Rafe VarikThe troublemaker. The risk taker. The sexy club owner full of wicked promises.Rafe has devoted his immortal existence to pleasure and causing mischief.The only ones who can depend on him are his brothers. Of course, that’s very much a Varik thing.But when the leader of the Arsenault clan specifically requests Rafe’s help in tracking down a killer, he can’t say no.Sure, Rafe claims he’s … say no.
Sure, Rafe claims he’s doing it for his family. They’ve attracted too many enemies and could use a few allies.
That’s not the whole truth, though.
There’s something about Philippe Arsenault that draws Rafe in. He wants more of Philippe. The vampire leaves him longing for another second in his presence, another taste of his lips, another caress of those perfect fingers.
Yet when it’s all over, what will become of Philippe and Rafe? Because Philippe will always be an Arsenault, and Rafe will always be a Varik.
Saving Rafe is the second book in an MM paranormal romance series that has vampires, betrayal, annoying brothers, music, heartbreak, hope, sexy times, and a pair of star-crossed lovers.
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You know what I’ve noticed about Jocelynn Drake’s vampires? That out of all this author’s characters, they are the most prone to using sappy endearments, like “my dearest”, “my love”, or like in Rafe and Philippe’s case, “mon amour” and “mon ange”. I found it incredibly cute that vicious, top of the food chain creatures, could also be full on sweet on each other, looking adoringly into the other’s eyes. That’s not to say they’re not also scorching hot every time they touch or get nekkid, they absolutely are, because, after all, this is Jocelynn Drake, and nobody writes steamy passion like this author.
Rafe and Philippe eventually got like that, and I loved it. I mean, they had chaos and enemies all around them, but they managed to cut out these special moments only for them, when they’d get tenderly affectionate and loving. They were precious, precisely because of the uncertainty of a future together. The way the cards were laid during the story, it actually seemed like an impossible happy ending for them, and I was excited to see how they’d solve that particular dilemma.
But, really, everything about this book was incredibly exciting. The plot thickens and danger increases in the Lord of Discord world, the Varik brothers caught in a power play between the vampire clans. It was fascinating to watch them talk strategy, maneuver tricky situations and trying to distinguish enemies from friends. It all made it so that kept me on the edge, thanks also to surprises and dodgy players discovered along the way. The plot was fast paced, full of suspense and violence, all perfectly woven with the development of the relationship between Philippe and Rafe. And what I enjoyed most was how the Variks stuck together, seeing the strength of their bond. They’ve been put through a lot, and it seems that the worst is yet to come…and I’ll be the one on the sideline, cheering the loudest for the best outcome for them and their friends.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series “Claiming Marcus” even though I found it a bit too fast-paced for my liking. Still, it was a nice read and I fell in love with all the background characters….such as Rafe. He was pretty great in the first book, and so I was really looking forward to finding out which man would bring this player to his knees.
What I found out though, was that there was much more to Rafe then meets the eye. I never would have figured he was carrying around so much insecurity.
He really does believe he is nothing more than a player and a joker…but that is so far from the truth. He is just as important as the rest of his brothers and all these men are willing to give their lives for one another… and for others they care for.
When Philippe, clan leader of the Arsenault clan requests Rafe’s help with tracking one of his missing clan-members, Rafe can’t decline. Keeping the peace between the clans and making new alliances is what is important right now.
However, when Rafe and Philippe meet, they feel an instant attraction for each other. One that won’t be ignored but one that also complicates things. They are both from different clans, and Rafe has vowed to always put his brothers first….before anything, even his own happiness.
Again this story is pretty heavy on the insta-love/lust. I didn’t mind it as much this time around, because we are talking about two vamps falling in love. For some reason that is just a bit more acceptable to me.
We also get to know more about the brothers, whom I am starting to like more and more. Especially Bel and Winter. Bel had some awesome surprises up his sleeve in this one, which made me love him even more, and Winter is definitely the epitome of mystery. So, of course, I want his book the most.
I also want to give some extra credit to Aiden. I already liked him a lot in the first book but he really came through in this one, and so I am hoping there will be a HEA for him in the future.
4,25 stars from me …
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review
Rafe and Philippe
May 5, 1843
We did meet Rafe and his exceptional family already in book one. There is quite a story to tell about him. The transformation was wonderful to watch.
We make a jump to October 14, 2019
Being part of the Varik clan (Rafe prefers ‘family’) gives him great responsibility.
He has to talk to Philippe Arsenault, the leader of the clan. Both clans need an ally.
The Varik’s has a target on their back after they attacked and destroyed every member of the Black Wolf clan and the Arsenault’s clan needs protection because they’ve been attacked by unknown forces.
Rafe never met Philippe, when he finally set eyes on him, he was stunned, there stood a beautiful young looking, slender blond sunshine of a vampire. Rafe certainly didn’t underestimate Philippe’s strength, is was palpable. Their contrast was amazing, Rafe was big, dark and devilish and Philippe more like an Angel.
Philippe needs proof of sincerity from the Varik clan, so he can trust them.
Finding a missing young clan member would be it. And only Rafe will communicate and get access to the Arsenault clan. Rafe is intrigued by Philippe and wants to know him and his powers better.
The Arsenault’s clan has secrets and those can’t be exposed, Philippe is afraid every vampire will want to destroy them. When he finally reveals his powers to Rafe, Rafe is in awe and impressed. It makes him even more in fall in love.
The Arsenault’s are in danger, Philippe is desperate, he can’t seem to protect them.
While trying to uncover the threat to Philippe’s clan, Rafe and Philippe open their heart to each other, only it could never be forever, with two clans between them. And leaving their family isn’t up for discussion.
Rafe has a feeling the threat is closer than it looks.
What an exceptional story, widely and with depth developed. All the members of the Varik clan are one of a kind, all have their gifts, all characters are well developed, the all would die for each other.
The sexual sparkling tension between Rafe and Philippe was in one word delicious. When they did come together it was like ‘oh my goodness’ highly, highly arousing.
In the middle of all the storming turmoils, there are Rafe and Philippe, steady strong and determined.
It felt like one long lyric or poem. Every definition of the environments was stunning described
The way of storytelling was stunning, I was glued to the pages.
Philippe was a kind and graceful personality, with a soft and gentle voice. The french whispers from his mouth ran straight to my heart. Rafe the caring beauty with a big heart and great gifts. When he plays violin something magical happens. There is so much going on in this story.
Feelings all over, intensity and excitement made this an excellent story
A series I highly recommend.
This second book in The Lords of Discord series focuses on playboy brother Rafe. After the Varik family’s defeat of the Black Wolf clan in book one, the Ministry’s focus is on them, other clans are nervous and Rafe is bored with his club owner debauched lifestyle.
When a request comes in from the Arsenault clan for help in locating a missing clan member Rafe is dispatched to meet him as Marcus is busy dealing with the Ministry. Rafe is immediately intrigued by Phillipe Arsenault and the feeling is mutual. As the story develops so does their relationship. All is not smooth on the path to love however as the problems with the clan and other rumblings in the vampire world in Hartford, CT interfere with the relationship. My heart ached for Rafe at various points in the story. And that connection is the sure sign of a well written book.
There is of course intrigue, as well as suspense, battles, snark, love, humor and steam. The kind of well-rounded story we’ve come to expect from Jocelyn Drake. The character development is well done. The story arc is well paced and the suspense builds well. The mystery of the villain stalking Phillipe’s clan throws enough red herrings to keep the reader guessing though I was sure of the bad guy pretty early on, despite the other viable suspects. I guess partly because I didn’t like that person and wanted to see them get their just desserts.
The climatic battle has some interesting turns (I really love Bel) but I kind of wish the scene had been longer and the villains suffered more harm. (hmmm, I think I’m a bit blood thirsty!)
The ending is sweet and there is a bit of foreshadowing for book three. I am anxiously anticipating it.
*I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my objective review *
I love this series. I can’t wait for the next one!
I got hooked on this series with book 1, and loved Rafe and Philippe’s story.
The world building is fabulous, and I like the slightly different take on vampires, with each vampire having a power once they’ve turned. I also enjoy stories which are very political in their world building and this one ticks all those boxes too.
I loved Rafe and Philippe, and their developing friendship and romance. They complement each other well, and I liked how they fill the emptiness in each other’s lives. I also liked the emotion in their scenes together as it felt very real.
The mystery as to who is behind the killings kept me turning pages. Although I’d guessed who it was—but not until much later into the book—there was still enough doubt to make me not quite sure until the reveal. The action scenes are well written and edge of seat reading.
I loved the family theme throughout the story. It’s not just with the Variks, but also others too. I really felt for Philippe with his ability pushing him into a role he really didn’t want, and his trying to make a safe refuge for those in his clan.
One thing I love about reading in series is catching up on characters from previous books, while getting to know new ones. I liked that Aiden played a bigger onscreen role in this story. I like him, and it’s obvious seeing him in action why he’s the leader, and has stepped into the father figure role, of the Variks. I hope he gets his own happy ending at some point.
The supporting cast are well fleshed out, yet left me wanting to know their stories. Gideon’s is tragic, yet he’s a strong character despite it, or perhaps because of it. I loved Lola. She totally rocks. I also would like to see more of Edgar. The glimpse of him tugged at my heartstrings with his watching his family from a distance.
I’m already looking forward to Bel and Winter’s stories, and more of the advancing overarching series plot. More please.
I found this second book in the Lords of Discord very enjoyable. While it is not necessary to read book 1 to enjoy this one. I recommend it as many characters appear in both books (plus book 1 is really good, too, so why wouldn’t you?) I loved the new (and improved) view of Rafe we get in this book. It’s very different from the first book, and we see his insecurities and vulnerability. I loved seeing the differences, yet similarities between Rafe and Philippe. Both had an extreme sense of loyalty and caring for those they considered family. I love the secondary characters, too. I am sure some will show up as MCs in future books, and I can’t wait to read more of their stories.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
Philippe is the clan ruler for the Arsenault family, seeks Rafe out to ask him for help in figuring out who is after his clan members and Rafe agrees to help. Rafe seems like an emotionless guy but is more sensitive and profound than what he wants people think of him. The connection between the two is intense, hot, and passionate.
This was a wonderfu read with enthralling characters and excellent story line. I definitely recommend this book!
So good, a real page turner that makes your heart speed up & explode, a little sad & steamy. Loved Rafe but he made me cry a few times & I so wanted to hug him. Loved Philipe too. He & Rafe were meant to be. Oh my heart also hurt for him of being betrayed & losing his clan family. The book is a wonderful roller coaster ride & I recommend this book. I can’t wait for Bel’s book!
Vampires have always been my number one go-to when it comes to paranormal tales, regardless of the medium. Jocelynn Drake take on vampires in this paranormal romance series of hers has left me impressed twice over. Rafe and Philippe’s story had the paranormal and the romance, but there was so much heart to it as well. Family and clan may be interchangeable to most, but in the Drake’s vampire world, there are important distinctions, ones that Rafe and his siblings need to decipher as the desire to better protect those they care about grows. I loved seeing Rafe and Philippe’s relationship progress and how they both turned out to be much more than they first seemed to be as individuals. I’m certainly looking forward to reading Bel’s story next! Saving Rafe easily garners five-plus stars.
I love this world that Jocelynn Drake has created. Saving Rafe is a wonderful addition to the Lords of Discord series.
Rafe is so much more that what he shows his family and the world. It takes Philippe to see the real man that Rafe has kept hidden. These two together are amazing. The love and acceptance that they show each other only makes them stronger.
There is action galore in this story. Mixed in with all that action is humor, snark, just the right amount of angst and all the heat and love you could wish for.
I loved seeing the Varik family unite in the best possible way. They are unstoppable when they work together. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
Rafe is the troublemaker of the Varik family. After what’s happen with the Ministry, Marcus asks him to meet Philippe Arsenault, leader of the Arsenault clan. Rafe has no idea that this meeting will change the course of his life and of his family.
This book surprised me.
The Rafe I’ve met in “Claiming Marcus” (Lords of Discord #1), wasn’t the same I’d got in this book, and I adored it.
Rafe is more sensitive and profound than what he lets people think of him. Philippe is a nurturer, a caring person and he has one goal, protecting his family. The last things he expects in his life is Rafe Varik and his flamboyant attitude. As different they seem to be, they both perfectly complete each other.
I was completely hooked into the book and the plot. Until the end, I couldn’t figure out who was the culprit. I liked that too.
I really liked this book, and I’m very curious about the next book. What’s going to happen to the Varik family? who’s the next brother meeting love? All those things I look forward to reading
This is the first book I’ve read in the Lords of Discord series and I have to say although the book is too short, the world building in this series and the characters in it are spectacular. Rafe and Philippe scorch the pages when they are together and despite the light angst, the book was a great read and I can’t wait to read the first one in the series as well as the continuation. Highly recommended!
My dearest Rafe who uses mischief to cover his big beautiful heart. And Philippe who sees right through him and has a beautiful giving heart to match. Ms Drake continues to make me fall in love with the Varik Family (blood and chosen). I was hooked from beginning to end with this awesome story that was packed with action, steam (so hot) and love. It definitely lives up to the first book, Claiming Marcus (which I also highly recommend). I can’t wait for the next brother’s story to be told