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VRC: Vampire Related Crimes #5
How to Defy a Vampire
Finn
Stumbling into a crime scene is pretty typical for me. As a human, joining the VRC has done everything but keep me out of trouble. And now I seem to be playing a part that I’d really rather not play… if I want to keep my head, that is.
By my side is my partner Marcus, a vampire who has vowed to tear the world apart—and even a mattress—to keep me safe. I want to do everything I can to protect my newfound family, no matter what we’re forced to face.
Marcus
When ghosts from my past step right into my path, I want to look the other way. I’d rather enjoy my life with Finn, figure out a way to make my brother less obnoxiously gaudy, and find out how to never go roller skating ever again.
Finn is the bravest person I’ve ever met, but he’s also a human and we’re working against some of the strongest vampires in existence. I’m left doing what I can to shield those dearest to me while trying to keep the past from consuming the present.
I can’t let the same mistakes happen again.
How to Defy a Vampire contains peculiar festive wear, misguided attempts at welcoming a human, and Marcus terrifying everyone as usual.
Stumbling into a crime scene is pretty typical for me. As a human, joining the VRC has done everything but keep me out of trouble. And now I seem to be playing a part that I’d really rather not play… if I want to keep my head, that is.
By my side is my partner Marcus, a vampire who has vowed to tear the world apart—and even a mattress—to keep me safe. I want to do everything I can to protect my newfound family, no matter what we’re forced to face.
Marcus
When ghosts from my past step right into my path, I want to look the other way. I’d rather enjoy my life with Finn, figure out a way to make my brother less obnoxiously gaudy, and find out how to never go roller skating ever again.
Finn is the bravest person I’ve ever met, but he’s also a human and we’re working against some of the strongest vampires in existence. I’m left doing what I can to shield those dearest to me while trying to keep the past from consuming the present.
I can’t let the same mistakes happen again.
How to Defy a Vampire contains peculiar festive wear, misguided attempts at welcoming a human, and Marcus terrifying everyone as usual.
355 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 26, 2023
231 people are currently reading
576 people want to read
About the author
Alice Winters
63 books2,675 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 210 reviews
July 10, 2025
✅✅ Finn AND Marcus AND Claude AND Alexei together
✅ Funny banter
✅ Cute romance
✅ Pace
✅ 2 POVs
✅ Intrigue
✅ Action
🆗 Flashbacks
_______________________
Second read: I enjoyed the plot a little less this time around, I think, but the little casual (and silly) moments with the whole gang were the perfect comedic relief. I adore them.
_______________________
Finn and Marcus were hoping to be able to live a quiet and “normal” life with their two dogs after everything that happened to them and the VRC department, but that plan went out the window pretty fast once Marcus’ past caught up to him. Someone is killing vampires and trying to kidnap Finn, and while it might be linked to what Watson did to Finn all those years ago, the suspects are multiplying, and they are all pointing fingers at each other, making it near impossible for the gang, and for us, to know who to believe and trust.
The humor in this book was a little toned down when compared to the previous ones, but there are still some hilarious bits. The stakes felt high enough to keep me hooked, and it was easy to get lost in this book and finish it quickly. The pace is fast, the plot is engaging, and the characters are as lovely and funny as always.
We get to learn more about Marcus’ past in this book, and thankfully, the flashbacks were not too long or too numerous, because I am not a fan of flashbacks, and I honestly did not find them that relevant or interesting in this book. The rest was great, though.
Grumpy Marcus is still there, and he’s as intense in his glooming as ever. I think it’s even funnier now that he realizes how awful he can be, and still doesn’t give a shit. It has become a running gag in the group how he loves to make people cry and ruin happiness wherever he goes. I just loved how he and Alexei had to team up against Claude and Finn’s sunny energy in the hope of calming them down and getting out of their crazy plans.
I missed Claude’s exuberance in the fourth book, and I was so happy to see that he was more present in this one, along with Alexei. We also get to see more of his badass side, which is good because it’s easy to forget that Claude can be just as strong, fast, and ruthless as his brother when he needs to be.
Claude and Marcus always had a rocky relationship in the series, but in this book, we can see them getting closer to each other, and they both realize that they love and need each other and that it’s okay to show it (okay, it was mostly Marcus who needed to realize it). It was heartwarming to see Marcus warm up to Claude and accept his presence in his life, and I just love brotherly/sisterly stories that end up well. They do continue to aggravate and tease each other, though, adding some awesome comedic relief to the story, along with Finn and his antics.
I was super happy to see that Claude and Alexei were also part of the adventure, and having the 4 guys together was awesome. They were cute at times, silly at others, and they made me smile so many times! I like how the author managed to keep the silliness, but she was also able to show the characters’ fierceness, and how they could be badass and willing to do anything to protect each other. They didn’t just become silly clowns that were only good at doing stupid things and making us laugh, they have feelings and depth, and they have their serious moments too.
Orin is a character that I always liked in this series, and I always smile when he’s involved, so while I was happy that he also was in this book, I wanted more of him. He is so protective of his kids, yet he rarely gets involved… Or when he does, the author does not detail his involvement, making it seem like he’s staying on the sidelines. I know that he’s not part of the VRC, but I would think that he wouldn’t give a shit and be the first in line to kill anyone who tried to hurt Finn… We can see him getting more involved in this book, but I would have loved to see more of his protective badass side.
I am in love with this series and this crazy gang. I know this is a series I will reread many times in the future, and the first 2 books have already become a comfort read of mine in the past few years.
1. How to Vex a Vampire ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. How to Elude a Vampire ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
3. How to Lure a Hunter ⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. How to Save a Human ⭐⭐⭐.5
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✅ Funny banter
✅ Cute romance
✅ Pace
✅ 2 POVs
✅ Intrigue
✅ Action
🆗 Flashbacks
_______________________
Second read: I enjoyed the plot a little less this time around, I think, but the little casual (and silly) moments with the whole gang were the perfect comedic relief. I adore them.
_______________________
Finn and Marcus were hoping to be able to live a quiet and “normal” life with their two dogs after everything that happened to them and the VRC department, but that plan went out the window pretty fast once Marcus’ past caught up to him. Someone is killing vampires and trying to kidnap Finn, and while it might be linked to what Watson did to Finn all those years ago, the suspects are multiplying, and they are all pointing fingers at each other, making it near impossible for the gang, and for us, to know who to believe and trust.
The humor in this book was a little toned down when compared to the previous ones, but there are still some hilarious bits. The stakes felt high enough to keep me hooked, and it was easy to get lost in this book and finish it quickly. The pace is fast, the plot is engaging, and the characters are as lovely and funny as always.
We get to learn more about Marcus’ past in this book, and thankfully, the flashbacks were not too long or too numerous, because I am not a fan of flashbacks, and I honestly did not find them that relevant or interesting in this book. The rest was great, though.
“You gonna fuck up that wall?” I ask.
He glances over at me with an eyebrow lifted. “Huh?”
“The way you were looking at it, I assumed it called you a little bitch or something. I bet you’d win. I’ll put money on my man,” I say as I give him an encouraging ass smack.
Grumpy Marcus is still there, and he’s as intense in his glooming as ever. I think it’s even funnier now that he realizes how awful he can be, and still doesn’t give a shit. It has become a running gag in the group how he loves to make people cry and ruin happiness wherever he goes. I just loved how he and Alexei had to team up against Claude and Finn’s sunny energy in the hope of calming them down and getting out of their crazy plans.
“May I hold your hand?” he asks as he takes my hand without waiting for an answer. “You’re like my teeny tiny emotional support Finn. You shall protect me, and the moment Marcus looks my way—” He grabs me and holds me before him like a shield. “Half protection. Like either my head or my ankles aren’t protected, but I can move you if I need to.”
I missed Claude’s exuberance in the fourth book, and I was so happy to see that he was more present in this one, along with Alexei. We also get to see more of his badass side, which is good because it’s easy to forget that Claude can be just as strong, fast, and ruthless as his brother when he needs to be.
Claude snickers before quickly straightening up. “I mean. How dare you, Finn. Marcus is extremely professional and…” He scrutinizes him for a long moment until he adds, “kind.”
That makes both Marcus and me smirk. “I love how I can see the physical pain on Claude’s face when he said that,” I say.
“I’m glad you enjoy my pain. Clearly, Marcus’s savage attitude is rubbing off on you,” Claude says, like he’s devastated by this.
Claude and Marcus always had a rocky relationship in the series, but in this book, we can see them getting closer to each other, and they both realize that they love and need each other and that it’s okay to show it (okay, it was mostly Marcus who needed to realize it). It was heartwarming to see Marcus warm up to Claude and accept his presence in his life, and I just love brotherly/sisterly stories that end up well. They do continue to aggravate and tease each other, though, adding some awesome comedic relief to the story, along with Finn and his antics.
Me: Fucking hell. We might have to do something to Finn and Claude until Christmas is over.
Alexei: I’ll start digging.
Me: I didn’t mean murder them.
Alexei: Oh.
Me: Like… send them off on vacation or something. What the fuck?
Alexei: I said “Oh.” Chill.
I was super happy to see that Claude and Alexei were also part of the adventure, and having the 4 guys together was awesome. They were cute at times, silly at others, and they made me smile so many times! I like how the author managed to keep the silliness, but she was also able to show the characters’ fierceness, and how they could be badass and willing to do anything to protect each other. They didn’t just become silly clowns that were only good at doing stupid things and making us laugh, they have feelings and depth, and they have their serious moments too.
Orin walks up to see what the fuss is about. He glances at me through the door then nods before pulling the door shut and locking it. I’m about to give Orin an earful for joining Finn’s side when he gives me a thumbs-up.
“Run free, you can finally find someone that’s closer to your level,” Orin says to me. “You don’t need to be catfished any longer.”
(…)
“You have my number. Give me a call,” Orin suggests as he makes the phone sign with his hand and gives me a wink. Finn gasps.
“You did not just wink at my man.”
“My man now,” Orin says before walking off.
Orin is a character that I always liked in this series, and I always smile when he’s involved, so while I was happy that he also was in this book, I wanted more of him. He is so protective of his kids, yet he rarely gets involved… Or when he does, the author does not detail his involvement, making it seem like he’s staying on the sidelines. I know that he’s not part of the VRC, but I would think that he wouldn’t give a shit and be the first in line to kill anyone who tried to hurt Finn… We can see him getting more involved in this book, but I would have loved to see more of his protective badass side.
I am in love with this series and this crazy gang. I know this is a series I will reread many times in the future, and the first 2 books have already become a comfort read of mine in the past few years.
1. How to Vex a Vampire ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. How to Elude a Vampire ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
3. How to Lure a Hunter ⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. How to Save a Human ⭐⭐⭐.5
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February 8, 2023
Yay, another installment with the vamps/guys from the VRC! 😁
This story was tons of fun, but did at times tip over that line of "too silly", so there was some eye-rolling and page-forwarding that happened for me.
While reading, with how strong and ruthless The Big Bad Guy™ was in this one, I felt a bit of hopelessness that took some getting used to.
And then, *poof*, there was a completely unexpected redemption arc, which restored some of that hope and made me smile.
The book ended at a logical stopping point, but I'm still not convinced if I was actually happy with where it ended, mainly because it felt like the first *half* of a really good story that suddenly ended.
But hey, as long as I get the follow-up conclusion book for this story line, I'll live.
I'd rate this one at around 4 stars, which would've been a little higher, if some of the trying-too-hard, humorous moments had been dialed back just a smidge.
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June 12, 2023
4.5 Stars
This series is scoring goals at every turn, getting bigger and grander, funnier, and more deliciously romantic, and definitely upping the ante with the mystery arcs with every subsequent book. Seriously, it’s all winning from my vantage point.
We’re already at book five and I can’t even! I’ve enjoyed every book but this was definitely my favourite to date. I honestly thought the excitement and suspense couldn’t surpass how engrossed I was with the plot and villain in book two (How to Elude a Vampire), but I was happily proved wrong here.
Back with human Finn and Marcus, his vampire lover and partner in the VRC (Vampire Related Crimes Unit), the story opens with a gruesome crime scene and a subsequent supernaturally scary attack, and then, quite literally, doesn’t let up for the rest of the book. To say I was thoroughly entertained, is putting it mildly.
I loved the new mystery plot and the addition of some new characters, of various means and motives, all linking impressively with Marcus’s past and allowing us a deeper look into the broody vampires complex history, which I really appreciated and enjoyed.
As a now well-established couple, Finn and Marcus hold the book up with ease and delight, their partnership and love stronger than ever, and their banter just as sharp, teasing, and hilarious. They have effortlessly become one of my favourite MM couples over the past few years, that’s for sure.
Alongside this wonderful pair, and featuring almost as heavily throughout the story, are Marcus’s brother Claude and teammate Alexei, whose presence in this story only served to elevate every scene and interaction, especially with Claude and Finn providing the sort of OTT scenes of hilarity I adore most about this series.
I enjoyed so much about this story and I can’t wait to read on, because this instalment definitely opened up a lot of possibilities going forward for these characters to grow and delight even further.
Honestly, if Winters can keep up this level of storytelling quality, I’m more than happy to keep reading about Finn and Marcus, and their lovable family and friends, indefinitely.
This series is scoring goals at every turn, getting bigger and grander, funnier, and more deliciously romantic, and definitely upping the ante with the mystery arcs with every subsequent book. Seriously, it’s all winning from my vantage point.
We’re already at book five and I can’t even! I’ve enjoyed every book but this was definitely my favourite to date. I honestly thought the excitement and suspense couldn’t surpass how engrossed I was with the plot and villain in book two (How to Elude a Vampire), but I was happily proved wrong here.
Back with human Finn and Marcus, his vampire lover and partner in the VRC (Vampire Related Crimes Unit), the story opens with a gruesome crime scene and a subsequent supernaturally scary attack, and then, quite literally, doesn’t let up for the rest of the book. To say I was thoroughly entertained, is putting it mildly.
I loved the new mystery plot and the addition of some new characters, of various means and motives, all linking impressively with Marcus’s past and allowing us a deeper look into the broody vampires complex history, which I really appreciated and enjoyed.
As a now well-established couple, Finn and Marcus hold the book up with ease and delight, their partnership and love stronger than ever, and their banter just as sharp, teasing, and hilarious. They have effortlessly become one of my favourite MM couples over the past few years, that’s for sure.
Alongside this wonderful pair, and featuring almost as heavily throughout the story, are Marcus’s brother Claude and teammate Alexei, whose presence in this story only served to elevate every scene and interaction, especially with Claude and Finn providing the sort of OTT scenes of hilarity I adore most about this series.
I enjoyed so much about this story and I can’t wait to read on, because this instalment definitely opened up a lot of possibilities going forward for these characters to grow and delight even further.
Honestly, if Winters can keep up this level of storytelling quality, I’m more than happy to keep reading about Finn and Marcus, and their lovable family and friends, indefinitely.
June 9, 2023
4.5 Stars
Apparently, I was in just the pitch perfect mood because this seriously was so much fun! I missed Finn and Marcus and didn’t even know it. I loved that this book really focused on their dynamic, their internal motivations, and further honed their personalities to great entertaining delight.
Don’t get me wrong. Winters can obvioulsy provide the super silly and ridiculous, but she can also intermix that with a good amount of scary intense horror as well as bring heavy hits of impactful feels.
I do believe that it takes a talented author to swing so broadly between the tropes and the tone of this series and do it consistently and engagingly. I’m duly impressed and have a new appreciation for her stories!
Sorry not sorry.
Apparently, I was in just the pitch perfect mood because this seriously was so much fun! I missed Finn and Marcus and didn’t even know it. I loved that this book really focused on their dynamic, their internal motivations, and further honed their personalities to great entertaining delight.
Don’t get me wrong. Winters can obvioulsy provide the super silly and ridiculous, but she can also intermix that with a good amount of scary intense horror as well as bring heavy hits of impactful feels.
I do believe that it takes a talented author to swing so broadly between the tropes and the tone of this series and do it consistently and engagingly. I’m duly impressed and have a new appreciation for her stories!
Sorry not sorry.
February 11, 2023
3.5 Liked it, did not love it stars! 💕 I'll start by saying that I did enjoy it, I did love revisiting Marcus and Finn, Claude and Alexis as the awesome-foursome. 🤩 The mystery was interesting and kept me on edge, since this new adversary Vampire is so much stronger than any one they have encountered since Watson. Plus the plot also dug into Marcus's past, who's background has been largely left unexplored, because the previous books were focussed on Finn. And although Finn is integral to the story here, it's Marcus who has prior experience with all these vampires who are now threatening the lives of both humans and vampires.
Now, what I didn't like, as always was the unnecessary silliness and jokes. They largely fell flat and I wasn't laughing. Yes, there were some humorous moments too, but they were more effortless. Much of Finn's chatter felt like page-filling-silliness. 😬
Overall, I would say that I enjoyed it, but I did skim through the funny parts 🙄. The story is also pretty light on steam and on the low-angst side. So I would only recommend it to fans of the VRC series, because this is not a standalone; you have to read at least the first 3 books to connect the dots. 👍👍
Now, what I didn't like, as always was the unnecessary silliness and jokes. They largely fell flat and I wasn't laughing. Yes, there were some humorous moments too, but they were more effortless. Much of Finn's chatter felt like page-filling-silliness. 😬
Overall, I would say that I enjoyed it, but I did skim through the funny parts 🙄. The story is also pretty light on steam and on the low-angst side. So I would only recommend it to fans of the VRC series, because this is not a standalone; you have to read at least the first 3 books to connect the dots. 👍👍
March 29, 2024
PLEASE tell me there's going to be a 6th book. 😭
This is such a great installment and I haven't felt absorbed and on edge like this in a while. I wanted to slap some bastard vampires left and right for hurting Finn repeatedly that I now understand why Marcus kept threatening everyone. Can we just have Marcus lead the Council already? He can just scare everyone into submission and everyone will behave. Ugh! Oh, and then maybe have Claude design their council uniform because that would be hilarious! 🤣🤣🤣
Such a good continuation of the timeline but I felt a little less satisfied with the ending and ONLY because there are still so many stones unturned that it really felt like there'll be a book or 2 more. Please! Please! Please?!
Anyway, Finn and Claude continuously inspired joy and laughter out of me but MAN, Alexei and Marcus started to be so entertaining as well that having these 4 men in one room was such a riot. Also, the Christmas carol was SO. MUCH. FUN! Where do you get all your weird Claude fashion sense ideas, Alice Winters?!
Anyway, Finn and Marcus has gotten a lot more intimate and sweeter through this series and the development of their relationship with each other and the rest of the crew was done so nicely. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE IT! 🥰
This is such a great installment and I haven't felt absorbed and on edge like this in a while. I wanted to slap some bastard vampires left and right for hurting Finn repeatedly that I now understand why Marcus kept threatening everyone. Can we just have Marcus lead the Council already? He can just scare everyone into submission and everyone will behave. Ugh! Oh, and then maybe have Claude design their council uniform because that would be hilarious! 🤣🤣🤣
Such a good continuation of the timeline but I felt a little less satisfied with the ending and ONLY because there are still so many stones unturned that it really felt like there'll be a book or 2 more. Please! Please! Please?!
Anyway, Finn and Claude continuously inspired joy and laughter out of me but MAN, Alexei and Marcus started to be so entertaining as well that having these 4 men in one room was such a riot. Also, the Christmas carol was SO. MUCH. FUN! Where do you get all your weird Claude fashion sense ideas, Alice Winters?!
Anyway, Finn and Marcus has gotten a lot more intimate and sweeter through this series and the development of their relationship with each other and the rest of the crew was done so nicely. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE IT! 🥰
June 8, 2023
First Finn and Marcus book I've actually enjoyed, but I still don't like Marcus at all!
Definitely an entertaining instalment of this series, but it ended pretty abruptly and there were a lot of loose ends. I'm hoping there's another book to come?
Definitely an entertaining instalment of this series, but it ended pretty abruptly and there were a lot of loose ends. I'm hoping there's another book to come?
February 26, 2023
I laughed and laughed like a donkey and enjoyed the fk out of this
I'll love on this installment more when I get my thoughts in order
I'll love on this installment more when I get my thoughts in order
June 26, 2025
I will never not LOL and die laughing when we get to the chapter of them doing Christmas eve together. That "JE-SUS CHRIST" from Marcus as he gets dressed in Claude's chosen outfit is the best thing ever from Michael lol
I listened to the audio of this and it was pretty much perfection.
I'm reminded of how much I just love Finn and Marcus, but what I think I love even more is the relationship and camaraderie that they both have with Claude and Alexei. The entire first half of this book is so, so funny when all of their interactions. The group chats. The shopping. The holidays together. The Christmas Eve all together with Orin.
Also? I adore Claude. Like, so so much.
Then shit gets real and the second half is just so tense and serious. I love that Alice did such a great job with both the humor and the seriousness to this one.
I love this series, it's neck and neck with Hitman for me. HIGHLY recommend this series in audio.
I listened to the audio of this and it was pretty much perfection.
I'm reminded of how much I just love Finn and Marcus, but what I think I love even more is the relationship and camaraderie that they both have with Claude and Alexei. The entire first half of this book is so, so funny when all of their interactions. The group chats. The shopping. The holidays together. The Christmas Eve all together with Orin.
Also? I adore Claude. Like, so so much.
Then shit gets real and the second half is just so tense and serious. I love that Alice did such a great job with both the humor and the seriousness to this one.
I love this series, it's neck and neck with Hitman for me. HIGHLY recommend this series in audio.
February 7, 2023
I enjoyed this installment which added some new elements to the story and starts a new overarching storyline. We get some resolution at the end but there is also some unfinished business. Finn and Marcus both have to deal with people and things from their pasts but luckily they have Claude and Alexei to back them up. I really love this Fab Four and how they've become a fast family no matter how much they want to deny it at times - and let's not forget Orin who now seems to have adopted the three vamps as his own as well.
Although the humorous banter can sometimes be unrelenting and sometimes not all that humorous, there were also some nice emotional moments interspersed with the action and intrigue. I'll be looking forward to the next one!
Although the humorous banter can sometimes be unrelenting and sometimes not all that humorous, there were also some nice emotional moments interspersed with the action and intrigue. I'll be looking forward to the next one!
August 11, 2025
Rating: 4.5
Probably my favourite book in the series.
I love how Marcus and Finn's relationship has developed and how good they are together. Claude and Alexei are also both delightful, and it gives me so much joy how Alexei and Marcus will brood and pretend to be evil together. And Claude, oh man, I adore him!
Finn continues to be perfect and a badass, and it's fitting how they all adore him and go from loving on him to mercilessly teasing him
I feel like the plot was the most high stakes and intricate since Watson, and I'm really curious to see where it'll go.
As always, the narrator is brilliant and made this book even better.
Probably my favourite book in the series.
I love how Marcus and Finn's relationship has developed and how good they are together. Claude and Alexei are also both delightful, and it gives me so much joy how Alexei and Marcus will brood and pretend to be evil together. And Claude, oh man, I adore him!
Finn continues to be perfect and a badass, and it's fitting how they all adore him and go from loving on him to mercilessly teasing him
I feel like the plot was the most high stakes and intricate since Watson, and I'm really curious to see where it'll go.
As always, the narrator is brilliant and made this book even better.
March 4, 2023
Michael Ferraioulo and Alice Winters= 5 million stars
The story is more of a 3 star, it could be because I didn’t remember all the small details of the previous books.
Overall a good read, but I didn’t love it.
The story is more of a 3 star, it could be because I didn’t remember all the small details of the previous books.
Overall a good read, but I didn’t love it.
June 24, 2023
Oooh that went somewhere unexpected
I wasn't sure if this was going to be the last in the series but clearly not!
Things went in a completely different direction than I'd been expecting them to based on the Blurb too and I was definitely down for it.
There's the usual mix of action, humour, investigations and Finn throwing himself in the face of danger to satisfy.
I cannot wait to see what happens next in this universe that Alice has created.
I wasn't sure if this was going to be the last in the series but clearly not!
Things went in a completely different direction than I'd been expecting them to based on the Blurb too and I was definitely down for it.
There's the usual mix of action, humour, investigations and Finn throwing himself in the face of danger to satisfy.
I cannot wait to see what happens next in this universe that Alice has created.
May 13, 2025
Fun book, we made new discoveries, I just don't know if another book on the series will be made or not, sometimes Alice does write a series for 3-4y and out of the sudden bam!!! New book. That's good I guess, it's always a surprise, but I would like to now what series are open or closed
May 3, 2025
Did I start it and didn't stop until I finished it?
Yes, I did!
I loved it and I can't wait to read more about this incredible group of characters!!
Yes, I did!
I loved it and I can't wait to read more about this incredible group of characters!!
May 20, 2023
Just when I thought book 4 was it. No more! Finished! Well now. Pack your bags, we are going to grandma's! She is hunting bear.
Well not a grandma and there are no bears. VRC is at it again. Both sides, humans and vampires, working together in order to keep the peace.
Easier said than done. When your coworkers keep being attacked. Then there's a vampire drinking monster hunting down those that took his precious!
What fun a new start! On to answer the question, "How was doc able to keep other vampires out of his territory?" How was he able to get away with those experiments?
Well not a grandma and there are no bears. VRC is at it again. Both sides, humans and vampires, working together in order to keep the peace.
Easier said than done. When your coworkers keep being attacked. Then there's a vampire drinking monster hunting down those that took his precious!
What fun a new start! On to answer the question, "How was doc able to keep other vampires out of his territory?" How was he able to get away with those experiments?
March 17, 2025
Probably my favorite of the Finn/Marcus books from this series! It had all the usual antics and fun one can expect from this series, but to me the emotional element was slightly more elevated in this one, and the plot/mystery was probably my favorite yet!
January 16, 2023
Finn and Marcus finally seem to have all past drama behind them and are living a peaceful life with their 2 dogs Artemis and Hela and solving crimes at the VRC. Then out of nowhere Marcus’ past comes back and is determined to pull him back. What Marcus and Finn don’t realise is that Marcus’ past is all tied up with Finn’s. The team has no idea who to trust as all the suspects are pointing fingers at each other, and the powers that be are no help and are still recovering from the fallout of book 4. I found myself unable to put this down. I just had to know what happened next! There’s a lot of action and my heart was practically beating out of my chest at times. This is NOT meant to be read as a standalone as there’s a lot of recalling of incidents that have primarily occurred in books 2 and 4. I need book 6 like yesterday! I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 25, 2023
This was a crazy entertaining book detailing some insane shenanigans consisting of the whole gang. Marcus, Finn, Claude, and Alexei. There were just so many hilarious moments of the four of them. Despite the laughter, there's some darkness to this one. Much of the book has a sense of foreboding to it. You know something bad is coming and it's killing you not to know what it is. And some bad shit happens. Some interesting things are also coming to light. Though this ended in a good place, it's obvious this book is not the last in the VRC series. Which is definitely something to be happy about.
January 26, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
How to Defy a Vampire is the fifth book in Alice Winters’ Vampire Related Crimes series. After the past two books focused on other couples, this book brings us back to Finn and Marcus, who are the heart of the series for me. This one is a bit of a hard one to describe without giving too much away about Ender, what he is after, what the Council wants with Finn, etc, so I am keeping things pretty vague. But the case itself is really interesting and twisty. There are a lot of turns and we don’t always know who to trust, or their motivations, and it all unfolds so nicely. While there is closure here for the immediate story, this book opens up some new directions for the series and there are some elements still to be explored. So I think this one is a nice transition book that really lays the groundwork going forward. I also liked getting some focus on Marcus and his past, as the first two books were more about Finn and the Watson situation. That said, this story also revisits Finn’s past as well and I think things tie together nicely, though it did refer some past story beats that I had some trouble remembering.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
How to Defy a Vampire is the fifth book in Alice Winters’ Vampire Related Crimes series. After the past two books focused on other couples, this book brings us back to Finn and Marcus, who are the heart of the series for me. This one is a bit of a hard one to describe without giving too much away about Ender, what he is after, what the Council wants with Finn, etc, so I am keeping things pretty vague. But the case itself is really interesting and twisty. There are a lot of turns and we don’t always know who to trust, or their motivations, and it all unfolds so nicely. While there is closure here for the immediate story, this book opens up some new directions for the series and there are some elements still to be explored. So I think this one is a nice transition book that really lays the groundwork going forward. I also liked getting some focus on Marcus and his past, as the first two books were more about Finn and the Watson situation. That said, this story also revisits Finn’s past as well and I think things tie together nicely, though it did refer some past story beats that I had some trouble remembering.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
August 13, 2025
being back with Marcus finn and the VRC was a absolutely amazing place to be I loved being back
how to defy a vampire was the most intense edge of the seat action of the series so far I loved it
I laughed one minute and the next I was laughing it was just pure perfection
knowing more of Marcus and Finns history was a incredible intriguing feeling and the love they have for each other is so strong you can feel it on every page
I really hope this isn't the last time we see Marcus finn and the rest of the VRC
how to defy a vampire was the most intense edge of the seat action of the series so far I loved it
I laughed one minute and the next I was laughing it was just pure perfection
knowing more of Marcus and Finns history was a incredible intriguing feeling and the love they have for each other is so strong you can feel it on every page
I really hope this isn't the last time we see Marcus finn and the rest of the VRC
July 19, 2024
I'd forgotten how much I loved this crazy cast of characters.
Michael Ferraiuolo outdid himself with the narration, taking his usual stellar performance to the next level!
This series, and especially this book should be read in order to really appreciate the story, characters, and humour.
Michael Ferraiuolo outdid himself with the narration, taking his usual stellar performance to the next level!
This series, and especially this book should be read in order to really appreciate the story, characters, and humour.
March 16, 2023
Ok first off, I'm not gonna lie, the beginning of the story was slow, but around 30% in, it got really good.
In this episode we have Finn yet again being targeted with Marcus always a step behind. At one point I actually asked how in the world one person could be kidnapped so many times, but it's Finn so I was ok with it.
We find out that the vampire corruption goes deeper than anyone realized and that Finn has super powered blood.
I enjoyed this one and cannot wait until Ender comes back cause if he can love a little girl, he can't be that bad.
As always, Michael Ferraiuolo was wonderful and I will always think of him when I think of these characters.
In this episode we have Finn yet again being targeted with Marcus always a step behind. At one point I actually asked how in the world one person could be kidnapped so many times, but it's Finn so I was ok with it.
We find out that the vampire corruption goes deeper than anyone realized and that Finn has super powered blood.
I enjoyed this one and cannot wait until Ender comes back cause if he can love a little girl, he can't be that bad.
As always, Michael Ferraiuolo was wonderful and I will always think of him when I think of these characters.
March 14, 2023
I just don’t think I’ll ever get tired of Marcus and Finn!! I love them so much and I love how we got deeper into their relationship. I adore how much Marcus wants to give Finn even when Finn doesn’t ask or pressure. I love how they tease each other but how soft they are as well. Ooh I swoon!
And Claude and Alexi couldn’t be more opposite but totally amazing. So much fun! I also love how Claude babies Finn and how Finn not only lets him but enjoys it!!
The mystery in this was excellent and unresolved so we get more!!!
And Claude and Alexi couldn’t be more opposite but totally amazing. So much fun! I also love how Claude babies Finn and how Finn not only lets him but enjoys it!!
The mystery in this was excellent and unresolved so we get more!!!
March 16, 2023
I’ve missed Finn and Marcus 🥰 this left us with no questions we will have more too! The pacing in this VRC installment was a little different, a lot of action all at once. I was very frustrated that we never get a clear description of how the council is layed out or it’s connection with the VRC. I also hope we get more interaction with Ender.
February 25, 2023
I very much enjoyed this. Classic Alice Winters. I’m very fond of these characters so there was little doubt I would enjoy it. I understand the OTT humour isn’t for everyone but I sure do love it.
Once I read Alice Winters say she struggled to write sex scenes and wow does she ever. I just wish they’d shut the hell up and fuck lol
Once I read Alice Winters say she struggled to write sex scenes and wow does she ever. I just wish they’d shut the hell up and fuck lol
April 3, 2023
More Chaos
Finn and the Gang are back and there is chaos and trouble again. I thoroughly enjoy this series and this story has even more laugh out loud parts than the previous Finn & Marcus focused books. I can't wait to get more info into the mystery surrounding Finn and Rylee.
Finn and the Gang are back and there is chaos and trouble again. I thoroughly enjoy this series and this story has even more laugh out loud parts than the previous Finn & Marcus focused books. I can't wait to get more info into the mystery surrounding Finn and Rylee.
February 26, 2023
This book was super convoluted and didn't really go anywhere. Not sure what the point was.
February 11, 2023
Great, as always with Alice. I adore the way the comedy and seriousness balances out. I love the mystery in this one too. I kind of wish we'd seen more of River and DeGray, but overall it was really good
January 15, 2023
Marcus, Finn and the gang are back with more mayhem as foes from the past crash into the present.
There’s plenty of action and lots of hilarity as the intriguing mystery unfolds. A mystery which has Finn and Marcus second guessing who is a friend and who is a foe.
Of course Finn is once again in the thick of things which has Marcus threatening/terrifying everyone to protect his love. Although Finn once again shows not only his inner strength but also his “ability to con even a crazed murderer into trusting him.”
I laughed so much reading this book. From Christmas Eve sleepover traditions to Claude with his unique fashion choices and Finn, talking sexy dressed as Santa just to name a few!
As per usual for this author, the interesting plot is the main focus with just a couple of well placed steamy scenes where Finn and Marcus reconnect and show their love for each other.
There’s plenty of action and lots of hilarity as the intriguing mystery unfolds. A mystery which has Finn and Marcus second guessing who is a friend and who is a foe.
Of course Finn is once again in the thick of things which has Marcus threatening/terrifying everyone to protect his love. Although Finn once again shows not only his inner strength but also his “ability to con even a crazed murderer into trusting him.”
I laughed so much reading this book. From Christmas Eve sleepover traditions to Claude with his unique fashion choices and Finn, talking sexy dressed as Santa just to name a few!
As per usual for this author, the interesting plot is the main focus with just a couple of well placed steamy scenes where Finn and Marcus reconnect and show their love for each other.
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