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Vampire Warrior Kings #1
In the Service of the King
Seven ancient Vampires Kings.
One fight to save humanity…
Kael McQuillan, Warrior King of the Vampires, loathes the Night of the Proffering. He needs the blood of either his mate or a human virgin to maintain his strength, but hasn't enjoyed the ritual since he lost his wife centuries ago. Kael doesn't want a new companion, yet his resolve is tested when he meets his newest offering. She’s beautiful and poised, but her curious, mismatched eyes intrigue him more than they should, and when he hurts her, he can’t help wanting another chance...
Shayla McKinnon knows the rules: Serve the needs of the Vampire Warrior King. Obey his commands. Don’t ask questions. But knowing the rules doesn’t always mean that Shayla follows them. She’s waited her whole life for this moment, for a chance to become part of another world—for the possibility of getting justice for those she’s lost. And Kael is her darkest fantasy come to life, even though he’s intimidating as hell, too.
Now they’re locked in a red-hot battle of wills, and the only question is which one will end up on their knees…
One fight to save humanity…
Kael McQuillan, Warrior King of the Vampires, loathes the Night of the Proffering. He needs the blood of either his mate or a human virgin to maintain his strength, but hasn't enjoyed the ritual since he lost his wife centuries ago. Kael doesn't want a new companion, yet his resolve is tested when he meets his newest offering. She’s beautiful and poised, but her curious, mismatched eyes intrigue him more than they should, and when he hurts her, he can’t help wanting another chance...
Shayla McKinnon knows the rules: Serve the needs of the Vampire Warrior King. Obey his commands. Don’t ask questions. But knowing the rules doesn’t always mean that Shayla follows them. She’s waited her whole life for this moment, for a chance to become part of another world—for the possibility of getting justice for those she’s lost. And Kael is her darkest fantasy come to life, even though he’s intimidating as hell, too.
Now they’re locked in a red-hot battle of wills, and the only question is which one will end up on their knees…
109 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2012
85 people are currently reading
2378 people want to read
About the author
Laura Kaye
80 books7,514 followersLaura Kaye is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author of contemporary and erotic romance and romantic suspense, including the Hard Ink, Raven Riders, Blasphemy, Heroes, and Hearts of the Anemoi series. Laura's hot, heartfelt stories are all about the universal desire for a place to belong. Laura grew up amidst family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses, cementing her life-long fascination with storytelling and the supernatural. Laura also writes historical fiction as Laura Kamoie, and lives in Maryland with her husband and two daughters, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews
July 29, 2020
One can really see it was a very early work by the author (new edition of a 2012 series).
A fetishised vampire story with a severe case of insta-lust, -love and -marriage, but I still kinda liked it. Because this author makes even erotica romantic.
If you let go of any expectations (it's really just erotica after all), you are in for a kinky little treat.
A fetishised vampire story with a severe case of insta-lust, -love and -marriage, but I still kinda liked it. Because this author makes even erotica romantic.
If you let go of any expectations (it's really just erotica after all), you are in for a kinky little treat.
August 7, 2020
3 stars
quick read. it's Vampire themed but not that interesting to keep me engaged. 3 stars.
P.S: Lana , i totally agree with this being a fetishised vampire story 😆
quick read. it's Vampire themed but not that interesting to keep me engaged. 3 stars.
P.S: Lana , i totally agree with this being a fetishised vampire story 😆
May 7, 2013
well it was REALLY short im on the fence, as well it was really short and just kinda went bam! we are in love now, and your mine.
ok let me explain I have read both these books in the space of about 4 hours reading time, being interrupted and what not yes I actually have a life.....sometimes.
in both these books it goes......
boy meets girl.....
boy mistreats girl....
boy remorseful.....
girl confused...
girl accepts...
they fuck...
they drink blood...
....
...
..
now they are mated
THE END!
OR NOT!!!
ok let me explain I have read both these books in the space of about 4 hours reading time, being interrupted and what not yes I actually have a life.....sometimes.
in both these books it goes......
boy meets girl.....
boy mistreats girl....
boy remorseful.....
girl confused...
girl accepts...
they fuck...
they drink blood...
....
...
..
now they are mated
THE END!
OR NOT!!!
June 13, 2018
3 In the Service of the King Stars
I like books like this where the vampires find their mates, but I guess I was hoping for more of King Kael’s backstory.
We do find out a little later that he has a previous mate. But I don’t know it kind of fell flat for me.
Shayla’s story too we don’t get enough of her, we only know a very small amount and it only leaves you wanting more.
I liked the narration actually the accents were really well done.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
I like books like this where the vampires find their mates, but I guess I was hoping for more of King Kael’s backstory.
We do find out a little later that he has a previous mate. But I don’t know it kind of fell flat for me.
Shayla’s story too we don’t get enough of her, we only know a very small amount and it only leaves you wanting more.
I liked the narration actually the accents were really well done.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
October 11, 2020
2.5 Stars
Too rushed and boring.
Too rushed and boring.
April 7, 2012
Review Courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: An enjoyable read on a sunny afternoon.
Opening Sentence: Kael paced the length of his private sleeping chamber, avoiding the plush emerald carpet and keeping to the uncovered stone floor at the edge of the room.
The Review:
In a world where vampires are known to some humans and almost worshipped by them even, live the seven vampire kings, each holding rule over their portion of the Earth. Surrounding each is a group of humans known as the Electorate, ones who have traded their services in deception and cover, along with their virgin daughters, in exchange for protection from death and disease, and those who would do them harm.
In the wilds of Ireland lives such a king, Kael the Fair, Warrior King of the Vampires, Chieftain of Clan MacQuillan. Every three months, to maintain his health and immortality, he must feed, But the donor, must be either his mate, or a mortal virgin, preferably in her twentieth year. It is this need that Kael despises the most. Ever since he lost his mate and child in childbirth, the Proffering is an unwanted necessity, and an unwelcome risk. You see, with the partaking of a human woman’s blood is the chance that he will find his destined mate, and he is unwilling to risk another loved one, not when the war with their enemies is still at hand. So, he takes the blood of the Proffered by knife and only takes their virginity because he cannot fight the power inside him.
But, this time, something is different. Because this time, the Proffered really is destined to be his mate.
Shayla has been training for this moment for seven long years, has been dreaming of the day she could join the vampires and their helpers, and aid in the war against those who murdered her sister. When she is finally chosen to be the Proffered on her 20th birthday, she is ready and all too willing. But things do not progress as she has been told, and she is sent home untouched. She sees herself as a failure to her family and race, but all is not lost. Upon returning to her home, she finds that Kael has requested her return to his castle. She prepares to return, to perform her duty, but all is still not as she was told.
You see, despite his other plans, The King wishes to keep this one as his mate, for apparently it has been destined, and he cannot leave her or her magical mismatched eyes alone. What follows is a love story, true to good old Harlequin form, and a mating completed by one of the most amazing rituals I’ve read about. It’s so strangely beautiful.
In the Service of the King is a wonderful light read, and I hope that I will most certainly enjoy the next installment, Seduced by the Vampire King, which comes out in June 2012.
Notable Scene:
Shayla smiled and held up her hand. “Is this just…chemistry? Biology?”
Kael frowned down at the pattern on his palm, then looked back into her eyes. He studied her for a long moment, then sank down to one knee and grasped her marked hand in his.
“Our mating is chemistry and biology. My body, my blood, needs you on a fundamental level. You. Your body brings me peace, comfort. Your blood restores my immortality and humanity. But I wanted you before this, Shayla. I brought you back because I knew, even then.” He held their joined hands to his heart. “You are more beautiful than my eyes can take in. Your eyes enchant me and hold me to you. You are brave and fierce and strong and bright and these are just the things I’ve learned in the few hours we’ve been able to share. I want to know more.”
Shayla bit down on her lip, trying to restrain the tears and joyous sob that threatened. Kael reached up and pulled her lip from her teeth with his thumb. He arched an eyebrow and she couldn’t hold in the laugh-cry that escaped.
“Be mine, love. Please”
The Vampire Warrior Kings Series:
1. In the Service of the King
2. Seduced by the Vampire King
FTC Advisory: The author provided me with a copy of In the Service of the King. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: An enjoyable read on a sunny afternoon.
Opening Sentence: Kael paced the length of his private sleeping chamber, avoiding the plush emerald carpet and keeping to the uncovered stone floor at the edge of the room.
The Review:
In a world where vampires are known to some humans and almost worshipped by them even, live the seven vampire kings, each holding rule over their portion of the Earth. Surrounding each is a group of humans known as the Electorate, ones who have traded their services in deception and cover, along with their virgin daughters, in exchange for protection from death and disease, and those who would do them harm.
In the wilds of Ireland lives such a king, Kael the Fair, Warrior King of the Vampires, Chieftain of Clan MacQuillan. Every three months, to maintain his health and immortality, he must feed, But the donor, must be either his mate, or a mortal virgin, preferably in her twentieth year. It is this need that Kael despises the most. Ever since he lost his mate and child in childbirth, the Proffering is an unwanted necessity, and an unwelcome risk. You see, with the partaking of a human woman’s blood is the chance that he will find his destined mate, and he is unwilling to risk another loved one, not when the war with their enemies is still at hand. So, he takes the blood of the Proffered by knife and only takes their virginity because he cannot fight the power inside him.
But, this time, something is different. Because this time, the Proffered really is destined to be his mate.
Shayla has been training for this moment for seven long years, has been dreaming of the day she could join the vampires and their helpers, and aid in the war against those who murdered her sister. When she is finally chosen to be the Proffered on her 20th birthday, she is ready and all too willing. But things do not progress as she has been told, and she is sent home untouched. She sees herself as a failure to her family and race, but all is not lost. Upon returning to her home, she finds that Kael has requested her return to his castle. She prepares to return, to perform her duty, but all is still not as she was told.
You see, despite his other plans, The King wishes to keep this one as his mate, for apparently it has been destined, and he cannot leave her or her magical mismatched eyes alone. What follows is a love story, true to good old Harlequin form, and a mating completed by one of the most amazing rituals I’ve read about. It’s so strangely beautiful.
In the Service of the King is a wonderful light read, and I hope that I will most certainly enjoy the next installment, Seduced by the Vampire King, which comes out in June 2012.
Notable Scene:
Shayla smiled and held up her hand. “Is this just…chemistry? Biology?”
Kael frowned down at the pattern on his palm, then looked back into her eyes. He studied her for a long moment, then sank down to one knee and grasped her marked hand in his.
“Our mating is chemistry and biology. My body, my blood, needs you on a fundamental level. You. Your body brings me peace, comfort. Your blood restores my immortality and humanity. But I wanted you before this, Shayla. I brought you back because I knew, even then.” He held their joined hands to his heart. “You are more beautiful than my eyes can take in. Your eyes enchant me and hold me to you. You are brave and fierce and strong and bright and these are just the things I’ve learned in the few hours we’ve been able to share. I want to know more.”
Shayla bit down on her lip, trying to restrain the tears and joyous sob that threatened. Kael reached up and pulled her lip from her teeth with his thumb. He arched an eyebrow and she couldn’t hold in the laugh-cry that escaped.
“Be mine, love. Please”
The Vampire Warrior Kings Series:
1. In the Service of the King
2. Seduced by the Vampire King
FTC Advisory: The author provided me with a copy of In the Service of the King. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
October 31, 2018
Can’t say I loved this story. Even though I normally really like this author. It was a bit different. But formulaic. I do not love the back story at all. Hate dead mates/spouses. Also don’t love the virgin sacrifice theme.
