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Handsome Death
I'm not hunting him; I'm protecting him.
At least, that's what I tell myself.
In New York City, a beautiful creature like Tristan Clement should not be walking the streets alone, and I'm the perfect vampire to watch his back.
But what if keeping him safe isn't enough anymore? What if I want to touch? And taste?
I need him. But I've never needed anyone.
---------------
In a world where paranormal creatures live amongst us and must follow certain laws, living life as a dangerous loner works for vampire Ethan. Inhabiting his gleaming apartment, wearing his designer suits, jetting around the world as a fanged killer-for-hire, Ethan does it all alone.
That is, until he literally runs into Tristan. Tristan, who is clearly trouble wrapped in skinny jeans and an oversized sweater. Tristan, with his shock of angelic blond curls. Tristan, who plays piano more beautifully than the old masters-- and Ethan would know; he saw Beethoven.
Tristan is gorgeous, a little sassy, and irresistible. Also, Ethan is horrified to note, Tristan has no idea how incredibly tempting he is to things that go bump in the night.
Overcome by the urge to keep Tristan safe, Ethan begins to... well, stalk is such a strong word. What starts as an obsession quickly becomes something more, something that Ethan needs. And to his surprise, Tristan seems to need him, too...
This darkly romantic tale delivers steamy passion and a happily ever after. Be advised that Handsome Death includes explicit m/m content, stalking, mentions of past abuse, and graphic violence.
At least, that's what I tell myself.
In New York City, a beautiful creature like Tristan Clement should not be walking the streets alone, and I'm the perfect vampire to watch his back.
But what if keeping him safe isn't enough anymore? What if I want to touch? And taste?
I need him. But I've never needed anyone.
---------------
In a world where paranormal creatures live amongst us and must follow certain laws, living life as a dangerous loner works for vampire Ethan. Inhabiting his gleaming apartment, wearing his designer suits, jetting around the world as a fanged killer-for-hire, Ethan does it all alone.
That is, until he literally runs into Tristan. Tristan, who is clearly trouble wrapped in skinny jeans and an oversized sweater. Tristan, with his shock of angelic blond curls. Tristan, who plays piano more beautifully than the old masters-- and Ethan would know; he saw Beethoven.
Tristan is gorgeous, a little sassy, and irresistible. Also, Ethan is horrified to note, Tristan has no idea how incredibly tempting he is to things that go bump in the night.
Overcome by the urge to keep Tristan safe, Ethan begins to... well, stalk is such a strong word. What starts as an obsession quickly becomes something more, something that Ethan needs. And to his surprise, Tristan seems to need him, too...
This darkly romantic tale delivers steamy passion and a happily ever after. Be advised that Handsome Death includes explicit m/m content, stalking, mentions of past abuse, and graphic violence.
257 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 10, 2020
278 people are currently reading
861 people want to read
About the author
Sara Dobie Bauer
56 books367 followersBestselling romance author.
Green witch.
Feminist. Pro-choice. Anti-censorship.
Timothee Chalamet freak.
Horror movie aficionado.
Vampire mermaid in a past life.
Sara Dobie Bauer somehow survived her party-hard college years at Ohio University to earn a creative writing degree. She lives with her precious Pit Bull in Northeast Ohio, although she’d really like to live in a Tim Burton film.
Green witch.
Feminist. Pro-choice. Anti-censorship.
Timothee Chalamet freak.
Horror movie aficionado.
Vampire mermaid in a past life.
Sara Dobie Bauer somehow survived her party-hard college years at Ohio University to earn a creative writing degree. She lives with her precious Pit Bull in Northeast Ohio, although she’d really like to live in a Tim Burton film.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 234 reviews
April 15, 2020
DNF at 20%. This was bad. So much telling, and neither of these MCs are likable.
This was one cliche after another of bad romance novels.
This was one cliche after another of bad romance novels.
nope
April 11, 2020DNF @ 2%
Was I rash in my judgement of this NTMA?
No.
I was being schooled from the get go by all things vampire instead of seeing how this AU plays out on its own.
Also, this writer presented me with my MAJOR PET PEEVE IN PARANORMAL BOOKS from the first sentences: A creature that has been living for hundreds of years has a completely modern, contemporary speech/inner monologue pattern. I CANNOT STAND THIS!!!!
So. It’s not the story but the WRITING STYLE that made me DROP THIS BOOK LIKE A HOT POTATO.
Too bad. The cover, blurb, and premise drew my attention.
My rec? If my pet peeve is not yours, this may work for you.
Was I rash in my judgement of this NTMA?
No.
I was being schooled from the get go by all things vampire instead of seeing how this AU plays out on its own.
Also, this writer presented me with my MAJOR PET PEEVE IN PARANORMAL BOOKS from the first sentences: A creature that has been living for hundreds of years has a completely modern, contemporary speech/inner monologue pattern. I CANNOT STAND THIS!!!!
So. It’s not the story but the WRITING STYLE that made me DROP THIS BOOK LIKE A HOT POTATO.
Too bad. The cover, blurb, and premise drew my attention.
My rec? If my pet peeve is not yours, this may work for you.
February 19, 2021
I get really fucking annoyed when authors don't bother doing even the simplest research before putting something in a book.
The name Siobhan is not difficult to pronounce once you know it. It's Shivaun. Shiv-fucking-awn. Not See-oh-bawn or Sy-a-bone or, as Ethan so eloquently put it, "Sio-something-Irish". SHIIIIVAAWWWN. If you want people to take you seriously, maybe learn how to fucking Google something as simple as name pronunciation.
Furthermore, you're telling me that a 267-year-old vampire has never heard the name Siobhan before? Right.🙄
Speaking of Ethan, why did his personality ping pong back and forth like a goddamn...ping pong ball?! He's jealous and broody, he's accommodating and sweet, oh, back to jealous and broody. And the way she completely neutered him? Like Tristan's dick is some kind of magical mood stabilizer. Ethan's modern speech patterns didn't ring true to the character at all, either. Show me a centuries-old antisocial vampire who would use the word "dude".
And Tristan. She really should have just named the character Bella Swan since that's basically who he was. He was so beautiful, but unaware and unassuming, feisty but sweet, heart of gold, a special vampire who doesn't want to bite anyone and can't even bring himself to kill the man who nearly killed him because he's just filled with so much fucking sunshine. He mastered advanced vampire skills by instinct alone and is unparalleled on the piano, his music transcends space and time and makes Ethan worship at the altar of all that is.... ✨TRISTAN✨.
To top it off, this shit is fucking boring. I quit about halfway through and read several other books, only forcing myself to finish this one when I couldn't find anything else.
I don't think I'll bother reading anything from this author again.
The name Siobhan is not difficult to pronounce once you know it. It's Shivaun. Shiv-fucking-awn. Not See-oh-bawn or Sy-a-bone or, as Ethan so eloquently put it, "Sio-something-Irish". SHIIIIVAAWWWN. If you want people to take you seriously, maybe learn how to fucking Google something as simple as name pronunciation.
Furthermore, you're telling me that a 267-year-old vampire has never heard the name Siobhan before? Right.🙄
Speaking of Ethan, why did his personality ping pong back and forth like a goddamn...ping pong ball?! He's jealous and broody, he's accommodating and sweet, oh, back to jealous and broody. And the way she completely neutered him? Like Tristan's dick is some kind of magical mood stabilizer. Ethan's modern speech patterns didn't ring true to the character at all, either. Show me a centuries-old antisocial vampire who would use the word "dude".
And Tristan. She really should have just named the character Bella Swan since that's basically who he was. He was so beautiful, but unaware and unassuming, feisty but sweet, heart of gold, a special vampire who doesn't want to bite anyone and can't even bring himself to kill the man who nearly killed him because he's just filled with so much fucking sunshine. He mastered advanced vampire skills by instinct alone and is unparalleled on the piano, his music transcends space and time and makes Ethan worship at the altar of all that is.... ✨TRISTAN✨.
To top it off, this shit is fucking boring. I quit about halfway through and read several other books, only forcing myself to finish this one when I couldn't find anything else.
I don't think I'll bother reading anything from this author again.
June 3, 2020
This was just Ok. You are basically given the entire plot at the beginning of the book, the rest of the book is watching it play out.
The characters weren't all that likable as other reviewers have said. Tristan was just so angelic that it got on my nerves, Ethan's inner monologue got tiring fast as well. There was no twist there was no angst, the book went in the same average pace as it did in the beginning.
The characters weren't all that likable as other reviewers have said. Tristan was just so angelic that it got on my nerves, Ethan's inner monologue got tiring fast as well. There was no twist there was no angst, the book went in the same average pace as it did in the beginning.
February 19, 2020
Oh what a book !!! I really enjoyed reading, it was such a pleasure.
I love good vampire stories, unfortunately I am so bored by most of them due to constant repetitions and tons of relationship trouble. This is finally a story that convinced me completely.
This book is so charming, romantic, humorous and full of excitement and love, its a beautiful feel-good book that made me happy, it does not require any unnecessary drama or annoying interpersonal conflicts.
Sara just knows how to tell stories. The writing is beautiful. The detailed, lively and warm-hearted writing style constantly gives me the feeling of authenticity.
The story is told from Ethan's point of view, but Tris is not neglected because his personality is wonderfully expressed through body language, dialogues and reactions. Both of them grew very close to my heart and were completely convincing and credible for me. They are profound characters which will stay in my mind for a long time.
Tris and Ethan are incredibly sympathetic, multi-layered men with a strong personality. Due to their multifaceted nature, there are some unexpected twists in which they gain even more depth. It was so nice to read how they open up to each other and reveal more and more of themselves over the course of the story.
It is so obvious, that the author really loves her characters and that's something that makes this book really special. The center of the book are the characters, their development, their relationship, their love.
I particularly liked that Tris is not the typical, helpless, little victim. He has a strong will and is such a lovely person with his rough edges and his awesome tender and empathetic personality. He has his own dark past, he is so hurt and vulnerable, but he never acted like a damsel in distress.
Ethan is not the classic vampire macho asshole, it is wonderful to read how much Tris means to him. I love how he gradually come to terms with it and admit his feelings, he loves Tris and shows him that. There is no annoying push and pull.
The story is full of wonderful character developement. It is very touchingly described how Tris gains more and more self-esteem and I was very happy about all the empathy in this book. The two have a wonderful connection and its clearly noticeable what they mean to each other.
Sara is so talented and good with words, she finds absolutely coherent terms and descriptions, images are immediately created which make me feel what is happening. Such skill naturally also gives the erotic scenes an unique quality, they are particularly sensual. I loved the steamy scenes so much! Absolutely beautifully written. Just fabulous without becoming overly vulgar. The two have an amazing chemistry, just passionate and freaking hot, desperate. There is so much sexual tension, tenderness, cuddles, respect, cherishing... god I LOVE it.
I adored this universe and Sara's interpretation of vampires, avoiding clichés, charming new ideas...
Highly recommended.
My ARC was kindly provided by the author in exchange for a honest, unbiased review.
I love good vampire stories, unfortunately I am so bored by most of them due to constant repetitions and tons of relationship trouble. This is finally a story that convinced me completely.
This book is so charming, romantic, humorous and full of excitement and love, its a beautiful feel-good book that made me happy, it does not require any unnecessary drama or annoying interpersonal conflicts.
Sara just knows how to tell stories. The writing is beautiful. The detailed, lively and warm-hearted writing style constantly gives me the feeling of authenticity.
The story is told from Ethan's point of view, but Tris is not neglected because his personality is wonderfully expressed through body language, dialogues and reactions. Both of them grew very close to my heart and were completely convincing and credible for me. They are profound characters which will stay in my mind for a long time.
Tris and Ethan are incredibly sympathetic, multi-layered men with a strong personality. Due to their multifaceted nature, there are some unexpected twists in which they gain even more depth. It was so nice to read how they open up to each other and reveal more and more of themselves over the course of the story.
It is so obvious, that the author really loves her characters and that's something that makes this book really special. The center of the book are the characters, their development, their relationship, their love.
I particularly liked that Tris is not the typical, helpless, little victim. He has a strong will and is such a lovely person with his rough edges and his awesome tender and empathetic personality. He has his own dark past, he is so hurt and vulnerable, but he never acted like a damsel in distress.
Ethan is not the classic vampire macho asshole, it is wonderful to read how much Tris means to him. I love how he gradually come to terms with it and admit his feelings, he loves Tris and shows him that. There is no annoying push and pull.
The story is full of wonderful character developement. It is very touchingly described how Tris gains more and more self-esteem and I was very happy about all the empathy in this book. The two have a wonderful connection and its clearly noticeable what they mean to each other.
Sara is so talented and good with words, she finds absolutely coherent terms and descriptions, images are immediately created which make me feel what is happening. Such skill naturally also gives the erotic scenes an unique quality, they are particularly sensual. I loved the steamy scenes so much! Absolutely beautifully written. Just fabulous without becoming overly vulgar. The two have an amazing chemistry, just passionate and freaking hot, desperate. There is so much sexual tension, tenderness, cuddles, respect, cherishing... god I LOVE it.
I adored this universe and Sara's interpretation of vampires, avoiding clichés, charming new ideas...
Highly recommended.
My ARC was kindly provided by the author in exchange for a honest, unbiased review.
March 26, 2020
MMy Thoughts and Review:
Handsome Death was a pleasure trip down a dark alley. It could have so easily veered into the dark dank shadows, where scary inhibitions reside. Instead it floated just close enough that the mist from the shadows left a coolness on my skin.
This is not the typical vampire, "I vant twue dwink vyour vlood," story. In fact, lose the sexy as sin nearly three centuries old killing machine, (no Ethan isn't unstable as a vamp, he's a gun, errr...fang for hire), and this is just a beautifully romantic guy meets guy/ stalker/ mercenary/ billionaire love story, with a few dark edges. Ethan was unstable once, but he's grown up, by a few hundred years, since then. **giggle...
Now Ethan has his eyes on a new target, and his only desire is to protect him. Okay that's not entirely true, as he would definitely like to maybe taste him, but that's all. Mmmm, okay maybe not all, because when this beautiful man who laughs with his entire body, and smiles from his very soul, and looks in Ethan's eyes like he's known him forever, Ethan has to make sure forever happens. Even if turning humans is against the law, and even if this gorgeous musician with the magical fingers seems guarded, Ethan is powerless against the pull Tristan's soul has on his. Turns out, Tristan is just as powerless and the two men come together changing, evolving into one soul in two bodies. A gratifying testament to the author's ability to create enchantment and beauty among darkness.
I loved this love story. Word of warning, don't start reading before bed or you may hear the cock come morning.😇
4.50 beautifully-harmonious-stars🌟🌟🌟🌟•🌟
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.🍀
Handsome Death was a pleasure trip down a dark alley. It could have so easily veered into the dark dank shadows, where scary inhibitions reside. Instead it floated just close enough that the mist from the shadows left a coolness on my skin.
This is not the typical vampire, "I vant twue dwink vyour vlood," story. In fact, lose the sexy as sin nearly three centuries old killing machine, (no Ethan isn't unstable as a vamp, he's a gun, errr...fang for hire), and this is just a beautifully romantic guy meets guy/ stalker/ mercenary/ billionaire love story, with a few dark edges. Ethan was unstable once, but he's grown up, by a few hundred years, since then. **giggle...
Now Ethan has his eyes on a new target, and his only desire is to protect him. Okay that's not entirely true, as he would definitely like to maybe taste him, but that's all. Mmmm, okay maybe not all, because when this beautiful man who laughs with his entire body, and smiles from his very soul, and looks in Ethan's eyes like he's known him forever, Ethan has to make sure forever happens. Even if turning humans is against the law, and even if this gorgeous musician with the magical fingers seems guarded, Ethan is powerless against the pull Tristan's soul has on his. Turns out, Tristan is just as powerless and the two men come together changing, evolving into one soul in two bodies. A gratifying testament to the author's ability to create enchantment and beauty among darkness.
I loved this love story. Word of warning, don't start reading before bed or you may hear the cock come morning.😇
4.50 beautifully-harmonious-stars🌟🌟🌟🌟•🌟
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.🍀
April 13, 2020
Ethan and Tristan
Ethan, our handsome vampire, is obsessed with Tristan, a beautiful young guy, a very talented musician.
They run into each other at the coffee shop, that was the first time Ethan saw Tristan, and now, he follows him everywhere and it seems Tristan is attracted to Ethan too.
Tristan is sweet, sensual and when his whispers Ethan’s name... ghawd
Ethan is like a puppy, following Tristan everywhere. He can’t say no to Tristan.
“He pouts, and it’s cuter than fifty kittens.”
When doom enters Tristan’s life Ethan is there, always.
“I might be a seasoned warrior, but I’m his slave.”
The little touches of imperfection were sooo precious.
They are highly sexually together, never repetitive, always delicious.
I loved this very romantic, sensual story very!
Written with an awesomely positive vibe, with lots of romantic, witty and delightful humor.
Ethan, our handsome vampire, is obsessed with Tristan, a beautiful young guy, a very talented musician.
They run into each other at the coffee shop, that was the first time Ethan saw Tristan, and now, he follows him everywhere and it seems Tristan is attracted to Ethan too.
Tristan is sweet, sensual and when his whispers Ethan’s name... ghawd
Ethan is like a puppy, following Tristan everywhere. He can’t say no to Tristan.
“He pouts, and it’s cuter than fifty kittens.”
When doom enters Tristan’s life Ethan is there, always.
“I might be a seasoned warrior, but I’m his slave.”
The little touches of imperfection were sooo precious.
They are highly sexually together, never repetitive, always delicious.
I loved this very romantic, sensual story very!
Written with an awesomely positive vibe, with lots of romantic, witty and delightful humor.
Read
June 17, 2021I've been trying to get back to reading this for a month now but still not gotten longer than 20%. It might be time to give up.
February 24, 2020
Okay Ethan, I say stalking, you say protecting. When Ethan first lays eyes on Tristan, to say he is smitten is an understatement. Ethan is a mercenary and enjoys, needs, to kill to sate his blood thirstiness. Tristan is a college student that is kind of floating through life. He also has a thing for vampires. His self-esteem was destroyed by his ex, I loved how he stood up to him and put him in his place when they cross paths later in the book. We have a journey of these two growing to know each other and falling in love. When Tristan is fatally injured Ethan doesn’t hesitate to turn him, which is against the law & is considered murder. They make a cute couple and the sex was scorching hot.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 12, 2020
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is an intense, sexy read. An ancient, conscienceless vampire hitman finds himself stalking a beautiful young musician around New York City. With every encounter, Ethan finds himself more obsessed with Tristan - but Tristan’s humanity forces him to keep his distance.
This is gothic melodrama at its most extreme. Every emotion is heightened, every glance and gesture dissected and every interaction scrutinised. The men are beautiful and the angst is overwhelming. They speak in meaningful, almost poetic emotional outbursts. The sex is alternatively a sacred, almost spiritual experience and a kinky, debased and rather bloody obsession for Ethan and Tristan.
So many popular tropes are thrown into this relatively short novel. Beyond the ancient vampire taught to feel again storyline, Ethan plays into the billionaire romance cliches and Tristan is a little bit Anastasia Steele in his world. But Ethan also plays into military, black ops and law enforcement tropes with his job.
Readers who love sexy OTT romance against all odds will love this one. Readers who want a hint of realism and readers who expect solid, well edited writing probably won’t love this as much. This is light, easy entertainment but I’m not sure it offers readers anything fresh, meaningful or memorable.
This is an intense, sexy read. An ancient, conscienceless vampire hitman finds himself stalking a beautiful young musician around New York City. With every encounter, Ethan finds himself more obsessed with Tristan - but Tristan’s humanity forces him to keep his distance.
This is gothic melodrama at its most extreme. Every emotion is heightened, every glance and gesture dissected and every interaction scrutinised. The men are beautiful and the angst is overwhelming. They speak in meaningful, almost poetic emotional outbursts. The sex is alternatively a sacred, almost spiritual experience and a kinky, debased and rather bloody obsession for Ethan and Tristan.
So many popular tropes are thrown into this relatively short novel. Beyond the ancient vampire taught to feel again storyline, Ethan plays into the billionaire romance cliches and Tristan is a little bit Anastasia Steele in his world. But Ethan also plays into military, black ops and law enforcement tropes with his job.
Readers who love sexy OTT romance against all odds will love this one. Readers who want a hint of realism and readers who expect solid, well edited writing probably won’t love this as much. This is light, easy entertainment but I’m not sure it offers readers anything fresh, meaningful or memorable.
July 23, 2021
3,5 / 5
Also, the french typo pissed me off
Also, the french typo pissed me off
April 10, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
Handsome Death follows some familiar vampire tropes and, while it’s characters are stronger than most in the genre, it succumbs to overall pacing and plot issues. Ethan is fairly well established and I felt from the start I knew who this character was and what his motivations were. He evolves throughout the book and, while some of those changes are overly saccharine, for the most part they’re believable. There’s never any doubt that Ethan’s nickname of The French Butcher is earned honestly and his character has an edginess that I enjoyed. Tristan is harder to understand and his character doesn’t have quite as much depth as Ethan’s. He still reads as fully fleshed though and his reluctance/desire to be with Ethan is well developed.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
Handsome Death follows some familiar vampire tropes and, while it’s characters are stronger than most in the genre, it succumbs to overall pacing and plot issues. Ethan is fairly well established and I felt from the start I knew who this character was and what his motivations were. He evolves throughout the book and, while some of those changes are overly saccharine, for the most part they’re believable. There’s never any doubt that Ethan’s nickname of The French Butcher is earned honestly and his character has an edginess that I enjoyed. Tristan is harder to understand and his character doesn’t have quite as much depth as Ethan’s. He still reads as fully fleshed though and his reluctance/desire to be with Ethan is well developed.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
January 13, 2022
3⭐️ I liked the first 50% of this book. It had a good plot and the writing was decent.
Brooding, loner vampire Ethan meets a beautiful college student, Tristan, in a coffee shop and becomes completely obsessed. He wants Tristan but he knows he’s a danger to the fragile human so he decides to stalk his whole life instead. It’s moody and angsty. A little slow and surprisingly light for a stalker book… but I still enjoyed it.
However, The second half of the book really fell flat for me; like the story peaked way too early and I just stopped caring. The last 100 pages was mostly fluff, kinky sex, and epilogue.
Brooding, loner vampire Ethan meets a beautiful college student, Tristan, in a coffee shop and becomes completely obsessed. He wants Tristan but he knows he’s a danger to the fragile human so he decides to stalk his whole life instead. It’s moody and angsty. A little slow and surprisingly light for a stalker book… but I still enjoyed it.
However, The second half of the book really fell flat for me; like the story peaked way too early and I just stopped caring. The last 100 pages was mostly fluff, kinky sex, and epilogue.
May 7, 2020
Halfway there for me ... enjoyed parts, found others a little more predictable. I was in with a mindset of dark, gritty & stalking - I got a much lighter version of that.
March 14, 2023
If you worry the trigger warnings mean this book is a lot in the blood and gore department, be at peace. The disturbing content is kept at a minimum. It does kind of leave you with the feeling that you walked into the fastest roller coaster ever just to get a regular nice roller coaster. Fast and fun, but I expected extreme.
I was constantly perplexed by this one. Outside of "romance", it has very little in the way of direction. So we could technically get to a satisfactory end by the time the book is 50% but as the book is halfway through there must be something more, but what? That last half is a constant "ok but now what?", with new events unfolding that, while they make sense for the character development and closure. The fact that we get what could be considered a climax halfway through in any other vampire book just makes the second half a bit confusing. It's nice and makes sense, but you don't keep expecting more when more is still coming.
I was constantly perplexed by this one. Outside of "romance", it has very little in the way of direction. So we could technically get to a satisfactory end by the time the book is 50% but as the book is halfway through there must be something more, but what? That last half is a constant "ok but now what?", with new events unfolding that, while they make sense for the character development and closure. The fact that we get what could be considered a climax halfway through in any other vampire book just makes the second half a bit confusing. It's nice and makes sense, but you don't keep expecting more when more is still coming.
Read
September 8, 2021DNF
I put this book on hold for too long
No rating
I put this book on hold for too long
No rating
April 15, 2020
Not as dark and gritty as I was imagining. Honestly, besides all the martyrdom early-on; it was pretty light. A little too light tbh. Everything falls into place too perfectly and very quickly - with copious amounts of sex in between.
I’d say grab this one if you’re just wanting a sexy story you don’t have to think too hard about.
I’d say grab this one if you’re just wanting a sexy story you don’t have to think too hard about.
April 14, 2020
April 11-14
I'm not hunting him; I'm protecting him.
At least, that's what I tell myself.
In New York City, a beautiful creature like Tristan Clement should not be walking the streets alone, and I'm the perfect vampire to watch his back.
But what if keeping him safe isn't enough anymore? What if I want to touch? And taste?
I need him. But I've never needed anyone.
---------------
In a world where paranormal creatures live amongst us and must follow certain laws, living life as a dangerous loner works for vampire Ethan. Inhabiting his gleaming apartment, wearing his designer suits, jetting around the world as a fanged killer-for-hire, Ethan does it all alone.
That is, until he literally runs into Tristan. Tristan, who is clearly trouble wrapped in skinny jeans and an oversized sweater. Tristan, with his shock of angelic blond curls. Tristan, who plays piano more beautifully than the old masters-- and Ethan would know; he saw Beethoven.
Tristan is gorgeous, a little sassy, and irresistible. Also, Ethan is horrified to note, Tristan has no idea how incredibly tempting he is to things that go bump in the night.
Overcome by the urge to keep Tristan safe, Ethan begins to... well, stalk is such a strong word. What starts as an obsession quickly becomes something more, something that Ethan needs. And to his surprise, Tristan seems to need him, too...
This darkly romantic tale delivers steamy passion and a happily ever after. Be advised that Handsome Death includes explicit m/m content, stalking, mentions of past abuse, and graphic violence.
Review: This book was so enjoyable this is a vampire male male romance and I loved it . This is about Tris and Ethan in a world where vampires and Humans coexist. Ethan likes Tris a human and starts stalking him . They end up talking and Ethan gets to know him that Tris is in school for music . Ethan is a hired killer to kill bad people. Tris and Ethan start hooking up and Ethan loves Tris but doesn't want to admit it so he ends it . But then something bad happens Tris gets stabbed and Ethan turns Tris to a vampire . They are happy Ethan shows how much he loves Tris how much he matters to him since Tris was once in an abusive relationship with a dick who tried to make Tris feel small. Tris and Ethan run into the man who tried to kill Ethan and they turn him in . And the guy is going to serve his time Ethan is considering joining the force . Ethan wants to make friends with some vampires so they go to a blood club where Ethan and Tris run into Robert the abusive asshole and Tris makes him apologize to him. Then this vampire hits on Ethan and Tris pushes him away from Ethan . Then three years later they are engaged and they are both happy Ethan is captain in police and Tris is a piano player I enjoyed this book a lot it was a fun book very dark and sexy.
Quotes :
We also have reflections (thank God; how would I do my hair?) and can be seen on camera.
“I do love you,” I whisper. “And I haven’t loved anyone in a long, long time
I’m turning Tris into a vampire right here, right now,
Maybe we don’t know we’re missing something until we find it.
I'm not hunting him; I'm protecting him.
At least, that's what I tell myself.
In New York City, a beautiful creature like Tristan Clement should not be walking the streets alone, and I'm the perfect vampire to watch his back.
But what if keeping him safe isn't enough anymore? What if I want to touch? And taste?
I need him. But I've never needed anyone.
---------------
In a world where paranormal creatures live amongst us and must follow certain laws, living life as a dangerous loner works for vampire Ethan. Inhabiting his gleaming apartment, wearing his designer suits, jetting around the world as a fanged killer-for-hire, Ethan does it all alone.
That is, until he literally runs into Tristan. Tristan, who is clearly trouble wrapped in skinny jeans and an oversized sweater. Tristan, with his shock of angelic blond curls. Tristan, who plays piano more beautifully than the old masters-- and Ethan would know; he saw Beethoven.
Tristan is gorgeous, a little sassy, and irresistible. Also, Ethan is horrified to note, Tristan has no idea how incredibly tempting he is to things that go bump in the night.
Overcome by the urge to keep Tristan safe, Ethan begins to... well, stalk is such a strong word. What starts as an obsession quickly becomes something more, something that Ethan needs. And to his surprise, Tristan seems to need him, too...
This darkly romantic tale delivers steamy passion and a happily ever after. Be advised that Handsome Death includes explicit m/m content, stalking, mentions of past abuse, and graphic violence.
Review: This book was so enjoyable this is a vampire male male romance and I loved it . This is about Tris and Ethan in a world where vampires and Humans coexist. Ethan likes Tris a human and starts stalking him . They end up talking and Ethan gets to know him that Tris is in school for music . Ethan is a hired killer to kill bad people. Tris and Ethan start hooking up and Ethan loves Tris but doesn't want to admit it so he ends it . But then something bad happens Tris gets stabbed and Ethan turns Tris to a vampire . They are happy Ethan shows how much he loves Tris how much he matters to him since Tris was once in an abusive relationship with a dick who tried to make Tris feel small. Tris and Ethan run into the man who tried to kill Ethan and they turn him in . And the guy is going to serve his time Ethan is considering joining the force . Ethan wants to make friends with some vampires so they go to a blood club where Ethan and Tris run into Robert the abusive asshole and Tris makes him apologize to him. Then this vampire hits on Ethan and Tris pushes him away from Ethan . Then three years later they are engaged and they are both happy Ethan is captain in police and Tris is a piano player I enjoyed this book a lot it was a fun book very dark and sexy.
Quotes :
We also have reflections (thank God; how would I do my hair?) and can be seen on camera.
“I do love you,” I whisper. “And I haven’t loved anyone in a long, long time
I’m turning Tris into a vampire right here, right now,
Maybe we don’t know we’re missing something until we find it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2020
I was super excited to read this book after reading the synopsis. I hadn't read too much traditional paranormal romance lately and I like a good vampire story every once in a while. Unfortunately, I was disappointed with this one.
One of the things that stood out to me right away was the writing style. It is pretty different from writing usually see for the hundreds of year old vampire characters and while that could have been very interesting, I mostly just found it distracting. I think it could work for others but it just wasn't for me.
The characters were fine but very stereotypical. If you've read some of my other reviews you probably know that I tend to like protective characters. However with this story, I found Ethan to be completely over the top to the point where it crossed into a type of possessiveness that I personally really don't like. I like it more when the characters still have lives outside each other and while these characters have things they do without each other Ethan tries to have so much control over Tris and it's something I don't like. I probably should have seen this coming considering Ethan basically stalked Tris from the very first page.
It also kind of bothered me how Tris was described. Every time he went anywhere, every single other person would stare at him and try to flirt with him and seem to fall in love with him. I just find it a little silly when a character is just preternaturally beautiful to the point where every single person they meet is attracted to them. In fact, I prefer it when a character is just a normal person but the person they're with loves them and gets to know them and over the course of the relationship sees them as more and more beautiful because they love them so much. I think it makes the relationship more impactful.
The writing style makes me hesitant to read more by the author just because I personally didn't mesh with it, but if anyone has recommendations by this author or other paranormal romance, please let me know!
One of the things that stood out to me right away was the writing style. It is pretty different from writing usually see for the hundreds of year old vampire characters and while that could have been very interesting, I mostly just found it distracting. I think it could work for others but it just wasn't for me.
The characters were fine but very stereotypical. If you've read some of my other reviews you probably know that I tend to like protective characters. However with this story, I found Ethan to be completely over the top to the point where it crossed into a type of possessiveness that I personally really don't like. I like it more when the characters still have lives outside each other and while these characters have things they do without each other Ethan tries to have so much control over Tris and it's something I don't like. I probably should have seen this coming considering Ethan basically stalked Tris from the very first page.
It also kind of bothered me how Tris was described. Every time he went anywhere, every single other person would stare at him and try to flirt with him and seem to fall in love with him. I just find it a little silly when a character is just preternaturally beautiful to the point where every single person they meet is attracted to them. In fact, I prefer it when a character is just a normal person but the person they're with loves them and gets to know them and over the course of the relationship sees them as more and more beautiful because they love them so much. I think it makes the relationship more impactful.
The writing style makes me hesitant to read more by the author just because I personally didn't mesh with it, but if anyone has recommendations by this author or other paranormal romance, please let me know!
April 8, 2020
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
I am not one to read vampire stories as a rule, but the blurb for this one drew me in, and I am certainly glad that I got to read it. I should add that I am not a novice to the genre, just don't often engage, so I am aware of the general paranormal issues.
I enjoyed reading about Ethan and Tris, and how love somehow conquered all the problems between them. And for me, the biggest problem was most definitely Ethan's somewhat understandable reluctance, given the centuries of experience that he has behind him. However Tristan is so beguiling to him, that he cannot help but be drawn to him. The dance that they engage in is both fun, frustrating and frenetic. It is most definitely passionate, and ultimately very romantic.
I do think that it could have been a little tighter, there were times when I felt that the too and fro was unnecessary, and even the intimate moments didn't always draw the story forward, but I was curious as to what was going to happen next. Overall it was very much a drama running inside Ethan's head, and once that was overcome, then it was all about introducing Tris to his new reality. I think that the fact that the world was aware of its paranormal elements worked well.
I am not one to read vampire stories as a rule, but the blurb for this one drew me in, and I am certainly glad that I got to read it. I should add that I am not a novice to the genre, just don't often engage, so I am aware of the general paranormal issues.
I enjoyed reading about Ethan and Tris, and how love somehow conquered all the problems between them. And for me, the biggest problem was most definitely Ethan's somewhat understandable reluctance, given the centuries of experience that he has behind him. However Tristan is so beguiling to him, that he cannot help but be drawn to him. The dance that they engage in is both fun, frustrating and frenetic. It is most definitely passionate, and ultimately very romantic.
I do think that it could have been a little tighter, there were times when I felt that the too and fro was unnecessary, and even the intimate moments didn't always draw the story forward, but I was curious as to what was going to happen next. Overall it was very much a drama running inside Ethan's head, and once that was overcome, then it was all about introducing Tris to his new reality. I think that the fact that the world was aware of its paranormal elements worked well.
June 22, 2021
I loved this book. I am not sure how to write a review without the spoiler tag, as I want to dish about the whole thing! It was sooo good. First, I will try not to be too spoilery...So, first you have the characters, Ethan, the very old vampire who is a mercenary and then you have the very beautiful and musically talented Tristan who is deeply bruised from a rough start to relationships with a terrible boyfriend. So, Ethan believes at first he is just looking out for Tristan in that he watches in waiting to make sure he is safe...well that is bit like a stalker, which Ethan does understand that it is wrong and he shouldn't be doing it. But you know, he doesn't quit, and we are better for it! I loved this about Ethan, he was unapologetic in his pursuit of Tristan, but he also knew when to pull back when he was getting to close, especially after their relationship progressed further. He knew he could not do this long term without breaking laws...Fast forward a tiny bit of separation and Ethan finds Tristan after being stabbed and thus begins their forever love in the form of vampire transformation. This is when it took on a bit of a lighter tone, in that there was no chance of them being parted after such.
I truly enjoyed every aspect of this read, and while my first by this author, it is only the beginning. The writing was impeccable and the storyline was intriguing. I just adored this book, narration, characters, side characters and storyline. Very well done.
I truly enjoyed every aspect of this read, and while my first by this author, it is only the beginning. The writing was impeccable and the storyline was intriguing. I just adored this book, narration, characters, side characters and storyline. Very well done.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2025
A-Z Challenge Book H
There were times when I thought I’d give this 4 stars, but there were also times that I had to roll my eyes so hard. I liked the two MCs, but I didn’t like how Ethan kept running from Tristan in the beginning. There didn’t seem to be much of a story line – just guy meets guy and they fall in love.
This felt like it was a book that was the foundation of introducing a new series. There was a lot of groundwork laid about the system of how the vampires, werewolves, and witches were to live among the humans. I found it interesting but it was a lot to lay out for just one book.
I had to roll my eyes when Ethan, who is a two hundred seventy-six year old vampire from Europe, had no knowledge of the name Siobhan. Seriously? That’s a pretty common Irish name. Surely he would’ve come into contact or heard of someone with that name in all those years.
Tristan’s parents also seems a bit too accepting of a relationship between their son and a vampire. They made Ethan feel welcome and he needed to feel a part of a family again, but it all seemed too easy. I wanted more danger, more conflict, more…something. The epilogue was so low key and didn’t offer much more than what had already been discussed, so it wasn’t very satisfying.
There were times when I thought I’d give this 4 stars, but there were also times that I had to roll my eyes so hard. I liked the two MCs, but I didn’t like how Ethan kept running from Tristan in the beginning. There didn’t seem to be much of a story line – just guy meets guy and they fall in love.
This felt like it was a book that was the foundation of introducing a new series. There was a lot of groundwork laid about the system of how the vampires, werewolves, and witches were to live among the humans. I found it interesting but it was a lot to lay out for just one book.
I had to roll my eyes when Ethan, who is a two hundred seventy-six year old vampire from Europe, had no knowledge of the name Siobhan. Seriously? That’s a pretty common Irish name. Surely he would’ve come into contact or heard of someone with that name in all those years.
Tristan’s parents also seems a bit too accepting of a relationship between their son and a vampire. They made Ethan feel welcome and he needed to feel a part of a family again, but it all seemed too easy. I wanted more danger, more conflict, more…something. The epilogue was so low key and didn’t offer much more than what had already been discussed, so it wasn’t very satisfying.
December 8, 2020
Tristan is an angelically beautiful human. Ethan is a vampire mercenary, no stranger to murder. Although recently it’s just been bad guys. Ethan is also a stalker of said beautiful man.
In this world, most of the vampire traits don’t apply. Giving Ethan a lot more freedom to be his best vampire. Also it wasn’t very dark. Just two unusual men slowly falling in love. I liked it.
In this world, most of the vampire traits don’t apply. Giving Ethan a lot more freedom to be his best vampire. Also it wasn’t very dark. Just two unusual men slowly falling in love. I liked it.
April 14, 2020
NYU piano prodigy meets centuries old vampire in this (at first) improbable but delicious romance ... Ethan, the vicious vampire mercenary, is captivated by gentle, fragile Tristan -- he wants to possess, protect and take him to the edge, and not necessarily in that order. Tristan is not a simple conquest however, and Ethan must examine his own heretofore solitary existence and practices. This pairing will grab you from the first moment and you won't be able to look away. Highly recommended!
January 21, 2021
4.5 stars
April 10, 2020
The blurb piqued my interest but the book just didn’t pull me in, as much as I’d hoped.
The author focused heavily on Ethan and Tris’s sexual relationship. However, somewhere along the way, I got tired of it and wanted something else getting the focus. The story got a little dry and things felt dragged out. I thought there might be some drama around Ethan turning Tris but was disappointed when nothing much actually happened.
Personally, my favourite part was Tris throwing Henry away from Ethan.
This book was a hit and miss for me. There were things I liked but I wanted more omph - something to draw my interest that didn’t include their sex life.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
The author focused heavily on Ethan and Tris’s sexual relationship. However, somewhere along the way, I got tired of it and wanted something else getting the focus. The story got a little dry and things felt dragged out. I thought there might be some drama around Ethan turning Tris but was disappointed when nothing much actually happened.
Personally, my favourite part was Tris throwing Henry away from Ethan.
This book was a hit and miss for me. There were things I liked but I wanted more omph - something to draw my interest that didn’t include their sex life.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
December 9, 2021
Holy fuck 😱😭 I loved this book so much!
I love vampire stories, and this one was just perfect.
Yes, it has a lot of sex, rough, kinky, steamy too good to be true sex... and yet all that steaminess never took a thing away from the romance in the story. Which honestly is the best thing of reading MM romance books.
A bit of stalking at first, which some sensitive people might whine about, but honestly, it added to the story and it was something so Ethan to do.
I loved both MC, and the author managed to actually show us how they evolved both as individuals and as a couple in less than 300 pages.
Most of all, Ethan tugged at my heart so many times I actually ended up trying to choke down a few sobs, he's a complete sweetheart desperate for love and meaning and warmth, hidden under centuries of carnage, cruelty, detachment, misery and loss. So much he didn't even realized how much he needed those things until Tris stumbled into his life.
Definitely into my top 10 books of this year so far.
I love vampire stories, and this one was just perfect.
Yes, it has a lot of sex, rough, kinky, steamy too good to be true sex... and yet all that steaminess never took a thing away from the romance in the story. Which honestly is the best thing of reading MM romance books.
A bit of stalking at first, which some sensitive people might whine about, but honestly, it added to the story and it was something so Ethan to do.
I loved both MC, and the author managed to actually show us how they evolved both as individuals and as a couple in less than 300 pages.
Most of all, Ethan tugged at my heart so many times I actually ended up trying to choke down a few sobs, he's a complete sweetheart desperate for love and meaning and warmth, hidden under centuries of carnage, cruelty, detachment, misery and loss. So much he didn't even realized how much he needed those things until Tris stumbled into his life.
Definitely into my top 10 books of this year so far.
July 26, 2020
4 stars
Handsome Death
by Sara Dobie Bauer
257 pages
Published by Carnation Books
4.10.20
******************************************************
This was a cute book featuring one of my favorite mythical creatures-the vampire.
Ethan is content to fulfill what he believes is his destiny-to kill people and to be alone. Then he runs into this adorable Tristan who can see the good in Ethan. Although Tristan doesn’t just accept Ethan right away. But Ethan, himself, has self-esteem issues, so the two must figure out how to make this work.
This story is not without flaws. I wish there was more character development in the beginning of the book. A reader cannot become fully invested in characters’ lives if they don’t get the know them.
But I enjoyed this book overall, by this new-to-me author.
Handsome Death
by Sara Dobie Bauer
257 pages
Published by Carnation Books
4.10.20
******************************************************
This was a cute book featuring one of my favorite mythical creatures-the vampire.
Ethan is content to fulfill what he believes is his destiny-to kill people and to be alone. Then he runs into this adorable Tristan who can see the good in Ethan. Although Tristan doesn’t just accept Ethan right away. But Ethan, himself, has self-esteem issues, so the two must figure out how to make this work.
This story is not without flaws. I wish there was more character development in the beginning of the book. A reader cannot become fully invested in characters’ lives if they don’t get the know them.
But I enjoyed this book overall, by this new-to-me author.
April 18, 2020
A surprising book because it's a fairly simple romance between a vampire mercenary and a human pianist. Light drama and only a hint of angst. At no point in time did SDB ever use the terms "fated" or "mates" which I greatly appreciate as it shows that there is a way to write a love story starring a paranormal character without having to grab at those terms, even if the set up is pretty much the same thing. Ethan, vamp/merc, coincidentally runs into/saves Tristan, human/pianist and thereafter can't seem to forget him. One part gore, ten parts erotic encounters, a hint of comedy that lightens the bdsm/kink aspect. Overall, a pleasing read and not too repetitive with the bedroom scenes.
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