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Oylen City #1
Until the Heart Stops
In the city of Oylen, a vampire contingent called The Covenant has ruled for centuries. Their strictest law? No vampire can drink from a living source. This ban on blood drinking created the Souzterain and the black market blood dens that have now run for centuries to give vampires a taste of what they crave most.
Lilith Searah runs one such business. Her life is constant competition with the other dens, the rules of the Covenant, and the danger her inherited profession poses. But when she catches the eye of a powerful immortal and anonymous gifts arrive, she’ll find there’s something more perilous than running an illegal blood den.
Thrust into the ancient world of vampires, Lilith realizes that the nighttime immortals have been keeping dangerous secrets. The only hope she can keep is that the Covenant can be destroyed and that Lilith and her immortal can finally be together.
That is, if she can make it out alive.
Lilith Searah runs one such business. Her life is constant competition with the other dens, the rules of the Covenant, and the danger her inherited profession poses. But when she catches the eye of a powerful immortal and anonymous gifts arrive, she’ll find there’s something more perilous than running an illegal blood den.
Thrust into the ancient world of vampires, Lilith realizes that the nighttime immortals have been keeping dangerous secrets. The only hope she can keep is that the Covenant can be destroyed and that Lilith and her immortal can finally be together.
That is, if she can make it out alive.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 16, 2025
214 people are currently reading
3824 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
October 7, 2025
4 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I would drop to my knees as the most pious do and devour you like a sacrament.
Until the Heart Stops is a devastatingly sensual Vampire romance steeped in longing and forbidden desire.
Topped off with a unique lore and a cast of intriguing characters, this is a perfect read to devour in one sitting when you feel like cozying up on a rainy October day (or any day basically).
It's generously sprinkled with spice and not to mention the MMC whose words drip like honey. I won't spoil much but he'll make you swoon alongside the FMC.
The writing alone was lush and poetic that every feeling and emotion the characters have experienced was felt deeply. I could almost sense the magnitude of how passionate and ravenous they were for each other.
I caution sensitive readers to check out the content warnings before picking this up.
I would drop to my knees as the most pious do and devour you like a sacrament.
Until the Heart Stops is a devastatingly sensual Vampire romance steeped in longing and forbidden desire.
Topped off with a unique lore and a cast of intriguing characters, this is a perfect read to devour in one sitting when you feel like cozying up on a rainy October day (or any day basically).
It's generously sprinkled with spice and not to mention the MMC whose words drip like honey. I won't spoil much but he'll make you swoon alongside the FMC.
The writing alone was lush and poetic that every feeling and emotion the characters have experienced was felt deeply. I could almost sense the magnitude of how passionate and ravenous they were for each other.
I caution sensitive readers to check out the content warnings before picking this up.
October 10, 2025
Man, I just had this one built up in my head so much. I was really looking forward to it. With the tease of Twilight meets Pride and Prejudice. Aching longing and secret rendezvous. I was hyped for it.
While I won't deny the aesthetics of it all were very intriguing, I felt like there was so much trying to be conveyed, and not enough romance between the main characters. They went from angsty tension and secret touches to bonded for life very quickly. And while yes, that is what happens for Fated Mates sometimes, I didn't feel like I knew them well enough before we got there.
Specifically Callum, as we don't get he's POV until 50% into the book. I'm sure this was done to keep the mystery going but it meant that I didn't even understand his mission until it was already happening. I didn't accurately understand the stakes or who the Big Bad was.
Overall, I was disappointed. This short little story took me 5 days to read because I had to force myself to pick it up each time. I'm unsure if I'll read book 2.
3.5 Stars
3 on the spice scale
While I won't deny the aesthetics of it all were very intriguing, I felt like there was so much trying to be conveyed, and not enough romance between the main characters. They went from angsty tension and secret touches to bonded for life very quickly. And while yes, that is what happens for Fated Mates sometimes, I didn't feel like I knew them well enough before we got there.
Specifically Callum, as we don't get he's POV until 50% into the book. I'm sure this was done to keep the mystery going but it meant that I didn't even understand his mission until it was already happening. I didn't accurately understand the stakes or who the Big Bad was.
Overall, I was disappointed. This short little story took me 5 days to read because I had to force myself to pick it up each time. I'm unsure if I'll read book 2.
3.5 Stars
3 on the spice scale
August 9, 2025
Few stories leave me clutching my pearls and wiping sweat off my brow...
This one did just that.
This vampire romance is in a league of its own.
This is painfully romantic. It's desperate. All consuming. Passionate. Lustful. So intimate I felt like I was intruding.
In this world, the vampires are ruled by The Covenant. And they have outlawed vampires from drinking from a human source...
Black market blood dens have operated in secret for centuries to give vampires a taste of what they crave most...
Lilith... runs one such business. Her life is in constant danger by the inherited profession...
but when she starts to receive anonymous letters and gifts from a powerful immortal.... she’ll find there's far more danger and secrets out there than she ever realized before.
These are some of the most romantic love letters I. Have. Ever. Read.
"I wish nothing but your happiness and contentment. I hope that one day I might find myself worthy of basking within your light. It has been almost a millennium since I last saw the sun, but one moment of seeing your face and I find I do not miss its shine any more"
They left me speechless. The declarations of eternal love. The danger of these secret words. The allure of an unknown powerful admirer. I felt the desperation and desire in my bones.
I've never been so locked in to the allure of such a powerful and forbidden romance.
There is something so heartbreakingly romantic about a powerful immortal... who is so strong... the strongest of its kind... having a soft spot for his love. He would do anything to protect her. He is pure chiseled strength but to her he treats her as delicate as a flower.
"I am desperate for you, my darling, and all I do now is in the hope of one day being the male who might be worthy of possessing your heart, as you possess mine. You hold in your hands all of my greatest dreams. Within you the sun sets and the moon rises. You are the flame to which I light the candle of my immortality."
This is Pride & Prejudice meets Van Helsing. This is Bram Stoker's Dracula meets Crimson Peak. This is Interview with The Vampire meets Dracula Untold.
The aspects of immortality, the intimacy of feeding from a human, the otherness that challenges societal norms, the dangerous male with monster sharp teeth and questionable morals... should send you screaming in the other direction.
But not for me. I am running towards it with open arms. Drawn by a desire and passion deeper than anything my fragile human mind should be capable of.
I'm not just obsessed with this story; I am consumed by it. Haunted by it. Bloodthirsty for it.
And all I can say of the ending is this ... may the nights between now and the next book pass swiftly, for I am but a mortal, desperate to once more feel the pull of immortality and return to this dark intoxicating world again... as soon as possible.
This one did just that.
This vampire romance is in a league of its own.
This is painfully romantic. It's desperate. All consuming. Passionate. Lustful. So intimate I felt like I was intruding.
In this world, the vampires are ruled by The Covenant. And they have outlawed vampires from drinking from a human source...
Black market blood dens have operated in secret for centuries to give vampires a taste of what they crave most...
Lilith... runs one such business. Her life is in constant danger by the inherited profession...
but when she starts to receive anonymous letters and gifts from a powerful immortal.... she’ll find there's far more danger and secrets out there than she ever realized before.
These are some of the most romantic love letters I. Have. Ever. Read.
"I wish nothing but your happiness and contentment. I hope that one day I might find myself worthy of basking within your light. It has been almost a millennium since I last saw the sun, but one moment of seeing your face and I find I do not miss its shine any more"
They left me speechless. The declarations of eternal love. The danger of these secret words. The allure of an unknown powerful admirer. I felt the desperation and desire in my bones.
I've never been so locked in to the allure of such a powerful and forbidden romance.
There is something so heartbreakingly romantic about a powerful immortal... who is so strong... the strongest of its kind... having a soft spot for his love. He would do anything to protect her. He is pure chiseled strength but to her he treats her as delicate as a flower.
"I am desperate for you, my darling, and all I do now is in the hope of one day being the male who might be worthy of possessing your heart, as you possess mine. You hold in your hands all of my greatest dreams. Within you the sun sets and the moon rises. You are the flame to which I light the candle of my immortality."
This is Pride & Prejudice meets Van Helsing. This is Bram Stoker's Dracula meets Crimson Peak. This is Interview with The Vampire meets Dracula Untold.
The aspects of immortality, the intimacy of feeding from a human, the otherness that challenges societal norms, the dangerous male with monster sharp teeth and questionable morals... should send you screaming in the other direction.
But not for me. I am running towards it with open arms. Drawn by a desire and passion deeper than anything my fragile human mind should be capable of.
I'm not just obsessed with this story; I am consumed by it. Haunted by it. Bloodthirsty for it.
And all I can say of the ending is this ... may the nights between now and the next book pass swiftly, for I am but a mortal, desperate to once more feel the pull of immortality and return to this dark intoxicating world again... as soon as possible.
September 20, 2025
3.75⭐️ This one was a little tricky for me to review because, at first, I felt totally lost in the sauce. I don’t know if it was just my mood (I’ve been fighting off a bit of a reading slump), but the beginning threw a lot of characters, creatures, and species at me all at once. And listen and one thing about meeeee is I love a good glossary, and there wasn’t one, so I kind of felt like I was missing something important. That said, the deeper I got into the story, the more I realized those details weren’t as crucial as I thought. Maybe it really was just a me problem??? Idkkkk
By the halfway point, though, I was hooked. The premise is so cool, these vampires are not allowed to feed on any living source so the act of feeding is very taboo which made it even hotter.
Even though the characters didn’t actually spend a ton of time together (letters back and forth instead), those letters were dreamy as hell, I highlighted every single one he sent her. And then there were some seriously hot moments. Listen, I’m unashamed about my blood kink I will foam at the mouth every time someone sinks their fangs in. Add in coffin sex? Consider me deceased.(pun intended??😂)
For a short novella, this was a fun read. Once it picked up, I was definitely invested, even if the pacing felt a little uneven slow in the beginning and then fast at the end, so it gave me a bit of whiplash. I also wish I got to know some of the side characters more since there were quite a few of them.
I did really love Lilith. And Callum? I would let that vampire do unspeakable things to with that cane and those fangs.
Even though their relationship moved quickly, the chemistry was undeniable. You could really feel that deep, soul-level bond, and I just eat that up every time.
If you’re looking for something short, spicy (with very fun kinks🩸⚰️) and a little darkly romantic this is a perfect pick especially for a fall read.
By the halfway point, though, I was hooked. The premise is so cool, these vampires are not allowed to feed on any living source so the act of feeding is very taboo which made it even hotter.
Even though the characters didn’t actually spend a ton of time together (letters back and forth instead), those letters were dreamy as hell, I highlighted every single one he sent her. And then there were some seriously hot moments. Listen, I’m unashamed about my blood kink I will foam at the mouth every time someone sinks their fangs in. Add in coffin sex? Consider me deceased.(pun intended??😂)
For a short novella, this was a fun read. Once it picked up, I was definitely invested, even if the pacing felt a little uneven slow in the beginning and then fast at the end, so it gave me a bit of whiplash. I also wish I got to know some of the side characters more since there were quite a few of them.
I did really love Lilith. And Callum? I would let that vampire do unspeakable things to with that cane and those fangs.
Even though their relationship moved quickly, the chemistry was undeniable. You could really feel that deep, soul-level bond, and I just eat that up every time.
If you’re looking for something short, spicy (with very fun kinks🩸⚰️) and a little darkly romantic this is a perfect pick especially for a fall read.
September 17, 2025
Get ready to sink your teeth into this one. Until the Heart Stops is delicious and dangerously sexy. 🩸
"Immortality was nothing without her."
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ paranormal romantasy
✨ witch x vampire
✨ forbidden love
✨ secret admirer + love letters
✨ gift giving as foreplay
✨ yearning / pining
✨ touch her and die
✨ 4/5 🌶️
✨ somnophilia, mind to mind sex, blood play, coffin sex, primal play, chase
✨ rich world building + unique lore
✨ divine mythology
✨ gothic atmosphere
✨ amazing side characters
✨ HEA
✨ novella-length standalone
My Thoughts:
This might be my favorite story Gillian has written! The premise alone had me hooked. Vampires banned from drinking live blood, black-market dens, and a mysterious immortal admirer??? Hell yes! But what really sucked me in once I started reading was the gothic and dangerous world brought to life by writing so atmospheric it practically drips off the page. I could see the flicker of candlelight and hear the echo of footsteps in shadowed alleys. I was so immersed in the story that it felt like I was there.
I absolutely ADORE the MCs: Lilith and Callum. Lilith was a fantastic heroine. She's clever, kind, self-sufficient, and resilient. And as the owner of an illegal blood den, she's used to handling things on her own. But Lilith is also lonely and tired. She carries a heavy burden running the business and caring for her friends, so it was heartening when someone, aka Callum, shows up and starts taking care of her. 🫶
And Callum? The vampire of my dreams. He’s tall, gorgeous, impeccably dressed, powerful, intense, and protective, but in a way that never feels controlling. AND he woos Lilith with gifts and love letters before they even meet. Yes, actual flirty, thoughtful, sincere letters that left me (and Lilith) swooning.
"Within you the sun sets and the moon rises. You are the flame to which I light the candle of my immortality." So romantic. ❤️
The tension built through the secret admirer setup was truly *chef's kiss*. Callum also shares Lilith’s selflessness - caring deeply for those around him without demanding anything in return. This mutual devotion to others, paired with their unspoken need to be cared for themselves, is what makes their romance so compelling and authentic.
PS: I really enjoyed that Lilith doesn't resist the romance with Callum. I'm a fan of enemies-to-lovers, but the secret admirer/strangers-to-lovers trope was a nice change.
The spice is next level!!!! Gillian took some risks with the intimacy in this book, and it paid off. At some point, Callum and Lilith have a sort of psychic connection that leads to mind-to-mind sex that are some of the most creative and emotionally charged scenes I’ve ever read. The way she writes Lilith's physical and emotional experience is so vivid, it feels like you’re in her body. There’s also a lot of variety to the spice, including primal play and blood play, which will have you intrigued, breathless, and maybe a little more aware of a kink you didn’t know you had. And yes… there’s coffin sex. 🔥
The lore and world-building were fantastic. The setting feels old-world and gothic, yet it’s its own distinct otherworld. While the creatures (vampires, witches, lycans) have familiar traits and dynamics, their origins, histories, mythology, and political systems are completely fresh and unique. I was particularly obsessed with the story of the goddess Amayah and her love, Deimos. It added a divine, romantic origin to the entire supernatural world. I really hope we get to explore more of the gods in future books.
Also, the side characters? Perfection. Henry was my favorite! He’s hilarious and brings just the right amount of levity when things get intense. I laughed out loud every time he opened his mouth. I’m already a fan of Adrienne and Eamon and can't wait for their story. Eamon might be an even bigger simp than Callum, so I have a feeling I’m going to fall hard for him. Also, I am dying to learn more about Seth. There’s just something about him that intrigues me, and I have to know more.
Gillian, I’m so proud of you and amazed at how you’ve created another story that’s rich, sexy, and captivating. The Oylen City series already feels truly special, and I can’t wait to see what's next. 🖤
"Immortality was nothing without her."
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ paranormal romantasy
✨ witch x vampire
✨ forbidden love
✨ secret admirer + love letters
✨ gift giving as foreplay
✨ yearning / pining
✨ touch her and die
✨ 4/5 🌶️
✨ somnophilia, mind to mind sex, blood play, coffin sex, primal play, chase
✨ rich world building + unique lore
✨ divine mythology
✨ gothic atmosphere
✨ amazing side characters
✨ HEA
✨ novella-length standalone
My Thoughts:
This might be my favorite story Gillian has written! The premise alone had me hooked. Vampires banned from drinking live blood, black-market dens, and a mysterious immortal admirer??? Hell yes! But what really sucked me in once I started reading was the gothic and dangerous world brought to life by writing so atmospheric it practically drips off the page. I could see the flicker of candlelight and hear the echo of footsteps in shadowed alleys. I was so immersed in the story that it felt like I was there.
I absolutely ADORE the MCs: Lilith and Callum. Lilith was a fantastic heroine. She's clever, kind, self-sufficient, and resilient. And as the owner of an illegal blood den, she's used to handling things on her own. But Lilith is also lonely and tired. She carries a heavy burden running the business and caring for her friends, so it was heartening when someone, aka Callum, shows up and starts taking care of her. 🫶
And Callum? The vampire of my dreams. He’s tall, gorgeous, impeccably dressed, powerful, intense, and protective, but in a way that never feels controlling. AND he woos Lilith with gifts and love letters before they even meet. Yes, actual flirty, thoughtful, sincere letters that left me (and Lilith) swooning.
"Within you the sun sets and the moon rises. You are the flame to which I light the candle of my immortality." So romantic. ❤️
The tension built through the secret admirer setup was truly *chef's kiss*. Callum also shares Lilith’s selflessness - caring deeply for those around him without demanding anything in return. This mutual devotion to others, paired with their unspoken need to be cared for themselves, is what makes their romance so compelling and authentic.
PS: I really enjoyed that Lilith doesn't resist the romance with Callum. I'm a fan of enemies-to-lovers, but the secret admirer/strangers-to-lovers trope was a nice change.
The spice is next level!!!! Gillian took some risks with the intimacy in this book, and it paid off. At some point, Callum and Lilith have a sort of psychic connection that leads to mind-to-mind sex that are some of the most creative and emotionally charged scenes I’ve ever read. The way she writes Lilith's physical and emotional experience is so vivid, it feels like you’re in her body. There’s also a lot of variety to the spice, including primal play and blood play, which will have you intrigued, breathless, and maybe a little more aware of a kink you didn’t know you had. And yes… there’s coffin sex. 🔥
The lore and world-building were fantastic. The setting feels old-world and gothic, yet it’s its own distinct otherworld. While the creatures (vampires, witches, lycans) have familiar traits and dynamics, their origins, histories, mythology, and political systems are completely fresh and unique. I was particularly obsessed with the story of the goddess Amayah and her love, Deimos. It added a divine, romantic origin to the entire supernatural world. I really hope we get to explore more of the gods in future books.
Also, the side characters? Perfection. Henry was my favorite! He’s hilarious and brings just the right amount of levity when things get intense. I laughed out loud every time he opened his mouth. I’m already a fan of Adrienne and Eamon and can't wait for their story. Eamon might be an even bigger simp than Callum, so I have a feeling I’m going to fall hard for him. Also, I am dying to learn more about Seth. There’s just something about him that intrigues me, and I have to know more.
Gillian, I’m so proud of you and amazed at how you’ve created another story that’s rich, sexy, and captivating. The Oylen City series already feels truly special, and I can’t wait to see what's next. 🖤
September 18, 2025
ว่าด้วยพี่แวมไพร์อายุแปดร้อยปีที่ตกหลุมรักมนุษย์สาวคนหนึ่งตั้งแต่เห็นหน้า fated mates น่ะแหละว่าง่ายๆ แต่ด้วยเหตุผลยิ่งใหญ่บางอย่างฮีก้ไม่กล้าเข้าหา สุดท้ายได้แต่มองห่างๆ เปน secret admirer มาเปนปี จนช่วงหลังๆ เริ่มมีส่งของขวัญให้ ส่งจดหมายให้แบบ anonymously เอ้อออ ขนลุกแทนนางเอกป้ะ แต่ตอนอ่านมันก้จอยๆ เขินๆ ดี55555
ด้วยพล็อตสเกลนี้แอบอยากให้มันยาวกว่าสองร้อยหน้า มันขยายได้อีกหลายจุด ส่วนตัวคิดว่าเวิลด์บิลดิ้งยังไม่สมูธเท่าไหร่ บางอย่างละเอียดน้อยไปต้องกลับมาอ่านซ้ำเพราะบางทีงง บางอย่างก็มาช้าไป แต่ด้วยความที่มันไม่ใช่เซตติ้งที่ complex อะไรมากก้เลยได้อยู่ และมันมีเล่มถัดไปด้วย(แต่คู่หลักเปนคู่อื่น) ก้คงได้รู้อะไรมากขึ้นในเล่มถัดๆ ไปแหละ
ให้คะแนนยากจังแต่ก้ชอบไวบ์อ่า อ่านแล้วมีนึกถึงทไวไลท์เรื่อยๆ อย่างที่บอก เปนเอ๊ดเหวิดเวอชั่นมีพ่อเปนโวล���ูรี555555 ชอบพระเอก(มาก) ชอบนางเอก ชอบ every single one of ตัวละครฝั่งดี
อ่อๆ อาจจะมีฉากที่บางคนว้อทดะฟรรคหน่อยแต่อิฉันโอเค้ เก๋5555 ก้ตามสไตล์ไอ่พ่ก blood drinker อะ🩸
spice: 3/5
ด้วยพล็อตสเกลนี้แอบอยากให้มันยาวกว่าสองร้อยหน้า มันขยายได้อีกหลายจุด ส่วนตัวคิดว่าเวิลด์บิลดิ้งยังไม่สมูธเท่าไหร่ บางอย่างละเอียดน้อยไปต้องกลับมาอ่านซ้ำเพราะบางทีงง บางอย่างก็มาช้าไป แต่ด้วยความที่มันไม่ใช่เซตติ้งที่ complex อะไรมากก้เลยได้อยู่ และมันมีเล่มถัดไปด้วย(แต่คู่หลักเปนคู่อื่น) ก้คงได้รู้อะไรมากขึ้นในเล่มถัดๆ ไปแหละ
ให้คะแนนยากจังแต่ก้ชอบไวบ์อ่า อ่านแล้วมีนึกถึงทไวไลท์เรื่อยๆ อย่างที่บอก เปนเอ๊ดเหวิดเวอชั่นมีพ่อเปนโวล���ูรี555555 ชอบพระเอก(มาก) ชอบนางเอก ชอบ every single one of ตัวละครฝั่งดี
อ่อๆ อาจจะมีฉากที่บางคนว้อทดะฟรรคหน่อยแต่อิฉันโอเค้ เก๋5555 ก้ตามสไตล์ไอ่พ่ก blood drinker อะ🩸
spice: 3/5
October 21, 2025
Zaczęło się fajnie: listy, spojrzenia, yearning, ale później wjechał insta lust, cały urok znikł i została nuda, liczyłam chociaż na wampirze hot sceny, które autorka fajnie zapowiedziała (czekałam na scenę w trumnie😌), ale były słabe, szkoda 🥲
September 21, 2025
Insta-love and essentially no plot lmao, I just needed a palate cleanser alright
October 15, 2025
Loved the yearning and love letters in the first half, but then the second half was very insta love and I found myself not engaged with the vampire politics/drama.
July 16, 2025
LOVE THIS VAMPIRE STORY!! 🧛♂️🖤
Gillian just knows how to speak right into my soul and once again has done it for me!
This is a forbidden love, PASSION filled vampire romance with longing and the Romance is beautiful!
…also the SPICE!! 🥵🌶️
You can picture the atmosphere and the vibe and I think this will be perfect for fall!
The only thing I wish was it was longer! I will forever be a vampire girl and this one was delicious!🩸
Thank you SO much for this arc 🖤
Gillian just knows how to speak right into my soul and once again has done it for me!
This is a forbidden love, PASSION filled vampire romance with longing and the Romance is beautiful!
…also the SPICE!! 🥵🌶️
You can picture the atmosphere and the vibe and I think this will be perfect for fall!
The only thing I wish was it was longer! I will forever be a vampire girl and this one was delicious!🩸
Thank you SO much for this arc 🖤
dnf
September 23, 2025not gonna lie, this book was so poorly written that it was hard to follow and understand what was going on. the premise was intriguing, but the result was just disappointing 🙃
September 27, 2025
Interesting world building & the yearning was 🤌🏼💋
September 24, 2025
I finished this book in basically one sitting. It was a very fast paced read. The pace and the story was compelling and had me hooked. Didn’t want to put it down.
I like when authors don’t write books to be 500+ pages for the first book in a series. This was very short. 250 pages. Which I loved. But it did lack some depth because it didn’t have enough time with the characters and story to be a really strong book. It could’ve done with maybe 50 more pages that gave a bit more oomph to the two main characters journey. Lilith and Callum were decent characters and the spice/yearning between the two of them was done well. I think I just wanted them to have a bit more personality. The best part was the letters and gifts.
I think it was an ok book and I liked a lot of the side characters that were introduced. The plan is for each book to be about a different pairing so I feel like this is the set up book and story and the others will probably be even better.
The world building was thrown in and very rushed in the first chapter and it was very confusing. The politics and the background of the world. A lot of names and things thrown in and I was like huh? The rest of the book focused on the two main characters and then the ending felt a tad rushed.
I like when authors don’t write books to be 500+ pages for the first book in a series. This was very short. 250 pages. Which I loved. But it did lack some depth because it didn’t have enough time with the characters and story to be a really strong book. It could’ve done with maybe 50 more pages that gave a bit more oomph to the two main characters journey. Lilith and Callum were decent characters and the spice/yearning between the two of them was done well. I think I just wanted them to have a bit more personality. The best part was the letters and gifts.
I think it was an ok book and I liked a lot of the side characters that were introduced. The plan is for each book to be about a different pairing so I feel like this is the set up book and story and the others will probably be even better.
The world building was thrown in and very rushed in the first chapter and it was very confusing. The politics and the background of the world. A lot of names and things thrown in and I was like huh? The rest of the book focused on the two main characters and then the ending felt a tad rushed.
September 5, 2025
*Thank you Gillian for the ARC in exchange for an honest review*.
Gillian has always written with a deep understanding of what makes tension work, and this book is proof. You can feel her fanfiction roots in every smut scene bc hooolllyyyyyyy. YUP, that'll do it!
It’s romantic in that achy, gothic, slow-build way, with two main characters I actually like (which is a feat in and of itself, I rarely genuinely care about a mmc). Lilith is a competent and complicated witch, and Callum is intense in the exact way you hope a vampire love interest will be.
The atmosphere of this paranormal romantasy is rich, the lore is truly unique and layered, and the romance is somehow both indulgent and restrained. THE YEARNING. 10/10 no notes. I flew through this; it is perfectly paced and so-so satisfying.
Dramione girlies, you’re going to devour this.
Gillian has always written with a deep understanding of what makes tension work, and this book is proof. You can feel her fanfiction roots in every smut scene bc hooolllyyyyyyy. YUP, that'll do it!
It’s romantic in that achy, gothic, slow-build way, with two main characters I actually like (which is a feat in and of itself, I rarely genuinely care about a mmc). Lilith is a competent and complicated witch, and Callum is intense in the exact way you hope a vampire love interest will be.
The atmosphere of this paranormal romantasy is rich, the lore is truly unique and layered, and the romance is somehow both indulgent and restrained. THE YEARNING. 10/10 no notes. I flew through this; it is perfectly paced and so-so satisfying.
Dramione girlies, you’re going to devour this.
September 19, 2025
Reaally hard to rate this. I devoured it in 1 day and I was eagerly anticipating it, buuuuttt..
The first around 35% I LOVED. The love letters, the mysterious yearning, the gift giving, the glances, all of it. It wasn’t very fleshed out in terms of world or characters or magic etc, but I was happy enough.
But then there was the realisation too early imo, and the yearning was gone in place of lust. The type of lust where the characters no longer have interactions without it being sexual, and that made it a hard read from then on. There were some cnc elements that had me uncomfortable, because we just didn’t know the mmc well enough. When you go from reading this stoic yearning vampire to suddenly reading a man saying or doing certain sexual things it makes me go ew.
(One of the worst things was the use of “c*ck” and “c*nt” lmao. They’re so bad and so cringey and just feel sooo immature, especially if it’s a fantasy. It would work better if you used the actual anatomical term, or if you made up a language in the world and gave it new names. Please stop making me read men saying those things, it’s not sexy😭)
And the sad part is I feel like from this point we also just lost Lilliths character, everything was then about the relationship.
And this is allllll coming from someone whose favourite thing is a vampire romance !!💫
It felt like because of this coming together (no pun intended lol), the continuation of fleshing everything else out was just left behind. There was a whole political upheaval plot going on and we weren’t really involved in any of it? We were just kinda told it was happening in the background. There was even a big fight at the end that we just skipped ahead of and got told about after? And the friendships weren’t built enough, either.
So sadly, it missed the mark. I would’ve been so happy with a whole book in the vein of the first 35%, the pining and more actual plot/character building, a slow burn would’ve done the characters more justice.
The first around 35% I LOVED. The love letters, the mysterious yearning, the gift giving, the glances, all of it. It wasn’t very fleshed out in terms of world or characters or magic etc, but I was happy enough.
But then there was the realisation too early imo, and the yearning was gone in place of lust. The type of lust where the characters no longer have interactions without it being sexual, and that made it a hard read from then on. There were some cnc elements that had me uncomfortable, because we just didn’t know the mmc well enough. When you go from reading this stoic yearning vampire to suddenly reading a man saying or doing certain sexual things it makes me go ew.
(One of the worst things was the use of “c*ck” and “c*nt” lmao. They’re so bad and so cringey and just feel sooo immature, especially if it’s a fantasy. It would work better if you used the actual anatomical term, or if you made up a language in the world and gave it new names. Please stop making me read men saying those things, it’s not sexy😭)
And the sad part is I feel like from this point we also just lost Lilliths character, everything was then about the relationship.
And this is allllll coming from someone whose favourite thing is a vampire romance !!💫
It felt like because of this coming together (no pun intended lol), the continuation of fleshing everything else out was just left behind. There was a whole political upheaval plot going on and we weren’t really involved in any of it? We were just kinda told it was happening in the background. There was even a big fight at the end that we just skipped ahead of and got told about after? And the friendships weren’t built enough, either.
So sadly, it missed the mark. I would’ve been so happy with a whole book in the vein of the first 35%, the pining and more actual plot/character building, a slow burn would’ve done the characters more justice.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2025
Contrary to the low rating, I did really enjoy this. The writing is really pretty and it reads like a sweeping romance. However, my main complaint is simply that it needed to be fleshed out a bit more. Despite the romance, it reads like insta-love/lust. The FMC even makes multiple comments about how she doesn’t know the MMC (but they’re already in love), and at one point he responds that they’ll have forever for that. It’s not that I don’t enjoy a good fated mates story, but the relationship needs to hold more than that for me to really be invested, and while more is hinted at, it’s just never fleshed out enough to take this story to the next level. I also felt like the villain was overthrown before the story even started, almost like the book started halfway into the plot and everything ended before I realized we were even getting somewhere. Was I intrigued with the world, did I like the characters, and if given a bit more would this have been better? Definitely. In fact, I enjoyed the characters so much I was kind of annoyed there wasn’t more time spent getting to know them all. And while I know this is just the first in the series, I’m not convinced I’ll come back to it because I’m afraid of being teased with a good time only to be ultimately disappointed.
October 15, 2025
Okay, wow — this book surprised me. I picked it randomly off my vampire TBR and ended up obsessed.
The setup? Total fantasy-meets-urban-vibe: pre-tech world, moody setting, and this vampire who is so down bad for the main girl. He writes her these poetic letters before revealing himself — pure obsessed energy. Like, this man buys her ink and clothes and just… lurks romantically. Then boom — he’s a hot blonde vampire. Dream scenario unlocked.
The plot builds toward a bigger world — gods, old magic, vampire politics — but it’s still intimate and spicy. The ending leaves a ton of potential for book two.
It’s not a huge time commitment, but it delivers everything: fantasy, romance, and tension that feels almost personal. If you want a short, steamy vampire read that’s easy to get lost in, this one’s a win.
The setup? Total fantasy-meets-urban-vibe: pre-tech world, moody setting, and this vampire who is so down bad for the main girl. He writes her these poetic letters before revealing himself — pure obsessed energy. Like, this man buys her ink and clothes and just… lurks romantically. Then boom — he’s a hot blonde vampire. Dream scenario unlocked.
The plot builds toward a bigger world — gods, old magic, vampire politics — but it’s still intimate and spicy. The ending leaves a ton of potential for book two.
It’s not a huge time commitment, but it delivers everything: fantasy, romance, and tension that feels almost personal. If you want a short, steamy vampire read that’s easy to get lost in, this one’s a win.
October 16, 2025
3 Stars
Lilith is a human living in a regency era ish world that's also inhabited by vampires. She runs an illegal blood den catering to vampires who want to drink directly from a human, since doing so is illegal. A controlling vampire government type council is who made this illegal, and they go around enforcing this by closing blood dens and just not allowing humans and vampires to become close. Lilith's blood den is one of the "original" ones (from when it was legal) but is seemingly making hardly any money. Her mother and grandmother passed away though, so she clearly is keeping the blood den open to honor her family legacy.
She starts receiving notes and expensive gifts from an unknown admirer. A few random vampires start appearing to hang out at her blood den a little and give her the gifts. She will write letters back and give them to these guys to communicate with her unknown admirer. Eventually she finds out who he is, romance ensues, and all is well in the end.
So, I'm giving this 3 stars because it was entertaining enough and decently easy to read. I do have quite a few complaints though. The development of the world/vampire lore is super lacking. It's clearly not supposed to be a focus though, so this could be forgivable if the romance made more sense and was a bigger part of the story. The writing letters goes back and forth way too long, it's SO obvious who Lilith's admirer is... Then when the two do come together there was almost no development outside of instant obsession for both parties. It felt hollow and unexplained. I didn't particularly care for Lilith or Callum since they were so shallow. I thought the spicy scenes in this were very unappealing given the amount of blood, but I realize that's a personal preference.
I just needed more development and for the plot to make more sense. The pacing was so slow and then too fast. It didn't hit the correct marks for me.
The saving grace will be the next book - I read the teaser chapter at the end of this and already think it will be 10x better than this one. The couple already has a great set up given their presence in this book, and I think the two have much more personality (even though there were minor side characters in this one).
Lilith is a human living in a regency era ish world that's also inhabited by vampires. She runs an illegal blood den catering to vampires who want to drink directly from a human, since doing so is illegal. A controlling vampire government type council is who made this illegal, and they go around enforcing this by closing blood dens and just not allowing humans and vampires to become close. Lilith's blood den is one of the "original" ones (from when it was legal) but is seemingly making hardly any money. Her mother and grandmother passed away though, so she clearly is keeping the blood den open to honor her family legacy.
She starts receiving notes and expensive gifts from an unknown admirer. A few random vampires start appearing to hang out at her blood den a little and give her the gifts. She will write letters back and give them to these guys to communicate with her unknown admirer. Eventually she finds out who he is, romance ensues, and all is well in the end.
So, I'm giving this 3 stars because it was entertaining enough and decently easy to read. I do have quite a few complaints though. The development of the world/vampire lore is super lacking. It's clearly not supposed to be a focus though, so this could be forgivable if the romance made more sense and was a bigger part of the story. The writing letters goes back and forth way too long, it's SO obvious who Lilith's admirer is... Then when the two do come together there was almost no development outside of instant obsession for both parties. It felt hollow and unexplained. I didn't particularly care for Lilith or Callum since they were so shallow. I thought the spicy scenes in this were very unappealing given the amount of blood, but I realize that's a personal preference.
I just needed more development and for the plot to make more sense. The pacing was so slow and then too fast. It didn't hit the correct marks for me.
The saving grace will be the next book - I read the teaser chapter at the end of this and already think it will be 10x better than this one. The couple already has a great set up given their presence in this book, and I think the two have much more personality (even though there were minor side characters in this one).
November 24, 2025
In the shadow drenched city of Oylen,the Covenant has ruled vampires for centuries with one unbreakable law,no drinking from the living.Because of it, underground blood dens thrive sneaking immortals in to taste the one thing they’re forbidden.Lilith Searah runs one of these hidden dens,surviving on sharp instincts and the ability to stay invisible.But when a powerful immortal begins leaving gifts Lilith realizes she’s caught the attention of someone dangerous. Pulled into an ancient world of secrets,betrayals, and hunger,Lilith uncovers truths the Covenant would kill to protect.And the only hope of saving herself and the immortal she’s beginning to want might be burning their entire regime to the ground.
Until the Heart Stops was such a fun vampire read that felt nostalgic and fresh at the same time.The secret letters,the pining,and tension that builds before the characters even meet face to face left me swooning.I mean how could it not when we have a Mr.Darcy style MMC in vampire Callum.The worldbuilding was intriguing, especially the politics and magic system, even tho I am hoping we get a bit deeper explorations in the next book.What we did however get was enough to keep me intrigued with a city full of supernatural tension,blood dens, forbidden hunger, and an immortal who has been pining for a whole year before making himself known. That alone gave me life.I was absolutely kicking my feet squealing with Callum’s obsession with FMC Lilith.The tension is felt early on with how badly he wants her long before he ever touches her.The way the story lets their relationship simmer through written letters made the eventual physical moments hit so much harder.Callum’s mouth and thoughts were both gentlemanly and deliciously filthy.And FMC Lilith absolutely holds her own beautifully in this supernatural world as she’s fierce, clever, a savy businesswoman, and just so easy to root for.While the book does have some conflict it is overall a lower stakes read tho.And lastly that cover alone is pure fire!If you love pinning and yearning,secret admirer letters,and historical fiction mixed with witchy and vampiric spice then you should most definetly check this one out.
Until the Heart Stops was such a fun vampire read that felt nostalgic and fresh at the same time.The secret letters,the pining,and tension that builds before the characters even meet face to face left me swooning.I mean how could it not when we have a Mr.Darcy style MMC in vampire Callum.The worldbuilding was intriguing, especially the politics and magic system, even tho I am hoping we get a bit deeper explorations in the next book.What we did however get was enough to keep me intrigued with a city full of supernatural tension,blood dens, forbidden hunger, and an immortal who has been pining for a whole year before making himself known. That alone gave me life.I was absolutely kicking my feet squealing with Callum’s obsession with FMC Lilith.The tension is felt early on with how badly he wants her long before he ever touches her.The way the story lets their relationship simmer through written letters made the eventual physical moments hit so much harder.Callum’s mouth and thoughts were both gentlemanly and deliciously filthy.And FMC Lilith absolutely holds her own beautifully in this supernatural world as she’s fierce, clever, a savy businesswoman, and just so easy to root for.While the book does have some conflict it is overall a lower stakes read tho.And lastly that cover alone is pure fire!If you love pinning and yearning,secret admirer letters,and historical fiction mixed with witchy and vampiric spice then you should most definetly check this one out.
September 16, 2025
Happy release day! 🫶🏼🖤
Until the Heart Stops is the vampire romantasy you've been dreaming of. Following Lilith and Callum, you get:
🖤 witch × vampire
🖤 forbidden love
🖤 SPICE (WOW)
🖤 TOUCH HER AND DIEEE energy
And it is delicious. 🥵
I’ve loved everything Gillian Eliza West has written, but this might be my favorite yet!
Until the Heart Stops is the vampire romantasy you've been dreaming of. Following Lilith and Callum, you get:
🖤 witch × vampire
🖤 forbidden love
🖤 SPICE (WOW)
🖤 TOUCH HER AND DIEEE energy
And it is delicious. 🥵
I’ve loved everything Gillian Eliza West has written, but this might be my favorite yet!
Read
September 28, 2025dnf @ 50%
so upset about this one as on paper this is my perfect book - gothic vampire romance?? unfortunately I couldn’t give a single shit about the two main characters. they had no distinguishing personalities. the plot and vibe was interesting but I can’t bring myself to read a book about characters I couldn’t care less about.
so upset about this one as on paper this is my perfect book - gothic vampire romance?? unfortunately I couldn’t give a single shit about the two main characters. they had no distinguishing personalities. the plot and vibe was interesting but I can’t bring myself to read a book about characters I couldn’t care less about.
October 1, 2025
hello. HI. I am so violently confused rn??? first of all EXCUSE ME??? why is this BOOK ONE??? where is the cliffhanger? where is the trauma? the pain? the betrayal??? I was READY for my heart to be shattered into dust and instead??? book just ends. just… ends. ok sure maybe book 2 is about other characters but like… ??? still doesn’t explain why I was sat here waiting for devastation that never came. rude. but in like, NOT a bad way, a good way. I am, HAPPY. wow new feeling.
and ummm can someone PLEASE explain to me if this is a fkn Dramione rewrite??? because I swear to god… it IS. like??? hello Draco??? hello Hermione??? Theo all up in the mix??? Blaise?? my QUEEN Pansy?? don’t play with me. idc what anyone says (I seriously just add books I see on tiktok without paying any mind to it and this might have been in a “dramione fics being rewritten and published by fuck i’m confused because I add like 10 books to my tbr every day) also why did my brain betray me and cast Snape as Eamon. SNAPE. noooo. I want to reboot my mind immediately (no not even fanon Snape can help with this).
ok but listen. the actual plot? fine. vampires 👍🏼 witches 👍🏼 drama 👍🏼 all good. but the REAL star here??? the LANGUAGE. Shakespeare pack it up babes, West is coming for your gig. this was Mr Darcy “you have bewitched me, body and soul” level smooth-talking and I ate that shit UP.
like Callum??? CALLUM. this man had me crawling up my bedroom wall. the obsession, the devotion, the poetry??? my jaw on the floor, legs in the air. allow me to present the evidence: 💅🏼💅🏼👸🏼👸🏼🧎🏼♀️🧎🏼♀️
“Put me out of my misery, my darling, I beg of you.” 🤫😭 (ok sobbing, vomiting, shaking.)
“You ask if you are in danger from me. But truly, it is I who is in danger from you. For each night that passes I grow restless of this distance and of this charade. Each night I grow desperate to stand within the warmth of your light. For just a taste, even if it will mean my destruction. Would you give me a taste? Would you spread yourself like an altar for my feast? I would drop to my knees as the most pious do and devour you like a sacrament.” HELLO??? HELLOOO??? it’s wet, it’s damp, it’s a flood zone in here. FEMA needs to intervene.
“My soul knows yours as it knows no other… and my heart loves yours as it has no other.” ok run me over with this love pls, I’m begging.
“Because immortality was nothing without her.” sir… I am available. my schedule is clear.
like what do you MEAN this wasn’t straight-up mainlined heroin into my bloodstream. I am forever changed. this book was not a book, it was a religious experience. ✨ MASTERPIECE ✨ chef’s KISS 💋💋 bury me with this copy.
and ummm can someone PLEASE explain to me if this is a fkn Dramione rewrite??? because I swear to god… it IS. like??? hello Draco??? hello Hermione??? Theo all up in the mix??? Blaise?? my QUEEN Pansy?? don’t play with me. idc what anyone says (I seriously just add books I see on tiktok without paying any mind to it and this might have been in a “dramione fics being rewritten and published by fuck i’m confused because I add like 10 books to my tbr every day) also why did my brain betray me and cast Snape as Eamon. SNAPE. noooo. I want to reboot my mind immediately (no not even fanon Snape can help with this).
ok but listen. the actual plot? fine. vampires 👍🏼 witches 👍🏼 drama 👍🏼 all good. but the REAL star here??? the LANGUAGE. Shakespeare pack it up babes, West is coming for your gig. this was Mr Darcy “you have bewitched me, body and soul” level smooth-talking and I ate that shit UP.
like Callum??? CALLUM. this man had me crawling up my bedroom wall. the obsession, the devotion, the poetry??? my jaw on the floor, legs in the air. allow me to present the evidence: 💅🏼💅🏼👸🏼👸🏼🧎🏼♀️🧎🏼♀️
“Put me out of my misery, my darling, I beg of you.” 🤫😭 (ok sobbing, vomiting, shaking.)
“You ask if you are in danger from me. But truly, it is I who is in danger from you. For each night that passes I grow restless of this distance and of this charade. Each night I grow desperate to stand within the warmth of your light. For just a taste, even if it will mean my destruction. Would you give me a taste? Would you spread yourself like an altar for my feast? I would drop to my knees as the most pious do and devour you like a sacrament.” HELLO??? HELLOOO??? it’s wet, it’s damp, it’s a flood zone in here. FEMA needs to intervene.
“My soul knows yours as it knows no other… and my heart loves yours as it has no other.” ok run me over with this love pls, I’m begging.
“Because immortality was nothing without her.” sir… I am available. my schedule is clear.
like what do you MEAN this wasn’t straight-up mainlined heroin into my bloodstream. I am forever changed. this book was not a book, it was a religious experience. ✨ MASTERPIECE ✨ chef’s KISS 💋💋 bury me with this copy.
October 30, 2025
I would rate this book 2.5 ⭐️.
This book almost put me into a reading slump, I was about halfway through and ready to be done with it.
Honestly I am a lover of vampire romances, however, I found this was more focused on the romance and not the fantasy/plot aspect. I do much prefer when romantasy books are more fantasy and plot based with a subplot of romance.
This book reinforced my beliefs of not liking detailed smut in books, I found myself skipping those scenes as I much prefer when they are described through the emotions of the character than the actual physical movement/actions happening (my personal preference) If you do like smut I’m sure you will enjoy this book as there is a LOT of it within it 😂
It was like every time they saw each other after finding out Callum was the one giving Lilith the gifts they were doing something sexual, it was never like quality time together, so that put me off a bit. And before anyone says, yes I did read the TW but I wanted to see if I could enjoy books like this if the plot was good, however, the plot was also a let down.
However, onto the main plot of the book I found myself getting bored and being excited to finish the book instead of being excited to read the book. I could see the idea of the plot and if it was executed differently I believe it could have been brilliant. I was really excited to read this book but found myself so disappointed and unimpressed by it. I also found myself skipping through the last two chapters of the book by skim reading them and skipping the smutty chapter.
I also found myself to be confused about the whole layout of the characters and types of creatures from the beginning and believe little about them were described (e.g how vampires are made) was it from her drinking his blood ? But she did that before and didn’t turn ? So I was really confused.
On a more positive note I did become interested slightly when Seth was brought back and Lilith was kidnapped but the rest was just a bit of a let down for me. I also enjoyed the beginning with Callum yearning for her and giving her gifts, but relating back to what I said earlier after she found out it was him their relationship just felt lustful and romantic.
This book almost put me into a reading slump, I was about halfway through and ready to be done with it.
Honestly I am a lover of vampire romances, however, I found this was more focused on the romance and not the fantasy/plot aspect. I do much prefer when romantasy books are more fantasy and plot based with a subplot of romance.
This book reinforced my beliefs of not liking detailed smut in books, I found myself skipping those scenes as I much prefer when they are described through the emotions of the character than the actual physical movement/actions happening (my personal preference) If you do like smut I’m sure you will enjoy this book as there is a LOT of it within it 😂
It was like every time they saw each other after finding out Callum was the one giving Lilith the gifts they were doing something sexual, it was never like quality time together, so that put me off a bit. And before anyone says, yes I did read the TW but I wanted to see if I could enjoy books like this if the plot was good, however, the plot was also a let down.
However, onto the main plot of the book I found myself getting bored and being excited to finish the book instead of being excited to read the book. I could see the idea of the plot and if it was executed differently I believe it could have been brilliant. I was really excited to read this book but found myself so disappointed and unimpressed by it. I also found myself skipping through the last two chapters of the book by skim reading them and skipping the smutty chapter.
I also found myself to be confused about the whole layout of the characters and types of creatures from the beginning and believe little about them were described (e.g how vampires are made) was it from her drinking his blood ? But she did that before and didn’t turn ? So I was really confused.
On a more positive note I did become interested slightly when Seth was brought back and Lilith was kidnapped but the rest was just a bit of a let down for me. I also enjoyed the beginning with Callum yearning for her and giving her gifts, but relating back to what I said earlier after she found out it was him their relationship just felt lustful and romantic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2025
Until the Heart Stops - Gillian Eliza
Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice : 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸
Tropes :
🩸 vampire x human witch
🩸 stalking but with love letters and gifts
🩸 forbidden romance
🩸 top tier yearning
🩸 coffin sex and blood play
🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸
Review:
I had the best time with this book. I have been a fan of Gillian’s fanfic writing, but I hadn’t read any of her indie published works yet and I’m so glad that this was the first one. First I love this sweet vampire family so much. It has one of the best little found families i immediately wanted to be apart of both on Lilith’s side and Callum’s. She weaved the world building in expertly throughout the story expanding it as we met more people and as their connection deepened. Callum is the definition of yearning and devotion. All he wants is to provide for Lilith and give her everything she deserves in life and bask in the light of her warmth. The love letters he sent to her before his identity was revealed had my heart clenching, and his gifts were always so incredibly thoughtful. Yeah so technically he stalked her a bit, but we’ll ignore that okay. Lilith is so much stronger than she even realizes, and as the story progresses and she begins to dive into the depth of her true power it is astonishing to see her self growth. Their romance is so swoony because they don’t need time to know who they are to each other, but it’s forbidden for a vampire and human to be together, so they have to fight for a safer world for their future together to be possible. And the spice in this book? Lord have mercy 🥵🥵🥵 look I love smutty books but add in vampires and feeding during those scenes and I will become a feral beast. I cannot wait to read more in this series and will be impatiently waiting for more. If you’re looking for a quick swoony and spicy vampire romance, pick this up asap!
Full review coming but rounding up from 4.5
Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice : 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸
Tropes :
🩸 vampire x human witch
🩸 stalking but with love letters and gifts
🩸 forbidden romance
🩸 top tier yearning
🩸 coffin sex and blood play
🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸
Review:
I had the best time with this book. I have been a fan of Gillian’s fanfic writing, but I hadn’t read any of her indie published works yet and I’m so glad that this was the first one. First I love this sweet vampire family so much. It has one of the best little found families i immediately wanted to be apart of both on Lilith’s side and Callum’s. She weaved the world building in expertly throughout the story expanding it as we met more people and as their connection deepened. Callum is the definition of yearning and devotion. All he wants is to provide for Lilith and give her everything she deserves in life and bask in the light of her warmth. The love letters he sent to her before his identity was revealed had my heart clenching, and his gifts were always so incredibly thoughtful. Yeah so technically he stalked her a bit, but we’ll ignore that okay. Lilith is so much stronger than she even realizes, and as the story progresses and she begins to dive into the depth of her true power it is astonishing to see her self growth. Their romance is so swoony because they don’t need time to know who they are to each other, but it’s forbidden for a vampire and human to be together, so they have to fight for a safer world for their future together to be possible. And the spice in this book? Lord have mercy 🥵🥵🥵 look I love smutty books but add in vampires and feeding during those scenes and I will become a feral beast. I cannot wait to read more in this series and will be impatiently waiting for more. If you’re looking for a quick swoony and spicy vampire romance, pick this up asap!
Full review coming but rounding up from 4.5
November 6, 2025
“To you I am merely a stranger within parchment. But to me? To me you are Amayah. Beautiful as the night, powerful as the dawn, and ever so out of reach. Yet I reach for you all the same—I reach for what I know I cannot have and will never deserve. I find I cannot deny you anything, and since I cannot at present moment come to you to lie prostrate at your feet, I offer you the very next best thing enclosed within this package. You ask if you are in danger from me. But truly, it is I who is in danger from you. For each night that passes I grow restless of this...”
to be loved by a vampire is my new favorite trope! october was an indie-reading month to me (i've found all of my inspiration in bookgram). the cover ATE and left no crumbs and the vibes were so impeccable (i've watched 'vampire' ambience as well! the experience was ABSOLUTE.
so, the story follows Lilith Searah, who runs the black market blood den due to the prohibition for vampires to drink human blood from the source. i almost forgot to mention that she is a witch and capable of standing her ground even against wicked creatures from the depth of hell. 'Until the heart stops' has such an interesting world-building around vampires and their houses. there are a lot of secrets and politics playing on the background of the story. i'd say it's romance-driven book and pretty spicy (especially for me, because i was reading 3-4 YA books straight). one day she receives the letter from secret mysterious admirer. To be honest, the trope with forbidden romance that includes writing old-fashioned letters made my heart ACHE. it was incredibly beautiful and to be loved and worshipped like that is going to my bingo card for 2026.
now we're moving to our mmc. i had an issue about him that could potentially ruin the reading experience. the matter is BOOK COVER. it definitely catches attention but i'd say it kind of feels like a spoiler. i'm not certain that it was an intent to make the mmc aka secret admirer known to the readers. however, i would appreciate a little guessing game. Callum Auguste is so Lestat de Lioncourt coded. he can seem to be restrained at the beginning but the amount of love and passion that hides inside of him is INSANE. Callum is loyal and conflicted with his morals wanting to be better but kind of being a victim of his wretched circumstances. i liked him and i was rooting for him to be freed from his constraints.
i 10000% recommend this book. the length of it is quite short and it can exponentially cure your reading slump <3
to be loved by a vampire is my new favorite trope! october was an indie-reading month to me (i've found all of my inspiration in bookgram). the cover ATE and left no crumbs and the vibes were so impeccable (i've watched 'vampire' ambience as well! the experience was ABSOLUTE.
so, the story follows Lilith Searah, who runs the black market blood den due to the prohibition for vampires to drink human blood from the source. i almost forgot to mention that she is a witch and capable of standing her ground even against wicked creatures from the depth of hell. 'Until the heart stops' has such an interesting world-building around vampires and their houses. there are a lot of secrets and politics playing on the background of the story. i'd say it's romance-driven book and pretty spicy (especially for me, because i was reading 3-4 YA books straight). one day she receives the letter from secret mysterious admirer. To be honest, the trope with forbidden romance that includes writing old-fashioned letters made my heart ACHE. it was incredibly beautiful and to be loved and worshipped like that is going to my bingo card for 2026.
now we're moving to our mmc. i had an issue about him that could potentially ruin the reading experience. the matter is BOOK COVER. it definitely catches attention but i'd say it kind of feels like a spoiler. i'm not certain that it was an intent to make the mmc aka secret admirer known to the readers. however, i would appreciate a little guessing game. Callum Auguste is so Lestat de Lioncourt coded. he can seem to be restrained at the beginning but the amount of love and passion that hides inside of him is INSANE. Callum is loyal and conflicted with his morals wanting to be better but kind of being a victim of his wretched circumstances. i liked him and i was rooting for him to be freed from his constraints.
i 10000% recommend this book. the length of it is quite short and it can exponentially cure your reading slump <3
December 2, 2025
Until the Heart Stops delivers a richly atmospheric start to The Oylen City series, with writing and world-building that pull you in immediately. I loved the way supernatural creatures like vampires, lycans, witches, and more - exist openly in this world, giving the city a vivid, lived-in feel.
Lilith was an okay heroine for me: competent, steady, but not particularly standout. The real star of the book is Callum. His letters? Absolutely dreamy. I would’ve folded after the first note, no questions asked. The way he writes to Lilith is beautiful, intimate, and just the right amount of obsessive, and once the reveal hits, everything about his fixation clicks perfectly into place.
I also didn’t mind the late-book twist of him it felt like a natural progression and added depth to their connection. And the setup for book two has me even more excited—the author confirmed it will follow Eamon and Adrienne, and I can’t wait to see the world from their point of view.
Overall, this was a fast, satisfying palate cleanser. Dark, romantic, and easy to devour. A solid 4-star read.
Lilith was an okay heroine for me: competent, steady, but not particularly standout. The real star of the book is Callum. His letters? Absolutely dreamy. I would’ve folded after the first note, no questions asked. The way he writes to Lilith is beautiful, intimate, and just the right amount of obsessive, and once the reveal hits, everything about his fixation clicks perfectly into place.
I also didn’t mind the late-book twist of him it felt like a natural progression and added depth to their connection. And the setup for book two has me even more excited—the author confirmed it will follow Eamon and Adrienne, and I can’t wait to see the world from their point of view.
Overall, this was a fast, satisfying palate cleanser. Dark, romantic, and easy to devour. A solid 4-star read.
graveyard
September 19, 2025Dnf 63%
Loved the first 30% of this book and was fully hooked. After that, I started to lose interest. The romance got steamy really fast right after a certain scene, which felt abrupt. I wish their relationship had more build up since it moved too fast for me to feel fully invested. That said, I really enjoyed the characters, the writing, and especially the letters, but it wasn’t enough to keep me reading. It’s a shame because I was really enjoying it initially until it became just lust, lust, lust. I’ll definitely keep an eye out for the author’s future works though.
Loved the first 30% of this book and was fully hooked. After that, I started to lose interest. The romance got steamy really fast right after a certain scene, which felt abrupt. I wish their relationship had more build up since it moved too fast for me to feel fully invested. That said, I really enjoyed the characters, the writing, and especially the letters, but it wasn’t enough to keep me reading. It’s a shame because I was really enjoying it initially until it became just lust, lust, lust. I’ll definitely keep an eye out for the author’s future works though.
September 17, 2025
This spicy vampire read is perfect if you’re looking for a quick, Halloween/spooky season-themed book. Personally, I didn’t love it — the romance felt very insta-lovey, the characters were a bit flat, and the world-building was minimal. It reads more like a novella series than a full-blown fantasy series.
September 30, 2025
A vampire x witch romance to ring the official start of spooky season? Yes please! I ate this up, the writing was so beautiful and I loved how most of Lilith and Callum’s love story happened through letters.
Honestly my only complaint was that this wasn’t longer
Honestly my only complaint was that this wasn’t longer
September 25, 2025
I’d nearly forgotten just how GOOD vampire books can be. INCREDIBLE.
And the world building?? Magnificent. I can’t wait for the next book.
And the world building?? Magnificent. I can’t wait for the next book.
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