Lawson’s Review of Vampires are Forever (Argeneau Vampires, Book 8 ) by Lynsay Sands
Paranormal Romance released 29 Jan 08 by Avon
The second Argeneau Vampires novel this year, the eighth book in the series so far, is definitely a huge step up from The Accidental Vampire. Which just makes me thing that Accidental Vampire was a blip in the series, rather than an indicator of the way the series is going. Though I’m sure everyone is waiting for Marguerite’s story, instead it’s Thomas’ story in this one, and Thomas is a delightful surprise, and shows much more depth than his character has been previously seen as.
Thomas has been sent to London to look for his Aunt Marguerite who has gone missing. His cousin Basiten has enlisted the help of Inez Urso, one of his Vice Presidents whom he thinks does an excellent job, is very efficent, and Thomas can also induct her into the Argeneau family secret. Inez is rather freaked out at first, Thomas has bit her after all, but she soon sees the logic and truth that Thomas is not a vampire, but an immortal. . .in Sands’ world there is, of course, a difference.
Readers of the series have seen Thomas before, as a lighthearted, not so serious member of the Argeneau clan, perhaps on the immature and flighty side since he’s been used as a delivery boy more than anything else. Thomas is a caring, loyal, intelligent and talented person. It’s nice to see him as a romantic hero rather than that slightly silly delivery boy. Inez is a good foil and match for Thomas, serious where he’s silly, insecure where he’s confident and a perfect match in intelligence. And they’ve got some great chemistry.
One thing that didn’t fit well were a couple of things Inez did to put herself into unnecessary danger. Though she didn’t get hurt and she didn’t show herself to be TSTL, it was a little out of character for a methodical, efficient and intelligent woman. It is allowable though since there’s a time constraint in looking for Marguerite and Inez is falling in love with Thomas, and trying to prove her worth.
A huge improvement over Accidental Vampire and it sets up things nicely to move into the next Argeneau novel, which is Marguerite’s story. Lovers of the series will be pleased with this one and it probably is readable by those who may be unfamiliar with the series. It probably can stand alone, but reading the other seven books can be done later on.
Grade: B+
Backcover copy:
VAMPIRES DON’T EXIST . . . DO THEY?
Inez Urso is beginning to have her doubts. Her business associate Thomas Argeneau has some interesting traits, like an allergic reaction to the sun, excellent night vision, and not much of an appetite for food. And to top it all off, he just tried to bite her neck . . . but maybe that was a sign of passion. If so, she’d be happy to experience more, despite her determination not to mix business with pleasure.
HE’S BEEN WAITING FOREVER FOR A WOMAN LIKE HER . . .
Well, if not forever, at least two hundred years. Inez is the most beautiful woman he’s seen in centuries. Those luscious lips, seductive curves, and her elegant neck . . . he just couldn’t resist the temptation of one little bite. Now Thomas will do anything to convince her that only an immortal like him can satisfy her all night long . . .
Read an excerpt.
Read Lawson’s review of Book 7, The Accidental Vampire.
Other books in this series:
