Duke Immortal: a Vampire Romantasy

by Claire Karloff

A reclusive vampire duke. A determined debutante. A Gothic romance born of moonlight and madness.Leonard Greystone, Duke of Harwood, has spent decades avoiding the living—and for good reason. Cursed with immortality and bound by honor, he survives by strict restraint, hiding his nature behind shuttered doors and unyielding control. Desire is a danger he cannot afford.

Miss Eliza Radcliffe has never had the luxury of fear.
When her family faces ruin, she accepts an extraordinary marriage to the reclusive duke of a notorious estate. Harwood Hall whispers of shadows and secrets, but Eliza is determined to secure her family’s future—no matter the cost to her own heart.

What begins as wary conversation becomes a dangerous intimacy neither expected.

Eliza’s presence tests Leonard’s discipline, awakening a yearning he has long denied—not for blood, but for companionship, faith, and a future he believed forever lost. Yet the closer they grow, the more perilous the truth becomes.

Because loving a monster is easy.
Surviving his secrets is not.

Duke Immortal is Book One in the Midnight Brides series—standalone Gothic Regency romances where monsters hide in plain sight, love demands courage, and redemption is hard-won. Each book guarantees an emotionally satisfying happily-ever-after.

Buy Duke Immortal for a tale of romance and overcoming curses today!What readers are ★★★★★ "Both sweeping and intimate, rich in atmosphere but anchored by character and heart ... a standout example of how blending genres can breathe new life into beloved tropes." - Tracy
★★★★★ "I haven’t read a vampire book in a long time, but I am very glad I read this one." - Diane
★★★★★ "I absolutely loved this book.100% perfection." - Danielle

What to

✔️ Slow-burn romantic tension
✔️ Sensual, open-door intimacy
✔️ Gothic atmosphere and Regency elegance
✔️ A tormented, honorable immortal hero
✔️ A practical, courageous heroine
✔️ Emotional redemption and a guaranteed HEA

❖ Classic Romance. Gothic Intrigue. Love That Conquers Curses. ❖

Genres: Vampires

314 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 25, 2026

Reviews

[Rebecca Merlene · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.0. Rated PG-13. Gothic Regency Vampire Romance

Somewhat interesting. Dragged and too much repetition.
I almost quit reading but was interested enough to keep skimming.
I would not recommend and will not read any more by this author. 🙄🥱

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story was like Bridgerton (Daphne/Simon), plus Beauty and the Beast, but with vampires. It was a cool premise, and the writing style is absolutely gorgeous. There were turns of phrase that I highlighted and reread out loud because they were just such unique and artful ways to describe something.

The prologue grabbed my attention and got me excited to read the rest of the book. Usually you learn about how a vampire became a vampire through backstory. Taking you to the first moment he awoke as one and then the agonizing choice he had to make in order to be a “good” vampire was gripping. The language was crisp and the pacing was just right in this section.

There was palpable chemistry between the main characters when they first meet, and I enjoyed every scene where they were together up to their first intimate encounter.

I’m giving this book three stars because of a tendency for both main characters to ruminate for pages over every plot point. The action happens in brief scenes, or needs to happen, and the plot goes on hold for pages while a character mulls over their thoughts and feelings about it, frequently repetitively so, and frequently outright stating things that could have been demonstrated with some sort of action instead. The ruminating interrupted the flow for me, and what started as a minor annoyance became a dominant frustration by the end of the book.

The chemistry between the two characters fizzled out for me after their first intimate encounter, and it didn’t really ever come back for me. Even the pacing in the mL last romantic scene, which is meant to be a triumphant moment, is interrupted repeatedly with redundant reflective thoughts.

I think this author is incredibly talented as a writer, so tightening up the pacing in storytelling, letting the reader draw some conclusions, dropping the redundancies - those will tighten up a story that already has a great premise and beautiful language going for it.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Chere Gruver · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very different type of Regency Romance!

Normally, the Regency Romances I read tend to be about balls and the ton, sometimes with a poor female thrown in there who ends married to a wealthy aristocrat. I don’t often come across Gothic Regencies. Well, I don’t often read them anyway. However, I have found myself enjoying the Gothic genre more and more lately and a Gothic Regency with a vampyr as the hero, well, this is the first one I’ve read. That being said, I truly enjoyed reading this story. The writing style is definitely Gothic in nature and just pulled me right in. I really enjoyed the fact Eliza was so strong and capable. There was the definite heartfelt sigh at the end as well, signifying an emotional reaction to the romance itself. So we have romance, Regency—one of my favorite genres—Gothic and—added bonus—supernatural as well. What’s not to love?

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Tzippy Sheffi Elgar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hooked to Duke Immortal from the very first page. I love vampire stories taking place in historical periods, and what attracted me first was it's taking place in the Regency period. I thought Eliza and Leonard's story was very exciting. There is a great focus on their thoughts and reflections, which slows down the pace, but I found it refreshing, since many plots are fast paced and the motives of the characters are not always clear. But not in this book. I also liked the writing style, which, in my opinion, corresponds with the period.

[Michelle Nielsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

An intriguing read, Leonard is hiding his true nature while joining the ton at season and keeping his deepest darkest secret away from all those who he encounters, and even upon finding a wife for company, does he not reveal it. The intrigue is in how he can continue to keep the secret, or what will happen when he's exposed.... keeps you riveted througout.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lou · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is well written and takes a very different approach to a vampires nature. This does not white wash it but works with the more classic version of a vampire's nature. Which makes it a better story in its unpredictability.

[Marion Löw · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kindred Spirits

I enjoyed this mix of Regency and paranormal Vampire romance with its gothic vibes. I am fan of other genres by the author and wanted to give it a try. The plot is very well written, engaging and full of heartfelt emotions, mystery, a touch of suspense, danger and mild steam. I really liked the main characters and felt sorry for Leonard, whose life is marked by self-hatred, loneliness and the urge to be honorable despite his existence as a vampire. Eliza is strong, determined and willing to sacrifice herself for her family. I really liked how she accepted Leonard and believed firmly in their relationship, even though her persistence got on my nerves a few times. The instant connection and chemistry between them was palpable, and they were exactly what the other had been missing in their lives. I also really liked the memories of Leonard's father and his life lessons at the beginning of each chapter.

Ever since he was turned into a vampire during his Grand Tour with his tutor, Lord Leonard Richard Greystone, the Duke of Harwood, had lived a solitary existence for half a century at his secluded country estate in Yorkshire, trying to preserve his honor and faith, and considering himself unworthy of love and happiness. During one of his rare stays in London, Leonard attends a ball and inadvertently overhears a conversation between Eliza Radcliffe and her mother.
To save her family from financial ruin and enable her little sister to enjoy a season, Eliza must find a husband immediately, but she has little chance of success except with a man who could be her grandfather.
Leonard is attracted to the strong woman and decides to court her. He gets a companion who will cater to his unusual needs and lifestyle, and in return, Eliza's family's future is secured. Despite all the protests of his loyal, elderly servant, the two marry, but their new life begins bumpily and full of secrets, restraint and
longing…

All in all, a compelling and touching historical vampire romance with a gothic flair, likable protagonists, suspense and a dash of spice, which I’m happy to recommend.

I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.

[Slwd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leonard and Eliza

“Duke Immortal” is the beginning of an exciting new series written by Claire Karloff. Since there are many different interpretations of the vampire legend, I chose to read this one with an open mind. Gothic atmosphere, Regency England, and an immortal vampire were combined to create an engaging and enjoyable story. There was definitely a gothic atmosphere from the fog shrouded Yorkshire moors of Leonard’s home to London after dark where Leonard hid amongst the shadows. I liked Leonard from the get go. From the moment he woke up and realized what happened, Leonard vowed to not become the monster lurking just beneath his outer veneer. I admired him for that since it was obviously not going to be an easy venture but an immortal struggle. Leonard had his servant, Jonas, as a constant reminder of humanity along with the honor his father instilled in him from a very young age. But this story is more than just a vampire tale, it is a story of loneliness and longing, of an instant connection between two persons that would suit one another if fate found a way. This is a story about duty, trust, and love that defines the endurable Eliza. Her character is duty bound to save her family, she is smart, strong, and protective of those closest to her. The connection between the Duke, Leonard, and the nearly on the shelf debutante, Eliza, was immediate. It was heartfelt with promise. As I passed through the pages I became invested in their separate struggles and was determined to know what, if anything, was going to get this pair to a satisfactory happy ever after. Claire Karloff delivered a wonderful, timeless story. She took the legend and made it her own interpretation, highlighting two lonely people who found each other against all odds, who then had to find their way in a new reality. Well written stories with strong characters set in a carefully built world is what drew me to this author in the first place. She has continued that trend with a paranormal twist and a new non-de-plume, but the heart is still there showing the reader that love can cross any boundary. Definitely recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

[Ingrid · Rating 5 out of 5]

This paranormal historical romance surprised me in the best possible way. Set during the Regency era, it blends vampire lore with social conventions in a way that feels both intricate and surprisingly elegant. The vampire duke is already centuries old, yet turned at a young age, so he appears to be in his early thirties. His past—including an unusual marriage arrangement that allowed him to be “reborn” as his own son—takes a moment to fully understand, but once it clicks, it adds real depth to his character and backstory.
The female main character is equally compelling. She urgently needs a marriage to save her family, but she is anything but meek or passive. She is headstrong, intelligent, and refreshingly clear in communicating her needs and boundaries. At times, she feels almost modern in her outlook, yet it works beautifully within the story and makes her stand out in a Regency setting. Their courtship is highly unconventional for the era, which adds tension, charm, and a quiet sense of rebellion.
The romance itself is a true slow burn, but it never feels dull. The atmosphere, worldbuilding, and emotional undercurrents keep you fully engaged while the relationship develops naturally. The writing is elegant and immersive, perfectly matching the historical setting while weaving in paranormal elements with care.
Overall, this is a beautifully written, character-driven Regency vampire romance with a unique premise, strong leads, and a deeply engaging atmosphere. A wonderful read for anyone who enjoys historical romance with a paranormal twist and thoughtful storytelling.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Paranormal stories fascinate me and combine with my interest in Gothic Regency; this story captivated me. I was particularly intrigued by how, despite his impossible circumstances, Leonard used every resource at his disposal to preserve his honor and refuse to let his affliction define his life. The detailed descriptions and information provided were both informative and engaging. The burden he carried was becoming unbearable. My curiosity kept me on the edge of my seat, eager to see how the relationship between Leonard and Eliza would develop. Eliza's way of thinking, weighing the pros and cons, analyzing alternatives, and arriving at valid conclusions captivated me. I always enjoy stories that stimulate my thinking and allow me to follow the reasoning. Despite having read hundreds of paranormal stories, I hadn't encountered this perspective before. I loved her character and how she, too, struggled to find purpose in her life. The plot development kept me in constant suspense, waiting for Eliza's next move and speculating about the danger she would face. Something I really enjoyed were the passages at the beginning of each chapter, which helped me better understand Leonard's behavior. Action, suspense, conflicting emotions, loyalty, sacrifice, danger, passion, and the villain always lurking. This is the kind of story I love most, and if the next ones follow the same path, I won't miss one.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Duke Immortal is a Regency Gothic Romance with all the right elements. Leonard Greystone, Duke of Harwood, became infected with vampirism when he was a young man. Before and after he was turned, he learned from his father the value of honor. He made it his imperative to follow those principles. Eliza Radcliffe is from a family in trouble. She needs to marry to correct their financial situation. When they meet, there is an immediate connection. They are two lost souls drawn together by loneliness. How will a marriage work if she does not know his secrets? How can they truly share a life and future? Challenges, an odd household, secrets, and a crazed villain (weirder than a vampire) who could cost them everything. Everything about this well-crafted story, the hero, heroine, Jonas (Leonard’s Renfield), the castle on the moors, the atmosphere, and the description and dialogue, is reminiscent of the classic black and white Vampire movies. I enjoyed reading it, and I look forward to reading about the next Midnight Bride.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well written, full of society, drama, intrigue, heartache, sadness, action, love, death and vampires. Leonard is on the Grand Tour when he and his tutor die but when Jonas retrieves the coffins it's only to see Leonard and his tutor emerge from their coffins. Jonas is shocked and needs help to stop the tutor from drinking his blood. Leonard id forced to destroy him to save Jonas. Fifty years later, Leonard is again at a ball in society yet staying in the edges till he is able to get outside. Eliza and her mother are there also and head outside to get the air and talk. After hearing Eliza speak of trying to save her family, he offers her marriage but does not tell her about himself. They do marry and return to his estate, where he keeps such strange hours. Leonard falls in love but needs to tell Eliza what and who he really is. Has so much action to keep you turning the pages and loosing sleep. Would strongly recommend this story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[HfbR · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the story of Leonard Greystone, Duke of Harwood, and Eliza Radcliffe. Eliza is desperate to marry a wealthy man to save her family from financial ruin when a chance overheard conversation on the terrace changes her life forever ……..

I really wasn’t sure what to expect from this story. I’ve read several well written novels by this author before which is why I was tempted by this book, but this was the first ‘Gothic novel’ and it didn’t disappoint. It features a vampire but it’s not really a vampire story, it’s more of a love story involving vampires. Leonard is a strong characters who fights against his inherent nature using his sense of honour as taught to him by his father, but he also suffers from immense feelings of loneliness and guilt which are portrayed very well. Eliza is a glimmer of hope in an otherwise desolate future. It’s a well written story that I’m sure any lovers of historical romance will enjoy 🐈‍⬛.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Deborah Durand · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alone Forever

The author’s venture into Gothic romance has not diminished her writing skills or supplying readers with fascinating characters. The books begins with the Lord Leonard Greystone opening his coffin without any recall of his now dire circumstances. Some 50 years later, one Eliza Radcliffe is accompanied by her mother to the last ball to which the bedraggled beauty will be invited. Poverty stricken, she must make a match to save herself and her family. Overwhelmed with loneliness, Duke Leonard overhears them speaking and offers her courtship in hopes that he will have companionship, even for a few decades.

Read how the duke agonizes over his decision to marry Eliza, how his unwelcoming household staff deter her acceptance and how unusual accidents threaten her life. One of the highlights of this book are the recalled conversations Leonard had with his father about his responsibilities as a duke and maintaining honor at all costs…even to oneself.
I have received an ARC from the author and I am leaving an unbiased review voluntarily.

[Kate Abbott · Rating 4 out of 5]

This isn’t my usual genre, but the blurb drew me in, and I’m glad to say it didn’t disappoint. The story opens just after Duke Leonard is turned and awakens as a vampire. The writing effectively conveys the lonely life he has led for the past fifty years, as well as the iron control he maintains thanks to his father’s training.

Our heroine, Eliza, is desperate to save her family from total ruination and must marry quickly. Even without love, there is an instant attraction the moment they first meet. Can a marriage of convenience turn into something more?

I particularly liked the strong-minded heroine it was refreshing that she didn’t hide what she thought or wanted. However, there was quite a bit of internal mental wrangling from both characters, some of which repeated itself and slowed the pace slightly.

Overall, this was a really interesting read and a nice variation on the traditional historical romance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kair · Rating 3 out of 5]

Duke Immortal the first book in the Midnights Brides series. It is a gothic romance novel set in the English regency era. I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Duke Immortal is the story of Leonard Greystone a recluse Duke who is also a vampire, and Eliza Radcliff a young woman whose family is on the brink of financial ruin. They meet by chance at a society ball and the Duke offers marriage as a way to save her family and give himself some companionship. Their marriage starts off rocky with half truths and self doubt for both Leonard and Eliza. The book is an interesting twist on the typical regency romance that was light on spice, had a tortured male character and a determined female character with strong will. It is an interesting read, that would appeal to many who like the regency romance genre.

[_bookish_book_ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story had such a strong gothic romance atmosphere. The dark secrets, haunting tone, and constant tension kept me hooked from beginning to end. I was completely invested in discovering how Eliza would uncover the truth and whether Leonard would ultimately lose himself to his inner demons. The mystery and suspense made this a truly captivating read.

What I especially enjoyed was the moody, gothic setting and the emotional conflict woven throughout the story. However, my one complaint would be the romance itself. There was a heavy focus on duty, obligation, and emotional restraint, but I personally wanted more romantic tension and intimate moments between the main characters to deepen their connection.

Overall, this was an atmospheric, mysterious, and compelling gothic romance with plenty of intrigue and emotional turmoil.

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Eliza's desperation, she spewed her truths to the Duke!!! I found that very honorable with a side order of feisty, tenacity, courage, and perseverance. She's a force to be reckoned with in her own right. She's not one to be fopped off easily. The Duke is no slouch himself, he has fortitude and integrity. They way he could hold off and deny his baser needs for the caretaking of his relationship with Eliza, was stunning. I liked hearing the life lessons the old Duke ingrained in Leonard as a boy/man. His inherent decency and morales shown throughout the story. I found this beautiful story to be captivating and it kept me reading. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.

[Sonia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this book. The descriptive passages were excellent and I was drawn into the story. The atmosphere created by the author allowed me to feel the desperation and fears of the characters. I was concerned about how they would be able to achieve their happy ending.

On the downside, I struggled with the paranormal elements of the story just a bit. I found myself overthinking the origins of the vampire and the story timeline. I suppose that those things are of secondary importance when the book is obviously a work of fiction.

I think that if one can suspend judgement and understand that things in the world of immortal vampires don't always add up perfectly, they will love this story. I received a free ARC from BookSirens and this is my honest review.

[Dominique Englebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

The honourable vampire
When Leonard, Duke of Harwood decides to marry Eliza Radcliffe to rescue her from a distasteful union, he intends it strictly as a marriage of convenience. That is the only way to hide his ‘condition’, his vampirism. But, through a series of strange incidents, during which he barely manages to save his bride, he is confronted with her mortality, her fragility compared to his superhuman strength.
The story follows his evolution from cold, inaccessible duke to starting to care for his new duchess, although he cannot imagine condemning her to eternal damnation. Will death force his hand?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Βίκυ Χ. · Rating 4 out of 5]

🕯️ Bridgerton Drenched in Shadows: A Vampire Romance That Consumed Me 🩸

Darkly elegant and emotionally merciless, this book grabbed me by the throat and never let go. 🖤 It’s a swoon-worthy, gothic waltz between a cursed, honorable monster and a fiercely practical woman who dares to see the man beneath the shadows. Imagine Bridgerton’s glittering ballrooms drenched in candlelit dread and aching desire, where every stolen glance bleeds with longing. ✨🥀 The prose is lush and haunting, the burn deliciously slow 🔥, and the redemption so raw it left me breathless. I was utterly spellbound from the first page to the last. 📖💫

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hooked from the description and enjoyed that this was a Gothic Regency romance and how it was told in this time-period. I was engaged from start to finish and enjoyed the overall feel of this and how it uses the historical element in a way that worked with the supernatural element. It was a strong start to the Midnight Brides series and enjoyed the overall journey and characters. The characters were everything that I wanted and enjoyed the use of the vampires in this. Claire Karloff wrote this well and am excited for more as this was really well written.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Belinda Magro · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first book by Claire Karloff and I really liked it.

I was first drawn to the Duke and Hero being a Vampire which is not something that I have read alot of. It was interesting how that affected his marriage to Eliza, the heroine in the beginning.

I really liked Leonard the Hero. He was kind and protective and had morals that he stuck by faithfully, although cursed with immortality.

If you like a gothic marriage of convenience, a recluse, Vampire Duke, open door romance then I reccomend this book.

I was given an arc via the author and this opinion is my own and review was submitted voluntarily.

[Aseret Medina · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC from Booksirens.
I read this book in about 2 days. Despite the genre, it was a nice cozy read. The plot was concrete and straight forward, few external conflicts, however is was just so satisfying. I loved Eliza. Such a strong, intelligent and relentless character. Leonard is a tortured soul, because yes, despite being a vampire, his kind and devoted soul remained intact.

The writing felt repetitive a times but otherwise compelling.

This is a book a could reread several times and I would definitely read the other books in the series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Carol P - H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Imagine a young noble heading to the continent to see the world, only to awaken transformed to a vampire filled with uncontrollable bloodlust. This “Duke Immortal” must learn to live within the new paradigm while striving to live up to his training and moral code. Is such a thing even feasible? How would it happen? What about finding companionship? Love? I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This Vampire moral dilemma and romance is an interesting and thought provoking read.

[SusanT62 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leonard, the Duke of Harwood is a vampire. He meets Eliza and realizes he has a chance for happiness.

This was an interesting blend of historical, paranormal and gothic romance. I enjoyed it immensely. The scene where Leonard could not enter without an invitation and none was forthcoming from the old and seemingly slightly deaf servant was entertaining.

If you enjoy just one of these genres, you will probably enjoy this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cookie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hooked from page 1! Couldn't put it down! A very nice fantasy romance with gothic vibes, the story is compelling and the characters lovable. As a fan of slow burn to high heat I loved the building of tension between Eliza and Leonard and the many almost-moments. I would have wished to find out more about the backstory of how Leonard was actually turned, that remained a mystery, but it doesn't make the story any less compelling. Definitely recommend reading.

Note: I received an advance review copy of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.

[T M. Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommended for Regency fans. For readers who adore traditional Regency settings but crave something a little different—a touch of Gothic mystery, a hero with a secret that is more than a scandal, and a heroine who refuses to cower—Duke Immortal is an easy five-star recommendation. It will especially appeal to fans of historical romance who enjoy genre-bending stories that blend comforting tropes with fresh, paranormal flair.

[Julie Ambrose · Rating 5 out of 5]

A duke who has to live in eternity and with the knowledge he will be alone as a vampire he has little choice but to….or does he

A young lady who faces poverty due to her father’s miss management of funds desperate to save her sister and family of total ruin . A hasty marriage is arranged , will she cope with his affliction .

Excellent characters will keep you enthralled in this fascinating story of the by gone era.

An enjoyable and worthy read

[Johanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Duke Immortal is Book One in the Midnight Brides series—standalone Gothic Regency romances where monsters hide in plain sight, love demands courage, and redemption is hard-won.'

The characters were very complex and complicated. Plot was intriguing and intense. World building was solidly drawn. Recommend.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.