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Immortal Boss #1
Ms. Renfield and the Inheritance Trap
She never wanted a vampire boss. He never saw the point of being good. Now they hunt serial killers together—and pretend the tension between them is purely professional.
I met my father once in a Transylvanian café. He called himself “Renfield,” scribbled in strange ledgers, and muttered about “the master.”
Years later, I’m summoned to a Carpathian castle for my inheritance. Instead of riches, I inherit servitude to Alexandru—an arrogant, centuries-old vampire who expects me to run his “affairs.”
I flee back to Ohio. He follows—and my best friend ends up on his dinner menu.
Desperate, I strike a deal: I’ll manage his immortal life if he only feeds on those who deserve it: Murderers and serial killers.
Now my spreadsheets and his hunting skills are aimed at one goal—catching killers before Alexandru loses control.
But the hardest part isn't the killers. It's not knowing whether Alexandru sees me as his servant—or his next obsession.
I met my father once in a Transylvanian café. He called himself “Renfield,” scribbled in strange ledgers, and muttered about “the master.”
Years later, I’m summoned to a Carpathian castle for my inheritance. Instead of riches, I inherit servitude to Alexandru—an arrogant, centuries-old vampire who expects me to run his “affairs.”
I flee back to Ohio. He follows—and my best friend ends up on his dinner menu.
Desperate, I strike a deal: I’ll manage his immortal life if he only feeds on those who deserve it: Murderers and serial killers.
Now my spreadsheets and his hunting skills are aimed at one goal—catching killers before Alexandru loses control.
But the hardest part isn't the killers. It's not knowing whether Alexandru sees me as his servant—or his next obsession.
368 pages, Paperback
Published October 22, 2025
77 people are currently reading
5275 people want to read
About the author
Annika Martin
49 books3,547 followersAnnika Martin is a NYT bestselling author who loves reading, taking pictures of her cats, consuming boatloads of chocolate suckers, and helping animals. She lives in the Twin Cities with her awesome husband and adorable cats.
Website: http://annikamartinbooks.com
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Website: http://annikamartinbooks.com
Amazon books: https://amzn.to/2UIYzeA
Apple Books: https://apple.co/2PkneA7
Annika on Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/annik...
Instagram: instagram.com/annikamartinauthor
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2UH02SC
Google Play http://bit.ly/2UKJ45O
Nook: http://bit.ly/2Gt304m
Newsletter: https://geni.us/nwslettr
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
February 8, 2026
3.25 ⭐️
If you’ve ever wanted a paranormal romance where the FMC tries to HR-manage an immortal predator, congratulations - this is your moment. Fun? Yes. Unhinged in a good way? Also yes. Did it completely land for me? …ehhh, not quite.
The premise is honestly doing a lot of heavy lifting here, and I mean that as a compliment. A woman inheriting forced servitude to an ancient, arrogant vampire and immediately responding with “absolutely not” is peak Annika Martin energy. Millie is practical, sarcastic, morally stubborn, and armed with spreadsheets, which I deeply respect. Watching her negotiate vampire feeding rules like an HR policy rewrite was genuinely funny and one of the strongest parts of the book.
Alexandru, our vampire MMC, is exactly what you expect: ancient, predatory, condescending, and extremely convinced humans are just snack-sized problems. The dynamic between them is very much "I am a monster” vs “cool, but here’s my boundary list”, and that clash carries a lot of the early momentum. The serial-killer-only feeding rule? Darkly clever. Morally questionable. Weirdly satisfying.
Where this dipped for me was the romance execution. The attraction is there, but it felt more conceptual than emotionally earned. I understood why they were drawn to each other, but I didn’t always
feel it. The chemistry simmered… then stalled… then jumped ahead without enough connective tissue. I wanted more tension, more danger, more “this is a terrible idea and I’m doing it anyway” energy.
Pacing was another mixed bag. The middle dragged a bit with repetitive beats, while emotional turning points sometimes rushed past when they deserved more space. The tone also wobbled between dark comedy and genuine threat in a way that didn’t always blend smoothly, occasionally undercutting moments that could’ve hit harder.
That said, Millie's competence is a highlight, and the premise carries a lot of momentum on its own. This book fully commits to being a campy paranormal romance with spreadsheet chaos, even if the emotional payoff falls just a little short for me.
Final verdict: I liked it, I had fun, I just wanted a bit more bite.
Tropes & Vibes:
• Ancient vampire MMC
• Reluctant servant / vampire handler
• Forced proximity
• Competent, sarcastic FMC
• Moral bargaining with a predator
• Serial killers as “ethical food source”
• Banter > feelings (at times)
• “I will fix him with admin” energy
• Paranormal rom-com with dark humour
If you’ve ever wanted a paranormal romance where the FMC tries to HR-manage an immortal predator, congratulations - this is your moment. Fun? Yes. Unhinged in a good way? Also yes. Did it completely land for me? …ehhh, not quite.
The premise is honestly doing a lot of heavy lifting here, and I mean that as a compliment. A woman inheriting forced servitude to an ancient, arrogant vampire and immediately responding with “absolutely not” is peak Annika Martin energy. Millie is practical, sarcastic, morally stubborn, and armed with spreadsheets, which I deeply respect. Watching her negotiate vampire feeding rules like an HR policy rewrite was genuinely funny and one of the strongest parts of the book.
Alexandru, our vampire MMC, is exactly what you expect: ancient, predatory, condescending, and extremely convinced humans are just snack-sized problems. The dynamic between them is very much "I am a monster” vs “cool, but here’s my boundary list”, and that clash carries a lot of the early momentum. The serial-killer-only feeding rule? Darkly clever. Morally questionable. Weirdly satisfying.
Where this dipped for me was the romance execution. The attraction is there, but it felt more conceptual than emotionally earned. I understood why they were drawn to each other, but I didn’t always
feel it. The chemistry simmered… then stalled… then jumped ahead without enough connective tissue. I wanted more tension, more danger, more “this is a terrible idea and I’m doing it anyway” energy.
Pacing was another mixed bag. The middle dragged a bit with repetitive beats, while emotional turning points sometimes rushed past when they deserved more space. The tone also wobbled between dark comedy and genuine threat in a way that didn’t always blend smoothly, occasionally undercutting moments that could’ve hit harder.
That said, Millie's competence is a highlight, and the premise carries a lot of momentum on its own. This book fully commits to being a campy paranormal romance with spreadsheet chaos, even if the emotional payoff falls just a little short for me.
Final verdict: I liked it, I had fun, I just wanted a bit more bite.
Tropes & Vibes:
• Ancient vampire MMC
• Reluctant servant / vampire handler
• Forced proximity
• Competent, sarcastic FMC
• Moral bargaining with a predator
• Serial killers as “ethical food source”
• Banter > feelings (at times)
• “I will fix him with admin” energy
• Paranormal rom-com with dark humour
October 21, 2025
I had a delightful time reading this book. Martin is writing with her typical cleverness and humor, at the top of her game. I don't know if you would classify this as a slow-burn, lowest possible spice romance, or setting the stage for an eventual romance later on in the series, or a mystery series that has overarching lore and larger stories to tell within an adventure-of-the-month format with two leads who are drawn together. Anyway you look at it, this is a hilariously funny and eerie monster story that is absolutely perfect for this time of year. Because the heat (and on-page gore) levels are so low, I would say this is also an excellent young adult or teen read, which is not something I would say about many Annika Martin books!
Harriet was reared by a single mom, her father was a guy who hit it and (literally jumped off a train in motion to) quit it in college. At 32 she is living with her mother and grandmother over the family store, trapped by guilt and grief over a family tragedy when she was 12 that she feels responsible for. She's "always had a weird gift for seeing things inside data" and works for a Data Business while also trying to solve local mysteries.
One day she gets a summons to Karsovia, a tiny country heavy on the vampire tourism for the settling of her father's estate. She had tracked him down and met him once, which was enough. "True, my father wasn't exactly a gem, what with the bug eating, the lack of interest in meeting his daughter, and the whole madness business, but every family has a weird relative, right?" Turns out when she gets there she gets many surprises, some good, some less so. In the latter category is the fact that somehow Renfields are bound to serve her father's boss for all time. "Renfields have a debt to pay. [...] The kind that curses a despicable family to centuries of penance, and even that will never be enough." Okaaaay.
Alexandru and Harriet are a perfect match. He's holding quite a threat over her (murdering everyone she cares about if she sets one foot wrong) but she still pushes back and gives as good as she gets, including using modern business terms in negotiating and writing out their employment contract to be the way she wants it. Of course he won't let that stand, and their every interaction is a thrill and a delight.
Alexandru's voice is SO distinct. He's constantly referring to the community members as villagers, and making babies cry by his proximity. "Another baby bursts into tears. Tedious. 'Are you going to question these peasants, or shall I?'" He's immortal, all powerful, and completely without feeling or compunction. I particularly appreciated how Martin would show him softening ever so slightly to Harriet, finding her appearance "oddly pleasing" or feeling annoyed when her attention wanders, but then behaving like the monster he is. The reader has been trained by countless stories to expect the character evolution into being a Better Person for his lady, and it's all the more effective when Harriet leads Alexandru to what we think will be a revelation about himself and then he swerves hard into his norm.
Nevertheless, their mutual increased awareness of each other, and the constraints of the generational roles set for them, make for an intriguing story. If a romance requires an HEA, then this qualifies, since they are bound together for her lifetime and his immortality! Martin has set the stage for recurring plot, a rich cast of side characters and sense of place, and revealed at least three major unanswered lore questions for us to slowly learn, and I can't wait to see what happens next with these two. Plus, the last lines of the bonus epilogue are both extraordinarily romantic and deeply terrifying. Like I said, the perfect eerie season read!
Thank you to the author for an arc.
Harriet was reared by a single mom, her father was a guy who hit it and (literally jumped off a train in motion to) quit it in college. At 32 she is living with her mother and grandmother over the family store, trapped by guilt and grief over a family tragedy when she was 12 that she feels responsible for. She's "always had a weird gift for seeing things inside data" and works for a Data Business while also trying to solve local mysteries.
One day she gets a summons to Karsovia, a tiny country heavy on the vampire tourism for the settling of her father's estate. She had tracked him down and met him once, which was enough. "True, my father wasn't exactly a gem, what with the bug eating, the lack of interest in meeting his daughter, and the whole madness business, but every family has a weird relative, right?" Turns out when she gets there she gets many surprises, some good, some less so. In the latter category is the fact that somehow Renfields are bound to serve her father's boss for all time. "Renfields have a debt to pay. [...] The kind that curses a despicable family to centuries of penance, and even that will never be enough." Okaaaay.
Alexandru and Harriet are a perfect match. He's holding quite a threat over her (murdering everyone she cares about if she sets one foot wrong) but she still pushes back and gives as good as she gets, including using modern business terms in negotiating and writing out their employment contract to be the way she wants it. Of course he won't let that stand, and their every interaction is a thrill and a delight.
Alexandru's voice is SO distinct. He's constantly referring to the community members as villagers, and making babies cry by his proximity. "Another baby bursts into tears. Tedious. 'Are you going to question these peasants, or shall I?'" He's immortal, all powerful, and completely without feeling or compunction. I particularly appreciated how Martin would show him softening ever so slightly to Harriet, finding her appearance "oddly pleasing" or feeling annoyed when her attention wanders, but then behaving like the monster he is. The reader has been trained by countless stories to expect the character evolution into being a Better Person for his lady, and it's all the more effective when Harriet leads Alexandru to what we think will be a revelation about himself and then he swerves hard into his norm.
Nevertheless, their mutual increased awareness of each other, and the constraints of the generational roles set for them, make for an intriguing story. If a romance requires an HEA, then this qualifies, since they are bound together for her lifetime and his immortality! Martin has set the stage for recurring plot, a rich cast of side characters and sense of place, and revealed at least three major unanswered lore questions for us to slowly learn, and I can't wait to see what happens next with these two. Plus, the last lines of the bonus epilogue are both extraordinarily romantic and deeply terrifying. Like I said, the perfect eerie season read!
Thank you to the author for an arc.
October 15, 2025
Overall Rating: 2⭐️
Publication Date: 21st October 2025
Favourite Quote: “You were mine before you took your first breath, and you’ll be mine as you take your last.“
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Touch Her and Die, Slow Burn, Vampire MMC, Small Town Romantasy
To start off this review I want to thank the author for contacting me about this ARC! I have loved their previous books and I hope they continue to do well and I look forward to their future works. - this book was just not for me.
Firstly I found the blurb to be quite repetitive it probably only needed to be half the size. It I didn’t really entice me to want to pick up the book, if I hadn’t known the authors previous work I don’t think I would have said yes to this ARC based on the blurb.
The tropes that where to be expected:
Low-Spice Cozy Mystery Vibes, Age Gap, Vampire, Fish Out of Water, Caretaking, Soft(ish) only for Her, Vengeance, Touch Her & Die, Paranormal, Small Town, Boss/Employee, Contract, Angsty, Extreme Slow Burn, LOL Banter, Enemies to "We're Not Into Each Other, Shut Up" Partners
For me I am a romance reader but I like a slow burn low spice book. However I would say this was a no spice book there was one kiss of the palm in the last few pages and nothing else. One caretaking scene again near the end. There needed to be more angst (there was non for me) more yearning or spark moments for enemies to lovers, more feelings in general between them it was a really passive relationship.
I found the FMC full of funny comments but there was no “LOL Banter” he was still calling her his underling at the last page. I wouldn’t even say his feeling changed about her yet and for me the pace was just too slow. The process and character development was so slow if non existent and to leave the book on a cliff hanger with no real depth or development from the characters doesn’t entice me to pick up the next book like I presume it should.
I liked the friendships and granabelle she was a strong character! And the concept of mystery was interesting! Love the cover so bright and Intriguing too!
I think the pace could have been quicker and the whole book was too crammed with extra details and extra wording that wasn’t needed. If stripped back and the timeline or characters development progressed then I think this would help readers connect with the characters more.
I really liked the concept of this book and think that it has potential especially with this authors previous works but the pace was too slow and an unbalance between descriptions and development of the story. I found myself wishing for faster development of the storyline.
Publication Date: 21st October 2025
Favourite Quote: “You were mine before you took your first breath, and you’ll be mine as you take your last.“
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Touch Her and Die, Slow Burn, Vampire MMC, Small Town Romantasy
To start off this review I want to thank the author for contacting me about this ARC! I have loved their previous books and I hope they continue to do well and I look forward to their future works. - this book was just not for me.
Firstly I found the blurb to be quite repetitive it probably only needed to be half the size. It I didn’t really entice me to want to pick up the book, if I hadn’t known the authors previous work I don’t think I would have said yes to this ARC based on the blurb.
The tropes that where to be expected:
Low-Spice Cozy Mystery Vibes, Age Gap, Vampire, Fish Out of Water, Caretaking, Soft(ish) only for Her, Vengeance, Touch Her & Die, Paranormal, Small Town, Boss/Employee, Contract, Angsty, Extreme Slow Burn, LOL Banter, Enemies to "We're Not Into Each Other, Shut Up" Partners
For me I am a romance reader but I like a slow burn low spice book. However I would say this was a no spice book there was one kiss of the palm in the last few pages and nothing else. One caretaking scene again near the end. There needed to be more angst (there was non for me) more yearning or spark moments for enemies to lovers, more feelings in general between them it was a really passive relationship.
I found the FMC full of funny comments but there was no “LOL Banter” he was still calling her his underling at the last page. I wouldn’t even say his feeling changed about her yet and for me the pace was just too slow. The process and character development was so slow if non existent and to leave the book on a cliff hanger with no real depth or development from the characters doesn’t entice me to pick up the next book like I presume it should.
I liked the friendships and granabelle she was a strong character! And the concept of mystery was interesting! Love the cover so bright and Intriguing too!
I think the pace could have been quicker and the whole book was too crammed with extra details and extra wording that wasn’t needed. If stripped back and the timeline or characters development progressed then I think this would help readers connect with the characters more.
I really liked the concept of this book and think that it has potential especially with this authors previous works but the pace was too slow and an unbalance between descriptions and development of the story. I found myself wishing for faster development of the storyline.
November 22, 2025
Loved it! Can't wait for book 2. Warning: This is more a mystery series than a romance series though there is a romance between the vampire and the FMC but it's a VERY slow burn that builds over multiple books.
November 3, 2025
I was not expecting to be so entertained
October 16, 2025
"They're not in danger as long as I find a killer for Alexandru to eat. Drain. Hoover up like a slurpee."
This book had me was giggling! 🤭 Really enjoyed the dynamic and banter between Harriet and Alexandru. I know this was a super slow burn romance, and I enjoyed the little peeks of attraction they were starting to feel for one another, but I was getting a little frustrated and yelling, "JUST KISS ALREADY!" 😝 But it didn't take any enjoyment away. I was still very entertained.
The mystery kept me very invested, and the small town vibes really added to it with one local, putting blame on the next. The ending really escalated SO QUICK with a little twist i did not expect. 😲
🧛🏻♂️ Alexandru was my favourite part of this book. His whole character, energy, and unknowing. He was like a confused old man stuck in his past ways. Bless him! 🥹 Seeing him and his world opened up by to his surprise a Renfield was fantastic. Harriet was just the person he needed to step into his life and add some excitement, a new perspective even though sometimes it was to his distaste. 😅
Overall a super easy and quick read that gives off some gothic vibes, filled with lots of comedy, and a little mystery. 🙌🏻
Massive Thank you to The Author Agency for this ARC opportunity! 💕
This book had me was giggling! 🤭 Really enjoyed the dynamic and banter between Harriet and Alexandru. I know this was a super slow burn romance, and I enjoyed the little peeks of attraction they were starting to feel for one another, but I was getting a little frustrated and yelling, "JUST KISS ALREADY!" 😝 But it didn't take any enjoyment away. I was still very entertained.
The mystery kept me very invested, and the small town vibes really added to it with one local, putting blame on the next. The ending really escalated SO QUICK with a little twist i did not expect. 😲
🧛🏻♂️ Alexandru was my favourite part of this book. His whole character, energy, and unknowing. He was like a confused old man stuck in his past ways. Bless him! 🥹 Seeing him and his world opened up by to his surprise a Renfield was fantastic. Harriet was just the person he needed to step into his life and add some excitement, a new perspective even though sometimes it was to his distaste. 😅
Overall a super easy and quick read that gives off some gothic vibes, filled with lots of comedy, and a little mystery. 🙌🏻
Massive Thank you to The Author Agency for this ARC opportunity! 💕
February 27, 2026
I can’t believe how much I liked this book!
I honestly am not into fantasy and haven’t read a vampire book since the days of Anne Rice and The Vampire Lestat. But I am definitely into Annika Martin’s books!
This is not nearly the same as what I’ve read… it’s Annika Martin at her typically quirky self. If you read the bank robbers series, you’ll definitely get what I mean.
I loved that Harriet, simply just got on with it when she was forced to ‘manage Alexandru’s affairs’. She fearlessly went about his business, modernizing his life, and more or less making herself indispensable, so he was ‘forced’ into agreeing only to drink the blood of serial killers for her. It’s classic for this author to write heroines with spunk and wit!
It’s quirky, it’s fun, and I wasn’t ready for it to end. Of course, it’s romance, but this book was mostly just them getting to know each other. There is a hint of more, which is why I can’t wait for book two.
Dang it though… when I read the bank robbers series, it was already completed. How will I ever make it through the wait?
It’s such a fun book to read!
I honestly am not into fantasy and haven’t read a vampire book since the days of Anne Rice and The Vampire Lestat. But I am definitely into Annika Martin’s books!
This is not nearly the same as what I’ve read… it’s Annika Martin at her typically quirky self. If you read the bank robbers series, you’ll definitely get what I mean.
I loved that Harriet, simply just got on with it when she was forced to ‘manage Alexandru’s affairs’. She fearlessly went about his business, modernizing his life, and more or less making herself indispensable, so he was ‘forced’ into agreeing only to drink the blood of serial killers for her. It’s classic for this author to write heroines with spunk and wit!
It’s quirky, it’s fun, and I wasn’t ready for it to end. Of course, it’s romance, but this book was mostly just them getting to know each other. There is a hint of more, which is why I can’t wait for book two.
Dang it though… when I read the bank robbers series, it was already completed. How will I ever make it through the wait?
It’s such a fun book to read!
October 17, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this, it was such an easy book to get into and the characters are so much fun.
Annika Martin always writes such strong women main characters and Harriet is no different. Faced with a vampire holding her hostage and she starts negotiating.
This book was a blend of cosy supernatural romance and murder mystery. It was a lot of fun straight away and you just get hooked straight away. I hated putting this down to go to work.
My big problem is that this was an ARC so now I'm waiting for the sequel and the first book to be released. I'm interested to see how things are going to develop and how issues like Harriet's past with James will come into play in future books. I'm just full of questions.
Annika Martin always writes such strong women main characters and Harriet is no different. Faced with a vampire holding her hostage and she starts negotiating.
This book was a blend of cosy supernatural romance and murder mystery. It was a lot of fun straight away and you just get hooked straight away. I hated putting this down to go to work.
My big problem is that this was an ARC so now I'm waiting for the sequel and the first book to be released. I'm interested to see how things are going to develop and how issues like Harriet's past with James will come into play in future books. I'm just full of questions.
October 21, 2025
I loved the low-spice cozy mystery vibes of this cute novel. When Harriette realises the inheritance she’s received from her recently deceased father is essentially servitude to an old-world vampire, she tries everything she can to get out of it. She’s unsuccessful and now she finds herself working for Alexandru as she manages his affairs. He doesn’t make it easy - he refuses to learn modern customs, insists on referring to himself as the overlord, and doesn’t understand why he can’t anyone he chooses.
What follows is a mix of banter and amateur sleuthing as Harriette tries to solve a local mystery that’s been dogging her, so she can offer up a suitable meal for her new employer and keep him from eating the locals.
The very light romance, adorable side characters, and quirky wedding-disaster mystery all made this a very enjoyable read that I devoured in a day.
What follows is a mix of banter and amateur sleuthing as Harriette tries to solve a local mystery that’s been dogging her, so she can offer up a suitable meal for her new employer and keep him from eating the locals.
The very light romance, adorable side characters, and quirky wedding-disaster mystery all made this a very enjoyable read that I devoured in a day.
January 26, 2026
I’m not sure what I was expecting with Martin’s new Immortal Boss series, but by the end of Ms. Renfield and the Inheritance Trap, I was hooked!
Harriet lives above the shop that her mother and grandmother run. She supports the shop and their lives by working long hours at a start up. Her father is not in the picture, so when she receives notice that he’s passed on and she can claim her inheritance, she’s reluctant to go. The driving factor is that she may be able to help her family with any funds she receives. However, once she arrives, she discovers that her inheritance is a lifelong obligation to work in servitude for the mysterious Alexandru, who happens to be a vampire.
I will admit that I wasn’t sure I would finish Ms. Renfield and the Inheritance Trap based on the first half of the book. I found the story started slowly and honestly, made me cringe. Alexandru is not a hero. He is narcissistic, manipulative, and deadly. Harriet is decent, honest, and a light. She’s not going to change Alexandru, but he manipulates her. And even when our girl pulls an amazing fast one on Alexandru, he just strikes back even harder.
That said, the second half of the book was exciting. Harriet is a wiz with spreadsheets and numbers. She sees patterns in data, which is why she is convinced there is a serial killer disrupting local weddings. Alexandru is the only one who believes (in) her, and he agrees to help her trap the villain as a means for his meal so that he doesn’t kill any more innocent people (or her friends and family). The need to find the killer before Alexandru needs to feed adds a touch of suspense and excitement. I really liked how the pair methodically solved the crime - how both bent a bit to get to the conclusion - he gave her time, but helped her make decisions faster and move with intention.
Now that the world is established and boundaries set, I think the Immortal Boss series is going to be exciting. There are SO MANY loose threads and unanswered questions. I cannot wait to see where Martin takes the storyline.
My Rating: B
Harriet lives above the shop that her mother and grandmother run. She supports the shop and their lives by working long hours at a start up. Her father is not in the picture, so when she receives notice that he’s passed on and she can claim her inheritance, she’s reluctant to go. The driving factor is that she may be able to help her family with any funds she receives. However, once she arrives, she discovers that her inheritance is a lifelong obligation to work in servitude for the mysterious Alexandru, who happens to be a vampire.
I will admit that I wasn’t sure I would finish Ms. Renfield and the Inheritance Trap based on the first half of the book. I found the story started slowly and honestly, made me cringe. Alexandru is not a hero. He is narcissistic, manipulative, and deadly. Harriet is decent, honest, and a light. She’s not going to change Alexandru, but he manipulates her. And even when our girl pulls an amazing fast one on Alexandru, he just strikes back even harder.
That said, the second half of the book was exciting. Harriet is a wiz with spreadsheets and numbers. She sees patterns in data, which is why she is convinced there is a serial killer disrupting local weddings. Alexandru is the only one who believes (in) her, and he agrees to help her trap the villain as a means for his meal so that he doesn’t kill any more innocent people (or her friends and family). The need to find the killer before Alexandru needs to feed adds a touch of suspense and excitement. I really liked how the pair methodically solved the crime - how both bent a bit to get to the conclusion - he gave her time, but helped her make decisions faster and move with intention.
Now that the world is established and boundaries set, I think the Immortal Boss series is going to be exciting. There are SO MANY loose threads and unanswered questions. I cannot wait to see where Martin takes the storyline.
My Rating: B
October 11, 2025
When Harriet Morgan finds out she is summoned to Karsivia for her father’s estate reading she never thought she would become the servant of vampire Alexandru Miramonte. Apparently, her father who she only met once was named Renfield and he left this important task to her. Gee thanks!! Now at Castelul Dracul she is stuck in a whole new situation. Will she find a way to free herself or will her new role with Mr. Vampire end up actually working out? Omg, this is such a fun read and fans of Dracula will really enjoy this comical version of this tale. Who knew Dracula had a sense of humor and their interactions together were just so good! Told in first person and dual POV.
December 15, 2025
I HAVE BEEN ROBBED!
We have a centuries-old dark, tall and handsome brooding vampire prince who refers to everyone as peasants and likes to always finish his meals, and a spunky 30 something years old corporate genius who - really - likes spreadsheets and who made the unfortunate discovery that her absentee father's legacy is eternal indentured servitude.
Obviously she gets no choice with that last one, just several extra equally shocked half-siblings and a cranky vampire as a boss who - shockingly - doesn't like - or accept - the concept of remote work.
“You are my servant. You will handle my business and real estate holdings to the best of your abilities until you are no longer able. You will have seen to it by then that your line persists so that you will have a replacement ready for me, just as your father did.”
“Wait a minute. Are you saying that part of servitude includes banging strange men on trains?”
“You will beget a new Renfield in whatever manner you deem expedient. But seeing to your own eventual replacement is non-negotiable, and failure to comply with this clause…”
“Yeah, yeah, tracking down and murdering me and everyone else and the horses they rode in on.”
Annoyance clouds Alexandru’s bold features. “There is no reason to kill the horses. The horses may live.” He waves a hand in the air, signifying the generous reprieve of horses.”
Gotta love a man, sorry - I mean vampire - who cares about animals so much. That's hot for every female out there.
“Yes! That’s exactly what it is. An electronic ledger. It’s called a spreadsheet. Everybody uses them now. The Bank of Romania, the London Stock Exchange—it’s all spreadsheets. Electronic data. See? Old rent.” Tap tap. “New rent.” Tap tap tap. “Old income. New income.”
“It calculates the numbers simultaneously?”
“Yes! It’s like having a hundred scribes—really good ones.”
I frown. I do not sense deception from her, but it all seems outlandish.
“Tiny little scribes. Always there when you need them. They never sleep, never complain, never make mistakes. Guaranteed.”
I narrow my eyes, intrigued. “Like scribes kept in a dungeon. And they know that anything less than precision means death.”
Her smile falters. “Well… okay.”
“And they are chained to the wall. Each one scratching ink across parchment with fingers worn to the bone. They write ceaselessly through the night.”
Even hotter when he's so domineering and demands such excellence from his slave-scribes. That's what I meant. His scribes. Sorry, I meant the employees.
So what is my complaint with this book?
The heinous crime that has been committed?
.
..
...
NO SMUT!!
Just slow burn with some mystery, amateur - but highly motivated - detective work and some sort of pseudo forced proximity. Author, you give me all this and no sexy bites?
Where is my spicy spice?!
And by that I mean Sichuan level spice!
Harriet, you're funny as hell girl, and very real but how is it possible that you haven't even contemplated in exquisite detail all the things your hot immortal boss can do to you? Aside from the usual not sexy threats, of course. Drooling over the way the prince removes his gloves is not it, girl!
And Alexandru!
Despite his very insistent claims that mortals are beneath him and servants even more so, bro... aren't you a little too protective of your recently acquired servant? Your arguments are WEAK! Everyone knows that the rich master quite frequently sleeps with the pretty - and smart - servant in most of these historical, immortal, vampirish and gothic-like settings.
Hence my simmering outrage when faced with funny sunshine and grumpy villain while both of them are permanently having their clothes on. And no, an old-fashioned kiss on the hand at the end of the book most definitely does NOT count as ANYTHING!
I have been robbed, I tell you! Especially since I was imagining this the entire time, but with a brunette version to match Alexandru's looks:
We have a centuries-old dark, tall and handsome brooding vampire prince who refers to everyone as peasants and likes to always finish his meals, and a spunky 30 something years old corporate genius who - really - likes spreadsheets and who made the unfortunate discovery that her absentee father's legacy is eternal indentured servitude.
Obviously she gets no choice with that last one, just several extra equally shocked half-siblings and a cranky vampire as a boss who - shockingly - doesn't like - or accept - the concept of remote work.
“You are my servant. You will handle my business and real estate holdings to the best of your abilities until you are no longer able. You will have seen to it by then that your line persists so that you will have a replacement ready for me, just as your father did.”
“Wait a minute. Are you saying that part of servitude includes banging strange men on trains?”
“You will beget a new Renfield in whatever manner you deem expedient. But seeing to your own eventual replacement is non-negotiable, and failure to comply with this clause…”
“Yeah, yeah, tracking down and murdering me and everyone else and the horses they rode in on.”
Annoyance clouds Alexandru’s bold features. “There is no reason to kill the horses. The horses may live.” He waves a hand in the air, signifying the generous reprieve of horses.”
Gotta love a man, sorry - I mean vampire - who cares about animals so much. That's hot for every female out there.
“Yes! That’s exactly what it is. An electronic ledger. It’s called a spreadsheet. Everybody uses them now. The Bank of Romania, the London Stock Exchange—it’s all spreadsheets. Electronic data. See? Old rent.” Tap tap. “New rent.” Tap tap tap. “Old income. New income.”
“It calculates the numbers simultaneously?”
“Yes! It’s like having a hundred scribes—really good ones.”
I frown. I do not sense deception from her, but it all seems outlandish.
“Tiny little scribes. Always there when you need them. They never sleep, never complain, never make mistakes. Guaranteed.”
I narrow my eyes, intrigued. “Like scribes kept in a dungeon. And they know that anything less than precision means death.”
Her smile falters. “Well… okay.”
“And they are chained to the wall. Each one scratching ink across parchment with fingers worn to the bone. They write ceaselessly through the night.”
Even hotter when he's so domineering and demands such excellence from his slave-scribes. That's what I meant. His scribes. Sorry, I meant the employees.
So what is my complaint with this book?
The heinous crime that has been committed?
.
..
...
NO SMUT!!
Just slow burn with some mystery, amateur - but highly motivated - detective work and some sort of pseudo forced proximity. Author, you give me all this and no sexy bites?
Where is my spicy spice?!
And by that I mean Sichuan level spice!
Harriet, you're funny as hell girl, and very real but how is it possible that you haven't even contemplated in exquisite detail all the things your hot immortal boss can do to you? Aside from the usual not sexy threats, of course. Drooling over the way the prince removes his gloves is not it, girl!
And Alexandru!
Despite his very insistent claims that mortals are beneath him and servants even more so, bro... aren't you a little too protective of your recently acquired servant? Your arguments are WEAK! Everyone knows that the rich master quite frequently sleeps with the pretty - and smart - servant in most of these historical, immortal, vampirish and gothic-like settings.
Hence my simmering outrage when faced with funny sunshine and grumpy villain while both of them are permanently having their clothes on. And no, an old-fashioned kiss on the hand at the end of the book most definitely does NOT count as ANYTHING!
I have been robbed, I tell you! Especially since I was imagining this the entire time, but with a brunette version to match Alexandru's looks:
November 14, 2025
What a delightful surprise! I picked up Ms. Renfield and the Inheritance Trap on a recommendation from a friend, and it was so much fun. I read it during a business trip, and it was the perfect book for my flight home—not too heavy, well-paced, and no spice (it's awkward to read super explicit content while sitting next to a strange man on a plane...).
Harriet Morgan has a full life in small-town Ohio with her family's antiques shop, a job she loves at a tech company, and a bustling social life. But when her father dies, everything changes. Harriet only met him once when she tracked him down at a café in Transylvania. She found him to be less than paternal, so she cut her losses and went back home. Only now she finds out that her father was part of a long line of Renfields who are trapped in service to a vampire named Alexandru, and Harriet is expected move to Eastern Europe and fill that role. That’s obviously not going to work for Harriet, since she has a whole life she doesn’t want to leave. So she heads home—only for Alexandru to follow her there. It will not do for him to hunt humans in her small town, so Harriet makes a deal with him: she will take up her role as his assistant and move into his new house in Ohio if he promises that she can select only serial killers as his meals. Alexandru agrees, and it just so happens that Harriet’s small town has had a series of accidents and murders that might yield the perfect candidate for dinner.
This book was so much fun. The characters were engaging, the pacing was perfect, and I loved the way Annika Martin leveraged the small-town dynamic for the conflict. If you're a romance reader looking for something a little bit different, this is a great choice.
My favorite part of this book was the way Alexandru accepted and valued all the things about Harriet that frustrate the general public. Harriet has a passion for data—specifically how patterns emerge in large datasets. She can truly see the forest through the trees. Part of this is because the Renfields have served Alexandru for centuries and he knows their penchant for data, but part is that Alexandru can see that Harriet has put care and attention into collating this information, so there must be something there. It was lovely to see him validate her throughout the book.
The romance is very much subtext to the mystery plot. There is zero spice, and it's more unresolved tension than actual romance. But by the end of the book, Harriet is living in Alexandru's house, so hopefully in book two we'll move the romance along a bit!
If you're looking for a fun mystery, this is a great option. 4 stars.
Harriet Morgan has a full life in small-town Ohio with her family's antiques shop, a job she loves at a tech company, and a bustling social life. But when her father dies, everything changes. Harriet only met him once when she tracked him down at a café in Transylvania. She found him to be less than paternal, so she cut her losses and went back home. Only now she finds out that her father was part of a long line of Renfields who are trapped in service to a vampire named Alexandru, and Harriet is expected move to Eastern Europe and fill that role. That’s obviously not going to work for Harriet, since she has a whole life she doesn’t want to leave. So she heads home—only for Alexandru to follow her there. It will not do for him to hunt humans in her small town, so Harriet makes a deal with him: she will take up her role as his assistant and move into his new house in Ohio if he promises that she can select only serial killers as his meals. Alexandru agrees, and it just so happens that Harriet’s small town has had a series of accidents and murders that might yield the perfect candidate for dinner.
This book was so much fun. The characters were engaging, the pacing was perfect, and I loved the way Annika Martin leveraged the small-town dynamic for the conflict. If you're a romance reader looking for something a little bit different, this is a great choice.
My favorite part of this book was the way Alexandru accepted and valued all the things about Harriet that frustrate the general public. Harriet has a passion for data—specifically how patterns emerge in large datasets. She can truly see the forest through the trees. Part of this is because the Renfields have served Alexandru for centuries and he knows their penchant for data, but part is that Alexandru can see that Harriet has put care and attention into collating this information, so there must be something there. It was lovely to see him validate her throughout the book.
