Johann (Vampire's Mate Book 4) by Grae Bryan

If you're a fan of the Vampire's Mate series by Grae Bryan, then you most definitely don't want to miss Johann. There's a reason he's a fan favorite.

From the blurb:

Alexei is lost. On the run from his criminal family, hiding out in Hyde Park, he has no idea what the point or purpose of his life is anymore. Until he’s served coffee by a strange young man, one whom Alexei can’t get out of this head. And when Alexei realizes his favorite barista isn’t quite human after all, his obsession only deepens. Can he use this new knowledge to get even closer to the sweet, strange vampire of his dreams?

Jay is lonely. He has his friends (so nice!) and his job at the coffee shop (so fun!) but he knows he doesn’t really belong in Hyde Park, not for keeps. And yet, he can’t help wanting to pretend, especially with his new favorite regular, a handsome human who smells divine and watches Jay like he really matters. Alexei might just be the nicest thing to happen to Jay since he can remember, even more so when the human generously offers himself up for dinner.

But Jay’s past is complicated, and certain promises have been made. Can he and Alexei weather the storm that tracks him down, or will Jay’s new life be taken away from him before it can really begin?

Johann is a heated, fated-mates MM paranormal romance with an HEA and no cliffhanger. It contains a sweet, cinnamon roll vampire and the stoic, obsessed human who will do anything to stay by his side. It also contains steamy scenes between two men, and the moderate violence (and mentions of blood) that one might expect from a vampire romance. While each book focuses on a different couple, the series is best enjoyed in order.

Jacqueleen the Reading Queen's Review:

Oh my sweet darling Jay. They just don't get more precious than him. I swear I wanted to wrap that vamp up in a blanket burrito and snuggle him to death. Though I think Alexei might have a bit of problem with that. He's quite possessive of his sweet mate. And who wouldn't be if Jay was theirs? He's kind, caring, and honest to a fault. You'd never have to worry about him hiding things from you since he almost always just blurts out whatever comes to mind.

"I've missed you, and it's only been a day. Isn't that funny?"

I have to say I didn't know if anyone could truly deserve Jay, but Alexei certainly proved me wrong. He worshipped Jay. That vampire could do no wrong in Alexei's eyes. And the fact that Jay turns out to be a bit of a pillow princess? GOLD. He deserved that after having spent his entire life serving others. Alexei didn't mind one bit. In fact, he delighted in taking care of Jay. Relished it even.

I'm happy to report that we are not done with this amazing series. A new character is introduced and I'll give you a hint. We've already met his mate. He's also a certified psychopath. The new guy, not his mate in case you were confused. You can see why I'm excited right? Psychopath romances are some of my favorites. The concept intrigues me to no end. Add Vampires into the mix? *chefs kiss*

Rating: 5 Stars

SNik's Review:

Fourth in series (Vampire’s Mate), best if read in order. Paranormal. Fated mates. Found family. Dual POV. 

Jay (Johann) is trying to experience as much of life as he can after being the sheltered companion to another for centuries, so he is working as a barista and having family dinners with his friends while he tries to drive off his loneliness. Alexei is on the run from his former life, not willing to stay with his uncaring criminal family and finds himself immediately drawn to the charming barista in the small Colorado town that is his temporary hideout. 

Although Jay is beyond sweet and Alexei comes from a tough background, they are not opposites. Jay craves affection and Alexei wants to provide for Jay in all ways, maybe because they are fated, maybe because Alexei feels purposeful in taking care of Jay. 

This book is beyond sugary sweet, and although it doesn't have the same sort of danger/action some of the others in the series had, it worked for me on all levels due to Jay’s goodness and emotional intelligence. 

Loved the supportive secondary characters family of vampires and the absolute commitment and caring both Jay and Alexei have towards each other.

Rating: 4.5 Stars

Johann is available to buy as an ebook, paperback or to read with Kindle Unlimited subscription.