Novel: Handsome Death
Author: Sara Dobie Bauer
Genres: Paranormal, Vampires, Romance
Released: 2020
Part of Book Series: Standalone
Summary: I’m not hunting him; I’m protecting him.
At least, that’s what I tell myself.
In New York City, a beautiful creature like Tristan Clement should not be walking the streets alone, and I’m the perfect vampire to watch his back.
But what if keeping him safe isn’t enough anymore? What if I want to touch? And taste?
I need him. But I’ve never needed anyone.
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In a world where paranormal creatures live amongst us and must follow certain laws, living life as a dangerous loner works for vampire Ethan. Inhabiting his gleaming apartment, wearing his designer suits, jetting around the world as a fanged killer-for-hire, Ethan does it all alone.
That is, until he literally runs into Tristan. Tristan, who is clearly trouble wrapped in skinny jeans and an oversized sweater. Tristan, with his shock of angelic blond curls. Tristan, who plays piano more beautifully than the old masters– and Ethan would know; he saw Beethoven.
Tristan is gorgeous, a little sassy, and irresistible. Also, Ethan is horrified to note, Tristan has no idea how incredibly tempting he is to things that go bump in the night.
Overcome by the urge to keep Tristan safe, Ethan begins to… well, stalk is such a strong word. What starts as an obsession quickly becomes something more, something that Ethan needs. And to his surprise, Tristan seems to need him, too…
This darkly romantic tale delivers steamy passion and a happily ever after. Be advised that Handsome Death includes explicit m/m content, stalking, mentions of past abuse, and graphic violence.
Post’s Author Opinion:
Note: This is a personal opinion, it does not reflect YaoiOtaku’s official position towards the novel.
Any vampire story that is not Twilight is a win for me. On top of that, Handsome Death featured a main character who is a very handsome, very stylish, two hundred and seventy-six year old vampire that did not sparkle under the sun. Hooray! But Ethan, the vampire, did share some “common” vampiric qualities such as the stalking tendencies, overprotectiveness and the habit of watching their love interest while they were sleeping. Sounds creepy, but the other guy liked it, so why not.
Fair warning, this book didn’t focus too much on the vampire theme. Sure, it has a vampire character, talked about vampire clubs, siring a vampire and even Ethan’s history, but it is basically a romance story between a vampire and a young human male. There were also a few other issues mentioned like past abusive relationship and some violence, but those are just some spices to add to Ethan and Tristan’s romance.
I think the biggest thing I would like to pick on in this book was how Ethan came up with his “American” name. Based on my limited French knowledge, I know that Ethan’s original name did not translate to “Ethan” in English. But to be honest, I was glad he chose something phonetically close rather than literal because it suited him better.
What I liked most about this novel was that there was no cringey drama – it was just two individuals having an attraction toward each other and working to have a very established and fulfilling relationship.
On the other hand, I don’t think the epilogue was that necessary. Although it was a nice peek on their future together, I feel like the story would have a much better impact if it ended in the previous chapter. Anyway, it was still better than that other vampire story, so I gave it a four-star just because I can.
What’s your opinion on Handsome Death novel? Please let us know in the comments below.
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