The romance is very much subtext to the mystery plot. There is zero spice, and it's more unresolved tension than actual romance. But by the end of the book, Harriet is living in Alexandru's house, so hopefully in book two we'll move the romance along a bit!
If you're looking for a fun mystery, this is a great option. 4 stars.
October 21, 2025
Ebook and audio review
I have had a fabulous time reading and listening to this story by Annika Martin! There is a whimsical whodunit thread, a fabulous cast of divergent characters, a grumpy 'hero' and a feisty, unimpressed heroine. Alexandru has a sense of his own importance brought on by the many, many years of his existence, which he owns with style and a sense of entitlement. And he feels entirely entitled to the servitude of Harriet Renfield. There are villains, crazies, loyal family, laugh out loud moments and so much story! I am leaving mention of the plot alone as it is so good, you need to experience yourself! I found myself smiling with pleasure as I read this book and wondering just what was going to happen next! Loved it!
Special mention must be made of the fantastic narrators of the audio. They brought the book to sparkling life with great characterisations, expression and confidence. Candice Fitzgerald and Benjamin Sands wowed me with their skills. Fabulous 💖💖💖💖💖
I have had a fabulous time reading and listening to this story by Annika Martin! There is a whimsical whodunit thread, a fabulous cast of divergent characters, a grumpy 'hero' and a feisty, unimpressed heroine. Alexandru has a sense of his own importance brought on by the many, many years of his existence, which he owns with style and a sense of entitlement. And he feels entirely entitled to the servitude of Harriet Renfield. There are villains, crazies, loyal family, laugh out loud moments and so much story! I am leaving mention of the plot alone as it is so good, you need to experience yourself! I found myself smiling with pleasure as I read this book and wondering just what was going to happen next! Loved it!
Special mention must be made of the fantastic narrators of the audio. They brought the book to sparkling life with great characterisations, expression and confidence. Candice Fitzgerald and Benjamin Sands wowed me with their skills. Fabulous 💖💖💖💖💖
October 26, 2025
I normally love the books of this author, but I couldn't feel this one, and here is why. This book wasn't a romance, necessarily. I am not saying this because this book is zero spice, on the contrary, I love me a book with a naive love story with no spice in it. However, in this book, the romance and the couple take a back seat to the supporting characters (not all of them terribly necessary, if you'd ask me) and the mystery (which isn't a very good one), so you end up kind of missing the main couple throughout the book.
I also didn't like the MMC. He is a vampire, which isn't my type, necessarily, but he could have been cool. I even liked the way he looked down on humans, calling them peasants, but he did it so much that it got old pretty fast. And the first thing he thought about when he saw a human was to eat him, which got disturbing and annoying after a point.
Lastly, the mystery itself didn't satisfy me, as I said before. There was someone who was sabotaging weddings, and Harriet convinced Alexandru that he should only feed on bad people. So, they looked for the culprit together and Alexandru drained him. (It was the photographer)
The other little mystery had more potential, honestly. Apparently, Mr.Renfield worked for Alexandru and he had children with different women to take his place after his death. As you can guess, the lucky one was Harriet. And there was this little mystery with Alexandru's ledgers, but really, I don't think I am curious enough to keep reading a series that had failed to keep my attention in the first book. I don't think it would be worth it, anyway, but I will think on it until the second book comes out.
I also didn't like the MMC. He is a vampire, which isn't my type, necessarily, but he could have been cool. I even liked the way he looked down on humans, calling them peasants, but he did it so much that it got old pretty fast. And the first thing he thought about when he saw a human was to eat him, which got disturbing and annoying after a point.
Lastly, the mystery itself didn't satisfy me, as I said before. There was someone who was sabotaging weddings, and Harriet convinced Alexandru that he should only feed on bad people. So, they looked for the culprit together and Alexandru drained him. (It was the photographer)
The other little mystery had more potential, honestly. Apparently, Mr.Renfield worked for Alexandru and he had children with different women to take his place after his death. As you can guess, the lucky one was Harriet. And there was this little mystery with Alexandru's ledgers, but really, I don't think I am curious enough to keep reading a series that had failed to keep my attention in the first book. I don't think it would be worth it, anyway, but I will think on it until the second book comes out.
December 15, 2025
This was a bit long, but, I actually enjoyed it. Both main characters were quirky and irritating good in their unique ways. This is definitely a twist on the vampire/detective/cozy with a slow burn romance genre. I actually picked it up to try and I’m glad I did. Now looking forward to book two and wanting to know more about Gregor’s back story; plus are the 1/2 siblings ever going to make another appearance?
October 18, 2025
Wow! As I flipped through the pages of this story, I never thought it would turn into a series. I just kept reading, getting closer to the end, and still didn’t have enough depth about so many characters that, in my opinion, are super important. Breaking news: I'M HOOKED!!!
I need five more books—ones that reveal Alexandru’s hunger episodes, feed Harriet’s curiosity and brilliance, showcase Gregor’s skills… I need to know more about Serena, Josie, Granabell and Lorna. But most of all, I need to find out what the servitude agreement binding all the Renfields is about.
All of this to say: I need book two to be out RIGHT NOW!
*I received an ARC from the publishing team in exchange for an honest review, and I’m so thankful to have the honor of recognizing Annika’s brilliant mystery storytelling skills in advance.
I need five more books—ones that reveal Alexandru’s hunger episodes, feed Harriet’s curiosity and brilliance, showcase Gregor’s skills… I need to know more about Serena, Josie, Granabell and Lorna. But most of all, I need to find out what the servitude agreement binding all the Renfields is about.
All of this to say: I need book two to be out RIGHT NOW!
*I received an ARC from the publishing team in exchange for an honest review, and I’m so thankful to have the honor of recognizing Annika’s brilliant mystery storytelling skills in advance.
October 30, 2025
A fun and spoopy vampire meets mystery novel that pokes a lot of fun at the gothic vampire genre. The romance element was so slight it could barely qualify as a slow burn, but it left me looking forward to the next one for sure!
4.5⭐️
4.5⭐️
January 15, 2026
Quickish Review
Intrigued with this setup, enjoyed the mystery, and the teasers for future story guarantee I’ll be picking up the next one.
Intrigued with this setup, enjoyed the mystery, and the teasers for future story guarantee I’ll be picking up the next one.
November 17, 2025
3.5 stars - that was fun!
October 25, 2025
I read this as an ARC and once again, it’s wonderfully written — just as I’ve come to expect from her previous books. The banter between Harriet and Alexandru makes the story very humorous, and I actually laughed out loud several times.
However, I wouldn’t call it a slow burn. You can definitely feel that something is about to happen between Alexandru and Harriet, but apart from a hand kiss, nothing really does.
The only small downside for me was that Alexandru seems completely out of touch with modern times — he’s missed the entire era of mobile phones, tablets, and computers.
I can’t wait for the second part to see how their relationship develops further.
However, I wouldn’t call it a slow burn. You can definitely feel that something is about to happen between Alexandru and Harriet, but apart from a hand kiss, nothing really does.
The only small downside for me was that Alexandru seems completely out of touch with modern times — he’s missed the entire era of mobile phones, tablets, and computers.
I can’t wait for the second part to see how their relationship develops further.
October 21, 2025
If you’re looking for a funny, murder mystery style vampire story featuring a charmingly protective (and yes, hot) vampire — Ms. Renfield and the Inheritance Trap by Annika Martin might be your next read!
Harriet never really knew her father. When a mysterious letter from Europe arrives, inviting her to the reading of his will, she hopes to finally learn more about her family’s past. Instead, she finds herself unexpectedly bound to serve a vampire named Alexandru Miramonte. Soon, strange “accidents” start happening at weddings — and when tragedy strikes, Harriet and Alexandru decide to uncover who’s behind it all.
The book is written in dual POV, which makes it even more enjoyable — it’s always great to see both sides of the story and understand what the characters are really thinking (especially when one of them is a broody vampire).
I read the book as an ARC and I'm happy to present you with your next cozy Halloween read.
Harriet never really knew her father. When a mysterious letter from Europe arrives, inviting her to the reading of his will, she hopes to finally learn more about her family’s past. Instead, she finds herself unexpectedly bound to serve a vampire named Alexandru Miramonte. Soon, strange “accidents” start happening at weddings — and when tragedy strikes, Harriet and Alexandru decide to uncover who’s behind it all.
The book is written in dual POV, which makes it even more enjoyable — it’s always great to see both sides of the story and understand what the characters are really thinking (especially when one of them is a broody vampire).
I read the book as an ARC and I'm happy to present you with your next cozy Halloween read.
October 25, 2025
Written in first-person, dual POV, Annika Martin’s Ms. Renfield and the Inheritance Trap: A Vampire Mystery Romance is about Harriet Morgan, whose inheritance from her father Renfield is taking over as centuries-old vampire Alexandru Miramonte’s servant. Harriet discovers that through her father she’s a Renfield-part of a despicable family line cursed to serve Alexandru. Alexandria follows Harriet back home after she says that she’s uninterested in becoming his live-in, obedient servant, threatening to kill her family, friends, and fellow townspeople for their blood. To protect them, she agrees to become his servant and manage his vampire affairs if he feeds only on serial killers and people deserving of it. They join forces, using her spreadsheet and organizational data tracking skills and his hunting scales to catch murderers before Alexander loses control of his hunger. Harriet also must fight Alexander’s magnetism that draws her to him despite his monstrous nature and his callous view of humans as livestock.
Intelligent, stubborn, idealistic, and sarcastic, Harriet lives with her mother and grandmother, Granabelle, above their failing family antique store that she’s trying to keep afloat. Harriet is an organizational whiz who sees patterns inside data devoted to data organization. A workaholic, Harriet creates coherent systems from her boss Serena’s ideas at a data tech firm. Harriet is burdened by a painful loss as a teen that drives her interest in criminal investigation. She’s been tracking a serial killer in town. I love her character. She’s a likable, fascinating, relatable character with a fierce spirit and attitude. Empathetic and fearless, Harriet stands up for others and what’s right. I love that she doesn’t just let Alexandru walk all over her or talk to her any old way, and she tries to keep him from doing it to others as well. Her friends, family, and the citizens of the town are fascinating and funny and I love her interactions with them. Harriet’s interactions and conversations with Alexandru are strangely hilarious, awkward, and terrifying all at the same time.
Pushy, arrogant, controlling, cruel, and cold, Alexandru demands that Harriet replace her father Renfield as his new Renfield to manage his business affairs and real estate holdings for the rest of her life. As far as he’s concerned, Harriet doesn’t have a choice in the matter of whether she accepts her “inheritance.” Graceful, magnetic, handsome, and large, with a British accent, Alexandru’s appearance and demeanor don’t match who and what he is inside. Despite Alexandru’s humorous interactions with Harriet, her friends, family, and the townspeople, it’s difficult to call him the hero, morally grey, or even the antihero of this story because he is a predator who sees humans as nothing more than food. Martin does a great job of developing Alexandru as the cold, ancient vampire who only drinks humans. That is the only purpose they have in his life. Renfields are a different class of humans, spared from death only while serving their debt to him. He hates Renfields, views them as beneath him, and Martin taunts us but never tells us why he feels this way.
Ms. Renfield and the Inheritance Trap reads more like a mystery/thriller and horror novel than a slow-burn romance. The mystery/thriller and horror parts of the novel work better. Alexandru doesn’t change or grow as a character outside of being a deadly vampire who wants to master and control Harriet and is driven to kill humans without regard for their lives or humanity. So, despite attempts to develop/show attraction on Harriet’s part despite her revulsion for who and what Alexandru is and Alexandru’s protectiveness and jealousy over Harriet, the romantic relationship development between them isn’t there by the novel’s end. I didn’t like the ending because where the novel ends, the story feels unfinished. They’re still enemies and not yet lovers. Though I will say that Martin nails the enemies aspect better than most novels that claim to be enemies-to-lovers romances, but not so much the lover’s part.
Ms. Renfield and the Inheritance Trap: A Vampire Mystery Romance is a hilarious, emotional, suspenseful read with horror, and mystery, recommended for forced proximity, modern retellings, mystery/thrillers, and horror fans.
3.25
Thanks to Annika Martin and The Author Agency for the ARC.
Intelligent, stubborn, idealistic, and sarcastic, Harriet lives with her mother and grandmother, Granabelle, above their failing family antique store that she’s trying to keep afloat. Harriet is an organizational whiz who sees patterns inside data devoted to data organization. A workaholic, Harriet creates coherent systems from her boss Serena’s ideas at a data tech firm. Harriet is burdened by a painful loss as a teen that drives her interest in criminal investigation. She’s been tracking a serial killer in town. I love her character. She’s a likable, fascinating, relatable character with a fierce spirit and attitude. Empathetic and fearless, Harriet stands up for others and what’s right. I love that she doesn’t just let Alexandru walk all over her or talk to her any old way, and she tries to keep him from doing it to others as well. Her friends, family, and the citizens of the town are fascinating and funny and I love her interactions with them. Harriet’s interactions and conversations with Alexandru are strangely hilarious, awkward, and terrifying all at the same time.
Pushy, arrogant, controlling, cruel, and cold, Alexandru demands that Harriet replace her father Renfield as his new Renfield to manage his business affairs and real estate holdings for the rest of her life. As far as he’s concerned, Harriet doesn’t have a choice in the matter of whether she accepts her “inheritance.” Graceful, magnetic, handsome, and large, with a British accent, Alexandru’s appearance and demeanor don’t match who and what he is inside. Despite Alexandru’s humorous interactions with Harriet, her friends, family, and the townspeople, it’s difficult to call him the hero, morally grey, or even the antihero of this story because he is a predator who sees humans as nothing more than food. Martin does a great job of developing Alexandru as the cold, ancient vampire who only drinks humans. That is the only purpose they have in his life. Renfields are a different class of humans, spared from death only while serving their debt to him. He hates Renfields, views them as beneath him, and Martin taunts us but never tells us why he feels this way.
Ms. Renfield and the Inheritance Trap reads more like a mystery/thriller and horror novel than a slow-burn romance. The mystery/thriller and horror parts of the novel work better. Alexandru doesn’t change or grow as a character outside of being a deadly vampire who wants to master and control Harriet and is driven to kill humans without regard for their lives or humanity. So, despite attempts to develop/show attraction on Harriet’s part despite her revulsion for who and what Alexandru is and Alexandru’s protectiveness and jealousy over Harriet, the romantic relationship development between them isn’t there by the novel’s end. I didn’t like the ending because where the novel ends, the story feels unfinished. They’re still enemies and not yet lovers. Though I will say that Martin nails the enemies aspect better than most novels that claim to be enemies-to-lovers romances, but not so much the lover’s part.
Ms. Renfield and the Inheritance Trap: A Vampire Mystery Romance is a hilarious, emotional, suspenseful read with horror, and mystery, recommended for forced proximity, modern retellings, mystery/thrillers, and horror fans.
3.25
Thanks to Annika Martin and The Author Agency for the ARC.
October 19, 2025
Annika Martin is one of my favourite authors so when she revealed her latest release would have cozy mystery vibes with a grumpy vampire boss and a slow burn romance I was pumped because these are all some of my favourite things. Well, this was pretty much a perfect read for me and I absolutely loved it. Harriet, a spreadsheet-loving crime fan who uses her data expertise to do a bit of amateur sleuthing of her own, finds out her recluse and somewhat strange and estranged father has passed away. Travelling to the Carpathian Mountains, she comes into contact with her father's employer, Alexandru, where she learns that her father didn't have an ordinary job and his boss was in actual fact a vampire. Said vampire is determined to have her in his employ and being the highly manipulative predator that he is, upturns her life to get his own way and brings his gothic eccentricities to her home town. Here, they strike a deal: Alexandru will help Harriet in finding what she believes is an escalating and dangerous individual targeting weddings and in return, she'll be his underling.
It sounds like a weird premise but it really worked and ticked every box for me. The relationship between Alexandru and Harriet was fantastic. There was great banter between the two and her methodical yet likeable personality both clashed and complimented his dry, droll and serious personality. Her efforts to be chipper worked well with the frequent dark looks he'd throw her way and their dynamics kept me turning the pages. I loved that Harriet was a serious but sensitive nerd with her own sad history that influenced who she was. As for Alexandru - he was delicious. Darkly serious and used to being at the top of the food chain (literally), his high-handedness and arrogance was fabulous to read - that combined with his penchant for having everyone and everything bow down to his will as the inferior beings they are had me constantly smiling. The romance between the two is a definitely slow burn but there were small sparks as Alexandru became very protective of Harriet, giving off definite touch-her-and-die vibes. The secondary characters were also great with there being a great mix of funny, supportive and unconventional.
The mystery was based around weddings which I thought gave a unique take on the cozy theme. The investigation was pretty routine and while I'd taken the right punt at who the perpetrator was, there were still some great twists here and there.
I absolutely adored this. The story was heaps of fun, the characters were wonderful, the slow burn delicious and the banter on point. The only negative I have is that Ms Renfield and the perfection that was Alexandru has left me with a serious book hangover and I now have to wait for the next installment. This will be going straight into my Favourites folder and will definitely be a comfort read that will get reread.
It sounds like a weird premise but it really worked and ticked every box for me. The relationship between Alexandru and Harriet was fantastic. There was great banter between the two and her methodical yet likeable personality both clashed and complimented his dry, droll and serious personality. Her efforts to be chipper worked well with the frequent dark looks he'd throw her way and their dynamics kept me turning the pages. I loved that Harriet was a serious but sensitive nerd with her own sad history that influenced who she was. As for Alexandru - he was delicious. Darkly serious and used to being at the top of the food chain (literally), his high-handedness and arrogance was fabulous to read - that combined with his penchant for having everyone and everything bow down to his will as the inferior beings they are had me constantly smiling. The romance between the two is a definitely slow burn but there were small sparks as Alexandru became very protective of Harriet, giving off definite touch-her-and-die vibes. The secondary characters were also great with there being a great mix of funny, supportive and unconventional.
The mystery was based around weddings which I thought gave a unique take on the cozy theme. The investigation was pretty routine and while I'd taken the right punt at who the perpetrator was, there were still some great twists here and there.
I absolutely adored this. The story was heaps of fun, the characters were wonderful, the slow burn delicious and the banter on point. The only negative I have is that Ms Renfield and the perfection that was Alexandru has left me with a serious book hangover and I now have to wait for the next installment. This will be going straight into my Favourites folder and will definitely be a comfort read that will get reread.
October 22, 2025
It's been a long time since I gave up writing romance and only recently have come back to reading it. My current autobuy author is Annika Martin (and of course KJ Charles) I don't like mafia titles but since Martin wrote some, I'll read them.
I love Martin's humor and witty dialogue. She also manages to pack enough in this book to have given me actual laugh out loud moments.
It's an entirely new sort of book by her. Sure, there's an echo of the familiar. Her books often features a bad guy (can't get worse than Alexandru) who are powerful (check) and rich (yes indeed) and heartless/clueless about human relationships (entirely) .
This "hero" is an exaggerated version of all the bad-guy millionaires she's ever written before, intentionally and comically so. This vampire is the real deal, a villain. Alexandru carelessly tosses his victims into the dungeon after he drains them. The Renfield that fathered Harriet (and a few others) is clearly the Renfield of the original Dracula. We only catch glimpses of him, snacking on bugs and losing his mind a perfect copy of Bram Stoker's character. Martin's vampire and his arrangements are scary and ruthless--and darkly funny. Perfect for a Halloween release.
The heroine is strong, intelligent, and doesn't take crap from anyone, even her new dangerous overlord. She stands up to him and matches wits with him, something her ancestors (all of the Renfields before her) haven't managed. She seems to have her own superpowers pertaining to business, which Alexandru requires from all his Renfields. She is especially good at contracts and manages to get her way with an airtight one with him. She tricked her new overlord into allowing her to work remotely half a world away.
An new aspect to this title is the mystery: someone is ruining weddings and the incidents are escalating. Harriet, a true crime addict, is the only one who sees the patterns of these attacks. She has her hands full though, with her work and the arrangement she made with the vampire to gain her half-siblings' freedom.
And to make matters worse, Alexandru followed her back to the US. Now he's getting hungry and when he eats, he doesn't stop after a few sips. He's going to drain someone soon in her small town unless she can convince him to wait until she finds a murderer for him to dine on.
There are hints of romance, flashes of attraction, but Alexandru is too far from human--the best sort of vampire for purists. He's not a hero yet. I didn't miss the passion and intimacy of the usual romance because their dialogue full of insults and also growing comfort with each other feels real. The bat insults are wonderful.
And since Martin manages to redeem the worst characters I've read I'm sure she'll get him in shape with future titles.
I got a free copy of the book for review.
I love Martin's humor and witty dialogue. She also manages to pack enough in this book to have given me actual laugh out loud moments.
It's an entirely new sort of book by her. Sure, there's an echo of the familiar. Her books often features a bad guy (can't get worse than Alexandru) who are powerful (check) and rich (yes indeed) and heartless/clueless about human relationships (entirely) .
This "hero" is an exaggerated version of all the bad-guy millionaires she's ever written before, intentionally and comically so. This vampire is the real deal, a villain. Alexandru carelessly tosses his victims into the dungeon after he drains them. The Renfield that fathered Harriet (and a few others) is clearly the Renfield of the original Dracula. We only catch glimpses of him, snacking on bugs and losing his mind a perfect copy of Bram Stoker's character. Martin's vampire and his arrangements are scary and ruthless--and darkly funny. Perfect for a Halloween release.
The heroine is strong, intelligent, and doesn't take crap from anyone, even her new dangerous overlord. She stands up to him and matches wits with him, something her ancestors (all of the Renfields before her) haven't managed. She seems to have her own superpowers pertaining to business, which Alexandru requires from all his Renfields. She is especially good at contracts and manages to get her way with an airtight one with him. She tricked her new overlord into allowing her to work remotely half a world away.
An new aspect to this title is the mystery: someone is ruining weddings and the incidents are escalating. Harriet, a true crime addict, is the only one who sees the patterns of these attacks. She has her hands full though, with her work and the arrangement she made with the vampire to gain her half-siblings' freedom.
And to make matters worse, Alexandru followed her back to the US. Now he's getting hungry and when he eats, he doesn't stop after a few sips. He's going to drain someone soon in her small town unless she can convince him to wait until she finds a murderer for him to dine on.
There are hints of romance, flashes of attraction, but Alexandru is too far from human--the best sort of vampire for purists. He's not a hero yet. I didn't miss the passion and intimacy of the usual romance because their dialogue full of insults and also growing comfort with each other feels real. The bat insults are wonderful.
And since Martin manages to redeem the worst characters I've read I'm sure she'll get him in shape with future titles.
I got a free copy of the book for review.
October 27, 2025
I am voluntarily writing this honest review after reading a #gifted ARC via The Author Agency. MR. RENFIELD AND THE INHERITANCE TRAP: A VAMPIRE MYSTERY ROMANCE is the first book in a new series by Annika Martin, IMMORTAL BOSS. Harriet Morgan received an inheritance from her dead beat dad: servitude to vampire, Alexandru Miramonte. After he followed her back to Ohio, she struck a bargain with him: she would manage his affairs and he would only feed from serial killers, which they would hunt together. This was a novel concept and a lot of fun to read. It is a cross between a cozy mystery and a very slow burn paranormal romance. As such, it was low spice, first person, dual POV, contemporary paranormal mystery romance with tropes that included Enemies to “We’re Not Into Each Other, Shut Up” Partners, Low -Spice Cozy Mystery Vibes, Extreme Slow Burn (he kissed her palm,) LOL Banter, Age Gap, Vampire, Fish Out of Water, Caretaking, Soft(ish) only for Her, Touch Her & Die, Paranormal, Small Town, Boss/Employee, Contract, and Angsty. I loved that Harriet was a gifted organizational wizard who loved the people in her circle fiercely. Alexandru was an interesting character. He was a vampire who had been doing things one way for ten centuries until Harriet, who was a game changer. She didn’t respond the way her ancestors had done and was constantly surprising him. The fish out of water that was an old world, Eastern European vampire relocated to Ohio in the United States was perfect fodder for humor. He referred to the town’s residents as villagers and would on,y accept a change from Master and Servant to Overlord and Underling, which flummoxed the locals. I think that this concept has a lot of room for a successful series, and I will enjoy seeing what might develop over time. I could also easily see it as a television series! I would recommend this book for readers who enjoy cozy mysteries with a hint of romance that may develop over the course odyssey a series. This book can be found in KU.
October 22, 2025
I’m an absolute sucker for any gothic horror retelling and this reimagining of Dracula with the infamous Mr. (and then Ms. Renfield) hit the spot!!! This is my first book by Annika Martin, but I was so sucked in, so it definitely won’t be my last!!
Harriet’s father, whom she met a single time and who ignored her and also ate a fly, is dead. And instead of getting a regular inheritance, she inherits his position as servant of centuries old Romanian vampire, Alexandru. When she attempts to work remotely at home in Ohio, he pops up, threatening to drain everyone she loves. Instead they agree to find serial killers (in this case one killer who has been hunting at weddings) for him to drink from instead of randoms. As their working relationship gets closer so do they; but he is a 10 century old vampire who thinks of her as a servant, so will that ever change.
This is the beginning of a series, so I’d say in this installment instead of being a romance book, this is a cozy mystery with heavy romantic undertones. But I am loving the slow burn of it all and can’t wait to see more of their relationship in the next book!! Alexandru gets softer and more protective of Harriet as the book goes on and WE LOVE TO SEE THAT!! He also is a hurt her and die kind of boss, and that’s the best kind. They’re both total odd ducks, Harriet being obsessed with data, spreadsheets, and her missing younger brother while Alexandru is, well, a vampire. But it’s clear those are the things in time they will love about each other. I love love town as a character and Harriet’s small Ohio town is definitely that!! It’s giving Midwest Stars Hollow. This was laugh out loud funny at parts and while I sort of felt like I knew who was the criminal, I didn’t get there by the reveal, which I loved. And while this crime has been solved, it seems more are on the horizon and I CANNOT WAIT for the next book in this series!!!
Harriet’s father, whom she met a single time and who ignored her and also ate a fly, is dead. And instead of getting a regular inheritance, she inherits his position as servant of centuries old Romanian vampire, Alexandru. When she attempts to work remotely at home in Ohio, he pops up, threatening to drain everyone she loves. Instead they agree to find serial killers (in this case one killer who has been hunting at weddings) for him to drink from instead of randoms. As their working relationship gets closer so do they; but he is a 10 century old vampire who thinks of her as a servant, so will that ever change.
This is the beginning of a series, so I’d say in this installment instead of being a romance book, this is a cozy mystery with heavy romantic undertones. But I am loving the slow burn of it all and can’t wait to see more of their relationship in the next book!! Alexandru gets softer and more protective of Harriet as the book goes on and WE LOVE TO SEE THAT!! He also is a hurt her and die kind of boss, and that’s the best kind. They’re both total odd ducks, Harriet being obsessed with data, spreadsheets, and her missing younger brother while Alexandru is, well, a vampire. But it’s clear those are the things in time they will love about each other. I love love town as a character and Harriet’s small Ohio town is definitely that!! It’s giving Midwest Stars Hollow. This was laugh out loud funny at parts and while I sort of felt like I knew who was the criminal, I didn’t get there by the reveal, which I loved. And while this crime has been solved, it seems more are on the horizon and I CANNOT WAIT for the next book in this series!!!
October 24, 2025
This was such a fun unexpected story, and I couldn’t put it down!
The last thing I expected was to receive a letter about my estranged father’s estate. But with my family’s antique store needing a new roof, things were tight, and the lure of a possible inheritance was too tempting if only it didn’t come with being forced into servitude to an arrogantly handsome vampire. Forced servitude? You’ve got to be kidding me, but he isn’t.
So here I am, with my ancient vampire boss moving to my small town and eyeing it like his own personal all-you-can-eat buffet. I need a plan. I need to keep the villagers (his word, not mine) safe, protect my loved ones, and somehow keep my boss fed.
Hmmmm… I might just have an idea.
Something about this read was so playful. I loved the combination of mystery and slow burn paranormal romance. I also adored the characters and the way the story was structured. Everything just worked perfectly for me!
I personally loved Alexandru. I was obsessed with his insistent master-servant dynamic. He is a primordial vampire who doesn’t quite understand why everyone isn’t cowering at his feet. He expected complete obedience from everyone and was more than happy to torture or kill anyone who defied him. Watching him navigate modern society with his ancient, antiquated ways was, both amusing and slightly terrifying.
I also enjoyed the push and pull between them, especially how Alexandru’s complete disdain for Harriet, because she is, after all, a “Renfield,” slowly shifts as she becomes his Renfield. His respect begins to build, and he even starts to show a bit of curiosity about her and maybe a sliver of heart. They had these small, tender exchanges of noticing each other, and their regard gradually grew, which worked beautifully in the story. I just love those fleeting moments when they feel that tingle of affection or the prickle of jealousy. Perfection.
This almost feels like a part one, with so many mysteries left to solve, and I love how it left me wanting more.
Thank you to Annika Martin, and The Author Agency for this gifted e-copy.
The last thing I expected was to receive a letter about my estranged father’s estate. But with my family’s antique store needing a new roof, things were tight, and the lure of a possible inheritance was too tempting if only it didn’t come with being forced into servitude to an arrogantly handsome vampire. Forced servitude? You’ve got to be kidding me, but he isn’t.
So here I am, with my ancient vampire boss moving to my small town and eyeing it like his own personal all-you-can-eat buffet. I need a plan. I need to keep the villagers (his word, not mine) safe, protect my loved ones, and somehow keep my boss fed.
Hmmmm… I might just have an idea.
Something about this read was so playful. I loved the combination of mystery and slow burn paranormal romance. I also adored the characters and the way the story was structured. Everything just worked perfectly for me!
I personally loved Alexandru. I was obsessed with his insistent master-servant dynamic. He is a primordial vampire who doesn’t quite understand why everyone isn’t cowering at his feet. He expected complete obedience from everyone and was more than happy to torture or kill anyone who defied him. Watching him navigate modern society with his ancient, antiquated ways was, both amusing and slightly terrifying.
I also enjoyed the push and pull between them, especially how Alexandru’s complete disdain for Harriet, because she is, after all, a “Renfield,” slowly shifts as she becomes his Renfield. His respect begins to build, and he even starts to show a bit of curiosity about her and maybe a sliver of heart. They had these small, tender exchanges of noticing each other, and their regard gradually grew, which worked beautifully in the story. I just love those fleeting moments when they feel that tingle of affection or the prickle of jealousy. Perfection.
This almost feels like a part one, with so many mysteries left to solve, and I love how it left me wanting more.
Thank you to Annika Martin, and The Author Agency for this gifted e-copy.
October 21, 2025
If you've read Annika Martin before, this is a bit of departure from what you may be used to. You won't find the spice filled pages of a filthy mouthed MMC here.
Instead, you have Alexandru, our complacent and Carpathian mountain existing vampire, far from the world, living the same day after day. When one of his longstanding servants dies, he's in a bit of bind. Said servant's estranged daughter shows up, confused and surprised to learn that her father's boss is in fact a vampire. This kicks everything off and the premise is promising. The banter between Harriet and Alexandru was fun and chuckle worthy.
Now I love a good slow burn, I love a good extreme slow burn. I will read multiple books to get that payoff, but there has to be a spark. For me, there was no spark between Harriet and Alexandru that would ultimately lead to a romantic connection in later books as this does appear to be a series. While marketed as slow burn and a mystery romance, it just wasn't there to me. To be sure, I liked the book, I liked the plot, I don't mind low-to-no spice, but I do want romance or something to indicate romance if I'm told it's a romance.
While I do plan to continue the series to see what happens, I think with a few tweaks to how this book is marketed for expectations, it'll strike a better chord. The world Martin builds is awesome and major kudos for going in another direction!
🖤Low-Spice Cozy Mystery Vibes
🔥Age Gap
🖤Vampire
🔥Fish Out of Water
🖤Caretaking
🔥Soft(ish) only for Her
🖤Vengeance
🔥Touch Her & Die
🖤Paranormal
🔥Small Town
🖤Boss/Employee
🔥Contract
🖤Angsty
🔥Extreme Slow Burn
Thank you to the author and The Author Agency for the gifted copy!
Instead, you have Alexandru, our complacent and Carpathian mountain existing vampire, far from the world, living the same day after day. When one of his longstanding servants dies, he's in a bit of bind. Said servant's estranged daughter shows up, confused and surprised to learn that her father's boss is in fact a vampire. This kicks everything off and the premise is promising. The banter between Harriet and Alexandru was fun and chuckle worthy.
Now I love a good slow burn, I love a good extreme slow burn. I will read multiple books to get that payoff, but there has to be a spark. For me, there was no spark between Harriet and Alexandru that would ultimately lead to a romantic connection in later books as this does appear to be a series. While marketed as slow burn and a mystery romance, it just wasn't there to me. To be sure, I liked the book, I liked the plot, I don't mind low-to-no spice, but I do want romance or something to indicate romance if I'm told it's a romance.
While I do plan to continue the series to see what happens, I think with a few tweaks to how this book is marketed for expectations, it'll strike a better chord. The world Martin builds is awesome and major kudos for going in another direction!
🖤Low-Spice Cozy Mystery Vibes
🔥Age Gap
🖤Vampire
🔥Fish Out of Water
🖤Caretaking
🔥Soft(ish) only for Her
🖤Vengeance
🔥Touch Her & Die
🖤Paranormal
🔥Small Town
🖤Boss/Employee
🔥Contract
🖤Angsty
🔥Extreme Slow Burn
Thank you to the author and The Author Agency for the gifted copy!
October 17, 2025
Review is for both audiobook narration and ebook. no spoilers
I received an advanced copy from Ms Martin on my request as a long time fan of hers. This was her first foray into something a little different than her usual rom-coms and I truly enjoyed. I started reading the book, but later recieved a listeners' copy so I switched to audio to give a review for the narration.
STORY:
Pros-
-cosy mystery
-unique take on the strange relationship between Renfield and Dracula
-clever story plotting
-good story world-building
-low spice level
Cons
-some areas of the book dragged a bit
-low spice (in comparison to her other books and may be a con for those who are looking for it; this did not phase me)
Narration:
Pros:
-the male narrator had good pacing and no distracting tones or pronounciations. His "female" tone was probably a bit mannish but this is not a detractor. He has a really pleasant reading voice that delievered the character well and did not distract
-the female narrator delivered a very peppy version of the fmc. she had good tone and pacing in most parts
Cons:
-the female narrators' pronounciation of a few words, eg carpathian was off and fairly obvious so it was a bit distracting.
Story score: 4 of 5
Narration score: 4 of 5
In summary: I enjoyed this book. It's definitely a cosy mystery and for those who like quirky female sleuths who try there best to rehabilitate their boss' bad habits while not losing herself in the crazy going-ons around her, you'll like this. As you may be able to tell from the title, this is a twist on Renfield and Dracula, but with a unique twist.
I received an advanced copy from Ms Martin on my request as a long time fan of hers. This was her first foray into something a little different than her usual rom-coms and I truly enjoyed. I started reading the book, but later recieved a listeners' copy so I switched to audio to give a review for the narration.
STORY:
Pros-
-cosy mystery
-unique take on the strange relationship between Renfield and Dracula
-clever story plotting
-good story world-building
-low spice level
Cons
-some areas of the book dragged a bit
-low spice (in comparison to her other books and may be a con for those who are looking for it; this did not phase me)
Narration:
Pros:
-the male narrator had good pacing and no distracting tones or pronounciations. His "female" tone was probably a bit mannish but this is not a detractor. He has a really pleasant reading voice that delievered the character well and did not distract
-the female narrator delivered a very peppy version of the fmc. she had good tone and pacing in most parts
Cons:
-the female narrators' pronounciation of a few words, eg carpathian was off and fairly obvious so it was a bit distracting.
Story score: 4 of 5
Narration score: 4 of 5
In summary: I enjoyed this book. It's definitely a cosy mystery and for those who like quirky female sleuths who try there best to rehabilitate their boss' bad habits while not losing herself in the crazy going-ons around her, you'll like this. As you may be able to tell from the title, this is a twist on Renfield and Dracula, but with a unique twist.
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