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The Sleepless City #3
Family and Reflection
When a rebel werewolf and a vampire thief fall in love, only one thing is certain—trouble.
For as long as Lucas Coate can remember, werewolves have been taught to mistrust vampires. Lucas is an exception—he has close friends who are vampires. The werewolf pack in Boggslake—and their leader, Jacob Coate—have made it clear that Lucas’s association with vampires is barely tolerated, and another transgression will be his last. When Lucas finds out about the plague of werewolf deaths in the area, he wants to help even though his own life may already be in danger.
Declan has been away from Boggslake for ten years, but he isn’t surprised to learn that the internal politics of the Supernatural Council haven’t changed for the better. When a series of burglaries hit close to home soon after he arrives, Declan—a vampire and professional thief—is their prime suspect, although for once, he isn’t responsible. With the council keeping secrets, no one is safe. Time is running out, and for Lucas and Declan, everything is about to change.
Authors Note: This story was originally released in 2015 by another publisher. This edition has been re-edited.
For as long as Lucas Coate can remember, werewolves have been taught to mistrust vampires. Lucas is an exception—he has close friends who are vampires. The werewolf pack in Boggslake—and their leader, Jacob Coate—have made it clear that Lucas’s association with vampires is barely tolerated, and another transgression will be his last. When Lucas finds out about the plague of werewolf deaths in the area, he wants to help even though his own life may already be in danger.
Declan has been away from Boggslake for ten years, but he isn’t surprised to learn that the internal politics of the Supernatural Council haven’t changed for the better. When a series of burglaries hit close to home soon after he arrives, Declan—a vampire and professional thief—is their prime suspect, although for once, he isn’t responsible. With the council keeping secrets, no one is safe. Time is running out, and for Lucas and Declan, everything is about to change.
Authors Note: This story was originally released in 2015 by another publisher. This edition has been re-edited.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 6, 2015
19 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
Anne Barwell
23 books107 followersAnne Barwell lives in Wellington, New Zealand. She shares her home with two cats who are convinced that the house is run to suit them; this is an ongoing "discussion," and to date it appears as though the cats may be winning.
In 2008 she completed her conjoint BA in English Literature and Music/Bachelor of Teaching. She has worked as a music teacher, a primary school teacher, and now works in a library. She is a member of the Upper Hutt Science Fiction Club and plays violin for Hutt Valley Orchestra.
She is an avid reader across a wide range of genres and a watcher of far too many TV series and movies, although it can be argued that there is no such thing as "too many." These, of course, are best enjoyed with a decent cup of tea and further the continuing argument that the concept of "spare time" is really just a myth.
In 2008 she completed her conjoint BA in English Literature and Music/Bachelor of Teaching. She has worked as a music teacher, a primary school teacher, and now works in a library. She is a member of the Upper Hutt Science Fiction Club and plays violin for Hutt Valley Orchestra.
She is an avid reader across a wide range of genres and a watcher of far too many TV series and movies, although it can be argued that there is no such thing as "too many." These, of course, are best enjoyed with a decent cup of tea and further the continuing argument that the concept of "spare time" is really just a myth.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 23, 2020
First off I haven't read the first two books in the series, however I was easily able to follow the story and I am looking forward to reading them in the future.
I really liked how Lucas and Declan where friends first, they had a really good relationship because of this. They slipped into being together seamless, I did find it a little frustrating that they were so clueless about being soulbonded as even without having read the other books in series I could tell they were, having said that.... well done Anne, you didn't hit the reader in the face with it but it was still clear as day.
The story arc does continue into the next book but there is no cliff hanger, I really liked that I could sit back and enjoy the mystery and the developing relationship between Lucas and Declan without lots of relationship drama.
I enjoyed reading this book and will be reading the others in the series and seeing what else Anne Barwell has written.
I really liked how Lucas and Declan where friends first, they had a really good relationship because of this. They slipped into being together seamless, I did find it a little frustrating that they were so clueless about being soulbonded as even without having read the other books in series I could tell they were, having said that.... well done Anne, you didn't hit the reader in the face with it but it was still clear as day.
The story arc does continue into the next book but there is no cliff hanger, I really liked that I could sit back and enjoy the mystery and the developing relationship between Lucas and Declan without lots of relationship drama.
I enjoyed reading this book and will be reading the others in the series and seeing what else Anne Barwell has written.
September 11, 2016
This is the story of Lucas, the werewolf, and Declan the cat burglaring vampire. As far as they know soul bonding between the species is impossible and unheard of, so they completely ignore the signs and try to not cross that line with each other.
In the meantime, there's a plague almond the wolves, killing their unborn children and fingers are being pointed at vampires. There's also a thief going around hitting up the council's chambers stealing valuable items from them. Signs supposedly point to Declan and the council gives him only so long to figure out who the actual thief is. Without any leads, it all seems hopeless.
Old legends are pointing to more paranormal activity and one of the stolen items appears out of nowhere. Old pack lore is brought to light by Lucas's sister, bringing in a new element to his bonding. Things get worse before they get better, some mysteries are solved and new ones are brought to light.
I can't wait to see what Shifting Chaos brings.
In the meantime, there's a plague almond the wolves, killing their unborn children and fingers are being pointed at vampires. There's also a thief going around hitting up the council's chambers stealing valuable items from them. Signs supposedly point to Declan and the council gives him only so long to figure out who the actual thief is. Without any leads, it all seems hopeless.
Old legends are pointing to more paranormal activity and one of the stolen items appears out of nowhere. Old pack lore is brought to light by Lucas's sister, bringing in a new element to his bonding. Things get worse before they get better, some mysteries are solved and new ones are brought to light.
I can't wait to see what Shifting Chaos brings.
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August 24, 2020The 2nd edition is now available for pre-order on Amazon. The lovely new cover is by T.L. Bland.
May 15, 2016
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
Family and Reflection is book three in The Sleepless City series and I would recommend reading the books in order to fully appreciate the numerous characters we meet along the way and their history together.
In Electric Candle, book two in the series, Declan was left without his lover of decades when Jonas finally found his mate. Declan has lived a very long life, he is a vampire after all, and he is the perfect gentlemen but he finds it painful to watch Jonas and his mate together and the atmosphere in the castle is a little awkward. Having returned to his friends after a ten year absence he finds things haven’t changed that much, the council are still bigots where vampires are concerned and they have him in their sights for a spate of robberies that have rocked their members.
Lucas Coate is a werewolf and very different from most members of his pack. Where the wolves have been taught not to trust vampires Lucas in fact lives with them, they are some of his best friends, and it’s his own pack he is mistrustful of. This has caused and is still causing Lucas problems with the pack alpha who happens to be his father but when Lucas discovers that Declan is his mate and then seals that bond the problems become much worse.
There is always a good mystery that plays out in these books. Not only is Declan being set up as a thief, he actually is a thief but maybe innocent this time, but the wolves are being attacked by some sort of plague and the vulnerable members are dying. The wolves are starting to panic and of course they blame the vampires.
If you follow this series this is a great catch up with friends who are all a little bit different but have carved out a family together. Lucas and Declan are great together once they realise that they should be together – fate got it right once again!
Family and Reflection is book three in The Sleepless City series and I would recommend reading the books in order to fully appreciate the numerous characters we meet along the way and their history together.
In Electric Candle, book two in the series, Declan was left without his lover of decades when Jonas finally found his mate. Declan has lived a very long life, he is a vampire after all, and he is the perfect gentlemen but he finds it painful to watch Jonas and his mate together and the atmosphere in the castle is a little awkward. Having returned to his friends after a ten year absence he finds things haven’t changed that much, the council are still bigots where vampires are concerned and they have him in their sights for a spate of robberies that have rocked their members.
Lucas Coate is a werewolf and very different from most members of his pack. Where the wolves have been taught not to trust vampires Lucas in fact lives with them, they are some of his best friends, and it’s his own pack he is mistrustful of. This has caused and is still causing Lucas problems with the pack alpha who happens to be his father but when Lucas discovers that Declan is his mate and then seals that bond the problems become much worse.
There is always a good mystery that plays out in these books. Not only is Declan being set up as a thief, he actually is a thief but maybe innocent this time, but the wolves are being attacked by some sort of plague and the vulnerable members are dying. The wolves are starting to panic and of course they blame the vampires.
If you follow this series this is a great catch up with friends who are all a little bit different but have carved out a family together. Lucas and Declan are great together once they realise that they should be together – fate got it right once again!
July 21, 2019
Good
3.5 ⭐️
Not sure how to rate this one.
I enjoyed the storyline progression and liked seeing all the characters interacting, but I still didn’t get how both Declan and Lucas didn’t know they were mates. Yes they were different species, but I would have thought that with each of their heightened senses they would have know, the others knew.
I felt for Lucas in this one, some of his family are annoying and stubborn.
I liked that Blair hadn’t bonded well with Declan, it wasn’t something that was swept aside easily and forgotten.
I actually now really want to know how this all ends
3.5 ⭐️
Not sure how to rate this one.
I enjoyed the storyline progression and liked seeing all the characters interacting, but I still didn’t get how both Declan and Lucas didn’t know they were mates. Yes they were different species, but I would have thought that with each of their heightened senses they would have know, the others knew.
I felt for Lucas in this one, some of his family are annoying and stubborn.
I liked that Blair hadn’t bonded well with Declan, it wasn’t something that was swept aside easily and forgotten.
I actually now really want to know how this all ends
October 25, 2015
I think that this one is my favorite in the series! I just LOVE Lucas, and I loved his story with Declan! They had a great connection together, great chemistry, and I just really, really enjoyed this story from start to finish. I liked the plot going on at the same time, I liked the other characters that were still involved, and I truly enjoyed this one.
January 9, 2024
Complicated, beautifully crafted with wonderful characters
Rating: 4.5🌈
I’m jumping around this remarkable paranormal series by authors Anne Barwell and Elizabeth Noble as I recently discovered it by reading the second book in the series. That story, the fascinating universe that these authors were creating was something that immediately drew me into the narrative. From its location of Boggslake, a small historical Ohio town situated alongside Lake Erie with all its atmospheric layers , to that odd expanding group of found family of supernatural beings plus a human as well as a dog, I was all in.
Then Barwell and Noble introduced a twist or two on the fated mate/soul bound trope, and I was more than committed, I was delighted with the idea that, fated mates didn’t equal instant love but instead perhaps a more thoughtful approach for both men, including dismay, hilarity, dismissals, before finally finding acceptance. Yes, that works.
So here , it’s an exploration between two species that , in this series, have a serious animosity towards each other, even if the individuals themselves have a friendship that is looking to go further.
That’s the current werewolf and vampire species. There’s also the arc storyline and threatening mystery that’s involved multiple murders, several mysterious creatures, and an ongoing hunt for the mastermind behind it all.
All these complicated plot threads and the characters and elements converge together as Lucas Coate, werewolf (estranged from his pack) is asked for help from his sister to solve a horrific mystery. But the vampire Declan, recently returned from abroad, is being framed for thefts around town, and now needs help from his friends at Boggs Castle to find the real thief. All while dealing with this attraction to Lucas and the new soulbond of his friend/long time vampire lover, Jonas Forge to Blair.
This story has complicated relationships that speak to complex layered dynamics between friends and family, friends and their own lovers, friends and their long term friends. All woven into storylines that have murders, mysteries, and developing romances.
It’s not entirely satisfactory an ending because the arc storyline has one more book before it can be completed. So the elements I feel were left unfinished here were probably done so for a purpose. I won’t know exactly until that last novel is read.
I get the feeling that everything is fitting together like a puzzle piece and so now it’s off to finish the puzzle. But first back to grab up that first story before I can finish up.
I’m highly impressed with the series and authors. It’s a must read. Dare I say, don’t do as I did, and read them in order? Yes! Do that!
The Sleepless City:
- [ ] Shades of Sepia #1 by Elizabeth Noble
- [x] Electric Candle #2 by Elizabeth Noble
- [x] Family and Reflection #3 by Anne Barwell
- [ ] Shifting Chaos #4 by Anne Barwell
Sequel Series:
The Vampire Guard by Elizabeth Noble:
- [ ] Code Name: Jack Rabbit #1
- [ ] Quarry #2
- [ ] Endosymbiont #3
Rating: 4.5🌈
I’m jumping around this remarkable paranormal series by authors Anne Barwell and Elizabeth Noble as I recently discovered it by reading the second book in the series. That story, the fascinating universe that these authors were creating was something that immediately drew me into the narrative. From its location of Boggslake, a small historical Ohio town situated alongside Lake Erie with all its atmospheric layers , to that odd expanding group of found family of supernatural beings plus a human as well as a dog, I was all in.
Then Barwell and Noble introduced a twist or two on the fated mate/soul bound trope, and I was more than committed, I was delighted with the idea that, fated mates didn’t equal instant love but instead perhaps a more thoughtful approach for both men, including dismay, hilarity, dismissals, before finally finding acceptance. Yes, that works.
So here , it’s an exploration between two species that , in this series, have a serious animosity towards each other, even if the individuals themselves have a friendship that is looking to go further.
That’s the current werewolf and vampire species. There’s also the arc storyline and threatening mystery that’s involved multiple murders, several mysterious creatures, and an ongoing hunt for the mastermind behind it all.
All these complicated plot threads and the characters and elements converge together as Lucas Coate, werewolf (estranged from his pack) is asked for help from his sister to solve a horrific mystery. But the vampire Declan, recently returned from abroad, is being framed for thefts around town, and now needs help from his friends at Boggs Castle to find the real thief. All while dealing with this attraction to Lucas and the new soulbond of his friend/long time vampire lover, Jonas Forge to Blair.
This story has complicated relationships that speak to complex layered dynamics between friends and family, friends and their own lovers, friends and their long term friends. All woven into storylines that have murders, mysteries, and developing romances.
It’s not entirely satisfactory an ending because the arc storyline has one more book before it can be completed. So the elements I feel were left unfinished here were probably done so for a purpose. I won’t know exactly until that last novel is read.
I get the feeling that everything is fitting together like a puzzle piece and so now it’s off to finish the puzzle. But first back to grab up that first story before I can finish up.
I’m highly impressed with the series and authors. It’s a must read. Dare I say, don’t do as I did, and read them in order? Yes! Do that!
The Sleepless City:
- [ ] Shades of Sepia #1 by Elizabeth Noble
- [x] Electric Candle #2 by Elizabeth Noble
- [x] Family and Reflection #3 by Anne Barwell
- [ ] Shifting Chaos #4 by Anne Barwell
Sequel Series:
The Vampire Guard by Elizabeth Noble:
- [ ] Code Name: Jack Rabbit #1
- [ ] Quarry #2
- [ ] Endosymbiont #3
September 11, 2020
Anne Barwell has all the residents at Boggs Castle getting into the chaos with the third installment of “The Sleepless City” series. Declan is in big trouble as he’s called before the Supernatural Council.
Declan is still staying at Boggs Castle, he’s getting settled and he and Lucas have made a peculiar connection. But they’re both fighting the inevitable that other residences of Boggs Castle have noticed. Just when things seem to really settle, Declan is called before the Supernatural Council and Elders, who still believe in the old rules. They have made up their collective minds that Declan is the thief and plan to put an end to the vampire.
Lucas has his hands full: can he prove Declan’s innocent; helping his sister Anita with her loss; trying to figure out the mysterious death’s of the unborn; a reunion with Ivan an old friend; and having to deal with his father. Most of all Lucas just want’s to continue to explore this new and odd relationship with Declan.
Ben’s best friend, Ange Duncan has come for a visit and everyone has to be careful not to show their true identity. Ange has made a special friend, very quickly, but does she really know who she’s talking to? Ange becomes a witness to many strange things but she slides right into this unique group and finds her place.
The team finds they still have lot’s to solve: who’s the thief, what new evil will they find lurking in Boggslake and who planted the sigil in Boggs Castle. There’s also the scrolls with the myth about vampires and werewolves. When Declan’s time is up, Simon comes up with an old plan and everyone has a part to play. Can they all keep this intricate plan in motion and save Declan?
Anne Barwell does an outstanding job with the storyline and continues to brings another action packed, eerie mystery, with so many twists and turns. Barwell delivers intriguing lore with the subject of vampires vs. werewolves. She doesn’t miss a beat in giving all the characters: Simon Hawthorne, Ben Leyton, Jonas Forge, Blair Turner, Lucas Coates, Declan and Boggs and even Ange Duncan a chance to get into the act.
“Family Reflection” is a re-edited version from the first publication in 2015. Not only is it just as good the second time around but it has a gorgeous new cover from T.L. Bland. To bring “The Sleepless City” series to a close, Elizabeth Noble is up next to deliver the final novel “Shifting Chaos”. Coming soon!
Declan is still staying at Boggs Castle, he’s getting settled and he and Lucas have made a peculiar connection. But they’re both fighting the inevitable that other residences of Boggs Castle have noticed. Just when things seem to really settle, Declan is called before the Supernatural Council and Elders, who still believe in the old rules. They have made up their collective minds that Declan is the thief and plan to put an end to the vampire.
Lucas has his hands full: can he prove Declan’s innocent; helping his sister Anita with her loss; trying to figure out the mysterious death’s of the unborn; a reunion with Ivan an old friend; and having to deal with his father. Most of all Lucas just want’s to continue to explore this new and odd relationship with Declan.
Ben’s best friend, Ange Duncan has come for a visit and everyone has to be careful not to show their true identity. Ange has made a special friend, very quickly, but does she really know who she’s talking to? Ange becomes a witness to many strange things but she slides right into this unique group and finds her place.
The team finds they still have lot’s to solve: who’s the thief, what new evil will they find lurking in Boggslake and who planted the sigil in Boggs Castle. There’s also the scrolls with the myth about vampires and werewolves. When Declan’s time is up, Simon comes up with an old plan and everyone has a part to play. Can they all keep this intricate plan in motion and save Declan?
Anne Barwell does an outstanding job with the storyline and continues to brings another action packed, eerie mystery, with so many twists and turns. Barwell delivers intriguing lore with the subject of vampires vs. werewolves. She doesn’t miss a beat in giving all the characters: Simon Hawthorne, Ben Leyton, Jonas Forge, Blair Turner, Lucas Coates, Declan and Boggs and even Ange Duncan a chance to get into the act.
“Family Reflection” is a re-edited version from the first publication in 2015. Not only is it just as good the second time around but it has a gorgeous new cover from T.L. Bland. To bring “The Sleepless City” series to a close, Elizabeth Noble is up next to deliver the final novel “Shifting Chaos”. Coming soon!
January 10, 2024
An action packed third book in the series
This third book in the series gives us another unusual soulbond couple and more dire happenings in Boggslake. Vampire Declan and werewolf Lucas are the main couple in this book but of course our usual cast of characters is a vital part of the story arc as well.
At the end of the last book Declan arrived home after ten years away in Europe. He and Lucas hit it off right away. This book starts with Declan and Lucas getting friendlier and we the readers know what’s happening but the two of them don’t seem to. Then complications strike. There are big problems in the werewolf community and Lucas wants to help despite being cast out for his friendship (and now more?) with vampires. There is a series of robberies in town and the Supernatural Council has its sights set on Declan as the culprit. He has to find out what’s happening or take the fall himself. The crime story is the main focus here but the romance blends in nicely. We get to know Declan and Lucas better through their struggles and it’s sweet when they finally form their bond. The crisis moment for the crime story also serves as a key relationship moment. Once again, as in the previous books, the specific crime here is solved but the overarching story is still a cliffhanger because all the players are still not accounted for. The werewolves come off looking pretty badly here and I couldn’t help but draw some parallels to recent politics.
There is one more book in the series, written by the other collaborating author Elizabeth Noble. It says in the blurb at the end of this book that it is the last in the series and focuses on Forge again. I know it isn’t the last we see of these characters as both authors each have another book though not under this series name. I don’t know the full story there. Looks like a divorce where the parents split custody of the kids!
This third book in the series gives us another unusual soulbond couple and more dire happenings in Boggslake. Vampire Declan and werewolf Lucas are the main couple in this book but of course our usual cast of characters is a vital part of the story arc as well.
At the end of the last book Declan arrived home after ten years away in Europe. He and Lucas hit it off right away. This book starts with Declan and Lucas getting friendlier and we the readers know what’s happening but the two of them don’t seem to. Then complications strike. There are big problems in the werewolf community and Lucas wants to help despite being cast out for his friendship (and now more?) with vampires. There is a series of robberies in town and the Supernatural Council has its sights set on Declan as the culprit. He has to find out what’s happening or take the fall himself. The crime story is the main focus here but the romance blends in nicely. We get to know Declan and Lucas better through their struggles and it’s sweet when they finally form their bond. The crisis moment for the crime story also serves as a key relationship moment. Once again, as in the previous books, the specific crime here is solved but the overarching story is still a cliffhanger because all the players are still not accounted for. The werewolves come off looking pretty badly here and I couldn’t help but draw some parallels to recent politics.
There is one more book in the series, written by the other collaborating author Elizabeth Noble. It says in the blurb at the end of this book that it is the last in the series and focuses on Forge again. I know it isn’t the last we see of these characters as both authors each have another book though not under this series name. I don’t know the full story there. Looks like a divorce where the parents split custody of the kids!
September 12, 2020
This ARC was provided free from the author in return for an honest review..
This ended up being a second read for me, though I didn't remember until I was a quarter of the way through that I'd read it several years before. I'll start by saying that it is helpful to have read the prior books in the series mostly because there are a lot of characters and its easy to mix them up. (I remember that from before when I accidentally started with book two and was totally lost.)
Lucas is a werewolf defying his pack by being friends with and living with vampires. He's attracted to Declan, a 300 year old vampire of French descent. The attraction is mutual, but of course, they deny there is anything between them.
I absolutely loved this mystery. Strange events are continuing to happen in Boggs Lake. A plague of some sort is killing unborn werewolf pups, but what's causing it? When Lucas's sister approaches him for help he offers right away, but recent thefts draw the council's eye toward Declan, a renowned thief.
I really enjoy the dynamic between not just the main characters but also between all the characters be they human, vampire, werewolf or ghost. Dialogue and scenes flow effortlessly and this second read through was time well spent. There's some early clues into the culprit but there's also some surprising revelations. The author left a few carrots dangling too... Hopefully the re-release of book four will be soon!!
This ended up being a second read for me, though I didn't remember until I was a quarter of the way through that I'd read it several years before. I'll start by saying that it is helpful to have read the prior books in the series mostly because there are a lot of characters and its easy to mix them up. (I remember that from before when I accidentally started with book two and was totally lost.)
Lucas is a werewolf defying his pack by being friends with and living with vampires. He's attracted to Declan, a 300 year old vampire of French descent. The attraction is mutual, but of course, they deny there is anything between them.
I absolutely loved this mystery. Strange events are continuing to happen in Boggs Lake. A plague of some sort is killing unborn werewolf pups, but what's causing it? When Lucas's sister approaches him for help he offers right away, but recent thefts draw the council's eye toward Declan, a renowned thief.
I really enjoy the dynamic between not just the main characters but also between all the characters be they human, vampire, werewolf or ghost. Dialogue and scenes flow effortlessly and this second read through was time well spent. There's some early clues into the culprit but there's also some surprising revelations. The author left a few carrots dangling too... Hopefully the re-release of book four will be soon!!
April 6, 2022
Soulmate
The story continues on with the search for the one or who wants the vampires and werewolves to split and fight. There is betrayal and deceiving all around town. But the small family of misfits will over come and love overcomes
The story continues on with the search for the one or who wants the vampires and werewolves to split and fight. There is betrayal and deceiving all around town. But the small family of misfits will over come and love overcomes
December 3, 2022
Intriguing
I enjoyed learning tidbits of each of the members of Blogs Castle. Good story. Lucas and Declan were good together. The mystery was complicated and kept me intrigued. I would like more of the history of these vampires.
I enjoyed learning tidbits of each of the members of Blogs Castle. Good story. Lucas and Declan were good together. The mystery was complicated and kept me intrigued. I would like more of the history of these vampires.
January 17, 2021
Book 3 of sleepless in the city and as enjoyable as the first 2. This time it is lucas a werewolf and declan to mate and boy is it good and hot.
January 20, 2025
Is the mystery solved?
Many surprises and plot twist in this one. Some questions are answered and clues uncovered. But is it really the end of this mystery? I am thinking not.
Many surprises and plot twist in this one. Some questions are answered and clues uncovered. But is it really the end of this mystery? I am thinking not.
October 24, 2015
Reviewed at The Blogger Girls.
4.5 stars
Lucas has been friends with his vampire roommates for about a decade and since then, he’s been an outcast to his pack. When Declan, Forge’s ex-lover, arrives in Flint, he can’t help the attraction he feels towards the man but knows vampires and werewolves don’t mix. But when Declan gets accused of a crime against the Supernatural Council, Lucas’ protective instinct kicks in and he’s determined to prove Declan’s innocence. Add to that, there’s a plague affecting werewolves that no one can find a cure for. When it comes down to life and death, will Lucas and Declan be able to save each other or will their time run out before it even begins?
I’ve been a fan of this series since I started it last year. It’s a very intriguing world so with each new story that comes out, I get even more excited. So far, this has been my favorite of the series and not just because it has the vampire/werwolf combo but because Lucas and Declan together are so amazing! I absolutely adored the fact they had such a great friendship before they became something else. I also loved the chemistry between them.
But it wasn’t just that, I really enjoyed the storyline in this one. I loved following along on the werewolf plague journey and getting to understand more of the paranormal world. I was drawn into this story right from the start and found it really hard to put down! However, the characters (both primary and secondary) made this story such a great one. Lucas was so endearing and Declan was so… amusing. I actually didn’t expect him to be so playful and modern… if that makes any sense LOL.
I absolutely loved, loved, loved this book but my biggest issue is that I felt like there was a lot of questions unanswered. Not with the mystery or anything because I know that’s an overall arc but with Lucas and Declan. I wanted to explore more of their relationship, how their connection transformed and what it ultimately transformed into. I wanted to see MORE of them when they’re bonded and to truly understand how their soul bond is different than the others… and to find out why Lucas couldn’t feel Declan. Aside from that, I wished there was a little more effort into seeing Declan trying to undercover the true thief because there wasn’t much of that besides the accusations and then the discovery of the person… who I couldn’t really understand how they were able to steal things.
In the end, though, this was a FABULOUS story. Definitely my favorite out of the series so far and I’m so glad Lucas finally got his story! I’m having so much fun with this series so I cannot wait until the next book and to see what happens next. I sincerely hope we get another book where Lucas and Declan are the main characters but at this point, I just want more of the world! If you’ve liked the series so far, definitely make this your next read!
4.5 stars
Lucas has been friends with his vampire roommates for about a decade and since then, he’s been an outcast to his pack. When Declan, Forge’s ex-lover, arrives in Flint, he can’t help the attraction he feels towards the man but knows vampires and werewolves don’t mix. But when Declan gets accused of a crime against the Supernatural Council, Lucas’ protective instinct kicks in and he’s determined to prove Declan’s innocence. Add to that, there’s a plague affecting werewolves that no one can find a cure for. When it comes down to life and death, will Lucas and Declan be able to save each other or will their time run out before it even begins?
I’ve been a fan of this series since I started it last year. It’s a very intriguing world so with each new story that comes out, I get even more excited. So far, this has been my favorite of the series and not just because it has the vampire/werwolf combo but because Lucas and Declan together are so amazing! I absolutely adored the fact they had such a great friendship before they became something else. I also loved the chemistry between them.
But it wasn’t just that, I really enjoyed the storyline in this one. I loved following along on the werewolf plague journey and getting to understand more of the paranormal world. I was drawn into this story right from the start and found it really hard to put down! However, the characters (both primary and secondary) made this story such a great one. Lucas was so endearing and Declan was so… amusing. I actually didn’t expect him to be so playful and modern… if that makes any sense LOL.
I absolutely loved, loved, loved this book but my biggest issue is that I felt like there was a lot of questions unanswered. Not with the mystery or anything because I know that’s an overall arc but with Lucas and Declan. I wanted to explore more of their relationship, how their connection transformed and what it ultimately transformed into. I wanted to see MORE of them when they’re bonded and to truly understand how their soul bond is different than the others… and to find out why Lucas couldn’t feel Declan. Aside from that, I wished there was a little more effort into seeing Declan trying to undercover the true thief because there wasn’t much of that besides the accusations and then the discovery of the person… who I couldn’t really understand how they were able to steal things.
In the end, though, this was a FABULOUS story. Definitely my favorite out of the series so far and I’m so glad Lucas finally got his story! I’m having so much fun with this series so I cannot wait until the next book and to see what happens next. I sincerely hope we get another book where Lucas and Declan are the main characters but at this point, I just want more of the world! If you’ve liked the series so far, definitely make this your next read!
September 10, 2015
This is book three in the series and can be read alone, but really should be read in order in the series.
We’ve met Declan before – Forge’s longtime vampire lover. He’s a very old vampire, a thief, and a man of mystery.
Then there’s Lucas, the werewolf that doesn’t quite fit in with his pack but who has formed his own pack with his friends, the vampires – even though werewolves and vampires don’t mix!
Declan has been out of town for these last 10 years and when he returns he finds himself immediately drawn to Lucas. Lucas is equally attracted and both think the other might be “the one” but neither thinks the other feels anything but friendship.
When they finally admit they have feelings for one another their chemistry is explosive. They realize they are mates or to be bonded with one another despite the astronomical odds of such a pairing.
In the meantime – of course – there is another mystery to be solved (this time Declan is the accused) and a werewolf plague as well and a trickster is involved.
We get to see a bit of Blair and Forge, Simon and Ben and meet a new human PhD student, Ange.
**
Just as with books one and two the mystery and the life in Flint plays an important (central, really) role. Lucas and Declan’s romance is almost too easy and though it is interesting, there isn’t a lot of angst in their relationship.
Most of the drama is surrounding the mystery to be solved.
I think that this series is very well written. Both authors have given us terrifically well rounded MCs, well designed and clever mysteries and world building that is very thorough and interesting.
If you like a lot of mystery with your romance, some interesting twists on the werewolf/vampire mythos, and a little bit a dry humor – this is the series for you.
I have enjoyed this series so far and look forward to the audio version as they have all been excellent.
4.5 of 5 stars
We’ve met Declan before – Forge’s longtime vampire lover. He’s a very old vampire, a thief, and a man of mystery.
Then there’s Lucas, the werewolf that doesn’t quite fit in with his pack but who has formed his own pack with his friends, the vampires – even though werewolves and vampires don’t mix!
Declan has been out of town for these last 10 years and when he returns he finds himself immediately drawn to Lucas. Lucas is equally attracted and both think the other might be “the one” but neither thinks the other feels anything but friendship.
When they finally admit they have feelings for one another their chemistry is explosive. They realize they are mates or to be bonded with one another despite the astronomical odds of such a pairing.
In the meantime – of course – there is another mystery to be solved (this time Declan is the accused) and a werewolf plague as well and a trickster is involved.
We get to see a bit of Blair and Forge, Simon and Ben and meet a new human PhD student, Ange.
**
Just as with books one and two the mystery and the life in Flint plays an important (central, really) role. Lucas and Declan’s romance is almost too easy and though it is interesting, there isn’t a lot of angst in their relationship.
Most of the drama is surrounding the mystery to be solved.
I think that this series is very well written. Both authors have given us terrifically well rounded MCs, well designed and clever mysteries and world building that is very thorough and interesting.
If you like a lot of mystery with your romance, some interesting twists on the werewolf/vampire mythos, and a little bit a dry humor – this is the series for you.
I have enjoyed this series so far and look forward to the audio version as they have all been excellent.
4.5 of 5 stars
December 28, 2020
Anne Barwell and Elizabeth Noble. have written a four-book urban fantasy series titled The Sleepless City. The series takes place in Boggslake, Ohio (not NYC). Boggslake is a small town with big city paranormal problems. Vampire, werewolves, and demons oh my! I found it interesting that the authors wrote two books each yet there is wonderful continuity throughout the series.
Simon, Jonas, and Lucas are roommates sharing a house, Bogg’s Castle. It is not a castle per the European model. It is more like a mansion with delusions of grandeur. They have been roommates for about ten years. Two vampires, a werewolf, and a ghost are a good fit as roommates.
Family and Reflection put Lucas and his complicated family/pack relationship upfront. Jonas is up to his neck in pack politics due to several unsolved werewolf deaths as well as almost all pregnant werewolves miscarrying their babies. Already estranged from his family due to his choice to live outside the pack and with two vampires, Jonas crosses one line too many when he falls in love with Declan, a vampire. Declan is targeted in what may be a plot to get him out of Jonas’s life.
The Sleepless City is an enjoyable series. The things that go bump in the night are not quarantined in the dark. It is a fresh approach to world-building. The characters and world are being carried into the next series, The Vampire Guard, written by Elizabeth Noble. If you enjoy paranormal male romances with a healthy dose of action or thriller, you will enjoy The Sleepless City series.
Simon, Jonas, and Lucas are roommates sharing a house, Bogg’s Castle. It is not a castle per the European model. It is more like a mansion with delusions of grandeur. They have been roommates for about ten years. Two vampires, a werewolf, and a ghost are a good fit as roommates.
Family and Reflection put Lucas and his complicated family/pack relationship upfront. Jonas is up to his neck in pack politics due to several unsolved werewolf deaths as well as almost all pregnant werewolves miscarrying their babies. Already estranged from his family due to his choice to live outside the pack and with two vampires, Jonas crosses one line too many when he falls in love with Declan, a vampire. Declan is targeted in what may be a plot to get him out of Jonas’s life.
The Sleepless City is an enjoyable series. The things that go bump in the night are not quarantined in the dark. It is a fresh approach to world-building. The characters and world are being carried into the next series, The Vampire Guard, written by Elizabeth Noble. If you enjoy paranormal male romances with a healthy dose of action or thriller, you will enjoy The Sleepless City series.
September 5, 2015
FiveStars
Lucas I love character so much! He was strong with what he had to go through with his family and the way they treated I'm. But he was also funny, some of the comments he said had me laughing. He was also caring when it came to his friends and protective.
Then there was Dorian who was going through losing a lover that became a good friend and being accused of a crime he did not do. He fought his feelings for Lucas at first but once he let go... Let me say the sex scenes between these two are hot!!! You could really feel the connection between them.
There is more mystery in this book with all the friends trying to figure out who was stealing and trying to hurt the werewolves. This book had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who did it.
All together I really loved this book!
I would definitely recommend this book and this series!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Kara
Lucas I love character so much! He was strong with what he had to go through with his family and the way they treated I'm. But he was also funny, some of the comments he said had me laughing. He was also caring when it came to his friends and protective.
Then there was Dorian who was going through losing a lover that became a good friend and being accused of a crime he did not do. He fought his feelings for Lucas at first but once he let go... Let me say the sex scenes between these two are hot!!! You could really feel the connection between them.
There is more mystery in this book with all the friends trying to figure out who was stealing and trying to hurt the werewolves. This book had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who did it.
All together I really loved this book!
I would definitely recommend this book and this series!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Kara
October 10, 2018
This is the third book in a 4 book series about 3 couples. The first 3 books are each about a separate couple and it's own full romance; however, they all live together in a "castle" in a town off Lake Erie, so their stories are vastly intertwined. You really do need to read them in order and read all 4 if you want to solve the ultimate mystery going on in the background of the stories.
All the MC's are great (although calling one character Jonas and Forge gets confusing), they are a little (or a lot) different, interesting, charming, characteristic, funny and/or just plain sexy!
A great series and I highly recommend reading all 4. THEN you can read The Vampire Guard, the next series where 3 of these couples go on to join an elite ops group fighting evil!! 2 books in that series so far.
All the MC's are great (although calling one character Jonas and Forge gets confusing), they are a little (or a lot) different, interesting, charming, characteristic, funny and/or just plain sexy!
A great series and I highly recommend reading all 4. THEN you can read The Vampire Guard, the next series where 3 of these couples go on to join an elite ops group fighting evil!! 2 books in that series so far.
July 6, 2015
Exceptional story-line, and strong character development. Barwell has raised the bar for this series. She has expertly written this as a stand-alone novel, so that urban fantasy readers can jump into Flint.
August 31, 2017
Great series
I love this series about a werewolf , a human, a ghost and vampires living together as a family, or pack. There is always something exciting going on plus the steamy chemistry between the werewolf and one of the vampires.
I love this series about a werewolf , a human, a ghost and vampires living together as a family, or pack. There is always something exciting going on plus the steamy chemistry between the werewolf and one of the vampires.
July 21, 2015
Another satisfying episode in the Flint crew's adventures. A nice balance between the plot/ongoing mystery and developing romance.
December 14, 2015
Family and Reflection by Anne Barwell: http://reviews-and-ramblings.dreamwid... 2015 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
April 6, 2016
Absolutely loved this series. Each book got better and better!
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