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Merrick #2
William
New York, 1800: William Lacy is going to be a vampire, and there’s no backing out now. Not that he wants to. Merrick’s life depends on it, as does their future together. Soon he’ll be Merrick’s apprentice again, just like when they first met. But instead of healing arts, he’ll be learning the life of a vampire.
If only the otherworldly apothecary didn’t seem more miserable about it by the day. How can he resist the passion waiting to explode between them? What dark secrets from the past still hold him captive? And what does it all have to do with his old friend, that miserable, ruthless French fop, Theo?
Set in the shadows of New York and Boston after the events of Merrick.
Also by Claire Cray:
Merrick
Thirsting for More (short story)
Backwoods Beast (short story)
If only the otherworldly apothecary didn’t seem more miserable about it by the day. How can he resist the passion waiting to explode between them? What dark secrets from the past still hold him captive? And what does it all have to do with his old friend, that miserable, ruthless French fop, Theo?
Set in the shadows of New York and Boston after the events of Merrick.
Also by Claire Cray:
Merrick
Thirsting for More (short story)
Backwoods Beast (short story)
164 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 12, 2015
9 people are currently reading
253 people want to read
About the author
Claire Cray
21 books180 followersClaire Cray writes M/M Romance featuring hot, complicated men in weird situations. Offbeat and character-driven with a Gothic bent, her work is often described as atmospheric and a little strange.
Born and raised in the rural Pacific Northwest, Claire takes inspiration from its wild, moody vibes. Her stories often combine vivid natural settings with steamy sensuality and psychological drama.
Claire lives, writes, and independently publishes in Portland, Oregon, USA.
Born and raised in the rural Pacific Northwest, Claire takes inspiration from its wild, moody vibes. Her stories often combine vivid natural settings with steamy sensuality and psychological drama.
Claire lives, writes, and independently publishes in Portland, Oregon, USA.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
March 17, 2015
Very enjoyable vampire historical that could have been FABULOUS if the author had used an editor.
A long time has passed since I read Merrick, the first book in this series. In fact, "Merrick" was my first M/M paranormal (WOAH). I was worried that my love of "Merrick" was largely due to inexperience, and that now that I've read hundreds upon hundreds of M/Ms (and M/M paranormals) my opinion of this author would be diminished.
I was pleasantly surprised to find out that I worried for nothing: This author is TALENTED.
"William" is effortlessly atmospheric and lovely. I was instantly transported to the time period, and I felt in tune with the story. This book was the first story in weeks that made me want to READ. I didn't want to put it down. I also was surprised at how easily I recalled the characters and plot from the previous story. I picked it up right where I left off, and I got right back in the groove.
I also think that the author did a fabulous job with the vampire aspect. It felt fresh, which is very difficult in this genre, and it made sense (!), which I really appreciated.
But, alas, this book isn't without it's flaws. There are countless grammatical and formatting errors, which really detracted from the story. I think this author needs to hire a professional editor and cover artist to elevate her to the next level. It reminds me of Anyta Sunday, whose career really took off once she got serious about cover design and editing.
If you put your blinders on to the mistakes, this book is exceedingly enjoyable. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to any lover of elegant historicals or paranormals.
**Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
A long time has passed since I read Merrick, the first book in this series. In fact, "Merrick" was my first M/M paranormal (WOAH). I was worried that my love of "Merrick" was largely due to inexperience, and that now that I've read hundreds upon hundreds of M/Ms (and M/M paranormals) my opinion of this author would be diminished.
I was pleasantly surprised to find out that I worried for nothing: This author is TALENTED.
"William" is effortlessly atmospheric and lovely. I was instantly transported to the time period, and I felt in tune with the story. This book was the first story in weeks that made me want to READ. I didn't want to put it down. I also was surprised at how easily I recalled the characters and plot from the previous story. I picked it up right where I left off, and I got right back in the groove.
I also think that the author did a fabulous job with the vampire aspect. It felt fresh, which is very difficult in this genre, and it made sense (!), which I really appreciated.
But, alas, this book isn't without it's flaws. There are countless grammatical and formatting errors, which really detracted from the story. I think this author needs to hire a professional editor and cover artist to elevate her to the next level. It reminds me of Anyta Sunday, whose career really took off once she got serious about cover design and editing.
If you put your blinders on to the mistakes, this book is exceedingly enjoyable. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to any lover of elegant historicals or paranormals.
**Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
August 6, 2015
It's such a good luck I read the first book this year because that way I didn't have to wait for this part to be released.
This installment is not as emotional as the first one was. For starters, the is as short as the first part, with the difference that a high percentage of it was not focused on the actual story. This doesn't need to be necessarily a bad thing, but when the introduction takes so much space, and then Merrick's past and the conflict with Theo turn out to be the centre of it all, in the end there is little to say about William's new experiences as a vampire beginner. Which is a pity, as those scenes are really appealing to read.
I like that these vampires are closer to Anne Rice version than to the Twilight one. They face immortality and the doom to become a tortured soul seems more a reality than not. There is a certain moment in which vampires feel a dangerous apathy that is the end of them all and the only treatment is finding a companion and turning him into a vampire. Once they achieve it, life has sense again.
And there is the bonus that you don't fear you are going to dry your lover out out of lust.
At last Merrick relates his past and I must say that, for such a long life, I was a little disappointed. I mean, the author could have made a better use of it. And she should have, because when we finally reach the hostility towards Theo, it let me down. I don't know what I expected, but his behavior doesn't strike me as that reprehensible as for Theo to be pushed away for decades. And do not forget that it's not as if the vampire society is vast and outgoing. I think it was a little exaggerated, above all when we keep in mind these creatures live for centuries, so isolated mistakes and faults take a different dimension in the big scheme of things. I felt there was something missing, actions in the chronological line that were not mentioned. Because otherwise the outcome wouldn't have been that extreme.
However, William's existence as a vampire seems to be very promising. His first anecdotes (AKA hunts) are quite enchanting, if we omit the part in which his human victims die. He experiences such an exhilarating feeling he now sees the quite process under a new light. Now he understands the thirst, the irresistible temptation of yawning or the pull he feels towards a particularly attractive prey. He is not a human anymore, but he can appreciate certain humans. And once more, William has become Merrick's apprentice. And Merrick is as generous and patient as he has ever been. But now they share a connection that transcends every emotion they had felt before.
To sum it up, a recommendable series to read.
This installment is not as emotional as the first one was. For starters, the is as short as the first part, with the difference that a high percentage of it was not focused on the actual story. This doesn't need to be necessarily a bad thing, but when the introduction takes so much space, and then Merrick's past and the conflict with Theo turn out to be the centre of it all, in the end there is little to say about William's new experiences as a vampire beginner. Which is a pity, as those scenes are really appealing to read.
I like that these vampires are closer to Anne Rice version than to the Twilight one. They face immortality and the doom to become a tortured soul seems more a reality than not. There is a certain moment in which vampires feel a dangerous apathy that is the end of them all and the only treatment is finding a companion and turning him into a vampire. Once they achieve it, life has sense again.
And there is the bonus that you don't fear you are going to dry your lover out out of lust.
At last Merrick relates his past and I must say that, for such a long life, I was a little disappointed. I mean, the author could have made a better use of it. And she should have, because when we finally reach the hostility towards Theo, it let me down. I don't know what I expected, but his behavior doesn't strike me as that reprehensible as for Theo to be pushed away for decades. And do not forget that it's not as if the vampire society is vast and outgoing. I think it was a little exaggerated, above all when we keep in mind these creatures live for centuries, so isolated mistakes and faults take a different dimension in the big scheme of things. I felt there was something missing, actions in the chronological line that were not mentioned. Because otherwise the outcome wouldn't have been that extreme.
However, William's existence as a vampire seems to be very promising. His first anecdotes (AKA hunts) are quite enchanting, if we omit the part in which his human victims die. He experiences such an exhilarating feeling he now sees the quite process under a new light. Now he understands the thirst, the irresistible temptation of yawning or the pull he feels towards a particularly attractive prey. He is not a human anymore, but he can appreciate certain humans. And once more, William has become Merrick's apprentice. And Merrick is as generous and patient as he has ever been. But now they share a connection that transcends every emotion they had felt before.
To sum it up, a recommendable series to read.
August 27, 2016
Merrick, the first book about the vampire and his apprentice, was an enjoyable read for me, and I was looking forward to the continuation of their story, so I couldn't let it go when the request came in to BMBR to review it. So glad I picked up! What a treat this was.
The first thing I noticed was the sense of melancholy that permeated the story in the beginning. It showed in William's conflicted, bittersweet feelings and in his friend Jeremy's concern and protectiveness. William's last moments with Jeremy made me so sad, I was spinning tales in my head of Jeremy being with Theo so William and Jeremy would always have that special friendship.
There was a lot of showing here...with words that gave the story a strong sense of time and place, small details that set me firmly in place next to William, but it was the words that showed how the characters were feeling that I really loved.
I loved seeing Theo through William's eyes. Together, they were so entertaining. I won't quote examples of their banter because it belongs in the context of the story, but know that it was delightful.
But enough of William and Theo, no matter my fondness for the pair. William's focus was on Merrick and his insistence on delaying William's turning.
When Merrick and William came together as vampires, it was steamy, but tender. No more holding back on Merrick's part. I thought the prose edged toward purple and felt excessive in a few places, but it was a great scene overall.
I found humor in William's observances of the humans surrounding him. Especially in one instance where his thirst competed with his appreciation for a finely knotted cravat and his reluctance to mess it up. And Merrick showed glimpses of humor with dry quips that had me grinning. When he shared his story, though, the grinning stopped, and my heart ached for him.
Although I loved William and Merrick together, I wanted more tension, or humor, or something, not just the sweet, almost polite love that followed William's turning. The story itself also became more...gentle. It was sweet, with a touch of sadness and a bit of humor, but nothing really happened. Other than learning about Merrick's past, it was all about William's adjustment...not enough plot for that many pages.
Even so, I very much enjoyed their beautiful love story and would love to read more of William and Merrick...and Theo!
Side Note:
While this is a sequel to 'Merrick', the author does a nice job of bringing the reader up to date if they haven't read the first book. I'd recommend reading it anyway, if only for the delicious tension between the MCs as they get to know each other.
Note: A copy of this book was provided by the author/by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Review previously posted on
The first thing I noticed was the sense of melancholy that permeated the story in the beginning. It showed in William's conflicted, bittersweet feelings and in his friend Jeremy's concern and protectiveness. William's last moments with Jeremy made me so sad, I was spinning tales in my head of Jeremy being with Theo so William and Jeremy would always have that special friendship.
There was a lot of showing here...with words that gave the story a strong sense of time and place, small details that set me firmly in place next to William, but it was the words that showed how the characters were feeling that I really loved.
The words left a bitter taste in my mouth. For all I loved Merrick, I was not yet free of shame.and
Here the formal veneer began to flake away, and with each word I felt a most exquisite confidence gathering in my breast.William's voice was so well done, consistently revealing his personality through his thoughts and dialogue. Young, impatient, determined, and a little bit afraid. He had me empathizing with his frustrated self but also grinning at his observations, especially his thoughts about Theo.
Theo sat on the edge of the chaise in his usual manner, his slender limbs arranged as though posed for a portrait. Insufferable Prat in Repose.and
I wanted to strangle him. And how gleefully he stoked my fury, flirting with the coffee-man while I was forced to fume in silence!Oh! And
With Theo, every movement was performed with the elegant glee of a Harlequin.*grins*
I loved seeing Theo through William's eyes. Together, they were so entertaining. I won't quote examples of their banter because it belongs in the context of the story, but know that it was delightful.
But enough of William and Theo, no matter my fondness for the pair. William's focus was on Merrick and his insistence on delaying William's turning.
I was terrified that he despised me for it, and that this was the real reason for his lengthening absences—not mercy, not reluctance, but resentment.While he waited, William ached for Merrick, but in Merrick's note to him, we saw the feeling was mutual.
...it is difficult even to write you, as the very act only sharpens your absence.After the long (in William's eyes) wait, the turning was a bit anticlimactic, but I liked the dreamlike scene even as it all seemed too easy. I expected a more painful change, a more difficult transition. It was all joy and excitement, though, as William adjusted to his new self and Merrick finally relaxed and enjoyed their changed relationship. The author did a good job describing the heightened senses William experienced. A lot of introspection followed, and the pacing slowed, but my interest was still kept.
When Merrick and William came together as vampires, it was steamy, but tender. No more holding back on Merrick's part. I thought the prose edged toward purple and felt excessive in a few places, but it was a great scene overall.
I found humor in William's observances of the humans surrounding him. Especially in one instance where his thirst competed with his appreciation for a finely knotted cravat and his reluctance to mess it up. And Merrick showed glimpses of humor with dry quips that had me grinning. When he shared his story, though, the grinning stopped, and my heart ached for him.
Although I loved William and Merrick together, I wanted more tension, or humor, or something, not just the sweet, almost polite love that followed William's turning. The story itself also became more...gentle. It was sweet, with a touch of sadness and a bit of humor, but nothing really happened. Other than learning about Merrick's past, it was all about William's adjustment...not enough plot for that many pages.
Even so, I very much enjoyed their beautiful love story and would love to read more of William and Merrick...and Theo!
Side Note:
While this is a sequel to 'Merrick', the author does a nice job of bringing the reader up to date if they haven't read the first book. I'd recommend reading it anyway, if only for the delicious tension between the MCs as they get to know each other.
Note: A copy of this book was provided by the author/by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Review previously posted on
November 10, 2015
Well.
That was fun. honestly, I don't even know how to categorize this as far as story goes, because there isn't much *story* to it. It's very character-driven, with lots of biting porn. (and by porn, I don't mean the book was porn, I mean the biting content was O.O hot. oh fuck, y'all know what I mean right?)
Oh yes.
Biting porn.
In other words, it was written just for me, mine all mine.
That said, I found Theo to be the most intriguing character in this second novel, and I'd really like to read some delicious Theo biting...
That was fun. honestly, I don't even know how to categorize this as far as story goes, because there isn't much *story* to it. It's very character-driven, with lots of biting porn. (and by porn, I don't mean the book was porn, I mean the biting content was O.O hot. oh fuck, y'all know what I mean right?)
Oh yes.
Biting porn.
In other words, it was written just for me, mine all mine.
That said, I found Theo to be the most intriguing character in this second novel, and I'd really like to read some delicious Theo biting...
February 23, 2015
Merrick reached over to tuck my hair behind my ear. He had always been a master of those brief, intimate gestures, which caught me unaware and drew me towards him like a fish on a line.
I was over the top with excitement to be starting this sequel after falling in love with Merrick and William and even the devilish Theo in the first book. The writing is very atmospheric and the language used felt appropriate to the 1800's. I think I may even have enjoyed this book more because of the developing relationship between Merrick and William. However the first few chapters had a melancholy feel to them as William felt uncertain about why Merrick was distancing himself from him, but things soon picked up.
I loved William's openness and enthusiasm about his new experiences and the fact that he took everything in his stride. Whilst Merrick's reassurance, gentleness and love for William took my breath away.
But I swear to you I have wanted this since the moment you fell down in the mud at my feet. He paused. Perhaps the moment you stood upright, if I'm to be entirely honest about it.
The ending was just perfect for me but I would definitely welcome more books!
I was over the top with excitement to be starting this sequel after falling in love with Merrick and William and even the devilish Theo in the first book. The writing is very atmospheric and the language used felt appropriate to the 1800's. I think I may even have enjoyed this book more because of the developing relationship between Merrick and William. However the first few chapters had a melancholy feel to them as William felt uncertain about why Merrick was distancing himself from him, but things soon picked up.
I loved William's openness and enthusiasm about his new experiences and the fact that he took everything in his stride. Whilst Merrick's reassurance, gentleness and love for William took my breath away.
But I swear to you I have wanted this since the moment you fell down in the mud at my feet. He paused. Perhaps the moment you stood upright, if I'm to be entirely honest about it.
The ending was just perfect for me but I would definitely welcome more books!
March 11, 2022
Slower-paced than the prequel, but just as enjoyable. This second book read a bit like homage to Rice’s Interview with the Vampire, with less fire-and-brimstone preaching and catholic guilt, and more gay vampire sex. Me likey.
Read
April 2, 2015"Killing to live would be no problem at all." Aha.
And with this I am out of here.
DNF at 52%.
Until now it has been boring. Simply boring. Nothing happens really. William whines and longs for Merrick. Merrick is away most of the time. William hangs around. Theo has a short scene. William whines. William longs for Merrick. Merrick comes finally back.
And then William Lacy becomes a vampire and decides that it is totally ok to kill human beings for food. Every day of this future life. To make it a little more morally ok: they were thieves. Because you know, if someone is a criminal (or you think someone is a criminal, it is totally ok to be judge, jury and executioner while sucking all his blood out for your sustenance.
This trope in vampire books really annoys me. It absolutely annoys me.
And I only forgive it for a brilliant story.
As mentioned I found this novel unbearably boring until this point anyway.
So I decided to cut my losses.
And with this I am out of here.
DNF at 52%.
Until now it has been boring. Simply boring. Nothing happens really. William whines and longs for Merrick. Merrick is away most of the time. William hangs around. Theo has a short scene. William whines. William longs for Merrick. Merrick comes finally back.
And then William Lacy becomes a vampire and decides that it is totally ok to kill human beings for food. Every day of this future life. To make it a little more morally ok: they were thieves. Because you know, if someone is a criminal (or you think someone is a criminal, it is totally ok to be judge, jury and executioner while sucking all his blood out for your sustenance.
This trope in vampire books really annoys me. It absolutely annoys me.
And I only forgive it for a brilliant story.
As mentioned I found this novel unbearably boring until this point anyway.
So I decided to cut my losses.
August 29, 2015
Tara, thanks so much for lending this book to me! :)
~*~*~*~
Sorry, this is not a review. These are my random thoughts about the book.
A much slower paced book than the first one. Loved the language, it's old-fashioned, but without making you stumble or reach for a dictionary. This is more about character development than action.
~*~*~*~
Boston! Providence! Yay! They boys might still be lurking around. I'll look for them next time I'm out of the door :)
I still can't figure out why Merrick is so mad at Theo. Theo is his savior, his brother, his teacher, his everything. Something is definitely amiss. I don't understand Merrick's resentment. If Merrick blames him for a certain death, he should think twice.
Need more Theo, he is such a wonderful vivacious character! ♥ I feel my teeth tingle *yawn* ;)
Glad he ditched the chick :D
~*~*~*~
Sorry, this is not a review. These are my random thoughts about the book.
A much slower paced book than the first one. Loved the language, it's old-fashioned, but without making you stumble or reach for a dictionary. This is more about character development than action.
~*~*~*~
Boston! Providence! Yay! They boys might still be lurking around. I'll look for them next time I'm out of the door :)
I still can't figure out why Merrick is so mad at Theo. Theo is his savior, his brother, his teacher, his everything. Something is definitely amiss. I don't understand Merrick's resentment. If Merrick blames him for a certain death, he should think twice.
Need more Theo, he is such a wonderful vivacious character! ♥ I feel my teeth tingle *yawn* ;)
Glad he ditched the chick :D
July 8, 2017
(2.5 stars)
October 10, 2015
2.5 Stars
I felt like each scene took too long and the ones that I did want to be expended, were cut short.
So much lyrical writing without actually saying anything.
So, all in all, a good read but below the high expectations I had for the book.
I felt like each scene took too long and the ones that I did want to be expended, were cut short.
So much lyrical writing without actually saying anything.
So, all in all, a good read but below the high expectations I had for the book.
March 18, 2015
3.5 stars, but not quite good enough to get the bump up to 4 for me.
I felt that this book was much slower moving than the first, without the mystery of what Merrick was, and how William would get back to him. I liked the interactions with Theo, and would love to have seen more of him.
After quite a bit of time has passed, Merrick finally turns William, and we get to read about William learning to be a vampire. I found his transition to be quite easy, really, no transition at all. He just gets bitten, drinks a bit, and drifts away, and wakes up feeling different.
I think this book really could have been edited down a lot, and just added to the first book, and it would have all been perfect. As it was, I wasn't so interested in most of what was going on, there wasn't much tension to be found, other than in Merrick's relationship with Theo.
Still, taken as a whole, I quite liked this duology, and will be checking out more by this author. Hopefully, something to do with Theo will get written someday?
I felt that this book was much slower moving than the first, without the mystery of what Merrick was, and how William would get back to him. I liked the interactions with Theo, and would love to have seen more of him.
After quite a bit of time has passed, Merrick finally turns William, and we get to read about William learning to be a vampire. I found his transition to be quite easy, really, no transition at all. He just gets bitten, drinks a bit, and drifts away, and wakes up feeling different.
I think this book really could have been edited down a lot, and just added to the first book, and it would have all been perfect. As it was, I wasn't so interested in most of what was going on, there wasn't much tension to be found, other than in Merrick's relationship with Theo.
Still, taken as a whole, I quite liked this duology, and will be checking out more by this author. Hopefully, something to do with Theo will get written someday?
June 27, 2015
Can't remember why I enjoyed the first one so much. This one bored me silly.
June 5, 2017
This sequel to MERRICK does not disappoint. The love and adventures of William and his beloved master continue as they travel together and embrace the forbidden passion they share. Will Merrick finally turn William into a vampire, or is death the more charitable end? Find out in the thrilling, beautiful close to this heavenly, character-driven series.
May 19, 2025
Everything I was waiting for ( both things actually 🤭) was already done by less than 50% and I was kinda bummed everything wrapped up so fast.
The second part of the book still entertained me (things were revealed and people were devoured) and I liked the fresh and unique approach this author took on vampirism.
The second part of the book still entertained me (things were revealed and people were devoured) and I liked the fresh and unique approach this author took on vampirism.
February 5, 2015
I loved ‘Merrick’, the predecessor to this book, so I actually squealed when I discovered 'William' hidden in my Kindle Unlimited membership list. I squealed, downloaded, and devoured its story and am ecstatic to report that ‘William’ is a mesmerizing and glorious tale! Like in ‘Merrick’, the writing in ‘William’ is very atmospheric and sets an exquisite tone reminiscent of classic Victorian Gothic novels. Enchanting glimpses of an early 19th century New York with its dingy waterfronts, assorted alehouses, and fabulous turn-of-the-century clothing were revealed in an ever widening lens that appeared covered with a gossamer spider-web gauze. This lent an appealing fly-on-the-wall feel to my read and captured the wistful longing of William, poised on the precipice of change, perfectly.
Nineteen-year-old William’s story continues almost a year after the ending of the previous tale, but he is adrift, as Merrick has deserted him. Merrick keeps his reasons for their time-out private, but William fears his lover’s conscience may have made the vampire forswear his promise to turn William. Determined to prevent that fate, William turns to the annoying Theo, the French vampire with whom he reluctantly conspired in the previous book, to try to understand Merrick’s delays. What other dark secrets does his lover hold? Will the rift between him and Merrick grow wider? Who is Theo to Merrick? And why does the French vampire answer William’s questions with wily riddles?
This enthralling and passionate romance of devotion builds in ambiance and charm with each page turned. Rich with yearning and the vibrancy of true love, the sensuality of the story mounts with each meet of the two men. I fell in love again and again with each tavern and clothiers visit, with each conversation between the two leads, and each husky declaration of need. Subsequent events transform the delicious getting-to-know-you period into a mouthwatering, passionate ode to both love and love of life, and make the entire book the most scrumptious of honeymoons.
Merrick is incredibly hot, as the tall, dark, and handsome-with-a-conscience figure of immortality, and William is simply stunning as his impatient, capricious, and besotted lover. Seeing the world through William’s “new” eyes brought a tremble of awe from my own and I adored wearing his skin. The pair of them have my vote for inclusion in the visual dictionary of romance, next to the words “Made for each other.”
Plucky passages between William and captivating supporting characters—Jeremy, his best friend, and Theo, Merrick’s oldest friend—had me crossing my fingers that Jeremy and Theo might make a love connection. Those two would make for a tempestuous couple to say the least. I daresay I shall hold my breath, for as complete and wonderful as ‘William’ is, the ghostly imprint of its pages will not leave me until I find out what happens next. So it is only with the best intentions that I selfishly say, I hope Claire Cray is locked in her workspace, sitting at her desk penning more of this marvelous series…and if a special someone can deliver her meals that would be excellent. Love begets love after all.
Thank you, Claire Cray, for this deeply satisfying nouveau Gothic tale, which I readily place under “Classics“ in my Kindle…next to my beloved copy of ‘Merrick’.
“Evocative, Romantic, Wondrous!”
Nineteen-year-old William’s story continues almost a year after the ending of the previous tale, but he is adrift, as Merrick has deserted him. Merrick keeps his reasons for their time-out private, but William fears his lover’s conscience may have made the vampire forswear his promise to turn William. Determined to prevent that fate, William turns to the annoying Theo, the French vampire with whom he reluctantly conspired in the previous book, to try to understand Merrick’s delays. What other dark secrets does his lover hold? Will the rift between him and Merrick grow wider? Who is Theo to Merrick? And why does the French vampire answer William’s questions with wily riddles?
This enthralling and passionate romance of devotion builds in ambiance and charm with each page turned. Rich with yearning and the vibrancy of true love, the sensuality of the story mounts with each meet of the two men. I fell in love again and again with each tavern and clothiers visit, with each conversation between the two leads, and each husky declaration of need. Subsequent events transform the delicious getting-to-know-you period into a mouthwatering, passionate ode to both love and love of life, and make the entire book the most scrumptious of honeymoons.
Merrick is incredibly hot, as the tall, dark, and handsome-with-a-conscience figure of immortality, and William is simply stunning as his impatient, capricious, and besotted lover. Seeing the world through William’s “new” eyes brought a tremble of awe from my own and I adored wearing his skin. The pair of them have my vote for inclusion in the visual dictionary of romance, next to the words “Made for each other.”
Plucky passages between William and captivating supporting characters—Jeremy, his best friend, and Theo, Merrick’s oldest friend—had me crossing my fingers that Jeremy and Theo might make a love connection. Those two would make for a tempestuous couple to say the least. I daresay I shall hold my breath, for as complete and wonderful as ‘William’ is, the ghostly imprint of its pages will not leave me until I find out what happens next. So it is only with the best intentions that I selfishly say, I hope Claire Cray is locked in her workspace, sitting at her desk penning more of this marvelous series…and if a special someone can deliver her meals that would be excellent. Love begets love after all.
Thank you, Claire Cray, for this deeply satisfying nouveau Gothic tale, which I readily place under “Classics“ in my Kindle…next to my beloved copy of ‘Merrick’.
“Evocative, Romantic, Wondrous!”
August 2, 2016
As with the first volume, Merrick, the cover is beautiful, the setting (Boston, Mass in 1800) unusual and the writing is intermittently stylish. But these virtues don't compensate for an etiolated plot and amoral characters. In the hands of another writer - one less seduced by Merrick's beauty and high-cheekboned suffering - the vampires' almost matter-of-fact discussions about who should be their next victim would be ironically presented against a wider moral framework. Instead, the multiple killings are wrapped up in a homo-erotic haze; sympathy for the principal characters necessarily involves sharing their casual approach to murder.
I think Cray has something - the stylishness is good, but it needs to be dedicated to a better end.
I think Cray has something - the stylishness is good, but it needs to be dedicated to a better end.
December 7, 2016
I purchased this novel as soon as it was published and there it has sat on my kindle ever since. Not because I didn't want to read it, because I became too "click" happy purchasing and now I have a massive amount in my "to-be-read" list :/
Beautifully and atmospherically written, this is the continuation of the "Merrick" story and details William the apprentice's transition to Vampire. Not much by way of plot the story describes William's turning and hence his heightened senses. Would be interesting to see these two again in the 21st Century, perhaps in another novel detailing Theo's story?
Overall a great read, in-period prose and a lovely continuation of Merrick and William's story.
Novels need to be read in order, they are not stand-alone.
Beautifully and atmospherically written, this is the continuation of the "Merrick" story and details William the apprentice's transition to Vampire. Not much by way of plot the story describes William's turning and hence his heightened senses. Would be interesting to see these two again in the 21st Century, perhaps in another novel detailing Theo's story?
Overall a great read, in-period prose and a lovely continuation of Merrick and William's story.
Novels need to be read in order, they are not stand-alone.
May 18, 2015
Perfect follow up! The characters grew and flourished in exciting ways, all greedy little questions answered.
I must say, even though things were perfectly balanced in this, as well as the first book, I still want more Theo! A third book would be MOST welcome.
I must say, even though things were perfectly balanced in this, as well as the first book, I still want more Theo! A third book would be MOST welcome.
July 31, 2016
Loved it! Great conclusion to the story and I loved her take on being a new vamp.
March 27, 2017
I enjoyed this book and it's prequel, Merrick. I especially like the fact they were set in post-American Revolution New York and Boston. The prose is really lovely, although there is a lack of real plot -- i.e., very little actually happens, particularly in William. The titular character was so happy, I kept waiting for something truly tragic to happen to him, and it never did.
These two novels should be read as one book, with a part 1 and a part 2. If you liked Anne Rice's vampire novels, and you want something a little more specifically m/m, this would be a great for you. Many of the themes in this book will be familiar to fans of the genre.
These two novels should be read as one book, with a part 1 and a part 2. If you liked Anne Rice's vampire novels, and you want something a little more specifically m/m, this would be a great for you. Many of the themes in this book will be familiar to fans of the genre.
March 20, 2019
It’s Going to be Bumpy Ride!
The continuation of the William & Merrick love story. Same well developed characters, good writing and haunting and supernatural premise. Merrick turns William, secrets revealed, initiation into the lifestyle commence. Still not my cup of tea but I’m now intrigued with this storyline. I would read another installment if it’s available. I like William and Merrick supernatural coupledom!
The continuation of the William & Merrick love story. Same well developed characters, good writing and haunting and supernatural premise. Merrick turns William, secrets revealed, initiation into the lifestyle commence. Still not my cup of tea but I’m now intrigued with this storyline. I would read another installment if it’s available. I like William and Merrick supernatural coupledom!
September 9, 2020
Oh, how i loved this dark, gothic, thrilling love story.
Perfect! Absolutely perfect❤️
Perfect! Absolutely perfect❤️
December 14, 2020
The thing I liked the most about this sequel was the vast decription of what it's like to turn. It felt almost like a handbook, which is a really good thing! I never get enough about the feelings and the senses and the overall perception of what it's like as a beginning vampire, and this gives it to you in spades. Plus it rounds out all the plotpoints in Merrick perfectly.
This series is going on my favorites list.
This series is going on my favorites list.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2015
It is always a bonus to read the second in a series and find the quality of writing sustained, and the author delving deeper in to the characters' psychological make-up and history.
Some of the nicest turns of phrase that reflected this were:
"You can't imagine what it's meant to me to learn who I am through your eyes," and "I seem stubborn to you," he said quietly. "You seem far away," I said. That's the essence of it. Farther by the day."
Cray, like Tyler May in Angel of Darkness, adds some well-thought-out details in her world building. Hunger, like venom, gathers in the teeth. Thirst arises at night, aroused by affection, attraction, or admiration, with Merrick noting "one will feed the other, back and forth, until you're at their mercy."
William's comparisons of the imagery conjured up by feeding from Merrick and then a common thief embodied both of these strengths in her writing. It was "a rare taste...of every beloved thing I had ever lost...the vast and multifaceted taste of a life...It was divine."
Through Cray's plume, William's voice is evocative, used to describe the sparing scenes in which he express his desires. "The man had set me alight, fed the flames until I was blazing, and stoked my embers all night until I crumbled like hot ash," and "The mattress whipped my back as I writhed against him sobbing, thrown into a madness of bliss."
The ways in which Cray draw out contrasts between the perceptions of William and Merrick and between Merrick's and Theo's past experiences are reflected in Merrick's observation: "Your thirst is a reflection of your character, your perception of humanity."
This imagined world and the multi-faceted characters within call out for us to discover more through a third in the series. I've got fingers crossed.
Some of the nicest turns of phrase that reflected this were:
"You can't imagine what it's meant to me to learn who I am through your eyes," and "I seem stubborn to you," he said quietly. "You seem far away," I said. That's the essence of it. Farther by the day."
Cray, like Tyler May in Angel of Darkness, adds some well-thought-out details in her world building. Hunger, like venom, gathers in the teeth. Thirst arises at night, aroused by affection, attraction, or admiration, with Merrick noting "one will feed the other, back and forth, until you're at their mercy."
William's comparisons of the imagery conjured up by feeding from Merrick and then a common thief embodied both of these strengths in her writing. It was "a rare taste...of every beloved thing I had ever lost...the vast and multifaceted taste of a life...It was divine."
Through Cray's plume, William's voice is evocative, used to describe the sparing scenes in which he express his desires. "The man had set me alight, fed the flames until I was blazing, and stoked my embers all night until I crumbled like hot ash," and "The mattress whipped my back as I writhed against him sobbing, thrown into a madness of bliss."
The ways in which Cray draw out contrasts between the perceptions of William and Merrick and between Merrick's and Theo's past experiences are reflected in Merrick's observation: "Your thirst is a reflection of your character, your perception of humanity."
This imagined world and the multi-faceted characters within call out for us to discover more through a third in the series. I've got fingers crossed.
November 28, 2015
I really enjoyed Merrick, I still think it's the best MM vampire book I've read to date.
This one? Not so much and believe me, it pains me that it wasn't better.
For the first 30% I was ready to pack it in as it read like a Twilight fanfic:
Luckily, after that I was put out of my misery, things finally seemed to be moving on... and that's about it as they didn't really go anywhere much at all.
The truth is this book isn't a worthy sequel to Merrick. Apart from William being changed nothing really happens, although I did enjoy reading about how differently he saw the world and how much better he understood the issues Merrick the Vamp had been dealing with.
I also liked learning more about Merrick's past but this should have either been cut down to a novella or incorporated into a book that actually had a new plot. The two MC's walking/sitting around and Merrick talking about his past wasn't enough to turn this into a riveting read. You'd think that a book with two hot vamps with raging libidos would at least lend itself to a good ol' bonk fest or two, but unfortunately even that was missing.
The funniest thing is I still adore William and Merrick, I still want to read more about them, the potential is there and it's huge.
September 18, 2023
Sept 2023 Re-read - 4.5 rounded up
Still very much enjoyed this one, though I did find the info-dump rehash of book one at the beginning to be a bit clunky.
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I've been waiting for this sequel ever since I read Merrick ages ago and this did not disappoint! Really fabulous update that picks up fairly recently after the end of the first book and wonderfully ties up the loose ends dangled in book 1. I loved learning more about Merrick's and the vampire lore in this world, and it was especially captivating watching William adapt to his new life. The writing style is lovely, though not without some minor errors. And, of course, the sexual tension between them just sizzles, with sex scenes that manage to scorch without being too explicit. Definitely a favorite in the paranormal m/m romance genre.
Still very much enjoyed this one, though I did find the info-dump rehash of book one at the beginning to be a bit clunky.
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I've been waiting for this sequel ever since I read Merrick ages ago and this did not disappoint! Really fabulous update that picks up fairly recently after the end of the first book and wonderfully ties up the loose ends dangled in book 1. I loved learning more about Merrick's and the vampire lore in this world, and it was especially captivating watching William adapt to his new life. The writing style is lovely, though not without some minor errors. And, of course, the sexual tension between them just sizzles, with sex scenes that manage to scorch without being too explicit. Definitely a favorite in the paranormal m/m romance genre.
October 7, 2015
I absolutely adored Merrick but I struggled a bit with this one, and I can't really say why. It's a shame, really, because this too was one of the best, most beautifully written pieces I ever held in my hands. The romance finally picked up too!
I guess I felt a little stuck, the beginning was a little boring and unnecessarily drawn-out.
Merrick keeping everything secret for, like, ever bugged and annoyed me greatly, because it fueled William's restlessness, I thought, and kept us all running in circles.
I really WANT Theo's story!
Theo is the kind of guy that keeps me glued to the screen!
Such an obnoxious little thing! :)
His letter to William was THE HIGHLIGHT of the book for me.
I guess I felt a little stuck, the beginning was a little boring and unnecessarily drawn-out.
Merrick keeping everything secret for, like, ever bugged and annoyed me greatly, because it fueled William's restlessness, I thought, and kept us all running in circles.
I really WANT Theo's story!
Theo is the kind of guy that keeps me glued to the screen!
Such an obnoxious little thing! :)
His letter to William was THE HIGHLIGHT of the book for me.
February 5, 2015
Would have rated it 3.5 to 4 stars if not for all the editing mistakes. Any good admin asst would have caught these errors. Please, please, Ms. Cray, get a good editor. Your wonderful stories deserve it.
A lovely, short follow-up to Merrick. Sadly, also full of basic, abundant editing errors. So many missing words and extra words. It constantly pulls the reader out of the story.
Would love to see Theo's story, with William and Merrick thrown in there somewhere, and I would really be delighted if the story was set in the 21st Century with Theo's backstory included.
A lovely, short follow-up to Merrick. Sadly, also full of basic, abundant editing errors. So many missing words and extra words. It constantly pulls the reader out of the story.
Would love to see Theo's story, with William and Merrick thrown in there somewhere, and I would really be delighted if the story was set in the 21st Century with Theo's backstory included.
August 20, 2015
I really liked Merrick, this sequel a little less so. Maybe because I read them back to back and a good chunk of the beginning of William is rehashing what happened in Merrick that I didn't need. Once it got into the meat (or blood, hah) of William though I enjoyed seeing how he embraced his new life.
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