Filthy Rich Vampire / Geneva Lee

 

3.5 out of 5 stars 

When I requested this book from the library I expected a paranormal romance. What surprised me was that I got an amusing screwball comedy as well. Mix a financially challenged young woman with a filthy rich vampire and what do you get? A lot of ridiculous shenanigans, that's what.

Thea is a music student. She has student debt and her mother's medical bills to worry about. She is a talented cellist and plays in a quartet as one of her jobs. Her group is hired to perform at a vampire event, although they don't realize the nature of the crowd. Julian is a vampire from an old, established family. He has been recalled from hibernation because he is the eldest son and vampire society has reinstated the Rites. It is his turn to choose a wife and produce children. He wants none of it! But there is a beguiling cellist performing at the opening party….

Julian is out of touch with contemporary society due to his hibernation. Thea has no idea that vampires exist. He finds that he's unable to enthrall her. She can't understand why he's being such a dick. They manage to break her cello and he swears he will replace it. Thea receives a priceless instrument that she's scared to touch. Ancient vampire has no idea how to deal with a 21st century woman. Modern woman has no idea how to drag the truth out of old vampire.

These two fool themselves into believing that they can spend a year together: Thea agrees to be Julian's “girlfriend” for a year to exclude him from the marriage market. In return he will pay off her debts and they will part, both getting what they want. What could possibly go wrong? (Spoiler alert: Lots.)

If this had just been a straight up PNR, I don't think it would have been nearly as much fun. But watching this pair try to find their equilibrium as they learn more about each other was highly entertaining. Thea may be an innocent and a mere mortal, but Julian finds himself discombobulated dealing with her. How can a young woman in her 20s shake his control so easily? Fast and fun. Perfect for us vampire fans.