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Sons of Rome #2
Red Rooster
In New York City, a string of increasingly-grisly murders leads Detective Trina Baskin, and her newly-immortal partner, Lanny, to a frightening facility with designs on studying all the immortals they can get their hands on. When one of their own is abducted, they’ll have to rely on dangerous new allies, plunged into a world they can barely believe exists…much less survive.
In a tiny town in Wyoming, a girl on the run and her self-appointed protector can’t afford to sit still for too long, and they definitely can’t accept the help of kind strangers. Ruby Russell has the kind of talent that turns heads, and draws powerful enemies. Her gifts are not her own, and the people who made her want her back.
In the second subbasement of a manor house outside Roanoke, a centuries-old Wallachian prince goes walking in his dreams. Guardian angel? Or beautiful liar? The people he visits will soon learn, because like it or not, they’re being drawn to his prison.
All roads lead to Virginia in the second novel of Lauren Gilley’s Sons of Rome series. Dark paranormal fantasy brimming with richly-drawn characters, and steeped in history, Red Rooster continues the adventure that began in book one, White Wolf.
In a tiny town in Wyoming, a girl on the run and her self-appointed protector can’t afford to sit still for too long, and they definitely can’t accept the help of kind strangers. Ruby Russell has the kind of talent that turns heads, and draws powerful enemies. Her gifts are not her own, and the people who made her want her back.
In the second subbasement of a manor house outside Roanoke, a centuries-old Wallachian prince goes walking in his dreams. Guardian angel? Or beautiful liar? The people he visits will soon learn, because like it or not, they’re being drawn to his prison.
All roads lead to Virginia in the second novel of Lauren Gilley’s Sons of Rome series. Dark paranormal fantasy brimming with richly-drawn characters, and steeped in history, Red Rooster continues the adventure that began in book one, White Wolf.
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First published March 29, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
April 10, 2021
So, I want to say that RED ROOSTER was everything I loved about WHITE WOLF but better but that would sort've be a lie as what I loved, or fell in love with, in book one was mostly due to the WWII era setting and history. And we have none of that in book two. We were pretty much all contemporary instead of past, with everyone having caught up to current events (in this world, I think it’s 2017? which makes sense based on publication) and all the chaos that is ensuing as a result of what came before.
"Is everybody gonna turn into [a vampire]? Is this like the plague or something? Shit — is this I Am Legend? Fuck, I knew it."
I'll admit, the one couple I wasn't liking in book one, I'm still not loving, but there are plenty of others, and even more characters in general, that it's not a big deal. And when I say more characters, like.. there's a bunch. And we had a whole host of new introductions in this installment that had me immediately texting the friends who recommended this series to me and.. (not so) quietly losing my mind. There are even more familiar names popping up in this world and oh man was it hysterical and weird and amazing.
"I'm super disappointed about [this]. All the vampire movies make it out like you get all sparkly, and irresistible and shit. Women just throw themselves at you, you know? And here I am, same old chump with a broken nose."
Despite some grittier elements, I feel like this might not have been as dark an installment. But it was definitely just as fun and just as funny, and at times hella heartbreaking, and yeah I'm so trash for the characters and for a few of the couples. And one that I'm still waiting on to happen! Like.. it's so good, so sweet, so pure, as it is but.. I want more.
"The world's broken a thousand times. [..] It always breaks, and stupid people always die trying to keep it from breaking, and it always mends itself in the end. I can live through that. I have. But I won't live without him."
This is a series that I feel needs a lot more attention and while I was reluctant to recommend it after book one, I think as a result of being more than satisfied by book two that I need to start pushing this on more friends. So, hey, if you're not afraid of long books, love paranormal universes, and ensemble casts, you should take a look-see at this series. Particularly as the kindle prices are dirt cheap. You really can't lose here. Huge page counts, tons of excitement, less than the cost of a coffee? Get on it!
4.5 stars
----
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
"Is everybody gonna turn into [a vampire]? Is this like the plague or something? Shit — is this I Am Legend? Fuck, I knew it."
I'll admit, the one couple I wasn't liking in book one, I'm still not loving, but there are plenty of others, and even more characters in general, that it's not a big deal. And when I say more characters, like.. there's a bunch. And we had a whole host of new introductions in this installment that had me immediately texting the friends who recommended this series to me and.. (not so) quietly losing my mind. There are even more familiar names popping up in this world and oh man was it hysterical and weird and amazing.
"I'm super disappointed about [this]. All the vampire movies make it out like you get all sparkly, and irresistible and shit. Women just throw themselves at you, you know? And here I am, same old chump with a broken nose."
Despite some grittier elements, I feel like this might not have been as dark an installment. But it was definitely just as fun and just as funny, and at times hella heartbreaking, and yeah I'm so trash for the characters and for a few of the couples. And one that I'm still waiting on to happen! Like.. it's so good, so sweet, so pure, as it is but.. I want more.
"The world's broken a thousand times. [..] It always breaks, and stupid people always die trying to keep it from breaking, and it always mends itself in the end. I can live through that. I have. But I won't live without him."
This is a series that I feel needs a lot more attention and while I was reluctant to recommend it after book one, I think as a result of being more than satisfied by book two that I need to start pushing this on more friends. So, hey, if you're not afraid of long books, love paranormal universes, and ensemble casts, you should take a look-see at this series. Particularly as the kindle prices are dirt cheap. You really can't lose here. Huge page counts, tons of excitement, less than the cost of a coffee? Get on it!
4.5 stars
----
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
July 22, 2021
This was fantastic, possibly even better than the first book. Which says a lot, because I LOVED the 1942 section of White Wolf so much, and this was firmly set in the present day. I spent hours glued to my Kindle, and couldn't put it down for a minute. I've been lucky to read a LOT of great books in my life, but I can't remember the last time I've been so completely engrossed in a story. It was a bit tiring, actually - this feeling that the shit was about to hit the fan, and fast - but more than that, it was AMAZING.
I loved the new characters, and how all the plot threads came together so beautifully in the end, and the building sense of dread for this upcoming evil... but mostly I just loved Sasha, Nikita, and their new pack. And Val. Val stole the show, as always.
I loved the new characters, and how all the plot threads came together so beautifully in the end, and the building sense of dread for this upcoming evil... but mostly I just loved Sasha, Nikita, and their new pack. And Val. Val stole the show, as always.
April 26, 2020
3.75*
Again this book wasn’t the run away 5* read I’d hoped for.
I quickly warmed to Rooster and Red. I already like all the other characters. So I’m not sure why this hasn’t totally won me over.
Straight onto book 3 for me now.
Again this book wasn’t the run away 5* read I’d hoped for.
I quickly warmed to Rooster and Red. I already like all the other characters. So I’m not sure why this hasn’t totally won me over.
Straight onto book 3 for me now.
April 2, 2018
Amazing book! Lauren Gilley has blown me away with this series and book 2 was just as great if not better than White Wolf!
April 5, 2018
This is the second book in Lauren Gilley's paranormal saga. You will need to read the books in order but you will not be disappointed in the story!
This book picks up right after the first book ends. We have some of the historical flash backs that were in the first book, but most of our time is spent getting to know Red and Rooster. The rest of the time Trina and her family of vamps and wolves are trying to solve mysterious deaths and figure out what the Ingraham Institute has to do with all of this.
Lots of action. Great new characters introduced. I mean, Rob, Tuck, Scarlett..... did not see that coming! As always, this author paints a picture with her words that lets you become so immersed in the story, you loose track of time. So much more to unravel as this story unfolds. I'm a bit intrigued by Val. I think he will be the ally in all of this that the good guys will need in order to win.
Fantastic! Waiting patiently for more!!! Dragon Slayer coming soon!
This book picks up right after the first book ends. We have some of the historical flash backs that were in the first book, but most of our time is spent getting to know Red and Rooster. The rest of the time Trina and her family of vamps and wolves are trying to solve mysterious deaths and figure out what the Ingraham Institute has to do with all of this.
Lots of action. Great new characters introduced. I mean, Rob, Tuck, Scarlett..... did not see that coming! As always, this author paints a picture with her words that lets you become so immersed in the story, you loose track of time. So much more to unravel as this story unfolds. I'm a bit intrigued by Val. I think he will be the ally in all of this that the good guys will need in order to win.
Fantastic! Waiting patiently for more!!! Dragon Slayer coming soon!
April 20, 2025
Well, we get more of Val’s story, sets him up nicely with his brother Vlad.
Seems Vlad isn’t a bad guy and neither is Val. Seems Vlad is simply misunderstood, both are. Can’t see eye to eye. But Vlad is still more of an asshole.
Anywho.
We meet more characters - I don’t care about Jamie, but Red and Rooster are now a thing. We meet Mia, who is Val’s intended Mate I guess. Wonder if Vlad loved his mate once upon a time, maybe too much.
He was Dracula the Impaler after all. And his wife died waiting for his return (I’m recalling all the Dracula legends here).
I suppose that’s enough to make anyone pissed off for eternity. And I think his children also died a horrible death.
There’s a bunch of Robin Hood type characters which I don’t care about. I honestly don’t care much for Trina and Lanny either.
Just Vlad and Val and Nik and Sasha.
Let’s read their books next!
Seems Vlad isn’t a bad guy and neither is Val. Seems Vlad is simply misunderstood, both are. Can’t see eye to eye. But Vlad is still more of an asshole.
Anywho.
We meet more characters - I don’t care about Jamie, but Red and Rooster are now a thing. We meet Mia, who is Val’s intended Mate I guess. Wonder if Vlad loved his mate once upon a time, maybe too much.
He was Dracula the Impaler after all. And his wife died waiting for his return (I’m recalling all the Dracula legends here).
I suppose that’s enough to make anyone pissed off for eternity. And I think his children also died a horrible death.
There’s a bunch of Robin Hood type characters which I don’t care about. I honestly don’t care much for Trina and Lanny either.
Just Vlad and Val and Nik and Sasha.
Let’s read their books next!
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August 11, 2019I'm not going to rate this one yet. I'm at about 50%. I'll try to come back and finish it.
I LOVE this author, but these books are just not grabbing me. The story seems meandering. I'm not sure if that makes sense, but it just seems to go on and on, but then comes back to almost the beginning and then goes on and on again. I'm just not feeling it.
I'll try again ... l a t e r ...
I LOVE this author, but these books are just not grabbing me. The story seems meandering. I'm not sure if that makes sense, but it just seems to go on and on, but then comes back to almost the beginning and then goes on and on again. I'm just not feeling it.
I'll try again ... l a t e r ...
April 17, 2018
I think I wanted more Nikita and Sasha page time, I just missed them so much in this book. I’m not 100% invested in Red and Rooster, but I’m sure I’ll get there. And I absolutely despise what happened to Val. I pray to god he tears them all apart. Ready for the next book.
April 21, 2018
He held his hand out to her across the table. A formal introduction. “Hi, Red. I’m Roger, but all my friends call me Rooster.”
She slid her little hand against his, her skin warmer than it should have been. “Hi.”
“So,” he said, reaching for his coffee again. “You can set stuff on fire, huh? What’s that like?”
I feel so bad about this but life seriously got in the way of this book and it's taken me for-freakin-ever to finish it. I can’t even remember the last time it took me this long to finish a book I actually enjoyed and a Lauren Gilley book at that! Shame on me.
And I did enjoy this. A lot. True to form, Lauren Gilley delivers a multi-facetted, character driven story with lots of action and a splash of humor. I've said it before and I'll say it again: this author could write in ones and zeros and I'd still find it fascinating. Really looking forward to book 3!
September 30, 2018
I finished this book late last night, or I guess really early this morning. This book put me through the wringer and I loved every moment of it. I had just finished White Wolf(book 1) prior to starting this so everything was so fresh in my mind. I was glad to be back with this family of characters and be introduced to new ones, especially Red and Rooster. I love this world of werewolves, vampires and mages. The scene at Trina’s family home was so powerful and I felt so many emotions for Nikita. I love how Lauren gifts us with these characters that stay with us even after the stories end. I am anxiously awaiting book 3!
Side note, I don’t think I’ve ever rooted harder for a couple to get together than I am for Sasha and Nikita! 😍🐺
Side note, I don’t think I’ve ever rooted harder for a couple to get together than I am for Sasha and Nikita! 😍🐺
April 4, 2018
Gilley builds on her historical paranormal world with book 2 of the series set in present day but with historical figures (and there are some doozies!).
Readers are introduced to more characters, specifically the mage needed for the triumvirate (vampire, wolf, mage). The plot advances slowly as the author takes time with character development. The last quarter of the book is where the puzzle pieces of the story begin to slot into place to give rise to the bigger picture of the WHY of all these characters.
Overall, I really like the way this series is taking shape. I feel like there is still a long way to go as I still was left with many questions (specifically about the coming "war").
Readers are introduced to more characters, specifically the mage needed for the triumvirate (vampire, wolf, mage). The plot advances slowly as the author takes time with character development. The last quarter of the book is where the puzzle pieces of the story begin to slot into place to give rise to the bigger picture of the WHY of all these characters.
Overall, I really like the way this series is taking shape. I feel like there is still a long way to go as I still was left with many questions (specifically about the coming "war").
July 2, 2019
This is an absolutely amazing paranormal series. Such an epic read with layered stories and histories. Excellent characters!
Book two starts with the Ingraham institute running drug trials on disabled war vets. We’re introduced to “Rooster”, badly physically disabled Iraq war vet who is turned down for the possible drug trial, but is followed home by institute escapee, “Red.” Together, they are on the run from Dr. Talbot, whom we met in the first book.
Nikita, Sasha, and Trina are dealing with Lanny’s turning by Alexei and trying to help his other victim, young Jamie when a fresh batch of grisly murders are discovered in Lanny’s apartment building.
Vlad is awake and working with the evil Dr. Talbot, preparing for “what’s coming.” Valerian is still locked in the basement of the institute, becoming friends with Annabel and trying to assist Trina as best he can through apparitions.
Things turn up a notch and a new set of players are introduced in this one. We also get deeper with Valerian, our ultimate anti-hero. Multiple POV’s, but they’re done well so it’s never confusing.
And now we wait for book 3...
Book two starts with the Ingraham institute running drug trials on disabled war vets. We’re introduced to “Rooster”, badly physically disabled Iraq war vet who is turned down for the possible drug trial, but is followed home by institute escapee, “Red.” Together, they are on the run from Dr. Talbot, whom we met in the first book.
Nikita, Sasha, and Trina are dealing with Lanny’s turning by Alexei and trying to help his other victim, young Jamie when a fresh batch of grisly murders are discovered in Lanny’s apartment building.
Vlad is awake and working with the evil Dr. Talbot, preparing for “what’s coming.” Valerian is still locked in the basement of the institute, becoming friends with Annabel and trying to assist Trina as best he can through apparitions.
Things turn up a notch and a new set of players are introduced in this one. We also get deeper with Valerian, our ultimate anti-hero. Multiple POV’s, but they’re done well so it’s never confusing.
And now we wait for book 3...
January 1, 2020
Great book. It's a round up to 5 stars for me and I still can't put my finger on exactly why. Maybe because the romance is sort of tangential (multiple romances at this point)? At the same time, building relationships is a big theme in the book. Maybe there aren't as many smaller 'win' moments throughout the story (like you might find with Ilona Andrews or Patricia Briggs)? Hmm. But, be all that as it may, Red Rooster is an excellent, well built read. I definitely recommend it and I'm not sure why it doesn't receive more attention.
Quick edit: I should clarify that these books are not in the romance genre. They include romantic relationships but this is really pure urban/paranormal fantasy.
Quick edit: I should clarify that these books are not in the romance genre. They include romantic relationships but this is really pure urban/paranormal fantasy.
June 30, 2019
First things first.
Any series written by this author will be complex and Sons of Rome is more complex than most.
Strengths: Skilled storytelling. There is a deft handling of pace as the story unfolds that is much appreciated. The real brilliance lies in the fact that I'm still not exactly sure what the story is about and I'm still loving the journey.
Weaknesses: Nothing annoying. As always, Lauren Gilley could edit more judiciously but I honestly don't mind reading the extra 100 pages that don't really need to be there. I know they will be well written and only add to the complexity.
Any series written by this author will be complex and Sons of Rome is more complex than most.
Strengths: Skilled storytelling. There is a deft handling of pace as the story unfolds that is much appreciated. The real brilliance lies in the fact that I'm still not exactly sure what the story is about and I'm still loving the journey.
Weaknesses: Nothing annoying. As always, Lauren Gilley could edit more judiciously but I honestly don't mind reading the extra 100 pages that don't really need to be there. I know they will be well written and only add to the complexity.
January 19, 2022
Dragged on.
I’m not liking the way she writes women.
And the men are idiots. And who cares about the Romanovs?
I’m going to read reviews of the subsequent books to find out what happens.
I talk more about the series under spoiler tags in my review of book 1.
If you have fallen into this series, and are loving every moment, have at it.
BUT READ REVIEWS/CWs FOR BOOK 3
I’m not liking the way she writes women.
And the men are idiots. And who cares about the Romanovs?
I’m going to read reviews of the subsequent books to find out what happens.
I talk more about the series under spoiler tags in my review of book 1.
If you have fallen into this series, and are loving every moment, have at it.
BUT READ REVIEWS/CWs FOR BOOK 3
April 18, 2018
5 Stars
Fantastic! I don’t even know where to start on this review I have just been walking around my house aimlessly trying to decompose LOL. I loved all the characters and the way this author brings them all together in the end. From about 85% on my adrenaline was through the roof and a series of OMG’s were falling out of my mouth. I know everyone loves Nik & Sasha (I mean how could you not right?) But I loved Rooster just as much and VAL …I absolutely ADORE VAL! Without giving up too much I will just say I want to wrap my arms around him and just take care of the poor misunderstood vamp! I don’t know how much he must endure but I can’t wait till book three comes out and praying he gets some happy! This series is perfection so far and I am so devoted to it at this point. It’s a MUST READ!
Fantastic! I don’t even know where to start on this review I have just been walking around my house aimlessly trying to decompose LOL. I loved all the characters and the way this author brings them all together in the end. From about 85% on my adrenaline was through the roof and a series of OMG’s were falling out of my mouth. I know everyone loves Nik & Sasha (I mean how could you not right?) But I loved Rooster just as much and VAL …I absolutely ADORE VAL! Without giving up too much I will just say I want to wrap my arms around him and just take care of the poor misunderstood vamp! I don’t know how much he must endure but I can’t wait till book three comes out and praying he gets some happy! This series is perfection so far and I am so devoted to it at this point. It’s a MUST READ!
March 21, 2020
On my God was that good!! 5+ stars and my top favorite of 2020 so far. This is definitely one of my favorite series. The feels were intense and my heart was in my throat for most of the book. Rooster and Red - amazing new characters. Not sure how I feel about DeShawn and the "group" he works for - that was a little much, even for me. Always love Nikita and Sasha and Trina and Lanny have grown on me quite a bit.
I can't wait to start book 3 and find out what's going on with poor Val. I despise Vlad right now.
I can't wait to start book 3 and find out what's going on with poor Val. I despise Vlad right now.
July 30, 2021
4.25 stars
Better paced than the first book, but with the same sloppy editing. I can overlook the editing though, because I really did enjoy this one. Three separate storylines all converging at the end in a bit of a nail biting climax. I have my fave characters (I mean, who couldn't love Nik and Sasha) and I'm hoping for good things in the next book with my dark horse, Val (my dude needs a friend!). I have some theories as to what might happen next so we'll see if I'm right. On to the next one!
One thing before I go which I will put in a spoiler box:
Better paced than the first book, but with the same sloppy editing. I can overlook the editing though, because I really did enjoy this one. Three separate storylines all converging at the end in a bit of a nail biting climax. I have my fave characters (I mean, who couldn't love Nik and Sasha) and I'm hoping for good things in the next book with my dark horse, Val (my dude needs a friend!). I have some theories as to what might happen next so we'll see if I'm right. On to the next one!
One thing before I go which I will put in a spoiler box:
June 17, 2018
Amazing. Great writing. Wonderful story. love how historical facts are interwoven in the story line. So many shockers and revolations. Loved it all.......BTW I hate Vlad. 😤😤
April 4, 2018
The depth of imagination here astounds me- even the addition of Robin Hood & Friar Tuck just made me sigh... I love Lauren Gilley.
May 25, 2019
Sign
There isn't much to say. I just wished it didn't seem all over the place. I don't have high hopes for book 3, but I'll read it because I bought it.
There isn't much to say. I just wished it didn't seem all over the place. I don't have high hopes for book 3, but I'll read it because I bought it.
July 13, 2018
This is coming from s girl who "doesn't do" paranormal/fantasy:
Soooo... I just found my favorite book of 2018. Might as well just stop reading now because nothing else will compare.
Crap, Lauren Gilley... are YOU a mage? Because you write pure magic.
Let's focus on the good, the bad, and the ugly:
The good- the characters and their continual development. They grow and change on every page. Even the secondary and tertiary characters are dynamic. That takes work and skill, and I acknowledge and appreciate it. I adore how the good and bad are not black and white, and she exposes that humanity in the characters. Nikita is a hero, but he's not all good. Vlad is a villain (I think?!), but he's got a story and emotions just like the rest of us. Val... he's this hated being, but I love him. Did I just say that? I love Val the brother killer. What is Gilley doing to me?!
The bad- I sincerely hoped for more of Katya's story. I feel like she just got dropped in White Wolf, and I was invested in her. I wanted to see some of her life post-Nikita. That may make a good novella (hint hint).
Aaaand... that's it. That's all the gripe or criticism I can muster.
The ugly- the way I felt when I finished Red Rooster and realized I have to wait until October for more. I was legitimately angry. I want it now. Also listed under things that made me angry- Val's treatment. I'm feeling ragey all over again. I have a feeling Dragon Slayer isn't going to calm me down much in that regard. Something tells me Val's had quite the tortured life and Lauren is going to lay it all out for us. I'll be ready.
Soooo... I just found my favorite book of 2018. Might as well just stop reading now because nothing else will compare.
Crap, Lauren Gilley... are YOU a mage? Because you write pure magic.
Let's focus on the good, the bad, and the ugly:
The good- the characters and their continual development. They grow and change on every page. Even the secondary and tertiary characters are dynamic. That takes work and skill, and I acknowledge and appreciate it. I adore how the good and bad are not black and white, and she exposes that humanity in the characters. Nikita is a hero, but he's not all good. Vlad is a villain (I think?!), but he's got a story and emotions just like the rest of us. Val... he's this hated being, but I love him. Did I just say that? I love Val the brother killer. What is Gilley doing to me?!
The bad- I sincerely hoped for more of Katya's story. I feel like she just got dropped in White Wolf, and I was invested in her. I wanted to see some of her life post-Nikita. That may make a good novella (hint hint).
Aaaand... that's it. That's all the gripe or criticism I can muster.
The ugly- the way I felt when I finished Red Rooster and realized I have to wait until October for more. I was legitimately angry. I want it now. Also listed under things that made me angry- Val's treatment. I'm feeling ragey all over again. I have a feeling Dragon Slayer isn't going to calm me down much in that regard. Something tells me Val's had quite the tortured life and Lauren is going to lay it all out for us. I'll be ready.
April 3, 2018
Great series starting to develop
The second installment in this series didn't disappoint. This author could write about paint drying on a wall and it would be a page turner that you couldn't put down. Lots of new angles in this book and can't wait to read the next book... Need some Val very soon !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The second installment in this series didn't disappoint. This author could write about paint drying on a wall and it would be a page turner that you couldn't put down. Lots of new angles in this book and can't wait to read the next book... Need some Val very soon !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
October 14, 2019
So ok! 4 days... although not a record for me, it’s been a while since I’ve spent less than a week in a book (between work, kids and life, I barely get 1 hour of reading time before I fall asleep).
So this is to say how good this book is. I literally devoured it. So it picks up after White Wolf (and you have to read White Wolf to understand RR) with the added storyline of Red and Rooster.
This time, the story pace is much faster. I totally enjoyed Rooster, the Marine/Viking hero... I thought I was in love with Nikita, but he got dethroned heh heh...
It was the best part of the story to me. While I appreciated the storyline behind Nikita, Trina and the others, I felt it was a bit rushed. Of course, I also loved Valerian... Could not decide whether he is a villain or a good guy, but he feels like these bad boys you shouldn’t like but can’t help to, know what I mean? And I can’t wait to read on about his little secret and how it will play out....
As a result, I have book 3 of the Sons of Rome, but I think I’ll wait until Book 4 comes out, because I don’t think I’ll handle a cliffhanger well :)
I just discovered Lauren Gilley, but she’s well on her way to become a favorite author!
So this is to say how good this book is. I literally devoured it. So it picks up after White Wolf (and you have to read White Wolf to understand RR) with the added storyline of Red and Rooster.
This time, the story pace is much faster. I totally enjoyed Rooster, the Marine/Viking hero... I thought I was in love with Nikita, but he got dethroned heh heh...
It was the best part of the story to me. While I appreciated the storyline behind Nikita, Trina and the others, I felt it was a bit rushed. Of course, I also loved Valerian... Could not decide whether he is a villain or a good guy, but he feels like these bad boys you shouldn’t like but can’t help to, know what I mean? And I can’t wait to read on about his little secret and how it will play out....
As a result, I have book 3 of the Sons of Rome, but I think I’ll wait until Book 4 comes out, because I don’t think I’ll handle a cliffhanger well :)
I just discovered Lauren Gilley, but she’s well on her way to become a favorite author!
April 16, 2018
:::
Overall Rating :: 4.5 stars
Series :: Book two of the Sons of Rome series.
POV :: Alternating.
Cliffhanger :: Yes-ish.
HEA ::
:::
Lauren Gilley is a master. She weaves these stories, these worlds, tells the stories of the most fascinating characters. And they are so believable, even when I'm reading about vampires and werewolves, it almost feels painful to stop reading. And where I felt as though the first book, White Wolf, was a bit dense, Red Rooster was full of banter, characters really coming into their own (Lanny and Nikita both - although totally different - remind me of Mercy from L.G.'s Lean Dogs series), tons of action, while still providing a ton of meticulous detail and research. I cannot wait to see how this series continues - I'd love to see Val get some vindication. And more Lanny and Trina, please!
Overall Rating :: 4.5 stars
Series :: Book two of the Sons of Rome series.
POV :: Alternating.
Cliffhanger :: Yes-ish.
HEA ::
:::
Lauren Gilley is a master. She weaves these stories, these worlds, tells the stories of the most fascinating characters. And they are so believable, even when I'm reading about vampires and werewolves, it almost feels painful to stop reading. And where I felt as though the first book, White Wolf, was a bit dense, Red Rooster was full of banter, characters really coming into their own (Lanny and Nikita both - although totally different - remind me of Mercy from L.G.'s Lean Dogs series), tons of action, while still providing a ton of meticulous detail and research. I cannot wait to see how this series continues - I'd love to see Val get some vindication. And more Lanny and Trina, please!
April 8, 2018
I LOVED IT.
As always Lauren Gilley has delivered. This book is a perfeft example of why she has become one of my favourite authors. Red Rooster made me love characters that normally would be irredeemable, which is an testament to the quality of this book. The story itself was amazing, intriguing and kept me guessing to the very end. And holy vow, that new band of characters? I LOVE! There was so many little moments with the characters and plot that just made me feel. This is the book of 2018.
As always Lauren Gilley has delivered. This book is a perfeft example of why she has become one of my favourite authors. Red Rooster made me love characters that normally would be irredeemable, which is an testament to the quality of this book. The story itself was amazing, intriguing and kept me guessing to the very end. And holy vow, that new band of characters? I LOVE! There was so many little moments with the characters and plot that just made me feel. This is the book of 2018.
July 15, 2018
Just finished in time to see the football world cup final France v Croatia. Go Les Bleus!
Lauren Gilley’s writing is pure magic. Dark, gritty, gothic, and epic, the Sons of Rome series is a paranormal/supernatural/horror series with a big cast of lovable, complicated characters. Red Rooster picks up right after White Wolf ends. Absolutely thrilling from page one to the last.
“He gave her the world… and then stood against it with her. But it started with a name. She was his Red. And he was her Rooster.”
Lauren Gilley’s writing is pure magic. Dark, gritty, gothic, and epic, the Sons of Rome series is a paranormal/supernatural/horror series with a big cast of lovable, complicated characters. Red Rooster picks up right after White Wolf ends. Absolutely thrilling from page one to the last.
“He gave her the world… and then stood against it with her. But it started with a name. She was his Red. And he was her Rooster.”
August 20, 2018
So good
Lauren Gilley never fails to please. This author always drags me in with her story telling and characters that you believe in and actually want to meet! Her Dartmoor series is one of the best ever and tales of Nik and Sasha are running close behind. Love this book. Love Rooster and little Red. Just hope Val gets his story ... would say I want to give him a hug but that might be too scary!! Can't wait for the next book in the series. Highly recommend this book, it was just fab!
Lauren Gilley never fails to please. This author always drags me in with her story telling and characters that you believe in and actually want to meet! Her Dartmoor series is one of the best ever and tales of Nik and Sasha are running close behind. Love this book. Love Rooster and little Red. Just hope Val gets his story ... would say I want to give him a hug but that might be too scary!! Can't wait for the next book in the series. Highly recommend this book, it was just fab!
April 2, 2019
4.5 stars, knocked off half a star because I feel the sheer number of people introduced, and the corresponding arcs, kept me from getting to know any as well as I like. So much time was spent on Nikita and Sasha in White Wolf— I adore those characters, I know them so well now— just wished I gotten more of that connection with some of the awesome characters introduced in Red Rooster. But. I love Red and Rooster SO MUCH and Val. VAL. He’s setting up to be the favorite of the series I think. Can’t wait for book 3! Love this author ❤️❤️
August 25, 2022
I am in love with this series. I normally get 2 books into a series and start to get bored but Lauren Gilley has managed to create something unique. Each book so far has the same characters from the original while adding new ones and keeping the storyline fresh and moving along. I love Nikita/Sasha, Red/Rooster and all of the other people in this book. I think I actually loved this one more than the 1st. You do need to reach them in order so if you haven't read book #1 go back and read that first! I am starting book 3 and can't wait!
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