Under the Desert Moon

Dec 19, 2012 Mel rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Recommended to Mel by: Jen (Dream Reads)

Shelves: kindled-it, vampires, favorite-couples-and-otps, re-read-worthy

I really liked this book and it felt a lot like a thowback to L.J. Smith especially her Nightworld books, which are some of my favorites.

I immediately connected to Erin, who was a really sweet girl that wanted out of her desolate home situation. She never really experienced anything worthwhile in her hometown until a movie crew starts filming around her town which really shakes things up for her, especially her attraction to the lead actor and vampire, James Linkin. James was a really interesti...more

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Feb 14, 2013 Leann rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya

I went through the multi-step pain-in-the-butt process to check this ebook out from the library online because I was sick of the awful self-published crap I've been reading lately. I wanted something professionally edited, that was good enough to have risen to the top of a slush pile, that someone liked enough to spend their publishing company's money on.

In keeping with my new effort to be nicer in my reviews, let me just say that this book did not fit the bill. It is not a self-published book,...more

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Oct 20, 2012 Stephenie rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I just love reading vampire books. They are the very reason why I got into reading so much. Girl meets boy...boy ends up being a vampire! I never tire of it.

Under the Desert Moon by Emma Meade didn't disappoint. It is your classic vampire-teen romance. You have a small country town girl (Erin) and the handsome and charismatic guy who has a secret (James).
One of the things that sets this story out is its choice of scenery. I love the idea of stories set in deserts. It has this old \-world feel t...more I just love reading vampire books. They are the very reason why I got into reading so much. Girl meets boy...boy ends up being a vampire! I never tire of it.

Under the Desert Moon by Emma Meade didn't disappoint. It is your classic vampire-teen romance. You have a small country town girl (Erin) and the handsome and charismatic guy who has a secret (James).
One of the things that sets this story out is its choice of scenery. I love the idea of stories set in deserts. It has this old \-world feel to it. At first I was like 'how is a vampire going to survive in a desert' but James is sort of like your typical vampire who actually sleeps during the day and doesn't come out in the sun (No he doesn't sparkle or has a magic ring!). The whole time I was reading this book it reminded me of the tv show Roswell.

I really liked Erin. She's a typical teenage girl who is bored of being in a small town. Her aim is to get her and her twin brother Nick out of there as soon as high school is finished. Away of their alcoholic father and the crazy and annoying girls at school.
Erin seems down to earth, trusting and naive in some instances. She has a love of photography, which is how she scores a job on set. I would have to say just about every book I read the main female has some sort of skill such as photography, drawing or even blogging...Not that there is anything wrong with that.
James is your typical handsome male lead. He has amazing eyes...shocking! Another common theme in YA novels is that the males all have amazing coloured eyes!
The attraction between Erin and James is almost instant. Erin tried her best to resist but seriously how can you not be curious about a guy like James. He would have any girl melting just with one look. It did at first bug me at how easy it was for her to look past the fact that James was a vampire but as you kept reading you did see how it did play on her mind a bit.
The secondary characters all had their part in the story. The only one that really stood out for me was probably Erin's twin brother Nick. He had this whole protective guy thing happening and also had is own love story playing out.

Overall, this is a fun read. Its short so its definitely a book that you could read in one sitting (well if you read like me) If you are into your vampire reads and after something a bit light and not to heavy on the whole teenage drama than this is your pick.

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Oct 03, 2012 Becky rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I was asked to fill in for today's blog tour and I'm glad I did, this was a little treasure of a book. Some parts of it were slightly predictable and cliche, but overall I actually enjoyed reading it.
Erin is 17 and counting the days until she can escape from her boring life in Copperfield, until a film crew moves in and she sparks up a connection with the star. I still like a good vampire story and this didn't disappoint, typical vampire falls in love with a human girl conflict plot line, but it...more

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Nov 30, 2012 Kathy Martin rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This was a pleasant though unsophisticated story with a bit more telling the showing in the narrative style. Erin is a small town girl who is eager to get out as soon as she graduates from high school. She is a photographer who hopes her art (and good grades) will be enough to let her escape to college. She works at the local movie theater, has a twin brother named Nick, and an alcoholic father. She is thinking that nothing exciting ever happens in her rural Arizona town.

But a movie crew is comi...more

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Dec 14, 2012 Tishia (Paranormal Opinion) rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Under the Desert Moon is a young adult paranormal story by Emma Meade. The heroine in the story is Erin, a 17 year old girl living in the small town of Copperfield, Arizona. Some excitement finally happens in her life when a movie crew shows up in her boring town to shoot a vampire movie.

Erin is drawn to the lead actor James – a handsome and mysterious guy that she knows she has seen before. She is stunned to find out that he played in an old tv show from 30 years ago, and he hasn't changed at...more

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Oct 06, 2012 Liz at Fictional Candy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya, vampire

This was a light and enjoyable read. I didn’t find it to be full of angst and heartbreak, although it does have its fair share of drama. But if I am honest with myself, sometimes I want all of the entertainment without the constant worry and concern that so much angst can bring.

Erin is a twin to her brother Nick. Although Nick is important in this story, his part isn't substantial. I really felt like Erin was a fun, intelligent, and easy to be with character. If I were in this book, I’d definite...more This was a light and enjoyable read. I didn’t find it to be full of angst and heartbreak, although it does have its fair share of drama. But if I am honest with myself, sometimes I want all of the entertainment without the constant worry and concern that so much angst can bring.

Erin is a twin to her brother Nick. Although Nick is important in this story, his part isn't substantial. I really felt like Erin was a fun, intelligent, and easy to be with character. If I were in this book, I’d definitely want to be her friend. She isn’t an airhead, and she’s got goals. She’s got her head on straight. Well, until James comes along. But honestly, who hasn’t been swayed by some gorgeous eyes backing up all the right words?

So there is a paranormal romance movie coming to the town of Copperfield, AZ. If you haven’t heard of Copperfield, its because it is a tiny town where everyone knows everything about everyone. So this movie is big doins. Erin and Nick have managed to get job on set so they could be part of the action.

James Linkin is the movie heartthrob. James has a bit of arrogance that we don’t always see in our hero’s flaws. I like him, and while I am not completely drawn to him I am curious to see whats going on there. ut when James sees Erin he has an unreal attraction. She doesn’t take any of his crap and is seemingly unimpressed with his celebrity status. It is not long before she nearly figures his secret out on her own, so he makes a leap of faith…and tells her.

James stopped the kiss after a moment, drawing back to look at Erin’s flushed cheeks and cruised lips. “I know you felt that,” he said quietly.

The quiet moments between James and Erin are what got me hook, line and sinker. When they don’t have to deal with everyone else and their drama – and trust me, the people around them will initiate some giant sized dramatic situations – that is when I was happiest during this story. The flirtation and tension really made it all worth it for me.

There are some bad people in this story, many actually. And I won’t name them, I’ll let you discover that for yourself. But when things happen, I can’t say I really feel sympathy for them. . It’s kind of fun when the people you don’t like get what they deserve. Sure, some might get more than others, but hey, its all a wash in the end, right? Right?

If you are looking for a light and easy paranormal romance, then this is the book for you. For me, it read quickly. I was excited for every page turn, and the action kept on hitting. (less)

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Aug 07, 2012 Michelle Cornwell-Jordan rated it 5 of 5 stars

My Review Summary

Under The Desert Moon is about seventeen year old Erin ,a young girl dreaming of leaving her small home town of Copperfield; the place where Erin was born and lives, is a tight-knit community, where everyone pretty much knows everyone else, each day is the same, bringing no diversity, change or excitement. Erin dreams of when she and her brother Nick are able to escape, not only the town but the household of their alcoholic father.

But things soon change, when a film crew comes t...more My Review Summary

Under The Desert Moon is about seventeen year old Erin ,a young girl dreaming of leaving her small home town of Copperfield; the place where Erin was born and lives, is a tight-knit community, where everyone pretty much knows everyone else, each day is the same, bringing no diversity, change or excitement. Erin dreams of when she and her brother Nick are able to escape, not only the town but the household of their alcoholic father.

But things soon change, when a film crew comes to Copperfield, and with it, the mysterious James Linkin. Incredibly hot, designated to become a big name after the release of this film, Erin becomes intrigued by the handsome actor. After Erin gets a part-time job with the film crew as a photographer, she notices several odd things regarding the leading actor, such as his weird schedule,(he is never seen during the day), and the nagging feeling that she has seen him somewhere before. The doubts begin to overtake Erin and she decides to investigate and discover who the “real” James Linkin is; soon the trail leads her to old footage of a television show, that had been off air for at least fifty years, and in it was James Linkin!

Erin discovers that she isn’t the only curious about James Linkin and there others who want to expose the one Erin comes to love; also add in the element of Jame’s crazy maker, Carla and the stakes are risen…

Review

Under The Desert Moon, was a fun, draw you in, wrap you up read! I enjoyed the thrill of being immersed in the flowering relationship between Erin and James; I was on pins and as James identity was on the brink of discovery, and the passion of the two floored me…I was impressed by the decision of Erin’s to discover who she was individually first, even though she didn’t deny the life changing attraction to James…this was a twist on the typical love takes all in most vampire stories!

Under The Desert Moon was an extremely well written read with something for everyone; the story included murder, passion, action and self discovery. I had previously read Author Emma Meade’s Night Sigh’s and was floored with the writing and passionate tale of the characters in that story,and I couldn’t wait for further work from Ms. Meade; with Under The Desert Moon, I was NOT disappointed! It was worth the wait:)

I will most definitely look for future works from this author!

Also cool cover!
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Nov 11, 2012 Sandra Valente rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, have-read, ya-paranormal

E-book copy received from author without the expectation of a review.

Under the Desert Moon is Emma Meade's debut. I've had this book for over a month (probably two) and while deciding what to read next, this cover caught my eye once again. I've said this before, but I always find it extremely hard to read a book by an author I've come to know. I prefer it when it's the other way around, as I'm sure most of you do, too. Regardless, I've previously interviewed the author and posted a book promo. H...more E-book copy received from author without the expectation of a review.

Under the Desert Moon is Emma Meade's debut. I've had this book for over a month (probably two) and while deciding what to read next, this cover caught my eye once again. I've said this before, but I always find it extremely hard to read a book by an author I've come to know. I prefer it when it's the other way around, as I'm sure most of you do, too. Regardless, I've previously interviewed the author and posted a book promo. However, this is no way influences my thoughts, especially as I didn't commit to, or say I'd review the book. I did say I'd read it when time allowed, which I now have.

This was really a very enjoyable read, more so because it wasn't the usual vampire story although I love those, too. It is an easy read due to the fact that you don't have to read over certain passages in trying to understand hierarchies, family history and which type of vampire 'clan' the male protagonist comes from.

I've never been to Copperfield, Arizona, and seeing as Emma is Irish, I don't know if she's been there either. What I can tell you is that I totally believe this story has taken place there. That's the ease with which this author has written this story.

MC, 17-year-old Erin Harris is not only bored with life in this going-nowhere-town, she's had it with her alcoholic father. She rather keeps to herself, is a keen photographer, loves movies and works at The Oracle theatre where she gets to see movies for free. Life is rather dull in Copperfield until her twin, Nick, announces that a movie crew is in town to film a scary movie. Finally! Things should liven up a bit. Both Erin and Nick rush off to Casey's, the local restaurant where the crew happen to be. After enquiring from Mrs. Casey if she knows anything about this movie, she's told that it's going to be about a vampire. Erin looks around and one particular guy catches her eye. There's something familiar about him, but she's not sure what although she's convinced she's seen him in something else. His eyes are what really hold her attention as she's never seen anything quite like them. Keen photographer that she is, she'd love an opportunity to take photos.

As most of the youngsters in town are gearing up to try out for parts as extras, including not only Nick but their older brother, Steve's girlfriend who is somewhat stuck-up (actually quite snobby), Erin decides that as she's not one to be in front of the camera, a job behind it though would be ideal. After speaking to Tom, the director, she's given the go ahead to document all aspects of the movie's progress. The familiarity surrounding James keeps bugging Erin, until she remembers old tapes that used to belong to her mother. She enlists Nick on this 'manhunt', and eventually finds them. It's a given that Erin and James meet and although it's an instant attraction where both are concerned, it is definitely not a scenario where they fell in love right from the beginning and typically live happily ever after kind of story at all.

You'd think that from here on in, it will be predictable, but not so. James has his own problems, and Erin isn't the only one to figure out who he is - others do, too. In order for James to live, he needs to feed but it's been a long time since he's had to kill in order to survive. James isn't the perfect vampire either, and he says so on a few ocassions. Not everything goes right all of the time. Erin can't help being drawn to him, but can she really come to terms with James' needs and what he has to do to sustain himself? If I say anything else, I might as well tell you the whole story and you guessed it, it's not something I'm going to do.

Needless to say that he isn't the only vampire who ends up in Copperfield, and something that lends that suspense factor to the story. There's quite a bit going on, but what I really liked at the end of the book was the fact that despite Erin only being seventeen, I thought her head was screwed on straight. First, she will accomplish what she wants to and needs to do, and then and only then, will she even think about the alternative offered to her. Every character in this book is relevant to the story as a whole and some are more likeable than others, of course. One of them, well, she's just someone I would have liked to poke in the eye were she real. I sound harsh, but I've had my fair share of these 'hollow' people to last me a lifetime.

As this is the first book I've read by Emma Meade, I was quite surprised that for a debut the story just flowed, wasn't complicated to follow (which can sometimes put me off), and it was really enjoyable. I now have another book of short stories by this author, one which I look forward to reading. Great job, Emma!(less)

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Oct 10, 2012 Maghon Thomas rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, paranormal, review-4-author, young-adult

so let me say that this is a fun fast easy read it’s not too complicated and there’s a fun little plot twist to add Erin is a plain simple small town girl with a complicated family and a BIG WANT to get out of this small town. She has her job at the movie theatre and she has her photography. So when a movie comes to town, she gets a little job with set photography to help get her a scholarship. And this is where all the fun begins! Dum, dum, dum! LOLs

so, again with my aversion to vamps- I someho...more so let me say that this is a fun fast easy read it’s not too complicated and there’s a fun little plot twist to add Erin is a plain simple small town girl with a complicated family and a BIG WANT to get out of this small town. She has her job at the movie theatre and she has her photography. So when a movie comes to town, she gets a little job with set photography to help get her a scholarship. And this is where all the fun begins! Dum, dum, dum! LOLs

so, again with my aversion to vamps- I somehow seem to read a lot of vamper books! At first, I was worried James, said vamper, would be the typical woe-is-me creeper. But no! I actually liked him. He’s got the urge to feed and he does. He can manipulate people as he sees fit, AND there is no sparkly! Lol but he is caught by a storm known as Erin I found their growing relationship a tug of war, kinda how I think it should be. No offense, but biting is not my thing, so it would bother me if my BF had a bitey problem hahaha and it takes some getting used to

and Erin stands her ground to him. Before she only knows him as a beautiful celebrity, so she pretty much puts him in his place on their first meeting. Sure she’s quaking at his HAWT-ness, but she’s sure it’s all a play. Then he creeps her out. Then he makes her fall ahh, vampire love stories HA! In any notes, I enjoyed it. I’m not sure if this is a stand alone or series. It has a full ending but a hint to let your imagination keep going. If there is another, I’ll be sure to read it. Also, I enjoyed the ending. It’s not your “typical” happily ever after. But loving a vampire can’t be

the writing is very smooth flowing. I did notice a few boo boos but its easy stuff that could be fixed and it wasn’t was like those messed up the story or really bothered me. A few misplaced commas is what it was. I never had trouble with focusing on the story. It read it in a breeze only one bad for me- I REALLY wanted Erin’s dad to get something “more” for his actions, but the “surprise bad guy” ending did make me happy! So it evened out Hahaha I can’t give away spoilers here kids, so it’s hard to explain. And with that, I recommend to all you vamp lovers- here’s your story. And all you YA fans looking for that fun something, this one is for you too

4 PAWS from me
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Oct 14, 2012 Chapter by Chapter rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I had so much fun reading Under The Desert Moon by Emma Meade! Although it is a rather quick read, the story found in these pages is one that is addictive and one that fans of the vampire genre would hope have happen to them one day.

In small town Copperfield, Arizona, not much happens until a movie happens to choose their location as the spot to film a movie involving vampires. With all the buzz about this new movie and its cast, 17 year old Erin Harris doesn’t want to be in the spotlight like t...more I had so much fun reading Under The Desert Moon by Emma Meade! Although it is a rather quick read, the story found in these pages is one that is addictive and one that fans of the vampire genre would hope have happen to them one day.

In small town Copperfield, Arizona, not much happens until a movie happens to choose their location as the spot to film a movie involving vampires. With all the buzz about this new movie and its cast, 17 year old Erin Harris doesn’t want to be in the spotlight like the other girls in her town. She’d rather be behind the scenes, behind her trusty camera.

Luckily for Erin, the director, Tom, has agreed to allow her to take pictures of the movie during its production, which also includes behind the scenes glimpses, attendance to the parties, and being able to rub shoulders with the stars, including the mysteriously hot and sexy leading male, James Linkin.

But from past memories, James Linkin, seems so familiar to Erin. How familiar? Familiar in that she swears he was a star in a T.V. show that she used to watch with her family which aired…30 years ago! How is that even possible? What kind of skeletons are in James’ closet, and how far will Erin go to uncover this secret?

There really isn’t too too much that I can say that won’t give away the plot of this story. But I will say that author, Emma Meade, has certainly found a winner with story. I’m sure I’m not giving away anything at all when I tell you that James is, of course, a vampire. What I loved in the book was the reference to Anne Rice’s Interview With A Vampire where James (a vampire) stars in a movie as the leading role character who is a vampire. Very Anne Rice indeed!

I loved reading the interactions between James and Erin. It was very sweet and, at times, very romantic. I know I for one used to dream of meeting my own vampire and falling in love and showing him that he can be a better “man”, etc. , etc. This story is no exception. Although James is already not your typical vampire, there is something about Erin that makes him want to be better! With Emma Meade’s writing style, it isn’t hard to find yourself lost amongst the pages in this book, and watching the story unfold.

There are various plots and twists that will keep you interested in the story, and the characters are all full of personality. There are various laugh out loud moments that will keep you entertained, and there is enough deceit and surprises mixed in that you won’t be able to tear your eyes away until the very end.

I would recommend this story to fans of vampire reads, and those who dream of snagging their very own blood sucking honey. I hope that Emma Meade continues the story with this cast of characters. I am dying to know what will happen next, or what could happen in their future.(less)

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Sep 23, 2012 Laura Thomas rated it 5 of 5 stars

Nothing ever happens in Copperfield, Arizona, a rundown desert mining town. The miners left long ago.

That’s why Erin wishes she were anywhere but here. At least her job at The Oracle, the town cinema, gets her out of the house and she gets to see the movies for free.

One night changes everything, shaking up Erin’s world. Nick, her twin brother, bursts into her bedroom to tell her something exciting. A movie crew is in town to film a horror film. This gets Erin’s blood pumping. She hopes for a goo...more

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Sep 30, 2012 Rachel Simons rated it 4 of 5 stars

Under The Desert Moon’s main character is Erin who is a regular girl. Who thought there wasn’t really anything special about her. She was fed up with the town she was living in and wanted to get out as soon as she graduated.

A film crew arrives to shoot a vampire movie and when the stars were in the diner Erin thought she recognised the main star. He has something familiar about him but couldn’t place it to start with. Then things started to click into place and she realised he was in fact the sa...more

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Oct 06, 2012 Mae Clair rated it 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this young-adult tale that weaves small-town life with the supernatural, specifically the vampire legend. Erin Harris is an artistic loner who works at the local cinema and views life through the lens of her camera. She’s not very popular at school, her father is an alcoholic, and her oldest brother is dating a ditz. Then a film crew rolls into town to shoot a movie about vampires and Erin’s plodding life is thrown into turmoil. Especially when she gets a look at the movie’s hot rising...more

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Sep 12, 2012 Fel rated it 5 of 5 stars

(Disclaimer: I received this book from the author for an honest review.)

Erin is a seventeen-year-old girl living in Podunk--I mean Copperfield, Arizona. The town comes to life when a movie crew comes in to shoot a vampire movie featuring an up-and-coming actor named James. Nearly everyone in town joins the movie craze as movie extras, assistants, or groupies. Little does Erin know, this development is going to change more for her than her summer plans.

I'm still as excited as ever to read a boo...more (Disclaimer: I received this book from the author for an honest review.)

Erin is a seventeen-year-old girl living in Podunk--I mean Copperfield, Arizona. The town comes to life when a movie crew comes in to shoot a vampire movie featuring an up-and-coming actor named James. Nearly everyone in town joins the movie craze as movie extras, assistants, or groupies. Little does Erin know, this development is going to change more for her than her summer plans.

I'm still as excited as ever to read a book about vampires, and this one didn't disappoint. While some traits of the usual vampire-human relationship are present--vampire can't help but fall in love with human girl he barely knows, but in this case, he may be the one in for more than he bargained for. Erin is a small-town girl who wants nothing more than to get away from home and move on to something better. She's a smart and determined girl, who doesn't so easily fall for the vampire's (James) charm. She sees through his cover, quickly figuring out there is something off about him, and then she realizes that she recognizes him from a thirty year old TV show she used to watch with her mom. I also enjoyed James, he wasn't always "perfect," he didn't claim to be. He admitted to hunting, killing, he still feeds on humans and uses his powers to his advantage. All wonderfully intriguing qualities for a vampire. James typically reminded me of Barnabas from Dark Shadows, which I thoroughly appreciated and enjoyed.

The plot was also quite different from many of the vampire novels I've recently read. It took me a while to figure out what was so different, but it's not filled to the brim with supernatural everywhere. The vampire is the core element of the story, and the plot is wound tightly around the unfolding of James' mysteries and the growth of the main characters.

There were some dialogue tags I would've liked to seen slashed to bits, and some areas needed more showing rather than telling in terms of emotions and reactions, but overall the story kept me turning the pages (or clicking the arrow key). The story was fun, and I particularly enjoyed the part changing technology played in Erin's ability (and inability) to discover James' true identity.

Favorite Quote:

"You're kind of a weirdo, aren't you." she said. It wasn't a question.
"And you're kinda honest. I like that."

My verdict--I endorse it completely and look forward to more from this author (preferably involving more vampires as well ;) ).(less)

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Nov 05, 2012 Patrice Caldwell rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Under The Desert Moon was a light and fun read that took new spin on the vampire/paranormal scene. The main character Erin is mature and while “panicky” or doubtful at times knows how to keep her calm. From the moment James meets her he has a sort of instant attraction to her but she instead of falling instantly in love with him she acknowledged her attraction to him yet took the time to evaluate things. By not putting up with his arrogance and not letting his celebrity status affect her, Erin i...more

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Nov 13, 2012 Stephanie Cover2CoverBlog rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya

Background: Erin lives in a very small town called Coppersville in Arizona and is counting the days until she can leave this boring place. Over the summer between her Junior and Senior years a movie takes over the small town to shoot a vampire film. Erin has been given the opportunity to take pictures for the production and is excited to do so, until she meets James, the star of the movie. There is something strange and intriguing about him, and he looks very familiar.

Review: I love when I can...more

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Sep 03, 2012 Kelly rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ebooks, young-adult, read-in-2012

An interesting look at small town life with a dose of paranormal. Erin is ready to leave Copperfield behind her until actor James comes rolling into town to film the next big vampire movie. A little research, some pointed questions and suddenly Erin finds her world expanding more than she ever imagined it would.

I did question how James thought he could hide his resemblance to an actor who'd only been out of the limelight for thirty years but I also can understand that his previous life was stole...more

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Nov 08, 2012 Xxendlessautumnxx rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: first-reads

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Under The Desert Moon by Emma Meade is a vampire novel I won as an advanced reader's copy here on Goodreads. I really, really enjoyed it. It started out a little slow, but in the end it was an enchanting read that will appeal to readers of supernatural novels, and readers who enjoyed the Twilight novels by Stephenie Meyer, or the Vampire Kisses series. (It was made even better that the novel was signed! Thank you, Emma!)

The things I loved about the novel:
-Erin, the headstrong, incredibly brave h...more

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Sep 23, 2012 Shanon (Escaping With Fiction) rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc

Technically I'm giving this book 2 1/2 out of 5 stars...

The synopsis of this book is what lured me in, since vampires are one of my favorite paranormal groups to read about. I have never read a story quite like this one; especially one where the vampire is a movie star. The fact that the author provides the reader with a new and unique angle such as this makes her worthy of props. I also appreciate the fact that this book was written from the dual perspectives of the main characters, Erin and Ja...more Technically I'm giving this book 2 1/2 out of 5 stars...

The synopsis of this book is what lured me in, since vampires are one of my favorite paranormal groups to read about. I have never read a story quite like this one; especially one where the vampire is a movie star. The fact that the author provides the reader with a new and unique angle such as this makes her worthy of props. I also appreciate the fact that this book was written from the dual perspectives of the main characters, Erin and James. It was definitely necessary to get inside both of their heads.

Erin, the female protagonist, is likable enough and her ambitions to leave her small town life are admirable. But that being said, I still had a hard time connecting with her and I didn't feel as invested in her character as I would have liked. I also found this to be true with James, the vampire. When this happens it sort of ruins a book for me. Don't get me wrong, these characters could easily capture the hearts of other readers but unfortunately they couldn't quite win me over. On a side note, I did end up liking Erin's brother, Nick! He was the most rational person in this novel and an overall great guy.

When James' character comes to Erin's town to film a movie and he is initially introduced, he comes off as a cold and calculating predator. I think it's great that he changed and ultimately became a better person/vampire, but I think it happened way too fast and without enough explanation. He meets Erin, then BAM!, he's a new man overnight.....and their romantic relationship develops pretty much the same way--at least that's how it felt to me. There was no easing into the relationship or gradual change and I felt like something was missing from the plot, like part of it's structure caved in somewhere along the way.

However, I will say that the last few chapters of the book did hold my attention a lot more, and there was a bittersweet feel to the ending. When I was done reading I did find myself curious about the future of the characters because of the way the book ended. Even though this book didn't fully agree with me, I would still recommend for anyone who likes vampires and romance to give this story a try because it's a quick read that does have some suspenseful and entertaining qualities.
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Dec 07, 2012 Cecilia (rather barefoot than bookless) rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I really liked this book it was good, it was more than just a nice read which is why I gave it 3.5 stars instead of just 3 stars. But it wasn´t amazing, It was good and worth reading but it was not a book that will stay with me for a long time like some books.

I liked the story line. It was different but not a the same time. It was also kind of exciting when everything seemed to unravel and make it impossible for James and Erin in so many ways.

I also liked their love story and the fact that Erin...more

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Mar 22, 2013 Nancy (The Avid Reader) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: review-request-from-author, emma-meade, read-feb-2013, read-in-2013

The following review is my opinion and not a paid review. I received a free copy of the book from author for my honest opinion.

Erin Harris is a 17 year old girl who lives in a small town. She is kind of a loner who likes staying to herself. All Erin wants is to make it through high school and then go on to college. She wants to get out of the small town she lives in and away from her alcoholic father. Erin loves to take pictures and hopes one day to become a photographer.

Erin's twin brother come...more The following review is my opinion and not a paid review. I received a free copy of the book from author for my honest opinion.

Erin Harris is a 17 year old girl who lives in a small town. She is kind of a loner who likes staying to herself. All Erin wants is to make it through high school and then go on to college. She wants to get out of the small town she lives in and away from her alcoholic father. Erin loves to take pictures and hopes one day to become a photographer.

Erin's twin brother comes running in one day to announce that a movie is going to be filmed in their home town of Copperfield, Arizona. Erin and Nick go down to the locale cafe where the movie crew and cast are hanging out. They find out that the movie is going to be about a vampire. Everyone in Copperfield is applying for parts as an extra in the movie. Erin gets herself a job taking pictures of the movie as it is being filmed. Nick gets a job as an assistant to one of the main stars in the movie.

While sitting at the cafe and eating her hamburger Erin locks eyes with a very handsome dude. She finds out later that he is the star of the movie. His name is James Linkin. Erin knows that she has seen him before but where? Then it hits her she saw him in an old tv show that she use to watch with her mother on vhs tapes. She is like no way it can't be him, he has not aged he still looks the same. James is hiding something. Can Erin find out what he is hiding?

Erin starts spending a lot of time with James so that she can do a little investigating and find out his secret. The more she hangs out with James the more attracted she becomes to him. James and Erin both fall head over hills as they say for each other real fast. Erin wants more than anything to be with James but she doesn't see how it could ever be possible because she will not leave Nick alone with their alcoholic father. Will Erin and James find a way to be together? Is it even possible?

Erin is a 17 year old girl but she is very mature for her age. But of course she has had no choice but to grow up real fast with an alcoholic father. Not only has she had to take care of herself all these years but she has taken care of her brother as well. And she has probably had to take care of her father too on more than one occasion. She has probably been the parent and her father the child at times.

If you are one of my blog followers then you know that I love reading about vampires and by now I guess you have already figured out the fact that I highly recommend you pick up your own copy of Under the Desert Moon, not tomorrow, not next week but today. But be on alert Under the Desert moon will suck you in from the first word and will not let go until the last word. Don't do like I did and put off reading this book. Why? Because I wish I had not waited so long. I was asked by the author Emma Meade to review Under the Desert Moon and would like to take this opportunity now to apologize to her for taking so long to read it and review it. And to say thank you Emma for letting me read Under the Desert Moon. I look forward to reading more of Emma's work in the future.(less)

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Mar 16, 2013 Sarah rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: read-2013, r2r-complete

(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author Emma Meade.)
17-year-old Erin can’t help but get swept up in the excitement when a movie is set to be filmed in the small town where she lives. The last thing she expects is for the gorgeous male lead – James, to not only show an interest in her, but to also reveal to her his secret – he’s a vampire.

Erin manages to get some time on the set by asking if she can take some photographs during filming,...more (Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author Emma Meade.)
17-year-old Erin can’t help but get swept up in the excitement when a movie is set to be filmed in the small town where she lives. The last thing she expects is for the gorgeous male lead – James, to not only show an interest in her, but to also reveal to her his secret – he’s a vampire.

Erin manages to get some time on the set by asking if she can take some photographs during filming, but it’s when James follows her home that things really begin to heat up between them.
Can Erin and James really have a relationship though? Can Erin get past the fact that James has killed previously? And what other obstacles will Erin and James face?

This was an okay YA vampire romance story, but it wasn’t really anything new.

I was a little unsure of this book as it had a bit of a shaky start, and I found it difficult to believe that a movie director would randomly allow some strange local teenager with a camera to run around the set taking photographs. In fact a lot of the stuff associated with the movie was a bit hard to believe.

Erin was a likeable character, but she was a little too trusting of James in my opinion. She did do her best to try and keep a lid on things though, and also had the strength to stand up to James and tell him that she didn’t like him killing people.

The romance between Erin and James was the best part of the book, but again, it was pretty similar to a lot of the vampire romance books out there. Girl who can’t be glamoured, falls in love with a vampire, who then wants to turn her, then they have to fight another vampire who wants to kill one of them. The attraction between them was sweet though, and we were treated to a few steamy kisses.

I did think that the storyline had been done before, but after the initial awkwardness, the author pulled it off. The ending was okay, and there was a proper ending to the story.
I would probably only recommend this book to people who really like YA vampire romance, if you’re getting a bit fed-up of this sort of thing though, I’d say that you might want to give this one a miss.
Overall; I did enjoy this book, but it didn’t blow me away.
6 out of 10.
(less)

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Feb 10, 2013 Naomi rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Under the Desert Moon wasn’t the normal vampire book that I have read lately, full of action, fighting and blood. It was more a case of a girl meeting a boy who is trying to live a normal life, but he just happens to be a vampire. It was an entertaining read from start to finish as the characters work through their differences to see if they have something worth fighting for.

Erin lives a quiet life; she lives at home with her twin brother Nick, older brother Steve and alcoholic father. She is an...more Under the Desert Moon wasn’t the normal vampire book that I have read lately, full of action, fighting and blood. It was more a case of a girl meeting a boy who is trying to live a normal life, but he just happens to be a vampire. It was an entertaining read from start to finish as the characters work through their differences to see if they have something worth fighting for.

Erin lives a quiet life; she lives at home with her twin brother Nick, older brother Steve and alcoholic father. She is an art geek who loves photography and plans on getting a scholarship to attend college to pursue her dreams and to get out of her boring town. When a movie crew turns up in the sleepy town, everything changes as the town is buzzing with the new people. Erin decides to get a job on set taking photos behind the scenes.

With the arrival of the movie crew is the mysterious James Linkin. He has been cast as the lead actor in the movie, Kiss of the Vampire. He works only at night and has uncanny brown eyes with flecks of green in them. He has that typical bad boy persona, and is used to girls throwing themselves at him. What is unusual for him is the quiet, beautiful girl who does her best to keep him at arms length.

The relationship between Erin and James is rocky to begin with as Erin is very hostile towards him as she doesn’t think that a gorgeous guy like James could be interested in someone like her. She is a very smart girl and is able to work things out on her own but she also second guesses herself. She is a fun character who is not afraid to say exactly what she means and is able to throw James off guard.

I think that Emma Meade has written an engaging book that I was compelled to read. There a few twists and turns thrown in to keep things interesting such as Zach, Erin’s nosy friend who is also an art geek, her brother Nick who works on set too and a crazy girl from James’ past. I found it amusing at times, intense at others and had it enough swoon moments to keep me wanting more. The characters were all great, but most definitely impulsive teens! I am highly anticipating what will happen in their lives next and to see whether Erin can get away from Copperfield……

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.(less)

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Feb 24, 2013 Sandra "Jeanz" rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: wishlist

MY REVIEW
I received this e-book directly from the Author in exchange for my honest review a while ago, and I finally got around to reading it. Apologies to Emma Meade for taking so long to get around to it.
The cover reminds me of an old fashioned movie poster, which really fits in with the book. I would say the young woman on the cover is Erin Harris. I really like the cover and think it fits the book very well. The blurb describes the book well, and does tug on your curiousity to make you want...more

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Feb 01, 2013 Jen (Dream Reads) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, own, reviewed

My Review:
Under the Desert Moon is such a gem of a book. Not only is it a cute and light read, but it also had a lot of depth and realness to it. You may inquire why I am calling a vampire book cute, but the romance in this book cannot be labeled as anything else. It was, I have to say, incredibly sweet and endearing. The main characters in this book have such a likable quality about them. You just can't help root for them amongst all their drama, because, oh yes, there is quite a bit of drama i...more My Review:
Under the Desert Moon is such a gem of a book. Not only is it a cute and light read, but it also had a lot of depth and realness to it. You may inquire why I am calling a vampire book cute, but the romance in this book cannot be labeled as anything else. It was, I have to say, incredibly sweet and endearing. The main characters in this book have such a likable quality about them. You just can't help root for them amongst all their drama, because, oh yes, there is quite a bit of drama in this story. This book is a vampire story after all.

And now on to the main characters in Under the Desert Moon. They were so layered and well developed. The female lead in this story, Erin, is such an amazing heroine. She is intelligent, determined, emotionally strong, and has a very fun and sarcastic sense of humour. Her strength comes from having lost her mother and having to deal with a drunken and careless father and boy does she handle her family drama with incredible grace. James, our male lead in the story, is a vampire and an incredibly gorgeous, charming, and smart one at that. The story of how he became a vampire is compelling since he was pushed into a life of darkness that he didn't want and in Under the Desert Moon, we find him trying to reclaim his life via his profession as an actor and the intricacies of being a vampire in a world where according to everyone, they don't exist.

The romance in Under the Desert Moon is what makes this book so special, though. The relationship dynamic between Erin and James is just really amazing. It can be said that both the main characters are on the opposite spectrum in life. Erin is a human girl, who is a dreamer and is dying to get away from her family drama and small town. James, on the other hand, is a vampire who is much older in age than he appears, and is used to getting his way, as his vampire nature, makes him a predator and natural seductor. What brings these two characters together you may say? Well, they both are lonely souls, who are skeptical about life. Erin due to the loss of her mother and verbally abusive and alcoholic father, while with James it's his vampire nature and necessity to be hidden from the world, that has submerged him into isolation. What is special about their relationship is that both characters, unknowingly, kinda bring light into each others life and awaken desires and dreams in each other, that they didn't know they had.

Oh, and for those of you readers who are weary of insta-love in Young Adult novels. No worries. There is none of that going on here and no love triangles either. The way in which James and Erin get to know each other is quite adorable. Erin is a headstrong girl, who is very smart. She doesn't it take it lightly that James is a vamp. Oh, no. As swoonworthy as he is as a character, Erin remains quite level headed and skeptical about him, but it is a fun skepticism, due to her sense of humour. James on the other hand, as a vampire, is not used to not wooing a girl right away, and out of this initial indifference, eventually, a lovely relationship is born, with a lot of fun banter, as both characters start to figure each other out. And for those of you, who love cute romances, this book is for you. James and Erin are so sweet together. They have such a respect for each other, because like I said previously, they both are really surprised at the fact that they do fall for one another with time. And what is so awesome about Erin, is that she may fall for James, but it doesn't mean she throws all caution to the wind, and lets her life revolve around James, just because he's gorgeous and has awoken feelings of love in her. Nope. She throughout the novel remains a female lead, that still is focused on her dreams and helping her loved ones.

Speaking of, there are some awesome secondary characters in this novel. From Erin's brother (Nick) - who is brainy and a good brother, to the mean girl girlfriend of Erin's older brother, Steve, to mention a few. There is also this tremendously evil female vampire villain who is as manipulative and psycho as they get. And really, all these characters add a great depth to the story and the lives of the main characters, in my opinion.

I would seriously recommend this book to anyone who is a huge fan of vampire stories. It is so easy to get into. You can't go any better than a story where the main girl falls for a guy who is a vamp, who is an actor, who comes to her town to play a fictional vamp in a movie. I just loved the irony there, and there were some awesome analogies in the story on to why people love vamp stories within the book itself that were to me, oh so very clever.

My Rating: 5/5 (less)

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Nov 06, 2012 Margaret Alexander rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: supernatural, pararom, young-adult

This book is definitely for the Twilight fans, and I'm pretty sure the author wrote it with that intention. About half-way through the book, I was a bit afraid that it borderlined a copy-cat of Twilight, since so many of the vampirisms were too similar to the book. As were some of the plot points: small town girl, hot mysterious vampire, instant chemistry. However, once the villain(s) were introduced, it took a surprisingly good turn and became more unique.

What I found odd was the duality of th...more

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Nov 22, 2012 Rhonda rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Anyone who enjoys YA paranormal

This was a fun, fast-paced read with plenty of action. I really liked Erin, the main character and enjoyed watching her confidence grow throughout the novel. She's strong from the beginning but watching her self-assurance increase was great. And I liked the dynamics between Erin and her brother Nick. The vampire angle has some fresh twists and Ms. Meade has a unique voice. I look forward to reading more from her.

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Oct 08, 2012 Tien rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: blog-tour, young-adult

An enjoyably simple read – this is one of those books you’d read to completely relax. The blurb itself is pretty simple and gave you pretty much what the book is all about so all you’re reading it for is for the ‘how’ the mystery was solved. Oh, and of course, let’s not forget the love interest!

Erin was a great character! Firstly, she is fighting for what she wants from life the best way she could. She didn’t just give up and go with the flow. Nor did she only dream. She is working hard and will...more

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Jan 01, 2013 Star (The Bibliophilic Book Blog) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: reviewed

Erin Harris and her brothers live with their alcoholic father, who has been steadily getting worse due to their mother’s death. Erin’s sick of it! All Erin dreams of is getting out of Copperfield and into the big city. She sees an opportunity for exposure as a photographer when a film crew comes to town to shoot a vampire movie. Yet things on the movie set aren’t as straightforward as they appear…

‘Under the Desert Moon’ is refreshingly different from some of the other ‘teen vampire’ novels out t...more

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