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Sophie Morgan Vampire #1
Relative Strangers
Sophie Morgan is 23 and has always done the right thing. She’s caused no stress for her family, worked hard through university, has taken a successful leap onto the career ladder and nurtured a reasonably healthy bank balance. It’s no small surprise then when, on a post relationship break-up, mini-break to Antwerp, she pursues a pair of thieves who steal her friend’s handbag. But this is only the start of her world being turned upside down. She quickly learns that vampires exist, her neighbors aren't what they seem and new boyfriends can be found in the strangest of situations.
- GenresParanormal
ebook
First published August 23, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
March 10, 2015
Sophie Morgan is your average young woman who, while on a girl's holiday to Antwerp to get over her idiot ex, stumbles into the dark world of vampires.
This book has been on my reading list since it came out. It ticks all the boxes and sounds amazing. An arse-kicking Welsh heroine, vampires, and by a fellow British writer. Yes please!
In the end, there were things that I loved, and some things I just didn't get.
Sophie is brilliant. I loved her reaction to the fact that vampires are real. In a refreshing change to girls fluttering their eyelashes at super-hot-vamps, Miss Morgan opts for picking up the nearest potential weapon and doing as much damage as she can. She then takes a remarkably sensible option of steering very clear of danger, whilst training to be fitter and stronger, just in case danger doesn't keep its distance from her.
She is scarily good at protecting herself, and not afraid to push past the squeamish and get her hands dirty.
In Relative Strangers, vampires are at no point romanticised. Sure, they have a grace and beauty about them when they choose it, but when it gets down to it they show their true nature. They are monsters that are driven by blood and pain. With possibly a few sophisticated exceptions, vampires need to be killed, before they have a chance to kill.
It is again, a refreshing reminder that these are monsters and supposed to be the bad guys.
What I wasn't so sure about was the overall plot arc of the story. It felt like it was going for something much more contemporary, a day-to-day life experience for Sophie, who just happens to get involved in the world of vampires along the way. Which, ok, may be what Treharne was going for, but for most of the book it didn't feel like it was building towards anything in particular. It was more like being a fly on the wall in Sophie's life as she makes certain decisions and wallows on previous friendships and choices made, where you feel as ignorant to the bigger picture as Sophie does.
I will say that it does improve around the 70% mark, when the action and danger starts to lean towards something much bigger and more mysterious. The last 30% of the book flew by, leaving me with a lot of questions.
I don't know whether it was just the Netgalley copy that I received (and if it is, let me know and I'll remove this section), but I felt it needed tidying up. There were sentences that had clearly been edited, but not rechecked and didn't make sense." And the speech marks were driving me crazy. "The reviewer sighed.
The last little niggle I had was with Tracy. The girl you dragged on holiday gets "mugged", is covered with blood, and possibly concussed; and you think it's ok to leave her with some people you hardly know so you can shag the sexy musician?!
I know it was necessary to get her out of the way for that part of the plot to move forwards, but that had me fuming for ages!
So overall, I would recommend you give it a go. It's not the most fast-paced, but there's a lot of world-building that goes on that I think will lead to something pretty epic in the sequel(s).
This book has been on my reading list since it came out. It ticks all the boxes and sounds amazing. An arse-kicking Welsh heroine, vampires, and by a fellow British writer. Yes please!
In the end, there were things that I loved, and some things I just didn't get.
Sophie is brilliant. I loved her reaction to the fact that vampires are real. In a refreshing change to girls fluttering their eyelashes at super-hot-vamps, Miss Morgan opts for picking up the nearest potential weapon and doing as much damage as she can. She then takes a remarkably sensible option of steering very clear of danger, whilst training to be fitter and stronger, just in case danger doesn't keep its distance from her.
She is scarily good at protecting herself, and not afraid to push past the squeamish and get her hands dirty.
In Relative Strangers, vampires are at no point romanticised. Sure, they have a grace and beauty about them when they choose it, but when it gets down to it they show their true nature. They are monsters that are driven by blood and pain. With possibly a few sophisticated exceptions, vampires need to be killed, before they have a chance to kill.
It is again, a refreshing reminder that these are monsters and supposed to be the bad guys.
What I wasn't so sure about was the overall plot arc of the story. It felt like it was going for something much more contemporary, a day-to-day life experience for Sophie, who just happens to get involved in the world of vampires along the way. Which, ok, may be what Treharne was going for, but for most of the book it didn't feel like it was building towards anything in particular. It was more like being a fly on the wall in Sophie's life as she makes certain decisions and wallows on previous friendships and choices made, where you feel as ignorant to the bigger picture as Sophie does.
