When I first saw the series titled Tudor Vampire Chronicles my initial thought was the author wrote these books just for me. As an avid lover of all things Tudor and someone who enjoys Paranormal Romance almost to the point of obsession, I was ecstatic that someone had combined the two. The latest installment in this wonderful series, MARK OF THE ROSE, has fulfilled my need for vampires running around Henry VIII's court once again.

In the third book of the series we see a shift in characters and an extended time lapse. Rhys Williams has been moved from lovable sidekick to the leading man role. He has been summoned to court by Verity Llewellyn, a lady-in-waiting who serves Queen Jane. She is afraid that someone or something is trying to harm the very pregnant Queen and in turn, the unborn heir of the crown. Verity and Rhys must strengthen alliances, deter enemies, and protect the royal family all while battling the unwanted feelings developing between them.

I love the way Pearce integrated the rich history of the Tudor Monarchy with an action pack adventure led by the Llewellyn vampire hunters. She uses actual events and spins them masterfully to fit well in the tales that she telling. Her fictitious take on all the Tudor Monarchs is well written and believable from what we know of them through history. Rhys shines when he is placed in a situation but has issues with restraint when chivalry is being tested. Verity is a strong willed and sometimes stubborn woman who is out to prove she is just as powerful as her notorious cousin, Rosalind. When the two personalities clash, it brings nothing but entertainment for the reader.

I have been a fan of this series since the release of the first book and continue to love the world Kate Pearce has spun for the enjoyment of her readers. I hope we get a chance to see all the character grow over many more books and wonder how the vampires will shape the lives of the Tudors I have always loved.

Book Summary

Hearing that Henry VIII's new queen is in danger, Rhys Williams engages the help of Verity Llewellyn, a lady-in-waiting eager to prove her abilities as a vampire hunter. Rhys suspects the weakening queen has fallen victim to a vampire. And the fact that she is pregnant makes the situation all the more dangerous...