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First Fangs Club #4
The Suck Stops Here
Vampire governor of New Jersey, Belladonna Barrone has just gotten an epic offer from an unexpected visitor, but it’s not something she’s ready to respond to without serious thought. Besides, she already has a lot on her plate. The recent death of a high-ranking vampire means she and her crew of staff and friends are headed off to the funeral in the middle of the country. But travel can be tricky when it comes to moving vampires. The solution? Rent some luxury motorcoaches and prepare for a road trip that will be unlike any other.
For one thing, the trip includes a stop off to meet the parents of her daughter’s boyfriend. Something Donna isn’t particularly looking forward to. After all, they’re upstanding citizens and she’s, well, the soon-to-be former wife of a mobster currently awaiting trial.
For another, the dark shadow of serious allegations hangs over Donna and her human assistant, Pierce. Allegations made by her arch nemesis, Governor Fitzhugh, that will require both Donna and Pierce to appear before the vampire council. She feels certain she’ll be able to deal with the outcome of her hearing, but Pierce is a different story. The vampire council isn’t known for their mercy with humans.
Protecting Pierce weighs heavy on her. There has to be a way to persuade Fitzhugh to drop the charges, but at what cost? And can she trust his word? While pondering these questions, the funeral activities get underway, and Donna makes a strong new ally.
Then events take an interesting turn and Donna is left with a brand-new issue to deal with. Should she bite the bullet and say yes to the epic deal she was offered before the trip? Even when she feels inadequate to handle what’s required of her?
The only thing she knows for sure is enough is enough. For once and for all, the suck stops here.
For one thing, the trip includes a stop off to meet the parents of her daughter’s boyfriend. Something Donna isn’t particularly looking forward to. After all, they’re upstanding citizens and she’s, well, the soon-to-be former wife of a mobster currently awaiting trial.
For another, the dark shadow of serious allegations hangs over Donna and her human assistant, Pierce. Allegations made by her arch nemesis, Governor Fitzhugh, that will require both Donna and Pierce to appear before the vampire council. She feels certain she’ll be able to deal with the outcome of her hearing, but Pierce is a different story. The vampire council isn’t known for their mercy with humans.
Protecting Pierce weighs heavy on her. There has to be a way to persuade Fitzhugh to drop the charges, but at what cost? And can she trust his word? While pondering these questions, the funeral activities get underway, and Donna makes a strong new ally.
Then events take an interesting turn and Donna is left with a brand-new issue to deal with. Should she bite the bullet and say yes to the epic deal she was offered before the trip? Even when she feels inadequate to handle what’s required of her?
The only thing she knows for sure is enough is enough. For once and for all, the suck stops here.
390 pages, Paperback
First published August 6, 2021
521 people are currently reading
321 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Painter
187 books3,416 followersKristen Painter likes to balance her obsessions with shoes and cats by making the lives of her characters miserable and surprising her readers with interesting twists. She currently writes award-winning paranormal romance, paranormal women's fiction, and cozy mysteries. The former college English teacher can often be found on twitter @Kristen_Painter, Facebook at www.facebook.com/KristenPainterAuthor where she loves to interact with readers and her blog: http://kristenpainter.com/blog/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
August 7, 2021
The Suck Stops Here by Kristen Painter
Book 4 of the First Fangs Club series. Paranormal women’s fiction. Best read as part of the series. Cliffhanger.
Donna is dealing with being a new vampire, being the Governor, and her daughter just moved home and is pregnant plus her sister gave up her job as a nun and Donna wants to support her. All that and now on the way to the Queen’s funeral, Donna finds herself on the short list to be the replacement Queen. On top of a threat to Pierce. Enough! She needs to find a way to handle it all. Good thing she has really great friends, family and staff.
I’m starting to like Donna a lot more. She is unthinkingly kind and thoughtful. Like offering others she’s traveling with the use of her bedroom closet.
Dealing with a bully is never fun and political agendas even worse. Donna and her staff are smart and find solutions that definitely add twists to this story.
Provocative, gripping and because of the large number of staff and friends traveling together, sometimes a bit confusing - “who is this now?”
I enjoyed this 4th book. On a vampire scale of 1 to 10 where one is silly or funny, and 10 is scary as heck, this is probably about a 3.
I will definitely continue this series. In particular because of the ending of this book.
A cliffhanger has points taken off for me though, especially when the next in the series is not yet available.
4.5
Book 4 of the First Fangs Club series. Paranormal women’s fiction. Best read as part of the series. Cliffhanger.
Donna is dealing with being a new vampire, being the Governor, and her daughter just moved home and is pregnant plus her sister gave up her job as a nun and Donna wants to support her. All that and now on the way to the Queen’s funeral, Donna finds herself on the short list to be the replacement Queen. On top of a threat to Pierce. Enough! She needs to find a way to handle it all. Good thing she has really great friends, family and staff.
I’m starting to like Donna a lot more. She is unthinkingly kind and thoughtful. Like offering others she’s traveling with the use of her bedroom closet.
Dealing with a bully is never fun and political agendas even worse. Donna and her staff are smart and find solutions that definitely add twists to this story.
Provocative, gripping and because of the large number of staff and friends traveling together, sometimes a bit confusing - “who is this now?”
I enjoyed this 4th book. On a vampire scale of 1 to 10 where one is silly or funny, and 10 is scary as heck, this is probably about a 3.
I will definitely continue this series. In particular because of the ending of this book.
A cliffhanger has points taken off for me though, especially when the next in the series is not yet available.
4.5
August 7, 2021
Major Cliffhanger!!
You know, I love the author's stories. I was really enjoying this series out of a number of midlife books until the last page of this one. I dislike cliffhangers to the point that I won't read a series or duet until all of the books are out. Finishing a plot line per book, fine. But, not this. No warning, no notification to readers. This book was also just more of the same. No real forward movement for Donna and Pierce, 4 books in now. The surprise with her daughter's family?? Unbelievable!! So, I am done with this series. Let' not forget that it takes many months for another entry into The first Fangs Club. Reader beware, more of the same, no real progress and a major cliffhanger.
You know, I love the author's stories. I was really enjoying this series out of a number of midlife books until the last page of this one. I dislike cliffhangers to the point that I won't read a series or duet until all of the books are out. Finishing a plot line per book, fine. But, not this. No warning, no notification to readers. This book was also just more of the same. No real forward movement for Donna and Pierce, 4 books in now. The surprise with her daughter's family?? Unbelievable!! So, I am done with this series. Let' not forget that it takes many months for another entry into The first Fangs Club. Reader beware, more of the same, no real progress and a major cliffhanger.
August 8, 2021
I hate cliffhanger
The story was nice, a little goody two shoes, a lot of clothes description and I mean a lot, I so don’t care, and a lot of description for the buses. What do we care about that also ? It has no impact on the story, it felt like fillers to me. And a major cliffhanger, that I hate. A little is ok but this one, really? Not her best because of that.
The story was nice, a little goody two shoes, a lot of clothes description and I mean a lot, I so don’t care, and a lot of description for the buses. What do we care about that also ? It has no impact on the story, it felt like fillers to me. And a major cliffhanger, that I hate. A little is ok but this one, really? Not her best because of that.
July 3, 2021
Ummm wow, just wow. If the ending of the last book left you wanting more, this one will definitely live up to the promises. I have to say that my heart nearly dropped out of my chest a few times. Kristen is amazing, wonderful, and pure evil in this book. I can’t wait for the next book. Like honestly, I need it and need it now!
October 19, 2021
I enjoyed The Suck Stops Here. Kristen Painter's First Fangs world with its paranormal politics and feisty mid-life heroine were refreshing and clever. Every minute of reading the fast-moving installments was a pleasure. In this 4th book, the prospect of mighty Belladonna becoming North American vampire queen heightened my expectations and hastened my page-turning. The cliff-hanger ending totally shook me. I can't wait to buy book 5.
Like other reviewers, I did raise my eyebrows a bit at the strange new cuddly behavior of the characters and the tedious new descriptions of filthy-rich living spaces - RVs, mansions, ranches, foyers, great halls, etc. Hopefully, they won't become problematic in future installments. These oddities, fortunately, did not ruin the series for me. Painter's world-building and storytelling were way too strong to let the Big Picture be diminished.
4 stars
Like other reviewers, I did raise my eyebrows a bit at the strange new cuddly behavior of the characters and the tedious new descriptions of filthy-rich living spaces - RVs, mansions, ranches, foyers, great halls, etc. Hopefully, they won't become problematic in future installments. These oddities, fortunately, did not ruin the series for me. Painter's world-building and storytelling were way too strong to let the Big Picture be diminished.
4 stars
May 18, 2022
***WARNING***
This book ends on a serious cliffhanger.
I am NOT a fan of cliffhangers. I think they're cheap shots at readers. If I know a book ends on a cliffhanger, I'll stop reading and not pick up the series again until I know it's done. IF I ever get back to it. I rarely do.
I know many will disagree. If you love cliffhangers, then you'll love this book.
It's a shame too because until the very end, I was loving the book. If I hadn't already purchased the next audiobook, I'd have stopped here. But if Painter pulls this nonsense with the 5th book, I'm done with her. I'll never read another book because I won't be able to trust her.
This book ends on a serious cliffhanger.
I am NOT a fan of cliffhangers. I think they're cheap shots at readers. If I know a book ends on a cliffhanger, I'll stop reading and not pick up the series again until I know it's done. IF I ever get back to it. I rarely do.
I know many will disagree. If you love cliffhangers, then you'll love this book.
It's a shame too because until the very end, I was loving the book. If I hadn't already purchased the next audiobook, I'd have stopped here. But if Painter pulls this nonsense with the 5th book, I'm done with her. I'll never read another book because I won't be able to trust her.
August 10, 2021
This was my least favorite book of the series. It pains me to say that about any Kristen Painter book because she is one of my favorite paranormal authors. This series is very political with governors, queens, councils, and the sort. There were a lot of mundane interactions between characters that I found unnecessary and at times boring. I confess, politics and government were the classes I looked forward to the least in school. In regards to the cliffhanger ending, anyone following along in the series knows that Donna has something not every vampire has. Even if the obviously crooked council follows through, Donna will not suffer from the outcome. I will continue this series though, I love all the characters, main and side characters.
August 9, 2021
Disappointing and boring
Also the worst cliff hanger ending I've ever read. So obvious the author did this to keep reader. What a cheep shot. The book did not have any punch. Way too much detail about food and the RV they rented. I liked the other books in this series but this was a big disappointment. That this author ended this book with such a stupid and obvious cliff hanger shows she has lost the punch. I'm done with this author. Don't waste your time or money like I did
Also the worst cliff hanger ending I've ever read. So obvious the author did this to keep reader. What a cheep shot. The book did not have any punch. Way too much detail about food and the RV they rented. I liked the other books in this series but this was a big disappointment. That this author ended this book with such a stupid and obvious cliff hanger shows she has lost the punch. I'm done with this author. Don't waste your time or money like I did
August 11, 2021
Cliffhanger
I have read all 4 books so far in this series and have to admit that this book is my least favourite. It for me contained too much filler. Also had I known it would end on another cliffhanger I probably wouldn't have purchased the book until the series had ended and all books would have been available, it is a pet hate of mine when books end this way.
