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SPECTR Series 2 #3
Drinker of Blood
An outbreak of demon attacks across Charleston has worn SPECTR agent John Starkweather to the bone. Now a new threat faces his team: a demon with bullet—and bite—proof skin, which can’t be stopped by ordinary means.
John’s only solace comes in the form of his lovers: Caleb Jansen and the vampire spirit Gray. Caleb and Gray have their own problems, however. Unbeknownst to John, they’ve been tracking a mysterious entity across the city. And after they finally come face to face with their quarry, nothing will ever be the same.
John’s only solace comes in the form of his lovers: Caleb Jansen and the vampire spirit Gray. Caleb and Gray have their own problems, however. Unbeknownst to John, they’ve been tracking a mysterious entity across the city. And after they finally come face to face with their quarry, nothing will ever be the same.
150 pages, ebook
First published March 17, 2017
23 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
Jordan L. Hawk
85 books2,655 followersJordan L. Hawk is a trans author from North Carolina. Childhood tales of mountain ghosts and mysterious creatures gave him a life-long love of things that go bump in the night. When he isn’t writing, he brews his own beer and tries to keep the cats from destroying the house. His best-selling Whyborne & Griffin series (beginning with Widdershins) can be found in print, ebook, and audiobook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
November 28, 2019
-------Orig review March 2017-------
Before I get into this review, do know that I LOVE LOVE LOVE John, Caleb, and Gray. Love them. I love the sex, the banter, Gray's focus on food and fucking and his dismissal of "mortal nonsense". I love the world that Jordan Hawk has built here. But I liked series 1 better. And here's why...
So far, the SPECTR 2 series has left me feeling edgy, and it isn't all a "good" kind of edgy (though I expect that will change as the series continues). There's so much uncertainty. Caleb and Gray feel trapped by SPECTR and they're kept on such a short leash and threatened by the new district director, Barillo, at every turn. And Barillo restricts them so much that they can't do their jobs and so when things don't go smoothly, Barillo blames them for that, too. He needs to go. Please someone put a demon in him so that Gray will see him as food and eat him. Pretty please!
Also, I wasn't a fan of PASS (the support group that Caleb started going to). I get why they were needed and I get why Caleb wanted something outside of SPECTR for himself, but he never struck me as a support group kind of guy and considering he couldn't tell them about Gray, I figured it was a disaster waiting, anyway.
And I really didn't like Caleb and Gray keeping secrets from John. At all.
Yuri/Dru, I liked, but I felt on edge because John didn't know. I want to know more about them, for sure and I hope that John isn't too hurt by the secrecy.
And, finally, I don't really like where this installment left off. Everything is too uncertain. And with the long wait between installments (at least for this series, so far), I'm not even hopeful of getting a resolution any time soon. *sad face*
There is plenty of good stuff in this series, though. Aside from my obsession with all things John, Caleb and Gray, Zahira is a breath of fresh air. I love how she approaches everything. She isn't terrified of Gray, at all, and sees him as a value to the team and genuinely likes him.
I am looking forward to seeing where this series goes and dearly hope that Jordan Hawk doesn't keep us waiting too long!
Before I get into this review, do know that I LOVE LOVE LOVE John, Caleb, and Gray. Love them. I love the sex, the banter, Gray's focus on food and fucking and his dismissal of "mortal nonsense". I love the world that Jordan Hawk has built here. But I liked series 1 better. And here's why...
So far, the SPECTR 2 series has left me feeling edgy, and it isn't all a "good" kind of edgy (though I expect that will change as the series continues). There's so much uncertainty. Caleb and Gray feel trapped by SPECTR and they're kept on such a short leash and threatened by the new district director, Barillo, at every turn. And Barillo restricts them so much that they can't do their jobs and so when things don't go smoothly, Barillo blames them for that, too. He needs to go. Please someone put a demon in him so that Gray will see him as food and eat him. Pretty please!
Also, I wasn't a fan of PASS (the support group that Caleb started going to). I get why they were needed and I get why Caleb wanted something outside of SPECTR for himself, but he never struck me as a support group kind of guy and considering he couldn't tell them about Gray, I figured it was a disaster waiting, anyway.
And I really didn't like Caleb and Gray keeping secrets from John. At all.
Yuri/Dru, I liked, but I felt on edge because John didn't know. I want to know more about them, for sure and I hope that John isn't too hurt by the secrecy.
And, finally, I don't really like where this installment left off. Everything is too uncertain. And with the long wait between installments (at least for this series, so far), I'm not even hopeful of getting a resolution any time soon. *sad face*
There is plenty of good stuff in this series, though. Aside from my obsession with all things John, Caleb and Gray, Zahira is a breath of fresh air. I love how she approaches everything. She isn't terrified of Gray, at all, and sees him as a value to the team and genuinely likes him.
I am looking forward to seeing where this series goes and dearly hope that Jordan Hawk doesn't keep us waiting too long!
March 17, 2017
This was such a great installment of this series. Caleb and Gray are tracking the mysterious entity and in the process come across something that is a game changer for all of them. They're keeping secrets from John for the first time ever and this makes for some serious relationship issues.
I was on the edge of my seat the entire book. This story was fast paced and I was constantly trying to guess what was going to happen next. I don't want to say much about the plot because of spoilers but I will say that the writing was excellent as usual and this is one of my favorite installments in this series. This should not be read as a standalone. If you haven't read any of this series before you need to go back and start at the beginning. If you are current with it though I recommend grabbing this the day it comes out. You won't regret it.
I REALLY dislike this cover. I don't like any of the covers for this series and I think this new one is actually the worst of them all. I wish the author would have redone these instead of the Whyborne and Griffin series. I think a lot of people don't give this series a try because of these covers. They don't reflect how great the series is.
I was on the edge of my seat the entire book. This story was fast paced and I was constantly trying to guess what was going to happen next. I don't want to say much about the plot because of spoilers but I will say that the writing was excellent as usual and this is one of my favorite installments in this series. This should not be read as a standalone. If you haven't read any of this series before you need to go back and start at the beginning. If you are current with it though I recommend grabbing this the day it comes out. You won't regret it.
I REALLY dislike this cover. I don't like any of the covers for this series and I think this new one is actually the worst of them all. I wish the author would have redone these instead of the Whyborne and Griffin series. I think a lot of people don't give this series a try because of these covers. They don't reflect how great the series is.
September 22, 2018
This is one review for all 5 novellas in the SPECTR Series 2, posted on each novella in this series, because I am wiped out.
I waited 3 years for this second series of SPECTR stories to be finished and they were completely worth the wait. And here I am, already waiting for Series 3. *sigh*
A lot happens with John, Caleb and Gray, and some of it is damn hard to read. All of them are hurt in this series, and worse, they hurt each other. For a while, it seemed like they might actually lose against the bad guy, who seemed, unbelievably, to be much stronger than Gray. There were times when I thought Gray and Caleb were actually done, it was pretty freaking scary. But the thing that hurt most was John losing faith in Caleb and Gray, .
The love and the bond between the three of them isn't something that's easily destroyed, though JLH made us suffer for it this time. I loved the additions to the series, namely Kurt & Zahira, though Barillo can GTFO as far as I'm concerned.*I'd be ok with Gray eating him* And I'm super excited about the direction SPECTR 3 seems to be going. I CANNOT WAIT!!! *sigh* *sits down to wait*
I waited 3 years for this second series of SPECTR stories to be finished and they were completely worth the wait. And here I am, already waiting for Series 3. *sigh*
A lot happens with John, Caleb and Gray, and some of it is damn hard to read. All of them are hurt in this series, and worse, they hurt each other. For a while, it seemed like they might actually lose against the bad guy, who seemed, unbelievably, to be much stronger than Gray. There were times when I thought Gray and Caleb were actually done, it was pretty freaking scary. But the thing that hurt most was John losing faith in Caleb and Gray, .
The love and the bond between the three of them isn't something that's easily destroyed, though JLH made us suffer for it this time. I loved the additions to the series, namely Kurt & Zahira, though Barillo can GTFO as far as I'm concerned.*I'd be ok with Gray eating him* And I'm super excited about the direction SPECTR 3 seems to be going. I CANNOT WAIT!!! *sigh* *sits down to wait*
Read
August 29, 2017Another brilliant instalment in what is far and away my fave contemporary series. I really love the ongoing saga--it uses all the greatest pulp tricks, the individually satisfying episodes and the growing terror of the series arc, to fab effect. Can't wait to see where the latest plot twist goes.
March 19, 2017
They’re back!!
I have been watching the months slowly flip by, desperate for the next dose of my favorite paranormal trio. More than a year has passed since the last installment and it’s true that absence makes the heart grow fonder. I immediately snatched this up and devoured it…and it was oh-so-good.
Another monster is in town and it’s proving hard to catch. To top it off they are also searching for something but that seems to be eluding them too. Stress is a nasty bugger and it’s taking its toll on John. Caleb is struggling with the weight of their situation as well. He doesn’t live for the job like John does. In truth, he is beginning to see the allure of Gray’s wishes. Why can’t they leave all the rules and reports behind them and run away? SPECTR certainly doesn’t appreciate them or their dedication. Why punish themselves for a place that despises them. Well, because the people of Charleston need them, that’s why. Sometimes it blows being responsible. Blasted values and conscience. But it sure would be grand to take a vacation or at least have a friend they could confide in. There may be three of them plus their trusted partner, Zahira, but for the most part…it seems to be them against the world.
Their greatest strength lies with them as a unit. Lies, betrayal and secrets threatens to weaken their bond or worse, shatter them. Can they withstand the pressure and hold steady? Yikes! You should really find out.
What's to like: Slipping back into Hawk’s brilliant world made my heartbeat pick up pace and my face light up. Oh how I missed it! That anxious anticipation of what’s coming next fueled the supersonic speed I barreled through this story. I knew that it was fairly short but the pages flew by. I greedily longed for more. I cherished the private moments between John, Caleb and Gray and wish we were gifted with a few more. I enjoyed the difficulty of the case as much as the new faces that appear. I can confidently say there was no want for action, it never stops!
What's to love: Their relationship is strong and the guys are at that pinnacle intimacy point; long past insecurities and vulnerable attacks. Above all, they treasure each other. I love the sacrifices and changes they make for their partners. It was clear Hawk wanted to test the binds in their bond and she made me a wreck in doing so! I believed in them but that doesn’t negate the fact I was scared for them.
Gray fears very little, except harm coming to John and emotional pain tearing up Caleb fills him with dread. He is the best. He cannot be beaten. He will protect what is his at all costs. It doesn’t take much to keep him happy but he finds it challenging to maintain happiness within his lovers. Mortals can be very difficult.
Then the essence of the sky and the earth are reunited..and it’s a game changer. Nothing will ever be the same again. Ho boy! Here…we….go!!
Beware of: A vicious cliffhanger! Gahhhhh! Wait, what? I wanna know! I’m chewing my lip and twisting my hands…it’s not another long wait, is it?
This book is for: SPECTR fans, paranormal fans, and Hawk fans will most definitely want to sink their teeth into this one!
*4 stars*
Book UNfunk
I have been watching the months slowly flip by, desperate for the next dose of my favorite paranormal trio. More than a year has passed since the last installment and it’s true that absence makes the heart grow fonder. I immediately snatched this up and devoured it…and it was oh-so-good.
Another monster is in town and it’s proving hard to catch. To top it off they are also searching for something but that seems to be eluding them too. Stress is a nasty bugger and it’s taking its toll on John. Caleb is struggling with the weight of their situation as well. He doesn’t live for the job like John does. In truth, he is beginning to see the allure of Gray’s wishes. Why can’t they leave all the rules and reports behind them and run away? SPECTR certainly doesn’t appreciate them or their dedication. Why punish themselves for a place that despises them. Well, because the people of Charleston need them, that’s why. Sometimes it blows being responsible. Blasted values and conscience. But it sure would be grand to take a vacation or at least have a friend they could confide in. There may be three of them plus their trusted partner, Zahira, but for the most part…it seems to be them against the world.
Their greatest strength lies with them as a unit. Lies, betrayal and secrets threatens to weaken their bond or worse, shatter them. Can they withstand the pressure and hold steady? Yikes! You should really find out.
What's to like: Slipping back into Hawk’s brilliant world made my heartbeat pick up pace and my face light up. Oh how I missed it! That anxious anticipation of what’s coming next fueled the supersonic speed I barreled through this story. I knew that it was fairly short but the pages flew by. I greedily longed for more. I cherished the private moments between John, Caleb and Gray and wish we were gifted with a few more. I enjoyed the difficulty of the case as much as the new faces that appear. I can confidently say there was no want for action, it never stops!
What's to love: Their relationship is strong and the guys are at that pinnacle intimacy point; long past insecurities and vulnerable attacks. Above all, they treasure each other. I love the sacrifices and changes they make for their partners. It was clear Hawk wanted to test the binds in their bond and she made me a wreck in doing so! I believed in them but that doesn’t negate the fact I was scared for them.
Gray fears very little, except harm coming to John and emotional pain tearing up Caleb fills him with dread. He is the best. He cannot be beaten. He will protect what is his at all costs. It doesn’t take much to keep him happy but he finds it challenging to maintain happiness within his lovers. Mortals can be very difficult.
Then the essence of the sky and the earth are reunited..and it’s a game changer. Nothing will ever be the same again. Ho boy! Here…we….go!!
Beware of: A vicious cliffhanger! Gahhhhh! Wait, what? I wanna know! I’m chewing my lip and twisting my hands…it’s not another long wait, is it?
This book is for: SPECTR fans, paranormal fans, and Hawk fans will most definitely want to sink their teeth into this one!
*4 stars*
Book UNfunk
March 23, 2020
i'm really nervous about the title of the last book in this series now
March 18, 2017
So good to read about John, Gray and Caleb again! I missed them! This story was short and didn't really have a lot of John in it, but there were a couple of love scenes with him, Caleb and Gray that were hot. I love the new characters of Dru and Yuri. If John wasn't in this story, I'd be rooting for Caleb, Gray, Dru and Yuri to get together romantically. It would be so hot! But, I love John and don't want him killed off and I don't see Caleb and Gray falling out of love with him. I can't wait for the next book!
March 17, 2017
Oh bloody hell this finished way too quickly and suddenly ! Gray & Caleb find new friends, possibly lose old friends and thrown a curve ball in the last few pages. John keeps sticking to the rules but this is clearly driving a wedge between them all - and that fucker of a boss ... hmmm well I can only hope he needs Caleb & Gray someday !
March 13, 2026
So apparently DRINKER OF BLOOD wanted to try its hardest to make me cry because Caleb is really just getting crap from all sides. I felt so bad for him and I don't think the next book is going to be any easier on him. I won't go into details so as not to spoil anything but things are definitely coming to a flashpoint with Caleb and his status with SPECTR.
John as well is really struggling to keep up with cases and play the politics needed to keep Caleb and Gray safe. My heart feels so pulverized for them and I just want to give them all a hug and tell them it will be ok. DRINKER OF BLOOD also introduces a new character that is sure to shake up the rest of the series and I can't wait to see what happens!
Content Warning: workplace harassment; hate crimes
John as well is really struggling to keep up with cases and play the politics needed to keep Caleb and Gray safe. My heart feels so pulverized for them and I just want to give them all a hug and tell them it will be ok. DRINKER OF BLOOD also introduces a new character that is sure to shake up the rest of the series and I can't wait to see what happens!
Content Warning: workplace harassment; hate crimes
December 4, 2024
I was starting to suspect this development. I'm not sure where it's going but eek! I do like the other 'creature' (won't do spoilers here), but not sure what it means for the future of John. The Spectr job is really getting under my skin too - I wish John could see how damaging it is and how much stuff Caleb is having to put up with. They're stuck and I'm eager for them to break free...somehow. Unfortunately this book was even shorter than the others. Wish another book was available right now - the horror of waiting!
March 15, 2020
Audiobook reviewFrom being a strong and united trio our guys are slowly gliding apart. Caleb is unhappy at SPECTR, feeling trapped into a life he did not chose and would not have chosen had he had a choice. He loves John, but John doesn’t really understand, not truly. Neither does Gray, often referring to Caleb’s wish for normalcy for “mortal foolishness”. Gray for his part is restless and getting fed up with their boss at SPECTR. He wants to hunt, and he’s fast losing patience with everything going on at the office.
John has his hands full. There are outbreaks of demon attacks all over town, and they seem to be never ending. And the new threat the team is facing seems to be impenetrable for everything he and Zahira throws at it. Caleb and Gray on their part have secretly been hunting the entity that has been following them for the past few books. They keep their investigation from John in order to spare him some trouble at SPECTR.
The relationship between Caleb/Gray and John are put under more strain than before. They are all still figuring out how to make it work, and being so different it’s not coming easy. Then again nothing worth having never is. The love between them is still there, and it’s strong, but they will have to start fighting for their relationship soon if they want to stay together.
I’m not sure what to think in regards to the paranormal entity Caleb and Gray hunted (and found). It can be interesting and good, but I do have an uneasy feeling that it will cause some major issues down the line.
Brad Langer truly adds to the sense of place of this world. I love how he makes the creatures sound creepy and portrays the fear of the survivors and witnesses. One of the most heartfelt moments of this book was when Caleb’s new friends turned their backs on him. Caleb’s sadness of having lost even that little semblance of normalcy, something outside of John, Gray and SPECTR. Equally heart-breaking was when John found out Caleb and Gray kept secrets from him. Langer made you feel all of it and in detail.
The recording of this book had some technical issues that I haven’t really encountered for the others in this series (or the previous one). I love to live in my audiobooks and experience the world alongside the characters. I don’t like RL disturbances (though, when you’re at work I guess you can’t really do much about that), and I also don’t like it when I’m forced to focus on the audio recording instead of the story. And that happened here a few times in this book, with repeated sentences, but more importantly, re-recorded longer sections that didn’t fit in with the rest. It threw me out of the story and made me wish for the smooth recordings from the other books.
By now I fully admit to being seriously addicted to this series and spending all the time I can in this incredible world.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
March 19, 2017
There's trouble brewing! I have so many questions. Is John going to be able to handle what he now knows? Can Caleb and Gray redeem themselves! Is our new character good or evil? And can we please get something to eat their boss?
I am dying for the next installment.
I am dying for the next installment.
March 18, 2017
Maybe it’s just me, but I find there’s always a little bit of nervous behind the excitement of a new release in a favorite series. How does an author keep a series that’s in its second iteration fresh yet still maintain the obsession with what’s made it great to begin with? If you’re Jordan L. Hawk, one way is to keep introducing new characters. The second way is to introduce these new characters and then make readers want them to stick around for the long-run so we get to know them much better. That’s exactly what’s happened in Drinker of Blood; there’s a new paranormal entity in town, and I can’t wait for the next installment(s) to see what, if any, impact they will have on John and Caleb and Gray, and, of course, SPECTR itself.
Whether it’s presented in a historical or contemporary setting, we’ve come to expect a lot from this author and her brand of speculative fiction, and she always manages to deliver. There’s a new enemy in town for John and #TeamGrayleb and Agent Zahira Noorzai to track down and identify in Drinker of Blood, a seemingly unconquerable monster pulled straight from the pages of mythology—as well as finding the person who summoned it—and, as always, the danger and consequences to humans is not negligible. In addition, there’s a mysterious entity who impacts Caleb and Gray in thoroughly compelling ways, and I have to say that not only did this character layer the plot with an undercurrent of apprehension, there was also an added level of excitement because of the implications and possible complications this character introduces to the overall storyline.
What also is not negligible in this installment of the series is some of the real-world elements, namely a thoroughly bigoted and horrid District Chief Barillo (the comment “so much the f*cker” in my highlights pretty well sums up my feelings about him and the actions he takes at the end of the book), and the straight-from-the-headlines reminder that privilege exists and that some humans, for no moral, ethical, or logical reason, are elevated as more valuable than others (see above comment on that particular subject). The disgust I felt a couple of times during this reading played well against the romance and the danger when all hell broke loose—as it always does for the guys—and then, there’s Caleb and Gray. Their circumstances and the sheer complications and, let’s be real, the loneliness of their very existence grabbed me by the feels. The deftness on Hawk’s part to lay this emotional undercurrent alongside the clear and present threat to the safety of humanity—and watching some of those humans turn on Caleb and Gray—was so well done. It deepened my love for them and John and this series all the more.
Fans of SPECTR and its cast of key and wonderfully diverse role players should be thoroughly geeked by Drinker of Blood; the way Jordan L. Hawk is teasing out this story a bit at a time continues to keep me salivating for more. And, let me just say as a random aside that if there was ever a book series I’d love to see animated, it’s SPECTR. Can you imagine Gray in full living color??? I can, and I want.
Reviewed by Lisa for The Novel Approach Reviews
Whether it’s presented in a historical or contemporary setting, we’ve come to expect a lot from this author and her brand of speculative fiction, and she always manages to deliver. There’s a new enemy in town for John and #TeamGrayleb and Agent Zahira Noorzai to track down and identify in Drinker of Blood, a seemingly unconquerable monster pulled straight from the pages of mythology—as well as finding the person who summoned it—and, as always, the danger and consequences to humans is not negligible. In addition, there’s a mysterious entity who impacts Caleb and Gray in thoroughly compelling ways, and I have to say that not only did this character layer the plot with an undercurrent of apprehension, there was also an added level of excitement because of the implications and possible complications this character introduces to the overall storyline.
What also is not negligible in this installment of the series is some of the real-world elements, namely a thoroughly bigoted and horrid District Chief Barillo (the comment “so much the f*cker” in my highlights pretty well sums up my feelings about him and the actions he takes at the end of the book), and the straight-from-the-headlines reminder that privilege exists and that some humans, for no moral, ethical, or logical reason, are elevated as more valuable than others (see above comment on that particular subject). The disgust I felt a couple of times during this reading played well against the romance and the danger when all hell broke loose—as it always does for the guys—and then, there’s Caleb and Gray. Their circumstances and the sheer complications and, let’s be real, the loneliness of their very existence grabbed me by the feels. The deftness on Hawk’s part to lay this emotional undercurrent alongside the clear and present threat to the safety of humanity—and watching some of those humans turn on Caleb and Gray—was so well done. It deepened my love for them and John and this series all the more.
Fans of SPECTR and its cast of key and wonderfully diverse role players should be thoroughly geeked by Drinker of Blood; the way Jordan L. Hawk is teasing out this story a bit at a time continues to keep me salivating for more. And, let me just say as a random aside that if there was ever a book series I’d love to see animated, it’s SPECTR. Can you imagine Gray in full living color??? I can, and I want.
Reviewed by Lisa for The Novel Approach Reviews
November 1, 2020
November 2020
This was a quick re-read for me to get back into the story... *mumbles* and because I needed two books in a series but book 5 of this series isn't long enough to count for the Amazing Race challenge. ;)
It definitely reminded me of why I really hate Barillo, their District Chief!
Looking forward now to book 4. :)
June 2020
I really dislike District Chief Barillo.......
This was a quick re-read for me to get back into the story... *mumbles* and because I needed two books in a series but book 5 of this series isn't long enough to count for the Amazing Race challenge. ;)
It definitely reminded me of why I really hate Barillo, their District Chief!
Looking forward now to book 4. :)
June 2020
I really dislike District Chief Barillo.......
June 11, 2025
2nd re-read June 2025
June 4, 2019
My frustration with the bureaucracy at SPECTR is starting to overshadow my general enjoyment of the series. Add in the fact that Caleb has started being stupid . . . well.
May 30, 2020
Wow - this one was so interesting and I think their are going to be some big consequences for leaving Jack in the dark. Each man has some big issues that they are grappling with that are straining the relationship. Caleb is feeling trapped in SPECTR and doesn't like his job, Gray wants to hunt and eat and is frustrated with mortal foolishness and of course Jack is struggling with the SPECTR organization and of course the fact that Caleb/Gray have kept a secret about another NHE from him. I really have a bad feeling about the NHE Caleb/Gray have discovered but I'm looking forward to seeing how he fallout of all of this plays out.
March 24, 2017
4.5 stars
This was full of action. I enjoyed the new characters, and the wondering of whether they are good or bad. Felt so bad for Caleb at having his bubble burst... but OMGosh... the ending was definitely of the leaving us hanging type. Eager for the next in the series.
This was full of action. I enjoyed the new characters, and the wondering of whether they are good or bad. Felt so bad for Caleb at having his bubble burst... but OMGosh... the ending was definitely of the leaving us hanging type. Eager for the next in the series.
April 22, 2017
4.3 Stars
OMG that ending...how long before the next one comes out???!??!?!!!
OMG that ending...how long before the next one comes out???!??!?!!!
April 13, 2017
Absence certainly makes the heart grow fonder in case of SPECTR. If I read it back-to-back with the others, like I did with the first series, maybe I would like it less, but as it happened, I enjoyed it a lot.
I'm glad to see lots of developments in this volume (there are even small ones on the sex front). The overarching plot is picking up, and the next couple of books will probably be both exciting and agonizing.
And the new things about drakul - very excited about that. The only thing is, I really don't want this plotline to go the more obvious way, and right now it looks like it will. Please, let me be mistaken.
Bit of Russian nitpicking under spoiler.
I'm glad to see lots of developments in this volume (there are even small ones on the sex front). The overarching plot is picking up, and the next couple of books will probably be both exciting and agonizing.
And the new things about drakul - very excited about that. The only thing is, I really don't want this plotline to go the more obvious way, and right now it looks like it will. Please, let me be mistaken.
Bit of Russian nitpicking under spoiler.
January 31, 2026
Series: SPECTR Series 2 #3
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
This series is getting intense and emotional. In this one, the gang is dealing with a creature with impenetrable skin that is providing a challenge for Gray to fight on his own. On top of that, they are dealing with the constant threats from their boss and dealing with a new entity in town.
I devoured this one. The creature in this one was fascinating because he really gave Gray a challenge with its impenetrable skin. There was also the politics behind why this creature was summoned was heartbreaking and not really surprising when it comes to people with money. We are also introduced to a new being who changes everything for Caleb and Gray. I am interested in knowing more about them now.
John is really struggling to keep up with cases and play the politics needed to keep Caleb and Gray safe, and at his side. I really just wanted to hug him because you could tell he really was struggling. I am so invested in seeing what will happen next with John, Caleb and Gray's relationship because so much was revealed and happens at the end of this but we don’t get to see them talk about it.
Overall, this one was action packed and emotional. I am jumping right into the next one because I need to know what will happen next with everyone.
TW: workplace harassment; prejudice against paranormals; hate crime;
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
This series is getting intense and emotional. In this one, the gang is dealing with a creature with impenetrable skin that is providing a challenge for Gray to fight on his own. On top of that, they are dealing with the constant threats from their boss and dealing with a new entity in town.
I devoured this one. The creature in this one was fascinating because he really gave Gray a challenge with its impenetrable skin. There was also the politics behind why this creature was summoned was heartbreaking and not really surprising when it comes to people with money. We are also introduced to a new being who changes everything for Caleb and Gray. I am interested in knowing more about them now.
John is really struggling to keep up with cases and play the politics needed to keep Caleb and Gray safe, and at his side. I really just wanted to hug him because you could tell he really was struggling. I am so invested in seeing what will happen next with John, Caleb and Gray's relationship because so much was revealed and happens at the end of this but we don’t get to see them talk about it.
Overall, this one was action packed and emotional. I am jumping right into the next one because I need to know what will happen next with everyone.
TW: workplace harassment; prejudice against paranormals; hate crime;
March 26, 2017
4.5/5.0
I love the SPECTR series. All of them. Every time a new books comes out, I am excited and a bit nervous. What is going to happen to our guys?
I had to sit back and think about this one. I am a huge fan of Gray/Caleb and John. Zahira fits in perfectly with the guys in the new series too. This book had a transitional feel to me. Some information is revealed that was brought into focus in the last book. There is more turmoil within the trio and the ending left me feeling off kilter. I am used to the serial style these books are written in and the arc for the NHE mystery was basically left solved but not quite and there are many unanswered questions regarding SPECTR, John, Caleb/Gray, Zahira, the new characters, the influx of NHE's and more. There is a lot going on and I think I will be puzzling over it until the next book. As always, it is fast paced and riveting, just left me with a lot of questions and a bit nervous for the guys.
I am anxiously awaiting the next installment.
I love the SPECTR series. All of them. Every time a new books comes out, I am excited and a bit nervous. What is going to happen to our guys?
I had to sit back and think about this one. I am a huge fan of Gray/Caleb and John. Zahira fits in perfectly with the guys in the new series too. This book had a transitional feel to me. Some information is revealed that was brought into focus in the last book. There is more turmoil within the trio and the ending left me feeling off kilter. I am used to the serial style these books are written in and the arc for the NHE mystery was basically left solved but not quite and there are many unanswered questions regarding SPECTR, John, Caleb/Gray, Zahira, the new characters, the influx of NHE's and more. There is a lot going on and I think I will be puzzling over it until the next book. As always, it is fast paced and riveting, just left me with a lot of questions and a bit nervous for the guys.
I am anxiously awaiting the next installment.
March 14, 2017
Drinker of Blood cannot be read as a standalone and the reader needs to have read the previous books in the series. The WHOLE series.
My comments from earlier books still stand - I enjoy this series because they aren’t overly complicated, I like the characters, there is enough tension to keep me interested, and the premise is interesting. This is like eating my dark chocolate bars – I can consume the whole thing in one sitting, or I can break off pieces as I go. I like breaking off pieces - so I’m a tich biased.
Drinker of Blood picks up after Dancer of Death. John, Caleb and Zahira are barely tolerated by their co-workers and feared by their new Supervisor. Everyone is convinced Caleb is going to go stark raving mad at any moment and take out everyone in a spectacular blood bath. So SPECTER is keeping John and Caleb on a short, tightly controlled leash, which is beginning to chaff Gray.
But something is afoot in Charleston, and Gray and Caleb have been sneaking out at night to hunt this elusive not-demon.
Meanwhile, a series of unconnected murders reveals a college cover-up that has people in high places breathing down SPECTR’s proverbial neck to prevent the secret from coming out. It does anyway and the new Supervisor is beyond pissed, despite Zahira, Grey, John and Caleb taking down a Grendel bent on personal revenge. Granted, they had a little bit of help from a very unexpected source…
So I have to circle back to my one concern with this new series - new SPECTR boss. I still maintain he’s over the top in his animosity, which makes wonder where all this is going to lead.
For those of you who have been following this series, I think you’ll enjoy this one. The Grendel was an interesting monster and worth a second looksee at Beowulf.
Overall, a solid continuation of the SPECTR series with some very interesting developments for John, Zahira, Calab and Grey.
Review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
My comments from earlier books still stand - I enjoy this series because they aren’t overly complicated, I like the characters, there is enough tension to keep me interested, and the premise is interesting. This is like eating my dark chocolate bars – I can consume the whole thing in one sitting, or I can break off pieces as I go. I like breaking off pieces - so I’m a tich biased.
Drinker of Blood picks up after Dancer of Death. John, Caleb and Zahira are barely tolerated by their co-workers and feared by their new Supervisor. Everyone is convinced Caleb is going to go stark raving mad at any moment and take out everyone in a spectacular blood bath. So SPECTER is keeping John and Caleb on a short, tightly controlled leash, which is beginning to chaff Gray.
But something is afoot in Charleston, and Gray and Caleb have been sneaking out at night to hunt this elusive not-demon.
Meanwhile, a series of unconnected murders reveals a college cover-up that has people in high places breathing down SPECTR’s proverbial neck to prevent the secret from coming out. It does anyway and the new Supervisor is beyond pissed, despite Zahira, Grey, John and Caleb taking down a Grendel bent on personal revenge. Granted, they had a little bit of help from a very unexpected source…
So I have to circle back to my one concern with this new series - new SPECTR boss. I still maintain he’s over the top in his animosity, which makes wonder where all this is going to lead.
For those of you who have been following this series, I think you’ll enjoy this one. The Grendel was an interesting monster and worth a second looksee at Beowulf.
Overall, a solid continuation of the SPECTR series with some very interesting developments for John, Zahira, Calab and Grey.
Review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
January 4, 2020
Audiobook 3⭐️⭐️⭐️, Story 4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!!
Caleb and Gray start keeping secrets from John. 🤥
Gray meets an NHE he cannot handle. 😱😱
John and Gray’s boss is a command total asshole and I have a hard time buying that someone is that openly hostile. 🤬🤬
Caleb likes his PASS support group time. 🤗
Killings are running SPECTR agents ragged. 🥴
We learn about Gray’s past “behind the veil.”🤭
Old friends come calling. 🥳
FABULOUS story. The audiobook was not Langer’s best. See, I’m binge listening to SPECTR 2 and his voices change from book to book. I find it annoying. Still, I’ll keep on!
My rec? Of course!! This one is awesome! (Although I knew who summoned this book’s NHE even if I didn’t know why)!!
Caleb and Gray start keeping secrets from John. 🤥
Gray meets an NHE he cannot handle. 😱😱
John and Gray’s boss is a command total asshole and I have a hard time buying that someone is that openly hostile. 🤬🤬
Caleb likes his PASS support group time. 🤗
Killings are running SPECTR agents ragged. 🥴
We learn about Gray’s past “behind the veil.”🤭
Old friends come calling. 🥳
FABULOUS story. The audiobook was not Langer’s best. See, I’m binge listening to SPECTR 2 and his voices change from book to book. I find it annoying. Still, I’ll keep on!
My rec? Of course!! This one is awesome! (Although I knew who summoned this book’s NHE even if I didn’t know why)!!
April 7, 2022
Despite most every case in this series being similar and Gray's super powers always saving the day, I liked the dynamics between Caleb, John and Gray. The first part of the book was okay, then I really didn't care about the angle the story took. Deception of any kind in established couples rubs me the wrong way and makes me very tense. I was not looking forward to reading the second part and had to skim some paragraphs. The other part that really stuck in my craw was the entire power balance in SPECTR office and their supervisor, Barillo. Why? It hurt to read. I am pausing the series for now. I read the next blurbs and they made me tense up even more.
September 21, 2018
Oh this was good. I love all the new characters introduced this season so far (except the shithead chief, obviously), Zahira is absolutely wonderful, Yuri and Dru are adorable and I really hope they don't turn out to be the bad guys (watch me eat my words) and the relationship between John, Caleb and Gray is still absolutely sweet. On to the next one!
own-but-not-read-yet
November 20, 2019Thank you Palm Tree Elf. I now have books 1-4, my collection is almost complete. :)
August 14, 2024
4+⭐
Things start to finally happen with the bigger plot, the second novella felt like a filler. The injustice is palpable, I was so annoyed! Couldn't Gray just eat them all?
Things start to finally happen with the bigger plot, the second novella felt like a filler. The injustice is palpable, I was so annoyed! Couldn't Gray just eat them all?
March 18, 2017
Oh I've missed these "three"!
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