What do you think?
Rate this book
Cutting Your Teeth
Ezra Santos is tired of running. Of burning bridge after bridge and going through new names like used matches. He desperately wants something he was never destined to have—a future all his own. Having escaped his hell of a home two years ago, he can’t go a day without looking over his shoulder. Putting down roots was never in the cards when the family that raised Ezra relentlessly hunts him across the country. Right as he’s about to restart the cycle—new name, new life, the whole nine yards—his plans come to a screeching halt when he crosses paths with a mysterious and charismatic vampire, Killian Hale. He promises a way out from a life on the run. Ezra knows there's no helping a man with the devil on his heels—but there's something about Killian that makes him believe he could finally break free of the Espinas once and for all. It’s only a matter of time before the clock winds down and the rest of Ezra's troubles come home to roost. There's something sinister in his blood—a dark fate passed down through generations. Can the two survive an ancient family curse or will Ezra doom them both?
328 pages, Unknown Binding
First published March 31, 2023
135 people are currently reading
3366 people want to read
About the author
Caylan MacRae
1 book83 followersQueer horror creator and genre blender -- add romance & horror, pulse for ten seconds.
Likes vampires a normal amount and is a cryptid enthusiast who won’t shut up about Mothman.
In the end, I am simply a vessel for the bit.
Likes vampires a normal amount and is a cryptid enthusiast who won’t shut up about Mothman.
In the end, I am simply a vessel for the bit.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
May 16, 2023
I’m on BookTube now! =)
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and Caylan MacRae for giving me an opportunity to read this book.*
Trigger warnings:
It’s very rare for me to find a book that hooks me right from the start and keeps me glued to the pages until the very end but this is exactly what happened when I started to read “Cutting Your Teeth”. This story just had everything I craved for and wanted to read about in a book. When I picked it up I hoped it would be similar to “All For the Game” and it actually was advertised for this target audience but the more I read, the more I realized that even though the story might have some AFTG vibes it could still stand on its own.
“Visited the Stag a while back. Been a long time since I’ve seen someone fight like you.”
“What’d that look like?”
“Like you got everything on the line and you’re ready to die for it,” Killian says.
Alone the way the book starts and how Ezra and Killian meet was interesting and it was exciting to dive into that underground fighting scene. Ezra is used to fight and survives by competing against other fighters in the ring. Of course, this is illegal but it’s the only thing he can do to gain money while he’s on the run from his family and as long as he keeps a low profile they won’t find him in those shady places. Well, until one night when everything goes to hell and Ezra’s past catches up to him and forces Killian to act.
”It doesn’t matter. It’s my problem, not yours.”
“Ezra, we’re family now, your problems are my problems.”
The word ‘vampire’ may have knocked the wind out of him, but family is a straight-up evisceration. Ezra held no faith in families, not after the one he’d survived.
And this is the moment we got to the supernatural element of the story which involved not only vampires but also other mythological creatures. I already said it and I’ll say it again: AFTG and “Cutting Your Teeth” might have some similarities when it comes to Ezra’s character. He’s on the run from his family which seems to be some sort of mafia clan, Killian gifts him clothes, it’s a slow burn romance and Ezra doesn’t trust anyone because he’s gone through literal hell. But this is already the moment where all the similarities end and I was so here for it, because I got something totally new and a great story that was amazing in its own right.
”For a year he lived like that, speaking to no one and completely alone. Even with the occasional word from his sister, the isolation had done its damage. He stopped talking for a long while after that, slowly finding his voice again once forced out into the world beyond the family.”
I hurt so much with Ezra, because this boy deserved so much better than he got and sometimes to read about his past and what happened to him in the book felt like a stab to my heart. I really loved his character so much and I just wanted him to be happy and safe. It was so nice to see him change and to come to terms with the fact that he wasn’t going to be alone anymore and I really liked that his dog Piper was an active part of the entire book as well. Usually pets just casually appear in books and don’t get all too much attention, but the author made sure that Ezra’s dog was always there and included in the plot. It was so refreshing to see this and considering the influence and importance of Piper’s existence in Ez’s life this was done more than just well. Which brings me to Marigold who is also an important character in the story and I really liked her relationship with Killian. They had such a nice sibling bond and even when they were angry at each other, you could still feel their mutual love. Plus despite looking very innocent Mari is extremely badass and if push comes to shove you definitely would want to have her on your side.
”I’ll give you a good answer for that, promise, but I need you here. With me.” Killian presses their foreheads together to seal the sentiment. “Don’t let yourself drown, Ezra.”
“… I’m here,” Ezra says, halfway lucid.
As much as I enjoyed the AFTG vibes and the supernatural element, what really made this story for me was the found family trope and Killian and Ezra’s slow burn romance. I just loved that they had all those little soft moments together and how Ezra started to trust Killian. This arc was done so well and the way their relationship developed was extremely sweet, which only caused my heart to ache even more the closer I came to the ending. It made everything so much harder to bear and even more bittersweet and painful. I was in pain. I truly was.
”Wish you hadn’t made me like being ‘Ezra’ so much.”
I was in tears at that point and it still hurts to think about. Anyway! If there’s one thing I have to touch on and criticize, then it’s the time span in which the plot of the book unfolds and happens. If I remember it correctly and got it right the entire book plays in the span of about two weeks and this just felt too short for everything that happened. I mean there happens a lot and I personally think it would have been more realistic to let some time pass between all of those events. And if we’re already talking about some of the negative aspects of the book I also have to mention that a little bit more editing wouldn’t have hurt. Sometimes there were sentences that weren’t logical or conclusive and at times the way Killian spoke and acted felt slightly off for his experience and age. This however changed nothing about my enjoyment of the book and since I read an ARC the things I just mentioned might already have been changed in the final version.
Ezra clamps a hand over his mouth to muffle a sound of surprise. He hadn’t expected the sudden detour or the feather light kisses trailing up to the exposed vein. Lighting arcs down his spine, turning any thought he might’ve had into radio static.
“Mo stór,” Killian sights. He curls a hand over Ezra’s heart and sinks his fangs in deep.
All told, I enjoyed this book immensely and it was the perfect read for me. I know some people might see it differently and that’s okay, but for me personally, this story just hit the right spot. Well, maybe there’s another similarity to AFTG after all: This book won’t be for everyone. If you love a good found family trope, a lovely slow-burn romance, supernatural creatures, AFTG vibes and broken boys that learn to heal you’ll definitely enjoy this story though. And last but not least because I just can’t end this review without mentioning it: Killian’s Gaelic endearments killed me! No seriously, whenever he addressed Ezra with another term of endearment I died a little inside. I wish Ez would have understood them and I can only hope he will be able to in book two! I honestly can’t wait to read the sequel but since this was an ARC I’m afraid it’s going to be a long wait. I already know it will be worth it, though.
________________________________
I just gotta say it: I enjoyed the hell out of this book! <33
Like seriously, this was the perfect read for me! Vampires, AFTG vibes, other mythological creatures, a found family, Killian and Ezra! Those two!!! The slow-burn!
I LOVED IT!
Full RTC soon! This one was a winner! =)
_________________________________
I got approved for an e-ARC copy from NetGalley and I’m so excited because this book?!
It sounds phenomenal!!!
As far as I could gather from the blurb this is an m/m mafia story about a boy who runs from his family and meets a stranger that turns out to be a vampire. So yep this sounds like “All For the Game” meets vampires and I. AM. SO. HERE. FOR. IT!!!
I can’t wait to read this!!! And gosh, I hope it lives up to my expectations! *fingers crossed*
Come along on this journey with me! I’m sure it will be fun! ;-)
Find me on:
My Blog
Instagram
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and Caylan MacRae for giving me an opportunity to read this book.*
Trigger warnings:
It’s very rare for me to find a book that hooks me right from the start and keeps me glued to the pages until the very end but this is exactly what happened when I started to read “Cutting Your Teeth”. This story just had everything I craved for and wanted to read about in a book. When I picked it up I hoped it would be similar to “All For the Game” and it actually was advertised for this target audience but the more I read, the more I realized that even though the story might have some AFTG vibes it could still stand on its own.
“Visited the Stag a while back. Been a long time since I’ve seen someone fight like you.”
“What’d that look like?”
“Like you got everything on the line and you’re ready to die for it,” Killian says.
Alone the way the book starts and how Ezra and Killian meet was interesting and it was exciting to dive into that underground fighting scene. Ezra is used to fight and survives by competing against other fighters in the ring. Of course, this is illegal but it’s the only thing he can do to gain money while he’s on the run from his family and as long as he keeps a low profile they won’t find him in those shady places. Well, until one night when everything goes to hell and Ezra’s past catches up to him and forces Killian to act.
”It doesn’t matter. It’s my problem, not yours.”
“Ezra, we’re family now, your problems are my problems.”
The word ‘vampire’ may have knocked the wind out of him, but family is a straight-up evisceration. Ezra held no faith in families, not after the one he’d survived.
And this is the moment we got to the supernatural element of the story which involved not only vampires but also other mythological creatures. I already said it and I’ll say it again: AFTG and “Cutting Your Teeth” might have some similarities when it comes to Ezra’s character. He’s on the run from his family which seems to be some sort of mafia clan, Killian gifts him clothes, it’s a slow burn romance and Ezra doesn’t trust anyone because he’s gone through literal hell. But this is already the moment where all the similarities end and I was so here for it, because I got something totally new and a great story that was amazing in its own right.
”For a year he lived like that, speaking to no one and completely alone. Even with the occasional word from his sister, the isolation had done its damage. He stopped talking for a long while after that, slowly finding his voice again once forced out into the world beyond the family.”
I hurt so much with Ezra, because this boy deserved so much better than he got and sometimes to read about his past and what happened to him in the book felt like a stab to my heart. I really loved his character so much and I just wanted him to be happy and safe. It was so nice to see him change and to come to terms with the fact that he wasn’t going to be alone anymore and I really liked that his dog Piper was an active part of the entire book as well. Usually pets just casually appear in books and don’t get all too much attention, but the author made sure that Ezra’s dog was always there and included in the plot. It was so refreshing to see this and considering the influence and importance of Piper’s existence in Ez’s life this was done more than just well. Which brings me to Marigold who is also an important character in the story and I really liked her relationship with Killian. They had such a nice sibling bond and even when they were angry at each other, you could still feel their mutual love. Plus despite looking very innocent Mari is extremely badass and if push comes to shove you definitely would want to have her on your side.
”I’ll give you a good answer for that, promise, but I need you here. With me.” Killian presses their foreheads together to seal the sentiment. “Don’t let yourself drown, Ezra.”
“… I’m here,” Ezra says, halfway lucid.
As much as I enjoyed the AFTG vibes and the supernatural element, what really made this story for me was the found family trope and Killian and Ezra’s slow burn romance. I just loved that they had all those little soft moments together and how Ezra started to trust Killian. This arc was done so well and the way their relationship developed was extremely sweet, which only caused my heart to ache even more the closer I came to the ending. It made everything so much harder to bear and even more bittersweet and painful. I was in pain. I truly was.
”Wish you hadn’t made me like being ‘Ezra’ so much.”
I was in tears at that point and it still hurts to think about. Anyway! If there’s one thing I have to touch on and criticize, then it’s the time span in which the plot of the book unfolds and happens. If I remember it correctly and got it right the entire book plays in the span of about two weeks and this just felt too short for everything that happened. I mean there happens a lot and I personally think it would have been more realistic to let some time pass between all of those events. And if we’re already talking about some of the negative aspects of the book I also have to mention that a little bit more editing wouldn’t have hurt. Sometimes there were sentences that weren’t logical or conclusive and at times the way Killian spoke and acted felt slightly off for his experience and age. This however changed nothing about my enjoyment of the book and since I read an ARC the things I just mentioned might already have been changed in the final version.
Ezra clamps a hand over his mouth to muffle a sound of surprise. He hadn’t expected the sudden detour or the feather light kisses trailing up to the exposed vein. Lighting arcs down his spine, turning any thought he might’ve had into radio static.
“Mo stór,” Killian sights. He curls a hand over Ezra’s heart and sinks his fangs in deep.
All told, I enjoyed this book immensely and it was the perfect read for me. I know some people might see it differently and that’s okay, but for me personally, this story just hit the right spot. Well, maybe there’s another similarity to AFTG after all: This book won’t be for everyone. If you love a good found family trope, a lovely slow-burn romance, supernatural creatures, AFTG vibes and broken boys that learn to heal you’ll definitely enjoy this story though. And last but not least because I just can’t end this review without mentioning it: Killian’s Gaelic endearments killed me! No seriously, whenever he addressed Ezra with another term of endearment I died a little inside. I wish Ez would have understood them and I can only hope he will be able to in book two! I honestly can’t wait to read the sequel but since this was an ARC I’m afraid it’s going to be a long wait. I already know it will be worth it, though.
________________________________
I just gotta say it: I enjoyed the hell out of this book! <33
Like seriously, this was the perfect read for me! Vampires, AFTG vibes, other mythological creatures, a found family, Killian and Ezra! Those two!!! The slow-burn!
I LOVED IT!
Full RTC soon! This one was a winner! =)
_________________________________
I got approved for an e-ARC copy from NetGalley and I’m so excited because this book?!
It sounds phenomenal!!!
As far as I could gather from the blurb this is an m/m mafia story about a boy who runs from his family and meets a stranger that turns out to be a vampire. So yep this sounds like “All For the Game” meets vampires and I. AM. SO. HERE. FOR. IT!!!
I can’t wait to read this!!! And gosh, I hope it lives up to my expectations! *fingers crossed*
Come along on this journey with me! I’m sure it will be fun! ;-)
Find me on:
My Blog
March 31, 2023
4.5 Stars
This was such an enjoyable book! It started out quick and the pace never faltered. Cutting Your Teeth is the debut novel by Caylan MacRae, which includes vampires, werewolves, found family, a little bit of romance, and lots of action and adventure.
BLOOD REMEMBERS BLOOD. YOU CANNOT ESCAPE WHAT YOU WERE BORN FOR.
Ezra has been on the run for a couple of years. His family has been chasing him down for some reason that we don't yet know or understand. There is apparently some dark family curse that he is yet to figure out about. In order to make ends meet, he has taken up fighting in underground fighting rings. He was planning to leave after his last fight, but gets jumped on the way out. Killian sees that he's injured and needs help and decides to take him home to stitch him up.
“I’m sorry it has to happen like this, but it’s the only way I can fix it,” Ezra murmurs the last words Killian said to him while he lay dying. They sit heavy on his tongue, their comfort as tangible now as it was then.
Ezra doesn't trust easily, but he is really intrigued by Killian. Intrigued enough to stick around town for another couple of days. Killian asks Ezra do a favor for him, but Ezra's bad luck streak continues and he encounters more danger. Killian comes to Ezra's rescue again, which has permanent consequences. They end up having to leave town quickly over concern for those who are chasing Ezra.
Ezra clamps a hand over his mouth to muffle a sound of surprise. He hadn’t expected the sudden detour or the feather light kisses trailing up to the exposed vein. Lighting arcs down his spine, turning any thoughts he might’ve had into radio static.
Killian has some secret motivations of his own where it comes to Ezra and Marigold (Killian's companion), which almost ruin everything they've built so far. Marigold almost steals the show in this book. Her character is great! She's so easy going, kind and resourceful. I also loved Piper and Alessa. There is a lot more to the story, but you'll need to read it to find out. The story is entertaining and a really quick read. I am looking forward to the next book!
‘We’re family now, your problems are my problems.’
*** I received an ARC of this from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion. ***
This was such an enjoyable book! It started out quick and the pace never faltered. Cutting Your Teeth is the debut novel by Caylan MacRae, which includes vampires, werewolves, found family, a little bit of romance, and lots of action and adventure.
BLOOD REMEMBERS BLOOD. YOU CANNOT ESCAPE WHAT YOU WERE BORN FOR.
Ezra has been on the run for a couple of years. His family has been chasing him down for some reason that we don't yet know or understand. There is apparently some dark family curse that he is yet to figure out about. In order to make ends meet, he has taken up fighting in underground fighting rings. He was planning to leave after his last fight, but gets jumped on the way out. Killian sees that he's injured and needs help and decides to take him home to stitch him up.
“I’m sorry it has to happen like this, but it’s the only way I can fix it,” Ezra murmurs the last words Killian said to him while he lay dying. They sit heavy on his tongue, their comfort as tangible now as it was then.
Ezra doesn't trust easily, but he is really intrigued by Killian. Intrigued enough to stick around town for another couple of days. Killian asks Ezra do a favor for him, but Ezra's bad luck streak continues and he encounters more danger. Killian comes to Ezra's rescue again, which has permanent consequences. They end up having to leave town quickly over concern for those who are chasing Ezra.
Ezra clamps a hand over his mouth to muffle a sound of surprise. He hadn’t expected the sudden detour or the feather light kisses trailing up to the exposed vein. Lighting arcs down his spine, turning any thoughts he might’ve had into radio static.
Killian has some secret motivations of his own where it comes to Ezra and Marigold (Killian's companion), which almost ruin everything they've built so far. Marigold almost steals the show in this book. Her character is great! She's so easy going, kind and resourceful. I also loved Piper and Alessa. There is a lot more to the story, but you'll need to read it to find out. The story is entertaining and a really quick read. I am looking forward to the next book!
‘We’re family now, your problems are my problems.’
*** I received an ARC of this from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion. ***
March 11, 2023
*I received an ecopy of this book via NetGalley. This has not influenced my review.*
Characters who were easy to like, a plot that nicely balanced the chill with the action-packed, a bit of romance, a bit of found family, and vampirism that was sexy without being too glamorous!
Ezra was a character who'd had a really rough life. It pushed him into bad situations, hardened his outer shell so that he pushed people away, made him think he wasn't worth caring about. But he was actually very easy to feel for and root for. Killian was arguably the more flawed one, he did or was going to do some pretty messed up things. But he too was affected by his life, and made some bad decisions because of it, and he's been a vampire for a while, and I was ultimately feeling and rooting for him too. Marigold was the voice of reason within the trio (sort of), and though she's also been through difficulties, she was still full of pep and also easy to like. And all three were always rushing into danger, but for good reason, and they always had each others' backs.
The romance was sweet and ever-so-slightly angsty. I could feel a chemistry between them, the pull they had to each other, and that combined with the sweetness and the way they tried to be there for each other made it believable. No sex, but some sexy biting, which is arguably the better thing ;-)
Toward the end, there's very much a found family feel that I'm sure will be even stronger in the next book.
This wasn't a super glamorous portrayal of vampires. The vampirism itself wasn't particularly gritty, but it could take an emotional toll, the hunger could be a struggle, and the characters didn't live lavish, elegant lives. Our main characters seemed to be covered in dirt and blood more often than not.
The story sort of alternated between quiet and introspective to bloody and action-packed, but in a way that kept either mood from being too much. I enjoyed the slower moments of Ezra *MILD SPOILER* *END SPOILER* Killian realizing his mistakes, and both of them trying to figure out their feelings for each other. I also enjoyed the twists and the fights and the chases.
Overall, I liked these characters and this story, and I'm looking forward to more.
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2023 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes vampires, characters who've had hard lives, found family, books that balance quiet with action, and a bit of sweet romance.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Characters who were easy to like, a plot that nicely balanced the chill with the action-packed, a bit of romance, a bit of found family, and vampirism that was sexy without being too glamorous!
Ezra was a character who'd had a really rough life. It pushed him into bad situations, hardened his outer shell so that he pushed people away, made him think he wasn't worth caring about. But he was actually very easy to feel for and root for. Killian was arguably the more flawed one, he did or was going to do some pretty messed up things. But he too was affected by his life, and made some bad decisions because of it, and he's been a vampire for a while, and I was ultimately feeling and rooting for him too. Marigold was the voice of reason within the trio (sort of), and though she's also been through difficulties, she was still full of pep and also easy to like. And all three were always rushing into danger, but for good reason, and they always had each others' backs.
The romance was sweet and ever-so-slightly angsty. I could feel a chemistry between them, the pull they had to each other, and that combined with the sweetness and the way they tried to be there for each other made it believable. No sex, but some sexy biting, which is arguably the better thing ;-)
Toward the end, there's very much a found family feel that I'm sure will be even stronger in the next book.
This wasn't a super glamorous portrayal of vampires. The vampirism itself wasn't particularly gritty, but it could take an emotional toll, the hunger could be a struggle, and the characters didn't live lavish, elegant lives. Our main characters seemed to be covered in dirt and blood more often than not.
The story sort of alternated between quiet and introspective to bloody and action-packed, but in a way that kept either mood from being too much. I enjoyed the slower moments of Ezra *MILD SPOILER* *END SPOILER* Killian realizing his mistakes, and both of them trying to figure out their feelings for each other. I also enjoyed the twists and the fights and the chases.
Overall, I liked these characters and this story, and I'm looking forward to more.
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2023 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes vampires, characters who've had hard lives, found family, books that balance quiet with action, and a bit of sweet romance.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
August 7, 2024
Whoops. Didn’t plan on finishing this in a day yet here we are.
Don’t know what I was expecting but it wasn’t a vampire/cartel action story. This was alot of fun and a super easy read to devour.
Don’t know if I’m the only one who got whiffs of Interview with a Vampire vibes but my brain went back to there a few times reading this.
Looking forward to seeing where the story goes from here.
Don’t know what I was expecting but it wasn’t a vampire/cartel action story. This was alot of fun and a super easy read to devour.
Don’t know if I’m the only one who got whiffs of Interview with a Vampire vibes but my brain went back to there a few times reading this.
Looking forward to seeing where the story goes from here.
March 27, 2025
Okay okay okay. This one is a bit hard to rate, there were things I liked and things I really didn't.
It's clearly a debut so the writing is amateurish, and the book needs some serious editing and polishing. I went into it with some very set expectations that I had to get rid of - someone likened it to All For the Game series. And I absolutely agree, there are a lot of big things and small details that feel deliberately plucked out of that series. But the supernatural aspect makes it into an altogether different story and that's great.
Ezra, the main character, and his situation of being on the run from his father and going through different identities are the main link to AFTG imo but he's no Neil Josten. And that's probably why this didn't hit as hard, even though there was found family and romance aspect - for someone on the run, Ezra is far from cautious. Not even a day after he meets Killian in a fight ring, he spills his family secrets - and that's when I accepted it's futile to try to compare it to AFTG and I should just try to enjoy the story on its own. Though I have to say, I never really warmed up to Killian, he was just meh to me and frankly, I need some more groveling from him to even consider trusting him again.
There are a lot of small plot holes that nagged me quite a bit. Some feel like an oversight, and some are clearly there for convenience, and I took note of all of them 😂👀
So, if you don't mind the AFTG inspiration, and the fact it's very much NOT a slow-burn (Killian calls Ezra "my love" in Irish after barely a week), and you like vampires, go for it - it's actually a fun ride. And the cover is STUNNING! I wouldn't mind this being a standalone, but I'll probably grab the next book when it comes out.
It's clearly a debut so the writing is amateurish, and the book needs some serious editing and polishing. I went into it with some very set expectations that I had to get rid of - someone likened it to All For the Game series. And I absolutely agree, there are a lot of big things and small details that feel deliberately plucked out of that series. But the supernatural aspect makes it into an altogether different story and that's great.
Ezra, the main character, and his situation of being on the run from his father and going through different identities are the main link to AFTG imo but he's no Neil Josten. And that's probably why this didn't hit as hard, even though there was found family and romance aspect - for someone on the run, Ezra is far from cautious. Not even a day after he meets Killian in a fight ring, he spills his family secrets - and that's when I accepted it's futile to try to compare it to AFTG and I should just try to enjoy the story on its own. Though I have to say, I never really warmed up to Killian, he was just meh to me and frankly, I need some more groveling from him to even consider trusting him again.
There are a lot of small plot holes that nagged me quite a bit. Some feel like an oversight, and some are clearly there for convenience, and I took note of all of them 😂👀
So, if you don't mind the AFTG inspiration, and the fact it's very much NOT a slow-burn (Killian calls Ezra "my love" in Irish after barely a week), and you like vampires, go for it - it's actually a fun ride. And the cover is STUNNING! I wouldn't mind this being a standalone, but I'll probably grab the next book when it comes out.
June 12, 2023
Neutral 2.5 rounded up. Take my rating with a grain of salt as I don't think I'm the right audience for this one.
Too much of this book hinges on people not being able to communicate. There was a lot of stuff I would have just edited out of this one to make it shorter, it suffers from trying to set up relationships that I assume will bear fruit in future installments of the series but which as of right now just seem like bloat.
Too much of this book hinges on people not being able to communicate. There was a lot of stuff I would have just edited out of this one to make it shorter, it suffers from trying to set up relationships that I assume will bear fruit in future installments of the series but which as of right now just seem like bloat.
October 7, 2024
Thanks for the guys at victory publishing for providing this book vía netgalley!
***
SPOILERS AHEAD!!!
Is that the price of the strange half-life he’d been given? Taking care of a monster that had hitched a ride on his way back from the grave?
They sold me this as All for the Game + Hell Followed with Us AND THEY WERE DAMN RIGHT!
To keep it simple, I adored this book. It got me in the first pages and the plot is very nice and it has a good pace. And truth be told, ya me apetecía una de vampiros latinos.
The plot is very cool and the mistery of the Espina family is so interesting, plus the not so very explored past of Killian and the other vampires. The vampire concept is very nice and the romance is so so sweet I got cavities.I formed so many headcanons it’s insane.
But there’s one headcanon that honestly if it’s anywhere near reality I’ll pass out. And it’s that there are some hints about the nature of Ezra and Killian’s relationship that some may say it was rushed and insta love-y, but I personally felt an asexuality vibe and honestly I LOVE THAT!! That breaks with the overly sexual vampire concept we’re used to, so it’s nice that when vampires being dead can’t taste food and other carnal things, it’s logical that they’re also now immune to sexual impulses and THAT IS SO FRESH I LOVE IT. I really liked Ezra and Killian together, as friends and more, and seeing them falling in love even after a short time (that it’s still credible because Killian and Marigold are extremely charismatic) and a damaged trust but with asexual undertones it’s personally so nice to me. I swear my heart melted with every cute irish pet name killian threw in.
The plot is so cool and the side characters are very charismatic too and the horror (more like paranormality) is very nice too. The violence, constant threat and plot twists are also very good (the way I SHOUTED when the werewolves came in, insanity), and it has a cool mix of cliché tropes and original stuff.
The writing is very enthrawling as well and catches you, and the multiple POVs are nicely done too (I wanted a Marigold pov but MANIFESTING)
I really have no idea what I’m saying just that I really liked this book and these characters and cannot wait for what’s to come!
Highly highly recommended!!!
***
SPOILERS AHEAD!!!
Is that the price of the strange half-life he’d been given? Taking care of a monster that had hitched a ride on his way back from the grave?
They sold me this as All for the Game + Hell Followed with Us AND THEY WERE DAMN RIGHT!
To keep it simple, I adored this book. It got me in the first pages and the plot is very nice and it has a good pace. And truth be told, ya me apetecía una de vampiros latinos.
The plot is very cool and the mistery of the Espina family is so interesting, plus the not so very explored past of Killian and the other vampires. The vampire concept is very nice and the romance is so so sweet I got cavities.I formed so many headcanons it’s insane.
But there’s one headcanon that honestly if it’s anywhere near reality I’ll pass out. And it’s that there are some hints about the nature of Ezra and Killian’s relationship that some may say it was rushed and insta love-y, but I personally felt an asexuality vibe and honestly I LOVE THAT!! That breaks with the overly sexual vampire concept we’re used to, so it’s nice that when vampires being dead can’t taste food and other carnal things, it’s logical that they’re also now immune to sexual impulses and THAT IS SO FRESH I LOVE IT. I really liked Ezra and Killian together, as friends and more, and seeing them falling in love even after a short time (that it’s still credible because Killian and Marigold are extremely charismatic) and a damaged trust but with asexual undertones it’s personally so nice to me. I swear my heart melted with every cute irish pet name killian threw in.
The plot is so cool and the side characters are very charismatic too and the horror (more like paranormality) is very nice too. The violence, constant threat and plot twists are also very good (the way I SHOUTED when the werewolves came in, insanity), and it has a cool mix of cliché tropes and original stuff.
The writing is very enthrawling as well and catches you, and the multiple POVs are nicely done too (I wanted a Marigold pov but MANIFESTING)
I really have no idea what I’m saying just that I really liked this book and these characters and cannot wait for what’s to come!
Highly highly recommended!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 16, 2023
✰ 3 stars ✰
“The look on Killian’s face when he said the words ‘I promise’ and the brief flicker of hope it seared into him. It’s the thing about him that scares Ezra the most, honestly, the easy way he makes him want. Wanting more than a life looking over his shoulder.
Wanting a self that’s more than a mask. To not be alone all the time.”
It's a shame that for a book I was waiting so long to read, there was just something missing from Cutting Your Teeth that would have made it a pleasant read. I think, as a reader, my biggest issue, will always be with the writing - not even the plot or characters affects me as much as if the writing style does not suit my palette, or it's not written in a way that is literally understandable. If that makes any sense. 😔 The point I'm trying to make, that Caylan MacRae did have an interesting premise with a unique cast of characters that could have held my interest even more - if it just had a more comfortable pace to it.
“Ezra shifts his weight to test Killian’s hold. It’s hard as iron. He wonders if this is how rabbits feel when they’re cornered.
“Oh Ezra, I’m just so glad I found you.”
Ezra was intense - sitting still for him was never in the cards - running from his past and his father - hiding his identity - getting lost in the scuffles of a fight ring - he was simply a man of action. It didn't help that one fatal blow landed him in the corner of one very charming Killian, so much so, that everything irrevocably changed with that one meeting. And with it, he enters a whole other world that consists of age-old vampires, werewolves hunting down humans, and vampires wanting to kill other vampires, simply to survive. If he thought his life was hard to get through before he met Killian, he was in for a toothy awakening. Yes, I worked hard on that word usage - don't judge me. 😁
“Obsession is still obsession; it’ll burn you out all the same till there’s nothing left to take.”
Ezra is beginning to see what he’d meant. Fear is easy. Run, fight, or die. Simple, take your pick. But watching someone destroy themselves over you? That’s a unique flavor of hell Ezra hopes to never get a taste of.”
What was interesting about this is that Ezra and Killian didn't exactly fall in love with each other, more that they were just comfortable around each other, and just became a part of each other - the ease and comfort that they were able to have - that soft dance, the blood-sharing, the intensely fierce caring. And while, I would have liked to have seen a little bit more intimate moments between the two of them, the Tether that they shared - that they could feel their bond and connection, with just a thought - was a nice idea. 💘💘 It made Kilian's protective urges even stronger, and Ezra's understanding into his past even more believable and when, the two of them eventually reunited, it made their feelings for each other, even more apparent and palpable.
“What is it?”
“I—I worry I can’t keep my promise, can’t keep you safe. I’ve taken so much from you, Ezra. Your time, your blood, your life.” Killian gently curls his fingers around the fabric of Ezra’s jacket sleeve.
“I don’t want to hurt you more than I already have.”
Ezra and Killian - ah, they had a nice dynamic - not so much intense, but accepting and caring - Killian, being who he is, genuinely just cared for this broken soul, he chanced upon. The repeated usage of 'boyo' became a little annoying after awhile, but if that's his term of endearment for Ezra, I'll have to get used to it. Some of the action scenes were lit - I especially loved the train scene with the werewolf - very gripping, very moving, very Ezra-style. Seeing him bound into play with his quick-thinking was captivating and he grew on me, then, especially, as he learns more about his past and family.
“Here. You’re still here.” “You’re not alone, I won’t let you drown,” Killian whispers and gently touches his forehead to Ezra’s. “I promised you, Ezra. I’ll keep my word if it kills me.”
As other reviewers have pointed out, that there are slight similarities to AFTG, which I did feel, but, it wasn't enough to mar my overall enjoyment. 😊 The pacing of the story is very quick - with hardly, any time to relax, no moment of calm, which kept the flow going. I liked how we were introduced to the characters, with a killer punch, that made our two MCs, Ezra and Killian, connect in more ways than they thought possible. The supporting cast consisted of some fascinating characters that shared some fun and engaging interactions with both the MCs. There is an intriguing history to the vampires and werewolves, which I hope will be elaborated more in the sequel. So, overall, not entirely a time badly spent, just lacking that certain hit to make it a more memorable one. 🤷
“The look on Killian’s face when he said the words ‘I promise’ and the brief flicker of hope it seared into him. It’s the thing about him that scares Ezra the most, honestly, the easy way he makes him want. Wanting more than a life looking over his shoulder.
Wanting a self that’s more than a mask. To not be alone all the time.”
It's a shame that for a book I was waiting so long to read, there was just something missing from Cutting Your Teeth that would have made it a pleasant read. I think, as a reader, my biggest issue, will always be with the writing - not even the plot or characters affects me as much as if the writing style does not suit my palette, or it's not written in a way that is literally understandable. If that makes any sense. 😔 The point I'm trying to make, that Caylan MacRae did have an interesting premise with a unique cast of characters that could have held my interest even more - if it just had a more comfortable pace to it.
“Ezra shifts his weight to test Killian’s hold. It’s hard as iron. He wonders if this is how rabbits feel when they’re cornered.
“Oh Ezra, I’m just so glad I found you.”
Ezra was intense - sitting still for him was never in the cards - running from his past and his father - hiding his identity - getting lost in the scuffles of a fight ring - he was simply a man of action. It didn't help that one fatal blow landed him in the corner of one very charming Killian, so much so, that everything irrevocably changed with that one meeting. And with it, he enters a whole other world that consists of age-old vampires, werewolves hunting down humans, and vampires wanting to kill other vampires, simply to survive. If he thought his life was hard to get through before he met Killian, he was in for a toothy awakening. Yes, I worked hard on that word usage - don't judge me. 😁
“Obsession is still obsession; it’ll burn you out all the same till there’s nothing left to take.”
Ezra is beginning to see what he’d meant. Fear is easy. Run, fight, or die. Simple, take your pick. But watching someone destroy themselves over you? That’s a unique flavor of hell Ezra hopes to never get a taste of.”
What was interesting about this is that Ezra and Killian didn't exactly fall in love with each other, more that they were just comfortable around each other, and just became a part of each other - the ease and comfort that they were able to have - that soft dance, the blood-sharing, the intensely fierce caring. And while, I would have liked to have seen a little bit more intimate moments between the two of them, the Tether that they shared - that they could feel their bond and connection, with just a thought - was a nice idea. 💘💘 It made Kilian's protective urges even stronger, and Ezra's understanding into his past even more believable and when, the two of them eventually reunited, it made their feelings for each other, even more apparent and palpable.
“What is it?”
“I—I worry I can’t keep my promise, can’t keep you safe. I’ve taken so much from you, Ezra. Your time, your blood, your life.” Killian gently curls his fingers around the fabric of Ezra’s jacket sleeve.
“I don’t want to hurt you more than I already have.”
Ezra and Killian - ah, they had a nice dynamic - not so much intense, but accepting and caring - Killian, being who he is, genuinely just cared for this broken soul, he chanced upon. The repeated usage of 'boyo' became a little annoying after awhile, but if that's his term of endearment for Ezra, I'll have to get used to it. Some of the action scenes were lit - I especially loved the train scene with the werewolf - very gripping, very moving, very Ezra-style. Seeing him bound into play with his quick-thinking was captivating and he grew on me, then, especially, as he learns more about his past and family.
“Here. You’re still here.” “You’re not alone, I won’t let you drown,” Killian whispers and gently touches his forehead to Ezra’s. “I promised you, Ezra. I’ll keep my word if it kills me.”
As other reviewers have pointed out, that there are slight similarities to AFTG, which I did feel, but, it wasn't enough to mar my overall enjoyment. 😊 The pacing of the story is very quick - with hardly, any time to relax, no moment of calm, which kept the flow going. I liked how we were introduced to the characters, with a killer punch, that made our two MCs, Ezra and Killian, connect in more ways than they thought possible. The supporting cast consisted of some fascinating characters that shared some fun and engaging interactions with both the MCs. There is an intriguing history to the vampires and werewolves, which I hope will be elaborated more in the sequel. So, overall, not entirely a time badly spent, just lacking that certain hit to make it a more memorable one. 🤷
Read
May 24, 2025Thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing, and Caylan MacRae for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This story follows Ezra, who’s on the run from his family, the Espinas. He bumps into Killian, a vampire who takes him under his wing, and the story takes off from there. Elements of Ezra and Killian’s histories and motives are shrouded in mystery, and information is slowly drip-fed to you in a way that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
First, I think this novel is a little mismarketed. It’s tagged as *horror* in both NetGalley and Goodreads, but I personally think *paranormal fantasy* fits a little bit better. There were a few elements of horror, but not enough to truly create the horror vibe that I was expecting going into this. I personally didn’t mind the discrepancy (I like this atmosphere a lot more than horror for these characters specifically), but others might.
I generally liked the writing! There were a few typos and misspellings here and there, but nothing that detracted from my liking of the novel. Writing in present tense can be a little challenging, and while there were a few hiccups, there was nothing terribly erroneous.
Now, let’s dig into what I really worked for me. Despite Ezra being completely unfamiliar with Killian’s world, there’s never a huge info dump. Rather, MacRae gives you exactly as much information as you need to keep up, and no more than that. It’s perfect, really—you never get bored through a laundry list of characters, and it also builds up tension and suspense. The writing was descriptive, but never so focused on descriptions that you lose the plot. For the most part, the characters acted logically given their circumstances, and none of them were one-dimensional, aside from maybe the main villain. But I can forgive that, since this is the first book of a series, and I’m sure MacRae will reveal more information in the future.
Something unexpected that I enjoyed was the found family trope. Horror and found family don’t exactly fit in the same sentence in my head, so when some parts of this novel turned out to be downright cozy, I was surprised, but pleasantly so. It just makes me more excited to see what trouble these characters will get into in the future.
On the other hand, I couldn’t really reconcile Killian’s age with his personality. Some of his actions didn’t speak of a person who had lived as long as he had; if he were younger, I’d view his behavior a bit more favorably. I’m also not a big fan of multiple POVs, but MacRae pulled it off well enough that I’m not mad at it, though I’m still not sure it was entirely necessary. It added some drama, but there were other ways to go about doing that. Again, that’s just my personal taste. That being said, the romance wasn’t central to the plot, which I absolutely love, so massive kudos for that.
Overall, this novel was lovely and served as a great setup for the stories that will follow! The characters and intricacies of the plot were well conceived, and the story was generally well written. MacRae also gets points for originality—this isn’t your every day paranormal story, and MacRae doesn’t shy away from some bloody descriptions. There’s something clearly more sinister afoot throughout the entirety of the novel, and there are implications that the threat will continue to lurk in future installments.
This story follows Ezra, who’s on the run from his family, the Espinas. He bumps into Killian, a vampire who takes him under his wing, and the story takes off from there. Elements of Ezra and Killian’s histories and motives are shrouded in mystery, and information is slowly drip-fed to you in a way that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
First, I think this novel is a little mismarketed. It’s tagged as *horror* in both NetGalley and Goodreads, but I personally think *paranormal fantasy* fits a little bit better. There were a few elements of horror, but not enough to truly create the horror vibe that I was expecting going into this. I personally didn’t mind the discrepancy (I like this atmosphere a lot more than horror for these characters specifically), but others might.
I generally liked the writing! There were a few typos and misspellings here and there, but nothing that detracted from my liking of the novel. Writing in present tense can be a little challenging, and while there were a few hiccups, there was nothing terribly erroneous.
Now, let’s dig into what I really worked for me. Despite Ezra being completely unfamiliar with Killian’s world, there’s never a huge info dump. Rather, MacRae gives you exactly as much information as you need to keep up, and no more than that. It’s perfect, really—you never get bored through a laundry list of characters, and it also builds up tension and suspense. The writing was descriptive, but never so focused on descriptions that you lose the plot. For the most part, the characters acted logically given their circumstances, and none of them were one-dimensional, aside from maybe the main villain. But I can forgive that, since this is the first book of a series, and I’m sure MacRae will reveal more information in the future.
Something unexpected that I enjoyed was the found family trope. Horror and found family don’t exactly fit in the same sentence in my head, so when some parts of this novel turned out to be downright cozy, I was surprised, but pleasantly so. It just makes me more excited to see what trouble these characters will get into in the future.
On the other hand, I couldn’t really reconcile Killian’s age with his personality. Some of his actions didn’t speak of a person who had lived as long as he had; if he were younger, I’d view his behavior a bit more favorably. I’m also not a big fan of multiple POVs, but MacRae pulled it off well enough that I’m not mad at it, though I’m still not sure it was entirely necessary. It added some drama, but there were other ways to go about doing that. Again, that’s just my personal taste. That being said, the romance wasn’t central to the plot, which I absolutely love, so massive kudos for that.
Overall, this novel was lovely and served as a great setup for the stories that will follow! The characters and intricacies of the plot were well conceived, and the story was generally well written. MacRae also gets points for originality—this isn’t your every day paranormal story, and MacRae doesn’t shy away from some bloody descriptions. There’s something clearly more sinister afoot throughout the entirety of the novel, and there are implications that the threat will continue to lurk in future installments.
Read
May 15, 2025dnf at 43% ugh rtc
⌗ 15/05/25 - pre read .ᐟ ౨ৎ
the synopsis reminds me so much of all for the game so obviously i have to read this!!
⌗ 15/05/25 - pre read .ᐟ ౨ৎ
the synopsis reminds me so much of all for the game so obviously i have to read this!!
April 5, 2023
Actual rating: 3.5
Thanks to NetGalley and Caylan MacRae for providing me with an early copy. The book came out on March 31th. And I’m sorry my review is a little late.
Cutting Your Teeth is aimed at fans of books and movies such as AFTG, Burn Our Bodies Down, Hereditary etc. Since I am a fan of those I thought this book would be prefect for me. I did like it but not as much as I expected I would going into it.
Ezra is on the run from his family and over the years he has changed many identities. We meet him at the point when he is doing some underground boxing where he meets a guy named Killian who rescues him from certain death. But also pretty much changes the trajectory of his life after that. I won’t get into too many details because I think they are spoilery.
I think I really don’t have any objective issues with this book. Like, it was fine. The beginning kind of reminded me of AFTG maybe a little too much. Like Ezra is on the run, he has a twin, changed identities and so on. But after that the story goes it’s own way which is great. I did enjoy the writing. This is a debut novel if I’m not wrong? And the writing is really neat. I liked the way that the story was established and the way the flow went. I think for me the main issue was when it came to the characters. And I was trying to figure out why is that but I think it's just because I could not connect to them as much as I would have liked. At the end I feel like I just didn’t learn enough about them to be fully invested. This also made me not care about the romantic relationship as much. So yeah, I would love to see the characterization explored more.
Thanks to NetGalley and Caylan MacRae for providing me with an early copy. The book came out on March 31th. And I’m sorry my review is a little late.
Cutting Your Teeth is aimed at fans of books and movies such as AFTG, Burn Our Bodies Down, Hereditary etc. Since I am a fan of those I thought this book would be prefect for me. I did like it but not as much as I expected I would going into it.
Ezra is on the run from his family and over the years he has changed many identities. We meet him at the point when he is doing some underground boxing where he meets a guy named Killian who rescues him from certain death. But also pretty much changes the trajectory of his life after that. I won’t get into too many details because I think they are spoilery.
I think I really don’t have any objective issues with this book. Like, it was fine. The beginning kind of reminded me of AFTG maybe a little too much. Like Ezra is on the run, he has a twin, changed identities and so on. But after that the story goes it’s own way which is great. I did enjoy the writing. This is a debut novel if I’m not wrong? And the writing is really neat. I liked the way that the story was established and the way the flow went. I think for me the main issue was when it came to the characters. And I was trying to figure out why is that but I think it's just because I could not connect to them as much as I would have liked. At the end I feel like I just didn’t learn enough about them to be fully invested. This also made me not care about the romantic relationship as much. So yeah, I would love to see the characterization explored more.
August 29, 2024
DNF @ 31%// 100 pages. what a waste of time.
the main reason i picked this book up (besides
it being on KU and fulfilling my desperation to make this subscription worth it) was because it was heavily compared to all for the game. and like- sure. ezra’s runaway nature, name changes, and family history are an obvious nod to neil. but he is no neil josten. ezra is far from cautious, easily swayed, and (imo) pretty helpless. if you do want to read this, don’t do it in hopes of a aftg comparison- you will be disappointed.
i’m also not a huge fan of the way vampires are portrayed in this. killian is supposedly over 100 years old, but can share basically no info about what it means to be a vampire when he changes ezra? also, why did ezra have, like, no reaction to being changed? dare i say, that is a revelation requiring at least /some/ drama. what we do learn about this species is so cliche and overdone that i’m not even seeing the point of making them vampires. it’s really not adding anything. on the topic of killian- talk about underdevelopment. we know literally nothing about him, even tho he’s the 2nd lead. and his friend, mari- is seemingly there for no reason. she could have been totally excluded from this story and i don’t think it would’ve made a negative difference.
now, let me talk about this relationship development. or rather, lack there of. i was already not really buying killians weird obsession with ezra from the second he sees him, but then we go straight to “my heart beats for you/ you’re my beloved” (whatever he said in irish) like two days after meeting him? bro, chill. the one bed trope couldn’t even do its thing because the instalove was so prominent.
my biggest issue with this story really comes down to underdevelopment. nothing in this story feels thought out. the setting is so dull, the characters are incredibly one dimensional, and its overall flat and emotionless. the opening scenes were interesting, which gave me a glimmer of hope- but i’m positive this is not going to get better. the author didn’t pay special attention to any aspect- and instead threw down the scenes in their head and didn’t care to develop any of them.
sooo yeah im super annoyed to have wasted my time :) but a lot of people seem to have at least tolerated this book, so go for it if you want i guess.
the main reason i picked this book up (besides
it being on KU and fulfilling my desperation to make this subscription worth it) was because it was heavily compared to all for the game. and like- sure. ezra’s runaway nature, name changes, and family history are an obvious nod to neil. but he is no neil josten. ezra is far from cautious, easily swayed, and (imo) pretty helpless. if you do want to read this, don’t do it in hopes of a aftg comparison- you will be disappointed.
i’m also not a huge fan of the way vampires are portrayed in this. killian is supposedly over 100 years old, but can share basically no info about what it means to be a vampire when he changes ezra? also, why did ezra have, like, no reaction to being changed? dare i say, that is a revelation requiring at least /some/ drama. what we do learn about this species is so cliche and overdone that i’m not even seeing the point of making them vampires. it’s really not adding anything. on the topic of killian- talk about underdevelopment. we know literally nothing about him, even tho he’s the 2nd lead. and his friend, mari- is seemingly there for no reason. she could have been totally excluded from this story and i don’t think it would’ve made a negative difference.
now, let me talk about this relationship development. or rather, lack there of. i was already not really buying killians weird obsession with ezra from the second he sees him, but then we go straight to “my heart beats for you/ you’re my beloved” (whatever he said in irish) like two days after meeting him? bro, chill. the one bed trope couldn’t even do its thing because the instalove was so prominent.
my biggest issue with this story really comes down to underdevelopment. nothing in this story feels thought out. the setting is so dull, the characters are incredibly one dimensional, and its overall flat and emotionless. the opening scenes were interesting, which gave me a glimmer of hope- but i’m positive this is not going to get better. the author didn’t pay special attention to any aspect- and instead threw down the scenes in their head and didn’t care to develop any of them.
sooo yeah im super annoyed to have wasted my time :) but a lot of people seem to have at least tolerated this book, so go for it if you want i guess.
March 29, 2023
[ I received a digital arc from Netgalley for an honest review]
Cutting Your Teeth is the debut novel by Caylan MacRae. A Queer New Adult paranormal adventure with vampires, werewolves, and a slow burn side romance.
Ezra is on the run from his family and getting ready to make his next move in locations. However, they catch up to him and he almost doesn't survive the counter. He wouldn't have if it hadn't been for Killian turning him into a vampire and giving him a second chance at "life." But Killian has motivations of his own and when those surface the relationship the two have built will be destroyed. Killian won't give up on him, but might be too late from stopping the future destined for Ezra.
"I promised you, Ezra. I'll keep my word if it kills me."
There is much more going on than what I summed up in my little recap above, but I didn't want to give away spoilers. The story is faced paced from beginning to end. Packed with violence, danger, and life or death situations for our main characters. Don't worry, there are some breathing moments in between where our characters get to enjoy themselves.I was here for the slow reveals and all the pieces being put together. The book has a story arc that has a Happy For Now conclusion but there's bigger picture things going on at the end which will obviously be the focus of book 2.
Killian's warmth drew him in over and over like a moth to a brilliant flame.
I want to gush about our Queer MCs for a bit. Ezra is a whole jumble of anger, guilt, and fear with a warm heart at the center. He doesn't want to tangle up anyone else in his bad situation, and if he's going down he wants it to have purpose. Killian 🥰our Irish vampire who has secret not so nice intentions when he first puts himself in Ezra's path, but quickly regrets them when he interacts with him. Killian made me swoon every time he used Gaelic terms of endearment towards Ezra. The two have a slow burn romance where they are each holding back for their own reasons. Unfortunatly there's isn't much of a pay off besides a steam kiss and then events happen that result in them restarting from the beginning. I think that might be one of the things holding me back from giving it a higher rating. I really wanted the slow burn to pay off and I hope it does in the next book.
"Mo stor," Killian sighs. He curls a hand over Ezra's heart and sinks his fangs in deep.
Cutting Your Teeth by Caylan MacRae is a strong debut novel. A Queer New Adult Paranormal filled with quality found family, Bi rep, promises, dances, vampires, nightmares, a faithful Irish Wolfhound, dangers, secrets, lies and betrayel.
"If I wanted to go somewhere, would you follow me?"
"Over the moon and back again, sunflower."
Cutting Your Teeth is the debut novel by Caylan MacRae. A Queer New Adult paranormal adventure with vampires, werewolves, and a slow burn side romance.
Ezra is on the run from his family and getting ready to make his next move in locations. However, they catch up to him and he almost doesn't survive the counter. He wouldn't have if it hadn't been for Killian turning him into a vampire and giving him a second chance at "life." But Killian has motivations of his own and when those surface the relationship the two have built will be destroyed. Killian won't give up on him, but might be too late from stopping the future destined for Ezra.
"I promised you, Ezra. I'll keep my word if it kills me."
There is much more going on than what I summed up in my little recap above, but I didn't want to give away spoilers. The story is faced paced from beginning to end. Packed with violence, danger, and life or death situations for our main characters. Don't worry, there are some breathing moments in between where our characters get to enjoy themselves.I was here for the slow reveals and all the pieces being put together. The book has a story arc that has a Happy For Now conclusion but there's bigger picture things going on at the end which will obviously be the focus of book 2.
Killian's warmth drew him in over and over like a moth to a brilliant flame.
I want to gush about our Queer MCs for a bit. Ezra is a whole jumble of anger, guilt, and fear with a warm heart at the center. He doesn't want to tangle up anyone else in his bad situation, and if he's going down he wants it to have purpose. Killian 🥰our Irish vampire who has secret not so nice intentions when he first puts himself in Ezra's path, but quickly regrets them when he interacts with him. Killian made me swoon every time he used Gaelic terms of endearment towards Ezra. The two have a slow burn romance where they are each holding back for their own reasons. Unfortunatly there's isn't much of a pay off besides a steam kiss and then events happen that result in them restarting from the beginning. I think that might be one of the things holding me back from giving it a higher rating. I really wanted the slow burn to pay off and I hope it does in the next book.
"Mo stor," Killian sighs. He curls a hand over Ezra's heart and sinks his fangs in deep.
Cutting Your Teeth by Caylan MacRae is a strong debut novel. A Queer New Adult Paranormal filled with quality found family, Bi rep, promises, dances, vampires, nightmares, a faithful Irish Wolfhound, dangers, secrets, lies and betrayel.
"If I wanted to go somewhere, would you follow me?"
"Over the moon and back again, sunflower."
Read
May 17, 2023RTC very very soon!
February 24, 2023
author reached out for arc review copy!
This follows Ezra a guy who is always on the run from his past and moving around constantly when he makes an unusual friend. His past starts to catch up with him to the point Killian turns him and we are thrown into the world of vampires and hunters.
i adore vampire books so this was definitely a fun read for me, it’s definitely not as dark or horrory? as it could be with the supernatural elements but i did really like how it explored vampires and how it’s talked about in the book with the struggles of been one while also keeping your attention on the characters and not diving too deep into history of vampires.
I’m defiantly a character driven reader so this book worked really well for me as i loved the main cast of characters. I really like ezra even though he was fairly stereotypical for a main character who rushes in and doesn’t care of consequences but it worked with his backstory, i liked the love interest killian i found him a really interesting character and would love to have learnt more about him as we only get glimpses of his past, and Mari one of the other main cast i think the trio really worked and the friendship they have really shines through. it’s definitely fits with the found family troupe vibes and it’s really warm feeling so it good to see these characters who have been through a lot of shit be able to have this family love. i think the relationship could of been explored more and definitely took a backseat in this book as there was too much other things going on which took focus over the relationship. I’m also someone who can’t forgive easy so i definitely think think the ending of this felt a little rushed with the emotions and was all ok again when like i’m still mad at the characters.
I do think some parts of this book were short due to there been a lot going on like i could read a whole book on just Ezra boxing at the start i found that really interesting for it to never really be mentioned again (understandable with what happens but) and the ending things happen which i think i would of liked more context on but that may come later.
but overall i really enjoyed this and would definitely recommend it specially for a debut novel! If you want a gritty queer vampire found family book with little to no spice then id recommend this!
This follows Ezra a guy who is always on the run from his past and moving around constantly when he makes an unusual friend. His past starts to catch up with him to the point Killian turns him and we are thrown into the world of vampires and hunters.
i adore vampire books so this was definitely a fun read for me, it’s definitely not as dark or horrory? as it could be with the supernatural elements but i did really like how it explored vampires and how it’s talked about in the book with the struggles of been one while also keeping your attention on the characters and not diving too deep into history of vampires.
I’m defiantly a character driven reader so this book worked really well for me as i loved the main cast of characters. I really like ezra even though he was fairly stereotypical for a main character who rushes in and doesn’t care of consequences but it worked with his backstory, i liked the love interest killian i found him a really interesting character and would love to have learnt more about him as we only get glimpses of his past, and Mari one of the other main cast i think the trio really worked and the friendship they have really shines through. it’s definitely fits with the found family troupe vibes and it’s really warm feeling so it good to see these characters who have been through a lot of shit be able to have this family love. i think the relationship could of been explored more and definitely took a backseat in this book as there was too much other things going on which took focus over the relationship. I’m also someone who can’t forgive easy so i definitely think think the ending of this felt a little rushed with the emotions and was all ok again when like i’m still mad at the characters.
I do think some parts of this book were short due to there been a lot going on like i could read a whole book on just Ezra boxing at the start i found that really interesting for it to never really be mentioned again (understandable with what happens but) and the ending things happen which i think i would of liked more context on but that may come later.
but overall i really enjoyed this and would definitely recommend it specially for a debut novel! If you want a gritty queer vampire found family book with little to no spice then id recommend this!
August 11, 2023
barking woofing meowing hissing I love it when one person calls the other a pet name in their native language. killian you were my lil dude, my lil kreechare and I loved u
March 4, 2023
Firstly: thank you to NetGalley and to the author, Caylan MacRae, for providing me with an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
Have you ever read a book so devastatingly good - so immersive, so gripping -, that it completely destroys your sanity? Well, that was “Cutting Your Teeth” for me.
This is a book about loneliness, about family - given and found -, about hope in all its shapes and hues, and about the things that haunt us in our nightmares. It’s violent, gory, bloody, visceral, and it creates a sense of anxiety the reader can’t escape. It’s also tender and beautiful.
“Cutting Your Teeth” tells the story of ‘Ezra’, who has been on the run for the past couple of years. From the very first line, we are aware how desperate he is. All alone, hunted down, cornered. Ezra is the type of person who never had a chance.
When we meet him he’s beaten down, tired, and ready to leave his last identity - and the life that came with it - behind.
But when everything feels like crashing down, Killian appears in his life. And so does Marigold, certified best girl and holder of the only braincell in the whole book.
Killian is charming, has an Irish accent, and makes Ezra feel like home. He’s also awkward, insecure, and is holding more secrets than anyone can hold.
There’s a lot to this book, and I’m really trying to avoid spoiling anything. I think the anxiety and stress it makes you feel at the pit of your stomach are vital for this story. The stakes are through the roof.
“Cutting Your Teeth” is a vicious book.
I loved how the author handled the thin line of trust between characters with backgrounds that make them inherently untrusting.
There’s a big part of this story that circles around building a community, and I think that’s so important. It’s hopeful. Creating a family, a place to belong to, even when the world seems to have completely given up on you. Even when it seems there’s nothing else. I think it’s a message that will touch and impact most of it’s queer readers. It sure did with me.
Also, this book has one of the best written - most vile and repulsive - antagonists I’ve ever read. All of them, really. For very different reasons.
“Cutting Your Teeth” is everything to me. A well-deserved 5 star read. A book that left me awake and anxious at night, and delivered everything it promised.
Ezra deserves the world. A hug, safety, finally being at peace. Being loved. Having a family.
You’re going to love this book if you like: feeling emotionally distraught, never recovering from something you read, found families, great character and relationship development, the personification of sunshine and goodness (it’s Marigold), vampires, the existencial horror of having to keep on living, idiots in love. Oh, and Neil Josten.
And if you’re like me and can’t deal with the anxiety of not knowing how it ends:
Have you ever read a book so devastatingly good - so immersive, so gripping -, that it completely destroys your sanity? Well, that was “Cutting Your Teeth” for me.
This is a book about loneliness, about family - given and found -, about hope in all its shapes and hues, and about the things that haunt us in our nightmares. It’s violent, gory, bloody, visceral, and it creates a sense of anxiety the reader can’t escape. It’s also tender and beautiful.
“Cutting Your Teeth” tells the story of ‘Ezra’, who has been on the run for the past couple of years. From the very first line, we are aware how desperate he is. All alone, hunted down, cornered. Ezra is the type of person who never had a chance.
When we meet him he’s beaten down, tired, and ready to leave his last identity - and the life that came with it - behind.
But when everything feels like crashing down, Killian appears in his life. And so does Marigold, certified best girl and holder of the only braincell in the whole book.
Killian is charming, has an Irish accent, and makes Ezra feel like home. He’s also awkward, insecure, and is holding more secrets than anyone can hold.
There’s a lot to this book, and I’m really trying to avoid spoiling anything. I think the anxiety and stress it makes you feel at the pit of your stomach are vital for this story. The stakes are through the roof.
“Cutting Your Teeth” is a vicious book.
I loved how the author handled the thin line of trust between characters with backgrounds that make them inherently untrusting.
There’s a big part of this story that circles around building a community, and I think that’s so important. It’s hopeful. Creating a family, a place to belong to, even when the world seems to have completely given up on you. Even when it seems there’s nothing else. I think it’s a message that will touch and impact most of it’s queer readers. It sure did with me.
Also, this book has one of the best written - most vile and repulsive - antagonists I’ve ever read. All of them, really. For very different reasons.
“Cutting Your Teeth” is everything to me. A well-deserved 5 star read. A book that left me awake and anxious at night, and delivered everything it promised.
Ezra deserves the world. A hug, safety, finally being at peace. Being loved. Having a family.
You’re going to love this book if you like: feeling emotionally distraught, never recovering from something you read, found families, great character and relationship development, the personification of sunshine and goodness (it’s Marigold), vampires, the existencial horror of having to keep on living, idiots in love. Oh, and Neil Josten.
And if you’re like me and can’t deal with the anxiety of not knowing how it ends:
March 8, 2023
This was alright! I liked the bonds between the characters and I understand the comparisons to both All For The Game and the Green Creek series. There’s lots of friendship and trust and also both an Irish wolfhound and an Irish vampire. But the plot was A Lot, and most of it happened in a way that I can only describe as “yes and.”Characters were very understanding and accepting of their circumstances, no matter how horrifying, and it made the emotional and storyline stakes hold less weight for me. At every major conflict, of which there were many, everyone was just like “okay yes this is happening now.” Anytime someone asks “what is going on?” or “how do we handle this?” the person who has the answers is right nearby. Overall, I wish there had been more tension at all levels of the story.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the e-ARC!
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the e-ARC!
Read
February 18, 2024The pacing felt so off to me. I didn’t think the time had been taken to fully flesh out the characters and their relationships with each other. Every relationship was established so quickly so by the time we got to the crux of the novel, I wasn’t connected to these characters and also couldn’t really understand why they were so enamored with each other. I understand their vampire bond but that’s not enough to make me care as a reader about their relationship to each other…I LOVE found family but I feel like those bonds actually need to be cultivated they can’t just pop up out of nowhere? Anyway by the time all the action started I just didn’t have enough of these characters to care about what was happening to them. Also, it was sort of dual pov but just sporadically? which felt odd to me as well.
I’m usually a sucker (sorry) for queer vampires but this really fell flat for me.
I’m usually a sucker (sorry) for queer vampires but this really fell flat for me.
March 19, 2023
I feel bad rating this low. As much as I enjoyed the characters and their relationships the plot felt underdeveloped and for me was really underwhelming.
Ezra has fled from his family, and is getting ready to run again when he is murdered. Killian, a vampire that has taken a shine to Ezra, turns him and they slowly become friends as their feeling fester beneath the surface.
Eventually Ezra is found out by his family and they have to go rescue him and his sister.
The relationships and character dynamics were there, and who am I kidding ‘gay vampires’ totally caught my attention. But the pacing of the plot was off, the balance between action and no action went up and down and I wasn’t hooked the way I had expected to be.
Ezra has fled from his family, and is getting ready to run again when he is murdered. Killian, a vampire that has taken a shine to Ezra, turns him and they slowly become friends as their feeling fester beneath the surface.
Eventually Ezra is found out by his family and they have to go rescue him and his sister.
The relationships and character dynamics were there, and who am I kidding ‘gay vampires’ totally caught my attention. But the pacing of the plot was off, the balance between action and no action went up and down and I wasn’t hooked the way I had expected to be.
March 3, 2023
Ezra is on the run – leaving a path of burnt bridges in his wake, friends, family and significant others suffering in the process. But he’s tired of running – and when he meets Killian at the local underground fight club, he no longer has an option. But the one thing that he doesn’t know – is that Killian is a vampire, a charismatic creature of the night. But Ezra has his own problems, his own trauma, and a newfound life ahead of him that causes trouble and action at every turn.
I have to say, I truly came into this expecting a “glittery” vampire experience. The two main characters, Ezra and Killian, I assumed would be all over each other immediately. But that, in fact, wasn’t the case at all, which I was pleasantly surprised by. There honestly isn’t that much “romance” more than a quick kiss. However, their budding romance and hidden secrets aren’t the focus of the story at all. Some of the comments Killian makes towards Ezra are sweet, although a bit on the... aggressive side.
”I meant it when I said your problems are mine too. I’ll gut every sorry son of a bitch he sends after you.”
This book focuses mainly on the “found family” trope – something that’s popular but is also done exceedingly well in “ Cutting Your Teeth ”. I adored Ezra’s struggles with wanting to do what he’s done for so long – run, and never look back. Abandon his current “name” and move onwards to a new identity. But even though he struggles, he remains at Killian’s side.
“Ezra talks himself down from breaking Jasper’s nose and calling it a day. He could walk out right now, get on a Greyhound, and never look back, but a small flare of pride roots him to the spot.”
However, much of this story is slow burn. I expected that to a degree, as it’s the first book in the “Cursed Corpses” series. While there is plenty of action, the painfully slow reveal of secrets both Ezra and Killian have been hiding from one another detracts from the story. There were a few minor grammatical errors and misspellings, but nothing major, and nothing that took away from the story. The pacing is a healthy mix of action, a brief respite, and action again.
“’Family’ doesn’t sound like such an ugly world anymore, not when he’d found the perfect patchwork of misfits to call his home.”
However, maybe it’s because I’m not as used to the third person – most of what I’ve read is in first person – I felt overall, less engaged with the story. It didn’t feel as urgent in the moment as I would’ve liked. Moreso, I felt like I was lazily reading what either Ezra or Killian were doing.
I also wasn’t the biggest fan of the shifting viewpoints – in books where it’s done well, it’s not a problem whatsoever. However, due to the point of view it was written in sometimes I had to go back and reread – not because their names weren’t printed in bold at the top; but rather since they don’t seem to sound different in the way they’re written. It made it hard to both differentiate and immerse myself in the surrounding world.
Overall, a very decent book that I was happy to have read. 3/5 stars, only detractions being some minor pacing issues and shifting viewpoints. I look forward to the next book in the series.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for a fair, unbiased review*
I have to say, I truly came into this expecting a “glittery” vampire experience. The two main characters, Ezra and Killian, I assumed would be all over each other immediately. But that, in fact, wasn’t the case at all, which I was pleasantly surprised by. There honestly isn’t that much “romance” more than a quick kiss. However, their budding romance and hidden secrets aren’t the focus of the story at all. Some of the comments Killian makes towards Ezra are sweet, although a bit on the... aggressive side.
”I meant it when I said your problems are mine too. I’ll gut every sorry son of a bitch he sends after you.”
This book focuses mainly on the “found family” trope – something that’s popular but is also done exceedingly well in “ Cutting Your Teeth ”. I adored Ezra’s struggles with wanting to do what he’s done for so long – run, and never look back. Abandon his current “name” and move onwards to a new identity. But even though he struggles, he remains at Killian’s side.
“Ezra talks himself down from breaking Jasper’s nose and calling it a day. He could walk out right now, get on a Greyhound, and never look back, but a small flare of pride roots him to the spot.”
However, much of this story is slow burn. I expected that to a degree, as it’s the first book in the “Cursed Corpses” series. While there is plenty of action, the painfully slow reveal of secrets both Ezra and Killian have been hiding from one another detracts from the story. There were a few minor grammatical errors and misspellings, but nothing major, and nothing that took away from the story. The pacing is a healthy mix of action, a brief respite, and action again.
“’Family’ doesn’t sound like such an ugly world anymore, not when he’d found the perfect patchwork of misfits to call his home.”
However, maybe it’s because I’m not as used to the third person – most of what I’ve read is in first person – I felt overall, less engaged with the story. It didn’t feel as urgent in the moment as I would’ve liked. Moreso, I felt like I was lazily reading what either Ezra or Killian were doing.
I also wasn’t the biggest fan of the shifting viewpoints – in books where it’s done well, it’s not a problem whatsoever. However, due to the point of view it was written in sometimes I had to go back and reread – not because their names weren’t printed in bold at the top; but rather since they don’t seem to sound different in the way they’re written. It made it hard to both differentiate and immerse myself in the surrounding world.
Overall, a very decent book that I was happy to have read. 3/5 stars, only detractions being some minor pacing issues and shifting viewpoints. I look forward to the next book in the series.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for a fair, unbiased review*
February 14, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing, and Caylan MacRae for the ARC and allowing me this opportunity to read and share my thoughts!
First of all, what a lovely debut novel! MacRae really knows how to drag in your interest on page one! I was instantly intrigued by our main character, Ezra, and what is going on his life. MacRae really strives in the character department. All the characters were very intriguing to read about and some of them appeared with one sentence and made me go: "Yep, I love them."
This is a vampire romance story. I was interesting in the concept but also a little wary about how they were going to make vampires interesting when it has been done many times before. MacRae steps right up to the plate and gives vampires an interesting rework. Playing on the classic concepts of the night walkers and giving them more depth. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about how the vampires work in this world! It was my favorite part besides the characters. You can tell there was a lot of thought put into it to make them more interesting for new-comers and people who already read plenty of vampire stories.
For the romance... I sadly couldn't get completely behind it. It wasn't bad! I wish there was more build up since it was very insta-love and made me not connect as much to their relationship. I was more connected with the friendship of the side characters with the main characters. Especially Mari. Gosh, I love Mari. Her relationship with every character in this story is so well done. I wish there was more downtime between the two main love interests so we can see them more happy and learn about each other, instead of there always being action at every turn preventing them from truly learning about one another.
Also, since I mentioned Mari, I should mention our other main lead. Killian is a charismatic guy and really likable as a character, but he did read very young when he is suppose to be much older. I know they explained it slightly but I feel like since he is been around so long and is old enough to know when he is acting irresponsible, he would make a change. Hopefully in the next book we can see more of him and see more of his depth as a character.
What a lovely story! MacRae set up so many threads throughout the book that there was a point where I was like "huh that is a little predictable" only for a bunch of plot twists to hit me in the face and say "you thought". Found family, cute vampire romance, intriguing plot and characters - Honestly a very amazing debut novel and I would recommend this to anyone who has a soft spot for vampires and found families.
First of all, what a lovely debut novel! MacRae really knows how to drag in your interest on page one! I was instantly intrigued by our main character, Ezra, and what is going on his life. MacRae really strives in the character department. All the characters were very intriguing to read about and some of them appeared with one sentence and made me go: "Yep, I love them."
This is a vampire romance story. I was interesting in the concept but also a little wary about how they were going to make vampires interesting when it has been done many times before. MacRae steps right up to the plate and gives vampires an interesting rework. Playing on the classic concepts of the night walkers and giving them more depth. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about how the vampires work in this world! It was my favorite part besides the characters. You can tell there was a lot of thought put into it to make them more interesting for new-comers and people who already read plenty of vampire stories.
For the romance... I sadly couldn't get completely behind it. It wasn't bad! I wish there was more build up since it was very insta-love and made me not connect as much to their relationship. I was more connected with the friendship of the side characters with the main characters. Especially Mari. Gosh, I love Mari. Her relationship with every character in this story is so well done. I wish there was more downtime between the two main love interests so we can see them more happy and learn about each other, instead of there always being action at every turn preventing them from truly learning about one another.
Also, since I mentioned Mari, I should mention our other main lead. Killian is a charismatic guy and really likable as a character, but he did read very young when he is suppose to be much older. I know they explained it slightly but I feel like since he is been around so long and is old enough to know when he is acting irresponsible, he would make a change. Hopefully in the next book we can see more of him and see more of his depth as a character.
What a lovely story! MacRae set up so many threads throughout the book that there was a point where I was like "huh that is a little predictable" only for a bunch of plot twists to hit me in the face and say "you thought". Found family, cute vampire romance, intriguing plot and characters - Honestly a very amazing debut novel and I would recommend this to anyone who has a soft spot for vampires and found families.
March 15, 2023
Received an arc from NetGalley, thanks!
"My name is Ezra Santos and I died last week."
What a delightful book that was!
It was so simple yet so full of (after)life. Ezra's story grabs you since the page one, starting with action scenes and ending in emotional cluster. Cutting Your Teeth has the atmosphere and characters, both that makes you easily fall in love with them. The story reminds me of old(ish) time writing, and that's the biggest advantage of it.
If you're looking for gay vampires with a twist, family secrets, amazing dynamics or just a book that will kidnap you easily into its fantasy world, I would definitely consider giving it a chance. I, for once, had so much fun I find that criminally offensive.
"My name is Ezra Santos and I died last week."
What a delightful book that was!
It was so simple yet so full of (after)life. Ezra's story grabs you since the page one, starting with action scenes and ending in emotional cluster. Cutting Your Teeth has the atmosphere and characters, both that makes you easily fall in love with them. The story reminds me of old(ish) time writing, and that's the biggest advantage of it.
If you're looking for gay vampires with a twist, family secrets, amazing dynamics or just a book that will kidnap you easily into its fantasy world, I would definitely consider giving it a chance. I, for once, had so much fun I find that criminally offensive.
August 24, 2024
Rating: 4.5
🏳️🌈 Bi MC!
🌶️ Clean slow burn Romance
👻 deliciously spooky vibes
🩸 really fucking cool Vamp Lore
I can't believe this is a debut! Absolutely knocked it out of the park for me and can't WAIT for the next instalment.
I'm only giving this a 4.5 because I thought that there could have been a smidgen more romance in this. I absolutely adored both Ezra and Killian though, and their relationship was so precious to me. There were no big overt displays of 'I love yous' or sappy scenes and you know what I was glad for that. The two didn't need it and they were able to say 'I love you' to each other in a million different tiny ways, that were all way more impactful.
Also loved all of the supporting characters, especially Mari and Aly.
🏳️🌈 Bi MC!
🌶️ Clean slow burn Romance
👻 deliciously spooky vibes
🩸 really fucking cool Vamp Lore
I can't believe this is a debut! Absolutely knocked it out of the park for me and can't WAIT for the next instalment.
I'm only giving this a 4.5 because I thought that there could have been a smidgen more romance in this. I absolutely adored both Ezra and Killian though, and their relationship was so precious to me. There were no big overt displays of 'I love yous' or sappy scenes and you know what I was glad for that. The two didn't need it and they were able to say 'I love you' to each other in a million different tiny ways, that were all way more impactful.
Also loved all of the supporting characters, especially Mari and Aly.
March 12, 2023
This book made me fall in love from the very beginning. I devoured it, and now I’m sad there’s no more. The plot was original and the characters perfectly flawed. Plus who doesn’t love queer vampires and heartbreaking secrets. Ezras doubt in himself is refreshing and relatable and the love for his dog piper makes you love him even more
March 30, 2023
[Thank you to NetGalley for a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.]
Cutting Your Teeth is a blisteringly fast-paced queer horror novel about Ezra, a young man with a dark past on the run from his family, whose life changes dramatically when he meets mysterious vampire Killian.
I wanted to like this one more than I actually did. There are some very interesting elements in here, especially related to the worldbuilding. I thought that this take on vampires had just enough of very common traditional tropes and characteristics of vampires with some other interesting, unique elements that made these vampires really interesting and dynamic.
However, I felt like there was just a lot about this one that was a miss for me. I do tend to prefer novels that are slower paced than this one. The action and plot development in here is basically non-stop, with very few quiet moments in between plot developments. For me the breakneck pace of the novel didn't work because I wanted to get to know more about who the characters were outside of the crisis they were in. I found it difficult to care about them for any reason aside from being the main characters. This also left me rather uninterested in the romance elements. In the same vein, I think would've liked a little more time spent introspectively on the inherent horror of being a vampire--we just don't really get a lot of time to explore that, which disappointed me a little.
Cutting Your Teeth is a blisteringly fast-paced queer horror novel about Ezra, a young man with a dark past on the run from his family, whose life changes dramatically when he meets mysterious vampire Killian.
I wanted to like this one more than I actually did. There are some very interesting elements in here, especially related to the worldbuilding. I thought that this take on vampires had just enough of very common traditional tropes and characteristics of vampires with some other interesting, unique elements that made these vampires really interesting and dynamic.
However, I felt like there was just a lot about this one that was a miss for me. I do tend to prefer novels that are slower paced than this one. The action and plot development in here is basically non-stop, with very few quiet moments in between plot developments. For me the breakneck pace of the novel didn't work because I wanted to get to know more about who the characters were outside of the crisis they were in. I found it difficult to care about them for any reason aside from being the main characters. This also left me rather uninterested in the romance elements. In the same vein, I think would've liked a little more time spent introspectively on the inherent horror of being a vampire--we just don't really get a lot of time to explore that, which disappointed me a little.
June 10, 2025
*4.5 stars*
I'm not gonna lie and say I didn't pick this book up because it sounded a little bit like The Foxhole Court. Because yes, that is the reason. And vampires of course.
Listen, the pitch sounded so good, and it really delivered omg. A runaway from his mafia family makes money from underground fighting and gets a vampire boyfriend? Fuck yes!
It was such a fun book to read, I l0ved all of our characters, the found family was amazing. And I love when authors don't shy away from some aspects of vampirism. The fact that they can't go out in the sun? Loved it! The teeth thing, all their little weaknesses, it were so refreshing to read!
And the romance, the tension??? Delicious. Give me 5 more books, please and thank you!!
I'm not gonna lie and say I didn't pick this book up because it sounded a little bit like The Foxhole Court. Because yes, that is the reason. And vampires of course.
Listen, the pitch sounded so good, and it really delivered omg. A runaway from his mafia family makes money from underground fighting and gets a vampire boyfriend? Fuck yes!
It was such a fun book to read, I l0ved all of our characters, the found family was amazing. And I love when authors don't shy away from some aspects of vampirism. The fact that they can't go out in the sun? Loved it! The teeth thing, all their little weaknesses, it were so refreshing to read!
And the romance, the tension??? Delicious. Give me 5 more books, please and thank you!!
April 25, 2023
Yet another vampire book for the queers!
Cutting Your Teeth is an urban fantasy vampire adventure that follows Ezra Santos, a man on the run, as he unexpectedly gets pulled into the orbit of Killian Hale and his life gets turned on its head.
THESE BOYS ARE SO MESSY! I think that was probably the most enjoyable aspect of the book for me. They both had so much they were hiding and seeing them realize how much they were each fucking up and trying their best to fix things was one hell of a ride to go on. The romance was both insta love and slow-burn in the sense that they both caught feelings pretty quickly, but also both kept putting off doing anything about it for their own respective reasons. It was alright, but I definitely personally would have enjoyed seeing more development of their feelings at the beginning, or at least more introspection into what made the love so instant? But that’s a pretty minor nitpick and I still overall enjoyed their arc together.
The plot was a tangled mess that progressively got messier the more you found out, and I honestly had no idea how any of it would play out. I enjoyed it well enough, but I personally found my attention lagging through much of the middle part of the book and into the climax, making this read take a while for me. It was Alright and I Liked it, but there also wasn’t a lot that was actively sucking my attention in between the beginning and the very end.
Now, the things that made this a slower read for me might absolutely make this the book for other people, and either way, I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for messy queer vampires in an urban fantasy setting. One aspect that I did really love was the vampire lore! I thought this story did a good job of blending familiar things and taking new twists!
Cutting Your Teeth is an urban fantasy vampire adventure that follows Ezra Santos, a man on the run, as he unexpectedly gets pulled into the orbit of Killian Hale and his life gets turned on its head.
THESE BOYS ARE SO MESSY! I think that was probably the most enjoyable aspect of the book for me. They both had so much they were hiding and seeing them realize how much they were each fucking up and trying their best to fix things was one hell of a ride to go on. The romance was both insta love and slow-burn in the sense that they both caught feelings pretty quickly, but also both kept putting off doing anything about it for their own respective reasons. It was alright, but I definitely personally would have enjoyed seeing more development of their feelings at the beginning, or at least more introspection into what made the love so instant? But that’s a pretty minor nitpick and I still overall enjoyed their arc together.
The plot was a tangled mess that progressively got messier the more you found out, and I honestly had no idea how any of it would play out. I enjoyed it well enough, but I personally found my attention lagging through much of the middle part of the book and into the climax, making this read take a while for me. It was Alright and I Liked it, but there also wasn’t a lot that was actively sucking my attention in between the beginning and the very end.
Now, the things that made this a slower read for me might absolutely make this the book for other people, and either way, I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for messy queer vampires in an urban fantasy setting. One aspect that I did really love was the vampire lore! I thought this story did a good job of blending familiar things and taking new twists!
April 17, 2023
Though the book is now officially out, I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy. Therefore, some of my thoughts and feedback may be no longer relevant.
That said:
This book had a very good premise, but it was not well executed. The book is non-stop action, which is great because you don't want to have a lull in the story...but nothing was given a chance to breathe. As a result, none of should have been huge emotional payoffs felt earned. The main character laments that he doesn't know when he was last cared for or feels like he can't have love, etc....but he was broken up with less than a week prior to the start of the book and has a guy calling him "my love" two days after they officially meet. Towards the end of the book the love interest says he had "long abandoned" a plan...but that plan had been abandoned less that a week before he said that. The characters weren't given time to have character growth, and there was so much happening that things were being solved too quickly and too easily. Need a quick escape? No worries, theres inexplicably two horses tied right outside. It's sad because the world building is there, the concept was there, but this almost felt like it needed to be split into two books and then had the emotions and personal relationships grow more.
The Goodreads profile for this author says that this is their first book, and I sincerely hope they continue writing. I feel that they have some wonderful ideas, and I would love to read future books from them, I just hope they can delve a little more into the much needed emotional resonance of story telling.
That said:
This book had a very good premise, but it was not well executed. The book is non-stop action, which is great because you don't want to have a lull in the story...but nothing was given a chance to breathe. As a result, none of should have been huge emotional payoffs felt earned. The main character laments that he doesn't know when he was last cared for or feels like he can't have love, etc....but he was broken up with less than a week prior to the start of the book and has a guy calling him "my love" two days after they officially meet. Towards the end of the book the love interest says he had "long abandoned" a plan...but that plan had been abandoned less that a week before he said that. The characters weren't given time to have character growth, and there was so much happening that things were being solved too quickly and too easily. Need a quick escape? No worries, theres inexplicably two horses tied right outside. It's sad because the world building is there, the concept was there, but this almost felt like it needed to be split into two books and then had the emotions and personal relationships grow more.
The Goodreads profile for this author says that this is their first book, and I sincerely hope they continue writing. I feel that they have some wonderful ideas, and I would love to read future books from them, I just hope they can delve a little more into the much needed emotional resonance of story telling.
dnf
July 11, 2025dnf at 37%
I picked this up because Ezra sounded a lot like Neil Josten from aftg, but unfortunately I'm just so bored :(
I picked this up because Ezra sounded a lot like Neil Josten from aftg, but unfortunately I'm just so bored :(
Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews