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Hours of the Night #1
Vespers
Thaddeus Dupont has had over eighty years to forget…
The vampire spends his nights chanting the Liturgy of the Hours and ruthlessly disciplines those unnatural urges he's vowed never again to indulge. He is at the command of the White Monks, who summon him at will to destroy demons. In return, the monks provide for his sustenance and promise the return of his immortal soul.
Sarasija Mishra's most compelling job qualification might be his type O blood…
The 22-year-old college grad just moved across the country to work for some recluse he can't even find on the internet. Sounds sketchy, but the salary is awesome and he can't afford to be picky. On arrival he discovers a few details his contract neglected to mention, like the alligator-infested swamp, the demon attacks, and the nature of his employer's "special diet". A smart guy would leave, but after one look into Dupont's mesmerizing eyes, Sarasija can't seem to walk away. Too bad his boss expected "Sara" to be a girl.
Falling in love is hard at any age…
The vampire can't fight his hungers forever, especially since Sara's brought him light, laughter and a very masculine heat. After yielding to temptation, Thaddeus must make a choice. Killing demons may save his soul, but keeping the faith will cost him his heart.
The vampire spends his nights chanting the Liturgy of the Hours and ruthlessly disciplines those unnatural urges he's vowed never again to indulge. He is at the command of the White Monks, who summon him at will to destroy demons. In return, the monks provide for his sustenance and promise the return of his immortal soul.
Sarasija Mishra's most compelling job qualification might be his type O blood…
The 22-year-old college grad just moved across the country to work for some recluse he can't even find on the internet. Sounds sketchy, but the salary is awesome and he can't afford to be picky. On arrival he discovers a few details his contract neglected to mention, like the alligator-infested swamp, the demon attacks, and the nature of his employer's "special diet". A smart guy would leave, but after one look into Dupont's mesmerizing eyes, Sarasija can't seem to walk away. Too bad his boss expected "Sara" to be a girl.
Falling in love is hard at any age…
The vampire can't fight his hungers forever, especially since Sara's brought him light, laughter and a very masculine heat. After yielding to temptation, Thaddeus must make a choice. Killing demons may save his soul, but keeping the faith will cost him his heart.
319 pages, ebook
First published September 1, 2016
About the author
Irene Preston
12 books102 followersIrene Preston has to write romances, after all she is living one. As a starving college student, she met her dream man who whisked her away on a romantic honeymoon across Europe. Today they live in the beautiful hill country outside of Austin, Texas where Dream Man is still working hard to make sure she never has to take off her rose-colored glasses.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
December 24, 2016
4,5 rounded to 5 full of mystery stars
I absolutely LOVE the cover!! It really makes you want to discover the story. Doesn't it?
I enjoyed this book way more than I expected. It has a lot of action and so much suspense. I expected something very different, an easy read, maybe a little suspense, BUT this story gave me so much more: demons, vampires, ghosts, dark forces and those who fought against them!
I was hooked from the first pages, even if I had to read twice the first sentence: "Sara's mother called him again ...", because I "tripped" at Sara and him.
I love the writing style of these authors. They didn't gave us too much from the start and I always appreciate this. I could complain the story was a little slow paced at the beginning, but I will not, because everything was revealed at the perfect time. I enjoyed discovering the story while Sara discovered Mr. Dupont's secrets.
Mr. Thaddeus Dupont - was such a complex character. I was so curious about his past! I couldn't wait for him to give us another piece of him, and for Sara to begin to understand him a little more.
If he ever actually smile, Mr. Intense would be devastating.
Sarasija made me picture a very young, hansom but ingenuous man. He took his first job without even taking in consideration any danger that may come. To say his job as Dupont's assistant was very different from what he expected, is an understatement!
About Thaddeus and Sara, well despite their differences: age and experience, they feel very attracted to each other even if they are both afraid to give in to temptation. Their reasons are so different too, Dupont doesn't want to break his contract and Sara doesn't want to have an affair with his boss. But everything gets so complicated, their lives are in danger and they had to fight the evil every moment. So when they couldn't fight and gave into each other, everything felt right. All their hot moments together seem right and made me realize they mean a lot to each other and words were not necessary.
I really liked the choice of words of these 2 authors. I think it gives authenticity to Mr. Dupont having such an old soul, and I also loved all his French words he used sometimes. He really felt like an old soul trapped in such a young and beautiful body.
I would resign myself to an eternity in hell, if it meant a single lifetime with him.
I absolutely LOVE the cover!! It really makes you want to discover the story. Doesn't it?
I enjoyed this book way more than I expected. It has a lot of action and so much suspense. I expected something very different, an easy read, maybe a little suspense, BUT this story gave me so much more: demons, vampires, ghosts, dark forces and those who fought against them!
I was hooked from the first pages, even if I had to read twice the first sentence: "Sara's mother called him again ...", because I "tripped" at Sara and him.
I love the writing style of these authors. They didn't gave us too much from the start and I always appreciate this. I could complain the story was a little slow paced at the beginning, but I will not, because everything was revealed at the perfect time. I enjoyed discovering the story while Sara discovered Mr. Dupont's secrets.
Mr. Thaddeus Dupont - was such a complex character. I was so curious about his past! I couldn't wait for him to give us another piece of him, and for Sara to begin to understand him a little more.
If he ever actually smile, Mr. Intense would be devastating.
Sarasija made me picture a very young, hansom but ingenuous man. He took his first job without even taking in consideration any danger that may come. To say his job as Dupont's assistant was very different from what he expected, is an understatement!
About Thaddeus and Sara, well despite their differences: age and experience, they feel very attracted to each other even if they are both afraid to give in to temptation. Their reasons are so different too, Dupont doesn't want to break his contract and Sara doesn't want to have an affair with his boss. But everything gets so complicated, their lives are in danger and they had to fight the evil every moment. So when they couldn't fight and gave into each other, everything felt right. All their hot moments together seem right and made me realize they mean a lot to each other and words were not necessary.
I really liked the choice of words of these 2 authors. I think it gives authenticity to Mr. Dupont having such an old soul, and I also loved all his French words he used sometimes. He really felt like an old soul trapped in such a young and beautiful body.
I would resign myself to an eternity in hell, if it meant a single lifetime with him.
September 21, 2016
4.5
Gothic romance Big Easy style, cher.
There was even a gator!
Vespers left an impression with its resplendent atmosphere. These authors blended romance and action in a Gothic setting, historical references and religious overtones thrown in for flavor and Voila! Tantalizing cocktail! That I cannot wait to order another of.
I'm not a religious person but I am fascinated by religion especially Catholicism mainly because it appeals to the history buff in me and the repression. Not gonna lie. All that repression and denial... when it overflows... magical fireworks. BUT this book isn't overwhelmingly religious. Thaddeus was training to be a monk when he was turned into a vampire and remains under contract to the White Monks to fight against the forces of evil and he takes his faith as seriously as his job of devout, vampire, monk, ninja fighting the demon hordes on his own in a futile effort to "save" his soul.
If you know anything about monks the word ascetic should come to mind. Thaddeus believes himself to be an abomination not solely because he requires blood to sustain himself but also because of his sexuality. Unfortunately, or fortunately depending on how you look at it, these two needs are linked which is why he only hires female assistants until an honest mistake by his daylight agent, Nohea, brings Sara into his life.
Sara is a force. Thaddeus is immediately attracted to him with Sara being slower to recognize what's happening between them. They have a connection and I don't just mean they click. In fact, more often than not they clash. Sara is twentysomething and Thaddeus is over 100. Sara is modern tech kid to Thaddeus' old world charm with actual books-the ones with covers. Sara is non-practicing Hindu to Thaddeus' devout Catholic. Sara is out and proud to Thaddeus's self-flagellating penance and daily prayers for his salvation. Yet despite all their differences love bubbles up and becomes preeminent. However, there is something otherworldly between them that defies logic. Is it kismet? Or something... more?
I'll tell you what else is otherworldly is the sudden influx of demons who seem hellbent on garnering Thaddeus's attention. Why the sudden interest is the mystery to be solved in this installment but there is no cliffhanger. There is minimal violence with an uptempo pace. There were times I thought the story dragged with one too many internet searches and arguments between Thaddeus and Sara over his restriction to the house but my quibbles were evanescent.
The level of sophistication in the construction of these characters, their voices and this story was truly superb. I never once questioned whose head I was in because they are that clearly defined. With dual perspectives I cannot overstate how much I respect distinctiveness. Sara's actions, thoughts and language are reflective of his age as are Thaddeus'.
Their relationship progression is subtle. It's skillfully developed throughout the story. They are never typical employer/employee and there is a definite power differential in more ways than one. While Thaddeus is extremely possessive and protective and maybe a little demanding, bossy and overbearing (a tiny bit. Really, it's nothing.) he doesn't discount Sara and there are playful moments interspersed throughout. The tension between them was the sweetest torture. I love all of these things because this is stuff of the aforementioned magical fireworks. Oh the dividends... passion, maybe a little desperate need and a bit of cosseting. I do so love a good cosset.
Amen.
Definitely recommend and can't wait for the next one. I need more adventures and I'm curious how things will evolve after that final scene with Patrick and Micheal. Interesting stuff sure to make the road ahead... unpredictable.
*presses nose to glass in anticipation*
A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
Gothic romance Big Easy style, cher.
There was even a gator!
"I would resign myself to an eternity in hell if it meant a single lifetime with him."
Vespers left an impression with its resplendent atmosphere. These authors blended romance and action in a Gothic setting, historical references and religious overtones thrown in for flavor and Voila! Tantalizing cocktail! That I cannot wait to order another of.
I'm not a religious person but I am fascinated by religion especially Catholicism mainly because it appeals to the history buff in me and the repression. Not gonna lie. All that repression and denial... when it overflows... magical fireworks. BUT this book isn't overwhelmingly religious. Thaddeus was training to be a monk when he was turned into a vampire and remains under contract to the White Monks to fight against the forces of evil and he takes his faith as seriously as his job of devout, vampire, monk, ninja fighting the demon hordes on his own in a futile effort to "save" his soul.
If you know anything about monks the word ascetic should come to mind. Thaddeus believes himself to be an abomination not solely because he requires blood to sustain himself but also because of his sexuality. Unfortunately, or fortunately depending on how you look at it, these two needs are linked which is why he only hires female assistants until an honest mistake by his daylight agent, Nohea, brings Sara into his life.
"He was only a man who wanted a man- not the vampire or the monk, but the man at the heart of them both."
Sara is a force. Thaddeus is immediately attracted to him with Sara being slower to recognize what's happening between them. They have a connection and I don't just mean they click. In fact, more often than not they clash. Sara is twentysomething and Thaddeus is over 100. Sara is modern tech kid to Thaddeus' old world charm with actual books-the ones with covers. Sara is non-practicing Hindu to Thaddeus' devout Catholic. Sara is out and proud to Thaddeus's self-flagellating penance and daily prayers for his salvation. Yet despite all their differences love bubbles up and becomes preeminent. However, there is something otherworldly between them that defies logic. Is it kismet? Or something... more?
