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VRC: Vampire Related Crimes #4
How to Save a Human
River
When I meet Bentley DeGray, I’m at the lowest point in my life because no matter how much I fight, my past won’t let me escape. Bentley makes me laugh and care and love, but what does any of that mean when I’m living a lie?
Things get complicated when I find out he’s with the Vampire Related Crimes Unit, the organization looking for answers about the abductions of prominent vampires.
The same organization that stands in my way.
My time is ticking down while I’m wound up in this role I’ve been forced to play, but I know that I would be drowning without Bentley by my side.
Bentley
We’re facing something that runs so deep that we don’t know who we can trust besides each other, even within the VRC. River makes me feel like every day is worth living and enjoying—like I’m not so alone. I can’t imagine life without him. But I know that if I want to keep him by my side, I will need to do everything I can to help him so our love doesn’t get cut short before it can truly grow.
How to Save a Human contains a cat who shows her affection by not drawing (much) blood, art projects that are a little… sketchy, the most underwhelming “bull” ride ever, and vampires that may or may not be in the mob
When I meet Bentley DeGray, I’m at the lowest point in my life because no matter how much I fight, my past won’t let me escape. Bentley makes me laugh and care and love, but what does any of that mean when I’m living a lie?
Things get complicated when I find out he’s with the Vampire Related Crimes Unit, the organization looking for answers about the abductions of prominent vampires.
The same organization that stands in my way.
My time is ticking down while I’m wound up in this role I’ve been forced to play, but I know that I would be drowning without Bentley by my side.
Bentley
We’re facing something that runs so deep that we don’t know who we can trust besides each other, even within the VRC. River makes me feel like every day is worth living and enjoying—like I’m not so alone. I can’t imagine life without him. But I know that if I want to keep him by my side, I will need to do everything I can to help him so our love doesn’t get cut short before it can truly grow.
How to Save a Human contains a cat who shows her affection by not drawing (much) blood, art projects that are a little… sketchy, the most underwhelming “bull” ride ever, and vampires that may or may not be in the mob
345 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 6, 2020
301 people are currently reading
726 people want to read
About the author
Alice Winters
60 books2,694 followersAlice Winters started writing stories as soon as she was old enough to turn her ideas into written words. She loves writing a variety of things from romance and comedy to action. She also enjoys reading, horseback riding, and spending time with her pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 290 reviews
December 2, 2020
Have you ever read a book where the cover actually ruined it for you? I'm not talking about a bad or cheesy cover, which can be very fun it its own way. I mean that the cover model ruined the character because once that person was in your head - and you were definitely NOT attracted - it was stuck. That's what happened here. Because this cover model looks like Burt from Raising Hope who is as far from sexy as any human can be. Behold Burt:
Okay, maybe he's a little bit funny. But NOT sexy. Dumb isn't sexy.
Anyway, this guy was Burt in my eyes and the sexy scenes were like imagining my grandparents sex life. That is heinous. Even more so because they are all dead.
So this book is about a side character who has been around the whole time. But, here's the problem: he was never interesting at all. He was the mild-mannered boring guy who was in the background. Never once did he say anything funny, interesting, or even jerky - which would have been something at least. He was a placeholder at the Academy Awards. Nobody wants to see Timothée Chalamet's chair with Bob Smith sitting in it. Just wait until he gets back from the bathroom. Sheesh!
*gasps* How Fucking Dare You???? Timmy is the realest boy that heaven ever sent to bless the earth with his presence!
The love interest, River, was better, but the problem there was that his personality kind of morphed into the personality of Finn (guy from the first book) a bit. There were too many similarities.
The main point of my rant is that sometimes it's better not to write a whole book on side characters who never had much spark in the original books. It's like substituting chocolate with carob. If you don't have the right thing starting out (chocolate), then for god's sakes just let it go! Because whatever you create will be subpar. And, in the case of carob - inedible.
Okay, maybe he's a little bit funny. But NOT sexy. Dumb isn't sexy.
Anyway, this guy was Burt in my eyes and the sexy scenes were like imagining my grandparents sex life. That is heinous. Even more so because they are all dead.
So this book is about a side character who has been around the whole time. But, here's the problem: he was never interesting at all. He was the mild-mannered boring guy who was in the background. Never once did he say anything funny, interesting, or even jerky - which would have been something at least. He was a placeholder at the Academy Awards. Nobody wants to see Timothée Chalamet's chair with Bob Smith sitting in it. Just wait until he gets back from the bathroom. Sheesh!
*gasps* How Fucking Dare You???? Timmy is the realest boy that heaven ever sent to bless the earth with his presence!
The love interest, River, was better, but the problem there was that his personality kind of morphed into the personality of Finn (guy from the first book) a bit. There were too many similarities.
The main point of my rant is that sometimes it's better not to write a whole book on side characters who never had much spark in the original books. It's like substituting chocolate with carob. If you don't have the right thing starting out (chocolate), then for god's sakes just let it go! Because whatever you create will be subpar. And, in the case of carob - inedible.
July 20, 2025
✅ Funny moments
✅ Characters
✅ 2 POVs
✅ Pace
✅(🆗) Time jumps
✅(🆗) Intrigue
✅🆗 Romance (almost insta-love)
❗️❗️ Trigger warnings: mention of terminal illness and death of family members, human trafficking, abduction, and captivity
_______________________
Second read: The plot is good, but I struggled once again with the romance because it almost felt like insta-love.
_______________________
3.5 stars
After surviving abuse by vampires, River is very determined to get his revenge, even if it means doing illegal things. Things get complicated, though, after he meets the kind and funny Bentley, a vampire. Even worse, a vampire working in the VRC, and a vampire River is starting to have feelings for.
This book also takes place between events in the first, second, and third books, but I recommend reading the first three books before reading this one to get a more complete picture. This way, you will not be spoiled about events of the first three books either. This book explored darker themes, such as terminal illness and the imminent death of loved ones, but it was well-balanced with humor, a cute romance, and a mystery to solve, making the book engaging and entertaining despite its heavier parts.
Bentley is not a bad main character, he is super nice and sweet, but at the same time, he was so kind and tolerated everything River said or did, it almost felt like he had no personality at times. He was just always too nice and smiley, even when he was supposed to be angry, I didn't feel it, or only for a few moments, before he immediately forgave River and went on with their romance.
River and Bentley’s interactions reminded me of Marcus and Finn’s in the first two books, except that they are both sarcastic and joking around. They made me smile many times, it was nice, honestly, because I didn’t care much about Bentley, to begin with, so I wasn’t sure if I would get invested in his story. I have to say, though, that even if they made me smile and laugh a lot at first, I found their jokes to be a little redundant after a while. River was the sassy one in their duo, but it did not always seem natural…
Honestly, I felt like Finn, Marcus, Claude, and Alexei stole the show. The parts where I laughed the most are the parts where they’re there. Not that River and Bentley were not funny, but they can’t compare to the silliness of the others. Their few car trips were hilarious, and I was so happy every time I caught a glimpse of them.
The romance was cute, and I liked seeing how Bentley was willing to do stupid and crazy things just to make River happy. He was also willing to take huge risks for River, which I admire, and I found it cute. It was weird at first, though, because in the first three books, Bentley is always the quiet and serious one, so seeing him do those silly things and say all those jokes felt a little out of character, but I got used to it. Again, they were cute but not as captivating as the other couples in this series.
That being said, the pace at which their relationship progressed gave the feeling that this was almost an insta-romance. It was obvious from the start that there was a connection between River and Bentley, and I love how their flirting began, but it turned into deep feelings and “I would do anything for you” declaration too quickly for my taste. I prefer when the romance develops a little slower.
Special mention to Banshee the cat, who was an awesome supporting character in the cast of this book. 👌
1. How to Vex a Vampire ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. How to Elude a Vampire ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
3. How to Lure a Hunter ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Follow me on Instagram 🙂
✅ Characters
✅ 2 POVs
✅ Pace
✅(🆗) Time jumps
✅(🆗) Intrigue
✅🆗 Romance (almost insta-love)
❗️❗️ Trigger warnings: mention of terminal illness and death of family members, human trafficking, abduction, and captivity
_______________________
Second read: The plot is good, but I struggled once again with the romance because it almost felt like insta-love.
_______________________
3.5 stars
That was the day I died. That was the day my parents were given the news and were left to mourn for me. That was the day the vampires decided that they’d tear my life away from me, and now… now I’m going to ruin their lives. I’m going to destroy them all.
After surviving abuse by vampires, River is very determined to get his revenge, even if it means doing illegal things. Things get complicated, though, after he meets the kind and funny Bentley, a vampire. Even worse, a vampire working in the VRC, and a vampire River is starting to have feelings for.
This book also takes place between events in the first, second, and third books, but I recommend reading the first three books before reading this one to get a more complete picture. This way, you will not be spoiled about events of the first three books either. This book explored darker themes, such as terminal illness and the imminent death of loved ones, but it was well-balanced with humor, a cute romance, and a mystery to solve, making the book engaging and entertaining despite its heavier parts.
“Well hello there, normal detective.”
“Is… Is that what I am?” I ask, confused.
“Well, yes. Karsyn’s the sexy one, Marcus is the evil one, and Finn is the loud one.”
“Who are you calling loud?” Finn shouts.
“See?” Claude asks with a grin. “Loud.”
Bentley is not a bad main character, he is super nice and sweet, but at the same time, he was so kind and tolerated everything River said or did, it almost felt like he had no personality at times. He was just always too nice and smiley, even when he was supposed to be angry, I didn't feel it, or only for a few moments, before he immediately forgave River and went on with their romance.
So far all I know about you is that on occasion you turn into a bat, you like meat pies, and you’re into unicorn porn.”
“Are any actually bulls?”
“Shhh, just pretend those droopy things are testicles.”
“Their udders?” I ask.
“Testicles.”
“Four of them?”
He looks so amused by this that I can’t keep the huge smile I’m wearing at bay. “Yep. Special bulls,” he says before pointing at a tall stout one who is scrutinizing us.
River and Bentley’s interactions reminded me of Marcus and Finn’s in the first two books, except that they are both sarcastic and joking around. They made me smile many times, it was nice, honestly, because I didn’t care much about Bentley, to begin with, so I wasn’t sure if I would get invested in his story. I have to say, though, that even if they made me smile and laugh a lot at first, I found their jokes to be a little redundant after a while. River was the sassy one in their duo, but it did not always seem natural…
“Alexei, let me sit on your lap,” Claude says as he climbs in. The moment he’s in, the car takes off and he falls into all of our laps. Even though Finn is the smallest of us, he gets the roomy front seat as the four of us have to cram into the back while Claude crushes my nuts with his hand. “Whoops. Alexei, I accidentally fondled Bentley, what should I do?” Claude asks.
Although no one else calls me by my first name much, he now seems to think he’s on a first-name basis with everyone in the group.
“Maybe go home?” Alexei says. “You’re not sitting on my lap. Climb in the far back.”
Claude looks at me. “Since we already made it to third base, how about a bit of lap time?” he asks as he climbs onto my lap without waiting for permission.
Honestly, I felt like Finn, Marcus, Claude, and Alexei stole the show. The parts where I laughed the most are the parts where they’re there. Not that River and Bentley were not funny, but they can’t compare to the silliness of the others. Their few car trips were hilarious, and I was so happy every time I caught a glimpse of them.
(…) but he’s cute, so I let him do anything he wants. Which… seems to be the story of our life so far.
The romance was cute, and I liked seeing how Bentley was willing to do stupid and crazy things just to make River happy. He was also willing to take huge risks for River, which I admire, and I found it cute. It was weird at first, though, because in the first three books, Bentley is always the quiet and serious one, so seeing him do those silly things and say all those jokes felt a little out of character, but I got used to it. Again, they were cute but not as captivating as the other couples in this series.
That being said, the pace at which their relationship progressed gave the feeling that this was almost an insta-romance. It was obvious from the start that there was a connection between River and Bentley, and I love how their flirting began, but it turned into deep feelings and “I would do anything for you” declaration too quickly for my taste. I prefer when the romance develops a little slower.
(...) his cries seem to sate Banshee who climbs onto his head and just sits down. “Your cat’s butthole is on my cheek.”
“She just got done licking it, so it’s fine!”
“You know she’s doing this to try to kill me, right? Last night, I woke up with her on my face suffocating me. If I were human, I would have died.”
“Your cat is evil!” Bentley says.
“Evil but cute, right?” I ask as Banshee wraps herself around Bentley’s leg and proceeds to rear her head back, mouth open before chomping down. “Gosh, look how cute she is!”
Special mention to Banshee the cat, who was an awesome supporting character in the cast of this book. 👌
1. How to Vex a Vampire ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. How to Elude a Vampire ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
3. How to Lure a Hunter ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Follow me on Instagram 🙂
November 15, 2020
Review to come...
September 19, 2023
3.5 Stars
Revisiting this series was a breeze, but be forewarned it runs parallel to books 2 and 3 which was quite the different route to take.
This was a lot more sedate than the previous installments - not as outrageous, not as silly. The humor was all in the banter which was playful and sweet. The action suspense wasn’t as high either but the hurt comfort was to the max and the trials Winters puts her MC’s through are difficult to overcome but always with a satisfying win.
Overall, really easy reading, and I look forward to another Marcus and Finn book coming soon!
Revisiting this series was a breeze, but be forewarned it runs parallel to books 2 and 3 which was quite the different route to take.
This was a lot more sedate than the previous installments - not as outrageous, not as silly. The humor was all in the banter which was playful and sweet. The action suspense wasn’t as high either but the hurt comfort was to the max and the trials Winters puts her MC’s through are difficult to overcome but always with a satisfying win.
Overall, really easy reading, and I look forward to another Marcus and Finn book coming soon!
February 24, 2025
Re-read 21st - 24th February
I enjoyed it on the re-read
Original review
I throughly enjoyed this book.
It wasn’t however the book I’d been expecting. Ms Winters books normally have me laughing out loud. Tears streaming down my face kind of laughing. I’d warned my husband beforehand I was starting a new one. I usually end up laughing so much he can’t sleep. The books are given daylight only reading time...you get the picture.
So I started reading. After awhile hubby turns to me and asks.
“You’re not laughing. Is the book disappointing?”
No and no was my answer.
I really enjoyed it. It was humorous and wonderful. River was cute and adorable. Banshee was brilliant. Bentley, the vampire with a heart. The show however was stolen by the other members of the VRC team.
While I really liked Bentley he was just too nice to make a truly memorable leading man. I’m not complaining I liked both him and the book. But him and River are just not captivating like Marcus and Finn or Alexei and Claude.
I enjoyed it on the re-read
Original review
I throughly enjoyed this book.
It wasn’t however the book I’d been expecting. Ms Winters books normally have me laughing out loud. Tears streaming down my face kind of laughing. I’d warned my husband beforehand I was starting a new one. I usually end up laughing so much he can’t sleep. The books are given daylight only reading time...you get the picture.
So I started reading. After awhile hubby turns to me and asks.
“You’re not laughing. Is the book disappointing?”
No and no was my answer.
I really enjoyed it. It was humorous and wonderful. River was cute and adorable. Banshee was brilliant. Bentley, the vampire with a heart. The show however was stolen by the other members of the VRC team.
While I really liked Bentley he was just too nice to make a truly memorable leading man. I’m not complaining I liked both him and the book. But him and River are just not captivating like Marcus and Finn or Alexei and Claude.
February 7, 2023
4 Stars
This was the book I didn’t realise I really wanted from this series.
Throughout Alice Winters’ VRC: Vampire Related Crimes series, Bentley DeGray—centuries old vampire cop and team member to series leads, Marcus and Finn—has always been a bit of an undefined character to me, always there but never leaving much of a mark. But apparently, getting his own story is just what this guy needed, because, under the spotlight, his character became clearer to me, as he showed sides of playfulness, protectiveness, and so much care to new character and love interest, River, that I couldn’t help but get a bit sweet on the guy.
As for River, he may be new on the scene but this goofy human had LAYERS. I found myself completely immersed in the twists and turns of his story, as we learned that River was so much more than he appeared at first glance. I loved his story arc and I loved the way he and DeGray fumbled their way through their courtship, especially once the stakes shifted and threats both natural and preternatural grew in intensity.
This story, like the ones before it, had all the fun action and suspense of a good paranormal crime series, and it certainly still had the prerequisite humour and heart that I now attribute to Alice Winters writing. I may not have had any notable interest in reading about DeGray beforehand, but I’m so very glad to have given this story a chance, loving the romance and new story beyond expectations.
Important to note: This particular story runs parallel to the events that transpired in books 2 and 3, sometimes making the flow feel a little off balance and halt-y. Since finishing, I’ve weighed up the pros and cons of this and I can see exactly why Winters’ decided to overlap the stories in this way, because of certain key plot points that couldn’t otherwise play out the way they needed to here. However, because of the overlapping nature, I strongly feel that this is not a book to be read as a stand-alone, despite the new focus characters, because so much of what was happening around River and Bentley relied heavily on the reader already knowing/remembering specifics of stories past.
This was the book I didn’t realise I really wanted from this series.
Throughout Alice Winters’ VRC: Vampire Related Crimes series, Bentley DeGray—centuries old vampire cop and team member to series leads, Marcus and Finn—has always been a bit of an undefined character to me, always there but never leaving much of a mark. But apparently, getting his own story is just what this guy needed, because, under the spotlight, his character became clearer to me, as he showed sides of playfulness, protectiveness, and so much care to new character and love interest, River, that I couldn’t help but get a bit sweet on the guy.
As for River, he may be new on the scene but this goofy human had LAYERS. I found myself completely immersed in the twists and turns of his story, as we learned that River was so much more than he appeared at first glance. I loved his story arc and I loved the way he and DeGray fumbled their way through their courtship, especially once the stakes shifted and threats both natural and preternatural grew in intensity.
This story, like the ones before it, had all the fun action and suspense of a good paranormal crime series, and it certainly still had the prerequisite humour and heart that I now attribute to Alice Winters writing. I may not have had any notable interest in reading about DeGray beforehand, but I’m so very glad to have given this story a chance, loving the romance and new story beyond expectations.
Important to note: This particular story runs parallel to the events that transpired in books 2 and 3, sometimes making the flow feel a little off balance and halt-y. Since finishing, I’ve weighed up the pros and cons of this and I can see exactly why Winters’ decided to overlap the stories in this way, because of certain key plot points that couldn’t otherwise play out the way they needed to here. However, because of the overlapping nature, I strongly feel that this is not a book to be read as a stand-alone, despite the new focus characters, because so much of what was happening around River and Bentley relied heavily on the reader already knowing/remembering specifics of stories past.
March 18, 2023
__
How to Save a Human by Alice Winters takes place across the series; from the end of book one past the end of book three. So make sure you read the rest of the series first!!
After being abused by vampires, River is determined to get his revenge on those who hurt him. Things get complicated when he meets Bentley and starts to develope feelings for him. What makes it more complicated is that Bentley works for the VRC, and someone very high ranked is one of River's targets.
Bentley and River are hilarious together. I love Alice Winter's humour, and she's at her best here.
This book deals with a lot of heavy, dark topics. It's very well handled in my opinion.
How to Save a Human by Alice Winters takes place across the series; from the end of book one past the end of book three. So make sure you read the rest of the series first!!
After being abused by vampires, River is determined to get his revenge on those who hurt him. Things get complicated when he meets Bentley and starts to develope feelings for him. What makes it more complicated is that Bentley works for the VRC, and someone very high ranked is one of River's targets.
Bentley and River are hilarious together. I love Alice Winter's humour, and she's at her best here.
This book deals with a lot of heavy, dark topics. It's very well handled in my opinion.
June 7, 2023
This made me cry!!
I have to say I much prefer the books where Finn and Marcus haven't been the main couple 😬
Bentley and River were so cute, and I just love Alexei and Claude.
I was so upset for Bentley and his circumstances, and what River was put through, but it was really easy to connect to these characters.
The crime mystery was completely ridiculous as usual with so many stupid decisions where you just want to shout at the characters for being stupid, but these books are really entertaining regardless.
I have to say I much prefer the books where Finn and Marcus haven't been the main couple 😬
Bentley and River were so cute, and I just love Alexei and Claude.
I was so upset for Bentley and his circumstances, and what River was put through, but it was really easy to connect to these characters.
The crime mystery was completely ridiculous as usual with so many stupid decisions where you just want to shout at the characters for being stupid, but these books are really entertaining regardless.
November 6, 2020
How to Save a Human was funny and sweet and silly and tender, and oh how I loved it!
Bentley (DeGray) and River's story was a perfect addition to the VRC series. It made me laugh and cry from one page to the next.
I think I’ve mentioned this before, but to me, Alice Winters is the Helena Hunting of the m/m genre. They both write such fun and ridiculous and at times over the top silliness, but are able to balance that with emotions and feels and seriousness, when called for. I love that I just never know what to expect while reading their books. And that couldn’t be more true than with HtSaH. The way Ms. Winters told River and Bentley’s story had me laughing out loud one minute, and then had the tears welling as I read the next sentence.
I loved that How to Save a Human was just a little different than the previous books in the series. While it was just as entertaining as the rest, and had all the fun elements we’ve come to expect from these books, there was a bit more seriousness to it thanks to what River was going through, and how it overlapped with the case Bentley and the rest of the VRC were working on. What a ride of emotions this book took me on! Bentley and River were just the sweetest together and I love that they found each other.
Bentley (DeGray) and River's story was a perfect addition to the VRC series. It made me laugh and cry from one page to the next.
I think I’ve mentioned this before, but to me, Alice Winters is the Helena Hunting of the m/m genre. They both write such fun and ridiculous and at times over the top silliness, but are able to balance that with emotions and feels and seriousness, when called for. I love that I just never know what to expect while reading their books. And that couldn’t be more true than with HtSaH. The way Ms. Winters told River and Bentley’s story had me laughing out loud one minute, and then had the tears welling as I read the next sentence.
I loved that How to Save a Human was just a little different than the previous books in the series. While it was just as entertaining as the rest, and had all the fun elements we’ve come to expect from these books, there was a bit more seriousness to it thanks to what River was going through, and how it overlapped with the case Bentley and the rest of the VRC were working on. What a ride of emotions this book took me on! Bentley and River were just the sweetest together and I love that they found each other.
November 13, 2020
3.5 stars
This is River's and Bentley's story. We got a bit of a glimpse of them in the last book but this one goes into more detail. This book also takes place in between events in the previous books so, that did make things flow a little oddly but mostly it was fine.
To be honest these characters did not really capture me like previous ones. DeGray is still pretty one note for me. River was trying to bring the sass but it mostly seemed forced and didn't flow naturally. The romance was ok. I honestly wanted more of it.
What I did like was the story of how DeGray had to help River and was willing to risk so much for him. River's back story was a good one. The whole mystery of who was truly behind the underground sales of humans to vampires was intriguing. I also loved the bits with River and his family. Wish there was more of that in the book. I needed more of the Garcia's in my life. Of course I loved when the crew from the VRC made appearances. They really livened up the book.
Overall, it was a solid read.
This is River's and Bentley's story. We got a bit of a glimpse of them in the last book but this one goes into more detail. This book also takes place in between events in the previous books so, that did make things flow a little oddly but mostly it was fine.
To be honest these characters did not really capture me like previous ones. DeGray is still pretty one note for me. River was trying to bring the sass but it mostly seemed forced and didn't flow naturally. The romance was ok. I honestly wanted more of it.
What I did like was the story of how DeGray had to help River and was willing to risk so much for him. River's back story was a good one. The whole mystery of who was truly behind the underground sales of humans to vampires was intriguing. I also loved the bits with River and his family. Wish there was more of that in the book. I needed more of the Garcia's in my life. Of course I loved when the crew from the VRC made appearances. They really livened up the book.
Overall, it was a solid read.
June 24, 2023
My favourite one yet
I absolutely loved this book. It's my favourite one in what is a pretty brilliant series.
It's been obvious something's been going on behind the scene with DeGray and now we find out what it was.
He's been investigating a hidden vampire crime ring with some pretty powerful people involved after he bumped into a human called River.
River is an absolute sweetheart, he got kidnapped and then was let go by his captor in a bid to expose the criminals.
Unfortunately, his path crossed with Bentley's and he's ended up admitting all.
With a plot that crosses over the events of books one and two, we're given a fast-moving narrative that skirts between the two cases the team's working on.
I loved the romance between the two men, it's got a really sweet nature to it, and there's plenty of sexual chemistry.
There's a different feel to this book as it mostly focuses on just Bentley and River which I really liked, but we still get to see the rest of the VRC team.
Best of both worlds!
I absolutely loved this book. It's my favourite one in what is a pretty brilliant series.
It's been obvious something's been going on behind the scene with DeGray and now we find out what it was.
He's been investigating a hidden vampire crime ring with some pretty powerful people involved after he bumped into a human called River.
River is an absolute sweetheart, he got kidnapped and then was let go by his captor in a bid to expose the criminals.
Unfortunately, his path crossed with Bentley's and he's ended up admitting all.
With a plot that crosses over the events of books one and two, we're given a fast-moving narrative that skirts between the two cases the team's working on.
I loved the romance between the two men, it's got a really sweet nature to it, and there's plenty of sexual chemistry.
There's a different feel to this book as it mostly focuses on just Bentley and River which I really liked, but we still get to see the rest of the VRC team.
Best of both worlds!
October 8, 2025
Still loving this series.
Alice's characters are so sassy and quirky.
This book focused on Bentley and River.
While I loved it, it wasn't as silly as most of the books, more serious. Not too dark or angsty, just a bit more than the rest.
Listened on audiobook book again.
Straight on to book 5.
Alice's characters are so sassy and quirky.
This book focused on Bentley and River.
While I loved it, it wasn't as silly as most of the books, more serious. Not too dark or angsty, just a bit more than the rest.
Listened on audiobook book again.
Straight on to book 5.
March 13, 2025
I've listened to all 4 close together and there are so many clues!
*Audio brings out a lot more of the emotion. I'd forgotten how lonely Bentley was or how hopeless River was.*
I love the VRC series. It's a perfect mix of vampire cops, convoluted plots and humor. Initially set between book 2 and 3, it is absolutely necessary to have read 1, 2 and 3 first because of spoilers and frankly, you just won't appreciate how normal Bentley is!
This has a slightly different tone with Bentley and River as our narrators. Neither are as feisty as Finn or flamboyant as Claude. I loved the change and appreciated the little glimpses of other plots from a different perspective
*Audio brings out a lot more of the emotion. I'd forgotten how lonely Bentley was or how hopeless River was.*
I love the VRC series. It's a perfect mix of vampire cops, convoluted plots and humor. Initially set between book 2 and 3, it is absolutely necessary to have read 1, 2 and 3 first because of spoilers and frankly, you just won't appreciate how normal Bentley is!
This has a slightly different tone with Bentley and River as our narrators. Neither are as feisty as Finn or flamboyant as Claude. I loved the change and appreciated the little glimpses of other plots from a different perspective
September 12, 2024
4.75〜4.8 stars 🤯😯🤩!! Definitely my favorite Alice Winters book!! I was so extremely pleasantly surprised by this 🥰, I’m so glad I decided to give this a go. God, I just liked it so much, I wish all the AW books were like this (I loved the added emotion and toned down snark and joking)💕
May 27, 2022
Star Rating: —> 5 LIFE ALTERING, HEART WARMING Stars
🌟⭐️🌟⭐️🌟
OHMAIGAHD. This ENTIRE queer mlm series slides into my “Read” pile as one of my all time favs ever with all four books being 5 star reads !
I am SO INCREDIBLY IN LOVE WITH ALL OF THESE CHARACTERS & THEIR STORIES ! I love The VRC: Vampire Related Crimes Unit series with ALLOFMYHEART (& kind of want to shout from the rooftops about it lmao but neighbors surely wouldn’t take too kindly to that, I’m sure 🤔)!
It absolutely has it all: three grumpy/cranky/broody exterior (but total softies on the inside), extremely territorial when it comes to their men (but not irritatingly so), lovable AF crime fighting vampires, and one totally high maintenance, over the top (in a good way), flirty & charming as hell, grows on you vamp who is not in the VRC, but insists on assisting, & has a love for bight colored, sparkly, fishnet, etc. designer clothing… A Human in the VRC who makes a habit of running headfirst into danger, ridiculous, HILARIOUS, way “too” happy & goofy— but everyone obv secretly loves it/ him in general (I’d like to see you try NOT to love him haha), another human who also has some of the funniest quirks I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading, but is on the erm, other side of the law for a few reasons with severe vampire related trauma, & the amazing, kind, man/vampire (YES another incredible vamp from the VRC!) who helps said human save him from himself, uhhhmmmm the BEST PETS (cats, dogs, a horse, & some fish who just barely make it unscathed from a baby vamp who wants blood) EVER (!!!), freakish monsters, a vampire mob, and oh lord could I go on & on & on…
So sorry this review is so messy, but I’m freaking fangirling a ridiculous amount rn, but needed to get some details in just in case I never get around to the Full RTC I may or may not post 😅😂😂!
How to Vex A Vampire —> ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
How to Elude A Vampire —> ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
How to Lure A Hunter —> ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
How to Save A Human —> ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌟⭐️🌟⭐️🌟
OHMAIGAHD. This ENTIRE queer mlm series slides into my “Read” pile as one of my all time favs ever with all four books being 5 star reads !
I am SO INCREDIBLY IN LOVE WITH ALL OF THESE CHARACTERS & THEIR STORIES ! I love The VRC: Vampire Related Crimes Unit series with ALLOFMYHEART (& kind of want to shout from the rooftops about it lmao but neighbors surely wouldn’t take too kindly to that, I’m sure 🤔)!
It absolutely has it all: three grumpy/cranky/broody exterior (but total softies on the inside), extremely territorial when it comes to their men (but not irritatingly so), lovable AF crime fighting vampires, and one totally high maintenance, over the top (in a good way), flirty & charming as hell, grows on you vamp who is not in the VRC, but insists on assisting, & has a love for bight colored, sparkly, fishnet, etc. designer clothing… A Human in the VRC who makes a habit of running headfirst into danger, ridiculous, HILARIOUS, way “too” happy & goofy— but everyone obv secretly loves it/ him in general (I’d like to see you try NOT to love him haha), another human who also has some of the funniest quirks I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading, but is on the erm, other side of the law for a few reasons with severe vampire related trauma, & the amazing, kind, man/vampire (YES another incredible vamp from the VRC!) who helps said human save him from himself, uhhhmmmm the BEST PETS (cats, dogs, a horse, & some fish who just barely make it unscathed from a baby vamp who wants blood) EVER (!!!), freakish monsters, a vampire mob, and oh lord could I go on & on & on…
So sorry this review is so messy, but I’m freaking fangirling a ridiculous amount rn, but needed to get some details in just in case I never get around to the Full RTC I may or may not post 😅😂😂!
How to Vex A Vampire —> ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
How to Elude A Vampire —> ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
How to Lure A Hunter —> ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
How to Save A Human —> ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 5, 2020
Bat boys, meat pies & unicorns
I have been yowling like a banshee for Bentley DeGray’s book, and he and River took me on quite the unexpected but still completely wonderful journey. Full of the hilarious craziness we adore from our lovable VRC crew, it also packed a heart-wrenching amount of emotion. Bentley I figured had some hidden depths but River ripped at my heart with his. I wanted to tear to pieces anyone who hurt him—that’s Marcus’s influence—and never stop giving him cuddles—that’s Claude’s or maybe Finn’s.
“But this man does everything to make me happy and feel so full of love. He makes me laugh and love with all of my heart.” Gah, I love both River and Bentley with all of mine. I enjoyed tagging along on their many adventures as I soared high, swooped low, laughed, cheered and held my breath but in the end I think I’d rather draw them a picture of how I see them and their amazing love. So here’s my many fangs for this fantastic, unforgettable and incredible book, Alice Winters!
I have been yowling like a banshee for Bentley DeGray’s book, and he and River took me on quite the unexpected but still completely wonderful journey. Full of the hilarious craziness we adore from our lovable VRC crew, it also packed a heart-wrenching amount of emotion. Bentley I figured had some hidden depths but River ripped at my heart with his. I wanted to tear to pieces anyone who hurt him—that’s Marcus’s influence—and never stop giving him cuddles—that’s Claude’s or maybe Finn’s.
“But this man does everything to make me happy and feel so full of love. He makes me laugh and love with all of my heart.” Gah, I love both River and Bentley with all of mine. I enjoyed tagging along on their many adventures as I soared high, swooped low, laughed, cheered and held my breath but in the end I think I’d rather draw them a picture of how I see them and their amazing love. So here’s my many fangs for this fantastic, unforgettable and incredible book, Alice Winters!
May 13, 2025
This is Degray book, if you are familiar with this series you know who he is... I honestly thought the book started strong but then it kinda of fizzled?
Still worth the reading
Still worth the reading
April 13, 2025
¿Sinceramente? No sé si me ha gustado esta novela. Me esperaba muchísimo más y ha habido escenas que han sido cogidas por los pelos, por no decir que me ha faltado información.
En fin. Otro libro será.
En fin. Otro libro será.
November 6, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Know that this story is very much in keeping with the other books in Alice Winters’ fabulous Vampire Related Crimes series. We have a suspenseful investigative thriller, humor, a great relationship, and interaction with the whole gang from the VRC. While this story is somewhat heavier than the others, it still fits in with the series well and kept me totally engaged. I’ll also note that the story fits into the series timeline starting after the events of book 1 and continuing across books 2 and 3. So while the plot here stands alone pretty well, there are some spoilers here for earlier books, as well as references to events already familiar to series readers. So this one definitely should be read in order.
The heart of this book is really the relationship between River and Bentley. For a lot of reasons (most of which I can’t tell you), both men are going through a lot in their lives and both are feeling very much alone as they try to handle it.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Know that this story is very much in keeping with the other books in Alice Winters’ fabulous Vampire Related Crimes series. We have a suspenseful investigative thriller, humor, a great relationship, and interaction with the whole gang from the VRC. While this story is somewhat heavier than the others, it still fits in with the series well and kept me totally engaged. I’ll also note that the story fits into the series timeline starting after the events of book 1 and continuing across books 2 and 3. So while the plot here stands alone pretty well, there are some spoilers here for earlier books, as well as references to events already familiar to series readers. So this one definitely should be read in order.
The heart of this book is really the relationship between River and Bentley. For a lot of reasons (most of which I can’t tell you), both men are going through a lot in their lives and both are feeling very much alone as they try to handle it.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
February 18, 2021
I’m not going to leave a lengthy or in depth review but I do want to just share a few opinions.
First of all I was super surprised to see this book was out, I’ve been under a rock for several months so it was a rather pleasant surprise. Unfortunately, I was totally underwhelmed in the end.
In the first few books DeGray is mostly in the background and is the definition of a “side character”, he only comes to the front when Finn is hounding him about Alexi. To be honest he still felt like a background character in this book... I mean he was just boring to me, he made me want to skim so bad.
I did like River as a character but I did not like Bentley and River’s relationship... Idk, I seem to be all over the place with this book as well as a minority... so take this with a grain of salt.
In all honesty, my favorite character in this book was still Claude... that weirdo has won my heart.
In the end I will probably read the next book, but this book did put me off a little.
First of all I was super surprised to see this book was out, I’ve been under a rock for several months so it was a rather pleasant surprise. Unfortunately, I was totally underwhelmed in the end.
In the first few books DeGray is mostly in the background and is the definition of a “side character”, he only comes to the front when Finn is hounding him about Alexi. To be honest he still felt like a background character in this book... I mean he was just boring to me, he made me want to skim so bad.
I did like River as a character but I did not like Bentley and River’s relationship... Idk, I seem to be all over the place with this book as well as a minority... so take this with a grain of salt.
In all honesty, my favorite character in this book was still Claude... that weirdo has won my heart.
In the end I will probably read the next book, but this book did put me off a little.
November 6, 2020
Bentley and River have a very different feel to their story than the other books in the series. They are a tad more serious, and I guess, "normal" would be the word... It, however, is still so much fun! And you can bet it still has all the craziness we've come to expect from the VRC crew, especially with Finn and Claude along for the ride. But I think the emotional punch is much stronger in this book. Bentley is a wonderful character and I enjoyed that we finally get to learn more about him and his life. But, for me, River is the one who stole my heart and almost tore it out - I just wanted him to be happy and protected and loved. He got this with Bentley, and together they were absolutely perfect and sweet and had me swooning hard. I went through all the emotions possible while reading this, and it ended with a beautiful heartfelt HEA.
November 6, 2020
Ok I just devoured this book. This is my favorite book of this series. It surely can be read as a standalone.
This book had a totally different feel to me and I just could not put it down. I had an instant love to a River and loved how he met Bentley and their friendship grew Into love.
Throw in all of the VRC crew and what a adventure we go on to catch the bad guys and save River. We get all the laughs and snark we are used to with this group of guys but we also get pain and longing with River. My heart ached for him.
But in the end all ends well with love, laughter, friendship, and FAMILY.
This book had a totally different feel to me and I just could not put it down. I had an instant love to a River and loved how he met Bentley and their friendship grew Into love.
Throw in all of the VRC crew and what a adventure we go on to catch the bad guys and save River. We get all the laughs and snark we are used to with this group of guys but we also get pain and longing with River. My heart ached for him.
But in the end all ends well with love, laughter, friendship, and FAMILY.
February 19, 2023
2/19/2023 re-read:
Still not my favorite, but I liked the couple more this time. I really like the first half, but once the time skips and skips and skips it feels like it looses something. I understand why it happens the way it does, but it doesn't completely work for me.
I wonder what River is going to do with his life now.
-----------
ehhhh okay, but not my favorite of the series. For some reason the couple didn't interest me as much as the others.
Still not my favorite, but I liked the couple more this time. I really like the first half, but once the time skips and skips and skips it feels like it looses something. I understand why it happens the way it does, but it doesn't completely work for me.
I wonder what River is going to do with his life now.
-----------
ehhhh okay, but not my favorite of the series. For some reason the couple didn't interest me as much as the others.
November 22, 2020
Love! I'm glad DeGray got his own story, especially given that he's the one sane person in that group. River is the one in charge of the strangeness, but then again, Bentley spends his days with Finn, Marcus, Alexei and Claude, so it's only parr for the course he got a screw slightly loose.
November 6, 2020
DeGray's book is finally here! I love the VRC series so much and this is the fourth book in the series. You need to read the previous books as this one takes place in a the same timeline and has major spoilers for the first three books.
River and Bentley are adorable together. It's a bit more serious than the others and has an overall different tone. River and Bentley are probably "normal" compared to Finn or Claude. But it's still funny, silly, sweet, and oh so emotional. Unicorns and Bat boys and meat pie!! 😂
River is a new character but he completely stole my heart. So strong after everything he went through and I'm so glad he found Bentley.
So happy to see Claude, Alexei, Marcus and Finn. The HEA was beautiful and I loved the bonus scene with the VRC crew. Also I need more of Banshee's (River's evil cat) POV in my life!! So happy to visit this world again and definitely recommended for all the fans.
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
River and Bentley are adorable together. It's a bit more serious than the others and has an overall different tone. River and Bentley are probably "normal" compared to Finn or Claude. But it's still funny, silly, sweet, and oh so emotional. Unicorns and Bat boys and meat pie!! 😂
River is a new character but he completely stole my heart. So strong after everything he went through and I'm so glad he found Bentley.
So happy to see Claude, Alexei, Marcus and Finn. The HEA was beautiful and I loved the bonus scene with the VRC crew. Also I need more of Banshee's (River's evil cat) POV in my life!! So happy to visit this world again and definitely recommended for all the fans.
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
March 28, 2024
This started as a 3 star and only because Bentley and River was so mild and sweet for me that I kinda missed the weirdness of the first 2 couples. However, as I was gradually approaching halfway of the book, it reached a 4 star. The angst and the bit of suspense made everything better in this installment and towards the end I was a bit at the edge of my seat.
Claude and Finn were definite scene-stealers here but I must say I loved how River's personality developed after he turned. His quirkiness magnified and that's when his chemistry with Bentley and their couple dynamic improved.
Claude and Finn were definite scene-stealers here but I must say I loved how River's personality developed after he turned. His quirkiness magnified and that's when his chemistry with Bentley and their couple dynamic improved.
December 1, 2020
Sweet
Of all the books in this series, this has the sweetest story line. It has less humor, but fits in nicely with the other stories. This is an awesome series. It is one of the few good things to happen in 2020.
Of all the books in this series, this has the sweetest story line. It has less humor, but fits in nicely with the other stories. This is an awesome series. It is one of the few good things to happen in 2020.
November 11, 2020
4.5 stars
November 5, 2020
Alice Winters never disappoints me. She may have me nearly throwing my Kindle in tears or rolling on the floor in laughter but never does she disappoint me. The last several books in this series definitely had me curious and chomping at the bit for more about DeGray and here we finally get his story. Rivers is unexpectedly funny and the two play off each other so we'll. As always we have crimes and mysteries that need solving and I enjoyed the coming together of minds in this regard. What I didn't expect was the emotional rollercoaster this story took me on but it was a beautiful ride.
July 7, 2024
Well damn that was emotional. But it was also so sweet and lovely and adorable. River and Bently are so cute together, it gave me so many feels. Have to say, this was one of the few times I totally didn’t see the plot points coming in this series, so that part was also enjoyable (and added to my whole sobbing in the kitchen while cooking dinner thing). Alice Winters does it again, continuing to solidify herself as one of my auto-read authors!
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