What do you think?
Rate this book
Deirdre Griffin didn't choose to be a vampire. But she is. And she's determined to make the most of her fate. For Deirdre that means surrendering to the raging hunger ignited by even the slightest whiff of blood - a hunger that pulses through her body like a fever, demanding release. It means making friends in dark places - and savouring every hot, salty, bitter, revitalizing drop of life force the night has to offer...
528 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
19 people are currently reading
512 people want to read
About the author
Karen E. Taylor
44 books75 followersKaren E. Taylor is the author of The Vampire Legacy Series of novels, published by Kensington Books. A voracious reader of vampire/horror novels, Karen first started writing Blood Secrets in January, 1988. She conceived of writing the novel while living across the street from a very large cemetery. It was never intended to be the first book of an ongoing series, but fans who had read the novel demanded a sequel. To date, the series stands at seven titles, and has earned a cult following. Her short stories have appeared in numerous anthologies, including: Love Bites, 100 Vicious Little Vampires, 100 Wicked Little Witches, A Horror Story A Day, and Seductive Spectres. In 2001, she was nominated for the Bram Stoker Award for best short story for "Mexican Moon".
Karen E. Taylor was born and raised in the Pittsburgh suburbs. A graduate of Churchill area High School and later of Grove City College, her first love was the theater, but now she admits that writing is better; "You get to write all the lines and play all the parts." She currently resides outside of Los Angeles, CA with her husband and pets.
Karen E. Taylor was born and raised in the Pittsburgh suburbs. A graduate of Churchill area High School and later of Grove City College, her first love was the theater, but now she admits that writing is better; "You get to write all the lines and play all the parts." She currently resides outside of Los Angeles, CA with her husband and pets.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
October 29, 2011
I initially wanted to review this book because of it's exquisite cover. I'm a sucker for book covers!! They say you can't judge a book by it's cover but when dealing with actual books that's how it ends up in your hand. I thought if the cover of this book had me at first glance then I can only imagine how the inside can be. So I got in touch with the author and to my surprise she agreed to let me review it. I was so excited!! It's taken me a long while to get in the mood of reading again but finally I did. So this past Friday I started reading HUNGER and, to be honest, when I first started to read it I was a little unsure if I would like it. After the second chapter I found that I just couldn't put it down!!! I was sucked in with every page I turned like it beckoned to me. I grew to know the characters as if they were a real part of my own life. If I absolutely love a book I get lost in the world that lives between the covers, and let me tell you, I was completely lost. the twists and turns in this book are breathe taking! You can try to figure it out but will never know for sure until you turn the last page and even then you're still left wondering. Karen did a fabulous job in making this book worth reading. If I could give this book a higher rating I so would!! This book just isn't a "MUST READ" it's a "MUST HAVE" so you can read it over and over again!! I highly recommend that you buy it if you are at all into paranormal romance or vampires. The love between the two characters is like the love every woman wants but not every woman is lucky enough to get.
I want to Thank Karen for letting me review this AMAZING book!! I can't wait to read the next and so on!!! THANK YOU!!
The next book after HUNGER is called CRAVE which also includes her 2 books Blood Ties and Blood Of My Blood. CRAVE comes out this month, October 2011.
To find out more about these books go to Karen E. Taylor's page.
Also "Like" Karen E Taylor, Writer of Supernatural Tales on facebook.
I want to Thank Karen for letting me review this AMAZING book!! I can't wait to read the next and so on!!! THANK YOU!!
The next book after HUNGER is called CRAVE which also includes her 2 books Blood Ties and Blood Of My Blood. CRAVE comes out this month, October 2011.
To find out more about these books go to Karen E. Taylor's page.
Also "Like" Karen E Taylor, Writer of Supernatural Tales on facebook.
June 27, 2011
Deidre is a vampire, she has spent lots of time not wanting to be a vampire and doest like anything about it. She trys to live a life as close to a human as possible, she is a fashion designer and she is very good at what she does, the only problem she has is trying to hide what is is from the people she works with.
One night when her friend Max sets things up so she can go feed, things turn out totally wrong. the guy she feeds off turns up dead. she didn't think she fed enough off him for it to kill him, so this is where the mystery begins.
She meets one very hot Detective Mitch Geer, he wants to ask her questions about the night she was with this guy and about the club max runs. This brings on problems for Deidre and she finds her self getting closer to Mitch then she intended to. along the way she feels the need to find out who her sire is and kill him for what he did to her.
Well I'm not to sure about what to say about this book, I think it was very slow to start with and I found it very hard to get into. I found my self being very irritated by the leading lady in this book. Having said that i think the book had some good things going for it, but i think more could of been done. Keep in mind that every ones taste is very different, and my view on this book my not be yours, so feel free to buy it and let me know what you think, id be happy to post your review for this book to run along side mine on my blog so people get a better view on the book..
One night when her friend Max sets things up so she can go feed, things turn out totally wrong. the guy she feeds off turns up dead. she didn't think she fed enough off him for it to kill him, so this is where the mystery begins.
She meets one very hot Detective Mitch Geer, he wants to ask her questions about the night she was with this guy and about the club max runs. This brings on problems for Deidre and she finds her self getting closer to Mitch then she intended to. along the way she feels the need to find out who her sire is and kill him for what he did to her.
