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Love at Stake #5
All I Want for Christmas Is a Vampire
Toni Davis's Christmas wish list
1. Springing my best friend from the psych ward.
2. Living somewhere that doesn't have coffins in the basement. Occupied coffins.
3. Finding Mr. Right. Please make him tall, dark, handsome, and alive.
This Christmas isn't so merry for Toni. Her best friend's been locked up in a mental hospital ever since she told the police she was attacked by vampires, and the only way for Toni to get her out is to prove that bloodsuckers really do exist. So she's taken a job as a bodyguard for the Undead, but she gets more than she bargained for, especially when she meets Ian MacPhie, a Scottish rascal looking for Ms. Right.
Although Ian's nearly five centuries old, he looks and acts like a twenty-seven-year-old hunk.
How can a dead man be so damn sexy? Could Mr. Wrong be Mr. Right? One forbidden kiss could lead to an eternity of passion—and all it takes is one moment under the mistletoe . . .
Audio
First published October 28, 2008
177 people are currently reading
4633 people want to read
About the author
Kerrelyn Sparks
36 books5,779 followersKerrelyn Sparks apparently has issues with reality. After writing more than a dozen books about vampires, she has now completely gone off the deep end and wound up on another planet. But how thrilling that she can share this magical new world with her readers! Although she is best known (so far) for the Love at Stake series, which has hit as high as number 5 on the New York Times list and 22 on the USA Today list, she hopes her readers will love The Embraced as much as they did her merry band of vamps and shifters. To learn more about her paranormal, historical, and upcoming out-of-this-world fantasy romances, please visit Kerrelyn on Facebook, Twitter, or her website at www.kerrelynsparks.com.
Kerrelyn loves hearing from readers, even those who howl at the moon. Letters may be sent to P.O. Box 5512, Katy, TX 77491-5512. If you would like bookmarks and signed bookplates, please mail a Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope to her P.O. Box, and she will send those items to you.
Kerrelyn loves hearing from readers, even those who howl at the moon. Letters may be sent to P.O. Box 5512, Katy, TX 77491-5512. If you would like bookmarks and signed bookplates, please mail a Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope to her P.O. Box, and she will send those items to you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 563 reviews
February 16, 2017
Fantastic book, fun to read, and I really enjoyed Toni and Ian together, they were a great couple, and I enjoyed how they took on the obstacles in their way!
May 25, 2017
I freaking love Ian!!!!!
November 27, 2008
Reviewed for queuemyreview.com; book release Nov08
Humor and romance with just the right amount of heat, that would be my short description of “All I Want for Christmas is a Vampire” by Kerrelyn Sparks. This book is part of her ‘Love at Stake’ series about vampires in the modern world and I think the series has improved with each book she’s written. They’re certainly not ‘serious reads’, but if you’re looking for a book that will leave you with a grin, this is a good series to try.
Toni is a woman on a mission. Her best friend and soul sister is currently incarcerated in a psych ward. She was attacked by vampires but nobody (including Toni at first) believed her. Well, being the great friend she is, Toni sets out to prove the existence of vampires. When she herself is attacked by ‘bad’ vampires and then saved by a ‘good’ vampire (although she really can’t believe there is such a thing as a good vampire), she becomes a believer. She even goes so far as to become a daytime bodyguard for the sleeping vamps! Now if she can just find some proof, she can spring her friend and go back to her normal life.
Ian is nearly 500 years old, but until recently he has resembled the 15-year-old lad he was when he became a vampire. When his boss invented a ‘stay-awake’ drug for vamps, an unintended side effect was aging one year for every day a vamp spent on the drug. While most vamps would shudder in horror, this was a dream come true for Ian who is truly tired of all the consequences of looking like a youngster. He’s ready to find his true love and settle down for an eternity of wedded bliss, with a vampire that is. Because there’s no way his true love could be a human…right?
What a pair! Toni is having a hard time getting over her vicious attack. How could she ever be attracted to a vampire? And poor Ian with his 15th century values can’t believe he’s having such a hard time finding THE vamp for him. He’s so drawn to Toni who has all the qualities he’s looking for in a woman…except she’s alive. ‘Watching’ these two come together is better than any soap opera. Ian’s efforts at wooing will have you in stitches. Especially once his friend helps him out by putting his information in an online dating service! Hilarity ensues. But these two are actually perfect for each other. They just need to get over their prejudices and realize that there are good and bad in every race and every situation…finding the good just takes more work. Too true.
There are really only two things that relate to the Christmas referenced in the title, other than the time of year the book is set. A party full of male vamps in Santa suits is one, and I don’t want to give away the other although it will have you saying, “Awww, that’s so sweet.” Probably one of the most creative uses of Santa and Christmas I’ve read in a humorous romance.
“All I Want for Christmas is a Vampire” is a book to read on a cold day, beside a warm fire, with a glass of your favorite beverage by your side. The heat generated by this pair of lovers will warm you up a bit, and the interplay between them will keep you laughing. Kerrelyn Sparks will give you a few hours of escape from your holiday chores with this sparkling tale.
Humor and romance with just the right amount of heat, that would be my short description of “All I Want for Christmas is a Vampire” by Kerrelyn Sparks. This book is part of her ‘Love at Stake’ series about vampires in the modern world and I think the series has improved with each book she’s written. They’re certainly not ‘serious reads’, but if you’re looking for a book that will leave you with a grin, this is a good series to try.
Toni is a woman on a mission. Her best friend and soul sister is currently incarcerated in a psych ward. She was attacked by vampires but nobody (including Toni at first) believed her. Well, being the great friend she is, Toni sets out to prove the existence of vampires. When she herself is attacked by ‘bad’ vampires and then saved by a ‘good’ vampire (although she really can’t believe there is such a thing as a good vampire), she becomes a believer. She even goes so far as to become a daytime bodyguard for the sleeping vamps! Now if she can just find some proof, she can spring her friend and go back to her normal life.
Ian is nearly 500 years old, but until recently he has resembled the 15-year-old lad he was when he became a vampire. When his boss invented a ‘stay-awake’ drug for vamps, an unintended side effect was aging one year for every day a vamp spent on the drug. While most vamps would shudder in horror, this was a dream come true for Ian who is truly tired of all the consequences of looking like a youngster. He’s ready to find his true love and settle down for an eternity of wedded bliss, with a vampire that is. Because there’s no way his true love could be a human…right?
What a pair! Toni is having a hard time getting over her vicious attack. How could she ever be attracted to a vampire? And poor Ian with his 15th century values can’t believe he’s having such a hard time finding THE vamp for him. He’s so drawn to Toni who has all the qualities he’s looking for in a woman…except she’s alive. ‘Watching’ these two come together is better than any soap opera. Ian’s efforts at wooing will have you in stitches. Especially once his friend helps him out by putting his information in an online dating service! Hilarity ensues. But these two are actually perfect for each other. They just need to get over their prejudices and realize that there are good and bad in every race and every situation…finding the good just takes more work. Too true.
There are really only two things that relate to the Christmas referenced in the title, other than the time of year the book is set. A party full of male vamps in Santa suits is one, and I don’t want to give away the other although it will have you saying, “Awww, that’s so sweet.” Probably one of the most creative uses of Santa and Christmas I’ve read in a humorous romance.
“All I Want for Christmas is a Vampire” is a book to read on a cold day, beside a warm fire, with a glass of your favorite beverage by your side. The heat generated by this pair of lovers will warm you up a bit, and the interplay between them will keep you laughing. Kerrelyn Sparks will give you a few hours of escape from your holiday chores with this sparkling tale.
Read
November 16, 2023DNF. This was…not what I expected or really wanted. Maybe I should just go read a Kresley Cole.
April 8, 2015
Toni is a human on a mission, she must prove vampires are real to save her friend. her friend was attacked and left to spew crazies out for all to hear. So Toni the dumb dumb goes back to the same spot to catch some ? Guess what happens... She is attacked ! Shocking isn't it. Duh ! So there she is getting her body chewed and sucked when a kilted god saves her. Oh sure I might have pulled and big idiot move for that savior too so she's forgiven. They give her a choice work for them or have your memory removed. She chooses to keep her memory so she can get her proof. She goes through her days conniving how to catch them on tape, slowly they start to look less evil. One of them young Ian who doesn't look 15 anymore is looking like a prime piece of vampire man wrapped in a soft sexy kilt. He knows she hiding something so he hunts, she wants proof so she digs, and somehow they end up getting closer. She is snarky and prickly he is patient and busy with his own deal.
Ian, all grown up and hot as can be. Women are drooling, screaming and nearly rioting to grab a date with him when he signs up with a dating website.He thinks a vamp woman would fit best for a life long love, no humans. Never say never dude. So little Toni the thorn in his side is looking pretty good and smells better. He fights his attraction, she is not for him. But she's the one who gives him kilt lift.
Fun, snark, love, fighting, lust and bitting. Let the games begin as this vampire series gets underway for another Christmas time ball. Enjoyable, good narration and great pacing with a HEA
Ian, all grown up and hot as can be. Women are drooling, screaming and nearly rioting to grab a date with him when he signs up with a dating website.He thinks a vamp woman would fit best for a life long love, no humans. Never say never dude. So little Toni the thorn in his side is looking pretty good and smells better. He fights his attraction, she is not for him. But she's the one who gives him kilt lift.
Fun, snark, love, fighting, lust and bitting. Let the games begin as this vampire series gets underway for another Christmas time ball. Enjoyable, good narration and great pacing with a HEA
December 13, 2018
It’s the pain we endure that makes us strong.
Toni’s roommate Sabrina was brutally attacked by vampires and then placed in a psych hospital for talking about her attack. Toni goes back to the park where Sabrina was attacked, proceeds to be attacked by the bad guys, saved by the good guys, and given a job as a daytime guard.
Ian was turned at 15 and has spent centuries looking like jailbait. He took some secret serum that made him age up to his mid twenties. So now he’s ready to find his true love. Or date. Or both.
He’s suspicious of Toni, rightfully so, since she intends to tell the world vampires exist to free her friend.
I wish I could have liked Toni, but I didn’t. I liked Ian. I hate I haven’t liked this series, because I really have enjoyed the author’s The Embraced series. So if you haven’t tried her books, I’d just skip this one and read How to Tame a Beast in Seven Days.
August 13, 2016
I really enjoyed this one! Very unexpected. This is usually my silly go toseries to get some good vampire fluff in my life to have a good laugh. Even though I did laugh....this one felt a bit more serious and I enjoyed the story a lot. Loved Ian (sigh) that Scottish, kilt wearing man just looking for his eternal love. Just melts your heart. The chemistry between him and Toni was present and the ending was super sweet. This totally hit the spot for me today.
January 1, 2015
I think I'm going to stick with 3 stars on this, but I realize that the fact that I did not read any of the previous novels may have affected my enjoyment. I thinnk had I read the others, I wouls have been more invested in some of the characters than i was.
It took me a bit to get into this, about 20-some odd percent. Toni was the main reason. I didn't like her, not just didn't trust her, but I did not like her. To me bitch does not equal strong. That was irksome. Now, I can understand loathing, I can get distrust, but just plain ol' bitchiness pisses me off. having said that, she only irritated me for a bit, then I got on with her okay.
Some of the dialogue and situation was bizarre and I wasn't sure if I was supposed to be taking it seriously or if it was some kind of commentary about the state of reality TV or something.
Also, I wanted to kill Sabrina...seriously, I wanted someone to take a bite out of her. Bitch.
Now, I did like Carlos, he was tripping me out and I I hope he gets his own book
Teddy! I hope he gets his own book--I would totally read it!
The other characters, like I said if I had read their books I probably would have been a little more excited to see them...that's my bad
Ian was super adorable! I mean...good lord the accent! And the kilt!
K, so he was probably more like this
But I couldn't pass up the first guy *shrugs*
Anyhoo, he was sweet...now I like my guys (in my novels) a bit rough, the alpha thing works for me, but lately...with historicals especially there is something about the sense of honor...*dreamy sigh*
Parts of this moved kinda slow for me. Some of it was rather predictable. Parts of it were really sweet. There was steam, not much, but some. Not all of the dialogue worked for me, but ya know I'm not really a hearts and flowers kind of girl, so there's that.
Overall, it was okay, I think this is one of those times where the book is fine, its just not really my kind of book. *shrugs*
Having said that, if Teddy or Carlos get a book (ooh, maybe together?!) I would read it.
It took me a bit to get into this, about 20-some odd percent. Toni was the main reason. I didn't like her, not just didn't trust her, but I did not like her. To me bitch does not equal strong. That was irksome. Now, I can understand loathing, I can get distrust, but just plain ol' bitchiness pisses me off. having said that, she only irritated me for a bit, then I got on with her okay.
Some of the dialogue and situation was bizarre and I wasn't sure if I was supposed to be taking it seriously or if it was some kind of commentary about the state of reality TV or something.
Also, I wanted to kill Sabrina...seriously, I wanted someone to take a bite out of her. Bitch.
Now, I did like Carlos, he was tripping me out and I I hope he gets his own book
Teddy! I hope he gets his own book--I would totally read it!
The other characters, like I said if I had read their books I probably would have been a little more excited to see them...that's my bad
Ian was super adorable! I mean...good lord the accent! And the kilt!
K, so he was probably more like this
But I couldn't pass up the first guy *shrugs*
Anyhoo, he was sweet...now I like my guys (in my novels) a bit rough, the alpha thing works for me, but lately...with historicals especially there is something about the sense of honor...*dreamy sigh*
Parts of this moved kinda slow for me. Some of it was rather predictable. Parts of it were really sweet. There was steam, not much, but some. Not all of the dialogue worked for me, but ya know I'm not really a hearts and flowers kind of girl, so there's that.
Overall, it was okay, I think this is one of those times where the book is fine, its just not really my kind of book. *shrugs*
Having said that, if Teddy or Carlos get a book (ooh, maybe together?!) I would read it.
October 18, 2010
Another winner from Sparks! All I want for Christmas is a Vampire is the fifth novel in the Love At Stake series, and honestly I am really enjoying the series. Sparks really knows how to write a paranormal romance story.
I must admit I was really looking forward to this book after reading The Undead Next Door(book 4). Ian was a reoccurring character throughout the series, and he's been one of my favorites, so I couldn't wait to see him "all grown up" and finding love.
Ian is nearly 5 centuries old, and looked like a 15 year old for all his life. Until recently, when he took a drug that makes a vampire stay awake during sunlight, but also ages then a year for each day they take it. The process was painful, but it was worth it for Ian to be a man and to find a woman that loved him for himself. Ian is a very likable and now sexy male, I enjoyed his POV and his story.
Toni is a very beautiful woman but life just isn't easy for her. At first I didn't know what to think of Toni, but I easy started to like her. She's strong, tough, and is loyal to those she loves. Anyone would be grateful to have a friend like Toni If only Toni believed that. She has doubts about herself, when she shouldn't. She's had a sad past, so now she hopes for a better future. Which I don't blame her. Honestly, I really liked her character. She was easy to read along with, not a ditsy girl, or a girl too rough, that is obviously not a read woman with feelings.
Toni and Ian make a great couple. Their chemistry was exciting and their personalities really shone throughout the book. If you are a fan of Lynsay Sands and other Vampire Romance authors, then this is the series for you. Your guaranteed a great, light read, with likable characters and excellent romance. I highly recommend you read this series!
I must admit I was really looking forward to this book after reading The Undead Next Door(book 4). Ian was a reoccurring character throughout the series, and he's been one of my favorites, so I couldn't wait to see him "all grown up" and finding love.
Ian is nearly 5 centuries old, and looked like a 15 year old for all his life. Until recently, when he took a drug that makes a vampire stay awake during sunlight, but also ages then a year for each day they take it. The process was painful, but it was worth it for Ian to be a man and to find a woman that loved him for himself. Ian is a very likable and now sexy male, I enjoyed his POV and his story.
Toni is a very beautiful woman but life just isn't easy for her. At first I didn't know what to think of Toni, but I easy started to like her. She's strong, tough, and is loyal to those she loves. Anyone would be grateful to have a friend like Toni If only Toni believed that. She has doubts about herself, when she shouldn't. She's had a sad past, so now she hopes for a better future. Which I don't blame her. Honestly, I really liked her character. She was easy to read along with, not a ditsy girl, or a girl too rough, that is obviously not a read woman with feelings.
Toni and Ian make a great couple. Their chemistry was exciting and their personalities really shone throughout the book. If you are a fan of Lynsay Sands and other Vampire Romance authors, then this is the series for you. Your guaranteed a great, light read, with likable characters and excellent romance. I highly recommend you read this series!
March 18, 2019
Vampires? Christmas? Scottish vampires in kilts? Yes please. I loved this book. Ian and Toni were a great couple to read about the whole story. Yes, they didn't bang until it was nearly the end of the book but it was worth the wait. When they did it they did it gooood. When Ian dressed as Dracula to get Toni's friend's uncle to stop embezzling her. I couldn't stop grinning. Cute and funny. Loved that Carlos was a were-panther. And did I mention Scottish vampires in kilts? Maybe I did, but can you get any hotter then that? No . . I don't think so.
Did I leave anything out? Well, let's see, there was mention of a vamp male-stripper dressed as a Native American who used feathers to barely hide his "wampum" . . .but that's beside the point.
I loved Ian, I think he was a well balanced character, you know . . .for a vampire smut novel. And Toni was also a balanced character, wanting to find family and love when she grew up with none.
Not to mention the battle scenes where Ian fights evil bad-guy vamps while wearing his, er, well-endowed kilt. I need more books like this in my life!
Did I leave anything out? Well, let's see, there was mention of a vamp male-stripper dressed as a Native American who used feathers to barely hide his "wampum" . . .but that's beside the point.
I loved Ian, I think he was a well balanced character, you know . . .for a vampire smut novel. And Toni was also a balanced character, wanting to find family and love when she grew up with none.
Not to mention the battle scenes where Ian fights evil bad-guy vamps while wearing his, er, well-endowed kilt. I need more books like this in my life!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2010
Before considering the rating of any book, one must consider the book itself and what it sets out to do. This book, and the series "Love At Stake" as a whole, isn't going for deep philosophical meanings in writing. It is just light, enjoyable fun! The plots are entertaining and the characters both humorous and endearing. Ian, the hero/vamp in this book is especially so. He is sweet and lovable, the kind you just want to hug, but also a perfectly capable, potentially lethal warrior. What's not to enjoy? His counterpart, Toni, is just as endearing, a woman who is loyal but somewhat broken, who is trying to do the right thing by springing her best friend out of an institution for believing in vampires. Nothing heavy, just great, slightly skewed romance!
July 6, 2025
4.75 Stars
Tickles your funny bone. Makes you feel all warm & fuzzy inside.
Progresses smoothly and quickly.
Builds on all the different relationships and characters from previous books in the series and brings in new ones.
Never a dull moment. Absolutely a fun and delightful read!
Tickles your funny bone. Makes you feel all warm & fuzzy inside.
Progresses smoothly and quickly.
Builds on all the different relationships and characters from previous books in the series and brings in new ones.
Never a dull moment. Absolutely a fun and delightful read!
January 28, 2012
Good points
- The cover and the title
BAD POINTS : THE REST
- The characters are boring,especially the main male - Ian, who I believe could be gay
- The interact between the main character isn't enough to create a spark.
- Boring, boring, sleepy plot, no twist, no turn, NOTHING.
- boring writing as well
- The cover and the title
BAD POINTS : THE REST
- The characters are boring,especially the main male - Ian, who I believe could be gay
- The interact between the main character isn't enough to create a spark.
- Boring, boring, sleepy plot, no twist, no turn, NOTHING.
- boring writing as well
December 22, 2022
DNF... I could not get used to the writing style in this. I HATED the main character and the way he spoke. Just NO. Sorry.
December 18, 2010
This is the one I read first. After zipping through this one (I couldn't put it down!) I quickly found the rest in the series. You don't have to read them in order. She is very good at recapping major events without spoilers. She doesn't summarize past books, like so many other authors and honestly, having read several of the other books now, I don't feel like I was missing anything by reading this one first. The other main characters were briefly introduced, their stories mentioned and that's it. I really enjoyed the way she refers to past books, without really giving you information. It really made me want to go read the other books. And then, when I did read one of those mentioned things, I recognized it as I'm reading it and it makes it even more enjoyable. Very clever and witty throughout. This is my favorite book so far, I'm planning on reading it again as soon as I finish book 4.
August 15, 2015
All I Want For Christmas Is A Vampire es el quinto libro de la serie Love At Stake de Kerrelyn Sparks y tiene como protagonistas a Ian y Toni.
Aun sigo sin saber realmente lo que tiene esta saga para enganchar tanto pero desde que la empece no he podido parar de leer un libro tras otro.
Reconozco que no son nada del otro mundo pero tienen algo que te hace adicta, ademas la forma de escribir de la autora es muy ligera, hace que un libro de mas de 300 paginas se te pase en un suspiro.
Totalmente recomendado, es perfecto para leer entre lecturas mas " serias ".
3.5 Estrellas!
October 18, 2014
this is by far my favorite of the series, I just Love Ian, i'm so glad he got his HEA! Toni's friend Sabrina, gosh I wanted to smack her quite a few times, I hope she grows out of her animosity. Carlos I knew, just knew something was different about him.
This series is turning out to be really good, I think I've enjoyed all but the second book of this series. I cannot wait to read more of it. It's becoming highly addictive to me.
This series is turning out to be really good, I think I've enjoyed all but the second book of this series. I cannot wait to read more of it. It's becoming highly addictive to me.
December 12, 2012
This book was very good. I was the first book I've read by Kerrelyn Sparks but it won't be the last. The characters of Toni and Ian seemed destined to be together from the start of the book. But it was not predictable by any means. The true natures of Carlos and Howard were totally unexpected to me as I read the book. I liked the fact that it wasn't just a love story. It also had humor adventure and action in the story. I would highly reccomend it.
August 28, 2010
Effing hysterical! I laughed throughout the entire book. Kerrelyn Sparks is my hero! Not only does she create wicked shmexi characters, she makes them funny as all get out. Love, love LOVE Ian. There's nothing sexier than a man with an accent. And a Scottish accent? SWOON! Off to buy the rest of the series. Woot!
February 26, 2011
This was the first book I read from K. Sparks and I loved it. Love the style of writing. The Scottish words/language made the story more lifelike. Good romance. Good humor. It had a HEA ending. I'd love to read others in the series.
January 10, 2018
A racy, entertaining, vampire-fluff escape from your holiday chores!
She couldn’t run away from him. She’d be running from her own heart.
All I Want for Christmas is a Vampire by Kerrelyn Sparks is a fun paranormal romp perfect for anytime you crave a light festive read. It’s the first book I’ve ever read by this author. Even though it’s the fifth installment in her Love at Stake series, I had no trouble at all enjoying it as a stand alone. This is the story of Scottish vampire Ian MacPhie and Toni Davis.
As the story opens, Toni’s best friend is missing. Toni is determined to find her and to clear her name by proving that vampires exist. While searching for evidence, Toni is brutally attacked… by bad vampires…. and then saved by a good vampire presenting her with a quandary. If she exposes the bad vampires, does she also sign a death sentence for the good vampires who have become her friends… including one sweet and sexy kilted warrior who makes her heart race?
Ian is nearly five-hundred-years- old, but, until recently, he appeared to be a fifteen-year-old boy as he was young when turned. He desperately desires to love and be loved, but, until now, women wouldn’t take him seriously as he appeared to be a kid. So… he underwent a painful treatment to age him. The results were beyond his expectations, but now he has another problem. How can he find his present-day mate with his fifteenth century values? His friend’s solution was to set him up with an online dating service. Ian’s efforts at wooing will leave you in stitches as the comical drama that results was better than any soap opera. Through it all, Ian only knows that his true love needs to be his own kind, a vampire. So… why is his new human day-time guard the only one that makes his kilt lift?
These two are a hoot! Toni despises vampires and Ian believes that there’s no way that a mortal could be his mate. They are each sweet, caring and loyal. At first, I wanted to knock Toni a few times for her prejudices, but, in the end, they were only hurdles that made Ian jump higher. Besides, Toni wasn’t actually prejudiced, she was just innocent and uninformed. I liked both of these characters and, even though I knew from the beginning that love would find a way for them to be together, I thoroughly enjoyed their off-the-wall adventure to reach that inevitable point. I’m still dreaming of a roomful of hunky vampires in Santa suits days after finishing this book.
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from All I Want for Christmas is a Vampire:
“Yer skirt invites a man’s attention. I’ve seen handkerchiefs that were bigger.”
She swung her handbag over her shoulder. “At least I wear underwear under my skirt.”
“I hope they’re nice since everyone is sure to see them.”
---
“I doona want to be loved because I’m Undead. No more than ye would want to be rejected for being mortal.”
---
Good grief, he’d fallen into his death sleep with a hard-on. Was it possible for a stiff to be that stiff?”
All I Want for Christmas is a perfect quick escape read melding humor, heat and romance with holiday celebrations and Scottish vampires. The heat generated by these two will unquestionably warm up readers on a cold day. If you are seeking a racy, entertaining, vampire-fluff escape from your holiday chores, this tale is for you!
My full review is published at Reading Between the Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
She couldn’t run away from him. She’d be running from her own heart.
All I Want for Christmas is a Vampire by Kerrelyn Sparks is a fun paranormal romp perfect for anytime you crave a light festive read. It’s the first book I’ve ever read by this author. Even though it’s the fifth installment in her Love at Stake series, I had no trouble at all enjoying it as a stand alone. This is the story of Scottish vampire Ian MacPhie and Toni Davis.
As the story opens, Toni’s best friend is missing. Toni is determined to find her and to clear her name by proving that vampires exist. While searching for evidence, Toni is brutally attacked… by bad vampires…. and then saved by a good vampire presenting her with a quandary. If she exposes the bad vampires, does she also sign a death sentence for the good vampires who have become her friends… including one sweet and sexy kilted warrior who makes her heart race?
Ian is nearly five-hundred-years- old, but, until recently, he appeared to be a fifteen-year-old boy as he was young when turned. He desperately desires to love and be loved, but, until now, women wouldn’t take him seriously as he appeared to be a kid. So… he underwent a painful treatment to age him. The results were beyond his expectations, but now he has another problem. How can he find his present-day mate with his fifteenth century values? His friend’s solution was to set him up with an online dating service. Ian’s efforts at wooing will leave you in stitches as the comical drama that results was better than any soap opera. Through it all, Ian only knows that his true love needs to be his own kind, a vampire. So… why is his new human day-time guard the only one that makes his kilt lift?
These two are a hoot! Toni despises vampires and Ian believes that there’s no way that a mortal could be his mate. They are each sweet, caring and loyal. At first, I wanted to knock Toni a few times for her prejudices, but, in the end, they were only hurdles that made Ian jump higher. Besides, Toni wasn’t actually prejudiced, she was just innocent and uninformed. I liked both of these characters and, even though I knew from the beginning that love would find a way for them to be together, I thoroughly enjoyed their off-the-wall adventure to reach that inevitable point. I’m still dreaming of a roomful of hunky vampires in Santa suits days after finishing this book.
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from All I Want for Christmas is a Vampire:
“Yer skirt invites a man’s attention. I’ve seen handkerchiefs that were bigger.”
She swung her handbag over her shoulder. “At least I wear underwear under my skirt.”
“I hope they’re nice since everyone is sure to see them.”
---
“I doona want to be loved because I’m Undead. No more than ye would want to be rejected for being mortal.”
---
Good grief, he’d fallen into his death sleep with a hard-on. Was it possible for a stiff to be that stiff?”
All I Want for Christmas is a perfect quick escape read melding humor, heat and romance with holiday celebrations and Scottish vampires. The heat generated by these two will unquestionably warm up readers on a cold day. If you are seeking a racy, entertaining, vampire-fluff escape from your holiday chores, this tale is for you!
My full review is published at Reading Between the Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
December 16, 2023
I didn’t like this.
I was hoping for a vampire romance set during the Christmas season but that’s not what this is. There are too many plots which made reading the story confusing most of the time and the characters didn’t have much personality. I was mostly confused and bored while reading this.
I was hoping for a vampire romance set during the Christmas season but that’s not what this is. There are too many plots which made reading the story confusing most of the time and the characters didn’t have much personality. I was mostly confused and bored while reading this.
did-not-finish
December 19, 2024dnf 21% i thought i could read this for the bit this holiday season but it is genuinely bad . so
December 31, 2020
Another good book by a favorite author.
December 27, 2021
Skipping over the embarrassment of the books poor marketing team and giving this book the four stars it deserves.
December 26, 2024
One star per every mention of Christmas
April 15, 2010
Courtesy of CK2S Kwips and Kritiques
I have to preface this review with the simple fact I’ve never been a fan of funny vampire romance novels. I’m a “the darker the better” vampire fan. However, it is with great pleasure I can honestly say I truly enjoyed All I Want for Christmas Is a Vampire. What a delight!
Toni Davis’s Christmas is not looking like it will be an enjoyable one. Her best friend has been institutionalized after claiming she was attacked by vampires. Toni knows her friend isn’t crazy but the only way to prove that is to show everyone that vampires really do exist. Jump ahead a bit and Toni is working as a security guard to some local vampires where she hopes to get what she needs to have her friend released. The last thing Toni wants or needs is to be driven wild by one of the sexiest Undead men you can imagine!
Ian MacPhie was turned as a teenager and looked like it. Upon discovery of a secret vampire drug, Ian has aged himself physically so he looks like an adult. Now he is on a mission to find the perfect woman to share the rest of his Undead life with, but he just doesn’t quite understand these modern women and dating rituals. It also doesn’t help that he’s found himself attracted to the new security guard. Then there is the added fact Toni hates vampires and wants nothing beyond a professional relationship.
However, Toni and Ian must reluctantly pair up to get to the bottom of a new problem. The Malcontents want this new drug and will do anything to get it, even if it means killing everyone who gets in their way. Soon Toni finds herself thinking “All I Want for Christmas Is a Vampire.”
I had my doubts about reading this latest book in Kerrelyn Sparks’ Love at Stake series since I normally do not like vampires in a romantic comedy. What I discovered was that while there is plenty of humor in All I Want for Christmas Is a Vampire, it is really just enough to keep the book from taking itself too seriously. We have enough of the dark undertones I demand from a vampire romance novel through the ongoing war against the Malcontents to make me happy.
Toni is conflicted over her duty to her friend and her responsibilities as security to the vampires. While her job started out as just a means to an end, the more time she spends with Ian, the more she realizes her work is not such a chore after all. This makes for even more internal struggles for Toni as she worries her attraction to him will prevent her from keeping her promise to her best friend.
Ian is delightful in his new and improved form as he discovers all the little problems resulting in aging so quickly. His old coffin doesn’t fit anymore and the women are clamoring for his attention. I loved all of his exploits as he tries to choose a mate from the swarms of women after him. Speed dating and internet profiles take on a whole new dimension in All I Want for Christmas Is a Vampire, especially when he realizes only one woman can make his passion flare.
I enjoyed All I Want for Christmas Is a Vampire by Kerrelyn Sparks and now I have to make time to go back and read the preceding books in the Love at Stake series.
© Kelley A. Hartsell, April 2009. All rights reserved.
I have to preface this review with the simple fact I’ve never been a fan of funny vampire romance novels. I’m a “the darker the better” vampire fan. However, it is with great pleasure I can honestly say I truly enjoyed All I Want for Christmas Is a Vampire. What a delight!
Toni Davis’s Christmas is not looking like it will be an enjoyable one. Her best friend has been institutionalized after claiming she was attacked by vampires. Toni knows her friend isn’t crazy but the only way to prove that is to show everyone that vampires really do exist. Jump ahead a bit and Toni is working as a security guard to some local vampires where she hopes to get what she needs to have her friend released. The last thing Toni wants or needs is to be driven wild by one of the sexiest Undead men you can imagine!
Ian MacPhie was turned as a teenager and looked like it. Upon discovery of a secret vampire drug, Ian has aged himself physically so he looks like an adult. Now he is on a mission to find the perfect woman to share the rest of his Undead life with, but he just doesn’t quite understand these modern women and dating rituals. It also doesn’t help that he’s found himself attracted to the new security guard. Then there is the added fact Toni hates vampires and wants nothing beyond a professional relationship.
However, Toni and Ian must reluctantly pair up to get to the bottom of a new problem. The Malcontents want this new drug and will do anything to get it, even if it means killing everyone who gets in their way. Soon Toni finds herself thinking “All I Want for Christmas Is a Vampire.”
I had my doubts about reading this latest book in Kerrelyn Sparks’ Love at Stake series since I normally do not like vampires in a romantic comedy. What I discovered was that while there is plenty of humor in All I Want for Christmas Is a Vampire, it is really just enough to keep the book from taking itself too seriously. We have enough of the dark undertones I demand from a vampire romance novel through the ongoing war against the Malcontents to make me happy.
Toni is conflicted over her duty to her friend and her responsibilities as security to the vampires. While her job started out as just a means to an end, the more time she spends with Ian, the more she realizes her work is not such a chore after all. This makes for even more internal struggles for Toni as she worries her attraction to him will prevent her from keeping her promise to her best friend.
Ian is delightful in his new and improved form as he discovers all the little problems resulting in aging so quickly. His old coffin doesn’t fit anymore and the women are clamoring for his attention. I loved all of his exploits as he tries to choose a mate from the swarms of women after him. Speed dating and internet profiles take on a whole new dimension in All I Want for Christmas Is a Vampire, especially when he realizes only one woman can make his passion flare.
I enjoyed All I Want for Christmas Is a Vampire by Kerrelyn Sparks and now I have to make time to go back and read the preceding books in the Love at Stake series.
© Kelley A. Hartsell, April 2009. All rights reserved.
May 31, 2023
I care so much about the politics of this trash novel from 2008, it’s upsetting.
I read the back cover of this book at a Goodwill, and I was bewitched by the terrible sounding premise and characters, and I was not disappointed. It was fun to read, But not in a cute, harmless, campy way, but as in I would physically recoil in disgust or actually scream aloud every other page because it was so embarrassing.
I’m just going to list all the fucked up shit in a numbered list.
1. The “Good” Vampires are Catholic and go to mass?
2. The protagonists are chronically unlikable. Their flaws are uninteresting and don’t actually present problems within the narrative, making them ridiculously boring.
3. There’s some weird internalized sexism happening with how the majority of the female characters are portrayed. Every woman who isn’t Toni (or protagonists from previous books) are brainless bimbos, which I expected from a 2008 vampire romance novel but it’s still trying hard to do a Girl power thing with Toni and it just does not work.
3. The whole book is just filled to the brim with blatant racism. Phineas is nothing short of a complete racial caricature. He is a hyper-sexual former drug dealer who uses woefully butchered AAVE, he is a racist white woman’s fever dream of a black man. I feel it’s also important to point out that the name Phineas means “The Nubian” or “The Dark Skinned One”, and being literally the ONLY black character in this book (and I believe the entire series) he is LITERALLY “The Black One.”
6. Then there’s Carlos, a flamboyant Brazilian Anthropology Major, who is a racial AND homophobic caricature (He is apparently revealed to be not actually gay later in the series, despite the protagonists assertion that he is throughout this book. I masochistically read portions of “Eat, Prey Love”, the book focusing on Carlos’ character, and bewilderingly, he’s just pretending to be gay for??? Clout, I guess? He didn’t like women fawning on him and apparently this was the only way he could get them to leave him alone (like being flamboyantly gay has ever stopped straight women from trying to fuck gay men, but whatever.)).
7. He (or rather, Kerrelyn Sparks,) seems to only know two words in Portuguese, Menina (Little girl) and Merda (Shit) and they are peppered in almost every line of Carlos’ dialogue. It’s obnoxious.
8. The sex scene (yes, in this vampire smut book there is only one scene where the protagonists fuck) is bad in the boring way sex written by heterosexual women is. There is use of the words “waggled”, “tweaked”, and “juicy”. They are also dressed as Santa Claus and an Elf (I had, in all honesty, forgotten this was supposed to be a Christmas book despite the title and it was jarring.)
I read the back cover of this book at a Goodwill, and I was bewitched by the terrible sounding premise and characters, and I was not disappointed. It was fun to read, But not in a cute, harmless, campy way, but as in I would physically recoil in disgust or actually scream aloud every other page because it was so embarrassing.
I’m just going to list all the fucked up shit in a numbered list.
1. The “Good” Vampires are Catholic and go to mass?
2. The protagonists are chronically unlikable. Their flaws are uninteresting and don’t actually present problems within the narrative, making them ridiculously boring.
3. There’s some weird internalized sexism happening with how the majority of the female characters are portrayed. Every woman who isn’t Toni (or protagonists from previous books) are brainless bimbos, which I expected from a 2008 vampire romance novel but it’s still trying hard to do a Girl power thing with Toni and it just does not work.
3. The whole book is just filled to the brim with blatant racism. Phineas is nothing short of a complete racial caricature. He is a hyper-sexual former drug dealer who uses woefully butchered AAVE, he is a racist white woman’s fever dream of a black man. I feel it’s also important to point out that the name Phineas means “The Nubian” or “The Dark Skinned One”, and being literally the ONLY black character in this book (and I believe the entire series) he is LITERALLY “The Black One.”
6. Then there’s Carlos, a flamboyant Brazilian Anthropology Major, who is a racial AND homophobic caricature (He is apparently revealed to be not actually gay later in the series, despite the protagonists assertion that he is throughout this book. I masochistically read portions of “Eat, Prey Love”, the book focusing on Carlos’ character, and bewilderingly, he’s just pretending to be gay for??? Clout, I guess? He didn’t like women fawning on him and apparently this was the only way he could get them to leave him alone (like being flamboyantly gay has ever stopped straight women from trying to fuck gay men, but whatever.)).
7. He (or rather, Kerrelyn Sparks,) seems to only know two words in Portuguese, Menina (Little girl) and Merda (Shit) and they are peppered in almost every line of Carlos’ dialogue. It’s obnoxious.
8. The sex scene (yes, in this vampire smut book there is only one scene where the protagonists fuck) is bad in the boring way sex written by heterosexual women is. There is use of the words “waggled”, “tweaked”, and “juicy”. They are also dressed as Santa Claus and an Elf (I had, in all honesty, forgotten this was supposed to be a Christmas book despite the title and it was jarring.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2011
This book was deffinately the best book of the series so far. Ian has always been my favourite charcter and his heroine Toni was the best of the girls by a mile. What I loved the most about this couple was their combined banter. Right from the first time they meet they are sarcastic, funny and flirtatious.
When the book starts we learn that Ian has taken the 'Stay Awake Drug' for twelve years adding another twelve years to his looks. He has gone from looking like a fifteen year old boy to a twenty-seven year old man. He suffered through a whole years worth of growth every single day, forcing his body though his teenage years so he could finally have his chance at love. Who couldn't love this guy, right? I loved how the book started. Ian is terrified about how his body now looks. Does he look ugly now that he is older? Will people accept him? He is not looking to just have sex he really is looking for true love like his friends have found.
Toni needs proof that vampires are real so she can free her recently attacked friend Sabrina from a mental hospital. But after a few nights with Ian she realises that she will have to find another way to help her friend without revealing all of her new friends secrets.
I was glad that we got some stotyline progression with Jedrick and the hunt for Casamir. I am hoping that this story will go a bit further in the next book.
It was great (as always) to see Shanna and Roman again. I am fascinated with little baby Constantine. Seeing him start to grow and watching how they learn more about him and his abilities. The poor little boy teleported for the first time, at two years old. But Roman reassured Shanna that he can teach him how to manage his abilities. I really can't wait to see what else this series has in store for him.
There were so many hilarious scenes that I just had to put my favourite one here.
In their first sex scene Ian has never uses his bigger... tools before lol. So he loses control very quickly and is really scared that Toni will not want to sleep with him now. But Toni was already wetting herself with laughter.
'His face heated up. "Och, it is truly every man's desire to be laughed at in bed." "Ian, you're so cute. Och, mercy! Me cock is too big. It's out of control!" She mimicked his scottich accent and laughed some more. "You poor baby. It's so sad to be over-endowed. I think I may have to cry" He glowered at her "Ye're certainly enjoying this." "Of course." She sat up wiping her eyes.'
God I was laughing so hard. I couldn't stop.
This series is getting better by the book. Can't wait to read the next one.
When the book starts we learn that Ian has taken the 'Stay Awake Drug' for twelve years adding another twelve years to his looks. He has gone from looking like a fifteen year old boy to a twenty-seven year old man. He suffered through a whole years worth of growth every single day, forcing his body though his teenage years so he could finally have his chance at love. Who couldn't love this guy, right? I loved how the book started. Ian is terrified about how his body now looks. Does he look ugly now that he is older? Will people accept him? He is not looking to just have sex he really is looking for true love like his friends have found.
Toni needs proof that vampires are real so she can free her recently attacked friend Sabrina from a mental hospital. But after a few nights with Ian she realises that she will have to find another way to help her friend without revealing all of her new friends secrets.
I was glad that we got some stotyline progression with Jedrick and the hunt for Casamir. I am hoping that this story will go a bit further in the next book.
It was great (as always) to see Shanna and Roman again. I am fascinated with little baby Constantine. Seeing him start to grow and watching how they learn more about him and his abilities. The poor little boy teleported for the first time, at two years old. But Roman reassured Shanna that he can teach him how to manage his abilities. I really can't wait to see what else this series has in store for him.
There were so many hilarious scenes that I just had to put my favourite one here.
In their first sex scene Ian has never uses his bigger... tools before lol. So he loses control very quickly and is really scared that Toni will not want to sleep with him now. But Toni was already wetting herself with laughter.
'His face heated up. "Och, it is truly every man's desire to be laughed at in bed." "Ian, you're so cute. Och, mercy! Me cock is too big. It's out of control!" She mimicked his scottich accent and laughed some more. "You poor baby. It's so sad to be over-endowed. I think I may have to cry" He glowered at her "Ye're certainly enjoying this." "Of course." She sat up wiping her eyes.'
God I was laughing so hard. I couldn't stop.
This series is getting better by the book. Can't wait to read the next one.
June 7, 2009
All I Want for Christmas is a Vampire by Kerrelyn Sparks may have a very unappealing title along with a cover that looks like the Batman signal in the sky, but this was an enjoyable read. Her vampire men are beyond sexy and the majority of her heroes are highlanders in kilts! This latest tale is about Ian MacPhie. Ian was changed into a vampire when he was barely a teenager, and because of it, he always looks like a young boy. Dating for him was impossible and since he has taken a drug called Stay-Awake for twelve days, Ian has aged to look finally look like a grown man. Now he wants to find a woman to spend his immortal life with. He is looking for female vampire companionship, and soon he is forced to put a single ad placed in a paper. And because of that, he soons has more than enough women problems. There is a rumor going around that Ian is a virgin, and soon all these vamp women want to be his first. Ian does have sexual experience, but has never had the long lasting relationship he has always longed for. He doesn’t want to date any human women, but unfortunately he can’t help but fall for Toni, a new security guard who watches over Ian and his other fellow vampires during the day. At first these two bicker back and forth, but then their feelings change to love.
Kerrelyn’s books make me laugh because her characters are adorable and the situations they find themselves in are hilarious. Plus, her sex scenes are very steamy. There is one such scene where Ian and Toni are intimate and Ian wants to kiss and suck on her, but not on her neck or for her blood, but another place altogether. So very scandalous and hot I say!
Kerrelyn’s books make me laugh because her characters are adorable and the situations they find themselves in are hilarious. Plus, her sex scenes are very steamy. There is one such scene where Ian and Toni are intimate and Ian wants to kiss and suck on her, but not on her neck or for her blood, but another place altogether. So very scandalous and hot I say!
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