December 5, 2018
5 stars, bearing in mind this a short novella. I make some allowances in rating short reads that I don't for novels.
Laura Kaye is one of an extremely short list of authors that can write novellas I love. This one is tightly focused on the mating of the warrior vampire king H and human h. It does a good job of world building and setting up the main characters' backstories, without much story outside of the relationship. It is intended to be an erotic story of a mating, and that is exactly what it remains throughout. I loved both of the main characters and, as is supposed to happen in a fated mates book IMHO, there is no push-pull angst beyond the initial resistance of the H due to losing a previous mate.
If you are familiar with this author, this novella reminded me of the style of Eyes On You from her Blasphemy series. I recommend either book if you like brief erotic romances.
Laura Kaye is one of an extremely short list of authors that can write novellas I love. This one is tightly focused on the mating of the warrior vampire king H and human h. It does a good job of world building and setting up the main characters' backstories, without much story outside of the relationship. It is intended to be an erotic story of a mating, and that is exactly what it remains throughout. I loved both of the main characters and, as is supposed to happen in a fated mates book IMHO, there is no push-pull angst beyond the initial resistance of the H due to losing a previous mate.
If you are familiar with this author, this novella reminded me of the style of Eyes On You from her Blasphemy series. I recommend either book if you like brief erotic romances.
December 14, 2015
Shit. This book here is why I quit reading erotica. (Which sucks as I was counting on it after reading Kaye’s Hearts in Darkness!) Romance in general is a genre that can get very repetitive and tiring. It was something I knew exploring the genre, and then something I grew tired of. Especially the past few years. AND especially after reading some authors who actually think outside the box. For some reason paranormal romance suffers from that repetitiveness and can be unimaginative. Same with erotica.
Which I find sad. Fantasy elements are endless and imagination has no limits! All this can create an exciting world and characters. The sad truth is world building doesn't usually factor in too much. Or they've taken the same old tropes pasting them in.
In The Service of the King it could be any PNR world. The only difference is that vampires apparently have to feed from virgins.
Yeah. This book never really had a chance with me. Because I was left wondering if it was just the vampire king? It would be hard to feed all those warriors virgins only. Especially if they have to mate with them. Talk about slicing down on your inventory.
AND.
The author was trying to say that these girls were cherished. Appreciated. That by mating they weren't just blood and baby makers. Bullshit. They are. Though I appreciate it being addressed, even if it was halfhearted.
Another thing was the Souleaters. Basically evil vampires that the good vampires have had an on going war with. They had nothing to offer to the story except to be villains. They shaped both the pasts of the characters, but overall they felt like nothing more then an idea. This book was so dull that they never actually factored into the present. Except to “give purpose” to some of the events.
Overall the sex was dull, there was no chemistry between the two leads and I honestly didn't care about them. This was a copy and paste story that has been told a thousand times in the PNR/erotica genre. This is why I've quit reading erotica/romance. It's so predictable.
Sexual Content: Yeah. Nothing you haven’t seen before.
1/5- I couldn't finish it or wish I hadn't.
Originally posted at Book Whispers.
Which I find sad. Fantasy elements are endless and imagination has no limits! All this can create an exciting world and characters. The sad truth is world building doesn't usually factor in too much. Or they've taken the same old tropes pasting them in.
In The Service of the King it could be any PNR world. The only difference is that vampires apparently have to feed from virgins.
Yeah. This book never really had a chance with me. Because I was left wondering if it was just the vampire king? It would be hard to feed all those warriors virgins only. Especially if they have to mate with them. Talk about slicing down on your inventory.
AND.
The author was trying to say that these girls were cherished. Appreciated. That by mating they weren't just blood and baby makers. Bullshit. They are. Though I appreciate it being addressed, even if it was halfhearted.
Another thing was the Souleaters. Basically evil vampires that the good vampires have had an on going war with. They had nothing to offer to the story except to be villains. They shaped both the pasts of the characters, but overall they felt like nothing more then an idea. This book was so dull that they never actually factored into the present. Except to “give purpose” to some of the events.
Overall the sex was dull, there was no chemistry between the two leads and I honestly didn't care about them. This was a copy and paste story that has been told a thousand times in the PNR/erotica genre. This is why I've quit reading erotica/romance. It's so predictable.
Sexual Content: Yeah. Nothing you haven’t seen before.
1/5- I couldn't finish it or wish I hadn't.
Originally posted at Book Whispers.
August 4, 2012
THEN: Just bought it...taking it on vacation!
NOW: This was a wonderful vacation read...or maybe those few free hours when you want to get away from it all, and get TO IT.
Once again Laura Kay has taken the well-used theme of vampires and given it her own twist. Kael is HOT and Shayla is a good match for him.
The only "con" here is that it wasn't pages and pages LONGER.
I did read it on vacation and immediately was grateful that my hotel had wi-fi so that I could get book two...!
I hope she has an entire series of these Warriors and Kings milling around in her mind. We definitely need more!
NOW: This was a wonderful vacation read...or maybe those few free hours when you want to get away from it all, and get TO IT.
Once again Laura Kay has taken the well-used theme of vampires and given it her own twist. Kael is HOT and Shayla is a good match for him.
The only "con" here is that it wasn't pages and pages LONGER.
I did read it on vacation and immediately was grateful that my hotel had wi-fi so that I could get book two...!
I hope she has an entire series of these Warriors and Kings milling around in her mind. We definitely need more!
July 27, 2013
Decent enough read but not a great deal to keep me interested. I mainly downloaded this to have something to read while on the elliptical at the gym. It helped pass the time but I wasn't all eager to finish it right away once my time ran out on the machine. I really only finished it because my loan was about to expire.
I have the second one in this Nocturne Cravings series but it too is set to expire soon but I'm not too sure if I will download it any time soon.
I have the second one in this Nocturne Cravings series but it too is set to expire soon but I'm not too sure if I will download it any time soon.
May 2, 2016
I was waiting and waiting for an attack by the Soul Eaters, but no... this focuses entirely on the romance, even though the Soul Eaters are mentioned repeatedly as if leading up to an attack. It should have happened. So if you go into this expecting the Warrior King of Vampires to actually be a warrior, you are in for a disappointment. It's 100% romance/sex.
So for what it is, it was good. But some sort of danger or actual bad guys? That would have bumped up the rating for sure.
So for what it is, it was good. But some sort of danger or actual bad guys? That would have bumped up the rating for sure.
February 6, 2012
Wow...nicely done Laura Kaye. Review to come...
October 7, 2019
I have looked at the reviews and the ratings for the story and I don't understand why it is rated so low. I personally enjoyed this quick story. I love anything paranormal and I love vampires. This falls right in my wheelhouse.
Kael rules a section of the world and he has decided that he no longer wants to have a mate because of what happened to his previous mate. Shayla has been one of many virgins that have been groomed in order to feed the Vampire King. When they are first introduced Kael is intrigued by her. He knows that there is something different and special about her but he cannot put his finger on it. When he nixes her with his fangs he realizes what makes her so special. She is a potential mate for him.
Even though this story was short we got a lot of information not only about Kale but also about Shayla's background.
One of the only issues that I have with the story is the fact that the next bookk in the series deals with another Vampire Ling verses Kale's vampire family. I absolutely adored Liam and I wish Liam got his own story but that did not happen. I am glad that I found this series because I am invested into figured out more about this world building that Laura Kaye created.
I love Brock Thompson. He is such a wonderful narrator and he makes me feel like I am part of the world that he is narrating. I don't feel like an outsider listening I feel like I'm right there observing what is happening.
Kael rules a section of the world and he has decided that he no longer wants to have a mate because of what happened to his previous mate. Shayla has been one of many virgins that have been groomed in order to feed the Vampire King. When they are first introduced Kael is intrigued by her. He knows that there is something different and special about her but he cannot put his finger on it. When he nixes her with his fangs he realizes what makes her so special. She is a potential mate for him.
Even though this story was short we got a lot of information not only about Kale but also about Shayla's background.
One of the only issues that I have with the story is the fact that the next bookk in the series deals with another Vampire Ling verses Kale's vampire family. I absolutely adored Liam and I wish Liam got his own story but that did not happen. I am glad that I found this series because I am invested into figured out more about this world building that Laura Kaye created.
I love Brock Thompson. He is such a wonderful narrator and he makes me feel like I am part of the world that he is narrating. I don't feel like an outsider listening I feel like I'm right there observing what is happening.
January 8, 2022
OG vampires I loved this just as much as I did in 2013. Happy reading!
November 12, 2023
Quick read. Characters ok. Will still read the next, hoping for more story.
October 6, 2013
Sexy. Gripping. Magical. Perfection! It's what I've come to expect from the amazing Laura Kaye! Respect.
The buzz radiating off me right now is so hard to explain. I can't stop smiling. I was on a hunt for a really good paranormal. It took a few tries to find something that would grab me and hold me glued - and hallelujah, I've finally found it. And you wont believe how excited I am that there are two more books in the Vampire Warrior Kings series for me to devour. Laura Kaye is a beautiful person, friendly and humble to say the least. So it comes as no surprise that her personality comes across in her writing. Her books are just bursting with life. Fantasy or Real Life - She's a master at her craft. And Just look at her portfolio - you'll see that there's no genre she can't or wont tackle. The diversity in her writing is amazing. Most authors choose one or two genre's and stick to it... but not Laura - I'd love to spend a day with her and just pick at her creative brain!
... so anyway ...
In the Service of the King is a Paranormal Romance with an Erotic feel. It's not 'dirty' erotic writing and even through there are some really brazen moments (I found myself blushing, gasping and saying 'OMG Laura!' in my head a few times)... but that aside... It felt so real. Sometimes Erotic can reach a point where you know that it's fiction. Not here. I believed every moment in this book. Like I said, I even blushed. My heart rate picked up and I started biting my nails - And I did all this while I was at the airport waiting for my boy to come home. I didn't even realize his plane had arrived until he was standing right in front of me. I saw and heard nothing but Kael & Shayla.
And best of all... I'm saying this even though it's written in 3rd person! How crazy is that? I don't even like 3rd person POV. But God knows I loved this book unconditionally. I'm so excited to start the next book - Seduced by the Vampire King - I can't write this review quick enough. Normally I'd just have gone onto the 2nd book and go from there... but I had to take a moment to document my exact feelings before they become muddled up with a new book. I was originally planning on doing a trio review for all three books, but I've since then changed my mind. At the very least this book - In The Service Of The King - needs to have it's own limelight because it rightfully deserves to be made a fuss over.
I don't know what awaits me in the follow-ups but I'm hoping and praying for a repeat performance. My pheromones are going banana's. Kael is the epitome of masculine.
He's a vampire. #Shivers
He's a king. #Sigh
He's a warrior. #YesPlease
Need I say more?
He's... the perfect blend of Book Boyfriend! And he's my new one. So far he at the top of my log.
It's important to note that In The Service of the King is a novella. But it's about a 3 hour read so I wouldn't classify it as a real novella. It's longer than most. But still not long enough. That would be my only complaint. I don't do many or any requests... but I'm begging... please Laura Kaye, please give us more Kael. I actually don't care if there isn't any plot or substance. Just write a whole book about him pulling off his robe. Talk about his tattoo in more detail. Tell us more about how his muscles flex. Elaborate on the power of his thighs...! That's all I really want or care to read about. I need more graphic images of Kael. The one's I currently have will only feed me until the end of the week. Then I might actually have to reread this book in order to gain more Kael. But I'd prefer new material to perv over. :)
The just of it is that if you adore PNR. If you love powerful, vampires who just say the most perfect things... If you love sexy sex... then In the Service of the King is the perfect read for you!
The buzz radiating off me right now is so hard to explain. I can't stop smiling. I was on a hunt for a really good paranormal. It took a few tries to find something that would grab me and hold me glued - and hallelujah, I've finally found it. And you wont believe how excited I am that there are two more books in the Vampire Warrior Kings series for me to devour. Laura Kaye is a beautiful person, friendly and humble to say the least. So it comes as no surprise that her personality comes across in her writing. Her books are just bursting with life. Fantasy or Real Life - She's a master at her craft. And Just look at her portfolio - you'll see that there's no genre she can't or wont tackle. The diversity in her writing is amazing. Most authors choose one or two genre's and stick to it... but not Laura - I'd love to spend a day with her and just pick at her creative brain!
... so anyway ...
In the Service of the King is a Paranormal Romance with an Erotic feel. It's not 'dirty' erotic writing and even through there are some really brazen moments (I found myself blushing, gasping and saying 'OMG Laura!' in my head a few times)... but that aside... It felt so real. Sometimes Erotic can reach a point where you know that it's fiction. Not here. I believed every moment in this book. Like I said, I even blushed. My heart rate picked up and I started biting my nails - And I did all this while I was at the airport waiting for my boy to come home. I didn't even realize his plane had arrived until he was standing right in front of me. I saw and heard nothing but Kael & Shayla.
And best of all... I'm saying this even though it's written in 3rd person! How crazy is that? I don't even like 3rd person POV. But God knows I loved this book unconditionally. I'm so excited to start the next book - Seduced by the Vampire King - I can't write this review quick enough. Normally I'd just have gone onto the 2nd book and go from there... but I had to take a moment to document my exact feelings before they become muddled up with a new book. I was originally planning on doing a trio review for all three books, but I've since then changed my mind. At the very least this book - In The Service Of The King - needs to have it's own limelight because it rightfully deserves to be made a fuss over.
I don't know what awaits me in the follow-ups but I'm hoping and praying for a repeat performance. My pheromones are going banana's. Kael is the epitome of masculine.
He's a vampire. #Shivers
He's a king. #Sigh
He's a warrior. #YesPlease
Need I say more?
He's... the perfect blend of Book Boyfriend! And he's my new one. So far he at the top of my log.
It's important to note that In The Service of the King is a novella. But it's about a 3 hour read so I wouldn't classify it as a real novella. It's longer than most. But still not long enough. That would be my only complaint. I don't do many or any requests... but I'm begging... please Laura Kaye, please give us more Kael. I actually don't care if there isn't any plot or substance. Just write a whole book about him pulling off his robe. Talk about his tattoo in more detail. Tell us more about how his muscles flex. Elaborate on the power of his thighs...! That's all I really want or care to read about. I need more graphic images of Kael. The one's I currently have will only feed me until the end of the week. Then I might actually have to reread this book in order to gain more Kael. But I'd prefer new material to perv over. :)
The just of it is that if you adore PNR. If you love powerful, vampires who just say the most perfect things... If you love sexy sex... then In the Service of the King is the perfect read for you!
December 16, 2017
Rating: 3.5/5
Heat Rating: 3/5
Narrator Performance: 4.5/5
Short and sexy, this is the first of Laura Kaye's work that I've read. The story was enjoyable but I didn't find it to be too special. Shayla bugged me a bit. Her adoration of Kael was a tad on the excessive side. I reminded me of a groupie like crush where the girl would do anything for the rock star that they "loved". Other than that I liked the story.
I really dug the narrator. His pace was a bit slow though and I needed to turn up the speed to 1.25x the normal rate which is something I haven't had to do before. However he did the voices/accents and that's something I love to hear in a performance.
Heat Rating: 3/5
Narrator Performance: 4.5/5
Short and sexy, this is the first of Laura Kaye's work that I've read. The story was enjoyable but I didn't find it to be too special. Shayla bugged me a bit. Her adoration of Kael was a tad on the excessive side. I reminded me of a groupie like crush where the girl would do anything for the rock star that they "loved". Other than that I liked the story.
I really dug the narrator. His pace was a bit slow though and I needed to turn up the speed to 1.25x the normal rate which is something I haven't had to do before. However he did the voices/accents and that's something I love to hear in a performance.
February 1, 2012
In The Service of the King, Laura Kaye creates an intriguing new vampire subculture set in modern times. Kael is a King of Vampires, and as such he has responsibilities to his subjects. Part of the responsibilities he bears is to be strong, which means he has to drink the blood of an innocent woman, or his mate. Since he does not have a mate, he must drink from a volunteer, the Proffered. Kael has always seen the Proffering as a responsibility to bear, until Shayla. Shayla is different, she makes him feel things he hadn't felt since his mate died centuries earlier. But, in order to have Shayla as his mate, he has to face his past and chance his future.
What I really loved about this novella was the vampire culture. The vampires are grouped around the globes and they have kings as their leader. They live within the confines of the human world, but they manage to keep their existence secret. The enemies are groups of vampires who kill the humans they feed on, stealing human souls. There are humans who know about vampires, and this group of humans help the vampires war with the evil soul stealers. The vampires hold tight to rituals, it gives the vampires more of a structure and community. The structure is complex, yet Laura Kaye details her world in an easily understandable manner, and I was quite intrigued by this new vampire world.
The characters themselves are interesting. Kael is a leader who has faced heartache and is wary of having a new mate. However, Shayla is a good match for Kael, she is beautiful, strong, and accepting of Kael's flaws. The chemistry between them is strong, and it helped make the sex scenes more sensual and emotional, rather than just raw sex. The only concern I had was that Shayla jumps into the vampire world with such zeal, it took me a little while to believe that she liked Kael for his person, not just his status or meaning to the community. I grew to like Shayla, and I was pleases with how this story unfolded.
In the Service of the King is a quick read, but the story is well written, and the stage is set for future stories set within this world. I would love to read more about this world in the future. Paranormal Romance fans, I do recommend reading this novella.
*I received this book for review*
What I really loved about this novella was the vampire culture. The vampires are grouped around the globes and they have kings as their leader. They live within the confines of the human world, but they manage to keep their existence secret. The enemies are groups of vampires who kill the humans they feed on, stealing human souls. There are humans who know about vampires, and this group of humans help the vampires war with the evil soul stealers. The vampires hold tight to rituals, it gives the vampires more of a structure and community. The structure is complex, yet Laura Kaye details her world in an easily understandable manner, and I was quite intrigued by this new vampire world.
The characters themselves are interesting. Kael is a leader who has faced heartache and is wary of having a new mate. However, Shayla is a good match for Kael, she is beautiful, strong, and accepting of Kael's flaws. The chemistry between them is strong, and it helped make the sex scenes more sensual and emotional, rather than just raw sex. The only concern I had was that Shayla jumps into the vampire world with such zeal, it took me a little while to believe that she liked Kael for his person, not just his status or meaning to the community. I grew to like Shayla, and I was pleases with how this story unfolded.
In the Service of the King is a quick read, but the story is well written, and the stage is set for future stories set within this world. I would love to read more about this world in the future. Paranormal Romance fans, I do recommend reading this novella.
*I received this book for review*
March 12, 2012
(review first posted at Book Lovers Inc)
There’s a question that oft asked about fictional tales. The plot or the characters: what’s more important, and which did you enjoy more? Well, in the case of this particular story, I’d say the attraction (that existed between the two lead characters) was the top element.
Such a cop-out answer, I know. ^_^ It’s neither plot nor character. But the attraction was the star of the show, almost like a character itself. With the relatively short length of this tale, there was no room for elaborate plot, no time to delve deeply into the characters’ pasts and present. In their place, the attraction between Kael and Shayla was instantaneous and extremely powerful, and it was the two characters’ differing reactions to that attraction that formed the basis of this story.
Indeed, I kept waiting for some external factor: a mustache-twirling villain, a long-lost suitor, some profound yet easily-remedied misunderstanding to keep the main characters apart. But no, the focus remained on Kael and Shayla, and every other element or peripheral character (mentioned in name or featured “on stage”) only served to highlight the importance of their connection. It made for a highly romantic tale.
…and a freaking sexy tale, too! The romance and sensuality are both laid on thickly and powerfully here, with very dramatic visuals and grandiose sentiment. To any given reader it can come off as cheesy, or it can come across as extremely swoon-worthy. I’m of the latter sentiment, as it happens. ^_^
I have to admit, however, that this is not my favorite Laura Kaye work. Her writing in the novella Hearts in Darkness showed her (enviable!) mastery of maximizing the effectiveness of a shorter story. Here, while I thought the story to be ultimately satisfying–sweet, romantic, sizzling, and interesting–I personally found the characters less intriguing, less unique, less nuanced than others of hers have been.
But having gotten that admission out, ^_^ I certainly recommend In the Service of the King as a quick, intense, and effective paranormal romance. It’s like a shot of hot, romance espresso. ^_^
There’s a question that oft asked about fictional tales. The plot or the characters: what’s more important, and which did you enjoy more? Well, in the case of this particular story, I’d say the attraction (that existed between the two lead characters) was the top element.
Such a cop-out answer, I know. ^_^ It’s neither plot nor character. But the attraction was the star of the show, almost like a character itself. With the relatively short length of this tale, there was no room for elaborate plot, no time to delve deeply into the characters’ pasts and present. In their place, the attraction between Kael and Shayla was instantaneous and extremely powerful, and it was the two characters’ differing reactions to that attraction that formed the basis of this story.
Indeed, I kept waiting for some external factor: a mustache-twirling villain, a long-lost suitor, some profound yet easily-remedied misunderstanding to keep the main characters apart. But no, the focus remained on Kael and Shayla, and every other element or peripheral character (mentioned in name or featured “on stage”) only served to highlight the importance of their connection. It made for a highly romantic tale.
…and a freaking sexy tale, too! The romance and sensuality are both laid on thickly and powerfully here, with very dramatic visuals and grandiose sentiment. To any given reader it can come off as cheesy, or it can come across as extremely swoon-worthy. I’m of the latter sentiment, as it happens. ^_^
I have to admit, however, that this is not my favorite Laura Kaye work. Her writing in the novella Hearts in Darkness showed her (enviable!) mastery of maximizing the effectiveness of a shorter story. Here, while I thought the story to be ultimately satisfying–sweet, romantic, sizzling, and interesting–I personally found the characters less intriguing, less unique, less nuanced than others of hers have been.
But having gotten that admission out, ^_^ I certainly recommend In the Service of the King as a quick, intense, and effective paranormal romance. It’s like a shot of hot, romance espresso. ^_^
September 15, 2012
Kael despises feeding from innocent human virgins though they offer themselves willingly and are trained for the practice, his other only alternative though is to feed from a mate which he lost long ago. Since then he has questioned his ability to protect those he loves and is terrified of history repeating itself if he was to find a mate again. But to keep him and his warriors strong, he follows tradition and forces himself through the ritual every three months.
