Vamps and Vendettas

Star-Crossed Chronicles #3

by A.K. Nevermore

Karma sucks.

Ophelia Diamondé never asked to be summoned to Havers-by-the-Sea, but when the node makes her an offer she can’t refuse, she officially becomes stuck representing the crappy little town. Having to clean up their messy legal issues isn’t what she wants to be doing, but anything’s better than being returned to the vampire court’s clutches—or at least she thought so before she met the opposing counsel.

Gideon Sperry isn’t known for his patience or his giving nature, but he is one hell of a lawyer. Unfortunately, all that goes out the window when Ophelia shows up, and the lawsuit between Havers and Fayet becomes personal.

But the facts aren’t adding up. When it becomes clear that karma’s had a hand in bringing them together, they need to find a way to build a case against who’s really at fault for the turbine debacle. If they can’t, it’s not just the town itself that’s in danger, but every resident’s very lifeblood.

Magic happens and sparks fly in the small town of Havers-By-the-Sea when a sharp-tongued vampire crosses paths with a broody gargoyle. VAMPS AND VENDETTAS, a spicy slow burn paranormal romance novel in the Star-Crossed Chronicles series by AK Nevermore.

Genres: Vampires, Small Town Romance

320 pages, Paperback

Published March 12, 2026

About the author

AK Nevermore is a bestselling, award-winning author of dystopian sci-fi, urban fantasy, and paranormal romance. She enjoys operating heavy machinery, freebases coffee, and gives up sarcasm for Lent every year.

A Jane-of-all-trades, she’s a certified chef, restores antiques, and dabbles in beekeeping when she’s not reading voraciously or running down the dream in her beat-up camo Chucks.

Unable to ignore the voices in her head, and unwilling to become medicated, she writes full time around a nest full of ravens. Her books explore dark worlds, perversely irreverent and profound, and always entertaining.

AK belongs to a bunch of industry associations, volunteers for far too many committees, teaches creative writing, and on the rare occasion, sleeps.

Reviews

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ophelia may be a vampire but she’s also one helluva good lawyer. Her life changed forever when she chose to become a vampire. She lost everything she ever loved and honestly, it’s not so great. But I digress. She’s representing Havers-by-the-Sea and gets great pleasure annoying the townsfolk. Karma bites her butt when the opposing counsel turns out to be the one man she loved and lost due to her stupidity. What is going on? Working with Gideon brings up all the emotions she’s buried. Who is really responsible for the turbine catastrophe? If they can’t figure it out, every resident will be in danger. Can Ophelia get a second chance at true love, or will she walk them right into a trap?

Vamps and Vendettas is a slow-burn, steamy, paranormal romance I thoroughly enjoyed reading. AK Nevermore continues her series with a couple of lawyers who spar with each other as a form of foreplay. The dialogue is snarky and classic AK Nevermore. Second chance romance heats things up, no matter what room they’re in. The descriptive narration is immersive, allowing the reader to visualize all the scenes (even the grotesque ones). The characters are what makes this an unputdownable read. For the first third of the story, I hated Ophelia. But the more I read, the more I understood her. She’s a snarky vampire who hides great pain. Gideon is the perfect mate for her. He’s protective, alpha, but loves fiercely. If you’re looking for a steamy paranormal romance, pick up Vamps and Vendettas.

My Rating: 5+ stars

Reviewed by: Nancy

This review first appeared: https://substack.com/@nnlightsbookhea...

[BooksBooksandmoreBooks69 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vamps and Vendettas is a standalone spicy slowburn paranormal romance, it delivers exactly what the blurb promises…. enemies to lovers tension between a sharp tongued vampire lawyer and a broody gargoyle opposing counsel, wrapped in small town supernatural drama with high stakes. 👏👏

Ophelia Diamondé, is a vampire, who has been reluctantly pulled into representing the quirky (and cursed?) town of Havers by the Sea in a lawsuit over a turbine debate. She’s hoping it’s going to be an easy case, then sharply returning home….
Enter Gideon Sperry, the no nonsense gargoyle lawyer on the other side, whose patience evaporates around her. Why? 😉

What starts as a professional clash turns personal when karma (literally) intervenes, forcing them to team up against the real culprit behind the chaos.

I loved it, it had me laughing at work (reading on my break) The story blends legal intrigue, magic, small town vibes, and classic paranormal elements…. vampires, gargoyles, (some kind of magical/power source), and a touch of fate/mates energy. Ticked all my boxes and then some 😜

The slow burn romance builds, with snarky banter, spark flying tension, witty dialogue, and that satisfying shift from adversaries to allies (and more).

I’ve not read any of the other books in Star Crossed Chronicles, but I’m going to be adding it to my (Huge and Never ending TBR)

If you enjoy paranormal romances like those with monster elements (gargoyle love interest!), enemies to lovers, or small town supernatural settings, this hits the mark.

🦋

[Marivel (marislitcorner) · Rating 5 out of 5]

"𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘰𝘯, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘯 𝘰𝘯 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘧𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵. 𝘠𝘰𝘶'𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦, 𝘱𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘵, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐'𝘮 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯."

Vamps and Vendettas is a slow burn, second chance, paranormal romance full of snarky banter and a side of suspense that kept me glued to the pages. This story follows lawyer and vampire, Ophelia Diamondé and the opposing counsel, Gideon Sperry.

Ophelia had suffered a decade of unimaginable atrocities prior to showing up in the town of Havers-by-the-sea. She was sassy but also not very friendly due to her trauma, making her highly unlikeable. She just needed someone on her side. Enter Gideon. This man went full on touch her and d!e despite his broken heart. Ophelia and Gideon's banter was top-tier and I ate up their back and forth. I loved seeing them come together and get their second chance.

I loved seeing Ophelia slowly let down her walls, not only for Gideon, but also the townsfolk, especially Jena. Jena and Ophelia had me cracking up. They were both very protective of their men and it was great seeing them form a bond.

Vamps and Vendettas was a bit darker than the other two books in the series, but had a great mix of humor, spice, and suspense to balance it out. I loved the way AK delivered on feminine rage as Ophelia exerted her vengeance, and had me cheering for her.

[Queen Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the story of Ophelia and Gideon! Their story was so entertaining! From the banter between Ophelia and Jenna to the look a like games with Chase and Gideon. It has been so fun being back here and getting more info on the node and the world that we inhabit. This time its vamps! And man is the story of Ophelia and Gideon a little sad. I felt for her throughout the entire book. From learning her history with the vampires to the fact that Gideon has thought she ditched him and is probably been dead all this time. BUT I loved that they were able to put that behind them pretty fast and realize that there was definitely other things at play! I loved getting to hang with everyone again and even see the dragon!! Oh things in Havers-by-the-Sea continues to get so much more interesting!

The spice in this book is relatively low. I would probably give it a 3 out of 5 simply because it was there and it was open door. I was hoping to get more from these two but alas they had a town to save. Overall, I really enjoyed this one. Like it felt like a breath of fresh air. The humor is pretty amazing and so are the characters that are reoccurring and the new ones that we are getting to meet. I would definitely recommend this book if you have enjoyed this series so far. Even as a stand a lone it would be a good read! Monster lovers, this series is for us!

[Kylee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m really enjoying this series. I’ll admit I wasn't as excited going into this one as the previous books haven't given much focus on the couple so don't know what to expect, but that changed quickly. Within the first chapter I was hooked and a few chapters in I was completely invested in Ophelia and Gideon’s story.

Ophelia, a vampire introduced in book two after being pulled in by the node, has a complicated past with Gideon. They were once engaged and she chose immortality to be with him forever, but vampire royalty had other plans tearing them apart.

Unlike the earlier books which started one way and then veered off into unexpected, chaotic twists, this story stays on course. It keeps a strong, consistent focus on Ophelia and the vampire drama, which made it feel more grounded and satisfying.

We also see plenty of familiar faces, Jena, Chase, Felix, Liam and the witches coven all play a role, adding depth to the wider storyline. And it’s clear there’s more to come. I’m especially keen to find out what Jena names her baby and what her dad is really up to.

A couple of small annoyances: Ophelia’s repeated use of the word “Ghandi” felt overdone, especially in the first half.
What is with the phrase “buzzed lips”? pops up across all three books, still not sure what to make of that one.

[Lisa Bing · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was another fun addition to the series, and while you can read it as a stand alone, characters from previous books are part of this one. I recommend starting at the beginning to fully enjoy each book as it builds on the last :) Years ago, Ophelia became a vampire to have forever with her fiancé, gargoyle Gideon. Sadly, that didn't turn out as she expected and she sure when through a lot of trauma these last twelve years. Now, Gideon and Ophelia are back in each other's sphere but they are not exactly running into each other's arms ;P Expect to get caught up in the action, drama, mystery, witty banter, suspense, healing and chemistry in this second chance romance. It's slow burn but it makes perfect sense that sassy Ophelia would need time to break down her walls and be open to love and friendship, again. Don't expect to like her too much when you first start reading. It all becomes clear as you get further into her story and thankfully, Gideon was on her side with some serious touch her and be ended vibes ;) All great fun and I definitely recommend.

[MellissaMae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dive into the enchanting world of AK Nevermore’s latest masterpiece, where magic and mystery intertwine in the most delightful way! This book was a quite a surprise, and I can’t believe I missed out on this series sooner. The vibrant tapestry of magical beings is woven with such creativity that it will leave you spellbound.

Follow Phe on her exhilarating journey of self-discovery as she awakens her extraordinary powers. The moment she embraces her true self is nothing short of spectacular, leading to a series of events that are thrilling. And let’s not forget the heartwarming conclusion where Phe and Deo finally find their happily ever after. It’s a moment that will leave you grinning from ear to ear!

This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good small town fantasy. I’m already on a mission to grab the rest of the series, and I can’t wait to see where their magical journeys take me!

[Lindz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wrote this review in my notes...and then life happened and I forgot about to post 😅. I've also read the first two books as well and was very curious on who the protagonists would be for Book 3. I'm glad to know it was Ophelia's story; because I was hooked once she was introduced in book 2, especially the way she made her "intriguing" albeit traumatic entrance. She's not sunshine & rainbows, which has always been a favorite of mine. I love a FMC that tells it like it is, pulls no punches, and at times intentionally makes others uncomfortable in order to gain advantage or simply just for fun ☺️. Also nice touch with the MMC, being a hot broody somewhat grumpy gargoyle and an amazing lawyer. I blame Disney's 'Gargoyles' series for my attraction & obsession with gargoyles 😅...iykyk!!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Vanessa Sylvia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 3 of Star-Crossed Chronicles. It is a standalone story of Ophelia and Gideon. It is full of crossover characters from the first 2 books. You do not have to read the first two books to enjoy this one. I would recommend reading the other two because it provides more of background information on the other characters in the book. Ophelia thought she was making a decision that would benefit her and her fiancé by becoming a vampire. She just never counted on what it would cost her. Now 12 years later she and her lost fiancé are back together and sparks will fly. Happy ever after ending.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 3 of the Star-Crossed Chronicles series. Can be read as a standalone.

'Magic happens and sparks fly in the small town of Havers-By-the-Sea when a sharp-tongued vampire crosses paths with a broody gargoyle.'

The characters drove the storyline and they were so very appealing and likeable and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building continues to impress and be solidly drawn. Another great addition to the series. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Liz H]

Vamps and Vendettas is a delightful paranormal romance that perfectly balances humor, supernatural intrigue, and sizzling slow-burn chemistry.

A.K. Nevermore creates an engaging magical world where legal battles, hidden vendettas, and unforgettable characters collide. Ophelia and Gideon's dynamic is both entertaining and heartfelt, while the blend of romance, mystery, and magic keeps the pages turning.

Overall, it's an engaging read for fans of paranormal romance, urban fantasy, vampires, magical mysteries, slow-burn relationships, witty banter, and character-driven romantasy. stories of resilience and self-discovery.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun read for me. It does have some dark themes so make your own decisions. I liked the tension and dislike between Ophelia and Jena. It made their experiences together feel more genuine throughout the book. The dynamic between Gideon and Ophelia was nicely done. Ophelia’s growth little by little was nicely done too.

If you liked the first two books then you will like this one too! I like how each story builds upon the last but still is able to bring in new characters and depth.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[PurpleLadi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Vamp and Vendettas, book 3 of Star-Crossed Chronicles, by AK Nevermore was an action packed paranormal story with plenty of twists and turns. Ophelia wanted to gain immortality to live forever with her gargoyle fiance Gideon. unbeknown to her, she and Gideon were pawns in the hands of Kremlyn and his evil mother Vespa. There are many characters, each with their own agendas, and nonstop action making following the story difficult. Everything starts to make sense in the final five chapters.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 3 in Nevermore's Star-Crossed Chronicles. A great addition to this series, that can easily be read as a standalone but there are several cross over characters from the previous books. Our main characters are Ophelia and Gideon. I liked Ophelia's character growth that came thru and felt organic and real as did the tension between her and Jena. I loved the twists and turns as well as the banter and of course the HEA! A great paranormal romance read! Can't wait for more!

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kerry Batchelor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the sass and banter in this book. Jena and Ophelia bounce off each other really well, especially as they 'don't like each other'.
Also, Ophelia's relationship with Gideon, even after stnding him up at the alter, he certainly brings out the brat in her.
After everything she's been through, after unwittingly walking into trouble to become a vampire, Ophelia goes through hell but comes back fighting.
A great story, definitely worth a read, be prepared for a bit of heartbreak for her backstory

[chris fike · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started this and the realized I missed the 2nd book in the series so paused to catch up.

At first I was a bit hesitant as I had an instant dislike for our Vampire FMC … she played a her role so good.

So much trauma from a decision she thought she was making but hey … second chances abound.

This series brings all of the cast of characters from Havre by the Sea .. and so many are quirky.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bittersweet story with experienced horror, darkness to fight, sadness, some amusement and reconnection.
I can't blame Ophelia for wanting to be with someone for eternity and not wanting him to be with someone else when she's gone.
In the aftermath, the price of her wish was too high; she lost too much. Knowing the odds, some wishes are better left unfulfilled.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Charlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vamps and Vendettas, book three in the Star Crossed Chronicles series follows former lovers, now exes, both of whom are now lawyers; Gideon Sperry and Ophelia Diamonde, who also happen to be a gargoyle and a vampire. Sent to the town of Havens-by-the-sea, she is stuck representing the small town in a turbine case but when everything seems to be going wrong, and karma seems to be pushing the two back together, will they be able to focus long enough to save the town, and the residents within?

[Dee Mac · Rating 4 out of 5]

Twists and turns
This is cute, quirky, action packed and full of tension, twists and turns.
Ophelia and Gideon had sharp banter that was full of bite, and this is their second chance story.
With humour, emotion, healing, magic, mystery, slow burn spice, an interesting mix of familiar characters and an intriguing storyline, this was another great story from Haver’s-by-the-Sea.

[LizJ. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vamps and Vendettas book 3 in the Star-Crossed Chronicles series by A.K. Nevermore is a slow burn, second chance, paranormal romance between a vampire, Ophelia and a gargoyle, Gideon. This story is a bit darker than the previous two books. A complicated romance, tragic, full of suspense, wit that kept me captivated.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Christinaraven · Rating 5 out of 5]

phe is front and center as get to know her better and understand her. Story made me laugh, enjoyed the drama, and a few surprises made things fun. And enjoyed the twist at the ending too as learn a few possible secrets. Enjoyed the story and characters. Plus get to see characters from first two books.

[Sissy Satterfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a story that pulled me in and gave me everything I look for in a good read! Ophelia and Gideon made this third book stand out and kept me hooked from start to finish. This is outstanding, and I Loved It!! I Highly Recommend!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Suze82 · Rating 4 out of 5]

grumps and sparks
Ophelia and Gideon´s story is a nice combination of two grumps trying to get the upper hand while fighting to fall for each other with additional paranormal elements I enjoyed very much.

[Ladnamal · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is part of an interconnected series but can be read as a standalone. There was some humour, a few emotional bits, fun banter and quirky characters. It was an enjoyable book.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun read. Come for the story and not the spice. Although there is a spicy scene this book isn’t based around it. It actually has a plot lol. Some fun barbs and gory scenes it’s sure to entertain.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

great read

I really enjoyed this series I was hoping there would be more books so we know if the baby was named Agatha this series kinda leaves you wondering what happens to the kids and everyone else

[The Book Ssirren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book with Ophelia and Gideon. Two very grumpy people, but perfect for one another. I giggled and had such a great time reading this one. It’s a fun and cozy romance.

[Jena Gregoire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
My Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

She gets pulled into a case that’s not as clear. Who should she trust. And will she make it out alive.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Chelle D · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series. Ophelia & Gideon are absolutely the meaning of second chance. I mean she became a vampire to stay with him and then was stolen in the night and tossed into the Vampire Court.
The budding friendship with Jenna and Ophelia cracks me up. Would you want to be friends with the Vampire hitting on your husband?
Honeslty, I may prefer to stake them....