Book Review: The Kensei by Jon F. Merz

Writing this review feels like such an accomplishment for me. It was this book that began my downward spiral into owning a TBR pile that rivals Mount Everest. This book came to me in 2011 and I planned to review it right away, but I took on too many book tour requests and my pile grew and grew. I am finally catching up and it feels great.

Lawson is a wise-cracking vampire charged with protecting the Balance between vampires and humans. A shrewd and deadly opponent, he rids the world of bad guys and hopes to live long enough to make it home.

In The Kensei, Lawson escapes to Japan for a well-deserved and needed vacation and advanced training. He no sooner sets foot in the country when he is dropped into the middle of a Yakuza turf war orchestrated by a shady figure know as the Kensei. With the help of former KGB assassin, Tayla, who is also his human girlfriend--just don't tell the Council that--Lawson attempts to put a stop to the Kensei's organ trafficking networks and hopes to prevent the creation of an army of vampire-human hybrids; that is if he doesn't get killed first.

In the late '90s, Buffy the Vampire Slayer became a cult phenomenon. One of the more interesting aspects of the series was Buffy's wiseguy vampire boyfriend, Angel, who had a curse placed on him that gave him a soul. The character became so popular he earned a spin-off titled, Angel.

Lawson's sarcasm and mannerisms remind me of Angel. Both are tall, dark, and handsome. Both are quick-witted and funny. And both can kick butt.


There are a lot of elements to this story. Lawson's destiny as a Fixer. His on again-off again relationship with Tayla. His friendships in the States and Japan. The gangs in Japan. The organ trafficking networks. The Kensei's role in organ trafficking and his interest in Lawson. The mysterious Council who Lawson is defying by having a secret relationship with a human, in addition to Lawson beginning to take stock of his life to determine what matters.

The Kensei is a fast-paced, exciting read that draws you in from the first moment. A masterful storyteller, Merz blends rich descriptions, well-developed characters, and a superb plot to create a mesmerizing novel. With several twists and turns, the tension increases. Tons of action, witty banter, and a dash of romance fill the pages of this unique paranormal novel. I couldn't put it down.

You'll find a different type of vampire story in this one and you'll be hooked!

Highly recommended.

Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin (January 18, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0312662238
ASIN: B005EP1XKC

I received a free paperback copy of this book from the author. This review contains my honest opinions, for which I have not been compensated in any way.

This is the 1st book I've read for the 2013 Catch Up Reading Challenge.

First Chapter Review: Lady Languish: An Irish Vampire Novel by SCD Goff

This author contacted me about a review, but since I am so far behind, I politely declined. She was, however, open to a First Chapter Review. Though I don't usually feature YA novels here, I thought this one would reach a crossover audience of adults who enjoy vamp stories.

If you are interested in seeking a First Chapter Review of your book, please see our guidelines.

TITLE/AUTHOR: Lady Languish: An Irish Vampire Novel by SCD Goff

BLURB:  After her Uncle Malachy terrifies Evangeline Languish on her 16th birthday, she is abandoned at a boarding school by her parents. But when Evangeline discovers a strange young man, injured and alone, she is forced to change her mind about everything she knew. Could Malachy's stories be true? Evangeline must face her uncle once more ... can she get to him before he kills everything she loves?

COVER:  Simple and elegant, but not what I would expect for this genre--at least not in the States. In the author's homeland of Ireland, it might be very appropriate.

FIRST CHAPTER: Young Evangeline Languish is left at the St. Rita's School for Young Ladies under the direction of the stern, sour Ms. Goulder. Scared and alone, her sheltered life does not allow her to make friends easily; but Sive, who has been at the school for years is charged with getting Evangeline acquainted and used to how things are run around the place. Though never having participated in sports, it seems Evangeline has a natural talent for hockey.

KEEP READING:  Probably. I have to admit, vampire stories aren't my favorite, and this one is different than what I expected. The prologue is set six months prior to Evangeline's arrival at St. Rita's. It also doesn't involve her or any of the characters the reader meets in Chapter One. That caused a momentary bit of confusion, but based upon the synopsis, should make sense later.

The reader is immediately drawn in by the girl's plight--abandoned at a boarding school, afraid and made fun of. The first chapter shares much of what happens the day of Evangeline's arrival. Goff does two things with this chapter:  creates engaging characters and paints a detailed picture of St. Rita's School for Young Ladies. Despite a grammar issue and a missing word or two, Goff's eloquent, lyrical style flows nicely. Bare minimum, I would give it a few more chapters to see how the story evolves.

File Size: 466 KB

Print Length: 232 pages

Sold by: Amazon Digital Services

ASIN: B007VFDHXE

SRP: $2.99 KINDLE

I received a free PDF copy of this book in exchange for this first chapter review. I received no monetary compensation to share my opinion. A full review might be forthcoming. I'll know more once I get a chance to read a few more chapters.