I will say that it does improve around the 70% mark, when the action and danger starts to lean towards something much bigger and more mysterious. The last 30% of the book flew by, leaving me with a lot of questions.
I don't know whether it was just the Netgalley copy that I received (and if it is, let me know and I'll remove this section), but I felt it needed tidying up. There were sentences that had clearly been edited, but not rechecked and didn't make sense." And the speech marks were driving me crazy. "The reviewer sighed.
The last little niggle I had was with Tracy. The girl you dragged on holiday gets "mugged", is covered with blood, and possibly concussed; and you think it's ok to leave her with some people you hardly know so you can shag the sexy musician?!
I know it was necessary to get her out of the way for that part of the plot to move forwards, but that had me fuming for ages!
So overall, I would recommend you give it a go. It's not the most fast-paced, but there's a lot of world-building that goes on that I think will lead to something pretty epic in the sequel(s).
November 16, 2016
I'm generally more of a fan of outright and undefinable horror than vampires or urban fantasy, so I was pleasantly surprised by this. I have a habit of giving up on books if they aren't up to scratch but read this one straight through.
In terms of the novel's structure, it's well organised to tell the story, so it feels like you're in safe hands. I'd have probably made a few cuts and additions, but that could just be my own prejudices - I favour story elements that push things forward so sometimes felt bogged down with minor details (how many cups of tea, what was bought at the shops etc) - and yet perhaps that's important for the characterisation of Sophie, the protagonist.
I think Sophie is a good creation, because she's likeable, believable, and often witty. I don't think the cover of my book does her character justice, since the cover showed a very attractive girl that it would be hard to believe only had one boyfriend. Sophie is a more rounded character than that, no glamour model, but rather someone who can slip into the background of day-to-day life. That means it will be interesting to see how her story goes in later books (which I haven't read yet). The arch-vampire Ferrers is also well done, with just the right mix of control, power and politeness to make him convincing as an ambivalent and charismatic villain. Again, it's obvious that the story will go on to do interesting things with him in future books.
Who's this book for? Despite a few bloody scenes I think it is suitable for adults but also as a young adult book (since there is nothing in here that is any more gruesome than The Hunger Games). Any gore is counteracted by the matter-of-factness of how to clean it up afterwards, as if it's an everyday event. I liked that element, carting binbags out of the house while chatting to a neighbour.
The story is split across three main locations. The Welsh setting is believable and recognisable to me; the Coventry suburbs less so. A chunk of the book is set in Antwerp, and I'd really have liked more of a flavour of the place. I didn't know much about it even by the end, perhaps because most of the scenes there are set in an Irish pub - it didn't feel like there was enough use of Antwerp as a setting, but that's a minor niggle.
Overall it makes a good introduction to a larger story, setting the main characters in space and motion and preparing us for the next stage. I'm definitely curious to see what happens next in Sophie's life (or death/undeath).
In terms of the novel's structure, it's well organised to tell the story, so it feels like you're in safe hands. I'd have probably made a few cuts and additions, but that could just be my own prejudices - I favour story elements that push things forward so sometimes felt bogged down with minor details (how many cups of tea, what was bought at the shops etc) - and yet perhaps that's important for the characterisation of Sophie, the protagonist.
I think Sophie is a good creation, because she's likeable, believable, and often witty. I don't think the cover of my book does her character justice, since the cover showed a very attractive girl that it would be hard to believe only had one boyfriend. Sophie is a more rounded character than that, no glamour model, but rather someone who can slip into the background of day-to-day life. That means it will be interesting to see how her story goes in later books (which I haven't read yet). The arch-vampire Ferrers is also well done, with just the right mix of control, power and politeness to make him convincing as an ambivalent and charismatic villain. Again, it's obvious that the story will go on to do interesting things with him in future books.
Who's this book for? Despite a few bloody scenes I think it is suitable for adults but also as a young adult book (since there is nothing in here that is any more gruesome than The Hunger Games). Any gore is counteracted by the matter-of-factness of how to clean it up afterwards, as if it's an everyday event. I liked that element, carting binbags out of the house while chatting to a neighbour.
The story is split across three main locations. The Welsh setting is believable and recognisable to me; the Coventry suburbs less so. A chunk of the book is set in Antwerp, and I'd really have liked more of a flavour of the place. I didn't know much about it even by the end, perhaps because most of the scenes there are set in an Irish pub - it didn't feel like there was enough use of Antwerp as a setting, but that's a minor niggle.
Overall it makes a good introduction to a larger story, setting the main characters in space and motion and preparing us for the next stage. I'm definitely curious to see what happens next in Sophie's life (or death/undeath).
March 2, 2015
https://koeur.wordpress.com/2015/03/0...
Publisher: Helen Treharne
Publishing Date: August 2014
ISBN: 9781502369437
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 3.6/5
Publisher Description: It’s no small surprise then when, Sophie, on a post relationship break-up, mini-break to Antwerp, she pursues a pair of thieves who steal her friend’s handbag. But this is only the start of her world being turned upside down. Ripped from the streets into a dark alley she is violently attacked, barely alive when quirky Irish bar worker, Michael Kelly, stumbles across the scene.
Review: Here is a writer that has a lot of talent but needs a good editor in order to limit the amount of dialogue, coupled with finite descriptions. I get that this is a UK thing where getting dragged through verbose renditions about your job, boyfriend, cats and internal ruminations about life in general are pretty standard fare. The length to which this is rendered overshadows a wonderful story line, and I suspect, an interesting character. Usually (who am I kidding, always) I give a novel a DNF with excessive dialogue, yet for some reason I couldn’t put it down. Sophie is interesting when she is revealed through the movement, which sadly, is sporadic. The few scenes where she has confrontations with vampires is really well done, then its back to cats, neighbors, giving a months notice at her job and where she lives and pining about Mickey. While making a cheese sandwich for an upset neighbor and spying undies in her friends handbag may be interesting topics for octogenarians and perverts, it really holds no relevancy and undermines a good story line.
So beneath all the dialogue and inconsequential crap lurks a really good story, interesting characters that need to expand in scope and good world building if not suffocated by dialogue. One of my notes while reading this is that it should be called “Bridget Jones, Vampire Slayer”. I had a good laugh when Sophie mentions the same thing.
I am going to go out on a limb here, in hopes that the movement picks up in the series and give this 4 stars, so don’t let me down, Treharne.
Publisher: Helen Treharne
Publishing Date: August 2014
ISBN: 9781502369437
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 3.6/5
Publisher Description: It’s no small surprise then when, Sophie, on a post relationship break-up, mini-break to Antwerp, she pursues a pair of thieves who steal her friend’s handbag. But this is only the start of her world being turned upside down. Ripped from the streets into a dark alley she is violently attacked, barely alive when quirky Irish bar worker, Michael Kelly, stumbles across the scene.
Review: Here is a writer that has a lot of talent but needs a good editor in order to limit the amount of dialogue, coupled with finite descriptions. I get that this is a UK thing where getting dragged through verbose renditions about your job, boyfriend, cats and internal ruminations about life in general are pretty standard fare. The length to which this is rendered overshadows a wonderful story line, and I suspect, an interesting character. Usually (who am I kidding, always) I give a novel a DNF with excessive dialogue, yet for some reason I couldn’t put it down. Sophie is interesting when she is revealed through the movement, which sadly, is sporadic. The few scenes where she has confrontations with vampires is really well done, then its back to cats, neighbors, giving a months notice at her job and where she lives and pining about Mickey. While making a cheese sandwich for an upset neighbor and spying undies in her friends handbag may be interesting topics for octogenarians and perverts, it really holds no relevancy and undermines a good story line.
So beneath all the dialogue and inconsequential crap lurks a really good story, interesting characters that need to expand in scope and good world building if not suffocated by dialogue. One of my notes while reading this is that it should be called “Bridget Jones, Vampire Slayer”. I had a good laugh when Sophie mentions the same thing.
I am going to go out on a limb here, in hopes that the movement picks up in the series and give this 4 stars, so don’t let me down, Treharne.
November 17, 2017
Another different take on a vampire story. However, I think the next book is going to be a 5 since the epilogue is really getting me curious with Kasper.
November 29, 2017
Good readable book with a likable heroine but the vampires are pitiful and the love interest (?) is pathetic. All three stars are for Sophie and the writing.
April 2, 2018
3,5*
It was a nice story. A normal girl without superpowers trying to cope with discovering about and fighting off vampires.
It has interested me enough to also get the second and third book.
It was a nice story. A normal girl without superpowers trying to cope with discovering about and fighting off vampires.
It has interested me enough to also get the second and third book.
November 16, 2014
There are so many vampire novels out there that it is so hard to sift through the rubbish to find the real gems, but the time and effort is worth it when you come across a book like Relative Strangers. Filled with the aspects of thriller and suspense fiction mixed with a healthy dose of vampires, this book stands head and shoulders above modern vampire fiction and has the reader gripped from start to finish.
The setting of Belgium is really well researched so that rather than feeling that you are in a two-dimensional place that is merely a backdrop to the story, the setting comes alive and it transports you from wherever you are to the sleepy fairytale setting that Belgium provides.
This book is well-paced throughout with highs and lows that give you a chance to catch your breath. This coupled with the nicely rounded main characters of Sophie and Mickey who are thrown together in the best traditions of fiction and swept into the almost domino effect of events.
The main plot line is simple enough that it allows Treharne to weave together complex subplots that make this book so entertaining to read. The writing style is so easy to read and full of colloquialisms that really endear the book to the reader.
The most refreshing thing about this book is the vampires. The Twilight model of friendly, attractive and loveable creatures could not be further from Treharne’s mind when she wrote this. The feel of the vampires from fiction by Anne Rice and Bram Stoker come roaring back to the forefront of vampire lore with enough bite to make you think twice about leaving your bedroom window open at night.
This book’s charm lies in how well Treharne takes the classic vampire novel and brings a fresh modern twist and some much needed fresh blood to the modern vampire novel.
The setting of Belgium is really well researched so that rather than feeling that you are in a two-dimensional place that is merely a backdrop to the story, the setting comes alive and it transports you from wherever you are to the sleepy fairytale setting that Belgium provides.
This book is well-paced throughout with highs and lows that give you a chance to catch your breath. This coupled with the nicely rounded main characters of Sophie and Mickey who are thrown together in the best traditions of fiction and swept into the almost domino effect of events.
The main plot line is simple enough that it allows Treharne to weave together complex subplots that make this book so entertaining to read. The writing style is so easy to read and full of colloquialisms that really endear the book to the reader.
The most refreshing thing about this book is the vampires. The Twilight model of friendly, attractive and loveable creatures could not be further from Treharne’s mind when she wrote this. The feel of the vampires from fiction by Anne Rice and Bram Stoker come roaring back to the forefront of vampire lore with enough bite to make you think twice about leaving your bedroom window open at night.
This book’s charm lies in how well Treharne takes the classic vampire novel and brings a fresh modern twist and some much needed fresh blood to the modern vampire novel.
October 12, 2014
Must Read! A new spin on an old favorite!
All Sophie wanted was an entertaining vacation to recover from work and a recent heartbreak and yet she got so much more than she bargained for. Treharne writing creates a solid protagonist that makes you want to befriend her for her humor, her bravery, and her willingness to fight.
The plot is simple and yet contains an added level of complexity in the subplot, causing me to wonder what’s coming next. I very much enjoyed simplistic style in which the story was written, my heart connecting quickly to Sophie’s in her struggle to form some sense of normalcy after tragedy.
Sophie and Mickey – just a fantastic friendship that started from a night at the bar, a shared tragedy and grew into a longing for more. Through the course of the book I found myself huffing at the distance between the two budding lovers, wanting for Sophie what we all want for ourselves – companionship.
I LOVE the additional story lines that run throughout the narrative, giving you a momentary break from the main characters and letting you ponder as to how this new introduction of cast members plays into the story as a whole.
I must say that this was nothing like I expected it to be. I’m quite the vampire junky and to pick up a vampire book is something I’m willing to do any day of the week. The twist is in the way Treharne portrays the creatures, truly giving them the ominous, vicious structure that Bram created in the original Dracula. No shiny creatures here with thoughts of love and happiness.
This is a great book for anyone wanting a solid story and fantastic plausible characterization. I loved it and will be reading it again soon!
All Sophie wanted was an entertaining vacation to recover from work and a recent heartbreak and yet she got so much more than she bargained for. Treharne writing creates a solid protagonist that makes you want to befriend her for her humor, her bravery, and her willingness to fight.
The plot is simple and yet contains an added level of complexity in the subplot, causing me to wonder what’s coming next. I very much enjoyed simplistic style in which the story was written, my heart connecting quickly to Sophie’s in her struggle to form some sense of normalcy after tragedy.
Sophie and Mickey – just a fantastic friendship that started from a night at the bar, a shared tragedy and grew into a longing for more. Through the course of the book I found myself huffing at the distance between the two budding lovers, wanting for Sophie what we all want for ourselves – companionship.
I LOVE the additional story lines that run throughout the narrative, giving you a momentary break from the main characters and letting you ponder as to how this new introduction of cast members plays into the story as a whole.
I must say that this was nothing like I expected it to be. I’m quite the vampire junky and to pick up a vampire book is something I’m willing to do any day of the week. The twist is in the way Treharne portrays the creatures, truly giving them the ominous, vicious structure that Bram created in the original Dracula. No shiny creatures here with thoughts of love and happiness.
This is a great book for anyone wanting a solid story and fantastic plausible characterization. I loved it and will be reading it again soon!
January 31, 2015
Relative Strangers was a pretty unique take on the world of vampires. It doesn’t break the mold exactly, but it is interesting and I thought Sophie was a fantastic character.
She is utterly practical and quite hilarious in her own way. The book starts off with a bang, but the set up bordered on annoying because it took forever to get going once we started to delve into the story. It was past tense and so it was kind of choppy in sections of the book. Plus, there were only a few chapters with action and plot movement. For the most part Sophie hangs around her apartment anxious and looking over her shoulder for vampires. It did start to get kind of annoying after awhile, I wanted her to get some self-defense classes or something, but just stop moping and take her life back!
There are also chapters from some vampire perspectives, and those were intriguing and wonderful. I’m pretty sure I’ve figured at the twist with Kasper and Ferrers. Which will definitely be interesting in the next book.
The romance with Mickey was less fantastic. It’s not that he isn’t a great character because he was rather sweet. But I felt like Sophie spent too much time dwelling on him and what could be. Especially after he stopped returning her calls and emails. It was nice to know why he dropped off the face of the earth but ultimately it felt awkward when he ended up coming back into her life.
The premise was very promising, and was mostly realized. I’m taking a star off though for the slow parts and extra scenes that weren’t needed. I’m very excited for the next book, and for all the loose ends getting tied up. 4 out of 5 stars.
She is utterly practical and quite hilarious in her own way. The book starts off with a bang, but the set up bordered on annoying because it took forever to get going once we started to delve into the story. It was past tense and so it was kind of choppy in sections of the book. Plus, there were only a few chapters with action and plot movement. For the most part Sophie hangs around her apartment anxious and looking over her shoulder for vampires. It did start to get kind of annoying after awhile, I wanted her to get some self-defense classes or something, but just stop moping and take her life back!
There are also chapters from some vampire perspectives, and those were intriguing and wonderful. I’m pretty sure I’ve figured at the twist with Kasper and Ferrers. Which will definitely be interesting in the next book.
The romance with Mickey was less fantastic. It’s not that he isn’t a great character because he was rather sweet. But I felt like Sophie spent too much time dwelling on him and what could be. Especially after he stopped returning her calls and emails. It was nice to know why he dropped off the face of the earth but ultimately it felt awkward when he ended up coming back into her life.
The premise was very promising, and was mostly realized. I’m taking a star off though for the slow parts and extra scenes that weren’t needed. I’m very excited for the next book, and for all the loose ends getting tied up. 4 out of 5 stars.
September 28, 2014
A vampire tale with bite!
Relative Strangers is an interesting read full of action, intrigue and vampires! Ms. Treharne takes a classic genre, turns it on its head, and sends it for a spin. The story opens with Sophie barricaded in her room, heart pounding and afraid for her life.
We quickly are taken to Belgium, where Sophie encounters Mickey. The two hit it off, and have their own share of hair-raising encounters - all of which constitute their "first date." Ms. Treharne has clearly researched (or has been to) the locations described in the book. Descriptions are vivid and visceral. and the heart pulls at Sophie's reunion with her mother in Wales.
I felt that the book was slightly longer than it needed to be, but there was enough action to keep the pace moving. Relative Strangers is a well-written story, but could have benefitted from one further round of editing as there were some duplicate/additional words and spelling errors that might have been removed in the final proof. Having spent a portion of my life in Great Britain, it was easy for me to pick up the slang and lingo, but readers without that experience may struggle to get the full meaning of some paragraphs.
Overall, though, this book is an interesting read that will make you laugh and tuck the bedsheets up around your neck for protection. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a vampire tale with bite. Ms. Treharne has crafted characters worth following, and I am looking forward to the next instalment in the series.
Relative Strangers is an interesting read full of action, intrigue and vampires! Ms. Treharne takes a classic genre, turns it on its head, and sends it for a spin. The story opens with Sophie barricaded in her room, heart pounding and afraid for her life.
We quickly are taken to Belgium, where Sophie encounters Mickey. The two hit it off, and have their own share of hair-raising encounters - all of which constitute their "first date." Ms. Treharne has clearly researched (or has been to) the locations described in the book. Descriptions are vivid and visceral. and the heart pulls at Sophie's reunion with her mother in Wales.
I felt that the book was slightly longer than it needed to be, but there was enough action to keep the pace moving. Relative Strangers is a well-written story, but could have benefitted from one further round of editing as there were some duplicate/additional words and spelling errors that might have been removed in the final proof. Having spent a portion of my life in Great Britain, it was easy for me to pick up the slang and lingo, but readers without that experience may struggle to get the full meaning of some paragraphs.
Overall, though, this book is an interesting read that will make you laugh and tuck the bedsheets up around your neck for protection. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a vampire tale with bite. Ms. Treharne has crafted characters worth following, and I am looking forward to the next instalment in the series.
February 4, 2016
3.5 Stars
Sophie has a plain and kind of boring life but she is happy. Going on a long weekend trip she learns that there is more to the world and not all of it is good.
Mickey is a sweet barman she met on that trip and after their experiences together the two formed a bond even from afar until suddenly his emails and texts stop.
Coming back to her apartment and job her life there no longer seemed fulfilled and she desperately wanted to go back home. But before she can do that though the craziness that she found on her holiday arrives on her own doorstep.
Sophie is a determined young woman when she wants to be and while it seems like her survival skills are not the smartest at times she does seem to be able to take care of herself.
The story started out in the present time for a bit before falling back in time and from then on the story seemed to move forward again. Mostly it was easy to keep track of the timeline but there were a few times I was left wondering where something fit into the storyline expecially the last scene told from a different person's perspective and ended up leaving more questions than anything making the story more of a cliffhanger.
Overall I enjoyed the story and seeing how Sophie learned to deal with her new reality and I am interested to see more although I do hope that the timeline is a bit more clear cut in the next addition to the series.
Sophie has a plain and kind of boring life but she is happy. Going on a long weekend trip she learns that there is more to the world and not all of it is good.
Mickey is a sweet barman she met on that trip and after their experiences together the two formed a bond even from afar until suddenly his emails and texts stop.
Coming back to her apartment and job her life there no longer seemed fulfilled and she desperately wanted to go back home. But before she can do that though the craziness that she found on her holiday arrives on her own doorstep.
Sophie is a determined young woman when she wants to be and while it seems like her survival skills are not the smartest at times she does seem to be able to take care of herself.
The story started out in the present time for a bit before falling back in time and from then on the story seemed to move forward again. Mostly it was easy to keep track of the timeline but there were a few times I was left wondering where something fit into the storyline expecially the last scene told from a different person's perspective and ended up leaving more questions than anything making the story more of a cliffhanger.
Overall I enjoyed the story and seeing how Sophie learned to deal with her new reality and I am interested to see more although I do hope that the timeline is a bit more clear cut in the next addition to the series.
December 30, 2014
I've certainly read my share of vampire books, but this was somewhat of a new take and a fun read.
Sophie is an easy character to like. She's not perfect - she occasionally acts before she thinks, struggles with the right decisions, and is completely insecure when it comes to men - but that's what makes it easy to relate to her character. The way her relationship with Mickey gradually developed was very believable and a refreshing change from what I've seen in other books of this genre. Sophie's questionable choices got her into some interesting predicaments in this book, but she never backed down from challenges and played the hand she was dealt.
There were some repetitive words and incorrect word choices in some areas that may have been missed in editing and I felt like the first part of the book contained some backstory that could have been woven into the storyline a little better instead of having several pages of explanation about Sophie's life.
Relative Strangers has some good laughs, a lot of action, very likable characters, and a nice twist at the end that sets up the next book in this series. A very enjoyable read!
This review is based on a digital copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Sophie is an easy character to like. She's not perfect - she occasionally acts before she thinks, struggles with the right decisions, and is completely insecure when it comes to men - but that's what makes it easy to relate to her character. The way her relationship with Mickey gradually developed was very believable and a refreshing change from what I've seen in other books of this genre. Sophie's questionable choices got her into some interesting predicaments in this book, but she never backed down from challenges and played the hand she was dealt.
There were some repetitive words and incorrect word choices in some areas that may have been missed in editing and I felt like the first part of the book contained some backstory that could have been woven into the storyline a little better instead of having several pages of explanation about Sophie's life.
Relative Strangers has some good laughs, a lot of action, very likable characters, and a nice twist at the end that sets up the next book in this series. A very enjoyable read!
This review is based on a digital copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 30, 2016
***THIS BOOK WAS PROVIDED TO ME BY THE AUTHOR BUT THIS IS NO WAY INFLUENCES MY OPINION***
This is my first book from Helen Treharne but it won't be my last. It takes a lot to impress me with a vampire story but she managed to do it. Did I get a real Buffy vibe from it, Absolutely, but in a more grown up way (I mean the protagonist is 23 - which helped).
It's dark, it's witty, and Sophie drinks a lot of tea - which amused me (being English myself, even though I would rather have a coffee).
I am definitely intrigued to see where this story goes. The ONLY thing that stopped this being a 5 star read for me was just occasionally the pacing felt a little off ..... and that took me out of the moment, which means in all fairness I can't give it a 5 BUT it didn't stop me reading the whole thing in one sitting.
That being said vampire fans should definitely look to pick this up. I wasn't disappointed and I don't think you will be either!
An extremely well earned 4 stars from me!
V""V
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official.
For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
This is my first book from Helen Treharne but it won't be my last. It takes a lot to impress me with a vampire story but she managed to do it. Did I get a real Buffy vibe from it, Absolutely, but in a more grown up way (I mean the protagonist is 23 - which helped).
It's dark, it's witty, and Sophie drinks a lot of tea - which amused me (being English myself, even though I would rather have a coffee).
I am definitely intrigued to see where this story goes. The ONLY thing that stopped this being a 5 star read for me was just occasionally the pacing felt a little off ..... and that took me out of the moment, which means in all fairness I can't give it a 5 BUT it didn't stop me reading the whole thing in one sitting.
That being said vampire fans should definitely look to pick this up. I wasn't disappointed and I don't think you will be either!
An extremely well earned 4 stars from me!
V""V
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official.
For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
December 2, 2014
Sophie Morgan is your everyday average 23 year old. She finished University, works hard, is loyal to her family and friends. On a trip post-break up/girl road trip she encounters the impossible. She chases down the thieves who took her friends hand bag, but what happens next is what turns her world upside down!
Relative Strangers is somewhat refreshing. Sophie has no idea what is really out there until she takes a trip with her friend Tracy where she is attacked. She cannot believe what attacked her but she has no other choice but to call it what it is. I enjoyed this book but there were some repetitive words or phrases that were missed in editing. I also think it was a bit longer than necessary, but who knows it might be important in the next book which I will definitely be looking out for. There are so many working parts to this novel that I hope all it explained in the next book or throughout the series...such as Mr. Ferrer and Kasper, Sophie and Mickey, Rachel and Richard...so many interesting characters!
*Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock!
Relative Strangers is somewhat refreshing. Sophie has no idea what is really out there until she takes a trip with her friend Tracy where she is attacked. She cannot believe what attacked her but she has no other choice but to call it what it is. I enjoyed this book but there were some repetitive words or phrases that were missed in editing. I also think it was a bit longer than necessary, but who knows it might be important in the next book which I will definitely be looking out for. There are so many working parts to this novel that I hope all it explained in the next book or throughout the series...such as Mr. Ferrer and Kasper, Sophie and Mickey, Rachel and Richard...so many interesting characters!
*Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock!
December 2, 2014
Sophie Morgan is your everyday average 23 year old. She finished University, works hard, is loyal to her family and friends. On a trip post-break up/girl road trip she encounters the impossible. She chases down the thieves who took her friends hand bag, but what happens next is what turns her world upside down!
Relative Strangers is somewhat refreshing. Sophie has no idea what is really out there until she takes a trip with her friend Tracy where she is attacked. She cannot believe what attacked her but she has no other choice but to call it what it is. I enjoyed this book but there were some repetitive words or phrases that were missed in editing. I also think it was a bit longer than necessary, but who knows it might be important in the next book which I will definitely be looking out for. There are so many working parts to this novel that I hope all it explained in the next book or throughout the series...such as Mr. Ferrer and Kasper, Sophie and Mickey, Rachel and Richard...so many interesting characters!
*Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock!
Relative Strangers is somewhat refreshing. Sophie has no idea what is really out there until she takes a trip with her friend Tracy where she is attacked. She cannot believe what attacked her but she has no other choice but to call it what it is. I enjoyed this book but there were some repetitive words or phrases that were missed in editing. I also think it was a bit longer than necessary, but who knows it might be important in the next book which I will definitely be looking out for. There are so many working parts to this novel that I hope all it explained in the next book or throughout the series...such as Mr. Ferrer and Kasper, Sophie and Mickey, Rachel and Richard...so many interesting characters!
*Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock!
September 20, 2014
Let me first say I’m not usually into Vampire stories, there seems to be glut of them at the moment. However, Relative Strangers is a different kettle of fish altogether. The story follows the exploits of our hero, Sophie Morgan, an ordinary young woman, living a normal life in the West Midlands. She has a good life, a career, is in a relationship, money in the bank – she couldn’t be happier. When her relationship fails, her life changes however. In Antwerp with a friend, trying to forget her loss, she encounters a pair of thieves who have stolen her friend’s handbag and is bitten in the process. And of course turns into a vampire. What follows is a great tongue in cheek story that also has scary moments. Well thought out, and with an interesting central character, Relative Strangers has certainly changed my mind about Vampire novels.
January 3, 2015
With Relative Strangers, Helen Treharne has created an intriguing story of a young woman who learns how to defend herself - without losing herself and her values. Relative Strangers is an entertaining and gripping read with a very likeable main character. She meets new persons, her instincts tell her who to trust. Helen Treharne develops the story pleasantly - it has a good flow. I was drawn into the story right away, was pretty close to all events. This first instalment is a very promising start of a series. A minor issue: 6-7 not too relevant words are missing (at least in my version). Relative Strangers is a great read for paranormal and/or new adult fans. Also an interesting reads for those who read their fair share of vampire stories
This a book to read again. Recommended.
4.2 stars
This a book to read again. Recommended.
4.2 stars
March 12, 2015
Relative Strangers by Helen Treharne is book one of the Sophie Morgan series. Sophie is an ordinary girl going on holiday, and finds out there's more things that haunt the night than she realized.
In this universe, vampires walk in the sun and don't have to kill to survive. Although sometimes they like to. Sophie has a traumatic event where she actually survives a vampire attack, and now she's fairly paranoid they might be everywhere. She's kind of right.
The book has awesome moments of epic highs where Sophie and Mickey fight a vampire head on, not as easy as they might wish. But it also has kind of low, slow moments where we get a lot of Sophie being paranoid but nothing really happens.
I liked the book, overall. It wasn't the normal Paranormal Romance that so many vampire stories have become :).
In this universe, vampires walk in the sun and don't have to kill to survive. Although sometimes they like to. Sophie has a traumatic event where she actually survives a vampire attack, and now she's fairly paranoid they might be everywhere. She's kind of right.
The book has awesome moments of epic highs where Sophie and Mickey fight a vampire head on, not as easy as they might wish. But it also has kind of low, slow moments where we get a lot of Sophie being paranoid but nothing really happens.
I liked the book, overall. It wasn't the normal Paranormal Romance that so many vampire stories have become :).
March 17, 2015
I liked this book, there were lots of interesting and exciting moments. Treharne makes the characters seem real. So many vampires are dreamy and such a catch in stories nowadays, it was refreshing to read about them as monsters. Sophie was a strong female so I really enjoyed her. I think I had a few things figured out well before the end of the book, but no spoilers here. There were a few chapters that were a bit slow, going through mundane everyday things in Sophie's life once she's back home.
Overall, I did like the read and would recommend it! It's a short,entertaining read.
Overall, I did like the read and would recommend it! It's a short,entertaining read.
March 25, 2015
I was not really sure how to review this book as I am still kind of unsure how I truly feel. I like the refreshing way she has her characters. At no point is it to be assumed that these vampires are anything but the monsters that they are. No sparkling, romantic leads are they! But, on the same hand, the story lacks some warmth to it. I am all for a butt kicking lead character, but I would like some reason to the story. I just felt it was a story that was there without too much substance.
April 28, 2015
Relative Strangers is not your typical vampire book, and that was the main draw for me. Sophie in an engaging main character who you can relate to--she's just a normal person who finds herself in a rather extraordinary position. I enjoyed the author's take on vampires and how Sophie managed to find ways to defeat them. It was a little slow in places, but the excellent writing more than made up for that. I have added the second book of this series to my to-be-read pile.
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