Shayla has prepared her whole life to be a proffered for the Vampire King, Kael. Advancing through school and studying under her mentor, hoping for a way to somehow help the vampires in their fight against the soul eaters, even if it is just through feeding. But when the reality doesn’t live up to the fantasy Shayla is at a loss, questioning both herself and her future.
Laura Kaye entices with this unique twist on the classic vampire tale; where all vampires are male, vampire kingdoms and communities are set up across the world, each with their own monarchy, and vampires live along side humans but in secret with only a select few all the wiser. The setting had an old-world feel to it but is placed firmly in modern day times. The world that the author creates is captivating, with just enough details of the culture to easily slide the readers’ right into the heart of the story.
In the Service of the King is all about two soul mates, the building sensuality between them and the coming connection. You won’t find any action here but you will find a true romance. However, I didn’t feel as connected with the characters as I usually do with Laura Kaye’s books; it took a bit for me to buy into their feelings for each other, but Laura has a way with the written word that sucks you in no matter what.
As Shayla works through insecurities and Kael overcomes the ghosts of his past in order to move forward into a future with Shayla, readers are treated to raw passion, blistering love scenes and an intriguing new world. A short and sexy paranormal romance/erotica novella that left me craving more, thankfully this is just the beginning of a series that promises to excite!
Shayla has prepared her whole life to be a proffered for the Vampire King, Kael. Advancing through school and studying under her mentor, hoping for a way to somehow help the vampires in their fight against the soul eaters, even if it is just through feeding. But when the reality doesn’t live up to the fantasy Shayla is at a loss, questioning both herself and her future.
Laura Kaye entices with this unique twist on the classic vampire tale; where all vampires are male, vampire kingdoms and communities are set up across the world, each with their own monarchy, and vampires live along side humans but in secret with only a select few all the wiser. The setting had an old-world feel to it but is placed firmly in modern day times. The world that the author creates is captivating, with just enough details of the culture to easily slide the readers’ right into the heart of the story.
In the Service of the King is all about two soul mates, the building sensuality between them and the coming connection. You won’t find any action here but you will find a true romance. However, I didn’t feel as connected with the characters as I usually do with Laura Kaye’s books; it took a bit for me to buy into their feelings for each other, but Laura has a way with the written word that sucks you in no matter what.
As Shayla works through insecurities and Kael overcomes the ghosts of his past in order to move forward into a future with Shayla, readers are treated to raw passion, blistering love scenes and an intriguing new world. A short and sexy paranormal romance/erotica novella that left me craving more, thankfully this is just the beginning of a series that promises to excite!
September 22, 2012
Laura,
I love your books! I just wish they were looooonnnnnngggger :)
I feel so teased, LoL!
For example in this book,
Kael is a Vampire King that must feed on the blood of a virgin or his mate in order to stay strong (also his subjects won't feed unless he does). So even though he hates taking part in this ritual, he does so because of his position. Kael has been hurt...his mate died 300 years ago in child birth and he has no desire to replace her. She went into early labor because she was stressed by the attacks of a killer vampire race. Really I think he doesn't want to hurt again but he doesn't want anyone to hurt from being with him either.
So Kael steps into the room and sees Shayla kneeling before him. He is intrigued...she is beautiful, one green eye, one blue. Shayla has trained for this moment. She knows what is expected and she wants to do her part to help sustain the vampires who might avenge her sister (who was killed by the evil vampires). Kael desires Shayla but he treats her badly because he wants her so.
When she is dismissed he can't stop thinking about her that he brings her back for a night of passion.
They mate...
And then, I want more (Just like I wanted more in Hearts in Darkness)!!
I want them to have a life together, for the bad vampires to attack, for him to almost lose her, for her to have a baby....Just more!!
Guess I just have to read more Laura Kaye short stories.
I love your books! I just wish they were looooonnnnnngggger :)
I feel so teased, LoL!
For example in this book,
Kael is a Vampire King that must feed on the blood of a virgin or his mate in order to stay strong (also his subjects won't feed unless he does). So even though he hates taking part in this ritual, he does so because of his position. Kael has been hurt...his mate died 300 years ago in child birth and he has no desire to replace her. She went into early labor because she was stressed by the attacks of a killer vampire race. Really I think he doesn't want to hurt again but he doesn't want anyone to hurt from being with him either.
So Kael steps into the room and sees Shayla kneeling before him. He is intrigued...she is beautiful, one green eye, one blue. Shayla has trained for this moment. She knows what is expected and she wants to do her part to help sustain the vampires who might avenge her sister (who was killed by the evil vampires). Kael desires Shayla but he treats her badly because he wants her so.
When she is dismissed he can't stop thinking about her that he brings her back for a night of passion.
They mate...
And then, I want more (Just like I wanted more in Hearts in Darkness)!!
I want them to have a life together, for the bad vampires to attack, for him to almost lose her, for her to have a baby....Just more!!
Guess I just have to read more Laura Kaye short stories.
February 21, 2012
I won a copy of this book from the blog The Qwillery.
I enjoyed this book, especially the historic setting (which you can see on the lovely cover). However, I kept waiting for something to HAPPEN, and, other than the virgin heroine mating with the vampire king, not all that much happened. I kept thinking, "where's the conflict?" because there really wasn't much of a conflict to be honest. The vamp king was at first resistent to taking a mate, because he lost a mate over 300 years ago and it was a painful experience, but this resistence was overcome in a matter of hours!
That said, the chemistry is sizzling between the characters, and it was easy to read. I was drawn in from the beginning and time flew by while I was reading. This is clearly the beginning of a series, and I'm willing to try out the next book (my vote would be for Liam to find his mate), but I definitely have a few reservations.
I enjoyed this book, especially the historic setting (which you can see on the lovely cover). However, I kept waiting for something to HAPPEN, and, other than the virgin heroine mating with the vampire king, not all that much happened. I kept thinking, "where's the conflict?" because there really wasn't much of a conflict to be honest. The vamp king was at first resistent to taking a mate, because he lost a mate over 300 years ago and it was a painful experience, but this resistence was overcome in a matter of hours!
That said, the chemistry is sizzling between the characters, and it was easy to read. I was drawn in from the beginning and time flew by while I was reading. This is clearly the beginning of a series, and I'm willing to try out the next book (my vote would be for Liam to find his mate), but I definitely have a few reservations.
June 17, 2012
Shayla has been working hard to find a way to avenge her sister’s murder. Finally finds that way, in the King of Vampires. She just never imagined how much it would change her life.
Kael is just doing what he has to do to survive and have his people survive. But the last thing he wants to do is feed. But one look into Shayla’s mismatched eyes everything changes.
I liked this story, but didn’t love it. I was hoping for a little more action. Maybe a rescue scene or two, but at last it was not to happen. I really wished this story was long. It felt a little rushed to me. I felt like there was more to the story that was not told. Maybe Laura is planning another story for these two. I would like to know what happens next for them. Does Shayla get the revenge she seeks? Does Kael keep his family and people safe? So many questions
Kael is just doing what he has to do to survive and have his people survive. But the last thing he wants to do is feed. But one look into Shayla’s mismatched eyes everything changes.
I liked this story, but didn’t love it. I was hoping for a little more action. Maybe a rescue scene or two, but at last it was not to happen. I really wished this story was long. It felt a little rushed to me. I felt like there was more to the story that was not told. Maybe Laura is planning another story for these two. I would like to know what happens next for them. Does Shayla get the revenge she seeks? Does Kael keep his family and people safe? So many questions
September 4, 2014
LIKED IT BUT IT WAS TOO SHORT
Kael is one of a number of vampire kings who rule different areas of the world. Three hundred years ago his mate and queen was killed by the enemy the soul eaters. Since that time he has vowed never to be mated again. But he needs blood to survive, and this is provided by the "proffered" human women who are virgins, but Kael refuses to drink directly from them instead he hypnotises them and drains their blood into a goblet with a blade. He never hurts them, that is until the beautiful Shayla is the proffered who is next to serve him.
This had all the makings of a good story but it was too short. What there was is very well written. But it is just a story about Kael and Shayla's mating. The sex is really hot and the characters are interesting. But I was left wanting more.
Kael is one of a number of vampire kings who rule different areas of the world. Three hundred years ago his mate and queen was killed by the enemy the soul eaters. Since that time he has vowed never to be mated again. But he needs blood to survive, and this is provided by the "proffered" human women who are virgins, but Kael refuses to drink directly from them instead he hypnotises them and drains their blood into a goblet with a blade. He never hurts them, that is until the beautiful Shayla is the proffered who is next to serve him.
This had all the makings of a good story but it was too short. What there was is very well written. But it is just a story about Kael and Shayla's mating. The sex is really hot and the characters are interesting. But I was left wanting more.
February 2, 2012
If you like tortured vampires, then you must meet Kael the Fair! Having lost his mate, Kael dreads the Proferring ritual that occurs every 3 months when he has to drink the blood of a human female virgin, that is until Shayla comes along. In Laura Kaye's latest novella, she lays out a fascinating vampire world for her new Vampire Warrior Kings series. I don't want to give away too much detail, since this is a short story, but I will tell you that the attention to detail is just amazing! From the back stories of Kael and Shayla, their intense passion for one another to the traditions, rituals and setting, In the Service of the King is a satisfying, sensual quick read for any paranormal romance fan!
January 23, 2012
The emotional depth of this book took my knees out from under me. I love that in today's world, the heroine is a virgin, saving herself for the vampire king - and it is BELIEVABLE! The king is tortured and living only a shadow of his life without his mate. The twists and heart-wrenching turns these to go through will keep you up reading all night. And did I mention the hot-as-it-gets sex? Royalty, eons of sacrifice, jewels, blood, burn up the sheets sensuality and vampires - this book is everything you want from a Harlequin Nocturne.
October 10, 2012
This shorter story by Kaye didn't quite live up to the perfection that is Hearts in Darkness, but it is a very good story that sets up what could potentially be a great contemporary vampire series. Kaye writes good emotional angst and steamy sex scenes, and she apparently has a thing with tattoed guys, because Kael is covered in them, as was our earlier hero Caden from the elevator. Not that I'm complaining.
November 17, 2013
"3 Stars!
Steamy little read!!! Would have been better had it been a full novel! Great world would have loved the author to continue to build on it!
*swoon*
“I am on my knees before you because we will always be equals, partners in all things. I hold your hand in mine, because we will always be together. I look into your eyes to see into the real you, and let you see into the real me. I pledge to take care of you, protect you, and cherish you for all time.”
― Laura Kaye, In the Service of the King
Steamy little read!!! Would have been better had it been a full novel! Great world would have loved the author to continue to build on it!
*swoon*
“I am on my knees before you because we will always be equals, partners in all things. I hold your hand in mine, because we will always be together. I look into your eyes to see into the real you, and let you see into the real me. I pledge to take care of you, protect you, and cherish you for all time.”
― Laura Kaye, In the Service of the King
March 24, 2012
4.5 stars! And that's only because I wanted more!!! When an author can make me connect with the story and characters in a novella, I know I've found an author that I want to read everything they've written. So, now I'm on a hunt for everything by Laura Kaye :)
This was hot and steamy and I loved the small hint of playfulness we saw in Kael that was hidden among his strong warrior being.
This was hot and steamy and I loved the small hint of playfulness we saw in Kael that was hidden among his strong warrior being.
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