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Claimed by the Vampire King #1
Claimed by the Vampire King
Catherine Berg has always been a strong person, even since she was a young child. The eldest daughter of the town's blacksmith, she is not thrilled about the Century Bride tradition, one that forces the women of the town to compete for the attention of the mysterious Count. A year before she and the other women of the town are offered up like sacrifices to the Count, she begins searching for a way to oust the archaic ritual. But when Count August arrives, saving Catherine and the town from the ravages of the marauding vampires, Catherine begins to finally understand the ritual. Will Catherine become the Century Bride? Will she discover why Count August protects her town and why he saved her life?
84 pages, Paperback
First published July 3, 2013
61 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
About the author
Susan G. Charles
45 books7 followersI am Susan G. Charles (1975 - Present) and I have always been driven, to some extent or another, by the inherent desire to write books for children, books about food, cookbooks and a few other major interests too like the romance niche. Now I am actually able to follow my dream and share my ideas and dreams with all of you.
For more details about my journey, my books and what else is going on for me, please visit me at: http://www.facebook.com/susangcharles site where you will also find valuable information about me new works as well as links to other helpful books and literary resources that you may find interesting.
For more details about my journey, my books and what else is going on for me, please visit me at: http://www.facebook.com/susangcharles site where you will also find valuable information about me new works as well as links to other helpful books and literary resources that you may find interesting.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 29, 2018
I received a free copy of this story by the author for an honest review. What's with the book cover? Lol
Let me start by saying that if the story is short (about two hours in this case), having a really long review from me…is very bad.
So, a good majority of this story is just talking, no dialogue. I swear in the beginning, I felt like I was listening to a history-related audiobook. It was all just talk, talk, talk. Explaining this and that. And I’m left wondering when the characters will actually interact. Then when they finally start interacting with each other, there’s not much there. For example, August and Catherine have been in the castle for a while (at one point the author says it’s been weeks, then later that same day, it changes to months), either way, there was nothing said about how they’d been interacting, minus Catherine saying August had been a gentleman (I’ll say more on that below). There was just nothing! The author seemed more focused on the grounds, the people (besides the main characters), and what was going on outside of the castle. Wasn’t this supposed to be a romance? I wasn’t feeling it at all! I was also under the impression that the dialogue was an afterthought to this story, with how little there was.
Besides the issue with the writing style, was August just stupid or what? I mean he’s been married lots of times to different females throughout the centuries, yet when Catherine arrives there’s nothing in the castle. Did none of his other brides want furniture? A bed? Something to lay on? What about friends and family? Did none of them want to see their loved ones? I could understand them being hesitant in the beginning, but still. Who wouldn’t want to have others around to talk to? Interact with? What did August and his previous brides do? But with Catherine, it’s like he came out of some dark closet and is like, “Oh yeah, she needs stuff, she needs servants, she needs this and that…” I didn’t understand that.
The narrator was alright. I could see her doing better reading a different story though. As it was, there were many times throughout this short story in which you could feel her emotion (representative of the character), but it was just a no. I don’t know how else to explain this. It’s like she was trying to make the story better than what it was, and, again, I wasn’t feeling it. I know a narrator can make or break an audiobook, but this story itself wasn’t good. I feel like the book might have broken the narrator in this case. My only question for the narrator is this: why was the word “dungeon” pronounced as “don-gen?”
Questions/Comments:
August. Could he have been any vaguer? He was a vampire that had been living for centuries and married a female from the local village in return for his protection. Oh yeah, he can fly, too! That might be enough information for some readers/listeners, but not for me. What happened to his previous brides? Why hadn’t he had an heir by then? What made him want to stay in that same location for centuries? How did he fly? Where did he get the blood he drank?
There was a part when August thought (inner dialogue) how he would be so lucky to have her (Catherine) last until the next ceremony. Ah…considering the next ceremony was one hundred years in the future…yeah, it’s likely she’d have been dead for a good while at that point. That just seemed like a strange thing to say/think.
Was anyone else thinking of the Hunger Games when they first started with this story? It’s like a family of the village is first chosen, then a single member of said family. This person is chosen to represent their village as a Tribute/candidate by going off to another location. In this case, Catherine is chosen to marry the vampire. Plus, the beginning had her out in the woods hunting with her bow and arrow. When she looked for food, I was so waiting for her to come across a deer (like in the movie), but it was a boar instead. Either way, Hunger Games was on my mind.
Catherine thought about how her wedding to August had been unconventional, but that had been what she wanted. There wasn’t any mention of a wedding during the ceremony though.
Speaking of weddings, there was a part when Catherine mentioned how August was a gentleman because he didn’t force himself on her…something to do with sex outside of wedlock. What happened to them supposedly getting married during the ceremony? If they didn’t get married then, then what was taking so long? What had they been doing? Moving on, there was another part when after they finally had sex, and suddenly, they were married now. I didn’t get it?!
Speaking of sex, when August was about to release his goodies, he decided not to do it inside of Catherine because she was too young to get with child. Wasn’t she twenty-four? Wouldn’t that have been considered kinda old back in those days? I mean, other stories, she would have been referred to as an old maid or spinster at that age. Yet, the next day, they have sex and he cums inside her.
When Catherine woke up one morning, why was she scared that the curtains were open and that she wasn’t burning? That was strange considering there was no further mention of it. She just got dressed and went outside, where the sun was shining. Did she think she was going to suddenly change into a vampire…randomly, after being at the castle for several weeks/months?
Where did they get the workers for the castle? Obviously, not from Catherine’s village, which seemed kind of questionable, but whatever, I have plenty of questions regarding this story already.
How many times was “beautiful, black steed/mare” mentioned? Yeah, too many for my likely.
The cleric from the other village that went to the castle in search of help arrived at the castle. Catherine’s back was turned to him when he first spoke to her. Yet, somehow, she knew that his teeth were rotten and brittle “when he spoke.” How? She wasn’t facing him.
They’ve been in the castle for a while now. And…they love each other. How? What have they been doing together besides bringing in more stuff/people into the castle? Or was that all that Catherine needed/wanted? Was stuff?
I thought it was funny when August referred to Catherine as a princess when she was going down on him. Did anyone think that was a funny line given what she was doing?
The best part was at the end of part one when the narrator said how she (technically, the author) hoped the reader enjoyed the romance between August and Catherine. WHAT ROMANCE? They haven’t done anything!
Let me start by saying that if the story is short (about two hours in this case), having a really long review from me…is very bad.
So, a good majority of this story is just talking, no dialogue. I swear in the beginning, I felt like I was listening to a history-related audiobook. It was all just talk, talk, talk. Explaining this and that. And I’m left wondering when the characters will actually interact. Then when they finally start interacting with each other, there’s not much there. For example, August and Catherine have been in the castle for a while (at one point the author says it’s been weeks, then later that same day, it changes to months), either way, there was nothing said about how they’d been interacting, minus Catherine saying August had been a gentleman (I’ll say more on that below). There was just nothing! The author seemed more focused on the grounds, the people (besides the main characters), and what was going on outside of the castle. Wasn’t this supposed to be a romance? I wasn’t feeling it at all! I was also under the impression that the dialogue was an afterthought to this story, with how little there was.
Besides the issue with the writing style, was August just stupid or what? I mean he’s been married lots of times to different females throughout the centuries, yet when Catherine arrives there’s nothing in the castle. Did none of his other brides want furniture? A bed? Something to lay on? What about friends and family? Did none of them want to see their loved ones? I could understand them being hesitant in the beginning, but still. Who wouldn’t want to have others around to talk to? Interact with? What did August and his previous brides do? But with Catherine, it’s like he came out of some dark closet and is like, “Oh yeah, she needs stuff, she needs servants, she needs this and that…” I didn’t understand that.
The narrator was alright. I could see her doing better reading a different story though. As it was, there were many times throughout this short story in which you could feel her emotion (representative of the character), but it was just a no. I don’t know how else to explain this. It’s like she was trying to make the story better than what it was, and, again, I wasn’t feeling it. I know a narrator can make or break an audiobook, but this story itself wasn’t good. I feel like the book might have broken the narrator in this case. My only question for the narrator is this: why was the word “dungeon” pronounced as “don-gen?”
Questions/Comments:
August. Could he have been any vaguer? He was a vampire that had been living for centuries and married a female from the local village in return for his protection. Oh yeah, he can fly, too! That might be enough information for some readers/listeners, but not for me. What happened to his previous brides? Why hadn’t he had an heir by then? What made him want to stay in that same location for centuries? How did he fly? Where did he get the blood he drank?
There was a part when August thought (inner dialogue) how he would be so lucky to have her (Catherine) last until the next ceremony. Ah…considering the next ceremony was one hundred years in the future…yeah, it’s likely she’d have been dead for a good while at that point. That just seemed like a strange thing to say/think.
Was anyone else thinking of the Hunger Games when they first started with this story? It’s like a family of the village is first chosen, then a single member of said family. This person is chosen to represent their village as a Tribute/candidate by going off to another location. In this case, Catherine is chosen to marry the vampire. Plus, the beginning had her out in the woods hunting with her bow and arrow. When she looked for food, I was so waiting for her to come across a deer (like in the movie), but it was a boar instead. Either way, Hunger Games was on my mind.
Catherine thought about how her wedding to August had been unconventional, but that had been what she wanted. There wasn’t any mention of a wedding during the ceremony though.
Speaking of weddings, there was a part when Catherine mentioned how August was a gentleman because he didn’t force himself on her…something to do with sex outside of wedlock. What happened to them supposedly getting married during the ceremony? If they didn’t get married then, then what was taking so long? What had they been doing? Moving on, there was another part when after they finally had sex, and suddenly, they were married now. I didn’t get it?!
Speaking of sex, when August was about to release his goodies, he decided not to do it inside of Catherine because she was too young to get with child. Wasn’t she twenty-four? Wouldn’t that have been considered kinda old back in those days? I mean, other stories, she would have been referred to as an old maid or spinster at that age. Yet, the next day, they have sex and he cums inside her.
When Catherine woke up one morning, why was she scared that the curtains were open and that she wasn’t burning? That was strange considering there was no further mention of it. She just got dressed and went outside, where the sun was shining. Did she think she was going to suddenly change into a vampire…randomly, after being at the castle for several weeks/months?
Where did they get the workers for the castle? Obviously, not from Catherine’s village, which seemed kind of questionable, but whatever, I have plenty of questions regarding this story already.
How many times was “beautiful, black steed/mare” mentioned? Yeah, too many for my likely.
The cleric from the other village that went to the castle in search of help arrived at the castle. Catherine’s back was turned to him when he first spoke to her. Yet, somehow, she knew that his teeth were rotten and brittle “when he spoke.” How? She wasn’t facing him.
They’ve been in the castle for a while now. And…they love each other. How? What have they been doing together besides bringing in more stuff/people into the castle? Or was that all that Catherine needed/wanted? Was stuff?
I thought it was funny when August referred to Catherine as a princess when she was going down on him. Did anyone think that was a funny line given what she was doing?
The best part was at the end of part one when the narrator said how she (technically, the author) hoped the reader enjoyed the romance between August and Catherine. WHAT ROMANCE? They haven’t done anything!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2014
What a strange read. The premise was promising. I actually enjoyed the first few pages, and then it abruptly ends...then launches into book 2. There's not a whole lot of development there, but with being so short, that's not too surprising.
Since there's not a version of book 2 listed, I'll include it on here. Book 2 was even shorter than book 1, and really was just a quick summary of what occurs over the years. There's no plot, no real story, no development of characters, and no real ending. It was kind of, "wam-bam-thank-you-ma'am." Very unsatisfying.
Since there's not a version of book 2 listed, I'll include it on here. Book 2 was even shorter than book 1, and really was just a quick summary of what occurs over the years. There's no plot, no real story, no development of characters, and no real ending. It was kind of, "wam-bam-thank-you-ma'am." Very unsatisfying.
April 8, 2015
Probably one of the worst book I have ever read. First couple pages gave me hope but then it shattered in all directions. The romance between the girl and the count was annoying at best. No character development, clichè and confusing...In the end was really weird (I had version where were book 1&2) like it stopped in the middle of the story. Well I´m kind of glad it did.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2018
~AUDIO REVIEW~
Fierce eagle, little warrior of the gorge.
Catherine is a strong woman and makes for a great bride to Count August, the vampire who rules her people’s lands. I liked how a Bride was chosen for Count August every century. It made me think about past brides, future brides (if any), and now the new bride Catherine and what makes her different from the rest.
I thought there would be a little more battling/fighting as there is a sword on the cover, though I did like the small fight where Count August saved Catherine.
I found this short story to be sweet and a little sappy. I really enjoyed both the story and the narration and will be listening to the next book to find out more.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this audio without bias or persuasion from the author or publisher.
Fierce eagle, little warrior of the gorge.
Catherine is a strong woman and makes for a great bride to Count August, the vampire who rules her people’s lands. I liked how a Bride was chosen for Count August every century. It made me think about past brides, future brides (if any), and now the new bride Catherine and what makes her different from the rest.
I thought there would be a little more battling/fighting as there is a sword on the cover, though I did like the small fight where Count August saved Catherine.
I found this short story to be sweet and a little sappy. I really enjoyed both the story and the narration and will be listening to the next book to find out more.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this audio without bias or persuasion from the author or publisher.
August 6, 2019
I laughed. I cried. And not in good ways.
Probably the best compliment I can give this book is to say that the idea was there; it had potential! I had hopes for it...
But the execution fell very flat, at least for me.
The writing left a lot to be desired. Between mistakes, a "telling" style (rather than showing), and numerous repetitions, I felt like I was reading a page from an idea journal, or at best a very very rough draft.
I didnt feel much for the characters or their interactions. Their relationship was rushed, and gave me no reason to root for it (or either of them).
Theres so many (so very very many!) loose ends that I'm left feeling incredibly unfulfilled. Events happen that seem like they could be very relevant and leading up to future events, and then.... nothing.
Maybe things get better in a future book, but I've currently no inclination to move forward with it.
Probably the best compliment I can give this book is to say that the idea was there; it had potential! I had hopes for it...
But the execution fell very flat, at least for me.
The writing left a lot to be desired. Between mistakes, a "telling" style (rather than showing), and numerous repetitions, I felt like I was reading a page from an idea journal, or at best a very very rough draft.
I didnt feel much for the characters or their interactions. Their relationship was rushed, and gave me no reason to root for it (or either of them).
Theres so many (so very very many!) loose ends that I'm left feeling incredibly unfulfilled. Events happen that seem like they could be very relevant and leading up to future events, and then.... nothing.
Maybe things get better in a future book, but I've currently no inclination to move forward with it.
November 16, 2018
Claimed by the Vampire King was a great read by Susan G. Charles. This is book one of Tale of Century Bride series. Catherine is the eldest daughter of the towns blacksmith. She has to be a part of the villages bride tradition where girls compete to gain the attention of the count. Catherine wants nothing to do with him or the tradition until he saves the whole town from a band of vampires. I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. This was a good quick read.
November 18, 2018
Very clever take on the usual vampire story!
Well done -- well written, well narrated, great story, really fun to listen to.
It's good to be the Count! But, sometimes, sacrifices need to be made. Who will be chosen??
Check this entertaining short listen!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Well done -- well written, well narrated, great story, really fun to listen to.
It's good to be the Count! But, sometimes, sacrifices need to be made. Who will be chosen??
Check this entertaining short listen!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
November 27, 2018
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I don’t read much fantasy but I felt this was easy fantasy to read. I enjoyed the love story between Count August and his tribute bride. She had such a good heart to see past him being a vampire kind of little like a dark beauty and the beast.
I don’t read much fantasy but I felt this was easy fantasy to read. I enjoyed the love story between Count August and his tribute bride. She had such a good heart to see past him being a vampire kind of little like a dark beauty and the beast.
March 16, 2018
Story cut short, but not in a good way.
The start of the story was well written. The story made a downward crash though to the end. The ending was not an ending really and it felt like the love scene was done in a hurry.
The start of the story was well written. The story made a downward crash though to the end. The ending was not an ending really and it felt like the love scene was done in a hurry.
January 2, 2019
Audible:I thought the storyline was good,but then it got too sexy.That turned me off.Smokey Green was a fine narrator.I was given this book by the narrator,author or publisher free for an honest review.
November 23, 2014
Intriguing little tale.
Catherine's town is protected by Count August, now the Count happens to be a very old and powerful vampire, his payment for looking after the town is one maiden every one hundred years and the townspeople go along with this but Catherine's rallying against it, why should they give up a female every hundred years, at one point she's gathering support but then terrible violence in neighbouring villages causes the townspeople to realise just how lucky they are to be so well protected, then something happens which makes Catherine herself, to the absolute shock of the town place her own name on the Century Bride list.
I loved the idea behind this book, what's the Count like? What does he do with the Century Brides?
Catherine's town is protected by Count August, now the Count happens to be a very old and powerful vampire, his payment for looking after the town is one maiden every one hundred years and the townspeople go along with this but Catherine's rallying against it, why should they give up a female every hundred years, at one point she's gathering support but then terrible violence in neighbouring villages causes the townspeople to realise just how lucky they are to be so well protected, then something happens which makes Catherine herself, to the absolute shock of the town place her own name on the Century Bride list.
I loved the idea behind this book, what's the Count like? What does he do with the Century Brides?
October 2, 2015
Loved it
I really liked this book. I really enjoyed the background on why the Count takes a bride once a century and how after seeing the Count, Catherine fails in love with him. Oh how sweet they are and a great plot that makes me want to read the next book. (Already bought and looking forward to reading the next book.
I really liked this book. I really enjoyed the background on why the Count takes a bride once a century and how after seeing the Count, Catherine fails in love with him. Oh how sweet they are and a great plot that makes me want to read the next book. (Already bought and looking forward to reading the next book.
May 10, 2016
Not so great
Wasn't what I expected. Not much plot or charActer development. Very short. I kept rechecking thinking that somehow I had skipped a hundred pages or so but no such luck. This could have been much better if the author had kept with it. There is a second book but not taking a look. Sorry.
Wasn't what I expected. Not much plot or charActer development. Very short. I kept rechecking thinking that somehow I had skipped a hundred pages or so but no such luck. This could have been much better if the author had kept with it. There is a second book but not taking a look. Sorry.
November 13, 2016
Ok read
2 stars awarded this story could have been so much more I was really looking forward to a decent read after reading book one thinking the second book would be more in-depth it was over before it started so left me disappointed shame as could have been good I really like the main characters
2 stars awarded this story could have been so much more I was really looking forward to a decent read after reading book one thinking the second book would be more in-depth it was over before it started so left me disappointed shame as could have been good I really like the main characters
September 15, 2013
It was a good story however it's way too short! Story ended right where most stories start. Strange. Made me triple check to make sure that was all to the story.
October 11, 2015
Meh. The first chapters were promising but then it turned so boring e poorly written that I couldn't finish it.
August 7, 2016
Excellent
Wow this is one very entertaining story to read. I know you will enjoy reading this book as much as I have
Wow this is one very entertaining story to read. I know you will enjoy reading this book as much as I have
August 19, 2016
I really dislike these episode 'books'. They give you a few pages for free then reem you for the next episodes of really poorly edited writing. This story started out...ok...and ended poorly.
August 24, 2013
This was a cute story & a rather quick read. I rather enjoyed it, I just wish it had been longer.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews