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The Donor's Dilemma
428 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 25, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 2, 2026
I have a soft spot for vampire romances.
And this was excellent! The struggle, the threat of something better and unconditional love for each other with some good parts of spice
If part 2 was already out , i would immediately reading it.
And this was excellent! The struggle, the threat of something better and unconditional love for each other with some good parts of spice
If part 2 was already out , i would immediately reading it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Spoilers ahead so be wary if you've not read.
So first of all Verity. I loved her. I thought she felt genuine and interesting. She's sassy and funny. Hilarious, especially when she mocked the protesters on their first meeting. She's crude and fearless when she needs to be, and she certainly doesn't take no for an answer when it matters! She has a good moral compass, even if I couldn't always follow her logic completely, I did see her point.
However...Verity can be frustrating at times. She's supposed to be convincing everyone she's in a relationship with Theo but then when with Sienna in the toilet she admits to being surprised when Theo pins her to the wall in Subrosa. And then she goes on to have a detailed discussion in the toilets with her about wanting Theo to bite her neck. Despite her saying how afraid she is and how she understands the seriousness of the situation. That erked me slightly. But then I guess it's not unfitting with her character to force situations when she wants things to happen. So I could forgive her for it.
Another thing I loved was Verity and Cora's friendship, it feels like they've known each other for years. It's relaxed and playful. And I was genuinely devastated for both parties when Cora found the video on Verity's phone. I felt Lucy really did that part justice. We've all had a moment where we need to give someone we love bad news and my heart ached for them both.
It took me a little bit to be convinced by her other friendships with the donors. Adam and Sienna were annoying at times. I didn't feel sorry for Adam for being left behind and was actually angry at him for turning up at her work uninvited and unannounced.That being said I really enjoyed the reveal about Sienna, it certainly helped me feel more invested in her and that she was redeemable. Adam took a little more convincing, but I was happy he got his somewhat happy ending.
The other thing I absolutely adored was the reveal about the Cliffhaven flu, we got just enough information to keep us frustrated and wondering but not to make it obvious. Lucy carefully weved in details to keep us guessing and I found myself actually asking what the hell is going on. The actual reveal was brilliant I felt, and for me it all clicked into place.
I also enjoyed the fact that everything wasn't just handed to us from the beginning. The information about the world and the rules of this world are seemlessly laced into the story, so it feels more natural. And I feel we're left curious enough to want to read another.
The romance, particularly the spice is divine. Very well written and the 'will they won't they' doesn't go on for so long it leaves us frustrated. But It took me a little while to warm to Theo as an MMC. I adore their argument/not arguement when she sneaks into his office to get the files. And I gritted my teeth with second hand embarrassment when her dad comes to 'scold' Theo for stealing his daughter away. It was fun to read.
This book for me was a success, a great debut! So well done Lucy!
So first of all Verity. I loved her. I thought she felt genuine and interesting. She's sassy and funny. Hilarious, especially when she mocked the protesters on their first meeting. She's crude and fearless when she needs to be, and she certainly doesn't take no for an answer when it matters! She has a good moral compass, even if I couldn't always follow her logic completely, I did see her point.
However...Verity can be frustrating at times. She's supposed to be convincing everyone she's in a relationship with Theo but then when with Sienna in the toilet she admits to being surprised when Theo pins her to the wall in Subrosa. And then she goes on to have a detailed discussion in the toilets with her about wanting Theo to bite her neck. Despite her saying how afraid she is and how she understands the seriousness of the situation. That erked me slightly. But then I guess it's not unfitting with her character to force situations when she wants things to happen. So I could forgive her for it.
Another thing I loved was Verity and Cora's friendship, it feels like they've known each other for years. It's relaxed and playful. And I was genuinely devastated for both parties when Cora found the video on Verity's phone. I felt Lucy really did that part justice. We've all had a moment where we need to give someone we love bad news and my heart ached for them both.
It took me a little bit to be convinced by her other friendships with the donors. Adam and Sienna were annoying at times. I didn't feel sorry for Adam for being left behind and was actually angry at him for turning up at her work uninvited and unannounced.That being said I really enjoyed the reveal about Sienna, it certainly helped me feel more invested in her and that she was redeemable. Adam took a little more convincing, but I was happy he got his somewhat happy ending.
