Recent Release Review: The Vampire’s Delicious Fae (Brinswick: Tales from Gauhala #2) by Michele Notaro

Reviewed by: Sue Eaton

 

TITLE: The Vampire’s Delicious Fae

SERIES: Brinswick: Tales from Gauhala #2

AUTHOR: Michele Notaro

PUBLISHER: Self Published

LENGTH: 360 pages

RELEASE DATE: March 27, 2025

BLURB:

I hate vampires. Well, just one in particular. But I do kinda love how his eyes follow me whenever he’s around… Sigh.

Step One: Find a hot vampire. Check.

Step Two: Get the hot vamp to drink from me. Check.

Step Three: Try to forget his stupid face. Ugh. This one’s impossible to check. F my life. Sigh.

Anton is beyond frustrating. He was so sweet when we first met, and I’d thought we had a real connection. But then he had to ruin everything with his big mouth and jerky face. Ugh.

I can’t get him out of my head. Even when I’m beyond angry at him, I still feel a pull to be near him. A pull I can’t seem to ignore.

And when my entire world gets turned upside-down, I can’t help but reach for the ancient vampire and hope that together, we can conquer anything that’s thrown at us… anything that’s coming for us.

REVIEW:

I’ve been hotly anticipating this book in the series.  Keryth and Anton seem to dislike each other but can’t keep away or their eyes off each other.  There is a tale to be told about what happened between them.

Keryth, cousin of Bel has been raising his sisters since their Mother passed away.  Keryth, is a nature fae, playful, optimistic, and deeply connected to the magical essence of nature. He has a warm and gentle personality, and his outlook on life often contrasts sharply with Anton’s more reserved and brooding demeanor. Keryth’s free-spirited nature leads him to approach situations with curiosity and openness, but it can also make him seem naive at times. Despite his light-heartedness, he’s fiercely loyal and protective of those he loves.  His charm and vivacity act as a refreshing counterbalance to Anton’s more somber and guarded nature.  Struggling to raise his sisters he has at times done some questionable things, only when the situation was dire and to make sure his sisters had everything they needed.

Anton is an ancient vampire, stoic, introspective, and deeply complex. His age and experience have made him cautious, reserved, and somewhat world-weary. He tends to keep his emotions bottled up and struggles with opening himself to others, which is a stark contrast with Keryth’s more free-spirited nature. Despite his guarded demeanor, Anton is fiercely protective of those he cares about, and his loyalty runs deep.  Underneath his tough exterior lies a vulnerable and tender side, though it takes time for it to emerge. His journey with Keryth challenges him to confront his fears, embrace vulnerability, and rediscover the warmth of genuine connection. Anton’s evolution throughout the story is as captivating as his enigmatic personality.

A classic misunderstanding separates them before they really have a chance to connect.  It is years before their paths cross again.  Keryth is angry, hurt and determined not to speak or interact with Anton.  Anton is sad, but thinks time will help Keryth come around.  Their interactions create a dynamic that is equal parts frustrating and heartwarming.

Keryth and Anton encounter a variety of challenges within their relationship.  Keryth is carefree and trusting, while Anton is guarded and pragmatic which lead to misunderstandings and friction. Given their history Keryth worries they are moving too fast and “will it all end in tears” again.  He must think about his sisters and what is best for them, despite what his heart is telling him.  Taking things at a slow pace also bring challenges to them both.

As a fae and a vampire, they come from drastically different worlds, with unique traditions, lifestyles, and values.  While being soulmates sounds idyllic, it comes with expectations and pressures that neither are fully prepared for. It forces them to confront fears and vulnerabilities.  Gauhala isn’t without dangers, and external enemies pose risks to their bond and ultimately make them both express their emotions openly.

It was great to see both their families blend together, Anton’s older children and Keryth’s sisters.  These two have so much love to give each other and their extended families.  There are twists and turns along the way, and Seb and Ailin pop in and out, helping to keep their direct and extended families safe.

 

RATING:

BUY LINKS: 

Amazon

 

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