I have read all 4 books so far in this series and have to admit that this book is my least favourite. It for me contained too much filler. Also had I known it would end on another cliffhanger I probably wouldn't have purchased the book until the series had ended and all books would have been available, it is a pet hate of mine when books end this way.
August 25, 2021
Not my favorite...after 4 books it should move much faster. Took half the book for me to even get interested.
August 8, 2021
Spoiler Alert 🚨
She decided to take the role of queen that was passed to her by the previous queen, and the council should have decided in her favor on the charges that Gov. Fitzhugh bright against her, that of the former queens death being her fault supposedly. But right as the council was about to say “not guilty” one member leaned forward and whispered in the speakers ear and he said “guilty” then logged off the video conference. Donna passed out and the book ended. I’m guessing that was the council member that she suspected Fitzhugh had in his pocket and they somehow be spelled the speaker. The sentence is death, and Donna now has 24 hours to choose the manner of her own death…. Or, obviously, prove her innocence and the corruption of the council.
This particular book of the series didn’t grip me as much as the others. Maybe because much of the book was their road trip to the queens funeral, and even their stop along the way to meet Donna’s new in-laws (her daughter’s boyfriend’s parents—who happened to be werewolves) all kinda seemed to chug along without incident or much development. Stuff DID happen, but I think I’m used to much grander plots, and a lot of this book is kinda mundane. Tons of focus on what Donna will wear. 🙄 Even still, it’s a good series, and now that the impending execution bomb has dropped, I am curious to see how they get out of that.
She decided to take the role of queen that was passed to her by the previous queen, and the council should have decided in her favor on the charges that Gov. Fitzhugh bright against her, that of the former queens death being her fault supposedly. But right as the council was about to say “not guilty” one member leaned forward and whispered in the speakers ear and he said “guilty” then logged off the video conference. Donna passed out and the book ended. I’m guessing that was the council member that she suspected Fitzhugh had in his pocket and they somehow be spelled the speaker. The sentence is death, and Donna now has 24 hours to choose the manner of her own death…. Or, obviously, prove her innocence and the corruption of the council.
This particular book of the series didn’t grip me as much as the others. Maybe because much of the book was their road trip to the queens funeral, and even their stop along the way to meet Donna’s new in-laws (her daughter’s boyfriend’s parents—who happened to be werewolves) all kinda seemed to chug along without incident or much development. Stuff DID happen, but I think I’m used to much grander plots, and a lot of this book is kinda mundane. Tons of focus on what Donna will wear. 🙄 Even still, it’s a good series, and now that the impending execution bomb has dropped, I am curious to see how they get out of that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 24, 2021
Belladonna Barrone is the vampire Governor of New Jersey.
She is headed off to a funeral of a vampire queen.
But has several difficult situations on her plate at once.
The governor of New York is as usual calling another stupid lawsuit.
Her daughter is pregnant and getting married soon and she has to meet the parents.
Belladonna is offered a very big deal by another big wig vampire. Should she take that deal or not?
Lots of quirky characters and sticky vamp politics to unravel. Twists and turns. A great series!
She is headed off to a funeral of a vampire queen.
But has several difficult situations on her plate at once.
The governor of New York is as usual calling another stupid lawsuit.
Her daughter is pregnant and getting married soon and she has to meet the parents.
Belladonna is offered a very big deal by another big wig vampire. Should she take that deal or not?
Lots of quirky characters and sticky vamp politics to unravel. Twists and turns. A great series!
August 9, 2021
This gets a 3 because I hate when authors do a cliffhanger. The book also felt really short, and very much like it was an inbetween book - lots of things got done, but a lot of it was talking and relationship building. I really enjoyed reading the book, and it should have been a 4, but was not because of those reasons. I need the next one, although I'm pretty sure that I know how the characters will get out of the mess they're in (well, I guess this is a third thing I didn't like; there were some very predictable things that happened that probably weren't supposed to be so predictable). I still love the characters, still love the idea behind this world, and I'm looking forward to reading more.
August 6, 2021
This is a great addition to this series. This story will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you wanting more. I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading what happens next.
July 7, 2021
This story picks up where Sucker Punch left off. This series is really best read if you read all of the books. There are many little nuances that would be missed if you started with book 4.
I loved this book, could not put it down. So many good twists and turns as well as wrap ups. Surprises that will have you clamoring for the next book! IE I really would like to have it tomorrow as I'm so anxious to know what happens next in this adventure!
I loved this book, could not put it down. So many good twists and turns as well as wrap ups. Surprises that will have you clamoring for the next book! IE I really would like to have it tomorrow as I'm so anxious to know what happens next in this adventure!
April 1, 2024
Fourth in the First Fangs Club cozy paranormal fantasy series and revolving around a new-made female vampire who became governor. The focus is on Donna’s and Pierce’s trials and that competition to be the new vampire ruler of North America.
My Take
Painter pulled me in on that first page — 37 years! It can only be Donna’s scumbag dad. With that elephant in the room, Donna has no intention of making his job easy — you go, girl! And with that, Painter establishes Donna as a woman who is her own person.
Unfortunately, Fitzhugh has become a rival to Donna — and he has a chance because he has accomplished good things for his state. Hmmm, wouldn’t that be nice if good (real) achievements were how we elected politicians? Or that politicians actually cared about their constituents?? Unfortunately, the racist Fitzhugh is too like most of our politicians. Out for anything and everything he can get while he waves his power around. He’s plotting subversion and has “friends” on the council. After all, the truth is what he claims it is.
Ooh, Cammie makes an excellent point — and its one that Donna has been realizing, that she’s been preparing for her new life her whole life.
At last, the mystery of Dad’s disappearance is revealed. I kind of felt sorry for him. I feel more sorry for the swift changes in Cammie’s life, but I do appreciate her family loyalty.
That Donna, a woman after my own heart, is thinking about writing that manual for new vampires. As for Pierce, yep, he’s amazing too. He’s always thinking ahead, even on issues you’d NEVER, EVER, believe a man would consider.
That’s not the only “cozy” as Donna’s staff, friends, and late grandsire do their best to plan the “overthrow” of the racist, high-handed Fitzhugh.
The conflicts are not the usual for human characters. Although, I suppose the issue between Pierce protecting Donna from Fitzhugh is more medieval than contemporary. That idea Will comes up with to forestall that jerk of a governor was definitely unexpected. As for Kace, his frustrations with Bunnie are definitely a human conflict. Poor boy.
Another poor boy is that Noah. It seems he has a big secret he’s been terrified of springing on Christina, lol. It's just one of the betrayals that abound. Some from the good guys and some from the bad with some resolutions too easy and others unexpected.
That Francine. Such a gift for metaphors. First she praises Donna for shining with compassion, then she explains how Fitzhugh “shines” smelling like a bag of garbage left in the sun, lol.
Not to worry about action, for it’s there in all that skulking and spying, as Donna and company plot to counter Fitzhugh.
That Donna, spreading friendship and goodwill everywhere she goes, lol, and making me laugh along the way. Sure, the story is too easy — a very beachy read *grin* but it doesn't take itself seriously, and it sure is fun.
The Story
It’s Donna’s impressive accomplishments that have her on the short list for queen of North America. She is not ready for this next step in her life, and she’s fighting it with everything she has. This potential role isn’t the only scary undertaking, for Donna has to meet the parents of Christina’s boyfriend, keep Pierce alive, and survive her own trial.
Now, if only Donna can thwart Fitzhugh’s plans to destroy her and her friends.
The Characters
Belladonna “Donna” Barrone, the ex-wife of a scumbag mobster, Joe, is the vampire governor of New Jersey. Donna’s children are Lieutenant Joe, Jr, who is in the Air Force, and Christina, who’s at college. Cammie is Donna’s sister, a former warrior nun.
Pierce Harrison is Donna’s personal assistant and life-saving attorney. Charlene “Charlie” Rollins is her administrative assistant with some banshee blood. Temo Danielson, former Special Ops and a demigod, is her driver and head of security. Kace Donovan, a gargoyle and Donna’s neighbor, will work security on the trip.
Noah Miller is the boy the pregnant Christine wants to marry. Tom and Jeanne Miller are his parents, and they own Big Dog’s Barbecue in a small town in Indiana. Tom is also the mayor. Sarah is Noah’s sister. Denise and Cora are the Millers’ maids. Frank will be Donna and company’s driver in town.
The First Fangs Club is . . .
. . . a support group for new-made vampires. The outrageous (and much older) Francine is amazing; Lionel is Francine’s sire and much-younger looking rock-star boyfriend — his stage name is Leif Harker, and he’s front man for Bittersweet, a very popular band. Hector Garcia, a sandman, usually drives Lionel’s big rig. Meghan is a supermodel. Bunni is a ditzy blonde along for the ride. Neo, a younger, street-wise computer programmer, is in love with Temo and helping with Donna’s plans. Dr Goldberg, Donna’s therapist back in her human life, is the empathic leader of the club. Lord Raleigh is Lionel’s sire.
Ferris & Coven is . . .
. . . a family-owned business that does custom leatherwork that evolved when Reggie’s vampire fiancé, Abraham, was killed. Her father, William Ferris, half-reaper and half-vampire who’ll be driving the big rig, and Reggie’s other two witch sisters, Harper and Daisy, are all involved in the company. It seems the reaper rescues and fosters cats! Those girls are quite inventive. Clementine and Magpie had been two of Will’s best cats.
Thirty seven years ago Donna’s dad walked out on their family. Their aunt Helena had “left an inheritance” for his abandoned family.
The Vampires
Richard D’Angelo is the emissary for the Prime, the super-secret supreme leader of the Immortus Concilio, which rules the entire vampire nation.
Queen Artemis, a daughter of Zenos, had been Donna’s grandsire — she’d sired Claudette, the former New Jersey governor, who then sired Donna. Marco is/had been Artemis’ deputy. Walter St. Simons had been Artemis’ attorney.
Hawke Fitzhugh is the bullying vampire governor of New York. Quentin is his vampire admin. Martindale is governor of Connecticut. Francesca Salas Carrera is the vampire queen of Mexico. Benito appears to be Francesca’s admin. Queen Esmer was the vampire ruler of the Netherlands.
The werewolves
Special Agent Rico Medina of the FBI, outed as a werewolf, had been Donna’s handler before her life changes. LV Medina is the alpha of the New Jersey pack; she’s also Rico’s grandmother. Toni is Rico’s mother and the alpha-in-waiting.
The Fae
Ishalan is the new king of the fae. Dredward had been Ishalan’s evil brother and the previous king. Princess Rixaline is the fae to whom Donna had given sanctuary ( Sucker Punch , 3). Sylan intends to be Fitzhugh’s witness.
The Venari is a hunter organization that trains nuns to hunt down vampires. Road Warriors specializes in custom RVs for vampires.
The Cover and Title
The cover is consistent with previous covers in the series with that centered tilting bluish gray headstone with its scroll-like top and the title, in black, framed in the center. The top of the cover has a royal blue night sky with the bottom half of the moon underlapping the white series info, flanked on either end by medieval-looking arrowheads. It’s the long-haired Donna in a red coat looking out across the landscape on the left. The tombstone is framed in ivy and fairy lights with a black-and-white magpie on the left. Just below the tombstone is an info blurb in white. Below that is the author’s name in a grayed turquoise.
The title plays off that well-known phrase and reflects Donna’s moral code, for The Suck Stops Here.
My Take
Painter pulled me in on that first page — 37 years! It can only be Donna’s scumbag dad. With that elephant in the room, Donna has no intention of making his job easy — you go, girl! And with that, Painter establishes Donna as a woman who is her own person.
”Respect is earned.”Painter did a nice info dump in summing up Donna’s earlier accomplishments as a vampire. Even though Painter uses third person protagonist point-of-view, it’s another character doing the recap.
Unfortunately, Fitzhugh has become a rival to Donna — and he has a chance because he has accomplished good things for his state. Hmmm, wouldn’t that be nice if good (real) achievements were how we elected politicians? Or that politicians actually cared about their constituents?? Unfortunately, the racist Fitzhugh is too like most of our politicians. Out for anything and everything he can get while he waves his power around. He’s plotting subversion and has “friends” on the council. After all, the truth is what he claims it is.
Ooh, Cammie makes an excellent point — and its one that Donna has been realizing, that she’s been preparing for her new life her whole life.
At last, the mystery of Dad’s disappearance is revealed. I kind of felt sorry for him. I feel more sorry for the swift changes in Cammie’s life, but I do appreciate her family loyalty.
That Donna, a woman after my own heart, is thinking about writing that manual for new vampires. As for Pierce, yep, he’s amazing too. He’s always thinking ahead, even on issues you’d NEVER, EVER, believe a man would consider.
That’s not the only “cozy” as Donna’s staff, friends, and late grandsire do their best to plan the “overthrow” of the racist, high-handed Fitzhugh.
The conflicts are not the usual for human characters. Although, I suppose the issue between Pierce protecting Donna from Fitzhugh is more medieval than contemporary. That idea Will comes up with to forestall that jerk of a governor was definitely unexpected. As for Kace, his frustrations with Bunnie are definitely a human conflict. Poor boy.
Another poor boy is that Noah. It seems he has a big secret he’s been terrified of springing on Christina, lol. It's just one of the betrayals that abound. Some from the good guys and some from the bad with some resolutions too easy and others unexpected.
That Francine. Such a gift for metaphors. First she praises Donna for shining with compassion, then she explains how Fitzhugh “shines” smelling like a bag of garbage left in the sun, lol.
Not to worry about action, for it’s there in all that skulking and spying, as Donna and company plot to counter Fitzhugh.
That Donna, spreading friendship and goodwill everywhere she goes, lol, and making me laugh along the way. Sure, the story is too easy — a very beachy read *grin* but it doesn't take itself seriously, and it sure is fun.
The Story
It’s Donna’s impressive accomplishments that have her on the short list for queen of North America. She is not ready for this next step in her life, and she’s fighting it with everything she has. This potential role isn’t the only scary undertaking, for Donna has to meet the parents of Christina’s boyfriend, keep Pierce alive, and survive her own trial.
Now, if only Donna can thwart Fitzhugh’s plans to destroy her and her friends.
The Characters
Belladonna “Donna” Barrone, the ex-wife of a scumbag mobster, Joe, is the vampire governor of New Jersey. Donna’s children are Lieutenant Joe, Jr, who is in the Air Force, and Christina, who’s at college. Cammie is Donna’s sister, a former warrior nun.
Pierce Harrison is Donna’s personal assistant and life-saving attorney. Charlene “Charlie” Rollins is her administrative assistant with some banshee blood. Temo Danielson, former Special Ops and a demigod, is her driver and head of security. Kace Donovan, a gargoyle and Donna’s neighbor, will work security on the trip.
Noah Miller is the boy the pregnant Christine wants to marry. Tom and Jeanne Miller are his parents, and they own Big Dog’s Barbecue in a small town in Indiana. Tom is also the mayor. Sarah is Noah’s sister. Denise and Cora are the Millers’ maids. Frank will be Donna and company’s driver in town.
The First Fangs Club is . . .
. . . a support group for new-made vampires. The outrageous (and much older) Francine is amazing; Lionel is Francine’s sire and much-younger looking rock-star boyfriend — his stage name is Leif Harker, and he’s front man for Bittersweet, a very popular band. Hector Garcia, a sandman, usually drives Lionel’s big rig. Meghan is a supermodel. Bunni is a ditzy blonde along for the ride. Neo, a younger, street-wise computer programmer, is in love with Temo and helping with Donna’s plans. Dr Goldberg, Donna’s therapist back in her human life, is the empathic leader of the club. Lord Raleigh is Lionel’s sire.
Ferris & Coven is . . .
. . . a family-owned business that does custom leatherwork that evolved when Reggie’s vampire fiancé, Abraham, was killed. Her father, William Ferris, half-reaper and half-vampire who’ll be driving the big rig, and Reggie’s other two witch sisters, Harper and Daisy, are all involved in the company. It seems the reaper rescues and fosters cats! Those girls are quite inventive. Clementine and Magpie had been two of Will’s best cats.
Thirty seven years ago Donna’s dad walked out on their family. Their aunt Helena had “left an inheritance” for his abandoned family.
The Vampires
Richard D’Angelo is the emissary for the Prime, the super-secret supreme leader of the Immortus Concilio, which rules the entire vampire nation.
Queen Artemis, a daughter of Zenos, had been Donna’s grandsire — she’d sired Claudette, the former New Jersey governor, who then sired Donna. Marco is/had been Artemis’ deputy. Walter St. Simons had been Artemis’ attorney.
Hawke Fitzhugh is the bullying vampire governor of New York. Quentin is his vampire admin. Martindale is governor of Connecticut. Francesca Salas Carrera is the vampire queen of Mexico. Benito appears to be Francesca’s admin. Queen Esmer was the vampire ruler of the Netherlands.
The werewolves
Special Agent Rico Medina of the FBI, outed as a werewolf, had been Donna’s handler before her life changes. LV Medina is the alpha of the New Jersey pack; she’s also Rico’s grandmother. Toni is Rico’s mother and the alpha-in-waiting.
The Fae
Ishalan is the new king of the fae. Dredward had been Ishalan’s evil brother and the previous king. Princess Rixaline is the fae to whom Donna had given sanctuary ( Sucker Punch , 3). Sylan intends to be Fitzhugh’s witness.
The Venari is a hunter organization that trains nuns to hunt down vampires. Road Warriors specializes in custom RVs for vampires.
The Cover and Title
The cover is consistent with previous covers in the series with that centered tilting bluish gray headstone with its scroll-like top and the title, in black, framed in the center. The top of the cover has a royal blue night sky with the bottom half of the moon underlapping the white series info, flanked on either end by medieval-looking arrowheads. It’s the long-haired Donna in a red coat looking out across the landscape on the left. The tombstone is framed in ivy and fairy lights with a black-and-white magpie on the left. Just below the tombstone is an info blurb in white. Below that is the author’s name in a grayed turquoise.
The title plays off that well-known phrase and reflects Donna’s moral code, for The Suck Stops Here.
August 16, 2021
This book is part of the Paranormal Women’s Fiction Romance group (PWF). The books in the PWF are all strong female lead characters and the female lead is middle age, mostly over 40 years old. I have to admit that I love reading a book with a strong female lead but loving it more when the character is middle age. This is the fourth book in the First Fangs Club series written by Kristen Painter. This is such a great series and one of my favorites. The books in this series need to be read in order because you really need to know these fabulous characters from the beginning and the story continues after each book. There are so many great characters in this series and most of them are in every book so far. This book kept me up way past my bedtime because I simply could not put it down until the end. It also left me wanting the next book in the series right away. Belladonna Barrone who is the Vampire Governor of New Jersey and her clan make their way across country to attend the funeral of a high ranking vampire who died helping Belladonna. the trip includes a stop off to meet the parents of her daughter’s boyfriend. Something Donna isn’t particularly looking forward to. After all, they’re upstanding citizens and she’s, well, the soon-to-be former wife of a mobster currently awaiting trial. There is also a dark shadow of serious allegations hangs over Donna and her human assistant, Pierce. Allegations made by her arch nemesis, Governor Fitzhugh, that will require both Donna and Pierce to appear before the vampire council.
May 27, 2022
What a cliffhanger! Good thing the next book is available!
Warning ⛔️ Spoiler below!!!!!Read at your on risk!
So as you can see, the next book is a cliffhanger! I thought the next stage for her is queen, but no! The council decided death and give her 24 hrs to get her things in order and the manner of death. I mean that mess up! They gave NY governor (Fitzhugh) 6 months for his behavior at the party. Yet, Donna get death! Especially everyone know it was a bullshit lie from Fitzhugh. Instead of getting fire from the job their solution is death. What about the last chapter when they were at the screen and did a last minute change to tell her she is guilty! Everyone can see that something isn’t right! In her short period as a vampire she accomplish more with werewolves & fae. Let keep the status quo and get rid of upstart new vampire.
We all know there someone on the council who is on the take and in Fitzhugh pocket. Probably made some deals with them, when become King I bet! I hear the next book is final.😢 I like this series especially because she is closed to my ages. I’ll probably embraced being a vampire better than she did at the beginning but I don’t think I will be as strong as she is as a governor! Being in the mob family help shape who she is! Going to start reading the next book! Sorry if it to much spoiled for you!
Warning ⛔️ Spoiler below!!!!!Read at your on risk!
So as you can see, the next book is a cliffhanger! I thought the next stage for her is queen, but no! The council decided death and give her 24 hrs to get her things in order and the manner of death. I mean that mess up! They gave NY governor (Fitzhugh) 6 months for his behavior at the party. Yet, Donna get death! Especially everyone know it was a bullshit lie from Fitzhugh. Instead of getting fire from the job their solution is death. What about the last chapter when they were at the screen and did a last minute change to tell her she is guilty! Everyone can see that something isn’t right! In her short period as a vampire she accomplish more with werewolves & fae. Let keep the status quo and get rid of upstart new vampire.
We all know there someone on the council who is on the take and in Fitzhugh pocket. Probably made some deals with them, when become King I bet! I hear the next book is final.😢 I like this series especially because she is closed to my ages. I’ll probably embraced being a vampire better than she did at the beginning but I don’t think I will be as strong as she is as a governor! Being in the mob family help shape who she is! Going to start reading the next book! Sorry if it to much spoiled for you!
August 30, 2021
In for a penny, in for a pound.
I love Donna, she is absolutely amazing but, trouble seems to follow her. This book picks up right where the last left off, where the Prime's emissary (aka long lost Dadddy) shows up for a meeting with Donna. After a little background from the emissary, he informs her that the Prime wants her to take Artemis's place as North America queen. Donna refuses outright but, the emissary informs her she needs to at least consider it before refusing. Donna has a mess of problems she has to handle prior to even considering this possibility. She still has Artemis's funeral and Fitzhugh's allegations with the Council to deal with and Christina's pregnancy ( she hasn't met Noah yet or his family).
I absolutely adore this series, Donna is a complete Rockstar and I love all the supporting people around her (well, Fitzhugh, not so much). BUT THE ENDING OF THIS BOOK NEARLY KILLED ME!!!!! I seriously hope the next in series comes out quick. I highly recommend this series, it is one of my favorites in the PWF genre. Please note when you read this it does end on a huge (can't stress this enough) cliffhanger; so, if you dislike cliffhangers better wait to read this one until the next one is out.
I love Donna, she is absolutely amazing but, trouble seems to follow her. This book picks up right where the last left off, where the Prime's emissary (aka long lost Dadddy) shows up for a meeting with Donna. After a little background from the emissary, he informs her that the Prime wants her to take Artemis's place as North America queen. Donna refuses outright but, the emissary informs her she needs to at least consider it before refusing. Donna has a mess of problems she has to handle prior to even considering this possibility. She still has Artemis's funeral and Fitzhugh's allegations with the Council to deal with and Christina's pregnancy ( she hasn't met Noah yet or his family).
I absolutely adore this series, Donna is a complete Rockstar and I love all the supporting people around her (well, Fitzhugh, not so much). BUT THE ENDING OF THIS BOOK NEARLY KILLED ME!!!!! I seriously hope the next in series comes out quick. I highly recommend this series, it is one of my favorites in the PWF genre. Please note when you read this it does end on a huge (can't stress this enough) cliffhanger; so, if you dislike cliffhangers better wait to read this one until the next one is out.
September 1, 2021
That cliff hanger though... All the books in this series have ended with ridiculous cliffhangers so it wasn't a surprise that this one did as well. I have mixed feelings about the ending to be honest. I think everyone knows that Belladonna will be fine in the next book; that she'll craftily escape death with the help of her friends/staff. I agree with other reviews that nothing of note really happens until the last quarter of the book and there's no progression in Belladonna's relationships. I did love the scavenger hunt scene in the forest. The magpies were a nice touch. It felt very fairytale princess to commune with the birds like that. All in all, this book felt more stagnant than the other three books and that makes it my least favorite of the series so far. I will say, I can't wait for the next book to come out. I love the characters and hope that it all works out for them in the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2022
This was the worst book in the series so far, or it's been so long since I read book 3 that I've forgotten how slow it moves. I really didn't like the dialogue in this either. They spent so much time discussing their travel arrangements and actually packing and trying on clothes to buy for the trip. The action didn't even start until the last few chapters of the book. Everything that happened could've been put into a novella, and I just didn't want to hear every single conversation and every single thing that they did as they prepared to attend a funeral in another state. It was just too much and too long. I thought this was the end of the series, but there is definitely a cliff hanger (with no real stakes), and the next book comes out later this month. I think I'm going to pass and just be done here.
December 9, 2022
Enjoying read.
I really like the fact that Donna is an adult , in her 40'sing this series very much.
I thought the first book started slow & wasn't that interesting. I even considered reading something else, but decided to continue & I'm glad I did. The story picked up & got very interesting after Donna got turned. The story continues to be great reading thru the next 3 books & I just finished this book #4, in 3 days. The story continues to stay interesting & the development of the characters is wonderful. I'm sad that there is only one more book in this series.
I really like the fact that Donna is an adult , in her 40's and not another 20 something (a little closer to my age!)
It will be interesting to read how & what happens to get Donna out of this mess. Also, I hope what happened to Rico comes up. But I do like the relationship between Donna & Pierce!
I really like the fact that Donna is an adult , in her 40'sing this series very much.
I thought the first book started slow & wasn't that interesting. I even considered reading something else, but decided to continue & I'm glad I did. The story picked up & got very interesting after Donna got turned. The story continues to be great reading thru the next 3 books & I just finished this book #4, in 3 days. The story continues to stay interesting & the development of the characters is wonderful. I'm sad that there is only one more book in this series.
I really like the fact that Donna is an adult , in her 40's and not another 20 something (a little closer to my age!)
It will be interesting to read how & what happens to get Donna out of this mess. Also, I hope what happened to Rico comes up. But I do like the relationship between Donna & Pierce!
August 6, 2021
After finishing the latest book in the First Fangs Club series, I had to take a day to think about it and recover before writing my review. Be forewarned, this book ends on a huge cliffhanger! I laid in bed last night alternately questioning the author’s parenthood and trying to figure out what happened. This book had me totally hooked from page one and even 24 hours later, it’s still on my mind, in a good way.
Belladonna and her team are back in action to attend the funeral for the Vampire Queen of the US. Of course, her arch enemy, Governor Fitzhugh will be there continuing to press his charges against Donna and Pierce. So many intriguing twists and turns.
Belladonna and her team are back in action to attend the funeral for the Vampire Queen of the US. Of course, her arch enemy, Governor Fitzhugh will be there continuing to press his charges against Donna and Pierce. So many intriguing twists and turns.
August 24, 2021
Gah!!
I lived this continuation of the series... Until the massive hook at the end! I don't want to wait for the next book! Kristen does an amazing job of completing the story arc in a thoroughly engrossing way. From start until end, the story is engaging, lighthearted, dramatic, and compelling. I couldn't put it down! My poor family had to make do with leftovers because I was not stopping to cook. Such great storytelling. But then, as with each book, there's an amazing hook at the end. Its not a cliffhanger, the story is complete, but I really neeeeed to know what happens next! Loved every word!
I lived this continuation of the series... Until the massive hook at the end! I don't want to wait for the next book! Kristen does an amazing job of completing the story arc in a thoroughly engrossing way. From start until end, the story is engaging, lighthearted, dramatic, and compelling. I couldn't put it down! My poor family had to make do with leftovers because I was not stopping to cook. Such great storytelling. But then, as with each book, there's an amazing hook at the end. Its not a cliffhanger, the story is complete, but I really neeeeed to know what happens next! Loved every word!
May 17, 2023
I think each of the books in this series gets better and better. It’s like watching a daytime drama, but in my head.
Poor Donna just can’t get away from everything. She is constantly thrown into one situation after another. She handles it all with grace and strength though and I love it. Her group around her is amazing. They are supportive but retain their own personalities. I am not sure how I feel about Pierce though. I find him too obsequious at times. I like that he truly supports Donna but, he is sort of boring. He is a lawyer and you hear how smart he is but…. That’s kind of it (eek). Maybe I am biased. Either way, i love this series and I am immediately getting the next one.
Poor Donna just can’t get away from everything. She is constantly thrown into one situation after another. She handles it all with grace and strength though and I love it. Her group around her is amazing. They are supportive but retain their own personalities. I am not sure how I feel about Pierce though. I find him too obsequious at times. I like that he truly supports Donna but, he is sort of boring. He is a lawyer and you hear how smart he is but…. That’s kind of it (eek). Maybe I am biased. Either way, i love this series and I am immediately getting the next one.
August 8, 2021
Love love love this book
This is by far my favorite series by this author so at first when I went to review I was suprised and sad to see the lower reviews and then realized those are really high praise in a different way. The books are so good they take you right in, you feel part of the story! So you want more more more and it is sad when you run out of pages. So definitely read this series I suggest starting at the beginning and looking at each book as a chapter in a bigger novel :)
This is by far my favorite series by this author so at first when I went to review I was suprised and sad to see the lower reviews and then realized those are really high praise in a different way. The books are so good they take you right in, you feel part of the story! So you want more more more and it is sad when you run out of pages. So definitely read this series I suggest starting at the beginning and looking at each book as a chapter in a bigger novel :)
August 9, 2021
OMG!!!!
You know a book is amazing when it causes such intense feelings and you’re like what the heck??? That was this one!!
I adore this author and I adore the characters in this book!! It was amazing getting to visit them again and this was such a great story. Then comes the ending and I totally never saw it coming and I’m still in shock as I write this!!! I can not wait for the next book to see where Kristen Painter is going with it because one way or another, you know it will be a heck of a ride!!!
You know a book is amazing when it causes such intense feelings and you’re like what the heck??? That was this one!!
I adore this author and I adore the characters in this book!! It was amazing getting to visit them again and this was such a great story. Then comes the ending and I totally never saw it coming and I’m still in shock as I write this!!! I can not wait for the next book to see where Kristen Painter is going with it because one way or another, you know it will be a heck of a ride!!!
August 13, 2021
This book picks up right where the last left off. Belladonna, Vampire Governor of NJ and her team head off on motor coach to attend the funeral of the Queen. On the way she stops to meet the boy her daughter is dating and pregnant by and his family. Through quick thinking and diplomacy she is able to come to terms with both and create another alliance. The funeral introduced us to even more new characters, a new supernatural, and left us on a cliffhanger that I was unable to stop thinking about. What will happen next?
I have enjoyed each book in the series and can't wait for more.
I have enjoyed each book in the series and can't wait for more.
July 7, 2022
Nooo ! Cliffhanger alert
Oh my gosh - I freaking love this book series! I do stay up way too late to get to the end as I cannot put the book down. Every book has been resolved mostly st the end, except this one! I get it, it leads to.the series finale but geez! Its 2:00 am and now I have to at least read the first chapter to put my mind at some type of ease lol. Rough life huh? I highly recommend you purchase all 5 books so you'll be ready to go when each one ends. Its like when a series on Prime is dropped all at once so you can binge.
Oh my gosh - I freaking love this book series! I do stay up way too late to get to the end as I cannot put the book down. Every book has been resolved mostly st the end, except this one! I get it, it leads to.the series finale but geez! Its 2:00 am and now I have to at least read the first chapter to put my mind at some type of ease lol. Rough life huh? I highly recommend you purchase all 5 books so you'll be ready to go when each one ends. Its like when a series on Prime is dropped all at once so you can binge.
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