Book Reviews by Lynn

“This then is the story of my life and how I came to be what I am …”

In this highly anticipated final installment, James Thomas Dubois, The Master of Whitehall himself, narrates his tale and brings the classic love story of the epic saga full circle. James recounts his journey, born in eighteenth century colonial Charles Towne and raised to be a planter like his father before him. Share in the joy when he marries the love of his life, making him complete. Suddenly widowed at the height of his happiness, he spirals helplessly into the depths of endless grief. Stand fascinated with him when Charlotte Ann bestows upon him the Gift of Life and reveals the true Fountain of Youth. Travel with him across the centuries as his transformation from human to vampire; untrained fledgling to powerful immortal unfolds. The story of James’ life, both mortal and immortal, illustrates the role Fate plays as it guides him toward that one special day in the twenty-first century that will forever change his life, and finally fulfill his destiny.

Review 5*

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review. I also purchased a copy to add to my collection.

This is the fifth and final book in The Master of Whitehall Saga. I loved it!

James Dubois is a fascinating character. I really liked him when he was first introduced in the first book of the series. Although he's a vampire, he is a quintessential gentleman. This is his story and follows events leading up to his meeting of Charlotte Anna in 1752 and how she changed his life by making him an Immortal, then meeting Katelyn Corbin in 2012 when his life changed once more.

Having read the other four books in the series, I was excited when the author contacted me and asked if I would be interested in reading this one. I jumped at the chance and was not disappointed.

I was quickly pulled into the story and was swept away into the past. The author has done a lot of research into the history in which this book is set. His descriptions brought the past to life, as well as certain characters.

This book is told through the eyes of James and it took me on a roller coaster ride of emotion. I found myself empathizing with him as he dealt with the terrible loss of his wife and child. It is not easy to lose someone you love. I was a little envious of Charlotte Ann for finding a wonderful companion and friend in James though. I must admit I felt sad about the state of Whitehall manor after the Civil War, but happy that James managed to get it back to its glory. James has lived a long and sometimes turbulent life, and I have thoroughly enjoyed taking a journey through history and his memories of them with him. I hope that he and Katelyn will have many more years to make new memories in the future. I reached the end of the book with mixed emotions - happy that things have come full circle, but sad that the saga has ended.

Rick Veal has written an intriguing series of love, loss, friendship and emotional growth that will take the reader on a roller coaster ride of emotion. His characters are lifelike and likable. His writing style has improved a lot and is faster paced than ever before. The flow of the story is wonderful, and this kept me turning the pages. I would definitely read more of this authors work in the future.

There are some scenes of a sensual nature that are a little on the hot side (although not as explicit as some books I have read), so I do not recommend this book for younger readers under 16. I do, however, recommend this book (and series) if you love paranormal romances with sexy vampires or immortal beings. - Lynn Worton