Unforgiven

Vampires in America #7.5

by D.B. Reynolds

A Cyn & Raphael Novella

ALLEGIANCE . . . the ties that bind. Friendship, duty, blood.
TREACHERY . . . when friendship is abused, duty turns to burden, and blood is not enough.
UNFORGIVEN . . . because there are some things that can never be forgotten.

Allegiance . . . Treachery . . . Unforgiven.

War is imminent, and a spy has infiltrated Raphael’s estate. But his target is not Raphael; it’s his sister, Alexandra, whose earlier duplicity nearly cost Cyn her life. Raphael and Cyn are determined to play the spy’s game, traveling to Mexico to discover who their enemy is and just how far he’ll go to win. But once Raphael finds his sister, can he take the chance that she won’t betray him again?

Genres: Vampires, Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Romance, Urban Fantasy, Novella, Fantasy

87 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 10, 2014

Reviews

[Jessica's Totally Over The Top Book Obsession · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG this Novella was so damn good. I love when I get more of Raphael and Cyn. Add to that Raphael's bitch of a sister gets killed and I really enjoyed this read. This short story sets up the next book Vincent. It also lets us readers know that Juro and Lucia are together. Which I was so fangirling over. I have a thing for strong silent types and Juro has always been a favorite of mine. I was glad to see he has a love and want more of Juro's HEA. Great read I'm on to the next book!

[Elise ✘ a.k.a Ryder's Pet ✘ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Second re-read: 08.01.2021
I love you Raphael. Why can I find my own Raphael?

Re-read: 07.01.2017
Damn, why does Raphael have to be a book boyfriend? Why can't he be real? And mine? I think I deserve him. I do. *Yeah, yeah, I'll keep dreaming...* Though this one isn't the best short stories of Cyn and Raphael, it's still good. I enjoy everything with Raphael either way. Hell, in this one we really got to see how powerful Raphael really is, and even now it's not to its full potential: he's got more, folks. *Getting hot in here, or what?!*

Raphael tightened his arms, holding her closer. But he didn’t acknowledge hearing her last request, and he didn’t respond. He loved his Cyn more than he ever had or ever would love another being. But in spite of that, or maybe because of it, he wouldn’t lie to her, wouldn’t make promises he knew he might not keep.

Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Paranormal Romance
Series: - Series, Book Seven and a Half
Love triangle? - No.
Cheating? - No.
HEA? - Yes.
Favorite character? - Lord Raphael.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Yes.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Yes.
Will I read this again in the future? - Probably.
New Rating - 3 stars.

First read review:
Raphael, my man...fuck I love you. Cyn, you're awesome, but sorry, hun, no one beats Raphael in awesomeness. Thehehe
Rate: 4/3 stars.

[Jo ★The Book Sloth★ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Vampires in America Stars



I've made no secret that this series has become one of my favorite in Paranormal Romance, but I have to applaud Renolds' ability to make a novella so interesting.

Usually novellas don't work for me, if they introduce a new couple there isn't enough story for me to relate and if they don't they usually feel like fillers, something the author does so the audience won't lose interest in the series between books. Not this one. This novella was so damn interesting and many, many things happened.

In this book we see the European vampires make the first hostile move towards the Americans with an attempt to take down Raphael. They go for the old and tried trick to get him, they kidnap Alexandra. The bitch actually goes willingly to get Raphael attention.

I won't say more about the story because the book is short. Anything else will be took much info. I'll just say once again that I love both Raphael and Cyn. In a world made of badasses they are the most badass of them all!

[❤️ Dorsey aka Wrath Lover Reviews ❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reread on: 2.11.2021
I’ve reread the series many times but have skipped the novellas....I figured it was time for a “Raphael & Cyn Novella Day!” I’ve forgotten how much I love these novellas!! ❤️

10.04.2014
Review posted at: http://sweptawaybyromance.blogspot.com/

5 Fang Boy Loving Stars!!!

Unforgiven takes place after Aden and sets the stage for the next ViA book Vincent (which is set to release in November 1st!). In Unforgiven as the war looms closer Raphael & Cyn find themselves the target of another Master who wants to get rid of Raphael and uses someone close to him to bring him down, my heart goes out to Raphael in this book and the painful decision he must make.





I am always happy to get more Raphael and Cyn, I love them as a couple and I hope their fantastic love affair never, ever ends!! There is never a dull moment for our favorite Lord and his Lubimaya. If you are a fan of this series, this is a must read!! I cannot wait for Vincent's story, we get a little insight in the epilogue and it sounds like it is going to be a fantastic addition to the ViA series. I can’t wait!!

I have to say I love Juro and have always wanted more of him weeellllll....His love interest is revealed in Unforgiven!! I'm so happy for him, I really, really, really want him get his own novella and HEA..… please D.B. Reynolds.


*A copy of the book was provided by BelleBooks/ImaJinn via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

[Heather K (dentist in my spare time) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a die-hard fan of the Vampires in America series, and this novella was just what I needed!

Unlike Hunted, which I thought had too much sex and too little action, this novella really advanced the overall story arc happening in the main novels. And we got to see a lot of Juro (my strong, silent man!) and big hints as to what's to come with Vincent's book.

What I really loved was how D.B. Reynolds enforces the unshakable bond between Cyn and Raphael. They are such a strong coupling, and it is refreshing to see a couple without unnecessary drama. I love the level of trust between them and how Cyn is able to kick ass and take names on her own.

An excellent way to spend an hour or so.

**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**

[Marta Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well I'm still enjoying reading the novellas that help connect the dots in this series. I'm not usually a fan of novellas but as this features the insanely in love Raphael and Cyn well it's certainly no hardship!
It's been apparent for some time that the European vampires have got their eye on the prize that is North America but in this book the gauntlet is well and truly thrown down. A strange vampire is in town and he seems determined to get close to Raphael but what is his true agenda? Whilst suspicions are high no one could have predicted that it involves someone so close to Raphael that he will have no choice but to put himself in danger!
As usual the author raises the temperature with hot hot scenes but for this reader it's the growth between the previous emotionally absent Raphael and his gun toting Cyn that draws me in. Yes it's a short read but there's still an interesting plot with things happening that expand the overall story arc. This series is so worth reading and best read in order. I'm sorry this one is over but as I have the next sat waiting on my kindle I'm ready to dive right back into the world that is vampires in America.
I was gifted a copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

[Debra Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unforgiven by D.B. Reynolds
Genres: Adult, Mystery, Paranormal, Romance, Suspense
4 Stars

Here we finally get closure on Raphael's sister, Alexandra. HIs feelings for her and her betrayal. Her contempt for him is unreasonable. She constantly expects him to bow down to her every whim and protect her even when she has hurt him so many times in the past. This time she goes to far........

Alexandra is 'NUTS'!

We also get the an intro to Vincent & Mexico.

There is plenty of steamy adult romance.
Well written suspense and intrigue.
A lot of action.

I really enjoyed it.

[Tanja ~ KT Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cyn and Raphael, oh how I have missed you! This is one of my all time favorite vampire series. Cyn is her awesome kickass self and Raphael…. Well the sexy vampire lord has never been better.

War is on the horizon and those trying to overthrow our alpha vamp are making moves. Allegiances are being tested who will be next to fall? There is a spy in their midst and petulant little sister Alexandra will have to make a choice.

This is a novella so I won’t give much away. Other than the king and his Cyn are on FIRE! The humor is great and the rest of the gang is setting the scene for book #8.

I am so excited! D.B. Reynolds has given us just enough to get us through ‘til Vincent has his turn in November. I can’t wait!

[✨Rachael, Island Bookworm ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spoilers ahead



Cyn and Raphael which is always a hit
War is brewing as enemies look to America as a source of new territory
I confess to being very upset with the situation with Juro. We see Juro with Lucia which I love but I honestly was hoping he'd get his book or at least a novella or part of a book..... something dammit. He's so sweet and absolutely loyal to Raphael that I felt he deserved his hea and I wanted to read about it!!!!!! I find myself having a love/hate relationship with this one only because Juro didn't get the justice he deserved in my opinion. I'm still holding out hope that we see something with them in future books.
Because I love Cyn and Raphael and the bitch sister finally bit it I'm still rating it high

[Sandra Hoover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sigh. Anytime I can read more about the deadly, protective, gorgeous Raphael and his beautiful mate, Cyn, it's a good day! Trouble is brewing in their world. Pascal, a vampire with hypnotic abilities, has infiltrated Raphael's forces & kidnapped his sister, Alexandria (who is imprisoned in luxury at Raphael's estate). Demands are made for Raphael to come alone to get her (obviously, they don't know Cyn!). But all is not as it seems. This is a short story, but another one with so much packed into a few pages. An intense, yet hot, sexy read about one of my favorite couples! A Must Read!

[Ira · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars.

Still too short but the story was good and made me want to read Vincent.
And that bitch Alexandra? She so dumb!!!!
I couldn't believe 'something' like that was Raphael's sister!

[Mara · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

A cruel, oh so cruel short story. Made to tantalize, to entice and then leave you slobbering like a dog, pavlovian-style. Where is VINCENT, oh you cruel woman.
....
....
....

Er, Ok, Mara again, forgive the fan-girl. I'm back at the wheel. If you are here reading this, there's a really good chance you already know DB Reyonld's Vampires in America series. You might even be a fan. [If you aren't... er, what are you doing here exactly?]
Unforgiven is a treat to give you a glimpse of your favorite couple's life. The constant risks and heavy burdens the series arch is hinting at with every romance. It's also a hint about the future couple. It sets the score with an old enemy of Cyn who is at last out of her life. The only thing missing the the stand-off with Jared. Oh, how I'd like to see that scene :D.

Unforgiven shows readers the first salvo in the oncoming battle with European Vamps and leaves you wondering how that situation is going to be solved..

A good short story for fans, but not the best choice for the uninitiated who I'd suggest to start with Raphael.

[t'irla ~The Bookslayer~ aka Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third Cyn and Raphael short in the Vampires in America series and as with the first 2 we have a fast as lightening read. In this one someone is out to kill Raphael and Cyn will do anything to protect him.

As those who follow the series know things are brewing in Mexico and the European Vampires are also looking for trouble. This novella does a find job of giving us the Cyn Raphael story as well as setting up the next novel in the series "Vincent" which will be out next month. We are also teased with a fast glance at a relationship between Juro and Luci and if it peaked your curiosity as it did mine you will find the short story of these two on D.B. Reynold's website.

I can't wait for Vincent and give this a 4 star rating and a rec for those who like me can never get enough of Cyn and Raphael....*Swoon* Raphael!

Merged review:

Review to come

[Hayat · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favourite urban fantasy series and my favourite urban fantasy couple equals a few hours of bliss!

[Cassandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts - 5 out of 5 unicorns - I loved it!!
***Received ebook from Belle Books for an honest review

The cover is okay, but I wish the novella’s would get a makeover using the same model used for Raphael’s cover makecover because he look powerful :)

This is the last of the Cyn and Raphael novellas that are published at this time. No idea if there will be more of these novellas, but I do know there is more of the series to come. This of course makes me very happy because I love this series :) This is for adults only as is the whole series. There are steamy sex scenes.

As always I love Cyn’s spunky but fierce attitude and especially her sense of humor. She is always very loyal to those she loves but gives Raphael a run for his money with who is more protective of whom. Raphael is the Alpha male to the max, and I love him and Cyn together :)

Plenty of story packed into this novella, and I think this is my favorite of the 3. While you do not have to read this series in order, I think you will miss out if you don’t. This one should be read after Aden but before Vincent. This gives you details that will make you think you missed something key if you don’t read this. Some major things happen in this novella, but I can’t give this away because the journey is what makes the adventure, and I’d never want to ruin that for anyone :)

I highly recommend this entire series to vamp romance lovers. This is probably the best series I found in the last year. D.B. Reynolds ranks up with my other favorite vamp romance writers like Lynsay Sands and Kerrelyn Sparks.

[Katya · Rating 5 out of 5]

5.0 Stars!!!

Wonderful, Exciting, Sexy, Emotional and so, so....so....Oh you get it!

I am usually not a fan of novellas and have been tough on some of them in the past, even in this series. But this one was fantastic. Alexandra is kidnapped (I guess you can call it that) and Raphael is lured to the southern boarder, out of his comfort zone into an obvious trap of some kind. Only the people/vamps doing this underestimate his and his crew's power....or did they?

In this installment we are set up for the next full length novel featuring Vincent and the bounty hunter that Cyn knows that is on her way to Mexico to find Vincent and deliver a message from Raphael.(FYI-Vincent is Enrique's lieutenant.) But probably the most interesting thing about this novella is the set up for war with the European vamps and the Master Vamp, who is unnamed to us and behind the mayhem of this novella....don't worry, Raphael knows who it is.

Besides the tenderness between Cyn & Raphael, we also see to see the vulnerable side of Raphael which only peaks out every now and then and only with Cyn. And as usual the author delivers by allowing us to we also bathe in the hazy, warm, sexy love making that only Raphael and Cyn share. And to top it off we get a glimpse of Juro and Luci budding romance...hmmmm, interesting.

Love the cover, loved the story....My only complaint: It's too short.....I can't wait for Vincent to release.

[The BookChick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Reynolds whet's the appetites of lovers of the Vampires in American series with Unforgiven And trust me...IT. DOES. NOT. DISAPPOINT. Although a novella length story, Unforgiven packs a heck of a wallop and leaves you with a desperate need to know what's next. Ralphael and Cyn are again front and center in this story. The plot with the European vamps is coming to a head and this story is setting the final wheels in motion to align the lords in America. The story was rife with romance and betrayal and even a twist that I did not see coming. So much so that it left me speechless! Reynolds is masterful in her storytelling and her teasers (the novellas in between the full length novels) are just what the doctor ordered. For those of who read Aden when it was first releases in November of last year, this serves as a good reminder to where the story left off. Additionally, it provides a glimpse of what is to come -- Lana and Vincent. I cannot wait until November and Vincent's story. It's going to be explosive!

[Stephine · Rating 4 out of 5]

The series power couple is back and someone is trying to kill Raphael. Likely, it's a European master vampire under the impression that taking Raphael out will be a piece of cake and make the takeover of the North American territories easier. Raphael and his gun toting mate Cyn follow a spy sent to kidnap Alexandra (yes, Raphael's psycho sister is back) down to Mexico and Raphael shows how fatal it can be to underestimate him.

Like the other Cyn/Raphael novellas, this is a quick, fast paced read with lots of hot, growly alpha sex and acts as an introduction to the next full length book, Vincent. It also touches on what's happening with the European council so this novella is best for readers already familiar with the series. These novellas are great. They're like little treats between books and I gotta admit, I was a little surprised by the ending. If you're like me and always want more from the series, D.B. has a free short story on her site (find it here) for Juro and Cyn's friend Lucia. Juro is a sexy beast!
- Stephanie

[Bea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Raphael and Cyn! The original and reigning couple of the Vampires in America series. A spy has infiltrated Raphael's ranks. Will Raphael ferret out the spy? Will he and Cyn survive the trap waiting for them? The European vampires make a move on the American vampires and Raphael is quick to respond.

There's a lot action despite the short length and we get a nice peak at Rafe and Cyn's relationship. Reynolds spares us angst but shows how strong they are as a couple. We also get a glimpse of Juro and Luci, Cyn's friend. I'd love to see more Juro and maybe someday he'll get s story of his own.

There's humor, romance, sex, action, and suspense. I loved seeing more of Raphael and Cyn and seeing the overall story arc move forward. This is a must for fans. If you're new to the series, go back and start with book one. You definitely need to read this series in forward.

[Kazza · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good addition to the series, I love it when I get concentrated Raphael and Cyn time. One of my favourite series, Vampires in America is strong UF, paranormal, romance reading with great characters and stellar world building

Raphael has long been my favourite vampire and Cynthia, his human partner, can kick arse along with the best of them, Cynthia Leighton is no simpering female lead.

This is a nice lead into Vincent and while I'm behind in this series I always remember who is who, what is what, and where I'm up to - time to catch up.

[Mak · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another nice link to this chain of paranormal romance-mystery-urban fantasy.

[Drue DePompei-Hoffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ohh what a great novella, I honestly did not think we would hear anymore about Alexandra, and I had more than a few OMG moments during this novella. Like a spy actually getting into Raphael's compound, WOWSA! But all is not as it seems, it takes a bit to finally figure out what exactly is going on but when you do, wow, just wow. We also get to see a different side of Juro who I just love, I hope there is more on this in later books. As I said in my review of Vincent, I believe there is something big coming in this series and everything we have read and discovered is leading up to it, and I cannot wait.

If you love this series but are one of those who doesn't pay attention to the novella's you are seriously missing out.

[LadyTechie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great novella. It has a lot going on and we see someone we have not seen since Raphael. We are also introduced to some new characters and go another step forward towards the war and Vincent. I have to admit that there is a scene in this book that makes you love Raphael just a bit more which seems impossible. I feel like I no longer remember what he looks like or his age at turning anymore though so I will have to re-read Raphael or if it is now on audiobook I'll give that a try. If you follow the Vampires in America you will love this novella!

[Cinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fabulous piece by DB Reynolds! Again, as with all the Vampires in America novellas, DB advances her exciting world building to prep you for the next book release (VINCENT - Nov 1st!) while still keeping the Cyn and Raphael romance hot, intimate and stronger than ever. I'm always amazed at how well this author can write a full story in a novella format. Brava, Ms. Reynolds! Your best to date. Well done!

[Leigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great novella for Raphael and Cyn, and a great set up for Vincent. I just love this series and even though I really don't care for novellas because they are just to short I will take anything when it comes to my favorite couple. There is a little twist that I wasn't expecting but was happy for. Raphael needed to finally be free. Can't wait for more.

[Mhollie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love these Raphael and Cyn novellas! They are always a great setup for the next full length novel. I get to read about the epic love of Raphael and Cyn and get a good idea of what machinations Raphael is setting up. This was novella was very trying for Raphael and for his sister, Alexandra, a comeuppance. Very selfishly, I just wish they we longer.

[Lani ⚔⚔ the Destroyer ⚔⚔ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars.

Loved this little interlude with Cyn and Raphael, and there was even a twist that I hadn't expected (but was glad for). Nice set up for Vincent which is out soon. Can't wait! Fans of the ViA series won't be disappointed.

[Aly is so frigging bored · Rating 5 out of 5]

Buddy read with Maru
I didn't expect Alexandra to do that... Anyway, I love Cyn and Raphael, they are still my favorites, even after all the other books in the series. They ROCK!

[Bonnie Crittenden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! Great prequel to Vincent's story. Never get enough of Raphael. No choice but to read it in one day. LOL

Merged review:

Loved this book! Great prequel to Vincent's story. Never can get enough Raphael. Had to read it in one day!! LOL

[Angela Addams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this visit with Cyn and Raphael, two of my favorite characters. I love how Reynolds weaves the overall story arc of her series into these novellas. Great tidbits with hot sex and relationship building that make me so excited for Vincent!