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Blood Reaction Saga #1
Blood Reaction
Annalice, a single mother and physician, is ready to immerse herself in the mundane chores of her farm as a diversion from her hectic professional life. But she becomes the victim of a home invasion, the supernatural kind. Vindictive and cruel, Asa, a century old vampire, takes brutal control of her life and home. Forcing her to strike a bargain in exchange for her daughter's life, Annalice must not only accept his presence but also bow to his depravity. Facing threats to her only child, she relies on her skills as a physician to unravel the clues to the vampire's existence attempting to beat him at his own game. Caught in a race against a genetic timeline, Annalice struggles to survive the Blood Reaction.
316 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
November 16, 2012
wow, it seems that many liked this book..however, I'm not one of them. It's not all bad and I don't want to seem as if I'm writing a scathing review of an author's first work. It's not that it's 'bad'. It's just that I found it a little choppy and boring. Let me explain.
The premise was promising. Take the usual hostage type situation--a single mother, home alone for a week without her child who lives in a remote area despite her mother's warnings..she's assaulted and held captive against her will..the threat of her daughter is the captor's soul source of leverage..albeit a strong advantage--but put a vampire spin on it! The vampire wants to toy with her and learn from her as he does every few decades in order to better blend in...The premise is pretty cool--the supernatural hostage angle..the sadistic cat playing with the mouse, etc...it's the execution I found lacking...
First off, the general story telling. There are only two main characters in the book with a couple minor players in there: Annalice and Asa, the vampire. Not a completely bad thing unless you consider that Annalice is human and her captor is a vampire. Meaning that she's on house arrest (under threat of death of her daughter if she doesn't comply) during the day while Asa sleeps...alone...by herself..all day..what that means for this book is that there's page after page after page of being in Annalice's head. Being that it's told in the first person the author portrays just about everything she does...in great detail...in laborious detail..'I went to the fridge...I put my hand on the handle..I opened the door..my eyes fell upon the orange juice...I picked up the orange juice...I took it out of the fridge..I opened it with my free hand'..of course I'm overly simplifying this but I think you get my drift...anyway, there is precious little dialogue to be had.
Secondly, the characters..Annalice isn't very fleshed out. She's an MD at some nondescript hospital in some part of Remoteville USA. She likes to ride horses and garden a little. There is an ex husband that is mentioned but not much is known about him or her mother or even her daughter. I get that she's fighting to survive to save her daughter's life but there doesn't seem to be any emotional tie to the character. Then there's Asa. The 150 year old vampire. There's not much to set him apart from most other vampires in popular fiction. He's handsome, he's a loner, he's sadistic, etc..There's a cop in there somewhere as well but other than to force an argument between Ax2 he serves very little purpose.
I guess another gripe is the difference in Annalice's narration voice and her dialogue voice. They don't feel the same or read the same. In thought/narrator mode it's very formal and rigid language, i.e 'I did not do this. I had not done that.' Very..proper sounding...in dialogue mode there are contractions aplenty i.e. 'I didn't do this, I hadn't done that'...less rigid and more fluid..
There is sex but it seemed like an afterthought.
Ok, I said I wasn't going to write a scathing review. If it comes across that way it surely wasn't my intention. I'm just trying to explain the reasons why I didn't enjoy the book. I do applaud the author for writing it and publishing it and getting positive reviews on it. Being an MD with a family I can't imagine that to be an easy task.
It says that she's at work on her second novel. I think part of the problem with this one is that she doesn't have her voice down yet. I could care to bet if this was cut down by about 50% to 60% it would have made for a pretty good short story. The whole working against the clock trying to outwit the ages old vampire would have had a greater sense of urgency and cut down on many of those talking head moments that are prevalent throughout the book.
The premise was promising. Take the usual hostage type situation--a single mother, home alone for a week without her child who lives in a remote area despite her mother's warnings..she's assaulted and held captive against her will..the threat of her daughter is the captor's soul source of leverage..albeit a strong advantage--but put a vampire spin on it! The vampire wants to toy with her and learn from her as he does every few decades in order to better blend in...The premise is pretty cool--the supernatural hostage angle..the sadistic cat playing with the mouse, etc...it's the execution I found lacking...
First off, the general story telling. There are only two main characters in the book with a couple minor players in there: Annalice and Asa, the vampire. Not a completely bad thing unless you consider that Annalice is human and her captor is a vampire. Meaning that she's on house arrest (under threat of death of her daughter if she doesn't comply) during the day while Asa sleeps...alone...by herself..all day..what that means for this book is that there's page after page after page of being in Annalice's head. Being that it's told in the first person the author portrays just about everything she does...in great detail...in laborious detail..'I went to the fridge...I put my hand on the handle..I opened the door..my eyes fell upon the orange juice...I picked up the orange juice...I took it out of the fridge..I opened it with my free hand'..of course I'm overly simplifying this but I think you get my drift...anyway, there is precious little dialogue to be had.
Secondly, the characters..Annalice isn't very fleshed out. She's an MD at some nondescript hospital in some part of Remoteville USA. She likes to ride horses and garden a little. There is an ex husband that is mentioned but not much is known about him or her mother or even her daughter. I get that she's fighting to survive to save her daughter's life but there doesn't seem to be any emotional tie to the character. Then there's Asa. The 150 year old vampire. There's not much to set him apart from most other vampires in popular fiction. He's handsome, he's a loner, he's sadistic, etc..There's a cop in there somewhere as well but other than to force an argument between Ax2 he serves very little purpose.
I guess another gripe is the difference in Annalice's narration voice and her dialogue voice. They don't feel the same or read the same. In thought/narrator mode it's very formal and rigid language, i.e 'I did not do this. I had not done that.' Very..proper sounding...in dialogue mode there are contractions aplenty i.e. 'I didn't do this, I hadn't done that'...less rigid and more fluid..
There is sex but it seemed like an afterthought.
Ok, I said I wasn't going to write a scathing review. If it comes across that way it surely wasn't my intention. I'm just trying to explain the reasons why I didn't enjoy the book. I do applaud the author for writing it and publishing it and getting positive reviews on it. Being an MD with a family I can't imagine that to be an easy task.
It says that she's at work on her second novel. I think part of the problem with this one is that she doesn't have her voice down yet. I could care to bet if this was cut down by about 50% to 60% it would have made for a pretty good short story. The whole working against the clock trying to outwit the ages old vampire would have had a greater sense of urgency and cut down on many of those talking head moments that are prevalent throughout the book.
February 14, 2014
at 25% OMGoogle!!! this is a romance!! I'm going to keep reading, but I am so disappointed. I thought this was going to be a Supernatural/Medical/Curing genre. So far I am giving this book 1 star, because so far, I guess I really do hate it. Sorry Dr. Atha, I just misunderstood the write up...but it was a bit misleading, don't you think. I hope this book improves or I'm going to be really upset.
finished will say not truly a romance, more like a hatemance. lot of repeating, would have been a good short story, really I mran that...I cannot say I really liked it, but I cannot say I did not like it so I gave the new author the benefit and ended up with a 3 stars
finished will say not truly a romance, more like a hatemance. lot of repeating, would have been a good short story, really I mran that...I cannot say I really liked it, but I cannot say I did not like it so I gave the new author the benefit and ended up with a 3 stars
April 19, 2018
The description of this book had me intrigued and I was not disappointed. I like that this vampire book is different from the many others I’ve read. I thought the story creative, engaging, and well written. I really like Annalise, her strength and determination had me wanting to know what was going to happen next. I look forward to reading more from this author.
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April 15, 2020🎁 The Blood Reaction Saga (2 book series) is Free on Amazon today (4/15/2020)! 🎁
December 7, 2013
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Blood Reaction is the story of Annalice’s nightmare week with a vampire named Asa. The story starts out with Annalice sending her daughter, Ellie, to have a week of fun with Grandma. While Ellie is away, Annalice plans on getting some much needed spring chores done. At the end of the first day, Annalice is attacked/tackled to the ground on her way home from a ride on her favorite horse. She rationalizes away the attack, and makes her way home for dinner. Once home, Annalice still senses all is not well. Sitting in her living room, all of a sudden, she’s not alone. There is a man sitting on the couch next to her. What does he want? How did he get there? Will she survive? Asa, the vampire sitting next to Annalice, attacks taking much of her blood. Asa is a evil vampire that threatens to kill Ellie if Annalice doesn’t cooperate and be his companion for the next week. Annalice agrees and decides to sacrifice herself for her daughter. But something is not quite right. Annalice notices that she’s slowly changing. What’s happening to her? Will she survive this ordeal? Can she defeat Asa?
I loved this book. It is so different than most books that glorify vampires. In this book the vampire is evil. I knew from the author that this wasn’t a romance, however, I kept hoping that Asa could be redeemed. I wanted him to change for Annalice. I loved how strong Annalice was and how she kept her head during this traumatic time. I liked that she was analytical about the changes taking place in her body and was matter of fact about what she had to do to try to survive. I wanted to cry for Annalice’s lost dreams and future with Ellie. I found this book to flow nicely, and it was easy to read. It kept my attention throughout.
4-stars
Reviewed by Tracy
Blood Reaction is the story of Annalice’s nightmare week with a vampire named Asa. The story starts out with Annalice sending her daughter, Ellie, to have a week of fun with Grandma. While Ellie is away, Annalice plans on getting some much needed spring chores done. At the end of the first day, Annalice is attacked/tackled to the ground on her way home from a ride on her favorite horse. She rationalizes away the attack, and makes her way home for dinner. Once home, Annalice still senses all is not well. Sitting in her living room, all of a sudden, she’s not alone. There is a man sitting on the couch next to her. What does he want? How did he get there? Will she survive? Asa, the vampire sitting next to Annalice, attacks taking much of her blood. Asa is a evil vampire that threatens to kill Ellie if Annalice doesn’t cooperate and be his companion for the next week. Annalice agrees and decides to sacrifice herself for her daughter. But something is not quite right. Annalice notices that she’s slowly changing. What’s happening to her? Will she survive this ordeal? Can she defeat Asa?
I loved this book. It is so different than most books that glorify vampires. In this book the vampire is evil. I knew from the author that this wasn’t a romance, however, I kept hoping that Asa could be redeemed. I wanted him to change for Annalice. I loved how strong Annalice was and how she kept her head during this traumatic time. I liked that she was analytical about the changes taking place in her body and was matter of fact about what she had to do to try to survive. I wanted to cry for Annalice’s lost dreams and future with Ellie. I found this book to flow nicely, and it was easy to read. It kept my attention throughout.
4-stars
Reviewed by Tracy
May 24, 2013
I had a lot of hope for Blood Reaction being a good read. It had an interesting premise and a logical and level headed main character, but the overall execution was severely lacking. The writing style was almost too clinical to the point where I felt almost no connection to Annalice. I'm not sure if that was an intentional choice due to Annalice being a doctor, but it made her feel more like a robot than a human.
Another thing that really irked me through the entire book was who was taking care of the horses?? Though mentioned occasionally in passing, Annalice gives almost no thought to their welfare. Shouldn't they have needed to be fed in the four days the book took place? It's definitely a minor point, but one that irked me to no end.
On the plus side, I did like the spin of the whole vampirism as a virus idea. It's an interesting concept and the bits where Annalice figuring it all out we're see definitely a highlight. Sadly the book was just one I couldn't get into.
Another thing that really irked me through the entire book was who was taking care of the horses?? Though mentioned occasionally in passing, Annalice gives almost no thought to their welfare. Shouldn't they have needed to be fed in the four days the book took place? It's definitely a minor point, but one that irked me to no end.
On the plus side, I did like the spin of the whole vampirism as a virus idea. It's an interesting concept and the bits where Annalice figuring it all out we're see definitely a highlight. Sadly the book was just one I couldn't get into.
August 23, 2014
I REALLY LIKED THIS BOOK. ANNALICE USING EVERYTHING IN HER POWER TO SURVIVE AGAINST THE ODDS. IT WAS A NICE CHANGE TO SEE ASA PORTRAYED IN THE OLD PERCEPTION OF VAMPIRES (ARROGANT, MYSTERIOUS, BAD TEMPERED) A GOOD READ WELL WRITTEN. I WOULD LOVE TO SEE WHAT HAPPENS NEXT TO ANNALICE.
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June 29, 2015kindle
April 29, 2018
I've read a short story of this author's before and enjoyed it. This is just a much longer sort of the same kind of thing but a bit different. This isnt a romance...not really. I mean yes there is sex and although its "consensual" its really isnt because she didnt do it because she really wanted him but for survival mainly. This isnt just a horror story but psychological too. At least in my opinon. Asa has invaded her home and threatens her child if she doesnt do what she wants. Becomes sorta his companion in a psychotic way. He drinks from her and there is sex but she also hates him with a passion. She starts to get smart and well the end isnt good for him. However, I am not sure its good for her either.
Its an ok book but its not spectacular. I am not a fan of psychological books and like I said there is horror kinda but mostly mind games. He constantly toys with her. This just I dont know there wasnt much to Annalice's character. Too much description on some parts and not enough with others. Its not completely a well rounded book.
Its an ok book but its not spectacular. I am not a fan of psychological books and like I said there is horror kinda but mostly mind games. He constantly toys with her. This just I dont know there wasnt much to Annalice's character. Too much description on some parts and not enough with others. Its not completely a well rounded book.
May 5, 2018
This is a very different vampire story than I normally read. The story starts out with Annalice sending her daughter, Ellie, to have a week of fun with Grandma. While Ellie is away, Annalice plans on getting some much needed spring chores done. At the end of the first day, Annalice is attacked/tackled to the ground on her way home from a ride on her favorite horse. She rationalizes away the attack, and makes her way home for dinner. Once home, Annalice still senses all is not well. Sitting in her living room, all of a sudden, she’s not alone. Asa, the vampire sitting next to Annalice, attacks taking much of her blood. Asa is a evil vampire that threatens to kill Ellie if Annalice doesn’t cooperate and be his companion for the next week. Annalice agrees and decides to sacrifice herself for her daughter. After two days, something is not quite right. Annalice notices things about her body that aren't performing like they should and things that are overperforming. What’s happening to her? Then Asa gives her hope, or is it just another game?
May 5, 2018
What a unique read, not a romance but more of a companion story about a vampirewanting human contact and a companion and then kills them. Annalice agrees to spend one week with Asa who is an evil vampire in exchange for letting her daughter live. What follows is a week of hell and how Annalice changes what does this all mean and what will the outcome be.
Annalice is a very strong woman. I really liked her character and all she is willing to give up to make sure her daughter is safe. I kept hoping that Asa would do a turnaround from evil to good and that Annalice dreams for her future would come true. It is a story on survival, being strong and doing the best you can with what is given you. I really enjoyed it and thought it was well written. I am very much looking forward to reading the next book.
****************
Annalice is a very strong woman. I really liked her character and all she is willing to give up to make sure her daughter is safe. I kept hoping that Asa would do a turnaround from evil to good and that Annalice dreams for her future would come true. It is a story on survival, being strong and doing the best you can with what is given you. I really enjoyed it and thought it was well written. I am very much looking forward to reading the next book.
****************
April 19, 2018
this book took me on a ride I didn't want to end. Annalice agrees to be a vampire's companion for a week to save her daughter's life. In this time she deals with all the things that make him so very dangerous while trying to find a way to survive. This is not a love story for sure, it's dark, dangerous, violent, and mesmerizing as you wait to see how far she is willing to go. There is lots of violence, death, and adult content.
August 9, 2018
I thought this was quite a good read. I found this to be a very different book about vampires compared to the others I have read.
There were many things that I thought were good.
The book had a great opening
There were good descriptions of surroundings
I felt sorry for Annalice and I couldn't believe what happened to her. I also felt that Asa was an interesting character to read about the more I read on in the book.
I would recommend this book to vampire book lovers.
There were many things that I thought were good.
The book had a great opening
There were good descriptions of surroundings
I felt sorry for Annalice and I couldn't believe what happened to her. I also felt that Asa was an interesting character to read about the more I read on in the book.
I would recommend this book to vampire book lovers.
June 23, 2017
Blood reaction
An interesting twisted kidnapping story. I enjoyed the twists throughout the story but I was a little frustrated with the main character.
The story dragged at times which made the pace slow for me.
Overall it wasn't bad but would've loved a more faster pace and more depth.
An interesting twisted kidnapping story. I enjoyed the twists throughout the story but I was a little frustrated with the main character.
The story dragged at times which made the pace slow for me.
Overall it wasn't bad but would've loved a more faster pace and more depth.
July 29, 2018
Wonderful!
This is, by far, THE best vampire story i have ever read. She made it seem so real the way she had an explanation for everything. And made it scarier and dripping with gore by how descriptive she was. I will definitely be looking over my shoulder for some time to come when I'm out walking alone. 👏
This is, by far, THE best vampire story i have ever read. She made it seem so real the way she had an explanation for everything. And made it scarier and dripping with gore by how descriptive she was. I will definitely be looking over my shoulder for some time to come when I'm out walking alone. 👏
April 27, 2018
Awesome
WOW! Such a great book and I love the determination the main character has. Well done. I really recommend this book.
WOW! Such a great book and I love the determination the main character has. Well done. I really recommend this book.
May 2, 2018
I can't express how much I loved this story! The change process Annalice went through was explained in an amazing way. It sounded plausible. I am anxious to read the next in series.
March 14, 2012
I hated this book at first. It was so boring and bland that I ended up literally skipping the first 40 pages or so of the story. I'm not exactly how much of it I didn't read, but I pretty much started seriously reading once the vampire breaks into her house. The beginning was interesting and it came off like the main character Annalice was doing ranch chores. There was a lot of 'Annalice went on a horse ride' and 'Annalice made a sandwich'. I felt like the suspense was there, what with Annalice constantly feeling like she was being watched, but after a while it just got redundant and I wanted something to happen already. As bad as I thought the beginning was, once Asa showed up, I was sucked in. Things really picked up after his appearance and it got the ball rolling for more exciting things to happen.
Maybe it's just me, but I really loved Asa. He was amazing and as messed up as he was, I would have wanted to take him home in an instant. Asa was what vampires should be. I don't mind reading about vampires who are tragic and tortured, but sometimes you want something more vicious. Asa wasn't a moody, brooding boy who sparkles in the sunlight. He wasn't someone who struggles with his conscience and falls for pretty human girls. Asa was the type of vampire who'd slaughter you and your family without a second thought. He's first and foremost a killer. He was a psychopath and obviously unhinged, but for some reason, I just love his character. There was more to him than just some crazy guy, but the author was able to make me sympathize with him and still keep him a dangerous predator. Over the course of the book, he stayed a monster, but I could kind of see him falling for Annalice. A relationship between the two of them would be super unhealthy considering the things they went through, but I couldn't stop hoping that they could work out.
For the most part, I liked this story. I liked how it got in depth and dealt with how one becomes a vampire. However, I got super annoyed with all the medical jargon thrown in. I get that the main character Annalice is a doctor, but after a while, it's like enough is enough! I couldn't read a paragraph about Asa biting her or her getting an injury without getting streams of description about different bones/arteries/veins. I'd be enjoying the book, but next thing I knew, it felt like I was taking an anatomy class. As for the ending, I won't spoil things, but I'll say that I liked it in some regards, but I mostly was upset and angry. I was a little happy and then I found myself shouting 'NOOO!!' at the book and would have thrown it across the room if I hadn't been reading on my iPod. Also, what the hell happened with Michael?? I was confused as to that part. Actually, now that I think about it, I kind of really hated the ending and wanted to stab myself in the face. Overall, I will say that this book was a pretty fun read. I read it practically in one sitting and compared to other free books on Amazon, this was downright amazing.
Maybe it's just me, but I really loved Asa. He was amazing and as messed up as he was, I would have wanted to take him home in an instant. Asa was what vampires should be. I don't mind reading about vampires who are tragic and tortured, but sometimes you want something more vicious. Asa wasn't a moody, brooding boy who sparkles in the sunlight. He wasn't someone who struggles with his conscience and falls for pretty human girls. Asa was the type of vampire who'd slaughter you and your family without a second thought. He's first and foremost a killer. He was a psychopath and obviously unhinged, but for some reason, I just love his character. There was more to him than just some crazy guy, but the author was able to make me sympathize with him and still keep him a dangerous predator. Over the course of the book, he stayed a monster, but I could kind of see him falling for Annalice. A relationship between the two of them would be super unhealthy considering the things they went through, but I couldn't stop hoping that they could work out.
For the most part, I liked this story. I liked how it got in depth and dealt with how one becomes a vampire. However, I got super annoyed with all the medical jargon thrown in. I get that the main character Annalice is a doctor, but after a while, it's like enough is enough! I couldn't read a paragraph about Asa biting her or her getting an injury without getting streams of description about different bones/arteries/veins. I'd be enjoying the book, but next thing I knew, it felt like I was taking an anatomy class. As for the ending, I won't spoil things, but I'll say that I liked it in some regards, but I mostly was upset and angry. I was a little happy and then I found myself shouting 'NOOO!!' at the book and would have thrown it across the room if I hadn't been reading on my iPod. Also, what the hell happened with Michael?? I was confused as to that part. Actually, now that I think about it, I kind of really hated the ending and wanted to stab myself in the face. Overall, I will say that this book was a pretty fun read. I read it practically in one sitting and compared to other free books on Amazon, this was downright amazing.
June 14, 2011
Blood Reaction: A Vampire Novel (Volume 1)
Title: Blood Reaction
Author: DL Atha
ISBN: 10: 0979335604
Paperback $12.66
Kindle Edition $ 2.99
Publisher: Foxboro Press (2011)
Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
THE STORY:
The author takes us to the bundus somewhere in rural America. A doctor living with her daughter finds herself involuntarily having a house guest of a supernatural kind. The vampire (Asa) forces the good doctor into bargaining her life away to save her daughter from the clutches of pure evil.
WHO'S WHO
There are two main characters:
Annalice is a doctor left alone at home while her daughter is on holiday.
Asa is a nomadic vampire angry at the world and intending to let anyone who crosses his path knows it.
THIS IS HOT:
The beginning of the book I found quite impressive. In fact I absolutely loved it. The author doesn’t dilly dally. She is very quick to introduce the main characters and the plot and moves on to the crux of it without leaving out important details.
The story is told as a first person narrative and I really like this because I felt it took away long explanations and she tells the story so well it’s like watching events unfold with the teller.
The medical approach, I’ve read quite a number of vampire novels and not many make extensive use of medical backgrounds but it was used so well in Blood Reaction it complimented and gave credibility to the tale by merely highlighted the narrator’s expertise in the field.
The doctor looks at her “infection” as a medical experiment”. I think this gave great insight into what “happens” when one is being turned into a vampire, again not many books of this genre explain this in convincing detail.
Her last thought which is towards her mother in the end is really quite shocking and intriguing.
NOT SO HOT:
A number of gramma and spelling errors and repetitive use of specific words and phrases. I think a good thesaurus would be handy.
Lack of conflict/struggle to adjust in the end after she turns felt too convenient (in fact this reminded me too much of Bella’s change in Twilight which I felt was lack lustre). It does feel a little hurried considering that the entire story has been leading to this point.
OVERALL:
I like this book, I really do. I read it in a day and although I’m left in the dark about how things end, I’m glad the author left us wondering because for a moment towards the end I was worried that a great story was going to have a mundane ending.
I noticed that that DL is very good at tying up lose ends, there’s never a thought or event left dangling, so the fact that the end has questions and we haven’t heard the conclusion of the detective's involvement leaves me wondering whether the saga continues.
This is a great read that gives a lovely fresh angle to vampire fiction.
October 16, 2013
I received this book to give an honest review.
This was a pretty good vampire story, it wasn't all too gory. The main character Annalice is a single mom who lives out in the middle of no where and while she has been attacked all she can think about is her daughter. If anything happens to her she doesn't want her daughter to be hurt or killed, I can totally get that. I felt so bad for Annalice, but at the same time I felt as though she should have found out more about Asa. I mean during the day why didn't she try to find him? Instead she was ate up with fear of what he would do. If I was in her shoes I would have still tried to find out where he was staying, come up with a lie if she had to. She seem to be good at that. You are following the next seven days of what could be the last of Annalice and who she is. Will she survive? Will she be turned into vampire or will she be killed? *POSSIBLE SPOILER ALERT*
The ending left me wondering is there more to the story. The detective does he try to find out what was really going on? I felt as though maybe he could have shown up again. It was like he made an appearance, he goes away, comes back, then goes away but seems like he would come back later on but never does. Does Annalice end up with cravings or does she hold on to her humanity? I mean the ending is good but it left me with questions that I wanted answers.
Also why didn't Annalice's mom call more? The mom and daughter seem to have a good relationship but they only talk once or twice maybe. Why didn't Annalice talk to her daughter?
I can understand in a way that maybe the author didn't want to add more to the story being as it was already pretty long and most people probably wouldn't care for all those answers but I am not one of those people.
The character Asa is well one of those bad boy vampires. I mean he kills of course but he just seem to want to be good. He was thrown into this life and instead of trying to be good he just went the bad boy way. He is what makes a vampire a vampire. He doesn't think about his actions, he just does what he does naturally with no second thoughts.
With both characters you do not need seem to get much characteristic with them. It was like you meet them, but you do not feel a good connection with who they are. You get told but you do not seem to feel it.
If you are looking for a good vampire story, that is different than your normal ones then get this book.
This was a pretty good vampire story, it wasn't all too gory. The main character Annalice is a single mom who lives out in the middle of no where and while she has been attacked all she can think about is her daughter. If anything happens to her she doesn't want her daughter to be hurt or killed, I can totally get that. I felt so bad for Annalice, but at the same time I felt as though she should have found out more about Asa. I mean during the day why didn't she try to find him? Instead she was ate up with fear of what he would do. If I was in her shoes I would have still tried to find out where he was staying, come up with a lie if she had to. She seem to be good at that. You are following the next seven days of what could be the last of Annalice and who she is. Will she survive? Will she be turned into vampire or will she be killed? *POSSIBLE SPOILER ALERT*
The ending left me wondering is there more to the story. The detective does he try to find out what was really going on? I felt as though maybe he could have shown up again. It was like he made an appearance, he goes away, comes back, then goes away but seems like he would come back later on but never does. Does Annalice end up with cravings or does she hold on to her humanity? I mean the ending is good but it left me with questions that I wanted answers.
Also why didn't Annalice's mom call more? The mom and daughter seem to have a good relationship but they only talk once or twice maybe. Why didn't Annalice talk to her daughter?
I can understand in a way that maybe the author didn't want to add more to the story being as it was already pretty long and most people probably wouldn't care for all those answers but I am not one of those people.
The character Asa is well one of those bad boy vampires. I mean he kills of course but he just seem to want to be good. He was thrown into this life and instead of trying to be good he just went the bad boy way. He is what makes a vampire a vampire. He doesn't think about his actions, he just does what he does naturally with no second thoughts.
With both characters you do not need seem to get much characteristic with them. It was like you meet them, but you do not feel a good connection with who they are. You get told but you do not seem to feel it.
If you are looking for a good vampire story, that is different than your normal ones then get this book.
June 24, 2018
I really enjoyed the premise of this book. The invasion and mental captivity imposed on Annalice was provoking and intense. I liked the notion of vampirism as a virus too. That Asa was not very forthcoming on details of his life as a vampire fit within the story and thereby assisted in holding my interest as I tried to piece together what Annalice was getting herself into. The climax was good but too sudden and therefore not expecially satisfying. It was over almost as soon as it began. Again that fit within the story but it was disappointing for me as the reader.
It was the day to day telling of the story that left me wanting. At times tedious I also found myself annoyed with Annalice's reactions and decisions as well as Asa's often whiney threats. I never found him not to be a dangerous creature, but I did find myself losing interest in him as a character.
Annalice was often very clever as she thought her way forward through her situation. Planning her survival and the protection of her daughter held my interest, but while she would make a fine vulcan, as a woman and mother trying to protect her child it was pretty flat.
The policeman was merely a distraction. His nighttime visit was pointless and I found myself wasting my time looking for his reappearance which never occurred. The few other characters were less distracting because they barely existed in the story. Annalice's relationship with her daughter demanded at least a phone call which never happened. I expected one from Annalice's mother as well. Both would have added emotion where it was too often lacking.
The sex was well written but added little to the story. It did provide some depth with Asa's brutality and ability to affect his victim. It was also nice subtext for Annalice's virus theory, but it really added little to the story. The last line was cute but because it didn't fit with the telling of the rest of the story, it was also jarring.
I really enjoyed the premise and never considered putting the book down without finishing it. It certainly held my interest, but it did leave me disappointed. A very good first effort! I wish her better for her next book.
It was the day to day telling of the story that left me wanting. At times tedious I also found myself annoyed with Annalice's reactions and decisions as well as Asa's often whiney threats. I never found him not to be a dangerous creature, but I did find myself losing interest in him as a character.
Annalice was often very clever as she thought her way forward through her situation. Planning her survival and the protection of her daughter held my interest, but while she would make a fine vulcan, as a woman and mother trying to protect her child it was pretty flat.
The policeman was merely a distraction. His nighttime visit was pointless and I found myself wasting my time looking for his reappearance which never occurred. The few other characters were less distracting because they barely existed in the story. Annalice's relationship with her daughter demanded at least a phone call which never happened. I expected one from Annalice's mother as well. Both would have added emotion where it was too often lacking.
The sex was well written but added little to the story. It did provide some depth with Asa's brutality and ability to affect his victim. It was also nice subtext for Annalice's virus theory, but it really added little to the story. The last line was cute but because it didn't fit with the telling of the rest of the story, it was also jarring.
I really enjoyed the premise and never considered putting the book down without finishing it. It certainly held my interest, but it did leave me disappointed. A very good first effort! I wish her better for her next book.
August 10, 2011
Book review: 3 Treasure Boxes
Can a handsome, yet evil vampire be redeemed? Annalice, a single mom and emergency room doctor is faced with this question after she is attacked and held hostage by Asa. He is a century old vampire who is cruel and abusive, yet it is up to Annalice to outsmart him anyway she can.
This is an outstanding first book written by Ms. Atha, she is currently working on her second novel and I am really looking forward to reading it once it is available. She is a medical doctor and her medical knowledge really added an interesting thread into Blood Reaction. This contemporary fantasy is told in the third person narrative from the thoughts and voice of the main protagonist, Annalice.
I loved how this book was written. Ms. Atha started playing with us right on the first page, and by the end of the first chapter I was terrified. Since I knew that this was a vampire book, I knew something bad was going to happen, I just didn't know when and I really enjoyed the suspense that was created in the beginning. As the story unfolded I thought it was interesting and unique how the medical aspect of the vampires affect on Annalice was described. There was plenty of hot sex, although there was a real roughness to it as well, which I thought was quite realistic.
This is a standalone book, it is well told with lots of suspense and plenty of action. I really enjoyed the ending. I highly recommend this book. If you enjoy reading contemporary fantasy concerning vampires that has a fair bit of sex, which adds to the story (and is not just gratuitous), then you will enjoy Blood Reaction.
My favourite quote from the book: "It's just not every day you find a vampire in your shower."
For more of my reviews go to: http://books-treasureortrash.com
Can a handsome, yet evil vampire be redeemed? Annalice, a single mom and emergency room doctor is faced with this question after she is attacked and held hostage by Asa. He is a century old vampire who is cruel and abusive, yet it is up to Annalice to outsmart him anyway she can.
This is an outstanding first book written by Ms. Atha, she is currently working on her second novel and I am really looking forward to reading it once it is available. She is a medical doctor and her medical knowledge really added an interesting thread into Blood Reaction. This contemporary fantasy is told in the third person narrative from the thoughts and voice of the main protagonist, Annalice.
I loved how this book was written. Ms. Atha started playing with us right on the first page, and by the end of the first chapter I was terrified. Since I knew that this was a vampire book, I knew something bad was going to happen, I just didn't know when and I really enjoyed the suspense that was created in the beginning. As the story unfolded I thought it was interesting and unique how the medical aspect of the vampires affect on Annalice was described. There was plenty of hot sex, although there was a real roughness to it as well, which I thought was quite realistic.
This is a standalone book, it is well told with lots of suspense and plenty of action. I really enjoyed the ending. I highly recommend this book. If you enjoy reading contemporary fantasy concerning vampires that has a fair bit of sex, which adds to the story (and is not just gratuitous), then you will enjoy Blood Reaction.
My favourite quote from the book: "It's just not every day you find a vampire in your shower."
For more of my reviews go to: http://books-treasureortrash.com
July 17, 2011
Synopsis:
Annalice, a single mother and physician, is ready to immerse herself in the mundane chores of her farm as a diversion from her hectic professional life. But she becomes the victim of a home invasion, the supernatural kind. Vindictive and cruel, Asa, a century old vampire, takes brutal control of her life and home.
Forcing her to strike a bargain in exchange for her daughter's life, Annalice must not only accept his presence but also bow to his depravity. Facing threats to her only child, she relies on her skills as a physician to unravel the clues to the vampire's existence, attempting to beat him at his own game.
Caught in a race against a genetic timeline, Annalice struggles to survive the Blood Reaction.
This is a very intense novel. It draws on every emotion to the point of feeling everything that the main character, Annalice, feels. D.L. Atha paints very vivid images with each paragraph. Each scene unfolded in my mind like a movie on television.
Blood Reaction strongly evokes the bond between parents and children—parents will sacrifice everything, even their human existence, for their children.
Another interesting addition to the plot is the medical terminology D.L. Atha uses to describe what happens to the main character, as well as, the secondary characters.
I have the Kindle version of the book and must clearly state that it will stay there for future reading. This book is excellent and for those who don’t mind small amounts of sex and violence (remember-this book is about vampires) it should be added to your “To Be Read” list immediately.
Please note that this book contains strong "adult scenes” and violence.
Annalice, a single mother and physician, is ready to immerse herself in the mundane chores of her farm as a diversion from her hectic professional life. But she becomes the victim of a home invasion, the supernatural kind. Vindictive and cruel, Asa, a century old vampire, takes brutal control of her life and home.
Forcing her to strike a bargain in exchange for her daughter's life, Annalice must not only accept his presence but also bow to his depravity. Facing threats to her only child, she relies on her skills as a physician to unravel the clues to the vampire's existence, attempting to beat him at his own game.
Caught in a race against a genetic timeline, Annalice struggles to survive the Blood Reaction.
This is a very intense novel. It draws on every emotion to the point of feeling everything that the main character, Annalice, feels. D.L. Atha paints very vivid images with each paragraph. Each scene unfolded in my mind like a movie on television.
Blood Reaction strongly evokes the bond between parents and children—parents will sacrifice everything, even their human existence, for their children.
Another interesting addition to the plot is the medical terminology D.L. Atha uses to describe what happens to the main character, as well as, the secondary characters.
I have the Kindle version of the book and must clearly state that it will stay there for future reading. This book is excellent and for those who don’t mind small amounts of sex and violence (remember-this book is about vampires) it should be added to your “To Be Read” list immediately.
Please note that this book contains strong "adult scenes” and violence.
January 17, 2016
Attention to my dear readers: This is more of a paranormal suspense than romance, don’t expect the happy, romantic and lovey dovey scenes- it’s not gonna happen, and you’ll still like it.
I was caught unexpectedly at first when I started reading and it was a first person POV, and in the present. I kind of hoped to see Asa’s POV, but a few chapters ahead, I realized that Annalice is the soul of the pages. I was anxious and curious every time I turned a new page, a feeling that I have been missing when reading a new book.
Asa blackmails Annalice in order to satisfy his needs of blood and lust. It could easily be a story around a vampire raping the poor woman over and over again (warning: there’s only one raping scene and it’s not a big, long, nor emotional approach ) and making her world miserable, but that’s not the path chosen for this title. Their romance scenes work really well. She’s a very clever woman and he’s the creepy vampire guy, but they’re not stereotyped characters. The dialogs were a bit rough and I found a few typos. I have to mention that left tired and a bit annoyed every time he brought up the fact that he was oh so strong, how easily he could kill her and that he would. Come on, stop ruining the mood, Asa!
You can expect a surprising contemporary romance spiced with blood, and a very handsome vampire. Atha penned this with a lot of care, I wasn’t expecting the ending to be the way it was. I’m still shocked, I mean, how can you not?! This a fantastic debut novel that you don’t wanna miss.
I was caught unexpectedly at first when I started reading and it was a first person POV, and in the present. I kind of hoped to see Asa’s POV, but a few chapters ahead, I realized that Annalice is the soul of the pages. I was anxious and curious every time I turned a new page, a feeling that I have been missing when reading a new book.
Asa blackmails Annalice in order to satisfy his needs of blood and lust. It could easily be a story around a vampire raping the poor woman over and over again (warning: there’s only one raping scene and it’s not a big, long, nor emotional approach ) and making her world miserable, but that’s not the path chosen for this title. Their romance scenes work really well. She’s a very clever woman and he’s the creepy vampire guy, but they’re not stereotyped characters. The dialogs were a bit rough and I found a few typos. I have to mention that left tired and a bit annoyed every time he brought up the fact that he was oh so strong, how easily he could kill her and that he would. Come on, stop ruining the mood, Asa!
You can expect a surprising contemporary romance spiced with blood, and a very handsome vampire. Atha penned this with a lot of care, I wasn’t expecting the ending to be the way it was. I’m still shocked, I mean, how can you not?! This a fantastic debut novel that you don’t wanna miss.
June 10, 2011
How can a seemingly innocent, home-inspired vacation turn into something so sinister and deadly as a "Blood Reaction?"
Annalice, a doctor and a single mother of Ellie, couldn't know what spending time at her new home alone on a week's vacation would cost her. Follow her story as Asa, a nomad of a vampire, enters her peaceful existence and turns it into a week filled with terror and eventual acceptance of consequences that must be made in order to spare her young daughter's life. Through cooperation and lots of determination, Annalice lets herself be drawn into the horrifying life of becoming like Asa, only with the main difference of keeping her soul.
To be honest, this is the first vampire story that I have read since the Twilight series, and I have to say that it has whet my appetite into wanting more. This author has written a very gripping and fast-moving story that keeps you coming back to turn page after page because you just have to know how this tale is going to end. You want to know how strong these characters are going to play out. You want to know if the love of a mother is enough to get through such brutality and terror. Ms. Atha puts down on paper all the answers to these questions and so much more for a very enjoyable read!
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for that next wonderful vampire tale in that long list of the contemporary paranormal!
This book was kindly provided to me by it's wonderful author for my honest review.
Annalice, a doctor and a single mother of Ellie, couldn't know what spending time at her new home alone on a week's vacation would cost her. Follow her story as Asa, a nomad of a vampire, enters her peaceful existence and turns it into a week filled with terror and eventual acceptance of consequences that must be made in order to spare her young daughter's life. Through cooperation and lots of determination, Annalice lets herself be drawn into the horrifying life of becoming like Asa, only with the main difference of keeping her soul.
To be honest, this is the first vampire story that I have read since the Twilight series, and I have to say that it has whet my appetite into wanting more. This author has written a very gripping and fast-moving story that keeps you coming back to turn page after page because you just have to know how this tale is going to end. You want to know how strong these characters are going to play out. You want to know if the love of a mother is enough to get through such brutality and terror. Ms. Atha puts down on paper all the answers to these questions and so much more for a very enjoyable read!
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for that next wonderful vampire tale in that long list of the contemporary paranormal!
This book was kindly provided to me by it's wonderful author for my honest review.
June 26, 2011
read the full review at: http://readingromances.wordpress.com/...
I was caught unexpectedly at first when I started reading and it was a first person POV, and in the present. I kind of hoped to see Asa's POV, but a few chapters ahead, I realized that Annalice is the soul of the pages. I was anxious and curious every time I turned a new page, a feeling that I have been missing when reading a new book.
Asa blackmails Annalice in order to satisfy his needs of blood and lust. It could easily be a story around a vampire raping the poor woman over and over again (warning: there's only one raping scene and it's not a big, long, nor emotional approach ) and making her world miserable, but that's not the path chosen for this title. Their romance scenes work really well. She's a very clever woman and he's the creepy vampire guy, but they're not stereotyped characters. The dialogs were a bit rough and I found a few typos. I have to mention that left tired and a bit annoyed every time he brought up the fact that he was oh so strong, how easily he could kill her and that he would. Come on, stop ruining the mood, Asa!
You can expect a surprising contemporary romance spiced with blood, and a very handsome vampire. Atha penned this with a lot of care, I wasn't expecting the ending to be the way it was. I'm still shocked, I mean, how can you not?! This a fantastic debut novel that you don't wanna miss.
This book was kindly provided by the author. That doesn't affect my opinion about the book.
I was caught unexpectedly at first when I started reading and it was a first person POV, and in the present. I kind of hoped to see Asa's POV, but a few chapters ahead, I realized that Annalice is the soul of the pages. I was anxious and curious every time I turned a new page, a feeling that I have been missing when reading a new book.
Asa blackmails Annalice in order to satisfy his needs of blood and lust. It could easily be a story around a vampire raping the poor woman over and over again (warning: there's only one raping scene and it's not a big, long, nor emotional approach ) and making her world miserable, but that's not the path chosen for this title. Their romance scenes work really well. She's a very clever woman and he's the creepy vampire guy, but they're not stereotyped characters. The dialogs were a bit rough and I found a few typos. I have to mention that left tired and a bit annoyed every time he brought up the fact that he was oh so strong, how easily he could kill her and that he would. Come on, stop ruining the mood, Asa!
You can expect a surprising contemporary romance spiced with blood, and a very handsome vampire. Atha penned this with a lot of care, I wasn't expecting the ending to be the way it was. I'm still shocked, I mean, how can you not?! This a fantastic debut novel that you don't wanna miss.
This book was kindly provided by the author. That doesn't affect my opinion about the book.
May 29, 2011
I found this to be a fascinating read, a very different take on the vampire genre. Not only will vampire lovers will enjoy it, but medical personnel will enjoy the unique perspective of life and death.The story is modern day and brings up an age old question of a mothers love for her child, and the fight for our survival. The medical aspect of the story line also adds an interesting element. It is a quick read and I look forward to the sequel, I do hope there is one. I can easily see how this could develop into a series. Blood Reaction A Vampire Novel by DL Atha is available for only $2.99 in Kindle Edition at Amazon.com.
Product Description
Annalice, a single mother and physician, is ready to immerse herself in the mundane chores of her farm as a diversion from her hectic professional life. But she becomes the victim of a home invasion, the supernatural kind. Vindictive and cruel, Asa, a century old vampire, takes brutal control of her life and home. Forcing her to strike a bargain in exchange for her daughter's life, Annalice must not only accept his presence but also bow to his depravity. Facing threats to her only child, she relies on her skills as a physician to unravel the clues to the vampire's existence, attempting to beat him at his own game. Caught in a race against a genetic timeline, Annalice struggles to survive the Blood Reaction.
Product Description
Annalice, a single mother and physician, is ready to immerse herself in the mundane chores of her farm as a diversion from her hectic professional life. But she becomes the victim of a home invasion, the supernatural kind. Vindictive and cruel, Asa, a century old vampire, takes brutal control of her life and home. Forcing her to strike a bargain in exchange for her daughter's life, Annalice must not only accept his presence but also bow to his depravity. Facing threats to her only child, she relies on her skills as a physician to unravel the clues to the vampire's existence, attempting to beat him at his own game. Caught in a race against a genetic timeline, Annalice struggles to survive the Blood Reaction.
May 31, 2011
I received this book free from the author for review, but this is my honest and own opinion.
I always get a little wary reading books from unknown authors that have few reviews, but this was a very pleasant surprise. It starts with a very normal family scene, a mother waving her daughter off as she drives away with her grandmother for a vacation. OK nothing amazing there. Before it even got to the end of the first chapter the storyline became tense and as the first few chapters progressed, the whole feel of the book changed. It was tense, but exciting at the same time.
Without giving too much away Annalise, the main character is forced to spend time with Asa a 150 year old vampire. Using her daughter as a threat, he feeds on her (and not just on her blood either) and ensures she complies to his desires. Over the few days things slowly change and Annalise decides she no longer wants to be a victim and plans Asa's demise.
This book was very well written and the tension building was fantastic. I was on the edge of my seat virtually the whole way through. I loved Annalise and the person she was and became. I hope there's another book out soon following her next journey in life.
I always get a little wary reading books from unknown authors that have few reviews, but this was a very pleasant surprise. It starts with a very normal family scene, a mother waving her daughter off as she drives away with her grandmother for a vacation. OK nothing amazing there. Before it even got to the end of the first chapter the storyline became tense and as the first few chapters progressed, the whole feel of the book changed. It was tense, but exciting at the same time.
Without giving too much away Annalise, the main character is forced to spend time with Asa a 150 year old vampire. Using her daughter as a threat, he feeds on her (and not just on her blood either) and ensures she complies to his desires. Over the few days things slowly change and Annalise decides she no longer wants to be a victim and plans Asa's demise.
This book was very well written and the tension building was fantastic. I was on the edge of my seat virtually the whole way through. I loved Annalise and the person she was and became. I hope there's another book out soon following her next journey in life.
March 8, 2013
Okay...what to say about this book? I really wanted to like it, I really did. The premise sounded intense and horrifying. A vampire taking a human captive in their own house? Frightening stuff. O__O
But then somewhere towards the middle...the book started falling flat. Asa (the vampire) did start off intimidating, but soon he just sounded very whiny and extremely annoying. His threats of harm to Annalice and her daughter quickly seemed like empty ones and eventually I was just wanting it to be over. Not a good sign. =/
The dailouge also was bothersome. Very over the top at times. And since it's told in 1st person, we're stuck in Anna's head the whole time. Over describing EVERYTHING she sees,
And I understand she probably was suffering from Stockholm Syndrome, but did we really need sex in almost every chapter? In the end these two stopped sounding like captor and captive and more like whiny 5 year olds.
I guess one of the only good things about this was Asa's history. WAY more intriguing then Annalice who was very flat. In fact I started getting Bella vibes from her towards the end.
My final rating: 2.5 stars out of 5.
But then somewhere towards the middle...the book started falling flat. Asa (the vampire) did start off intimidating, but soon he just sounded very whiny and extremely annoying. His threats of harm to Annalice and her daughter quickly seemed like empty ones and eventually I was just wanting it to be over. Not a good sign. =/
The dailouge also was bothersome. Very over the top at times. And since it's told in 1st person, we're stuck in Anna's head the whole time. Over describing EVERYTHING she sees,
And I understand she probably was suffering from Stockholm Syndrome, but did we really need sex in almost every chapter? In the end these two stopped sounding like captor and captive and more like whiny 5 year olds.
I guess one of the only good things about this was Asa's history. WAY more intriguing then Annalice who was very flat. In fact I started getting Bella vibes from her towards the end.
My final rating: 2.5 stars out of 5.
December 2, 2015
The idea that vampirism is a virus and not really connected to myths and legends was fascinating to read about. I will say that the book grabbed my attention right away, but it loosened its hold after I got further into the book. I rather liked the clinical descriptions and wordage used to describe what was going on and it didn’t seem to be too much to absorb, but that may be because I have a good understanding of that sort of thing.
There seemed to be a tinge of the “tell” about a lot of things in the book, like her relationship with her daughter, her ex-husband, and why they got divorced. With how the story unfolded it seemed that it was a bit too long in places and her inner dialogue and ruminations ... well sometimes they were a bit much. The time span was supposed to be over a week, but after about 1/3 rd of the book it seemed to feel a lot longer than just a week.
In the end I did like the book, but I wasn’t all that crazy about it. Some parts really bugged me, like who took care of the horses, why did she wait so long to take care of Samuel and clean up all of that blood she got everywhere, and what happened after her night of hunting with Asa? I guess that could be taken care of in further books, but I tend to fixate on things.
There seemed to be a tinge of the “tell” about a lot of things in the book, like her relationship with her daughter, her ex-husband, and why they got divorced. With how the story unfolded it seemed that it was a bit too long in places and her inner dialogue and ruminations ... well sometimes they were a bit much. The time span was supposed to be over a week, but after about 1/3 rd of the book it seemed to feel a lot longer than just a week.
In the end I did like the book, but I wasn’t all that crazy about it. Some parts really bugged me, like who took care of the horses, why did she wait so long to take care of Samuel and clean up all of that blood she got everywhere, and what happened after her night of hunting with Asa? I guess that could be taken care of in further books, but I tend to fixate on things.
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