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Evolution #1
Evolution
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Gene Sage has only ever wanted to sing, but his band, Evolution, is pushing him toward the big time. He finds it hard to focus on making musical history when he’s dreaming of graveyards and seeing ghosts. And while all he can think of is hiding who he is from a world unforgiving of anyone different, he discovers he’s also the ultimate snack for vampires and demons. When Gene literally runs into—over—his idol, Kerstrande Petterson, rock god, vampire in hiding, and music cynic, his life falls over the edge into chaos.
Jaded by the world and nearly a decade in the music business, Kerstrande thinks Gene wants to use him to make Evolution immortal in more than one way, but he can’t seem to brush aside the young singer’s enthusiasm.
Getting involved with Kerstrande drags Gene into otherworldly power struggles. Between the ghosts stalking them, the media painting supernaturals as villains, and a vampire out of control in the city, the only way for Gene and Kerstrande to survive is for Gene to embrace his powers—and his destiny.
Gene Sage has only ever wanted to sing, but his band, Evolution, is pushing him toward the big time. He finds it hard to focus on making musical history when he’s dreaming of graveyards and seeing ghosts. And while all he can think of is hiding who he is from a world unforgiving of anyone different, he discovers he’s also the ultimate snack for vampires and demons. When Gene literally runs into—over—his idol, Kerstrande Petterson, rock god, vampire in hiding, and music cynic, his life falls over the edge into chaos.
Jaded by the world and nearly a decade in the music business, Kerstrande thinks Gene wants to use him to make Evolution immortal in more than one way, but he can’t seem to brush aside the young singer’s enthusiasm.
Getting involved with Kerstrande drags Gene into otherworldly power struggles. Between the ghosts stalking them, the media painting supernaturals as villains, and a vampire out of control in the city, the only way for Gene and Kerstrande to survive is for Gene to embrace his powers—and his destiny.
230 pages, ebook
First published April 30, 2013
2 people are currently reading
328 people want to read
About the author
Sam Kadence
6 books55 followersSam Kadence has always dreamed about being someone else, somewhere else. With very little musical talent, Sam decided the only way to make those dreams come true was to try everything from cosplay at the local anime conventions to writing novels about pretending to run away to become a musician.
Sam has a Bachelor's degree in Creative Writing, sells textbooks for a living, enjoys taking photographs of Asian Ball Joint Dolls to tell more stories, and has eclectic taste in music from J-pop to rock and country. All of which finds its way into the books eventually.
Email: samkadence.author@gmail.com
Sam has a Bachelor's degree in Creative Writing, sells textbooks for a living, enjoys taking photographs of Asian Ball Joint Dolls to tell more stories, and has eclectic taste in music from J-pop to rock and country. All of which finds its way into the books eventually.
Email: samkadence.author@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
August 17, 2015
I received this book as an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
There were aspects of this book I found interesting. I thought the idea of vampires was just a bit different, and I liked that they were deadly, and scary as well as attractive. I thought that idea worked well with the music industry in this book, and I liked how those angles played out. The other supernatural creatures were interesting as well, and worked well into the book's mythology.
The characters fell a bit flat to me, and while there were some secondary characters I liked, the main characters didn't do much for me. I found Gene's innocence to be annoying rather than endearing, and his inability to see the truth that was practically beating him over the head drove me crazy. I thought his family history was interesting, if a bit melodramatic. I also found him to be a bit to inconsistent in his character. At times he felt too forgiving, and at times I found his lack of understanding frustrating. I found KC to bit a bit too much of an ass. The constant battle between wanting to keep Gene close, and to drive him away "for his own good" was wearing on me. I understood his self hatred, but it was just too much for me. I found reading his point of view to be grating, and I never was able to get to a point where I felt I liked him at all.
I didn't like the relationship aspects in this book at all. Gene is just too innocent, too naïve, and a bit too stupid to live. He falls head over heels for KC too quickly not matter how poorly he treated him. I know he felt like it was destined to be, but it just felt too forced. I needed something, anything more to make their relationship seem more real, and less like a crush that Gene was forcing onto an unwilling KC. I also found Gene's insistence on ignoring friends', very valid, concerns about KC to be worrying, and added to my dislike of the character.
The non-romantic plot line was well done, and I liked the arc at the end with Gene's bandmate very much. Had this story not worked so hard to drive KC and Gene together, and Gene had a bit, okay, a lot more common sense I might have enjoyed this story very much, but it was not for me.
There were aspects of this book I found interesting. I thought the idea of vampires was just a bit different, and I liked that they were deadly, and scary as well as attractive. I thought that idea worked well with the music industry in this book, and I liked how those angles played out. The other supernatural creatures were interesting as well, and worked well into the book's mythology.
The characters fell a bit flat to me, and while there were some secondary characters I liked, the main characters didn't do much for me. I found Gene's innocence to be annoying rather than endearing, and his inability to see the truth that was practically beating him over the head drove me crazy. I thought his family history was interesting, if a bit melodramatic. I also found him to be a bit to inconsistent in his character. At times he felt too forgiving, and at times I found his lack of understanding frustrating. I found KC to bit a bit too much of an ass. The constant battle between wanting to keep Gene close, and to drive him away "for his own good" was wearing on me. I understood his self hatred, but it was just too much for me. I found reading his point of view to be grating, and I never was able to get to a point where I felt I liked him at all.
I didn't like the relationship aspects in this book at all. Gene is just too innocent, too naïve, and a bit too stupid to live. He falls head over heels for KC too quickly not matter how poorly he treated him. I know he felt like it was destined to be, but it just felt too forced. I needed something, anything more to make their relationship seem more real, and less like a crush that Gene was forcing onto an unwilling KC. I also found Gene's insistence on ignoring friends', very valid, concerns about KC to be worrying, and added to my dislike of the character.
The non-romantic plot line was well done, and I liked the arc at the end with Gene's bandmate very much. Had this story not worked so hard to drive KC and Gene together, and Gene had a bit, okay, a lot more common sense I might have enjoyed this story very much, but it was not for me.
May 1, 2013
This review can be found at The Armchair Reader.
4.5 stars
I adored this story because I had so much fun reading it!
One thing I really enjoyed about this book were the characters. Genesis and Kerstrande have two very distinct voices that are nothing alike. Gene is almost too innocent and forgiving, sweet and nice but fun and eccentric. Kerstrande is grumpy, snarky, and more likely to give an insult than a compliment. They’re yin and yang and balance each other out nicely. In fact, the balance they give each other is a bit crucial to the story and explains some of the troubles they go through. Both Gene and Kerstrande have had a hard life but while Gene has made it his motto to just go forward, Kerstrande still lives somewhat in the past. Ashamed of who he is and what he has to do to survive, it’s not until being with Gene for a while that he realizes he doesn’t have to make things worse for himself. On the other hand, Kerstrande is able to give Gene the one thing he wants most – and that’s to be accepted and loved for everything he is, warts and all, even if Kerstrande doesn’t actually come out and say it. More than that, I loved how soft Kerstrande got around Gene (even when he was fighting those feelings) and even more that he let Gene nickname him KC.
This story took me on a slow but wild ride. It grabbed my attention from the beginning with the spectacular way Kerstrande and Gene met. There’s possession, jealousy, lust, love, distrust and heartbreak and a boat load of other emotions. Gene goes from a nobody to a star over night. From someone who barely knows his own powers to being thrust into the paranormal world without even knowing it or the dangers associated with it. Kerstrande is very hot and cold so a majority of the story is him trying to push Gene away but not being able to let him go. Overall, this book is about their journey, finding out who they are and accepting themselves and each other. One of the highlights of this story, though, is the back and forth between Gene and Kerstrande and the passion they have together. I felt like they had amazing chemistry with KC insulting Gene and Gene taking it in stride. It’s sort of sad but Gene understood why KC was so mean sometimes. Although, they don’t exactly know much of each other in the traditional sense, I was able to overlook that because of how much they go through together.
While I enjoyed this book immensely, there were some problems I had. Mostly, there were times when I was confused on what was going on, how and why some things happened but others didn’t, such as how Joel didn’t burn from the inside out but Hane did. Another thing, though, is that Kerstrande in the beginning was very firm on the fact he wasn’t gay to the point that was one of his main responses to whatever Gene was saying. However, he quickly overcame that objection so it had me wondering, was he in denial? Or was he just gay for Genesis? It’s not quite clear but either way I would have liked a little more detail on that because of how forcefully Kerstrande would tell Genesis that.
One thing readers should be aware of is that when Kerstrande and Gene start their unconventional relationship, Gene is underage. A few months shy of 18, in fact, while KC, the vampire, is a few years older…. Or is he… Anyway, they have sex although it’s not detailed but beautiful all the same and while I didn’t have a problem with this, I do understand that some readers might not take kindly to Gene being underage. So, this is me giving those readers fair warning. After all, this is a YA story ;) I will say that Gene is very mature most of the time to the point I kept forgetting he was so young.
Overall, a great story that I really loved reading. It had its faults but I was so caught up in the book and the characters, it was easy to overlook them. I can’t wait to see what else this author has coming out next because I adored the writing and the style. There’s a lot of stuff that happened within this story but I didn’t want to give many details on it. Mostly because I want the reader to experience it for themselves but also because I would just sound crazy if I tried to explain it all. LOL. I definitely recommend this to those who enjoy young adult paranormal fantasies and I hope those who decide to read it like it as much as I did :)
4.5 stars
I adored this story because I had so much fun reading it!
One thing I really enjoyed about this book were the characters. Genesis and Kerstrande have two very distinct voices that are nothing alike. Gene is almost too innocent and forgiving, sweet and nice but fun and eccentric. Kerstrande is grumpy, snarky, and more likely to give an insult than a compliment. They’re yin and yang and balance each other out nicely. In fact, the balance they give each other is a bit crucial to the story and explains some of the troubles they go through. Both Gene and Kerstrande have had a hard life but while Gene has made it his motto to just go forward, Kerstrande still lives somewhat in the past. Ashamed of who he is and what he has to do to survive, it’s not until being with Gene for a while that he realizes he doesn’t have to make things worse for himself. On the other hand, Kerstrande is able to give Gene the one thing he wants most – and that’s to be accepted and loved for everything he is, warts and all, even if Kerstrande doesn’t actually come out and say it. More than that, I loved how soft Kerstrande got around Gene (even when he was fighting those feelings) and even more that he let Gene nickname him KC.
This story took me on a slow but wild ride. It grabbed my attention from the beginning with the spectacular way Kerstrande and Gene met. There’s possession, jealousy, lust, love, distrust and heartbreak and a boat load of other emotions. Gene goes from a nobody to a star over night. From someone who barely knows his own powers to being thrust into the paranormal world without even knowing it or the dangers associated with it. Kerstrande is very hot and cold so a majority of the story is him trying to push Gene away but not being able to let him go. Overall, this book is about their journey, finding out who they are and accepting themselves and each other. One of the highlights of this story, though, is the back and forth between Gene and Kerstrande and the passion they have together. I felt like they had amazing chemistry with KC insulting Gene and Gene taking it in stride. It’s sort of sad but Gene understood why KC was so mean sometimes. Although, they don’t exactly know much of each other in the traditional sense, I was able to overlook that because of how much they go through together.
While I enjoyed this book immensely, there were some problems I had. Mostly, there were times when I was confused on what was going on, how and why some things happened but others didn’t, such as how Joel didn’t burn from the inside out but Hane did. Another thing, though, is that Kerstrande in the beginning was very firm on the fact he wasn’t gay to the point that was one of his main responses to whatever Gene was saying. However, he quickly overcame that objection so it had me wondering, was he in denial? Or was he just gay for Genesis? It’s not quite clear but either way I would have liked a little more detail on that because of how forcefully Kerstrande would tell Genesis that.
One thing readers should be aware of is that when Kerstrande and Gene start their unconventional relationship, Gene is underage. A few months shy of 18, in fact, while KC, the vampire, is a few years older…. Or is he… Anyway, they have sex although it’s not detailed but beautiful all the same and while I didn’t have a problem with this, I do understand that some readers might not take kindly to Gene being underage. So, this is me giving those readers fair warning. After all, this is a YA story ;) I will say that Gene is very mature most of the time to the point I kept forgetting he was so young.
Overall, a great story that I really loved reading. It had its faults but I was so caught up in the book and the characters, it was easy to overlook them. I can’t wait to see what else this author has coming out next because I adored the writing and the style. There’s a lot of stuff that happened within this story but I didn’t want to give many details on it. Mostly because I want the reader to experience it for themselves but also because I would just sound crazy if I tried to explain it all. LOL. I definitely recommend this to those who enjoy young adult paranormal fantasies and I hope those who decide to read it like it as much as I did :)
July 11, 2014
Wtf is going on? It's so damn esoteric. What's going on? I have no idea. There's so much information being withheld that I'm starting to resent the author...
At one point - actually, several points - I felt like I was reading Twilight. A lot of this reminds me of points Dana brings up in Reasoning with Vampires (Linkity link)
It was like those internet memes: "cannot be unseen."
This whole mystification of music thing...you know what? I'm jealous. I want to know what it's like to physically pour one's self into sound. I want to meet someone who is genuinely so disconnected from the world at large that xe is able to somehow magically animate the music. Is this an actually conceivable notion or is this just more heart-of-the-cards bullshit?
I will never know...
I mean, I get it. There are nuances there. But I sometimes think that these things do what manga does - take it just a little too far, thus tumbling it over the edge into ridiculousness...
There was an awkward thing about gift-giving of shoes. It sounds like he only gave him one shoe of each color. ...what good is three shoes? And are they left shoes or right shoes?
The entire thing is really weird. Things happen for seemingly no reason. Part of it, I think, is that the whole rest of the world is in on a joke - any joke; maybe
more than one joke - and poor little Genesis with the horrid nickname "Gene" is left out.
Cris was nice. It was refreshing to have a character who didn't want to fuck Genie-boy. He's the Carlisle, I think. The Obi Wan and surrogate father and brother and whatever all in one.
I feel like the cover should have clued me into the , but I must have been in denial or something.
AND THERE'S SO MUCH CODEPENDENCE. WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH THE MC?
And it's still Twilight.
*sigh
It all started with the perpetually seventeen stuff. I had a brief visceral reaction of horror then, but wrote it off as coincidence.
...little did I know I shouldn't have been so quick to ignore that warning sign.
One big problem is the "who's who?" and "who's what?" and the "what the fuck is going on?"
A lot is thrown out there but very little is actually fully defined. We're given teasers, snippets, inklings, but never anything completely.
There's so much wrong with it I almost want to do a RwV dissection of it. However, I will take it at face value and endure all of the plot holes and nonesuch.
I don't know, man. I mean, I go out searching for "darker" stuff, but when I find it, I find it disturbs me and disgusts me. This is the Fifty-Shades thing. The "if I love ___ enough, I can change xem; I can make xem better; I can heal xem with my love" idea. The idea that abuse is okay as long as occasionally, they treat you nicely. It's okay if they apologize, if they "don't actually mean it."
I read that and I'm NOT okay with it.
...WHAT IS IT I ACTUALLY WANT? Maybe the problem is they're trying to make it "work." They're taking this and passing it off as an actual healthy relationship that is developing beautifully and flourishing and encouraging each individual to thrive within said supposedly healthy relationship. Maybe that's what I have problems with.
I can't quite say I was sad when it ended. There was some great measure of relief there, definitely. I think I was more than a little scared by the "to be continued."
...oh, God. You mean there's more? *cringes in a corner under a chair.
I might actually go check it out just to see what direction the author spins this in next.
Some more things:
The story is completely different than the impression the blurb gives.
The blurb makes the characters seem more active than they are. It sounds like they drive the plot. In reality, the plot drives them. That and the main villain who shall not be named, I suppose.
The note at the end is horrible. This has some pretty terrible messages to be dispensing to our youth, you know. It brings up, reinforces, and perpetuates some things that I really don't like to continue in our cultural discourse. America already has a pretty bad rape culture. This just reinforces a whole bunch of negative discourse this country has (idk about other countries; sorry).
I mean, yay, it's a gay romance for teens? (Not really; it's a romance as much as Twilight is a romance. That is to say, not at all.)
Oh, god. That's what this is. It's gay Twilight with a bunch of other miscellaneous and weird elements thrown in that make it even more ridiculous and cringe-worthy.
On second thought, I'm changing the rating. I mean, it had that je ne sais quoi, "Oh, god what is this why can't I look away?" element Twilight had. You know, the train-wreck effect. It's disastrous and catastrophic and horrifying, but you can't tear your eyes away from the sight of it.
Still. The train-wreck didn't outweigh the rest of it...that Fifty-Shades element of it.
The cover really is rather pretty, though...
At one point - actually, several points - I felt like I was reading Twilight. A lot of this reminds me of points Dana brings up in Reasoning with Vampires (Linkity link)
It was like those internet memes: "cannot be unseen."
This whole mystification of music thing...you know what? I'm jealous. I want to know what it's like to physically pour one's self into sound. I want to meet someone who is genuinely so disconnected from the world at large that xe is able to somehow magically animate the music. Is this an actually conceivable notion or is this just more heart-of-the-cards bullshit?
I will never know...
I mean, I get it. There are nuances there. But I sometimes think that these things do what manga does - take it just a little too far, thus tumbling it over the edge into ridiculousness...
There was an awkward thing about gift-giving of shoes. It sounds like he only gave him one shoe of each color. ...what good is three shoes? And are they left shoes or right shoes?
The entire thing is really weird. Things happen for seemingly no reason. Part of it, I think, is that the whole rest of the world is in on a joke - any joke; maybe
more than one joke - and poor little Genesis with the horrid nickname "Gene" is left out.
Cris was nice. It was refreshing to have a character who didn't want to fuck Genie-boy. He's the Carlisle, I think. The Obi Wan and surrogate father and brother and whatever all in one.
I feel like the cover should have clued me into the , but I must have been in denial or something.
AND THERE'S SO MUCH CODEPENDENCE. WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH THE MC?
And it's still Twilight.
*sigh
It all started with the perpetually seventeen stuff. I had a brief visceral reaction of horror then, but wrote it off as coincidence.
...little did I know I shouldn't have been so quick to ignore that warning sign.
One big problem is the "who's who?" and "who's what?" and the "what the fuck is going on?"
A lot is thrown out there but very little is actually fully defined. We're given teasers, snippets, inklings, but never anything completely.
There's so much wrong with it I almost want to do a RwV dissection of it. However, I will take it at face value and endure all of the plot holes and nonesuch.
I don't know, man. I mean, I go out searching for "darker" stuff, but when I find it, I find it disturbs me and disgusts me. This is the Fifty-Shades thing. The "if I love ___ enough, I can change xem; I can make xem better; I can heal xem with my love" idea. The idea that abuse is okay as long as occasionally, they treat you nicely. It's okay if they apologize, if they "don't actually mean it."
I read that and I'm NOT okay with it.
...WHAT IS IT I ACTUALLY WANT? Maybe the problem is they're trying to make it "work." They're taking this and passing it off as an actual healthy relationship that is developing beautifully and flourishing and encouraging each individual to thrive within said supposedly healthy relationship. Maybe that's what I have problems with.
I can't quite say I was sad when it ended. There was some great measure of relief there, definitely. I think I was more than a little scared by the "to be continued."
...oh, God. You mean there's more? *cringes in a corner under a chair.
I might actually go check it out just to see what direction the author spins this in next.
Some more things:
The story is completely different than the impression the blurb gives.
The blurb makes the characters seem more active than they are. It sounds like they drive the plot. In reality, the plot drives them. That and the main villain who shall not be named, I suppose.
The note at the end is horrible. This has some pretty terrible messages to be dispensing to our youth, you know. It brings up, reinforces, and perpetuates some things that I really don't like to continue in our cultural discourse. America already has a pretty bad rape culture. This just reinforces a whole bunch of negative discourse this country has (idk about other countries; sorry).
I mean, yay, it's a gay romance for teens? (Not really; it's a romance as much as Twilight is a romance. That is to say, not at all.)
Oh, god. That's what this is. It's gay Twilight with a bunch of other miscellaneous and weird elements thrown in that make it even more ridiculous and cringe-worthy.
On second thought, I'm changing the rating. I mean, it had that je ne sais quoi, "Oh, god what is this why can't I look away?" element Twilight had. You know, the train-wreck effect. It's disastrous and catastrophic and horrifying, but you can't tear your eyes away from the sight of it.
Still. The train-wreck didn't outweigh the rest of it...that Fifty-Shades element of it.
The cover really is rather pretty, though...
May 2, 2013
3.5 stars... I think...
Honestly, this was pretty difficult to read for me. I was intrigued by Nikyta's review but I found this to be much darker than I expected. I was originally swept away by the beginning, the first scene and connection between Genesis and KC, but it soon turned quite dark and threw me a bit for a loop. What came for the next 60% or so of the book was a rather surreal read and I had a very hard time at one point making myself keep reading. I just couldn't take any more of Gene being SO naive and not accepting that he needed to take control of his own life. For a while it made me a bit dispirited with just about the whole cast of characters, pretty much all of whom don't have many redeeming qualities. Reading along with Gene, as he let everyone around him make his choices for him without him knowing anything about what was happening to him and the people around him and him disregarding it all... it felt like being caught in a mosh pit and just letting the crowd sweep you away. It was .. kindof frightening to me.
Thankfully, that changed nearer the end and we started to get some real answers and Gene started to take up for himself, but I felt like it took too long to get to that point. Since this ends with a To Be Continued... then I'm hoping the next book that comes along will present us with a Gene as we saw him in the end of this book, taking charge of his own life and in doing so starting to change those around him. But, even though I could see why the author chose to make Gene act the way he did earlier in the book, it was almost too difficult for me to read...
But, as always I urge you to make up your own mind. In many ways this reminded me of some darker mainstream YA urban fantasy, like some Holly Black or something. And I know that I really liked the style of writing, especially at first. Though it became a bit much after a while... that could be my feelings about Gene though. I will say one thing, however, KC's character is written brilliantly. A brilliantly tortured character.
I'd say... decide for yourself on this one.
Honestly, this was pretty difficult to read for me. I was intrigued by Nikyta's review but I found this to be much darker than I expected. I was originally swept away by the beginning, the first scene and connection between Genesis and KC, but it soon turned quite dark and threw me a bit for a loop. What came for the next 60% or so of the book was a rather surreal read and I had a very hard time at one point making myself keep reading. I just couldn't take any more of Gene being SO naive and not accepting that he needed to take control of his own life. For a while it made me a bit dispirited with just about the whole cast of characters, pretty much all of whom don't have many redeeming qualities. Reading along with Gene, as he let everyone around him make his choices for him without him knowing anything about what was happening to him and the people around him and him disregarding it all... it felt like being caught in a mosh pit and just letting the crowd sweep you away. It was .. kindof frightening to me.
Thankfully, that changed nearer the end and we started to get some real answers and Gene started to take up for himself, but I felt like it took too long to get to that point. Since this ends with a To Be Continued... then I'm hoping the next book that comes along will present us with a Gene as we saw him in the end of this book, taking charge of his own life and in doing so starting to change those around him. But, even though I could see why the author chose to make Gene act the way he did earlier in the book, it was almost too difficult for me to read...
But, as always I urge you to make up your own mind. In many ways this reminded me of some darker mainstream YA urban fantasy, like some Holly Black or something. And I know that I really liked the style of writing, especially at first. Though it became a bit much after a while... that could be my feelings about Gene though. I will say one thing, however, KC's character is written brilliantly. A brilliantly tortured character.
I'd say... decide for yourself on this one.
May 22, 2013
3.5 Stars
Review posted on World of Diversity Fiction
I thought this story started out well and would end up being a story I would love but I was never quite able to love it. I enjoyed reading it, I found it interesting and well written and I really liked it but something was missing. It’s a paranormal with a variety of beings that include vampires, ghosts, a demon or two and a few others. It has rock stars and wanna be rock stars and the MC’s love each other...eventually.
The supernatural beings in this story aren’t a secret and there is a group that is out to kill them all, wanting to keep the world pure, white and human. Evolution has a lot to it, things that mirror real life. Maybe there were too many things going on, too many characters that I never really got to know but would have liked to, they played an important part in MC’s lives.
The story really changes from the beginning into something I didn’t expect. It gradually became something dark and kind of violent. There is nothing really graphic, hence the ‘kind of violent’, a lot of off page happenings that were disturbing like attempted rape, off page torture but disturbing enough it felt on page I certainly visualized it in my head so as far as that goes it was well written. I even forgot I was reading a Young Adult book and that gave me pause, I have to question putting this in the YA Genre but then that's just me.
I did love both main characters. Genesis (Gene) is sweet and quirky but at not quite 18 he’s very young and at the being in need of some maturing which he does nicely by the end of the story. Kerstrande (KC) a vampire is totally the opposite he’s aloof, sometimes grumpy, he has a wall around him that doesn’t allow anyone to get too close until he meets Gene somehow these two click, they were a perfect balance for each other.
Evolution is good. It’s the first book in a series and I look forward to reading the rest. A word of warning it ends with a cliff-hanger which I’m not a fan of, I like my stories to have some sort of ending even if there is a plan to continue the storyline in the next book.
I do recommend this to paranormal readers, there are enough pros to make me want to read more and just not enough cons to dismiss it. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
Review posted on World of Diversity Fiction
I thought this story started out well and would end up being a story I would love but I was never quite able to love it. I enjoyed reading it, I found it interesting and well written and I really liked it but something was missing. It’s a paranormal with a variety of beings that include vampires, ghosts, a demon or two and a few others. It has rock stars and wanna be rock stars and the MC’s love each other...eventually.
The supernatural beings in this story aren’t a secret and there is a group that is out to kill them all, wanting to keep the world pure, white and human. Evolution has a lot to it, things that mirror real life. Maybe there were too many things going on, too many characters that I never really got to know but would have liked to, they played an important part in MC’s lives.
The story really changes from the beginning into something I didn’t expect. It gradually became something dark and kind of violent. There is nothing really graphic, hence the ‘kind of violent’, a lot of off page happenings that were disturbing like attempted rape, off page torture but disturbing enough it felt on page I certainly visualized it in my head so as far as that goes it was well written. I even forgot I was reading a Young Adult book and that gave me pause, I have to question putting this in the YA Genre but then that's just me.
I did love both main characters. Genesis (Gene) is sweet and quirky but at not quite 18 he’s very young and at the being in need of some maturing which he does nicely by the end of the story. Kerstrande (KC) a vampire is totally the opposite he’s aloof, sometimes grumpy, he has a wall around him that doesn’t allow anyone to get too close until he meets Gene somehow these two click, they were a perfect balance for each other.
Evolution is good. It’s the first book in a series and I look forward to reading the rest. A word of warning it ends with a cliff-hanger which I’m not a fan of, I like my stories to have some sort of ending even if there is a plan to continue the storyline in the next book.
I do recommend this to paranormal readers, there are enough pros to make me want to read more and just not enough cons to dismiss it. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
May 1, 2013
First off, BEWARE this ends with a cliffhanger.
Okay also be warned I'm not the best at writing a well detailed reviews so I'm going to try my best with this one. There is a lot going on in this story so bear with me. The story is told from two different POV, that of Gene and Kerstrande and spans over 200 pages (229 on pdf and 204 in epub).
Seventeen year old Genesis (Gene) Sage is the lead vocalist and songwriter for Evolution, a pop rock band trying to get a big time. He has the ability to see the dead and the aura that surrounds people and it's because of this ability that after a late night at a gig, Gene on his way home hits someone with his car. Panicked, Gene leaps out of his car and desperately tries to get the guy to allow him to help him. Gene allows the stranger to drive his car since the stranger doubts his driving abilities and ends up falling asleep on the ride to the guy's home. In the time that he's dozing/dreaming he acknowledges the presence of another person and having a sensual encounter with that someone. When he awakens he find that the person he accidentally hit was Kerstrande (KC) Petterson, rock legend and former lead guitarist for one of the greatest (disbanded) bands of all time, Triple Flight. Freaking out, Gene hopes that KC won't take him hitting him with his car as a stunt to get attention and a way to help his band get famous, begs KC to not ruin his band. KC offends Gene and it results in Gene hoping they'll never meet again. Needless to say they both do meet again and KC ends up having Gene and his band signed to his record label.
I really liked this story and I'm giving it 4 stars even though it left readers with a cliffhanger and had horrible grammar issues (i.e. switch between past and present tense, sentences structured weirdly, misspellings, etc.). The character development was fantastic and it was interesting learning and getting to know the characters. The way the author's viewed/portrayed Vampirism was interesting and in a way unique. I'm looking forward to seeing where the author will be taking the story and discovering what hurdles await Gene, KC, and Joel in the next installment of the series. Love the cover too and I can't believe I didn't realize what the feather symbolized when I first started reading it. This is definitely a read for anyone interested in a story involving a phoneix, vampires, and other paranormal entities.
Okay also be warned I'm not the best at writing a well detailed reviews so I'm going to try my best with this one. There is a lot going on in this story so bear with me. The story is told from two different POV, that of Gene and Kerstrande and spans over 200 pages (229 on pdf and 204 in epub).
Seventeen year old Genesis (Gene) Sage is the lead vocalist and songwriter for Evolution, a pop rock band trying to get a big time. He has the ability to see the dead and the aura that surrounds people and it's because of this ability that after a late night at a gig, Gene on his way home hits someone with his car. Panicked, Gene leaps out of his car and desperately tries to get the guy to allow him to help him. Gene allows the stranger to drive his car since the stranger doubts his driving abilities and ends up falling asleep on the ride to the guy's home. In the time that he's dozing/dreaming he acknowledges the presence of another person and having a sensual encounter with that someone. When he awakens he find that the person he accidentally hit was Kerstrande (KC) Petterson, rock legend and former lead guitarist for one of the greatest (disbanded) bands of all time, Triple Flight. Freaking out, Gene hopes that KC won't take him hitting him with his car as a stunt to get attention and a way to help his band get famous, begs KC to not ruin his band. KC offends Gene and it results in Gene hoping they'll never meet again. Needless to say they both do meet again and KC ends up having Gene and his band signed to his record label.
I really liked this story and I'm giving it 4 stars even though it left readers with a cliffhanger and had horrible grammar issues (i.e. switch between past and present tense, sentences structured weirdly, misspellings, etc.). The character development was fantastic and it was interesting learning and getting to know the characters. The way the author's viewed/portrayed Vampirism was interesting and in a way unique. I'm looking forward to seeing where the author will be taking the story and discovering what hurdles await Gene, KC, and Joel in the next installment of the series. Love the cover too and I can't believe I didn't realize what the feather symbolized when I first started reading it. This is definitely a read for anyone interested in a story involving a phoneix, vampires, and other paranormal entities.
April 12, 2019
Anyone who reads my reviews, I think there's two of you now, knows that I generally stay away from young adult. However, it seems, recently, that I've been hit with some truly fantastic books in the genre, and knowing how much I love Sam Kadence's alter ego, it only seemed fair that I try out one of her young adult books. The fact that 'Evolution' has a world where vampires and the supernatural are "out" didn't hurt my desire, either.
Genesis (Gene) Sage is seventeen, living on his own, and the lead singer of Evolution. He has a job as a waiter at a gay club, and he sees ghosts. One night, on his way home, he accidentally runs over Kerstrande Petterson, former lead guitarist of a well known rock band and a vampire, although Gene doesn't know that last part when they meet. In a strange, or not so strange, twist of fate, Kerstrande ends up recruiting Gene, and Evolution, for the record company he part owns. But this book isn't that cut and dried. Not even close. It's not so simple as vampire rocker takes teen band to stardom, while lead singer and vamp fall in love.
There's darkness all around Kerstrande, which only Gene can see. Kerstrande's sire is trying to take over the entire city, and with it, Gene, and being signed by a record company isn't nearly as exciting as it should've been. Gene's life is filled with strange happenings, and for a guy who can see ghosts, he's still pretty innocent about life. "Like a child, he felt everything, saw everything, gave himself to everything without hesitation. I didn’t know how he had survived so long without being tainted by the brutal real world, but it just made me want him more."
'Evolution' is a very dark ride. It is, by no means, light or fluffy. Not even in the same realm as those two words. At times, I adored Gene and I wanted to protect him. At other times, I wanted to smack him and tell him to wake up. Kerstrande is a whole different guy, and one I had a very difficult time warming up to. Although, to be honest, that's more my fault than the author’s. I think I had a preconceived notion of how I expected him to behave, and Kerstrande was nothing like that. As to the story, it's complicated and not easy. At times it depressed me, and then it would turn and reveal something completely unexpected. Did I like it? Hmm. Like is a tame word. It made me think, and it made me feel. Sometimes, that's a whole lot better than like.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Genesis (Gene) Sage is seventeen, living on his own, and the lead singer of Evolution. He has a job as a waiter at a gay club, and he sees ghosts. One night, on his way home, he accidentally runs over Kerstrande Petterson, former lead guitarist of a well known rock band and a vampire, although Gene doesn't know that last part when they meet. In a strange, or not so strange, twist of fate, Kerstrande ends up recruiting Gene, and Evolution, for the record company he part owns. But this book isn't that cut and dried. Not even close. It's not so simple as vampire rocker takes teen band to stardom, while lead singer and vamp fall in love.
There's darkness all around Kerstrande, which only Gene can see. Kerstrande's sire is trying to take over the entire city, and with it, Gene, and being signed by a record company isn't nearly as exciting as it should've been. Gene's life is filled with strange happenings, and for a guy who can see ghosts, he's still pretty innocent about life. "Like a child, he felt everything, saw everything, gave himself to everything without hesitation. I didn’t know how he had survived so long without being tainted by the brutal real world, but it just made me want him more."
'Evolution' is a very dark ride. It is, by no means, light or fluffy. Not even in the same realm as those two words. At times, I adored Gene and I wanted to protect him. At other times, I wanted to smack him and tell him to wake up. Kerstrande is a whole different guy, and one I had a very difficult time warming up to. Although, to be honest, that's more my fault than the author’s. I think I had a preconceived notion of how I expected him to behave, and Kerstrande was nothing like that. As to the story, it's complicated and not easy. At times it depressed me, and then it would turn and reveal something completely unexpected. Did I like it? Hmm. Like is a tame word. It made me think, and it made me feel. Sometimes, that's a whole lot better than like.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
October 21, 2013
Even if there is an annoying cliffhanger end I enjoy this book. I will read more, because I'm curious but
*I think it's too chaotic. There are great ideas and original concepts, but it's so chaotic it's all there, together, and I got confused.
*I like the dark and dangerous characters, KC, but I hate how pitiful Gene is, begging for his attention. Be in love is cute, but be stupid and have no respect for ourself is not. It's dangerous and a wrong message to a romance. I hate each time Gene beg to have KC attention.
I want to know what will happen now. And just hope it will be more organized, and explained. It's a complex and beautiful world... The writer should slow down and explain the ideas... Or it will be chaos again.
*I think it's too chaotic. There are great ideas and original concepts, but it's so chaotic it's all there, together, and I got confused.
*I like the dark and dangerous characters, KC, but I hate how pitiful Gene is, begging for his attention. Be in love is cute, but be stupid and have no respect for ourself is not. It's dangerous and a wrong message to a romance. I hate each time Gene beg to have KC attention.
I want to know what will happen now. And just hope it will be more organized, and explained. It's a complex and beautiful world... The writer should slow down and explain the ideas... Or it will be chaos again.
May 1, 2013
3 1/2 - 4 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
Genesis (Gene) only wants to sing with his band Evolution, he doesn’t care about fame and fortune just the music. When Gene hits a man with his car he is shocked to discover it is retired rock star Kerstrande (KC) and his life is about to get even more out of control. Seeing ghosts and people’s auras, and dreaming of graveyards is the norm for Gene but being the chew toy for vampires isn’t. Being attracted to Kerstrande Gene refuses to let Kerstrande push him away, and Gene is dragged into the paranormal world that he has always ignored. Kerstrande thinks Gene only wants him for the riches and power that he possesses, but his own pull towards the young man won’t let him walk away. Having to confront old friends to keep Gene safe and fighting his own past demons Kerstrande has to accept Gene means more to him than he wanted him too.
This is quite a good fantasy novel from a first time published author. Gene is different from most people… he can see and speak to ghosts, he can also see the auras of people and read their moods and Gene is about to discover that he is even more different than he thought. KC is a retired rock star, he’s also a vampire in hiding and one with a dark past. When KC and Gene collide it is the beginning of a reluctant relationship laced with bitterness and resentment before blooming into more.
The storyline is one where you learn as you go, we slowly discover the paranormal beings, we piece together what is happening with Gene and what he is becoming and watch as Gene and KC struggle to find balance in their relationship. I must admit I began to like Gene a hell of a lot more when he started to stand up for himself instead of letting people walk all over him, some of his so called friends were just manipulative but some of them were real gems like Cris. KC has been used and manipulated in the past so he is very wary of Gene, pushing him away with his nasty attitude. Gene won’t give up though until he has cracked KC’s shell though.
I will admit that while I liked this story I found it to be a bit creepy as well. Gene is seventeen and by his own admission has been sexually active for a couple of years, and what I found creepy was that although some of the men he slept with looked the same age they were much older. What I liked about this book was the paranormal aspect and the strange relationship between Gene and KC, the paranormals are known to humans and there are laws in place and there’s even a group called Preservation Group who want to wipe out the paranormals. The vampires have their good and bad, there’s an incubus and maybe a demon, it is all really vague and mysterious and you keep hoping something more will be revealed. I will also add a warning here that there is a near rape scene and some scenes of apparent orgies.
I will recommend this story to those that love paranormal, young adult, danger, discovery, a strange relationship and an ending that could mean there’s more to follow.
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
Genesis (Gene) only wants to sing with his band Evolution, he doesn’t care about fame and fortune just the music. When Gene hits a man with his car he is shocked to discover it is retired rock star Kerstrande (KC) and his life is about to get even more out of control. Seeing ghosts and people’s auras, and dreaming of graveyards is the norm for Gene but being the chew toy for vampires isn’t. Being attracted to Kerstrande Gene refuses to let Kerstrande push him away, and Gene is dragged into the paranormal world that he has always ignored. Kerstrande thinks Gene only wants him for the riches and power that he possesses, but his own pull towards the young man won’t let him walk away. Having to confront old friends to keep Gene safe and fighting his own past demons Kerstrande has to accept Gene means more to him than he wanted him too.
This is quite a good fantasy novel from a first time published author. Gene is different from most people… he can see and speak to ghosts, he can also see the auras of people and read their moods and Gene is about to discover that he is even more different than he thought. KC is a retired rock star, he’s also a vampire in hiding and one with a dark past. When KC and Gene collide it is the beginning of a reluctant relationship laced with bitterness and resentment before blooming into more.
The storyline is one where you learn as you go, we slowly discover the paranormal beings, we piece together what is happening with Gene and what he is becoming and watch as Gene and KC struggle to find balance in their relationship. I must admit I began to like Gene a hell of a lot more when he started to stand up for himself instead of letting people walk all over him, some of his so called friends were just manipulative but some of them were real gems like Cris. KC has been used and manipulated in the past so he is very wary of Gene, pushing him away with his nasty attitude. Gene won’t give up though until he has cracked KC’s shell though.
I will admit that while I liked this story I found it to be a bit creepy as well. Gene is seventeen and by his own admission has been sexually active for a couple of years, and what I found creepy was that although some of the men he slept with looked the same age they were much older. What I liked about this book was the paranormal aspect and the strange relationship between Gene and KC, the paranormals are known to humans and there are laws in place and there’s even a group called Preservation Group who want to wipe out the paranormals. The vampires have their good and bad, there’s an incubus and maybe a demon, it is all really vague and mysterious and you keep hoping something more will be revealed. I will also add a warning here that there is a near rape scene and some scenes of apparent orgies.
I will recommend this story to those that love paranormal, young adult, danger, discovery, a strange relationship and an ending that could mean there’s more to follow.
July 24, 2013
I am not sure I know where to begin this review. I wonder if I should tell you more than the blurb; try to explain how Kerstrande lives a tortured life and refuses to believe he is gay, and further refuses to succumb to the needs that fuel a vampire's life. Should I speak of how when he denies himself, the thirst overtakes him to the point that he is his own self-fulfilling prophecy--the monster he so clearly hates? I'm sure I should mention that his former bandmate and Sire, Hane, pursues him relentlessly, physically beating him until he is broken, forcing him to constantly move, never allowing him to put down roots and even claiming the one thing, the one person Kerstrande allows into his heart, Genesis...Gene.
I know I should describe the strange and almost painful relationship between Gene and Kerstrande. How the vampire continually pushes Gene away until the desire to hold him, love him, bleed him, violently surfaces and carries both men away. I certainly should relate how extraordinary Gene is, how he lives to sing, not for fame but simply to see others happy. I might mention how I loved the way he tried to soothe away the darkness he sensed in others and by novel's end, how his strength allows him to free the man he loves from so many of his demons.
On and on I could go, talking about the depth of the secondary characters, and how not one sentence was ever seemingly wasted but always developed to either enhance the intricate plot or evolve a character more completely. Sentence upon sentence could fill this review but none, I think, would be as beautiful or as memorable as the author's themselves.
Perhaps its best if I simply say this: Evolution is a masterpiece of Young Adult LGBT literature, impeccably written, intricately woven, beautifully executed. Broken characters are so often easy to write...they fall into a one lane pathway and are often either too whiny or so broken we can sometimes barely tolerate their presence in a story. However, when broken characters are handled with compassion, given depth, and a chance to reach beyond their loneliness and pain, then they are some of the most compelling people to grace the page.
This, I believe, is the real gift that author Sam Kadence gives to his reading audience. Mythical creatures and men who leap from the page and grab our hearts, leaving us breathless.
"...You barely know him. How can that be home?"
"Because some people were just meant to hold our hearts."
Some authors' words are meant to find a place in our lives, spark our imagination, carry us away for just a bit...find a place in our hearts.
I highly recommend Evolution by Sam Kadence to you. Do not be fooled by the YA label, this novel transcends age parameters and defies the generic label of paranormal. Evolution defies all labels save one: Outstanding.
I know I should describe the strange and almost painful relationship between Gene and Kerstrande. How the vampire continually pushes Gene away until the desire to hold him, love him, bleed him, violently surfaces and carries both men away. I certainly should relate how extraordinary Gene is, how he lives to sing, not for fame but simply to see others happy. I might mention how I loved the way he tried to soothe away the darkness he sensed in others and by novel's end, how his strength allows him to free the man he loves from so many of his demons.
On and on I could go, talking about the depth of the secondary characters, and how not one sentence was ever seemingly wasted but always developed to either enhance the intricate plot or evolve a character more completely. Sentence upon sentence could fill this review but none, I think, would be as beautiful or as memorable as the author's themselves.
Perhaps its best if I simply say this: Evolution is a masterpiece of Young Adult LGBT literature, impeccably written, intricately woven, beautifully executed. Broken characters are so often easy to write...they fall into a one lane pathway and are often either too whiny or so broken we can sometimes barely tolerate their presence in a story. However, when broken characters are handled with compassion, given depth, and a chance to reach beyond their loneliness and pain, then they are some of the most compelling people to grace the page.
This, I believe, is the real gift that author Sam Kadence gives to his reading audience. Mythical creatures and men who leap from the page and grab our hearts, leaving us breathless.
"...You barely know him. How can that be home?"
"Because some people were just meant to hold our hearts."
Some authors' words are meant to find a place in our lives, spark our imagination, carry us away for just a bit...find a place in our hearts.
I highly recommend Evolution by Sam Kadence to you. Do not be fooled by the YA label, this novel transcends age parameters and defies the generic label of paranormal. Evolution defies all labels save one: Outstanding.
October 17, 2015
I'm going to be brutally honest with this review. This book had me scratching my head and wondering if the author just added the paranormal bits as the story progressed. The characters are introduced initially you think oh plain of human some exude more confidence. Two to three chapters down and they have special abilities. Call me skeptical but I prefer my stories thought out and plotted. Not everyone read the blurbs or follows the authors work; I for one liked the cover. It was the same with the demographics initially it was vague. Then one of the main characters says “the park is neutral territory” a couple of chapters later the park is Central park in New York.
The story opens up with Genesis and Kerstrande meeting each other. Genesis is an aspiring singer and part of group evolution a music has a sensitivity to the paranormal he could see dead people. Kerstrande is a recluse who just so happens to be the ex-guitarist t of Triple flight one of the hottest groups around. The relationship between Genesis and Kerstrande is extremely challenging. Genesis wears his heart on his sleeves whereas Kerstrande will fight you if you even try to break his shields.
It is my opinion that this book could of been written better. There's a plethora of paranormals in this book and author just drops clues of what they are. I rather know someone is an incubus and not have to figure it out with the traits they portray.
The story opens up with Genesis and Kerstrande meeting each other. Genesis is an aspiring singer and part of group evolution a music has a sensitivity to the paranormal he could see dead people. Kerstrande is a recluse who just so happens to be the ex-guitarist t of Triple flight one of the hottest groups around. The relationship between Genesis and Kerstrande is extremely challenging. Genesis wears his heart on his sleeves whereas Kerstrande will fight you if you even try to break his shields.
It is my opinion that this book could of been written better. There's a plethora of paranormals in this book and author just drops clues of what they are. I rather know someone is an incubus and not have to figure it out with the traits they portray.
March 15, 2015
I enjoyed this book. The book had everything I liked. It was dark and had violence but also had a touch of romance. I think the only problem for me was that Genesis's and Kerstrande's relationship was a little to fast paced. When both of them first met when Genesis hits Kerstrande with his car, they didn't get along at all. But all of a sudden, a day later they are kissing and making out. The relationship was a bit too sudden. I really did like Genesis and Kerstrande. They are a very cute couple. But overall, it was an good book and was a fun read for me. I would strongly recommend you read this book if you like dark vampire stories that feature a gay main character.
July 25, 2013
I haven't read Japanese comics for a long time,reading this book makes feel like I'm back in fifteen again,not that I mean this book is naive or immature,but that the plots and everything are so full of images and familiarity which make me so happy, cozy,cordial and warm.
Read
April 30, 2013I wrote it.
November 16, 2014
To be continued? Dammit!
May 15, 2013
B+
This was a good start to an interesting, engaging, and dark new series. Full of a plethora of supernatural beings and the politics and complications that come with them, including the human hate groups that target them for for being different.
I really liked that there were some nontraditional types of paranormal beings in this story. Not so many that it gets confusing or too much time is spent explaining them, but a nice variety that kept things interesting and fresh.
The story is smoothly told in alternating first person between the two main characters Genesis and Kerstrande. I enjoyed the bonding it created for me with both men. Gene is absolutely adorable and I loved the growth and maturity that he showed as the story progressed. While he has always been able to see and communicate with the spirits of the dead he finds out that there is even more to his powers and connection to both sides of reality. I won’t spoil it for you, but when you find out what kind of supernatural Gene is, so much of his story will make sense to you. Poor tortured Kerstrande, as the story progresses I found myself understanding his appeal to Gene. Kerstrande has also had a rough life and I began to see why he had such a tough shell and snarky front that hid a sweet heart. I loved that it is Gene who does most of the saving in this story.
While Gene just wants to sing and make music he feels that he has to comply with the demands of his bandmates and the record label. Which can be an issue when you’re having to try to hide that you’re an adorable gay boy who fought to come out and live life on your own terms. And is an absurd expectation when you got the record deal because the tabloids caught you with your new lover, who is a mega music star legend, and is secretly a vampire that loves the taste of your blood.
There are some serious and difficult issues brought up in this book. For those of you with sensitive triggers to bullying, abuse, attempted rape, forced consent and references to torture. Most occur either in the past or off page. Gene is sexually active as a minor with adults. He is also sexually active with a supernatural being or two who look his age but aren’t. I’ll be honest, this tripped me out a little. I know that he’s only a little shy of the eighteen year mark but it made me a little uncomfortable, especially in a Young Adult book.
I really liked this book. I am excited to read the next book. I am counting on the author allowing enough time to have passed that Gene is eighteen years old. That way I can enjoy the book without anything holding me back. Because this book really is an interesting, well written, fun, layered and different beginning to a great new fantasy series.
Reviewed by Nina
This was a good start to an interesting, engaging, and dark new series. Full of a plethora of supernatural beings and the politics and complications that come with them, including the human hate groups that target them for for being different.
I really liked that there were some nontraditional types of paranormal beings in this story. Not so many that it gets confusing or too much time is spent explaining them, but a nice variety that kept things interesting and fresh.
The story is smoothly told in alternating first person between the two main characters Genesis and Kerstrande. I enjoyed the bonding it created for me with both men. Gene is absolutely adorable and I loved the growth and maturity that he showed as the story progressed. While he has always been able to see and communicate with the spirits of the dead he finds out that there is even more to his powers and connection to both sides of reality. I won’t spoil it for you, but when you find out what kind of supernatural Gene is, so much of his story will make sense to you. Poor tortured Kerstrande, as the story progresses I found myself understanding his appeal to Gene. Kerstrande has also had a rough life and I began to see why he had such a tough shell and snarky front that hid a sweet heart. I loved that it is Gene who does most of the saving in this story.
While Gene just wants to sing and make music he feels that he has to comply with the demands of his bandmates and the record label. Which can be an issue when you’re having to try to hide that you’re an adorable gay boy who fought to come out and live life on your own terms. And is an absurd expectation when you got the record deal because the tabloids caught you with your new lover, who is a mega music star legend, and is secretly a vampire that loves the taste of your blood.
There are some serious and difficult issues brought up in this book. For those of you with sensitive triggers to bullying, abuse, attempted rape, forced consent and references to torture. Most occur either in the past or off page. Gene is sexually active as a minor with adults. He is also sexually active with a supernatural being or two who look his age but aren’t. I’ll be honest, this tripped me out a little. I know that he’s only a little shy of the eighteen year mark but it made me a little uncomfortable, especially in a Young Adult book.
I really liked this book. I am excited to read the next book. I am counting on the author allowing enough time to have passed that Gene is eighteen years old. That way I can enjoy the book without anything holding me back. Because this book really is an interesting, well written, fun, layered and different beginning to a great new fantasy series.
Reviewed by Nina
October 22, 2014
5 star review by Marieke
I have read this book before, but it has been a while…. I thought choosing a book I had read before would make it easier for me to do a paranormal-week review, but I forgot how complex this book was!
Genesis–Gene– is very young, only seventeen, yet he’s been on his own for two years. He has a gift, or a curse, depending on the way you see it. He sees ghosts and auras, but also swirling black things that sometimes take over someone. He has no idea what it is, but he knows it’s evil.
When he hits Kerstrande with his car, it’s the beginning of a long, scary yet exciting journey for Gene. He and Kerstrande have an intense chemistry, but have a hard time dealing with each other. Or rather, Kerstrande has a hard time admitting and accepting his feelings for Gene. Gene gets hurt a lot!
Later in the story we find out why Kerstrande is the way he is, and what he is. It’s hard to write a review about this without giving away too much and spoil a very good read for you.
Joel, Rob and Gene form the band Evolution, but something happens to Joel, and he goes missing for a big part of the book. Rob…Rob is not my favorite person. He’s kind of a bigot, yet somehow I think he’s just hiding his sexuality, even for himself. Then there is the old manager, Devon. He’s the first person we meet with the black swirly things around him, and you immediately know it’s not good. He and Rob are the only bit of the story line that, I feel, is left unfinished. But it’s not anything major, so it’s not annoying.
What I like most about this book, was the complexity. It’s not a fluffy read, and there’s a lot to make you think about the things around us. The story has several twists and turns that aren’t all that predictable and that makes it fun. It was well worth the second read, and I can very much recommend it for those who don’t mind a little complexity. For me, this was one of the better vamp stories!
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews!
I have read this book before, but it has been a while…. I thought choosing a book I had read before would make it easier for me to do a paranormal-week review, but I forgot how complex this book was!
Genesis–Gene– is very young, only seventeen, yet he’s been on his own for two years. He has a gift, or a curse, depending on the way you see it. He sees ghosts and auras, but also swirling black things that sometimes take over someone. He has no idea what it is, but he knows it’s evil.
When he hits Kerstrande with his car, it’s the beginning of a long, scary yet exciting journey for Gene. He and Kerstrande have an intense chemistry, but have a hard time dealing with each other. Or rather, Kerstrande has a hard time admitting and accepting his feelings for Gene. Gene gets hurt a lot!
Later in the story we find out why Kerstrande is the way he is, and what he is. It’s hard to write a review about this without giving away too much and spoil a very good read for you.
Joel, Rob and Gene form the band Evolution, but something happens to Joel, and he goes missing for a big part of the book. Rob…Rob is not my favorite person. He’s kind of a bigot, yet somehow I think he’s just hiding his sexuality, even for himself. Then there is the old manager, Devon. He’s the first person we meet with the black swirly things around him, and you immediately know it’s not good. He and Rob are the only bit of the story line that, I feel, is left unfinished. But it’s not anything major, so it’s not annoying.
What I like most about this book, was the complexity. It’s not a fluffy read, and there’s a lot to make you think about the things around us. The story has several twists and turns that aren’t all that predictable and that makes it fun. It was well worth the second read, and I can very much recommend it for those who don’t mind a little complexity. For me, this was one of the better vamp stories!
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews!
July 28, 2015
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
This was such a refreshingly different story from the usual vampire fare that you find in the urban fantasy genre. The vampire culture here has a familiar feel to it but the author also puts a creative spin on things. The story tends to be somewhat dark and gritty but then vampires aren't supposed to automatically evoke thoughts of sparkles and sentimentality because they are what they are: bloodsucking creatures who have been known to kill. With the music industry as its backdrop, the book evokes thoughts of Faust, a fictional character who makes a pact with the devil to attain knowledge and pleasure, only here we have a sire creating vampires in order to make members of a band become immortal and legendary, whether they choose to accept it or not.
The story does end on a cliffhanger, so don't expect to get resolutions to Genesis and Kerstrande's relationship or the future of Evolution. Cliffhangers are frustrating (and evil!), but when it comes to books like these, they whet your appetite, enough so you can't help but anticipate the release of the next one in the series, no matter how long you have to wait. Book two, entitled Evolution: Genesis is slated for release in October of this year, so I'm going to keep my fingers crossed and hope that it'll live up to my already high expectations. That's what happens when the predecessor is actually quite good--you want the wait to be worthwhile. Evolution has certainly set the bar pretty high as far as I'm concerned and I'm giving this first in a series five stars. ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
This was such a refreshingly different story from the usual vampire fare that you find in the urban fantasy genre. The vampire culture here has a familiar feel to it but the author also puts a creative spin on things. The story tends to be somewhat dark and gritty but then vampires aren't supposed to automatically evoke thoughts of sparkles and sentimentality because they are what they are: bloodsucking creatures who have been known to kill. With the music industry as its backdrop, the book evokes thoughts of Faust, a fictional character who makes a pact with the devil to attain knowledge and pleasure, only here we have a sire creating vampires in order to make members of a band become immortal and legendary, whether they choose to accept it or not.
The story does end on a cliffhanger, so don't expect to get resolutions to Genesis and Kerstrande's relationship or the future of Evolution. Cliffhangers are frustrating (and evil!), but when it comes to books like these, they whet your appetite, enough so you can't help but anticipate the release of the next one in the series, no matter how long you have to wait. Book two, entitled Evolution: Genesis is slated for release in October of this year, so I'm going to keep my fingers crossed and hope that it'll live up to my already high expectations. That's what happens when the predecessor is actually quite good--you want the wait to be worthwhile. Evolution has certainly set the bar pretty high as far as I'm concerned and I'm giving this first in a series five stars. ♥
September 28, 2016
This book had a LOT of potential, I just hated the execution. I had so many questions that were left unanswered entirely too long, and things just didn't make sense. For instance, MC Genesis dropped out of school at 16 due to bullying. Ok, I get that. But he felt that he had to move out of his house, if he wasn't still in school. He seemed to have a great relationship with his mother, so I'm sure she'd much rather have had him living at home and getting a decent job, than out on his own at 16, working in a gay club. Not even sure how he was able to work there, underage as he was.
And then the other MC, Kerstrande, or KC as Gene called him, was so darned hot and cold. I know, it was the monster inside him, but I just couldn't really see why Genesis kept chasing after him.
Add this to some stuff that happened with Genesis and his friend Rob in high school, and Genesis comes across as a bit of a naive doormat. He's 17 at the time of this story, and at times he seems far older, causing me to forget how young he really was, but then he'd go chasing after KC again, and I'd be reminded.
Toss in the fact that Genesis isn't quite human either, the kid has signed a record contract, spends his time practicing, recording songs, doing interviews, even does a tribute show, and can't even afford to buy new shoes? Yeah, this just didn't make sense to me, in too many ways.
And then the other MC, Kerstrande, or KC as Gene called him, was so darned hot and cold. I know, it was the monster inside him, but I just couldn't really see why Genesis kept chasing after him.
Add this to some stuff that happened with Genesis and his friend Rob in high school, and Genesis comes across as a bit of a naive doormat. He's 17 at the time of this story, and at times he seems far older, causing me to forget how young he really was, but then he'd go chasing after KC again, and I'd be reminded.
Toss in the fact that Genesis isn't quite human either, the kid has signed a record contract, spends his time practicing, recording songs, doing interviews, even does a tribute show, and can't even afford to buy new shoes? Yeah, this just didn't make sense to me, in too many ways.
August 16, 2015
FourStars
4 Gripping Stars!!
The writing is incredible.
It is an intense, messed up Journey with Rock Stars KC and Gemini.
I REALLY love dual POV’s in a story. KC and Gemini are two very different, distinctive characters who will pull your heart-strings and tick you off haha great job by the author!
Side characters. They were perfect additions to this story. Some good ones and some not so good ones. It was an interesting balance. Some surprises along the way. The author keeps you on your toes!!!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Reviewer: Kimberley
4 Gripping Stars!!
The writing is incredible.
It is an intense, messed up Journey with Rock Stars KC and Gemini.
I REALLY love dual POV’s in a story. KC and Gemini are two very different, distinctive characters who will pull your heart-strings and tick you off haha great job by the author!
Side characters. They were perfect additions to this story. Some good ones and some not so good ones. It was an interesting balance. Some surprises along the way. The author keeps you on your toes!!!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Reviewer: Kimberley
January 13, 2014
I really enjoyed this book its more like 4.5 stars. If you like action packed anime with a hint of the supernatural work then i highly recommend this book a very good page turner with characters that complement each other throughout this story.
All i hope for is another sequel to see what happens to these characters.
All i hope for is another sequel to see what happens to these characters.
May 13, 2013
Not really sure what to think about this story. It left me confused more than anything else; the abrupt ending didn't help either. Will I pick up the next part? Don't know. Guess we'll see.
May 12, 2013
Would have been a 4 but cliffhangers make me stabby.
July 23, 2017
Review may follow at a later time
August 23, 2015
The story starts with Genesis Sage, the lead vocalist of Evolution who can see dead people, hitting rock god extraordinaire and vampire in hiding, Kerstrande Petterson with his car. The two are immediately attracted to each other and their worlds become chaos.
So, basically, this book is not what I thought it would be. I was expecting a (possibly great) story about vampires and supernaturals, and all the drama that seems to go with it. But it turned out that it was all about the romance between Genesis, who happens to be a supernatural, and Kerstrande, who happens to be a vampire. And because of their nature, their worlds are filled with violence and drama.
Lets start with the romantic part of the book. It’s Twilight all over again. Genesis is 17-years old, annoyingly naïve, completely clueless about the world he lives in and immediately in love with the vampire he hits with his car. He is the male version of Bella. Kerstrande is a vampire, but hides it and is absolutely 100% unhappy about his evil, bloodsucking, killer nature. He thinks he is dangerous and not in control, and he tries to push Genesis away for his own protection. Edward much?
Just as in the Twilight Saga the romance is just weird and seemingly non-existent. Genesis is convinced their romance is destined to be, but he was just forcing it. Kerstrande gave no indication of actually liking Genesis at all. So it felt just weird. The relationship has loads of possession, jealousy, dependence, distrust, heartbreak and even starts off slightly abusive. Very desirable stuff…
The story in this book was kind of hard to figure out. This is what I made of it. Vampires and supernaturals exist and the world knows it. But this doesn’t mean that they are accepted. In fact, there is a specific group hunting them down. So, if at all possible, vampires and supernaturals try to hide their true nature. As it turns out, vampires love the music industry and one of them, Hane, is trying to create the ultimate immortal rock band, by turning the members into vampires. He tried with Kerstrande and his band, but failed. And Evolution is next. Question is, does Gene discover this in time and can he stop it?
So, without the romance, there still is a story somewhere in there. But you have to look for it and see through (&ignore) a lot of weird and annoying things. Two examples, the true nature of Genesis is revealed at some point. I wont spoil it, but the clue is on the cover. Definitely WTF. Second example: Genesis seems to have the ability to turn everyone, even his very very straight friend, gay. I mean, come on.
Whether or not you like this book, depends on what you are looking for. I could do without the “romance” and Twilight flashbacks. But if you’re into that kind of thing, this might be something for you. I’m still curious enough to see if the 2nd book gets better. 2,5 stars.
I received this book for free NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
So, basically, this book is not what I thought it would be. I was expecting a (possibly great) story about vampires and supernaturals, and all the drama that seems to go with it. But it turned out that it was all about the romance between Genesis, who happens to be a supernatural, and Kerstrande, who happens to be a vampire. And because of their nature, their worlds are filled with violence and drama.
Lets start with the romantic part of the book. It’s Twilight all over again. Genesis is 17-years old, annoyingly naïve, completely clueless about the world he lives in and immediately in love with the vampire he hits with his car. He is the male version of Bella. Kerstrande is a vampire, but hides it and is absolutely 100% unhappy about his evil, bloodsucking, killer nature. He thinks he is dangerous and not in control, and he tries to push Genesis away for his own protection. Edward much?
Just as in the Twilight Saga the romance is just weird and seemingly non-existent. Genesis is convinced their romance is destined to be, but he was just forcing it. Kerstrande gave no indication of actually liking Genesis at all. So it felt just weird. The relationship has loads of possession, jealousy, dependence, distrust, heartbreak and even starts off slightly abusive. Very desirable stuff…
The story in this book was kind of hard to figure out. This is what I made of it. Vampires and supernaturals exist and the world knows it. But this doesn’t mean that they are accepted. In fact, there is a specific group hunting them down. So, if at all possible, vampires and supernaturals try to hide their true nature. As it turns out, vampires love the music industry and one of them, Hane, is trying to create the ultimate immortal rock band, by turning the members into vampires. He tried with Kerstrande and his band, but failed. And Evolution is next. Question is, does Gene discover this in time and can he stop it?
So, without the romance, there still is a story somewhere in there. But you have to look for it and see through (&ignore) a lot of weird and annoying things. Two examples, the true nature of Genesis is revealed at some point. I wont spoil it, but the clue is on the cover. Definitely WTF. Second example: Genesis seems to have the ability to turn everyone, even his very very straight friend, gay. I mean, come on.
Whether or not you like this book, depends on what you are looking for. I could do without the “romance” and Twilight flashbacks. But if you’re into that kind of thing, this might be something for you. I’m still curious enough to see if the 2nd book gets better. 2,5 stars.
I received this book for free NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 26, 2017
Aww, gay vamps and other creatures.
January 5, 2016
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
This story is told in first person in the view point of the two main characters. Evolution begins when Genesis, a singer who sees ghosts, hits Kerstrande with his car and thinks he has seriously hurt him. Genesis learns later that the man he hit was a rock god and a man he has always idolized. Genesis realizes there is something off about Kerstrande, but he doesn’t know right away that Kerstrande is a vampire. In the meantime Kerstrande falls for Genesis and believes there is something strange about him. Kerstrande also has to deal with his own cruel sire. The story evolves into a supernatural standoff of sorts as more of Genesis’s friends and band members are revealed as vampires or other supernatural beings. After ending up in the hospital again, Genesis finally realizes that his lover is a vampire.
This book had some enticing main characters. Genesis was a cute guy with pink hair who sometimes had to deal with his fellow band members having difficulty accepting him as gay, and Kerstrande was a snarky vampire who liked to push buttons. Though I liked Genesis and I thought the relationship between Genesis and Kerstrande was pretty hot, I had trouble connecting with the overall story. First of all Kerstrande sucks Genesis into oblivion over and over before Genesis finally realizes that Kerstrande is to blame for his near death experiences. Also, the tendency of Genesis to fall asleep right away whenever the two are together makes it hard to get into the sex scenes. In addition to the love affair between Genesis and Kerstrande, there were side stories that seemed to take over the plot. Of the side stories, I liked Genesis’s interaction with Michael, a man who betrayed him when he was a child. Though I wasn’t always sure where the story was going, the book kept me interested due to the dynamic characters.
As a side note, I didn’t find a series name, but the ending implies there will be a sequel.
November 9, 2015
All the elements included in this book should have made for an excellent read so I was very disappointed to discover that this was not the case. Don't get me wrong, there were some positive points but on the whole this struggled for coherence.
The first part of the novel was incredibly shaky. Genesis, or Gene, as the main character is young, naive and spends far too much of his time complaining about how unfair life is and, when not doing this, he is constantly pining for people he wants but cannot have. Add to this his desperation to stand out being relayed to the reader by various long descriptions of hair colour picked for that moment and how great Gene thinks his band should be, it makes for a disjointed and frankly quite dull read. With unnecessary and overlong scenes covering Gene's work environment at the club thrown in the whole first half comes across as very self-absorbed and almost made me stop reading.
There are some moments from this section that are actually very well written and these are the moments when the plot, such as it is, is being shown from the viewpoint of the Kerstrande character. These are dark, enigmatic and quite gripping though altogether far too brief. There also hints at a unique element to the Gene character but again these are not made enough of.
There are fleeting mentions of the supernatural earlier in the novel but the authors let the fantasy elements truly come to the fore in the latter stages and as a result the story becomes infinitely more readable. We are given the tortured vampire, the friendly incubus, true evil in the character of Hane and even a phoenix. These show some great imagination and genuine originality that could be excellent building blocks for the next book if handled well. It has a proper sense of darkness in some places and it is refreshing in the end to see Genesis grow up and start protecting himself and those he loves.
This felt to me a little like two different books stuck together with much of it being a struggle to read though it has some potential as a first in a series.
With thanks to the nice people at Net Galley for the review copy.
The first part of the novel was incredibly shaky. Genesis, or Gene, as the main character is young, naive and spends far too much of his time complaining about how unfair life is and, when not doing this, he is constantly pining for people he wants but cannot have. Add to this his desperation to stand out being relayed to the reader by various long descriptions of hair colour picked for that moment and how great Gene thinks his band should be, it makes for a disjointed and frankly quite dull read. With unnecessary and overlong scenes covering Gene's work environment at the club thrown in the whole first half comes across as very self-absorbed and almost made me stop reading.
There are some moments from this section that are actually very well written and these are the moments when the plot, such as it is, is being shown from the viewpoint of the Kerstrande character. These are dark, enigmatic and quite gripping though altogether far too brief. There also hints at a unique element to the Gene character but again these are not made enough of.
There are fleeting mentions of the supernatural earlier in the novel but the authors let the fantasy elements truly come to the fore in the latter stages and as a result the story becomes infinitely more readable. We are given the tortured vampire, the friendly incubus, true evil in the character of Hane and even a phoenix. These show some great imagination and genuine originality that could be excellent building blocks for the next book if handled well. It has a proper sense of darkness in some places and it is refreshing in the end to see Genesis grow up and start protecting himself and those he loves.
This felt to me a little like two different books stuck together with much of it being a struggle to read though it has some potential as a first in a series.
With thanks to the nice people at Net Galley for the review copy.
November 6, 2015
This book was so packed with action and angst it had me on the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading..
There were also sex scenes but they faded to black so you do not really get much detail.
Genesis is a lead singer in the band Evolution. He meets Kerstrande when he accidently hits him with his car.
I have to say at first I was not a fan of these characters because Genesis came of way to needy to me and not very strong at all then Kerstrande just came of as a jerk. But they grew on me as the book went along and I ended up loving their characters by the end of this story. Genesis became so much stronger as this story went along and all the bad things that happened to him. Then Kerstrande I started to understand his character and why he acts the way he does.
There was really so much going on with this book and poor Genesis but the way everything fit together made me really like this book. You meet a lot of different characters in this book also some you will like and some not so much. I have to say I loved this world this author created along with this characters which I loved! All together I really liked this book and can't wait to read the next one in this series.
I would recommend this book!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
There were also sex scenes but they faded to black so you do not really get much detail.
Genesis is a lead singer in the band Evolution. He meets Kerstrande when he accidently hits him with his car.
I have to say at first I was not a fan of these characters because Genesis came of way to needy to me and not very strong at all then Kerstrande just came of as a jerk. But they grew on me as the book went along and I ended up loving their characters by the end of this story. Genesis became so much stronger as this story went along and all the bad things that happened to him. Then Kerstrande I started to understand his character and why he acts the way he does.
There was really so much going on with this book and poor Genesis but the way everything fit together made me really like this book. You meet a lot of different characters in this book also some you will like and some not so much. I have to say I loved this world this author created along with this characters which I loved! All together I really liked this book and can't wait to read the next one in this series.
I would recommend this book!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
December 30, 2015
Original review on Molly Lolly
Four stars!
This book was so good! It’s also clearly meant to be read with the sequel. So I suggest picking up both and reading them back to back. I loved seeing how Genesis grew over the course of the book. Seeing how he was different but didn’t fully understand until later what it all meant. Kerstrande was a bit of an enigma in the story. You couldn’t tell if he really liked Genesis or just tolerated him. It was sweet seeing his feelings bloom and show in some strange, yet endearing ways. Like the shoes. That was my favorite part.
The world Lissa created was so fascinating. I loved the characters and want to see more of them. I liked when Genesis finally stood up for himself to Rob. Joel is sweet and I can’t wait to see what happens with him. I loved the scene where Genesis stand up to Hane.
Genesis grows so much in this story, it’s hard to remember he’s not even 18 yet. Though he is close to his birthday. He acts much older in the book most of the time. He has a few moments to act his age, but not as many as you’d expect.
Four stars!
This book was so good! It’s also clearly meant to be read with the sequel. So I suggest picking up both and reading them back to back. I loved seeing how Genesis grew over the course of the book. Seeing how he was different but didn’t fully understand until later what it all meant. Kerstrande was a bit of an enigma in the story. You couldn’t tell if he really liked Genesis or just tolerated him. It was sweet seeing his feelings bloom and show in some strange, yet endearing ways. Like the shoes. That was my favorite part.
The world Lissa created was so fascinating. I loved the characters and want to see more of them. I liked when Genesis finally stood up for himself to Rob. Joel is sweet and I can’t wait to see what happens with him. I loved the scene where Genesis stand up to Hane.
Genesis grows so much in this story, it’s hard to remember he’s not even 18 yet. Though he is close to his birthday. He acts much older in the book most of the time. He has a few moments to act his age, but not as many as you’d expect.
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