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Vampires in America #14
Xavier
Barcelona—exquisite architecture, masterful artists, and just down the coast, an ancient fortress where an old and powerful vampire lives…and rules all of Spain.
Tall, dark, and deadly, vampire Xavier Prospero Flores waded through blood to destroy his enemies and reach the pinnacle of vampire society--Vampire Lord. He has only one regret in his long life, and that’s the day he rejected the advances of Layla Casales. She’d been too innocent, too naïve, and far too young. But she’d also been his.
Layla Casales was only nineteen when she left Spain, brokenhearted and humiliated by Xavier’s rejection. But now, ten years later, the ties of family are pulling her back, not only to Spain, but to Xavier’s fortress. Her father, the vampire lord’s military commander, is critically ill. Layla has spent years fighting on battlefields around the world, so when her father asks her to come home, she can’t say no.
Though Xavier’s rule began on the ashes of his enemies, it’s not vampires trying to kill him now--it’s humans. He needs to eliminate his enemy before more of his people die. Layla arrives just in time to help, but while she came for her father, the minute she and Xavier see each other, desire burns as hotly as if they’d never been apart. Xavier isn’t going to let her go this time. But before they can rediscover the love they walked away from, they must first keep each other alive.
Tall, dark, and deadly, vampire Xavier Prospero Flores waded through blood to destroy his enemies and reach the pinnacle of vampire society--Vampire Lord. He has only one regret in his long life, and that’s the day he rejected the advances of Layla Casales. She’d been too innocent, too naïve, and far too young. But she’d also been his.
Layla Casales was only nineteen when she left Spain, brokenhearted and humiliated by Xavier’s rejection. But now, ten years later, the ties of family are pulling her back, not only to Spain, but to Xavier’s fortress. Her father, the vampire lord’s military commander, is critically ill. Layla has spent years fighting on battlefields around the world, so when her father asks her to come home, she can’t say no.
Though Xavier’s rule began on the ashes of his enemies, it’s not vampires trying to kill him now--it’s humans. He needs to eliminate his enemy before more of his people die. Layla arrives just in time to help, but while she came for her father, the minute she and Xavier see each other, desire burns as hotly as if they’d never been apart. Xavier isn’t going to let her go this time. But before they can rediscover the love they walked away from, they must first keep each other alive.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2020
137 people are currently reading
319 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
October 15, 2020
4 I missed Raphael Stars
Xavier, the 14th book in the Vampires in America series was a good and enjoyable read, but I really missed Raphael and Cyn in this book. I enjoyed the fact that the heroine was bad-ass like Cyn. As much as I enjoyed this book I felt like something was missing. I'm not sure what, but it was a bit off for me. Maybe it was because it didn't tie into the other American vampire lords working on a world alliance plot that has been going on for many books now or maybe it was that I didn't totally love Xavier. Whatever it was it made this book a good read but not a 5 star one.
Xavier was a hard one for me to warm up to. He was powerful, and loyal to those he cared for, but he was a bit too cocky for me. He came off pompous at times. I did like him and I liked how good he was to Layla, her family, and the little community he created but his arrogance was a turn off.
Layla was great. She was smart, tough, and was a no nonsense kind of woman. I like that she could not only take care of herself but Xavier as well. They made a cute couple I just wished they would of had a bit more time together for relationship building.
This book had all new characters. Which is good and bad. It's good that it can be read as a standalone. But it's bad because it feels out of sync with the series. I would have liked at least a phone call to Raphael to tie it into the series. I did really like Brian and Kerry from Layla's team. I liked that Brian loved Layla, but wasn't in love with her. He didn't step over the line and disrespect Xavier and Layla's relationship at all, and he was brave. I liked Chuy and Layla's parents too. I wish we would have got to see Layla's parents finding out that Layla and Xavier got mated. I was dying to know how her dad would have taken the news. The bad guy in this book was a bit of a wimp. The plot moved nicely and I was never bored. Overall a good book in the series but not one of my favorites.
https://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessi...
Xavier, the 14th book in the Vampires in America series was a good and enjoyable read, but I really missed Raphael and Cyn in this book. I enjoyed the fact that the heroine was bad-ass like Cyn. As much as I enjoyed this book I felt like something was missing. I'm not sure what, but it was a bit off for me. Maybe it was because it didn't tie into the other American vampire lords working on a world alliance plot that has been going on for many books now or maybe it was that I didn't totally love Xavier. Whatever it was it made this book a good read but not a 5 star one.
Xavier was a hard one for me to warm up to. He was powerful, and loyal to those he cared for, but he was a bit too cocky for me. He came off pompous at times. I did like him and I liked how good he was to Layla, her family, and the little community he created but his arrogance was a turn off.
Layla was great. She was smart, tough, and was a no nonsense kind of woman. I like that she could not only take care of herself but Xavier as well. They made a cute couple I just wished they would of had a bit more time together for relationship building.
This book had all new characters. Which is good and bad. It's good that it can be read as a standalone. But it's bad because it feels out of sync with the series. I would have liked at least a phone call to Raphael to tie it into the series. I did really like Brian and Kerry from Layla's team. I liked that Brian loved Layla, but wasn't in love with her. He didn't step over the line and disrespect Xavier and Layla's relationship at all, and he was brave. I liked Chuy and Layla's parents too. I wish we would have got to see Layla's parents finding out that Layla and Xavier got mated. I was dying to know how her dad would have taken the news. The bad guy in this book was a bit of a wimp. The plot moved nicely and I was never bored. Overall a good book in the series but not one of my favorites.
https://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessi...
September 29, 2020
Xavier: Vampires in Europe is book 14 in the Vampires in America series and although not my favorite it was enjoyable. I think for me I had a hard time connecting to Xavier and Layla. For the first half of the story Layla acted like a child with a broken heart which she blamed on Xavier and they were hardly together since most of the story was happening in the am. The second half definitely picks up but there was just something missing in the relationship for me. I did enjoy the fact that Layla was a warrior and could take care of herself while she reminded me of Cyn she still couldn't match my favorite female of this series. While I had issues with the story I do look forward to the next book in this series.
***I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own***
***I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own***
November 16, 2020
This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceI received this book for free from ImaJinn Books in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Xavier is the latest in the "Vampires in America" series and to be honest I wasn't sure what to expect with this book as I have seen quite a few mixed reviews with this one and even though I have so much love for this author especially in her portrayal of the 'myths' of vampire lore and really adds the perfect touch of spooky that I love to look for in my vampire romances. And to be real, the first few chapters are SLOW going so even though I received this book as an ARC, I was highly tempted to DNF it and I hardly if ever have to do that with ARC's as I am picky with what I grab up when offered. But surprise .....surprise, this book ended up being a page turner and really grabbing my attention and I am normally not a fan of this level of angst between a pairing but it WORKED??!! LOL And I loved the wonderful thrilling ride this pair takes me on and if you love vampires than you definitely need to grab this one up here.
Our story of Xavier ...well starts with our hero named Xavier and we see his beginnings in becoming the lord over Spain. And the amounts of power that he holds and the way in which he was able to secure it and in much the same way we have seen previous vampires and I found him most similar to Rafael to be honest. He had very similar power vibes at least in my feel of it. And then we are taken to current time where Xavier is having problems within his territory, there are attacks happening to his people and he needs to bring someone in that can take care of the situation and start an investigation ....there is one person he would trust this delicate situation to....his mate and the woman he has yet to claim and hurt years previous. Layla fell in love with Xavier when she was only nineteen and when she made her move on him, he rejected her in a most painful way and ever since she has stayed as far from his and his 'territory' as possible despite the fact that her parents work for him and are his faithful servants even though human. She has dedicated her life to the military and private sector until now. She is drawn into Xavier's life when her father has medical issues, and Layla is going to have to face her feelings for Xavier, which she has kept deeply hidden until ....now.
Xavier is a never ending thrilling romance that kept me on my toes from the suspense plot points to the actual romance....I found this story to give me the "curl my toes" from head to feet and I wanted to just be in this book forever because there is a tone by which D.B. Reynolds sets her books and you just crave more and more of it. And you end up falling so hard and fast for her stories as they are slightly addictive in many respects and I found this to hold true within Xavier. First off lets talk the suspense plot points...I really was intrigued by this because this is the first time I have seen magic elements. Our villain is an evil sorcerer and from my memory from the series this is the FIRST time I have witnessed this and I have a feeling we are going to see a shift within the series to mix up magic with vampires and I am all down for it.
Now onto the actual romance between Xavier and Layla. Boy these two and their sexual tension is OFF THE CHARTS in all the best of ways. We do get to see a flashback to when Layla was rejected and this "rejection" was the only thing I was disappointed by in that this wasn't really delved into further except the beginning, I felt like it wasn't fully resolved. But maybe that is just my personal perspective or I missed it ?? somehow? Not sure but I never felt these two really never focused much on that when that is the reason they had been separated for so long. Now other than that particular aspect I truly fell in love these two and seeing them learning to overcome the past and see how good they were together. They have both such strong personalities and really fit so well together.
Overall I found Xavier to be a stimulating and action packed thrilling romance that keeps one on their toes and unsuspecting plot twists to keep one on a delicious edge from beginning to end.....SUPERB
Xavier is the latest in the "Vampires in America" series and to be honest I wasn't sure what to expect with this book as I have seen quite a few mixed reviews with this one and even though I have so much love for this author especially in her portrayal of the 'myths' of vampire lore and really adds the perfect touch of spooky that I love to look for in my vampire romances. And to be real, the first few chapters are SLOW going so even though I received this book as an ARC, I was highly tempted to DNF it and I hardly if ever have to do that with ARC's as I am picky with what I grab up when offered. But surprise .....surprise, this book ended up being a page turner and really grabbing my attention and I am normally not a fan of this level of angst between a pairing but it WORKED??!! LOL And I loved the wonderful thrilling ride this pair takes me on and if you love vampires than you definitely need to grab this one up here.
Our story of Xavier ...well starts with our hero named Xavier and we see his beginnings in becoming the lord over Spain. And the amounts of power that he holds and the way in which he was able to secure it and in much the same way we have seen previous vampires and I found him most similar to Rafael to be honest. He had very similar power vibes at least in my feel of it. And then we are taken to current time where Xavier is having problems within his territory, there are attacks happening to his people and he needs to bring someone in that can take care of the situation and start an investigation ....there is one person he would trust this delicate situation to....his mate and the woman he has yet to claim and hurt years previous. Layla fell in love with Xavier when she was only nineteen and when she made her move on him, he rejected her in a most painful way and ever since she has stayed as far from his and his 'territory' as possible despite the fact that her parents work for him and are his faithful servants even though human. She has dedicated her life to the military and private sector until now. She is drawn into Xavier's life when her father has medical issues, and Layla is going to have to face her feelings for Xavier, which she has kept deeply hidden until ....now.
Xavier is a never ending thrilling romance that kept me on my toes from the suspense plot points to the actual romance....I found this story to give me the "curl my toes" from head to feet and I wanted to just be in this book forever because there is a tone by which D.B. Reynolds sets her books and you just crave more and more of it. And you end up falling so hard and fast for her stories as they are slightly addictive in many respects and I found this to hold true within Xavier. First off lets talk the suspense plot points...I really was intrigued by this because this is the first time I have seen magic elements. Our villain is an evil sorcerer and from my memory from the series this is the FIRST time I have witnessed this and I have a feeling we are going to see a shift within the series to mix up magic with vampires and I am all down for it.
Now onto the actual romance between Xavier and Layla. Boy these two and their sexual tension is OFF THE CHARTS in all the best of ways. We do get to see a flashback to when Layla was rejected and this "rejection" was the only thing I was disappointed by in that this wasn't really delved into further except the beginning, I felt like it wasn't fully resolved. But maybe that is just my personal perspective or I missed it ?? somehow? Not sure but I never felt these two really never focused much on that when that is the reason they had been separated for so long. Now other than that particular aspect I truly fell in love these two and seeing them learning to overcome the past and see how good they were together. They have both such strong personalities and really fit so well together.
Overall I found Xavier to be a stimulating and action packed thrilling romance that keeps one on their toes and unsuspecting plot twists to keep one on a delicious edge from beginning to end.....SUPERB
September 28, 2020
Four and a half
Hmm this book certainly had a heroine who could give even Cyn a run for her money because Layla is a gun toting mercenary for hire ! With her own cut throat team she's unafraid to go anywhere but the one place she really doesn't want to return to is her childhood home where her heart was broken by the Vampire Lord himself !
Xavier has ruled Spain peacefully for many years and now suddenly his fortress is being attacked and people hurt. You might expect it to be a rival Vampire but no its humans in broad daylight so how is Xavier ever going to be able to fight back because obviously daylight and Vampires just don't mix ! Perhaps it's time for the bold Layla to come home ?
This author writes action packed stories that pulsate with passion. Layla is perhaps too quick in accepting Xaviers demands for me but it certainly delivers if you seek a steamy romance. I loved the team surrounding Layla and their exploits were very fast and entertaining so definitely an action packed story. I just didn't really fall for Xavier unfortunately and the sneering, arrogant cover art just didn't help. I guess my heart will always belong to Raphael !
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
Hmm this book certainly had a heroine who could give even Cyn a run for her money because Layla is a gun toting mercenary for hire ! With her own cut throat team she's unafraid to go anywhere but the one place she really doesn't want to return to is her childhood home where her heart was broken by the Vampire Lord himself !
Xavier has ruled Spain peacefully for many years and now suddenly his fortress is being attacked and people hurt. You might expect it to be a rival Vampire but no its humans in broad daylight so how is Xavier ever going to be able to fight back because obviously daylight and Vampires just don't mix ! Perhaps it's time for the bold Layla to come home ?
This author writes action packed stories that pulsate with passion. Layla is perhaps too quick in accepting Xaviers demands for me but it certainly delivers if you seek a steamy romance. I loved the team surrounding Layla and their exploits were very fast and entertaining so definitely an action packed story. I just didn't really fall for Xavier unfortunately and the sneering, arrogant cover art just didn't help. I guess my heart will always belong to Raphael !
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
January 19, 2022
2.5 underwhelmed stars
This lacked the sizzle and spark I was expecting. The main characters especially Xavier just didn't work for me - the connection between them felt thin and vapid.
The plot lacked engery and intensity, found myself skim reading a smidge.
This lacked the sizzle and spark I was expecting. The main characters especially Xavier just didn't work for me - the connection between them felt thin and vapid.
The plot lacked engery and intensity, found myself skim reading a smidge.
February 6, 2021
So, an other book in the Vampire in Europe series, even if it’s still called VIA...
First let’s start with the good. It had a plot (or what passes as one) and it wasn’t a sex fest. Even if the two actually knew each other before the beginning of the book, which - given Lachlan - it was a pleasant surprise.
Unfortunately this is all the good points I can think about. And they weren’t enough to survive my dislike of the romance (which basically is what this book is about).
First as there’s mention of a mate bond in the usual sense (there’s higher destiny that links us idiocy). It’s not brought to the finish line (one mate for life), but it’s still not a romance in my book, sorry. Then, my biggest problem with Xavier was that I couldn’t find it in me to like either MC. And every time they had romantic page time together I wanted to DNF the book. So, there is that.
First let’s start with the good. It had a plot (or what passes as one) and it wasn’t a sex fest. Even if the two actually knew each other before the beginning of the book, which - given Lachlan - it was a pleasant surprise.
Unfortunately this is all the good points I can think about. And they weren’t enough to survive my dislike of the romance (which basically is what this book is about).
First as there’s mention of a mate bond in the usual sense (there’s higher destiny that links us idiocy). It’s not brought to the finish line (one mate for life), but it’s still not a romance in my book, sorry. Then, my biggest problem with Xavier was that I couldn’t find it in me to like either MC. And every time they had romantic page time together I wanted to DNF the book. So, there is that.
Read
September 25, 2020Review to come........
*ARC kindly provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
*ARC kindly provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
October 27, 2020
It was a nice addition to the series, but nothing overly special...
There was not enough vampire politics and machinations that I enjoy the most in these books.
Xavier, for all his macho-vampire-lord attitude, was stupid sometimes!
Layla started as an idiot who kept the grudge for something that for me was very honorable, but she got better during the story...
There was not enough vampire politics and machinations that I enjoy the most in these books.
Xavier, for all his macho-vampire-lord attitude, was stupid sometimes!
Layla started as an idiot who kept the grudge for something that for me was very honorable, but she got better during the story...
November 6, 2020
D.B. Reynolds continues her seductive Vampires in America series with Xavier, lord of Spain, and the woman who captured his heart long before she became a woman.
Layla Casales, daughter of Lord Xavier’s daylight military commander, fell in love with Xavier long before she knew what love truly meant. After his rejection though, left Spain to follow in her father’s footsteps and pursue her own military career. A decade later though, her father needs her help. Thinking she’s over her teenage infatuation, she returns only to find out that her desire for him has grown.
Centuries ago Xavier Prospero Flores battled to become the vampire ruler of Spain. Since then, he’s worked to create a true community where humans and vampires not just coexist but protect each other. He’s proud of what he’s accomplished and has only regretted the too young and innocent Layla. But having his family threatened has brought her back and given him the opportunity to make her his once and for all. They need to survive first though.
Having Lord Rapahel ruling the American vampires, D. B. Reynolds has now moved her riveting vampire series to Europe. With an exquisite Mediterranean backdrop, Barcelona is her next stop where we get to meet the self-assured and assertive Lord Xavier who recognized Layla’s soul as his mate long before she was ready to be his.
In his wisdom Xavier pushes her to leave, to explore the world and perhaps even to find a human mate. But when it’s humans who start threatening his community’s safety and she returns to help, he’ll do anything to keep her. Layla was perfect for him, now that she’s older she’s become tough with a no nonsense attitude. My only comment on her character development isthat even though she spent some time living in the U.S. I felt her character came off a too American though.
I loved getting to know new characters and liked that Xavier is following Raphael’s plans for vampire lords to help one another which opens the door to more European hotties. But mostly I enjoyed the love between Xavier and Layla.
Xavier is book #14 in the Vampires in America series by D.B. Reynolds. This is a standalone full length paranormal romance novel, told from several points of view.
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3eiFTbW
Stalk me on FaceBook * Instagram * More reviews
“It had taken all his strength to walk away once. He wasn’t going to do it again. Not now that she’d returned, with all the beauty and sensuality that had been only a promise in the teenager, and was now fully realized in the woman.”
Layla Casales, daughter of Lord Xavier’s daylight military commander, fell in love with Xavier long before she knew what love truly meant. After his rejection though, left Spain to follow in her father’s footsteps and pursue her own military career. A decade later though, her father needs her help. Thinking she’s over her teenage infatuation, she returns only to find out that her desire for him has grown.
“Chemistry between them was as electric as ever. She’d have sworn there were literal sparks flying whenever they got too close.”
Centuries ago Xavier Prospero Flores battled to become the vampire ruler of Spain. Since then, he’s worked to create a true community where humans and vampires not just coexist but protect each other. He’s proud of what he’s accomplished and has only regretted the too young and innocent Layla. But having his family threatened has brought her back and given him the opportunity to make her his once and for all. They need to survive first though.
Having Lord Rapahel ruling the American vampires, D. B. Reynolds has now moved her riveting vampire series to Europe. With an exquisite Mediterranean backdrop, Barcelona is her next stop where we get to meet the self-assured and assertive Lord Xavier who recognized Layla’s soul as his mate long before she was ready to be his.
In his wisdom Xavier pushes her to leave, to explore the world and perhaps even to find a human mate. But when it’s humans who start threatening his community’s safety and she returns to help, he’ll do anything to keep her. Layla was perfect for him, now that she’s older she’s become tough with a no nonsense attitude. My only comment on her character development isthat even though she spent some time living in the U.S. I felt her character came off a too American though.
I loved getting to know new characters and liked that Xavier is following Raphael’s plans for vampire lords to help one another which opens the door to more European hotties. But mostly I enjoyed the love between Xavier and Layla.
“Layla was the one woman whom he could truly love, the woman who was destined to be his mate.”
Xavier is book #14 in the Vampires in America series by D.B. Reynolds. This is a standalone full length paranormal romance novel, told from several points of view.
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3eiFTbW
Stalk me on FaceBook * Instagram * More reviews
September 30, 2020
DNF
I love Ms. Reynolds Stone Warriors and there are vampires in them, so I thought I might like this one. But no. I tried, but just can't get into it.
I love Ms. Reynolds Stone Warriors and there are vampires in them, so I thought I might like this one. But no. I tried, but just can't get into it.
October 7, 2020
Layla's heart was broken by Xavier years before but now she's come home because of her father and wants to keep things all business with Xavier.
Xavier had thought Layla was too young and innocent for him when he broke her heart and turned her away years ago. Things have changed now and he wants her but she isn't willing to let him hurt her again.
I didn't like Xavier at all at first because of the way he treated Layla but I thought he would become a little better as the book went on. Frankly, I was wrong, he's not a likable person at all and makes no excuses for the way he initially treated her which I really thought was wrong of him.
Xavier finds himself the new lord of Spain when his sire is killed by an old enemy they had thought was no danger to them. Layla comes back because her father, Xavier's military commander is really sick and she feels like she needs to be there for him. While she's been gone she has made a name for herself and trained to be a fighter and has an elite mercenary unit that Xavier needs to help keep his enemies away. The enemies are human led by the same person that killed his sire so he might well be in some real danger. The fact that Xavier is in real danger is the only reason that Layla agree's to help find and kill his enemies.
There was a betrayal that happened while Xavier and Layla were trying to bring down the bad guys and while I understood why Xavier was mad, I thought that his punishment of the person who betrayed him was extreme. I mean the person had a good reason and he tried to make it right in the end. It was just one more reason that I couldn't like Xavier throughout this book. I tried to like Layla and Xavier as a couple but for me they just never clicked at all. Sure they ended up getting close and she forgave the way he treated her when she was younger and the sex was hot, but I couldn't see them as a couple. I really didn't think that they belonged together. Maybe it's because I didn't like Xavier at all and thought she could do better, I'm not sure. It's hard to enjoy a book when you don't like all of the characters.
Disclosure: I was given an eARC of this book via NetGalley but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Xavier had thought Layla was too young and innocent for him when he broke her heart and turned her away years ago. Things have changed now and he wants her but she isn't willing to let him hurt her again.
I didn't like Xavier at all at first because of the way he treated Layla but I thought he would become a little better as the book went on. Frankly, I was wrong, he's not a likable person at all and makes no excuses for the way he initially treated her which I really thought was wrong of him.
Xavier finds himself the new lord of Spain when his sire is killed by an old enemy they had thought was no danger to them. Layla comes back because her father, Xavier's military commander is really sick and she feels like she needs to be there for him. While she's been gone she has made a name for herself and trained to be a fighter and has an elite mercenary unit that Xavier needs to help keep his enemies away. The enemies are human led by the same person that killed his sire so he might well be in some real danger. The fact that Xavier is in real danger is the only reason that Layla agree's to help find and kill his enemies.
There was a betrayal that happened while Xavier and Layla were trying to bring down the bad guys and while I understood why Xavier was mad, I thought that his punishment of the person who betrayed him was extreme. I mean the person had a good reason and he tried to make it right in the end. It was just one more reason that I couldn't like Xavier throughout this book. I tried to like Layla and Xavier as a couple but for me they just never clicked at all. Sure they ended up getting close and she forgave the way he treated her when she was younger and the sex was hot, but I couldn't see them as a couple. I really didn't think that they belonged together. Maybe it's because I didn't like Xavier at all and thought she could do better, I'm not sure. It's hard to enjoy a book when you don't like all of the characters.
Disclosure: I was given an eARC of this book via NetGalley but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 13, 2020
3 stars.
Hmmmm... I missed Raphael and Cyn and so far I don't really care much about these European Vampire Lords. The MCs in this, Xavier and Layla just feel like pale versions of Raphael and Cyn. The story was ok but I thought the ending of the villain a bit anti-climatic. This is definitely more a PR than UF. There wasn't much world building and these days, I like my books to have a much broader and ongoing perspective.
Hmmmm... I missed Raphael and Cyn and so far I don't really care much about these European Vampire Lords. The MCs in this, Xavier and Layla just feel like pale versions of Raphael and Cyn. The story was ok but I thought the ending of the villain a bit anti-climatic. This is definitely more a PR than UF. There wasn't much world building and these days, I like my books to have a much broader and ongoing perspective.
October 14, 2020
I never expected to be disappointed by the ViA series. I mean... Raphael for crying out loud. But alas it happened. This book is part of the after the Vampire Wars story arc, and it has absolutely no story arc. I didn't feel the romance between Xavier and Layla. Xavier might have been a Vampire Lord but he spend most of this book either in daylight sleep or doing random stuff off-book that we only find out later and is blergh. There has been a treason as well, and the reasons behind it was shallow and it just happened "hmmm this might be a traitor", 2 mins later "die you are a traitor". What?
Anyway I didn't expect such a bad book from Ms. Reynolds. I think she'd better go back to Raphael and Syn as they have been pushing the initial story-line. Xavier was supposed to be only weaker than Raphael but he'd been a big pussy in this book. So yeah, enough said. I'm sorry, I hope the next book is better.
Anyway I didn't expect such a bad book from Ms. Reynolds. I think she'd better go back to Raphael and Syn as they have been pushing the initial story-line. Xavier was supposed to be only weaker than Raphael but he'd been a big pussy in this book. So yeah, enough said. I'm sorry, I hope the next book is better.
October 7, 2020
I hate to rate any Db Reynolds books with 3 stars but I really didn't enjoy this book🙁 The Heroine was a spoiled brat for half of the book. Which really turned me off for the 2nd half of the book. It was something just missing with the couple. Hopefully the next book will find my girl back on track
December 16, 2020
Let me start my review by saying that i love D.B. Books. Love her style of writing, love her sexy scene and I absolutely adore Raph and Syn.
So of course this book is ok but kinda disappointing. I liked the action scene and the background romance was interesting but I felt absolutely no connection between Xavier and Layla. It left me cold. The interaction was brief. She was mad at him for breaking her heart then she got over it on her own. Mind you no discussion between them as to why he broke her heart. I just felt that boom she was his no explanation necessary. Then there was the fact that in the first chapter you see him contemplating on which woman he’d have sex with that night but then Layla returns and suddenly she’s his? Ummm 🤔
Suddenly he did what he did cause she was young but now that she’s back she’s his? 🤔 Did I mention all this happened without discussion between the two?
All in all tho I love Db this book was not what I felt it could be
So of course this book is ok but kinda disappointing. I liked the action scene and the background romance was interesting but I felt absolutely no connection between Xavier and Layla. It left me cold. The interaction was brief. She was mad at him for breaking her heart then she got over it on her own. Mind you no discussion between them as to why he broke her heart. I just felt that boom she was his no explanation necessary. Then there was the fact that in the first chapter you see him contemplating on which woman he’d have sex with that night but then Layla returns and suddenly she’s his? Ummm 🤔
Suddenly he did what he did cause she was young but now that she’s back she’s his? 🤔 Did I mention all this happened without discussion between the two?
All in all tho I love Db this book was not what I felt it could be
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2020
4.25 stars! Vampires, as imagined by D.B. Reynolds, are real and humans are now aware of them. In her world building, vampire lords are few and far between as only special vampires can win and hold the title. Xavier is the vampire lord of Spain and is under siege by an old enemy-one that uses magic against him. The delight for me is when his human commander’s daughter comes home after a decade to help in the fight. There’s a huge history to discover between the two and a romance to watch happen.
Xavier has made his village a fortress for his fellow vampires and the human’s that work and live there. It’s a gated community with castle type stone work surrounding it. They have lived there peacefully for a very long time. But now while the vampires sleep during the day, the human guards have been in gunfights that come out of nowhere. When his commander must go away for medical care, Layla comes back to help out her family’s home and village. She excelled while in the military and is now captain of her own for hire group of fighters. It’s only right that she would go back home to help. But home is also the place where Xavier turned her down when she was just nineteen. She hasn’t been back since. Of course, sparks are going to fly when these two come together again.
Layla is probably one of Reynold’s strongest heroines yet-the strongest being Cyn from the Raphael books. Layla is highly trained and skilled as a warrior and is just what is needed by Xavier now. He has been waiting for her to come home for a long time as he knows she belongs to him. They’ve got to learn to trust each other, especially Layla as she was just so hurt when she left. Xavier isn’t above keeping secrets and does so to his detriment. Thankfully, Layla is around to pick up the pieces. The mystery of the why behind the attacks, as well as the who is the main action over and above the romance at first. As the story progresses so does the romance-but it does take awhile.
I always go into these books knowing I am going to be reading a book that puts me on the edge of my seat, filled with romance, deaths, injuries and general mayhem. By adding in magic this time, Reynolds has changed it up and added additional suspense and a new sort of villain to the story. There’s always interesting back stories to be told as well-usually historical in nature about the vampire. We also get the backstory of Layla and Xavier and that was pretty interesting too.
Although dark at times, this book(and series) is an exciting story and romance. These vampires are strong(mostly)yet very loving when they find their mate. Layla was more than up for the task of becoming a vampire lord’s mate. I always enjoy these books and I recommend it and the series to adult paranormal romance readers. Adult due to the hot sexy times involved. And of course the violence. FYI-Although the books loosely go in order, it’s not absolutely necessary to read them in order.
Xavier has made his village a fortress for his fellow vampires and the human’s that work and live there. It’s a gated community with castle type stone work surrounding it. They have lived there peacefully for a very long time. But now while the vampires sleep during the day, the human guards have been in gunfights that come out of nowhere. When his commander must go away for medical care, Layla comes back to help out her family’s home and village. She excelled while in the military and is now captain of her own for hire group of fighters. It’s only right that she would go back home to help. But home is also the place where Xavier turned her down when she was just nineteen. She hasn’t been back since. Of course, sparks are going to fly when these two come together again.
Layla is probably one of Reynold’s strongest heroines yet-the strongest being Cyn from the Raphael books. Layla is highly trained and skilled as a warrior and is just what is needed by Xavier now. He has been waiting for her to come home for a long time as he knows she belongs to him. They’ve got to learn to trust each other, especially Layla as she was just so hurt when she left. Xavier isn’t above keeping secrets and does so to his detriment. Thankfully, Layla is around to pick up the pieces. The mystery of the why behind the attacks, as well as the who is the main action over and above the romance at first. As the story progresses so does the romance-but it does take awhile.
I always go into these books knowing I am going to be reading a book that puts me on the edge of my seat, filled with romance, deaths, injuries and general mayhem. By adding in magic this time, Reynolds has changed it up and added additional suspense and a new sort of villain to the story. There’s always interesting back stories to be told as well-usually historical in nature about the vampire. We also get the backstory of Layla and Xavier and that was pretty interesting too.
Although dark at times, this book(and series) is an exciting story and romance. These vampires are strong(mostly)yet very loving when they find their mate. Layla was more than up for the task of becoming a vampire lord’s mate. I always enjoy these books and I recommend it and the series to adult paranormal romance readers. Adult due to the hot sexy times involved. And of course the violence. FYI-Although the books loosely go in order, it’s not absolutely necessary to read them in order.
October 7, 2020
A good story.
I love D B Reynolds books, but this one felt rushed. It didn’t flow clearly. To me, a reader/fan there were a few areas that left us hanging. SPOILER—1) Layla has a contract for 18 months with the guy in France so that part of Layla’s life is hanging out there. Does she break the contract? Can she break the Contract? What happens when she pulls her team? Also, 2) her father’s health is not good. She sends him off to the Drs and the reader doesn’t hear anything about the father throughout the story on what the Drs can do to help him. It came across like she didn’t care. He was at the Drs and that was that. No communications with her mother or father on how his health was throughout the story. 3) when they were breaking into Sakals compound and were going to blow some buildings up why did she send the guys back. If she and Kerry were going to blow the buildings up then why didn’t she keep the guys back so they could cover them in case they ran into a problem. This book really felt rushed and I don’t normally feel that way about the authors stories.
I love D B Reynolds books, but this one felt rushed. It didn’t flow clearly. To me, a reader/fan there were a few areas that left us hanging. SPOILER—1) Layla has a contract for 18 months with the guy in France so that part of Layla’s life is hanging out there. Does she break the contract? Can she break the Contract? What happens when she pulls her team? Also, 2) her father’s health is not good. She sends him off to the Drs and the reader doesn’t hear anything about the father throughout the story on what the Drs can do to help him. It came across like she didn’t care. He was at the Drs and that was that. No communications with her mother or father on how his health was throughout the story. 3) when they were breaking into Sakals compound and were going to blow some buildings up why did she send the guys back. If she and Kerry were going to blow the buildings up then why didn’t she keep the guys back so they could cover them in case they ran into a problem. This book really felt rushed and I don’t normally feel that way about the authors stories.
October 8, 2020
Xavier is Book 14 in D.B Reynolds Vampires in America. I've read the earlier books and I enjoyed them tremendously, so when I received the ARC from NetGalley, I was very much looking forward to read this.
Unfortunately, I don't think this book is as good as the earlier ones. I did enjoy reading it but I just don't feel as invested. I think the relationship between Xavier and Layla was too simplified, if I can use that term. I feel that Layla's issue of how she felt Xavier treated her when she was younger was just glossed over. It felt just swept under the carpet.
Having written all the above, I still am looking forward to the next book in this series. Thanks NetGalley for the copy.
Unfortunately, I don't think this book is as good as the earlier ones. I did enjoy reading it but I just don't feel as invested. I think the relationship between Xavier and Layla was too simplified, if I can use that term. I feel that Layla's issue of how she felt Xavier treated her when she was younger was just glossed over. It felt just swept under the carpet.
Having written all the above, I still am looking forward to the next book in this series. Thanks NetGalley for the copy.
October 3, 2020
2/5 stars!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I now conclude that I don't like vampire books at all. I think the story is decent, it's just not the right book for me. I also didn't connect to the story or the characters that much. I just waited and waited for this book to end, and I'm sad because I thought I'm going to enjoy reading this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I now conclude that I don't like vampire books at all. I think the story is decent, it's just not the right book for me. I also didn't connect to the story or the characters that much. I just waited and waited for this book to end, and I'm sad because I thought I'm going to enjoy reading this book.
October 8, 2020
One of my favorite series, and this installment did not disappoint. Xavier was swoon-worthy, and Layla was a strong, accomplished woman who has always loved Xavier. There was enough drama to make the story interesting and a surprise plot twist I didn't see coming.
My one complaint: I hated the cover. I don't like the squinty eyes and the pouty mouth. If I didn't know anything about this series, the cover would have totally turned me away.
My one complaint: I hated the cover. I don't like the squinty eyes and the pouty mouth. If I didn't know anything about this series, the cover would have totally turned me away.
October 7, 2020
Once I got past the badly photoshopped cover ... this book just FLEW. Pacing, background, character development were all really great. H/H chemistry was really strong. This one definitely pulled in some of the best elements from previous books: H/H with a shared history, military-style ops, and MAGIC. Good stuff.
Minor side note: The e-book had tons of typos and missed words. 😕
Minor side note: The e-book had tons of typos and missed words. 😕
October 6, 2020
Mehhh
I have loved every book in this series but this one fell short for me. Generally all her heroine's are strong. I felt like Layla gave in way too easy and the romance just didn't give me all the feels i normally feel with her books. That even I ng said I will still r e asthma next one since i adored all the previous books in the series.
I have loved every book in this series but this one fell short for me. Generally all her heroine's are strong. I felt like Layla gave in way too easy and the romance just didn't give me all the feels i normally feel with her books. That even I ng said I will still r e asthma next one since i adored all the previous books in the series.
October 19, 2021
Another well done book for this series. The characters were engaging and the story was well paced. There was plenty of depth and the book pulled me in from the first pages. Can't wait for more.
November 11, 2022
4 1/2 Star Review.....
Nothing says heroine like a badass, female mercenary with her own team of capable and fearless warriors to back her up. Layla was young and in love when Xavier rejected her advances and destroyed her fragile heart. Determined to live life to the fullest, Layla schooled in the US, joined the military and then travelled the world using her unique fighting skills defending causes that others found to dangerous or untenable to even attempt. But her toughest battle is yet to come, as upon returning to her homeland Layla is not only confronted by the Vampire Lord who shattered her heart, but a mysterious evil that threatens her extended family and their way of life.
Xavier has long been the superpower in Spain and has forged a calm and serene lifestyle for the vampire and human inhabitants under his care at the Fortalesa. But the Vampire Lord has become complacent during times of peace and danger now hammers his fortress walls. So, when the commander of his guards calls his daughter home to help, Xavier realise that the young woman who left a decade ago is now a competent and exhilarating warrior who is ready to not only tackle their unidentified enemy, but to also take her place at his side.
Layla is definitely a woman cut from the same cloth as the formidable Cyn; might of stature and a brilliant mind, make Layla a fierce and capable soldier, and Xavier is naturally a commanding and imposing figure who holds the reins of power over his empire through compassion as well as strength. But, years of heartache must be overcome before Layla can accept Xavier’s sudden determination to make her his, and an evil never before encountered must be eradicated to preserve the life that Layal once craved with every breathe.
Xavier definitely provides the action, danger and passion readers have come to expect from Ms Reynolds stories and the depth of world building is always enthralling. I was impressed with the cast of secondary characters in Layla’s comrades and friends, and the heartache of an unexpected betrayal, showed a vulnerable side to the unwavering Xavier. This is certainly a fast-paced, intriguing and entertaining read and one I’m sure will be well received. I must admit I didn’t warm to Xavier’s character as I have with other Vampire Lords, and that may have been influenced by the cover which I found unappealing. That said, it is a great story and will be obviously be added to my print collection; but the main thing missing was Raphael.
I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley and this is my personal and voluntarily review.
Nothing says heroine like a badass, female mercenary with her own team of capable and fearless warriors to back her up. Layla was young and in love when Xavier rejected her advances and destroyed her fragile heart. Determined to live life to the fullest, Layla schooled in the US, joined the military and then travelled the world using her unique fighting skills defending causes that others found to dangerous or untenable to even attempt. But her toughest battle is yet to come, as upon returning to her homeland Layla is not only confronted by the Vampire Lord who shattered her heart, but a mysterious evil that threatens her extended family and their way of life.
Xavier has long been the superpower in Spain and has forged a calm and serene lifestyle for the vampire and human inhabitants under his care at the Fortalesa. But the Vampire Lord has become complacent during times of peace and danger now hammers his fortress walls. So, when the commander of his guards calls his daughter home to help, Xavier realise that the young woman who left a decade ago is now a competent and exhilarating warrior who is ready to not only tackle their unidentified enemy, but to also take her place at his side.
Layla is definitely a woman cut from the same cloth as the formidable Cyn; might of stature and a brilliant mind, make Layla a fierce and capable soldier, and Xavier is naturally a commanding and imposing figure who holds the reins of power over his empire through compassion as well as strength. But, years of heartache must be overcome before Layla can accept Xavier’s sudden determination to make her his, and an evil never before encountered must be eradicated to preserve the life that Layal once craved with every breathe.
Xavier definitely provides the action, danger and passion readers have come to expect from Ms Reynolds stories and the depth of world building is always enthralling. I was impressed with the cast of secondary characters in Layla’s comrades and friends, and the heartache of an unexpected betrayal, showed a vulnerable side to the unwavering Xavier. This is certainly a fast-paced, intriguing and entertaining read and one I’m sure will be well received. I must admit I didn’t warm to Xavier’s character as I have with other Vampire Lords, and that may have been influenced by the cover which I found unappealing. That said, it is a great story and will be obviously be added to my print collection; but the main thing missing was Raphael.
I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley and this is my personal and voluntarily review.
October 23, 2020
Disappointing
I’ve enjoyed every book in the VIA series (including Stone Warriors) But this one left me cold. Dreadfully long and boring tactical scenes. Things that didn’t make sense, but were plot-convenient. A weird relationship set-up. And the most unlikeable of all the heroines throughout this series.
On an unrelated note, the cover art is also the worst of all the books.
I’ve enjoyed every book in the VIA series (including Stone Warriors) But this one left me cold. Dreadfully long and boring tactical scenes. Things that didn’t make sense, but were plot-convenient. A weird relationship set-up. And the most unlikeable of all the heroines throughout this series.
On an unrelated note, the cover art is also the worst of all the books.
October 26, 2020
This was ok. More 2.5 stars than 3. I skimmed a lot. The romance didn’t hit with me. It seemed to move quickly and not really delve into their issues from when Layla was younger. Also the Joaquim stuff was kind of super convenient and not that emotional for me. I think Layla and Xavier are supposed to be the Cyn and Raphael of Europe but they fell short. As did the villain in this piece.
October 19, 2020
There was good and bad with this one. The good was that FINALLY the story wasn't the same thing with different characters again. Xavier is already a Lord and doesn't have to fight for it. Instead he has a completely different enemy to deal with. And just as good was the fact that the female lead, Layla, was not some beautiful rich idiot taking on the world in goddamn high heel shoes. She could not care less about what shoes she had on or even what she was wearing. How refreshing for this series!! The bad though, was that I just couldn't really get into the story. Despite how very happy I was to finally be reading something new here, it all just wasn't terribly exciting to me.
While we do start off with a brief few chapters of how Xavier became a lord, it was nice to not have that be the focus of a book for once. He rules Spain and has pretty much created a walled city to protect his people. Both human and vampire. Layla grew up in this city and was around Xavier for much of her life because her father leads his human army. Since she was a small child she knew that her and Xavier were meant to be together, so when she officially became an adult, she tried to seduce him. Let's just say that was an epic failure. A failure that sent Layla fleeing. Xavier refused her advances because he didn't want to tie her down without her even having a chance to see more of the world, but he also felt that the two of them were meant to be. So when Layla leaves, he keeps tabs on her and what's she up to. Just waiting for her to come home.
It's her father's health that finally does it. She's come to take over for him while he goes for some procedures. Her time away she has mostly spent doing some sort of military work, which makes her a good fit to lead these people in her father's stead. It's actually quite tame work compared to what she's used to. She's determined to do her job and as soon as her father is better, get the hell away from there. She refuses to let Xavier break her heart again. Too bad he's not going to let her go this time.
Xavier's enemy is a sorcerer that his sire had turned. Unfortunately, when he was turned he not only lost all of his power as a sorcerer, but was such a weak vampire that he was hardly able to be detected or even do anything really. Shocking that the guy became suuuuuper angry over that fact. Now he's practically brainwashed a whole bunch of people into thinking he's some sort of savior out to cleanse the world of evil. IE: vampires. It's bad enough when they continuously attack the fort, but then they go and kidnap the children on their way to school. Fortunately, but this time Layla is already there and her team has also just showed up. And they know exactly what to do to save the children. Xavier knows who his enemy is and after doing some recon, he decided to attack first. Too bad it was a trap. Layla and her team definitely are coming in handy now. I really did like how Layla wasn't just some pretty face playing at being a badass. She was a believably good fighter/leader who knew what had to be done and did it.
The ending of this didn't really seem to be a conclusion to me with the bad guy just running away. Is this a thing for evil sorcerers? But Xavier and Layla get their happy ending, and these two worked together for me.
ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley.
While we do start off with a brief few chapters of how Xavier became a lord, it was nice to not have that be the focus of a book for once. He rules Spain and has pretty much created a walled city to protect his people. Both human and vampire. Layla grew up in this city and was around Xavier for much of her life because her father leads his human army. Since she was a small child she knew that her and Xavier were meant to be together, so when she officially became an adult, she tried to seduce him. Let's just say that was an epic failure. A failure that sent Layla fleeing. Xavier refused her advances because he didn't want to tie her down without her even having a chance to see more of the world, but he also felt that the two of them were meant to be. So when Layla leaves, he keeps tabs on her and what's she up to. Just waiting for her to come home.
It's her father's health that finally does it. She's come to take over for him while he goes for some procedures. Her time away she has mostly spent doing some sort of military work, which makes her a good fit to lead these people in her father's stead. It's actually quite tame work compared to what she's used to. She's determined to do her job and as soon as her father is better, get the hell away from there. She refuses to let Xavier break her heart again. Too bad he's not going to let her go this time.
Xavier's enemy is a sorcerer that his sire had turned. Unfortunately, when he was turned he not only lost all of his power as a sorcerer, but was such a weak vampire that he was hardly able to be detected or even do anything really. Shocking that the guy became suuuuuper angry over that fact. Now he's practically brainwashed a whole bunch of people into thinking he's some sort of savior out to cleanse the world of evil. IE: vampires. It's bad enough when they continuously attack the fort, but then they go and kidnap the children on their way to school. Fortunately, but this time Layla is already there and her team has also just showed up. And they know exactly what to do to save the children. Xavier knows who his enemy is and after doing some recon, he decided to attack first. Too bad it was a trap. Layla and her team definitely are coming in handy now. I really did like how Layla wasn't just some pretty face playing at being a badass. She was a believably good fighter/leader who knew what had to be done and did it.
The ending of this didn't really seem to be a conclusion to me with the bad guy just running away. Is this a thing for evil sorcerers? But Xavier and Layla get their happy ending, and these two worked together for me.
ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley.
October 11, 2020
Although Lynsay Sands has ruined me for most vampire stories (her stories are just too awesome), I really liked D.B. Reynolds Stone Warriors series (Gabriel and Dragan). So, I also tried some of her Vampires in America (Lucifer) and Vampires in Europe (Lachlan) books, because the characters also feature in the Stone Warriors books. When I saw the next one in the Vampires in Europe series, I requested the arc, because D.B. Reynolds keeps me intrigued.
In this book we go to Spain, where Xavier is the Vampire Lord. He has been suffering some attacks at his Fortalesa for some time now. Since his day guard mortal captain, senor Casales, is not getting any younger, he asks his daughter Leyla to come back from her mission in France to help him. Leyla has lived her whole life in the Fortalesa. But when she fell in love with Lord Xavier and he broke her heart at nineteen, she has left Spain foregood. Until her father asks her to come home, because he is ill and he can't defend the Fortalesa any longer on his own.
Leyla agrees to come home to help her father with the attacks. But after that, she is determined to leave again. But Xavier isn't going to let Leyla walk away for a second time. At nineteen, she was too young to be bound to him for eternity. But now, he will not let her slip away. However, first they have to find out who is behind the attacks and why. Because even the children in the Fortalesa are a target now and that is not something that Xavier will tolerate. To find the culprit will mean that Xavier and Leyla must agree on the way to operate. But Leyla is as stubborn as Xavier. How can they find a modus operandi when sparks are flying and hot tempers are clashing. Find out for yourself in this spirited read. Four out of five stars from me and a special thank you to Netgalley for providing the arc.
In this book we go to Spain, where Xavier is the Vampire Lord. He has been suffering some attacks at his Fortalesa for some time now. Since his day guard mortal captain, senor Casales, is not getting any younger, he asks his daughter Leyla to come back from her mission in France to help him. Leyla has lived her whole life in the Fortalesa. But when she fell in love with Lord Xavier and he broke her heart at nineteen, she has left Spain foregood. Until her father asks her to come home, because he is ill and he can't defend the Fortalesa any longer on his own.
Leyla agrees to come home to help her father with the attacks. But after that, she is determined to leave again. But Xavier isn't going to let Leyla walk away for a second time. At nineteen, she was too young to be bound to him for eternity. But now, he will not let her slip away. However, first they have to find out who is behind the attacks and why. Because even the children in the Fortalesa are a target now and that is not something that Xavier will tolerate. To find the culprit will mean that Xavier and Leyla must agree on the way to operate. But Leyla is as stubborn as Xavier. How can they find a modus operandi when sparks are flying and hot tempers are clashing. Find out for yourself in this spirited read. Four out of five stars from me and a special thank you to Netgalley for providing the arc.
September 28, 2020
The new vampire lord of Spain, Xavier Prospero Flores, has spent the last couple hundred years honing his skills and powers. When his sire is taken out by an old enemy, Xavier not only takes over the territory in the bloody vampire way, but he must protect those he calls his own from recent attacks. One of those people, Layla Casales left his territory several years before after Xavier rejected her advances. Xavier had intense feeling for Layla as well, but that knew she was too young at the time.
Layla Casales has finally come home after purposely avoiding the enticing vampire to help her father when his health declines; he commands Xavier’s military force. Layla spent the last ten years becoming a power of her own training first in the military, and then forming an elite mercenary unit fighting in battlefields around world. Layla’s young heart was broken by Xavier, so she is determined to keep their interactions all business. Best laid plans, however, often go astray as once they are together again, Layla and Xavier’s intense connection only amplifies and reignites.
With an attack on his compound from a fanatical human group powered by his old enemy, Xavier has to enlist Layla to help find and remove the threat since his daylight hours are spent in an enforced sleep. Xavier has battlegrounds on two fronts: winning back Layla for his mate, and destroying his enemies before they can do the same to him and his people. Layla is another one of this series tough cookie heroines doing clashing with an arrogant, powerful vampire such as Xavier who is not much inclined to apologize for his past treatment of her. This book is #14 in the Vampires in America series, #3 in the subgroup Vampires in Europe.
Layla Casales has finally come home after purposely avoiding the enticing vampire to help her father when his health declines; he commands Xavier’s military force. Layla spent the last ten years becoming a power of her own training first in the military, and then forming an elite mercenary unit fighting in battlefields around world. Layla’s young heart was broken by Xavier, so she is determined to keep their interactions all business. Best laid plans, however, often go astray as once they are together again, Layla and Xavier’s intense connection only amplifies and reignites.
With an attack on his compound from a fanatical human group powered by his old enemy, Xavier has to enlist Layla to help find and remove the threat since his daylight hours are spent in an enforced sleep. Xavier has battlegrounds on two fronts: winning back Layla for his mate, and destroying his enemies before they can do the same to him and his people. Layla is another one of this series tough cookie heroines doing clashing with an arrogant, powerful vampire such as Xavier who is not much inclined to apologize for his past treatment of her. This book is #14 in the Vampires in America series, #3 in the subgroup Vampires in Europe.
October 24, 2020
This is a difficult one for me to review since this is book 14 in this series and this is the first one I've read! I enjoyed the story, I just didn't love it. I've read some absolutely brilliant vampire reads in my time reviewing, this one has that little bit of something missing that's stopping me from loving it!
Xavier is the Vampire Lord of Spain and seems to be extremely powerful with his age and his abilities. He runs his little empire well, looking after the vampires and humans alike. But his fortress is under attack during the day from humans, not something he can easily deal with and needs some help!
Layla is the daughter of Xavier's daytime Commander, who is not well, and she returns home to help him out. Not something she is looking forward to as her and Xavier have a connection, one she tried to play on when she was 19 and he turned her down, she is still angry at him for it. Xavier knows Layla is his mate, and after being away from him for 10 yrs, is now determined to claim her, but Layla is having none of it!
Xavier came across as a bit too arrogant for my liking, and for someone who is so powerful, seemed to have some real trouble from what was a bit of a wimp of an enemy! I liked Layla in the latter half of the book, after she got over her sulking phase with Xavier and wanted to look after him. I like how strong she is and how she is more than capable of looking after herself.
Not a bad story, just not totally gripping. I liked Xavier and Layla together, they worked well as a couple and were cute together. I think I need to read this series from the start.
Xavier is the Vampire Lord of Spain and seems to be extremely powerful with his age and his abilities. He runs his little empire well, looking after the vampires and humans alike. But his fortress is under attack during the day from humans, not something he can easily deal with and needs some help!
Layla is the daughter of Xavier's daytime Commander, who is not well, and she returns home to help him out. Not something she is looking forward to as her and Xavier have a connection, one she tried to play on when she was 19 and he turned her down, she is still angry at him for it. Xavier knows Layla is his mate, and after being away from him for 10 yrs, is now determined to claim her, but Layla is having none of it!
Xavier came across as a bit too arrogant for my liking, and for someone who is so powerful, seemed to have some real trouble from what was a bit of a wimp of an enemy! I liked Layla in the latter half of the book, after she got over her sulking phase with Xavier and wanted to look after him. I like how strong she is and how she is more than capable of looking after herself.
Not a bad story, just not totally gripping. I liked Xavier and Layla together, they worked well as a couple and were cute together. I think I need to read this series from the start.
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