Well I'm not to sure about what to say about this book, I think it was very slow to start with and I found it very hard to get into. I found my self being very irritated by the leading lady in this book. Having said that i think the book had some good things going for it, but i think more could of been done. Keep in mind that every ones taste is very different, and my view on this book my not be yours, so feel free to buy it and let me know what you think, id be happy to post your review for this book to run along side mine on my blog so people get a better view on the book..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2011
Hunger is actually a compilation of the first two books in the Vampire Legacy series, Blood Secrets and Bitter Blood. First published back in 1993 when vampire novels were not yet in vogue, these books are being revitalized and re-released.
I quite like the cover of this book. It is mysterious and alluring; a flawless depiction of the protagonist. Deirdre Griffin is a vampire who was turned over one hundred years ago. Her beloved husband and she were in a carriage accident, and he was instantly killed; however, Deirdre was rescued by an unknown Samaritan who also became her Maker. As far as Deirdre knows she is the only being of her kind in the world, except for her unknown sire. She dislikes her immortal life, which she considers a curse, and vows vengeance upon her sire if she ever discovers who he is. Having made a new life for herself as a successful designer, Deirdre is content though lonely in her reclusiveness. Then, the unimaginable happens, and Deirdre becomes the prime suspect when a man’s body is discovered utterly drained of blood. The investigating detective, Mitch Greer, begins to painstakingly uncover the truth and in the process Deirdre and he become involved in a relationship that will survive against all odds, and will cause a severe breach between her and her only truly close friend, Max.
I thought both books were beautifully written, lyrical, and conveyed an intensely gothic voice and tone throughout. Deirdre’s loneliness and vulnerability, so at odds with her public persona, was, for me, captured with breathtaking believability and heart-rending honesty. I did not have any trouble at all getting into the rather formal style of writing that is incorporated in the two novels that comprise this anthology. I was almost immediately caught up in Deirdre’s life, and I loved the way in which her story unfolded at a sedate pace. The descriptive narration flowed smoothly, and I found I sympathized with her while being envious of her at the same time. I came to understand her better as the story progressed, but still, she was always uniquely herself, and only rarely could I totally fault her carefully reasoned, though sometimes foolhardy decisions.
The 2nd book, Bitter Blood, picks up the story two years after the first, Blood Secrets. Deirdre and Mitch have been separated, and both are haunted by ghosts which seem unconquerable. Though an ocean separates them, Mitch’s son appeals to Deirdre for help. To her dismay, Mitch has slipped away into an almost catatonic state. Deirdre must face the consequences of her actions in the previous book, and the price is formidable. Beautifully constructed, intelligently portrayed, and impeccably presented, this thrilling beginning is an hors d’oeuvre sure to whet your appetite for the rest of the books comprising the Vampire Legacy series.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
I quite like the cover of this book. It is mysterious and alluring; a flawless depiction of the protagonist. Deirdre Griffin is a vampire who was turned over one hundred years ago. Her beloved husband and she were in a carriage accident, and he was instantly killed; however, Deirdre was rescued by an unknown Samaritan who also became her Maker. As far as Deirdre knows she is the only being of her kind in the world, except for her unknown sire. She dislikes her immortal life, which she considers a curse, and vows vengeance upon her sire if she ever discovers who he is. Having made a new life for herself as a successful designer, Deirdre is content though lonely in her reclusiveness. Then, the unimaginable happens, and Deirdre becomes the prime suspect when a man’s body is discovered utterly drained of blood. The investigating detective, Mitch Greer, begins to painstakingly uncover the truth and in the process Deirdre and he become involved in a relationship that will survive against all odds, and will cause a severe breach between her and her only truly close friend, Max.
I thought both books were beautifully written, lyrical, and conveyed an intensely gothic voice and tone throughout. Deirdre’s loneliness and vulnerability, so at odds with her public persona, was, for me, captured with breathtaking believability and heart-rending honesty. I did not have any trouble at all getting into the rather formal style of writing that is incorporated in the two novels that comprise this anthology. I was almost immediately caught up in Deirdre’s life, and I loved the way in which her story unfolded at a sedate pace. The descriptive narration flowed smoothly, and I found I sympathized with her while being envious of her at the same time. I came to understand her better as the story progressed, but still, she was always uniquely herself, and only rarely could I totally fault her carefully reasoned, though sometimes foolhardy decisions.
The 2nd book, Bitter Blood, picks up the story two years after the first, Blood Secrets. Deirdre and Mitch have been separated, and both are haunted by ghosts which seem unconquerable. Though an ocean separates them, Mitch’s son appeals to Deirdre for help. To her dismay, Mitch has slipped away into an almost catatonic state. Deirdre must face the consequences of her actions in the previous book, and the price is formidable. Beautifully constructed, intelligently portrayed, and impeccably presented, this thrilling beginning is an hors d’oeuvre sure to whet your appetite for the rest of the books comprising the Vampire Legacy series.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
August 13, 2011
I love vampire fiction and this is one series and author I was not familiar with before, but I am now and very happy that I am. This is the first two books in her series being re-released and they are great.
The stories are well written with a likeable heroine that you really feel bad for since she was forced into a life she believes is a curse without anyone else around her understanding or even able to really talk to about the difficulties of her life. She has Max, her one time lover and closest friend but she feels even he doesnt understand.
Deirdre does not know who made her a vampire and would love to meet him in order to kill him for turning her into the creature she is. Along the way she meets and falls in love with a human - Mitch. A detective investigating her for a series of murders, where the victims are all drained of blood and had at least a passing acquaintance with her. All people she met while at the club Max owns.
Without trying to give major spoilers. The stories flow and are easy to read while keeping your involved and wanting to know what happens next. Deirdre's decisions dont always seem the best choice but you can never fault her logic. You want to know if she will find her maker and what she will do when that happens. And you want to know if she will choose Max, who she has known and trusted for years. Or Mitch the human she finds herself falling for.
The books are great for any vampire fiction lover. They have great settings and characters. And the second book, while taking place 2 years after the first bridges that gap successfully. Filling you in on what happened during that time while progressing the story. I am looking forward to reading more in this series.
The stories are well written with a likeable heroine that you really feel bad for since she was forced into a life she believes is a curse without anyone else around her understanding or even able to really talk to about the difficulties of her life. She has Max, her one time lover and closest friend but she feels even he doesnt understand.
Deirdre does not know who made her a vampire and would love to meet him in order to kill him for turning her into the creature she is. Along the way she meets and falls in love with a human - Mitch. A detective investigating her for a series of murders, where the victims are all drained of blood and had at least a passing acquaintance with her. All people she met while at the club Max owns.
Without trying to give major spoilers. The stories flow and are easy to read while keeping your involved and wanting to know what happens next. Deirdre's decisions dont always seem the best choice but you can never fault her logic. You want to know if she will find her maker and what she will do when that happens. And you want to know if she will choose Max, who she has known and trusted for years. Or Mitch the human she finds herself falling for.
The books are great for any vampire fiction lover. They have great settings and characters. And the second book, while taking place 2 years after the first bridges that gap successfully. Filling you in on what happened during that time while progressing the story. I am looking forward to reading more in this series.
October 1, 2011
A thick volume that pulled me in from page one and had me filled with suspense. There was just the right elements of romance, danger, suspense, thrill, misdirection and even comedy at times. Hunger is the first two of the Vampire Legacy series books written by Karen E. Taylor and I can already say that she has gotten me hooked and wanting more. Already I am driving my family insane as I look for the second novel and talk about how pleased I was with the reading.
I even found myself pulled in during dinner and must apologize to my family for burning their croissants something that I try not to do ;). The characters were individuals and thankfully no two were just alike. Though some had similarities it was pleasant to see that the writer took the time to develop each one and not let them fall through the cracks. I want to know more about Dorothy/Dierdra and Mitch. I want to know more of how Chris comes to terms with his fathers choices. We all hate Larry and want him to die and even want to see what happens with the other numerous characters that make you fall in love when you start to read this wonderful adaption.
Further, more I can't express enough how please I am with Karen for taking the steps to make sure that this novel was not just another over sex filled supernatural romance but an actual universe that I can't wait to see further developed.
I even found myself pulled in during dinner and must apologize to my family for burning their croissants something that I try not to do ;). The characters were individuals and thankfully no two were just alike. Though some had similarities it was pleasant to see that the writer took the time to develop each one and not let them fall through the cracks. I want to know more about Dorothy/Dierdra and Mitch. I want to know more of how Chris comes to terms with his fathers choices. We all hate Larry and want him to die and even want to see what happens with the other numerous characters that make you fall in love when you start to read this wonderful adaption.
Further, more I can't express enough how please I am with Karen for taking the steps to make sure that this novel was not just another over sex filled supernatural romance but an actual universe that I can't wait to see further developed.
July 25, 2011
Hunger is made up of the first two novels in the Vampire Legacy series, Blood Secrets and Bitter Blood. Deirdre Griffin is a different kind of vampire than most of us are used to. It was really refreshing to see such a strong heroine and a vampire to boot!
Blood Secrets started off slowly, but as the story progressed there was a lot of backstory given which helped the reader get to know Deirdre better. She was a character that I didn't have a lot of liking for at the beginning of the book, but slowly I came to really like her.
The mystery that Deirdre finds herself involved in is well plotted out and had some great twists and turns that were a bit unexpected.
There's also a little romance brewing for Deirdre and the detective, Mitch. He is a typical jealous Alpha male, but you had to love him.
Bitter Blood picks up two years after the end of Blood Secrets. If you thought that all the ends were tied up then, you quickly learn that you are wrong.
One of the things I like best about this book is how Max seems to appear to Deirdre at the most inopportune moments. It leaves the reader questioning whether or not he died at the end of the previous book. That's the event that really shapes this whole story.
Anyone looking for some good vampire fiction should give these books a try.
Blood Secrets started off slowly, but as the story progressed there was a lot of backstory given which helped the reader get to know Deirdre better. She was a character that I didn't have a lot of liking for at the beginning of the book, but slowly I came to really like her.
The mystery that Deirdre finds herself involved in is well plotted out and had some great twists and turns that were a bit unexpected.
There's also a little romance brewing for Deirdre and the detective, Mitch. He is a typical jealous Alpha male, but you had to love him.
Bitter Blood picks up two years after the end of Blood Secrets. If you thought that all the ends were tied up then, you quickly learn that you are wrong.
One of the things I like best about this book is how Max seems to appear to Deirdre at the most inopportune moments. It leaves the reader questioning whether or not he died at the end of the previous book. That's the event that really shapes this whole story.
Anyone looking for some good vampire fiction should give these books a try.
October 4, 2011
"HUNGER" BY KAREN E. TAYLOR
I have long found myself in love with Kelley Armstrong's writing style and I have never really been much of a first person POV lover, but I have to say that Karen E. Taylor has changed that. I find her writing almost reminiscent of Kelley's but from the main character's POV. The story caught me from the beginning and kept me deeply rooted until the end. It has a surprising storyline that you don't expect and leads you on quite the paranormal adventure. The love scenes are tastefully written and not over the top like so many paranormal authors out there today. Not that I don't love a good hot romp every now and then but I found it refreshing that Karen did not take the scenes too far and used just enough to whet the appetite and ignite the imagination.
I definitely recommend this book and give it the highest rating of 5 stars. For those of you that truly enjoy a good paranormal/vampire story pick up Karen's books, I have no doubt at all that you'll enjoy them as much as I did.
Kitty Bullard / Great Minds Think Aloud / http://www.greatmindsliterarycommunit...
I have long found myself in love with Kelley Armstrong's writing style and I have never really been much of a first person POV lover, but I have to say that Karen E. Taylor has changed that. I find her writing almost reminiscent of Kelley's but from the main character's POV. The story caught me from the beginning and kept me deeply rooted until the end. It has a surprising storyline that you don't expect and leads you on quite the paranormal adventure. The love scenes are tastefully written and not over the top like so many paranormal authors out there today. Not that I don't love a good hot romp every now and then but I found it refreshing that Karen did not take the scenes too far and used just enough to whet the appetite and ignite the imagination.
I definitely recommend this book and give it the highest rating of 5 stars. For those of you that truly enjoy a good paranormal/vampire story pick up Karen's books, I have no doubt at all that you'll enjoy them as much as I did.
Kitty Bullard / Great Minds Think Aloud / http://www.greatmindsliterarycommunit...
October 28, 2012
I don’t know how it's possible, but this author made vampires boring. Now, I know that vampires is an overdone topic, one that has been, if you’ll forgive the pun, sucked dry, but I still enjoy them once in a while. I got this book from the publisher and thought, “huh, looks fun.” Nope. Not even close.
So, technically, this book is made of two complete novels stuck together. Somehow, I made it through both. The main problem, I think, was the complete lack of originality. The author brought nothing new to the genre, nothing that made her book stand out from the thousands out there dealing with vampires. Neither the main character, Deidre, nor any of the other supporting ones make any impact on me. They were all dull and unimaginative people thrown in dull and unimaginative circumstances.
The writing itself could have been better. I wouldn’t have minded it so much if the story had been better, but as it is, it’s one of those books that I’ll forget I read in about a week.
I can’t recommend this one, even if you’re like I am and love vampires.
So, technically, this book is made of two complete novels stuck together. Somehow, I made it through both. The main problem, I think, was the complete lack of originality. The author brought nothing new to the genre, nothing that made her book stand out from the thousands out there dealing with vampires. Neither the main character, Deidre, nor any of the other supporting ones make any impact on me. They were all dull and unimaginative people thrown in dull and unimaginative circumstances.
The writing itself could have been better. I wouldn’t have minded it so much if the story had been better, but as it is, it’s one of those books that I’ll forget I read in about a week.
I can’t recommend this one, even if you’re like I am and love vampires.
July 25, 2022
Loved it a real page turner from beginning to end!!
August 9, 2016
Romancing the Dark Side Review:
A fascinating look into the world of a female vampire!
In Hunger we are introduced to Dierdre, a lonely vampiress who keeps to herself, lives as a fashion designer by day and indulges her hunger by night. To get her blood "fix" she frequents the club Ballroom Romance, owned by Max Hunter, an old lover turned friend and the only person who knows her true identity and keeps her secret. Dierdre despises being a vampire but looks to Max to provide her with the occasional male client to feed upon.
Not one to kill her victims, Dierdre drinks just enough to satiate her thirst. Things get a little complicated for Deirdre when the man she feeds from leaves the Ballroom and turns up dead. Now she's a suspect and must answer to the sexy Detective Mitch Greer, who isn't easily persuaded when she denies her involvement. Diedre's quiet world is soon turned upside down when she must work with Mitch to prove her innocence and guard her heart from the man who inspires a lust in her, well hidden for centuries.
Dierdre is a riveting character. She believes she is the only of her kind and is quite inexperienced in a vampire's lifestyle. Although centuries old, Dierdre is very vulnerable and has a hard time accepting her immortality, she sees it as a curse. She's not your typical heroine but grows into her skin and eventually shows her confidence and strength, becoming a great female lead. Dierdre is hard to connect with at the start of the book but changes your impression of her by the end of Hunger.
Many might say the romance between Deirdre and Mitch is not believable but I truly enjoyed seeing their relationship develop. We have two characters who are loners and have experienced heartache, come together for a second shot at love. Mitch is a likeable hero who is Alpha but also has a sensitive side. I love that it's not all about sex with these two, they truly have a deep connection. That being said, I would have loved some more steamy scenes, I felt the author rushed through the romance at times to get back to the action. There are also some great supporting characters, such as Max which you can't help loving; he's got major charm and you don't know who's side he's on but you can't dislike him!
Hunger is a compilation of the first two books in the series, Blood Secrets and Bitter Blood (which takes place two years after Blood Secrets). Hunger is a well written vampire novel that takes you into Dierdre's dramatic world. The book starts off a little slow with plenty of details on Dierdre's every day life but then takes a turn into a suspenseful and action-packed story. Tons of intrigue, scorned villains, a dash of humor and a heartwarming romance make Hunger an appealing read that will leave vampire lovers hungry for more!
{ebook courtesy of author/Bewitching Book Tours for review}
A fascinating look into the world of a female vampire!
In Hunger we are introduced to Dierdre, a lonely vampiress who keeps to herself, lives as a fashion designer by day and indulges her hunger by night. To get her blood "fix" she frequents the club Ballroom Romance, owned by Max Hunter, an old lover turned friend and the only person who knows her true identity and keeps her secret. Dierdre despises being a vampire but looks to Max to provide her with the occasional male client to feed upon.
Not one to kill her victims, Dierdre drinks just enough to satiate her thirst. Things get a little complicated for Deirdre when the man she feeds from leaves the Ballroom and turns up dead. Now she's a suspect and must answer to the sexy Detective Mitch Greer, who isn't easily persuaded when she denies her involvement. Diedre's quiet world is soon turned upside down when she must work with Mitch to prove her innocence and guard her heart from the man who inspires a lust in her, well hidden for centuries.
Dierdre is a riveting character. She believes she is the only of her kind and is quite inexperienced in a vampire's lifestyle. Although centuries old, Dierdre is very vulnerable and has a hard time accepting her immortality, she sees it as a curse. She's not your typical heroine but grows into her skin and eventually shows her confidence and strength, becoming a great female lead. Dierdre is hard to connect with at the start of the book but changes your impression of her by the end of Hunger.
Many might say the romance between Deirdre and Mitch is not believable but I truly enjoyed seeing their relationship develop. We have two characters who are loners and have experienced heartache, come together for a second shot at love. Mitch is a likeable hero who is Alpha but also has a sensitive side. I love that it's not all about sex with these two, they truly have a deep connection. That being said, I would have loved some more steamy scenes, I felt the author rushed through the romance at times to get back to the action. There are also some great supporting characters, such as Max which you can't help loving; he's got major charm and you don't know who's side he's on but you can't dislike him!
Hunger is a compilation of the first two books in the series, Blood Secrets and Bitter Blood (which takes place two years after Blood Secrets). Hunger is a well written vampire novel that takes you into Dierdre's dramatic world. The book starts off a little slow with plenty of details on Dierdre's every day life but then takes a turn into a suspenseful and action-packed story. Tons of intrigue, scorned villains, a dash of humor and a heartwarming romance make Hunger an appealing read that will leave vampire lovers hungry for more!
{ebook courtesy of author/Bewitching Book Tours for review}
July 15, 2011
Hunger consists of two books, Blood Secrets and Bitter Blood (originally published 1994). I have tried not to include spoilers but the second book, Bitter Blood does contain a few from Blood Secrets.
Blood Secrets (The Vampire Legacy, #1)In Blood Secrets we are introduced to Deidra Griffin, owner of Griffin Designs. She is a vampire that has been around for 100+ years. She has never met her maker and has lived her entire existence thinking she was the only vampire around. Ten years ago she met a man named Max and she shared her secret with him. Max now the owner of Ballroom of Romance has helped Deidra with her undead life by supplying donors for her. Deidra has always struggled with the taking of blood from her victims. She abhors it but knows she must otherwise she turns into a crazed animal. Murder begin happening around her and usually they are her latest donors. The victims are found drained of blood with two puncture wounds in their neck. The lead detective Mitchell Greer falls hard for Deidra and Deidra for him but she is the main suspect right now. Deidra knows that she isn’t the murderer but now she definitely she isn’t the only vampire out there and she must find him first. In the end it is the ultimate betrayal that opens Deidra’s eyes to the violence that a vampire can really bring upon those around them.
Bitter Blood (The Vampire Legacy #2)In Bitter Blood we flash forward to two years later. Deidra has left town and is currently living in England starting a new life. She has left Mitch behind and hopes that he will move on with his life. She is still haunted by the betrayal of Max and the horrors of what Larry did. But now Chris, Mitch’s son has come pleading for Deidra to come home. Mitch needs her help. He is being tormented by vampires appearing to him and now he is an insane asylum. Deidra must face the past but in taking this step she now must face the The Cadre who will pass judgment upon Deidra for her hand in killing Max.
Hunger fell short for me. I didn’t connect with any of the characters and I found the main character Deidra very shallow and one dimensional. She doesn’t grow from book one to book two and I couldn't believe that she has lived over 100 years but still doesn't learn anything. She still can’t seem to come to grips with having to drink blood and for some reason she still just can’t believe that there are more vampires then just she. Mitch’s character is pretty typical. He is absolutely in love with Deidra and flies off the handle every time she speaks to another man. I found that I was able to guess who the bad guy was so in the end it wasn’t much of a revelation. Very PG-13 for the most part and just didn’t work for me.
Blood Secrets (The Vampire Legacy, #1)In Blood Secrets we are introduced to Deidra Griffin, owner of Griffin Designs. She is a vampire that has been around for 100+ years. She has never met her maker and has lived her entire existence thinking she was the only vampire around. Ten years ago she met a man named Max and she shared her secret with him. Max now the owner of Ballroom of Romance has helped Deidra with her undead life by supplying donors for her. Deidra has always struggled with the taking of blood from her victims. She abhors it but knows she must otherwise she turns into a crazed animal. Murder begin happening around her and usually they are her latest donors. The victims are found drained of blood with two puncture wounds in their neck. The lead detective Mitchell Greer falls hard for Deidra and Deidra for him but she is the main suspect right now. Deidra knows that she isn’t the murderer but now she definitely she isn’t the only vampire out there and she must find him first. In the end it is the ultimate betrayal that opens Deidra’s eyes to the violence that a vampire can really bring upon those around them.
Bitter Blood (The Vampire Legacy #2)In Bitter Blood we flash forward to two years later. Deidra has left town and is currently living in England starting a new life. She has left Mitch behind and hopes that he will move on with his life. She is still haunted by the betrayal of Max and the horrors of what Larry did. But now Chris, Mitch’s son has come pleading for Deidra to come home. Mitch needs her help. He is being tormented by vampires appearing to him and now he is an insane asylum. Deidra must face the past but in taking this step she now must face the The Cadre who will pass judgment upon Deidra for her hand in killing Max.
Hunger fell short for me. I didn’t connect with any of the characters and I found the main character Deidra very shallow and one dimensional. She doesn’t grow from book one to book two and I couldn't believe that she has lived over 100 years but still doesn't learn anything. She still can’t seem to come to grips with having to drink blood and for some reason she still just can’t believe that there are more vampires then just she. Mitch’s character is pretty typical. He is absolutely in love with Deidra and flies off the handle every time she speaks to another man. I found that I was able to guess who the bad guy was so in the end it wasn’t much of a revelation. Very PG-13 for the most part and just didn’t work for me.
September 8, 2011
Blood Secrets
What I Liked
Unfolding
The start of the book has you jumping right into the our character Deirdre's world, with no explanation of who and what she is. Of course by reading the summary you know she is a vampire. As you read the book you get piece by piece of how she came to be created through her remembering her tragic past and her nightmares.
Vampires
Deirdre is the fairly typical vampire, sunlight bad, ageless, rejuvenation, blood drinking with out killing and a few other different things as well. I never did completely figure out the garlic one, but many things she isn't even sure about. She has never met another one like her, besides her creator who she doesn't remember. Either vampires are almost non existent or they are very good at hiding themselves from the public eye.
Deirdre
She is a very interesting character, to say the least. She has good morals for being a blood sucking vampire. She assimilates fairly well into the human world with her nocturne habits and her high fashion designing company. Her personal boundaries and the distance she keeps between herself and potentials friends is saddening. I definitely feel sorry for the rich and very lonely female vampire Deirdre.
Romance
I wouldn't describe this book as high romance, more like mild to moderate romance with high sex appeal. I still am not sure what genre this book is being labeled as urban fantasy, sci-fi fantasy or paranormal romance? (Just found it, urban fantasy). There are some great romantic tension between Deirdre and Mitch, her old lover Max and her one night stand blood donors.
Didn't Like
I was left feeling like I still don't fully understand the vampire world and I can't wait for more, I guess it is a good thing these books are being re-released as omnibus volumes. I'm hoping that in the next book Deirdre will discover more about her vampire capabilities and world.
Bitter Blood
(This will be a little vague because I don't want to spoil anything from Blood Secrets)
What I Liked
More vampires are introduced into the novel and Max's mysterious history finally come to light. Deirdre learns more about her own capabilities as a vampire and she does some self discovery.
Didn't Like
Bitter Blood had a little more self pity than what I normally like, but it did make for some great tug of war arguments. In book 1 there was more events occurring than this book and it fell a little flat in the who is out for revenge drama. Although the ending did more than make up for it, lots of excitement and the puzzle in finally being pieced together.
Recommendation
I really did enjoy this ominous novel and I really do need to get my hands on Crave. Great for any vampire lovers. Also 2 books in 1 are awesome.
What I Liked
Unfolding
The start of the book has you jumping right into the our character Deirdre's world, with no explanation of who and what she is. Of course by reading the summary you know she is a vampire. As you read the book you get piece by piece of how she came to be created through her remembering her tragic past and her nightmares.
Vampires
Deirdre is the fairly typical vampire, sunlight bad, ageless, rejuvenation, blood drinking with out killing and a few other different things as well. I never did completely figure out the garlic one, but many things she isn't even sure about. She has never met another one like her, besides her creator who she doesn't remember. Either vampires are almost non existent or they are very good at hiding themselves from the public eye.
Deirdre
She is a very interesting character, to say the least. She has good morals for being a blood sucking vampire. She assimilates fairly well into the human world with her nocturne habits and her high fashion designing company. Her personal boundaries and the distance she keeps between herself and potentials friends is saddening. I definitely feel sorry for the rich and very lonely female vampire Deirdre.
Romance
I wouldn't describe this book as high romance, more like mild to moderate romance with high sex appeal. I still am not sure what genre this book is being labeled as urban fantasy, sci-fi fantasy or paranormal romance? (Just found it, urban fantasy). There are some great romantic tension between Deirdre and Mitch, her old lover Max and her one night stand blood donors.
Didn't Like
I was left feeling like I still don't fully understand the vampire world and I can't wait for more, I guess it is a good thing these books are being re-released as omnibus volumes. I'm hoping that in the next book Deirdre will discover more about her vampire capabilities and world.
Bitter Blood
(This will be a little vague because I don't want to spoil anything from Blood Secrets)
What I Liked
More vampires are introduced into the novel and Max's mysterious history finally come to light. Deirdre learns more about her own capabilities as a vampire and she does some self discovery.
Didn't Like
Bitter Blood had a little more self pity than what I normally like, but it did make for some great tug of war arguments. In book 1 there was more events occurring than this book and it fell a little flat in the who is out for revenge drama. Although the ending did more than make up for it, lots of excitement and the puzzle in finally being pieced together.
Recommendation
I really did enjoy this ominous novel and I really do need to get my hands on Crave. Great for any vampire lovers. Also 2 books in 1 are awesome.
July 23, 2011
I didn’t do my homework when I picked out this book and didn’t realize there were two stories in one in this book. I loved that little surprise.
In my personal opinion, the back-story of Deidre’s life that came out through the first half of Blood Secrets should have been built on and made into Book 1. At times, there were pages of back-story revealed in Deidre’s dreams or just her thinking. When pages of back-story are added into the main action, it makes it hard to follow the time line of events. Oddly enough, the back-story was extremely interesting and I would have loved to read more or learned more about how she became a vampire.
By the second half of Blood Secrets, everything picked up including the romance, the excitement, and several little twists and turns. The excitement that built up in Blood Secrets continued into Bitter Blood.
Bitter Blood was amazing and full of surprises both good and bad for Deidre and Mitch, Deidre’s main squeeze. Deidre had several personal challenges to battle such as commitment phobia. During those struggles, she had to save Mitch. She was a strong character throughout both books.
Mitch on the other hand was a likeable man as a cop, a father and sometimes as a boyfriend. However, he has a serious jealousy issue. So much so that if he were real and I was dating him, I would become uncomfortable around him. Deidre couldn’t talk to another guy, couldn’t do business with another guy, and so on without him questioning her. At one point when her lawyer calls the house he blows up because yet it again it’s another guy. He does shape up near the end but the amount of times he became jealous was just a bit much.
I should note that Mitch did protect her, was willing to die for her and never gave up on her. So I guess you could say Mitch was great but not perfect but who is?
The story was quite refreshing and very unique despite the few issues I had with it.
Originally posted on my blog
http://thefictionalbookshelf.blogspot...
In my personal opinion, the back-story of Deidre’s life that came out through the first half of Blood Secrets should have been built on and made into Book 1. At times, there were pages of back-story revealed in Deidre’s dreams or just her thinking. When pages of back-story are added into the main action, it makes it hard to follow the time line of events. Oddly enough, the back-story was extremely interesting and I would have loved to read more or learned more about how she became a vampire.
By the second half of Blood Secrets, everything picked up including the romance, the excitement, and several little twists and turns. The excitement that built up in Blood Secrets continued into Bitter Blood.
Bitter Blood was amazing and full of surprises both good and bad for Deidre and Mitch, Deidre’s main squeeze. Deidre had several personal challenges to battle such as commitment phobia. During those struggles, she had to save Mitch. She was a strong character throughout both books.
Mitch on the other hand was a likeable man as a cop, a father and sometimes as a boyfriend. However, he has a serious jealousy issue. So much so that if he were real and I was dating him, I would become uncomfortable around him. Deidre couldn’t talk to another guy, couldn’t do business with another guy, and so on without him questioning her. At one point when her lawyer calls the house he blows up because yet it again it’s another guy. He does shape up near the end but the amount of times he became jealous was just a bit much.
I should note that Mitch did protect her, was willing to die for her and never gave up on her. So I guess you could say Mitch was great but not perfect but who is?
The story was quite refreshing and very unique despite the few issues I had with it.
Originally posted on my blog
http://thefictionalbookshelf.blogspot...
June 10, 2011
Deirdre Griffin didn't choose to be a vampire. But she is. And she's determined to make the most of her fate. For Deirdre that means surrendering to the raging hunger ignited by even the slightest whiff of blood - a hunger that pulses through her body like a fever, demanding release. It means making friends in dark places - and savouring every hot, salty, bitter, revitalizing drop of life force the night has to offer...
This book is two books in one: Blood Secrets and Bitter Blood, both republished under this rather striking and lovely cover, and the start of the Vampire Legacy series.
These books just didn't do it for me, I think the main reason was that I never connected with the main character, Deidre Giffin, which is really bad as this is told from her POV. Althrough the first book I wanted to shake her and point out the bad guy to her, it was fairly obvious who it was, and through the second book I just wanted her to stop whinging! I now it sounds uncharitable but I can't help it! I don't like vampire books when the main character is ashamed of being a vampire.
I also found the language a little odd, although I don't really expect dialogue to be written that closely to real life, I expect it to sound a little realistic, but people spoke really strangely, really formerly and it made the book a bit stilted.
This book is two books in one: Blood Secrets and Bitter Blood, both republished under this rather striking and lovely cover, and the start of the Vampire Legacy series.
These books just didn't do it for me, I think the main reason was that I never connected with the main character, Deidre Giffin, which is really bad as this is told from her POV. Althrough the first book I wanted to shake her and point out the bad guy to her, it was fairly obvious who it was, and through the second book I just wanted her to stop whinging! I now it sounds uncharitable but I can't help it! I don't like vampire books when the main character is ashamed of being a vampire.
I also found the language a little odd, although I don't really expect dialogue to be written that closely to real life, I expect it to sound a little realistic, but people spoke really strangely, really formerly and it made the book a bit stilted.
January 18, 2012
Alex gave me this book for Christmas because he knew I had read and loved the "Hunger Games" trilogy. Other than having "Hunger" in the title it was not like "Hunger Games" at all...more of a "Twilight" rip off with a female in the Edward role. Another romance novel with vampires bemoaning their terrible lot in life. They seem to be all the rage these days. Anyways, I do love vampire books so was excited to read it. I started off thinking it wasn't too bad - the main character was kind of interesting - but as the book went on I became more and more annoyed with her. The author went to so much trouble in the beginning of the book describing the main character's personality and then spent the second half of the book have her do things completely out of character. There were all kinds of discrepancies in the book and actions that just didn't make a lot of sense. Oh well, the main couple gets together in the end and they live happily ever after, which is I guess how romance novels always turn out, right?
September 22, 2013
Hunger (The Vampire Legacy #1 & 2) by Karen E. Taylor omg this book is so freaking awesome i thank for this person for giving me this booki love book 2 because you get to see your maker's pastbook one was okay but really interestingi was shock when max want to die for so longthat the part i couldn't understand that when he start to explain omg i understand whyis like max just make my heart feel so crazy all he ever want was to die and be at peaceis like there a part of him that that are human and other part of him they are cover in the maskmax is my #1 character although he even put that woman life in hell but still he is so freaking awesomein my mind im surprised that sam is not part of the carde i thought he was as i kept reading pages from pages bt i was wrong i was wondering what is sam doing when he realized that vampire existed <3 <3 <3
November 27, 2013
I really enjoyed this book! I didn't know when I bought it that it was two books in one. I just thought it was incredibly long...lol. Luckily, the cover of this book drew me in. I really liked Taylor's effortless reading/writing style. I flew through the book and like a strong female role that not all the time has the courage but works through it to conquer parts of herself. I think I will buy Crave and see if I get the same warm and gushy feelings with it!
- T.R. Horne, author of Breaking Mobius and Crazy Dirty Love
- T.R. Horne, author of Breaking Mobius and Crazy Dirty Love
January 26, 2015
This book I did not enjoy!! The first few chapters are well written then it gets more into it and it gets confusing. The main point of the story was irrelevant and you didn't know where the author was going to take you next. I was so close to abandoning this book, but I thought to give it a chance and to finish it. Overall, I will never read this again and I will not recommend this to anyone else.
August 14, 2015
I went on an Amazon download spree and now I'm wondering why I ever did because most of the books I downloaded just didn't do it for me. My rule is that if the female protagonist can't capture my interest in the first several pages then I'll step away once and come back and try to read it again. Alas, I still felt the same way. I know people loved this one, but I simply can't understand why. What am I missing?
March 2, 2014
This is a great vampire story from a female vampire pov. There were parts that were easy to guess what was coming next and there were parts that caught me off guard. The only real change I would make would be to add more detail in the bedroom scenes. Other than that it was a well developed story plot.
December 28, 2012
Finally done but now I'm 'craving' then second book. My final review is this, I said I liked Max best and would have choose him. I knew he wasn't trying to cause problems for them as a couple.
May 6, 2012
I like it she had to survive on her own for many years. I hate that when she finally found out who her maker was she couldn't establish a relationship. i want to read the next one just to see what happens between her and mitch.
September 13, 2012
Joss Whedon writes an episode of Castle. That is how I describe this book or two books. Some funny stuff, some plot twists but I felt like some major issues got wrapped up too quickly and way too neat. A good read if you are into the genre.
July 22, 2011
review posted on my blog..
when linky is working will post ;;) review
when linky is working will post ;;) review
December 27, 2012
I couldn't put it down but when I had to do just that, all I could think of was what would happen next.
June 6, 2013
absolutely loved it
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews