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Bites
"BITES"
DEMONICA
Tonight is the Midwinter Solstice Ball, the most important night in the Daemonic Court's calendar.
This is the night when new disciples are chosen, when demons come out to play, and all bets are off.
As it happens, tonight is also the night I become Queen.
LAST OF THE BLOOD
When the sweet scent reaches me I know I have found what I'm looking for.
My hands reach out in the darkness to the unaware girl.
She's warm and soft and doesn't even get to scream before I'm drinking deeply from her, her struggles too feeble to bother me.
Only the blood counts.
I've never tasted anything like it. Gloriously sweet, thick and strong and full of life.
I drink until the hunger subsides, until the body that I hold so close to me hangs lifelessly in my arms. Only then I see. Only then I recognize it, and the agony ... oh, the agony is more than I can bear.
BITES
Irina is about to become Queen of the Daemonic Court and Damon is on the run from his own nature ... where will their paths take them?
Two short stories that will seduce you with romance, danger, sensuality ... and Vampire bites.
DEMONICA
Tonight is the Midwinter Solstice Ball, the most important night in the Daemonic Court's calendar.
This is the night when new disciples are chosen, when demons come out to play, and all bets are off.
As it happens, tonight is also the night I become Queen.
LAST OF THE BLOOD
When the sweet scent reaches me I know I have found what I'm looking for.
My hands reach out in the darkness to the unaware girl.
She's warm and soft and doesn't even get to scream before I'm drinking deeply from her, her struggles too feeble to bother me.
Only the blood counts.
I've never tasted anything like it. Gloriously sweet, thick and strong and full of life.
I drink until the hunger subsides, until the body that I hold so close to me hangs lifelessly in my arms. Only then I see. Only then I recognize it, and the agony ... oh, the agony is more than I can bear.
BITES
Irina is about to become Queen of the Daemonic Court and Damon is on the run from his own nature ... where will their paths take them?
Two short stories that will seduce you with romance, danger, sensuality ... and Vampire bites.
- GenresVampires
122 pages, ebook
First published March 25, 2012
1 person is currently reading
36 people want to read
About the author
Ninfa Hayes
2 books22 followersNinfa lives in Manchester, UK with husband Gareth, daughter Cassandra and two gorgeous kitties, Jemima and Shelley.
Originally from Italy, she's half Spanish, half Italian and British by choice and marriage.
She loves books and is a total bookaholic! Reading and writing have always been a big part of her life and for this she thanks both her parents for passing down the literary gene and the passion for a good story.
Ninfa is big on Networking and co-runs an array of Facebook pages and blogs about books and all things supernatural. She also reviews books for the Facebook “Bookaholics Book Club” on a regular basis.
In this spirit, she's also training her daughter in these dark arts and plans on making her a huge geek, whether she likes it or not!
Originally from Italy, she's half Spanish, half Italian and British by choice and marriage.
She loves books and is a total bookaholic! Reading and writing have always been a big part of her life and for this she thanks both her parents for passing down the literary gene and the passion for a good story.
Ninfa is big on Networking and co-runs an array of Facebook pages and blogs about books and all things supernatural. She also reviews books for the Facebook “Bookaholics Book Club” on a regular basis.
In this spirit, she's also training her daughter in these dark arts and plans on making her a huge geek, whether she likes it or not!
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
March 27, 2012
I am a very fussy vampire story lover, not anything goes for me: too sappy and I lose interest, too cruel and I think the author has never really researched what a vampire really is.
Ninfa Hayes has had me hooked on her book from start to finish because her characters feel real, you actually hate them or love them, or you itch to slap them or shout at them, and ultimately you cry for them or rejoice... until you finish the book and realize that it was just an incredible piece of well written fiction that for a little while made you believe that THAT version is how things really are.
She certainly has a gift, bringing someone into a book is not easy.
Vampires are nowadays a hard subject to write about, there is very little that hasn't been written on them and such variety of characters and story lines, it is incredibly easy turning them into chick-flick characters and lose the real nature of the sensual predator they are. This book is a fresh look at them and shows you that a very creative mind can find something that hasn't been said about this amazing creature yet, without painting a lame image of them, and Bites it is very intriguing and addictive.
I am looking forward to read more material from Ninfa Hayes and I hope she will consider a longer novel to keep me hooked for longer than a day: her work left me still wanting for more.
My Vampire Bookaholic thirst hasn't been quenched yet
Ninfa Hayes has had me hooked on her book from start to finish because her characters feel real, you actually hate them or love them, or you itch to slap them or shout at them, and ultimately you cry for them or rejoice... until you finish the book and realize that it was just an incredible piece of well written fiction that for a little while made you believe that THAT version is how things really are.
She certainly has a gift, bringing someone into a book is not easy.
Vampires are nowadays a hard subject to write about, there is very little that hasn't been written on them and such variety of characters and story lines, it is incredibly easy turning them into chick-flick characters and lose the real nature of the sensual predator they are. This book is a fresh look at them and shows you that a very creative mind can find something that hasn't been said about this amazing creature yet, without painting a lame image of them, and Bites it is very intriguing and addictive.
I am looking forward to read more material from Ninfa Hayes and I hope she will consider a longer novel to keep me hooked for longer than a day: her work left me still wanting for more.
My Vampire Bookaholic thirst hasn't been quenched yet
March 28, 2012
For the short version: I love this book! I love the way the characters are developed and the way the plots move forward. Great job Ninfa!
For the long version: http://catherinebowman.wordpress.com/...
For the long version: http://catherinebowman.wordpress.com/...
April 15, 2012
This book is 2 short stories .
The first Last of the Blood , tells a truly heartfelt story from a Vampires point of view ...so different ..not just the blood lust but the feelings of loneliness,hate and of course love ....
The second book Demonica ..
Tells a story of good vs evil ...the descriptions are fab ...
I truly do not want to give anything away ...
Go read
As a début novel this deserves a look ..and Demonica could well be the start to a series ....
The first Last of the Blood , tells a truly heartfelt story from a Vampires point of view ...so different ..not just the blood lust but the feelings of loneliness,hate and of course love ....
The second book Demonica ..
Tells a story of good vs evil ...the descriptions are fab ...
I truly do not want to give anything away ...
Go read
As a début novel this deserves a look ..and Demonica could well be the start to a series ....
March 26, 2012
I really loved these two short stories! There're well written with a fast development and oooooh the main characters are amazing! It is a MUST read in my opinion, and a good beginning for a new very talented author!
March 30, 2012
I'm already a fan of this authors work being as she's my friend, writing partner and co-owner of the Facebook page for this blog so it might seem my review is a little biast, I am mentioned in the aknowledgements after all! But she knows I would tell her truthfully if I didn't like it because I pride myself on being a honest reviewer... so it's lucky i loved it! :p
The book is actually two short stories so I'll review them individually.
LAST OF THE BLOOD
Although I found the multiple time changes in a short story a bit dizzying I still really enjoyed this one, it's a dark, engaging, tale about a guy struggling to find his place in the world... oh and did I mention he's a hot, brooding, vampire? Yum!
I really enjoyed taking Damons journey with him and I loved how each chapter started with his internal monologue of what he's thinking and feeling, and then is followed with what's happening, it really gave me an insight into what was going on in his head at all times. The ending was so bittersweet, as it made sense but was sad to.
DEMONICA
This one was my favourite of the two, for a short story there's a lot crammed in there, but it's not overloading. All the intricate mythology used was just awesome but not confusing and, I don't want to give anything away, but I loved the twist on a very well known tale, it was fresh and really had me feeling for the "bad guys."
Irina is a great character who wants nothing more than her dreary life to be shaken up and boy does it! She suddenly goes through so much and I was totally gripped to see where the story was taking her, she really growns up on her little adventure and I loved how she ended up!
So, in all two really great, wonderfully written stories that any paranormal lover should love!
Favourite quotes
Last of the blood
'I don't know when I stopped caring, and just embraced it; when the last shroud of humanity fled in the face of the being I have become. It feels good not to care.'
'Her lips tremble, and I see such desperation in her eyes that the need to reach out and hold her almost overwhelms me.'
Demonica
'But really, could you see me as the carpenter's wife? I didn't think so.'
'Like a dark blossom unfurling it's petals, the power envelopes me completely, becoming part of my essence, transforming it until I am made anew.'
The book is actually two short stories so I'll review them individually.
LAST OF THE BLOOD
Although I found the multiple time changes in a short story a bit dizzying I still really enjoyed this one, it's a dark, engaging, tale about a guy struggling to find his place in the world... oh and did I mention he's a hot, brooding, vampire? Yum!
I really enjoyed taking Damons journey with him and I loved how each chapter started with his internal monologue of what he's thinking and feeling, and then is followed with what's happening, it really gave me an insight into what was going on in his head at all times. The ending was so bittersweet, as it made sense but was sad to.
DEMONICA
This one was my favourite of the two, for a short story there's a lot crammed in there, but it's not overloading. All the intricate mythology used was just awesome but not confusing and, I don't want to give anything away, but I loved the twist on a very well known tale, it was fresh and really had me feeling for the "bad guys."
Irina is a great character who wants nothing more than her dreary life to be shaken up and boy does it! She suddenly goes through so much and I was totally gripped to see where the story was taking her, she really growns up on her little adventure and I loved how she ended up!
So, in all two really great, wonderfully written stories that any paranormal lover should love!
Favourite quotes
Last of the blood
'I don't know when I stopped caring, and just embraced it; when the last shroud of humanity fled in the face of the being I have become. It feels good not to care.'
'Her lips tremble, and I see such desperation in her eyes that the need to reach out and hold her almost overwhelms me.'
Demonica
'But really, could you see me as the carpenter's wife? I didn't think so.'
'Like a dark blossom unfurling it's petals, the power envelopes me completely, becoming part of my essence, transforming it until I am made anew.'
May 7, 2012
First the DISCLAIMER: I published this book through my very tiny but growing small press, Bitten Fruit Books. So this is NOT a normal review. This is a review of why I chose to publish this book - it's a PUBLISHER'S REVIEW.
Ninfa has a style with imagery and words which captures the imagination. There's a beautiful "flow" to what she writes that made this read both easy and "deep" at the same time. Are you getting the words "flow" and "deep"? Does it conjure anything up for you? For me it's a river. Yes, her writing is like a river most of the time. When it really gets going, it's like an ocean, and in the light-hearted moments, it's as joyful to read as it is to sit next to a brook on a warm summer's day.
There's an element of "gothic" to her descriptions that's both colourful and dark.
This book is written in the first person. I don't often like to read (or write) in the first person, as it can be limiting to the reader, or come across as a little immature if not done well. This is done well. Her main characters are young (at around 16 or 19 years of age), but they think as they should. Damon thinks like the very old vampire he is, and Irina thinks like a strong and wise sixteen-year-old with her own mind. Ninfa knows how to get inside her characters' heads, so that they each come across true to themselves. Despite the single POV, she never forgets her readers, and always lets them in, allowing them to view the environment she is drawing them into with as much detail as the character sees.
Lastly, and this was probably the clinching factor for me as to why I published this book: it is SO VERY RARE to find a novelette (each of these stories is around 15,000 words) that has a very firm beginning, middle and end. As shorter stories, they are solid and stand strong in their own right. You are not left feeling like you need to know more, but you may be left feeling like you WANT to know more. That is what a good storyteller does. That and the amount of intricate detail that is also evident in these novelettes sealed the deal.
If you're an older teen or adult that likes that Moulin Rouge feeling of something a little darker, a little gothic, and very sensual, that pulls on your deeper emotions in a "Bohemian" kind of way, this book is for you.
Ninfa has a style with imagery and words which captures the imagination. There's a beautiful "flow" to what she writes that made this read both easy and "deep" at the same time. Are you getting the words "flow" and "deep"? Does it conjure anything up for you? For me it's a river. Yes, her writing is like a river most of the time. When it really gets going, it's like an ocean, and in the light-hearted moments, it's as joyful to read as it is to sit next to a brook on a warm summer's day.
There's an element of "gothic" to her descriptions that's both colourful and dark.
This book is written in the first person. I don't often like to read (or write) in the first person, as it can be limiting to the reader, or come across as a little immature if not done well. This is done well. Her main characters are young (at around 16 or 19 years of age), but they think as they should. Damon thinks like the very old vampire he is, and Irina thinks like a strong and wise sixteen-year-old with her own mind. Ninfa knows how to get inside her characters' heads, so that they each come across true to themselves. Despite the single POV, she never forgets her readers, and always lets them in, allowing them to view the environment she is drawing them into with as much detail as the character sees.
Lastly, and this was probably the clinching factor for me as to why I published this book: it is SO VERY RARE to find a novelette (each of these stories is around 15,000 words) that has a very firm beginning, middle and end. As shorter stories, they are solid and stand strong in their own right. You are not left feeling like you need to know more, but you may be left feeling like you WANT to know more. That is what a good storyteller does. That and the amount of intricate detail that is also evident in these novelettes sealed the deal.
If you're an older teen or adult that likes that Moulin Rouge feeling of something a little darker, a little gothic, and very sensual, that pulls on your deeper emotions in a "Bohemian" kind of way, this book is for you.
April 1, 2012
Ninfa is a very good facebook friend of mine and I am so excited for her to be published. When she asked to review her book I was of course excited and nervous. Excited because I was getting to read it and nervous because I had to review it. lol. However, I had a nothing to be nervous about because Ninfa is an amazing and talent upcoming author who completely seduced me with this wonderful and dark book.
Bites has two short stories. LAST OF THE BLOOD and DEMONICA. Last of the Blood follow Damon, a vampire who over the years develops an inner struggle with his vampire nature. Demonica follows Irina, a young girl who has the mark of Lylith. And is on her way to become the Queen of the Daemonic Court.
I'm not going to go into much details on either of these stories because I feel if I started to review each stories indivually I would give away major spoilers.
Last of the Blood was a very interesting read. I wasn't 100% grip to the story but I did really enjoy it. Damon was a young man when he was turned into vampire and his story takes place over nearly 100 years. Damon was a character that I did like, I didn't love him but I was drawn to his struggle and found that the ending of his story was perfect and sad, it made me cry.
Demonica, now OMG, I loved loved loved this. I devoured this short story. The mythology if the story is what I loved. Irina is such a strong character that it would be hard not to enjoy her story. She doesn't like her boring life with her mother so when she is offered a new life she embraces it. And of course Ninfa has put a certain angel into this story that I have alway been fascinated by, so that gets extra thumbs up from me.
Overall, Bites is a fantastic, well writen book that is dark, sexy and if you are anything like me it will seduce you completely and leave you begging for more!!
Scheduled on blog for Monday, 2nd April 2012
Bites has two short stories. LAST OF THE BLOOD and DEMONICA. Last of the Blood follow Damon, a vampire who over the years develops an inner struggle with his vampire nature. Demonica follows Irina, a young girl who has the mark of Lylith. And is on her way to become the Queen of the Daemonic Court.
I'm not going to go into much details on either of these stories because I feel if I started to review each stories indivually I would give away major spoilers.
Last of the Blood was a very interesting read. I wasn't 100% grip to the story but I did really enjoy it. Damon was a young man when he was turned into vampire and his story takes place over nearly 100 years. Damon was a character that I did like, I didn't love him but I was drawn to his struggle and found that the ending of his story was perfect and sad, it made me cry.
Demonica, now OMG, I loved loved loved this. I devoured this short story. The mythology if the story is what I loved. Irina is such a strong character that it would be hard not to enjoy her story. She doesn't like her boring life with her mother so when she is offered a new life she embraces it. And of course Ninfa has put a certain angel into this story that I have alway been fascinated by, so that gets extra thumbs up from me.
Overall, Bites is a fantastic, well writen book that is dark, sexy and if you are anything like me it will seduce you completely and leave you begging for more!!
Scheduled on blog for Monday, 2nd April 2012
September 1, 2014
How can I even begin to do these 2 short stories justice with this review?
Ninfa Hayes writing is the kind I hope to find whenever I start a story but so often dont. Her writing is descriptive but without using superfluous words. She builds her characters worlds well, quickly and thoroughly.
This probably sounds silly but there was not a grammatical error in sight!!
I want to wax lyrical about these 2 stories but I'm unable to describe succinctly just how amazing I found them. My mind is still caught up in these characters and their stories. I will say however that while both tales were phenomenal "Last of the Blood" deserves 6 stars. That ending especially, WOW!!!
I eagerly await Ms Hayes next works and will be telling all I know to read this collection.
Here are a few examples of how I knew Id found a first class writer:
* Her black, gauzy dress, a triumph of lace and dark temptation.
*...to the cold oblivion of opium.
*I remember asking him once why he kept up the habit, and Gabriel answering,"Cant kill," with a shrug of his shoulders. He was always the quirky one.
*There's so much pain in his voice, I feel like a voyeur witnessing his heartbreak.
*...and all sorts of strange thoughts seem to circle me like vultures, picking at my memories, and leaving behind only the gleaming bones of my mind.
*I don't know if this is love, or lust, or madness, and I couldn't care less.
I want to add a few from the second half of "Demonica" but my favourites give away either important characters identities or major plot points!! You'll just have to read it to discover its awesomeness :-)
Why are you still reading my silly review? Go read Bites right now, you wont regret it.
Ninfa Hayes writing is the kind I hope to find whenever I start a story but so often dont. Her writing is descriptive but without using superfluous words. She builds her characters worlds well, quickly and thoroughly.
This probably sounds silly but there was not a grammatical error in sight!!
I want to wax lyrical about these 2 stories but I'm unable to describe succinctly just how amazing I found them. My mind is still caught up in these characters and their stories. I will say however that while both tales were phenomenal "Last of the Blood" deserves 6 stars. That ending especially, WOW!!!
I eagerly await Ms Hayes next works and will be telling all I know to read this collection.
Here are a few examples of how I knew Id found a first class writer:
* Her black, gauzy dress, a triumph of lace and dark temptation.
*...to the cold oblivion of opium.
*I remember asking him once why he kept up the habit, and Gabriel answering,"Cant kill," with a shrug of his shoulders. He was always the quirky one.
*There's so much pain in his voice, I feel like a voyeur witnessing his heartbreak.
*...and all sorts of strange thoughts seem to circle me like vultures, picking at my memories, and leaving behind only the gleaming bones of my mind.
*I don't know if this is love, or lust, or madness, and I couldn't care less.
I want to add a few from the second half of "Demonica" but my favourites give away either important characters identities or major plot points!! You'll just have to read it to discover its awesomeness :-)
Why are you still reading my silly review? Go read Bites right now, you wont regret it.
April 2, 2018
4.5* for me :)
Bites is a novella of two short stories: Demonica and Last of the Blood - one is a more traditional vampire story, the other a semi-demon crossover with a smattering of angelic backstory which I was hooked on by the end of the first page... Both stories read well and quickly - as short stories there is a limited amount of world building (obviously!) but they introduce interesting characters and concepts.
In Bites, Damon is a thoughtful vampire - with shades of Louis, perhaps Angel, Edward and Bill about him - in how he views the existence he has and vampire/human relationships. I liked the POV story-telling from his side and found his rather poetic voice carried me through his story with interest. The resolution the issues of the story fits perfectly with his character. Catherine also really interested me - I think her experiences and perspective would offer a good story.
Demonica was my favourite of the two stories - I like the origins story aspects of the beginning and found myself drawn in very quickly. Again - good characters, interesting ideas and I think a good basis for longer novels.
Overall, I think this is a good debut for a new writer, showcasing her skills for writing interesting characters in familiar situations for the genre, but still doing something original with them. Definitely recommended :)
Extended review of Bites @ http://melcj.wordpress.com/2012/03/31...
Bites is a novella of two short stories: Demonica and Last of the Blood - one is a more traditional vampire story, the other a semi-demon crossover with a smattering of angelic backstory which I was hooked on by the end of the first page... Both stories read well and quickly - as short stories there is a limited amount of world building (obviously!) but they introduce interesting characters and concepts.
In Bites, Damon is a thoughtful vampire - with shades of Louis, perhaps Angel, Edward and Bill about him - in how he views the existence he has and vampire/human relationships. I liked the POV story-telling from his side and found his rather poetic voice carried me through his story with interest. The resolution the issues of the story fits perfectly with his character. Catherine also really interested me - I think her experiences and perspective would offer a good story.
Demonica was my favourite of the two stories - I like the origins story aspects of the beginning and found myself drawn in very quickly. Again - good characters, interesting ideas and I think a good basis for longer novels.
Overall, I think this is a good debut for a new writer, showcasing her skills for writing interesting characters in familiar situations for the genre, but still doing something original with them. Definitely recommended :)
Extended review of Bites @ http://melcj.wordpress.com/2012/03/31...
June 21, 2012
As the name suggests, the book gives you a tantalising taste; two tales in which similar entities inhabit but their worlds differ immensely.
The first tale, 'Last of the Blood', might feel a familiar world to lovers of the Anne Rice ilk of vampire - but the speed and fluency with which Damon's long life and undeath is presented to us is done with some panache, let me tell you. It's a world of stylish, sexy vampires and a world-altering revolution. You'll want to get to the exciting conclusion of this.
Whereas there is a comfortable familiarity with 'Last of the Blood', 'Demonica' sets a great scene for an epic world and an equally epic battle - and follows the tale of the most vital element of the conflict. Irina has the force of personality that she needs for her starring role and takes us to meet some names who are a big deal in the world of angels and demons. I will put the words down here that I have personally given to Ninfa on the story: "Write more on the Demonica world!"
A great debut. I've had my Bites - I now want the next course!
The first tale, 'Last of the Blood', might feel a familiar world to lovers of the Anne Rice ilk of vampire - but the speed and fluency with which Damon's long life and undeath is presented to us is done with some panache, let me tell you. It's a world of stylish, sexy vampires and a world-altering revolution. You'll want to get to the exciting conclusion of this.
Whereas there is a comfortable familiarity with 'Last of the Blood', 'Demonica' sets a great scene for an epic world and an equally epic battle - and follows the tale of the most vital element of the conflict. Irina has the force of personality that she needs for her starring role and takes us to meet some names who are a big deal in the world of angels and demons. I will put the words down here that I have personally given to Ninfa on the story: "Write more on the Demonica world!"
A great debut. I've had my Bites - I now want the next course!
March 30, 2012
This book is awesome,captivating. Can't wait to read more by this author
June 11, 2012
Couldn't put it down and I wish it was longer cos I finished it too fast :(
Write more books please!
Write more books please!
December 3, 2012
Bites
By Ninfa Hayes
Bites is a book consisting of two short stories about vampires.
The first, Last of the Blood, follows Damon, an orphan who becomes a soilder in World War I. His skills and his nature bring him to the attention of vampires, who invite him to join their covenant.
If you're one of those people who complains when vampires aren't dangerous or sexy, then you aren't going to be disappointed. The small covenant of vampires first start off having a grand old time(not so fun for the humans they encounter, of course) but everything changes when the coven leader falls for a human girl who is already far more dangerous than any vampire...
The pace is great and there's nothing uneccessary in here. You aren't going to hear what anyone had for breakfast - though you might hear WHO they had... It's well written and it kept my attention. My only complaint is that I feel like the epilogue needed to be written slightly differently. It's from the point of view of a different character, and I feel they sounded a little two similar, though the style wasn't identical.
The second story, Demonica, takes place in a world where angels and demons are preparing to go to war. Humans must choose allegiance to one side or the other. The protagonist of this tale is a girl named Irina, who despite growing up being told stories of the celestial court, identifies much more with the daemons. When the time comes for her to choose, she chooses the daemons without hesitation. 'Join the dark side, we have kick ass war unicorns' is a thought that has just crossed my mind. I can't really describe the story further without spoilers, but again the pacing is great, there's plenty of action and everyone is really pretty. If you like grand tales of destiny, betrayal and war wrapped up in a nice little package, you'll like it.
Overall, I liked it. It has been a fun afternoon's reading and it's got plenty of action, spiced with just the right amount of romance. It's available on both Kindle and as a hard copy.
By Ninfa Hayes
Bites is a book consisting of two short stories about vampires.
The first, Last of the Blood, follows Damon, an orphan who becomes a soilder in World War I. His skills and his nature bring him to the attention of vampires, who invite him to join their covenant.
If you're one of those people who complains when vampires aren't dangerous or sexy, then you aren't going to be disappointed. The small covenant of vampires first start off having a grand old time(not so fun for the humans they encounter, of course) but everything changes when the coven leader falls for a human girl who is already far more dangerous than any vampire...
The pace is great and there's nothing uneccessary in here. You aren't going to hear what anyone had for breakfast - though you might hear WHO they had... It's well written and it kept my attention. My only complaint is that I feel like the epilogue needed to be written slightly differently. It's from the point of view of a different character, and I feel they sounded a little two similar, though the style wasn't identical.
The second story, Demonica, takes place in a world where angels and demons are preparing to go to war. Humans must choose allegiance to one side or the other. The protagonist of this tale is a girl named Irina, who despite growing up being told stories of the celestial court, identifies much more with the daemons. When the time comes for her to choose, she chooses the daemons without hesitation. 'Join the dark side, we have kick ass war unicorns' is a thought that has just crossed my mind. I can't really describe the story further without spoilers, but again the pacing is great, there's plenty of action and everyone is really pretty. If you like grand tales of destiny, betrayal and war wrapped up in a nice little package, you'll like it.
Overall, I liked it. It has been a fun afternoon's reading and it's got plenty of action, spiced with just the right amount of romance. It's available on both Kindle and as a hard copy.
April 12, 2012
MY REVIEW
I saw this book mentioned on facebook, then looked it up on Amazon and had to buy it for two reasons, 1 to support a fellow blogger who is now also writing and 2 Ireally fancied it from the blurb!
Demonica is about Irina a young girl who lives in Eden, with the other children of Eden. Every year there is a Midwinter Solstice Ball and on that day either a "good" Angel comes to take you to their palace or a "bad" Demon comes to collect you and take you to their palace. So obviously Irina's mother wants her daughter to be taken by the angels so imagine her shock when she answers the door to a Demon. Irina's mother cannot prevent Irina going as it is her that needs to "choose". I won't tell you anymore about the tale only say not everyone that be good/bad is good/bad (that will make sense when you read the book!)
Last Of The Blood I would liken to "Interview with a Vampire" and its very dark and gothic in its atmosphere. Its a rather complicated tale and I don't want to give too much away but a quick gist is that a man is given a choice and chooses to become a vampire, then one day does something he will regret for all his Immortal Vampire Life.
So did I enjoy the two short tales? Yes and to be totally honest I am not usually into the "Interview with a vampire" type dark, gothic tales but I really loved this one. It was well written, you could literally feel the dark atmosphere of the book. The second tale begins lighter but then takes on a darker element which I also enjoyed. Would I read any more by this author? Yes and I think that Demonica could possibly the start of a series.
Available from Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk £5.95 in paperback £1.29
I saw this book mentioned on facebook, then looked it up on Amazon and had to buy it for two reasons, 1 to support a fellow blogger who is now also writing and 2 Ireally fancied it from the blurb!
Demonica is about Irina a young girl who lives in Eden, with the other children of Eden. Every year there is a Midwinter Solstice Ball and on that day either a "good" Angel comes to take you to their palace or a "bad" Demon comes to collect you and take you to their palace. So obviously Irina's mother wants her daughter to be taken by the angels so imagine her shock when she answers the door to a Demon. Irina's mother cannot prevent Irina going as it is her that needs to "choose". I won't tell you anymore about the tale only say not everyone that be good/bad is good/bad (that will make sense when you read the book!)
Last Of The Blood I would liken to "Interview with a Vampire" and its very dark and gothic in its atmosphere. Its a rather complicated tale and I don't want to give too much away but a quick gist is that a man is given a choice and chooses to become a vampire, then one day does something he will regret for all his Immortal Vampire Life.
So did I enjoy the two short tales? Yes and to be totally honest I am not usually into the "Interview with a vampire" type dark, gothic tales but I really loved this one. It was well written, you could literally feel the dark atmosphere of the book. The second tale begins lighter but then takes on a darker element which I also enjoyed. Would I read any more by this author? Yes and I think that Demonica could possibly the start of a series.
Available from Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk £5.95 in paperback £1.29
November 10, 2012
Ninfa Hayes
Bites
A debut anthology of two dark, YA paranormal fantasies. Suitable for older YA readers.
Last of the Blood & Demonica are both very well written, and I could easily see (and hope) Demonica becomes a prequel to a full length novel. The characters in both shorts draw you in, and the reader is easily lost in the plots.
Demonica in particular left me wanting more of the story, but this was a great introduction to the capabilities of the author.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Bites
A debut anthology of two dark, YA paranormal fantasies. Suitable for older YA readers.
Last of the Blood & Demonica are both very well written, and I could easily see (and hope) Demonica becomes a prequel to a full length novel. The characters in both shorts draw you in, and the reader is easily lost in the plots.
Demonica in particular left me wanting more of the story, but this was a great introduction to the capabilities of the author.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 13, 2012
the first book is about a young man that is turned into a vampire, i feel for him as he lost his love of his life, the people that turn him turn someone else and that person is evil and he ends up hunting them,
the second one is good as well
A young girl turns 16 and every year the angels and the vampires come and get a person each
this is about a young girl that is taken by the bad
i loved reading this one and i hope that we hear more about them
the second one is good as well
A young girl turns 16 and every year the angels and the vampires come and get a person each
this is about a young girl that is taken by the bad
i loved reading this one and i hope that we hear more about them
July 26, 2013
Ninfa Hayes has managed to captivate me with in the first 10min of the book, I love her ability to draw you in so far that you feel you are sitting outside a window watching it all unfold. I had my doughs after all the vampire stories coming out these days but I really enjoyed reading it and I highly recommend it to all the fiction lovers out there...
October 7, 2012
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
Although both stories were short they were both exceptionally well written from start to finish.
Both stories left me wanting to read more about the character's. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future
Although both stories were short they were both exceptionally well written from start to finish.
Both stories left me wanting to read more about the character's. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future
April 15, 2012
Review coming this week
August 28, 2020
A good immersive read, just not my cup of tea personally but I rated this as 4 stars because the quality is worthy of 4 stars. Just not my taste that's all.
December 30, 2012
Originally posted here: http://theloyalbook.blogspot.it/2012/... (Scroll down for Italian)
Bites is a collection of two short stories with paranormal elements. The first, Last of the Blood, feature vampires and the protagonist is a young man turned into one, Damon Blackwood. After staying with his his acquired 'family' for years, he decided to leave when his Maker Gabriel fell madly in love with a human girl, Natalya, sensual and dangerous. He turned her into a vampire but Natalya, wanting power, started turning more and more people into vampires and Hunter started chasing and killing them. Only after many years, Damon met again Gabriel and Natalya, in extreme circumstances. And he also met a girl that will change his life forever.
The story is really short and I read it over an hour. The writing is good, clear, concise and very readable. Damon is a different vampire, he still has a bit of humanity left and this clearly shows in the ending, which was heartbreaking, sweet and sad and absolutely my favourite part of the story.
The second short story is Demonica and is, without any doubt, my favorite. I loved the theme. It deals with Lilith, Lucifer, the Garden of Eden, Fallen Angels and other creatures and it's really original and captivating. The world building is very interesting and I would have loved for it to be longer, since I was really interested in getting to know more about some characters. I think a whole-length novel set in this world would have been great. I enjoyed reading it very much.
The writing is really simple and alluring. Both stories can be read quickly and provide a nice interlude between longer books. They are both written from a first person's POV and there are detailed descriptions (but not too heavy). It is a really interesting debut for this author with Italian origins.
My favourite quote:
How unfair that I should find her here, at the end of everything, And yet, what is the end, if not a new beginning?
ITALIAN
Bites è una raccolta che contiene due racconti brevi a sfondo paranormale. Il primo, Last of the Blood, è ambientato nel mondo dei vampiri e vede come protagonista Damon Blackwood, un giovane ragazzo che viene trasformato in vampiro. Dopo essere rimasto per anni insieme alla sua nuova 'famiglia', decide di allontanarsene quando il suo creatore Gabriel si innamora perdutamente della pericolosa e sensuale Natalya, trasformandola in vampiro. Peccato che quest'ultima, assetta di potere, cominci a trasformare sempre più umani in vampiri, facendo sì che i Cacciatori diano loro la caccia. Solo molti decenni dopo Damon incontra di nuovo Gabriel e Natalya, in circostanze estreme. E in una situazione altrettanto pericolosa incontra anche l'amore della sua vita.
La storia è breve e si legge in poco tempo, la scrittura è chiara e piacevole, molto scorrevole. Damon è un vampiro diverso, che continua ad avere in sé un pizzico di umanità e che alla fine della storia si innamora. Il finale è, a mio avviso, la parte meglio riuscita e più coinvolgente. L'epilogo è veramente triste e bello allo stesso tempo.
La seconda storia, Demonica, è anche la mia preferita. Un racconto su Lilith, Lucifero, il Giardino dell'Eden, gli angeli caduti veramente originale e intrigante. Ho apprezzato molto il world bulding e sincearmente avrei quasi preferito che fosse più lunga. Non mi sarebbe dispiaciuto l'approfondimento di alcuni personaggi e avrei veramente gradito un intero libro ambientato in questo mondo. La storia è davvero affascinante ed è stata una lettura che mi ha diverto molto.
Lo stile narrativo è semplice e allo stesso tempo coinvolgente. Entrambi i racconti si leggono in poco tempo e sono un ottimo diversivo. Scritti in prima persona, con delle descrizioni accurate ma non pesanti, sensuali a tratti, sono stati proprio una bella sorpresa. Decisamente un debutto molto interessante per questa autrice di origini italiane.
La frase che mi ha colpito:
How unfair that I should find her here, at the end of everything, And yet, what is the end, if not a new beginning?
Il libro è attualmente inedito in Italia.
Bites is a collection of two short stories with paranormal elements. The first, Last of the Blood, feature vampires and the protagonist is a young man turned into one, Damon Blackwood. After staying with his his acquired 'family' for years, he decided to leave when his Maker Gabriel fell madly in love with a human girl, Natalya, sensual and dangerous. He turned her into a vampire but Natalya, wanting power, started turning more and more people into vampires and Hunter started chasing and killing them. Only after many years, Damon met again Gabriel and Natalya, in extreme circumstances. And he also met a girl that will change his life forever.
The story is really short and I read it over an hour. The writing is good, clear, concise and very readable. Damon is a different vampire, he still has a bit of humanity left and this clearly shows in the ending, which was heartbreaking, sweet and sad and absolutely my favourite part of the story.
The second short story is Demonica and is, without any doubt, my favorite. I loved the theme. It deals with Lilith, Lucifer, the Garden of Eden, Fallen Angels and other creatures and it's really original and captivating. The world building is very interesting and I would have loved for it to be longer, since I was really interested in getting to know more about some characters. I think a whole-length novel set in this world would have been great. I enjoyed reading it very much.
The writing is really simple and alluring. Both stories can be read quickly and provide a nice interlude between longer books. They are both written from a first person's POV and there are detailed descriptions (but not too heavy). It is a really interesting debut for this author with Italian origins.
My favourite quote:
How unfair that I should find her here, at the end of everything, And yet, what is the end, if not a new beginning?
ITALIAN
Bites è una raccolta che contiene due racconti brevi a sfondo paranormale. Il primo, Last of the Blood, è ambientato nel mondo dei vampiri e vede come protagonista Damon Blackwood, un giovane ragazzo che viene trasformato in vampiro. Dopo essere rimasto per anni insieme alla sua nuova 'famiglia', decide di allontanarsene quando il suo creatore Gabriel si innamora perdutamente della pericolosa e sensuale Natalya, trasformandola in vampiro. Peccato che quest'ultima, assetta di potere, cominci a trasformare sempre più umani in vampiri, facendo sì che i Cacciatori diano loro la caccia. Solo molti decenni dopo Damon incontra di nuovo Gabriel e Natalya, in circostanze estreme. E in una situazione altrettanto pericolosa incontra anche l'amore della sua vita.
La storia è breve e si legge in poco tempo, la scrittura è chiara e piacevole, molto scorrevole. Damon è un vampiro diverso, che continua ad avere in sé un pizzico di umanità e che alla fine della storia si innamora. Il finale è, a mio avviso, la parte meglio riuscita e più coinvolgente. L'epilogo è veramente triste e bello allo stesso tempo.
La seconda storia, Demonica, è anche la mia preferita. Un racconto su Lilith, Lucifero, il Giardino dell'Eden, gli angeli caduti veramente originale e intrigante. Ho apprezzato molto il world bulding e sincearmente avrei quasi preferito che fosse più lunga. Non mi sarebbe dispiaciuto l'approfondimento di alcuni personaggi e avrei veramente gradito un intero libro ambientato in questo mondo. La storia è davvero affascinante ed è stata una lettura che mi ha diverto molto.
Lo stile narrativo è semplice e allo stesso tempo coinvolgente. Entrambi i racconti si leggono in poco tempo e sono un ottimo diversivo. Scritti in prima persona, con delle descrizioni accurate ma non pesanti, sensuali a tratti, sono stati proprio una bella sorpresa. Decisamente un debutto molto interessante per questa autrice di origini italiane.
La frase che mi ha colpito:
How unfair that I should find her here, at the end of everything, And yet, what is the end, if not a new beginning?
Il libro è attualmente inedito in Italia.
March 3, 2015
Bites
Last of the Blood
I enjoyed that this story was taking place at pivotal moments in Damon's life, turning, and existence in general. The story didn't drag, it hit on major points and situations that were present in the world and his life and we got to see the outcomes of each of the choice made in the last chapters. It's always interesting reading from a Vampires POV especially one as young and down-to-earth as Damon is, and despite his eternal youth, you did see his growth and age through each chapter.
Demonica
I knew I would enjoy this story after reading the blurb, but as soon as I started reading the Prologue, well, I couldn't stop until I had finished this fab short story. I love reading authors interpretations of well known myths/stories/legends etc I find it fascinating and Demonica was a fascinating, refreshing, and vibrant view on the stories of Lilith and the fall of Lucifer, and then you add all these other paranormal elements in and... What a delicious twist to biblical stories and views which we have all heard or read at some point in our lives.
You're pulled right in, the pacing is perfect, Irina is such a feisty teenage you can't help but love and respect her. All the other characters are vibrant and interesting, and Lucifer... oh boy, he is yummy in all the right and wrong ways.
Demonica is the perfect beginning to a great world in which so many stories could take place should the author decide to dive back in. I for one would definitely read more from this world.
All in all, Bites is a bargain. Ninfa Hayes has a fabulous and magical imagination, and a beautiful way of describing her worlds and characters. Two fab stories; Last of the Blood and Demonica, both of which will engage your interest, and if you are a fan of paranormal/urban fantasy/gothic romance then you will definitely love the refreshing views on Vampires and other such supernatural or well known characters.
Last of the Blood
I enjoyed that this story was taking place at pivotal moments in Damon's life, turning, and existence in general. The story didn't drag, it hit on major points and situations that were present in the world and his life and we got to see the outcomes of each of the choice made in the last chapters. It's always interesting reading from a Vampires POV especially one as young and down-to-earth as Damon is, and despite his eternal youth, you did see his growth and age through each chapter.
Demonica
I knew I would enjoy this story after reading the blurb, but as soon as I started reading the Prologue, well, I couldn't stop until I had finished this fab short story. I love reading authors interpretations of well known myths/stories/legends etc I find it fascinating and Demonica was a fascinating, refreshing, and vibrant view on the stories of Lilith and the fall of Lucifer, and then you add all these other paranormal elements in and... What a delicious twist to biblical stories and views which we have all heard or read at some point in our lives.
You're pulled right in, the pacing is perfect, Irina is such a feisty teenage you can't help but love and respect her. All the other characters are vibrant and interesting, and Lucifer... oh boy, he is yummy in all the right and wrong ways.
Demonica is the perfect beginning to a great world in which so many stories could take place should the author decide to dive back in. I for one would definitely read more from this world.
All in all, Bites is a bargain. Ninfa Hayes has a fabulous and magical imagination, and a beautiful way of describing her worlds and characters. Two fab stories; Last of the Blood and Demonica, both of which will engage your interest, and if you are a fan of paranormal/urban fantasy/gothic romance then you will definitely love the refreshing views on Vampires and other such supernatural or well known characters.
January 25, 2013
This book contains two short stories about vampires that suck you right in! What does a vampire do when he realizes his kind are monsters that are destroying humankind? WaAR
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