What do you think?
Rate this book
Embrace
When Aubrey returns home after many years away, he is welcomed back with the extravagant gift of a Pet he never wanted and secrets he never dreamed existed...
Many years ago, the race of creatures once known as 'vampires' agreed to surrender their freedom, rather than face eventual annihilation. They exist now as Pets to the lords and ladies of high society, forced to serve forever the human whose blood they first drink.
Detesting the practice, Aubrey has always avoided taking a Pet for himself. But upon his return home from school, he is gifted with a Pet by his father. His Pet, however, is like none he's ever known, and only the start of an old and complicated tangle of secrets.
Many years ago, the race of creatures once known as 'vampires' agreed to surrender their freedom, rather than face eventual annihilation. They exist now as Pets to the lords and ladies of high society, forced to serve forever the human whose blood they first drink.
Detesting the practice, Aubrey has always avoided taking a Pet for himself. But upon his return home from school, he is gifted with a Pet by his father. His Pet, however, is like none he's ever known, and only the start of an old and complicated tangle of secrets.
222 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2009
30 people are currently reading
451 people want to read
About the author
Megan Derr
283 books2,936 followersMegan is a long time resident of queer romance and keeps herself busy reading and writing it. She is often accused of fluff and nonsense. When she’s not involved in writing, she likes to cook, harass her wife and cats, or watch movies. She loves to hear from readers and can be found all over the internet.
meganderr.com
patreon.com/meganderr
meganderr.blogspot.com
facebook.com/meganaprilderr
meganaderr@gmail.com
@meganaderr
meganderr.com
patreon.com/meganderr
meganderr.blogspot.com
facebook.com/meganaprilderr
meganaderr@gmail.com
@meganaderr
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
April 17, 2018
this was a nice, short historical fantasy with a twist on the vampire master/pet relationship - this time it's the vampires being kept as pets, not the humans.
although the lore behind it did make sense, it didn't make quite enough sense. still, it wasn't plot holey enough to cause a massive problem, just a little bit of a one.
there were two main romances here, one a m/m and one a m/m/m, and both were pretty angsty but had a happy ending, which as some of you may know, is my favourite sort of romance. the angst also made sense, rather than just being put in for the hell of it.
overall i liked this a lot. it wasn't problem-free, but it was good. this was only my second book by megan derr and since she's written kersquillions of books i'm definitely going to be reading some more.
although the lore behind it did make sense, it didn't make quite enough sense. still, it wasn't plot holey enough to cause a massive problem, just a little bit of a one.
there were two main romances here, one a m/m and one a m/m/m, and both were pretty angsty but had a happy ending, which as some of you may know, is my favourite sort of romance. the angst also made sense, rather than just being put in for the hell of it.
overall i liked this a lot. it wasn't problem-free, but it was good. this was only my second book by megan derr and since she's written kersquillions of books i'm definitely going to be reading some more.
April 21, 2013
3.5 stars – This was an overall fun fantasy romance with a neat twist on vampires (and servants) that gave you two developing love stories (although I was only really interested in one of them.)
Love story #1! Young scholar Aubrey returns home to his father’s estate, only to find out that he has been gifted “a pet”, a blood-drinking human-like creature that the wealthy are apt to keep as part of their status. Aubrey has no need for his new pet, and finds the practice of enslaving someone distasteful, but his pet Ruthven has other ideas, and goes out of his way to both annoy and seduce his new “master.”
I really dug Love story #1. Enigmatic Ruthven was fun to read in every scene he was in, and his and Aubrey’s slow push-pull dance was delicious. Lots of blushes and lingering looks and touches as Aubrey battled within to not fall for his incorrigible, totally fake-submissive pet.
Love story #2! Meanwhile, as Aubrey was both irritated and aroused by the infuriating Ruthven, Aubrey’s seemingly cold cousin Gille and family friend (and doctor) Stregoni were having their own moody push-pull dance as they continually fell into emo sexy times with each other. And then angsted about it. And then did again. And then angst!
Meanwhile! Other conflicts were afoot including evil fake doctors, crazy relatives, and a mysteriously sick sibling. It’s all crazy gothic fantasy vampire (not really) slave fantasy times!
What I liked: I loved Aubrey and Ruthven—their dynamic hits all my buttons, and I totally dug that this wasn’t a real “slave/servant” story and the power dynamic was totally turned over. The mystery about Ruthven was also intriguing, especially as hints were dropped along. I also dug Derr’s world of humans and vampires and the way the two were cohabitating.
What was harder: I found Gille and Stregoni’s romance way less interesting, and I started to skim those chapters. I kind of wish the focus wasn’t split since I found one romance so much more intriguing than the other.
(It kind of reminded me of the nonfiction Devil in the White City which splits its chapters between the build-up to the Chicago World’s Fair in the late 1800’s, and the crazytown serial killer that used that world’s fair as a cover for his terrible schemes. The serial killer storyline was so crazytown, I had a hard time reading the regular world’s fair chapters. I just started skipping ahead to the killer’s part. THAT GUY WAS CRAZY. I couldn’t focus on the fair at all because THAT GUY BUILT A CRAZY BUILDING TO KILL PEOPLE IN. One storyline was so “whoa!” it was hard to stay interested in the other parallel storyline.)
I had the same problem with this book. That, and I wish there was more development, more explanation about why people were into each other, more about motivations, etc. I dug the chemistry, but there were quite a few areas where I wished for more depth.
The other point was that there were a lot of little editing errors throughout, (typos or missing letters, etc.) so probably needs one more good copy-editing pass.
It is a fun story though, with some neat ideas and characters, and your mileage may vary. You may dig both romances fine (or you may love #2 more than #1. #1 just hit all my buttons.)
This was my first long Derr work. I’ll definitely check out more. I dig how she mixes fantasy and romance so well.
Love story #1! Young scholar Aubrey returns home to his father’s estate, only to find out that he has been gifted “a pet”, a blood-drinking human-like creature that the wealthy are apt to keep as part of their status. Aubrey has no need for his new pet, and finds the practice of enslaving someone distasteful, but his pet Ruthven has other ideas, and goes out of his way to both annoy and seduce his new “master.”
I really dug Love story #1. Enigmatic Ruthven was fun to read in every scene he was in, and his and Aubrey’s slow push-pull dance was delicious. Lots of blushes and lingering looks and touches as Aubrey battled within to not fall for his incorrigible, totally fake-submissive pet.
Love story #2! Meanwhile, as Aubrey was both irritated and aroused by the infuriating Ruthven, Aubrey’s seemingly cold cousin Gille and family friend (and doctor) Stregoni were having their own moody push-pull dance as they continually fell into emo sexy times with each other. And then angsted about it. And then did again. And then angst!
Meanwhile! Other conflicts were afoot including evil fake doctors, crazy relatives, and a mysteriously sick sibling. It’s all crazy gothic fantasy vampire (not really) slave fantasy times!
What I liked: I loved Aubrey and Ruthven—their dynamic hits all my buttons, and I totally dug that this wasn’t a real “slave/servant” story and the power dynamic was totally turned over. The mystery about Ruthven was also intriguing, especially as hints were dropped along. I also dug Derr’s world of humans and vampires and the way the two were cohabitating.
What was harder: I found Gille and Stregoni’s romance way less interesting, and I started to skim those chapters. I kind of wish the focus wasn’t split since I found one romance so much more intriguing than the other.
(It kind of reminded me of the nonfiction Devil in the White City which splits its chapters between the build-up to the Chicago World’s Fair in the late 1800’s, and the crazytown serial killer that used that world’s fair as a cover for his terrible schemes. The serial killer storyline was so crazytown, I had a hard time reading the regular world’s fair chapters. I just started skipping ahead to the killer’s part. THAT GUY WAS CRAZY. I couldn’t focus on the fair at all because THAT GUY BUILT A CRAZY BUILDING TO KILL PEOPLE IN. One storyline was so “whoa!” it was hard to stay interested in the other parallel storyline.)
I had the same problem with this book. That, and I wish there was more development, more explanation about why people were into each other, more about motivations, etc. I dug the chemistry, but there were quite a few areas where I wished for more depth.
The other point was that there were a lot of little editing errors throughout, (typos or missing letters, etc.) so probably needs one more good copy-editing pass.
It is a fun story though, with some neat ideas and characters, and your mileage may vary. You may dig both romances fine (or you may love #2 more than #1. #1 just hit all my buttons.)
This was my first long Derr work. I’ll definitely check out more. I dig how she mixes fantasy and romance so well.
February 20, 2020
It took me a little while to warm up to the characters but I ended up really enjoying this story. It was a short and sweet historically fantasy with a nice twist and I definitely couldn’t put it down before finishing.
November 1, 2021
This Regency-ish Fantasy world introduces an interesting twist to the usual vampire lore. Here the human nobility keeps a personal vampire as a status symbol, as a cultivated pleasure slave for so many decades that the thrill to have such a predator bow to you has lost its excitement that nearly no one remembers them as vampires anymore. They're now called Pets and the regular feeding is just a decadent ritual. That reversal of the usual hierarchy is possible because here vampires are only able to digest the blood of the first human they feed upon i.e. if the human dies the vampire dies of starvation, and the usual vampire abilities like strength, speed and mind control are not available for a common pet. It's interesting enough that I didn't care about some minor plot holes.
The story takes place at the country estate of Lord Sangre when his son Aubrey returns from his time at an university. He doesn't want to stay too long because of the difficult family situation with his icy father and his arrogant cousin Gilles who seems to be a much better heir to the earldom than Aubrey. He likes the situation even less after he is forced to accept a personal pet. Now he's responsible for Ruthven's life and that throws a shadow over his happiness to be reunited with his sickly sister and with his old friend Stregoni. In the following we get 2 romances, one from Aubrey's and one from Stregoni's point of view.
I liked Aubrey and Ruthven and their push-pull dance. Ruthven isn't the typical pet. His fake submissiveness is as charming as it is mocking. In the end Aubrey isn't able to resist that kind of teasing. Trying to solve the mystery that is Ruthven, Aubrey recognizes that his opposition to the pet slavery is only lip service and that he has to do more than only distance himself.
Stregoni is facing a completely different situation. He's addicted to sex with Gilles and his elusive pet Francois and although he's feeling used and humiliated he always comes back. It takes those 3 a lot of time and dire circumstances to show their love and accept what they are for each other.
At first glance I don't have an issue with Embrace. The setup, romance and overall atmosphere is typical Megan Derr and I always loved Derr's writing style. I'm a little bit disappointed that the world setup is so limited to the location. I was curious about the pet system and its repressive effects, about the pet liberation movement but I can understand why Derr decided to not go into those details. My issues are with the story solution which not only tarnished the Aubrey/ Ruthven romance but nearly spoiled the complete story for me.
The story takes place at the country estate of Lord Sangre when his son Aubrey returns from his time at an university. He doesn't want to stay too long because of the difficult family situation with his icy father and his arrogant cousin Gilles who seems to be a much better heir to the earldom than Aubrey. He likes the situation even less after he is forced to accept a personal pet. Now he's responsible for Ruthven's life and that throws a shadow over his happiness to be reunited with his sickly sister and with his old friend Stregoni. In the following we get 2 romances, one from Aubrey's and one from Stregoni's point of view.
I liked Aubrey and Ruthven and their push-pull dance. Ruthven isn't the typical pet. His fake submissiveness is as charming as it is mocking. In the end Aubrey isn't able to resist that kind of teasing. Trying to solve the mystery that is Ruthven, Aubrey recognizes that his opposition to the pet slavery is only lip service and that he has to do more than only distance himself.
Stregoni is facing a completely different situation. He's addicted to sex with Gilles and his elusive pet Francois and although he's feeling used and humiliated he always comes back. It takes those 3 a lot of time and dire circumstances to show their love and accept what they are for each other.
At first glance I don't have an issue with Embrace. The setup, romance and overall atmosphere is typical Megan Derr and I always loved Derr's writing style. I'm a little bit disappointed that the world setup is so limited to the location. I was curious about the pet system and its repressive effects, about the pet liberation movement but I can understand why Derr decided to not go into those details. My issues are with the story solution which not only tarnished the Aubrey/ Ruthven romance but nearly spoiled the complete story for me.
September 9, 2012
I'm not quite sure what to think of this one. It was different from any other vampire book I'd read before, but in a good way, I think. It was actually pretty clever and creative.
The characters...they are numerous, but complex in their own rights. But not quite. I get the feeling they are, but they aren't. It's not something I can put my finger on, but the underlying feeling of... I don't know. It's as if the characters are playing to the stereotypes or character profiles or whatever, but not quite. As I said, like they're playing up to the role they belong to. Or should belong to. Or feel they should, based on their circumstances...
What is annoying, though, are the grammatical and spelling errors. Most of them seem to be typos rather than anything else, but still annoying, nonetheless.
Overall, though, I kind of get the feeling that this book isn't quite done. Half-formed, in a way. Or a diamond that is still in the process of being cut. You can already see the different facets of the brilliant cut forming, but not all the facets have been cut yet and it's only the vague suggestion of the final product. But still, complete enough that you can already see the final result from the potential and it has an odd beauty in its own way.
I was actually quite sad when it ended, which says a lot about the book.
(I've noticed Derr does a lot with different scents. A lot of her books seem to have references to perfumes and whatnots. It made for interesting touches to her story...smell's a sense that not many people focus on, at least, not outright.)
The characters...they are numerous, but complex in their own rights. But not quite. I get the feeling they are, but they aren't. It's not something I can put my finger on, but the underlying feeling of... I don't know. It's as if the characters are playing to the stereotypes or character profiles or whatever, but not quite. As I said, like they're playing up to the role they belong to. Or should belong to. Or feel they should, based on their circumstances...
What is annoying, though, are the grammatical and spelling errors. Most of them seem to be typos rather than anything else, but still annoying, nonetheless.
Overall, though, I kind of get the feeling that this book isn't quite done. Half-formed, in a way. Or a diamond that is still in the process of being cut. You can already see the different facets of the brilliant cut forming, but not all the facets have been cut yet and it's only the vague suggestion of the final product. But still, complete enough that you can already see the final result from the potential and it has an odd beauty in its own way.
I was actually quite sad when it ended, which says a lot about the book.
(I've noticed Derr does a lot with different scents. A lot of her books seem to have references to perfumes and whatnots. It made for interesting touches to her story...smell's a sense that not many people focus on, at least, not outright.)
July 8, 2012
I'm soooo confused! Should I say it's a paranormal-romance? A fantasy? A dark fantasy? A historical romance? Because all of this tags could be perfect to this story... plus one... PERFECT because it's a PERFECT vampire paranormal-romance-dark fantasy-historical book!
Why a Paranormal-romance?
This story will be told by two characters, both humans. Aubrey and Stregoni.
Aubrey is a rich son of a Earl. Back at his home after his studies he will be welcome with a gift.. a pet, as humans call now the vampires.
Stregoni is a doctor and is the best (if not only) friend of Aubrey. He frequent the earl house not just when called to use his training. He enjoy Aubrey friendship, and in deep in love with Aubrey cousin... the impertinent Gille.
All the book will be both men, deep in love, with their respective partners. Aubrey with his strange pet vampire, Ruthven; and Stregoni with Gille.
It's a romance, and there are vampires (not just Aubrey's pet) in the earl house... no doubt about it... it's a paranormal-romance!
But wait... Are you asking yourself why I also said it's a dark fantasy?
This is a surprising story. No, not just because of the high writing quality of it, but also because it's also a dark tale.
Vampires decide (the legend tell it) to submit to humans, becaming their pets. If you reading the word PET think about a BDSM D&S (domination&submission) story (as I did) forget about it... it's not like that, at all. Ruthven will never call Aubrey by his name.. Aubrey is his master, and you must read all to know why he is so happy calling a human his master... but there is not domination, ever, and Ruthven submission will be the weird submission you can find. Immediately you will see how unusual this pet is... and that bring the darkness of this story.
There will be deaths, tragedies, and some heartbreaking moments (most of all Stregoni voice! His thoughts are so dark, and his low self-esteem will really broke your heart!). So yes, I would also call it a dark-fantasy.
And let's not forget it can be easily called also a historical-romance
Reading with candle lights, long protocols to follow to dinner of the speech between characters, carriages, travel in horse backs, elaborate dress code to women and men... yep... it can be also see as a historical-romance, even if there is not much description of what time exactly it is, the story look like be placed in regency era.
Why 5 stars? Did I had some perplexity or do I have any criticism?
To be honest I may have some questions... I never understood . Also about vampire powers, seems sort of odd
All the topics I mentioned in the spoilers are very personal, and don't justify me to take stars out of this story.
If you want a vampire novel, with a lot of flabbergasting moments this novel if perfect for you! And no... I'm not kidding... something about the earl (Aubrey's father) really made be say aloud "WHOOOOA! WHAT!"
That was me..
and it was just one of the exciting surprises of this story!
Love it all! The romance, the darkness, the little details (as all chapter named by flowers), the superb quality of the plot and writing... and yeah... amazing but I was also totally in love with Stregoni and Gille love story. It's one of those rare cases I prefer the humans, not the vampire love affair.
5 stars and I want more!!! One book in this interesting world of vampire pets wasn't enough!
Why a Paranormal-romance?
This story will be told by two characters, both humans. Aubrey and Stregoni.
Aubrey is a rich son of a Earl. Back at his home after his studies he will be welcome with a gift.. a pet, as humans call now the vampires.
Stregoni is a doctor and is the best (if not only) friend of Aubrey. He frequent the earl house not just when called to use his training. He enjoy Aubrey friendship, and in deep in love with Aubrey cousin... the impertinent Gille.
All the book will be both men, deep in love, with their respective partners. Aubrey with his strange pet vampire, Ruthven; and Stregoni with Gille.
It's a romance, and there are vampires (not just Aubrey's pet) in the earl house... no doubt about it... it's a paranormal-romance!
But wait... Are you asking yourself why I also said it's a dark fantasy?
This is a surprising story. No, not just because of the high writing quality of it, but also because it's also a dark tale.
Vampires decide (the legend tell it) to submit to humans, becaming their pets. If you reading the word PET think about a BDSM D&S (domination&submission) story (as I did) forget about it... it's not like that, at all. Ruthven will never call Aubrey by his name.. Aubrey is his master, and you must read all to know why he is so happy calling a human his master... but there is not domination, ever, and Ruthven submission will be the weird submission you can find. Immediately you will see how unusual this pet is... and that bring the darkness of this story.
There will be deaths, tragedies, and some heartbreaking moments (most of all Stregoni voice! His thoughts are so dark, and his low self-esteem will really broke your heart!). So yes, I would also call it a dark-fantasy.
And let's not forget it can be easily called also a historical-romance
Reading with candle lights, long protocols to follow to dinner of the speech between characters, carriages, travel in horse backs, elaborate dress code to women and men... yep... it can be also see as a historical-romance, even if there is not much description of what time exactly it is, the story look like be placed in regency era.
Why 5 stars? Did I had some perplexity or do I have any criticism?
To be honest I may have some questions... I never understood . Also about vampire powers, seems sort of odd
All the topics I mentioned in the spoilers are very personal, and don't justify me to take stars out of this story.
If you want a vampire novel, with a lot of flabbergasting moments this novel if perfect for you! And no... I'm not kidding... something about the earl (Aubrey's father) really made be say aloud "WHOOOOA! WHAT!"
That was me..
and it was just one of the exciting surprises of this story!
Love it all! The romance, the darkness, the little details (as all chapter named by flowers), the superb quality of the plot and writing... and yeah... amazing but I was also totally in love with Stregoni and Gille love story. It's one of those rare cases I prefer the humans, not the vampire love affair.
5 stars and I want more!!! One book in this interesting world of vampire pets wasn't enough!
Read
February 26, 2012What surprised me of Embrace is that, despite the theme, Vampire retro-fantasy about alternative Master and pet relationship, it was strangely sweet, sometime even pretty, and very romantic. The blurb presents the story of nobleman Aubrey and his vampire pet Ruthven, but it’s also the story of Gille and Stregoni, respectively cousin and best friend of Aubrey, and probably this second love story is the one I like the best.
Aubrey is not the typical nobleman hero, i.e. he is not strong and aloof, with a trouble soul which needs to expiate some past sins, and above all he is not the typical hero you would see in the role of a Master; on the other hand, Ruthven is far from being submissive, and, while the story presents a different type of vampire, men and women who are submissive to their owner, Ruthven is exactly how you would imagine an ancient vampire, self-assured, quick in mind and actions, but with a light touch, a penchant for sweetness, that makes him more near to Aubrey.
As I said, I loved Stregoni and Gille; Gille is the villain, or at least this is like the author presents him, the aloof man who was not able to tight a bond of friendship with Aubrey, the one who stole the love of Aubrey’s father, the substitute son, someone Aubrey considers better than himself, at least in being the son his father wants. Plus Gille has stolen Stregoni’s heart, and he is now treating him no better than a whore, using him for sex without never giving him sweet words or some kind actions. But Gille is also very possessive, and when he has the little doubt that Stregoni can find in someone else the love he is not able to find in Gille, he becomes jealous, and almost violent in proving Stregoni he is Gille’s property and no one else.
As in the previous novel by Megan Derr I read, this is a fantasy tale in a regency setting. It’s not historical, the regency setting is good but this is for sure a fantasy, the paranormal elements are intertwined in the story like they were absolutely ordinary elements, the vampires are part of the society like they were simply people from another part of the world, they are “strangers” but no “strange” creatures.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1936202034/?...
Aubrey is not the typical nobleman hero, i.e. he is not strong and aloof, with a trouble soul which needs to expiate some past sins, and above all he is not the typical hero you would see in the role of a Master; on the other hand, Ruthven is far from being submissive, and, while the story presents a different type of vampire, men and women who are submissive to their owner, Ruthven is exactly how you would imagine an ancient vampire, self-assured, quick in mind and actions, but with a light touch, a penchant for sweetness, that makes him more near to Aubrey.
As I said, I loved Stregoni and Gille; Gille is the villain, or at least this is like the author presents him, the aloof man who was not able to tight a bond of friendship with Aubrey, the one who stole the love of Aubrey’s father, the substitute son, someone Aubrey considers better than himself, at least in being the son his father wants. Plus Gille has stolen Stregoni’s heart, and he is now treating him no better than a whore, using him for sex without never giving him sweet words or some kind actions. But Gille is also very possessive, and when he has the little doubt that Stregoni can find in someone else the love he is not able to find in Gille, he becomes jealous, and almost violent in proving Stregoni he is Gille’s property and no one else.
As in the previous novel by Megan Derr I read, this is a fantasy tale in a regency setting. It’s not historical, the regency setting is good but this is for sure a fantasy, the paranormal elements are intertwined in the story like they were absolutely ordinary elements, the vampires are part of the society like they were simply people from another part of the world, they are “strangers” but no “strange” creatures.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1936202034/?...
September 30, 2011
2.5 stars
Certainly unique take on the vampires, who seem to remain true to their nature even as slaves. But, their creation and history were vague at best. The reasons they accepted slavery were also unsatisfactory, especially for such a powerful beings. I've read author's short stories with better world building.
The main problem for me were the two couples - I couldn't buy their relationships at all. Aubrey and Ruthven didn't work for me because Aubrey was manipulated by his "pet" from beginning to end. Ruthven's watching Aubrey grow up and coming more alive while watching him smacked too much of obsession. Stregoni was Gille's doormat for the better part of the story and Gille's reasons were not sufficient to change my opinion of him completely. Stregoni's inability to break this, basically abusive, relationship hasn't exactly endeared him to me either. Both relationships were unhealthy and unequal and I just couldn't enjoy them although, individually, the four characters had the potential.
While it was easy to read, this is certainly author's book I enjoyed the least. But, it could be she spoiled me with all those other awesome stories I've previously read. ^^
Certainly unique take on the vampires, who seem to remain true to their nature even as slaves. But, their creation and history were vague at best. The reasons they accepted slavery were also unsatisfactory, especially for such a powerful beings. I've read author's short stories with better world building.
The main problem for me were the two couples - I couldn't buy their relationships at all. Aubrey and Ruthven didn't work for me because Aubrey was manipulated by his "pet" from beginning to end. Ruthven's watching Aubrey grow up and coming more alive while watching him smacked too much of obsession. Stregoni was Gille's doormat for the better part of the story and Gille's reasons were not sufficient to change my opinion of him completely. Stregoni's inability to break this, basically abusive, relationship hasn't exactly endeared him to me either. Both relationships were unhealthy and unequal and I just couldn't enjoy them although, individually, the four characters had the potential.
While it was easy to read, this is certainly author's book I enjoyed the least. But, it could be she spoiled me with all those other awesome stories I've previously read. ^^
March 23, 2010
Vampires are slaves and bound to the first human whose blood they drink. It is very fashionable to have a Pet, as vampires are now called. The last thing Aubrey wants when he goes home, after several years at college, is a Pet. Especially one as attractive and troublesome as Ruthven. Aubrey wishes that he could leave again before he is even through the front door. His best friend, Stregoni, and his delicate sister, Carmilla, are his only hope of staying sane. His father is as cold and distant as ever, his mysterious cousin Gille is still unpleasant and Ruthven smirks. Aubrey has to put aside his long held judgements as he learns the truth about his family and the past.
This is a complicated story featuring the new and unwanted relationship between Aubrey and Ruthven, and the established but unsatisfying liasons between Stregoni and Gille, with secrets and politics and spiteful secondary characters.
This is a complicated story featuring the new and unwanted relationship between Aubrey and Ruthven, and the established but unsatisfying liasons between Stregoni and Gille, with secrets and politics and spiteful secondary characters.
April 3, 2011
I must admit I expected more from this one. Characters were very intriguing and sweet but there was just not enough said about them. I wanted to know more and see more, but it was not to be.
The plot on the other hand was very unsatisfying. Not very thought through and it lacked the author's usual love for detail. It also stole from the characters and annoyed the hell out of me.
Another thing that I couldn't get used to was switching from Stregoni's to Aubrey's POV. It really disrupted the story and always switched in the wrong moment. Usually the author does it very well but this time I was disappointed. Also, I think Gille and Ruthven would have been a better choice as Mcs. It would have certainly been more interesting.
I guess overall I liked it well enough, but it still left me with the impression that this was just an epilogue to the real story - One that I would most definitely read.
The plot on the other hand was very unsatisfying. Not very thought through and it lacked the author's usual love for detail. It also stole from the characters and annoyed the hell out of me.
Another thing that I couldn't get used to was switching from Stregoni's to Aubrey's POV. It really disrupted the story and always switched in the wrong moment. Usually the author does it very well but this time I was disappointed. Also, I think Gille and Ruthven would have been a better choice as Mcs. It would have certainly been more interesting.
I guess overall I liked it well enough, but it still left me with the impression that this was just an epilogue to the real story - One that I would most definitely read.
September 19, 2018
3.5*
I'm very conflicted by this book.
It's a great story line, but there just seems to be something missing. Like this maybe one of the author's first stories ever written and it needs a good clean-up and makeover.
I'm not sure about Ruthven. I feel like there is so much more story to hear, like he still has so many secrets. The story starts off mainly about Aubrey, but is told in multiple POVs. So there's a lot of Stregoni and Gilles. (and Francois, of course) I just feel like Gilles dominated this book.
I am pretty sure this is a stand-alone? with a potential of more. Will there be a Resistance? What will Gilles and Aubrey do now that Aubrey is back and is the main heir? A story about Camilla's trips would be cool.
I'm very conflicted by this book.
It's a great story line, but there just seems to be something missing. Like this maybe one of the author's first stories ever written and it needs a good clean-up and makeover.
I'm not sure about Ruthven. I feel like there is so much more story to hear, like he still has so many secrets. The story starts off mainly about Aubrey, but is told in multiple POVs. So there's a lot of Stregoni and Gilles. (and Francois, of course) I just feel like Gilles dominated this book.
I am pretty sure this is a stand-alone? with a potential of more. Will there be a Resistance? What will Gilles and Aubrey do now that Aubrey is back and is the main heir? A story about Camilla's trips would be cool.
August 5, 2011
3.75 stars
For how great this story is, especially the world-building, which Megan Derr always excels at, I found the pacing to be a bit strange. 3/4 of the story had passed and I felt like a whole lot hadn't really happened. For the storyline, the novella is pretty short, but I suppose I wished the story had filled out a bit more, especially with all the world-building had to offer. It almost felt as if this were the beginning of a several part story, however, I don't know if that is true, or will remain a standalone. If there are coming installments, I'll be the first in line for them :)
For how great this story is, especially the world-building, which Megan Derr always excels at, I found the pacing to be a bit strange. 3/4 of the story had passed and I felt like a whole lot hadn't really happened. For the storyline, the novella is pretty short, but I suppose I wished the story had filled out a bit more, especially with all the world-building had to offer. It almost felt as if this were the beginning of a several part story, however, I don't know if that is true, or will remain a standalone. If there are coming installments, I'll be the first in line for them :)
August 6, 2012
This turned out to be a much more complicated story than it first appeared to be. The interactions between all the characters are rich and fascinating. I have to say, I did feel more for Stregoni and Gille and their relationship became the centre of the book for me. It was a refreshing take on the vampire story and I would love to see more stories set in this world.
June 16, 2017
Embrace
A dull life in the country?
Aubrey is returning to his home in the country after several years away studying. All that awaits him at home seems to be a bad tempered and dominant father, Sangre, a sick (but much loved) sister, Carmilla, and a very quiet and uninteresting life. The first person Aubrey meets is his friend, Stregoni, the family doctor. Aubrey hears from his friend that, much to his dislike, he is to be given a Pet Aubrey, a servant vampire, Ruthven.
Megan Derr has written a charming fantasy novel with a historical feel. People ride horses, and medicine involves the judicious use of herbs. The nobility lead a pleasant life, with plenty of servants to tend to their needs. The driving force of the book is the gradual unravelling of various mysteries. More than once Deer surprises the reader with a revelation just at the end of a chapter. The book moves along nicely, with no dull spots, and the reader certainly is entertained and intrigued. To maintain interest Derr switches point of view between Aubrey and Stregoni. The subplot with Stregoni, is indeed very interesting and almost steals the show.
Aubrey is certainly a pleasant young man and the reader is immediately on his side. Many young men have had trouble with their fathers and will relate to Aubrey's predicament. Most of all Aubrey is kind hearted, and it is indeed this quality that endears him to Ruthven. Stregoni is a very interesting character, being outwardly very proper, but having hidden darker desires. I don't mean to suggest that Stregoni is evil. He certainly is caring like Aubrey, but his desires lead him into a predicament which is not exactly nice. Stregoni certainly adds spice to the novel. We also wish for the best for him, but don't see how this can come.
This novel has the theme that outward appearances are not always what they seem. Often we are sure we understand a circumstance, only to find that we are missing some rather vital facts. What seems very ordinary can in fact be quite unusual. Beyond this, people often turn out to be more complex than we thought.
This book certainly was a pleasure to read and I am happy to award it 5 stars.
February 1, 2018
Rating: 3 stars
There were two main protagonists in this story. Aubrey who is listed in the blurb and Stregoni who is not. I think I would have been much happier with this book, if it had been about Stregoni exclusively. I really liked his story arc and him as a character specifically. I felt for him throughout the book and was really glad that he got his HEA at the end. Aubrey on the other hand, I could not stand. I found him to be a whiney, obnoxious character and I couldn’t wait to finish with his sections to get back to Stregoni.
The story itself was a bit uneven. It always bothers me when there are unanswered questions at the end of a story. There were definitely things that I wanted to know at the end of this one that were never answered. Not to mention that I didn’t buy the back story of the vampires for one second. The reasons behind them becoming pets just didn’t make sense to me at all.
Overall, the story was okay. There were definitely parts that I really liked. Unfortunately, the parts that I didn’t like prevented me from rating this book higher.
There were two main protagonists in this story. Aubrey who is listed in the blurb and Stregoni who is not. I think I would have been much happier with this book, if it had been about Stregoni exclusively. I really liked his story arc and him as a character specifically. I felt for him throughout the book and was really glad that he got his HEA at the end. Aubrey on the other hand, I could not stand. I found him to be a whiney, obnoxious character and I couldn’t wait to finish with his sections to get back to Stregoni.
The story itself was a bit uneven. It always bothers me when there are unanswered questions at the end of a story. There were definitely things that I wanted to know at the end of this one that were never answered. Not to mention that I didn’t buy the back story of the vampires for one second. The reasons behind them becoming pets just didn’t make sense to me at all.
Overall, the story was okay. There were definitely parts that I really liked. Unfortunately, the parts that I didn’t like prevented me from rating this book higher.
February 7, 2018
Intriguing
4 ⭐️
I enjoyed this one, it wasn’t the best take on vampires I’ve read but it definitely was enjoyable. It kept me intrigued and entertained throughout the book.
While Aubrey’s character was not my favourite, he didn’t really annoy me, I just didn’t find him interesting. He reminded me of poor little rich boy, given a pet he didn’t want, boo hoo poor you. And I felt that Ruthven’s secret played out for too long. I liked the resolution just wish we could have got there quicker.
I enjoyed Stegoni’s storyline the most and would like to re read it again to pick up the little tidbits that would make more sense once you know what to look for.
Wish there was more from this world as I would definitely read it
4 ⭐️
I enjoyed this one, it wasn’t the best take on vampires I’ve read but it definitely was enjoyable. It kept me intrigued and entertained throughout the book.
While Aubrey’s character was not my favourite, he didn’t really annoy me, I just didn’t find him interesting. He reminded me of poor little rich boy, given a pet he didn’t want, boo hoo poor you. And I felt that Ruthven’s secret played out for too long. I liked the resolution just wish we could have got there quicker.
I enjoyed Stegoni’s storyline the most and would like to re read it again to pick up the little tidbits that would make more sense once you know what to look for.
Wish there was more from this world as I would definitely read it
August 4, 2013
I must begin by admitting to a slight fascination with vampires…no, not the Edward Cullen of Twilight type, more the mysterious, hunky, really hot kind…and Megan Derr provides me with the perfect example of just such a creature in her novel Embrace.
Embrace is set in an undetermined country during what appears to be the Victorian age. There is talk of gentry and commoners. There is an allusion to “poppy fever”—a quaint expression used to describe opiate (laudanum) addicts. And there is the most interesting concept of slaves, or “pets” as they are euphemistically called. But these pets are not human—no, these are vampires, although that name is rarely uttered when talking about one’s “pet” in good society.
The story begins with a flashback. A young boy, Aubrey, is traveling with his mother and a woman named Mina (we later come to find that Mina was his mother’s pet). While on the road, the carriage is stopped and both women get out to check on what is happening, leaving the young boy inside. By the flashback’s end, we see the boy’s father arriving to discover both women dead and his son covered in blood, but otherwise unscathed. From there we are taken to the present day and find that Aubrey’s father has summoned him home from university. Theirs is an uneasy and oft times angry relationship, with both trying to outdo one another in the obstinacy department. Also living at home is Aubrey’s sickly sister Carmilla, and his cold and sarcastic cousin, Gille.
As the story progresses, the mystery surrounding his mother’s death deepens and current odd happenings pull Aubrey further into the more sinister aspects surrounding her death. Upon arriving home, Aubrey is greeted with a gift from his father, a pet—tall, handsome, and rather self-possessed for a “slave.” Ruthven glides into Aubrey’s life, much to his dismay, for you see Aubrey despises the idea of anyone being enslaved. Add to that the fact that vampires must feed regularly off their master and that once having done so, they are tied to their master and can only drink from him/her for the rest of their existence, and we find that Aubrey is simply beside himself with anger at having been gifted with such a slave. After discovering Ruthven in his mother’s locked bedroom, Aubrey also finds evidence that his mother, Mina, AND his father were all actively pushing for the dissolution of slavery and, indeed, this is why his mother and her pet were brutally murdered. When Aubrey confronts his father and angrily insists on taking up the cause, his father forbids it and Ruthven begins a determined assault of a sensual nature to dissuade Aubrey from his projected course as well. Aubrey finds himself falling under Ruthven’s seductive spell and is unable to do anything about it.
In the meanwhile, a second story thread begins to develop concerning Gille, his estrangement from his father (twin brother to Aubrey’s father), and his sometimes sexually violent affair with the family physician, Stregoni or “Carrot” as Gille calls him. Gille too has a pet (Francois) that is jealous of the ongoing affair between Stregoni and his master. This side story weaves in and out of the main story line and is fascinating in and of itself. Gille’s father, having lost Gille’s mother in childbirth, has gone mad, is hooked on laudanum, and viciously hates his son whom he blames for the death of his wife during his birth. At one point, Stregoni rescues a similarly drugged and beaten Gille from his father’s maniacal clutches, barely escaping with their lives.
These two story lines weave in and out of one another and are exciting to read, drawing us in to their mystery, passion, and drama. Had Derr left the story just here, I am more than sure I would have given this novel a five star rating. This was a well-written mystery, taut with drama, and fun to unravel. The characters were so well defined, pulling us in, stirring our emotions and causing us to sit on the edge of our seat more than once when their lives were threatened. However, the additional storyline of an ailing sister left me disbelieving and a bit disappointed at how neatly it was resolved. As fantastical as the novel already was, her story simply did not draw me in, and, in fact, left me shaking my head at the need for its existence at all. Carmilla, Aubrey’s sister, seemed like an afterthought rather than an important piece to the overall puzzle and already dynamic storyline. Without going into great detail (for to do so would ruin the ending of the novel), I will suffice it to say that her addition to the story left me disbelieving and a little unsatisfied with its convenient resolution.
Overall, this was a minor annoyance in what was a really solid gothic romantic mystery! If you enjoy reading about this era and solving a good mystery to boot, I highly recommend this novel to you!
Embrace is set in an undetermined country during what appears to be the Victorian age. There is talk of gentry and commoners. There is an allusion to “poppy fever”—a quaint expression used to describe opiate (laudanum) addicts. And there is the most interesting concept of slaves, or “pets” as they are euphemistically called. But these pets are not human—no, these are vampires, although that name is rarely uttered when talking about one’s “pet” in good society.
The story begins with a flashback. A young boy, Aubrey, is traveling with his mother and a woman named Mina (we later come to find that Mina was his mother’s pet). While on the road, the carriage is stopped and both women get out to check on what is happening, leaving the young boy inside. By the flashback’s end, we see the boy’s father arriving to discover both women dead and his son covered in blood, but otherwise unscathed. From there we are taken to the present day and find that Aubrey’s father has summoned him home from university. Theirs is an uneasy and oft times angry relationship, with both trying to outdo one another in the obstinacy department. Also living at home is Aubrey’s sickly sister Carmilla, and his cold and sarcastic cousin, Gille.
As the story progresses, the mystery surrounding his mother’s death deepens and current odd happenings pull Aubrey further into the more sinister aspects surrounding her death. Upon arriving home, Aubrey is greeted with a gift from his father, a pet—tall, handsome, and rather self-possessed for a “slave.” Ruthven glides into Aubrey’s life, much to his dismay, for you see Aubrey despises the idea of anyone being enslaved. Add to that the fact that vampires must feed regularly off their master and that once having done so, they are tied to their master and can only drink from him/her for the rest of their existence, and we find that Aubrey is simply beside himself with anger at having been gifted with such a slave. After discovering Ruthven in his mother’s locked bedroom, Aubrey also finds evidence that his mother, Mina, AND his father were all actively pushing for the dissolution of slavery and, indeed, this is why his mother and her pet were brutally murdered. When Aubrey confronts his father and angrily insists on taking up the cause, his father forbids it and Ruthven begins a determined assault of a sensual nature to dissuade Aubrey from his projected course as well. Aubrey finds himself falling under Ruthven’s seductive spell and is unable to do anything about it.
In the meanwhile, a second story thread begins to develop concerning Gille, his estrangement from his father (twin brother to Aubrey’s father), and his sometimes sexually violent affair with the family physician, Stregoni or “Carrot” as Gille calls him. Gille too has a pet (Francois) that is jealous of the ongoing affair between Stregoni and his master. This side story weaves in and out of the main story line and is fascinating in and of itself. Gille’s father, having lost Gille’s mother in childbirth, has gone mad, is hooked on laudanum, and viciously hates his son whom he blames for the death of his wife during his birth. At one point, Stregoni rescues a similarly drugged and beaten Gille from his father’s maniacal clutches, barely escaping with their lives.
These two story lines weave in and out of one another and are exciting to read, drawing us in to their mystery, passion, and drama. Had Derr left the story just here, I am more than sure I would have given this novel a five star rating. This was a well-written mystery, taut with drama, and fun to unravel. The characters were so well defined, pulling us in, stirring our emotions and causing us to sit on the edge of our seat more than once when their lives were threatened. However, the additional storyline of an ailing sister left me disbelieving and a bit disappointed at how neatly it was resolved. As fantastical as the novel already was, her story simply did not draw me in, and, in fact, left me shaking my head at the need for its existence at all. Carmilla, Aubrey’s sister, seemed like an afterthought rather than an important piece to the overall puzzle and already dynamic storyline. Without going into great detail (for to do so would ruin the ending of the novel), I will suffice it to say that her addition to the story left me disbelieving and a little unsatisfied with its convenient resolution.
Overall, this was a minor annoyance in what was a really solid gothic romantic mystery! If you enjoy reading about this era and solving a good mystery to boot, I highly recommend this novel to you!
January 23, 2018
**Review for Bookwinked
Yes! A new, old story by Megan Derr! Embrace is a revised and re-edited. I like stories about vampires and especially the take this author has on them. If I read the story just for me I would have rated this a lot higher, but as this is a review I have to be objective, so here goes.
Embrace is told from Aubrey’s point of view who’s just returning home after studying in the city. He’s not exactly keen to go home, because after the death of his mother and her pet his father became cold and distant. The story is also told from the pov of Stregoni, the family physician who is in a toxic fuck and run relationship with Aubrey’s cousin Gilles and his pet Francois.
There is a lot going on the story and in typic Megan Derr fashion, we’re thrown in the middle of it. I liked that, we get to know the world bit by bit as we do the characters. Even though the vampires are called Pets, they are far from it. In fact they hold more mystery than an Agata Christie novel. Ruthven holds a lot of mystery and is far from a pet or a slave. In fact this doesn’t read as a slave story at all!
While I liked Ruthven and Aubrey seperate, I didn’t much like them together. From the first moment Ruthen mentally manipulates Aubrey on so many instances that there is nothing real about their relationship. The story moves fast and therefore their relationships moves fast. That made it that any romance between them doesn’t feel real, but shallow. I wasn’t sure if that was intended by the author or not.
I did like the mystery aspect of the story that involved Ruthven and Aubrey and how the went about solving it.
Then there were Gilles, Stregoni and Francois. A lot goes on there and for most of the story, Stregoni is used as a pawn. While the story makes it clear that they are meant to be together and that there is much more to it than we know, the relationship has a air of abuse to it that is, for Stregoni, pretty intense. Up to the point that he has pretty and dramatic thoughts. Thoughts that I didn’t think were properly incorporated in the whole of the story. Except for that scene, it wasn’t acknowledged at all and pretty soon they are together and it’s all okay. While that is part of the author’s charm, this was an instance that I didn’t find quite fitting.
Apart from that I liked the world building and the background of the vampires and how they came to be pets. I would have liked it if there was more to it, but it is possible that there will be more stories set in this world.
There were some questions about the history of Pets that left me wondering if I missed something or if it was overlooked in the editing, but all in all I liked this little gem. As I stated above, I did really like this story, but objectively there were some things that didn’t add up properly. Should you read it? Fans of the author definitely should. If you’re new to reading books by this author, then there are a few other awesome books to start with and then make your way back to this one.
Yes! A new, old story by Megan Derr! Embrace is a revised and re-edited. I like stories about vampires and especially the take this author has on them. If I read the story just for me I would have rated this a lot higher, but as this is a review I have to be objective, so here goes.
Embrace is told from Aubrey’s point of view who’s just returning home after studying in the city. He’s not exactly keen to go home, because after the death of his mother and her pet his father became cold and distant. The story is also told from the pov of Stregoni, the family physician who is in a toxic fuck and run relationship with Aubrey’s cousin Gilles and his pet Francois.
There is a lot going on the story and in typic Megan Derr fashion, we’re thrown in the middle of it. I liked that, we get to know the world bit by bit as we do the characters. Even though the vampires are called Pets, they are far from it. In fact they hold more mystery than an Agata Christie novel. Ruthven holds a lot of mystery and is far from a pet or a slave. In fact this doesn’t read as a slave story at all!
While I liked Ruthven and Aubrey seperate, I didn’t much like them together. From the first moment Ruthen mentally manipulates Aubrey on so many instances that there is nothing real about their relationship. The story moves fast and therefore their relationships moves fast. That made it that any romance between them doesn’t feel real, but shallow. I wasn’t sure if that was intended by the author or not.
I did like the mystery aspect of the story that involved Ruthven and Aubrey and how the went about solving it.
Then there were Gilles, Stregoni and Francois. A lot goes on there and for most of the story, Stregoni is used as a pawn. While the story makes it clear that they are meant to be together and that there is much more to it than we know, the relationship has a air of abuse to it that is, for Stregoni, pretty intense. Up to the point that he has pretty and dramatic thoughts. Thoughts that I didn’t think were properly incorporated in the whole of the story. Except for that scene, it wasn’t acknowledged at all and pretty soon they are together and it’s all okay. While that is part of the author’s charm, this was an instance that I didn’t find quite fitting.
Apart from that I liked the world building and the background of the vampires and how they came to be pets. I would have liked it if there was more to it, but it is possible that there will be more stories set in this world.
There were some questions about the history of Pets that left me wondering if I missed something or if it was overlooked in the editing, but all in all I liked this little gem. As I stated above, I did really like this story, but objectively there were some things that didn’t add up properly. Should you read it? Fans of the author definitely should. If you’re new to reading books by this author, then there are a few other awesome books to start with and then make your way back to this one.
April 25, 2012
Around 3.5 stars
Megan Derr is fast becoming one of my favorite writers, but of all her books, this may be one of my least favorites. That's not to say I didn't like it, just that it isn't on par with her other works. The story was an interesting take on Vampires. In this society, Vampires are known as "pets" and are only owned by the privileged upper class. Aubrey has just returned home after 5 years away and is gifted a pet, Ruthven, from by his father, Sangre, and cousin, Gille.
This book was interesting but it didn't really develop as much as it good have, which is weird to say about a book this length. I think I would have liked to learn more about the history of the vampires and how they came to be pets. While it was discussed, you didn't really get a sense for the depth of history or the tragedy of the vampire people. Additionally, Aubrey and Ruthven's relationship developed slowly, which was fine, but I didn't really feel the connection between them the way I did between other romances in the book.
The best part of the book for me was the relationship between Gille and Stregoni. In that relationship, you can really feel the yearning and the desire, as well as the heartache. I felt that relationship, as well as Gille's history, is well developed. I felt like they were more the main characters than Aubrey and Ruthven.
I did enjoy reading this book, and 3 stars is still a good rating, but I've read other books Megan Derr has written that have blown my mind. So she has set the bar extremely high for all her works to measure up to.
Megan Derr is fast becoming one of my favorite writers, but of all her books, this may be one of my least favorites. That's not to say I didn't like it, just that it isn't on par with her other works. The story was an interesting take on Vampires. In this society, Vampires are known as "pets" and are only owned by the privileged upper class. Aubrey has just returned home after 5 years away and is gifted a pet, Ruthven, from by his father, Sangre, and cousin, Gille.
This book was interesting but it didn't really develop as much as it good have, which is weird to say about a book this length. I think I would have liked to learn more about the history of the vampires and how they came to be pets. While it was discussed, you didn't really get a sense for the depth of history or the tragedy of the vampire people. Additionally, Aubrey and Ruthven's relationship developed slowly, which was fine, but I didn't really feel the connection between them the way I did between other romances in the book.
The best part of the book for me was the relationship between Gille and Stregoni. In that relationship, you can really feel the yearning and the desire, as well as the heartache. I felt that relationship, as well as Gille's history, is well developed. I felt like they were more the main characters than Aubrey and Ruthven.
I did enjoy reading this book, and 3 stars is still a good rating, but I've read other books Megan Derr has written that have blown my mind. So she has set the bar extremely high for all her works to measure up to.
December 27, 2013
This is why I love Megan Derr. She can make a brilliant story out of a very simple plot/idea - and turn them into something complicated and different. That's what sets her books apart from the others of the same theme.
Embrace is like that. At a glance, you may think that this is just another vampire story. But it isn't. I really don't know how she does it. But just like her other works that I've managed to read so far, reading a page meant wanting to turn it to the next page and not putting it down until I'm done.
And, just like her previous works, I also love the characters in this one. They made me laugh, giggle, smile, feel 'kilig.' The ending of this book is simple but fitting after all the issues and mystery and whatever they are called. I know it's already the ending, and it was satisfactory; still, a part of me wanted to read more.
While I acknowledge that the book could use further editing, I don't see why it was pulled out of the market for good. I guess I just have to be glad that I have a copy of it.
I really hope to meet her in person someday. I'm a huge Megan Derr fan. I'll never get tired of saying how awesome she is!
Now, I'll be off to read another book of hers. Or maybe review another.
Cheers! ^__^
Embrace is like that. At a glance, you may think that this is just another vampire story. But it isn't. I really don't know how she does it. But just like her other works that I've managed to read so far, reading a page meant wanting to turn it to the next page and not putting it down until I'm done.
And, just like her previous works, I also love the characters in this one. They made me laugh, giggle, smile, feel 'kilig.' The ending of this book is simple but fitting after all the issues and mystery and whatever they are called. I know it's already the ending, and it was satisfactory; still, a part of me wanted to read more.
While I acknowledge that the book could use further editing, I don't see why it was pulled out of the market for good. I guess I just have to be glad that I have a copy of it.
I really hope to meet her in person someday. I'm a huge Megan Derr fan. I'll never get tired of saying how awesome she is!
Now, I'll be off to read another book of hers. Or maybe review another.
Cheers! ^__^
March 4, 2016
An interesting turn on the Vampire theme.
I was a little hesitant to start this one as I prejudged the whole Pet theme. So it sat on my computer mostly forgotten, but eventually my love for this author won out and I gave it a try. Needless to say I was pleasantly surprised.
I admit Gille and Stegoni captured my interest a little more than Aubrey and Ruthven. I guess I just really love a couple that refuse to admit they care for each other. I knew there was more to Gille than we first see but I was shocked when I learnt more.
Ruthven was interesting and rather cute when it came to Aubrey. I would love to read more on his fellow princes as such.
Overall an interesting tale with a double dose of romance. I do have to admit I'm not entirely sure why people kept Pets. That part was never detailed
I was a little hesitant to start this one as I prejudged the whole Pet theme. So it sat on my computer mostly forgotten, but eventually my love for this author won out and I gave it a try. Needless to say I was pleasantly surprised.
I admit Gille and Stegoni captured my interest a little more than Aubrey and Ruthven. I guess I just really love a couple that refuse to admit they care for each other. I knew there was more to Gille than we first see but I was shocked when I learnt more.
Ruthven was interesting and rather cute when it came to Aubrey. I would love to read more on his fellow princes as such.
Overall an interesting tale with a double dose of romance. I do have to admit I'm not entirely sure why people kept Pets. That part was never detailed
October 22, 2013
is there a sequel?!!! what can I say about this book? if i had to compare this to the other books in this genre ive read, i would say this book was lacking, there was just not enough romance and relationship development to label this as m\m. That being said, I freaking loved the story and enjoyed the characters. As primiarily fantasy, the author did an amazing job building the world and weaving this tale. The story was interesting and fast pace enough not to drag. The characters were great and I could clearly hear their voices. Ruthven did whatever he wanted whenever he wanted and I wanted him to have his own damn book. This was a solid 4 star read. I really need to check out more from Ms Derr
January 10, 2011
Lent - Kindle
This is one of those books I hate to put under my m/m category since it was so much more than that. What an interesting take on vampires - the story is well written and unique (refreshing also comes to mind).
This is one of those books I hate to put under my m/m category since it was so much more than that. What an interesting take on vampires - the story is well written and unique (refreshing also comes to mind).
June 27, 2011
The love-hate relationship between Gille and the doctor was more entertaining than that of the MCs'.
January 12, 2021
Rating (All ratings use a Scale of 1-5) =
3.5 Stars bumped up to 4
Blurb = 2 stars due to more than 1 relationship takes front and center; blurb only talks about 1 plus the 2nd is m/m/m.
My Genre Scale = 5
Odds if not your genre = 3.5
Development of: =
*World = 3.5
*Plot = 3
*Characters = 3.5
What stood out = Unique twist on vampire history, development father / son dynamic
Mood Type / Appeal to those looking for = Complicated Family relationships (muktiple) ; more than 1 main couple, Different Vampire Origin
Warnings = includes m/m/m, serious abuse by parent both history and curren, drug abuse, child loss of parent, vigilante killing, and killing in defense of others
HFN/HEA = Yes
Series Notes = N/A
*Reading on? N/A
*Reading back to back? N/A
*Can be easily read without the previous? N/A
Rating Notes = (SubPlots, thoughts, etc... ) Not a lot was explained on what caused vampires to need to become pets other than a few vague comments; as was how vampires feed before "imprinting" I enjoyed the story and stayed mostly engaged in this slightly above average m/m read.
**************
Below are my explanations or thoughts on reviewing!
***************
1. I try to take into account and note any common pet peeves often bemoaned by other reviewers
2. "Brain candy' does not necessarily carry a negative connotation in my reviews. It has its uses; to pass time whet tired, on the beach, etc... The problem is when I'm expecting a novel and I get fluff. (What is brain candy? Pure entertainment; It may be formulaic, from an author published quickly like monthly, things escalate fast, and are often solved easily etc.. Publishing industries version of pop music).
3. Blurb rating purpose:
Like many readers, I do not like to think I'm reading one kind of story; just to end up with another. But...I also don't think a book should be docked stars for being as stated. If I don't like stories about "_________", and I choose to read it. I shouldn't give it 2 stars based JUST on my preferences. Unless... it wasn't clear in the blurb.
4. Other Factors that effect my perspective when reviewing:
Since 2009, I have exclusively read m/m. My 1st was in 2007. I am a Kindle diehard, and I never do audio for m/m. I read at least 100+ books a year - with an average length of 220± pages; but the total number of books is usually much higher. My Goodreads lifetime rating (at the start of 2021) was a 3.70 average for 1527 books. Which considering, one should be better at picking out books the more one reads, I feel is an accurate average. I have over 795 reviews within the m/m genre here on Goodreads.
3.5 Stars bumped up to 4
Blurb = 2 stars due to more than 1 relationship takes front and center; blurb only talks about 1 plus the 2nd is m/m/m.
My Genre Scale = 5
Odds if not your genre = 3.5
Development of: =
*World = 3.5
*Plot = 3
*Characters = 3.5
What stood out = Unique twist on vampire history, development father / son dynamic
Mood Type / Appeal to those looking for = Complicated Family relationships (muktiple) ; more than 1 main couple, Different Vampire Origin
Warnings = includes m/m/m, serious abuse by parent both history and curren, drug abuse, child loss of parent, vigilante killing, and killing in defense of others
HFN/HEA = Yes
Series Notes = N/A
*Reading on? N/A
*Reading back to back? N/A
*Can be easily read without the previous? N/A
Rating Notes = (SubPlots, thoughts, etc... ) Not a lot was explained on what caused vampires to need to become pets other than a few vague comments; as was how vampires feed before "imprinting" I enjoyed the story and stayed mostly engaged in this slightly above average m/m read.
**************
Below are my explanations or thoughts on reviewing!
***************
1. I try to take into account and note any common pet peeves often bemoaned by other reviewers
2. "Brain candy' does not necessarily carry a negative connotation in my reviews. It has its uses; to pass time whet tired, on the beach, etc... The problem is when I'm expecting a novel and I get fluff. (What is brain candy? Pure entertainment; It may be formulaic, from an author published quickly like monthly, things escalate fast, and are often solved easily etc.. Publishing industries version of pop music).
3. Blurb rating purpose:
Like many readers, I do not like to think I'm reading one kind of story; just to end up with another. But...I also don't think a book should be docked stars for being as stated. If I don't like stories about "_________", and I choose to read it. I shouldn't give it 2 stars based JUST on my preferences. Unless... it wasn't clear in the blurb.
4. Other Factors that effect my perspective when reviewing:
Since 2009, I have exclusively read m/m. My 1st was in 2007. I am a Kindle diehard, and I never do audio for m/m. I read at least 100+ books a year - with an average length of 220± pages; but the total number of books is usually much higher. My Goodreads lifetime rating (at the start of 2021) was a 3.70 average for 1527 books. Which considering, one should be better at picking out books the more one reads, I feel is an accurate average. I have over 795 reviews within the m/m genre here on Goodreads.
September 14, 2019
Oh, this was a fascinating one! Very much full of mysteries from the past affecting the future and an uncertain outcome for those involved. Very enjoyable!
There is an interacting family cast of characters here and each one has their own issues that eventually all intersect. Aubrey has just returned home, which he was reluctant about in the first place, and is now saddled with a Pet, which he never wanted. The Pet, Ruthven, is unusual and independent, completely unlike a Pet should be, with strange occurrences happening around him. This causes Aubrey to investigate and find out that his deceased mother actually worked to free Pets while she was alive, along with her own Pet Mina, but now that both are dead none carry on the job. His father is cold and angry and forbids any investigation or action which only incites Aubrey's will do do so all the more.
Stregoni is Aubrey's best friend and the town doctor. He is carrying on in a secret affair with Aubrey's cousin Gilles and his Pet Francois. But though he is falling in love with the two men, they only use him and treat him with disdain or coldness, refusing to acknowledge anything publicly. But Gilles is holding secrets from his own past with his father and Francois has sworn to keep them.
All the while Carmilla, Aubrey's sister, wiles away in the house in sickness. While her body is sick her mind is sharp and she sees all that happens in the house though there is little she can do. But when an attack on the house leaves her further weakened everyone is involved to find out what is can mean.
Everything in this story is tied up in the sins of the past, both distant and far more immediate. There is a a wrapped up feeling of needing to do penance for imagined wrongs and failings to protect. Meanwhile the best thing for all of them is to move forward and live, but it takes the revealing of secrets and the banding together of family for that to be possible. It was a gothic and atmospheric story, taking place in the dark of winter with the family often held nearly trapped by the snow, and it made for an excellent read as the mysteries of the past were slowly revealed. Very enticing and original book!
There is an interacting family cast of characters here and each one has their own issues that eventually all intersect. Aubrey has just returned home, which he was reluctant about in the first place, and is now saddled with a Pet, which he never wanted. The Pet, Ruthven, is unusual and independent, completely unlike a Pet should be, with strange occurrences happening around him. This causes Aubrey to investigate and find out that his deceased mother actually worked to free Pets while she was alive, along with her own Pet Mina, but now that both are dead none carry on the job. His father is cold and angry and forbids any investigation or action which only incites Aubrey's will do do so all the more.
Stregoni is Aubrey's best friend and the town doctor. He is carrying on in a secret affair with Aubrey's cousin Gilles and his Pet Francois. But though he is falling in love with the two men, they only use him and treat him with disdain or coldness, refusing to acknowledge anything publicly. But Gilles is holding secrets from his own past with his father and Francois has sworn to keep them.
All the while Carmilla, Aubrey's sister, wiles away in the house in sickness. While her body is sick her mind is sharp and she sees all that happens in the house though there is little she can do. But when an attack on the house leaves her further weakened everyone is involved to find out what is can mean.
Everything in this story is tied up in the sins of the past, both distant and far more immediate. There is a a wrapped up feeling of needing to do penance for imagined wrongs and failings to protect. Meanwhile the best thing for all of them is to move forward and live, but it takes the revealing of secrets and the banding together of family for that to be possible. It was a gothic and atmospheric story, taking place in the dark of winter with the family often held nearly trapped by the snow, and it made for an excellent read as the mysteries of the past were slowly revealed. Very enticing and original book!
April 17, 2018
The idea of this book was good and decently executed, but I wish the word and character building was stronger and that there was more to this than just one book.
The summary only mentioned Aubrey and it was slightly jarring to follow a different character (Stregoni) so soon, and for it to delve into that side starting with a threesome. I wish their sides of the story were in separate books so that each side might get more "screen time" and flesh out their relationships more. I found myself extremely bored by Aubrey's side of the story since Stregoni's was much more interesting. But even then the two main characters were somewhat flat and even at the end of the book it didn't feel like there was any real growth to either of their relationships other than being more compliant with their dynamics.
Also, even after it was somewhat understood why Gilles was the way he was, the scene in the Apothecary still didn't sit right with me. It was a bit dubcon to me (which im usually fine with in fiction), and the way it all happened was not great for me. If there had been more (or really any) passive aggressive displays of affection that still confused Stregoni, or something that was hinted more so the scene would make a little more sense.
I won't lie I skimmed the last 3 chapters of the book. It was boring and with all the "conflicts" so neatly wrapped up those last chapters felt like the author remembered the book had to come to a conclusion and that we didn't know anything about Ruthven either.
It was really disappointing that Ruthven's origins got done in the last few chapters, and seemed rushed and like an after thought. It would have been nicer to have bits discovered or given to us in pieces, or anything that kept up the mystery of who he is but didn't seem like a last minute Ruthven history exposition dump.
Overall this wasn't bad and I enjoyed the idea of it, but even ignoring some weird grammatical choices, this book could have been better. But, I did like it enough that I'm a little sad that there isn't more to this world and these characters.
The summary only mentioned Aubrey and it was slightly jarring to follow a different character (Stregoni) so soon, and for it to delve into that side starting with a threesome. I wish their sides of the story were in separate books so that each side might get more "screen time" and flesh out their relationships more. I found myself extremely bored by Aubrey's side of the story since Stregoni's was much more interesting. But even then the two main characters were somewhat flat and even at the end of the book it didn't feel like there was any real growth to either of their relationships other than being more compliant with their dynamics.
Also, even after it was somewhat understood why Gilles was the way he was, the scene in the Apothecary still didn't sit right with me. It was a bit dubcon to me (which im usually fine with in fiction), and the way it all happened was not great for me. If there had been more (or really any) passive aggressive displays of affection that still confused Stregoni, or something that was hinted more so the scene would make a little more sense.
I won't lie I skimmed the last 3 chapters of the book. It was boring and with all the "conflicts" so neatly wrapped up those last chapters felt like the author remembered the book had to come to a conclusion and that we didn't know anything about Ruthven either.
It was really disappointing that Ruthven's origins got done in the last few chapters, and seemed rushed and like an after thought. It would have been nicer to have bits discovered or given to us in pieces, or anything that kept up the mystery of who he is but didn't seem like a last minute Ruthven history exposition dump.
Overall this wasn't bad and I enjoyed the idea of it, but even ignoring some weird grammatical choices, this book could have been better. But, I did like it enough that I'm a little sad that there isn't more to this world and these characters.
February 11, 2018
Like many romance readers out there, I suffer from vampire fatigue. This trope has been beaten to death over the years and I've about reached the end of my rope. That being said, I adore Megan Derr and the premise sounded unique so I decided to give it a try. I'm very glad I did.
This is a story of slowly unraveling mysteries, hidden motivations and plenty of intrigue. I fully admit I stayed up way too late trying to get just a few more pages in. While the many characters are not always likable, they are always interesting and their stories wove together well. In short, a very enjoyable read in a somewhat gothic style that I hope will see future installments.
A quick word of warning to Ms. Derr's regular fans, this book is definitely on the more erotic side compared to many of her works. It's still definitely a plot and character driven story, but with some seriously steamy interludes. If you prefer a tamer romance, this might not be the title for you. Conversely, if you tend to steer away from Derr's works because you prefer more eroticism in your romance, give this book a try. I think you'll be glad you did.
This is a story of slowly unraveling mysteries, hidden motivations and plenty of intrigue. I fully admit I stayed up way too late trying to get just a few more pages in. While the many characters are not always likable, they are always interesting and their stories wove together well. In short, a very enjoyable read in a somewhat gothic style that I hope will see future installments.
A quick word of warning to Ms. Derr's regular fans, this book is definitely on the more erotic side compared to many of her works. It's still definitely a plot and character driven story, but with some seriously steamy interludes. If you prefer a tamer romance, this might not be the title for you. Conversely, if you tend to steer away from Derr's works because you prefer more eroticism in your romance, give this book a try. I think you'll be glad you did.
January 15, 2019
Vampires as pets? Gimme! I have come across more than a few versions of the vampire race - from being the result of some nanotechnology, experiment gone wrong to any number of more supernatural explanations that were simply some version of the classic myth where they could make fun of the few chosen classic traits like allergy to sun or holy water, depends on the world.
But what they have in common? Vampires are better - stronger, faster - the dominant race.
This was... one of the guilty pleasures. Nothing ground-breaking but an exciting trip to another world.
I guess if you like a kind of historical settings and non-traditional relationships with a lot of happy-ending-ness, this one might be just for you!
But what they have in common? Vampires are better - stronger, faster - the dominant race.
This was... one of the guilty pleasures. Nothing ground-breaking but an exciting trip to another world.
I guess if you like a kind of historical settings and non-traditional relationships with a lot of happy-ending-ness, this one might be just for you!
January 19, 2018
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
4 stars
This was an unusual read but it was intriguing and innovative.
The story focused on a threesome (m/m/m) and a couple (m/m). However, I found the story only scratched the surface: as the characters and their issues weren’t developed as far as I would have liked.
The threesome scenes were hot and captured Stregoni’s vulnerability and conflicted emotions beautifully.
Ruthven was an intriguing yet mysterious pet and I enjoyed the mystery and suspense surrounding his character. I loved the sizzling pull between Audrey and Ruthven.
4 stars
This was an unusual read but it was intriguing and innovative.
The story focused on a threesome (m/m/m) and a couple (m/m). However, I found the story only scratched the surface: as the characters and their issues weren’t developed as far as I would have liked.
The threesome scenes were hot and captured Stregoni’s vulnerability and conflicted emotions beautifully.
Ruthven was an intriguing yet mysterious pet and I enjoyed the mystery and suspense surrounding his character. I loved the sizzling pull between Audrey and Ruthven.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews