My Lord Vampire

Though classically styled, with plenty of brooding, mysterious gentlemen, Ivy’s Immortal Rogues Regency trilogy starter (first published in 2003 as by Debbie Raleigh) stumbles over tired vampire stereotypes. The vampire Nefri used a magic Medallion to create the Veil, a quiet intellectual wonderland for vampires. Some 200 years later, three traitors want the Medallion’s power, so Nefri divides it into three pieces and gives them to three unknowing maidens for safekeeping. Arrogant vampire Mr. Gideon Ravel is sent by Nefri to protect cold “Wicked Temptress” Lady Simone Gilbert, who holds part of the Medallion; the two are quickly drawn to each other. Suave rebel Tristan Soltern taunts Gideon by killing whores who have long blonde hair like Simone’s while threatening to expose Simone’s darkest secrets. The romantic dynamic is smoldering but not explicit, and the seduction focuses on compelling trust, increasing the appeal to younger vampire fans. Agent: Evan Marshall, the Evan Marshall Agency. (Mar.)