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Almost Human, The Second Trilogy #1
Born to Blood
Allie thought vampires were almost human; until she became one. Her friend Felicity is dating the son of a vampire hunter, yet has a psychic bond with one of his prey. These two girls are part of a diabolical plan to control destiny, and blood may not only be the catalyst for change, but also the master of manipulation behind it. Is a vampire made by their sire, or is one simply born to blood?
Nook
First published May 30, 2010
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170 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Nowak
41 books232 followersMelanie Nowak is author of the venomous vampire series ALMOST HUMAN, and a happily married mom of two boys. She holds a Master's Degree in Library and Information Science, and lives with her family on a peaceful mountaintop in the forest of upstate New York. She has always had a vivid imagination and a fascination for the paranormal. Acting and singing are loves of hers as well. However, upon conceiving the idea for her ALMOST HUMAN series in 2003, she discovered a previously unknown passion for writing! Now she puts her over-active imagination to good use, creating characters she loves, and she gets to play all of the parts!
Visit the author's website at: http://www.MelanieNowak.com
Visit the author's website at: http://www.MelanieNowak.com
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 30, 2010
Born to Blood the First Book of the Second Trilogy of the Almost Human series was certainly worth the wait. !!!As Ms Nowaks writing style, this Book begins where we left off in Book 3 Evolving Ecstacy. This Second Trilogy can stand alone as enough information is given for new readers to pick this book up and enjoy as well.
We begin finding Cain deeply depressed at his mansion in upstate NY despondent over having left Felicity. His internal thoughts pondering if he had done the right thing in leaving her. His pain will have a great effect on you as a reader.It did me.
Mattie ans Alyson are traveling together and here we have the absorbing and wonderful chapters of Mattie bringing Allie into the Immortal world. The actual TURNING of Alyson into a vampire is a scene that takes your breathe away, with the dissappearing image in the mirror and the FINALITY of the act.
We are invited to Cains Christmas Party, that he holds yearly. We get to see in this continuing storyline, POV 's through the eyes of more than one of our characters, that we have come to know and love or hate as the case might be. Sindy is back with a bite. Ben and Felicity and Bernhard flash back to the home scene where Bernard shares some unwanted information about himself and asked Felicity to hide this from Ben. Allie goes back to say goodbye to her friends and has a painful visit and an unexplained mental bond is discovered.
We are intrigued to find out that Allie shows interesting signs after her change and Mattie shares this with Cain. They decide to go to visit one person who Cain feels will help possibly answer his questions and readers will remember Arif, the Vampire Leader of a very large Coven.
Before taking off to meet with Arif, Cain Mattie and Allie perform a rite of exchanging blood to give the three their own indelible Mark. Again that scene VERY POWERFUL. The road trip to Atlantic City is very interesting and very enlightening for us as readers.
In conclusion, this book certainly takes Ms Nowak's story and her writing skills up a notch. The blood experiments with Allie and Mattie are amazing and her concepts and ideas have made this reader mesmerized with the tale she is telling and the anticipation for the next installment..
With Ms Nowacks writing as she ends a book with closure she leaves you enticed to think of other possibilities...Yes they are endless, thats why this story has captured my mind and my heart. Your mind opens a million other doors.
Will Cain be able to protect Allie??? What about Bernard??? What is Felicity doing Now???? We can only wait till the next story...due out when Ms Nowak???
Merged review:
Born to Blood the First Book of the Second Trilogy of the Almost Human series was certainly worth the wait. !!!As Ms Nowaks writing style, this Book begins where we left off in Book 3 Evolving Ecstacy. This Second Trilogy can stand alone as enough information is given for new readers to pick this book up and enjoy as well.
We begin finding Cain deeply depressed at his mansion in upstate NY despondent over having left Felicity. His internal thoughts pondering if he had done the right thing in leaving her. His pain will have a great effect on you as a reader.It did me.
Mattie ans Alyson are traveling together and here we have the absorbing and wonderful chapters of Mattie bringing Allie into the Immortal world. The actual TURNING of Alyson into a vampire is a scene that takes your breathe away, with the dissappearing image in the mirror and the FINALITY of the act.
We are invited to Cains Christmas Party, that he holds yearly. We get to see in this continuing storyline, POV 's through the eyes of more than one of our characters, that we have come to know and love or hate as the case might be. Sindy is back with a bite. Ben and Felicity and Bernhard flash back to the home scene where Bernard shares some unwanted information about himself and asked Felicity to hide this from Ben. Allie goes back to say goodbye to her friends and has a painful visit and an unexplained mental bond is discovered.
We are intrigued to find out that Allie shows interesting signs after her change and Mattie shares this with Cain. They decide to go to visit one person who Cain feels will help possibly answer his questions and readers will remember Arif, the Vampire Leader of a very large Coven.
Before taking off to meet with Arif, Cain Mattie and Allie perform a rite of exchanging blood to give the three their own indelible Mark. Again that scene VERY POWERFUL. The road trip to Atlantic City is very interesting and very enlightening for us as readers.
In conclusion, this book certainly takes Ms Nowak's story and her writing skills up a notch. The blood experiments with Allie and Mattie are amazing and her concepts and ideas have made this reader mesmerized with the tale she is telling and the anticipation for the next installment..
With Ms Nowacks writing as she ends a book with closure she leaves you enticed to think of other possibilities...Yes they are endless, thats why this story has captured my mind and my heart. Your mind opens a million other doors.
Will Cain be able to protect Allie??? What about Bernard??? What is Felicity doing Now???? We can only wait till the next story...due out when Ms Nowak???
We begin finding Cain deeply depressed at his mansion in upstate NY despondent over having left Felicity. His internal thoughts pondering if he had done the right thing in leaving her. His pain will have a great effect on you as a reader.It did me.
Mattie ans Alyson are traveling together and here we have the absorbing and wonderful chapters of Mattie bringing Allie into the Immortal world. The actual TURNING of Alyson into a vampire is a scene that takes your breathe away, with the dissappearing image in the mirror and the FINALITY of the act.
We are invited to Cains Christmas Party, that he holds yearly. We get to see in this continuing storyline, POV 's through the eyes of more than one of our characters, that we have come to know and love or hate as the case might be. Sindy is back with a bite. Ben and Felicity and Bernhard flash back to the home scene where Bernard shares some unwanted information about himself and asked Felicity to hide this from Ben. Allie goes back to say goodbye to her friends and has a painful visit and an unexplained mental bond is discovered.
We are intrigued to find out that Allie shows interesting signs after her change and Mattie shares this with Cain. They decide to go to visit one person who Cain feels will help possibly answer his questions and readers will remember Arif, the Vampire Leader of a very large Coven.
Before taking off to meet with Arif, Cain Mattie and Allie perform a rite of exchanging blood to give the three their own indelible Mark. Again that scene VERY POWERFUL. The road trip to Atlantic City is very interesting and very enlightening for us as readers.
In conclusion, this book certainly takes Ms Nowak's story and her writing skills up a notch. The blood experiments with Allie and Mattie are amazing and her concepts and ideas have made this reader mesmerized with the tale she is telling and the anticipation for the next installment..
With Ms Nowacks writing as she ends a book with closure she leaves you enticed to think of other possibilities...Yes they are endless, thats why this story has captured my mind and my heart. Your mind opens a million other doors.
Will Cain be able to protect Allie??? What about Bernard??? What is Felicity doing Now???? We can only wait till the next story...due out when Ms Nowak???
Merged review:
Born to Blood the First Book of the Second Trilogy of the Almost Human series was certainly worth the wait. !!!As Ms Nowaks writing style, this Book begins where we left off in Book 3 Evolving Ecstacy. This Second Trilogy can stand alone as enough information is given for new readers to pick this book up and enjoy as well.
We begin finding Cain deeply depressed at his mansion in upstate NY despondent over having left Felicity. His internal thoughts pondering if he had done the right thing in leaving her. His pain will have a great effect on you as a reader.It did me.
Mattie ans Alyson are traveling together and here we have the absorbing and wonderful chapters of Mattie bringing Allie into the Immortal world. The actual TURNING of Alyson into a vampire is a scene that takes your breathe away, with the dissappearing image in the mirror and the FINALITY of the act.
We are invited to Cains Christmas Party, that he holds yearly. We get to see in this continuing storyline, POV 's through the eyes of more than one of our characters, that we have come to know and love or hate as the case might be. Sindy is back with a bite. Ben and Felicity and Bernhard flash back to the home scene where Bernard shares some unwanted information about himself and asked Felicity to hide this from Ben. Allie goes back to say goodbye to her friends and has a painful visit and an unexplained mental bond is discovered.
We are intrigued to find out that Allie shows interesting signs after her change and Mattie shares this with Cain. They decide to go to visit one person who Cain feels will help possibly answer his questions and readers will remember Arif, the Vampire Leader of a very large Coven.
Before taking off to meet with Arif, Cain Mattie and Allie perform a rite of exchanging blood to give the three their own indelible Mark. Again that scene VERY POWERFUL. The road trip to Atlantic City is very interesting and very enlightening for us as readers.
In conclusion, this book certainly takes Ms Nowak's story and her writing skills up a notch. The blood experiments with Allie and Mattie are amazing and her concepts and ideas have made this reader mesmerized with the tale she is telling and the anticipation for the next installment..
With Ms Nowacks writing as she ends a book with closure she leaves you enticed to think of other possibilities...Yes they are endless, thats why this story has captured my mind and my heart. Your mind opens a million other doors.
Will Cain be able to protect Allie??? What about Bernard??? What is Felicity doing Now???? We can only wait till the next story...due out when Ms Nowak???
September 12, 2011
These characters are fascinating, their interaction flows easily. Melanie did a great job describing their experiences and feelings. Reading about their conflicts, their lost love, their tragedy and their quest for happiness made me feel pity, love and sadness, I call it the Trifecta effect. When an author can awake those feelings in a reader then the job has been done, the desired effect has been accomplished. Melanie's writing just flow, her stories are easy to read, and her writing style is fantastic. I look forward to reading Descendant of Darkness the 2nd book of the 2nd Trilogy.
September 29, 2017
I read this one a while ago, after the Twilight craze. If you liked Twilight, I think you'll like this book. If you didn't simply because of the plot or writing, you'll still enjoy this book because both of those are better in this novel. There's a lot of romantic tension and steam.
June 21, 2011
As in The First Trilogy of Almost Human, Melanie Nowak creates an awe-inspiring world that is all her own, while converging many different genres in the process. In her latest release `Born to Blood', she launches the Second Trilogy to an entirely new and unprecedented level. With the addition of exciting new psychic powers, new characters and the cast of our beloved friends, the author never ceases to thrill in this phenomenal and captivating story!
Although the novel starts where Book 3 of the First Trilogy leaves off, it is written in such a way that it can stand alone for readers new to the series. Mattie and Allie are together in a small town in Upstate N.Y. in early November, when Allie makes the decision to join her boyfriend Mattie in his immortality. Mattie is thrilled and takes loving and thorough care when turning her into a vampire. This was such a mesmerizing chapter to read as I felt all the emotions from Allie's perspective. The image of her fading reflection was so surreal to me. It meant there was no turning back! Wow! Soon after becoming a vampire, Allie displays special abilities and powers. Mattie is both proud and perplexed about all this. What are the exceptional changes that have taken place in her? The answers will astound you!
Allie desires to go back to see her old friends to let them know she is okay, and say goodbye. What she encounters is a scene fraught with raw emotions that both new and old readers alike will experience. It also opens up a new and interesting psychic connection between 2 of the characters. It is simply fascinating how the author weaves this story into the plot. Meanwhile, Ben's father Bernard Everheart shares secrets with Felicity and tells her to keep them hidden from Ben. Felicity feels caught in the middle. How long can she keep this secrecy from Ben?
Mattie and Allie make the decision to seek the elder vampire Cain for guidance. They arrive to find Cain alone with his thoughts and grieving after having left Felicity a few months ago. He attempts to view his life in a more positive context, yet he misses Felicity deeply. Did he make the best decision in leaving her? Allie demonstrates her change to Cain, and he is in awe of her unique qualities. In addition, Mattie shares a few revelations regarding vampire blood. Their discoveries are mind blowing! OMG - The author did an incredible job of sending chills up my spine!!!
Cain throws an annual week long holiday party at his manor. In attendance are vampires from all parts of the world. There are new as well as familiar guests who readers may recognize. Sindy is back and attracted to Cain more than ever. There are scenes that are deeply touching and profound. The characters play off each other extremely well in this novel. There is plenty of drama, intrigue, mystery and a few laughs which take place during the week long festivities. In addition to some great surprises!
After the party, Cain suggests to Mattie and Allie that the three should seek the council of Arif, a powerful leader of a large coven, who might guide them further in their quest for knowledge of Allie's powers. Before they depart to meet him in Atlantic City, they come together as a coven, beholding a "mark" which will protect them in travel. In this scene I felt my admiration and respect deepen for Cain, Mattie and Allie. Their display of loyalty, commitment and love for each other is a very powerful thing!
I have never been to 'The Quarter' of the Tropicana in Atlantic City, however, after reading this description it gave me the feeling as though I had just returned from a window shopping trip! I was transported to another place and time; absolutely gorgeous! Arif offers some truth Cain can accept regarding vampire history and myth, yet there are mysteries and secrets this man talks about that are shocking and unheard of. Are the things this elder states true of Allie? Does Arif have an agenda all his own? Perhaps there are some things beyond their control, or could there be something within orchestrating a much larger plan?
Ms. Nowak changes the format of this trilogy, so we get to hear the POV of more of the characters as opposed to just two. This was very moving because I felt an immediate connection to our friends as I experienced life through their eyes. All the characters in this story are notably written and believable. The plot was engaging and flowed perfectly through this remarkable novel. I cried, laughed, got angry, was frightened, felt heart ache, cheered; it was a roller coaster of a great ride with lots of twists and turns! I adored how the characters gained insight and developed right before my eyes. I look forward to seeing what the next adventure will bring for our dear friends.
This journey has proved to be an intoxicating one indeed! I'm a hopeless addict who now can hardly wait until the next book "Descendant of Darkness" to begin. Born to Blood is Melanie Nowak's best work so far! Not to be missed by either newcomers or die-hard fans! A superb addition to the Almost Human world! It keeps getting better and better!
Review by
Gina (Gigi) Lupo
Paranormal Romance Guild
Although the novel starts where Book 3 of the First Trilogy leaves off, it is written in such a way that it can stand alone for readers new to the series. Mattie and Allie are together in a small town in Upstate N.Y. in early November, when Allie makes the decision to join her boyfriend Mattie in his immortality. Mattie is thrilled and takes loving and thorough care when turning her into a vampire. This was such a mesmerizing chapter to read as I felt all the emotions from Allie's perspective. The image of her fading reflection was so surreal to me. It meant there was no turning back! Wow! Soon after becoming a vampire, Allie displays special abilities and powers. Mattie is both proud and perplexed about all this. What are the exceptional changes that have taken place in her? The answers will astound you!
Allie desires to go back to see her old friends to let them know she is okay, and say goodbye. What she encounters is a scene fraught with raw emotions that both new and old readers alike will experience. It also opens up a new and interesting psychic connection between 2 of the characters. It is simply fascinating how the author weaves this story into the plot. Meanwhile, Ben's father Bernard Everheart shares secrets with Felicity and tells her to keep them hidden from Ben. Felicity feels caught in the middle. How long can she keep this secrecy from Ben?
Mattie and Allie make the decision to seek the elder vampire Cain for guidance. They arrive to find Cain alone with his thoughts and grieving after having left Felicity a few months ago. He attempts to view his life in a more positive context, yet he misses Felicity deeply. Did he make the best decision in leaving her? Allie demonstrates her change to Cain, and he is in awe of her unique qualities. In addition, Mattie shares a few revelations regarding vampire blood. Their discoveries are mind blowing! OMG - The author did an incredible job of sending chills up my spine!!!
Cain throws an annual week long holiday party at his manor. In attendance are vampires from all parts of the world. There are new as well as familiar guests who readers may recognize. Sindy is back and attracted to Cain more than ever. There are scenes that are deeply touching and profound. The characters play off each other extremely well in this novel. There is plenty of drama, intrigue, mystery and a few laughs which take place during the week long festivities. In addition to some great surprises!
After the party, Cain suggests to Mattie and Allie that the three should seek the council of Arif, a powerful leader of a large coven, who might guide them further in their quest for knowledge of Allie's powers. Before they depart to meet him in Atlantic City, they come together as a coven, beholding a "mark" which will protect them in travel. In this scene I felt my admiration and respect deepen for Cain, Mattie and Allie. Their display of loyalty, commitment and love for each other is a very powerful thing!
I have never been to 'The Quarter' of the Tropicana in Atlantic City, however, after reading this description it gave me the feeling as though I had just returned from a window shopping trip! I was transported to another place and time; absolutely gorgeous! Arif offers some truth Cain can accept regarding vampire history and myth, yet there are mysteries and secrets this man talks about that are shocking and unheard of. Are the things this elder states true of Allie? Does Arif have an agenda all his own? Perhaps there are some things beyond their control, or could there be something within orchestrating a much larger plan?
Ms. Nowak changes the format of this trilogy, so we get to hear the POV of more of the characters as opposed to just two. This was very moving because I felt an immediate connection to our friends as I experienced life through their eyes. All the characters in this story are notably written and believable. The plot was engaging and flowed perfectly through this remarkable novel. I cried, laughed, got angry, was frightened, felt heart ache, cheered; it was a roller coaster of a great ride with lots of twists and turns! I adored how the characters gained insight and developed right before my eyes. I look forward to seeing what the next adventure will bring for our dear friends.
This journey has proved to be an intoxicating one indeed! I'm a hopeless addict who now can hardly wait until the next book "Descendant of Darkness" to begin. Born to Blood is Melanie Nowak's best work so far! Not to be missed by either newcomers or die-hard fans! A superb addition to the Almost Human world! It keeps getting better and better!
Review by
Gina (Gigi) Lupo
Paranormal Romance Guild
June 7, 2010
Where do I begin? I have so much running through my mind right now about this series that I don't even know where to start. I love it! I just love it! After reading the first trilogy set, I did not think it could get any better than that. I was dying to find out what happened with the way Volume three of the first set had ended. You get a little of Felicity and her issues, but the main focus is not her anymore in "Born to Blood," but on Alyson instead.
Melanie starts the book off right before Alyson is turned to join Mattie. So you get to read about what she was doing before and how she felt. You also get to read how it all went down :-). There is more to Allie though and her turning shocks Mattie and Cain. She is not your ordinary vampire :-p. You do get a little bit of every character though because each character plays a big part in Allie's new life.
I just love the world Melanie has created and find it so easy to relate to her characters. You can easily feel for the characters in the book. I can not wait to read the next book in this series and find out what is going to happen with Arif and Alyson. The way this book ended made me want to scream! Melanie really knows how to keep you wanting more from chapter to chapter and ending to ending. This is a MUST MUST READ! After you've read the first set of course lol. It is not one of those books that you can read out of place.
Melanie starts the book off right before Alyson is turned to join Mattie. So you get to read about what she was doing before and how she felt. You also get to read how it all went down :-). There is more to Allie though and her turning shocks Mattie and Cain. She is not your ordinary vampire :-p. You do get a little bit of every character though because each character plays a big part in Allie's new life.
I just love the world Melanie has created and find it so easy to relate to her characters. You can easily feel for the characters in the book. I can not wait to read the next book in this series and find out what is going to happen with Arif and Alyson. The way this book ended made me want to scream! Melanie really knows how to keep you wanting more from chapter to chapter and ending to ending. This is a MUST MUST READ! After you've read the first set of course lol. It is not one of those books that you can read out of place.
October 8, 2010
This is by far my favorite book series ever! If you liked Twilight, you will love this (it's so much better than Twilight, too!). Each book in the series gets better and better, and this is my favorite book so far. There are so many different subplots/threads that the author introduces in each book that keeps you so captivated and wanting to read more. The charaters are so well-developed and you really grow attached to them. I am totally addicted to this series and I cannot wait to read the next book. Usually I have at least a few complaints or disagreements with the books that I read, but I haven't got one complaint with this book. I cannot praise Ms. Nowak enough on the series - it's so creative, so intriguing, romantic, heartfelt, and mysterious. I could go on and on. To sum it up - FABULOUS! Thank you Melanie for writing such wonderful books!
September 28, 2010
LOVE LOVE LOVE this series. It seems like it's been a long time since I read the first trilogy, but as I continued to read it all came back. I highly recommend that you read the first trilogy before you start on this second one. I know it's being sold as one book, it gives you all the backround on these characters. If you'd rather just start with this it does stand alone as a separate book. This series is focusing on Alli and Mattie and did I say I LOVED it? I think I'm going to re-read the first trilogy again.
Sucks you in and doesn't let you go...Melanie I sure hope the second book of this trilogy is almost done...I can't wait!!!!!
I recommend this book to all.
Sucks you in and doesn't let you go...Melanie I sure hope the second book of this trilogy is almost done...I can't wait!!!!!
I recommend this book to all.
August 23, 2010
Fantastic series continues the story of Cain, Felcity, Allie, Mattie,Ben and Sindy. The storyline gets even better as this 2nd trilogy begins. Page turner. You'll adore Cain and his love for Felicity, feisty Allie and sweet Mattie. Awesome author. Highly recommend. Just as good as the Twilight Series!!!
January 30, 2016
I came back to reading this self published series nearly five years after I finished the first trilogy. I guess my reading tastes have changed and despite the fact of understanding it is book four in a proposed twelve book series, I found it quite laborious to get through and in need of some succinct editing. Just not my thing anymore.
September 25, 2010
2nd-Descendant of Darkness
November 20, 2010
I would actually give this 4.5 stars if I could. Very well written. I can't wait to see what is in store for them next!
August 19, 2018
The vampiric addiction continues
First, I love Nowak's work, and I read the story of Born to Blood through her release of the novellas, Vampiress Rising, Exceeding Expectations, Coping with Chaos and Vampire Vertigo. I've looked at the three different reviews for each novella, and am including portions of those thoughts in this review, and some of my new thoughts on the story. It's a new series and new characters, new vampires. Cain and Allie are still integral parts of the series, and this lends to more details about Allie and her decision. Sometimes becoming the vampire is just the beginning of the story. It's not necessary to read the first series before starting this one, but it's highly recommended. It gives a feel for the main characters and how they interact with other characters. Those who love vampires and the connection with almost humans and humans will enjoy these stories. They are far from typical. It's full of intrigue and connections with characters and how they react to secrets and being on the verge of humanity. The undead or the almost humans have a connection with humans, and the relationships can be impulsive, loyal, and sometimes tumultuous, but filled with intrigue. Truly worth the read if you're into the undead, and semi-humans. Very addictive!
First, I love Nowak's work, and I read the story of Born to Blood through her release of the novellas, Vampiress Rising, Exceeding Expectations, Coping with Chaos and Vampire Vertigo. I've looked at the three different reviews for each novella, and am including portions of those thoughts in this review, and some of my new thoughts on the story. It's a new series and new characters, new vampires. Cain and Allie are still integral parts of the series, and this lends to more details about Allie and her decision. Sometimes becoming the vampire is just the beginning of the story. It's not necessary to read the first series before starting this one, but it's highly recommended. It gives a feel for the main characters and how they interact with other characters. Those who love vampires and the connection with almost humans and humans will enjoy these stories. They are far from typical. It's full of intrigue and connections with characters and how they react to secrets and being on the verge of humanity. The undead or the almost humans have a connection with humans, and the relationships can be impulsive, loyal, and sometimes tumultuous, but filled with intrigue. Truly worth the read if you're into the undead, and semi-humans. Very addictive!
January 3, 2024
It took a while since I was busy with a number of book clubs but finally picked up the first book of the Second Trilogy. I was immediately sucked into the story and quickly wondered why I had waited as long as I did to resume living with the interesting characters I met in the first trilogy! As much as enjoyed the first three books, I was impressed with the authors development as an author and in the story itself. We have moved on a few years and each of the characters have matured more and evolved even when paths diverged or came together again. I don't want to provide spoilers but I continue to be entranced by Cain and am amazed by what is happening with Allie and Mattie. Felicity has finally picked up her life without Cain and I am glad that she has been able to move on. I will add comments on the next two books but frankly, I read all three: Born to Blood, Descendant of Darkness and Destined for Divinity back to back. I couldn't stop and had to find out what was going to happen! Definitely recommend this series!
May 15, 2018
I thought this book was brilliant.
I found that Cain was sweet by helping Mattie.
Mattie is a character that I found was an intriguing. I found him to be a helpful character and helpful towards Allie. Her change is what made me grip the book until I read what happened next.
This is a book that is worth not putting down. It will leave you wanting more.
I found that Cain was sweet by helping Mattie.
Mattie is a character that I found was an intriguing. I found him to be a helpful character and helpful towards Allie. Her change is what made me grip the book until I read what happened next.
This is a book that is worth not putting down. It will leave you wanting more.
June 17, 2012
Born to Blood continues where Melanie Nowak left off in her Almost Human series, this is the first book in a planned second trilogy.
Allie has decided to take the plunge into Mattie's world and become a vampire as well, this may well be the first time Allie has actually thought long and hard about any decision she has ever made, needless to say this decision is going to change her life (or death as it were) for eternity. As it happens, Allie's change takes place around the holiday season, a season that Mattie always spends with their friend Cain at his home in upper state New York and this year will be no different so off to Cain's home they go. Cain always has a large gathering for vampires at his home and this year that gathering will bring old friends together with new and old enemies will resurface.
Back at home, the budding relationship between Felicity and Ben that started at the end of the last series will build to a new level, helping Felicity to get over her hurt from Cain leaving. Even though Felicity finds herself becoming more and more attached to Ben, she still has feelings for Cain and isn't sure how to deal with them. She finds her friendship with Allie helps her to cope, even though Allie isn't there the thought of her brings a sense of peace to Felicity.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, startling new revelations will be made to all the members of this dysfunctional little family. Revelations that may not be welcome but for better or worse will change the lives of all.
Ms. Nowak tells her story from differing point of views of a number of her characters, a dangerous writing style that can implode if not properly done but Ms. Nowak is a master at this form of storytelling. The transitions from one character to another are clear and concise, each character's viewpoint pulling the reader further and further into the story.
This book focuses mostly on Allie, Mattie and Cain with Felicity and Ben making appearances throughout but they are not the main focus. Allie is just as feisty as a vampire as she was as a human. Here is a hint to all other vampires, you really don't want to mess with this girl, she's small but she packs a wallop. Mattie is so thoroughly in love with Allie that it's almost painful to watch. He handles her well though and he knows that at least life is never going to boring with her around for eternity. Cain is still on his mission to teach vampires to be a kinder, gentler breed. He mourns the loss of Felicity and fights his inclination to just give in to his depression and isolate himself from the world. Sindy joins our little gang at Cain's house and she is trying to live up to Cain's standards. I have to admit I liked the old Sindy better, but I have a feeling that we've only just seen the tip of the iceberg where she is concerned. Ben and Felicity are getting to know each other better and defining their relationship. I'll admit I wasn't too upset about not seeing too much of them in this book. There are new players introduced into the story, a very mysterious vampire makes an appearance at Cain's and we meet a whole new breed of vampire as well.
I was taken completely by surprise with the direction Ms. Nowak went with this book. It's is a little darker and edgier than the first three, and I like this direction. I did have a few little niggles, Cain's self pity gets to me at times, for someone as old as he is he needs to just get over it. There were a few monologues that I will admit I skipped over, not as many as in the earlier books but they were there. These little niggles were the only reason I couldn't give this book 5 stars, Goodreads doesn't have a 4.5 stars and it is my practice to round down. The scene of Allie's turning is completely mesmerizing and gives the reader a little hint of the depth of Ms. Nowak's talent. I have no problem recommending this book to any lover of the paranormal genre, the series is getting better and better with each offering and I'm on the edge of my seat waiting to see where it is going.
Allie has decided to take the plunge into Mattie's world and become a vampire as well, this may well be the first time Allie has actually thought long and hard about any decision she has ever made, needless to say this decision is going to change her life (or death as it were) for eternity. As it happens, Allie's change takes place around the holiday season, a season that Mattie always spends with their friend Cain at his home in upper state New York and this year will be no different so off to Cain's home they go. Cain always has a large gathering for vampires at his home and this year that gathering will bring old friends together with new and old enemies will resurface.
Back at home, the budding relationship between Felicity and Ben that started at the end of the last series will build to a new level, helping Felicity to get over her hurt from Cain leaving. Even though Felicity finds herself becoming more and more attached to Ben, she still has feelings for Cain and isn't sure how to deal with them. She finds her friendship with Allie helps her to cope, even though Allie isn't there the thought of her brings a sense of peace to Felicity.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, startling new revelations will be made to all the members of this dysfunctional little family. Revelations that may not be welcome but for better or worse will change the lives of all.
Ms. Nowak tells her story from differing point of views of a number of her characters, a dangerous writing style that can implode if not properly done but Ms. Nowak is a master at this form of storytelling. The transitions from one character to another are clear and concise, each character's viewpoint pulling the reader further and further into the story.
This book focuses mostly on Allie, Mattie and Cain with Felicity and Ben making appearances throughout but they are not the main focus. Allie is just as feisty as a vampire as she was as a human. Here is a hint to all other vampires, you really don't want to mess with this girl, she's small but she packs a wallop. Mattie is so thoroughly in love with Allie that it's almost painful to watch. He handles her well though and he knows that at least life is never going to boring with her around for eternity. Cain is still on his mission to teach vampires to be a kinder, gentler breed. He mourns the loss of Felicity and fights his inclination to just give in to his depression and isolate himself from the world. Sindy joins our little gang at Cain's house and she is trying to live up to Cain's standards. I have to admit I liked the old Sindy better, but I have a feeling that we've only just seen the tip of the iceberg where she is concerned. Ben and Felicity are getting to know each other better and defining their relationship. I'll admit I wasn't too upset about not seeing too much of them in this book. There are new players introduced into the story, a very mysterious vampire makes an appearance at Cain's and we meet a whole new breed of vampire as well.
I was taken completely by surprise with the direction Ms. Nowak went with this book. It's is a little darker and edgier than the first three, and I like this direction. I did have a few little niggles, Cain's self pity gets to me at times, for someone as old as he is he needs to just get over it. There were a few monologues that I will admit I skipped over, not as many as in the earlier books but they were there. These little niggles were the only reason I couldn't give this book 5 stars, Goodreads doesn't have a 4.5 stars and it is my practice to round down. The scene of Allie's turning is completely mesmerizing and gives the reader a little hint of the depth of Ms. Nowak's talent. I have no problem recommending this book to any lover of the paranormal genre, the series is getting better and better with each offering and I'm on the edge of my seat waiting to see where it is going.
August 19, 2013
COMBINED REVIEW:
Book: Born To Blood
Series: Almost Human, Second Trilogy, Book 1
Author: Melanie Nowak
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Fantasy Romance (Vampires)
Length: Approximately 374 Pages
AND:
Book: Descendant Of Darkness
Series: Almost Human, Second Trilogy, Book 2
Author: Melanie Nowak
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Fantasy Romance (Vampires)
Length: Approximately 446 Pages
I came across a poster the other day on Facebook that sums up my feelings regarding the ALMOST HUMAN Series by MELANIE NOWAK to a tee.
It says, "If I put my book down, the characters might do something without me. So...I never put my book down."
When I was a little girl, I would sit at my grandmother's kitchen table listening to her gossip about people I had never heard about. My mother would be shocked at what grandma was sharing and she'd ask her, "Who is this you are talking about?" My grandmother would glare at my mom, humph, and in all seriousness state, "From my story of course." My mother would grin and my grandmother would continue to tell her the events that happened to these people in her soap opera that became very real friends to her.
Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought it possible for me to get so wrapped up in a storyline and characters that I would come to think of them as "real" friends, but through Ms. Nowak's writing, that is certainly the case. I truly care about these characters. I can't tell you how many times I've screamed at my Kindle, "What are you thinking?" or "No. No. No." There are characters that I want to see killed off in the most horrific manner (namely Sindy because I can't stand the bitch), and there are characters that I just want to throw my arms around and say, "Everything will be alright."
If you are looking to get lost in a series, forget your everyday worries and become personally involved with the characters of a really good book, then you simply must pick up the ALMOST HUMAN Series by MELANIE NOWAK. I must warn you, though, there is no fluff in the ALMOST HUMAN Series, it is dark and there are events that happen within the pages that never occur to the reader. It will keep you off balance. You will be sucked in, and will not be able to put this series down.
I am waiting for the third book in the second trilogy to come out as we speak and I feel as though I'm going through withdrawals. I NEED TO FIND OUT WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN!!!!!!
Book: Born To Blood
Series: Almost Human, Second Trilogy, Book 1
Author: Melanie Nowak
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Fantasy Romance (Vampires)
Length: Approximately 374 Pages
AND:
Book: Descendant Of Darkness
Series: Almost Human, Second Trilogy, Book 2
Author: Melanie Nowak
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Fantasy Romance (Vampires)
Length: Approximately 446 Pages
I came across a poster the other day on Facebook that sums up my feelings regarding the ALMOST HUMAN Series by MELANIE NOWAK to a tee.
It says, "If I put my book down, the characters might do something without me. So...I never put my book down."
When I was a little girl, I would sit at my grandmother's kitchen table listening to her gossip about people I had never heard about. My mother would be shocked at what grandma was sharing and she'd ask her, "Who is this you are talking about?" My grandmother would glare at my mom, humph, and in all seriousness state, "From my story of course." My mother would grin and my grandmother would continue to tell her the events that happened to these people in her soap opera that became very real friends to her.
Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought it possible for me to get so wrapped up in a storyline and characters that I would come to think of them as "real" friends, but through Ms. Nowak's writing, that is certainly the case. I truly care about these characters. I can't tell you how many times I've screamed at my Kindle, "What are you thinking?" or "No. No. No." There are characters that I want to see killed off in the most horrific manner (namely Sindy because I can't stand the bitch), and there are characters that I just want to throw my arms around and say, "Everything will be alright."
If you are looking to get lost in a series, forget your everyday worries and become personally involved with the characters of a really good book, then you simply must pick up the ALMOST HUMAN Series by MELANIE NOWAK. I must warn you, though, there is no fluff in the ALMOST HUMAN Series, it is dark and there are events that happen within the pages that never occur to the reader. It will keep you off balance. You will be sucked in, and will not be able to put this series down.
I am waiting for the third book in the second trilogy to come out as we speak and I feel as though I'm going through withdrawals. I NEED TO FIND OUT WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN!!!!!!
August 20, 2010
I'm a little disappointed to find that this book is mostly centered around Ally and Mattie since I really wanted to find out more about the Felicity/Cain/Ben triangle. I just can't seem to get into this book so far. There's no history to sink my teeth in when it comes to Ally and Mattie. Just a few sentences here and there about how he got turned when they were younger and how they have already started dating before he got turned. It's a little hard to relate if you weren't there from the very beginning. I find myself flipping forward through the pages to see when I'm going to get to Felicity's story. So far, no such luck. I guess we'll see. Too much boring details in this book while nothing is really happening. Not as good as the first. I guess we'll see how it develops as I get more into the book. Not that promising, though.
****
I have to say the only reprieve I got out of reading this book was Felicity and Ben's chapters, although those were so few and far in between. Everything else moved pretty much very slowly for me. I think one of the problems was that she was too detailed about things that I, as a reader, really don't care about.
I'll still read the next book for the fact that I want to see how Felicity's and Ben's story develops (I absolutely *heart* Ben) and to give the author a chance to redeem herself in building the other characters.
I guess we'll see.
All in all, I gave this 2 stars, only because of the Felicity/Ben angle. Everything else was a 1 star.
I literally had to get myself to read 1 page a day on the last 10 pages just to finish it -- and I normally go through 100 pages a day. That pretty much says how I feel about this book.
*Yawn*
****
I have to say the only reprieve I got out of reading this book was Felicity and Ben's chapters, although those were so few and far in between. Everything else moved pretty much very slowly for me. I think one of the problems was that she was too detailed about things that I, as a reader, really don't care about.
I'll still read the next book for the fact that I want to see how Felicity's and Ben's story develops (I absolutely *heart* Ben) and to give the author a chance to redeem herself in building the other characters.
I guess we'll see.
All in all, I gave this 2 stars, only because of the Felicity/Ben angle. Everything else was a 1 star.
I literally had to get myself to read 1 page a day on the last 10 pages just to finish it -- and I normally go through 100 pages a day. That pretty much says how I feel about this book.
*Yawn*
November 28, 2015
Born to Blood is the first book in the second Almost Human trilogy by Melanie Nowak. I am very invested in this series after reading this book and can't wait to see what is in store for everyone in the series! Even though this book is mostly about Mattie and Alyson, we do see some glimpses of Felicity and Ben and of course we see quite a bit of Cain again as well. Who I didn't expect to see that came as a great surprise? Cain's sire!! That was a totally unexpected blow!! That woman is kind of nuts too. And she brings company that we don't see much about, but I am betting he turns back up later in the series. I just wish I knew who this guy was. As for Ben, we see a new side of him as well. Gone is the angry, jealous guy who is upset that the girl he likes is dating a vamp. Cain is gone now and Felicity and Ben have capitalized on the feelings that were there before Cain abruptly showed up in Felicity's life. Ben is now a caring and tender guy who, although makes some dumb mistakes, does more than enough to mend them. As for Felicity, I still have to wonder just how deeply her feelings for Cain still run since he is still so present in her thoughts. The story between Mattie and Alyson is a very intriguing one since Mattie is now Alyson's sire and she has turned up with some unusual talents that make Mattie and even Cain nervous enough to seek out Arif again. I couldn't agree more that the guy was creepy enough in the first series. Now, the creep factor sky rockets. And I have to say that the experiments done by Alyson with her blood are pretty freaky. All I can say is that you would have to read it to understand and it is nothing I have ever read about in a vampire book before. Great read!
August 17, 2012
Born to Blood is the first book in the second Almost Human trilogy by Melanie Nowak. The first three books in the series are really good, and I was excited to see what direction Nowak would take these characters. In the first trilogy we learn about Mattie, but he's a minor character. In Born to Blood we finally get to know him. At the end of Evolving Ecstasy, Allie is turned into a vampire by Mattie. This book is their story. It picks up before Allie's change and follows the weeks after. Allie is one who marches to the beat of her own drum. As a vampire she isn't much different. However there is something unusual about her. They go to Cain to seek his guidance. Cain is depressed since leaving Felicity. Thinking he did the right thing, he tries to move on. Allie and Mattie's dilemma is the perfect distraction. However things are more complicated than they first appeared, and they're forced to seek help from a dangerous vampire.
The first book in this second trilogy sets up what looks to be a promising story throughout this trilogy. Born to Blood introduces some new mysterious characters as well as brings back the old ones. The world that Nowak creates is exciting. There is so much going on all the time. If you're a fan of this series, you don't want to miss out on this next trilogy of Almost Human. If you've not read it yet, then what are you waiting for. The next book in this series is Descendant of Darkness. I can't wait to see where Nowak takes these characters!
The first book in this second trilogy sets up what looks to be a promising story throughout this trilogy. Born to Blood introduces some new mysterious characters as well as brings back the old ones. The world that Nowak creates is exciting. There is so much going on all the time. If you're a fan of this series, you don't want to miss out on this next trilogy of Almost Human. If you've not read it yet, then what are you waiting for. The next book in this series is Descendant of Darkness. I can't wait to see where Nowak takes these characters!
December 20, 2010
I like Melanie's books and will keep reading them. I think they run long and are on the slow side because there is so much detail given. This one was all about Allie. We find out that she's a special vampire. But that's it. After reading a whole book I expected the story to move forward more than it did. I did think it was cool how the author came up with the way Allie became "special". We do learn a little more about Cain but not much, but I wanted more. Love his character. I read this on my Nook because the type in the actual book is very small and really strains my eyes. So far, I liked the first 3 books better. I missed the romance. Even though Allie and Mattie are a couple, for some for some reason I got the feeling that Allie isn't as in love with Mattie as he is with her. I just wasn't feeling it, maybe it's just me. She just seemed to be really "high maintenance" is this book and it grated on my nerves and I didn't get that vibe about her in the other books. When did she become a brat more or less? I want her to show more love and compassion than she does. She seems to becoming self-centered to me. I don't mean to give a negative review because I do like this series, but I thought this book was a slow read. I will read the next one and hope that it moves a little faster.
September 10, 2011
If such a rating existed, I would give this one 3.5 stars. I'm rounding up because I like the way the author has laid out the next book in this series of trilogies. She seems to be taking us on a journey to somewhere.
First, let me say that it's a bit too meandering for me. I kinda wanted her to get to the point, it was really overly wordy. I think a good content editor could have gotten the book down about 10% and it would have been for the better. While I understand these are stand alone trilogies, I still missed the magic of Cain and Felicity. My hope is to follow the author and trust her to make it all okay in the end. *laughing*
The good news is that, at the end of it all, I did honestly care about all of the characters and am interested enough to want to see where the 5th book is going to take us.
I recommend this book for paranormal romance fans, but know it's quite long, so get ready to settle in. I could see this being great for those long Winter nights of reading.
First, let me say that it's a bit too meandering for me. I kinda wanted her to get to the point, it was really overly wordy. I think a good content editor could have gotten the book down about 10% and it would have been for the better. While I understand these are stand alone trilogies, I still missed the magic of Cain and Felicity. My hope is to follow the author and trust her to make it all okay in the end. *laughing*
The good news is that, at the end of it all, I did honestly care about all of the characters and am interested enough to want to see where the 5th book is going to take us.
I recommend this book for paranormal romance fans, but know it's quite long, so get ready to settle in. I could see this being great for those long Winter nights of reading.
January 3, 2012
There are no words that would do justice to the level of greatness that this series achieves. Positively genius is the writing talent of Ms. Nowak. If you love Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series you'll definitely LOVE this Almost Human series but on a more grown up level. So intense, such plots and storytelling, characters developed to a level as to where you can identify with so many of their feeling, struggles and challenges. Bravo!!! Please Ms. Nowak keep writing always your talent is awe inspiring. Can't wait for the next one. If I could rate this series 100 stars I would.
October 11, 2010
OMG....I've been reading this for almost a week now and WHAT a SNOOZE FEST!!!! I'm only on chapter 2. The print is too damn small and the story is just so painfully SLOW... It better pick up by chapter 5 or else, i'm putting it down...
Okay...i'm now about 1/3 through and it is getting better. This book was just sooo slow to pick up, but I think some action is coming...
Okay...i'm now about 1/3 through and it is getting better. This book was just sooo slow to pick up, but I think some action is coming...
January 2, 2011
Missed the characters I loved and I don't feel the passion is there between Ben and Felicity. It was nice to see Alice's character evolve but in the end this story just didn't capture me like the first trilogy did.
July 31, 2012
Again, the series has outdone its self. The second trilogy is amazing and gives you the story and everyone’s point of view. A complete success!
February 15, 2012
Love this series and I hope there is more to it....It is a very interesting twist to the vampire story....
July 15, 2012
So excited read this again so I can start the new book. Feel like have been waiting forever for this next book.
September 15, 2012
Still in love with this series, just got a bit slow at the end.
October 29, 2017
The pacing is fluid and the story is easy to follow. A very enjoyable book with an intriguing cast of characters that I am looking forward to learning more about. Keeps you interested and ready for next book as soon as you finish.
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