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The Templar #4
Famine's Feast
An epidemic is overloading Baltimore hospitals, and this time the vampires are finding themselves susceptible. Those infected are unable to control their hunger, crazed and insatiable no matter how much blood they consume. The timing couldn’t be worse, with a rival Balaj in town for a feast – a rival that would be happy to take advantage of the situation and wrestle control of the Baltimore territory from Dario and his family.
As the Baltimore’s Templar, Aria must find out who – or what – is responsible and stop them, before the entire city is at death’s door, all while prepping for the Halloween ritual to rid herself of a demon’s mark on both her skin and her soul.
As the Baltimore’s Templar, Aria must find out who – or what – is responsible and stop them, before the entire city is at death’s door, all while prepping for the Halloween ritual to rid herself of a demon’s mark on both her skin and her soul.
272 pages, ebook
First published December 16, 2016
133 people are currently reading
184 people want to read
About the author
Debra Dunbar
96 books1,276 followersDebra lives in a little house in the woods in Maryland with three sons, and a Noah’s ark of four legged family members. She has a corporate job during the day, and writes novels at night, after the kids are tucked in bed.
She drives an Excursion affectionately called The Beast, couldn’t carry a tune if you duct taped it to her back, and enjoys an occasional cosmopolitan (heavy on the vodka). On a good day, she jogs and horseback rides, hopefully managing to keep the horse between herself and the ground.
Her only known super power is ‘Identify Roadkill’.
She drives an Excursion affectionately called The Beast, couldn’t carry a tune if you duct taped it to her back, and enjoys an occasional cosmopolitan (heavy on the vodka). On a good day, she jogs and horseback rides, hopefully managing to keep the horse between herself and the ground.
Her only known super power is ‘Identify Roadkill’.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
December 18, 2016
Worth it all for the ending.
I don't like to provide spoilers so I won't say much about the battles for life and limbs when a plague demon manages to infect vampire and human. Or what happens when Aria and Dario finally realize life is better with some adult time. But I will say this - get through the battles and the demons for the last page. Debra Dunbar writes brilliant comedy and this serious has so many dark points (except for grandma) it is hard to remember that. Just know this - the end makes the whole book. And leaves you itching for more as quick as it can be written.
I don't like to provide spoilers so I won't say much about the battles for life and limbs when a plague demon manages to infect vampire and human. Or what happens when Aria and Dario finally realize life is better with some adult time. But I will say this - get through the battles and the demons for the last page. Debra Dunbar writes brilliant comedy and this serious has so many dark points (except for grandma) it is hard to remember that. Just know this - the end makes the whole book. And leaves you itching for more as quick as it can be written.
December 23, 2016
Best book in the series by far.
January 3, 2017
Love this series
I want more. I want more of Dario"s back story, I want Essie"s story too. The characters are so alive that I got to the end of the book and really felt sad that I had to say goodbye until the next book.
I want more. I want more of Dario"s back story, I want Essie"s story too. The characters are so alive that I got to the end of the book and really felt sad that I had to say goodbye until the next book.
May 10, 2019
All of a sudden we (periodically) start hearing Dario’s point of view in the story telling. I’m not sure what brought this on (maybe a ploy to try and force the reader to like the intended leading man?) but we do not need. It’s really unnecessary and hearing his inner workings, I find, is more of a turn off to an already terrible character.
All books up until now- ‘I’m a monster, I’m a monster.’
This book- ‘I do bad things, but I still have humanity and care and stuff.’
Also, what is going on with the whole ‘no underwear’ thing? Because, chapter by chapter, it’s surely becoming a bizarre theme. Not wearing underwear to a volunteer run at a soup kitchen? What was the justification in that? And going on and on about it... (see what I did there?). Yet another disappointment in book four.
Previous instalments had the perfect blend of teased romance. Sure, it was a little cringe at times (ie, all the time) but it was still flirty and ‘forbidden’. It didn’t detract from the storyline. This latest novel appears to focus on the blossoming romance (yuck) first and everything seems to fit around it.
Aria and Dario just don’t do it for me. She’s all ‘nah, I’m a Templar. Don’t bite me I’ll be sullied and God won’t want me anymore. Oh and the dying within 6 months thing too.’
Nek minit, ‘sex me up and bite me. I don’t care if it’s a death sentence. My love for you is so much that I welcome death.’
Meanwhile, old floppy vampire Steve (Dario) has gone from wanting to drain the Templar dry to somehow wanting to keep her as his pet forever and staunchly refusing her pleas to become his dinner.
I’m going to keep reading regardless but will probably roll my eyes and grit my teeth to get through it. I’m a glutton for punishment, what can I say?
In all seriousness, the actual story, beneath the crap, is really good. I’m interested to find out how Aria problem solves and saves the day. I wish that the focus had of been kept to that before introducing the love element.
All books up until now- ‘I’m a monster, I’m a monster.’
This book- ‘I do bad things, but I still have humanity and care and stuff.’
Also, what is going on with the whole ‘no underwear’ thing? Because, chapter by chapter, it’s surely becoming a bizarre theme. Not wearing underwear to a volunteer run at a soup kitchen? What was the justification in that? And going on and on about it... (see what I did there?). Yet another disappointment in book four.
Previous instalments had the perfect blend of teased romance. Sure, it was a little cringe at times (ie, all the time) but it was still flirty and ‘forbidden’. It didn’t detract from the storyline. This latest novel appears to focus on the blossoming romance (yuck) first and everything seems to fit around it.
Aria and Dario just don’t do it for me. She’s all ‘nah, I’m a Templar. Don’t bite me I’ll be sullied and God won’t want me anymore. Oh and the dying within 6 months thing too.’
Nek minit, ‘sex me up and bite me. I don’t care if it’s a death sentence. My love for you is so much that I welcome death.’
Meanwhile, old floppy vampire Steve (Dario) has gone from wanting to drain the Templar dry to somehow wanting to keep her as his pet forever and staunchly refusing her pleas to become his dinner.
I’m going to keep reading regardless but will probably roll my eyes and grit my teeth to get through it. I’m a glutton for punishment, what can I say?
In all seriousness, the actual story, beneath the crap, is really good. I’m interested to find out how Aria problem solves and saves the day. I wish that the focus had of been kept to that before introducing the love element.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2017
Aria ' s adventures continue
Halloween is fast approaching and Aria has a to do list as long as her arm. Despite the many tasks she has to accomplish, the real focus of this book is the developing relationship between Aria and Dario. One of the things I like about this series, beyond the fact that the romantic tension doesn't overtake the plot, is that Aria and Dario don't give up in the face of nearly overwhelming odds. Nor are they blasè or naive about their long term prospects. They realize that any relationship they have will take work and compromise and neither one runs away even when they feel daunted. Also, we get to see part of the story from Dario's perspective which in my opinion gives the story more depth. As usual, the character development and world building are top notch. I can't wait for the next book!
Halloween is fast approaching and Aria has a to do list as long as her arm. Despite the many tasks she has to accomplish, the real focus of this book is the developing relationship between Aria and Dario. One of the things I like about this series, beyond the fact that the romantic tension doesn't overtake the plot, is that Aria and Dario don't give up in the face of nearly overwhelming odds. Nor are they blasè or naive about their long term prospects. They realize that any relationship they have will take work and compromise and neither one runs away even when they feel daunted. Also, we get to see part of the story from Dario's perspective which in my opinion gives the story more depth. As usual, the character development and world building are top notch. I can't wait for the next book!
October 1, 2017
I have been very much enjoying this series. And I think this book, might be my favourite so far? Well, maybe not, but right up there.
I loved the interplay between our heroine and her vampire. I loved the action and the drama in this book - the inclusion of another vampire clan, the demon mark, the rituals, the house move. I do think that this heroine is a little annoying (or maybe a little dumb) in some of her choices (about men, activities, future pursuits and going after bad things that go bump in the night all by herself!), but that said, I do enjoy how this author writes her characters - the sass, the irreverence, the snarkiness, the humour. And i think this book showcased the writers talents very well.
I loved the interplay between our heroine and her vampire. I loved the action and the drama in this book - the inclusion of another vampire clan, the demon mark, the rituals, the house move. I do think that this heroine is a little annoying (or maybe a little dumb) in some of her choices (about men, activities, future pursuits and going after bad things that go bump in the night all by herself!), but that said, I do enjoy how this author writes her characters - the sass, the irreverence, the snarkiness, the humour. And i think this book showcased the writers talents very well.
August 29, 2019
Review
We discover for the first time how Dario began his life.
Aria and Dario's relationship evolves.
A plague strikes both humans and vampires. Is it spread from humans to vampires or vice versa?
Aria meets a Knight Hospitaller, Dr. Wolfram Berenger, who is working to find a cure for the human victims. Can he help the vampires too?
Aria must fight an especially nasty vampire who is trying to take over Dario's Balaj.
She must also work with an unsavory "ally" to end the plague, and perform a ritual to save her soul.
It's all dogs and cats after that.
Great story!
We discover for the first time how Dario began his life.
Aria and Dario's relationship evolves.
A plague strikes both humans and vampires. Is it spread from humans to vampires or vice versa?
Aria meets a Knight Hospitaller, Dr. Wolfram Berenger, who is working to find a cure for the human victims. Can he help the vampires too?
Aria must fight an especially nasty vampire who is trying to take over Dario's Balaj.
She must also work with an unsavory "ally" to end the plague, and perform a ritual to save her soul.
It's all dogs and cats after that.
Great story!
June 6, 2017
One with everything bar werewolves
After book three, which dropped one star for me, Aria's mojo is back as she takes on vampires, demons, and a Mage. Her romance with Dario becomes x-rated, which I wasn't expecting, and could have done with less of the fine detail (I don't like feeling like a voyeur). I do enjoy the added depth given by Aria's wrestling with moral conundrums and the real character growth as she matures in her role as Baltimore's Templar. And I love grandma Essie. She's my role model
After book three, which dropped one star for me, Aria's mojo is back as she takes on vampires, demons, and a Mage. Her romance with Dario becomes x-rated, which I wasn't expecting, and could have done with less of the fine detail (I don't like feeling like a voyeur). I do enjoy the added depth given by Aria's wrestling with moral conundrums and the real character growth as she matures in her role as Baltimore's Templar. And I love grandma Essie. She's my role model
March 12, 2018
Drama
There was a lot of excitement in this book. There were also a lot of changes. War came and left the city in taters. But Aria is always there to stand up against evil to protect Baltimore. This is a must read for the series. Too much happens in this book, and if you skip it, you will be lost. Also, all books must be read in order, since the characters and plot overlap one another. Another hit by the author. I really like both this series and the Imp series. I recommend that you try out the imp series, while waiting for book 5. You will not be disappointed.
There was a lot of excitement in this book. There were also a lot of changes. War came and left the city in taters. But Aria is always there to stand up against evil to protect Baltimore. This is a must read for the series. Too much happens in this book, and if you skip it, you will be lost. Also, all books must be read in order, since the characters and plot overlap one another. Another hit by the author. I really like both this series and the Imp series. I recommend that you try out the imp series, while waiting for book 5. You will not be disappointed.
August 10, 2018
So good, I need another!
I read this author's other 10 book series with demons and Angel's first. This one is at least as enjoyable with unique, gritty characters. The story isn't over, there are loose ends to tie up too. This series has increasingly more plot and action. I loved it and couldn't put it down! I don't know why it's not at least as popular as the other one except that Angel's are so popular. I hope she changes her mind and adds another one. Please!?!
I read this author's other 10 book series with demons and Angel's first. This one is at least as enjoyable with unique, gritty characters. The story isn't over, there are loose ends to tie up too. This series has increasingly more plot and action. I loved it and couldn't put it down! I don't know why it's not at least as popular as the other one except that Angel's are so popular. I hope she changes her mind and adds another one. Please!?!
August 22, 2018
Quite a Ride!
You just cannot go wrong with Debra Dunbar! She is a powerhouse of creativity and literary skill. This one may be my favorite yet in the Templar series. Aria is definitely one Templar with a sword in one hand and serious whoop-ass in the other! Great book!
As Always, I Wish Happy Reads to All from the Unapologetic Book Junkie 😉!
You just cannot go wrong with Debra Dunbar! She is a powerhouse of creativity and literary skill. This one may be my favorite yet in the Templar series. Aria is definitely one Templar with a sword in one hand and serious whoop-ass in the other! Great book!
As Always, I Wish Happy Reads to All from the Unapologetic Book Junkie 😉!
Read
March 1, 2021Aria goes deeper into the world of vampires as she takes a serious shot with Dario. I loved the highs and lows and even the crazy bad that goes on. It was a bit triggering with the encounters with Simon. So beware if you are triggered by sexual violence. This is definitely darker than the other books. The ending was pretty amazing though.
December 1, 2018
Crying and laughing at the same time
The ending had me doing that. I am an animal lover with 5 cats, I love my babies.
This one was a wild ride. Not knowing what to expect at every turn. Just read it to find out what I am talking about.
The ending had me doing that. I am an animal lover with 5 cats, I love my babies.
This one was a wild ride. Not knowing what to expect at every turn. Just read it to find out what I am talking about.
December 4, 2018
Still wonderful
I know that it seems really weird to be reading a book about a Teplar and vampires. However this author is excellent at making people that are real, believable and funny. It’s worth your time to read.
I know that it seems really weird to be reading a book about a Teplar and vampires. However this author is excellent at making people that are real, believable and funny. It’s worth your time to read.
August 30, 2021
Baltimore is overrun by an epidemic and to add to the danger it’s affecting the vampires too. A rival Balaj is threatening Dario and his family and has deadly consequences. Aria also moves to a new apartment on Halloween of all days. Thrills, chills and blood everywhere!
June 27, 2017
3.5 Stars
November 13, 2017
Solid. Nice plot twists, good overarching storyline. 3 1/2, nut upgraded to 4 for a satisfying ending while still leaving enough for the next book.
December 8, 2017
Templars
Great story line. I know the series was four books but I hope there are more. Templars and a sexy vampire. What more do you need? Loved at services.
Great story line. I know the series was four books but I hope there are more. Templars and a sexy vampire. What more do you need? Loved at services.
January 22, 2018
This series started out iffy for me
But it has moved into high gear and I'm addicted to it! Can't wait for the next one! Highly recommended!
But it has moved into high gear and I'm addicted to it! Can't wait for the next one! Highly recommended!
April 28, 2018
Dunbar's Imp series is one of my favorites so I had a lot of hope for this but it was only average.
February 1, 2020
Her best one, yet! Looking forward to the next.
I must say that I've always liked her characters and her story line but her writing has improved dramatically. Well done, Ms. Dunbar!
I must say that I've always liked her characters and her story line but her writing has improved dramatically. Well done, Ms. Dunbar!
February 28, 2020
Not a true 4 stars but much better then the other 3 books and the last page was reason enough to add a star
May 9, 2020
So do good!
Love these books! Such a compelling story. The flawed characters , the love story, and the friendships so well written.
Love these books! Such a compelling story. The flawed characters , the love story, and the friendships so well written.
January 5, 2017
Okay, be warned: I am NOT telling you about the story so either relax, or forget about this review. If you want that - buy the book! Now...
First, let me see - we have steamy sex, a plague demon (who knew of that before this book), a major mage, a "medical Templar," a roving band of nasty vampires, another really major demon, an unexpected ending (sort of, but nothing major), and... I think that's it. Enough for one book, wouldn't you say?
If I had written this review at about 1/2 or 2/3 through, I would have said it deserves a solid 5-star rating. That's down from what I usually want to give a Debra Dunbar book. But this is at the end of the book and once again, Amazon hasn't given enough stars. On a 5-star system, this one deserves at least a 5.5 and probably a 6. It's the ending that gets it there.
As with all of her books, if this is the first one in this series you're looking at, let me encourage you to go back to book 1 of this series and read them all. It will make it somewhat more complete but I have an idea this one might be okay to read as a stand along. Maybe. That's really pure conjecture on my part because I have read them all. And all of her other books. I am a major fan. So do yourself a favor and get involved... you'll be glad you did!
First, let me see - we have steamy sex, a plague demon (who knew of that before this book), a major mage, a "medical Templar," a roving band of nasty vampires, another really major demon, an unexpected ending (sort of, but nothing major), and... I think that's it. Enough for one book, wouldn't you say?
If I had written this review at about 1/2 or 2/3 through, I would have said it deserves a solid 5-star rating. That's down from what I usually want to give a Debra Dunbar book. But this is at the end of the book and once again, Amazon hasn't given enough stars. On a 5-star system, this one deserves at least a 5.5 and probably a 6. It's the ending that gets it there.
As with all of her books, if this is the first one in this series you're looking at, let me encourage you to go back to book 1 of this series and read them all. It will make it somewhat more complete but I have an idea this one might be okay to read as a stand along. Maybe. That's really pure conjecture on my part because I have read them all. And all of her other books. I am a major fan. So do yourself a favor and get involved... you'll be glad you did!
December 25, 2016
Loved the book, it was a great continuation of the series. I love the sarcasm and humor in her dialogue, it is hilariously written. The stories are also always exciting and unpredictable. And short enough that you don't lose yourself for a week, because they can be addicting.
January 21, 2017
Truly funny and a satisfying read
I have been a fan of the series for quite some time. But this book was a cut above the rest. More than anything else the relationship and the growth that that relationship showed felt truly realistic and the fight scenes well, there just amazing. This was a great read and I highly recommend it.
I have been a fan of the series for quite some time. But this book was a cut above the rest. More than anything else the relationship and the growth that that relationship showed felt truly realistic and the fight scenes well, there just amazing. This was a great read and I highly recommend it.
December 27, 2016
Rollercoaster
I've been enjoying this series a lot. This book I couldn't put down. This had funny moments, sad moments, nail biter, and everything in between. Can't wait for the next book
I've been enjoying this series a lot. This book I couldn't put down. This had funny moments, sad moments, nail biter, and everything in between. Can't wait for the next book
February 1, 2017
Another great entry into this series
I really enjoy this authors writing style. Lots of action, appropriate humor, lovely story line, and a great read. I'm looking forward to the next installment.
I really enjoy this authors writing style. Lots of action, appropriate humor, lovely story line, and a great read. I'm looking forward to the next installment.
June 27, 2017
As always I was not disappointed! I'm so excited it seems there will be another books afterall, but I'm really bummed that I have to wait for it!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews