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The Last Vocari #1
Compel Me
I go by Rose. But don’t let the delicate name fool you—I’m all thorns…
The polished metal stakes strapped to my thighs have pierced the hearts of so many vampires I’ve lost count. And after five years I still haven’t found him—the vamp with one blue eye and one brown. The one who slaughtered my mother and left me, a child, to sit screaming in a pool of her still-warm blood.
With any luck, he’ll come to me. You see, I’ve made something of a name for myself with my trade. It seems more and more of the bloodsucking bastards seek to find me every day. Each of them wanting to be the one to say they plucked The Black Rose.
It’s not until a group of three finds me that I think I’ve finally met my match. But these aren’t just any nameless, faceless vamps. I know them. Or, at least, I knew them—when they were still human.
Worst of all, I owe them a debt.
But paying it means I’ll need to face my worst fear… that I may not be entirely human, either
____________________________________________________________________________
Compel Me is the start to a steamy new reverse harem vampire romance from bestselling author, Elena Lawson.
One-Click today, and immerse yourself in a world of supernatural romance, riveting adventure, and shocking twists and turns that will keep you turning the pages until long past your bedtime. Perfect for fans of Vampire Diaries, Patricia Briggs, A Shade of Vampire, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Laurell K. Hamilton, and Jeaniene Frost.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: If you are offended by bad language, turned off by violence, or cringe at adult themes then this series is not for you! If, however, you enjoy a main character who curses like a trucker, stabs first and asks questions later, and isn’t afraid to tell a man exactly what she wants from him, then you’ve found your next read.
The polished metal stakes strapped to my thighs have pierced the hearts of so many vampires I’ve lost count. And after five years I still haven’t found him—the vamp with one blue eye and one brown. The one who slaughtered my mother and left me, a child, to sit screaming in a pool of her still-warm blood.
With any luck, he’ll come to me. You see, I’ve made something of a name for myself with my trade. It seems more and more of the bloodsucking bastards seek to find me every day. Each of them wanting to be the one to say they plucked The Black Rose.
It’s not until a group of three finds me that I think I’ve finally met my match. But these aren’t just any nameless, faceless vamps. I know them. Or, at least, I knew them—when they were still human.
Worst of all, I owe them a debt.
But paying it means I’ll need to face my worst fear… that I may not be entirely human, either
____________________________________________________________________________
Compel Me is the start to a steamy new reverse harem vampire romance from bestselling author, Elena Lawson.
One-Click today, and immerse yourself in a world of supernatural romance, riveting adventure, and shocking twists and turns that will keep you turning the pages until long past your bedtime. Perfect for fans of Vampire Diaries, Patricia Briggs, A Shade of Vampire, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Laurell K. Hamilton, and Jeaniene Frost.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: If you are offended by bad language, turned off by violence, or cringe at adult themes then this series is not for you! If, however, you enjoy a main character who curses like a trucker, stabs first and asks questions later, and isn’t afraid to tell a man exactly what she wants from him, then you’ve found your next read.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 2, 2019
1561 people are currently reading
2308 people want to read
About the author
Elena Lawson
42 books1,641 followersElena lives in Canada with her husband, daughter, and their Siberian cat overlords. She writes dark, why-choose romances full of feisty heroines, unforgettable heroes, and their kindle-melting chemistry.
When she comes out of her writing cave, she can be found binge-watching true-crime shows, obsessively rearranging her bookshelves, or chasing the sun around the globe.
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorlealately
When she comes out of her writing cave, she can be found binge-watching true-crime shows, obsessively rearranging her bookshelves, or chasing the sun around the globe.
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorlealately
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 238 reviews
November 8, 2019
3.5 stars
Not so much high on action with wooden stakes but certainly high in action in the bedroom.
I guess I was in the mood for a fast burn vampire romance.
There was a plot too and a little bit of ass-kicking but the main thing was the romance. It’s sort of a second chance romance. The characters are long lost childhood friends so it’s a ready made relationship.
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There’s also a little MM for those who are into that.
In short I like the characters, I like the Harem, I like Rose ... yea I’ll be picking up book 2
Not so much high on action with wooden stakes but certainly high in action in the bedroom.
I guess I was in the mood for a fast burn vampire romance.
There was a plot too and a little bit of ass-kicking but the main thing was the romance. It’s sort of a second chance romance. The characters are long lost childhood friends so it’s a ready made relationship.
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There’s also a little MM for those who are into that.
In short I like the characters, I like the Harem, I like Rose ... yea I’ll be picking up book 2
February 12, 2020
The story is decently written quite a bit of telling vs showing. But my main issue is how these are supposed to be 3 of her childhood friends. They didn’t really address the emotions behind her feeling like they left her. She basically jumped into bed with them. It was sudden. Then to top this off we still don’t know enough about what is going on. Rose kills vampires but now her 3 bffs are vampires and suddenly being a vampire is ok. She doesn’t try to kill them bc she grew with them and now emotion is involved. I did like how she somewhat addressed what it makes her feel about killing all the vamps who might not have killed people while feeding. The other part about what she is we don’t get any info. We also know there is a bounty on her head, and people are after her. They all leave the boys condo and somehow are found! It’s not fully explained because how the hell did they find her? How about the vamp standing in the middle of the road if they were vamps driving Betty why couldn’t they avoid or come out fine?
The minute we get close the book ends! Like that’s it. She sees the dudes eyes and it’s over. I’m tempted to continue reading, but there wasn’t enough here to carry the story. Especially for the first book.
The minute we get close the book ends! Like that’s it. She sees the dudes eyes and it’s over. I’m tempted to continue reading, but there wasn’t enough here to carry the story. Especially for the first book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2020
Ugh worst book I’ve read so far this year. Started off okay with Rose kicking vampire ass then went down hill from there. She’s supposed to be this badass but as soon as she encounters Frost the first time she completely forgets she’s a vampire hunter. She sleeps with him the second if not the first night she sees him after so many years and finding out he’s a FREAKING vampire. Rose acts like all is right when she’s literally sleeping with the enemy. Just didn’t connect with the MC. I would have thought she’d have needed time to process her childhood friend was something she absolutely loathes. Didn’t feel the chemistry between the love interests. It was really fast paced and didn’t see any character development at all. She went all awkward when she talked to one of the guys most of the time and forgets she’s supposed to be the infamous Black Rose. I would not recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2020
Well, this was completely unexpected.
I anticipated an action packed vampire hunter kick butt heroine who comes across a group of strong sexy vamp guys to back her up, and together they would take down all the evil vampires, with just a smattering of steam. Yep, I was wrong.
Overall, I felt this was light on plot and character development, VERY heavy on sexual encounters. I guess you can classify this as romance, but basically is was mostly sex (of all kinds- male and female, male and male, male-female-male). The audiobook was quick, at about a little over 4.5 hours, and at least 3 hours was sex. I think I would have enjoyed this more if I could have gotten to know the characters better and seen the relationships develop instead of the already formed bonds just with sex added (the main character grew up with these three boys and already had love for them so it just restarted when she saw them after ten years). I think maybe the story needed to be longer so that I could get more details. The audiobook narrator was fantastic and I would love to listen to more books by her, I just don't think I would pick up the rest of this series. I do think this would be perfect for those who are looking for a super steamy menage read with supernatural flair.
I anticipated an action packed vampire hunter kick butt heroine who comes across a group of strong sexy vamp guys to back her up, and together they would take down all the evil vampires, with just a smattering of steam. Yep, I was wrong.
Overall, I felt this was light on plot and character development, VERY heavy on sexual encounters. I guess you can classify this as romance, but basically is was mostly sex (of all kinds- male and female, male and male, male-female-male). The audiobook was quick, at about a little over 4.5 hours, and at least 3 hours was sex. I think I would have enjoyed this more if I could have gotten to know the characters better and seen the relationships develop instead of the already formed bonds just with sex added (the main character grew up with these three boys and already had love for them so it just restarted when she saw them after ten years). I think maybe the story needed to be longer so that I could get more details. The audiobook narrator was fantastic and I would love to listen to more books by her, I just don't think I would pick up the rest of this series. I do think this would be perfect for those who are looking for a super steamy menage read with supernatural flair.
September 5, 2019
Its was ok
It was an OK read, very predictable and easy i don't think I'll bother with the rest of the series It just wasn't really my find of book, i like a little more drama and build up, it made out she was a badass but i just didn't think that she was and the relationship were just too simple n easy
It was an OK read, very predictable and easy i don't think I'll bother with the rest of the series It just wasn't really my find of book, i like a little more drama and build up, it made out she was a badass but i just didn't think that she was and the relationship were just too simple n easy
February 20, 2020
It has potential but in the end it was... Underwhelming. Very little in plot, background or world building. I’m happy it was free via KU.
I wouldn’t recommend the series but will give book 2 a try hopefully the author fulfills the storylines potential. A bit more show & less tell could only benefit the story.
1.5 stars
I wouldn’t recommend the series but will give book 2 a try hopefully the author fulfills the storylines potential. A bit more show & less tell could only benefit the story.
1.5 stars
January 25, 2021
DNF. I couldn’t get into this book. At all. Usually I always finish books. The one sex scene I read was so bland. There was nothing that hooked me to this story. The group of people already knew other, but had been separated for some odd years. Not my thing.
April 8, 2020
Just okay.
Black Rose has an interesting, yet sparse, backstory. Her abilities have made her a target as she hunts for the vampire that killed her mother. After her latest adventure doesn’t quite go to plan, she heads for home where runs into a childhood friend and things snowball from there.
I liked the characters well enough, and the ending was okay (although it, of course, left you right at the cliffhanger). Setting was generic USA, although that may change for future books.
3 stars ⭐️
Black Rose has an interesting, yet sparse, backstory. Her abilities have made her a target as she hunts for the vampire that killed her mother. After her latest adventure doesn’t quite go to plan, she heads for home where runs into a childhood friend and things snowball from there.
I liked the characters well enough, and the ending was okay (although it, of course, left you right at the cliffhanger). Setting was generic USA, although that may change for future books.
3 stars ⭐️
July 2, 2020
Wowza! This story really drew me in from the start. An amazingly strong female lead kicking butts and taking names. Then we see a softer and vulnerable side when she meets up with her best boy friends who she grew up with and lost touch after her mother’s death. The sex scenes were intense and amazing! I can’t wait to continue with this sexy series.
December 7, 2021
Short and steamy RH + a little MM scene. Pretty light on the plot & letting go of getting answers to important questions in favor of sex scenes/ in hopes of getting to the answers...eventually.
August 31, 2019
Compel Me: A Reverse Harem Vampire Romance (The Last Vocari Book 1) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
By: Elena Lawson 5 Stars
******** May Contain Some Spoilers ********
I will try my absolute best to keep spoilers to a minimum or completely out of my review. Sometimes it can be hard to do so.
This book is a must read! The storyline is amazing, I couldn't put it down. Elena wrote one heck of an enthralling storyline. Loved this book! 💜
Rose is our heroine in this series. She is looking for the vampire that killed her mother and almost killed her. Rose is a feisty bada** woman. She returns home and finds her childhood best friends. Frost, Blake, and Ethan are not who they use to be. Rose is still in love with all 3 and they love her. Will their differences work against them or for them? Something happens to Rose at the end causing a cliffhanger. This book is worth reading even with the cliffhanger. 💜💜
•••••• I highly recommend this book/series! ••••••
~~ I have Kindle Unlimited, and I used that service to read this book. ~~
By: Elena Lawson 5 Stars
******** May Contain Some Spoilers ********
I will try my absolute best to keep spoilers to a minimum or completely out of my review. Sometimes it can be hard to do so.
This book is a must read! The storyline is amazing, I couldn't put it down. Elena wrote one heck of an enthralling storyline. Loved this book! 💜
Rose is our heroine in this series. She is looking for the vampire that killed her mother and almost killed her. Rose is a feisty bada** woman. She returns home and finds her childhood best friends. Frost, Blake, and Ethan are not who they use to be. Rose is still in love with all 3 and they love her. Will their differences work against them or for them? Something happens to Rose at the end causing a cliffhanger. This book is worth reading even with the cliffhanger. 💜💜
•••••• I highly recommend this book/series! ••••••
~~ I have Kindle Unlimited, and I used that service to read this book. ~~
January 6, 2020
I often wonder if I should admit to enjoying books like this. But I love to see an unusual relationship dynamic- f/m/m/m Add in my paranormal fascination at the moment and it’s and lot of fun.
My only issue is that this is a first part to a story. Some authors do this to get you to buy the first half and second half independently. Usually charging minimal for the first and more for the second because your appetite has been wet (pun intended). I must admit this is a pet peeve of mine and if I didn’t have kindle unlimited I’d be frustrated.
Anyways, it’s an interesting story with lots of Descriptive sex, violence and differing personalities. Which is good in a story like this. Three different men in the relationship with the lead. You know, not just by physical description, which is which as they each have their own quirks and interests. Like I said, fun & fascinating.
My only issue is that this is a first part to a story. Some authors do this to get you to buy the first half and second half independently. Usually charging minimal for the first and more for the second because your appetite has been wet (pun intended). I must admit this is a pet peeve of mine and if I didn’t have kindle unlimited I’d be frustrated.
Anyways, it’s an interesting story with lots of Descriptive sex, violence and differing personalities. Which is good in a story like this. Three different men in the relationship with the lead. You know, not just by physical description, which is which as they each have their own quirks and interests. Like I said, fun & fascinating.
September 24, 2020
I really don’t like vampire books. I do really like strong FMCs.
Damn this girl just takes what she wants. Refreshing.
The dudes being vamps I’m unclear about my feelings, as the relationships there started before the story which I don’t really dig.
Also the whole “you’re super rare and you have tits” thing, ugh, I’m really sick of it. Every freaking RH is the same. Like unique backstory or personality sure yes go ahead. But the ‘freak of nature’ or ‘last of your species’ thing has been done to death. Especially when it’s the FMC and because she’s a woman they get even more sexist or protective.
Honestly, I think I just read this because she was like a female Dean Winchester (Supernatural). Otherwise, meh. It wasn’t bad it was just trite.
3 stars, B, or 72%
Damn this girl just takes what she wants. Refreshing.
The dudes being vamps I’m unclear about my feelings, as the relationships there started before the story which I don’t really dig.
Also the whole “you’re super rare and you have tits” thing, ugh, I’m really sick of it. Every freaking RH is the same. Like unique backstory or personality sure yes go ahead. But the ‘freak of nature’ or ‘last of your species’ thing has been done to death. Especially when it’s the FMC and because she’s a woman they get even more sexist or protective.
Honestly, I think I just read this because she was like a female Dean Winchester (Supernatural). Otherwise, meh. It wasn’t bad it was just trite.
3 stars, B, or 72%
January 5, 2024
Book: Compel Me
Read By: Ebook
Author: Elena Lawson
Genre: Fantasy, Reverse Harem, Romance
Recommend: Yes
< b>Age recommendation: 18-30+ Years
My feelings:
From the very first sentence, we are thrust into the dangerous and exhilarating world of Rose, a fierce and capable protagonist on a mission to avenge her mother's death at the hands of a vampire.
“Rose,” Ethan said, the tops of his ears pink, his steeped tea eyes flitting low before he managed to drag them back to my face. I thought he was staring at my breasts but realized with a jolt and a sinking feeling that he was actually looking at my scar. I’d never seen him with short hair, but it suited him. The honey blonde color was the same, though, and it still curled up in the front, even though it was only three inches long on the top.
Her voice is dynamic and captivating, drawing me in as I eagerly devoured each page, unable to put the book down until the very end. Frost, one of Rose's closest childhood friends, is introduced early on as a charming playboy to everyone else but a gentle teddy bear towards Rose.
Blake was the first to move in, eagerly taking me into his arms, my hardened breasts pressing against the soft material of his clean black suit jacket. He looked so different, and then yet so much the same, too. With dark brown hair that bordered on being black and those gray eyes set into a face that would make angels jealous. With those cheekbones and that dimple in his chin. The sharp line of his freshly shaven jaw. I could feel the muscle rippling beneath my embrace. Could see the start of coiling black tattoos peaking up from his collar and jutting out from his jacket cuffs.
But their chosen profession of killing vampires does not go unnoticed, and soon they find themselves with a target on their backs. As they navigate through steamy encounters that keep readers on the edge of their seats, it becomes clear that there is more than just friendship between Rose and Frost.
“I’ve taken her blood,” Frost told Blake, and I realized he hadn’t shared that part of our intimacy until now. Blake gaped at Frost. Was that jealousy I saw in his eyes?
Their relationship adds depth and complexity to the story without overshadowing the thrilling plot. As the four friends reunite and things seem to be going smoothly, trouble catches up with them and forces them to retreat. But in this world of danger, nothing goes according to plan…
Why on earth would I want to kill the last living pure-blooded Vocari?”
Read By: Ebook
Author: Elena Lawson
Genre: Fantasy, Reverse Harem, Romance
Recommend: Yes
< b>Age recommendation: 18-30+ Years
My feelings:
From the very first sentence, we are thrust into the dangerous and exhilarating world of Rose, a fierce and capable protagonist on a mission to avenge her mother's death at the hands of a vampire.
“Rose,” Ethan said, the tops of his ears pink, his steeped tea eyes flitting low before he managed to drag them back to my face. I thought he was staring at my breasts but realized with a jolt and a sinking feeling that he was actually looking at my scar. I’d never seen him with short hair, but it suited him. The honey blonde color was the same, though, and it still curled up in the front, even though it was only three inches long on the top.
Her voice is dynamic and captivating, drawing me in as I eagerly devoured each page, unable to put the book down until the very end. Frost, one of Rose's closest childhood friends, is introduced early on as a charming playboy to everyone else but a gentle teddy bear towards Rose.
Blake was the first to move in, eagerly taking me into his arms, my hardened breasts pressing against the soft material of his clean black suit jacket. He looked so different, and then yet so much the same, too. With dark brown hair that bordered on being black and those gray eyes set into a face that would make angels jealous. With those cheekbones and that dimple in his chin. The sharp line of his freshly shaven jaw. I could feel the muscle rippling beneath my embrace. Could see the start of coiling black tattoos peaking up from his collar and jutting out from his jacket cuffs.
But their chosen profession of killing vampires does not go unnoticed, and soon they find themselves with a target on their backs. As they navigate through steamy encounters that keep readers on the edge of their seats, it becomes clear that there is more than just friendship between Rose and Frost.
“I’ve taken her blood,” Frost told Blake, and I realized he hadn’t shared that part of our intimacy until now. Blake gaped at Frost. Was that jealousy I saw in his eyes?
Their relationship adds depth and complexity to the story without overshadowing the thrilling plot. As the four friends reunite and things seem to be going smoothly, trouble catches up with them and forces them to retreat. But in this world of danger, nothing goes according to plan…
Why on earth would I want to kill the last living pure-blooded Vocari?”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 18, 2020
I saw this in my FB feed a while back and the snippit immediately drew me in. After reading the synopsis, I knew this was my kind of book. I also saw that it was "Book 1" and ended on a bit of a cliffhanger so I've been waiting to read this one so I would have time to savour it and really get into the story. After a hectic workweek and a forecasted snowy weekend I knew it was time to dive in, I only hoped that I wouldn't be disappointed, and I wasn't!
You jump right into the action with Rose, the heroine, who isn't exactly a powerless human. She hunts vampires, desperately trying to find the one who killed her mother and irrevocably changed the course of her young life. I loved Rose's voice and found the pages turning almost too fast as I devoured the story, finishing it in one sitting. We quickly meet Frost, one of Rose's three best childhood friends, a bit of a tough ladies man to everyone but Rose, with whom he is an absolute teddy bear. It seems you can't just go around killing vampires without drawing attention to yourself and having them put a price on your head. Fair warning, the sexy times begin quickly (25%), a little too quickly in my estimation. I like a little more build and actually found it a little out of place, detracting from the story because the story is REALLY good. I'd have preferred that their second sex scene been their first, and that would have made it all the hotter, mmmm. I like some good steamy times and these were particularily well-written so if that is not your cuppa, then give this book a pass (which I think the author's note does a good job of expressing). Soon, all four of them are reunited and things seem to be progessing well when seemingly Rose's nocturnal activities catch up with them and they try to beat a hasty retreat, but things go awry as they are wont to do...
You jump right into the action with Rose, the heroine, who isn't exactly a powerless human. She hunts vampires, desperately trying to find the one who killed her mother and irrevocably changed the course of her young life. I loved Rose's voice and found the pages turning almost too fast as I devoured the story, finishing it in one sitting. We quickly meet Frost, one of Rose's three best childhood friends, a bit of a tough ladies man to everyone but Rose, with whom he is an absolute teddy bear. It seems you can't just go around killing vampires without drawing attention to yourself and having them put a price on your head. Fair warning, the sexy times begin quickly (25%), a little too quickly in my estimation. I like a little more build and actually found it a little out of place, detracting from the story because the story is REALLY good. I'd have preferred that their second sex scene been their first, and that would have made it all the hotter, mmmm. I like some good steamy times and these were particularily well-written so if that is not your cuppa, then give this book a pass (which I think the author's note does a good job of expressing). Soon, all four of them are reunited and things seem to be progessing well when seemingly Rose's nocturnal activities catch up with them and they try to beat a hasty retreat, but things go awry as they are wont to do...
September 2, 2019
*I received this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
Compel Me was what I always expect when I pick up a reverse harem. This book was super hot and had just the right amount of action and explaining what was going on. I liked Rose from the start. I loved her personality and how she spoke up most of the time about what it was she wanted. I cannot wait to find out more about her past and her heritage. I liked Frost too. He had the bad boy vibe but was such a sweetheart and cared deeply for Rose. That was clear from the beginning when he came back into her life. I liked Ethan since he was just so freaking sweet and had that boy charm. Blake seemed like the real bad boy of the three men and I liked his commanding personality. I thought the characters were well done as well as the storyline. The only problem I had was how fast Frost and Rose ended up together. It was a short book so I can get why it moved fast but I would have loved a little more back and forth of will they/won't they. I would have loved to see Rose struggle more with Frost and the others being vampires now. She did struggle but those doubts and such always went away when her desire was added to the mix. I loved how Rose and Ethan didn't end up in bed right away.
This was such a fun, steamy, and quick read that I really enjoyed. I read it in one sitting. I cannot wait for Provoke Me and November cannot get here soon enough!
Compel Me was what I always expect when I pick up a reverse harem. This book was super hot and had just the right amount of action and explaining what was going on. I liked Rose from the start. I loved her personality and how she spoke up most of the time about what it was she wanted. I cannot wait to find out more about her past and her heritage. I liked Frost too. He had the bad boy vibe but was such a sweetheart and cared deeply for Rose. That was clear from the beginning when he came back into her life. I liked Ethan since he was just so freaking sweet and had that boy charm. Blake seemed like the real bad boy of the three men and I liked his commanding personality. I thought the characters were well done as well as the storyline. The only problem I had was how fast Frost and Rose ended up together. It was a short book so I can get why it moved fast but I would have loved a little more back and forth of will they/won't they. I would have loved to see Rose struggle more with Frost and the others being vampires now. She did struggle but those doubts and such always went away when her desire was added to the mix. I loved how Rose and Ethan didn't end up in bed right away.
This was such a fun, steamy, and quick read that I really enjoyed. I read it in one sitting. I cannot wait for Provoke Me and November cannot get here soon enough!
July 22, 2020
Mediocre, it's more like 2.5 stars but 2 aren't enough. It's just typical RH, one "bad guy" with tattoos and a suit, one super intelligent and sweet guy, one "hero of the school" guy… -> sex, vampires and blood. But not really in a action-way, there could have been more. And I found it really strange the way pieces of information were delivered to the reader. It was important important information but it was hold back until the "right" moment. For example: the protagonist knows (she knows!) that her family always knew about vampires and that they were kind of special (though she doesn't know what kind of special -> unknown origin trope). But instead of divulging this information in the first part, the protagonist mentions this important fact around 50% of the book. It felt like the reader should get this whole mysterious background piece after piece, but not in a natural but more a forced way. Difficult to explain ^^ So it's a easy going, foreseeable read. I may or may not read the next book, I don't know yet.
(+/-) RH
(-) stereotype guys
(+/-) typical vampires
(+/-) wanna-be kick-ass heroine - or typical UF heroine, like super cool, strong, tries to be snarky (but fails miserably)
(-) long lost love returned = poor excuse for insta-love
(+) easy going: no book hangover
(-) wanna-be mysterious story (as explained….)
(-) clichee/foreseeable cliffhanger ending
(+/-) RH
(-) stereotype guys
(+/-) typical vampires
(+/-) wanna-be kick-ass heroine - or typical UF heroine, like super cool, strong, tries to be snarky (but fails miserably)
(-) long lost love returned = poor excuse for insta-love
(+) easy going: no book hangover
(-) wanna-be mysterious story (as explained….)
(-) clichee/foreseeable cliffhanger ending
February 12, 2024
~ fast burn poly
~ childhood friends
~ supportive insta-harem
✅ no ow drama yet
I enjoy the plot and story, but this feels like a rough draft. We’re missing details, depth and explanations. For instance:
🔷The heroine has a scar across her throat. Later in the book she heals quickly leaving no scars. So why did her throat scar?
🔷 Her three best friends turned themselves into vampires in their 20s. What about their families? Parents, aunts, siblings etc. None wanted families of their own?
🔷 She could compel vampires and humans. That gift was definitely underutilized.
🔷 They last saw each other 10 years ago, I think when they were 15? The timeline isn’t well explained and seems to change. However they fall instantly into bed like no time has passed.
🔷 As the series continues the heroine develops a god complex. Book 4 is a dumpster fire of errors and inconsistencies, detailed in my Notes. I love the overall plot, but not the execution.
The biggest turn off is the changing character descriptions. Blake goes from black eyes to grey then back again and I know Frost’s eye color changes later from green to blue. I’ll keep reading for now but not sure I’ll read more by the author because the same issues were in Boys of Briar Hall.
~ childhood friends
~ supportive insta-harem
✅ no ow drama yet
I enjoy the plot and story, but this feels like a rough draft. We’re missing details, depth and explanations. For instance:
🔷The heroine has a scar across her throat. Later in the book she heals quickly leaving no scars. So why did her throat scar?
🔷 Her three best friends turned themselves into vampires in their 20s. What about their families? Parents, aunts, siblings etc. None wanted families of their own?
🔷 She could compel vampires and humans. That gift was definitely underutilized.
🔷 They last saw each other 10 years ago, I think when they were 15? The timeline isn’t well explained and seems to change. However they fall instantly into bed like no time has passed.
🔷 As the series continues the heroine develops a god complex. Book 4 is a dumpster fire of errors and inconsistencies, detailed in my Notes. I love the overall plot, but not the execution.
The biggest turn off is the changing character descriptions. Blake goes from black eyes to grey then back again and I know Frost’s eye color changes later from green to blue. I’ll keep reading for now but not sure I’ll read more by the author because the same issues were in Boys of Briar Hall.
August 31, 2019
This book was amazing! The action never let up from the first chapter to the last!! Rose is our FMC and she is awesome! She is tough, strong and resilient and may not be exactly human! She faced a trauma in childhood with the murder of her mother. When she goes to her childhood home she meets one of her childhood friends who’s now a vampire! Along the action packed journey we meet two other childhood friends who are also vampires! The guys in the story are hot and obviously know more about her then they let on! And who is the mysterious Raphael!! The storyline flowed and never let up! I can’t wait for the next book especially after that ending!!
Read
October 8, 2019I don’t need air, you need air
Cliffhanger ending. But a smooth one. We at least know what Rose is, we just don’t have an in-depth explanation for it yet. And we meet Az who has similar characteristics to what Rose has been searching for... but, if that’s the case then I would love to know why he killed her mother if her blood could be useful. And Blake is going to be my fav character I can tell. Nice start to the series hopefully it keeps the same winning streak going into book 2.
Cliffhanger ending. But a smooth one. We at least know what Rose is, we just don’t have an in-depth explanation for it yet. And we meet Az who has similar characteristics to what Rose has been searching for... but, if that’s the case then I would love to know why he killed her mother if her blood could be useful. And Blake is going to be my fav character I can tell. Nice start to the series hopefully it keeps the same winning streak going into book 2.
September 2, 2019
What can I say about Compel Me?
It was haaaaaaaaawt 🔥🔥🔥🔥 ooooft, was it hot! It was fun, I love a sarcastic, take no prisoners mc!
The storyline was great, I'm definitely intrigued. The guys were 🤤 definitely keen to know more about Ethan, I'm a major fan of the bookish type and he seems to fit the bill.
Really fun, paranormal RH, can't wait to see more later this year!
Hugest thanks to Elena for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
It was haaaaaaaaawt 🔥🔥🔥🔥 ooooft, was it hot! It was fun, I love a sarcastic, take no prisoners mc!
The storyline was great, I'm definitely intrigued. The guys were 🤤 definitely keen to know more about Ethan, I'm a major fan of the bookish type and he seems to fit the bill.
Really fun, paranormal RH, can't wait to see more later this year!
Hugest thanks to Elena for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2020
This book was recommended to me by a friend, and i eagerly downloaded and waited fpr the right timr to binge it... Yesterday/today was that day.
I knew what to expect going in and honestly i was a little disappointed, it wasn't as steamy as i was hoping and it was all just a little too rushed for me... Also i have more questions now than answers which i find annoying.
The best part was the guys and even they were a little disappointing for me.
I knew what to expect going in and honestly i was a little disappointed, it wasn't as steamy as i was hoping and it was all just a little too rushed for me... Also i have more questions now than answers which i find annoying.
The best part was the guys and even they were a little disappointing for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2019
Such a great story!!! I absolutely love this author. She so did not disappoint. I usually skip on vampires stories but so happy I didn't on this one. But oh that ending!!! I wanted to pull my hair out with that cliffhanger !!! Makes me want the next book so badly. Hope it comes out soon. Definitely a must read. Absolutely loved it!!!!
June 13, 2020
A good paced heavily romance orientated vampire story. Interesting mythology interpretation. Narrative character is borderline annoying but overall likeable. Three love interests all have good character depth.
August 31, 2019
I really enjoyed this book! It was an interesting read from the very beginning. I loved the FMC and her men. I can’t wait to read the other books in this series.
Want to read
February 7, 2025🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/29/2021)! 🎁
February 2, 2022
I've read other books from this author that are good but this series was a disappointment. DNFed the 2nd one and skipped chapters. Dislikable FMC in my pov.
August 10, 2022
TW: violence, blood, corpse depictions, death, murder, death of parents/family (past), ref to time in foster care, gore, violence, drugging, car accident (on page), kidnapping
March 8, 2020
Title: Compel Me
Author: Elena Lawson
Publisher: Elena Lawson
ISBN: B07W67QD9X
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
The Last Vocari 1
I go by Rose. But don’t let the delicate name fool you—I’m all thorns…
The polished metal stakes strapped to my thighs have pierced the hearts of so many vampires I’ve lost count. And after five years I still haven’t found him—the vamp with one blue eye and one brown. The one who slaughtered my mother and left me, a child, to sit screaming in a pool of her still-warm blood.
With any luck, he’ll come to me. You see, I’ve made something of a name for myself with my trade. It seems more and more of the bloodsucking bastards seek to find me every day. Each of them wanting to be the one to say they plucked The Black Rose.
It’s not until a group of three finds me that I think I’ve finally met my match. But these aren’t just any nameless, faceless vamps. I know them. Or, at least, I knew them—when they were still human.
Worst of all, I owe them a debt.
But paying it means I’ll need to face my worst fear… that I may not be entirely human, either
Total Score: 4/5
Summary:
Just a warning this is not a YA story in any manner. The main character is a hard bitten young woman who has dedicated her life into killing as many vampires as she can as she searches of the one that killed her mother. Rose is no ones sweetheart and she likes it that way. Depending on no one has kept her alive and given her the reputation as The Black Rose. She doesn’t know why, but her increased strength, ability to compel others and her rapid healing gives her an advantage while keeping her alive. Things changed unexpectedly when Rose is found by three friends form childhood that she never forgot and it seemed never forgot her. This could change everything if they manage to keep each other alive. You see the vampires are determined to end her reign of terror and even with her friends, as vampires themselves, at her side it might not be enough.
This was an interesting audio-book and look forward to see what will happen next.
Author: Elena Lawson
Publisher: Elena Lawson
ISBN: B07W67QD9X
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
The Last Vocari 1
I go by Rose. But don’t let the delicate name fool you—I’m all thorns…
The polished metal stakes strapped to my thighs have pierced the hearts of so many vampires I’ve lost count. And after five years I still haven’t found him—the vamp with one blue eye and one brown. The one who slaughtered my mother and left me, a child, to sit screaming in a pool of her still-warm blood.
With any luck, he’ll come to me. You see, I’ve made something of a name for myself with my trade. It seems more and more of the bloodsucking bastards seek to find me every day. Each of them wanting to be the one to say they plucked The Black Rose.
It’s not until a group of three finds me that I think I’ve finally met my match. But these aren’t just any nameless, faceless vamps. I know them. Or, at least, I knew them—when they were still human.
Worst of all, I owe them a debt.
But paying it means I’ll need to face my worst fear… that I may not be entirely human, either
Total Score: 4/5
Summary:
Just a warning this is not a YA story in any manner. The main character is a hard bitten young woman who has dedicated her life into killing as many vampires as she can as she searches of the one that killed her mother. Rose is no ones sweetheart and she likes it that way. Depending on no one has kept her alive and given her the reputation as The Black Rose. She doesn’t know why, but her increased strength, ability to compel others and her rapid healing gives her an advantage while keeping her alive. Things changed unexpectedly when Rose is found by three friends form childhood that she never forgot and it seemed never forgot her. This could change everything if they manage to keep each other alive. You see the vampires are determined to end her reign of terror and even with her friends, as vampires themselves, at her side it might not be enough.
This was an interesting audio-book and look forward to see what will happen next.
August 9, 2020
It has been awhile since I read/listened to a vampire story so I was excited to step into this new world (to me at least haha) of Elena Lawson’s. I enjoyed the storyline and the fact that the guys are already vampires and the reason they did it. I think the MC’s backstory is sad but a good way for us to rally around her and for her to enact her revenge on the being who destroyed her family and life. I like how much he kicks butt, she is definitely not someone I would want to meet in the paranormal world if I screwed up/was on her enemy list haha. I like her guys too, and while listening couldn’t wait to learn more about them. I definitely had a favorite after book 1 but once I went to listening to book 2 and 3, it was hard to pick a favorite hahaha. I did like the suspense when they were traveling and had to find shelter, that definitely kept me on my toes and the end!!! Ughh I was so happy that books 2 and 3 were already out so I could binge listen ❤️❤️❤️
Really enjoyed the narration in this one!! Addison did a good job with her female and male voices and the guys were distinguishable enough most of the time to know who was speaking before their names were said. I liked her voices when the battles were happening (and especially Rose’s inner monologue haha). And she did a great job with the sexy moments (which were amazing!!).
Definitely recommend this series, like I said, I went and binged the whole series and am dying for book 4 already haha
Really enjoyed the narration in this one!! Addison did a good job with her female and male voices and the guys were distinguishable enough most of the time to know who was speaking before their names were said. I liked her voices when the battles were happening (and especially Rose’s inner monologue haha). And she did a great job with the sexy moments (which were amazing!!).
Definitely recommend this series, like I said, I went and binged the whole series and am dying for book 4 already haha
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