Review of My Vampire Plus-One (My Vampires, #2) by A. M. MacLeod
When I first picked up My Vampire Plus-One, I wasn’t sure what to expect. The first book in the series had left me intrigued but not captivated. However, as soon as I started reading this sequel, I felt a wave of excitement wash over me. It’s rare to find a follow-up that not only meets the expectations set by its predecessor but exceeds them in every way. A huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with this ARC!
From the moment I dived into the story, I sensed that A. M. MacLeod had taken a hard look at the feedback from readers and used it to craft something truly spectacular. This installment shifts gears from a somewhat average first book to a vibrant, engaging narrative that had me eagerly flipping the pages. The character development is nothing short of miraculous, particularly with Reginald—aka Reggie. Initially introduced as somewhat of a rogue, this character blooms into a charismatic, multi-faceted love interest who reminded me of a perfect blend of Bones from the Night Huntress series and Spike during his rebellious phase in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. What a delightful concoction!
Reggie’s sarcastic wit and glamorous irreverence set the stage for some captivating banter, but it’s his relationship with Amelia that truly steals the spotlight. She’s a 34-year-old accountant, introverted yet complex, and the chemistry between them is palpable. The “fake dating” plotline is cleverly executed, transforming what could be a cliché into a narrative filled with layers of trust, understanding, and emotional resonance. The balance between sweet and steamy romance left me feeling giddy, particularly as Amelia was finally heard for who she is. It’s refreshing to see a romance built on mutual respect and emotional growth rather than just physical attraction.
However, as I reached the end, I felt a slight twinge of disappointment. The resolution of certain storylines felt a bit rushed, almost as if the author couldn’t wait to tie it all up neatly. I thoroughly enjoyed the build-up and longed for a more substantial pay-off, especially regarding Reggie’s rich backstory. There are tantalizing glimpses into his history, and I found myself yearning to explore that further. I can’t shake the idea that enough material exists for another book that could delve deeper into both his past and the evolving relationship between him and Amelia.
While I rated this a solid 4.25✨ — rounding down to 4 on Goodreads — it’s clear that two minor issues kept it from being an easy five stars. If you’re a lover of human-vampire romances, especially those that pair an irreverent, charming protagonist with a more serious counterpart, then this book is for you!
In summary, My Vampire Plus-One will captivate fans of contemporary paranormal romance who appreciate character-driven narratives filled with depth and humor. The reading experience not only reignited my love for this series but also left me contemplating the potential of what’s next for Reggie and Amelia. Here’s hoping for a sequel that dives even deeper into the past and future of this now-beloved couple!
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