The other thing I absolutely adored was the reveal about the Cliffhaven flu, we got just enough information to keep us frustrated and wondering but not to make it obvious. Lucy carefully weved in details to keep us guessing and I found myself actually asking what the hell is going on. The actual reveal was brilliant I felt, and for me it all clicked into place.
I also enjoyed the fact that everything wasn't just handed to us from the beginning. The information about the world and the rules of this world are seemlessly laced into the story, so it feels more natural. And I feel we're left curious enough to want to read another.
The romance, particularly the spice is divine. Very well written and the 'will they won't they' doesn't go on for so long it leaves us frustrated. But It took me a little while to warm to Theo as an MMC. I adore their argument/not arguement when she sneaks into his office to get the files. And I gritted my teeth with second hand embarrassment when her dad comes to 'scold' Theo for stealing his daughter away. It was fun to read.
This book for me was a success, a great debut! So well done Lucy!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received as an Arc but my opinions are my own.
This book had a good premise and plot but lacked the proper execution of characters and story lines/concepts.
Things I liked:
-The world building and set up was interesting, one of the things I liked was how we saw a lot of prejudice and racism that humans had towards vampires because it shows a different view of how vampires are treated in literature.
-I liked the mystery and investigative aspects.
-The side characters were pretty good as well, they seemed interesting and had their own issues and problems.
What I didn't like:
-Honestly, I don't think Verity and Theo had the best relationship, I feel like while they were compatible and cute together I feel like there was a lot of misunderstanding on both sides and a tad bit of pushy-ness on Verity's side. Theo isn't innocent either, it was also frustrating that he's never the first to admit his feelings and instead it always has to be Verity pushing him.
-Some plot points or concepts don't get explained properly. Ex: The concept of the Rose family - the explanation was vague, it was said they were a powerful family. But if they really were, why aren't there more details - Who else is in the family? Who is the head? Do they all have one Rose family per town? And how did Vivienne get away with doping that to the other town and almost get away with Verity's if the Rose family is allegedly this powerful group?? Petra Rose doesn't even seem to live/stay in the town a lot so the concept of her being this scary member of the Rose family just doesn't hit strongly. If you are a powerful leader why aren't you overseeing Theo's work since he's the Lord of that town?
This book had a good premise and plot but lacked the proper execution of characters and story lines/concepts.
Things I liked:
-The world building and set up was interesting, one of the things I liked was how we saw a lot of prejudice and racism that humans had towards vampires because it shows a different view of how vampires are treated in literature.
-I liked the mystery and investigative aspects.
-The side characters were pretty good as well, they seemed interesting and had their own issues and problems.
What I didn't like:
-Honestly, I don't think Verity and Theo had the best relationship, I feel like while they were compatible and cute together I feel like there was a lot of misunderstanding on both sides and a tad bit of pushy-ness on Verity's side. Theo isn't innocent either, it was also frustrating that he's never the first to admit his feelings and instead it always has to be Verity pushing him.
-Some plot points or concepts don't get explained properly. Ex: The concept of the Rose family - the explanation was vague, it was said they were a powerful family. But if they really were, why aren't there more details - Who else is in the family? Who is the head? Do they all have one Rose family per town? And how did Vivienne get away with doping that to the other town and almost get away with Verity's if the Rose family is allegedly this powerful group?? Petra Rose doesn't even seem to live/stay in the town a lot so the concept of her being this scary member of the Rose family just doesn't hit strongly. If you are a powerful leader why aren't you overseeing Theo's work since he's the Lord of that town?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I found this book started off strong and had me fully invested.
Somewhere in the middle I just lost a bit of interest, to be totally honest I can’t even pin point fully where - I just kind of felt the story went a little stale, but I carried on and I’m glad I did.
At about 75% in it got me invested again, I enjoyed the small plot twist in there.
Verity the FMC - I really liked this character, she was witty, strong willed and didn’t do as she was told.
Theo the MMC - I blew hot and cold with him, I found him quite frustrating a lot of the time. Although that is good character building in my eyes, as he made me feel a variety of emotions.
