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The Dracula Chronicles #5.5
Birth Of The Monster (The Dracula Chronicles, #5.5)
THE ULTIMATE EVIL IS UPON US
Dracula sits astride his horse, surveying the battlefield below. He has defeated another Ottoman army and won back his throne for the third time. Confident in his victory, he is unaware of the events about to unfold and the plans Lucifer has for him.
Prequel to the vampire arc of The Dracula Chronicles series.
Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2012
7 people are currently reading
668 people want to read
About the author
Shane K.P. O'Neill
9 books1,498 followersShane KP O’Neill is the writer of two upcoming series, Path To Decay and Flesh And Blood.
The Path To Decay series follows the lives of Vlad Dracul and his family and his fight to win the throne of his father in Wallachia, while becoming a pawn in the bitter struggle between the Holy Roman and Ottoman Empires for supremacy in the 15th Century Balkans. Written in a more literary style than contemporary, these novels of historical fiction and dark fantasy contain strong elements of love, betrayal, tragedy, war, religious conflict, and political intrigue to bring the period alive in its entirety.
In Flesh And Blood, O'Neill brings alive the Antediluvian world in a series of sprawling epics. A world inhabited by angels, demons, giants, dragons, and other creatures, it is the story of the divide in Heaven and the Great War of the Angels. This struggle manifests through the bloodlines of Cain, the son of Sammael, and Seth, the son of Adam. It follows the true story of the Hebrew line of Adam and their struggle to survive and make their way against the evil designs of Sammael and his Fallen minions. It tells the story of how the line of Cain dominated and ruled over humankind, culminating with the daughters of Cain cohabiting with the Watcher angels led by Azazel, the true Beast of Revelation, and the aftermath that ensued with their creation of the hybrid race of giants and the great Sumerian traditions. Novels of love, tragedy, betrayal, survival, death, blood drinking, Luciferian ritual, and encompassing the world's most ancient evil, they are an exposé of the many truths the religions of the modern age have striven so hard to keep hidden. This series draws on Scripture, the writings in the ancient Hebrew texts and the Sumerian Cuneiform tablets, the stories of Atlantis and Greek Mythology, as well as from recent archaeological discovery to piece together the real story of the ancient world and our true origins.
Away from writing, the author indulges his lifelong passion for history and theology as is reflected in his extensive library. His love of books is matched only by his love of the countryside and of course, his family. As an added note, he has lived and travelled all over the world, a pursuit that has allowed him to spend time in the locations his readers will become familiar with in his books.
The Path To Decay series follows the lives of Vlad Dracul and his family and his fight to win the throne of his father in Wallachia, while becoming a pawn in the bitter struggle between the Holy Roman and Ottoman Empires for supremacy in the 15th Century Balkans. Written in a more literary style than contemporary, these novels of historical fiction and dark fantasy contain strong elements of love, betrayal, tragedy, war, religious conflict, and political intrigue to bring the period alive in its entirety.
In Flesh And Blood, O'Neill brings alive the Antediluvian world in a series of sprawling epics. A world inhabited by angels, demons, giants, dragons, and other creatures, it is the story of the divide in Heaven and the Great War of the Angels. This struggle manifests through the bloodlines of Cain, the son of Sammael, and Seth, the son of Adam. It follows the true story of the Hebrew line of Adam and their struggle to survive and make their way against the evil designs of Sammael and his Fallen minions. It tells the story of how the line of Cain dominated and ruled over humankind, culminating with the daughters of Cain cohabiting with the Watcher angels led by Azazel, the true Beast of Revelation, and the aftermath that ensued with their creation of the hybrid race of giants and the great Sumerian traditions. Novels of love, tragedy, betrayal, survival, death, blood drinking, Luciferian ritual, and encompassing the world's most ancient evil, they are an exposé of the many truths the religions of the modern age have striven so hard to keep hidden. This series draws on Scripture, the writings in the ancient Hebrew texts and the Sumerian Cuneiform tablets, the stories of Atlantis and Greek Mythology, as well as from recent archaeological discovery to piece together the real story of the ancient world and our true origins.
Away from writing, the author indulges his lifelong passion for history and theology as is reflected in his extensive library. His love of books is matched only by his love of the countryside and of course, his family. As an added note, he has lived and travelled all over the world, a pursuit that has allowed him to spend time in the locations his readers will become familiar with in his books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
January 14, 2013
Birth Of The Monster is a 10,000 word prequel to Bound By Blood - Volume 1 and 2. It is a taster so you have a feel for what The Dracula Chronicles are about. I would hate for anyone to pick up Bound By Blood and be disappointed with it, so I offer you this to test the waters.
It is December 1476 at Snagov in Wallachia and Dracula is sat astride his horse trying to assess the outcome of the battle below. Despite inferior numbers his army has defeated his enemy, Basarab Laiota, who has come with an Ottoman Army. With victory secured, Dracula heads for the mountain pass above him with his 200-man bodyguard to look for a spot to set up camp. He rides into an ambush and is forced to fight for his life.
He prevails again, but is mortally wounded and taken by his men to the chapel of the nearby island monastery. The remnants of his army and entourage congregate outside in the freezing rain to pray for the repose of his soul, knowing his death is imminent. A black mist appears and cuts a path through them to the chapel.
Lucifer appears to the dying Dracula and hoists him into the air before biting into his neck and drinking Dracula's blood....
It is December 1476 at Snagov in Wallachia and Dracula is sat astride his horse trying to assess the outcome of the battle below. Despite inferior numbers his army has defeated his enemy, Basarab Laiota, who has come with an Ottoman Army. With victory secured, Dracula heads for the mountain pass above him with his 200-man bodyguard to look for a spot to set up camp. He rides into an ambush and is forced to fight for his life.
He prevails again, but is mortally wounded and taken by his men to the chapel of the nearby island monastery. The remnants of his army and entourage congregate outside in the freezing rain to pray for the repose of his soul, knowing his death is imminent. A black mist appears and cuts a path through them to the chapel.
Lucifer appears to the dying Dracula and hoists him into the air before biting into his neck and drinking Dracula's blood....
January 29, 2013
This is an intense introduction to O'Neill's series The Dracula Chronicles, and it is a great way to learn if the series will interest you. Let me say, I have grown tired of the more recent interpretations of vampires and was intrigued to find this series which is based in both history and actual lore versus modern fantasy.
Vlad Dracula's reign, demise, and transformation into a vampire as described in this story is fantastic. Not only does it seem viable and as real as can be, but the author describes it in such vivid detail that it feels as though you are watching a movie. O'Neill is gifted in his craft, both as a historian and as a writer.
I can't wait to get my hands on the first book in the series and learn more!
Vlad Dracula's reign, demise, and transformation into a vampire as described in this story is fantastic. Not only does it seem viable and as real as can be, but the author describes it in such vivid detail that it feels as though you are watching a movie. O'Neill is gifted in his craft, both as a historian and as a writer.
I can't wait to get my hands on the first book in the series and learn more!
January 11, 2013
This really is a very exciting and a very dark opening to what I know is going to be a fantastic series. We are given a glimpse of true evil in its purest form. I love this writer's style and delivery. It is very atmospheric and so much so that I felt as though I was standing there in the chapel watching it all. Wonderful prequel.
January 12, 2013
It's so great to have new vampire books to read. I don't think I've seen any better than these stories.
December 31, 2012
Vlad Tepes, with help from his army and allies, has fought what he believes to be the last battle in his fight to regain the throne. Tired, but triumphant, he leads his troops through a mountain pass, only to be ambushed by assassins. Wounded, he retreats to a lonely abbey chapel, believing himself to be safe there. Unfortunately for him, and for all of humanity, there is one who finds him there and changes his life forever. And “forever” is literal.
“Birth of a Monster” is a very short book, less than thirty pages. However, every page is packed with action, from Vlad’s observance of battle on the first page to the deal he can’t turn down on the last. Mr. O’Neill has certainly done his homework; dates and places, terms and relationships, all seem to be in keeping with what can be found in a cursory search of Vlad Tepes’ background. How he describes the meeting between Vlad and Satan is violent, horrific, and very easily believed. And the physical transformation as Vlad goes from mortal to vampire is nothing like I have ever read before. Mr. O’Neill’s descriptions of battle and carnage, although not overwhelming, are very clear and captivating.
The author has another book coming out very soon, titled “The Dracula Chronicles”, and I for one can hardly wait!
“Birth of a Monster” is a very short book, less than thirty pages. However, every page is packed with action, from Vlad’s observance of battle on the first page to the deal he can’t turn down on the last. Mr. O’Neill has certainly done his homework; dates and places, terms and relationships, all seem to be in keeping with what can be found in a cursory search of Vlad Tepes’ background. How he describes the meeting between Vlad and Satan is violent, horrific, and very easily believed. And the physical transformation as Vlad goes from mortal to vampire is nothing like I have ever read before. Mr. O’Neill’s descriptions of battle and carnage, although not overwhelming, are very clear and captivating.
The author has another book coming out very soon, titled “The Dracula Chronicles”, and I for one can hardly wait!
January 20, 2013
This is an epic beginning to the legend of Dracula. It begins on the battlefield where Dracula is assessing his victory over the Turks. It then sees the situation turn against him and Dracula is rendered to knocking at death's door. Thus the birth of the vampire begins. As a reader who enjoys short and to the point, the battle scenes were a tad bit long, IMO. Otherwise, this is the beginning of an epic novel.
January 15, 2013
to be honest i thought it would of been boring but its pretty good to what i have read so far! its an interesting book.
February 5, 2013
Vlad Dracula’s transition from brutal dictator to blood sucking fiend is depicted in this prequel to Shane K.P. O’Neill’s epic DRACULA CHRONICLES: BOUND BY BLOOD series, BIRTH OF THE MONSTER.
It’s Wallachia in 1476, and Vlad is facing opposition on multiple fronts. Defeat seems inevitable. Yet when it seems all is lost, a mysterious benefactor shows up to make the Romanian prince an enticing offer…
I read this story originally as the prologue for BOUND BY BLOOD: VOLUME ONE. As a self-contained short story, it holds its own remarkably well. The depiction of violence and gore is not for the timid, as it remains true to the era in general and to the story of Vlad Tepes Dracula in particular.
The attempt to link Dracula with Lucifer and Hell (and hence, to explain every vampire’s aversion to holy objects such as crosses and communion wafers) has been attempted before, but rarely on so epic a scale, and rarely to such a satisfying extent. In fact, Dracula’s tie to the church is expanded beyond his hatred of it, to the point where he himself will play an integral part in the institution’s evolution.
A grand start to what will no doubt be a memorable addition to the Dracula legend, BIRTH OF THE MONSTER will leave you thirsting for more.
It’s Wallachia in 1476, and Vlad is facing opposition on multiple fronts. Defeat seems inevitable. Yet when it seems all is lost, a mysterious benefactor shows up to make the Romanian prince an enticing offer…
I read this story originally as the prologue for BOUND BY BLOOD: VOLUME ONE. As a self-contained short story, it holds its own remarkably well. The depiction of violence and gore is not for the timid, as it remains true to the era in general and to the story of Vlad Tepes Dracula in particular.
The attempt to link Dracula with Lucifer and Hell (and hence, to explain every vampire’s aversion to holy objects such as crosses and communion wafers) has been attempted before, but rarely on so epic a scale, and rarely to such a satisfying extent. In fact, Dracula’s tie to the church is expanded beyond his hatred of it, to the point where he himself will play an integral part in the institution’s evolution.
A grand start to what will no doubt be a memorable addition to the Dracula legend, BIRTH OF THE MONSTER will leave you thirsting for more.
January 27, 2013
What a teaser! I'm so glad I didn't have to wait to jump right into "Bound By Blood - The Dracula Chronicles Volume I" after reading this or I definitely would have been left jonesing for more!
Bound by Blood offers a new spin on the Dracula myth, and if you aren't quite sure you're going to be able to handle that, this is a perfect introduction to the series. You can read this without having to commit to buying the books first, though really it is so well written, I'd challenge anyone who enjoys history or Dracula to find it not worth continuing to the proper series.
Bound by Blood offers a new spin on the Dracula myth, and if you aren't quite sure you're going to be able to handle that, this is a perfect introduction to the series. You can read this without having to commit to buying the books first, though really it is so well written, I'd challenge anyone who enjoys history or Dracula to find it not worth continuing to the proper series.
February 18, 2013
I have had a fascination with vampires ever since Dark Shadows came out, the original, not the Johnny Depp comedy (though I did enjoy his version of the show). In my teenage years I moved on to Bram Stoker’s Dracula, as I think did most others who love vampire stories. From there we get a variety of versions, from romance to horror. Most of the novels I’ve found myself drawn to in the last twenty or so years have been the romanticized version. I picked up this teaser out of curiosity to see if an author could actually build off the most famous vampire of them all, Dracula, and bring him across in a story I hadn’t already read in one form or another. I have to admit, I loved it.
The senses are brought into play right from the start. Without overdoing the description, I felt the scenes were brought to full 3D life, the blitz attack on Dracula and his men almost enough to make me cringe: the screams of men and horses, blood and guts spilled, the pain and hopelessness of their situation. At the beginning Dracula is just a man trying to rule his country as best he knows how. A small warning—the story is not for the weak of heart. If you think true horror would be a turn off, you might want to pass on this one. If you’re unsure, then this teaser will probably be enough to, one—hook you in, or two—send you running for the hills. I believe Shane K.P. O’Neill will definitely be an author to watch out for in the future.
My reviews for Bound by Blood volume 1, and Bound by Blood volume 2, following shortly.
The senses are brought into play right from the start. Without overdoing the description, I felt the scenes were brought to full 3D life, the blitz attack on Dracula and his men almost enough to make me cringe: the screams of men and horses, blood and guts spilled, the pain and hopelessness of their situation. At the beginning Dracula is just a man trying to rule his country as best he knows how. A small warning—the story is not for the weak of heart. If you think true horror would be a turn off, you might want to pass on this one. If you’re unsure, then this teaser will probably be enough to, one—hook you in, or two—send you running for the hills. I believe Shane K.P. O’Neill will definitely be an author to watch out for in the future.
My reviews for Bound by Blood volume 1, and Bound by Blood volume 2, following shortly.
February 9, 2013
Shane O’Neill’s ‘Birth of the Monster’ opens his epic ‘Dracula Chronicles’.
I was a little wary of reading this, as there have been so many reworks of the classic Bram Stoker novel that I had my doubts as to whether anyone could come up with an original slant.
I need not have worried. Although this is a short piece, it sets up O’Neill’s series for a canter through centuries of European history with Dracula as the instrument of Lucifer’s Grand Design. The demonic link in the Dracula legend has always been there, but in this version it is overt and informs the whole nature of the narrative.
The author gives a wonderful description of the aftermath of the Battle of Snagov, Wallachia in 1476, and the action never slackens from there. The writing is visceral and gripping.
I look forward to reading the ‘Bound by Blood’ series to find out how Mr O’Neill interweaves his vampiric epic into the various chapters of history.
I was a little wary of reading this, as there have been so many reworks of the classic Bram Stoker novel that I had my doubts as to whether anyone could come up with an original slant.
I need not have worried. Although this is a short piece, it sets up O’Neill’s series for a canter through centuries of European history with Dracula as the instrument of Lucifer’s Grand Design. The demonic link in the Dracula legend has always been there, but in this version it is overt and informs the whole nature of the narrative.
The author gives a wonderful description of the aftermath of the Battle of Snagov, Wallachia in 1476, and the action never slackens from there. The writing is visceral and gripping.
I look forward to reading the ‘Bound by Blood’ series to find out how Mr O’Neill interweaves his vampiric epic into the various chapters of history.
March 3, 2013
I enjoyed this immensely. As a fan of vampires and vampire lore, I was drawn into the dark and descriptive story. I cannot wait to continue on with the series.
February 7, 2013
Awesome, Looking forward to reading more.
February 26, 2013
A fabulous start to the series, and an enthralling new take on the classic Dracula.
****Spoiler Alert****
I must admit I am a vampire novelist, of the contemporary sort, and I do enjoy most vampire novels (most but not all). Shane O’Neill has brought us back to the very roots of the myth, back to where it all started, the birth of the Monster Dracula. Its gothic, medieval, visceral, brutal, and everything you ever expected Dracula should be.
But here we will know Dracula as man shaped by hard choices, hemmed in by enemies, struggling to retake the throne of Wallachia which has been in his hands twice over. He is a man known as The Impaler, willing to impale thousands of men on the stake to make an example to all who would invade his lands. He is not loved by his people, but feared and respected. Dracula lives by the sword, always believing that “the end justifies the means,”
Once you get a taste of this prologue, you have to read the rest. I’m already halfway through Bound by Blood volume 1.
****Spoiler Alert****
I must admit I am a vampire novelist, of the contemporary sort, and I do enjoy most vampire novels (most but not all). Shane O’Neill has brought us back to the very roots of the myth, back to where it all started, the birth of the Monster Dracula. Its gothic, medieval, visceral, brutal, and everything you ever expected Dracula should be.
But here we will know Dracula as man shaped by hard choices, hemmed in by enemies, struggling to retake the throne of Wallachia which has been in his hands twice over. He is a man known as The Impaler, willing to impale thousands of men on the stake to make an example to all who would invade his lands. He is not loved by his people, but feared and respected. Dracula lives by the sword, always believing that “the end justifies the means,”
Once you get a taste of this prologue, you have to read the rest. I’m already halfway through Bound by Blood volume 1.
March 16, 2013
After reading several urban fantasies where Vampires ruled in various forms, I decided it was time for a break. It was time to leave the softer variety and get in touch with the darker sides of the genre - time to go back to the beginning with the ultimate leader of the Vampires, Dracula. I had seen several strong recommendations for Shane O’Neill's “Bound by Blood,” and decided to give it a shot.
The opening, “Birth of a Monster” fulfills all it promises. It is a clear, concise, descriptively written rendering of how Dracula turns from the strong, dark leader he was into the Vampire leader of darkness. It truly is the birth of a monster…
I finished reading this short, ready for more. I have found my darker Vampire story, and am excited to read Bound by Blood in its entirety.
The opening, “Birth of a Monster” fulfills all it promises. It is a clear, concise, descriptively written rendering of how Dracula turns from the strong, dark leader he was into the Vampire leader of darkness. It truly is the birth of a monster…
I finished reading this short, ready for more. I have found my darker Vampire story, and am excited to read Bound by Blood in its entirety.
February 16, 2013
I happened to have read volume one before I read Birth of a Monster and boy do I wish I had read this first. It explains so much about Vlad Dracula when he was mortal, how he died and how he became the famous Urban Legend…Dracula. This was not a nice guy, he was King of Wallachia and he was scary and awesome!
The fight scenes were on point. Shane is very good at writing them. He really shows you the details: blood spurting, tendons being slashed, and the pain being felt by the character as an arrow pierces his neck. If you’re looking for fluff, this ain’t it, but if you are looking for hard ass, no muss, no fuss “I am going to kill you and make it hurt.” This is the book for you.
Now that I’ve read Shane O’Neill’s books backward and loved both, I am moving on to Volume 2 so I can scare myself silly once more. Thanks a lot Shane.
The fight scenes were on point. Shane is very good at writing them. He really shows you the details: blood spurting, tendons being slashed, and the pain being felt by the character as an arrow pierces his neck. If you’re looking for fluff, this ain’t it, but if you are looking for hard ass, no muss, no fuss “I am going to kill you and make it hurt.” This is the book for you.
Now that I’ve read Shane O’Neill’s books backward and loved both, I am moving on to Volume 2 so I can scare myself silly once more. Thanks a lot Shane.
March 3, 2013
How did Dracula become the evil, undead nightmare that we know and love? That would be quite an intimidating mountain to climb in the world of writing, but author Shane O'Neil does it and boy, he does it well. This introduction into just how Vlad Dracula became the monster we all fear will visit us at night is just the taste you need to want to read more. Well thought out and executed, Birth of The Monster is a great read. Stop reading this and go read it instead. You will not be disappointed. Very well done.
April 9, 2013
I thought this was a wonderful introduction. It was dark and chilling just as I expected it to be. I felt like I was standing there in the chapel and could feel the fear those men felt when faced with such gruesome evil. It had me on edge the whole time and I did not expect what happened next. I know this is going to be a great story and I look forward very much to the rest.
February 10, 2013
A very dark, atmospheric, exciting and yet terrifying tale. A great beginning to a series of books that I know is going to be a huge success. The author sets the scene perfectly and draws you into his dark world from the off. He puts you right there in the thick of the action, so much so that you truly bear witness to the dark machinations of his mind. I was so impressed with this.
April 1, 2013
If you like soft, dreamy prequels you are not suited to this.
Birth of the Monster is action-packed from the very start, providing readers with startlingly graphic images. From the violent ruler that was Vlad Dracula, to his transition into vampiric folklore, every scene is well set and masterfully written and leaving me thirsty for more...
Birth of the Monster is action-packed from the very start, providing readers with startlingly graphic images. From the violent ruler that was Vlad Dracula, to his transition into vampiric folklore, every scene is well set and masterfully written and leaving me thirsty for more...
February 24, 2013
Birth of a Monster is Shane O'Neill's prequel to his series, The Dracula Chronicles. The prequel serves its dual purpose very well: present the author's formidable storytelling skills, and generate interest in the forthcoming series.
I, for one, will be keeping an eye out for it!
I, for one, will be keeping an eye out for it!
February 12, 2013
What a spin you put on Dracula. Where and how he was created sent chills down my spine. I couldn't stop reading and when my ipad died, I had to wait for it to charge to finish the prequel. Great writing Shane
April 13, 2013
Masterfully written, very nice concept. Looking forward to the rest of the series, an absolute teaser.
April 28, 2014
Attention! All those of you who like sparkly vampires, don't read this because it will suck big time for you. However, for all those of you who like a lot of action, ruthless monsters, and intrigue that will get you hooked, read it, you will love it
August 6, 2016
BIRTH OF THE MONSTER is the prequel to Book #6 of The Dracula Chronicles, Bound By Blood
THE ULTIMATE EVIL IS UPON US
Introduction to the vampire arc of The Dracula Chronicles: historical novels of Gothic horror; political intrigue; religious corruption; war; tragedy; and romance.
DESCRIPTION
Dracula sits astride his horse, surveying the battlefield below. He has defeated another Ottoman army and won back his throne for the third time. Confident in his victory, he is unaware of the events about to unfold and the plans Lucifer has for him.
November 6, 2013
Going back to the original inspiration, O'Neill has created a dark and edgy birth, not only of a monster, but of a legend. His story is gritty, giving us a clear picture into a medieval landscape far different from the present. This is not a prettified version, sparkling seductively. This story is inspired by the dark and horrific elements that surrounded the historic figure of Dracula and gives us a version that is believable.
If you love the original by Bram Stoker, this version will find a perfect place on your virtual bookshelf. i highly recommend it!
If you love the original by Bram Stoker, this version will find a perfect place on your virtual bookshelf. i highly recommend it!
January 18, 2013
What a great start to what I'm expecting to be a great series. The Birth of a Monster is a action filled account of Vlad Dracula the man and the world altering events, which culminate in his demise and resurrection. I loved his depictions of the paranormal element in the less than thirty page read. Shane has done a great job of setting the stage for the coming attraction, The Blood Chronicles, Bound by Blood. Can't wait to get my copy of this one!
November 2, 2014
This is for sure a book to get your lips wet into Shane KP O'Neil other stories to read Bound by Blood so you might as well buy that one too because you'll want more.....I love how original is was. Dracula fact and fiction is always nice to read about. Vlad was "Dracula" and make no mistake this is no love story, lol.
The descriptions and details were quite impressive. I highly recommend if you don't want a sappy vamp story but more of what Dracula really was.
The descriptions and details were quite impressive. I highly recommend if you don't want a sappy vamp story but more of what Dracula really was.
May 23, 2013
I have to say I. Was so happy when I got this book .my husband got it for me and it made my hole day it was a b-Day gift when I got my first tablet . And I loved it so much it broke my heart when it broke . I lost all my great books this one being one .. and will be getting a new copy as soon as I can .. its that awesome ..
October 27, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this short, action packed story which sets the stage well for the Dracula Chronicles. The pace is fast and exciting, drawing the reader in with clever, imaginative writing. You really feel as though you are there witnessing the events as they unfold. I would definitely recommend this book and cannot wait to read more by this author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews