Review: The Vampire Narcise by Colleen Gleason

* Originally posted on our sister blog, Paranormal Romance Addict

The Vampire Narcise (Regency Draculia #3)

by Colleen Gleason 

Paperback, 400 pages

Published May 24th 2011 by Mira

ISBN 077832995X 

Courtesy of NetGalley

Skilled in the seduction of men, both mortal and immortal, Narcise Moldavi is the greatest weapon in her twisted brother's war among the Dracule. Until she falls for Giordan Cale.Her first searing encounter with Giordan seals their fierce connection for their eternal lives. But Giordan's vow to help Narcise escape her brother's rule is followed by a betrayal more agonizing than sunlight.Wounded but determined, Narcise ensnares vampire hunter Chas Woodmore in her quest for revenge and to reclaim her life. He wants her, worships her, will kill for her. And the Dracule never forget a wrong— nor do they forgive.

GoodReads

My Thoughts:

I was blown away by the third installment of the Regency Draculia series by Colleen Gleason. The Vampire Narcise was an emotional roller coaster through hell for both the characters and reader alike.

Even though this is the third novel in a series I think it could be read as a stand-alone. With the first two novels; The Vampire Voss, I was so-so with. The Vampire Dimitri was better but the way the story was set up there for book three, and the pattern that those novels followed, I thought The Vampire Narcise would be more of the same. Boy was I ever wrong and I am so glad that I stuck through the series! I loved Goirdan when he first graced the pages in the previous novels and was rooting for him, but I thought The Vampire Narcisewas going to go in a very different direction and to say that I was pleasantly surprised by it’s dramatic turn would be an understatement; I was ecstatic! The plot was new and fresh centering on Narcise’s captivity by her evil brother, Cezar Moldavi, and meeting Goirdan Cale. There is an instant attraction between the two and they carry on a budding relationship in secret that is so lovely in such a dark atmosphere. Here is one quote from Goirdan to give you a bit of a tease; “It’s only you, Narcise. Sometimes a man just knows.” Eventually though, Cezar becomes aware of his sisters actions and puts Goirdan in a terrible position that ultimately leads to a horrible misunderstanding causing a decade of heartache.

I wanted to hate Narcise in some instances, for her quick accusations and her lack of understanding and listening but I could also see how she could of mistook the situation. There was no way I could hate such a strong character that survived so much. Instead of cowering down to her brother and the atrocities he set upon her she learns to defend herself making her almost invincible. Both main characters were exceptionally strong though, in strength and spirit, despite the horrible abuse wrought on them. And Goirdan Cale, well, we could only hope to find a man as good as him to spend eternity with. These characters will stick with you long after you’ve turned the last page, I promise you that.

Gleason has developed a unique world with the Draculia, steeped in major historical events that were weaved into the storyline masterfully. The plot was deep, intense and dark with the possibility of love, although in no way promised, being the only light. 

The Vampire Narcise is a story of love, sacrifice, trust, action, determination, hope and forgiveness and I would recommend it to all. Even if you don’t read the rest of the series, you must read this book! 

Rating: 5 Wine Glasses!