I'll tell you what else is otherworldly is the sudden influx of demons who seem hellbent on garnering Thaddeus's attention. Why the sudden interest is the mystery to be solved in this installment but there is no cliffhanger. There is minimal violence with an uptempo pace. There were times I thought the story dragged with one too many internet searches and arguments between Thaddeus and Sara over his restriction to the house but my quibbles were evanescent.
The level of sophistication in the construction of these characters, their voices and this story was truly superb. I never once questioned whose head I was in because they are that clearly defined. With dual perspectives I cannot overstate how much I respect distinctiveness. Sara's actions, thoughts and language are reflective of his age as are Thaddeus'.
Their relationship progression is subtle. It's skillfully developed throughout the story. They are never typical employer/employee and there is a definite power differential in more ways than one. While Thaddeus is extremely possessive and protective and maybe a little demanding, bossy and overbearing (a tiny bit. Really, it's nothing.) he doesn't discount Sara and there are playful moments interspersed throughout. The tension between them was the sweetest torture. I love all of these things because this is stuff of the aforementioned magical fireworks. Oh the dividends... passion, maybe a little desperate need and a bit of cosseting. I do so love a good cosset.
"Their shared pulse pounded through him. His body erupted in starbursts and lightning. And his soul found... communion."
Amen.
Definitely recommend and can't wait for the next one. I need more adventures and I'm curious how things will evolve after that final scene with Patrick and Micheal. Interesting stuff sure to make the road ahead... unpredictable.
*presses nose to glass in anticipation*
A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
March 8, 2019
Want to start off with a quick disclaimer: The fact that it took me 4 months to finish this book in no way reflects in how good it was. I had foolishly started reading it, just prior to Thanksgiving and when that arrived I went all-in on my Christmas reading agenda so chose to stop reading this. Of course, my Christmas reading didn't end till like 3/4 of the way through January and when it did I kept forgetting about finishing this one.
Now on to my review...
I found this book totally fascinating, I mean a vampire working for the Catholic Church? Who da thought! The very best thing about this book other than the slow slow burn love of the MCs relationship was definitely the super intense, thrilling finale these two authors put together. They had me in the grips of a number of mini adrenaline rushes throughout the book. But OMG the
final five chapters were like one long constant rush of adrenaline all the way to the end. Loved the ending and especially the final paragraph! I can't wait to move on to see what Thaddeus and Sara get up to next!
Now on to my review...
I found this book totally fascinating, I mean a vampire working for the Catholic Church? Who da thought! The very best thing about this book other than the slow slow burn love of the MCs relationship was definitely the super intense, thrilling finale these two authors put together. They had me in the grips of a number of mini adrenaline rushes throughout the book. But OMG the
final five chapters were like one long constant rush of adrenaline all the way to the end. Loved the ending and especially the final paragraph! I can't wait to move on to see what Thaddeus and Sara get up to next!
November 24, 2016
I love biting and sex and vampires. If I'm reading about vampires, then give me their nature. Vespers delivers. 
Full review at -
I was looking for this book, I really was, I just didn't know its name. Now I do - Vespers. It's been ages since I've read a good vampire story, and Vespers is so very good. I kept chanting throughout -'don't let me down, don't let me down, don't let me down'. I wanted this to work and I wanted to have a series that I look forward to, and like I mentioned in the beginning of the review, I'm so excited for future books. The same MCs too, I rarely want that but I'm so in!
Overall, the writing is strong, the story engages you - the religion and how it's entwined with the main relationship between Thaddeus and Sara and their world and the plot is inspired. I enjoy religious themes in my reading. If that worries you, know it is well written and doesn't weigh the book down at all. The slow burn between the MCs, the pull, is just plain awesome. I loved that aspect because I became deeply invested in this pair - they are wonderful. There is also room for them to grow and build momentum and further depth in future instalments. Apart from their burgeoning relationship, there's interesting secondary characters and good urban fantasy and paranormal elements to keep it moving along nicely. I love vampires, and well written fiction and storytelling allows you to be a believer, or maybe it just enables you to be able to suspend reality in the best possible way. No matter which, Vespers is totally believable. And New Orleans, I could immerse myself in it, it provided a living, breathing backdrop and atmosphere.
With its purposeful religion, the Catholic guilt, the brooding and the self flagellation, the two disparate in personality main characters who gel so interestingly, this book has so much going for it. Everything is well balanced, the pacing on point throughout, and I value good characterisation above almost anything... and it delivered. Highly recommended reading. I loved this book. 5 Stars all the way.
Full review at -
I was looking for this book, I really was, I just didn't know its name. Now I do - Vespers. It's been ages since I've read a good vampire story, and Vespers is so very good. I kept chanting throughout -'don't let me down, don't let me down, don't let me down'. I wanted this to work and I wanted to have a series that I look forward to, and like I mentioned in the beginning of the review, I'm so excited for future books. The same MCs too, I rarely want that but I'm so in!
Overall, the writing is strong, the story engages you - the religion and how it's entwined with the main relationship between Thaddeus and Sara and their world and the plot is inspired. I enjoy religious themes in my reading. If that worries you, know it is well written and doesn't weigh the book down at all. The slow burn between the MCs, the pull, is just plain awesome. I loved that aspect because I became deeply invested in this pair - they are wonderful. There is also room for them to grow and build momentum and further depth in future instalments. Apart from their burgeoning relationship, there's interesting secondary characters and good urban fantasy and paranormal elements to keep it moving along nicely. I love vampires, and well written fiction and storytelling allows you to be a believer, or maybe it just enables you to be able to suspend reality in the best possible way. No matter which, Vespers is totally believable. And New Orleans, I could immerse myself in it, it provided a living, breathing backdrop and atmosphere.
With its purposeful religion, the Catholic guilt, the brooding and the self flagellation, the two disparate in personality main characters who gel so interestingly, this book has so much going for it. Everything is well balanced, the pacing on point throughout, and I value good characterisation above almost anything... and it delivered. Highly recommended reading. I loved this book. 5 Stars all the way.
December 2, 2019
I'm hooked on this M/M series, an opposites attract vampire-human romance between a very unlikely couple. Thaddeus Dupont is a hundred year old undead creature of the night, deeply Catholic, tormented with guilt for becoming possessed (and for being gay), and devoted agent of the Church in its fight against demons. Sarasija Mishra is a gay 22 year old college graduate, Indian-American, raised-Hindu-but-agnostic, who loves technology and desperately needs a job even if it means working for a recluse in a swamp.
Sarasija, who goes by Sara, is also not a girl, which Thaddeus thought he was when the employment offer was extended. Because the real job is to feed Thaddeus, and being fed on by a vampire is erotic, and Thaddeus doesn't want temptation, so he only employs women...
Okay, yes, it sounds cheesy when you put it like that. BUT this is a fun, suspenseful series about two guys who have to renegotiate their professional and personal relationship in a hurry while being stalked by demons. I usually frown at boss-employee romances, because OW the ethics, but Sara is careful and deliberate with his own boundaries enough that I could go with it. Thad really needs Sara's reality check on his guilt and subservience to the Church, and Sara becomes a valuable member of the demon-fighting team.
My only complaint is the switch from first person POV for Thad to third person POV for Sara. I kinda get what the authors were going for, but at times, I have started reading a chapter thinking I was reading Thad thinking about Sara, and instead I was in Sara's POV. I could probably read a little slower and fix that for myself.
Content warning: Religiously motivated self-harm.
Sarasija, who goes by Sara, is also not a girl, which Thaddeus thought he was when the employment offer was extended. Because the real job is to feed Thaddeus, and being fed on by a vampire is erotic, and Thaddeus doesn't want temptation, so he only employs women...
Okay, yes, it sounds cheesy when you put it like that. BUT this is a fun, suspenseful series about two guys who have to renegotiate their professional and personal relationship in a hurry while being stalked by demons. I usually frown at boss-employee romances, because OW the ethics, but Sara is careful and deliberate with his own boundaries enough that I could go with it. Thad really needs Sara's reality check on his guilt and subservience to the Church, and Sara becomes a valuable member of the demon-fighting team.
My only complaint is the switch from first person POV for Thad to third person POV for Sara. I kinda get what the authors were going for, but at times, I have started reading a chapter thinking I was reading Thad thinking about Sara, and instead I was in Sara's POV. I could probably read a little slower and fix that for myself.
Content warning: Religiously motivated self-harm.
May 29, 2017
3.4 Stars.
This book had soooo much potential! The world and characters created were original. However, the world building needed more construction. The characters needed more depth. It was all ALMOST there. What truly dumbfounded me was Sara's (a man) easy acceptance of vampires and demons--he barely batted an eye to learn of the supernatural, much less that his new boss was a vampire.
Still, I really enjoyed the mystery of the story and the camaraderie of the two MCs and Nohea, the vampire's business agent. It was good to have a strong female secondary character who was intelligent and could kick demon ass. There was good tension between Dupont (the vampire) and Sara and a couple of good sex scenes.
I might read the next book, but this one had a good HFN and no major cliffhanger.
This book had soooo much potential! The world and characters created were original. However, the world building needed more construction. The characters needed more depth. It was all ALMOST there. What truly dumbfounded me was Sara's (a man) easy acceptance of vampires and demons--he barely batted an eye to learn of the supernatural, much less that his new boss was a vampire.
Still, I really enjoyed the mystery of the story and the camaraderie of the two MCs and Nohea, the vampire's business agent. It was good to have a strong female secondary character who was intelligent and could kick demon ass. There was good tension between Dupont (the vampire) and Sara and a couple of good sex scenes.
I might read the next book, but this one had a good HFN and no major cliffhanger.
December 4, 2018
4 Stars
Review:
*I received a free ecopy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
I was afraid this book might have too much religion for me, but I'm so glad I decided to give it a chance because 1) it didn't have too much religion, and 2) it was just a great book!
First of all, the characters were really well-written. Sara made me roll my eyes sometimes (I know I'm being judgy, but... *cough* Lambo doors *cough*), but his personality and voice were incredibly realistic for an early twenty-something, and he was so upbeat, intelligent, and hilarious. And Thaddeus was somewhat opposite Sara, all stoic and a bit archaic in his vocabulary, thoughts, and way of living (which fit with his age and situation perfectly), but I still found him likeable and relatable and sympathized with him. Plus the contrast between the two of them added an interesting element. Even Nohea, a side character, was a fun addition to their little group.
Second, I read A LOT of vampire books, but the religious aspect I mentioned actually added a unique twist to this one. If you're completely anti-religion in your books or have very strong beliefs and don't want to read about characters whose beliefs may differ from yours, this may not be the book for you, but I thought the religion was included in a good way. It was an integral part of Thaddeus's character, his life, and his thought, but it was never overpowering to the story, the book was never preachy, and Thaddeus never tried to push his Catholicism onto Sara (who was a non-practicing Hindu). And I liked getting to see Thaddeus's inner struggle about his religious beliefs and his desire to have his soul saved vs. his desire for Sara; it was an inner struggle that I'd never read about in any other books.
On a related note, the way the relationship developed between the two of them was not only believable but also fun to read both because I just really wanted them to be together and because it was so good for poor Thaddeus to finally let someone in after so long being alone.
As for all the rest, the plot was good and made sense, the pacing was steady in a way that kept my attention without piling on too much action, the Louisiana setting made a nice backdrop for all the supernaturalness, and the writing pulled me in.
Overall this was a book that sucked me in and made me laugh with lovable characters I can easily see myself getting even more invested in as the series goes on, and I'm looking forward to continuing!
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes M/M, vampires (and in this case, a Catholic one), sweet romantic relationships, and lovable characters.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Review:
*I received a free ecopy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
I was afraid this book might have too much religion for me, but I'm so glad I decided to give it a chance because 1) it didn't have too much religion, and 2) it was just a great book!
First of all, the characters were really well-written. Sara made me roll my eyes sometimes (I know I'm being judgy, but... *cough* Lambo doors *cough*), but his personality and voice were incredibly realistic for an early twenty-something, and he was so upbeat, intelligent, and hilarious. And Thaddeus was somewhat opposite Sara, all stoic and a bit archaic in his vocabulary, thoughts, and way of living (which fit with his age and situation perfectly), but I still found him likeable and relatable and sympathized with him. Plus the contrast between the two of them added an interesting element. Even Nohea, a side character, was a fun addition to their little group.
Second, I read A LOT of vampire books, but the religious aspect I mentioned actually added a unique twist to this one. If you're completely anti-religion in your books or have very strong beliefs and don't want to read about characters whose beliefs may differ from yours, this may not be the book for you, but I thought the religion was included in a good way. It was an integral part of Thaddeus's character, his life, and his thought, but it was never overpowering to the story, the book was never preachy, and Thaddeus never tried to push his Catholicism onto Sara (who was a non-practicing Hindu). And I liked getting to see Thaddeus's inner struggle about his religious beliefs and his desire to have his soul saved vs. his desire for Sara; it was an inner struggle that I'd never read about in any other books.
On a related note, the way the relationship developed between the two of them was not only believable but also fun to read both because I just really wanted them to be together and because it was so good for poor Thaddeus to finally let someone in after so long being alone.
As for all the rest, the plot was good and made sense, the pacing was steady in a way that kept my attention without piling on too much action, the Louisiana setting made a nice backdrop for all the supernaturalness, and the writing pulled me in.
Overall this was a book that sucked me in and made me laugh with lovable characters I can easily see myself getting even more invested in as the series goes on, and I'm looking forward to continuing!
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes M/M, vampires (and in this case, a Catholic one), sweet romantic relationships, and lovable characters.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
September 7, 2016
*I recieved an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley*
Thaddeus Dupont is a religious, demon fighting vampire at the command of Monks. He can't do certain things or engage in certain activities and his sole purpose seems to be redemption. After a mistake is made, Sarasija Mishra, a 22 year old, beautiful men, enters his life as his assistant, sending the vampire's solid beliefs for a spin on the washing machine. Add evil, fight scenes, fantasy and beautiful writing to that and you get this amazing action packed story.
To say I was wowed would be an understatement. This book took me on a ride. Sure, it took me a lot of time to finish it. It's a serious book, with complex writing, a complex plot and complex characters, a lot to assimilate... But it's wonderful. In my humble opinion, the best Vampire book I've ever read. It has romance, it has action, it has a vampire, it has demons, it has mystery, it has badass female and male characters... It's a solid 5 star book and I recommend it to everyone.
Thaddeus Dupont is a religious, demon fighting vampire at the command of Monks. He can't do certain things or engage in certain activities and his sole purpose seems to be redemption. After a mistake is made, Sarasija Mishra, a 22 year old, beautiful men, enters his life as his assistant, sending the vampire's solid beliefs for a spin on the washing machine. Add evil, fight scenes, fantasy and beautiful writing to that and you get this amazing action packed story.
To say I was wowed would be an understatement. This book took me on a ride. Sure, it took me a lot of time to finish it. It's a serious book, with complex writing, a complex plot and complex characters, a lot to assimilate... But it's wonderful. In my humble opinion, the best Vampire book I've ever read. It has romance, it has action, it has a vampire, it has demons, it has mystery, it has badass female and male characters... It's a solid 5 star book and I recommend it to everyone.
November 21, 2016
Rated B+ (4.5*)
I love vampire stories, but it has been some time since I read a good one. Vespers has changed that. It’s a good vampire story and an engaging romance, too.
Sarasija Mishra (Sara) travels three thousand miles across the States to Louisiana to meet his contact Ms. Alves, and then start work as a very well paid assistant to a certain Mr. Dupont. Unfortunately, Ms. Alves is not at the agreed meeting point and cannot be contacted. Sara is taken by a friendly grocer’s daughter on a boat to a house in the middle of a swamp. Here he meets his new boss and neither is what the other expected.
Sara is Indian by descent hence his unusual name. He is also described as ‘too pretty for his own good’. Thaddeus Dupont is younger than Sara imagined and the fact that Sara is not female threatens to end his employment before he begins.
Although he has signed a contract binding him to the mysterious Mr. Dupont for a year, Sara has no idea what is expected of him. Ms. Alves’ absence bothers Thaddeus, as much as the error regarding his new assistant’s gender, and when he starts shooting ‘beings’ in the swamp, things become more hectic and dangerous for Sara.
Thaddeus Dupont is bound to an order called the White Monks and can be heard reciting catholic chants known as the Hours throughout the night, most notably Vespers. He seems to be a devout Catholic but his links with the monks both confuse and intrigue Sara who slowly finds out about his employer and what he – Sara – has been contracted to do.
I don’t want to give away too many spoilers in this review, as part of the enjoyment is learning about the vampire / demon situation at the same time as Sara does in the book. The other important secondary character is the feisty Ms. Alves who is definitely in a bit of trouble in the first section of the novel.
Thaddeus is a brooding vampire with all the prerequisites for paranormal thrills. Reminiscent of ‘Angel’ in the Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel TV series, he is fighting his own ‘monstrous’ urges for – he believes – the sake of his soul. As Thaddeus has been a devout Catholic and lived among monks for longer than most of us live, it makes sense that he is ruled by Catholic theology. However, I particularly liked that, unlike the television show mentioned above, Sara’s Hindu heritage is given equal sway over demons and evil.
I always thought it strange that despite being a Jewish character in BtVS, Willow would hold crosses and/or use holy water to combat vampires.
So to the romance, and there is most assuredly a romance between Sara and Thaddeus. The unresolved sexual tension between these two is sky high and their attraction to each other is fraught with obstacles. Those obstacles, apart from being in mortal danger, are emotional and mental ones, really. A brooding vampire, Thaddeus believes he must protect everyone from evil, in which category he includes himself. He sees himself as a monster due to his obvious dietary requirements and due to the reason that he always chooses female ‘assistants’. This, he also believes will condemn his soul to hell. This kind of conflict cannot be overcome easily. Plus, Sara, although intensely attracted to his boss, is also quite understandably freaked out both by his situation and by the things being kept from him.
Luckily there is nothing like a little mortal – or immortal – peril to overcome reluctance in the romance department. Thaddeus and Sara are fabulous together and Ms. Alves is a great third in this evil-fighting team. There is almost another character of note in this novel – the city of New Orleans. The descriptions, post-Katrina, are evocative, creepy and full of atmospheric emotion. I wanted to visit the clubs, restaurants, specialist shops and bars. I wanted to see the faded architecture and cypress trees draped in moss. Most of all I want to read the next book in the series – I am hooked and I think anyone who loves a brooding vampire will be too.
Full review - www.allaboutromance.com/book-review/v...
I love vampire stories, but it has been some time since I read a good one. Vespers has changed that. It’s a good vampire story and an engaging romance, too.
Sarasija Mishra (Sara) travels three thousand miles across the States to Louisiana to meet his contact Ms. Alves, and then start work as a very well paid assistant to a certain Mr. Dupont. Unfortunately, Ms. Alves is not at the agreed meeting point and cannot be contacted. Sara is taken by a friendly grocer’s daughter on a boat to a house in the middle of a swamp. Here he meets his new boss and neither is what the other expected.
Sara is Indian by descent hence his unusual name. He is also described as ‘too pretty for his own good’. Thaddeus Dupont is younger than Sara imagined and the fact that Sara is not female threatens to end his employment before he begins.
Although he has signed a contract binding him to the mysterious Mr. Dupont for a year, Sara has no idea what is expected of him. Ms. Alves’ absence bothers Thaddeus, as much as the error regarding his new assistant’s gender, and when he starts shooting ‘beings’ in the swamp, things become more hectic and dangerous for Sara.
Thaddeus Dupont is bound to an order called the White Monks and can be heard reciting catholic chants known as the Hours throughout the night, most notably Vespers. He seems to be a devout Catholic but his links with the monks both confuse and intrigue Sara who slowly finds out about his employer and what he – Sara – has been contracted to do.
I don’t want to give away too many spoilers in this review, as part of the enjoyment is learning about the vampire / demon situation at the same time as Sara does in the book. The other important secondary character is the feisty Ms. Alves who is definitely in a bit of trouble in the first section of the novel.
Thaddeus is a brooding vampire with all the prerequisites for paranormal thrills. Reminiscent of ‘Angel’ in the Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel TV series, he is fighting his own ‘monstrous’ urges for – he believes – the sake of his soul. As Thaddeus has been a devout Catholic and lived among monks for longer than most of us live, it makes sense that he is ruled by Catholic theology. However, I particularly liked that, unlike the television show mentioned above, Sara’s Hindu heritage is given equal sway over demons and evil.
I always thought it strange that despite being a Jewish character in BtVS, Willow would hold crosses and/or use holy water to combat vampires.
So to the romance, and there is most assuredly a romance between Sara and Thaddeus. The unresolved sexual tension between these two is sky high and their attraction to each other is fraught with obstacles. Those obstacles, apart from being in mortal danger, are emotional and mental ones, really. A brooding vampire, Thaddeus believes he must protect everyone from evil, in which category he includes himself. He sees himself as a monster due to his obvious dietary requirements and due to the reason that he always chooses female ‘assistants’. This, he also believes will condemn his soul to hell. This kind of conflict cannot be overcome easily. Plus, Sara, although intensely attracted to his boss, is also quite understandably freaked out both by his situation and by the things being kept from him.
Luckily there is nothing like a little mortal – or immortal – peril to overcome reluctance in the romance department. Thaddeus and Sara are fabulous together and Ms. Alves is a great third in this evil-fighting team. There is almost another character of note in this novel – the city of New Orleans. The descriptions, post-Katrina, are evocative, creepy and full of atmospheric emotion. I wanted to visit the clubs, restaurants, specialist shops and bars. I wanted to see the faded architecture and cypress trees draped in moss. Most of all I want to read the next book in the series – I am hooked and I think anyone who loves a brooding vampire will be too.
Full review - www.allaboutromance.com/book-review/v...
September 15, 2021
I avoided this book for a long time because of the overarching religious theme. I rarely enjoy books that are so drenched in religion, especially when one of the MCs is drowning in guilt because of his "sinful" (aka gay) nature, because of said religion. I honestly feel awful for those for whom internalized homophobia is a reality. It breaks my heart.
Thaddeus Dupont has a lot stacked against him. Not only is he a vampire, but he's also gay, and a devout Catholic. His self-loathing was palpable and I blame the monks and the church. They constantly leveled veiled threats at him to keep him in line. Thaddeus might not have been in a physical cage, but he was caged, nonetheless. They thought nothing about using Thaddeus as a weapon, but to allow him even the slightest bit of happiness was beyond their compassion. I admire Thaddeus's strength of will - I would have walked into the sun decades ago.
Sara is a college student from Seattle, whose family needs money following his father's death. This job did seem a little too good to be true, but desperate times and all that, so Sara took the leap and drove all the way to Louisiana and into the unknown. I loved how Sara took everything with his new boss in stride. I loved that he was strong and stood his ground. I loved his sass and his insistence that he was part of the team. I think he's exactly who Thaddeus needed.
Also, I would be remiss if I didn't mention Nohea - she was bad ass and no nonsense. I loved her.
I liked the story, in spite of the heavy silver chains of religion, but I've got to say, I didn't much enjoy Thaddeus' constant guilt and I definitely didn't like the church. I figured going in that it would be this way, though, so I've only myself to blame, there, I suppose. I'll continue the series, though, in hopes that Sara rubs off on Thaddeus in more than just the physical ways, because Thaddeus deserves some happiness, regardless of what some asshole monks think.
Thaddeus Dupont has a lot stacked against him. Not only is he a vampire, but he's also gay, and a devout Catholic. His self-loathing was palpable and I blame the monks and the church. They constantly leveled veiled threats at him to keep him in line. Thaddeus might not have been in a physical cage, but he was caged, nonetheless. They thought nothing about using Thaddeus as a weapon, but to allow him even the slightest bit of happiness was beyond their compassion. I admire Thaddeus's strength of will - I would have walked into the sun decades ago.
Sara is a college student from Seattle, whose family needs money following his father's death. This job did seem a little too good to be true, but desperate times and all that, so Sara took the leap and drove all the way to Louisiana and into the unknown. I loved how Sara took everything with his new boss in stride. I loved that he was strong and stood his ground. I loved his sass and his insistence that he was part of the team. I think he's exactly who Thaddeus needed.
Also, I would be remiss if I didn't mention Nohea - she was bad ass and no nonsense. I loved her.
I liked the story, in spite of the heavy silver chains of religion, but I've got to say, I didn't much enjoy Thaddeus' constant guilt and I definitely didn't like the church. I figured going in that it would be this way, though, so I've only myself to blame, there, I suppose. I'll continue the series, though, in hopes that Sara rubs off on Thaddeus in more than just the physical ways, because Thaddeus deserves some happiness, regardless of what some asshole monks think.
June 3, 2017
So this was not what I expected from a vampire novel, but I found it oddly satisfying anyway. This was a decidedly strange mix. It's not often that you see vampires mixed with the church but that's exactly what this kicks off. I found myself just as confused as Sara for most of the novel and I do hope that in later books there's more explained about what exactly is going on.
Want to read
December 5, 2017Thank you, Alaska Elf, for the gift!!
May 7, 2017
4.3 Stars
Wow! I don't read a lot of Vampire-themed books, but if more of them were like this then I definitely would.
A slow build that pays off very nicely, with distinctive characters that I'm kind of in love with. Sara is snarky, brave and thoroughly modern. Thaddeus is a tortured vampire, holding on by a thread to his determination not to slide further into sin - filling his days with prayer that sometimes morphs into the mortification of his flesh - and atoning for past sins by killing demons at the behest of the Catholic church (who he also hopes can restore his soul before he dies so as not to rot in hell). This is a man that definitely needed someone like Sara to come along and shake things up...especially since he is also Hindu and sees things from a completely different angle.
I also loved Nohea. She was amazing. I wish more women in MM romances would be this strong and capable. Patrick and Michael seems like interesting characters as well, and I wouldn't mind reading more about them. Brother George can just DIAF as far as I'm concerned, exemplifying all the holier-than-thou judgment & disapproval typical of fundamentalists.
The chants & prayers were beautiful; religion definitely plays a part in this and does so in a mostly positive way.
I'm really hoping a sequel is on the horizon because that whole California connection needs to be solved, yo.
Wow! I don't read a lot of Vampire-themed books, but if more of them were like this then I definitely would.
A slow build that pays off very nicely, with distinctive characters that I'm kind of in love with. Sara is snarky, brave and thoroughly modern. Thaddeus is a tortured vampire, holding on by a thread to his determination not to slide further into sin - filling his days with prayer that sometimes morphs into the mortification of his flesh - and atoning for past sins by killing demons at the behest of the Catholic church (who he also hopes can restore his soul before he dies so as not to rot in hell). This is a man that definitely needed someone like Sara to come along and shake things up...especially since he is also Hindu and sees things from a completely different angle.
I also loved Nohea. She was amazing. I wish more women in MM romances would be this strong and capable. Patrick and Michael seems like interesting characters as well, and I wouldn't mind reading more about them. Brother George can just DIAF as far as I'm concerned, exemplifying all the holier-than-thou judgment & disapproval typical of fundamentalists.
The chants & prayers were beautiful; religion definitely plays a part in this and does so in a mostly positive way.
I'm really hoping a sequel is on the horizon because that whole California connection needs to be solved, yo.
August 26, 2016
3.5
There is so much to appreciate about this book. I thought both the main characters were cute in their own subtle ways. I liked that Thaddeus was an incredibly unreliable narrator. His view of his situation was so colored by his religious beliefs that he couldn't see himself clearly. I liked that one of the characters was Hindu, from an Indian family, and his outsider's view of Catholicism was by far my favorite part of the book. I liked that his religion was presented as equally valid and that it was allowed to be so without him being strictly adherent to it. I liked the dual viewpoints. I liked the heroism and the action.
However, as much as I appreciated all that, I never truly felt I was enmeshed in the lives of these characters. I always felt a step removed from them and the events of the novel. I also thought a couple characters who popped up and then disappeared felt like loose ends, Sara had a couple TSTL moments and the book ended VERY ABRUPTLY. It's not a cliffhanger, just sudden.
But for the most part, I enjoyed this and will be looking forward to book two.
There is so much to appreciate about this book. I thought both the main characters were cute in their own subtle ways. I liked that Thaddeus was an incredibly unreliable narrator. His view of his situation was so colored by his religious beliefs that he couldn't see himself clearly. I liked that one of the characters was Hindu, from an Indian family, and his outsider's view of Catholicism was by far my favorite part of the book. I liked that his religion was presented as equally valid and that it was allowed to be so without him being strictly adherent to it. I liked the dual viewpoints. I liked the heroism and the action.
However, as much as I appreciated all that, I never truly felt I was enmeshed in the lives of these characters. I always felt a step removed from them and the events of the novel. I also thought a couple characters who popped up and then disappeared felt like loose ends, Sara had a couple TSTL moments and the book ended VERY ABRUPTLY. It's not a cliffhanger, just sudden.
But for the most part, I enjoyed this and will be looking forward to book two.
September 16, 2016
***I received this arc courtesy of Netgallery and Prescourt books in exchange for an honest review***
The days i want smut i get none and the days i don't, i get truckloads.
I went into this expecting all levels of "smutness" so i'm a little disappointed. The idea of a religious vampire who in a case of mistaken identity gets a male assistant instead of a female assistant proved too hard to resist. I was expecting a GFY, quite frankly.
Overall, it was good. I had some slight issues with it though. For example, The speed at which Sari accepted that there are vampires floating around, i mean come on. He accepted, was fine with being a human eatery and was totally cool with fighting demons. Puh-lease.
This was more drama than romance, i kept waiting for the heat to come on. I kind of had to wait a long time and it sort of left me unsatisfied. So if you are interested in PNR where romance doesn't really play a role, this might work for you.
The days i want smut i get none and the days i don't, i get truckloads.
I went into this expecting all levels of "smutness" so i'm a little disappointed. The idea of a religious vampire who in a case of mistaken identity gets a male assistant instead of a female assistant proved too hard to resist. I was expecting a GFY, quite frankly.
Overall, it was good. I had some slight issues with it though. For example, The speed at which Sari accepted that there are vampires floating around, i mean come on. He accepted, was fine with being a human eatery and was totally cool with fighting demons. Puh-lease.
This was more drama than romance, i kept waiting for the heat to come on. I kind of had to wait a long time and it sort of left me unsatisfied. So if you are interested in PNR where romance doesn't really play a role, this might work for you.
November 20, 2016
Vespers
Irene Preston and Liv Rancourt
Published by the authors, 2016
Cover by Kanaxa
295 pages
ISBN: 9780996809931
Five stars
Wow, the second new gay vampire romance I’ve read in the past month, and also a five-star book! What are the chances? This is a genre that makes me anxious, not because I don’t like vampires, but because I like them too much. As a devotee of vampire literature since I was in middle school (this was in the late 1960s, by the way), I’ve developed strong likes and dislikes; expectations, if you will. Fortunately, Preston and Rancourt have created a character, Thaddeus Dupont, who both forges a distinctive vampire personality and establishes a complex (but ultimately positive) model unlike any I’ve read in the past half-decade.
Thaddeus Dupont lives in isolation in a Creole house on an island in the middle of a swamp. We learn quickly that he is about a century old, was made a vampire some eighty year years ago, and has ever since then been in the service of the White Monks, destroying demons. His contract insists that he follow the Benedictine Rule (prayers throughout the day – vespers being the evening prayer) and that he never indulge his homosexual desires. Thaddeus, raised a good Catholic in New Orleans in the early 20th century, believes that the fate of his soul is in the hands of the monks and in his obedience to his contract with them.
Sarasija Mishra, on the other hand, is a modern American millennial in all his self-absorbed glory. Raised by wealthy Asian Indian parents in Seattle, Sara has drifted away from the Hindu rituals of his childhood, and for all his intelligence, has lost any sense of ambition. He is just another secular, materialistic American gay boy, indulged and loved. It is the one unselfish thing about him – his love for his family – that has brought him to Louisiana to work for Thaddeus Dupont.
Then Sara finds himself alone in the dark on Thaddeus Dupont’s front porch in a Louisiana swamp, and his coddled worldview begins to collapse.
Louisiana and New Orleans are perfect backgrounds for this story, which is a mélange of mystery, horror, religion and romance. With the shadow of Anne Rice ever present, the reader inevitably draws comparisons, and I have to say, Preston and Rancourt do a fantastic job giving us rich characters and tortured emotional journeys, tying Dupont to his roots in French New Orleans. Sara – whose name is the cause of a crucial error that leads to his employment by Dupont – is all about the modern, digitally connected world. Where Thaddeus seeks salvation and comfort in the ancient rituals of holy brotherhood, Sara searches for answers in the global interconnections of his computer. Sara’s ethnicity and religion are critical elements in the story, reminding both Dupont and the reader that America today is not what it was a century ago.
And thank God for that.
But there is more to Sara than meets the eye. From the very beginning, he resists Dupont’s attempts to control him in the classic vampire way. He presents a very modern sense of agency, unwilling to give up his free will to mythological power. At one moment, when he feels Dupont trying to meddle with his mind, he says: “Stop right there. That is not okay, Mr. Dupont.” And with that slightly truculent millennial assertion he stakes his claim to his own humanity. Sara may be just another spoiled American boy, but his soul is a lot stronger than even he knows.
Although “Vespers” is a fully complete story, the ending makes clear that a second book in the series will appear. And I’ll be reading it. Bravo, ladies.
Irene Preston and Liv Rancourt
Published by the authors, 2016
Cover by Kanaxa
295 pages
ISBN: 9780996809931
Five stars
Wow, the second new gay vampire romance I’ve read in the past month, and also a five-star book! What are the chances? This is a genre that makes me anxious, not because I don’t like vampires, but because I like them too much. As a devotee of vampire literature since I was in middle school (this was in the late 1960s, by the way), I’ve developed strong likes and dislikes; expectations, if you will. Fortunately, Preston and Rancourt have created a character, Thaddeus Dupont, who both forges a distinctive vampire personality and establishes a complex (but ultimately positive) model unlike any I’ve read in the past half-decade.
Thaddeus Dupont lives in isolation in a Creole house on an island in the middle of a swamp. We learn quickly that he is about a century old, was made a vampire some eighty year years ago, and has ever since then been in the service of the White Monks, destroying demons. His contract insists that he follow the Benedictine Rule (prayers throughout the day – vespers being the evening prayer) and that he never indulge his homosexual desires. Thaddeus, raised a good Catholic in New Orleans in the early 20th century, believes that the fate of his soul is in the hands of the monks and in his obedience to his contract with them.
Sarasija Mishra, on the other hand, is a modern American millennial in all his self-absorbed glory. Raised by wealthy Asian Indian parents in Seattle, Sara has drifted away from the Hindu rituals of his childhood, and for all his intelligence, has lost any sense of ambition. He is just another secular, materialistic American gay boy, indulged and loved. It is the one unselfish thing about him – his love for his family – that has brought him to Louisiana to work for Thaddeus Dupont.
Then Sara finds himself alone in the dark on Thaddeus Dupont’s front porch in a Louisiana swamp, and his coddled worldview begins to collapse.
Louisiana and New Orleans are perfect backgrounds for this story, which is a mélange of mystery, horror, religion and romance. With the shadow of Anne Rice ever present, the reader inevitably draws comparisons, and I have to say, Preston and Rancourt do a fantastic job giving us rich characters and tortured emotional journeys, tying Dupont to his roots in French New Orleans. Sara – whose name is the cause of a crucial error that leads to his employment by Dupont – is all about the modern, digitally connected world. Where Thaddeus seeks salvation and comfort in the ancient rituals of holy brotherhood, Sara searches for answers in the global interconnections of his computer. Sara’s ethnicity and religion are critical elements in the story, reminding both Dupont and the reader that America today is not what it was a century ago.
And thank God for that.
But there is more to Sara than meets the eye. From the very beginning, he resists Dupont’s attempts to control him in the classic vampire way. He presents a very modern sense of agency, unwilling to give up his free will to mythological power. At one moment, when he feels Dupont trying to meddle with his mind, he says: “Stop right there. That is not okay, Mr. Dupont.” And with that slightly truculent millennial assertion he stakes his claim to his own humanity. Sara may be just another spoiled American boy, but his soul is a lot stronger than even he knows.
Although “Vespers” is a fully complete story, the ending makes clear that a second book in the series will appear. And I’ll be reading it. Bravo, ladies.
September 14, 2016
*I recieved an ARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley*
Vespers is an adventurous creepy and captivating paranormal novel. I enjoyed reading the book! The characters are well-developed and round. The main thrio is a diverse bunch of adorable and complex individuals. We have here Catholic vampire Thaddeus Dupont, his human assistant Sara and his no-nonsense manager/friend Nohea. I think my favorite is Sara. I love his optimism, courage, loyalty and common sense. His friendship with Nohea has grown steadily through out the book and it was so much fun reading their bickering and bonding. The romantic (sub)plot is very well-written, Sara and Dupont sure have chemistry, but also they have grown to trust and respect each other. Kudos everywhere for their dynamic. I can't wait to read more of their adventures and ongoing romance. As I said the characters is very well-crafted and I want to note that the religion and faith play big role in forming their personalities and in plot itself, I can't remember the last time I read the book with such strong presence of religion( mostly Catholicism and Hindu), it was definitely an interesting experience.
Sidenote: I don't share Dupont's belief and he was incredibly frustrating to read about. I threw me e-reader several time on my bed, annoyed with his self-rightiousness and self-torture. Sara is my fave here, but I definitely had the most emotinal reaction to Thaddeus Dupont.
The plot of the novel is solid, even though a bit predictable, the book hooked me up from the first page and didn't let go. Demons, vampires, New Orleans and mysteries everywhere. My cup of tea.
However, I'm giving the book 4 stars out of 5 because I didn't like the execution of dual povs. The book has 3rd person pov of Sara and 1st person pov of Dupont. I've never read a book like that, the choice is definitely unique, but it was confusing and frustrating to switch between them. Separately they are well done and I can find faults in each of them. (The authors nailed 1st person pov of 100+ year old vampire.) Unfortunately, these two povs don't mix together to form a book. They don't combine into the whole story seamlessly and I had to made a conscious effort to switch between them. There isn't a big hindrance from enjoying the novel, it just made a road bumpy for me and thus 4 stars.
All in all, I definitely recommend to read Vespers for those who love paranormal and urban fantasy genre. ( and vampires, we can't have enough of them, right?) If you like adventurous books with quests,mysteries, a diverse cast of characters and paranormal romance Vespers is your things. Also I'd like to point that the book is a great example of genre fiction with lgbt+ characters who are doing their thing(kicking demons asses) and falling in love. Just the way I like my paranormal/fantasy books to be.
Vespers is an adventurous creepy and captivating paranormal novel. I enjoyed reading the book! The characters are well-developed and round. The main thrio is a diverse bunch of adorable and complex individuals. We have here Catholic vampire Thaddeus Dupont, his human assistant Sara and his no-nonsense manager/friend Nohea. I think my favorite is Sara. I love his optimism, courage, loyalty and common sense. His friendship with Nohea has grown steadily through out the book and it was so much fun reading their bickering and bonding. The romantic (sub)plot is very well-written, Sara and Dupont sure have chemistry, but also they have grown to trust and respect each other. Kudos everywhere for their dynamic. I can't wait to read more of their adventures and ongoing romance. As I said the characters is very well-crafted and I want to note that the religion and faith play big role in forming their personalities and in plot itself, I can't remember the last time I read the book with such strong presence of religion( mostly Catholicism and Hindu), it was definitely an interesting experience.
Sidenote: I don't share Dupont's belief and he was incredibly frustrating to read about. I threw me e-reader several time on my bed, annoyed with his self-rightiousness and self-torture. Sara is my fave here, but I definitely had the most emotinal reaction to Thaddeus Dupont.
The plot of the novel is solid, even though a bit predictable, the book hooked me up from the first page and didn't let go. Demons, vampires, New Orleans and mysteries everywhere. My cup of tea.
However, I'm giving the book 4 stars out of 5 because I didn't like the execution of dual povs. The book has 3rd person pov of Sara and 1st person pov of Dupont. I've never read a book like that, the choice is definitely unique, but it was confusing and frustrating to switch between them. Separately they are well done and I can find faults in each of them. (The authors nailed 1st person pov of 100+ year old vampire.) Unfortunately, these two povs don't mix together to form a book. They don't combine into the whole story seamlessly and I had to made a conscious effort to switch between them. There isn't a big hindrance from enjoying the novel, it just made a road bumpy for me and thus 4 stars.
All in all, I definitely recommend to read Vespers for those who love paranormal and urban fantasy genre. ( and vampires, we can't have enough of them, right?) If you like adventurous books with quests,mysteries, a diverse cast of characters and paranormal romance Vespers is your things. Also I'd like to point that the book is a great example of genre fiction with lgbt+ characters who are doing their thing(kicking demons asses) and falling in love. Just the way I like my paranormal/fantasy books to be.
August 23, 2016
Vespers (Hours of the Night 1), Irene Preston , Liv Rancourt
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, LGBTQIA
I’d read and loved Irene’s A Taste of You, so when I saw she’d teamed up with another author to write this m/m novel featuring vampires I was intrigued. I do love paranormal romance, especially that with vampires.
It took me quite a while to get in to the story, to really feel I knew the characters. Sara is pretty open, I could feel fairly quickly the kind of man he was, but Thaddeus Dupont was a harder read. We just don’t see enough of him early in the novel, he comes over as some kind of mysterious hermit.
By halfway through though I was well into the story. First books in a series have a such a hard job, introducing new characters, scenes and a plot that will keep readers attention is a difficult task, so I wasn’t surprised it took me so long to get to grips with this one.
Its a very different Vampire novel, one where Thaddeus works for The White Monks, some sort of religious order that has partnered up with him, getting him an assistant to feed from and another who works with him on despatching the baddies!
I’d have liked to have known a bit more about the Monks, some of them don’t really seem very compassionate, and they’re holding a sword over Thaddeus in a way “ work for us and maybe, just maybe, your sol can be redeemed.” He’s been doing that for many years now but its a pretty solitary and thankless task.
Once I was past halfway I felt I understood more, about not only the characters, but what dangers they faced – and they were very real, they were dancing with death each time they leave the house, with the Demons behaving very uncharacteristically.
It seems where the usual odd disorganised Demon pops up and needs despatching this time someone is behind them, working them in groups, something previously unheard of, and using them for a personal attack. That part was very interesting, and worked well.
The connection between Thaddeus and Sara was very sensual, a pull that had more than just attraction behind it, with Sara able to do things that seemed to bode more between them that just sexual connection. The sex scenes weren’t overdone, fitted the story, especially given that Thaddeus has up to now been celibate.
Stars: Four, a good start to a new series.
ARC supplied by authors
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, LGBTQIA
I’d read and loved Irene’s A Taste of You, so when I saw she’d teamed up with another author to write this m/m novel featuring vampires I was intrigued. I do love paranormal romance, especially that with vampires.
It took me quite a while to get in to the story, to really feel I knew the characters. Sara is pretty open, I could feel fairly quickly the kind of man he was, but Thaddeus Dupont was a harder read. We just don’t see enough of him early in the novel, he comes over as some kind of mysterious hermit.
By halfway through though I was well into the story. First books in a series have a such a hard job, introducing new characters, scenes and a plot that will keep readers attention is a difficult task, so I wasn’t surprised it took me so long to get to grips with this one.
Its a very different Vampire novel, one where Thaddeus works for The White Monks, some sort of religious order that has partnered up with him, getting him an assistant to feed from and another who works with him on despatching the baddies!
I’d have liked to have known a bit more about the Monks, some of them don’t really seem very compassionate, and they’re holding a sword over Thaddeus in a way “ work for us and maybe, just maybe, your sol can be redeemed.” He’s been doing that for many years now but its a pretty solitary and thankless task.
Once I was past halfway I felt I understood more, about not only the characters, but what dangers they faced – and they were very real, they were dancing with death each time they leave the house, with the Demons behaving very uncharacteristically.
It seems where the usual odd disorganised Demon pops up and needs despatching this time someone is behind them, working them in groups, something previously unheard of, and using them for a personal attack. That part was very interesting, and worked well.
The connection between Thaddeus and Sara was very sensual, a pull that had more than just attraction behind it, with Sara able to do things that seemed to bode more between them that just sexual connection. The sex scenes weren’t overdone, fitted the story, especially given that Thaddeus has up to now been celibate.
Stars: Four, a good start to a new series.
ARC supplied by authors
September 15, 2016
3.75 stars
I didn't know what to expect from this, but it was actually pretty entertaining. There wasn't anything hugely new here as I think I've read nearly every kind of vampire book over the years but it still felt original. I also found the characters very likable, especially Sara, and it was still a fun and engrossing read that I finished in pretty much one go (with a sleep break!). Lots of action, vampires, demons, romance and humour.
I would have liked to find out more about how Thaddeus became a vampire and the situation with the White Monks and how all that worked, but hopefully that was left to explain more in future installments. Also, whilst I understood the need for Sara's isolation from his family and friends to some extent, I would have liked to find out more about them and their situation. The one interaction with Sara's friend Nate was very brief considering he was supposed to be his best friend.
I've never read anything from Irene Preston or Liv Rancourt before but will likely check out their other works and will look out for the next in this series when it comes out. This one doesn't end on a cliffhanger so no worries about reading it now before any more in the series have been released. I imagine there will be another demon-fighting adventure for the team to tackle next time so looking forward to checking it out when it's released...
I didn't know what to expect from this, but it was actually pretty entertaining. There wasn't anything hugely new here as I think I've read nearly every kind of vampire book over the years but it still felt original. I also found the characters very likable, especially Sara, and it was still a fun and engrossing read that I finished in pretty much one go (with a sleep break!). Lots of action, vampires, demons, romance and humour.
I would have liked to find out more about how Thaddeus became a vampire and the situation with the White Monks and how all that worked, but hopefully that was left to explain more in future installments. Also, whilst I understood the need for Sara's isolation from his family and friends to some extent, I would have liked to find out more about them and their situation. The one interaction with Sara's friend Nate was very brief considering he was supposed to be his best friend.
I've never read anything from Irene Preston or Liv Rancourt before but will likely check out their other works and will look out for the next in this series when it comes out. This one doesn't end on a cliffhanger so no worries about reading it now before any more in the series have been released. I imagine there will be another demon-fighting adventure for the team to tackle next time so looking forward to checking it out when it's released...
August 27, 2016
I received Vespers as a review copy from the author/publisher. The gifting did not determine the review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion. Not at all what I expected, this was a terrific read. I loved the complexity and thought that went into the world-building-- much of the story was very provocative; from the right-or-wrongness of the impact of homosexuality in the Catholic church, to the complexities of the relationships between each of the characters. This is a book you'll want to take your time with to absorb the impact, not good for a reader expecting small interruptions.
September 1, 2016
I first read about this book on Netgalley and the blurb made me smile and I thought, hey, this could be good. Now, I'd kind of decided that I'd had my fill of vampire stores, but decided that I quite fancied this one. If you feel the same, you should go for it, like I did, you may well really enjoy this book.
Sara has just finished college and doesn't really know what to do with life. His (yes, his - Sara is Sarasija) brother and sister are over-achievers and the family is struggling financially, so when Sara is offered a job thousands of miles away, paying a fantastic salary, he goes for it. Despite Mum's huge concerns, and knowing little to nothing about this 'assistant' job he happily sets off to meet his mystery employer Thaddeus Dupont.
Thaddeus is a straight-laced, self-torturing highly religious Vampire who works for a secret order of the Catholic Church as a demon hunter. Yep, you heard that right, a demon hunter. Yay!! When Dupont's manager Nohea goes missing amid a huge upsurge of demon activity, Thaddeus and Sara go on a dangerous hunt to try and get her back.
Sara doesn't meet any of Dupont's expections. After all, he was expecting a girl for one thing (well with a name like Sara, what could he expect?) For another, he expected that he really was only going to be there to cater for his, ahem, special diet. Sara decides he was hired to be an assistant, so he's going to assist! (actually 'providing' for the special diet proves slightly more problematic)
This book is written in dual POV, which in other books is sometimes confusing as you forget which character you are reading. Not this book. Thaddeus is struggling with his vow of celibacy and his 'perversion' as he sees it, (he is described by one of the authors so accurately as a gay-catholic-vampire-monk.) He is oh-so-very serious. Sara by comparison is light-hearted and very humorous, lots of smiling from me in his scenes. The book is not overly heavy as other humour creeps in. In one scene, which is actually very reminiscent of Cassandra Clare's Mortal Instruments series, there is a lot of challenging the demons with humour, and whips! When over-faced with them, Nohea mutters "who the hell keeps giving guns to these idiots" one of the demons comes back with "Aw, come on, Brother Thaddeus. Its no fun if you hide"
This is a complete book in the sense that there is closure on the current story line, but there is plenty of room for more and I'm excited to see how the story and the characters develop throughout this series. I expect there will be even more hotness between Sara and Thad!
This is a completely honest review in exchange for an ARC, many thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the authors.
PS - I've never wanted to use smiley emoticons in a review. Before this one!
Sara has just finished college and doesn't really know what to do with life. His (yes, his - Sara is Sarasija) brother and sister are over-achievers and the family is struggling financially, so when Sara is offered a job thousands of miles away, paying a fantastic salary, he goes for it. Despite Mum's huge concerns, and knowing little to nothing about this 'assistant' job he happily sets off to meet his mystery employer Thaddeus Dupont.
Thaddeus is a straight-laced, self-torturing highly religious Vampire who works for a secret order of the Catholic Church as a demon hunter. Yep, you heard that right, a demon hunter. Yay!! When Dupont's manager Nohea goes missing amid a huge upsurge of demon activity, Thaddeus and Sara go on a dangerous hunt to try and get her back.
Sara doesn't meet any of Dupont's expections. After all, he was expecting a girl for one thing (well with a name like Sara, what could he expect?) For another, he expected that he really was only going to be there to cater for his, ahem, special diet. Sara decides he was hired to be an assistant, so he's going to assist! (actually 'providing' for the special diet proves slightly more problematic)
This book is written in dual POV, which in other books is sometimes confusing as you forget which character you are reading. Not this book. Thaddeus is struggling with his vow of celibacy and his 'perversion' as he sees it, (he is described by one of the authors so accurately as a gay-catholic-vampire-monk.) He is oh-so-very serious. Sara by comparison is light-hearted and very humorous, lots of smiling from me in his scenes. The book is not overly heavy as other humour creeps in. In one scene, which is actually very reminiscent of Cassandra Clare's Mortal Instruments series, there is a lot of challenging the demons with humour, and whips! When over-faced with them, Nohea mutters "who the hell keeps giving guns to these idiots" one of the demons comes back with "Aw, come on, Brother Thaddeus. Its no fun if you hide"
This is a complete book in the sense that there is closure on the current story line, but there is plenty of room for more and I'm excited to see how the story and the characters develop throughout this series. I expect there will be even more hotness between Sara and Thad!
This is a completely honest review in exchange for an ARC, many thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the authors.
PS - I've never wanted to use smiley emoticons in a review. Before this one!
October 22, 2016
I thought vampires had been done to death!
I was wrong.
In this book we are introduced to a soulful, prayerful vampire who is also somewhat tortured by his past, his perceived failures and the need to atone for what he sees as his sins and flaws.
Thaddeus Dupont is a vampire with many burdens and a dark past. He prays and believes, but this only provides occasional comfort. He labours under the heaviness of his calling and his limitations.
He is a demon slayer.
And then Sara comes into his life.
Sarasija applied to be an assistant to Thaddeus but when he arrives to start the new job he realises that he is totally out of his depth because Thaddeus is a vampire who slays demons, and the demons are also out to get anyone who is close to Thaddeus.
However, needing to demonstrate maturity and independence to his family, and unfazed by the challenges of his new job, Sara teams up with Thaddeus and Nohea ( Thaddeus's assistant) to help them hunt down the person who is raising demons and using them to attack both innocent people and the monks who Thaddeus protects.
And as they face these challenges together they also face the challenge of their attraction to each other, guilt, dark powers and a world that is not the world that Sara thought it was.
This is a good story and it is well written.
I did feel that Thaddeus was a very morose and overburdened character with a very 'medieval' Roman Catholic faith. To be honest he has a kind of dark theology that insists on the need for eternal penance and punishment.
Not a hint of forgiveness in sight.
But I thought he was also an interesting character with a faith which is in stark contrast to Sarasija who appears to be some kind of secular Hindu. Sara is also a feisty, active character who is determined to make things work for himself. He isnt daunted by his new job or by his new understanding of what the world is really like, and he isnt daunted by his emerging feelings for Thaddeus Dupont.
I do wish there had been more action in the story and less theology, although it was great to see a vampire praying the hours, and speaking latin. I also thought it was interesting to see the two main characters wrestling with their feelings for each other both internally and in their dialogue. So altogether a really interesting story and one which appears to be book one in a series. It will certainly be interesting to see how the series develops.
This is the first time I have read anything by these authors and overall it was a good story with a suitably dramatic ending.
A good read for people who like vampires and urban fantasy!
Copy provided by the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
I was wrong.
In this book we are introduced to a soulful, prayerful vampire who is also somewhat tortured by his past, his perceived failures and the need to atone for what he sees as his sins and flaws.
Thaddeus Dupont is a vampire with many burdens and a dark past. He prays and believes, but this only provides occasional comfort. He labours under the heaviness of his calling and his limitations.
He is a demon slayer.
And then Sara comes into his life.
Sarasija applied to be an assistant to Thaddeus but when he arrives to start the new job he realises that he is totally out of his depth because Thaddeus is a vampire who slays demons, and the demons are also out to get anyone who is close to Thaddeus.
However, needing to demonstrate maturity and independence to his family, and unfazed by the challenges of his new job, Sara teams up with Thaddeus and Nohea ( Thaddeus's assistant) to help them hunt down the person who is raising demons and using them to attack both innocent people and the monks who Thaddeus protects.
And as they face these challenges together they also face the challenge of their attraction to each other, guilt, dark powers and a world that is not the world that Sara thought it was.
This is a good story and it is well written.
I did feel that Thaddeus was a very morose and overburdened character with a very 'medieval' Roman Catholic faith. To be honest he has a kind of dark theology that insists on the need for eternal penance and punishment.
Not a hint of forgiveness in sight.
But I thought he was also an interesting character with a faith which is in stark contrast to Sarasija who appears to be some kind of secular Hindu. Sara is also a feisty, active character who is determined to make things work for himself. He isnt daunted by his new job or by his new understanding of what the world is really like, and he isnt daunted by his emerging feelings for Thaddeus Dupont.
I do wish there had been more action in the story and less theology, although it was great to see a vampire praying the hours, and speaking latin. I also thought it was interesting to see the two main characters wrestling with their feelings for each other both internally and in their dialogue. So altogether a really interesting story and one which appears to be book one in a series. It will certainly be interesting to see how the series develops.
This is the first time I have read anything by these authors and overall it was a good story with a suitably dramatic ending.
A good read for people who like vampires and urban fantasy!
Copy provided by the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
October 1, 2016
Religiously conflicted vampires is hardly a new theme where the need for blood is often at odds with a previous human edict that you do not view your fellow man as food. Dupont is bound to the church as a paid assassin to hunt down demonic forces through the centuries as penance.He is in return promised the reinstatement of his eternal soul by the monks who hold his contract.I'm not exactly sure how that transaction is eventually going culminate as this is the first in a series. Maybe this particular church has a vault of repossessed souls that they sell back to their previous owners after years of servitude.
Sarasija is mistakenly contracted to a year of service to Mr Dupont a celibate vampire who only had female assistants previously because of the temptation the male form represents to him.The dance that occurs between these two men is often tense & further complicated by an uneasy alliance of Catholicism & Hinduism as to which faith can eradicate a demonic plague.
So if you want add to your literature of the undead be prepared to be immersed into a world where blood is 'heat and honey','crimson and coal'.This book has entire mm scenes though there is a female 'warrior' that makes up the trio but there is nothing sexual happening in that direction.
Sarasija is mistakenly contracted to a year of service to Mr Dupont a celibate vampire who only had female assistants previously because of the temptation the male form represents to him.The dance that occurs between these two men is often tense & further complicated by an uneasy alliance of Catholicism & Hinduism as to which faith can eradicate a demonic plague.
So if you want add to your literature of the undead be prepared to be immersed into a world where blood is 'heat and honey','crimson and coal'.This book has entire mm scenes though there is a female 'warrior' that makes up the trio but there is nothing sexual happening in that direction.
September 25, 2017
4.5 stars
Delicious.
I've often asked others to give me their best recommendations on well-written, intelligent, LGBT books, with or without romance. THIS IS IT PEOPLE Go read this book. Especially if you, like me, like to reside in the darker shadows of life.
The main character, a somewhat naive but otherwise capable man named Sara, finds himself in an interesting situation - which he deals with admirably. Can't say I would have done that well.
The other hero of our story is a - wait for it - gay vampire, who is also a monk.
The authors created a southern gothic story, complete with snippets of French and Catholic prayers in Latin that added, to what I think most readers come to expect, out of stories that center around New Orleans, and other places in America's deep south. (Thinking about the Sookie Stackhouse, Vampire Chronicles, and Beautiful Creatures series.)
My only negative comment would have been the choice in settings. Although brilliantly done by the authors, I would love to see this kind of story played out in a different city - but that's just me.
Note: I also loved the playoff between the different religious beliefs.
Delicious.
I've often asked others to give me their best recommendations on well-written, intelligent, LGBT books, with or without romance. THIS IS IT PEOPLE Go read this book. Especially if you, like me, like to reside in the darker shadows of life.
The main character, a somewhat naive but otherwise capable man named Sara, finds himself in an interesting situation - which he deals with admirably. Can't say I would have done that well.
The other hero of our story is a - wait for it - gay vampire, who is also a monk.
The authors created a southern gothic story, complete with snippets of French and Catholic prayers in Latin that added, to what I think most readers come to expect, out of stories that center around New Orleans, and other places in America's deep south. (Thinking about the Sookie Stackhouse, Vampire Chronicles, and Beautiful Creatures series.)
My only negative comment would have been the choice in settings. Although brilliantly done by the authors, I would love to see this kind of story played out in a different city - but that's just me.
Note: I also loved the playoff between the different religious beliefs.
May 8, 2017
This is so not the type of book I would normally read.
The premise was intriguing. A vampire monk who works for the black ops part of the Catholic Church.
He has an assistant, Sara, which in itself an issue. Sara was given the job because they thought it was a girl. Sara turned out to be a boy.
For those of you who dont want to read this because you might think there is too much religiom. Dont worry, its minimal.
I started reading and then was unable to put it down until I finished it.
Can't wait for the next book.
The premise was intriguing. A vampire monk who works for the black ops part of the Catholic Church.
He has an assistant, Sara, which in itself an issue. Sara was given the job because they thought it was a girl. Sara turned out to be a boy.
For those of you who dont want to read this because you might think there is too much religiom. Dont worry, its minimal.
I started reading and then was unable to put it down until I finished it.
Can't wait for the next book.
May 18, 2019
✮4 Stars✮
March 4, 2017
Vampires and demons and monks, oh my!
This was an interesting book, working through the concept of the Christian religion and a homosexual relationship.
Thaddeus is a vampire that works with the church. He believes he has lost hisn soul because of what he is, but that by working with monks he can redeem it. He must simply stay away from sin, especially his own perversion if desiring me.
Sara is a prospective grad student with no real goal in life. He needs a job to help his family pay back debts, and assistant for a mysterious Mr. Dupont is the best thing he can find. When he learns that this job is far more than just 'assisting' his worldview is changed and he finds himself caught in danger both out in the world and by Dupont's side.
Watching the slow burn between Thad and Sara was fascinating. Everyone watched from the outside, blaming and expecting the two to be in bed immediately. But Sara isn't one to sleep with his boss, and Thad believes it a sin. That basis of sin makes it the most difficult relationship. Between over a century of hearing that homosexuality is a sin, as well as his belief he has lost his soul, Thad cannot be convinced in just a few days that it would be alright to love a man. It makes their connection very complicated and adds depth to the entire book.
There were a few things that I hope will be further explored in the next book. While this was a complete book in its own, there is more to learn in this world. From Thad and Sara's respective pasts, to the blood connection they have know, there is still much to learn about in this world. I look forward to the next book to see where it goes!
This was an interesting book, working through the concept of the Christian religion and a homosexual relationship.
Thaddeus is a vampire that works with the church. He believes he has lost hisn soul because of what he is, but that by working with monks he can redeem it. He must simply stay away from sin, especially his own perversion if desiring me.
Sara is a prospective grad student with no real goal in life. He needs a job to help his family pay back debts, and assistant for a mysterious Mr. Dupont is the best thing he can find. When he learns that this job is far more than just 'assisting' his worldview is changed and he finds himself caught in danger both out in the world and by Dupont's side.
Watching the slow burn between Thad and Sara was fascinating. Everyone watched from the outside, blaming and expecting the two to be in bed immediately. But Sara isn't one to sleep with his boss, and Thad believes it a sin. That basis of sin makes it the most difficult relationship. Between over a century of hearing that homosexuality is a sin, as well as his belief he has lost his soul, Thad cannot be convinced in just a few days that it would be alright to love a man. It makes their connection very complicated and adds depth to the entire book.
There were a few things that I hope will be further explored in the next book. While this was a complete book in its own, there is more to learn in this world. From Thad and Sara's respective pasts, to the blood connection they have know, there is still much to learn about in this world. I look forward to the next book to see where it goes!
September 13, 2016
4.5 Stars ~ It’s been a long time since I’ve read a vampire romance. It’s been an even longer time since I’ve read a really good vampire romance. Irene Preston and Liv Rancourt’s collaborative efforts on Vespers, book one in their new Hours of the Night series, isn’t just good. I think it’s pretty exceptional.
In the genre, it seems the Dracula mythos is either adhered to as canon, avoided altogether in an effort to give a fresh spin to the archetype, or is a blend of something old and something new to make the familiar original and interesting. Preston and Rancourt have given life to their own version of vampire lore, set in the one place where the supernatural is as much a part of the city as beignets and jazz—New Orleans. The opening of the story in a remote Louisiana bayou setting was a great way to introduce Sara and to separate the city boy from his known element. And, of course, to introduce some of the things that go bump in the night when a hermitic vampire is also a demon hunter bent upon absolving his immortal soul of its monstrous stain. The internal battle Thaddeus Dupont wages is on two fronts as he wars with which is the greater of his abominations—being vampire, or desiring men.
Thaddeus is a devout Catholic at the mercy of his belief that abject servitude, mortification of the flesh, and celibacy are a small price to pay if it will bring him absolution and deliver his lost soul from an eternity in Hell. He self-flagellates not only physically but mentally too, and that along with the ennui of more than a century of existence made him a character I didn’t connect with on a deeper emotional level as much as it made him a character I pitied for his adherence to a set of dogmatic codes that made him feel unworthy of existing let alone finding any sort of peace within the space he takes up in this world.
The contrast between Sara and Dupont is as pronounced as the difference between life and death, and the case of mistaken identity, the assumption that Sara was a woman and therefore safe for Thaddeus to employ, was a nice little device to begin building the internal and external conflict between them. Sara is the technicolor to Thaddeus’ monotone, and the temptation Sara signifies is absolute. What, after all, would the fight for a man’s soul be without the lure of the one sin he’s sworn to deny himself of—the sin of desiring male flesh? It makes for some great sexual tension between them, but that’s not Sara’s only role in this story. It’s Sara’s very essence that draws Thaddeus out and makes him feel some version of alive again, even as Sara works to make himself useful and worthy of the ridiculous, and necessary, salary he’s being paid as part of the Dupont staff.
Apart from the building of the relationship between Sara and Thaddeus are dark magic, demons and a ghost, and the White Monks—who are not opposed to making Thad promises and striking a bargain with the vampire if it means they can use (manipulate?) him to suit their purposes. The danger and mystery of the demon hunt, the cat and mouse game of it, and the ways in which Thaddeus’ involvement began to cost him both physically and emotionally added some great adrenaline pumping moments to the piquancy of his growing feelings for Sara. Added to the mix of characters is Thaddeus’ paladin (for lack of a better word), Nohea Alves. I liked her introduction into the story a lot—it’s always great to get strong secondary characters who can hold their own in scenes with the MCs—and I’m looking forward to her getting more page time in the upcoming novels in the series.
Writing the story in alternating third and first person (Thad’s) POV was an interesting style choice, and one I bought into from the start because Thad’s is, for obvious reasons, the deeper and more interesting point of view. Because he lacks the allure of emotional warmth for readers to make that sort of visceral connection with him, it was important to get his thoughts and feelings from a firsthand account rather than relying solely on how Sara and Nohea see him. It made his story more intimate, as personal as it needed to be to support his belief system and give weight to why he does what he does.
As book one of a series goes, Vespers excelled at doing what it was meant to do—drawing me into the world the authors have created, hooking me on its characters, and it succeeded at getting me excited for book two.
Reviewed by Lisa for The Novel Approach Reviews
In the genre, it seems the Dracula mythos is either adhered to as canon, avoided altogether in an effort to give a fresh spin to the archetype, or is a blend of something old and something new to make the familiar original and interesting. Preston and Rancourt have given life to their own version of vampire lore, set in the one place where the supernatural is as much a part of the city as beignets and jazz—New Orleans. The opening of the story in a remote Louisiana bayou setting was a great way to introduce Sara and to separate the city boy from his known element. And, of course, to introduce some of the things that go bump in the night when a hermitic vampire is also a demon hunter bent upon absolving his immortal soul of its monstrous stain. The internal battle Thaddeus Dupont wages is on two fronts as he wars with which is the greater of his abominations—being vampire, or desiring men.
Thaddeus is a devout Catholic at the mercy of his belief that abject servitude, mortification of the flesh, and celibacy are a small price to pay if it will bring him absolution and deliver his lost soul from an eternity in Hell. He self-flagellates not only physically but mentally too, and that along with the ennui of more than a century of existence made him a character I didn’t connect with on a deeper emotional level as much as it made him a character I pitied for his adherence to a set of dogmatic codes that made him feel unworthy of existing let alone finding any sort of peace within the space he takes up in this world.
The contrast between Sara and Dupont is as pronounced as the difference between life and death, and the case of mistaken identity, the assumption that Sara was a woman and therefore safe for Thaddeus to employ, was a nice little device to begin building the internal and external conflict between them. Sara is the technicolor to Thaddeus’ monotone, and the temptation Sara signifies is absolute. What, after all, would the fight for a man’s soul be without the lure of the one sin he’s sworn to deny himself of—the sin of desiring male flesh? It makes for some great sexual tension between them, but that’s not Sara’s only role in this story. It’s Sara’s very essence that draws Thaddeus out and makes him feel some version of alive again, even as Sara works to make himself useful and worthy of the ridiculous, and necessary, salary he’s being paid as part of the Dupont staff.
Apart from the building of the relationship between Sara and Thaddeus are dark magic, demons and a ghost, and the White Monks—who are not opposed to making Thad promises and striking a bargain with the vampire if it means they can use (manipulate?) him to suit their purposes. The danger and mystery of the demon hunt, the cat and mouse game of it, and the ways in which Thaddeus’ involvement began to cost him both physically and emotionally added some great adrenaline pumping moments to the piquancy of his growing feelings for Sara. Added to the mix of characters is Thaddeus’ paladin (for lack of a better word), Nohea Alves. I liked her introduction into the story a lot—it’s always great to get strong secondary characters who can hold their own in scenes with the MCs—and I’m looking forward to her getting more page time in the upcoming novels in the series.
Writing the story in alternating third and first person (Thad’s) POV was an interesting style choice, and one I bought into from the start because Thad’s is, for obvious reasons, the deeper and more interesting point of view. Because he lacks the allure of emotional warmth for readers to make that sort of visceral connection with him, it was important to get his thoughts and feelings from a firsthand account rather than relying solely on how Sara and Nohea see him. It made his story more intimate, as personal as it needed to be to support his belief system and give weight to why he does what he does.
As book one of a series goes, Vespers excelled at doing what it was meant to do—drawing me into the world the authors have created, hooking me on its characters, and it succeeded at getting me excited for book two.
Reviewed by Lisa for The Novel Approach Reviews
December 21, 2016
-
3.5 Enthusiastic Stars
**My half of my co-review with OJ. You can find the whole thing on our GayGuy StraightGirl Reviews Blog
Fun, fun, fun PNR read! I am a complete sucker for a terse, repressed curmudgeon. So ramp that up by a factor of – Thaddeus – and I’m in…heaven. Then for the authors to contrast him with a fresh, cocky, fun-loving hottie and this becomes a series I can sink my teeth into.
THE CHARACTERS
Thaddeus “Thad” DuPont - Repressed, depressed, cryptic and oh so needy. His inner conflict and outer strength make him very intriguing.
Sarasija “Sara” Mishra - Good-natured Sara just need this job. Why does everything and everyone have to be so weird?
THE STORY
The long drive from Seattle to a Louisiana bayou would unsettle anyone, but arriving to find everyone surprised to see you is definitely off-putting. This book starts out just like a good Bela Lugosi movie –normal guy enters a strange new world. If only he can keep it together he can get in, get out, and back to reality– But what Sara is about to discover is never going to let him go.
Sara and Dupont become the focus of a terrifying entity that can reanimate the dead. Between dodging these adept yet inept beings Dupont has to also fight his pull towards Sara. If only his powers of persuasion worked on him like they should.
THE WRITING
I absolutely love the quick, enjoyable pace and humorous, light quality that kept me engaged. But just about mid-way through I found the same arguments reiterated over and over, and the pacing slowed way down. Eventually the story picked up again and even though some of the plotting toward the end was a bit predictable it became quite enjoyable again. I’m hooked on the characters and definitely want to see where the series goes. These two are not resolved by a long shot.
~ ~ ~
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http://www.attentionisarbitrary.com
3.5 Enthusiastic Stars
**My half of my co-review with OJ. You can find the whole thing on our GayGuy StraightGirl Reviews Blog
Fun, fun, fun PNR read! I am a complete sucker for a terse, repressed curmudgeon. So ramp that up by a factor of – Thaddeus – and I’m in…heaven. Then for the authors to contrast him with a fresh, cocky, fun-loving hottie and this becomes a series I can sink my teeth into.
THE CHARACTERS
Thaddeus “Thad” DuPont - Repressed, depressed, cryptic and oh so needy. His inner conflict and outer strength make him very intriguing.
Sarasija “Sara” Mishra - Good-natured Sara just need this job. Why does everything and everyone have to be so weird?
THE STORY
The long drive from Seattle to a Louisiana bayou would unsettle anyone, but arriving to find everyone surprised to see you is definitely off-putting. This book starts out just like a good Bela Lugosi movie –normal guy enters a strange new world. If only he can keep it together he can get in, get out, and back to reality– But what Sara is about to discover is never going to let him go.
Sara and Dupont become the focus of a terrifying entity that can reanimate the dead. Between dodging these adept yet inept beings Dupont has to also fight his pull towards Sara. If only his powers of persuasion worked on him like they should.
THE WRITING
I absolutely love the quick, enjoyable pace and humorous, light quality that kept me engaged. But just about mid-way through I found the same arguments reiterated over and over, and the pacing slowed way down. Eventually the story picked up again and even though some of the plotting toward the end was a bit predictable it became quite enjoyable again. I’m hooked on the characters and definitely want to see where the series goes. These two are not resolved by a long shot.
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September 14, 2016
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley for a fair and honest review.
This book is about Thaddeus, who is a Vampire and works for a group called the White Monks. He hunts and destroys demons. He is solely focused on his prayers and doing penance and hopefully one day regaining his immortal soul. Not only is he convinced that his being a vampire is the reason for his lost soul and desperate need for penance, but also the fact that he is gay. Before his life ended, he was studying to be a Monk and now he is working for the Catholic Church so he is lost in all the outdated dogma (in my opinion) that goes with it. It is for this reason that the White Monks hire for him a female assistance each year.
But this year, a mistake is made and 22 year-old Sara is hired. Sara is actually a man, who's full name is Sarasija. For Sara, this is a job of a lifetime. $80,000 a year to "assist" his new boss, who he knows nothing about and even less about his expected duties. His employer's "special diet" mentioned in his contract, doesn't even raise a red flag for him until it's too late to turn back. Sara needs this job to help his family and even as he learns more and more of what's actually going on, he can't turn his back, he needs to see this through.
I've read vampire romances before, and thought that I had "seen" it all, but I have to say that I really enjoyed this book. What both Thaddeus and Sara have to go through individually before they can even face anything together was very intriguing for me and very real and believable (as believable as a vampire story can be, I guess.) Then compound that with the action of the demon hunting, it was quite the ride! I am very much looking forward to the rest of the series.
This book is about Thaddeus, who is a Vampire and works for a group called the White Monks. He hunts and destroys demons. He is solely focused on his prayers and doing penance and hopefully one day regaining his immortal soul. Not only is he convinced that his being a vampire is the reason for his lost soul and desperate need for penance, but also the fact that he is gay. Before his life ended, he was studying to be a Monk and now he is working for the Catholic Church so he is lost in all the outdated dogma (in my opinion) that goes with it. It is for this reason that the White Monks hire for him a female assistance each year.
But this year, a mistake is made and 22 year-old Sara is hired. Sara is actually a man, who's full name is Sarasija. For Sara, this is a job of a lifetime. $80,000 a year to "assist" his new boss, who he knows nothing about and even less about his expected duties. His employer's "special diet" mentioned in his contract, doesn't even raise a red flag for him until it's too late to turn back. Sara needs this job to help his family and even as he learns more and more of what's actually going on, he can't turn his back, he needs to see this through.
I've read vampire romances before, and thought that I had "seen" it all, but I have to say that I really enjoyed this book. What both Thaddeus and Sara have to go through individually before they can even face anything together was very intriguing for me and very real and believable (as believable as a vampire story can be, I guess.) Then compound that with the action of the demon hunting, it was quite the ride! I am very much looking forward to the rest of the series.
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