What do you think?
Rate this book
Children of The Night #8
Night's Illusion
Hailed as “a master of her craft” (Maggie Shayne), one of the most trusted and innovative voices in paranormal romance, New York Times bestselling author Amanda Ashley, brings readers a sensually charged, witty and romantic novel about an ancient vampire searching for his perfect soulmate.
Giovanni Lanzoni may just be the world’s oldest male virgin. Or at least, the oldest male virgin vampire. Giovanni has clung to the vows he made a thousand years ago as a mortal priest—yet he is no longer either of those things. Others of his kind have settled down since claiming immortality, finding love, even raising children. Sensing his loneliness, Mara, Queen of the Vampires, eagerly sets out to find Giovanni the perfect mate. But only one woman, met by chance on a dark night, truly tempts him . . .
Cassie Douglas has never met a man she trusts as much as Giovanni. Yet the shocking truth he reveals makes her question their deep connection. There are other urgent obstacles too. Giovanni’s sire, an ancient, dangerously powerful vampire, is awakening after centuries of slumber, with vengeance on his mind. And in the battle unfolding around them, everything is at risk—their lives, their loved ones, and a passionate eternity together . . .
Giovanni Lanzoni may just be the world’s oldest male virgin. Or at least, the oldest male virgin vampire. Giovanni has clung to the vows he made a thousand years ago as a mortal priest—yet he is no longer either of those things. Others of his kind have settled down since claiming immortality, finding love, even raising children. Sensing his loneliness, Mara, Queen of the Vampires, eagerly sets out to find Giovanni the perfect mate. But only one woman, met by chance on a dark night, truly tempts him . . .
Cassie Douglas has never met a man she trusts as much as Giovanni. Yet the shocking truth he reveals makes her question their deep connection. There are other urgent obstacles too. Giovanni’s sire, an ancient, dangerously powerful vampire, is awakening after centuries of slumber, with vengeance on his mind. And in the battle unfolding around them, everything is at risk—their lives, their loved ones, and a passionate eternity together . . .
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 24, 2021
34 people are currently reading
160 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
June 4, 2021
ARC from NetGalley
This is a typical churned out PNR. We are on book 8, and it feels like book 8. We are reminded throughout the book of all the previous books that came before it and all the couples who got together before this couple did.
No one fucks in this book. Did anyone get freaky in the 7 prior books? Why you gonna write a PNR with no fucking? Why are you on book 8? Who is reading this shit? The plot is mechanical and obvious. The romance is a stretch. The love is pretty much insta. The only back and forth is like 'oh my, do I really want to be with a vampire? I know I said I wanted to marry him, but now I'm not sure. Am I sure? I don't know. Oh gosh he's a vampire, but I'm so attracted to him and he's so kind, but, but, but.'
The least I could have received is some paltry scraps of graphic fucking. I want my time back.
This is a typical churned out PNR. We are on book 8, and it feels like book 8. We are reminded throughout the book of all the previous books that came before it and all the couples who got together before this couple did.
No one fucks in this book. Did anyone get freaky in the 7 prior books? Why you gonna write a PNR with no fucking? Why are you on book 8? Who is reading this shit? The plot is mechanical and obvious. The romance is a stretch. The love is pretty much insta. The only back and forth is like 'oh my, do I really want to be with a vampire? I know I said I wanted to marry him, but now I'm not sure. Am I sure? I don't know. Oh gosh he's a vampire, but I'm so attracted to him and he's so kind, but, but, but.'
The least I could have received is some paltry scraps of graphic fucking. I want my time back.
August 24, 2021
Giovanni was a priest when he was human more than thirteen hundred years ago and he's kept most of his vows since he was turned into a vampire. But recently he's become lonely and started to wonder what's the point of living forever if he has no one to spend that time with.
Cassie was attacked and Giovanni came to her rescue. He finds her mesmerizing and he's attracted to her right away. She's a little wary of him at first but he keeps showing up after her shift is over to walk her home, which she thinks is so nice of him.
Cassie lives in a really run down place and Giovanni lives in a place that has several unused bedrooms so he offers to let her move into one of the rooms but she doesn't take him up on the offer right away. But she does eventually move in with him, they get closer while living in such close quarters.
Mara is the queen of vampires and the oldest living vampire that they know of. She and Giovanni are friends and so she tries to help him find a girlfriend before he runs into Cassie. Mara is so sweet but scary at the same time. When Alric, Giovanni's sire wakes from being asleep for two hundred years, he wants revenge on Mara for killing someone close to him and he starts going through her friends and family to try and find her.
I knew things were about to get dangerous for Cassie and Giovanni and I was right but I had no idea what was coming. I really liked that Mara and the family all circled around him and helped out when danger approached. Cassie and Giovanni were so good for each other, they made a great couple.
Disclosure: I was given an e-ARC of this book via NetGalley but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Cassie was attacked and Giovanni came to her rescue. He finds her mesmerizing and he's attracted to her right away. She's a little wary of him at first but he keeps showing up after her shift is over to walk her home, which she thinks is so nice of him.
Cassie lives in a really run down place and Giovanni lives in a place that has several unused bedrooms so he offers to let her move into one of the rooms but she doesn't take him up on the offer right away. But she does eventually move in with him, they get closer while living in such close quarters.
Mara is the queen of vampires and the oldest living vampire that they know of. She and Giovanni are friends and so she tries to help him find a girlfriend before he runs into Cassie. Mara is so sweet but scary at the same time. When Alric, Giovanni's sire wakes from being asleep for two hundred years, he wants revenge on Mara for killing someone close to him and he starts going through her friends and family to try and find her.
I knew things were about to get dangerous for Cassie and Giovanni and I was right but I had no idea what was coming. I really liked that Mara and the family all circled around him and helped out when danger approached. Cassie and Giovanni were so good for each other, they made a great couple.
Disclosure: I was given an e-ARC of this book via NetGalley but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 10, 2021
Giovanni Lanzoni must be the world’s oldest virgin vampire after spending most of his time as a priest. Mara, Queen of the Vampires and his family is going to play matchmaker. Cassie Douglas meets Giovanni by chance when he saves her. Their romance will blossom but they will have many obstacles to overcome as Cassie does not wish to be turned. Things come to a head when Giovanni’s sire raises after many years slumbering. It will take the whole of Mara’s vampire family to make sure Giovanni can finally meet his destiny. A slow burning story to lose yourself into for a few hours. Part of a series will make you wish to revisit earlier stories to relate to the other members of the family.
I was given an arc of this book by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I was given an arc of this book by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 16, 2021
I've read another book in this series, which has obviously been very well established at this point. That being said, I think these can be read as standalone or as part of the series - it does a good job catching us late joiners up on the general world.
Giovanni was a priest, but everyone still refers to him as father or a priest in their general interactions. You gotta get over that real quick, because this priest is looking for his lady love. Mara, the queen of the vampires, is very eager to help hook her favorite priest up with women, but fate has other plans. Not only does Giovanni end up with his long lost vampire sire as a big bad in this book, but he also randomly stumbles upon his mate. They don't call it out that clearly at the start, but Cassie and Giovanni have an instant bond.
Cassie is not in the best place when they meet. She's working at a dive, lives in a dump, and is generally unhappy and (when they meet) on the run from terrible men. Since Giovanni has no experience to speak of, Cassie and he begin courting in a very slow fashion. Sadly, the most we get in this book is fade to black scenes, but at least you don't need to worry about reconciling a priest in bed with someone.
As I mentioned, this world is well established, which means oodles of characters to touch base with, catch up with, invite places, and generally establish ourselves in this universe. It was weird and fun to see the varied faces come and go. Overall, we get a nice resolution (with some surprising sadness), and even get to conquer evil in the end (multiple ways). I would have probably appreciated the love and loss a little more having gone through the previous books, but still enjoyed this one.
Giovanni was a priest, but everyone still refers to him as father or a priest in their general interactions. You gotta get over that real quick, because this priest is looking for his lady love. Mara, the queen of the vampires, is very eager to help hook her favorite priest up with women, but fate has other plans. Not only does Giovanni end up with his long lost vampire sire as a big bad in this book, but he also randomly stumbles upon his mate. They don't call it out that clearly at the start, but Cassie and Giovanni have an instant bond.
Cassie is not in the best place when they meet. She's working at a dive, lives in a dump, and is generally unhappy and (when they meet) on the run from terrible men. Since Giovanni has no experience to speak of, Cassie and he begin courting in a very slow fashion. Sadly, the most we get in this book is fade to black scenes, but at least you don't need to worry about reconciling a priest in bed with someone.
As I mentioned, this world is well established, which means oodles of characters to touch base with, catch up with, invite places, and generally establish ourselves in this universe. It was weird and fun to see the varied faces come and go. Overall, we get a nice resolution (with some surprising sadness), and even get to conquer evil in the end (multiple ways). I would have probably appreciated the love and loss a little more having gone through the previous books, but still enjoyed this one.
June 14, 2021
This book definitely had a unique premise. Father Giovanni Lanzoni is probably the world's oldest virgin - he became a vampire while he was still a priest (against his will) and has kept to at least most of his vows since then. Twelve centuries - however - is a long time to be alone. His friends try to help find him someone - but Giovanni ends up meeting Cassie by chance when he keeps her safe from a neighborhood gang. His relationship with her is a bit of a slow burn in terms of sex - but he and Cassie definitely go from 0 -60 in relationship land. I'm pretty sure Giovanni asks Cassie to move in with him the first or second time they meet. Cassie is a lot younger than Giovanni in almost every way. She definitely has a true sense of innocence about her - and I think that is what draws Giovanni to her the most. She seems a little lost in the world from the start of the book - and I am not sure she grows that much in the time we see her. I would have liked to see a little more growth from her.
This is 8th book in a series and although it does stand alone - I definitely felt like I had missed out with the inclusion of the other characters in Giovanni's extended vampire family. I just didn't feel the family connection like I am sure I would have, had a read the other books.
Overall - I liked it - but I didn't love it. Vampire books can sometimes be a bit of a miss for me - and I think although Giovanni was definitely sexy and sweet - his somewhat old-fashioned viewpoints and the lack of on page sexy-times just didn't do it for me.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
This is 8th book in a series and although it does stand alone - I definitely felt like I had missed out with the inclusion of the other characters in Giovanni's extended vampire family. I just didn't feel the family connection like I am sure I would have, had a read the other books.
Overall - I liked it - but I didn't love it. Vampire books can sometimes be a bit of a miss for me - and I think although Giovanni was definitely sexy and sweet - his somewhat old-fashioned viewpoints and the lack of on page sexy-times just didn't do it for me.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
July 25, 2025
Night’s Illusion offers an intriguing twist on the vampire romance genre, following Giovanni Lanzoni—a centuries-old vampire who’s also a former priest and, surprisingly, still a virgin. When he rescues Cassie Douglas, a young woman trying to escape a troubled past, the two form a slow, tentative bond that gradually turns into something more.
What I Liked:
The premise is unique. Giovanni’s vow of celibacy adds emotional complexity and a different kind of tension than the usual brooding alpha vamp.
Cassie is relatable in her cautious optimism. Their relationship feels tender and respectful, which is a refreshing change from more aggressive romance dynamics.
The supernatural side characters add warmth and a sense of found family that fans of the series will appreciate.
Where It Fell Short:
The chemistry between the leads didn’t always land. Their romance sometimes felt more told than shown, making their connection feel a bit flat.
The villain—Giovanni’s sire—started strong but fizzled quickly, with motivations that felt a little cliché and underdeveloped.
For a vampire romance, it was surprisingly tame. The “fade to black” approach might work for some, but readers expecting passion and steam may find it lacking.
Final Thoughts:
This book had potential with its thoughtful themes and gentle romance, but it never fully delivered on the emotional or supernatural intensity I was hoping for. It’s a decent entry in the series, but not one that left a lasting impression.
Rating: 3 stars. A sweet and quiet vampire tale that might appeal more to readers looking for subtle romance than sizzling sparks.
What I Liked:
The premise is unique. Giovanni’s vow of celibacy adds emotional complexity and a different kind of tension than the usual brooding alpha vamp.
Cassie is relatable in her cautious optimism. Their relationship feels tender and respectful, which is a refreshing change from more aggressive romance dynamics.
The supernatural side characters add warmth and a sense of found family that fans of the series will appreciate.
Where It Fell Short:
The chemistry between the leads didn’t always land. Their romance sometimes felt more told than shown, making their connection feel a bit flat.
The villain—Giovanni’s sire—started strong but fizzled quickly, with motivations that felt a little cliché and underdeveloped.
For a vampire romance, it was surprisingly tame. The “fade to black” approach might work for some, but readers expecting passion and steam may find it lacking.
Final Thoughts:
This book had potential with its thoughtful themes and gentle romance, but it never fully delivered on the emotional or supernatural intensity I was hoping for. It’s a decent entry in the series, but not one that left a lasting impression.
Rating: 3 stars. A sweet and quiet vampire tale that might appeal more to readers looking for subtle romance than sizzling sparks.
August 27, 2021
Slightly cheated
I feel slightly cheated after a bit of false advertising. Words like passionate eternity and a suggestive cover meant I thought the book would be at least PG16, not the PG13, clean romance we got. Even the storyline had a good bit of abstinence before marriage woven into it.
If you place that to the side and hope that the book would be marketed as a clean romance, the story is engaging enough, and the lack of on-page passion does not impact the rating. The premise is somewhat unusual, with a long time male virgin vampire (Giovanni/Johnny) meeting a sweet, slightly down on her luck but very much in danger waitress (Cassie). Giovanni saves Cassie from an assault, and they start dating. This interim time has all the sugary sweetness of YA romances without the need for a PG rating. We then have a series of conflicts, both from the human world and the longest-running conflict with Giovanni's sire.
The following were niggles for me. Cassie seems to often question her relationship with Giovanni, who is not always sure about the way forward either. This back and forth became quite tiring in the end. The conflicts were endless, and the book felt overly long with just another tension conflict thrown in because. Lastly, I did not feel that I got to know the characters well; they felt somewhat flat. Add in a slew of characters from previous books that had a lot of space and action with the tension points, and both Giovanni and Cassie's HEA felt a little like a byproduct in this book
I feel slightly cheated after a bit of false advertising. Words like passionate eternity and a suggestive cover meant I thought the book would be at least PG16, not the PG13, clean romance we got. Even the storyline had a good bit of abstinence before marriage woven into it.
If you place that to the side and hope that the book would be marketed as a clean romance, the story is engaging enough, and the lack of on-page passion does not impact the rating. The premise is somewhat unusual, with a long time male virgin vampire (Giovanni/Johnny) meeting a sweet, slightly down on her luck but very much in danger waitress (Cassie). Giovanni saves Cassie from an assault, and they start dating. This interim time has all the sugary sweetness of YA romances without the need for a PG rating. We then have a series of conflicts, both from the human world and the longest-running conflict with Giovanni's sire.
The following were niggles for me. Cassie seems to often question her relationship with Giovanni, who is not always sure about the way forward either. This back and forth became quite tiring in the end. The conflicts were endless, and the book felt overly long with just another tension conflict thrown in because. Lastly, I did not feel that I got to know the characters well; they felt somewhat flat. Add in a slew of characters from previous books that had a lot of space and action with the tension points, and both Giovanni and Cassie's HEA felt a little like a byproduct in this book
Read
November 5, 2021Heat Factor: Purple prose fading to black
Character Chemistry: Well…
Plot: There’s a meddling vampire family and a vengeful sire and just a lot
Overall: It’s not tightly written
Back when we were talking about Men of God books, I saw this virgin priest vampire book and thought it might be a fun ride. It might be a ride, but fun?
For reasons that I will discuss, I was not engaging with this story but I was still curious about some points, so instead of a straight DNF, I read the first 12 chapters, skipped to the last 5 for skimming, and then hopped around in the middle a little bit. I have never done this before, and I’m not sure I’d recommend it over DNFing, but this review will probably be better for it, so that’s something.
Read our full review at The Smut Report
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.
Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
Character Chemistry: Well…
Plot: There’s a meddling vampire family and a vengeful sire and just a lot
Overall: It’s not tightly written
Back when we were talking about Men of God books, I saw this virgin priest vampire book and thought it might be a fun ride. It might be a ride, but fun?
For reasons that I will discuss, I was not engaging with this story but I was still curious about some points, so instead of a straight DNF, I read the first 12 chapters, skipped to the last 5 for skimming, and then hopped around in the middle a little bit. I have never done this before, and I’m not sure I’d recommend it over DNFing, but this review will probably be better for it, so that’s something.
Read our full review at The Smut Report
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.
Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
August 24, 2021
Ok so let me start by saying that this is book 8 in the Children of the Night series, something I didn't realize. And not having read the previous books-I was definitely confused about a lot things. Giovanni Lanzoni may just be the oldest male virgin vampire. Giovanni has clung to the vows he made a thousand years ago as a mortal priest, especially since he was turned without his permission. Queen Mara wants to find him a mate, so he won't be so lonely now that other's in his family are settling down. Cassie Douglas has a hard time trusting men. But she trusts Giovanni. Now she has to decide whether to be with him forever or walk away.
I really wanted to love this story. I am definitely a PNR junkie and it is my most loved genre of romance. But I had a really hard time with it. The premise was there and I really wanted to love this story but it was just ok for me. Honestly, it didn't feel like a romance to me. Yes, the main character is a virgin...but where are the sexy times? And it jumped around to the other couples (I am assuming) from the previous books. I am sure people that have read the whole series will probably like it. Unfortunately, it really was just ok for me.
I really wanted to love this story. I am definitely a PNR junkie and it is my most loved genre of romance. But I had a really hard time with it. The premise was there and I really wanted to love this story but it was just ok for me. Honestly, it didn't feel like a romance to me. Yes, the main character is a virgin...but where are the sexy times? And it jumped around to the other couples (I am assuming) from the previous books. I am sure people that have read the whole series will probably like it. Unfortunately, it really was just ok for me.
February 12, 2024
3.5
This book was fighting for its life for a four star, but I decided on 3.5. Let me tell you about it. First, I picked this one up at a convenience store. I had no idea it was part of a larger series. All of those characters seem to show up as secondary characters in this book. I fell in love with all of them. I certainly would read more in this series based on that alone. However, I can understand some people getting annoyed trying to read this as a standalone because you don't know them, and it takes a considerable chunk out of the book if u don't like them or see the point. Second, the villain was intriguing, but it was too much plot armor. Mara should have confronted him earlier and just didn't. However, my initial hesitation with buying it was the virgin priest character, and I adored him. The guy gives golden retriever energy. He lived to do right by her, and it was adorable. I also loved the couple. It just felt like we were reading about a normal couple dating. Their wasn't a lot of angst, but just dealing with being with a vampire adds its own trauma. I enjoyed the journey with this one.
This book was fighting for its life for a four star, but I decided on 3.5. Let me tell you about it. First, I picked this one up at a convenience store. I had no idea it was part of a larger series. All of those characters seem to show up as secondary characters in this book. I fell in love with all of them. I certainly would read more in this series based on that alone. However, I can understand some people getting annoyed trying to read this as a standalone because you don't know them, and it takes a considerable chunk out of the book if u don't like them or see the point. Second, the villain was intriguing, but it was too much plot armor. Mara should have confronted him earlier and just didn't. However, my initial hesitation with buying it was the virgin priest character, and I adored him. The guy gives golden retriever energy. He lived to do right by her, and it was adorable. I also loved the couple. It just felt like we were reading about a normal couple dating. Their wasn't a lot of angst, but just dealing with being with a vampire adds its own trauma. I enjoyed the journey with this one.
August 28, 2021
Night's Illusion by Amanda Ashley
Publisher: Kensington Books, Zebra
Publication Date: August 24, 2021
Genre: Romance | Sci Fi & Fantasy
Night's Illusion by Amanda Ashley is the eighth book in the Children of the Night series. I had not read the previous books, but was easily able to read this as a standalone romance.
Let me start by saying I love vampire romance books, but I struggled to connect with this one. I think the author was trying for a soulmates, love at first sight thing, but I didn't feel it.
Outside of the romance, I actually really enjoyed the story. It had a great mystery and was a fast read. Most of the characters were interesting and had well developed histories. Others fell flat.
Overall, this was a good read and would probably (maybe) go back and read the other books in the series.
I'm so grateful to Amanda Ashley, Kensington Books, and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this ARC ebook in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Kensington Books, Zebra
Publication Date: August 24, 2021
Genre: Romance | Sci Fi & Fantasy
Night's Illusion by Amanda Ashley is the eighth book in the Children of the Night series. I had not read the previous books, but was easily able to read this as a standalone romance.
Let me start by saying I love vampire romance books, but I struggled to connect with this one. I think the author was trying for a soulmates, love at first sight thing, but I didn't feel it.
Outside of the romance, I actually really enjoyed the story. It had a great mystery and was a fast read. Most of the characters were interesting and had well developed histories. Others fell flat.
Overall, this was a good read and would probably (maybe) go back and read the other books in the series.
I'm so grateful to Amanda Ashley, Kensington Books, and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this ARC ebook in exchange for my honest review.
March 21, 2024
It was a good book until closer to the ending. The way that one husband was killed and meh... no big deal. There was no real heart ache that would come with that loss. That felt wrong and then the end just felt rushed. Especially when Alrics lover just comes at them and bam... she's killed. I mean really, she was a witch. You really think she would only come at him with a measly stake? Like I said, it was a good story, just felt like the end was rushed. I give it three stars because the rest of the book was good but I can't stand a book I feel like the writer was being pressured to finish, this is one of those where it feels like the publisher pushed the ending too soon. I binge read the book, it could have been good.
Also... I haven't read any of the other books. This felt like a stand alone and even ended feeling like a stand alone. Not a series that I will delve into. One was enough.
Also... I haven't read any of the other books. This felt like a stand alone and even ended feeling like a stand alone. Not a series that I will delve into. One was enough.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2021
This isn't the first book in the series! Fair warning, this is the 8th book in the Children of the Night series.
Don't read this first unless you want to be confused and left out. It honestly can be read individually though, its not much of a fuss, but it's always fun to be caught up with a series.
If you like soulmates, vampires, and the quest to find the right now for you, this is the story for you.
There were some great aspects to the story, I liked the characters enough to finish the book.
The storyline for me fell a bit flat which is okay, not everyone's going to enjoy a book storyline or the writing. I've read some of the books in the series and they were great, this one, in particular, wasn't my cup of tea. It happens with a lot of my favorite series. It's okay!
One thing I would say for sure this book cover is stunning.
Don't read this first unless you want to be confused and left out. It honestly can be read individually though, its not much of a fuss, but it's always fun to be caught up with a series.
If you like soulmates, vampires, and the quest to find the right now for you, this is the story for you.
There were some great aspects to the story, I liked the characters enough to finish the book.
The storyline for me fell a bit flat which is okay, not everyone's going to enjoy a book storyline or the writing. I've read some of the books in the series and they were great, this one, in particular, wasn't my cup of tea. It happens with a lot of my favorite series. It's okay!
One thing I would say for sure this book cover is stunning.
June 22, 2021
Night's Illusion by Amanda Ashley is a book about a priest named Giovanni who gets turned into a vampire and then falls in love with Cassie, who's a waitress. They get attacked by the sire who created Giovanni, which then he kills. But, after the attack Giovanni realizes that Cassie is near death and has to turn her in order to be with her.
This was a very sensual paranormal romance. The hero was an interesting character, I liked how he evolved into a romantic lead. I felt the romance and passion between Cassie and Giovanni. The plot was a little too violent at times, but it didn't stop me from reading the book to the end. Even though this book is a part of a series, I had no problem reading it. I received an advanced reader's copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This was a very sensual paranormal romance. The hero was an interesting character, I liked how he evolved into a romantic lead. I felt the romance and passion between Cassie and Giovanni. The plot was a little too violent at times, but it didn't stop me from reading the book to the end. Even though this book is a part of a series, I had no problem reading it. I received an advanced reader's copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
July 19, 2021
Night's Illusion (Children of the Night) by Amanda Ashley
This is book 8 in the series and we catch up with all the members of the family. This book can be read as a stand-alone. This book is about Giovanni Lanzoni (former Priest) and Cassie Douglas. He is a vampire but in all his many years he is still a virgin and she has a mistrust of men. After his "family" tells him he needs to find a woman he does. Their adventure is full of angst, mystery, violence, laughter, tears and steam to get us to their HEA.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Funny Entertaining Scary Wonderful characters Easy-to-read Happily Ever After Haunting Action-packed Unpredictable Romantic Page-turner Steamy Tear-jerker Great world building
This is book 8 in the series and we catch up with all the members of the family. This book can be read as a stand-alone. This book is about Giovanni Lanzoni (former Priest) and Cassie Douglas. He is a vampire but in all his many years he is still a virgin and she has a mistrust of men. After his "family" tells him he needs to find a woman he does. Their adventure is full of angst, mystery, violence, laughter, tears and steam to get us to their HEA.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Funny Entertaining Scary Wonderful characters Easy-to-read Happily Ever After Haunting Action-packed Unpredictable Romantic Page-turner Steamy Tear-jerker Great world building
August 18, 2021
I struggled with this book a lot. I liked the blurb but it never mentions this is the last book, book 8, in a long running series. It feels like the finale too. You get tons of references to the other couples, references to their struggles, and lots of inside jokes.
The writing did not work for me. It’s written very montage style. It’s a few paragraphs, then a break, over and over. Sometimes just the POV is changing, sometimes its a new couple somewhere else. Sometimes it didn’t even make sense why we were breaking.
I’m sure for people who have stuck to this series since the beginning, this is a great bow at the end. I did not feel that way, I was just lost and annoyed.
I received this title via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The writing did not work for me. It’s written very montage style. It’s a few paragraphs, then a break, over and over. Sometimes just the POV is changing, sometimes its a new couple somewhere else. Sometimes it didn’t even make sense why we were breaking.
I’m sure for people who have stuck to this series since the beginning, this is a great bow at the end. I did not feel that way, I was just lost and annoyed.
I received this title via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2021
Finally, Father Giovanni Lanzoni gets his happily ever after.
After 1300 years, Johnny Lanzoni is tired and lonely. He's ready to meet someone, to have someone he can wake up to each night. Mara, Queen of the Vampires, is determined to help him. Only Johnny surprises everyone when he protects a young woman in danger one night when he is out hunting. He's drawn to Cassie and finds himself returning again and again to the bar where she works. He's thrilled when she agrees to go out with him. The more time they spend together, the closer Johnny and Cassie grow. As much as he is coming to love Cassie, though, Johnny can't help but wonder just what an ancient vampire has to offer a young woman like Cassie.
After 1300 years, Johnny Lanzoni is tired and lonely. He's ready to meet someone, to have someone he can wake up to each night. Mara, Queen of the Vampires, is determined to help him. Only Johnny surprises everyone when he protects a young woman in danger one night when he is out hunting. He's drawn to Cassie and finds himself returning again and again to the bar where she works. He's thrilled when she agrees to go out with him. The more time they spend together, the closer Johnny and Cassie grow. As much as he is coming to love Cassie, though, Johnny can't help but wonder just what an ancient vampire has to offer a young woman like Cassie.
June 1, 2021
This was an interesting story about vampires. When a priest is turned he finds himself lonely after 1300 years. He has a family of sorts with other vanpires, but he doesn't have anyone just for himself. The Vampire Queen tries to set him up unsuccessfully, and then he runs into Cassie who is human. There is quite a bit of action in this book, some romance and a vampire that is set on vengence. A good story overall that I enjoyed
I got this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review
I got this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review
September 3, 2021
I may have made a mistake choosing this ARC because I didn't realize this was book 8 in a series, as it was not noted anywhere. There were so many references to other books, and other couples were included that came from other books, I felt pretty lost and like I was unable to truly enjoy the book. Add to that, the romance seemed pretty immature, and I was disappointed. And I'm not talking about sex, I mean the emotional maturity. Vampire romance is one of my favorites, but this was really disappointing and I hate that this turned out this way. #NetGalley #nightsillusion
August 28, 2021
Wow, this book hooked me from the very beginning and I could not get enough of it. It moves along at the perfect pace making for a comfortable read. It has interesting characters that you will fall in love with and you want to be there for them. The story will grab you and keep you reading till the end and then you are wanting more. This book is a must read that needs to be read, there is no doubt about it.
October 30, 2021
Obstacles to Overcome
Father Giovanni, former Catholic Priest, turned vampire, meets his soul mate after thirteen hundred years of being a virgin. Of course, there are obstacles to overcome: she's human, his site wants him dead, and his "vampire family" must come to his aid. Then there are all the obstacles Cassie must overcome. You'll enjoy seeing their lives together develop.
Father Giovanni, former Catholic Priest, turned vampire, meets his soul mate after thirteen hundred years of being a virgin. Of course, there are obstacles to overcome: she's human, his site wants him dead, and his "vampire family" must come to his aid. Then there are all the obstacles Cassie must overcome. You'll enjoy seeing their lives together develop.
August 27, 2021
Love it!!!
I love this author's books. I read her western romance books and her vampire books. This author could write about the moon and stars and I would pre-order it. I have read her books since a friend introduced one of her books to me. I think (time goes by so quickly) it was in 1990. Thank you MS. Ashley for all the adventures!!!
I love this author's books. I read her western romance books and her vampire books. This author could write about the moon and stars and I would pre-order it. I have read her books since a friend introduced one of her books to me. I think (time goes by so quickly) it was in 1990. Thank you MS. Ashley for all the adventures!!!
October 16, 2021
Honestly? This book isn’t great.
I didn’t realize it was book eight of a series when I started it and it feels like it too. Too many characters, and no one is developed. At all. Cassie feels like a cardboard cutout, and Giovanni could have been interesting if the conflicts within him weren’t superficial.
I didn’t realize it was book eight of a series when I started it and it feels like it too. Too many characters, and no one is developed. At all. Cassie feels like a cardboard cutout, and Giovanni could have been interesting if the conflicts within him weren’t superficial.
November 29, 2021
I thought that this was an enjoyable book and I loved it!
It had a good storyline and was very well written – I thoroughly enjoyed it
The characters were well developed and it was a fun read – definitely one I would recommend for anyone who likes this genre – it was romantic, sexy and fun!
Is 5 stars from me for this one, very highly recommended!
It had a good storyline and was very well written – I thoroughly enjoyed it
The characters were well developed and it was a fun read – definitely one I would recommend for anyone who likes this genre – it was romantic, sexy and fun!
Is 5 stars from me for this one, very highly recommended!
December 5, 2021
I did enjoy this, although it's a very light read. Not a whole lot of depth to it. Large cast of characters, although most are on the periphery. Giovanni and Cassie are mildly interesting. He's a priest or (former priest) and she's barely making ends meet. Cassie comes across as very naive and at times immature.
June 14, 2023
Big fan of Amanda Ashley! I was intrigued by the possibilities for Giovanni’s character development and internal conflict since he stayed dedicated to his faith for centuries after being turned. Ashley took the story in a different direction, but it didn’t sour my experience reading. I only wished that the villain arc was developed more thoroughly. What can I say? I love vampire romance!
February 3, 2025
The virgin vampire made this an adorable idea.
The chapters are choppy, the story kept referring to other characters in other books which needs to be written in a way that doesn't interrupt what I'm reading about.
I stopped about halfway through and read the last chapter so I could be done with the book. This apparently wasn't my particular cup of tea.
The chapters are choppy, the story kept referring to other characters in other books which needs to be written in a way that doesn't interrupt what I'm reading about.
I stopped about halfway through and read the last chapter so I could be done with the book. This apparently wasn't my particular cup of tea.
August 26, 2021
Excellent Story
Amanda Ashley books never disappoints me. Every book on the children of the night series gets better and better! We get a chance to see how characters in former books are doing. Another delightful romance story!
Amanda Ashley books never disappoints me. Every book on the children of the night series gets better and better! We get a chance to see how characters in former books are doing. Another delightful romance story!
September 20, 2021
This is my first book by this author and it was an amazing ride. The characters were well written, a bit of intrigue, and vampires…who can’t be intrigued by this book?! I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of the paranormal romance genre.
October 4, 2021
Not one of my favorites.
The interaction between all the characters was extremely predictable and boring. I'm not sure I will be reading another book if this is what I have to look forward to.
The interaction between all the characters was extremely predictable and boring. I'm not sure I will be reading another book if this is what I have to look forward to.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews