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Toronto Chronicles #1
Late Bite
Dragul Mangorian is the #1 Late Night talk show host on TV. He also happens to be a vampire. Everything seems to be going perfectly for him and his best friend and partner, Al Hamblyn, until people start to die. Late Bite takes readers on a rollercoaster that twists and turns, mixes humour with thrills, while presenting a completely fresh take on the vampire myth. At the heart of the story is a mystery that only unravels after heart-pounding suspense and gut-wrenching action scenes.
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 15, 2014
3 people are currently reading
588 people want to read
About the author
John Matsui
9 books50 followersJohn Matsui was an award-winning journalist and an innovative public relations consultant. Now he's focused his inventiveness to create tension and action filled thrillers.
John's novels - Late Bite and Gravity Games are available on Amazon.com and most mainstream international sites Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords, iTunes books, etc. His third horror thriller, Lycanthrope Rising, is available on Amazon pre-order with a release date of Oct. 1, 2017 at http://amzn.to/2wsJXPH
John and his wife Judy live in Wortley Village, a quaint neighbourhood in that other London — London Ontario — far from vampires, superheroes, and Toronto's high housing prices.
John's novels - Late Bite and Gravity Games are available on Amazon.com and most mainstream international sites Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords, iTunes books, etc. His third horror thriller, Lycanthrope Rising, is available on Amazon pre-order with a release date of Oct. 1, 2017 at http://amzn.to/2wsJXPH
John and his wife Judy live in Wortley Village, a quaint neighbourhood in that other London — London Ontario — far from vampires, superheroes, and Toronto's high housing prices.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
November 29, 2017
John Matsui got me! He really fooled me. I was sure this was a 3 stars read.
But let's start at the beginning. Synopsis:
In a world where the Kardashians are famous for being famous and Toronto Mayor Rob Ford is famous for being - well, Rob Ford, what would happen if the world discovered someone who was a real vampire?
Rather than staying hidden and being hunted down by the torch-bearing hordes, he'd become a media sensation, especially when the world learns he is the last of his breed.
Dragul Mangorian is this kind of being. With the exception of him, his kind, which he calls the Homo Sanguinus - are extinct, wiped out over the millennia by their hominid cousins, the Homo Sapiens.
The day of the Homo Sanguinus is at an end because they are born like humans and cannot be made through a Bram Stoker-style neck bite.
Upon his release from jail, Mangorian becomes host of TV's #1 late night talk show that has millions of fans, many of whom offer him a non-lethal sampling of their blood to maintain his interest.
Life for Mangorian and Hamblyn, now his business partner, is perfect as they seek to become billionaires by taking their broadcasting company public. That perfection is ruptured when police uncover a series of vicious murders with all the markings of a vampire.
The stage is set for Mangorian, Hamblyn and an a colourful set of characters to hunt down the real killer.
So there I am, reading the most exciting trial ever, and feeling nervous even if I knew the outcome from the beginning. But the twists and turns were so cool that I almost felt sorry for the prosecutor. She thought she had a clear case, only to be made a fool by the first real vampire and a chubby lawyer.
"The name Dragul Mangorian. Is that Transylvanian?"
"My God. Did you grow up on vampire books and movies? If you must know, it is my family name. My family originated in what is known now as the Ottawa Valley in Ontario."
Meet Dragul, a real vampire captured by the Canadian police. There is nothing mystic about him. He is not a descendant of Cain or Vlad the Impaler, nor is he the product of a virus. He is a distant cousin of man. There is a scientific explanation for his existence, his main difference from us being the food he needs to survive.
While I praise Matsui's take on the vampire, I cannot help missing the beautiful, charming aristocrat that's the current image of the Nosferatu. That and the fact that Dragul is the last of his species, which I find very sad. I have not yet found a book where I didn't want the undead to survive (Dracula included). I like the beauty of urban fantasy with all sort of supernatural creatures. Alas, there is still hope with the second book (when is it coming out anyway?).
Moving on, once the trial was over, I felt I reached my climax. I didn't understand why the book did not end there. All that followed was background noise. Many people got involved for all the wrong reasons, and I thought the lawyer's ex-wife the most stupid woman out there in the book world. This was the point where I started getting frustrated and thought about 2-3 stars. I even thought about dnf-ing, but I remembered Brad loved it. He had to have a good reason, right? And yes, he did.
Towards the end, Matsui hits you with a brick and you cannot believe what's happening. For a moment there I felt cheated, but it was perfect. Now I want the second book even more. Telling you why would be the biggest spoiler.
So if you're looking for a fresh take on the famous vampire, be sure to check out Late Bite.
*Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2017
Just when you think you've just been reading a truly fascinating and creative courtroom drama including a vampire with some rather unique abilities to wipe away all the bad things that happen to his victims for the price of a little blood, as the ultimate psychologist, we then get a fun and funny look at his life as a celebrity. Doesn't that sound fun? Like a better, more streamlined and interesting version of Lestat?
But wait! All those victims from the courtroom from years ago are being murdered, and this courtroom drama cum satire of the entertainment industry has just become a dark and complex murder mystery with our likable hero being set up for everything.
Or is there something else going on?
Well, shoot! Roast me alive and call me damn bloodsucker, because things aren't nearly what they seem, again, and all these genres executed flawlessly for the bulk of the novel just happens to be mere lead-up to a much more interesting life-story as the past fills in and comes back to haunt our hero, gladiator style, with just as much blood and guts and pathos and family drama as you could ever want in a horror or a thriller or a satire OR a courtroom drama. Although, lets be honest, most courtroom dramas don't usually go for the whole blood and guts thing, BUT THIS ONE DOES. YAY!
Am I surprised as hell?
Well, no. Not really, because I just got done reading the author's second book before reading this, his first book, and I already knew to expect a ton of fantastically-done and effortless genre-mashing and great characters in the middle of great plot twists.
Does it lessen my enjoyment even a whiff? Hell no!
I choose to call this a SF horror with UF leanings enmeshed fully in the whole mystery drama only because, technically, the vampire himself says that he's just an offshoot of the species from something like 30k years ago, and there really isn't anything truly supernatural or anything. As opposed to just throwing him, willy-nilly, in fantasy. I feel justified after all the time spent in court establishing just what Homo Sanguinis IS. :)
Again, I repeat, This Author Is Someone To Watch Out For. :) Anyone who can consistently bend the shit out of any form of tale, like this or Gravity Games, has got to be something of a god. Suffice to say, he has expert control over all these multiple genres and makes it look like child's play.
Truly Fantastic!
But wait! All those victims from the courtroom from years ago are being murdered, and this courtroom drama cum satire of the entertainment industry has just become a dark and complex murder mystery with our likable hero being set up for everything.
Or is there something else going on?
Well, shoot! Roast me alive and call me damn bloodsucker, because things aren't nearly what they seem, again, and all these genres executed flawlessly for the bulk of the novel just happens to be mere lead-up to a much more interesting life-story as the past fills in and comes back to haunt our hero, gladiator style, with just as much blood and guts and pathos and family drama as you could ever want in a horror or a thriller or a satire OR a courtroom drama. Although, lets be honest, most courtroom dramas don't usually go for the whole blood and guts thing, BUT THIS ONE DOES. YAY!
Am I surprised as hell?
Well, no. Not really, because I just got done reading the author's second book before reading this, his first book, and I already knew to expect a ton of fantastically-done and effortless genre-mashing and great characters in the middle of great plot twists.
Does it lessen my enjoyment even a whiff? Hell no!
I choose to call this a SF horror with UF leanings enmeshed fully in the whole mystery drama only because, technically, the vampire himself says that he's just an offshoot of the species from something like 30k years ago, and there really isn't anything truly supernatural or anything. As opposed to just throwing him, willy-nilly, in fantasy. I feel justified after all the time spent in court establishing just what Homo Sanguinis IS. :)
Again, I repeat, This Author Is Someone To Watch Out For. :) Anyone who can consistently bend the shit out of any form of tale, like this or Gravity Games, has got to be something of a god. Suffice to say, he has expert control over all these multiple genres and makes it look like child's play.
Truly Fantastic!
December 19, 2017
An interesting upside down take on a vampire story.
October 13, 2015
To be honest, I don't read many horror stories, but this one really stood out to me. The title of the book attracted me as I wondered how a TV talk show star could be intertwined with a killer. I have also enjoyed vampire stories for a long time. I enjoy real vampire stories and I felt that this author did a good job with making this story a real horror story. The writing style was great and I felt like it fit the horror theme. Loved the usage of Italics. I would say that in my honest opinion, this book was never boring. I read a lot of novels, some of them can be snoozers, but not this one. This book is action-packed until the very end.
The book follows the main character, Dragul Mangorian and the lawyer set to defend him, Al Hamblyn. Al really has his work cut out for him with this case as Dragul is charged with some "vampire" type crimes. He's been drinking blood from victims, who obviously weren't happy about this situation. The funny thing about Dragul, is that he is kind of likable. Even though he is basically a criminal, he has a likable personality and I found myself sort of in his corner. I think that it is his personality that fools his lawyer Al and essentially the readers. As he tells Al that his victims are willing, the audience starts to believe him. I thought that he was a good salesman of the case and he sort of just makes you feel bad for him and be on his side. Dragul is built like a monster as he is extremely tall, strangely shaped, has fangs, smells terrible and is an unusual color. He isn't really someone that you would think to trust.
I enjoyed the relationship between Al and Dragul. At first, Al seems a little scared of him. As time goes on, their bond seems to get stronger and their bond gets closer. I would say that the setting was interesting for a book of this type. Loved the Canada setting, found it to be something different for this type of book. Matsui does a great job of describing the scenery, adding dimension to the plot and the characters just have a lot of charm to them. I know that the book was set for the ages 12-18, but I would say that the book can be good for all age groups. I'm past that age group and I really enjoyed it. Seemed like a series that would make a great series for HBO. I was also checking the book for grammar and spelling errors as I read through the book. I didn't find anything, so the author clearly has a good editor. It's so distracting to see tons of spelling errors and I pride Matsui for coming up with an exciting thriller that is just a joy to read.
I see that this is a book 1 in a series of 3. I'm really looking forward to the next books in this series. I loved the mix of politics, murder, mystery, a crazy court case and a strange bond between Al and Dragul.
The book follows the main character, Dragul Mangorian and the lawyer set to defend him, Al Hamblyn. Al really has his work cut out for him with this case as Dragul is charged with some "vampire" type crimes. He's been drinking blood from victims, who obviously weren't happy about this situation. The funny thing about Dragul, is that he is kind of likable. Even though he is basically a criminal, he has a likable personality and I found myself sort of in his corner. I think that it is his personality that fools his lawyer Al and essentially the readers. As he tells Al that his victims are willing, the audience starts to believe him. I thought that he was a good salesman of the case and he sort of just makes you feel bad for him and be on his side. Dragul is built like a monster as he is extremely tall, strangely shaped, has fangs, smells terrible and is an unusual color. He isn't really someone that you would think to trust.
I enjoyed the relationship between Al and Dragul. At first, Al seems a little scared of him. As time goes on, their bond seems to get stronger and their bond gets closer. I would say that the setting was interesting for a book of this type. Loved the Canada setting, found it to be something different for this type of book. Matsui does a great job of describing the scenery, adding dimension to the plot and the characters just have a lot of charm to them. I know that the book was set for the ages 12-18, but I would say that the book can be good for all age groups. I'm past that age group and I really enjoyed it. Seemed like a series that would make a great series for HBO. I was also checking the book for grammar and spelling errors as I read through the book. I didn't find anything, so the author clearly has a good editor. It's so distracting to see tons of spelling errors and I pride Matsui for coming up with an exciting thriller that is just a joy to read.
I see that this is a book 1 in a series of 3. I'm really looking forward to the next books in this series. I loved the mix of politics, murder, mystery, a crazy court case and a strange bond between Al and Dragul.
September 28, 2014
Late Bite is a clever, twisted tale about the criminal events surrounding an eerily likeable blood-sucker, Dragul Mangorian and his initially hapless lawyer, Al Hamblyn, charged with defending Dragul the monster against multiple charges of assault and, well, blood drinking from unwilling victims.
Or are they unwilling? Dragul, at six-foot-six, yellow-eyed, fanged and clawed, and captured in a sewer that smells as bad as his breath, is the last person anyone sane would trust. And yet, when he tells his lawyer that his victims were willing, and that he was careful and kind, Al believes him; readers believe him. And thus begins his sensational court case, a global event centred in good old Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Part legal adventure, part feeding-frenzy (pun intended), the court-case is loaded with intriguing details about human sub-species, DNA, forensics and, of course, legal shenanigans, both nasty and good.
And just when you think you’re settling into the most original court drama you’ve ever come across, Matsui’s quick mind twists the plot in the most unexpected ways, and Dragul is on the hook for multiple gruesome murders.
I won’t tell you any more of the plot, except to say that this masterful tale will surprise you, literally, right up to the end. Author John Matsui’s disarmingly simple style is deceptive in its wit, in all the best ways. Just when you think you have it all de-fanged and put to bed, Late Bite proves itself even more brilliant than you thought, and bites again, then again.
If you think you’ve seen all there is to see in court drama, murder thrillers and vampire lore, you will just have to read this book to be artfully stripped of your illusion. John Matsui is a masterful author to watch, as this funny, quirky novel – worthy of an HBO mini-series – bears witness. I have to go now, to read it again... because the ending changes everything.
Or are they unwilling? Dragul, at six-foot-six, yellow-eyed, fanged and clawed, and captured in a sewer that smells as bad as his breath, is the last person anyone sane would trust. And yet, when he tells his lawyer that his victims were willing, and that he was careful and kind, Al believes him; readers believe him. And thus begins his sensational court case, a global event centred in good old Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Part legal adventure, part feeding-frenzy (pun intended), the court-case is loaded with intriguing details about human sub-species, DNA, forensics and, of course, legal shenanigans, both nasty and good.
And just when you think you’re settling into the most original court drama you’ve ever come across, Matsui’s quick mind twists the plot in the most unexpected ways, and Dragul is on the hook for multiple gruesome murders.
I won’t tell you any more of the plot, except to say that this masterful tale will surprise you, literally, right up to the end. Author John Matsui’s disarmingly simple style is deceptive in its wit, in all the best ways. Just when you think you have it all de-fanged and put to bed, Late Bite proves itself even more brilliant than you thought, and bites again, then again.
If you think you’ve seen all there is to see in court drama, murder thrillers and vampire lore, you will just have to read this book to be artfully stripped of your illusion. John Matsui is a masterful author to watch, as this funny, quirky novel – worthy of an HBO mini-series – bears witness. I have to go now, to read it again... because the ending changes everything.
August 31, 2017
Review to come.
October 2, 2016
Well, this was quite a ride! A very exciting and though provoking reading, one that kept getting better with every page, right up to the very satisfying and dramatic end. It is certainly a very interesting and original take on the vampire genre, albeit this is not the first novel where I came across an attempt to scientifically explain the origin of vampire. George R.R. Martin in his Fevre Dream tried to do the same, by portraying the vampires as a separate species. This novel goes a step further and builds upon recent scientific studies about Homo Sapiens (ones that I happened to read myself, so being up to date on this subject, that part was profoundly interesting to me), ones that prove that Homo Sapiens didn’t exist on its own to start with. It is highly likely that Homo Sapiens has destroyed other human species of that time (that have possibly been just as intelligent). Maybe this novel will get you to read those studies yourselves, as the appearance of Dragul the vampire in the novel seemed to have had that effect on general public. They suddenly all wanted to know more about the origins of Homo Sapiens!
Dragul, the main vampire character in Late Bite, is claiming that he is in fact, human, just evolved a bit differently. In a way Chimpanzees and Gorillas are both members of the Ape family, so are we Homo Sapiens and Homo Sanguins (i.e vampires) just different members of the human family. Basically, vampires aren’t the same species as humans but we’re closely related. Late Bite really makes the most out of the vampire theme. There is literary potential in vampirism that many miss, but the author seizes it to his advantage, the potential of exploring the theme of humanity. One of the benefits of the vampire theme is that it leaves space for that question: “What does it means to be human?” There are some interesting dialogues in Late Bite that reminded me of those present in Asimov’s novels. Exploring what it means human is something that intellectual SF often does. Late Bite manages not only to paint a credible modern setting, but to capture the dynamics of a modern world when encountered with a new species. Moreover, the humour and the satire in this novel were very much to my liking. It seemed to me that the author purposely played with some genre stereotypes and those parts were very amusing. In its subtle satire, Late Bite even touches lightly on some social issues in the present world.
I was a bit surprised with the choice of time line in Late Bite, but it turned very much to be the novel's advantage. Considering that much of the plot in this novel centuries around the court trial of a vampire Dragul, it seemed logical that that it where it should start. However, the narrative starts after the trial in question has already taken place. The novel opens with a lawyer, who having successfully cleared his vampire client of all charges, is now living the ‘high life’, as being an agent to a celebrity vampire proves to be quite a lucrative job. The novel is mostly told from the point of the view of this lawyer. The trial itself, is in fact, only a long digression. Already knowing how it will end, you would think that would make things less interesting, but you would be wrong in assuming so. The trial itself is masterfully written and filled of suspense. I simply couldn’t wait what will happen next! Nevertheless, as entertaining as it is, the trial is just a part of story. Turns out there is a new treat to our favourite vampire Dragul Mangolian. What will happen next? I won’t tell you that and I will do my best to avoid spoilers, but I must say that the ending is brilliant. Take my word for it, you won't see it coming!
What kind of novel is this? Late Bite is a page turner, but it is also a novel that will make you think. I’m not sure how to define this novel in terms of a genre. Thriller with mystery and horror elements? An action/ adventure packed crime novel? Or should we read it as a psychological and paranormal character study? Plenty (perhaps too many) words come to mind: crime, mystery, vampire, horror, fantasy… but why do we need definitions at all? Perhaps it is enough to say that this novel has a bit of everything. Frankly, that is what IMO makes it so great. In fact, what fascinates me the most about this novel is that it works so well on so many levels. It quite successfully blends multiple genres. Late Bite has everything going for it. The writing is great, the humour is smart, the story is action packed and on top of all that, there is a wonderful set of characters (that you can’t help but relate to). In other words, reading it feels a win-win situation!
Dragul, the main vampire character in Late Bite, is claiming that he is in fact, human, just evolved a bit differently. In a way Chimpanzees and Gorillas are both members of the Ape family, so are we Homo Sapiens and Homo Sanguins (i.e vampires) just different members of the human family. Basically, vampires aren’t the same species as humans but we’re closely related. Late Bite really makes the most out of the vampire theme. There is literary potential in vampirism that many miss, but the author seizes it to his advantage, the potential of exploring the theme of humanity. One of the benefits of the vampire theme is that it leaves space for that question: “What does it means to be human?” There are some interesting dialogues in Late Bite that reminded me of those present in Asimov’s novels. Exploring what it means human is something that intellectual SF often does. Late Bite manages not only to paint a credible modern setting, but to capture the dynamics of a modern world when encountered with a new species. Moreover, the humour and the satire in this novel were very much to my liking. It seemed to me that the author purposely played with some genre stereotypes and those parts were very amusing. In its subtle satire, Late Bite even touches lightly on some social issues in the present world.
I was a bit surprised with the choice of time line in Late Bite, but it turned very much to be the novel's advantage. Considering that much of the plot in this novel centuries around the court trial of a vampire Dragul, it seemed logical that that it where it should start. However, the narrative starts after the trial in question has already taken place. The novel opens with a lawyer, who having successfully cleared his vampire client of all charges, is now living the ‘high life’, as being an agent to a celebrity vampire proves to be quite a lucrative job. The novel is mostly told from the point of the view of this lawyer. The trial itself, is in fact, only a long digression. Already knowing how it will end, you would think that would make things less interesting, but you would be wrong in assuming so. The trial itself is masterfully written and filled of suspense. I simply couldn’t wait what will happen next! Nevertheless, as entertaining as it is, the trial is just a part of story. Turns out there is a new treat to our favourite vampire Dragul Mangolian. What will happen next? I won’t tell you that and I will do my best to avoid spoilers, but I must say that the ending is brilliant. Take my word for it, you won't see it coming!
What kind of novel is this? Late Bite is a page turner, but it is also a novel that will make you think. I’m not sure how to define this novel in terms of a genre. Thriller with mystery and horror elements? An action/ adventure packed crime novel? Or should we read it as a psychological and paranormal character study? Plenty (perhaps too many) words come to mind: crime, mystery, vampire, horror, fantasy… but why do we need definitions at all? Perhaps it is enough to say that this novel has a bit of everything. Frankly, that is what IMO makes it so great. In fact, what fascinates me the most about this novel is that it works so well on so many levels. It quite successfully blends multiple genres. Late Bite has everything going for it. The writing is great, the humour is smart, the story is action packed and on top of all that, there is a wonderful set of characters (that you can’t help but relate to). In other words, reading it feels a win-win situation!
September 28, 2015
Late Bite: TV Talk Show Star or Killer? has been one of the best horror novels I've read in a long time. This book follows lawyer, Al Hamblyn, as he must overcome his fears and stand as a defense lawyer for Dragul Mangorian- a vampire. A real vampire. There are a lot of prosecutors who want Dragul to lose in the name of the justice system, and they have a lot of evidence to prove his guilt. Al Hamblyn must defend a client that most people wouldn't dare stand up for.
This book is intense right from the beginning. Al Hamblyn is at a low point in his life after his career has fallen apart and out of desperation takes the defense spot for this nightmarish being. You're thrust into this criminal law story that has a paranormal twist. I love both paranormal books and murder mystery/ legal crime books so I found the mix to be really appealing. I've never found a book that interchanged both of these genres, but this book was done really well. The concept seems a bit hard to manage, but the author did an exquisite job of growing the storyline in a way that it was easy to follow and developed in a very realistic manner.
I love books that veer away from the norm. This wasn't your traditional paranormal story- and it wasn't your traditional legal crime drama. The main character, Al, is interesting- and relatable in the fact that he's hit a point where he's desperate and has to do something that he isn't necessarily ecstatic about in order to move on with his life. Dragul Mangorian- the vampire himself, is yet another fascinating character that single-handedly adds an entirely new element of mystique into the story.
I was captivated within the first chapter and the more the story grew and the more the characters developed- the better it got. This story just continued to keep my interest until the very end. I didn't know entirely what to expect going into this book, but by the time I finished it I'm definitely glad I picked it up. A paranormal crime drama that's worth delving into.
This book is intense right from the beginning. Al Hamblyn is at a low point in his life after his career has fallen apart and out of desperation takes the defense spot for this nightmarish being. You're thrust into this criminal law story that has a paranormal twist. I love both paranormal books and murder mystery/ legal crime books so I found the mix to be really appealing. I've never found a book that interchanged both of these genres, but this book was done really well. The concept seems a bit hard to manage, but the author did an exquisite job of growing the storyline in a way that it was easy to follow and developed in a very realistic manner.
I love books that veer away from the norm. This wasn't your traditional paranormal story- and it wasn't your traditional legal crime drama. The main character, Al, is interesting- and relatable in the fact that he's hit a point where he's desperate and has to do something that he isn't necessarily ecstatic about in order to move on with his life. Dragul Mangorian- the vampire himself, is yet another fascinating character that single-handedly adds an entirely new element of mystique into the story.
I was captivated within the first chapter and the more the story grew and the more the characters developed- the better it got. This story just continued to keep my interest until the very end. I didn't know entirely what to expect going into this book, but by the time I finished it I'm definitely glad I picked it up. A paranormal crime drama that's worth delving into.
October 24, 2017
Read to fill the “Vampires” square of my 2017 Halloween Bingo card.
I love a good vampire yarn and I was pleasantly surprised to find one written by a fellow Canadian. My library didn’t have it, it didn’t appear to be available for interlibrary loan, so I took the unusual step of buying it. I won’t say that I’m disappointed, but I will say that I won’t be purchasing the next two volumes of the series.
Dragul Mangorian isn’t your garden variety vampire—in Matsui’s world, vampires are a parallel branch of human evolution, just like Neanderthals and Homo floresiensis (the “hobbits” found in Indonesia). A large, large part of the book deals with courtroom drama, establishing the legal status of vampires, whether harm has been committed or not, etc. The voice of the book is that of Mangorian’s lawyer, Al Hamblyn, who has worked his way up from poverty to being a celebrity thanks to his client.
As a concept, many of the ideas are interesting ones. The problems are in the execution, with wooden characters behaving in stereotypical ways. I really wasn’t too interested in either Hamblyn or Mangorian. Despite the new ideas, the story ended up being very cliché.
I would encourage other readers to try it for themselves. This isn’t a bad novel, but not as good as I was expecting. Those with different expectations may experience it differently.
I love a good vampire yarn and I was pleasantly surprised to find one written by a fellow Canadian. My library didn’t have it, it didn’t appear to be available for interlibrary loan, so I took the unusual step of buying it. I won’t say that I’m disappointed, but I will say that I won’t be purchasing the next two volumes of the series.
Dragul Mangorian isn’t your garden variety vampire—in Matsui’s world, vampires are a parallel branch of human evolution, just like Neanderthals and Homo floresiensis (the “hobbits” found in Indonesia). A large, large part of the book deals with courtroom drama, establishing the legal status of vampires, whether harm has been committed or not, etc. The voice of the book is that of Mangorian’s lawyer, Al Hamblyn, who has worked his way up from poverty to being a celebrity thanks to his client.
As a concept, many of the ideas are interesting ones. The problems are in the execution, with wooden characters behaving in stereotypical ways. I really wasn’t too interested in either Hamblyn or Mangorian. Despite the new ideas, the story ended up being very cliché.
I would encourage other readers to try it for themselves. This isn’t a bad novel, but not as good as I was expecting. Those with different expectations may experience it differently.
October 8, 2014
Late Bite works on a simple question - what would happen if a vampire lived in modern society?
The first half of the book is the story of the vampire's trial. As we already know the jury's verdict (from the books back cover and early chapters) the normal courtroom tension is missing. Instead we explore various moral and legal issues ranging from whether a vampire is a human to whether a vampire can legally/ethically take blood from another person.
The second half is more action packed as we follow the hunt for a potential second vampire.
The tone of the book can be a little uneven (from tense shoot out drama to humours quips between the heroes.)
However, the sign of a good book is when it ends to quickly - and I'm looking forward to the next in the trilogy.
The first half of the book is the story of the vampire's trial. As we already know the jury's verdict (from the books back cover and early chapters) the normal courtroom tension is missing. Instead we explore various moral and legal issues ranging from whether a vampire is a human to whether a vampire can legally/ethically take blood from another person.
The second half is more action packed as we follow the hunt for a potential second vampire.
The tone of the book can be a little uneven (from tense shoot out drama to humours quips between the heroes.)
However, the sign of a good book is when it ends to quickly - and I'm looking forward to the next in the trilogy.
October 23, 2014
A vampire type assailant is captured by the police and a struggling, second class lawyer gets the call to represent him. The Vampire, one Dragul Mangorian, is the last of his species and points out that he is not the vampire of legends.
A trial ensues that fans of Perry Mason will appreciate. The outcome is not quite as surprising as it appears that it will be when the trial ensues.
More killings begin and the twisted story plunges on. A Russian thug and girlhood friend of the lawyer’s ex-wife goes after the mysterious killer with trained special ops types. The lawyer, Mr. Hamblyn and narrator for much of the story, and Mangorian face a last battle.
The characters are compelling the plot original and the ending will surprise you.
A trial ensues that fans of Perry Mason will appreciate. The outcome is not quite as surprising as it appears that it will be when the trial ensues.
More killings begin and the twisted story plunges on. A Russian thug and girlhood friend of the lawyer’s ex-wife goes after the mysterious killer with trained special ops types. The lawyer, Mr. Hamblyn and narrator for much of the story, and Mangorian face a last battle.
The characters are compelling the plot original and the ending will surprise you.
November 16, 2015
John Matsui has infiltrated the vampire genre with his own unique imaginative twist and created a legal thriller that is tastefully suspenseful keeping the most discerning reader glued to each and every page.
After several years of vampire overload one would think there is literally nothing else to write about until Late Bate, and we see there is still a vampire book worth reading. The plot is creative and seamless, the characters well developed and the reader is artfully lead in one direction only to be thrown a curveball! This is the a must read for every thriller lover.
We can only hope there is a sequel in the works!
After several years of vampire overload one would think there is literally nothing else to write about until Late Bate, and we see there is still a vampire book worth reading. The plot is creative and seamless, the characters well developed and the reader is artfully lead in one direction only to be thrown a curveball! This is the a must read for every thriller lover.
We can only hope there is a sequel in the works!
November 29, 2014
This was an interesting vampire novel. well written, and different. I read it in one sitting. The courtroom scenes are done well, too.
The creative thought in the vampire's history is clever, detailed and intriguing. a cool concept.
I will read the next in the trilogy.
Phillip Tomasso
Author of DAMN THE DEAD and BLOOD RIVER
The creative thought in the vampire's history is clever, detailed and intriguing. a cool concept.
I will read the next in the trilogy.
Phillip Tomasso
Author of DAMN THE DEAD and BLOOD RIVER
May 26, 2018
An enjoyable, well written and unusual book.
Part courtroom drama, part action story, all vampire novel.
With plenty of bite (pun intended) and enough twists to keep you reading.
I'm looking forward to the followup books
Thank you to the author, John Matsui, for sending me an ecopy of this book.
Part courtroom drama, part action story, all vampire novel.
With plenty of bite (pun intended) and enough twists to keep you reading.
I'm looking forward to the followup books
Thank you to the author, John Matsui, for sending me an ecopy of this book.
September 30, 2014
I won this book in a Goodreads first-reads contest.
This book has a unique and refreshing take on the vampire and mystery genres. It had interesting characters and a suspenseful/intense plot with lots of twists and turns and unexpected moments.
This book has a unique and refreshing take on the vampire and mystery genres. It had interesting characters and a suspenseful/intense plot with lots of twists and turns and unexpected moments.
August 3, 2015
At first I thought I had the ending guessed. Then I continued to read and quickly realized I was wrong.
It was a great read, kept me guessing. I will be looking for the rest of the series and telling other friends about it.
Always happy to support a local and Canadian author.
It was a great read, kept me guessing. I will be looking for the rest of the series and telling other friends about it.
Always happy to support a local and Canadian author.
June 28, 2015
A very quick, fun read with a very interesting ending. I read this in about a day. I really look forward to the rest of this series.
July 6, 2015
I won a copy of this book and was pleasantly surprised. Loved the twist at the end. I never saw it coming!!
December 7, 2015
I received a copy of the second edition in exchange for an honest review.
I Respectfully Disagree with the Author on Genre
Late Bite is a book that defies genres which the author, John Matsui, would easily agree. It is listed in thriller and suspense sub-genres and on Goodreads, the author has described it as in the horror genre. While I do agree that it is a paranormal, fantasy, action and adventure, and possibly crime novel, it is not a thriller and certainly not a horror. Now I could discuss technical details of why I disagree with the author on choice of genres, but the main reason is: no nightmares.
vampire
Yes, horror and even most well-written thrillers give me nightmares. I did not have a single nightmare while or immediately after reading the novel. Simple as that.
The Rest of the Story.
Now back to the actual book review, now that we’ve put the issue of genre out of the way. This is a very interesting novel about vampires. This is not another Twilight. This is a unique take on the age old vampire story, and I loved it.
This novel appealed to my scientific background with a discussion of a novel approach of how vampires, or creatures mistaken for vampires, may have evolved. It has been a long time since I’ve read a story with such an original idea. The story is compelling, engulfing, and entertaining from the beginning to the end.
The Characters, a Vampire or not.
The story is narrated by Al Hamblyn, nicknamed Hamburger, who has been given the unenviable duty of defending Dragul Mangorian, who has been accused of multiple break-ins, rape and murder. Through the story, you learn about the history and origin Dragul’s race as well as the humanity in Dragul. Hamblyn and Dragul are both likable characters, yet for different reasons. You, the reader, almost pity Hamblyn and through Hamblyn’s eyes you understand and develop empathy and understanding for Dragul.
In a world full of similar vampire stories, this is an original tale that will keep you guessing from the beginning to the end. That’s why I read novels, to be surprised, to be entertained, and to learn something. This book met all three of my criteria for why I like to read. This is certainly not your average vampire novel.
Not your Typical Horror or Thriller
I’m very glad I took a chance on this book, though it is described as a thriller or horror. Again, I respectfully disagree with the author on genre, but his genre choice does not detract from the enjoyment of this novel. If you don’t like thrillers or horrors, definitely give this novel a try. Late Bite
I Respectfully Disagree with the Author on Genre
Late Bite is a book that defies genres which the author, John Matsui, would easily agree. It is listed in thriller and suspense sub-genres and on Goodreads, the author has described it as in the horror genre. While I do agree that it is a paranormal, fantasy, action and adventure, and possibly crime novel, it is not a thriller and certainly not a horror. Now I could discuss technical details of why I disagree with the author on choice of genres, but the main reason is: no nightmares.
vampire
Yes, horror and even most well-written thrillers give me nightmares. I did not have a single nightmare while or immediately after reading the novel. Simple as that.
The Rest of the Story.
Now back to the actual book review, now that we’ve put the issue of genre out of the way. This is a very interesting novel about vampires. This is not another Twilight. This is a unique take on the age old vampire story, and I loved it.
This novel appealed to my scientific background with a discussion of a novel approach of how vampires, or creatures mistaken for vampires, may have evolved. It has been a long time since I’ve read a story with such an original idea. The story is compelling, engulfing, and entertaining from the beginning to the end.
The Characters, a Vampire or not.
The story is narrated by Al Hamblyn, nicknamed Hamburger, who has been given the unenviable duty of defending Dragul Mangorian, who has been accused of multiple break-ins, rape and murder. Through the story, you learn about the history and origin Dragul’s race as well as the humanity in Dragul. Hamblyn and Dragul are both likable characters, yet for different reasons. You, the reader, almost pity Hamblyn and through Hamblyn’s eyes you understand and develop empathy and understanding for Dragul.
In a world full of similar vampire stories, this is an original tale that will keep you guessing from the beginning to the end. That’s why I read novels, to be surprised, to be entertained, and to learn something. This book met all three of my criteria for why I like to read. This is certainly not your average vampire novel.
Not your Typical Horror or Thriller
I’m very glad I took a chance on this book, though it is described as a thriller or horror. Again, I respectfully disagree with the author on genre, but his genre choice does not detract from the enjoyment of this novel. If you don’t like thrillers or horrors, definitely give this novel a try. Late Bite
January 30, 2017
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I’m not actually sure exactly what my issue with this book was. I started out pretty into it but I think it was a case of misplaced expectations. See, I went into this expecting a quirky story about how vampires are discovered to be real and the off-the-wall, ridiculous reactions of the public. Those were reactions were there but they weren’t the main focus of the book and what was there was pretty much exactly what you would expect. The discovery that vampires are really creates an internet sensation. Some people want to burn him at the stake, some can’t wait another minute for Mangorian to drink their blood.
Probably a little over 50% of the book is a courtroom drama detailing how Hamblyn basically achieved human rights for the world’s only known vampire. I actually really liked this idea of detailing the legalese regarding how the discovery of vampires or other supernatural phenomena would be dealt with from a legal standpoint as most books that include vampires in modern day either jump ahead where they already have rights or takes place in a world where they are unknown to the public. I do wish it hadn’t taken up quite so much of the book though. That could just be because I’m not one to generally enjoy court dramas.
The other 50% contained more action, getting downright into horror at one point as 5 years after Dragul is acquitted of assault on 9 humans that had donated blood to him people begin disappearing and dying gruesomely. There is not really anything wrong with this, I actually felt that the action scenes were well done. Like I said though, I was expecting a story that was more tongue-in-cheek, more quirky, so the dip into horror just felt off to me.
I do think characterization could use some work. I wanted to like Hamblyn and Mangorian but they kept coming across as flat. I kind of liked Hamblyn in the beginning on the book but ultimately kind of hated him as after the trial began and he making big, big bucks he just seemed really shallow. Mangorian was a little better but the ending kind of left me confused on his character.
Long story short, I think I just was not the right person for this book.
I’m not actually sure exactly what my issue with this book was. I started out pretty into it but I think it was a case of misplaced expectations. See, I went into this expecting a quirky story about how vampires are discovered to be real and the off-the-wall, ridiculous reactions of the public. Those were reactions were there but they weren’t the main focus of the book and what was there was pretty much exactly what you would expect. The discovery that vampires are really creates an internet sensation. Some people want to burn him at the stake, some can’t wait another minute for Mangorian to drink their blood.
Probably a little over 50% of the book is a courtroom drama detailing how Hamblyn basically achieved human rights for the world’s only known vampire. I actually really liked this idea of detailing the legalese regarding how the discovery of vampires or other supernatural phenomena would be dealt with from a legal standpoint as most books that include vampires in modern day either jump ahead where they already have rights or takes place in a world where they are unknown to the public. I do wish it hadn’t taken up quite so much of the book though. That could just be because I’m not one to generally enjoy court dramas.
The other 50% contained more action, getting downright into horror at one point as 5 years after Dragul is acquitted of assault on 9 humans that had donated blood to him people begin disappearing and dying gruesomely. There is not really anything wrong with this, I actually felt that the action scenes were well done. Like I said though, I was expecting a story that was more tongue-in-cheek, more quirky, so the dip into horror just felt off to me.
I do think characterization could use some work. I wanted to like Hamblyn and Mangorian but they kept coming across as flat. I kind of liked Hamblyn in the beginning on the book but ultimately kind of hated him as after the trial began and he making big, big bucks he just seemed really shallow. Mangorian was a little better but the ending kind of left me confused on his character.
Long story short, I think I just was not the right person for this book.
April 11, 2016
Each time I think the vampire genre is dead, a new author comes along to prove me wrong with a revival. Late Bite is a suspenseful mixture of thriller and horror, but also with pinch of humor. The first half presents the reader with a well-crafted legal thriller, albeit with a very unusual accused. After all charges are withdrawn, Dragul Mangorian starts his career as a late night talk show host. This short episode is the lightest part of the book and partly resembles a comedy. But shortly after the story turns into a very dark and action-packed horror scenario, with lots of blood and a rising body count. The end came as a big surprise with a very clever and completely unsuspected twist, questioning everything and everyone you read about before. At first, I was unsure what to make of this wild puzzle, but in the end everything fit together perfectly.
The writing was excellent, conveying the varying moods along the story-line and doing an exceptionally good job at characterization. Dragul Mangorion unquestioningly was the most fascinating character with lots of secrets, and I could never quite figure out his motives. On the opposite, his lawyer/partner Al Hamblyn was a typical anti-hero, both in physical appearance and his modest demeanor, so it was easy to sympathize with him.
If you like a clever plot with a twist, give this one a try. Highly recommended!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review)
The writing was excellent, conveying the varying moods along the story-line and doing an exceptionally good job at characterization. Dragul Mangorion unquestioningly was the most fascinating character with lots of secrets, and I could never quite figure out his motives. On the opposite, his lawyer/partner Al Hamblyn was a typical anti-hero, both in physical appearance and his modest demeanor, so it was easy to sympathize with him.
If you like a clever plot with a twist, give this one a try. Highly recommended!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review)
February 17, 2016
I didn't know what to expect when I picked up Late Bite -- I thought it would be a vampire horror story set in Toronto. And it is, kind of. But there is also more. There are two parts to Late Bite, there is the crime thriller court case part and the vampire on the loose in the city horror part.
Matsui creates a new and fascinating mythology around vampires, they are not undead monsters, but a distant branch of humanity called homo sanguinus. This was brilliant and fun. Dragul is a vampire caught in Toronto and gets put on trial, which is a great way to explore ethical questions as well as have the tension of a trial.
Hamblyn is a down and out lawyer until he meets Dragul and becomes his lawyer and the book is told from his point of view. He is a character that the reader can really feel for and get behind. We quickly become invested in him and want him to succeed.
Late Bite is a great book if you're looking for an engaging story, with court drama and horror, and unexpected twists.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
Matsui creates a new and fascinating mythology around vampires, they are not undead monsters, but a distant branch of humanity called homo sanguinus. This was brilliant and fun. Dragul is a vampire caught in Toronto and gets put on trial, which is a great way to explore ethical questions as well as have the tension of a trial.
Hamblyn is a down and out lawyer until he meets Dragul and becomes his lawyer and the book is told from his point of view. He is a character that the reader can really feel for and get behind. We quickly become invested in him and want him to succeed.
Late Bite is a great book if you're looking for an engaging story, with court drama and horror, and unexpected twists.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
December 31, 2014
*I received a copy of this book as part of goodreads First Reads giveaways*
Firstly, I just want to say, I've been in a reading slump these past 4ish months and that is why it took me so long to finish this book.
I really enjoyed this story, I know the area this book takes place in and I enjoyed reading about places I recognize. This is an interesting take on Vampires or Sanguinus as they are called. I enjoyed the characters and how they interacted, and the ending really grabbed my attention and made me want more!
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good thriller, non sparkly vampire story with a twist that keeps you interested and craving more!
Firstly, I just want to say, I've been in a reading slump these past 4ish months and that is why it took me so long to finish this book.
I really enjoyed this story, I know the area this book takes place in and I enjoyed reading about places I recognize. This is an interesting take on Vampires or Sanguinus as they are called. I enjoyed the characters and how they interacted, and the ending really grabbed my attention and made me want more!
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good thriller, non sparkly vampire story with a twist that keeps you interested and craving more!
July 8, 2015
Very nice twist to the tale of these creatures.Interesting ending,can't wait for the follow-up.I receieved this book for free as a win in the Goodreads First Read contest.
March 2, 2019
An interesting take on the vampire story, and not at all what I expected.
Al is a somewhat second-division lawyer. Bullied by peers and a grafter, he seems destined to be what is scathingly referred to as an ‘ambulance chaser’. Then he is asked to act as lawyer to a vampire.
When Al meets Dragul he is, like many, tainted by his preconceived notions of a vampire. Slowly, he gets to learn a little more of this character who’s presented sympathetically.
The majority of the book focuses on the case. We know they win so it was entertaining to see this play out.
What follows is a crazy commentary on society...the vampire becomes a talk-show host and they are seriously wealthy on the back of public interest.
Unfortunately, more bodies are found and the police suspect Dragul. At this point we learn he has a brother, left buried underground hundreds of years ago and determined to get his revenge. Preposterous, yes, but the characters and events pull together to show the hunt for Vlad, the carnage that ensues and a rather unexpected ending.
Al is a somewhat second-division lawyer. Bullied by peers and a grafter, he seems destined to be what is scathingly referred to as an ‘ambulance chaser’. Then he is asked to act as lawyer to a vampire.
When Al meets Dragul he is, like many, tainted by his preconceived notions of a vampire. Slowly, he gets to learn a little more of this character who’s presented sympathetically.
The majority of the book focuses on the case. We know they win so it was entertaining to see this play out.
What follows is a crazy commentary on society...the vampire becomes a talk-show host and they are seriously wealthy on the back of public interest.
Unfortunately, more bodies are found and the police suspect Dragul. At this point we learn he has a brother, left buried underground hundreds of years ago and determined to get his revenge. Preposterous, yes, but the characters and events pull together to show the hunt for Vlad, the carnage that ensues and a rather unexpected ending.
February 6, 2018
Vampires are my thing. Always have been, for most of my 50 years on this earth. Doesn't really matter if it's the original Dracula, courtesy of Bram Stoker, the Frank Langella tv movie sexpot version, the recent Luke Evans portrayal of the suffering vampire or.....dare I say it......the young adult "twinkly" Edward Cullen. I love em all! However, John's version of a bloodsucker is one I hadn't seen before. Not attractive to gaze upon (complete with icky breath), yet intelligent and even a bit sarcastic. Add these characteristics to a late-blooming late night "tv vampire" and you've got some idea of what Mr. Mangorian is like. This is the first vampire story I've read where the plot is set around a crime drama. LOVED IT! Even more wonderful was that John TOTALLY tricked me! I had grown to love the story and the characters SO much, that the trickery I speak of kinda disappointed me a little. I cannot elaborate on said trickery, lest I ruin this book for others. Suffice it to say, this is one great vampire story. Original. Engrossing. Humorous at times and dead (no pun intended) serious at others. READ IT! *Provided a free electronic copy in exchange for an honest review.*
September 15, 2016
Al Hamblyn is a lawyer on the edge of complete failure until he gets the strangest case of his career
A man has been arrested for a series of attacks. Attacks in which he drunk blood
He is representing a vampire on trial – and trying to prove this revelation not guilty in the middle of a media storm.
This book brings us a court case with a vampire accused of assault and drinking blood
That alone is an excellent twist as we see the whole concept of vampirism and drinking blood actually being out on trial
It also brings us a really fascinating concept of vampires – as a separate species evolving alongside humanity and slowly being wiped out by humanity’s numbers. Not because of hatred, or persecution or murder (except way back in out history where, thought provokingly, it points out that the lack of other subspecies in the homo genus does suggest that ye old homo sapiens did not adapt well to competition) but through simple environmental devastation. It’s a very original concept
The problem is that I find myself being distracted or becoming disinterested in a lot of this book. Many times I kept questioning why I was being given various pieces of information – almost from the very beginning this book introduces me to Al Hamblyn, the main character and Dragul’s lawyer and we get a mini biography of him. Or a not so mini biography. And it’s not bad or even badly written – but who is this guy and why do I care so much about his life? This happens several times in the book, we get more snippets of Al’s life and I’m just not really sure why I know
And it’s not like Al is a bad character. He isn’t – far from it. He’s intelligent, driven, far from perfect, with good flaws even though he tries. He has some great friends and some great people in his life who really make up a really fun legal team. This is not a bad thing even by close – it’s not a bad story I just don’t really know why I’m reading it
In some ways it feels like Dragul is almost tangential to the story
There’s also a surprisingly smooth pathway. Everything just seems to go so well. The court case, their life after the court case. It also does the annoying thing of introducing the middle of the book as a prologue so the court case fails any attempt at tension because we already know the result of it. I find myself fighting not to skim this book simply because I know exactly what is going to happen for so long.
Again, it’s not bad, it’s not a bad story, it’s not exactly boring but it’s not exciting either. It’s interesting, mildly fun and has the excellent world building backstory of the vampires to give it more originality than I’ve seen in so many other books. I didn’t regret finishing it, but at any point I could have put it down, not picked it up again and not felt compelled to find it
And I have no idea why it has such a creepy compelling cover
This means when the story changes immensely after about the half-way to two-thirds when we finally, and belatedly, get some action. It’s almost jarring – suddenly we have Russian mercenaries everywhere. It’s like a second book was hastily pasted on the end – and it was certainly more exciting but also confusing
We do have a lot of racial diversity in this book – it is set in Toronto and there is definitely some representation that Toronto is not an all white town. From police to lawyers to witnesses, to crime victims – there’s a large variety of races represented. But none of them are major characters. Al, his mentors Sally and his old professor, Dragul, his assistant and his ex-wife and son are all White. All other characters are really minor, little more than names.
Read More
A man has been arrested for a series of attacks. Attacks in which he drunk blood
He is representing a vampire on trial – and trying to prove this revelation not guilty in the middle of a media storm.
This book brings us a court case with a vampire accused of assault and drinking blood
That alone is an excellent twist as we see the whole concept of vampirism and drinking blood actually being out on trial
It also brings us a really fascinating concept of vampires – as a separate species evolving alongside humanity and slowly being wiped out by humanity’s numbers. Not because of hatred, or persecution or murder (except way back in out history where, thought provokingly, it points out that the lack of other subspecies in the homo genus does suggest that ye old homo sapiens did not adapt well to competition) but through simple environmental devastation. It’s a very original concept
The problem is that I find myself being distracted or becoming disinterested in a lot of this book. Many times I kept questioning why I was being given various pieces of information – almost from the very beginning this book introduces me to Al Hamblyn, the main character and Dragul’s lawyer and we get a mini biography of him. Or a not so mini biography. And it’s not bad or even badly written – but who is this guy and why do I care so much about his life? This happens several times in the book, we get more snippets of Al’s life and I’m just not really sure why I know
And it’s not like Al is a bad character. He isn’t – far from it. He’s intelligent, driven, far from perfect, with good flaws even though he tries. He has some great friends and some great people in his life who really make up a really fun legal team. This is not a bad thing even by close – it’s not a bad story I just don’t really know why I’m reading it
In some ways it feels like Dragul is almost tangential to the story
There’s also a surprisingly smooth pathway. Everything just seems to go so well. The court case, their life after the court case. It also does the annoying thing of introducing the middle of the book as a prologue so the court case fails any attempt at tension because we already know the result of it. I find myself fighting not to skim this book simply because I know exactly what is going to happen for so long.
Again, it’s not bad, it’s not a bad story, it’s not exactly boring but it’s not exciting either. It’s interesting, mildly fun and has the excellent world building backstory of the vampires to give it more originality than I’ve seen in so many other books. I didn’t regret finishing it, but at any point I could have put it down, not picked it up again and not felt compelled to find it
And I have no idea why it has such a creepy compelling cover
This means when the story changes immensely after about the half-way to two-thirds when we finally, and belatedly, get some action. It’s almost jarring – suddenly we have Russian mercenaries everywhere. It’s like a second book was hastily pasted on the end – and it was certainly more exciting but also confusing
We do have a lot of racial diversity in this book – it is set in Toronto and there is definitely some representation that Toronto is not an all white town. From police to lawyers to witnesses, to crime victims – there’s a large variety of races represented. But none of them are major characters. Al, his mentors Sally and his old professor, Dragul, his assistant and his ex-wife and son are all White. All other characters are really minor, little more than names.
Read More
August 27, 2016
"Late Bite" is centered on a fascinating premise and is told from an equally-fascinating point of view, but the story's narration, structure and organization make it difficult for the concept to reach its full potential. Matsui's primary characters, a public defender and a vampire-esque person accused of several crimes, lead readers on a well-conceived story, beginning when the accused is taken into custody and when the attorney meets him in his holding cell. For fear of spoliers, I'll leave off discussing plot particulars here; suffice to say, though, that the story is interesting and the characters developed, and there's a twist readers probably won't expect toward the end of the story. There's an aspect of the conclusion that leaves a bit to be desired, however, but I can't mention it because it'd be a HUGE spoiler.
The narrative itself leaves a lot to be desired as well. It proceeds linearly -- think "day 1, day 2, day 3..." -- which isn't necessarily a bad thing, though in this case it leads to a lot of repetition and to a lot of wordiness; such hampers the action in the plot and bogs-down the reader in details that have been established earlier in the narrative (sometimes more than once). Additionally, some scenes seem out of place throughout the story; that is, the importance of some scenes, and their relevance and relationship to other scenes, isn't immediately clear. Basic things like paragraphing were also lacking in the edition I read, as were essential punctuation and structural elements, such as questions marks and indention of paragraphs.
That being established, "Late Bite", all of its warts included, was an interesting and fun read. Matsui raises an interesting premise regarding vampires -- or Homo Sanguinus, as they prefer to be called in his story -- and their relation to Homo Sapiens. It'll make readers think.
*I received a complimentary review copy of the book in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.*
The narrative itself leaves a lot to be desired as well. It proceeds linearly -- think "day 1, day 2, day 3..." -- which isn't necessarily a bad thing, though in this case it leads to a lot of repetition and to a lot of wordiness; such hampers the action in the plot and bogs-down the reader in details that have been established earlier in the narrative (sometimes more than once). Additionally, some scenes seem out of place throughout the story; that is, the importance of some scenes, and their relevance and relationship to other scenes, isn't immediately clear. Basic things like paragraphing were also lacking in the edition I read, as were essential punctuation and structural elements, such as questions marks and indention of paragraphs.
That being established, "Late Bite", all of its warts included, was an interesting and fun read. Matsui raises an interesting premise regarding vampires -- or Homo Sanguinus, as they prefer to be called in his story -- and their relation to Homo Sapiens. It'll make readers think.
*I received a complimentary review copy of the book in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.*
November 4, 2017
Dragul Mangorian is found in the sewers of Toranto. Dragul is the last of the branch off of homo sapiens called homo sanguinis and survives by drinking the blood of homo sapiens. He is taken to court and has his attorney, Al Hamblyn has to fight for Dragul to be treated as an equal. Yes, he does drink blood to survive but he takes away the bad memories and leaves the victim better off.
This court room drama leads Dragul to become a late night talk show host. But this is just the beginning. Those victims that have testified are being found murdered. Of course, Dragul is the main suspect but is he really the killer or is he a victim himself?
I loved the idea for this book. Dragul is not the traditional vampire that we always think about, thank goodness he doesn’t sparkle either. As I went along with this story, I found myself actually sympathizing with Dragul. He has to do what he does to live but he is the last of his species.
Just when you think that the story is done with the court case it takes off again as people are turning up dead. It starts to make you think that maybe Dragul is not as innocent as he seems. And the killer, I loved them. I didn’t expect them and I loved the ending.
This is a great story with a fresh take on vampires that I think will please many people. This is one book to check out.
I received Late Bite from Sage’s Blog Tours for free. This has in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
This court room drama leads Dragul to become a late night talk show host. But this is just the beginning. Those victims that have testified are being found murdered. Of course, Dragul is the main suspect but is he really the killer or is he a victim himself?
I loved the idea for this book. Dragul is not the traditional vampire that we always think about, thank goodness he doesn’t sparkle either. As I went along with this story, I found myself actually sympathizing with Dragul. He has to do what he does to live but he is the last of his species.
Just when you think that the story is done with the court case it takes off again as people are turning up dead. It starts to make you think that maybe Dragul is not as innocent as he seems. And the killer, I loved them. I didn’t expect them and I loved the ending.
This is a great story with a fresh take on vampires that I think will please many people. This is one book to check out.
I received Late Bite from Sage’s Blog Tours for free. This has in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
August 13, 2017
Finally got around to reading this book and was surprised how much I enjoy it (you know another vampire novel) Lot's of twists/turns and an ending that was something I wasn't expecting which is good for me because I usually figure out what's going on and end up disappointed. I loved how the author spoof's one of the recent Toronto mayor's both in name and personality, this brought a bit of relatable comedy to me which I enjoyed. Well developed characters and story line, I would love to read more of the Toronto Chronicles by John Matusi, thank you for my copy!
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