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History believes me to be a merciless savage. A terror upon the Earth known as The Impaler. Archaic lore whispers I am the first of the vampire lineage.

These claims ... are all painted in bloody truth.

Now, while the world watches in fear, a war is brewing. Humans are targeting vampires in merciless attacks to force us back into the shadows.

They woke me to be their weapon.
They know not my loathing for my own kind.
Even I cannot say for certain whose side I’m on.

I have bowed before the alter of darkness rooted in the Nosferatu bloodline. Been forced to drink of its bitter sacrament. They refer to me as The Son of The Dragon, and I laugh. For I, alone, know that malevolent essence is one no man could ever tame.

204 pages, Paperback

First published November 18, 2018

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Stacey Rourke

62 books715 followers

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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for Movies, Shows, & Books.
322 reviews10 followers
November 24, 2018
Note: This review contains NO spoilers

Oh... My... Goodness! I am still reeling after turning the last page. Just when I thought Veiled was... "WHOA!" I finish Vlad! And... My mind is blown! For something that Stacey said she would never right, she has gone beyond incredible with this series. The well-developed characters, the eerie world-building made this a deliciously sinister story. The suspense and drama was evident, especially with the romantic tensions between characters. This second installment is told in alternating, past and present, views in which it ties together the storyline and characters involved. It works! Without knowing Vlad's past, we wouldn't understand the connection of what is happening in the present. Nicely done!

I would highly recommend reading Veiled before diving into this gripping urban fantasy. Not only that, Stacey intertwined various character names from popular literature that will be very familiar. This is definitely a riveting tale of the paranormal fantasy with twists and turns on the classic Dracula lore that we all have seen and read growing up. But, of course, this had to end with a cliffhanger! But... Whoa! What a cliffhanger!!!???!!! That's one reason why I am still reeling with a bunch of mixed up feels... That cliffhanger! Don't get me wrong, I am not saying I hate cliffhangers, but the ability of the author to make me cringe with frustration knowing that I will have to wait impatiently to find out what will happen next... Really!?! Stacey Rourke accomplished it... AGAIN!!! Now, I just need the next book now, Stacey!!! 😉

Reviewer: Jasmine

Disclaimer: We received a free copy for an honest review. All is my own opinion.
Profile Image for Cheree Castellanos Edits.
286 reviews26 followers
November 8, 2018
WOW!! Absolutely, without a doubt, the best Dracula story I've ever read! It's really hard to top the first book or movie in any series, but it is done here with such effortless ease that it is simply mind blowing!
Veiled was a book to be reckoned with, full of brand new twists on a vampire story, mingled with politics, and laced with laughs in typical Rourke fashion, leaving you in shock and dying for more! Well you will not be disappointed! Not only do we get more of the story that you've been anxiously waiting for, but it will leave you in a state of shock with your heart racing and your fingers flying through the pages, but you also get get Vlad's story... I have no words. Not one, you just have to read this awesomesauce! But be warned, you will laugh, you will cry, both of these a lot, and you will feel a connection to these characters and their story that will make you will literally feel your heart breaking.
An absolute, cannot miss, must read. You really can't go wrong when you pick up a Stacey Rourke book, and she just can't seem to stop outdoing herself!
Profile Image for Belle's Book Labyrinth.
172 reviews88 followers
May 20, 2020
***READ VEILED FIRST BEFORE READING VLAD***

So while the first book Veiled, was interesting and I overall liked it, Vlad seriously made up for it all. This is one amazing story and really sent this series flying high. I loved the dark, gothic tones, the history of Vlad in which the author really gives us solid, character background and development, and the snarkiness of Vinx. There is witty banter, many twists and turns, and a FREAKIN' cliff hanger that left me wanting more while also being angry at the author for leaving me hanging like that. This kept me very engaged and I can't wait to see where the next book will take us!
Profile Image for Niamh Hunter.
72 reviews1 follower
November 22, 2018
Praise be to Vlad! I loved it more than I expected to. While Vinx was the story in Veiled, we saw Vlad from a new perspective in this book. The history of his becoming, the pain of losses and the power of his character made me adore the famed king of the vampires.

I found it amazing. It was an excellent read and all I wanted was to read more.....

But the CLIFFHANGER!!!! You left me on a cliffhanger!!!!!!

Excellent work
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2022
Wow this book is intense!!

The characters were amazing!! We loved getting to know Vlad and Vinx. They were such strong characters!! My husband said that all the characters were great and found them very fascinating!!

The storyline was incredible, intriguing and sometimes intense. It's very well written and very addicting.

The narrators were phenomenal and kept us entertained from beginning to end. We loved how they were able to change their voices to fit each character and how they could convey conviction and were consistent throughout the story. We highly recommend this book!!
216 reviews1 follower
November 26, 2018
Wait...what?!? Holy plot twist, Batman. I did not see that ending coming at all. Wow!! *shakes head* Ok, on with the review.
I love Stacey Rourke's characters. It's one of the many things that drew me to her writing. That being said, I never thought any of her characters would ever replace Ireland Crane as my favorite. Yeah, Vinx just blew her out of the water. Vinx is strong, smart, funny and tends to bury her feelings in snark. Something I know absolutely nothing about. *tries to look innocent, fails miserably* She's a hero but not your traditional hero much like she is a vampire but not your traditional vampire. She has the ability to to inspire a great deal of loyalty in those around her even though she has no idea why. Unfortunately, that loyalty can have dire consequences.
I have to admit that I have long been fascinated by Vlad Tepes. He really is an interesting historic figure. Most people know him as The Impaler. A man so dark he inspired Bram Stoker's vampire. Yet in his own country, there are many who still see him as a hero, a legend. That's what I love about history. It's all about peeling back those layers to find the truth that lies somewhere between myth and legend. So I really appreciated that Rourke included many historical details in her version of The Son of the Dragon. For example, when most people think of what he looked like, they think of a man with dark, flowing locks, dark cruel eyes and a big funky mustache. In actuality, Vlad is know to have had green eyes and many contemporary sources say that he actually had blonde hair. This is how Rourke portrays him. It is the little details like that that give this character that added layer of depth.
The story, itself, is fast paced and almost impossible to put down. Although, there were a few times I had to stop just to process all of the twists and turns. The story lifts you to the highest of highs before plummeting to the deepest lows. Yes, I cried. I also laughed my tail feathers off. Needless to say, the book left me with one heck of a book hangover. I highly recommend this book and series.
Profile Image for Marissa.
516 reviews
January 3, 2019
Vlad is the second installment in the Veiled series and picks up right where Veiled left off. Vinx seeks out Vlad (yes, that Vlad) to help save the world from falling apart due to human-vampire clashes from events of the first book. Little does Vinx know what can of worms she is about to open.

The book is told from alternating points of view of Vinx, our spunky kick butt heroine from Veiled, and Vlad, the infamous father of all vampires who was briefly introduced in Veiled. Vlad's chapters predominantly take place in the past, allowing Ms. Rourke to tell two stories in one book. I've read a handful of retellings of Vlad's story, but Ms. Rourke managed to uniquely create her own vision of the events in his life that made him who he is. Vlad's story is by no means a happy one, full of betrayals and violence. As a reader, I absolutely appreciated the attention paid to this part of the book since it provided a good backstory to explain Vlad's character.

Vinx continues to provide readers with her humorous, sarcastic dialogue as a coping mechanism when it comes to difficult emotional situations. Her cast of close friends are also present and play some major supporting roles and feature in some of the stories biggest twists. The relationship that develops between Vinx and Vlad was well written and lays the groundwork for some interesting storytelling in future installments in the series. Readers should be aware that Ms. Rourke's vampires tend to be pretty violent and gory. This book does end on a cliffhanger and I am absolutely looking forward to the next book. Highly recommend this book/series for fellow vampire fanatics or Vlad fans.
Profile Image for Sebanti.
101 reviews10 followers
November 29, 2018
IT is pretty hard to top the first book of a series, but Vlad just did that and on top of that it just blew me off. I’m still reeling from the ending. God knows I’d need another 7 days to recover. The gothic atmosphere, sinister setting, dark environment and enchanting portrayal of past and present just makes this book more fantastical. I find the fact very intriguing how the author blends the past and present seamlessly. I believe that it is very justified because without knowing his past we would be incapable to understanding his present. Another fact is the interesting undercurrents in the story. The sublime romantic attachments that the c characters shares with each other make the story much more mysterious and dare I say delicious. I’m actually a very big fan of vampire stories. My first classic reading was Dracula by Bram Stoker and it is still my one of the best read ever. But this book really got me like it has everything which a dark fantasy lover will love. But I won’t recommend it to someone who hates dark stories. But I highly doubt that anyone who loves vampire stories/gothic/supernatural/dark stories will NOT love it.
Hands down, it one of my best read this year. And definitely one of the best vampire stories I’ve read ever.
Visit this link to read an interview with the author along with a fabulous giveaway!
https://ensnaringlibri.blogspot.com/2...
Profile Image for Autumn.
2,144 reviews38 followers
November 24, 2018
I received an ARC to give an honest review.



Okay, now we get to see the real vampire the one they call Vlad we get to see how he became who he is. Yet, can he help put a stop to the evil that will be lurking and coming out among the humans? The only main issue I had with the book is that there needs to be something that lets us readers know when there is a change between people. I kept getting confused as to whose scene it was and I had to flip back a few pages so often.

I had a few questions throughout the book yet, I do not want to give away anything so I won't post them here.

I really liked how we get a twist on the king of vampires so to speak, and how we get the past of Vlad. I think his past is what really made the book really good. It helped us understand who he is and what he will be willing to do to stop those from hurting those he loves.

The whole relationship between Vinx and Vlad it just screams superior and I can see them two causing all sorts of havoc if need be.

The author did a good job with the twist at the end and I loved how this book wasn't a happy ending. I can tell there is going to be more and I hope that Dorian is ready. As I know Vinx is going to be capable of so much death that I wonder exactly how this will all go down. Who will be in her way, will she spare anyone?
Profile Image for Joyffree.
2,909 reviews47 followers
November 26, 2018
NO WAY! WHEN? HOW??
This is book two in the series and NO it is not standalone - and YES it ends on a bit of a plot twist "OMG HOW NO" moment - YES I am still reeling from all the twists and turns and how book two concluded and lawd do I have questions- I really need book three now!
In Vlad, all of our faves are back and all I can say is hold on because you are in for one hell-aciously wild ride! How Rourke topped the suspense and action from Veiled I am not sure but she did.
I want to do this without spoilers because even the tiniest little thing can ruin how the heart-stopping fist clenching moments from Vlad play out for its reader
Vincenza is still a feisty spunky handful who lacks the brain to mouth filter that could reduce her number of "collisions" but then again that is what makes her such fun - She is still
With the introduction of Vlad we get to go back in time and see how this all started. The story-line flows seamlessly between Vlad's past and the present highlighting and providing background for what is happening. And just wait for it .. I was so not prepared for all the events that occurred, usually, I am really good and breadcrumb trails
This is one of those must read series - complex, detailed, entertaining.
1,399 reviews10 followers
November 27, 2018
Ok, Stacey Rourke, ok. We all get it. You are officially the master of all the things.

Readers, if you are familiar with Ms. Rourke, or if this is your first adventure with this lovely author, let me be the first to tell you that your encounter in these pages will make your head spin in the best possible way.

Think you’ve read all the various ways Dracula and vampires could possibly be explored? Nope. Wrong. Rourke has turned the classic tale of Dracula on its head and immersed the reader in a world that feels so tangible that you expect to turn on your news to read the headlines plastered throughout the pages.

So if you don’t like surprises, edge of your seat plot twists, characters so real and sarcastic you will find yourself wanting to hug them or friend them or be them or be bitten by them...then put the book down slowly and ease out of the room. However, if this sounds like your cup of tea, take a seat. And buckle up. Because this ride will take you on a path you won’t anticipate!!
Profile Image for Kirstian.
66 reviews62 followers
December 18, 2018
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

To put it plainly, Stacey knows how to write a remarkable vampire story. Vlad is not your typical Dracula story and I absolutely love it! After reading Veiled, I could not wait to start Vlad, I think it took me a total of 6 days to complete both books. If not for the Thanksgiving holiday I would have probably finished them much sooner. With the help of my trusty Kindle I was able to stay up late and consume as much of this book as I possibly could.

Vlad is a captivating, detailed mix between myth, legend, and history. We have returning characters along with some new ones. The back and forth between the past and present were written in a way that it flowed together almost seamlessly. I did not find myself losing track of the time or what was taking place. The story will take you on a ride that you will not forget. It does end on a cliffhanger ending that will leave you spinning. All in all, this story was absolutely stunning!

This is book 2 of the Veiled series so I highly recommend reading book 1 first!
November 26, 2018
I need MORE!

What an amazing follow up to the first book, Veiled. (This book is definitely not a standalone. You will need to read book one or risk confusion most of this book.) Ironically, this book brings awareness to hate, fear, unwarranted judgments and painting a particular group in false light in a time where society is doing the same. This book is fast-paced and delicious. Stacey does a fabulous job of bringing the old legend of Dracula into a new modern day story. It focuses more on Vinx and Vlad’s budding relationship and using it to solve the unjust war on immortals. Vinx and Vlad seemed destined to be together or are they?? There is a cliffhanger ending so I am already eagerly awaiting book three of the series. I’m hoping they get their HEA. This book is a good choice for fans of vampire tales and for those wanting a fun entertaining read. I did receive this book as an ARC for review. I have since purchased the book.
Profile Image for Lynn  2 Girls & A Book.
632 reviews17 followers
November 24, 2018
***You must read Veiled first.

Dracula has always been sexy and suave in all the books and movies, but Rourke's Dracula is HAWT! Vlad has old school charm, a bit if awkwardness, and is simply swoon worthy. He fills out a three piece suit like a GQ cover model. (Rarrr)

Rourke weaves in Vlad's backstory seamlessly; and its not the overdone version either. Her version while steeped in history has her own twist.

The wit and snark of Vincenza is ever present in Vlad. She is one of my favorite characters.

Vlad is quite the page turner. I read it in one day! Secrets are revealed to Vincenza. Life altering decisions are made. There's romance! (Did I tell you how HAWT Vlad is?) And the ending!!!!! Hold on to your seats cause hell hath no fury like a scorned woman. ALL HAIL THE QUEEN!
Profile Image for Kira Assad.
998 reviews
November 27, 2018
I am thrilled with Vlad, the second book in the Veiled series! Not only did we receive a wonderful backstory of Vlad and how he came to be the first vampire (along with some other legends from popular literature mixed in), but we see these intersections between that time and the present with Vinx and the other characters introduced in the first book. This book was a whirlwind of wondering what might happen next. Then add on that killer ending, it may leave you in a cliffhanger, but wow it was a fun ride of a story! You will definitely want to read Veiled before reading Vlad though. I can't WAIT for book 3 in this series!
Profile Image for Jo.
1,451 reviews11 followers
November 25, 2018
Warning – this is not a standalone story – please do read Veiled before starting Vlad or risk being horribly confused!

OK. So, the book. Well I have a big problem with this story – it’s just too short! I wanted more. More Vlad. More Vincenza. Just more of everything.

This is a clever book. The legend of Vlad the Impaler woven into the fabric of this very modern Vampire story gives it an extra twist. Dark, dangerous and, frankly, delicious.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Profile Image for Paranormal Tendencies.
247 reviews17 followers
November 19, 2018
Another winner from Stacey Rourke! I enjoy everything she writes and am always looking forward to what she writes next. This story of Vicenza, her team and the recruitment of Vlad to their cause is an exciting one! From the beginning to the crazy cliffhanger, this book will have you on the edge of your seat. And most likely, you’ll be panting for more. This one gets 5 stars from me.
Stacey please, for the love of Vlad, write the next one really fast!!

Profile Image for Amanda.
80 reviews1 follower
November 27, 2018
Vlad is an amazing follow up to Veiled. I would recommend that you read Veiled first and then Vlad. So you know what going on. I love Stacey’s take on the vampires and Vlad. This book will have you hooked from page one. I really enjoyed the chemistry between Vlad and Vinx. I really liked the back story of Vlad and the evil Dorian! This is another must read from Stacey.
Profile Image for Mariah Garell.
61 reviews1 follower
December 1, 2018
Honest and dark

This book offers a peek into the mind of not only our favorite pseudo-vamp lady, but the king of vampires himself - Vlad. I enjoyed reading about his fall (which, given how he was able to cling to his beliefs even despite his darkness, didn't seem like a fall at all). My only complaint? Over too quickly. Need more!
Profile Image for Amber Shepherd.
124 reviews3 followers
April 17, 2019
Stacey Rourke is one of the most underrated indie authors. I am absolutely OBSESSED with this series. She somehow manages to make a battle between vampires and humans full of action, romance, and a shit load of hilarity. I laughed so hard reading this book multiple times. I absolutely cant wait for the next one.
Profile Image for Beverly.
247 reviews33 followers
November 28, 2018
Loved it

This is a fresh look on Vlad's story. The second in a greAt series.I am glad Stacey Rourke decided to write vampires . It is awesome I highly recommend this boom,series and author.
Profile Image for Brynn Myers.
Author 21 books178 followers
June 6, 2020
OMG!!! I am grabbing Vendetta STAT!

Vlad. Vinx. The wedding. Despicable Dorian! Read this series. It's fantastic! I cannot wait to see how this ends. For all you vampire lovers, this is a must read.
Profile Image for J.A. Cintron.
Author 3 books24 followers
November 27, 2018
Oh damn, this is so good like so so good! The first book was OK, since it was a different thing for me but, oh this one was another thing all together! I can't wait for more!
35 reviews
February 23, 2019
Not Boring

It was a little predictable st times. There were brought characters and sub=plots that the story really keeps you enguaged. I enjoyed the book and read it all night.
Profile Image for Christy.
192 reviews6 followers
September 10, 2019
Start to finsh perfect

This is the Vampire series I been waiting on. All i can say is Long Live the Queen. Stacey gives us what we dont expect.
Profile Image for Mandie.
660 reviews34 followers
May 18, 2020
Oh wow! I absolutely loved Vlad’s story! So unforgettable! I loved these characters!
Profile Image for TJ.
318 reviews31 followers
November 27, 2018
OH MY GOD! I mean I really didn't think I would read, much less love, another vampire book. Stacey Rourke proved me wrong with Veiled , book 1 in the series, and my love for this series has just grown with book 2.

Vlad follows Vinx and the gang as they set to expose the current situations in the Nosferatu community. This is book 2 in the series and I would highly recommend reading the first book before you read this one.

The Veiled Series has such a different take on the whole Vampire genre of books that I find myself just so very deeply invested in all that is going on in this book world. I love how Stacey Rourke integrated the story of Vlad the Impaler and Dracula into this series/book world. I am always left in awe of how flawlessly the story just FITS!

I loved the backstories and flashbacks, if you have been reading my reviews for a while you know I love a good backstory. I also enjoyed the switching POVs, I think it made for a really well rounded story overall. As always, I loved the writing style and the trademark Stacey Rourke sarcasm and wit.

And can we talk about the ending!? YAAASSS QUEEN!! I LOVED it.

Incredible and exciting. Can't wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Lynn  2 Girls & A Book.
632 reviews17 followers
May 20, 2020
Dracula has always been sexy and suave in all the books and movies, but Rourke's Dracula is HAWT! Vlad has old school charm, a bit if awkwardness, and is simply swoon worthy. He fills out a three-piece suit like a GQ cover model. (Rarrr)

Rourke weaves in Vlad's backstory seamlessly; and its not the overdone version either. Her version while steeped in history has her own twist.

The wit and snark of Vincenza is ever present in Vlad. She is one of my favorite characters.

Vlad is quite the page turner. I read it in one day! Secrets are revealed to Vincenza. Life altering decisions are made. There's romance! (Did I tell you how HAWT Vlad is?) And the ending!!!!! Hold on to your seats cause hell hath no fury like a scorned woman. ALL HAIL THE QUEEN!
December 10, 2018
Vlad is the second book in the Veiled series. While I had access to the first book, I chose not to read it in order, and instead allowed Vlad to speak for itself.

Vlad is told from a shifting perspective, from Vlad to Vincenza, or Vinx as she is known to her friends. It also jumps from Vlad's past to the present, which made for a confusing mix at first. This is not my favorite thing. Unless it's properly delineated, I have a difficult time switching gears in mid-story. Once I caught the rhythm of the story, it was much better.

Read more at Cats Luv Coffee
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