Raphael (Vampires In America)

Raphael by D.B. Reynolds

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Okay- The review says 4 stars, but I would actually give it 3¾♥'s.

This is an action packed, mystery meets vampires meets romance novel.  It's the first in the Vampires in America series.  Cyn is a former would-be cop turned private investigator, although she does has enough money that she does not need to work.  She's a no strings attached kind of gal- rocky relationship at best with her half sister and a f-buddy as her bedroom "fix".  She lives in LA, but it's a darker LA with vampires...  The vamps are not mainstream, not out in the media proclaiming their status, but none the less- they are there and people are mostly aware of it but choose to ignore it.  But Cyn doesn't have that luxury- she's the "go-to-girl" when vamps need a human investigator. 

A weak female vampire get kidnapped, and Cyn is brought onto the case by Raphael, the vampire Lord of Western America.  She must find the kidnapped vampire while trying to maintain her professional distance and poise against the powerfully attractive and sensual Raphael....



Good points: Intriguing story with a decent take on vampires, although not the most imaginative "myth".  Well developed character, although the jury is still out on if I like the characters.  Fast paced, lots of action, a stubborn, hot-headed strong female lead that fights against the automatic fall into bed routine.

Bad Points: There is a spoiler here... The first time they have sex is in the middle of a gun fight up against the wall of a warehouse office.  Really?  That was the opportune moment for that?  They couldn't wait until they at least got to the car... or secured the bad guys?  Really? Chapter 28 and 29 just seemed so over the top and unlikely IMO.  Also, I'm not overly fond of the ending.  But I hear book two will resolve that for me.

So... worth the read, but I'm not sure I'm as head-over-heels in love with this series compared to many that have recommended it to me...



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