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Nocturne Falls #11
The Vampire's Priceless Treasure
Welcome to Nocturne Falls, the town that celebrates Halloween 365 days a year. The tourists think it's all a show: the vampires, the werewolves, the witches, the occasional gargoyle flying through the sky. But the supernaturals populating the town know better.
Living in Nocturne Falls means being yourself. Fangs, fur, and all.
Half reaper, half vampire Kora Dupree has made big changes in her life. She’s on good terms with her previously estranged father and taken on all kinds of adult responsibilities. But when an opportunity to find out the truth about her late mother comes along, she can’t resist pursuing it. Even when it means returning to her somewhat dubious ways.
Vampire Greyson Garrett knows the bad but beautiful Kora is up to something. He’s wise to her games. After all, her father has hired Greyson numerous times to save Kora from all the sticky situations she’s gotten herself into. If she were just…better behaved he could see himself falling for her. Hard.
Even though Kora promises she’s changed, Greyson has his doubts. So much so that he follows her one fateful night and gets pulled into her latest scheme. It’s not like he hasn’t been here before, but this time he swears it’s her last chance to prove she’s different.
Kora’s new adventure sends them on a treasure hunt that takes them all over the globe, and in the course of their travels, they realize how good things are when they work together. But will that all change when the adventure is over? Are they really in love? Or just addicted to the rush?
Living in Nocturne Falls means being yourself. Fangs, fur, and all.
Half reaper, half vampire Kora Dupree has made big changes in her life. She’s on good terms with her previously estranged father and taken on all kinds of adult responsibilities. But when an opportunity to find out the truth about her late mother comes along, she can’t resist pursuing it. Even when it means returning to her somewhat dubious ways.
Vampire Greyson Garrett knows the bad but beautiful Kora is up to something. He’s wise to her games. After all, her father has hired Greyson numerous times to save Kora from all the sticky situations she’s gotten herself into. If she were just…better behaved he could see himself falling for her. Hard.
Even though Kora promises she’s changed, Greyson has his doubts. So much so that he follows her one fateful night and gets pulled into her latest scheme. It’s not like he hasn’t been here before, but this time he swears it’s her last chance to prove she’s different.
Kora’s new adventure sends them on a treasure hunt that takes them all over the globe, and in the course of their travels, they realize how good things are when they work together. But will that all change when the adventure is over? Are they really in love? Or just addicted to the rush?
350 pages, Paperback
First published October 7, 2019
708 people are currently reading
820 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Painter
179 books3,413 followersKristen Painter likes to balance her obsessions with shoes and cats by making the lives of her characters miserable and surprising her readers with interesting twists. She currently writes award-winning paranormal romance, paranormal women's fiction, and cozy mysteries. The former college English teacher can often be found on twitter @Kristen_Painter, Facebook at www.facebook.com/KristenPainterAuthor where she loves to interact with readers and her blog: http://kristenpainter.com/blog/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
October 6, 2019
The Vampire’s Priceless Treasure
Greyson’s story. 11th book in the Nocturne Falls series. A town of paranormals that celebrates Halloween every day so they can live openly.
Best read as part of the series but can be read as a separate paranormal romance.
For me, the best part of this series is the town itself and the little gems that regular readers know. Like the underground tunnels that connect and protect the town. Like the specific local restaurants and characters. Like Alice and Birdie and the Sheriff.
Most of this book takes place outside of Nocturne Falls. They use the plane from the Ellinghams. They text Birdie for research a couple of times. It does start and end in Nocturne Falls which was important to me.
I didn’t like Kora for most of the story. She stole the antique necklace and that’s it? There is never a repercussion for that. Breaking and entering multiple places during the quest. A lighter she had previously used to set a fire and her lock picking tools. All the bad girl tricks and yet she changed. Truly I didn’t believe it until the end. I won’t add spoilers but there was a turning point that I understood she was being honest and real in the life changes.
Greyson didn’t fair much better. He keeps questioning whether she’s really changed. Rightly so, but this bothered me. Either accept her as she is or don’t but if you keep questioning her motives/truth, the churning of emotions makes everyone uncomfortable.
The funniest, they both had cell phones but neither thought to use the flashlight in it. They continued to us the lighter.
Bottom line - it is a romance and all the issues did get resolved and fixed. I was happy with the ending and the result.
I hope the Nocturne Falls stories continue.
Greyson’s story. 11th book in the Nocturne Falls series. A town of paranormals that celebrates Halloween every day so they can live openly.
Best read as part of the series but can be read as a separate paranormal romance.
For me, the best part of this series is the town itself and the little gems that regular readers know. Like the underground tunnels that connect and protect the town. Like the specific local restaurants and characters. Like Alice and Birdie and the Sheriff.
Most of this book takes place outside of Nocturne Falls. They use the plane from the Ellinghams. They text Birdie for research a couple of times. It does start and end in Nocturne Falls which was important to me.
I didn’t like Kora for most of the story. She stole the antique necklace and that’s it? There is never a repercussion for that. Breaking and entering multiple places during the quest. A lighter she had previously used to set a fire and her lock picking tools. All the bad girl tricks and yet she changed. Truly I didn’t believe it until the end. I won’t add spoilers but there was a turning point that I understood she was being honest and real in the life changes.
Greyson didn’t fair much better. He keeps questioning whether she’s really changed. Rightly so, but this bothered me. Either accept her as she is or don’t but if you keep questioning her motives/truth, the churning of emotions makes everyone uncomfortable.
The funniest, they both had cell phones but neither thought to use the flashlight in it. They continued to us the lighter.
Bottom line - it is a romance and all the issues did get resolved and fixed. I was happy with the ending and the result.
I hope the Nocturne Falls stories continue.
August 11, 2023
Enemies to lovers romance! Cora, daughter of a Reaper, has a reputation as somewhat of a disaster in town. She always needs to be rescued from scrapes. Her father, who owns Insomnia, pays Grayson (yes, THAT Grayson who we’ve all been waiting to see find his wonderful happy ending after things didn’t turn out so well with a certain winter elf) to clean up some of her messes. So of course when Cora goes after an antique on display at a library exhibit that Grayson is supposed to be guarding, sparks fly. This was cute, cute, cute (more of a romantic suspense in feel than some of the other books--lots of fun) and I was so happy to see Grayson finally get his happy ending!
October 21, 2019
This might truly be my favorite book in the Nocturne Falls series. Greyson was my favorite in the the Jayne Frost series; it was hard to see him leave. Now, with this book, I am happy he didn’t end up in the NP (The North Pole) with Jayne.
The mystery and intrigue in this book was fun without being cheesy. This story is a prime example of why cozy paranormal is one of my favorite genres.
The mystery and intrigue in this book was fun without being cheesy. This story is a prime example of why cozy paranormal is one of my favorite genres.
December 26, 2021
At this point I have just accepted that Kristen Painter will be my most read author of 2021...by a lot. (Second guessing publicly admitting that.)
So, I figured I might as well just embrace it and finish the series.
This book actually started out really strongly but eventually fell flat. The characters are chasing an elusive MacGuffin and the clues that string them from one adventure to the next come together too neatly for how randomly they fit together. But it isn't the worst one in the series by a long shot.
So, I figured I might as well just embrace it and finish the series.
This book actually started out really strongly but eventually fell flat. The characters are chasing an elusive MacGuffin and the clues that string them from one adventure to the next come together too neatly for how randomly they fit together. But it isn't the worst one in the series by a long shot.
May 27, 2024
Eleventh in the Nocturne Falls fantasy magical realism mystery series and revolving around a safe haven for supernaturals, a small town in Georgia where Halloween is celebrated 365 days a year. The couple focus is on Greyson Garrett and Kora Dupree.
My Take
An intriguing start with Greyson needing to shut down Kora's little theft.
Painter uses third person dual protagonist point-of-view from Greyson's and Kora's perspectives, so we know what they're thinking and experiencing. Kora really does seem to be "on the mend". She's sure making a lot of reflections about her past.
Greyson has a more convoluted path. He has his history with Kora and with Catherine to consider
Ooh, a nasty reason why the Romanovs "really" died. We also discover the reason for Greyson's actions at the end of Miss Frost Cracks a Caper , 4 (NFU 8.1). Hmm, Greyson has a more complex character arc than Kora, as he reflects on Catherine's approach to him versus Kora's as well as his break-up with Jayne.
Hey, Desdemona ( The Vampire's Accidental Wife , 8) got her playhouse!
Oh, brother. Gotta put in the stupid doubting meme. I understand doubting; I realize it can increase the drama, but this one felt shoved in at the last minute.
The story is mostly about character, exploring Kora's and what she discovers about herself and a little less about Greyson.
As for the action, there's something to be said for routine.
The Story
It's an art opening at the town library: "Touched by Magic: Gems and Jewelry with Mythical Connections" that opens security guard Greyson Garrett's eyes to Kora's questionable actions.
It's the Fox who has set Kora on her path, if Kora wants to know the truth of what happened to her mother.
The Characters
Kora Dupree, the half-vampire/half-reaper daughter of Lucien, is turning over a new leaf from her past life as a major PITA — she's managing Insomnia for her dad, Lucien. Waffles is her cat; Chicken will become her second cat. Lucien Dupree, a retired reaper who recently married Imari Zephara, a retired jinn ( The Reaper Rescues the Genie , 9), owns Insomnia, a supernaturals-only hotspot. Pavlina, the vampire, had been her selfish mother. The former ghost, Hattie Dupree, Lucien's grandmother and Kora's great-grandmother, lives with Lucien and Imari.
Greyson Garrett, a daywalking vampire thanks to his Roma great-aunt Lavinia, is wealthy enough not to work, but does enjoy taking on independent jobs. He has a thing for clothes and his '69 Camaro. Catherine had been Greyson's sire and beloved who came to a bad end.
Nocturne Falls, Georgia, is . . .
. . . a small town mostly owned by a family of vampires headed by Elenora Ellingham, who does adore her jewelry, including the newly acquired Heart of Dawn ( Miss Frost Cracks a Caper , 4), and her three grandsons: Sebastian, Hugh, and Julian. Hugh is married to Delaney, also a vampire, who runs the sweet shop, Delaney's Delectables ( The Vampire's Mail Order Bride , 1). They have a son, George. Alice Bishop is a powerful witch Elenora rescued from the Salem witch trials. Thanks to her the Ellinghams walk in daylight and Nocturne Falls is a safe haven. Wentworth is Elenora's part-time butler. The Basement is a secret underground labyrinth that connects a good part of town.
"Touched by Magic: Gems and Jewelry with Mythical Connections" was curated by Randolph Dillinger.
Sheriff Hank Merrow, a werewolf, is married to Ivy, and they have two children: Charlie and Hannah Rose ( The Werewolf Meets His Match , 2). Deputies include Jenna Blythe and Alex Cruz (engaged to Roxy St James in The Shifter Romances the Writer , 6). Birdie Caruthers, a werewolf and a primary character, is Hank's aunt and the police receptionist.
Jayne Frost, a winter elf who is heir to Winter, Santa's niece, and Jack Frost's daughter, manages Santa's Workshop. She's also a recent ex of Greyson's. Spider is her cat who just loves Chicken Party. We know this because Spider can talk. And, Jayne has just moved back to the North Pole. The brothers, Chet and Bret, bear shifters, are some of Insomnia's doormen. Will is one of the servers. Ivan "Van" Tsetkov is a retired MMA fighter and a dragon shifter married to Monalisa, a Will-o’-the-Wisp ( The Dragon Finds Forever , 7). Grom is Van's protective dog. Mae Ellen is a new friend of Hattie's. Undrea Seely is a mermaid who runs an aquarium business, Tanks a Lot. Undrea's friends include Mattie Sharpe, a green witch who keeps honey, and Caroline Linzer is a feline shifter whose family runs the pet store. Mummy's Diner is one of the best; Zombie Donuts are crazy good; and, the Poisoned Apple is a great pub. Brent Tillis, a secondary wizard who is a vet tech, works with the animal shelter.
Niall works at The White Lady, a D&B B&B in Dublin, Ireland, where they visited the Dragon's Hoard, a pub. In Paris, Greyson reconnects with Margot, the butcher's daughter. In Spain, they visit the Castillo del Toro where the duplicitous Catalina is a ghost. Alejandro is the little boy to whom she eventually gave birth.
The Brotherhood are . . .
. . . an ancient order of werewolves and the protectors of all werewolf kind. Vittoria Ricci is the captain of the Rome Brotherhood. Daniel is her second.
The Vampire Council
Mitsuki and Nobis are emissaries from the council.
The Prosvita are . . .
. . . the Enlightened Ones, elite vampire children of Rasputin. The Fox is with them. Aldo is another of them. Grand Duchess Olga Romanov used to own the locket. Rasputin was a vampire who could see the future. Alexei Romanov is the youngest and only son. Tsarina Alexander was his mother. There was a witchy maid who turned into a vampire. Yezmani is a Egyptian witch and a grand master of Bedouin magic.
The Cover and Title
The cover is primarily a gradation of a light royal blue to a dark royal blue with white sparkling stars around the edges forming an oval blank for the black-haired Greyson in his all-black coat and pants while he's holding a scroll in his right hand. Next to him, holding up a fiery pendant, the long-haired, white-blonde Kora is wearing a burgundy tank with a sweetheart neckline and black pants. Piled up on both sides of the couple are skulls with the brown signboard announcing the series info above the skulls on the right. Above the sign and covering Kora's right elbow is the series jack-o-lantern. Behind the white title with its thick black outline is an amorphous black formed of bats. At the bottom is a black border forming the background for an info blurb and the author's name, both in white.
The title is all about the The Vampire's Priceless Treasure, an unexpected "gift" from Lucien to Greyson.
My Take
An intriguing start with Greyson needing to shut down Kora's little theft.
"I'm done pulling you out of the fires you start. You want to walk around dousing everything in lighter fluid, by my guest, but deal with the consequences on your own."A start that leads into a quest to find a treasure to learn the truth.
Painter uses third person dual protagonist point-of-view from Greyson's and Kora's perspectives, so we know what they're thinking and experiencing. Kora really does seem to be "on the mend". She's sure making a lot of reflections about her past.
Greyson has a more convoluted path. He has his history with Kora and with Catherine to consider
Ooh, a nasty reason why the Romanovs "really" died. We also discover the reason for Greyson's actions at the end of Miss Frost Cracks a Caper , 4 (NFU 8.1). Hmm, Greyson has a more complex character arc than Kora, as he reflects on Catherine's approach to him versus Kora's as well as his break-up with Jayne.
Hey, Desdemona ( The Vampire's Accidental Wife , 8) got her playhouse!
Oh, brother. Gotta put in the stupid doubting meme. I understand doubting; I realize it can increase the drama, but this one felt shoved in at the last minute.
The story is mostly about character, exploring Kora's and what she discovers about herself and a little less about Greyson.
As for the action, there's something to be said for routine.
The Story
It's an art opening at the town library: "Touched by Magic: Gems and Jewelry with Mythical Connections" that opens security guard Greyson Garrett's eyes to Kora's questionable actions.
It's the Fox who has set Kora on her path, if Kora wants to know the truth of what happened to her mother.
The Characters
Kora Dupree, the half-vampire/half-reaper daughter of Lucien, is turning over a new leaf from her past life as a major PITA — she's managing Insomnia for her dad, Lucien. Waffles is her cat; Chicken will become her second cat. Lucien Dupree, a retired reaper who recently married Imari Zephara, a retired jinn ( The Reaper Rescues the Genie , 9), owns Insomnia, a supernaturals-only hotspot. Pavlina, the vampire, had been her selfish mother. The former ghost, Hattie Dupree, Lucien's grandmother and Kora's great-grandmother, lives with Lucien and Imari.
Greyson Garrett, a daywalking vampire thanks to his Roma great-aunt Lavinia, is wealthy enough not to work, but does enjoy taking on independent jobs. He has a thing for clothes and his '69 Camaro. Catherine had been Greyson's sire and beloved who came to a bad end.
Nocturne Falls, Georgia, is . . .
. . . a small town mostly owned by a family of vampires headed by Elenora Ellingham, who does adore her jewelry, including the newly acquired Heart of Dawn ( Miss Frost Cracks a Caper , 4), and her three grandsons: Sebastian, Hugh, and Julian. Hugh is married to Delaney, also a vampire, who runs the sweet shop, Delaney's Delectables ( The Vampire's Mail Order Bride , 1). They have a son, George. Alice Bishop is a powerful witch Elenora rescued from the Salem witch trials. Thanks to her the Ellinghams walk in daylight and Nocturne Falls is a safe haven. Wentworth is Elenora's part-time butler. The Basement is a secret underground labyrinth that connects a good part of town.
"Touched by Magic: Gems and Jewelry with Mythical Connections" was curated by Randolph Dillinger.
Sheriff Hank Merrow, a werewolf, is married to Ivy, and they have two children: Charlie and Hannah Rose ( The Werewolf Meets His Match , 2). Deputies include Jenna Blythe and Alex Cruz (engaged to Roxy St James in The Shifter Romances the Writer , 6). Birdie Caruthers, a werewolf and a primary character, is Hank's aunt and the police receptionist.
Jayne Frost, a winter elf who is heir to Winter, Santa's niece, and Jack Frost's daughter, manages Santa's Workshop. She's also a recent ex of Greyson's. Spider is her cat who just loves Chicken Party. We know this because Spider can talk. And, Jayne has just moved back to the North Pole. The brothers, Chet and Bret, bear shifters, are some of Insomnia's doormen. Will is one of the servers. Ivan "Van" Tsetkov is a retired MMA fighter and a dragon shifter married to Monalisa, a Will-o’-the-Wisp ( The Dragon Finds Forever , 7). Grom is Van's protective dog. Mae Ellen is a new friend of Hattie's. Undrea Seely is a mermaid who runs an aquarium business, Tanks a Lot. Undrea's friends include Mattie Sharpe, a green witch who keeps honey, and Caroline Linzer is a feline shifter whose family runs the pet store. Mummy's Diner is one of the best; Zombie Donuts are crazy good; and, the Poisoned Apple is a great pub. Brent Tillis, a secondary wizard who is a vet tech, works with the animal shelter.
Niall works at The White Lady, a D&B B&B in Dublin, Ireland, where they visited the Dragon's Hoard, a pub. In Paris, Greyson reconnects with Margot, the butcher's daughter. In Spain, they visit the Castillo del Toro where the duplicitous Catalina is a ghost. Alejandro is the little boy to whom she eventually gave birth.
The Brotherhood are . . .
. . . an ancient order of werewolves and the protectors of all werewolf kind. Vittoria Ricci is the captain of the Rome Brotherhood. Daniel is her second.
The Vampire Council
Mitsuki and Nobis are emissaries from the council.
The Prosvita are . . .
. . . the Enlightened Ones, elite vampire children of Rasputin. The Fox is with them. Aldo is another of them. Grand Duchess Olga Romanov used to own the locket. Rasputin was a vampire who could see the future. Alexei Romanov is the youngest and only son. Tsarina Alexander was his mother. There was a witchy maid who turned into a vampire. Yezmani is a Egyptian witch and a grand master of Bedouin magic.
The Cover and Title
The cover is primarily a gradation of a light royal blue to a dark royal blue with white sparkling stars around the edges forming an oval blank for the black-haired Greyson in his all-black coat and pants while he's holding a scroll in his right hand. Next to him, holding up a fiery pendant, the long-haired, white-blonde Kora is wearing a burgundy tank with a sweetheart neckline and black pants. Piled up on both sides of the couple are skulls with the brown signboard announcing the series info above the skulls on the right. Above the sign and covering Kora's right elbow is the series jack-o-lantern. Behind the white title with its thick black outline is an amorphous black formed of bats. At the bottom is a black border forming the background for an info blurb and the author's name, both in white.
The title is all about the The Vampire's Priceless Treasure, an unexpected "gift" from Lucien to Greyson.
September 8, 2021
The Vampire’s Priceless Treasure is book 11 in the Nocturne Falls series. This book is about vampire, Greyson Garrett, and half-vampire and Lucien’s daughter, Kora Dupree. I was really excited to read about Greyson. I first met him when I read the Miss Frost crossover series. He was dating Jayne Frost for a short time. I really liked him and couldn’t wait to find out what happened with him. This book did not disappoint.
Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to review this book when I finished it 2.5 weeks ago so it isn’t as fresh in my mind. What I can say is that I loved this book. It is one of my favorites from the series. It felt like the author got a whole new zest to her writing and has somehow been re-inspired because while all of these books are fantastic, this one just felt different and new.
This book was pretty much a global treasure hunt. We went from country to country during Kora’s quest. There was quite a bit of adventure and I was captivated by it all. There weren’t any dull moments in this book. I also really loved watching Greyson and Kora’s relationship develop.
The content and writing in The Vampire’s Priceless Treasure are easily 6 stars for me. The only thing that was a bit lackluster for me was the narration. This narrator has narrated all of the books in this series and he typically does a wonderful job. I haven’t had any real complaints about how he reads until this book. There were several times in this book where I couldn’t tell which character was supposed to be speaking. The narrator either forgot to switch voices or I just couldn’t tell because the voices were too similar. Like I said though, that has never happened before in this series so I’m not sure why it did now. I won’t hold one book against him though.
I highly recommend the Nocturne Falls series and the spin-off series, Miss Frost. I suggest reading them in order because it makes it more fulfilling (for me anyway), but the author does a great job writing the books so even if you read them as standalone, you don’t get lost. This is a series that I will listen to again and again.
Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to review this book when I finished it 2.5 weeks ago so it isn’t as fresh in my mind. What I can say is that I loved this book. It is one of my favorites from the series. It felt like the author got a whole new zest to her writing and has somehow been re-inspired because while all of these books are fantastic, this one just felt different and new.
This book was pretty much a global treasure hunt. We went from country to country during Kora’s quest. There was quite a bit of adventure and I was captivated by it all. There weren’t any dull moments in this book. I also really loved watching Greyson and Kora’s relationship develop.
The content and writing in The Vampire’s Priceless Treasure are easily 6 stars for me. The only thing that was a bit lackluster for me was the narration. This narrator has narrated all of the books in this series and he typically does a wonderful job. I haven’t had any real complaints about how he reads until this book. There were several times in this book where I couldn’t tell which character was supposed to be speaking. The narrator either forgot to switch voices or I just couldn’t tell because the voices were too similar. Like I said though, that has never happened before in this series so I’m not sure why it did now. I won’t hold one book against him though.
I highly recommend the Nocturne Falls series and the spin-off series, Miss Frost. I suggest reading them in order because it makes it more fulfilling (for me anyway), but the author does a great job writing the books so even if you read them as standalone, you don’t get lost. This is a series that I will listen to again and again.
October 14, 2019
Anyone that follows my reviews will know that it is no secret that I love these books, and this world, and it has been a little while since we last got to visit.
This installment gives us Greyson's story - fans of the Jayne Frost series will recognize him and I know many have been hoping that we got to see more of him - and now we do.
I'll be honest, the last couple of Jayne Frost books have kind of had me wanting to grab Greyson by the shirt and shake some sense into him - but all is forgiven now and I am back on #TeamGreyson.
This story was fantastic. I loved the growth that Kora has made (Fans will know her from Lucien's book) and her and Greyson really do make a fun, adventure seeking team. It was great to have them following a mystery that took them all around the world - and STILL managed to surprise me with how it all turned out!
Although new fans could probably jump right in with this story as they are all complete in their own rights (no cliffhangers), I am more convinced than ever but at this point you are losing so many little things if you don't start reading them from the beginning. There are SO MANY layers to the characters and inside jokes that just don't work if you don't know the world. Hey as book 1 is currently free - seriously what do you have to lose?
An Easy 5 stars from me!
V""V
This installment gives us Greyson's story - fans of the Jayne Frost series will recognize him and I know many have been hoping that we got to see more of him - and now we do.
I'll be honest, the last couple of Jayne Frost books have kind of had me wanting to grab Greyson by the shirt and shake some sense into him - but all is forgiven now and I am back on #TeamGreyson.
This story was fantastic. I loved the growth that Kora has made (Fans will know her from Lucien's book) and her and Greyson really do make a fun, adventure seeking team. It was great to have them following a mystery that took them all around the world - and STILL managed to surprise me with how it all turned out!
Although new fans could probably jump right in with this story as they are all complete in their own rights (no cliffhangers), I am more convinced than ever but at this point you are losing so many little things if you don't start reading them from the beginning. There are SO MANY layers to the characters and inside jokes that just don't work if you don't know the world. Hey as book 1 is currently free - seriously what do you have to lose?
An Easy 5 stars from me!
V""V
October 25, 2019
2019 bk. 348. The newest in the Nocturne Falls series. I've always like Greyson (Vampire) and Kora, at the end of her father's book was beginning to grow on me (like a leach - she's half reaper half vampire by the way.) This book pairs the two of them in a quest to find a missing object. There is very little action in Nocturne Falls, as most takes place as the pair of them jet around Europe in the Effingham's private plane. The resolution was well done - both resolutions. Having read all of the Nocturne Falls books in a comparatively short period of time, I can see Kristen Painter's growth as a writer, planner of plots, and editor and I appreciate all of the effort she puts into these titles. To be honest, I like the books that are set in Nocturne Falls the best - but this is a good fill in until the next book in the series. In the meantime, I can anticipate December and the re-reading of all of the Princess Frost books.
December 2, 2022
All of her life half-vampire, half-reaper Kora Dupree has had questions about the death of her mother. Now, a mysterious someone is offering to give her those answers -- if she steals half a locket and uses it to track down a hidden treasure. Vampire Greyson Garrett is working security for the locket's exhibit, but he can't help assisting his friend in such an important quest.
Between the Nocturne Falls and the Jayne Frost books, poor Greyson has been around for a while, and had his heart broken when his girlfriend left him for a necromancer. Now he's finally getting his happy ending. Kora has grown from the spoiled brat in The Reaper Rescues the Genie but she's still hung up on her mother's death, and for good reason. They're great characters on a noble quest with an unexpected ending. It's another wonderful novel in the Nocturne Falls series.
Between the Nocturne Falls and the Jayne Frost books, poor Greyson has been around for a while, and had his heart broken when his girlfriend left him for a necromancer. Now he's finally getting his happy ending. Kora has grown from the spoiled brat in The Reaper Rescues the Genie but she's still hung up on her mother's death, and for good reason. They're great characters on a noble quest with an unexpected ending. It's another wonderful novel in the Nocturne Falls series.
October 15, 2021
Having read the JF series before this one, I had completely forgotten that Greyson had been Jayne's special someone (well, her special someone among several special someones) for a while. While Greyson isn't exactly heartsore about losing Jayne to her necromancer, he's ... I don't know. Maybe lonely? And a little growly. Kora, unfortunately, gets the brunt of his growls. But his perception of Kora is also rooted in her wild-child days and he doesn't see her as anything more than a nuisance until, you know, he doesn't.
As for Kora, she's trying to change from the vampire Greyson used to know. Or, you know, the one whose booty he had to rescue on more than one occasion. She's reconnected with her pops and she's turning into a productive member of Nocturne Falls society. Heck, she's even adopted a cat who she loves to pieces.
It isn't until they're on the hunt for mysterious treasure that Greyson acknowledges that he juuuusssst might have feelings for Kora.
A little danger, a scavenger hunt that takes them around the world, an unexpected blast from the past, a kiss or two, and a host of people who aren't thrilled by Kora's quest. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
As for Kora, she's trying to change from the vampire Greyson used to know. Or, you know, the one whose booty he had to rescue on more than one occasion. She's reconnected with her pops and she's turning into a productive member of Nocturne Falls society. Heck, she's even adopted a cat who she loves to pieces.
It isn't until they're on the hunt for mysterious treasure that Greyson acknowledges that he juuuusssst might have feelings for Kora.
A little danger, a scavenger hunt that takes them around the world, an unexpected blast from the past, a kiss or two, and a host of people who aren't thrilled by Kora's quest. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
October 25, 2022
3.5 stars
I enjoyed myself a lot during the first 80% of the book.
It was just a fun ride and exactly what I was expecting with this series.
But then it turned a bit ridiculous.
I was expecting it to be her mum, but her and her cult just letting her make a deal with the werewolf’s and then just walk out? Without trying to stop her at all (besides saying: “you’re dead to me”)??
You’re this big bad cult of vampires, that have been searching for this stone for forever and it’s the key to all your plans and they’re just like: oh you don’t want to give it to me? Okay I guess that’s it then.
Not sure why that part bothered me so much.
These books are quite fluffy and cheesy, but that’s what I love about the series. They are a bit ridiculous in that way, but could not get over the mother situation.
Now if they had fought their way out of the house and made the treaty with the werewolf’s once they were back home. That I would have respected.
Would have been a much more dramatic way for them to say I love you’s as well!
I enjoyed myself a lot during the first 80% of the book.
It was just a fun ride and exactly what I was expecting with this series.
But then it turned a bit ridiculous.
I was expecting it to be her mum, but her and her cult just letting her make a deal with the werewolf’s and then just walk out? Without trying to stop her at all (besides saying: “you’re dead to me”)??
You’re this big bad cult of vampires, that have been searching for this stone for forever and it’s the key to all your plans and they’re just like: oh you don’t want to give it to me? Okay I guess that’s it then.
Not sure why that part bothered me so much.
These books are quite fluffy and cheesy, but that’s what I love about the series. They are a bit ridiculous in that way, but could not get over the mother situation.
Now if they had fought their way out of the house and made the treaty with the werewolf’s once they were back home. That I would have respected.
Would have been a much more dramatic way for them to say I love you’s as well!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2024
Very nice. I liked the change of pace and the closure from the “The Reaper Rescues The Genie”.
October 7, 2019
The vampires priceless treasure
Wow! I am just overcome with joy after reading this! We finally get Greyson’s book. I don’t know how Kristen did it, but she was able to write it where the reader just feels the connection he has with Kora. After reading all the books with him and Jayne, I wasn’t sure I could ever see him with anyone else. But clearly, fate had other ideas.
Kora received an anonymous message to recover an item and she will be rewarded with information about her mother. This sends her on a wild scavenger hunt with Greyson at her side. One clue leads to another, with each recovering an item that draws them closer to the end. But as they search, they are also being watched and given warnings about the item they seek and the deadly consequences.
There was so much suspense and danger around every turn. It was also filled with mystery. I loved how the whole thing brought Kora and Greyson closer together. And I laughed so much at all the funny scenes that were included along the way.
Wow! I am just overcome with joy after reading this! We finally get Greyson’s book. I don’t know how Kristen did it, but she was able to write it where the reader just feels the connection he has with Kora. After reading all the books with him and Jayne, I wasn’t sure I could ever see him with anyone else. But clearly, fate had other ideas.
Kora received an anonymous message to recover an item and she will be rewarded with information about her mother. This sends her on a wild scavenger hunt with Greyson at her side. One clue leads to another, with each recovering an item that draws them closer to the end. But as they search, they are also being watched and given warnings about the item they seek and the deadly consequences.
There was so much suspense and danger around every turn. It was also filled with mystery. I loved how the whole thing brought Kora and Greyson closer together. And I laughed so much at all the funny scenes that were included along the way.
October 8, 2019
A 3.5-star review.
First of all, this was not my favorite Nocturne Falls book. The story didn’t really took place in Nocturne Falls. And for once, I didn’t really like the characters. For long time readers, we’ve met Greyson quite extensively previously, in a spin-off of NF. There, I didn’t love him. Here, I continued to be that way. My main objection about him was his indesiciveness. He’s true to his character though, so I gave thumb up for Ms. Painter consistency. Too bad, not a characteristic I admire in anybody. Kora? I tend to have soft spot for bad girl/boy. They usually have good soft heart underneath the bravado. I prefer her change to be more gradually though.
Overall, I enjoyed the book still. Very much so. Ms. Painter way of storytelling was very captivating. Despite my objection above, it’s still a good read. And I think those who are not as picky as me with books’ characters would find this book at least a solid 4-star, or even 5-star.
I was provided a complimentary copy by the author / publisher, but this in no way influenced my thoughts or opinions.
First of all, this was not my favorite Nocturne Falls book. The story didn’t really took place in Nocturne Falls. And for once, I didn’t really like the characters. For long time readers, we’ve met Greyson quite extensively previously, in a spin-off of NF. There, I didn’t love him. Here, I continued to be that way. My main objection about him was his indesiciveness. He’s true to his character though, so I gave thumb up for Ms. Painter consistency. Too bad, not a characteristic I admire in anybody. Kora? I tend to have soft spot for bad girl/boy. They usually have good soft heart underneath the bravado. I prefer her change to be more gradually though.
Overall, I enjoyed the book still. Very much so. Ms. Painter way of storytelling was very captivating. Despite my objection above, it’s still a good read. And I think those who are not as picky as me with books’ characters would find this book at least a solid 4-star, or even 5-star.
I was provided a complimentary copy by the author / publisher, but this in no way influenced my thoughts or opinions.
October 27, 2019
Fantastic story!
Though I’ve really enjoyed all the books in this series, this story is definitely my favorite! The treasure hunt was interesting and entertaining, and laid out in a way that didn’t feel obvious or too much of a stretch. AND, though I had guessed who The Fox was, the ending still contained unexpected twists that surprised me! All in all, an awesome story that I’ll definitely read again!
Though I’ve really enjoyed all the books in this series, this story is definitely my favorite! The treasure hunt was interesting and entertaining, and laid out in a way that didn’t feel obvious or too much of a stretch. AND, though I had guessed who The Fox was, the ending still contained unexpected twists that surprised me! All in all, an awesome story that I’ll definitely read again!
October 7, 2019
This is a great addition to the Nocturne Falls series, it does not disappoint. The story quickly drew me in and had me wanting to keep reading to see what was going to happen next. Each visit to Nocturne Falls is a treat filled with great characters, and charming atmosphere. This book is best read as part of the series, but can be read as a standalone - they are well worth reading.
October 12, 2019
Spirited and fun!
Delightful story full of adventure and twists! I enjoyed this book very much. The characters were, as always, memorable, the plot and pace were spot on, and locations thrilling. I recommend it and cannot wait for the next one!
Delightful story full of adventure and twists! I enjoyed this book very much. The characters were, as always, memorable, the plot and pace were spot on, and locations thrilling. I recommend it and cannot wait for the next one!
December 24, 2020
Series: Nocturne Falls #11
Rating: 3 stars - I liked it
Half reaper, half vampire Kora Dupree is trying to change her life around. She is on good terms with her estranged father, has gotten a job, and even adopted a cat. But when an opportunity to find out what happened to her mother comes along, she is determined to pursue it, even if it means returning to some of her dubious ways.
So first off, I am just going to say I have mixed feelings about Kora. I didn’t really like her when she was introduced in The Reaper Rescues the Genie and while I love that she grew up some, she still isn’t my favorite. I do love that we saw a lot of personal growth for her in this book but it wasn’t enough. My issue is that while she is trying to change she barely questioned returning to her shady past to gain information about her mother. Her father is like the richest man around and has the resources to find that information out for her but she doesn’t ask. Asking for help would have been the more grown up way to go about finding information on her mother, in my opinion.
Greyson has been mentioned throughout this series because he is the only other vampire besides the Ellinghams that can daywalk. I liked Greyson, even if he was a bit of a pushover in the beginning. I enjoyed his eternal confusion about his budding feelings for a vampire who he originally hated. I do wish we had got more of his backstory though. We know his previous partner and sire was killed by a necromancer but very little else about his life.
I did enjoy the whole treasure hunt aspect of this story though. It was an interesting journal with a lot of interesting locations. I think Greyson and Kora make a good team and couple but I still have mixed feelings about Kora.
You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
Rating: 3 stars - I liked it
Half reaper, half vampire Kora Dupree is trying to change her life around. She is on good terms with her estranged father, has gotten a job, and even adopted a cat. But when an opportunity to find out what happened to her mother comes along, she is determined to pursue it, even if it means returning to some of her dubious ways.
So first off, I am just going to say I have mixed feelings about Kora. I didn’t really like her when she was introduced in The Reaper Rescues the Genie and while I love that she grew up some, she still isn’t my favorite. I do love that we saw a lot of personal growth for her in this book but it wasn’t enough. My issue is that while she is trying to change she barely questioned returning to her shady past to gain information about her mother. Her father is like the richest man around and has the resources to find that information out for her but she doesn’t ask. Asking for help would have been the more grown up way to go about finding information on her mother, in my opinion.
Greyson has been mentioned throughout this series because he is the only other vampire besides the Ellinghams that can daywalk. I liked Greyson, even if he was a bit of a pushover in the beginning. I enjoyed his eternal confusion about his budding feelings for a vampire who he originally hated. I do wish we had got more of his backstory though. We know his previous partner and sire was killed by a necromancer but very little else about his life.
I did enjoy the whole treasure hunt aspect of this story though. It was an interesting journal with a lot of interesting locations. I think Greyson and Kora make a good team and couple but I still have mixed feelings about Kora.
You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
July 3, 2023
Half reaper, half vampire Kora Dupree has made big changes in her life. She’s on good terms with her previously estranged father and taken on all kinds of adult responsibilities. But when an opportunity to find out the truth about her late mother comes along, she can’t resist pursuing it. Even when it means returning to her somewhat dubious ways.
Vampire Greyson Garrett knows the bad but beautiful Kora is up to something. He’s wise to her games. After all, her father has hired Greyson numerous times to save Kora from all the sticky situations she’s gotten herself into. If she were just…better behaved he could see himself falling for her. Hard.
Even though Kora promises she’s changed, Greyson has his doubts. So much so that he follows her one fateful night and gets pulled into her latest scheme. It’s not like he hasn’t been here before, but this time he swears it’s her last chance to prove she’s different.
Kora’s new adventure sends them on a treasure hunt that takes them all over the globe, and in the course of their travels, they realize how good things are when they work together. But will that all change when the adventure is over? Are they really in love? Or just addicted to the rush?
Heather's Notes
I finally finished this book. It was not one of my favorites, although I did like it more to the end. I just wasn't a big fan of Kora. I also didn't feel any real chemistry between Kora and Greyson. The ending was nice, but the "surprise" at the end wasn't really that surprising.
Vampire Greyson Garrett knows the bad but beautiful Kora is up to something. He’s wise to her games. After all, her father has hired Greyson numerous times to save Kora from all the sticky situations she’s gotten herself into. If she were just…better behaved he could see himself falling for her. Hard.
Even though Kora promises she’s changed, Greyson has his doubts. So much so that he follows her one fateful night and gets pulled into her latest scheme. It’s not like he hasn’t been here before, but this time he swears it’s her last chance to prove she’s different.
Kora’s new adventure sends them on a treasure hunt that takes them all over the globe, and in the course of their travels, they realize how good things are when they work together. But will that all change when the adventure is over? Are they really in love? Or just addicted to the rush?
Heather's Notes
I finally finished this book. It was not one of my favorites, although I did like it more to the end. I just wasn't a big fan of Kora. I also didn't feel any real chemistry between Kora and Greyson. The ending was nice, but the "surprise" at the end wasn't really that surprising.
August 23, 2025
Unexpected
Kora is an unexpected wild child anti-heroine. She begins as selfish, domineering, arrogant princess type that no one will tolerate, well ever, but eventually changes over time.
Kora eventually realizes some difficult and painful truths that are presented to her through the course of time (much like all of us do in the course of life) and they soften her). Abandoned by her selfish, narcissistic mother at an early age, and lied to as well, she was filled with rage.
When she finally learned the truth about her mom, she slowly began to change from the wild child into an adult who could handle responsibility and developed a relationship with her father and new mother in law and slowly, a new life for herself.
Unfortunately all that changed when the Fox entered her life and teased her with offering the truth about her mother in exchange for finding a hidden treasure. So Kora goes in search of this treasure along with Greyson, her frequent companion, who turns into something more as they eventually fall in love.
As They go on a search for the item, they are in peril, but with the help of others in Nocturne Falls, they are able to secure the item, face the villain who is the Fox, find the truth about Kora’s mother and have the HEA.
Enjoyable novel and an absolutely worthwhile read
Kora is an unexpected wild child anti-heroine. She begins as selfish, domineering, arrogant princess type that no one will tolerate, well ever, but eventually changes over time.
Kora eventually realizes some difficult and painful truths that are presented to her through the course of time (much like all of us do in the course of life) and they soften her). Abandoned by her selfish, narcissistic mother at an early age, and lied to as well, she was filled with rage.
When she finally learned the truth about her mom, she slowly began to change from the wild child into an adult who could handle responsibility and developed a relationship with her father and new mother in law and slowly, a new life for herself.
Unfortunately all that changed when the Fox entered her life and teased her with offering the truth about her mother in exchange for finding a hidden treasure. So Kora goes in search of this treasure along with Greyson, her frequent companion, who turns into something more as they eventually fall in love.
As They go on a search for the item, they are in peril, but with the help of others in Nocturne Falls, they are able to secure the item, face the villain who is the Fox, find the truth about Kora’s mother and have the HEA.
Enjoyable novel and an absolutely worthwhile read
November 3, 2021
This book actually annoyed me. I felt Greyson was very condescending. I felt his turn around on his opinion of Kora was too easy and too fast. I liked the scavenger hunt aspect of the book. I rather liked Kora. But I didn't care for Greyson's attitude toward her for the most part. I liked him standing up to her father since she is an adult. But he is still condescending toward her.
Also, at the end of the book, but not part of the end of the plot line, just character development, Kora decides to stop driving her father's car and that she needs to get her place and stop living in her father's house. He doesn't live there as he and his new wife have their own place. As a note, her father has a lot of vehicles that just sit around. Kora wants to pay her way. Personally, I think it would have been better for her to decide to pay rent and maybe lease one of her father's cars. These are very high end things but a 'family' rate of rent would make sense in the situation. I guess I just don't like the sense of waste. When I lived at home, as an adult, I paid my parents rent. Which just seemed logical. I don't like the idea of getting yet more new 'used' things when she could just start paying her way by paying rent on the place she is currently living.
Also, at the end of the book, but not part of the end of the plot line, just character development, Kora decides to stop driving her father's car and that she needs to get her place and stop living in her father's house. He doesn't live there as he and his new wife have their own place. As a note, her father has a lot of vehicles that just sit around. Kora wants to pay her way. Personally, I think it would have been better for her to decide to pay rent and maybe lease one of her father's cars. These are very high end things but a 'family' rate of rent would make sense in the situation. I guess I just don't like the sense of waste. When I lived at home, as an adult, I paid my parents rent. Which just seemed logical. I don't like the idea of getting yet more new 'used' things when she could just start paying her way by paying rent on the place she is currently living.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2022
This story brings us back to Kora, the daughter of the Reaper Lucien. He past has been very whimsical in nature. We know this because her father had hired Greyson to 'bail' her out in the past as stated in a previous book. Her desire to know her past has an unnamed source giving her hints. This takes her on a mission outside of Nocturne Falls where she, along with Greyson who doesn't want her to get into any trouble, go on this goose chase to get some very prestigious items. Ironically, the person she so longingly is investigating is the person who sent her on the goose chase but for very sinister reasons. While these two travel around Europe with the Ellingham's private jet, their feelings for each other evolve further than Lucien would like. It all comes to a head at the end with the Vampire Council and werewolves agreeing on terms to not allow the evil Russian vampires to get a hold of the item. Alice to the rescue again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2020
Nocturne Falls #11
Grayson Garrett finally takes his turn and it's not with the lovely Miss Frost. It's funny because there is not a lot of Grayson in this series. He shows up far more and has a way sexier accent in the audio books for the Jayne Frost mysteries series that is a spinoff of the Nocturne Falls series. His accent with this narrator was kind of pathetic actually, and that did kind of change his character while I was listening to this book. Though in all honesty he seemed different anyway, postbreakup with Jayne, so maybe that was the reason he seemed so different and yet still the same. Regardless, I think Grayson and Kora make a far better match than Grayson and Jayne ever did. Enjoy!
Read:
November 10, 2020 – Audible Audiobook
Grayson Garrett finally takes his turn and it's not with the lovely Miss Frost. It's funny because there is not a lot of Grayson in this series. He shows up far more and has a way sexier accent in the audio books for the Jayne Frost mysteries series that is a spinoff of the Nocturne Falls series. His accent with this narrator was kind of pathetic actually, and that did kind of change his character while I was listening to this book. Though in all honesty he seemed different anyway, postbreakup with Jayne, so maybe that was the reason he seemed so different and yet still the same. Regardless, I think Grayson and Kora make a far better match than Grayson and Jayne ever did. Enjoy!
Read:
November 10, 2020 – Audible Audiobook
January 25, 2022
I’m addicted to paranormal mysteries, and love this series! This mystery was sort of like going on a scavenger hunt to find the clues in order to get the pride at the end. You should remember Grayson as the vampire that Jane Frost dated before she got married to someone else, and Cora, the daughter of the newly married reaper, is the reapers wild child from his first marriage. Well, Cora is trying to start her life over in Nocturn Falls when she gets an email from someone called “The Fox” who promises to give her information on her mothers life. This clue hunting escapade takes them all over Europe to a final surprise ending before returning home. Grand adventure and surprising hints of romance. 😍
October 15, 2022
I always love returning to Nocturne Falls (although I wish more of the book had been totally set in the town because I love it so much). In this book, Kora Dupree (half vampire, half reaper) is sent on a treasure hunt by an unknown person. If she succeeds, she will finally know what happened to her mother one hundred years ago. Grayson (who we have seen in previous books, as well as in the Jayne Frost series) is suspicious of Kora, and ends up helping her.
I liked seeing the world-wide supernatural treasure hunt, and I liked seeing Grayson and Kora's relationship grow. Two big shout outs:
Waffles the cat - Kora's story of adopting Waffles made me happy.
Grayson's ability to totally respect boundaries and not push. You don't see that much in romance stories.
I liked seeing the world-wide supernatural treasure hunt, and I liked seeing Grayson and Kora's relationship grow. Two big shout outs:
Waffles the cat - Kora's story of adopting Waffles made me happy.
Grayson's ability to totally respect boundaries and not push. You don't see that much in romance stories.
June 5, 2022
Greyson has bailed out Kora more times than either can count over the years. He works for her father and when she sets out on a mission to learn about her late Mom, can she trust him to be on her side?
Kora has always wondered why her vampire mother "met the dawn". Greyson is the protector and he is determined to protect Kora. Love getting to know more of the residents of Nocturne Falls. This one takes us around the world on Kora's mission. So many adventures and surprises that will keep you reading. Loving this series!
Kora has always wondered why her vampire mother "met the dawn". Greyson is the protector and he is determined to protect Kora. Love getting to know more of the residents of Nocturne Falls. This one takes us around the world on Kora's mission. So many adventures and surprises that will keep you reading. Loving this series!
October 6, 2022
Really enjoy this series
I have definitely fallen in love with this series. It has become like an old friend you can't wait to connect with. This book has Kora, the ex bad girl and Grayson, the good guy, getting together after not caring much for each other. The storyline involving Rasputin and the Romanovs takes you on such delightful twists and turns you don't want the story to end. This is a fabulous book. Each book in the series is like reading about your small town and all the people you know, if, of course, they were all supernaturals.
I have definitely fallen in love with this series. It has become like an old friend you can't wait to connect with. This book has Kora, the ex bad girl and Grayson, the good guy, getting together after not caring much for each other. The storyline involving Rasputin and the Romanovs takes you on such delightful twists and turns you don't want the story to end. This is a fabulous book. Each book in the series is like reading about your small town and all the people you know, if, of course, they were all supernaturals.
January 21, 2023
A fun series that connects characters from book to book which brings cohesion to the story as the characters move through the years and mature in their lives. It doesn't matter what type of genre I read, I am always happy when a series is delightful to read and holds my interest throughout. For this series, I chose Audible books and enjoyed the narration of B.J. Harrison. He does a great job of narrating with feeling and voices/inflections that make it easy to keep track of the characters as the dialogue progresses.
Read this series and you will be delighted too.
Read this series and you will be delighted too.
January 15, 2024
Another trip to Nocturne Falls. We get more time with Kora, which makes her a little more tolerable than in the previous book. And we get another appearance from Greyson. Neither are my favorite characters, but they are growing on me. Everything seems to work out fine for the supernaturals of Nocturne Falls. Short and sweet, this is an easy series to read through, and the characters' backgrounds are all interesting.
I still haven't started the Jane Frost series, but I think it's time to visit the North Pole. 3 stars.
I still haven't started the Jane Frost series, but I think it's time to visit the North Pole. 3 stars.
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