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A Vampire In Edinburgh
It’s August in Edinburgh, and the world’s biggest arts festival has once again brought thousands of visitors to this historic city as actors, comedians and musicians from all over the globe come to showcase their talents for an international audience. But this summer, something is using the chaos of the Fringe to hide a far worse crime than bad theatre, and the hunter Cain must team up with new friends and old enemies to stop a bloodthirsty killer who is targeting the visiting performers. This year, there are more things to worry about at the Fringe than just getting a bad review…
A Vampire in Edinburgh is a Dark Dates short story (Cassandra Bick Chronicles).
A Vampire in Edinburgh is a Dark Dates short story (Cassandra Bick Chronicles).
ebook
First published November 6, 2013
12 people want to read
About the author
Tracey Sinclair
15 books91 followersTracey Sinclair is a freelance writer and editor. Her first novel and collection of short stories (Doll and No Love Is This, respectively) were published by independent publisher Kennedy & Boyd. Other books include the romantic comedy Bridesmaid Blues and the paranormal series Dark Dates/The Cassandra Bick Chronicles.
Her work has appeared in magazines as diverse as Sky, Printer’s Devil, Yours and Woman’s Weekly, as well as having been performed on the radio and included in a number of anthologies. Her first play, Bystanders, was premiered as part of the New Writing Season at Baron’s Court Theatre and has been performed at both the White Bear Theatre and the Tristan Bates (both in London). With Zoe Cunningham and Peta Lily she co-wrote Cunningham's one-woman show 'An Evening with Dark Dates' which was performed at the Tristan Bates and in the Brighton Fringe.
She also a regular contributor to a number of legal and business magazines, as well as to theatre website Exeunt and the magazine The Stage.
Her work has appeared in magazines as diverse as Sky, Printer’s Devil, Yours and Woman’s Weekly, as well as having been performed on the radio and included in a number of anthologies. Her first play, Bystanders, was premiered as part of the New Writing Season at Baron’s Court Theatre and has been performed at both the White Bear Theatre and the Tristan Bates (both in London). With Zoe Cunningham and Peta Lily she co-wrote Cunningham's one-woman show 'An Evening with Dark Dates' which was performed at the Tristan Bates and in the Brighton Fringe.
She also a regular contributor to a number of legal and business magazines, as well as to theatre website Exeunt and the magazine The Stage.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
December 23, 2013
Tracey Sinclair and her Cassandra Bick Chronicles are on my auto-buy list. Her latest offering focuses on Cain, which is reason enough to buy the book. This time, the hunky, earth-bound angel Cain travels to Edinburgh to investigate a series of murders that he suspects have been committed by paranormal creatures. Of course, Laclos, the vampire, is never far behind.
Cain + Laclos = Oodles of fun.
Add to that Ms. Sinclair's crisp turn of phrase and ironic wit, and you've got another crowd-pleaser.
Highly recommended for those sick and tired of brooding vampires and other assorted tormented paranormal alpha males. Ms. Sinclair makes paranormal fun again. :-)
Cain + Laclos = Oodles of fun.
Add to that Ms. Sinclair's crisp turn of phrase and ironic wit, and you've got another crowd-pleaser.
Highly recommended for those sick and tired of brooding vampires and other assorted tormented paranormal alpha males. Ms. Sinclair makes paranormal fun again. :-)
December 12, 2013
Another brilliant story from the writer of Dark Dates.
One of the things that makes this series great is that the characters and story can withstand being transported to a complete different location and the absence of the its main character, Cass. This time, the story takes place during the Edinburgh Festival rather than the City of London, providing a very different background for the action; it sends up the madness of the Festival but Sinclair’s love for Edinburgh and its people shines through. Cass has stayed behind in London, but she is still a major presence in this story, with both Cain and Laclos spending plenty of time thinking about her.
Ah, Cain and Laclos – one of the most unusual but gripping bromances in literature. I love those two. Much as they act like they can’t stand each other and their mutual love for Cass provides constant antagonism, the depth and history of their relationship shows there is, at least, a grudging respect underneath it all. The verbal repartee between the two is a highlight of this story.
The other thing I love about the Dark Dates series is that Sinclair includes strong female characters who know what they want, aren’t afraid to get it, and show refreshing independence and guts. Dionne is a great new character and I hope we will see more of her in future stories.
In summary, this is a dark, funny and shrewdly observant book featuring favourite characters, new faces and plenty of Sinclair’s usual wit and flair.
One of the things that makes this series great is that the characters and story can withstand being transported to a complete different location and the absence of the its main character, Cass. This time, the story takes place during the Edinburgh Festival rather than the City of London, providing a very different background for the action; it sends up the madness of the Festival but Sinclair’s love for Edinburgh and its people shines through. Cass has stayed behind in London, but she is still a major presence in this story, with both Cain and Laclos spending plenty of time thinking about her.
Ah, Cain and Laclos – one of the most unusual but gripping bromances in literature. I love those two. Much as they act like they can’t stand each other and their mutual love for Cass provides constant antagonism, the depth and history of their relationship shows there is, at least, a grudging respect underneath it all. The verbal repartee between the two is a highlight of this story.
The other thing I love about the Dark Dates series is that Sinclair includes strong female characters who know what they want, aren’t afraid to get it, and show refreshing independence and guts. Dionne is a great new character and I hope we will see more of her in future stories.
In summary, this is a dark, funny and shrewdly observant book featuring favourite characters, new faces and plenty of Sinclair’s usual wit and flair.
December 30, 2023
Big fan of all the Dark Dates novellas/extra stories as they really help with the world building and expanding the characters
September 10, 2016
Looking for something fun, snarky and oh so British in feel and flavour? Look no further than Tracey Sinclair’s Cassandra Bick Chronicles series! I’ve been reading these stories, and falling in love with the humor and ridiculously fun quirks of her characters, all brought together with an agency (think match.com crossed with a temp employment service) called Dark Dates that focuses on the paranormal.
In this instalment, we are actually following Cain and Laclos as they have gotten wind of some unexplained disappearances in Edinburgh: the UK is under a series of treaties: vampires are not allowed to compel or kill, and hunting within the confines of major population areas is also not something that is done. But, with the Fringe Festival in full swing, the ancient city, full of alleys and warrens, tourists and artsy people from all over Europe: the pickings are ripe.
Cain is his usual irascible cranky self, dedicated to protecting the humans from the baddies, but not particularly fond of them en masse, his patience and control is being tested at every moment. When he notices another hunter at a poorly staged and created play, the two join forces to see if they can’t discover the source of the disappearances.
Dionne is a hunter (Warwick, not Dion) and is alternately disturbed by and drawn to Cain: especially when a caped and campy vampire named Laclos appears and is invading Cain’s space at every moment. Laclos is checking out the disappearances, finding the proliferation of actors and tourists and the potential to unleash his passion for flamboyant attention seeking to his taste.
The three join forces to find the killer of the actors in costume: not sure if it is vampire or other, and come face to face with their own insecurities and issues. Dionne is wondering if all hunters will end up alone, senile and on the razor edge: never having knowingly met an old hunter, and reaching the point where she might want something else. Cain is still recovering from the battle with the elder vampire he eradicated, and hurting from the rejection from Cass after revealing his true nature. Laclos is his usual self, curious about Cain yet doing his best to keep the angel off guard as he puzzles out just what he is.
The moments of laugh out loud funny contrast with the curious mix of human, vampire and angel to give a sense of both Cain and Laclos in situations when they aren’t ‘performing’ for or because of Cass. And, make no mistake: Laclos realizes that the only reason Cain has not allowed or caused his death is Cain’s feelings for Cass. Even though, he comes terribly close to Cain’s own thoughts that a battle to the death for them could go either way. Add to that, the commotion of the city in festival mode, the crowds and the noise, and Cain is even more cranky and impatient than ever…..
“Of the two sounds, Cain preferred the pneumatic drills and jackhammers; he’d taken to keeping on the opposite side of the road to any pipers, worried that he might snap and beat them to death with their own infernal instruments, though he suspected that might win him some serious applause from passing onlookers”.
Another great instalment in the series, that is best read in order to avoid confusion, I’m glad to get back to it and read on.
I received an eBook copy of the title from the author for purpose of honest review for the Jeep Diva. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
In this instalment, we are actually following Cain and Laclos as they have gotten wind of some unexplained disappearances in Edinburgh: the UK is under a series of treaties: vampires are not allowed to compel or kill, and hunting within the confines of major population areas is also not something that is done. But, with the Fringe Festival in full swing, the ancient city, full of alleys and warrens, tourists and artsy people from all over Europe: the pickings are ripe.
Cain is his usual irascible cranky self, dedicated to protecting the humans from the baddies, but not particularly fond of them en masse, his patience and control is being tested at every moment. When he notices another hunter at a poorly staged and created play, the two join forces to see if they can’t discover the source of the disappearances.
Dionne is a hunter (Warwick, not Dion) and is alternately disturbed by and drawn to Cain: especially when a caped and campy vampire named Laclos appears and is invading Cain’s space at every moment. Laclos is checking out the disappearances, finding the proliferation of actors and tourists and the potential to unleash his passion for flamboyant attention seeking to his taste.
The three join forces to find the killer of the actors in costume: not sure if it is vampire or other, and come face to face with their own insecurities and issues. Dionne is wondering if all hunters will end up alone, senile and on the razor edge: never having knowingly met an old hunter, and reaching the point where she might want something else. Cain is still recovering from the battle with the elder vampire he eradicated, and hurting from the rejection from Cass after revealing his true nature. Laclos is his usual self, curious about Cain yet doing his best to keep the angel off guard as he puzzles out just what he is.
The moments of laugh out loud funny contrast with the curious mix of human, vampire and angel to give a sense of both Cain and Laclos in situations when they aren’t ‘performing’ for or because of Cass. And, make no mistake: Laclos realizes that the only reason Cain has not allowed or caused his death is Cain’s feelings for Cass. Even though, he comes terribly close to Cain’s own thoughts that a battle to the death for them could go either way. Add to that, the commotion of the city in festival mode, the crowds and the noise, and Cain is even more cranky and impatient than ever…..
“Of the two sounds, Cain preferred the pneumatic drills and jackhammers; he’d taken to keeping on the opposite side of the road to any pipers, worried that he might snap and beat them to death with their own infernal instruments, though he suspected that might win him some serious applause from passing onlookers”.
Another great instalment in the series, that is best read in order to avoid confusion, I’m glad to get back to it and read on.
I received an eBook copy of the title from the author for purpose of honest review for the Jeep Diva. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
March 23, 2017
Cain and Laclos are on the hunt in this latest novella in the Cassandra Bick Chronicles. Something is rotten in Denmark...well actually Edinburgh. The Fringe festival is in full swing but something, or someone, is killing off visiting performers. With a little help from a new friend, it's up to the boys to figure it out before someone else gets killed.
I love when Cain and Laclos team up together. You know Laclos just wants to tap that tushy of Cain’s, which brings the bad boy flirt out in full force. Cain would much rather kill the pesky menace but restrains himself for Cassandra's sake. Anyhow, the boys are back together trying to find out what is going on in Edinburgh. There's a bit more mystery and bumbling around in this short than the previous ones but still plenty of humor as fitting for any book in this series. I really enjoyed seeing Cain operate without too much of the burden of his being dumped. Although, he's not exactly a people person so being surround by crowds is definitely a test for Cain, which offers up quite a few laughs. Laclos is as ever fascinated with Cain as he struggles to puzzle out what he is. His growing unexplainable attraction has me smirking since I know what his problem is.
Along for the ride is a new character: hunter Dionne (Warwick, not Celine). That's a funny running joke that of course Cain doesn't get yet Laclos does. She's not too keen on having Laclos assist in their hunt but while she is equally attracted and curiously wary of Cain, she can't say no. There's no shortage of interesting situations these three find themselves in and Laclos being used as bait, and his attire as bait - SNORTS! I was delightfully surprised when they figure out the whodunit. Honestly, I didn't see that coming but looking back to all the clues, how I didn't figure it out...but then neither did the boys.
A Vampire in Edinburgh should not be read as a stand-alone. There's a lot going on in the background with this lust/hate relationship between Cain and Laclos and without it, a reader would be lost. As one addicted to this series I would recommend reading all the books in order. However, make sure to savor them and read them slowly. Not sure when the next novel comes out and the last one ends on quite the OMG cliffy.
I received this book from the JeepDiva for the express purposes of an honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine.
Stars - 5, 1 - Flame
I love when Cain and Laclos team up together. You know Laclos just wants to tap that tushy of Cain’s, which brings the bad boy flirt out in full force. Cain would much rather kill the pesky menace but restrains himself for Cassandra's sake. Anyhow, the boys are back together trying to find out what is going on in Edinburgh. There's a bit more mystery and bumbling around in this short than the previous ones but still plenty of humor as fitting for any book in this series. I really enjoyed seeing Cain operate without too much of the burden of his being dumped. Although, he's not exactly a people person so being surround by crowds is definitely a test for Cain, which offers up quite a few laughs. Laclos is as ever fascinated with Cain as he struggles to puzzle out what he is. His growing unexplainable attraction has me smirking since I know what his problem is.
Along for the ride is a new character: hunter Dionne (Warwick, not Celine). That's a funny running joke that of course Cain doesn't get yet Laclos does. She's not too keen on having Laclos assist in their hunt but while she is equally attracted and curiously wary of Cain, she can't say no. There's no shortage of interesting situations these three find themselves in and Laclos being used as bait, and his attire as bait - SNORTS! I was delightfully surprised when they figure out the whodunit. Honestly, I didn't see that coming but looking back to all the clues, how I didn't figure it out...but then neither did the boys.
A Vampire in Edinburgh should not be read as a stand-alone. There's a lot going on in the background with this lust/hate relationship between Cain and Laclos and without it, a reader would be lost. As one addicted to this series I would recommend reading all the books in order. However, make sure to savor them and read them slowly. Not sure when the next novel comes out and the last one ends on quite the OMG cliffy.
I received this book from the JeepDiva for the express purposes of an honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine.
Stars - 5, 1 - Flame
November 15, 2013
The latest addition to the Dark Dates series is another thoroughly enjoyable supernatural story full of snarky humour, with, as always, plenty of in-jokes for fans of the genre too! The change of location and the inclusion of the iconic Edinburgh Fringe Festival to the setting also gave the story some extra interest, as did the introduction of new character Dionne.
I always miss Cassandra Bick's character from the short stories, although it is enjoyable to see what the men in her life get up to when they come across each other when she's not around! This story particularly gave further insight into Cain's character, especially with the inclusion of Dionne as a fellow hunter, and Laclos was as fabulously written as ever, behaving just as fans of the earlier books would expect him to! The story is good, but it is the characters and they way they are written which really make these books something special, which is probably why their fans are always eager to read more about them!
For anyone who has read the earlier Dark Dates books/short stories, this is an unmissable addition to the series with the change in location adding a new layer of interest to the story. For anyone who hasn't read the earlier books (this one is set between "A Vampire Walks Into a Bar" and "Wolf Night"), go back and read them, then read this one! Whether you're a fan of supernatural fantasy, snarky sharp humour or strong, funny characters, you are bound to find something to enjoy in this series.
I always miss Cassandra Bick's character from the short stories, although it is enjoyable to see what the men in her life get up to when they come across each other when she's not around! This story particularly gave further insight into Cain's character, especially with the inclusion of Dionne as a fellow hunter, and Laclos was as fabulously written as ever, behaving just as fans of the earlier books would expect him to! The story is good, but it is the characters and they way they are written which really make these books something special, which is probably why their fans are always eager to read more about them!
For anyone who has read the earlier Dark Dates books/short stories, this is an unmissable addition to the series with the change in location adding a new layer of interest to the story. For anyone who hasn't read the earlier books (this one is set between "A Vampire Walks Into a Bar" and "Wolf Night"), go back and read them, then read this one! Whether you're a fan of supernatural fantasy, snarky sharp humour or strong, funny characters, you are bound to find something to enjoy in this series.
August 20, 2015
Just realised I didn't post s review at the time so read it again! Loved it! Another delicious tale of Cain and Laclos. The author transports the reader to the murkier streets of Edinbirgh during the Festival. And oh my, Laclos performing naked on a stage! I defie anyone not to fall for Laclos. Love it when 'Cain rolls his eyes, unimpressed.
"I think we could have done without the crowd surfing finale". Can't wait to find out what happens next !
"I think we could have done without the crowd surfing finale". Can't wait to find out what happens next !
March 1, 2014
Cassandra Bick Chronicles is a very amusing and talented urban fantasy series based in UK. One of its best part is its humor as it does not take itself seriously. Of course, Cain, a weary angel, disgusted with humanity and Laclos, an unabashed vampire prone to exhibitionism are one of the best partners in crime I've seen so far in UF. Reading about their adventures is always a pleasure, and this book was not an exception. Light, bloodthirsty, fun! Recommended.
August 5, 2016
The longest of the three Dark Dates short stories but riveting from start to finish. Nice to see the addition of another strong female character. A must read for anyone who loves the series. Great atmospheric descriptions and a gripping plot.
December 29, 2013
A short story is great but never quite enough. Love the cape action.
November 11, 2017
I'm not really a fan of short stories but these are an exception....& of course it helps that they are about great characters that I want to get to know better.
I loved all three but especially "A Vampire Walks Into A Bar" which was so my sense of humour....the paragraph about Cain's lock up really made me smirk ;o)
I'm really enjoying the banter between Cain & Laclos & looking forward to seeing what happens when Cassandra comes between them again ( lucky Cassandra lol!)
I loved all three but especially "A Vampire Walks Into A Bar" which was so my sense of humour....the paragraph about Cain's lock up really made me smirk ;o)
I'm really enjoying the banter between Cain & Laclos & looking forward to seeing what happens when Cassandra comes between them again ( lucky Cassandra lol!)
May 10, 2019
A solid vampire story
What happens when you put a vampire, a vampire hunter, and an angel together? You get a solid story written by Tracy Sinclair.
What happens when you put a vampire, a vampire hunter, and an angel together? You get a solid story written by Tracy Sinclair.
April 1, 2024
One of my faves to write.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews