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Triad Blood #1
Triad Blood
The law of three is unbroken: three vampires form a coterie, three demons make a pack, and three wizards are a coven. That is how it has always been, and how it was always to be.
But Luc, Anders, and Curtis—vampire, demon, and wizard—have cheated tradition. Their bond is not coterie, pack, or coven, but something else. Thrust into the supernatural politics ruling Ottawa from behind the shadows, they face Renard, a powerful vampire who harbors deadly secrets of his own and wishes to end their threat. The enemy they know conjures fire and death at every turn. The enemies they don’t know are worse.
Blood, soul, and magic gave them freedom. Now they need to survive it.
But Luc, Anders, and Curtis—vampire, demon, and wizard—have cheated tradition. Their bond is not coterie, pack, or coven, but something else. Thrust into the supernatural politics ruling Ottawa from behind the shadows, they face Renard, a powerful vampire who harbors deadly secrets of his own and wishes to end their threat. The enemy they know conjures fire and death at every turn. The enemies they don’t know are worse.
Blood, soul, and magic gave them freedom. Now they need to survive it.
240 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2016
17 people are currently reading
1159 people want to read
About the author
'Nathan Burgoine
50 books459 followers'Nathan Burgoine grew up a reader and studied literature in university while making a living as a bookseller. His first published short story was "Heart" in the collection Fool for Love: New Gay Fiction. Since then, he has had dozens of short stories published, and despite being "the tall queer guy who writes mosly shorter queer fictions" novels have happened between the novellas and short stories.
A cat lover, 'Nathan managed to fall in love and marry Daniel, who is a confirmed dog person. Their ongoing "cat or dog?" détente ended with the rescue and adoption of huskies. They live in Ottawa, Canada, where socialized health care and gay marriage have yet to cause the sky to cave in.
You can find 'Nathan on the web at nathanburgoine.com.
A cat lover, 'Nathan managed to fall in love and marry Daniel, who is a confirmed dog person. Their ongoing "cat or dog?" détente ended with the rescue and adoption of huskies. They live in Ottawa, Canada, where socialized health care and gay marriage have yet to cause the sky to cave in.
You can find 'Nathan on the web at nathanburgoine.com.
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May 23, 2023Edit: May 25th, 2021: Bold Strokes Books is having an "It's Raining Men!" sale on their webstore, with select titles 20% off until May 26th, 2021 at 11:59pm EDT. This includes 'Triad Blood'!
This will take you right to 'Triad Blood' on their webstore.
Edited to add: Because it keeps coming up, and I really don't want to readers walking in with the wrong expectation: This isn't a romance. As listed, Triad Blood is a fantasy book (specifically, an urban paranormal). In a brick and mortar store, it's meant to be on a science fiction/fantasy shelf. In the e-book world, you'll see it's classified as "Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender eBooks > Science Fiction & Fantasy > Fantasy." Now, there's some erotic content—Anders is an incubus, after all—but I want to be clear that although I've written a lot of romance, love writing it, and will continue to do so, this isn't one of them.
--
So. Hi.
Well, here it is. Triad Blood launches in May, and it looks like the ARCs are starting to trickle out there. I'm excited and nervous and about a billion other emotions for this one, which is my second novel, the first Triad novel, but the fifth time I've used the characters.
Pardon?
Right. So, Triad Blood came from the positive feedback I got from a series of short stories which began with the erotic short story "Three" (originally published as part of Blood Sacraments, but that link takes you to it as an e-release standalone, which will be available through Bold Strokes Books come May 2016, and will be free with any purchase during May 2016, which freaking rocks). That first story introduced Luc, Curtis, and Anders and I had so much fun with them that when a call for another anthology, Wings: Subversive Gay Angel Erotica, came out, I wrote another story with them, called "Intercession." Where "Three" was told from Luc's point of view, "Intercession" had Anders taking the wheel. Then "Possession" happened (included in the anthology Erotica Exotica: Tales of Sex, Magic, and the Supernatural), where Curtis got a chance to narrate, and finally, Anders got a second turn as narrator (you can't be surprised the demon got a larger-than-fair-share of the stories, no?) for "Necessary Evils" which appeared in Raising Hell: Demonic Gay Erotica.
Feedback for these three guys was so darn positive, and when I had an idea for another more complicated story for them, something went wrong: I couldn't make the word-count fit. And finally, after speaking with my editor, it struck me.
It could be a novel.
And that's where Triad Blood came from: the feedback of you awesome readers, and a rather-slow-to-realize author having a head-smack moment over a short story that just wouldn't work.
I hope you enjoy the guys facing off against their first big struggle.
This will take you right to 'Triad Blood' on their webstore.
Edited to add: Because it keeps coming up, and I really don't want to readers walking in with the wrong expectation: This isn't a romance. As listed, Triad Blood is a fantasy book (specifically, an urban paranormal). In a brick and mortar store, it's meant to be on a science fiction/fantasy shelf. In the e-book world, you'll see it's classified as "Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender eBooks > Science Fiction & Fantasy > Fantasy." Now, there's some erotic content—Anders is an incubus, after all—but I want to be clear that although I've written a lot of romance, love writing it, and will continue to do so, this isn't one of them.
--
So. Hi.
Well, here it is. Triad Blood launches in May, and it looks like the ARCs are starting to trickle out there. I'm excited and nervous and about a billion other emotions for this one, which is my second novel, the first Triad novel, but the fifth time I've used the characters.
Pardon?
Right. So, Triad Blood came from the positive feedback I got from a series of short stories which began with the erotic short story "Three" (originally published as part of Blood Sacraments, but that link takes you to it as an e-release standalone, which will be available through Bold Strokes Books come May 2016, and will be free with any purchase during May 2016, which freaking rocks). That first story introduced Luc, Curtis, and Anders and I had so much fun with them that when a call for another anthology, Wings: Subversive Gay Angel Erotica, came out, I wrote another story with them, called "Intercession." Where "Three" was told from Luc's point of view, "Intercession" had Anders taking the wheel. Then "Possession" happened (included in the anthology Erotica Exotica: Tales of Sex, Magic, and the Supernatural), where Curtis got a chance to narrate, and finally, Anders got a second turn as narrator (you can't be surprised the demon got a larger-than-fair-share of the stories, no?) for "Necessary Evils" which appeared in Raising Hell: Demonic Gay Erotica.
Feedback for these three guys was so darn positive, and when I had an idea for another more complicated story for them, something went wrong: I couldn't make the word-count fit. And finally, after speaking with my editor, it struck me.
It could be a novel.
And that's where Triad Blood came from: the feedback of you awesome readers, and a rather-slow-to-realize author having a head-smack moment over a short story that just wouldn't work.
I hope you enjoy the guys facing off against their first big struggle.
May 14, 2016
"A vampire, a demon and a wizard walk into a bar..."
No seriously this isn't a joke it's the opening line for one of the most entertaining books that I have had the pleasure of reading in quite a while.
Let's just get this out of the way now, so there's absolutely no confusion 'I LOVED THIS FREAKING BOOK' it was awesome. It was fun and entertaining, it made me laugh and even hold my breath a couple of times. The characters were quirky and unique and the setting was perfection (but more about that later).
Ok, now that I've got my little gush out of the way. I'll settle down a bit and try to explain myself. 'Triad Blood' is not your typical m/m/m romance or even your usual paranormal story. To be honest it's really not a romance story at all. Now that doesn't mean there aren't any sexy times and there's definitely affection between the 3 main characters. But you have to keep in mind that this relationship came about for practical reasons it was a matter of survival for each of them. In the world of Triad Blood survival depends on the law of 3 but for Luc, Anders and Curtis life has been about simply surviving until they are brought together to form their own unique group.
Luc is the vampire. Along with his vampire graces, he brings a sense of maturity to the group. He's calm and rational and of course he's gorgeous and a predator at heart.
Anders is the demon. He's also a bit of a smart ass and the warrior of this group, he's not afraid of a fight and more than willing to give as good as he gets. I loved Anders with his slightly cynical and dry humor and I'm pretty sure he's missing a couple of filters at least one for sure, the one that tells you just because you thought it doesn't mean you should say it.
Curtis is the wizard. Along with his considerable powers as a wizard he brings compassion and humanity to this trio. He's also the young one in the group but don't let that fool you. He's powerful and more than able to defend himself both physically and verbally. The verbal repartee between him and Anders is total perfection.
The only thing about this story that I was disappointed in was that it didn't start at the beginning of the relationship but I'm going to spare you all my disappointment and let you know that there is a story entitled 'Three' by Nathan Burgoine that tells how this unusual relationship came to be and it's available from the same publisher, Bold Strokes Press. Now back to the matter at hand...
I just want to take minute to talk about this cover. You see the building on the cover is the Fairmont Chateau Laurier or The Chateau as it is referred to in the book, it's located in Ottawa, the nation's capital. I've been there. I've slept in it's elegantly appointed rooms, dined in the banquet rooms, sat outside on a beautiful summer's day and watched the people of the city as they frantically hurried from place to place, I've walked the streets of Ottawa, strolled the paths along the Rideau, my hubby attended university there. My point being that even in books location can make a difference for the reader. Knowing where this story took place helped to bring it to life for me. Yet even more than the location was the story telling. I loved the spin that the author gave to the paranormal world and it's inhabitants.
In summary for me, 'Triad Blood' was a huge success, seriously read it, it's good...no it's better than good. It's a different and unique story with just enough quirk to make it enjoyable. I'm really, really hoping that there's more to come from this triad.
4.5 Canadian Stars rounded up here on GR because still no 1/2 stars here on GR and that cover deserves a little extra.
*A copy of this book was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
No seriously this isn't a joke it's the opening line for one of the most entertaining books that I have had the pleasure of reading in quite a while.
Let's just get this out of the way now, so there's absolutely no confusion 'I LOVED THIS FREAKING BOOK' it was awesome. It was fun and entertaining, it made me laugh and even hold my breath a couple of times. The characters were quirky and unique and the setting was perfection (but more about that later).
Ok, now that I've got my little gush out of the way. I'll settle down a bit and try to explain myself. 'Triad Blood' is not your typical m/m/m romance or even your usual paranormal story. To be honest it's really not a romance story at all. Now that doesn't mean there aren't any sexy times and there's definitely affection between the 3 main characters. But you have to keep in mind that this relationship came about for practical reasons it was a matter of survival for each of them. In the world of Triad Blood survival depends on the law of 3 but for Luc, Anders and Curtis life has been about simply surviving until they are brought together to form their own unique group.
Luc is the vampire. Along with his vampire graces, he brings a sense of maturity to the group. He's calm and rational and of course he's gorgeous and a predator at heart.
Anders is the demon. He's also a bit of a smart ass and the warrior of this group, he's not afraid of a fight and more than willing to give as good as he gets. I loved Anders with his slightly cynical and dry humor and I'm pretty sure he's missing a couple of filters at least one for sure, the one that tells you just because you thought it doesn't mean you should say it.
Curtis is the wizard. Along with his considerable powers as a wizard he brings compassion and humanity to this trio. He's also the young one in the group but don't let that fool you. He's powerful and more than able to defend himself both physically and verbally. The verbal repartee between him and Anders is total perfection.
The only thing about this story that I was disappointed in was that it didn't start at the beginning of the relationship but I'm going to spare you all my disappointment and let you know that there is a story entitled 'Three' by Nathan Burgoine that tells how this unusual relationship came to be and it's available from the same publisher, Bold Strokes Press. Now back to the matter at hand...
I just want to take minute to talk about this cover. You see the building on the cover is the Fairmont Chateau Laurier or The Chateau as it is referred to in the book, it's located in Ottawa, the nation's capital. I've been there. I've slept in it's elegantly appointed rooms, dined in the banquet rooms, sat outside on a beautiful summer's day and watched the people of the city as they frantically hurried from place to place, I've walked the streets of Ottawa, strolled the paths along the Rideau, my hubby attended university there. My point being that even in books location can make a difference for the reader. Knowing where this story took place helped to bring it to life for me. Yet even more than the location was the story telling. I loved the spin that the author gave to the paranormal world and it's inhabitants.
In summary for me, 'Triad Blood' was a huge success, seriously read it, it's good...no it's better than good. It's a different and unique story with just enough quirk to make it enjoyable. I'm really, really hoping that there's more to come from this triad.
4.5 Canadian Stars rounded up here on GR because still no 1/2 stars here on GR and that cover deserves a little extra.
*A copy of this book was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
July 16, 2017
(1.5 stars)
i don't even know why i didn't like it, i just couldn't get into it and i was really bored throughout most of it. maybe it was the writing style, and the fact that i thought the characters could have been better developed? but it's probably a not-you-it's-me situation.
i don't even know why i didn't like it, i just couldn't get into it and i was really bored throughout most of it. maybe it was the writing style, and the fact that i thought the characters could have been better developed? but it's probably a not-you-it's-me situation.
April 2, 2016
3.5 Stars
Here's what you need to know: Curtis, a powerful wizard and Orphan (a wizard not born to one of the magical bloodlines), has defied "the Families" and instead of forming a coven with two other wizards has instead formed a triad of power with an Incubus Demon and a Vampire through a complicated rite with blood, soul, and magic. Something no one knew was even possible. Their triumvirate of power is an unknown and therefore a threat to all.
Wizards, Demons and Vampires are all trying to break them apart or kill them outright.
The story is suspenseful and has some interesting world building, but I sometimes felt like I'd been dropped in the middle of the story. Turns out, there is a short story called Three, which originally appeared in Bold Strokes Books’ anthology Blood Sacraments, which introduces the characters from Triad Blood.
While I haven't read Three and could follow along with the story quite well without it, I wish I had read Three before starting Triad Blood. I feel like it might have rounded out some sharper corners.
Regardless, I liked the characters. Curtis is endearing, smart, and no pushover, which is good because Anders, the Incubus Demon, is a right pain in the ass who would run roughshod over him in a heartbeat, and Luc is a slick operator who would run Curtis's life if he let him.
Told from the perspectives of all three main characters, the writing was enjoyable, and I was happy because there's also a bit of humor, with Anders providing most of the snark in a delightful way. Luc was a harder character for me to know, and remains, to me, largely mysterious.
Note though that this isn't an erotic tale. Though the three do have to share blood, bodies, and magic every full moon to solidify their connection, the specifics are mainly off page. Honestly, I didn't feel any loss for it.
All in all, I enjoyed the story and could see Burgoine continuing Curtis, Anders and Luc's story in a series. I for one, would be happy to read more.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Triad Blood provided by Bold Strokes Books in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Here's what you need to know: Curtis, a powerful wizard and Orphan (a wizard not born to one of the magical bloodlines), has defied "the Families" and instead of forming a coven with two other wizards has instead formed a triad of power with an Incubus Demon and a Vampire through a complicated rite with blood, soul, and magic. Something no one knew was even possible. Their triumvirate of power is an unknown and therefore a threat to all.
Wizards, Demons and Vampires are all trying to break them apart or kill them outright.
The story is suspenseful and has some interesting world building, but I sometimes felt like I'd been dropped in the middle of the story. Turns out, there is a short story called Three, which originally appeared in Bold Strokes Books’ anthology Blood Sacraments, which introduces the characters from Triad Blood.
While I haven't read Three and could follow along with the story quite well without it, I wish I had read Three before starting Triad Blood. I feel like it might have rounded out some sharper corners.
Regardless, I liked the characters. Curtis is endearing, smart, and no pushover, which is good because Anders, the Incubus Demon, is a right pain in the ass who would run roughshod over him in a heartbeat, and Luc is a slick operator who would run Curtis's life if he let him.
Told from the perspectives of all three main characters, the writing was enjoyable, and I was happy because there's also a bit of humor, with Anders providing most of the snark in a delightful way. Luc was a harder character for me to know, and remains, to me, largely mysterious.
Note though that this isn't an erotic tale. Though the three do have to share blood, bodies, and magic every full moon to solidify their connection, the specifics are mainly off page. Honestly, I didn't feel any loss for it.
All in all, I enjoyed the story and could see Burgoine continuing Curtis, Anders and Luc's story in a series. I for one, would be happy to read more.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Triad Blood provided by Bold Strokes Books in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
March 12, 2023
"If that was supposed to make me feel better," Curtis said, "it needed way more puppies. Or something from the chocolate family.”
I originally gave this four stars, but considering how much I crave the next installment, I'm starting to feel like that might be a little unfair... And you know what, I inhaled it in less than 24 hours, so I guess it's a little late to play hard-to get. I feel like I would be wasting my time by writing a detailed analytical review, because Emily already did an amazing job with that. So I guess I make this one short so you have time to go read that and just make this a collection of weirdly specific thoughts as usual...
1. The biggest reason why I like this story so much is the character and relationship work. The author explicitly tells us that this isn't a romance and... you know, in the traditional/narrow definition of romance - this isn't one BUT the character dynamic is the core layer of the book and the book would fall appart without the relationships in it, so... I keep shelving it as a romance, because it reads like a romance to me, but... you know... just so you are not disappointed...
2. Also, this is kind of related to the first point, I love worldbuilding systems that influence relationship dynamics, I live for this shit... and it was so interestingly done here!
3. There is a Métis character which I think was solidly written (I'm not indigenous myself though). He's well-developed, modern-feeling character, who is talented in spirit magic (which... you know, is a stereotypical... but it's not universal indigenous trait, it's linked to having a near death experience... idk, I thought it was fine). The only place that I thought wasn't ideal was when Luc thinks something about his Native ancestry being diluted (I can't find it now), which really called the blood-quota in mind... which, yeah... but it was just a little mention and maybe I read too much into that.
4. Several times, I had a feeling like I was missing something as if I skipped a book in series... I was right. There are a few short-stories you might want to read first: Three, Intercession, Possession, Necessary Evils. I only read Three before Triad Blood, but after finishing Possessions I feel like the chronological order might really be the best here...
In short, I really enjoyed this. Not sure what more can I say, really...
June 2, 2016
Triad Blood: A NetGalley Review
Back when Buffy the Vampire Slayer made it big on TV and Jim Butcher started writing about Harry Dresden, I remember hunting the shelves of bookstores for urban fantasy reflective of my life and my relationships. I wanted the vampires and the werewolves and the magic, the exciting twists and turns – yeah, all of that. But I also wanted a gay man’s perspective.
I wasn’t looking for erotica or romance masquerading as urban fantasy. I was looking for the real deal. Full-blown creatures of the night (creatures of the fey were always welcome too) duking it out for supremacy, power, and bragging rights, and oh yeah, with gay guys front and center, if you please. And if there happened to be a bit of romance or...more in there, well that wouldn’t suck either. Easiest way to put it: I was looking for the love child of The Originals and Queer as Folk.
Well, after fifteen years of hunting, all I’ve gotta say is: Triad Blood, you’re one big, beautiful bastard.
Burgoine takes characters he created in a series of short stories and turns them into an exciting, funny, suspenseful, sexy novel. A group of outcasts (a wizard, a vampire, and a demon) form their own coven to stop the rest of the supernatural world from walking all over them. In the process they create something entirely unique which enhances each of their individual abilities in turn. Their newly-combined strength and power threatens Ottawa's magical world, and the Triad finds themselves up against some of the strongest and baddest supernatural beings around.
The book's narrative is split between the three main characters, and Burgoine does an excellent job of developing each one's unique voice. From the vampire Luc's eloquent and graceful prose, to the young wizard Curtis's hopeful and inquisitive quest, to the demon Anders' base and often hysterical observations, each one finds his own way, and I couldn't stop myself from plowing through the book to not only see if they made it out safely but also to spend more time with each of them.
If you've spent much time with Burgoine's fiction or catching up with him on his blog, you know the importance that 'created families' have for him. It's a theme evident in much of his writing, and perhaps nowhere more prominently explored than with these three guys. In much the same way Whedon did with Buffy or Angel or Firefly, Burgoine brings a group of misfits together – whether they want to or not – and finds a way to make it work despite their differences, and sometimes because of them. He surrounds his characters with biological families and groups brought together by societal norms and contrasts them with the family he's created. And while other characters may want them to define who and what they are to each other, they don't take the bate and neither does Burgoine. He simply allows them to be so we can experience them and in the process care about them like they were our own friends or family.
I've spent a lot of time here going on about the characters, and it would be a mistake on my part to lead someone to think that's all the book has going for it. At its heart, this is an exciting and suspenseful ride. Burgoine has created a fully-realized world, replete with its own laws of magic, various races, and individual societies. He has a lot of fun dabbling in supernatural politics and court intrigue, something I've always got a jones on for in my urban fantasy. He drives straight through the obstacle course he's created for his characters & readers and reaches such an exciting and surprising climactic battle that I couldn't put it down until I'd gotten to the end, and even then I was hankering for more.
On a side note, one of the things I really appreciated about this book is the twists at the end of the chapters. Often when I'm reading an urban fantasy (other genre books too, but it seems to happen to me more in U.F.) I'll find the author has put a jolt at the conclusion of a chapter to drive the reader on to the next one. Sometimes, these can feel more like a plot device than a logical progression or a complication based on the characters' choices. Burgoine does a solid job of avoiding that trap and creating a natural progression for his characters that leads them further and further into trouble and makes us want to keep reading without feeling like we're being tricked into doing so. So points for that, too!
Over the last few years I've begun mumbling a phrase to myself (a sentence, really) when I'm reading something new by 'Nathan Burgoine. I'll shake my head and say it. I'll laugh out loud and say it. I'll feel my heart tug a little (sometimes a lot) and say it. And when I'm really lucky, I get to immerse myself in a new novel of his and say it over and over again.
He's just so good.
And it's true. He really is.
Back when Buffy the Vampire Slayer made it big on TV and Jim Butcher started writing about Harry Dresden, I remember hunting the shelves of bookstores for urban fantasy reflective of my life and my relationships. I wanted the vampires and the werewolves and the magic, the exciting twists and turns – yeah, all of that. But I also wanted a gay man’s perspective.
I wasn’t looking for erotica or romance masquerading as urban fantasy. I was looking for the real deal. Full-blown creatures of the night (creatures of the fey were always welcome too) duking it out for supremacy, power, and bragging rights, and oh yeah, with gay guys front and center, if you please. And if there happened to be a bit of romance or...more in there, well that wouldn’t suck either. Easiest way to put it: I was looking for the love child of The Originals and Queer as Folk.
Well, after fifteen years of hunting, all I’ve gotta say is: Triad Blood, you’re one big, beautiful bastard.
Burgoine takes characters he created in a series of short stories and turns them into an exciting, funny, suspenseful, sexy novel. A group of outcasts (a wizard, a vampire, and a demon) form their own coven to stop the rest of the supernatural world from walking all over them. In the process they create something entirely unique which enhances each of their individual abilities in turn. Their newly-combined strength and power threatens Ottawa's magical world, and the Triad finds themselves up against some of the strongest and baddest supernatural beings around.
The book's narrative is split between the three main characters, and Burgoine does an excellent job of developing each one's unique voice. From the vampire Luc's eloquent and graceful prose, to the young wizard Curtis's hopeful and inquisitive quest, to the demon Anders' base and often hysterical observations, each one finds his own way, and I couldn't stop myself from plowing through the book to not only see if they made it out safely but also to spend more time with each of them.
If you've spent much time with Burgoine's fiction or catching up with him on his blog, you know the importance that 'created families' have for him. It's a theme evident in much of his writing, and perhaps nowhere more prominently explored than with these three guys. In much the same way Whedon did with Buffy or Angel or Firefly, Burgoine brings a group of misfits together – whether they want to or not – and finds a way to make it work despite their differences, and sometimes because of them. He surrounds his characters with biological families and groups brought together by societal norms and contrasts them with the family he's created. And while other characters may want them to define who and what they are to each other, they don't take the bate and neither does Burgoine. He simply allows them to be so we can experience them and in the process care about them like they were our own friends or family.
I've spent a lot of time here going on about the characters, and it would be a mistake on my part to lead someone to think that's all the book has going for it. At its heart, this is an exciting and suspenseful ride. Burgoine has created a fully-realized world, replete with its own laws of magic, various races, and individual societies. He has a lot of fun dabbling in supernatural politics and court intrigue, something I've always got a jones on for in my urban fantasy. He drives straight through the obstacle course he's created for his characters & readers and reaches such an exciting and surprising climactic battle that I couldn't put it down until I'd gotten to the end, and even then I was hankering for more.
On a side note, one of the things I really appreciated about this book is the twists at the end of the chapters. Often when I'm reading an urban fantasy (other genre books too, but it seems to happen to me more in U.F.) I'll find the author has put a jolt at the conclusion of a chapter to drive the reader on to the next one. Sometimes, these can feel more like a plot device than a logical progression or a complication based on the characters' choices. Burgoine does a solid job of avoiding that trap and creating a natural progression for his characters that leads them further and further into trouble and makes us want to keep reading without feeling like we're being tricked into doing so. So points for that, too!
Over the last few years I've begun mumbling a phrase to myself (a sentence, really) when I'm reading something new by 'Nathan Burgoine. I'll shake my head and say it. I'll laugh out loud and say it. I'll feel my heart tug a little (sometimes a lot) and say it. And when I'm really lucky, I get to immerse myself in a new novel of his and say it over and over again.
He's just so good.
And it's true. He really is.
May 27, 2017
4 Stars
Review:
*I received an ecopy of this book via Netgalley. This has not influenced my review.*
Ok so, this book was basically my dream come true. I mean, it was a m/m/m menage-esque relationship that included both a vampire and an incubus---my top two favorite paranormal creatures! Seriously I couldn't even snatch this book up fast enough when I saw that in the blurb.
But of course a book still has to have good characters and plot and writing and all that in order for me to like it... and thank goodness it did or I would've been so disappointed!
The characters were easily my favorite thing about the book. Each one of the three was different and unique, and each one was likeable. Anders (the incubus) was funny just because of who he was, because he was so crude and crass and gruff and said the most ridiculous, inappropriate things. And Curtis (the wizard) was funny because of his actual sense of humor and sarcastic remarks. However, Luc was still my favorite. (I can't help it. I'm partial to vampires. So sue me.) He wasn't all that brooding or tortured, but the little references to his past, being bullied by the other vampires, really made me feel for him and also made me so happy for him that he finally found his own unique, little coterie. And he was also funny in his own way because his refinement and general vampire-ness gave him his own brand of snark, though he usually kept it to himself rather than saying things out loud. So altogether this group of characters really had me smiling and just enjoying the time I was spending with them, and I enjoyed getting to see things through each one of their POVs.
The plot was also great---it made sense, it flowed well, and it had a nice medium pace. And there was a fantastic, action-packed climax and a resolution that left me satisfied but still looking forward to more.
I also liked how much thought the author put into the supernatural society and even the way each creature worked regarding their souls and abilities. It was complex, but in a good way, and I was fascinated every time I got to learn more.
I do have to admit that I was actually bummed there weren't any real sex scenes between the three guys because, come on, vampire and incubus, but maybe in the next book... (A girl can hope!)
Overall, this was a fun, well thought-out, supernatural-filled book with super likeable characters whom I can't wait to see more of!
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes M/M(/M) urban fantasy, vampires, incubi, wizards, likeable characters, and fun books.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Review:
*I received an ecopy of this book via Netgalley. This has not influenced my review.*
Ok so, this book was basically my dream come true. I mean, it was a m/m/m menage-esque relationship that included both a vampire and an incubus---my top two favorite paranormal creatures! Seriously I couldn't even snatch this book up fast enough when I saw that in the blurb.
But of course a book still has to have good characters and plot and writing and all that in order for me to like it... and thank goodness it did or I would've been so disappointed!
The characters were easily my favorite thing about the book. Each one of the three was different and unique, and each one was likeable. Anders (the incubus) was funny just because of who he was, because he was so crude and crass and gruff and said the most ridiculous, inappropriate things. And Curtis (the wizard) was funny because of his actual sense of humor and sarcastic remarks. However, Luc was still my favorite. (I can't help it. I'm partial to vampires. So sue me.) He wasn't all that brooding or tortured, but the little references to his past, being bullied by the other vampires, really made me feel for him and also made me so happy for him that he finally found his own unique, little coterie. And he was also funny in his own way because his refinement and general vampire-ness gave him his own brand of snark, though he usually kept it to himself rather than saying things out loud. So altogether this group of characters really had me smiling and just enjoying the time I was spending with them, and I enjoyed getting to see things through each one of their POVs.
The plot was also great---it made sense, it flowed well, and it had a nice medium pace. And there was a fantastic, action-packed climax and a resolution that left me satisfied but still looking forward to more.
I also liked how much thought the author put into the supernatural society and even the way each creature worked regarding their souls and abilities. It was complex, but in a good way, and I was fascinated every time I got to learn more.
I do have to admit that I was actually bummed there weren't any real sex scenes between the three guys because, come on, vampire and incubus, but maybe in the next book... (A girl can hope!)
Overall, this was a fun, well thought-out, supernatural-filled book with super likeable characters whom I can't wait to see more of!
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes M/M(/M) urban fantasy, vampires, incubi, wizards, likeable characters, and fun books.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
May 30, 2016
4.5 stars! Loved it!!! I've had company for the last few days and had no chance to read but the minute my family left, I jumped right on this and finished it.
I love this author's writing, his characters are interesting, the world building was familiar territory with its own unique twist, and the plot was both attention-grabbing and attention-keeping. In other words, a total win for me.
I took off 1/2 star only because, like his first book for me, what little sex there is here is once again largely off-page. That said, it was only 1/2 star because mostly, the story didn't really need it, I just wanted it, LOL. I do, however, think that it would have expanded the character's relationship, though the triad itself was a new thing, so not much depth to the sex between them was reasonable as everything was still developing. Still though, I did absolutely enjoy it as it was.
I hope Nathan Burgoine has plans to expand this story, I would love more. If not, I'll certainly be reading whatever else he writes!
I love this author's writing, his characters are interesting, the world building was familiar territory with its own unique twist, and the plot was both attention-grabbing and attention-keeping. In other words, a total win for me.
I took off 1/2 star only because, like his first book for me, what little sex there is here is once again largely off-page. That said, it was only 1/2 star because mostly, the story didn't really need it, I just wanted it, LOL. I do, however, think that it would have expanded the character's relationship, though the triad itself was a new thing, so not much depth to the sex between them was reasonable as everything was still developing. Still though, I did absolutely enjoy it as it was.
I hope Nathan Burgoine has plans to expand this story, I would love more. If not, I'll certainly be reading whatever else he writes!
July 4, 2017
Good read and intense world building. Although at times I felt as if I was reading a second book in the series, I didn't feel lost or that I had missed anything.
Very good characterization and plot development. Little tension, and very low heat, but I didn't feel like I missed it much even if I'm a tension junkie.
I adored Anders, the incubus and am intrigued enough by this triad of MCs to continue on in the next book, which will hopefully have more heat.
Very good characterization and plot development. Little tension, and very low heat, but I didn't feel like I missed it much even if I'm a tension junkie.
I adored Anders, the incubus and am intrigued enough by this triad of MCs to continue on in the next book, which will hopefully have more heat.
May 21, 2016
I first 'discovered' Nathan Burgoine's writing in the anthology 'Men of the Mean Streets.' After reading his story I yearned for more even though I am not a great fan of short stories.
Then I read 'Light' which was his first full length novel and I knew I had found a new favourite author.
And so I was really excited when I saw that 'Triad' was going to be published. I read the short story prequel but Triad is a really good story even if you haven't read the prequel. I enjoyed this urban fantasy/paranormal story with wizards, demons, vampires and the darkness that hides paranormal politics and dangerous games.
This isn't a traditional kind of M/M romance story. The relationship within the story is not the traditional kind of 'two men who find themselves relationship,' this is a triad - a relationship which holds three men together binding them through their individual powers and this triad is unusual and threatens the status quo and powers that exist in the paranormal world.
Curtis, Anders and Luc - Wizard, demon and vampire, have formed their own order of three, their own triad or coterie. I really enjoyed the three men: Curtis the intellectual, Luc the smooth and polished one, and Anders, rough, ready and uncouth. I loved the ongoing banter between the three men as they change as individuals, growing into their powers as three.
Their coterie stands out in the magical societies of Ottawa because instead of forming a coterie with their own kind, they have formed a coterie of another kind. Formerly rejected and isolated the three of them are now discovering their powers as a three and not everyone is happy with this.
And so the attacks begin.
The guys pretty soon realise where the attacks are coming from but they lack the power to fight back and they know that this is not the only enemy. Their way of doing things goes against the vested interests of the powerful and so they have to look for a way to fight back and this comes to them in the person of Eli.
Eli is a young man who can sense spirits but he is attacked and it takes Curtis and Luc and Anders to stand up to the attackers. As time passes they manage to come up with a plan to strengthen themselves as a group so that they can hunt down their attackers and destroy them but there are risks, dark powers and the unknown to encounter and overcome.
And there are also relationships and people from the past and issues to resolve which could be a hindrance to the future of the triad. In the midst of all these issues each man still has to realise the value of their triad and the love and power that exists between the three of them.
It is an interesting story and the world building and powers and paranormal politics is creative. This story feels as if there is much potential for a series. Although I enjoyed reading it I did have questions about the relationship between the three men and it seemed as if the characters themselves had the same questions about what it meant and how it functioned for them.
I really enjoyed the paranormal society and the families and the way the men acted as a triad, surviving in the face of those who had previously preyed on them. It did take me a bit of time to figure out who was who and the different powers that existed between the three and in the paranormal society but once I got stuck in I enjoyed it.
Of course the spells, the magic and the way the men embrace these and use them give the story a fascinating edge because you don't know what is going to come next and who will be the victor in the skirmishes. It is a really good story and a good read for anyone who enjoys urban fantasy and paranormal stories with three gay lead characters.
Copy Provided by Bold Stroke Books via NetGalley in exchange for a review.
Then I read 'Light' which was his first full length novel and I knew I had found a new favourite author.
And so I was really excited when I saw that 'Triad' was going to be published. I read the short story prequel but Triad is a really good story even if you haven't read the prequel. I enjoyed this urban fantasy/paranormal story with wizards, demons, vampires and the darkness that hides paranormal politics and dangerous games.
This isn't a traditional kind of M/M romance story. The relationship within the story is not the traditional kind of 'two men who find themselves relationship,' this is a triad - a relationship which holds three men together binding them through their individual powers and this triad is unusual and threatens the status quo and powers that exist in the paranormal world.
Curtis, Anders and Luc - Wizard, demon and vampire, have formed their own order of three, their own triad or coterie. I really enjoyed the three men: Curtis the intellectual, Luc the smooth and polished one, and Anders, rough, ready and uncouth. I loved the ongoing banter between the three men as they change as individuals, growing into their powers as three.
Their coterie stands out in the magical societies of Ottawa because instead of forming a coterie with their own kind, they have formed a coterie of another kind. Formerly rejected and isolated the three of them are now discovering their powers as a three and not everyone is happy with this.
And so the attacks begin.
The guys pretty soon realise where the attacks are coming from but they lack the power to fight back and they know that this is not the only enemy. Their way of doing things goes against the vested interests of the powerful and so they have to look for a way to fight back and this comes to them in the person of Eli.
Eli is a young man who can sense spirits but he is attacked and it takes Curtis and Luc and Anders to stand up to the attackers. As time passes they manage to come up with a plan to strengthen themselves as a group so that they can hunt down their attackers and destroy them but there are risks, dark powers and the unknown to encounter and overcome.
And there are also relationships and people from the past and issues to resolve which could be a hindrance to the future of the triad. In the midst of all these issues each man still has to realise the value of their triad and the love and power that exists between the three of them.
It is an interesting story and the world building and powers and paranormal politics is creative. This story feels as if there is much potential for a series. Although I enjoyed reading it I did have questions about the relationship between the three men and it seemed as if the characters themselves had the same questions about what it meant and how it functioned for them.
I really enjoyed the paranormal society and the families and the way the men acted as a triad, surviving in the face of those who had previously preyed on them. It did take me a bit of time to figure out who was who and the different powers that existed between the three and in the paranormal society but once I got stuck in I enjoyed it.
Of course the spells, the magic and the way the men embrace these and use them give the story a fascinating edge because you don't know what is going to come next and who will be the victor in the skirmishes. It is a really good story and a good read for anyone who enjoys urban fantasy and paranormal stories with three gay lead characters.
Copy Provided by Bold Stroke Books via NetGalley in exchange for a review.
May 26, 2016
I wasn't too sure what to expect with this story, and I was immediately a bit worried that I wouldn't understand what was going on when I found out that this does pick up after some short stories featuring the same characters. But when I read that first Firefly reference, I knew we were golden :D
OK, that's not the ONLY thing that sucked me into this book, but a couple Browncoat references never hurt!
This book was thrilling - captivating, imaginative, and completely un-put-downable. The world-building in this was just spot on...detailed and clever. It made me think back to when I was reading the first few books in the Rachel Morgan series, or LKH's series, it's just that in this story, they are all gay men. Not a bad thing, at all! ;) (Heck, I want MORE like this!)
I enjoyed everything that each three characters brought to their triad. I gotta say, I think I loved Anders and his snark and inappropriateness possibly the most. But I also loved Curtis and his determination and how I sometimes just wanted to give him a hug, and Luc and his seriousness. But I definitely think what I loved most is when they were together, either two or three, or all together. They all played off of each other very well, both in some snarky humor and when it got time for the serious business. That final big scene with them versus Renard was WOW! I could NOT stop reading until it all went down.
I will admit that the romantic in me wants more of their personal, romantic lives - Curtis tries to describe it, if they're boyfriends, if he had a different boyfriend, and although they have to share each others powers - blood, sex, and magic - it's all very open, and mostly off-page. While it worked in this story (although I still want to read about them having hot threesomes all the time haha) I'd love maybe more of a sense of commitment, although I get that it'd be hard for Anders being an incubus...but still. I will say that people that want a story more for the plot and the world building, will enjoy this because romance is NOT in the forefront of the story here. While I am usually a romance die-hard, I was totally on board with how this story was done.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this, and I would DEFINITELY read more from this author in this world. Definitely recommended if you like urban fantasy with a gay vampire, incubus, and wizard. Please, please, please tell me there will be more!
ARC copy provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!!
OK, that's not the ONLY thing that sucked me into this book, but a couple Browncoat references never hurt!
This book was thrilling - captivating, imaginative, and completely un-put-downable. The world-building in this was just spot on...detailed and clever. It made me think back to when I was reading the first few books in the Rachel Morgan series, or LKH's series, it's just that in this story, they are all gay men. Not a bad thing, at all! ;) (Heck, I want MORE like this!)
I enjoyed everything that each three characters brought to their triad. I gotta say, I think I loved Anders and his snark and inappropriateness possibly the most. But I also loved Curtis and his determination and how I sometimes just wanted to give him a hug, and Luc and his seriousness. But I definitely think what I loved most is when they were together, either two or three, or all together. They all played off of each other very well, both in some snarky humor and when it got time for the serious business. That final big scene with them versus Renard was WOW! I could NOT stop reading until it all went down.
I will admit that the romantic in me wants more of their personal, romantic lives - Curtis tries to describe it, if they're boyfriends, if he had a different boyfriend, and although they have to share each others powers - blood, sex, and magic - it's all very open, and mostly off-page. While it worked in this story (although I still want to read about them having hot threesomes all the time haha) I'd love maybe more of a sense of commitment, although I get that it'd be hard for Anders being an incubus...but still. I will say that people that want a story more for the plot and the world building, will enjoy this because romance is NOT in the forefront of the story here. While I am usually a romance die-hard, I was totally on board with how this story was done.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this, and I would DEFINITELY read more from this author in this world. Definitely recommended if you like urban fantasy with a gay vampire, incubus, and wizard. Please, please, please tell me there will be more!
ARC copy provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!!
January 30, 2023
In an Ottowa full of vampires, wizards, demons, werewolves (not pictured), spirits, and more, there are conventions that must be followed. When three of these supernatural characters come together during a full moon they share a ritual that binds them all together and makes them stronger. Those who do not have 2 more of their kind to bond with are therefore weaker, and get bullied by those who do have a pack.
Luc the Vampire and Andres the Demon had been lone wolves (er, vampire and demon) for a while before a young Wizard named Curtis showed up and suggested they all bond, despite not being of the same species. It works, which most others did not know or expect, and their bond is different and more powerful than regular bonds. This makes the three a threat to other powerful creatures, most especially Renard, a mysteriously powerful Vampire who has been terrorizing everyone in the city of Ottowa, Ontario for many years now.
Luc, Curtis, and Andres are left scrambling to protect their little triad while attacks keep coming. They meet a fun handful of mysterious acquaintances and partners in their fight against their aggressors. This book has a short story prequel, which I was unaware of, that might have fleshed out the setting a bit more ahead of coming into this book, but for the most part you learn about magic/vampire/demon/spirit powers and history in spurts as they become relevant to the story.
The story is fast paced and interesting, and there are funny quips that ease the tension of the plot. However I did feel that the characters and background could have been more fleshed out. Due to the fast pace you're left with a lot of lore questions, one that stands out above all is: Do bisexual people exist in this universe?
Either way it's a fun and breezy urban fantasy which is exactly what I was looking for - thank you to the people at Worlds Beyond the Margins for mentioning it
Luc the Vampire and Andres the Demon had been lone wolves (er, vampire and demon) for a while before a young Wizard named Curtis showed up and suggested they all bond, despite not being of the same species. It works, which most others did not know or expect, and their bond is different and more powerful than regular bonds. This makes the three a threat to other powerful creatures, most especially Renard, a mysteriously powerful Vampire who has been terrorizing everyone in the city of Ottowa, Ontario for many years now.
Luc, Curtis, and Andres are left scrambling to protect their little triad while attacks keep coming. They meet a fun handful of mysterious acquaintances and partners in their fight against their aggressors. This book has a short story prequel, which I was unaware of, that might have fleshed out the setting a bit more ahead of coming into this book, but for the most part you learn about magic/vampire/demon/spirit powers and history in spurts as they become relevant to the story.
The story is fast paced and interesting, and there are funny quips that ease the tension of the plot. However I did feel that the characters and background could have been more fleshed out. Due to the fast pace you're left with a lot of lore questions, one that stands out above all is: Do bisexual people exist in this universe?
Either way it's a fun and breezy urban fantasy which is exactly what I was looking for - thank you to the people at Worlds Beyond the Margins for mentioning it
April 8, 2023
Expected to love this book but I didn’t. I didn’t care much for the writing, especially the sometimes awkward banter between the 3 MCs. The plot, about a vampire, a demon and a wizard forming a blood pact against tradition, and as a result, being threatened with death by the ruling elite, never rose above the initial excitement. I kept expecting something else to happen, because that was more like a situation setting, not a plot. But the story went on and on like that, with no twist or surprise. By 50% I was bored by the predictability of the story. Luckily the action picked up towards the end, preventing a dnf from me.
I’m a little disappointed by this book, I must say. I heard Nathan Burgoine was an award-winning author, and got my hopes high. Maybe, it’s getting better in his latter books? Hopefully.
I’m a little disappointed by this book, I must say. I heard Nathan Burgoine was an award-winning author, and got my hopes high. Maybe, it’s getting better in his latter books? Hopefully.
June 12, 2016
I would sometimes liken myself to a reading raven.I would immerse myself in a sparkly book all shiny & new until a brighter object winks my way & off I would fly to that jewel & grasp it to my fickle heart.
Not so much with this diamond in the rough.It has the makings of what could be an exceptional series where three magical outcasts form an unconventional triad out of a need for survival in a world where being alone is often deadly.
Romance understandably takes a back seat though there is growing affection & bonds of loyalty that slowly forms.
Though they live together this sexual threesome only occurs once month to charge up their power link out of necessity & most of the sex that happens in the book is between the prey that Luc the vampire & Anders the incubus hunt all by their lonesome.
The third member appears to be only one sexually true to group & his amorous appetites are mostly tightly constrained.Any interest shown to the wizard Curtis by strangers not of the triad is swiftly neutered by the other two despite their screwing anyone that feeds their hunger.
All three main characters & even the secondary ones require a second much larger book to expand on what was created here on what feels like an unfinished canvas that is still drawn with enough wonder to hold anyone's attention long enough that they are not swayed by the siren call of another novel.
Not so much with this diamond in the rough.It has the makings of what could be an exceptional series where three magical outcasts form an unconventional triad out of a need for survival in a world where being alone is often deadly.
Romance understandably takes a back seat though there is growing affection & bonds of loyalty that slowly forms.
Though they live together this sexual threesome only occurs once month to charge up their power link out of necessity & most of the sex that happens in the book is between the prey that Luc the vampire & Anders the incubus hunt all by their lonesome.
The third member appears to be only one sexually true to group & his amorous appetites are mostly tightly constrained.Any interest shown to the wizard Curtis by strangers not of the triad is swiftly neutered by the other two despite their screwing anyone that feeds their hunger.
All three main characters & even the secondary ones require a second much larger book to expand on what was created here on what feels like an unfinished canvas that is still drawn with enough wonder to hold anyone's attention long enough that they are not swayed by the siren call of another novel.
June 25, 2017
This was a pretty good read. Luc, Curtis and Anders a vamp demon and wizard have formed a bond that's unheard of. I liked all three of these character's. Curtis is smart, geeky and powerful, a wizard and Orphan not born to one of the magical bloodlines and shunned by the other Families for going against their rules. All he wanted after his real family’s death, was to be left alone. But the magic wanted to be used and that made him a target. Luc the smooth, handsome vampire who was cast aside because he lusted after men and not women. Anders, the mouthy, snarky Incubus Demon who was also cast aside because he lusted after men. Together these three were very powerful with things changing. With Anders close, Curtis can call on his fire magic more easily, it’s also much stronger than before. Luc suddenly wakes before sundown and Anders’s hellfire changes colors. The leaders of each of there species see them has a threat and they want to break them up. This was a good read but it lacked sexy times I wanted the author to write about them getting it on. This was my first time reading this author this book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling. I am looking forward to reading the next book.
April 26, 2024
2024 Re-Read:
I'm so excited to revisit this series again! It's a long-time favorite.
There's a lot packed in this first one—lots of action, lots of lore, lots of moving pieces. Even with as plot-heavy as this book is, the author manages to squeeze in a ton of character work, too. Each of the guys go out and about, cultivating contacts and friends in their respective domains, with varying degrees of success. (I don't really understand all of the hostility toward Anders. I think he's a hoot, and those other demons should just quit being so butthurt.)
Sweet and hot and funny and action-packed. I can't wait to see what happens next.
2020 Re-Read:
I just love these stories to bits. Great writing, great worldbuilding, great characters. These aren't romances, though. More like urban fantasy with a bit of sex thrown in.
Original 2017 Review:
Fan-freakin-tastic!
I'm so excited to revisit this series again! It's a long-time favorite.
There's a lot packed in this first one—lots of action, lots of lore, lots of moving pieces. Even with as plot-heavy as this book is, the author manages to squeeze in a ton of character work, too. Each of the guys go out and about, cultivating contacts and friends in their respective domains, with varying degrees of success. (I don't really understand all of the hostility toward Anders. I think he's a hoot, and those other demons should just quit being so butthurt.)
Sweet and hot and funny and action-packed. I can't wait to see what happens next.
2020 Re-Read:
I just love these stories to bits. Great writing, great worldbuilding, great characters. These aren't romances, though. More like urban fantasy with a bit of sex thrown in.
Original 2017 Review:
Fan-freakin-tastic!
March 22, 2022
This is a fun, fresh take on the lore of vampires, demons, and wizards - magical beings whose presence in a story always piques my interest. It has a fast-paced, exciting plot; the three main characters are well-developed, endearing, and have a delightful dynamic with one another; and there is a bit of spice, of course...but the smut works with the story rather than interrupting it. I would love to see a sequel! Also, if you are looking for a story with a M/M relationship (or actually M/M/M in this case) actually written by a man, this is a good choice.
Full review of this and the short story where the triad is introduced: https://ajungleoftales.blogspot.com/2...
Full review of this and the short story where the triad is introduced: https://ajungleoftales.blogspot.com/2...
May 26, 2016
I received an ARC from NETGALLEY for a review. Triad Blood is the story of the tripod of the vampire, wizard and incubus, along with the paranormal society surrounding them. It was highly intriguing, fast paced and easy to get drawn into this world created by Nathan Burgoine. While reading I did learn there is a prequel available much more involved with the three, titled Three- I plan to read but wish I had read prior to this story. I reccome do for a paranormal , m/m adventure.
May 2, 2016
Triad Blood is available now through Bold Strokes Books webstore. You will get the important prequel Three FREE with your purchase!
Pretty sweet deal, right?
I honestly think it's important to read Three before starting with Triad Blood. You'll meet Luc first. He'll introduce you to Anders and together they target Curtis...
Three is an awesome short story and told from Luc's POV, which is always a delight and, if I'm being completely honest, what got me hooked on those guys.
There is an incredibly hot scene between the three of them; pretty much a highlight throughout the series and something I missed seeing in Triad Blood (Luc, Curtis and Anders together).
Really, Three is a brilliant introduction you don't want to miss out on!
Instantly I fell in love with Luc and Curtis in Three, and after chasing down the other anthologies, I quickly learned to appreciate Anders just as much. I’ve always had a weak spot for wizards and vampires. Demons? Not so much. By now, I can honestly say that I just adore Anders. He’s one snarky sonofabitch :)
And that’s pretty much the thing with Mr. Burgoine; he has created such amazing, truly fantastic characters, each unique and charming in their own way—you just have to love them all. The secondary characters were also very interesting and a great, important addition.
Curtis is smart, geeky and powerful, a wizard and Orphan—one not born to one of the magical bloodlines and shunned by the Families (the wizards in charge) for going against their rules. All he wanted, after his real family’s death, was to be left alone. But the magic wanted to be used and that made him a target again…
Luc, the smooth, handsome vampire, and Anders, the mouthy, snarky Incubus Demon, were both cast aside because they lusted after men instead of women.
I adore Luc, he’s lovely, sophisticated and has a way with words I find sexy.
Anders is a lot of fun and adds most of the humor, he’s also a right pain in the ass—in a fun way!
Sooo, Triad Blood, yeah?
A few months into their new lives as a triad threats keep piling—letter bombs, burning cars, demon attacks, you name it.
Also, the longer they’ve been together Luc, Anders and Curtis notice slight changes in their powers. With Anders close, Curtis can call on his fire magic more easily, it’s also much stronger than before. Luc suddenly wakes before sundown and Anders’s hellfire changes colors.
Naturally, the higher ups wizards, vampires and demons feel threatened by their unique bond and apparently are all hellbent on breaking them apart, even if it means killing one or all of them.
Triad Blood is told from the perspectives of all three main characters. Luc’s POV remains the most delightful and interesting, especially with the vampires playing an important role in this story. I also highly enjoy Curtis’s POV—he’s pretty down to earth for such a powerful wizard, always sweet and a bit awkward.
Mr. Burgoine is a very talented writer and story teller! This book is suspenseful and builds up tension and intrigue gradually; the twists and turns kept me glued to my kindle until the early hours of the morning. I didn’t want it to end…
Personal highlights:
Luc. What I love about him is that he’s so obviously a vampire but not at all interested in vampire politics. He loves sex and to feed but doesn’t get off on hurting or killing innocent people.
Is that all Curtis’s influence? I don’t know. Sadly, Luc still remains a great mystery! We don’t know anything about his past :(
Curtis. He’s kind of the heart of the triad, not only because he’s the only one with a proper soul and blood and everything. While Luc and Anders don’t get along so well, they both gravitate toward Curtis. They care about him more than I think they realize.
In the future I’d like to see their romance blossom. They’re already on the right path, I think. Obviously enjoying each other’s company and keeping one another safe from harm. They are kind of dating but not really. I appreciate that the bonding didn’t turn into insta-love.
They do have an odd balance but it somehow works. Curtis and Luc are a thing, and Anders and Curtis also have something special. Still, I feel like it can be more eventually :)
I have to admit I was a bit bummed at seeing Luc having (detailed) sex with a stranger while the three of them did not share the same bonding on page. I get that it wouldn’t have fit the time frame—since Anders and Luc don’t seem to enjoy sharing Curtis unless it’s on the full moon—so I can’t really be upset about the lack of a threesome.
I absolutely loved their chemistry together (in Three) though—Luc, Anders and Curtis—and I hope to see them again soon.
Not only in bed, of course, heh, but also with another great adventure!
BTW: I also totally dig the cover! Stunning.
Pretty sweet deal, right?
I honestly think it's important to read Three before starting with Triad Blood. You'll meet Luc first. He'll introduce you to Anders and together they target Curtis...
Three is an awesome short story and told from Luc's POV, which is always a delight and, if I'm being completely honest, what got me hooked on those guys.
There is an incredibly hot scene between the three of them; pretty much a highlight throughout the series and something I missed seeing in Triad Blood (Luc, Curtis and Anders together).
Really, Three is a brilliant introduction you don't want to miss out on!
Instantly I fell in love with Luc and Curtis in Three, and after chasing down the other anthologies, I quickly learned to appreciate Anders just as much. I’ve always had a weak spot for wizards and vampires. Demons? Not so much. By now, I can honestly say that I just adore Anders. He’s one snarky sonofabitch :)
And that’s pretty much the thing with Mr. Burgoine; he has created such amazing, truly fantastic characters, each unique and charming in their own way—you just have to love them all. The secondary characters were also very interesting and a great, important addition.
Curtis is smart, geeky and powerful, a wizard and Orphan—one not born to one of the magical bloodlines and shunned by the Families (the wizards in charge) for going against their rules. All he wanted, after his real family’s death, was to be left alone. But the magic wanted to be used and that made him a target again…
Luc, the smooth, handsome vampire, and Anders, the mouthy, snarky Incubus Demon, were both cast aside because they lusted after men instead of women.
I adore Luc, he’s lovely, sophisticated and has a way with words I find sexy.
Anders is a lot of fun and adds most of the humor, he’s also a right pain in the ass—in a fun way!
Sooo, Triad Blood, yeah?
A few months into their new lives as a triad threats keep piling—letter bombs, burning cars, demon attacks, you name it.
Also, the longer they’ve been together Luc, Anders and Curtis notice slight changes in their powers. With Anders close, Curtis can call on his fire magic more easily, it’s also much stronger than before. Luc suddenly wakes before sundown and Anders’s hellfire changes colors.
Naturally, the higher ups wizards, vampires and demons feel threatened by their unique bond and apparently are all hellbent on breaking them apart, even if it means killing one or all of them.
Triad Blood is told from the perspectives of all three main characters. Luc’s POV remains the most delightful and interesting, especially with the vampires playing an important role in this story. I also highly enjoy Curtis’s POV—he’s pretty down to earth for such a powerful wizard, always sweet and a bit awkward.
Mr. Burgoine is a very talented writer and story teller! This book is suspenseful and builds up tension and intrigue gradually; the twists and turns kept me glued to my kindle until the early hours of the morning. I didn’t want it to end…
Personal highlights:
Luc. What I love about him is that he’s so obviously a vampire but not at all interested in vampire politics. He loves sex and to feed but doesn’t get off on hurting or killing innocent people.
Is that all Curtis’s influence? I don’t know. Sadly, Luc still remains a great mystery! We don’t know anything about his past :(
Curtis. He’s kind of the heart of the triad, not only because he’s the only one with a proper soul and blood and everything. While Luc and Anders don’t get along so well, they both gravitate toward Curtis. They care about him more than I think they realize.
In the future I’d like to see their romance blossom. They’re already on the right path, I think. Obviously enjoying each other’s company and keeping one another safe from harm. They are kind of dating but not really. I appreciate that the bonding didn’t turn into insta-love.
They do have an odd balance but it somehow works. Curtis and Luc are a thing, and Anders and Curtis also have something special. Still, I feel like it can be more eventually :)
I have to admit I was a bit bummed at seeing Luc having (detailed) sex with a stranger while the three of them did not share the same bonding on page. I get that it wouldn’t have fit the time frame—since Anders and Luc don’t seem to enjoy sharing Curtis unless it’s on the full moon—so I can’t really be upset about the lack of a threesome.
I absolutely loved their chemistry together (in Three) though—Luc, Anders and Curtis—and I hope to see them again soon.
Not only in bed, of course, heh, but also with another great adventure!
BTW: I also totally dig the cover! Stunning.
July 5, 2016
Full reviewage on Prism Book Alliance®
What an entertaining opening sequence we get here. It introduced some of the dangers and asked some of the questions about this world, a contemporary alternate version of our own, and these characters and their personalities. Right away I had an idea about each of our three leads. Anders is cheeky and speaks his mind and doesn’t have much of a filter, and he’s our demon. Like recognizes like, mmm hmmm. Curtis is thoughtful, eager, and intelligent. He cares about Anders and Luc and he both shows and voices it with regularity, like a good Wizard does. And Luc, he’s wise, sly, and not at all afraid of what he wants or how to make sure it happens, including protecting Anders and Curtis from the supernatural evils that surround them 24-7. He’s also not one to pretend he knows something when he doesn’t, despite being a long-lived Vampire. He knows a lot about his own kind, more than either Curtis or Anders know about theirs, but he’s not in a position of power when this story begins, and he therefore doesn’t possess some of the information vital to the survival of this triad they’ve formed.
And let me tell you, most of the other supernatural beings in and around Ottawa don’t like that they’ve become a triad bound by blood, as is the way with this world.
Early on, this author has Luc often referencing Curtis by the term “young man”. A lot. Like three times on one page a lot. This might be how Luc thinks but the continuous repetition throughout the story was a distraction. Thankfully, it’s pretty much the only one.
On the flip side, there’s a wonderful ease to the storytelling. Nothing was rushed. The writing did feel a little loose in the beginning before settling down soon after, becoming much tighter as we got deeper into the magic and the mystery of this story. By chapter four, I’d found myself sinking in and loving my time in this AU Ottawa.
There’s some moral ambiguity going on here, at least from a human perspective. From the perspective of a Vampire like Luc, or even a Demon like Anders, not so much. If there is a moral compass, Curtis would be it. The author portrays each of these beings in realistic terms in that they accept themselves for what and who they are, including the not so peaceful parts.
We sort of kind of get each of these characters perspectives throughout the story. Sometimes it was difficult to tell if it had indeed switched from one to another, or if it was just a pivot in the story. Each of Anders, Curtis, and Luc have their own branches of the main story and have scenes with other characters away from the other two. Each of these branches is woven into the larger story quite well and made for some surprises towards the end.
One thing that wasn’t a surprise was the baddie and his fate. Though, this honestly didn’t impact the story in a huge way. Why? Because this is much more about the journeys of these characters than an ultimate destination in the form of attempting to vanquish the bane of everyone’s paranormal existence. The changing relationships between the three main characters, the way they work together to deal with all of the conflict and shade thrown their way, and how they’re learning right along with me as the reader when it comes to their powers, both individually and what happens when they combine them. There isn’t a lot of sex and less romance and it worked, it was right for this story and the lives of these characters and what they’re dealing with here.
The supporting characters are well thought out and utilized. I was intrigued by David especially. And the others had me wanting to learn more about them, which is always a plus. There be some rich land to mine there for future stories, that’s fo sho.
This world is well built, especially in sense of place and context. We learn some of the history of the conflicts between the different types of beings in this world, what’s changed and what hasn’t, what many of them want to change, and all the while Curtis, Luc and Anders are navigating it all while trying to keep themselves alive, despite the best efforts of some. There were a couple of plot points that would have benefitted from additional explanation but, otherwise, I so enjoyed my time inside this book.
It would be fun to get to spend more time with these guys, watching them figure out how to live together and work through their various feelings and viewpoints about this triad they’ve formed. It’s not just about survival anymore…
Oh, and I would totally read more by this author, too. :)
What an entertaining opening sequence we get here. It introduced some of the dangers and asked some of the questions about this world, a contemporary alternate version of our own, and these characters and their personalities. Right away I had an idea about each of our three leads. Anders is cheeky and speaks his mind and doesn’t have much of a filter, and he’s our demon. Like recognizes like, mmm hmmm. Curtis is thoughtful, eager, and intelligent. He cares about Anders and Luc and he both shows and voices it with regularity, like a good Wizard does. And Luc, he’s wise, sly, and not at all afraid of what he wants or how to make sure it happens, including protecting Anders and Curtis from the supernatural evils that surround them 24-7. He’s also not one to pretend he knows something when he doesn’t, despite being a long-lived Vampire. He knows a lot about his own kind, more than either Curtis or Anders know about theirs, but he’s not in a position of power when this story begins, and he therefore doesn’t possess some of the information vital to the survival of this triad they’ve formed.
And let me tell you, most of the other supernatural beings in and around Ottawa don’t like that they’ve become a triad bound by blood, as is the way with this world.
Early on, this author has Luc often referencing Curtis by the term “young man”. A lot. Like three times on one page a lot. This might be how Luc thinks but the continuous repetition throughout the story was a distraction. Thankfully, it’s pretty much the only one.
On the flip side, there’s a wonderful ease to the storytelling. Nothing was rushed. The writing did feel a little loose in the beginning before settling down soon after, becoming much tighter as we got deeper into the magic and the mystery of this story. By chapter four, I’d found myself sinking in and loving my time in this AU Ottawa.
There’s some moral ambiguity going on here, at least from a human perspective. From the perspective of a Vampire like Luc, or even a Demon like Anders, not so much. If there is a moral compass, Curtis would be it. The author portrays each of these beings in realistic terms in that they accept themselves for what and who they are, including the not so peaceful parts.
We sort of kind of get each of these characters perspectives throughout the story. Sometimes it was difficult to tell if it had indeed switched from one to another, or if it was just a pivot in the story. Each of Anders, Curtis, and Luc have their own branches of the main story and have scenes with other characters away from the other two. Each of these branches is woven into the larger story quite well and made for some surprises towards the end.
One thing that wasn’t a surprise was the baddie and his fate. Though, this honestly didn’t impact the story in a huge way. Why? Because this is much more about the journeys of these characters than an ultimate destination in the form of attempting to vanquish the bane of everyone’s paranormal existence. The changing relationships between the three main characters, the way they work together to deal with all of the conflict and shade thrown their way, and how they’re learning right along with me as the reader when it comes to their powers, both individually and what happens when they combine them. There isn’t a lot of sex and less romance and it worked, it was right for this story and the lives of these characters and what they’re dealing with here.
The supporting characters are well thought out and utilized. I was intrigued by David especially. And the others had me wanting to learn more about them, which is always a plus. There be some rich land to mine there for future stories, that’s fo sho.
This world is well built, especially in sense of place and context. We learn some of the history of the conflicts between the different types of beings in this world, what’s changed and what hasn’t, what many of them want to change, and all the while Curtis, Luc and Anders are navigating it all while trying to keep themselves alive, despite the best efforts of some. There were a couple of plot points that would have benefitted from additional explanation but, otherwise, I so enjoyed my time inside this book.
It would be fun to get to spend more time with these guys, watching them figure out how to live together and work through their various feelings and viewpoints about this triad they’ve formed. It’s not just about survival anymore…
Oh, and I would totally read more by this author, too. :)
January 13, 2024
I really enjoyed this! I liked the world building with the different aspects of vampires, wizards and demons shown here and knowing there are more like weres that we have barely scraped the surface of. It was great seeing how Curtis' magic works here: how hard he has to research, study and retain knowledge in order to perform his magic but, also, hold back and be careful with words he uses less often so they don't spill magic by accident.
I wish I had known about, and read, Three that comes before this and shows how Curtis, Anders and Luc meet and form the triad. Even just reading the synopsis and some reviews were helpful insight. It is alluded here and made much more sense knowing even just a small part of it. One particular joke stands out most and it probably would have been really random otherwise. I don't think it took away much from the story but definitely something I was missing. Felt like I was dropped mid-conversation at the beginning of this story (and I'm one who doesn't mind being dropped into stories). It really does seem like there's just the basis thrown in there with lots of smut and I haven't actually checked it out myself yet, so we'll see.
This had some rather funny bits but, sometimes,Anders especially I was just rollin' my eyes. But it was also done in a way that seemed like it as on purpose, like to lighten the mood or things along those lines. I liked the dynamic between Curtis, Anders and Luc. It worked really well and I wanted more of just the three of them together. It was great seeing them problem solve together as well, waiting for sunset and all.
"Is it okay if I bring your soul with us?"
"I will hurt you."
I liked the side characters and I'm particularly glad that one character in specific turned out the way it did. Actually two. But it was fun what they did with Eli and his spirit ability, and how it all turned out in the end.
But! I am really tired of the straight guy always having to be freaked out and "don't get the gay on me" shit. I get it. I really, really do, but it would be nice if it could have just been along the lines of: I'm straight so not interested in sex with men. Enough said!
"I don't have anything against you guys for being gay."
"I have gay friends."
"He's straight," Curtis said. "He was all...'I experimented when I was a kid, but I don't want gay cooties.'"
I thought the ending was very fitting and I liked the way it was done. Even though Luc
I will definitely pick up the next book. I'll also go back to Three and add something here after for if it truly was missing or if just the knowledge is needed.
EDIT: Read Three and the conclusion is that, "It is helpful. And I wish I had had this knowledge going in. However, it isn't necessary." My Review
I wish I had known about, and read, Three that comes before this and shows how Curtis, Anders and Luc meet and form the triad. Even just reading the synopsis and some reviews were helpful insight. It is alluded here and made much more sense knowing even just a small part of it. One particular joke stands out most and it probably would have been really random otherwise. I don't think it took away much from the story but definitely something I was missing. Felt like I was dropped mid-conversation at the beginning of this story (and I'm one who doesn't mind being dropped into stories). It really does seem like there's just the basis thrown in there with lots of smut and I haven't actually checked it out myself yet, so we'll see.
This had some rather funny bits but, sometimes,
"Is it okay if I bring your soul with us?"
"I will hurt you."
I liked the side characters and I'm particularly glad that one character in specific turned out the way it did. Actually two. But it was fun what they did with Eli and his spirit ability, and how it all turned out in the end.
But! I am really tired of the straight guy always having to be freaked out and "don't get the gay on me" shit. I get it. I really, really do, but it would be nice if it could have just been along the lines of: I'm straight so not interested in sex with men. Enough said!
"I don't have anything against you guys for being gay."
"I have gay friends."
"He's straight," Curtis said. "He was all...'I experimented when I was a kid, but I don't want gay cooties.'"
I thought the ending was very fitting and I liked the way it was done. Even though Luc
I will definitely pick up the next book. I'll also go back to Three and add something here after for if it truly was missing or if just the knowledge is needed.
EDIT: Read Three and the conclusion is that, "It is helpful. And I wish I had had this knowledge going in. However, it isn't necessary." My Review
June 5, 2016
Wow. This is a very intricate, well-written story with some fantastic world-building. I recall now that I had read one of this author's short stories in an anthology than Lethe Press released, and I very much enjoyed it as well. The descriptive language is not at all flowery, but well-paced and keeps the reader wanting to just keep reading, even as you finish the previous chapter. I think the different points of view from each character helps with this movement. It flows well, is not boring at all, and kept me wanting more.
I liked each main character's attributes and appreciated them learning how their skills have sharpened, constantly putting them in a learning state, and realizing their personal strength and power is only strengthened by being in a relationship with the other two MCs. I also like that they aren't in a 'normal' grouping, and it allows them to realize diversity is good, disproving the prejudices of other triads, and the fact that their differences are what make them stronger and more of a surprise to others that cross their paths.
There are some enjoyable supporting characters in this story too. Catherine, the stately vampiress in charge of her own coutiere (vampire triad) but somewhat of a friend to Luc; MacKenzie, the very bookish, but friendly wizard friend to Curtis that helps get him out of a jam or two; and David, the prickly solo incubus that is a police officer. He and Anders seem to have some history that makes them just barely stand to be in each other's company.
This story has an underlying mystery, and you can kind of guess who the villain is, but more and more is slowly revealed as you journey through the different scenarios each character has to deal with. And in the end, it all just makes them stronger.
Highly recommended read, and I am hoping the author has more stories up his sleeve for this universe! I now am wanting to read all the other prequels of these characters from the previously published anthologies. I am glad that I was given the opportunity to branch out to Bold Strokes Books this week, and look forward to more from 'Nathan Burgoine. Nothing light and fluffy about this one, and that is perfect for me.
I liked each main character's attributes and appreciated them learning how their skills have sharpened, constantly putting them in a learning state, and realizing their personal strength and power is only strengthened by being in a relationship with the other two MCs. I also like that they aren't in a 'normal' grouping, and it allows them to realize diversity is good, disproving the prejudices of other triads, and the fact that their differences are what make them stronger and more of a surprise to others that cross their paths.
There are some enjoyable supporting characters in this story too. Catherine, the stately vampiress in charge of her own coutiere (vampire triad) but somewhat of a friend to Luc; MacKenzie, the very bookish, but friendly wizard friend to Curtis that helps get him out of a jam or two; and David, the prickly solo incubus that is a police officer. He and Anders seem to have some history that makes them just barely stand to be in each other's company.
This story has an underlying mystery, and you can kind of guess who the villain is, but more and more is slowly revealed as you journey through the different scenarios each character has to deal with. And in the end, it all just makes them stronger.
Highly recommended read, and I am hoping the author has more stories up his sleeve for this universe! I now am wanting to read all the other prequels of these characters from the previously published anthologies. I am glad that I was given the opportunity to branch out to Bold Strokes Books this week, and look forward to more from 'Nathan Burgoine. Nothing light and fluffy about this one, and that is perfect for me.
September 15, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Before I go too far, I’ll mention that I started off reading Three, a short story that was first published in the Bold Strokes Books anthology Blood Sacrament. The short story introduces the three men and shows them meeting and forming their triad. It is also has a super steamy sex scene that gives us our introduction to the threesome and their amazing chemistry. While you could definitely read this book as a standalone, and in fact the ending of the short story forms the prologue here, I definitely would pick that one up and read it first if you can. First off, it is crazy hot, and second, it is a nice way to get started on this book. That said, pretty much all you need it to know is that these three different supernaturals formed a non-traditional triad with a strong bond.
Ok, so back to Triad Blood. First off, the world building is great. I loved the whole concept here, the idea of these supernatural groups and the power that they hold and the vulnerability of being alone. Luc, Anders, and Curtis have done something no one has ever done. Something no one has even thought of doing before in combining together. And in doing so, somehow they have amplified their power due to their unique connection. The world of wizards, vampires, and demons is nicely explored from the political side. We don’t necessarily get tons of lore on the creatures themselves, but the world in which they live and the way these groups interact is developed really nicely. Sometimes books that rely heavily on politics can drown under their own weight, but Burgoine does a great job of bringing us into all the manipulations while still keeping the book really engaging, and we finish up with a battle that is quite exciting.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Before I go too far, I’ll mention that I started off reading Three, a short story that was first published in the Bold Strokes Books anthology Blood Sacrament. The short story introduces the three men and shows them meeting and forming their triad. It is also has a super steamy sex scene that gives us our introduction to the threesome and their amazing chemistry. While you could definitely read this book as a standalone, and in fact the ending of the short story forms the prologue here, I definitely would pick that one up and read it first if you can. First off, it is crazy hot, and second, it is a nice way to get started on this book. That said, pretty much all you need it to know is that these three different supernaturals formed a non-traditional triad with a strong bond.
Ok, so back to Triad Blood. First off, the world building is great. I loved the whole concept here, the idea of these supernatural groups and the power that they hold and the vulnerability of being alone. Luc, Anders, and Curtis have done something no one has ever done. Something no one has even thought of doing before in combining together. And in doing so, somehow they have amplified their power due to their unique connection. The world of wizards, vampires, and demons is nicely explored from the political side. We don’t necessarily get tons of lore on the creatures themselves, but the world in which they live and the way these groups interact is developed really nicely. Sometimes books that rely heavily on politics can drown under their own weight, but Burgoine does a great job of bringing us into all the manipulations while still keeping the book really engaging, and we finish up with a battle that is quite exciting.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
July 2, 2016
For my first M/M romance(erotica), I was quite pleased! I loved the paranormal aspects of it, although some of the wiccan portions seemed a bit off for me. I also feel like the ending was too clean, and the epilogue was a bit off. BUT I did enjoy the relationships between characters. There was intense chemistry that could have only happened with great writing, so I was very pleased with that.
A more detailed review to come!
A more detailed review to come!
July 9, 2017
What an interesting trio we have here!
When I see the Menage tag, I am often like " OK, no actual plot here" ...
Imagine my surprise when I realized that's not the case here. At all.
I liked the world building and the different points of view of the characters / Luc's being my favorite one, of course / .
I didn't expect it to be funny, but I often found myself grinning at whatever Anders was saying .
Off to read the second part of the book, where I actually hope to see those three together in a more...intimate situation.
When I see the Menage tag, I am often like " OK, no actual plot here" ...
Imagine my surprise when I realized that's not the case here. At all.
I liked the world building and the different points of view of the characters / Luc's being my favorite one, of course / .
I didn't expect it to be funny, but I often found myself grinning at whatever Anders was saying .
Off to read the second part of the book, where I actually hope to see those three together in a more...intimate situation.
July 12, 2016
I’ve decided that my need to read vampire romance/erotica/whatever has become a bit pathological. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, imo. Someone has to keep the vampire fiction market in business. So I picked up this book at Netgalley, because of the vampire thing, plus the threesome thing, plus the m/m/m thing, which can either be really good, or really bad.
I was strangely ambivalent about this book at first. It was well-written, the characters had interesting backstories, the premise seemed interesting. There’s vampire politics, there’s unique interpersonal dynamics. There’s a mix of supernatural species and powers.
So why didn’t this book grab me right away? I was about 15% in, and I still couldn’t get into it. It was like the book was a cake–my favorite flavor (devil’s food), with a pudding center, butterscotch chips baked in, a dash of Drambuie in the mix, and home made cream cheese frosting on top… but somehow, the cake doesn’t quite taste right. I had to force myself to keep eating, because… apparently now I’m a cake critic, and in order to write the review, I had to finish.
I realized shortly thereafter: I didn’t wait for the cake to cook for long enough. And that I shouldn’t use baking metaphors, because they make me hungry.
So, a bit further in, things started to get interesting. Really interesting, really quickly. The mystery revealed itself, the complex layers and multiple players began to work, and suddenly we have a finely tuned machine running the way it should! Wow, I just took a really long time to say, “this book is slow to start, but wow is it worth it!”
But them’s the facts, kids. It wasn’t bad, but I just didn’t look forward to seeing it through to begin with. Once I hit that sweet spot, though, BAM! I had to read it in huge chunks (when I probably should have been writing.) to find out what happened next.
It doesn’t happen very often, but now and then I like a vampire character who isn’t just a romantic or urban fantasy-style hero. A vampire who doesn’t drink pig’s blood (sorry, Angel honey. I still love you.) or bagged blood, or strictly from willing donors. I like a vampire who’s a vampire, and the one in this book, Luc, is that kind of creature of the night. He doesn’t “hunt” as his usual means of feeding, but there’s some indication that under the right circumstances, he’ll have himself a live one. So to speak.
The way the mythologies separate out from the sort of tangle they are in the beginning and become through lines of their own is riveting. Each of the main characters has a meaning and life of their own, but they are more powerful together. That’s what I like to see in a love story, and in any kind of paranormal or urban fantasy.
There is no getting out of the way of this book’s grip, I swear! There’s humor and steam, mystery and on-the-edge of your seat suspense. Oh, and hot paranormal men. Extra points for that. It’s interesting, however, in that TRIAD BLOOD isn’t really a romance. The triad (the three hot paranormal men I mentioned) are sexually involved, and need one another for power as much as emotional satisfaction, if not more so. They care about one another, and would clearly die for one another. So how important the romance is depends on how you choose to perceive its centrality to the story. The author has said that it’s not a romance, and I agree. But I would venture to say it’s an urban fantasy with strong romantic elements.
The characters really become fascinating individuals as the story goes on. Anders the demon is rough around the edges, and speaks his mind without much thought about the consequences. Luc the vampires is suave and cultured, but with that nasty vamp nature simmering right beneath the surface. Surprisingly, Curtis, the wizard, ended up being my favorite of the three. He just felt so normal, and his pain was really relatable. He felt like someone I might know in real life… except, sadly, the magick. We never get that kind of wizard magick in real life.
TRIAD BLOOD is a true urban fantasy, and contains all the elements of the genre that I love, using a different kind of created family. The overall cast was happily diverse, and that really means something in the current social climate. Not that the story is all durm & strang, there’s plenty of humor. Did I mention it’s Canadian born and set from a Canadian author? I’ve been reading a lot of 100% Canadian fiction lately, and it has a flavor all its own. A je ne sais quoi that makes it stand separate from American fiction. I like it.
The thing that really made me fall in love with this book? Burgoine has INTENSE Geek Cred. Seriously. Any geek who writes gay, menage UF and throws in enough geeky pop culture references to make Joss Whedon feel shame is a friend of mine. I’ll have my eyes open for ‘Nathan Burgoine from now on!
I was strangely ambivalent about this book at first. It was well-written, the characters had interesting backstories, the premise seemed interesting. There’s vampire politics, there’s unique interpersonal dynamics. There’s a mix of supernatural species and powers.
So why didn’t this book grab me right away? I was about 15% in, and I still couldn’t get into it. It was like the book was a cake–my favorite flavor (devil’s food), with a pudding center, butterscotch chips baked in, a dash of Drambuie in the mix, and home made cream cheese frosting on top… but somehow, the cake doesn’t quite taste right. I had to force myself to keep eating, because… apparently now I’m a cake critic, and in order to write the review, I had to finish.
I realized shortly thereafter: I didn’t wait for the cake to cook for long enough. And that I shouldn’t use baking metaphors, because they make me hungry.
So, a bit further in, things started to get interesting. Really interesting, really quickly. The mystery revealed itself, the complex layers and multiple players began to work, and suddenly we have a finely tuned machine running the way it should! Wow, I just took a really long time to say, “this book is slow to start, but wow is it worth it!”
But them’s the facts, kids. It wasn’t bad, but I just didn’t look forward to seeing it through to begin with. Once I hit that sweet spot, though, BAM! I had to read it in huge chunks (when I probably should have been writing.) to find out what happened next.
It doesn’t happen very often, but now and then I like a vampire character who isn’t just a romantic or urban fantasy-style hero. A vampire who doesn’t drink pig’s blood (sorry, Angel honey. I still love you.) or bagged blood, or strictly from willing donors. I like a vampire who’s a vampire, and the one in this book, Luc, is that kind of creature of the night. He doesn’t “hunt” as his usual means of feeding, but there’s some indication that under the right circumstances, he’ll have himself a live one. So to speak.
The way the mythologies separate out from the sort of tangle they are in the beginning and become through lines of their own is riveting. Each of the main characters has a meaning and life of their own, but they are more powerful together. That’s what I like to see in a love story, and in any kind of paranormal or urban fantasy.
There is no getting out of the way of this book’s grip, I swear! There’s humor and steam, mystery and on-the-edge of your seat suspense. Oh, and hot paranormal men. Extra points for that. It’s interesting, however, in that TRIAD BLOOD isn’t really a romance. The triad (the three hot paranormal men I mentioned) are sexually involved, and need one another for power as much as emotional satisfaction, if not more so. They care about one another, and would clearly die for one another. So how important the romance is depends on how you choose to perceive its centrality to the story. The author has said that it’s not a romance, and I agree. But I would venture to say it’s an urban fantasy with strong romantic elements.
The characters really become fascinating individuals as the story goes on. Anders the demon is rough around the edges, and speaks his mind without much thought about the consequences. Luc the vampires is suave and cultured, but with that nasty vamp nature simmering right beneath the surface. Surprisingly, Curtis, the wizard, ended up being my favorite of the three. He just felt so normal, and his pain was really relatable. He felt like someone I might know in real life… except, sadly, the magick. We never get that kind of wizard magick in real life.
TRIAD BLOOD is a true urban fantasy, and contains all the elements of the genre that I love, using a different kind of created family. The overall cast was happily diverse, and that really means something in the current social climate. Not that the story is all durm & strang, there’s plenty of humor. Did I mention it’s Canadian born and set from a Canadian author? I’ve been reading a lot of 100% Canadian fiction lately, and it has a flavor all its own. A je ne sais quoi that makes it stand separate from American fiction. I like it.
The thing that really made me fall in love with this book? Burgoine has INTENSE Geek Cred. Seriously. Any geek who writes gay, menage UF and throws in enough geeky pop culture references to make Joss Whedon feel shame is a friend of mine. I’ll have my eyes open for ‘Nathan Burgoine from now on!
August 8, 2016
First of all, Triad Blood isn’t a romance, but please, do NOT let that deter you. There are some romantic elements in the novel, and there are some short stories set in this universe that have some romance as well (go read Three, you will not be disappointed, oh my gosh…) so you are able to get your fill. Also, I have it on good authority that later in the trilogy there will be more romance, just not yet.
That said, I loved this book so much that I’ve already read it twice and will likely read it again soon. Yeah, it’s that good. Also, if you don’t love this book, just walk away and never talk to me again.
I kid.
But seriously.
‘Nathan Burgoine is a talented writer who creates a fascinating world and complex characters. While there are short stories with Anders, Curtis, and Luc, they don’t need to be read before Triad Blood. I do, however, recommend reading Three prior to it, as the story shows readers how this particular triad is formed, and it’s awesome.
In Triad Blood, Anders, Curtis, and Luc are getting by as a unique triad formed by an incubus, a wizard, and a vampire. In a world where paranormal creatures survive in groups of three or more, a lone demon, wizard, or vampire is target practice for the others. It’s downright deadly for them to be on their own, and these three have found a way to beat the system. Former loners, they’ve created a group that is surprisingly powerful; not only are they stronger than when they were solo, but they’re changing in ways as well. Ways that other demons, wizards, and vampires don’t particularly care for.
Enter Renard, the Duc of the area. At a seance held for local vampire cotteries, Renard challenges Luc and his triad…and finds they’re evenly matched. Luc and his boys just want to exist quietly, not challenge anyone, but when you’re strong, there’s always someone out there that wants to take you down, and they are dragged into something that extends beyond.
Burgoine has created such fantastic characters, and each one is distinct. There’s Curtis, the young, nerdy wizard who just wanted his own group so he would be left alone to work his magic and learn. Then there’s Luc, the handsome vampire who, like Curtis, wanted a group so he could actually feed without risking his skin to do so. He’s elegant and sophisticated and not at all interested in vampire politics.
And then there’s Anders. Where to even begin with this one. As an incubus, of course he’s going to love sex. But he’s a gay incubus, and as a result he’s been shunned by the others. He’s crass, he’s a bit of a brute, but he’s somehow still ridiculously sexy. But he has a one track mind at all times. Despite the fact that he’s constantly thinking about sex, he’s not a one-dimensional character by any stretch of the imagination. I loved every time he piped up from the background because he left me hysterical, even if Curtis and Luc just rolled their eyes and ignored him as best they could.
The secondary characters are also fascinating. They end up becoming larger pieces of a twisted puzzle, so while I want to share more about them, I won’t. I’ll leave them to you to discover.
I cannot wait for the next book in the series. Seriously. I loved this book so much I actually want to write fanfiction for it. Heck, I want to see a movie or a TV series with these characters. I would watch it over and over and over and…you get the point.
If you’re a fan of demons, vampires, wizards, paranormal fiction, mysteries, thrillers, stories set in Canada, or a combination of the previously mentioned, do yourself a favor and check this book out!
Reviewed by Jennifer for The Novel Approach Reviews
That said, I loved this book so much that I’ve already read it twice and will likely read it again soon. Yeah, it’s that good. Also, if you don’t love this book, just walk away and never talk to me again.
I kid.
But seriously.
‘Nathan Burgoine is a talented writer who creates a fascinating world and complex characters. While there are short stories with Anders, Curtis, and Luc, they don’t need to be read before Triad Blood. I do, however, recommend reading Three prior to it, as the story shows readers how this particular triad is formed, and it’s awesome.
In Triad Blood, Anders, Curtis, and Luc are getting by as a unique triad formed by an incubus, a wizard, and a vampire. In a world where paranormal creatures survive in groups of three or more, a lone demon, wizard, or vampire is target practice for the others. It’s downright deadly for them to be on their own, and these three have found a way to beat the system. Former loners, they’ve created a group that is surprisingly powerful; not only are they stronger than when they were solo, but they’re changing in ways as well. Ways that other demons, wizards, and vampires don’t particularly care for.
Enter Renard, the Duc of the area. At a seance held for local vampire cotteries, Renard challenges Luc and his triad…and finds they’re evenly matched. Luc and his boys just want to exist quietly, not challenge anyone, but when you’re strong, there’s always someone out there that wants to take you down, and they are dragged into something that extends beyond.
Burgoine has created such fantastic characters, and each one is distinct. There’s Curtis, the young, nerdy wizard who just wanted his own group so he would be left alone to work his magic and learn. Then there’s Luc, the handsome vampire who, like Curtis, wanted a group so he could actually feed without risking his skin to do so. He’s elegant and sophisticated and not at all interested in vampire politics.
And then there’s Anders. Where to even begin with this one. As an incubus, of course he’s going to love sex. But he’s a gay incubus, and as a result he’s been shunned by the others. He’s crass, he’s a bit of a brute, but he’s somehow still ridiculously sexy. But he has a one track mind at all times. Despite the fact that he’s constantly thinking about sex, he’s not a one-dimensional character by any stretch of the imagination. I loved every time he piped up from the background because he left me hysterical, even if Curtis and Luc just rolled their eyes and ignored him as best they could.
The secondary characters are also fascinating. They end up becoming larger pieces of a twisted puzzle, so while I want to share more about them, I won’t. I’ll leave them to you to discover.
I cannot wait for the next book in the series. Seriously. I loved this book so much I actually want to write fanfiction for it. Heck, I want to see a movie or a TV series with these characters. I would watch it over and over and over and…you get the point.
If you’re a fan of demons, vampires, wizards, paranormal fiction, mysteries, thrillers, stories set in Canada, or a combination of the previously mentioned, do yourself a favor and check this book out!
Reviewed by Jennifer for The Novel Approach Reviews
June 7, 2016
This is the first full-length novel featuring ‘Nathan Burgoine’s paranormal triad: Luc the vampire, Anders the demon, and Curtis the wizard. In this world, paranormal creatures must form groups of three (or more) in order to be safe from other creatures, and those groups are usually of one kind: three vampires, three demons, etc. In previous short stories, Luc, Anders and Curtis—each alone and vulnerable—formed a connection with each other that started out as solely an act of desperation, but has developed into something more like friendship.
This was a well-woven tale, meshing storylines from each member of the triad into a cohesive whole. The pacing was excellent, the mystery kept me turning the pages, and I loved the depth of the world ‘Nathan has created here. The characters are also very well developed and individual, but complementary, too. Luc is the old soul, so to speak; Curtis is the intellectual; and Anders is as daring and rakish as you’d expect a demon to be.
I especially appreciated that the book felt Canadian. There’s always something really special about a book set in your home town. Being able to visualize the area being described in words brings you that much deeper into the story. ‘Nathan did a great job of incorporating the culture and presence of Ottawa into the story seamlessly. (Also, I giggled that Curtis lived in the same general neighbourhood that my hero of Her Sexy Sentinel lived in…clearly there’s something magical about the Rideau Canal area.)
I will note that this book was more on the urban fantasy side of things rather than romance. I’m hoping that the relationship between Luc, Anders and Curtis develops further in future books. They have a good foundation for it now!
This was a well-woven tale, meshing storylines from each member of the triad into a cohesive whole. The pacing was excellent, the mystery kept me turning the pages, and I loved the depth of the world ‘Nathan has created here. The characters are also very well developed and individual, but complementary, too. Luc is the old soul, so to speak; Curtis is the intellectual; and Anders is as daring and rakish as you’d expect a demon to be.
I especially appreciated that the book felt Canadian. There’s always something really special about a book set in your home town. Being able to visualize the area being described in words brings you that much deeper into the story. ‘Nathan did a great job of incorporating the culture and presence of Ottawa into the story seamlessly. (Also, I giggled that Curtis lived in the same general neighbourhood that my hero of Her Sexy Sentinel lived in…clearly there’s something magical about the Rideau Canal area.)
I will note that this book was more on the urban fantasy side of things rather than romance. I’m hoping that the relationship between Luc, Anders and Curtis develops further in future books. They have a good foundation for it now!
September 5, 2017
Everything I have read by Nathan Burgoine is superb, and "Triad Blood" is no exception. Burgoine's short stories are delightful, but his first two novels have really shown us what he can do....and it only leaves you wanting more.
"Triad Blood" involves characters you may have met in Burgoine's short stories (I think they have featured in five) but even if you haven't read those, you will not have any difficulty. This story quickly brings you up to speed with the situation without feeling strained.
I was captured by the story immediately and was swept up very quickly. The story follows a good pace and all three characters are given their due. The story moves through the three viewpoints without being clunky or off-putting.
I adore this book. I adore Curtis, Luc, and Anders. Of course I like Curtis the best since he likes Firefly, but all three characters are fully developed. The play between the three is wonderful and Burgoine writes a few very steamy "interactions" as well.
I took a few days to finish this because I knew when I finished I would be disappointed. And I was...because now I have to wait for Burgoine to write the next book.
"Triad Blood" involves characters you may have met in Burgoine's short stories (I think they have featured in five) but even if you haven't read those, you will not have any difficulty. This story quickly brings you up to speed with the situation without feeling strained.
I was captured by the story immediately and was swept up very quickly. The story follows a good pace and all three characters are given their due. The story moves through the three viewpoints without being clunky or off-putting.
I adore this book. I adore Curtis, Luc, and Anders. Of course I like Curtis the best since he likes Firefly, but all three characters are fully developed. The play between the three is wonderful and Burgoine writes a few very steamy "interactions" as well.
I took a few days to finish this because I knew when I finished I would be disappointed. And I was...because now I have to wait for Burgoine to write the next book.
June 26, 2019
Triad Blood is the first thing I have read written by Nathan Burgoine and I was impressed.
I would categorize this book under Paranormal GBT Erotica. On the average I do not typically read more than 1-2 a year from that category because it can be hard to connect with the characters. The book summary pulled me in immediately and I was not disappointed!
The storyline itself is great. Three individuals , each from different "origins", come together to create a bad ass "family". The story follows along after the three main characters, Luc, Anders, & Curtis, have come together (look for the prequel
). The other paranormal groups in Ottawa are threatened by their growing power and repeatedly try to eradicate them.
The characters are hilarious and each play an important role in their undefined relationship. The sex is hot and the innuendos are numerous.
I recommend this to anyone that likes a good paranormal mystery with hot sex sprinkled throughout.
I would categorize this book under Paranormal GBT Erotica. On the average I do not typically read more than 1-2 a year from that category because it can be hard to connect with the characters. The book summary pulled me in immediately and I was not disappointed!
The storyline itself is great. Three individuals , each from different "origins", come together to create a bad ass "family". The story follows along after the three main characters, Luc, Anders, & Curtis, have come together (look for the prequel
). The other paranormal groups in Ottawa are threatened by their growing power and repeatedly try to eradicate them.The characters are hilarious and each play an important role in their undefined relationship. The sex is hot and the innuendos are numerous.
I recommend this to anyone that likes a good paranormal mystery with hot sex sprinkled throughout.
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