Jesse - Theo’s brother - we dont know much about him, but I’m hoping there will be a stand alone involving him. I think he could make an exciting MMC.
Abe - The Blessed One - Again I am intrigued to learn more about him, as we know very little. I believe he is very misunderstood.
Over all an enjoyable book and I would happily read the other stand alones that are going to be part of the Tales of the Unveiling series.
Somewhere in the middle I just lost a bit of interest, to be totally honest I can’t even pin point fully where - I just kind of felt the story went a little stale, but I carried on and I’m glad I did.
At about 75% in it got me invested again, I enjoyed the small plot twist in there.
Verity the FMC - I really liked this character, she was witty, strong willed and didn’t do as she was told.
Theo the MMC - I blew hot and cold with him, I found him quite frustrating a lot of the time. Although that is good character building in my eyes, as he made me feel a variety of emotions.
Jesse - Theo’s brother - we dont know much about him, but I’m hoping there will be a stand alone involving him. I think he could make an exciting MMC.
Abe - The Blessed One - Again I am intrigued to learn more about him, as we know very little. I believe he is very misunderstood.
Over all an enjoyable book and I would happily read the other stand alones that are going to be part of the Tales of the Unveiling series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of this book and I have to say I love it. It was easy to read and didn’t focus too much on irrelevant things.
The relationship between Theo and Verity is one that society condemns. They are two different species, their relationship should be strictly professional but you’ll be kicking your feet at the lingering touches and the words neither dare to say.
The secrets, the promises, the desire; I couldn’t get enough.
Verity is curious, desperate for the truth and maybe that’s not always a good thing.
Theo is doing all he can as Lord Mayor but weighed down by his duties and his past.
There are rumours and stories that haunt them both but the truth is far worse and much closer than they realise.
I would definitely recommend if you love vampires and the taboo, I can’t wait for the next one. ☺️
The relationship between Theo and Verity is one that society condemns. They are two different species, their relationship should be strictly professional but you’ll be kicking your feet at the lingering touches and the words neither dare to say.
The secrets, the promises, the desire; I couldn’t get enough.
Verity is curious, desperate for the truth and maybe that’s not always a good thing.
Theo is doing all he can as Lord Mayor but weighed down by his duties and his past.
There are rumours and stories that haunt them both but the truth is far worse and much closer than they realise.
I would definitely recommend if you love vampires and the taboo, I can’t wait for the next one. ☺️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved Donor's Dilemma! The premise immediately hooked me: Verity is a journalist with integrity who decided a truth needed to be told, only to get fired and shunned for it. Pushed to sign up as a donor just to make ends meet, she meets Theo—a surprisingly gentle and caring vampire in a position of power.
The sparks between them are undeniable! I completely loved the slow-burn romance and the building tension as they navigate their taboo relationship. I don’t want to add spoilers, but the plot twist was great and caught me completely off guard. On top of that, both Abe and Jesse are such captivating characters in their own right, and I truly hope they get their own books next. If you love high-chemistry paranormal romance, add this to your TBR!
The sparks between them are undeniable! I completely loved the slow-burn romance and the building tension as they navigate their taboo relationship. I don’t want to add spoilers, but the plot twist was great and caught me completely off guard. On top of that, both Abe and Jesse are such captivating characters in their own right, and I truly hope they get their own books next. If you love high-chemistry paranormal romance, add this to your TBR!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Plot, mystery, romance, spice, action — this book had it all. Our FMC, Verity, a human woman with strength and resilience, was the perfect match for the most powerful vampire in the city, the Lord Mayor Theodore Chapel. Their relationship development felt natural, and I was rooting for them from the very beginning.
I loved the side characters just as much as the main couple. This book wasn’t only about the romance; the mystery and overarching plot were genuinely entertaining and kept the story moving at a great pace. The world the author created is rich, intriguing, and easy to fall into.
I’m excited to read more in this universe, as there will be interconnected standalones forthcoming.
I loved the side characters just as much as the main couple. This book wasn’t only about the romance; the mystery and overarching plot were genuinely entertaining and kept the story moving at a great pace. The world the author created is rich, intriguing, and easy to fall into.
I’m excited to read more in this universe, as there will be interconnected standalones forthcoming.
Review of advance copy received from Author
No spoiler ARC review
I love vampires mingled with slow burn tension so I was happy when I received an early reader copy of The Donors Dilemma.
The plot was really good, I liked how vampires and humans had to work and live together in society with rules and regulations ( although there will always be haters/protesters) and there were some really good strong characters. We had Verity, (human FMC and disgraced journalist) and Theo (Vampire Lord Mayor MMC) and they made a very strong couple. There were times though that I felt that Theo was holding out too much and making Verity do the chasing but that can be forgiven because when things do develop, it’s done so right. The idea behind how the blood donating career worked was clever and this is how Verity and Theo’s paths cross as she becomes his donor (sounds awful but it was done tastefully and pays very well! I mean a girls got to pay her bills! 🤣) Those moments between them were very intimate and executed well.
We had other characters such as Abe, Jesse and the Rose family, that I would love to explore even further and I’m hoping we get to learn more about them in future books or perhaps their own spin offs. This was a good first book in the series, and I will be more than happy to continue reading Tales Of The Unveiling.
I love vampires mingled with slow burn tension so I was happy when I received an early reader copy of The Donors Dilemma.
The plot was really good, I liked how vampires and humans had to work and live together in society with rules and regulations ( although there will always be haters/protesters) and there were some really good strong characters. We had Verity, (human FMC and disgraced journalist) and Theo (Vampire Lord Mayor MMC) and they made a very strong couple. There were times though that I felt that Theo was holding out too much and making Verity do the chasing but that can be forgiven because when things do develop, it’s done so right. The idea behind how the blood donating career worked was clever and this is how Verity and Theo’s paths cross as she becomes his donor (sounds awful but it was done tastefully and pays very well! I mean a girls got to pay her bills! 🤣) Those moments between them were very intimate and executed well.
We had other characters such as Abe, Jesse and the Rose family, that I would love to explore even further and I’m hoping we get to learn more about them in future books or perhaps their own spin offs. This was a good first book in the series, and I will be more than happy to continue reading Tales Of The Unveiling.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received as an advanced copy from the author.
I enjoyed reading this book, there were a couple of slow moments within the story, especially when it came to the political side of Theo's job as the city mayor.
However this did not put me off because the story has vampires, conspiracies, betrayal, taboo relations between humans and vampires, slow burn relationship, equality and some spice.
Verity is Theo's donor, after she lost her job as a journalist. She has to move back to her childhood home with her parents and she reconnects with her childhood friend Cora.
Cora deserves a standalone story to herself.
I enjoyed reading this book, there were a couple of slow moments within the story, especially when it came to the political side of Theo's job as the city mayor.
However this did not put me off because the story has vampires, conspiracies, betrayal, taboo relations between humans and vampires, slow burn relationship, equality and some spice.
Verity is Theo's donor, after she lost her job as a journalist. She has to move back to her childhood home with her parents and she reconnects with her childhood friend Cora.
Cora deserves a standalone story to herself.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advanced copy received by author.
This book started off really strong and I was fully invested. I do think it lulled a little in the middle but picked up again towards the end.
I liked that it wasn't a "normal" Vampire romance and both main characters were likeable.
I'll definitely be reading the next book I'm the series when it is out and I interested to learn more about Abe and Jesse.
Overall a really enjoyable book
This book started off really strong and I was fully invested. I do think it lulled a little in the middle but picked up again towards the end.
I liked that it wasn't a "normal" Vampire romance and both main characters were likeable.
I'll definitely be reading the next book I'm the series when it is out and I interested to learn more about Abe and Jesse.
Overall a really enjoyable book
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have just finished reading this book and I have to say I loved it!
The writing was easy to follow, I’ve been reading a lot of fantasy recently and this was such a refreshing switch up AND it still had vampires so that’s a win in itself.
The main characters Verity and Theo, I loved (and at times hated Theo, but isn’t that what a good MMC does to you) the author captured their connection so perfectly.
I was hooked straight away and the story flowed really well. I can’t wait to read the others in the Tales of the Unveiling series!
The writing was easy to follow, I’ve been reading a lot of fantasy recently and this was such a refreshing switch up AND it still had vampires so that’s a win in itself.
The main characters Verity and Theo, I loved (and at times hated Theo, but isn’t that what a good MMC does to you) the author captured their connection so perfectly.
I was hooked straight away and the story flowed really well. I can’t wait to read the others in the Tales of the Unveiling series!
Review of advance copy
I loved the premise of this book. When I first saw it I was very intrigued and needed to read more, and I was not disappointed. Verity is an excellent, resilient protagonist whose investigative background adds a clever edge to her character. The book balances political conspiracies and intense romantic chemistry so well, it just makes you want to keep reading.
I received an advance review copy for free, and i am leaving this review voluntarily
I received an advance review copy for free, and i am leaving this review voluntarily
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this book. The story was interesting and it kept me engaged. I like the fact that the main character is in her 30s! This made her more mature and her choices were more believable.
The characters were done well. I'd love to find out more about Theo's brother and Abe. They seem like they have some good stories to tell.
Overall, it was a fun read and I enjoyed it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters were done well. I'd love to find out more about Theo's brother and Abe. They seem like they have some good stories to tell.
Overall, it was a fun read and I enjoyed it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a refreshing twist on a paranormal vampire romance, a down-on-her-luck former journalist is matched with a considerate vampire to solve a political/paranormal mystery. Their effortless chemistry shines through mutual consent and honesty. Driven, hardworking and deeply local, she makes an ideal match for the MMC who is as kind as he is protective of both her and humanity.
Review of advance copy
I read this as an arc and I loved it! The whole concept was really interesting and the characters were great. So nice to have a relatable FMC over 30 and an MMC whos personally doesnt revolve around brooding.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Can’t believe this is Lucy’s first book. Loved the story and how it developed throughout. The style of writing is so easy to read. I can’t wait to find out what happens to the characters in future books. Hurry up and get them written!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
its about a 3.5 for me.
it was a nice story, it had a solid plot. but i got a bit distracted halfway through the story. i still finished it and quite liked the end, but i felt it wasn't as engaging as i thought it would be
it was a nice story, it had a solid plot. but i got a bit distracted halfway through the story. i still finished it and quite liked the end, but i felt it wasn't as engaging as i thought it would be
Read
September 19, 2026Received this book from Voracious readers free. Loved loved this book, could not put it down. A journalist with integrity and a vampire working together. The characters were relatable the story flowed. Highly recommend if you are a lover of vampire human romance novels.
September 26, 2026
What a fantastic story! First, thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC. I honestly thoroughly enjoyed this book. The storyline was immersive and I became really invested in the characters. I cannot wait for the next book! I hope Jesse is the MMC because I need his story!! Pacing was great and how the mystery of the story unfolded was perfect. It was a refreshingly unique storyline that kept my attention all the way through. I will definitely be reading more books in this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The story was good and the plot twists kept me interested.
September 19, 2026
I read this book as an arc, i was gripped from the start and the character development throughout the book was amazing. Theo now has a permanent seat on my book boyfriend list, what a man he is!
September 30, 2026
I was lucky to be an arc reader I loved this story and the main characters relationship was nice
October 5, 2026
Such a fun and exciting read. I loved the characters and the plot throughout the whole book, and I'm really looking forward to reading further books from this author ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really love a vampire tale, and this was no different.
From Verity being a strong FMC who doesn't do as she's told, to Theo being a vampire who genuinely seems to care about humans, A Donor's Dilemma makes you fall in love with the main characters and you find yourself rooting for them to solve the mystery they come across.
The side characters are all individual and I found myself invested in them too - really keen to discover more!
From Verity being a strong FMC who doesn't do as she's told, to Theo being a vampire who genuinely seems to care about humans, A Donor's Dilemma makes you fall in love with the main characters and you find yourself rooting for them to solve the mystery they come across.
The side characters are all individual and I found myself invested in them too - really keen to discover more!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book made me laugh and also kept me on the edge if my seat. I really enjoyed reading this book. I received an ARC of this book.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews