I’m a long time reader of Sylvain Reynard’s stories, and I was curious to see what SR could do with a supernatural series. I read The Prince in a single evening and found it an intriguing introduction to the underworld of Florence, Italy.

Much of the vampyre lore I observed in The Prince was not unfamiliar, but I did enjoy how SR put a special twist on some of the usual rules. The moment when the Prince visits Santa Maria Novella and the Spanish Chapel stands out in my memory as a great opportunity to study his true character, and I found myself replaying that scene over and over as I went on read The Raven. In the novella, The Prince witnesses a private moment between Gabriel and Julia Emerson that stays with him and begins to influence his choices during The Raven. I find the complexity of his character absorbing. The Prince’s vampirism is a trait that cannot be ignored, but I see it as merely one aspect of a very complicated individual.

While it was comforting and familiar to read more about the Emersons in The Prince, I was also delighted to be introduced to a new ensemble. Aoibhe is a particular standout, nearly stealing every scene she appears in. She is a fascinating character and, truthfully speaking, I’d love to see a novella that focuses on her. She is cunning and ambitious and I think she has a deeper hold on The Prince than he’s willing to admit to anyone, even himself.

For those who may be nervous about venturing into the paranormal world created in The Florentine Series, I can say with confidence that there is still plenty of romance within the new saga; and I think SR’s exploration on the themes of justice and mercy have made for a compelling read. Fans of Sylvain Reynard are in for one hell of a ride. SR has created a brilliant, supernatural universe in the underworld of Florence. The Prince is rich with history, intelligence, suspense and sensuality. It was a truly captivating read. I devoured it.

SR is one of my favorite authors, after Gabriel's Trilogy I was so excited to grab this new book while waiting for The Raven. As always SR delivered an amazing prequel, I loved that I got glimpses of my favorite couple while trying to figure out about The Prince. It is a must read!!!