t wait for the next book!
I enjoyed reading this book! It was good to see what happens next, and now I can’t wait for the next book!
July 21, 2025
I Loved this cozy vampire series. I loved watching the characters grow. The second book had a lot of “vampire politics” which got a bit much for me but book three and all its action made up for it. Lots of yearning and tension but no explicit details this #clean #romantacy is my kind of book. A very sweet ending for a great couple.
November 4, 2025
Single POV (mostly); a fun continuation of the story. Onto book 3.
👍:
•The sibling dynamics between Piper & Max
•The friendships (Piper & Cassian cracked me up)
•Piper & Noah ❤️
👍:
•The sibling dynamics between Piper & Max
•The friendships (Piper & Cassian cracked me up)
•Piper & Noah ❤️
March 20, 2025
Thankfully, not that long of a wait. The first of the two sequels to Blood and Buttercups is already out – and I am beyond thrilled that I got to bask in the glow of Tapscott's marvelous creativity like a pre-vampiric Piper just slathered in sunscreen. Absolute gold. Made me laugh, made me breathless. Piper and Noah are *chef's kiss* – just perfect. But now, I really do have to wait. The final installment isn't coming out until this summer. So I am waiting. Impatiently. If you are in the same boat as me, but have not read any of Tapscott's other work, then I recommend The Vampire Hunter and the Heiress and The Werewolf Hunter and the Apprentice to take the edge off. Both have the same fun, spicy-sweet, paranormal romance vibe. Happy reading!
March 16, 2025
Oh, how I love Shari L. Tapscott’s writing! She has a beautiful imagination and puts it to use wonderfully. Vampires and Violas is a good example of that. Set in an urban fantasy, it has amazing romance, humor, and a bit of danger.
I fell in love with Noah and Piper in book one and honestly, book two has endeared me to them significantly more. They have had some time to grow and for friendships to be formed. Oh, and for Piper to get used to her predicament. She handles it so well and Noah is such a supportive MMC. Their banter and sweet moments were my highlight. And….. I should not be this invested in side characters… But I am. So, there’s that.
The storyline is so fun. I love how we slowly get to delve into the world of vampires. Some of the characters introduced have me very intrigued and that ending! I have so many questions that cannot be answered until book three. I must be patient. I must! 😭
No-spice Level: heavier kissing but closed door
Language: Clean
Faith-Elements: None
I fell in love with Noah and Piper in book one and honestly, book two has endeared me to them significantly more. They have had some time to grow and for friendships to be formed. Oh, and for Piper to get used to her predicament. She handles it so well and Noah is such a supportive MMC. Their banter and sweet moments were my highlight. And….. I should not be this invested in side characters… But I am. So, there’s that.
The storyline is so fun. I love how we slowly get to delve into the world of vampires. Some of the characters introduced have me very intrigued and that ending! I have so many questions that cannot be answered until book three. I must be patient. I must! 😭
No-spice Level: heavier kissing but closed door
Language: Clean
Faith-Elements: None
March 16, 2025
Fun, flirty, but serious subject
The flirty banter had me laughing a lot. While vampires and becoming a vampire is serious, Piper has a great sense of humor. Noah is more of the steadying influence, while being fun and irresistible.
The flirty banter had me laughing a lot. While vampires and becoming a vampire is serious, Piper has a great sense of humor. Noah is more of the steadying influence, while being fun and irresistible.
March 1, 2025
Oh. My. Goodness. This book. Just. I love everything about it. The characters are all just amazing in their own way. Honestly, even the bad guy, haha. The story was so hard to put down, and had so much humor throughout! I legitimately laughed aloud MULTIPLE times throughout this book. Seriously, this series is already one of my top favorites ever. I cannot wait for the next book. I'll be reading these all over and over again, without a doubt!
Update: Just finished the audiobook, and it was fantastic! The narrator did a great job bringing the characters to life, and I absolutely ADORE the characters in this! Such a fantastic story! I can't wait for book 3 to come to audio!
Update: Just finished the audiobook, and it was fantastic! The narrator did a great job bringing the characters to life, and I absolutely ADORE the characters in this! Such a fantastic story! I can't wait for book 3 to come to audio!
March 23, 2025
A little over the top
I don’t think I had the right expectations going in, so maybe I can help others?
Piper is now a pre-vamp, stage one. Still selling flowers, still maybe mad at and maybe crazy for Noah.
I found her to be a little over-the-top obsessed with physical intimacy, and her relationship with her parents is just…odd. She’s thirty, and they treat her like she’s 12. I’d love to see that dynamic explored…because it’s giving Hormonal Teen With Overbearing Parents.
Weird relationship dynamics aside, I enjoyed the way the story progressed. It was a solid Middle Book and set us up for hopefully the climactic ending in book 3!
I don’t think I had the right expectations going in, so maybe I can help others?
Piper is now a pre-vamp, stage one. Still selling flowers, still maybe mad at and maybe crazy for Noah.
I found her to be a little over-the-top obsessed with physical intimacy, and her relationship with her parents is just…odd. She’s thirty, and they treat her like she’s 12. I’d love to see that dynamic explored…because it’s giving Hormonal Teen With Overbearing Parents.
Weird relationship dynamics aside, I enjoyed the way the story progressed. It was a solid Middle Book and set us up for hopefully the climactic ending in book 3!
April 26, 2025
So stinken good!
I just love how the mystery keeps unfolding. It's the best urban fantasy mystery romance combination!
Also Noah and Piper, my favorites. So swoony!!
Once again, I loved how feminine Piper was and even how she blatantly admitted she's not a kick butt heroine 🤣 my favorite. I'm loving this dynamic.
I enjoyed so many things and loved the foreshadowing, new characters, and getting to know the ones from the first book more.
Can't wait for book three!
💋Kisses/Makeouts - mentions of biting because vampires
⚠️ Injuries and some death
I just love how the mystery keeps unfolding. It's the best urban fantasy mystery romance combination!
Also Noah and Piper, my favorites. So swoony!!
Once again, I loved how feminine Piper was and even how she blatantly admitted she's not a kick butt heroine 🤣 my favorite. I'm loving this dynamic.
I enjoyed so many things and loved the foreshadowing, new characters, and getting to know the ones from the first book more.
Can't wait for book three!
💋Kisses/Makeouts - mentions of biting because vampires
⚠️ Injuries and some death
April 5, 2025
I enjoyed the book overall but the dynamic between Piper and her parents makes me cringe. She's almost 30 years old and they're letting themselves into her home with no notice when she isn't there and telling her who she can date and whether or not she can have a roommate. She needs to grow a spine and set some boundaries. The fact that she's still a virgin and waiting for marriage is also a bit unbelievable, especially given her thirsty behavior around Noah.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2026
Read this for a good time. It’s low stakes and low angst and just fun. It’s funny and the plot is ridiculous when you stop to think about it but I can’t stop reading. I love all the characters except the parents and Sophie. I can’t stand them. This book focused a lot more on the relationship than the last one. Not as much of a plot. I feel like it is Pipers day to day life as a flower farmer trying to adjust to the vampire world. You must read Noah’s bonus chapters!
SPOILERS and book notes:
Cassian is the one that turned Noah a vampire to save his life!! Gosh dang Piper you better forgive him for not telling you!!! Yay! I’m so happy they are friends and it only took a chapter! ““I know we can’t go back to…” He raises his eyebrows, suggesting a romantic relationship. “But what do you say we try this friend thing again?” I don’t answer right away, enjoying watching him squirm. “Yeah, okay. But Noah, you are friend-zoned so hard.” He smiles a little. “Did you close the gate this time?” “I not only closed it—I padlocked it.” “I missed you.” Out of nowhere, my eyes become misty. I look away, refusing to get emotional, and blink quickly. “I sort of missed you, too.” Cassian is her conservator, Noah her friend and roommate and over all investigations in the west. Max her brother is now a trained Conservator!!! Aw it’s Noah’s birthday! She got him a new leather jacket bc the last one was destroyed in the fight! And it leads to talk kisses to finally a fantastic one but he has to stop bc of his fangs coming out lol. “I’m two bites away from being a final-stage creature of the night, and Noah carries the key to the darkness. This is such a bad idea. And I don’t care.” Yay!!! ““First rule of living life outside the friend-zone paddock—no biting.” I grin despite myself. “Who said I’m letting you out?” “Oh, you have to let me out, Piper, otherwise I just might die.” I love that the month they were separated he watched k dramas bc he knew she liked them. And now he is pulling romantic things from them. Oh my heck. Cassian former fiance Sophia bites people that pay her. It’s those that are dying. That is illegal. These vampires she creates (Ethen) bites other random people!! Stop spreading it! Cassian pardons her crimes in exchange for information and for her to stop and protect Piper but she runs away and disappears after she receives the pardon. The same night Piper is attacked by the Ethen’s assassin and gets grazed by his fangs. Is she infected? Also pipers parents show up and they are the WORST. They are so annoying. They treat piper and Noah like they are teenagers and not 30 years old!!! They won’t let them date or be roommates. And they listen to the parents like they have to!! Whyyyy??? They know everything. AW! The assassin takes her and leaves 7 men to kill Noah and THIS happens: “Noah stands on the other side, bleeding and bruised, with a dark red stain blooming on his white T-shirt. He points his gun at Sam. “Release her.” “Impossible,” Sam breathes. “How?” Noah stares down at him. “I might not be able to fight eight men at once, but you better believe I can take seven.” But it’s too late! She is a full stage vampire! But they are so adorable about it and say “I love you!” “He’s mine, and I’m his, and I’m happy. Even though my life is changing drastically, my heart is full.” And then the bonus chapters through his perspective! “Piper-Piper and
her sunshine, strange vegetable addiction, and weird metaphors.
I only lived with her for a few weeks, but I'll never be the same.
I've never been around someone
who made me so happy. I don’t think she even tried. It was just her.”
SPOILERS and book notes:
Cassian is the one that turned Noah a vampire to save his life!! Gosh dang Piper you better forgive him for not telling you!!! Yay! I’m so happy they are friends and it only took a chapter! ““I know we can’t go back to…” He raises his eyebrows, suggesting a romantic relationship. “But what do you say we try this friend thing again?” I don’t answer right away, enjoying watching him squirm. “Yeah, okay. But Noah, you are friend-zoned so hard.” He smiles a little. “Did you close the gate this time?” “I not only closed it—I padlocked it.” “I missed you.” Out of nowhere, my eyes become misty. I look away, refusing to get emotional, and blink quickly. “I sort of missed you, too.” Cassian is her conservator, Noah her friend and roommate and over all investigations in the west. Max her brother is now a trained Conservator!!! Aw it’s Noah’s birthday! She got him a new leather jacket bc the last one was destroyed in the fight! And it leads to talk kisses to finally a fantastic one but he has to stop bc of his fangs coming out lol. “I’m two bites away from being a final-stage creature of the night, and Noah carries the key to the darkness. This is such a bad idea. And I don’t care.” Yay!!! ““First rule of living life outside the friend-zone paddock—no biting.” I grin despite myself. “Who said I’m letting you out?” “Oh, you have to let me out, Piper, otherwise I just might die.” I love that the month they were separated he watched k dramas bc he knew she liked them. And now he is pulling romantic things from them. Oh my heck. Cassian former fiance Sophia bites people that pay her. It’s those that are dying. That is illegal. These vampires she creates (Ethen) bites other random people!! Stop spreading it! Cassian pardons her crimes in exchange for information and for her to stop and protect Piper but she runs away and disappears after she receives the pardon. The same night Piper is attacked by the Ethen’s assassin and gets grazed by his fangs. Is she infected? Also pipers parents show up and they are the WORST. They are so annoying. They treat piper and Noah like they are teenagers and not 30 years old!!! They won’t let them date or be roommates. And they listen to the parents like they have to!! Whyyyy??? They know everything. AW! The assassin takes her and leaves 7 men to kill Noah and THIS happens: “Noah stands on the other side, bleeding and bruised, with a dark red stain blooming on his white T-shirt. He points his gun at Sam. “Release her.” “Impossible,” Sam breathes. “How?” Noah stares down at him. “I might not be able to fight eight men at once, but you better believe I can take seven.” But it’s too late! She is a full stage vampire! But they are so adorable about it and say “I love you!” “He’s mine, and I’m his, and I’m happy. Even though my life is changing drastically, my heart is full.” And then the bonus chapters through his perspective! “Piper-Piper and
her sunshine, strange vegetable addiction, and weird metaphors.
I only lived with her for a few weeks, but I'll never be the same.
I've never been around someone
who made me so happy. I don’t think she even tried. It was just her.”
September 12, 2026
I try not to judge a book by it having a "clean romance" tag because the simple fact of there being no explicit sex is irrelevant to my interests. I'll read smutty smut smut, I'll read books where they don't kiss till the last page. I don't care. The issue is that every SINGLE time something is marketed as a clean romance, what they really mean is that they they're going to gaslight the reader into thinking that "no sex" is the same as "I'm a 30 year old woman whose biggest pushback against my parents treating me like im 12 is to pout and make snotty comments" or "I'm waiting til marriage for no discernible reason other than a passing comment that my parents told me it's what 'good girls do'"(fucking ew).
Book one was tolerable. At least in book one, all this shit read like it was the MC's own personal preferences and nothing more, which is fine even if I personally find that life choice stupid AF. But with the introduction of the parents, all the things that were mostly tolerable in the first book got to be beyond bearing. Grow an actual backbone, I'm begging. AT LEAST if she could have fought with the love interest over him bending backwards for daddy dearest 5 seconds after he enters the stage knowing exactly fuckall about the situation--that fight would have been some real, reasonable tension. But no, god forbid the male and female leads stay broken up or at odds for longer than 5 pages. It's giving Christian wattpad story, I can't lie.
To be frank, this series was never that good in the first place. It's very by the numbers and underwhelming. The banter starts ok in book one but the romantic tension is gone by 20% because I get the sense that this author has no idea how to write slow burn nor when it would be a better idea. So instead we get an asinine will-they-won't they push and pull triggered from BS outside sources. The main conflict is meh. The secondary characters range from decent (Cassian) to even more unbearable than the MC (Sophia). It's just nothing special on every level. The only mildly interesting thing was the world-building about vampires but the ultimate resolution to the inherent issues and downsides of vampirism is so amateurishly telegraphed I don't even feel like I have to read book three to do a point by point plot summary.
So it was never that great. But with all this other baggage about the author's poorly disguised moral values slipping in, it just takes it from mid but ultimately readable to a the strongest DNF I've had in a long time.
Book one was tolerable. At least in book one, all this shit read like it was the MC's own personal preferences and nothing more, which is fine even if I personally find that life choice stupid AF. But with the introduction of the parents, all the things that were mostly tolerable in the first book got to be beyond bearing. Grow an actual backbone, I'm begging. AT LEAST if she could have fought with the love interest over him bending backwards for daddy dearest 5 seconds after he enters the stage knowing exactly fuckall about the situation--that fight would have been some real, reasonable tension. But no, god forbid the male and female leads stay broken up or at odds for longer than 5 pages. It's giving Christian wattpad story, I can't lie.
To be frank, this series was never that good in the first place. It's very by the numbers and underwhelming. The banter starts ok in book one but the romantic tension is gone by 20% because I get the sense that this author has no idea how to write slow burn nor when it would be a better idea. So instead we get an asinine will-they-won't they push and pull triggered from BS outside sources. The main conflict is meh. The secondary characters range from decent (Cassian) to even more unbearable than the MC (Sophia). It's just nothing special on every level. The only mildly interesting thing was the world-building about vampires but the ultimate resolution to the inherent issues and downsides of vampirism is so amateurishly telegraphed I don't even feel like I have to read book three to do a point by point plot summary.
So it was never that great. But with all this other baggage about the author's poorly disguised moral values slipping in, it just takes it from mid but ultimately readable to a the strongest DNF I've had in a long time.
March 15, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! I had been waiting for it to come out, and I had to read it as soon as I saw it was available on Amazon.
I love their banter so much, and I love the plots—both the main plot and the subplot with Cassian. It is so engaging that you just keep reading without realizing that, eh, the book is already done!
So, to update: we finally got to see Cassian's girlfriend, Sofia, who is actually not this big crazy psychotic individual. She's just really, really soft-hearted and was turning people who were sick and dying. Then they were going off and doing their own thing.
Sofia got a house pardon, and we think she was abducted by the people who had been sending her those sick people to heal—probably the same people who want to kill Cassian so he can't take over the throne (but it's not like he wants it). So now we have to find out where she is.
Also, now Ethan, from prison, is still trying to get my girl Piper to become immortal so that when he comes out in 100 years, she will still be alive. That is so messed up! Oh, and because of his plan, he arranged for her to get bitten. Fortunately, Noah stopped the process, but she still ended up with a graze on her arm. However, that graze was deep enough that she got infected again!
But instead of only being a second-stage vampire, she is now a full vampire! We saw in the last chapter that she was craving blood way more than the doses she had been taking—and even more than the even doses she was on. She needed more, and she was taking blood straight at the end of the last chapter.
I'm very curious to see how this is going to play out because, yes, they're both vampires now. He doesn't have to be so afraid of biting her. But apparently, he only wants to bite her if they're married or whatever. So I'm really curious how this is going to lead into the next book.
Plus, we have her parents who now need to be updated—like, Hey, I'm not just second-stage; I'm actually a full vampire now. And I wonder how this is going to affect her mentally, because she won't be able to go out in the sun, she can't eat her beloved vegetables, and I think she is going to suffer a lot in the next book.
But luckily, she has our darling Noah there—and Cassian—to help her out.
I love their banter so much, and I love the plots—both the main plot and the subplot with Cassian. It is so engaging that you just keep reading without realizing that, eh, the book is already done!
So, to update: we finally got to see Cassian's girlfriend, Sofia, who is actually not this big crazy psychotic individual. She's just really, really soft-hearted and was turning people who were sick and dying. Then they were going off and doing their own thing.
Sofia got a house pardon, and we think she was abducted by the people who had been sending her those sick people to heal—probably the same people who want to kill Cassian so he can't take over the throne (but it's not like he wants it). So now we have to find out where she is.
Also, now Ethan, from prison, is still trying to get my girl Piper to become immortal so that when he comes out in 100 years, she will still be alive. That is so messed up! Oh, and because of his plan, he arranged for her to get bitten. Fortunately, Noah stopped the process, but she still ended up with a graze on her arm. However, that graze was deep enough that she got infected again!
But instead of only being a second-stage vampire, she is now a full vampire! We saw in the last chapter that she was craving blood way more than the doses she had been taking—and even more than the even doses she was on. She needed more, and she was taking blood straight at the end of the last chapter.
I'm very curious to see how this is going to play out because, yes, they're both vampires now. He doesn't have to be so afraid of biting her. But apparently, he only wants to bite her if they're married or whatever. So I'm really curious how this is going to lead into the next book.
Plus, we have her parents who now need to be updated—like, Hey, I'm not just second-stage; I'm actually a full vampire now. And I wonder how this is going to affect her mentally, because she won't be able to go out in the sun, she can't eat her beloved vegetables, and I think she is going to suffer a lot in the next book.
But luckily, she has our darling Noah there—and Cassian—to help her out.
March 14, 2025
They’re back!
Spoilers ahead.
First, Cassian is the star. (Sorry, not sorry.) He’s a delight. Noah highly disagrees. But I’m sure Piper would be distraught without all of the entertainment he provides. She’d never admit it, but I know I’m right.
I love Noah and Piper’s banter. They’re cute and adorable and funny. Max is well, dang. He just opened that can of vampires and let it ALL out. I literally laughed out loud at his word vomit. He could learn some discretion or tack, lol! Also… I very much feel like this opens the door for Piper to have some honest discussions with Max. Specifically about his feelings for her best friends. Someone needs to just rip that bandaid right off.
Ethan is still unfortunately around. So I’m very eager to see how this wraps up in the next book. Sentenced to 100 years in jail and he’s still trying to get what he wants. I suspect he’s not done! And seeing as how Piper is otherwise engaged, not literally-at least not yet, to someone else, I feel like tantrums will ensue. (And I’m here for it!)
As much as I loved the book, there are two bones I want to pick though. Did we have to do the (obligatory-apparently) break up? I mean, was it necessary? The way I see it is this… Noah has a medical condition. It’s contagious, but he’s also managing it. It’s also private. He didn’t need to disclose anything right away. For crying out loud, they weren’t even dating! For me this falls under the category of information people don’t need to know until they need to know. His own family doesn’t even know. So, that entire thing was frustrating. And it took entirely too long to get them back together.
The second thing was the parents. Piper is 28. She pays her own bills and lives by herself. She’s quite capable of making decisions on her own. So for her parents to show up unannounced at her residence and demand she break up with her boyfriend and move back in with them is a hard no. The situation is a lot. I do understand to a degree. They can voice their complaints, but demanding to obey them like she’s 12? Nope. Just nope. That gives the vibes that had she acquiesced to their demands, they would have thrown away her very necessary prescription just to prove a point.
So, sorry. I do love the book. The story is sweet and fun. Those two things just got under my skin. I do still fully recommend the series though!
Spoilers ahead.
First, Cassian is the star. (Sorry, not sorry.) He’s a delight. Noah highly disagrees. But I’m sure Piper would be distraught without all of the entertainment he provides. She’d never admit it, but I know I’m right.
I love Noah and Piper’s banter. They’re cute and adorable and funny. Max is well, dang. He just opened that can of vampires and let it ALL out. I literally laughed out loud at his word vomit. He could learn some discretion or tack, lol! Also… I very much feel like this opens the door for Piper to have some honest discussions with Max. Specifically about his feelings for her best friends. Someone needs to just rip that bandaid right off.
Ethan is still unfortunately around. So I’m very eager to see how this wraps up in the next book. Sentenced to 100 years in jail and he’s still trying to get what he wants. I suspect he’s not done! And seeing as how Piper is otherwise engaged, not literally-at least not yet, to someone else, I feel like tantrums will ensue. (And I’m here for it!)
As much as I loved the book, there are two bones I want to pick though. Did we have to do the (obligatory-apparently) break up? I mean, was it necessary? The way I see it is this… Noah has a medical condition. It’s contagious, but he’s also managing it. It’s also private. He didn’t need to disclose anything right away. For crying out loud, they weren’t even dating! For me this falls under the category of information people don’t need to know until they need to know. His own family doesn’t even know. So, that entire thing was frustrating. And it took entirely too long to get them back together.
The second thing was the parents. Piper is 28. She pays her own bills and lives by herself. She’s quite capable of making decisions on her own. So for her parents to show up unannounced at her residence and demand she break up with her boyfriend and move back in with them is a hard no. The situation is a lot. I do understand to a degree. They can voice their complaints, but demanding to obey them like she’s 12? Nope. Just nope. That gives the vibes that had she acquiesced to their demands, they would have thrown away her very necessary prescription just to prove a point.
So, sorry. I do love the book. The story is sweet and fun. Those two things just got under my skin. I do still fully recommend the series though!
June 24, 2025
Reader’s Notes:
-this is the second book in a trilogy & must be read in order
-this is told from Piper’s point of view of view (except for the prologue)
-there is some violence (mainly defending themselves from attacks using guns/stakes; the few mentions are brief)
-some it is mentioned that the characters make noises during some kisses (moans/groans)
Review:
This is such a great addition to the series! I loved getting to know more people that Noah and Cassian knew and how they fit into things with Piper. I completely forgot that Piper never told her parents about her pre-vampirism and was interested to see how it would play out when I was reminded of it. And those twist(s) at the end I probably should have seen coming with the hints given earlier on, but I was taken by surprise since I didn’t catch hold of it when reading!
I’m so excited to find out what will happen now with everything that’s occurred and how Shari L. Tapscott is going to wrap up Piper & Noah’s story!
Summary:
Piper is getting used to her new life as a pre-vampiric human. But some things are still outside of her wheelhouse and comfort zone.
Taking her prescription of blood she can do. But tracking down Cassian’s ex-girlfriend, learning to defend herself, and telling her parent’s about her new status as pre-vampiric are all things she’d rather avoid.
But with old foes after Piper and changes in the vampire world, Piper needs to move up her status of never doing those things to needing to do them sooner rather than later.
-this is the second book in a trilogy & must be read in order
-this is told from Piper’s point of view of view (except for the prologue)
-there is some violence (mainly defending themselves from attacks using guns/stakes; the few mentions are brief)
-some it is mentioned that the characters make noises during some kisses (moans/groans)
Review:
This is such a great addition to the series! I loved getting to know more people that Noah and Cassian knew and how they fit into things with Piper. I completely forgot that Piper never told her parents about her pre-vampirism and was interested to see how it would play out when I was reminded of it. And those twist(s) at the end I probably should have seen coming with the hints given earlier on, but I was taken by surprise since I didn’t catch hold of it when reading!
I’m so excited to find out what will happen now with everything that’s occurred and how Shari L. Tapscott is going to wrap up Piper & Noah’s story!
Summary:
Piper is getting used to her new life as a pre-vampiric human. But some things are still outside of her wheelhouse and comfort zone.
Taking her prescription of blood she can do. But tracking down Cassian’s ex-girlfriend, learning to defend herself, and telling her parent’s about her new status as pre-vampiric are all things she’d rather avoid.
But with old foes after Piper and changes in the vampire world, Piper needs to move up her status of never doing those things to needing to do them sooner rather than later.
August 12, 2026
Potentially offensive items: nudity (partial), adult situations, people forcibly bitten by a vampire against their will, violence, mild offensive language, mild graphic violence, violence against women, (offscreen) murder, (mentioned) suicide, mature themes, lying, psychosis/neurosis/sociopathy, supernatural powers
I jumped into this second book after being so excited about the first. This does resolve one of the cliffhangers from the first book since . Some of the other relationships are also cleared up here, but there is a lot of flirting between characters to make other characters jealous. This book is a sweet romance, and the series does not involve premarital sex (or anything beyond premarital kissing and bad vampires forcibly biting others against their will), although Piper and Noah do live together throughout it and there are several scenes filled with sexual innuendo.
I laughed so much reading this that my husband came in the room and asked me what was so funny. The slow burn of Piper and Noah's relationship works well--even though it is continued into the third book.
Like the first book, the parts of the book that needed to be well-researched were well-researched. This book was interesting, but you should read the series in order. I think people jumping in here might be a little lost.
I jumped into this second book after being so excited about the first. This does resolve one of the cliffhangers from the first book since . Some of the other relationships are also cleared up here, but there is a lot of flirting between characters to make other characters jealous. This book is a sweet romance, and the series does not involve premarital sex (or anything beyond premarital kissing and bad vampires forcibly biting others against their will), although Piper and Noah do live together throughout it and there are several scenes filled with sexual innuendo.
I laughed so much reading this that my husband came in the room and asked me what was so funny. The slow burn of Piper and Noah's relationship works well--even though it is continued into the third book.
Like the first book, the parts of the book that needed to be well-researched were well-researched. This book was interesting, but you should read the series in order. I think people jumping in here might be a little lost.
March 19, 2025
3.5 stars. An okay read. Piper is a pre-vampire, having been bitten/assaulted by a stalker who is now in jail. She and Noah (her conservator) are on the outs b/c he IS a late stage vamp and she didn’t know.
What worked for me: The book picked up the last 1/3 of the novel. The characters are likable and distinct. I like the voice and tone of the book: modern, fresh. Cassian is a fun character.
What didn’t work for me: 1) The first 2/3 dragged on. It was a lot of story building and most of it felt unnecessary in the end. 2) Piper gets a scrape and all of a sudden jumps vampire development stages for…I don’t know why. Not sure what the hurry is except to add drama and quicken the plot along? 3) For a prince Cassian is completely clueless. Like utterly lost in the wilderness. Noah seems more savvy than him. 4) Sophia better be tied up somewhere or I have no sympathy for her or Cassian. 5) Noah is constantly smirking 😏. It is definitely his go to look. 6) Recycled story lines. The stalker is still stalking Piper vicariously from prison and yet again bites/assaults her, Sophia is still turning vampires from Cassian’s line and is missing/on the run. Give me something new here, please.
All in all it was okay read. Will probably read the last one, but not sure.
What worked for me: The book picked up the last 1/3 of the novel. The characters are likable and distinct. I like the voice and tone of the book: modern, fresh. Cassian is a fun character.
What didn’t work for me: 1) The first 2/3 dragged on. It was a lot of story building and most of it felt unnecessary in the end. 2) Piper gets a scrape and all of a sudden jumps vampire development stages for…I don’t know why. Not sure what the hurry is except to add drama and quicken the plot along? 3) For a prince Cassian is completely clueless. Like utterly lost in the wilderness. Noah seems more savvy than him. 4) Sophia better be tied up somewhere or I have no sympathy for her or Cassian. 5) Noah is constantly smirking 😏. It is definitely his go to look. 6) Recycled story lines. The stalker is still stalking Piper vicariously from prison and yet again bites/assaults her, Sophia is still turning vampires from Cassian’s line and is missing/on the run. Give me something new here, please.
All in all it was okay read. Will probably read the last one, but not sure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2025
So we finished book one with Piper a stage 1 pre-vamp that needs 2 more bites, 1 if she's unlucky, to become a full vampire. Noah is a full vamp - Piper doesn't want to be a full vamp because CUCUMBERS! Life without cukes is bad, but Noah is so so yummy too. So in a will-they won't-they, but seriously we know how this is going to end, they back off from dating.
Piper's parents show up unexpectedly at her house, and the parents of 29 year old Piper tell her she must make Noah, her tenant, move out of the house for her virtue....AND SHE LISTENS TO THEM. Yes cozy but dear goodness she's 29. There were wildly improbable situations that were over the top enough to just made me laugh and giggle. We all knew there was no way on earth that Piper wasn't going to become a full vamp so that Noah couldn't get in trouble by accidentally infecting her again.
I'm pretty sure I could tell you what we're going to cover in the final book, but it'll be a fun read - Shari writes good dialogue. I read this one super quick while being a car passenger, and it was a good way to pass the time.
Piper's parents show up unexpectedly at her house, and the parents of 29 year old Piper tell her she must make Noah, her tenant, move out of the house for her virtue....AND SHE LISTENS TO THEM. Yes cozy but dear goodness she's 29. There were wildly improbable situations that were over the top enough to just made me laugh and giggle. We all knew there was no way on earth that Piper wasn't going to become a full vamp so that Noah couldn't get in trouble by accidentally infecting her again.
I'm pretty sure I could tell you what we're going to cover in the final book, but it'll be a fun read - Shari writes good dialogue. I read this one super quick while being a car passenger, and it was a good way to pass the time.
March 11, 2026
⭐ 5/5
🌶 1/5
I can not stress how humorous the writing is. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found myself actually laughing out loud at some parts. These characters go through so much in such a short amount of time, and you just are rooting for them so hard.
I will say I was so stressed.
Absolutely loved this book and immediately dove into book 3.
My rating system:
🌶 Glimpses and kisses
Meaningful glances and perhaps a kiss, but no sex on and off page.
🌶 🌶 Behind closed doors
At least one intimate scene occurs, but without the reader present.
🌶 🌶 🌶 Open door
At least one intimate scene with the reader present, euphemistic language for act and body parts.
🌶 🌶 🌶🌶Explicit open door
At least two intimate scenes, explicit language with a variety of sexual acts.
🌶 🌶 🌶🌶🌶Explicit and plentiful
Several explicit scenes, a variety of adventurous acts, dotted throughout the book.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I had the time of my life
⭐⭐⭐⭐ I had a great time
⭐⭐⭐ I had a good time
⭐⭐ I had a time
⭐ I should not have had a time
🌶 1/5
I can not stress how humorous the writing is. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found myself actually laughing out loud at some parts. These characters go through so much in such a short amount of time, and you just are rooting for them so hard.
I will say I was so stressed.
Absolutely loved this book and immediately dove into book 3.
My rating system:
🌶 Glimpses and kisses
Meaningful glances and perhaps a kiss, but no sex on and off page.
🌶 🌶 Behind closed doors
At least one intimate scene occurs, but without the reader present.
🌶 🌶 🌶 Open door
At least one intimate scene with the reader present, euphemistic language for act and body parts.
🌶 🌶 🌶🌶Explicit open door
At least two intimate scenes, explicit language with a variety of sexual acts.
🌶 🌶 🌶🌶🌶Explicit and plentiful
Several explicit scenes, a variety of adventurous acts, dotted throughout the book.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I had the time of my life
⭐⭐⭐⭐ I had a great time
⭐⭐⭐ I had a good time
⭐⭐ I had a time
⭐ I should not have had a time
March 8, 2025
Another home run from Shari L Tapscott! This second installment in the Vampire’s Guide to Gardening series is even better than the first. I binged it all in a day. As Piper gets back to some semblance of normal in her life as a pre-vamp, we discover Ethan is reluctant to let her go, even from jail. Our favorite vampire hunter returns to Glenwood Springs and together with our favorite vampire prince they work to keep Piper safe. Cassian is as hilarious as ever and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know his character & backstory better in this book. Life gets shaken up when Piper’s parents return home early from their travels just as things are heating up again with Noah & Ethan’s cronies are becoming more bold. I found myself giggling at Piper’s dry sarcastic sense of humor & Cassian’s antics, and swooning at Noah’s charm. If you enjoyed Blood & Buttercups, you’ll love Vampires & Violas! I can hardly wait for the next book!
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