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Mystical Matchmakers #2
Lady and the Vamp
Alternate cover edition of ISBN 9798826264669
Astra may be a Valkyrie, but on the battlefield of love, she can’t win.
Every man she dates is boring, intimidated by her, or treats her like one of the guys. She has nothing against beer and wings at a sports bar, but to be wined and dined once in a while isn’t too much to ask, right?
Between her mother's “suitable” Vikings and the supernatural dating service, Mystical Matchmakers, neither seem to be able to get it right.
Rune is a good-looking, successful vampire. The only people he kills are in the books he writes, yet every relationship he has seems to fizzle before he takes it to the next level.
Desperate for something deeper, he joins Mystical Matchmakers, and is immediately smitten by the tall, beautiful Valkyrie. Their first date is fantastic and Rune just knows that she’s perfect for him.
Until he hits an unexpected obstacle—her family.
Can their relationship survive a fight with the people Astra loves the most?
Mystical Matchmakers...find the paranormal romance you've been searching for.
Astra may be a Valkyrie, but on the battlefield of love, she can’t win.
Every man she dates is boring, intimidated by her, or treats her like one of the guys. She has nothing against beer and wings at a sports bar, but to be wined and dined once in a while isn’t too much to ask, right?
Between her mother's “suitable” Vikings and the supernatural dating service, Mystical Matchmakers, neither seem to be able to get it right.
Rune is a good-looking, successful vampire. The only people he kills are in the books he writes, yet every relationship he has seems to fizzle before he takes it to the next level.
Desperate for something deeper, he joins Mystical Matchmakers, and is immediately smitten by the tall, beautiful Valkyrie. Their first date is fantastic and Rune just knows that she’s perfect for him.
Until he hits an unexpected obstacle—her family.
Can their relationship survive a fight with the people Astra loves the most?
Mystical Matchmakers...find the paranormal romance you've been searching for.
182 pages, Paperback
First published May 12, 2022
22 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
C.C. Wood
47 books1,420 followersBorn and raised in Texas, C.C. Wood writes saucy paranormal and contemporary romances featuring strong, sassy women and the men that love them. If you ever meet C.C. in person, keep in mind that many of her characters are based on people she knows, so anything you say or do is likely to end up in a book one day.
A self-professed hermit, C.C. loves to stay home, where she reads, writes, cooks, and watches TV. She can usually be found drinking coffee or wine as she spends time with her hubby, daughter, and two beagles.
A self-professed hermit, C.C. loves to stay home, where she reads, writes, cooks, and watches TV. She can usually be found drinking coffee or wine as she spends time with her hubby, daughter, and two beagles.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 17, 2022
Another cute and entertaining paranormal romance from Ms. Wood.
Lady and the Vamp is the second book in the Mystical Matchmakers from CC Wood and is a full standalone.
Astra is a Valkyrie and due to that, she's always struggled with being viewed as more than "one of the guys". So finding love and the right person is always a struggle for her.
Rune is a Vampire and one would think that might be his reason for finding the right mate. But for some reason, he struggles to move things to be more with the women he meets.
I absolutely enjoyed Astra and Rune's meet cute and the interactions following that. These two were definitely met for one another in so many ways.
Astra and Rune had me smiling the whole time during their courtship. Their story is told from both POVs, which helps readers get a more well-rounded understanding from where both Astra and Rune come from and their inner thoughts.
I am thoroughly enjoying these match maker stories and how real they feel. Wood definitely has me eagerly awaiting stories on another characters mentioned briefly in these first two books.
Lady and the Vamp is the second book in the Mystical Matchmakers from CC Wood and is a full standalone.
Astra is a Valkyrie and due to that, she's always struggled with being viewed as more than "one of the guys". So finding love and the right person is always a struggle for her.
Rune is a Vampire and one would think that might be his reason for finding the right mate. But for some reason, he struggles to move things to be more with the women he meets.
I absolutely enjoyed Astra and Rune's meet cute and the interactions following that. These two were definitely met for one another in so many ways.
Astra and Rune had me smiling the whole time during their courtship. Their story is told from both POVs, which helps readers get a more well-rounded understanding from where both Astra and Rune come from and their inner thoughts.
I am thoroughly enjoying these match maker stories and how real they feel. Wood definitely has me eagerly awaiting stories on another characters mentioned briefly in these first two books.
May 22, 2022
Rune can't figure out why once he invites a woman over for dinner she goes ghost (not literally and I'm not spoiling it)
Doesn't even make it through the meal
His neighbor, the troll, suggests a dating agency that specializes in the para.
Heck at this point Rune is ready to try anything
Astra just can't catch a break.
Every single match has been an absolute nightmare and well enough is enough. She's going to cancel the matchmaking service - Obviously, her sister was wrong and they have no idea what they are doing
All it took was one look
One date
And it sealed both their fates
This had a slightly more serious tone than our Troll's tale did - still highly entertaining and lots of fun
I enjoyed that Rune was understanding and so accepting without being a doormat
He was comfortable in his own skin which allowed Astra to be her booty kicking self without fear of it biting her in the backside
There were even moments when he looked forward to it (little spice of life and all)
Astra however had a small issue with her own acceptance but not in the way one might think. It wasn't until Rune that she saw how much she held back.
These two were the perfect fit for each other -
Loved the rents! OMG wait till the meet
I do however see a certain empath getting a much-needed push from the nest not right away but it is coming
Doesn't even make it through the meal
His neighbor, the troll, suggests a dating agency that specializes in the para.
Heck at this point Rune is ready to try anything
Astra just can't catch a break.
Every single match has been an absolute nightmare and well enough is enough. She's going to cancel the matchmaking service - Obviously, her sister was wrong and they have no idea what they are doing
All it took was one look
One date
And it sealed both their fates
This had a slightly more serious tone than our Troll's tale did - still highly entertaining and lots of fun
I enjoyed that Rune was understanding and so accepting without being a doormat
He was comfortable in his own skin which allowed Astra to be her booty kicking self without fear of it biting her in the backside
There were even moments when he looked forward to it (little spice of life and all)
Astra however had a small issue with her own acceptance but not in the way one might think. It wasn't until Rune that she saw how much she held back.
These two were the perfect fit for each other -
Loved the rents! OMG wait till the meet
I do however see a certain empath getting a much-needed push from the nest not right away but it is coming
May 21, 2022
*I received a free copy to read and review for Wicked Reads *
I really enjoyed this book. Lady and the Vamp is relatively light-hearted, has interesting side characters, and [the main characters] Astra & Rune have great chemistry!
The Mystical Matchmakers series has been a pleasant surprise, and I believe it's just getting better.
Astra has been looking for love, but is consistently disappointed with every match the agency has chosen. Being a Valkyrie, she's treated like 'one of the guys' and not the lady she truly is. That is until Rune finds her at the agency. While not a match, he forces a date and the sparks fly!
It seems they were made for one another, nothing can get between these two.
Until it's time to meet her parents...
I loved Astra and Rune! I really liked how the author gave information on their races (valkyrie and vampire), and touched on their characteristics and history. I am excited for the next book!
I really enjoyed this book. Lady and the Vamp is relatively light-hearted, has interesting side characters, and [the main characters] Astra & Rune have great chemistry!
The Mystical Matchmakers series has been a pleasant surprise, and I believe it's just getting better.
Astra has been looking for love, but is consistently disappointed with every match the agency has chosen. Being a Valkyrie, she's treated like 'one of the guys' and not the lady she truly is. That is until Rune finds her at the agency. While not a match, he forces a date and the sparks fly!
It seems they were made for one another, nothing can get between these two.
Until it's time to meet her parents...
I loved Astra and Rune! I really liked how the author gave information on their races (valkyrie and vampire), and touched on their characteristics and history. I am excited for the next book!
May 7, 2022
Astra is lonely. She wants to be treated like the woman she is, but her past several dates have been a write-off. The dating service she uses is way off when picking her matches. So she decides shes had enough. She goes in to cancel her membership when she meets the mysterious, but seriously hot, Rune. He blows her away when he asks her out. Astra has doubts because she worries about how her parents will react, because she comes from a long line of strong valkaries, and Rune, well...hes a vampire. This book had all the feels. The romance scenes were a wonderful read In a day and age where this seems to get glossed over now in favour of sex scenes. I got to know both characters and how they felt throughout. I like the fact we got introduced to all Astra's family and that they were all totally relatable to someone you know. The sex scenes were hot, but the book didnt focus to much on those aspects, which I appreciated. It was a true love story with added complications. And I enjoyed it so much i couldnt put it down! Definately worth a read if you like romance, mythical beings or anything else written by this author! She never disappoints!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2022
This is another delightful, fun loving romantic comedy by this author. I enjoyed this book as much as the first in the series. This one is about a Valkyrie, Astra, who's a strong, fiesty, bad mama jamma and a vampire novelist, Rune, who is a sweet as he is sexy. These two compliment each other nicely and their chemistry is immediate. This author has a knack for writing amazing family side characters and Astra's family is hilarious and entertaining. I love her boisterous family. This is a great light and fun read.
May 23, 2022
4.5 Stars
This is the second book in the series. I enjoyed this as much as the first one. If you haven't started this series you are truly missing out on some great books. I really liked Astra and Rune. They have been unlucky in the love department, but using the supernatural matchmaking service shows fate working it's magic. This Valkyrie and Vampire on are on for one heck of a ride. I just loved Astra's family. Her parents are a riot! This book definitely had me laughing several times. I liked the banter and playfulness between Rune and Astra. I just gobbled up this book! I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series.
This is the second book in the series. I enjoyed this as much as the first one. If you haven't started this series you are truly missing out on some great books. I really liked Astra and Rune. They have been unlucky in the love department, but using the supernatural matchmaking service shows fate working it's magic. This Valkyrie and Vampire on are on for one heck of a ride. I just loved Astra's family. Her parents are a riot! This book definitely had me laughing several times. I liked the banter and playfulness between Rune and Astra. I just gobbled up this book! I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series.
May 11, 2022
I absolutely fell in love with Astra and Rune. With this rom-com you can't help but to. I love that although Astra is a badass warrior she also wants to be a lady.
Rune even though he's more of a lover than a fighter he can throw down with the best of them.
I hope we get more from Astra's family.
Rune even though he's more of a lover than a fighter he can throw down with the best of them.
I hope we get more from Astra's family.
May 23, 2022
Emotional
What a great romance! The story was all about the relationship and its pitfalls. It was a compelling read, but easy enough to read in just a couple of hours.
What a great romance! The story was all about the relationship and its pitfalls. It was a compelling read, but easy enough to read in just a couple of hours.
May 31, 2022
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 5.0
~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
I am so in love with this series and the books just keep getting better and better. Rune and Astra are looking for love and they have had no luck so enter the Mystical Matchmakers but will Astra's family accept a vamp into their family? I wish I could have given this book a million stars because this story deserved it. I couldn't read it fast enough. I cannot wait for a new story in this series. So many great stories yet to come. Highly recommend this author, series and book!!!
~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
I am so in love with this series and the books just keep getting better and better. Rune and Astra are looking for love and they have had no luck so enter the Mystical Matchmakers but will Astra's family accept a vamp into their family? I wish I could have given this book a million stars because this story deserved it. I couldn't read it fast enough. I cannot wait for a new story in this series. So many great stories yet to come. Highly recommend this author, series and book!!!
May 23, 2022
What is a strong successful woman to do in endless disastrous dating to find love? Because whatever Astra is doing, isn’t working.
The suitors her parents think are great for her, are anything but. They treat her like one of the guys.
No connection, no spark…Astra wants a spark.
Rune is a charming, lonely vampire who can’t figure out why all his dates fizzle out. A chance meeting will change the stilted dating dilemmas for them both.
This book was a delightful read. Full of reasons to laugh, smile, and an understand how daunting dating can be. I could really understand Astra’s dilemma of trying to fit into a box other people want you to be in.
In the journey of Astra trying to find love, she also learns to accept and love all the parts of herself. In the end that journey makes the book all more enjoyable. You will route along with both of these characters in the tribulations of the dating to love arc.
The suitors her parents think are great for her, are anything but. They treat her like one of the guys.
No connection, no spark…Astra wants a spark.
Rune is a charming, lonely vampire who can’t figure out why all his dates fizzle out. A chance meeting will change the stilted dating dilemmas for them both.
This book was a delightful read. Full of reasons to laugh, smile, and an understand how daunting dating can be. I could really understand Astra’s dilemma of trying to fit into a box other people want you to be in.
In the journey of Astra trying to find love, she also learns to accept and love all the parts of herself. In the end that journey makes the book all more enjoyable. You will route along with both of these characters in the tribulations of the dating to love arc.
May 24, 2022
Wow
C.C. has done it again. I couldn't put the book down. Rune and Astra are a match made in heaven. They are adorable, funny, stubborn (otherwise there's no drama lol). Well done and looking forward to the next one❤️
C.C. has done it again. I couldn't put the book down. Rune and Astra are a match made in heaven. They are adorable, funny, stubborn (otherwise there's no drama lol). Well done and looking forward to the next one❤️
May 14, 2022
What could be more interesting than a Valkyrie and a vampire? Lady and the Vamp is book two in the Mystical Matchmakers series and it is funny and exciting. This is a standalone story that will make you feel all warm and fuzzy. Lighthearted and fun this paranormal romance is one that you will not want to miss. The antics that Astra’s parents put her and her sisters through will make you laugh aloud, and their responses are equally funny. As for Astra herself she is beautifully written as a strong independent woman that still has a gentle side. I liked that Rune wasn’t the “typical” vampire that is a smarmy, rich, and entitled. Rune is a down to earth, smart sexy vampire (OK, you can NOT have a vampire that isn’t sexy, it just doesn’t work!) 5 stars for these star-crossed lovers in Lady and the Vamp by C.C. Wood.
May 21, 2022
for full review go to Beyond the Covers Blog here on Goodreads
June 2, 2022
Holy moly holy moly holy moly!!!!! Astra and Rune are so freaking awesome and go together like peanut butter and jelly!!!! I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves paranormal romance. It so sweet and definitely keeps you craving more!!! Way to go C.C. Wood!!!!
May 25, 2022
Check out our full post for LADY AND THE VAMP on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Shelby – ☆☆☆☆☆
I really enjoyed this book. LADY AND THE VAMP is relatively light-hearted, has interesting side characters, and the main characters, Astra and Rune, have great chemistry!
The Mystical Matchmakers series has been a pleasant surprise, and I believe it's just getting better.
Astra has been looking for love, but is consistently disappointed with every match the agency has chosen. Being a Valkyrie, she's treated like 'one of the guys' and not the lady she truly is. That is until Rune finds her at the agency. While not a match, he forces a date and the sparks fly!
It seems they were made for one another, nothing can get between these two. Until it's time to meet her parents...
I loved Astra and Rune! I really liked how the author gave information on their races (Valkyrie and vampire) and touched on their characteristics and history. I am excited for the next book!
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
November 7, 2022
I am honestly a sucker for the paranormal-dating-agency trope, and this series does not disappoint. It's lighthearted, but touches on some pretty serious issues, which I appreciated.
This Valkyrie/Vampire installment (love the various supernatural-creature combos) tackles the issue of dating someone from outside one's family culture, and the tensions that can cause when one is close their tight-knit, traditional family. I found the emotional plot extremely compelling and relatable (maybe a personal resonance there lol) and the resolution between the heroine's demanding, testing family and the steadfast hero trying his best to make thing work was quite satisfying, and, above all, authentic, realistic, and believable.
Strong sibling ties were another big plus. And LGBTQ+ rep, very nice.
Knocked off one star because the heroine came off as a little insecure/avoidant of conflict, which felt...slightly at odds with her description as a fierce, tackle-problems-heads-on Valkyrie. But that wasn't a huge issue and didn't detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.
This Valkyrie/Vampire installment (love the various supernatural-creature combos) tackles the issue of dating someone from outside one's family culture, and the tensions that can cause when one is close their tight-knit, traditional family. I found the emotional plot extremely compelling and relatable (maybe a personal resonance there lol) and the resolution between the heroine's demanding, testing family and the steadfast hero trying his best to make thing work was quite satisfying, and, above all, authentic, realistic, and believable.
Strong sibling ties were another big plus. And LGBTQ+ rep, very nice.
Knocked off one star because the heroine came off as a little insecure/avoidant of conflict, which felt...slightly at odds with her description as a fierce, tackle-problems-heads-on Valkyrie. But that wasn't a huge issue and didn't detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.
May 5, 2025
This was a quick and cosy paranormal romance. I didn't realise this book was part of a series, but it can be read as a standalone, so this didn't affect my reading.
I did find it quite cheesy at times and felt that the paranormal elements didn't really add much to the story, and this could have just been a regular romance novel without the Valkyrie or Vampire element included at all.
I really liked both Astra and Rune and enjoyed the banter between the Viking family. Although the issue with the family meeting and not liking or accepting their relationship was a frequent source of tension throughout the story, the actual moment in question felt a bit rushed and anti climatic.
Overall, I did enjoy the book and would read others in this series when needing a cute and mild spicy pallet cleansing read.
I did find it quite cheesy at times and felt that the paranormal elements didn't really add much to the story, and this could have just been a regular romance novel without the Valkyrie or Vampire element included at all.
I really liked both Astra and Rune and enjoyed the banter between the Viking family. Although the issue with the family meeting and not liking or accepting their relationship was a frequent source of tension throughout the story, the actual moment in question felt a bit rushed and anti climatic.
Overall, I did enjoy the book and would read others in this series when needing a cute and mild spicy pallet cleansing read.
May 30, 2025
Thank you C.C. Wood for sending me this review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was a great addition to the series. It was so sweet and cozy, and it was nice to see Dylan and Clay again too.
I loved watching Astra work through figuring out what she wants, and not settling for what her family wants for her. Watching her push back was awesome, and so brave of her.
Rune is the sweetest cinnamon roll on the planet, and he deserves so much love. I adore him, and he is so good for her.
I think the one thing I didn't like is how vampires are in this world. They can walk in daylight, and eat normal food. All of the benefits with none of the major downsides. I didn't mind it too much, and his vamp side does come out a few times. It felt a bit off though.
This was a great addition to the series. It was so sweet and cozy, and it was nice to see Dylan and Clay again too.
I loved watching Astra work through figuring out what she wants, and not settling for what her family wants for her. Watching her push back was awesome, and so brave of her.
Rune is the sweetest cinnamon roll on the planet, and he deserves so much love. I adore him, and he is so good for her.
I think the one thing I didn't like is how vampires are in this world. They can walk in daylight, and eat normal food. All of the benefits with none of the major downsides. I didn't mind it too much, and his vamp side does come out a few times. It felt a bit off though.
June 1, 2022
Home Run on another funny, witty paranormal romance comedy.
Lady and the Vamp is the second book in the Mystical Matchmakers from CC Wood and is a full standalone, but I recommend reading Rock and Troll first. This book is about Astra, who is a very strong, take no crap Valkyrie and a sexy as sin Vampire. Both have been very unlucky in the matchmaking department, but when they come together things get explosive! Lady and the Vamp is filled with such LOL moments that make you fall in love with the characters. I cant wait for the next in the amazing written series!
Lady and the Vamp is the second book in the Mystical Matchmakers from CC Wood and is a full standalone, but I recommend reading Rock and Troll first. This book is about Astra, who is a very strong, take no crap Valkyrie and a sexy as sin Vampire. Both have been very unlucky in the matchmaking department, but when they come together things get explosive! Lady and the Vamp is filled with such LOL moments that make you fall in love with the characters. I cant wait for the next in the amazing written series!
June 10, 2022
Mates are so very special and this author usually does them great justice. But this one? Paranormal or regular romance, NEVER EVER start a book with the main guy getting ready to screw someone else other than the main lady. It’s tacky, gross and ruins it before it gets anywhere. I already know there’s no point in reading the second chapter because he’ll meet the amazing Valkyrie but so what? When they date all we will think about is hmmmm days ago he was trying to screw Audrey or whatever her name was. It ruined it!
July 11, 2023
So cute!! Really adorable! I loved it, but ultimately, it was a DNF at 60%. I got so tired of everyone ganging up on her about Ru meeting the parents and yet having no issues that the parents would try to run off significant others. Astra has a reason to feel the way she does and even if there's a chunk of it that's in her head, everyone is treating her like it's no bug deal when it obviously is. There was too much bullying about this that made me uncomfortable so I stopped reading.
May 26, 2022
“I’m so loving this series! It’s funny and sweet with cute characters and a good plot. The thing between Astra and Rune was love at first sight, simply as that. They were adorable together and their love so well deserved. Poor Rune! He was such a cute nerdy lol.”
June 7, 2022
Wonderful read, I really am loving this series! The characters are amazing and I can't wait for the next book!!
December 14, 2025
Second in the series. Not so much as a plot, but more into their relationship with family drama
June 2, 2022
Lady and the Vamp is a fabulous read. I love the Mystical Matchmakers series so much and it has become a fast addicting series just after two books in. Hang onto your seats and enjoy the romcom filled with plenty of laugh out loud moments that you are going to love. Astra is a Valkyrie who is tired of bad dates. Rune is a vampire who can't seem to get past the third date. There is this amazing instant pull between Rune and Astra you are just going to love as they navigate their new relationship. Astra is close to her family and has an issue with how her parents react to who their daughters date. Rune is ready for love and trying to figure out why every date walks out when they are at his place. The connection is strong and will have you laughing out loud when it comes to Rune and Astra. You get Astra's hesitation and Runes frustration. I love Astra's family so much. This is such a fun read that you are just going to fall in love with Astra and Rune from the very start. I cannot wait for more of the Mystical Matchmakers to come. I could not put this one down. Go one click this one now.
June 6, 2022
Having met Astra briefly in book one, it was nice seeing her get her own story. I love that she could be herself with Rune. Being a vampire with preternatural strength she didn't need to worry about breaking him. And her being a Valkyrie meant he didn't need to hold back either.
There was some friction due to communication and an overlay of bias, would her family accept him though he's not Norse/Viking?
I can't wait to see who's next in the series and also to see if the dear hearts of Mystical Matchmakers get their mystical matches made
There was some friction due to communication and an overlay of bias, would her family accept him though he's not Norse/Viking?
I can't wait to see who's next in the series and also to see if the dear hearts of Mystical Matchmakers get their mystical matches made
December 17, 2022
This was easy to read in one sitting. The focus is entirely on the romance as this is a shorter length, so the conflict and resolution is all fairly simple so it can be resolved in the space allotted. There's probably at least ten pages of detailed sex scenes, too, so if that's what you're looking for then this has it!
The characters are so easy to root for even when they make emotional (bad) decisions. It made the romance enjoyable because it was like watching a friend fall in love and I just felt happy for them. The trials are of course entertaining, but the majority of the book is spent with them learning each other and themselves.
I liked this one and will definitely be looking up others in this fun series!
The characters are so easy to root for even when they make emotional (bad) decisions. It made the romance enjoyable because it was like watching a friend fall in love and I just felt happy for them. The trials are of course entertaining, but the majority of the book is spent with them learning each other and themselves.
I liked this one and will definitely be looking up others in this fun series!
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews