The second book I snatched up after I sent in Round 1 revisions on Santa, Bring My Baby Back was The Vampire with the Dragon Tattoo by Kerrelyn Sparks. I really enjoyed Howard the doughnut-eating bear shifter and his match Elsa’s story so I was looking forward to Dougal the Scottish, be-kilted vampire. There were (at least) three things that made this such an enjoyable read:

1. The cast of characters. Since it’s number 14 in the series, you’ve had a chance to meet and really love a big variety of heroes and heroines so it’s nice to see their stories continue.

2. The humor. I laughed at Dougal and his muskrat sporran. Also, Laszlo and his buttons and his fox shifter (who has the funniest line in the book in my opinion)…so cute. I’m going to try to remember to use “Do you expect me to turn a kumquat into caviar?” in everyday conversation. Let’s try to make this happen.

3. International scope. I don’t read much of anything with Japanese or Chinese settings. I’m not sure why that is, but visiting the Tiger shifters and Japan were really interesting, unusual places that I don’t see a lot of.

But besides all that, what you have here is a big, tough, wounded guy who is such a romantic. And even if Leah is oblivious to a lot of things, she doesn’t stand a chance against that. Lucky! The ending was emotional (I sniffled) and satisfying.

About the book:

He’s Out of Control

Dougal Kincaid has something to prove. After being injured in a battle with the Malcontents, he’s ready for active duty protecting unsuspecting mortals from these villainous vampires who want to rule the world. But first he has to get control of himself . . . because just the sight of a certain lovely doctor has his injured hand doing some peculiar things, not to mention the sizzling sensation that burns along his dragon tattoo.

Vampires? Vampires?! As a scientist, Leah is having trouble believing that these immortal creatures exist. But there they are, standing in front of her, asking for help in solving a genetic puzzle that can save mankind. There’s even one in a sexy kilt! Just one look into Dougal’s gorgeous green eyes sets her pulse racing. But can she trust him—and the overwhelming desire that refuses to be ignored?