Suddenly, her night takes an exciting turn as a guest enters the reception hall. He's tall, regal almost, in what looks like an antique kilt, the most gorgeous man she's ever laid eyes on and strikingly different in a way she can't quite define. One night with this man will go a long way toward getting her mind off her woes, and she sets out to do just that. Losing sight of him for a moment, she hunts him out. She finds him in the conservatory--just as he's biting the neck of one of the other guests.

 

Oh damn. He's a vampire.

 

This realization---that she recognizes a vampire when she sees one--is Jenny's first glimpse into her true psychic abilities. But what good does that do her now, when she's lost in his hypnotic gaze and ready to let him do with her as he will?

 

To her surprise, the vampire recognizes her, too. He calls her "little vampire hunter," and bemoans the fact that the wedding guests all taste of "poultry and cheap red wine." Unashamedly he tells her that yes, he does drink blood and kills every now and then, and even explains somewhat who she is and what she will try to do to him. He's not afraid of her, and eventually Jenny finds she's not so afraid of him, either. So starts a strange and adorable relationship between Karoly (Charles in Romanian) and Jenny the Vampire Hunter. Can a pair of opposites maintain a robust friendship--even love--or are they doomed to eternal conflict as they each fulfill their roles?

 

I was tickled to find HUNTING KAROLY is so much more than a mere vampire story. I loved it from the very beginning because of Jenny. She's witty, bright and the kind of heroine one can cheer for all the way. She loves her mother and yet recognizes that the woman drives her crazy. After meeting Karoly, she returns to the Psychic Centre and acknowledges part of the trouble she's had adjusting is her own fault. She swallows her pride and makes changes. She works hard to become a good psychic and reaps the rewards. Mostly, she accepts Karoly for what he is and welcomes him into her heart. Karoly himself is a piece of work. As I said, he's not ashamed of who (what) he is. After 500 years, he accepts every part of his personality. But his desire for Jenny lends him humanity and gives the reader a look into the heart of the man he once was.

 

Whether you typically enjoy vampire stories or not, I urge you to read HUNTING KAROLY. Ms. Treanor has written wonderful characters and a story that will make you smile. For me it's a keeper, and I think you'll find the same.

By Romance Junkies Reviewer: Kris Jones Click here to Buy this Book Now!   Romance Junkies Content Editor: Chrissy Romance Junkies Publishing Editor: Christina   Top of Page