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Devour
He wasn't supposed to remember.
Callie is a royal vampire. She hunts by taking the blood from her victims and erases their memories afterwards. She goes undetected until a victim named Chase approaches her with all his memories intact. He is intrigued and attracted. She is terrified. What happens when a human mixes with the immortal world? Chaos.
Callie’s 18th birthday has passed and she is coming out at the annual blood ball. Will she find a mate or will she suffer the repercussions of her indiscretion? She is brought to the Vampire council and they must decide what to do with Chase. Do they kill him, or turn him to protect their secret?
Callie is a royal vampire. She hunts by taking the blood from her victims and erases their memories afterwards. She goes undetected until a victim named Chase approaches her with all his memories intact. He is intrigued and attracted. She is terrified. What happens when a human mixes with the immortal world? Chaos.
Callie’s 18th birthday has passed and she is coming out at the annual blood ball. Will she find a mate or will she suffer the repercussions of her indiscretion? She is brought to the Vampire council and they must decide what to do with Chase. Do they kill him, or turn him to protect their secret?
258 pages, ebook
First published February 27, 2013
2 people are currently reading
1146 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Heltsley
15 books325 followersAuthor, biologist, book nerd, and Greyhound lover.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 3, 2013
The prologue for this novel sets the scene perfectly, leading you in to future action while not giving anything away. Being such a visual author, Heltsley sets the scene perfectly for her audience creating a world that is very addictive. By the end of the novel you are left with a sense of hope as well as an overwhelming desire to continue on this intriguing journey in this very vivid world. Heltsley’s well-developed concept of vampires and vampire government is presented in a logical yet entertaining manner, giving the reader even more connection with this remarkable world.
Heltsley has a very approachable writing style that draws you to the main character. The first person narrative flits around with the main character’s thoughts giving you insight and depth into her character. It’s really quite intriguing. Not only was I captivated by the female lead, but the two male leads lead to a very out of the ordinary love triangle that had me laughing, crying, and cringing. It was priceless. The supporting cast also had some very extreme characters. Most of them were quite easy to relate to, regardless of the difference between my situation and theirs. I fell in love with many of the characters in this novel and there was barely a moment when I didn’t find myself journeying alongside these characters.
Overall, this was an exceedingly intriguing novel in a series that I’m sure will only get better and more captivating as we go on. I not only want to continue on in this series but would love to read other works by this author.
Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author/publisher/blog tour company in exchange for an honest review.
Heltsley has a very approachable writing style that draws you to the main character. The first person narrative flits around with the main character’s thoughts giving you insight and depth into her character. It’s really quite intriguing. Not only was I captivated by the female lead, but the two male leads lead to a very out of the ordinary love triangle that had me laughing, crying, and cringing. It was priceless. The supporting cast also had some very extreme characters. Most of them were quite easy to relate to, regardless of the difference between my situation and theirs. I fell in love with many of the characters in this novel and there was barely a moment when I didn’t find myself journeying alongside these characters.
Overall, this was an exceedingly intriguing novel in a series that I’m sure will only get better and more captivating as we go on. I not only want to continue on in this series but would love to read other works by this author.
Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author/publisher/blog tour company in exchange for an honest review.
March 22, 2013
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. Everything you are about to read is my full and honest opinion about the book!
This was a tough one to rate and review. While I did enjoy it, it just wasn't one to grab my attention and hold it throughout the book! Okay now that being said, The book did flow pretty well from chapter to chapter and I enjoyed the characters development. So while it wasn't the best I've ever read it wasn't the worst either. Somewhere in the middle I guess.
Okay, So here's the plot:
A royal vampire named Callie feeds herself by hunting humans. She hunts in a different way then most vampire's hunt. She takes their blood then erases their memory. This hunting skill that she possess works good for her, that is until she bits the wrong human or is he??? His name is Chase and he remembers everything! He wants answers, So he confronts Callie, and that's when their whole world comes crumbling down.
She is faced with the actions she has caused when she bit the wrong "human". Now the Vampire council must decide what needs to be done with Chase. Do they let him be, Nah, they never do that. Or do they turn him into a vampire or take the most easiest way out and just kill him??? Well if you want them answers and more your going to have to read it and find out! :-)
Like I said, I did like this book, it just wasn't one of my favorite. But overall I would give this book 3.5 stars but since I can't do half stars I also round up or down depending on how I feel about the book. So I decided to round up with this book and give it 4 stars!
This was a tough one to rate and review. While I did enjoy it, it just wasn't one to grab my attention and hold it throughout the book! Okay now that being said, The book did flow pretty well from chapter to chapter and I enjoyed the characters development. So while it wasn't the best I've ever read it wasn't the worst either. Somewhere in the middle I guess.
Okay, So here's the plot:
A royal vampire named Callie feeds herself by hunting humans. She hunts in a different way then most vampire's hunt. She takes their blood then erases their memory. This hunting skill that she possess works good for her, that is until she bits the wrong human or is he??? His name is Chase and he remembers everything! He wants answers, So he confronts Callie, and that's when their whole world comes crumbling down.
She is faced with the actions she has caused when she bit the wrong "human". Now the Vampire council must decide what needs to be done with Chase. Do they let him be, Nah, they never do that. Or do they turn him into a vampire or take the most easiest way out and just kill him??? Well if you want them answers and more your going to have to read it and find out! :-)
Like I said, I did like this book, it just wasn't one of my favorite. But overall I would give this book 3.5 stars but since I can't do half stars I also round up or down depending on how I feel about the book. So I decided to round up with this book and give it 4 stars!
March 3, 2013
The book cover is what made me want to read this book so bad (yes I'm a sucker for pretty book covers haha) Then I read the blurb and that was the cake topper. There were two men that had my heart in this book, one was Chase (the human or is he?) He's just so the boy has swag that's all I can say, "Let's go before I have my way with you in this ally." If that's not swag I don't know what is, okay so it might be horniness but still it got me going (winking uncontrollably). Then there's Cody I think he's worse then Chase when it comes to Callie because the things that boy says should just be locked up, "A shower, huh? Think about me, would you? I'll sure be thinking about you. I won't be able to get that image out of my head all night now, Callie. The things you do to me already. It's going to be a long night." He says things that make my heart beat uncontrollably, "Not yet, I just feel the need to touch you all the time. I can't seem to let you go. It is going to be torture to be away from you after this." So with two hot men to drool over what is not to like about this book, so in case if you're still wondering I did enjoy it.
May 20, 2013
Overall I enjoyed the story of this book, it didn’t have much action in it or even romance really. It had enough going to keep me reading, but will say, at the ¾ mark I was waiting for something else to happen, and it never did, kind of a letdown really. It was wrapped up nice with a fairytale ending I guess.
The main characters were not really developed a lot, I never got to that point where I fall in love with them, I did with Cody, but even he got a bit chessesy at times. But not too bad.
The odd man out, Chase, I never got a chance to like or not, he was a big issue in the story, but was not developed very well. I have a hard time pinpointing what was missing. Just something was missing for me.
Its still a good quick vampire read for young teens I think,
I didn’t dislike this book, but was unhappy with some inconsistencies in it, and a few things that were repeated that got on my nerves. The main one is through the whole book the word Moment was capitalized no matter how it was used. Even when used in a normal way, it’s almost like if you’re in Word and you do the find and replace, like that was done, and everyone was changed to start capitalized. (ok, so there is like 4 out of the 34 uses of that word that are not capitalized, did a Kindle search) It bugged me, lol. That was the main grammar error of that type. Other issue was the way these vampires spoke, sometimes old like, and other like little kids in this day and age, the main characters are teens for real, not 150 that look like a teen. The world is different, but not explained well.
I do recommend like I said for young teens, and anyone who wants to read a quick sweet vampire tale that is a bit different. I was captivated for the most part to not stop reading, until about ¾ when it got stalled out to me.
I give it 4 stars. I liked it, but not a favorite to me.
I was provided this book from the author for my honest review.
Short Excerpt
Prolouge
Present Day
I sit in the bed cross-legged and gently bang my head against the bars behind me. The sheets are stiff and scratchy. The pillow is flat and the room is sparse. The only amenities accessible are a bed and a small, basic bathroom. Fortunately, I don’t have to pee in public. That’s something, at least.
My hair feels stringier than usual and the desire to wash my face with something other than plain soap is strong. It’s hard to believe how much I actually miss the normal creature comforts I’m so accustomed to. I don’t think I’ll ever take them for granted again, if I live that is.
Things have gotten desperate. I never thought something like this could ever happen, let alone to me. Due to the bizarre set of circumstances, I’m being held for possible treason. The thought that anyone would ever purposely betray our kind is unthinkable and makes me shudder.
Then there’s the fact that this is dragging two royal families’ reputations through the mud. That means I have practically ruined four council members in the process. I can’t help but be ashamed of myself. It’s not really my fault, but that doesn’t change the situation.
Being royalty brings with it so many expectations to uphold, but being a teenage vampire is what really sucks. Ha, ha sucks. Anyways, I digress. I close my eyes and let my mind take me back to a time when things were simple, before him.
May 17, 2013
Wow! Devour is the appropriate word for the title of the book! She hit the head on the nail with that one! I "Devoured" the book in one sitting, could not put it down, and I can not get the story out of my head 2 days later! Major props to Andrea for coming up with such an amazing twist on vampires! I was getting tired of the same old same old. There have been many many books that have captured me and drew me in but it took a could of chapters... in Devour I was HOOKED after the first paragraph!
We jump right into the glamorous and luxurious life of sexy teenage royal vampire Callie. On a routine hunting night with her best friend and fellow royal vampire Judy, Callie comes across a sultry male at the bar and makes him her target for the night. She knows there is something different about him but peruses him anyways because his blood smells too yummy to resist. She follows the protocol of the vampires to the T and leaves her hunt Chase in a dazed state like they always are when their minds have been erased. The next day she runs into Chase and he not only remembers her name but everything form the night before.....EVERYTHING! That is when all hell breaks loose.
Callie is a breath of fresh air that I have been waiting for! She would be an awesome friend, her thoughts are a hoot, and she is easily relatable. Callie is on the brink of a life changing nght, "The Blood Ball" were she would hopefully find a mate. Chase complicates things for her family and her future mates. Awesomely there is not "I cant decide who to like" and no "ooo Im in love with them both". Definitely my kind of girl and for me makes her that much more likeable! Cody..
In the absence of a gooey love triangle there is oodles of suspense on what will be Chases fate, what will the council do to Callie, and how will all of this effect the Vampire community. There is also a beautiful and intense love story. I fell in love with Cody and Callie and I know you will too! Its enjoyable to read a couple that is so openly in love and devoted to each other. They are the definition of romance. Romeo and Juliet type of love. The book is perfectly paced with no drawn out scenes, suspenseful, palpitating love, and shock and awe around every page! I am HOOKED and I am hopping for a sequel or a series because I would love to be immersed back into Cody and Callies life, see where Chase and Judy are going, and what will happen with Codys sister.
We jump right into the glamorous and luxurious life of sexy teenage royal vampire Callie. On a routine hunting night with her best friend and fellow royal vampire Judy, Callie comes across a sultry male at the bar and makes him her target for the night. She knows there is something different about him but peruses him anyways because his blood smells too yummy to resist. She follows the protocol of the vampires to the T and leaves her hunt Chase in a dazed state like they always are when their minds have been erased. The next day she runs into Chase and he not only remembers her name but everything form the night before.....EVERYTHING! That is when all hell breaks loose.
Callie is a breath of fresh air that I have been waiting for! She would be an awesome friend, her thoughts are a hoot, and she is easily relatable. Callie is on the brink of a life changing nght, "The Blood Ball" were she would hopefully find a mate. Chase complicates things for her family and her future mates. Awesomely there is not "I cant decide who to like" and no "ooo Im in love with them both". Definitely my kind of girl and for me makes her that much more likeable! Cody..
In the absence of a gooey love triangle there is oodles of suspense on what will be Chases fate, what will the council do to Callie, and how will all of this effect the Vampire community. There is also a beautiful and intense love story. I fell in love with Cody and Callie and I know you will too! Its enjoyable to read a couple that is so openly in love and devoted to each other. They are the definition of romance. Romeo and Juliet type of love. The book is perfectly paced with no drawn out scenes, suspenseful, palpitating love, and shock and awe around every page! I am HOOKED and I am hopping for a sequel or a series because I would love to be immersed back into Cody and Callies life, see where Chase and Judy are going, and what will happen with Codys sister.
April 29, 2013
3.75 stars
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The summary drew me in and made me want to read the book. Royal vampires, a possible love triangle, and a mortal that finds out about the paranormal world. This story could have gone several different directions. There could have been action, romance, betrayal, lots of drama and more. Heltsley took a more traditional route though. She amped up the romance portion and played down the action. It made for a decent story.
Heltsley's writing style is easy to read. She does a good job of letting readers know everything Callie is feeling. There's love for Cody and stress/worry over what she and her family are going to do with Chase.
I really like that Heltsley gave Callie a good friend, Jane. She's someone who doesn't mind helping her friend out of a bind. Plus she doesn't judge Callie. But then again who wouldn't mind taking over your best friend's HOT snack! You can tell that Jane plays an important part if Callie's life. I wouldn't mind reading about what happened once Chase was changed from Jane's perspective.
Only thing that bothered me was how quickly Callie and Cody jumped into being "married". Heltsley does a good job explaining that they are true mates, but it still seemed so fast. Callie went from being adamantly against finding a mate to quickly picking Cody and starting the process that night. Even though they knew each other for years, there was no dating. Heltsley tried explaining it-- that Callie wanted to make her parents proud, and the only way to get herself out of the Chase situation was to find a mate. I guess I would have tried to find another alternative, and since Callie isn't like me, I found it difficult to buy into her mindset.
There wasn't too much romance. There was a lot of kissing and a bit of exploring, but even when they consummated their marriage, Heltsley discreetly wrote about what happened. Nothing too naughty. It won't make your face blush. Very appropriate for the young adult audience.
Readers who love a good vampire story will enjoy Devour. If you enjoy romance, then you will like this too.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The summary drew me in and made me want to read the book. Royal vampires, a possible love triangle, and a mortal that finds out about the paranormal world. This story could have gone several different directions. There could have been action, romance, betrayal, lots of drama and more. Heltsley took a more traditional route though. She amped up the romance portion and played down the action. It made for a decent story.
Heltsley's writing style is easy to read. She does a good job of letting readers know everything Callie is feeling. There's love for Cody and stress/worry over what she and her family are going to do with Chase.
I really like that Heltsley gave Callie a good friend, Jane. She's someone who doesn't mind helping her friend out of a bind. Plus she doesn't judge Callie. But then again who wouldn't mind taking over your best friend's HOT snack! You can tell that Jane plays an important part if Callie's life. I wouldn't mind reading about what happened once Chase was changed from Jane's perspective.
Only thing that bothered me was how quickly Callie and Cody jumped into being "married". Heltsley does a good job explaining that they are true mates, but it still seemed so fast. Callie went from being adamantly against finding a mate to quickly picking Cody and starting the process that night. Even though they knew each other for years, there was no dating. Heltsley tried explaining it-- that Callie wanted to make her parents proud, and the only way to get herself out of the Chase situation was to find a mate. I guess I would have tried to find another alternative, and since Callie isn't like me, I found it difficult to buy into her mindset.
There wasn't too much romance. There was a lot of kissing and a bit of exploring, but even when they consummated their marriage, Heltsley discreetly wrote about what happened. Nothing too naughty. It won't make your face blush. Very appropriate for the young adult audience.
Readers who love a good vampire story will enjoy Devour. If you enjoy romance, then you will like this too.
May 19, 2013
Short and sweet and utterly perfect! Devour was a great read with a unique take of vampire and, refreshingly, a standalone where everything is worked out in the end.
I loved how this book did vampires. They weren't glamorized nor demonized. They were portrayed as a fully functioning, sophisticated society that was harsh, but not cruel or unfair, in its fervor to keep its existence a secret. They were actual believable vampires that were unapologetic about their need for blood. It was a nice change in the many books that mess up vampire mythology.
Callie was a realistic character. She had her faults, but they only made her seem like a real person. At the end of the day, she was a loyal vampire who was determined to do what was best for her society and was willing to admit to her mistakes. She faced the trial and her possible punishment with courage and dignity. Overall, she was a likable heroine.
What I really loved about this book is that I didn't guess who the love interest was actually going to be. From the blurb and standard paranormal romance formula, it would be Chase, yes? Hmmm. Well, let's just say that this book managed to surprise me. On the topic of love interests, I'm just going to say that the guy Callie ended up with was so perfect. Sweet, devoted, and just utterly adorable, he was easy to fall for. And the romance between them was brilliantly done. Their emotions were deep and devoted. They were a perfect couple.
The plot was quick. This was a fairly short book, and a standalone, but their was still some well done development of the characters and the plot. I was totally hooked and unable to put this book down. And the ending was wonderful. A sweet and perfect wrap up of the story.
If you like paranormal romance and want a quick, wonderful read, this is your book. Devour was just fantastic!
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review
I loved how this book did vampires. They weren't glamorized nor demonized. They were portrayed as a fully functioning, sophisticated society that was harsh, but not cruel or unfair, in its fervor to keep its existence a secret. They were actual believable vampires that were unapologetic about their need for blood. It was a nice change in the many books that mess up vampire mythology.
Callie was a realistic character. She had her faults, but they only made her seem like a real person. At the end of the day, she was a loyal vampire who was determined to do what was best for her society and was willing to admit to her mistakes. She faced the trial and her possible punishment with courage and dignity. Overall, she was a likable heroine.
What I really loved about this book is that I didn't guess who the love interest was actually going to be. From the blurb and standard paranormal romance formula, it would be Chase, yes? Hmmm. Well, let's just say that this book managed to surprise me. On the topic of love interests, I'm just going to say that the guy Callie ended up with was so perfect. Sweet, devoted, and just utterly adorable, he was easy to fall for. And the romance between them was brilliantly done. Their emotions were deep and devoted. They were a perfect couple.
The plot was quick. This was a fairly short book, and a standalone, but their was still some well done development of the characters and the plot. I was totally hooked and unable to put this book down. And the ending was wonderful. A sweet and perfect wrap up of the story.
If you like paranormal romance and want a quick, wonderful read, this is your book. Devour was just fantastic!
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review
May 22, 2013
“He wasn’t supposed to remember.” A good tag line for this book dealing with a new found lifelong love and an accident that could change that outcome. A very sexy cover that fits well with the tragic event and invites the reader in. Devour. That’s what I did with this book from start to finish.
A vampire story dealing with lust, love and all the clichés, this story starts off bumpy but like turbulence in an airplane, eventually settles down and takes you for an exciting trip. A quick, exciting read, you must first get over some shoddy dialogue in the beginning before you can settle into the story. Later on I found myself distracted by the lackadaisical attitude of one of the characters but just kind of shelved him until I really needed to feel his character more.
An interesting twist on the vampire mating stories that have sprung up all over the place since the movie which must not be named. You get a good feel of the attraction of the true mates and feel like a bit of a voyeur at times, but not in a way that would turn you off to the story. You find yourself cheering them on and thinking that the other characters just need to get over themselves.
I would recommend this to the more mature YA crowd, say 16+, just because of all the innuendos involved. The story itself does not get graphic, but there’s plenty of steam to go around. If you like YA style vampire stories, this book is for you. I believe this is a standalone book, but really hope that the author goes back to it and continues the story of Cassie and Cody. I would think that Hannah has plenty of rage to do whatever it takes to make their life a bit of a living hell.
Please check out the author’s blog. She has many book projects in the works and I can’t wait to read them all! http://www.andreaheltsley.blogspot.com/
A vampire story dealing with lust, love and all the clichés, this story starts off bumpy but like turbulence in an airplane, eventually settles down and takes you for an exciting trip. A quick, exciting read, you must first get over some shoddy dialogue in the beginning before you can settle into the story. Later on I found myself distracted by the lackadaisical attitude of one of the characters but just kind of shelved him until I really needed to feel his character more.
An interesting twist on the vampire mating stories that have sprung up all over the place since the movie which must not be named. You get a good feel of the attraction of the true mates and feel like a bit of a voyeur at times, but not in a way that would turn you off to the story. You find yourself cheering them on and thinking that the other characters just need to get over themselves.
I would recommend this to the more mature YA crowd, say 16+, just because of all the innuendos involved. The story itself does not get graphic, but there’s plenty of steam to go around. If you like YA style vampire stories, this book is for you. I believe this is a standalone book, but really hope that the author goes back to it and continues the story of Cassie and Cody. I would think that Hannah has plenty of rage to do whatever it takes to make their life a bit of a living hell.
Please check out the author’s blog. She has many book projects in the works and I can’t wait to read them all! http://www.andreaheltsley.blogspot.com/
March 22, 2013
First, I have to say ... I can't wait for the next book!!!!! At least, I'm hoping there will be a second book??!!!! I was absolutely, totally entranced by this book! There were one or two spots that I caught a spelling issue, but other than that, there is not really anything else that I found a problem with. I fell into the story within the first couple of pages, and I could not put the book down for the life of me!! There are many books I have read that pull me into the story and make
me feel like I am totally immersed in the world of that book ... But this book was so much more than that. I felt like I was so much a part of watching this story unfold. I loved the characters, I felt like they were people I could live my life with, the were so realistic to me. I would love to see more about how life unfolds for Cody and Callie, but I would also love to see what happens with Jane and Chase. I also want to see what happens in Lana's life as things progress. I can't say
enough positive about this book .... You absolutely have to read it and experience it for yourself! :) Again, I will say, Book Two ... Hopefully really, really soon!!!! :)
I have read a couple of different books from Andrea Heltsley, and ALL of them have been such enthralling stories!! I look forward to reading so much more from this author! Andrea definitely has a wonderful talent for storytelling, and I am a whole-hearted fan and look forward to reading so much more from her ... Hopefully in the very near future!!!! :)
DISCLAIMER: This book was gifted to me by the author (through the Goodreads) website in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own, and no money or other compensation was provided for this review.
me feel like I am totally immersed in the world of that book ... But this book was so much more than that. I felt like I was so much a part of watching this story unfold. I loved the characters, I felt like they were people I could live my life with, the were so realistic to me. I would love to see more about how life unfolds for Cody and Callie, but I would also love to see what happens with Jane and Chase. I also want to see what happens in Lana's life as things progress. I can't say
enough positive about this book .... You absolutely have to read it and experience it for yourself! :) Again, I will say, Book Two ... Hopefully really, really soon!!!! :)
I have read a couple of different books from Andrea Heltsley, and ALL of them have been such enthralling stories!! I look forward to reading so much more from this author! Andrea definitely has a wonderful talent for storytelling, and I am a whole-hearted fan and look forward to reading so much more from her ... Hopefully in the very near future!!!! :)
DISCLAIMER: This book was gifted to me by the author (through the Goodreads) website in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own, and no money or other compensation was provided for this review.
May 3, 2013
Callie is a royal vampire; one of many. She is young adventourous and ready to have some fun. Her best friend is Jane and together they go "hunting" at their favorite bar. Things are going great, she finds Chase a very hot guy whom she senses there is something different about him, goes home with him and feeds on him. She wipes his memory clean and then goes home just like every other week. Well things are going fine except she has to prepare for the Blood Ball, a huge party for the upcoming girls who are of age and need to find a mate. On her outing with her mom she bumps into the guy from the club he remembered everything!! From this moment, Callie knew her life would be different. Now heading into the ball, she has the stress of the whole Chase situation but now is determined to find her mate. Little did Callie know, she would find her true mate, Cody. She has known Cody all of her life and hadn't looked at him any other way but as a friend until the ball. So many things are happening for Cassie and she has to face the consequences of what may happen with having a human know about vampires, hoping that Cody will still love her and having to deal with the new feeling of being matted.
I absolutely loved this book!!! I started reading it and couldn't put down so I finished it in one day!! Right from the beginning I loved Callie; young, adventurous and ready to take on the world well at least after college :) The story flowed perfectly, with all the events cumulating into one "big" one where Cassie accepts whatever is coming her way. She is a young girl who has to grow up fast and I feel that she does this perfectly. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends in a heart beat!
March 9, 2013
I got this book free in exchange for an honest review.
Gees, these are so hard to write.
First off--two stars on Goodreads translates to "It's okay" and not "it's the worst book ever." And Devour is an okay book.
The Chapter Headings rock. Once Upon a Time Covers did a great job there and Heltsley does a great job acknowledging her editor, cover designer, formaters, etc.
The story is mildly intriguing. I found it easy to put down. There was rarely a moment that I had to know what happened. (There was one.)
I liked the Hero and Heroine. The "other guy" was unlikeable and had no redeeming qualities. Which is odd considering how the story unfolds.
What stood in the way of me really liking the story was the inconsistent dialogue. Sometimes the characters would speak like an old vampire race and other times they were speaking like fourteen year olds.
I think this novel is a Young Adult/New Adult intent, but it's geared toward the young, young adult. Young Adult is often read by actual adults, but I doubt they would like this. I'm 28 and felt the characters (mainly internal thoughts and dialogue) were childish.
The "other guy" had no character development or arc. Actually no characters had that. But the Hero and Heroine did start out single and end up together. Their characters just didn't change or progress.
But it's still a book I finished and if it was a bad book I wouldn't have.
The concept is good. It just seems a better "world" could have been created if the same information was repeated to the readers again and again.
Gees, these are so hard to write.
First off--two stars on Goodreads translates to "It's okay" and not "it's the worst book ever." And Devour is an okay book.
The Chapter Headings rock. Once Upon a Time Covers did a great job there and Heltsley does a great job acknowledging her editor, cover designer, formaters, etc.
The story is mildly intriguing. I found it easy to put down. There was rarely a moment that I had to know what happened. (There was one.)
I liked the Hero and Heroine. The "other guy" was unlikeable and had no redeeming qualities. Which is odd considering how the story unfolds.
What stood in the way of me really liking the story was the inconsistent dialogue. Sometimes the characters would speak like an old vampire race and other times they were speaking like fourteen year olds.
I think this novel is a Young Adult/New Adult intent, but it's geared toward the young, young adult. Young Adult is often read by actual adults, but I doubt they would like this. I'm 28 and felt the characters (mainly internal thoughts and dialogue) were childish.
The "other guy" had no character development or arc. Actually no characters had that. But the Hero and Heroine did start out single and end up together. Their characters just didn't change or progress.
But it's still a book I finished and if it was a bad book I wouldn't have.
The concept is good. It just seems a better "world" could have been created if the same information was repeated to the readers again and again.
November 17, 2013
What an interesting group of characters. I really liked Callie (at the beginning) and loved her spirited ways. She’s a girl that knows what she wants and isn’t going to be pushed by her parents or the vampire council.
I actually thought, quite a few times, that she was going to do things that are completely against vampire rules. But, she’s not a bad girl, she just doesn’t want to be pushed into something she doesn’t want to do. I love characters who can stand up for themselves. It’s refreshing and fun to see.
And then, I think it was 43% in, we have the vampire ball. Oh my goodness… Can we say insta love? I was so interested in this story and then the insta love totally threw it for me. It was like she was drugged. I mean, I get that love is an actual drug but man… this was just too sweet. Callie pretty much changed her plans and her life to be with her new beau. I understand the true mating thing but I wish there would have been something more to the ritual, or something more so that I didn’t come away wanting to gag myself!
But all in all the book was very easy to read. Absolutely flew by on a wonderful rainy afternoon! I did really enjoy Andrea’s writing and I am looking forward to seeing if I enjoy her other work. Although there was a hiccup with Callie, I did enjoy the other characters and the plot was pretty good.
If you enjoy paranormal romance, this is definitely an easy read that you can sink your teeth into ;)
I actually thought, quite a few times, that she was going to do things that are completely against vampire rules. But, she’s not a bad girl, she just doesn’t want to be pushed into something she doesn’t want to do. I love characters who can stand up for themselves. It’s refreshing and fun to see.
And then, I think it was 43% in, we have the vampire ball. Oh my goodness… Can we say insta love? I was so interested in this story and then the insta love totally threw it for me. It was like she was drugged. I mean, I get that love is an actual drug but man… this was just too sweet. Callie pretty much changed her plans and her life to be with her new beau. I understand the true mating thing but I wish there would have been something more to the ritual, or something more so that I didn’t come away wanting to gag myself!
But all in all the book was very easy to read. Absolutely flew by on a wonderful rainy afternoon! I did really enjoy Andrea’s writing and I am looking forward to seeing if I enjoy her other work. Although there was a hiccup with Callie, I did enjoy the other characters and the plot was pretty good.
If you enjoy paranormal romance, this is definitely an easy read that you can sink your teeth into ;)
March 1, 2013
Absolutely loved this book!I was captivated by the blurb,I need to find out how things turned out.It was a intense read.I felt what the characters were feeling.I was actually almost in a total panic to find out their fate.
The night before the blood ball or "coming out" ball,Callie and Jane go out hunting at a local club just like they always do.Never did they think a normal night would turn into a nightmare.After drinking from Chase, Callie wipes his memory just as she is suppose to do only for someone reason it doesn't stick.When her and her mom run into him the next day in town,he remembers her and what she is.Desperate to fix this her mom brings him home and locks him in a room until they can properly erase his memory.Meanwhile Callie goes the blood ball and is determined to find a suitable mate but never did she expect to find her true mate.As Callie and Cody start their bonding,Cody and his family is pulled into the chaos cause by Chase.They must face the counsel and hope no one loses their life.A strange discovery may save their lives but may wreck havoc on others.Will Cody and Callie be able to finally finish their mating ritual and be together forever or will they be torn apart? Why is Chase immune to vampire powers and will he live long enough to come to terms with this discovery?
The night before the blood ball or "coming out" ball,Callie and Jane go out hunting at a local club just like they always do.Never did they think a normal night would turn into a nightmare.After drinking from Chase, Callie wipes his memory just as she is suppose to do only for someone reason it doesn't stick.When her and her mom run into him the next day in town,he remembers her and what she is.Desperate to fix this her mom brings him home and locks him in a room until they can properly erase his memory.Meanwhile Callie goes the blood ball and is determined to find a suitable mate but never did she expect to find her true mate.As Callie and Cody start their bonding,Cody and his family is pulled into the chaos cause by Chase.They must face the counsel and hope no one loses their life.A strange discovery may save their lives but may wreck havoc on others.Will Cody and Callie be able to finally finish their mating ritual and be together forever or will they be torn apart? Why is Chase immune to vampire powers and will he live long enough to come to terms with this discovery?
March 9, 2013
Note: I received this book directly from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is the fourth book I've read by this author so far, and I have to say, this is by far my favourite story by her. Once I started, I wasn't able to put this book down!
So often I read books that are so predictable, and I assumed this would be just like the rest. Boy was I wrong! I think this was the first book I've read so far this year where the girl didn't end up with the boy I assumed right off the bat. It was very refreshing!
My actual rating for this book was 3.5, but I always round up. I really, really liked the book, but it wasn't quite love. I felt like there was a little something missing. Something a bit more dramatic as a climax would have totally pushed this story over the top. Even without, I had a ton of fun with this book.
I think my favourite part of the entire story is the idea of a "blood high." I thought that was a very unique take, and even though I've heard of things similiar to it in other books, I've never heard it phrased that way, and I really liked it.
I'd recommend this book to anyone that likes a paranormal vampire story.
This is the fourth book I've read by this author so far, and I have to say, this is by far my favourite story by her. Once I started, I wasn't able to put this book down!
So often I read books that are so predictable, and I assumed this would be just like the rest. Boy was I wrong! I think this was the first book I've read so far this year where the girl didn't end up with the boy I assumed right off the bat. It was very refreshing!
My actual rating for this book was 3.5, but I always round up. I really, really liked the book, but it wasn't quite love. I felt like there was a little something missing. Something a bit more dramatic as a climax would have totally pushed this story over the top. Even without, I had a ton of fun with this book.
I think my favourite part of the entire story is the idea of a "blood high." I thought that was a very unique take, and even though I've heard of things similiar to it in other books, I've never heard it phrased that way, and I really liked it.
I'd recommend this book to anyone that likes a paranormal vampire story.
November 18, 2013
I recieved this book free in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book i have read by this author. Devour is a story about Vampires imagine they live in your community they do everything you do they shop at the mall go to night clubs and they feed off the innocent humans. After they feed off you they wipe your mind. Than they go home and sleep and you go on living your life. If by chance a Vampire forgets to wipe the Humans mind they just fed off of they would be sentenced to death. Callie experiences dread when she realizes she did not succeed when she mind wiped Chase he still remembers her and how erotic it was for him when she drank his blood. This book is a fantastic read. I felt like i was living the characters lifes. I look forward to reading more books by Andrea Heltsley
March 16, 2013
I read this book in exchange for an honest review so here goes.
It all starts off when the night before the Blood Ball, Callie goes hunting and everything goes wrong after she picks the wrong human, and cannot wipe his memory, so she lives in fear of the death sentence for the discovery of her race. First off I enjoyed this book and read it in a day. The whole concept was good, the hunting, the Blood Ball and the Mating ceremony and I really liked Cody and Callie even though they kind of annoyed me sometimes with the whole lovey dovey stuff. Jane too was a great character, she was a really good friend that everybody would want to have. There were some interesting twists too that will make you want to read till the very end.
It all starts off when the night before the Blood Ball, Callie goes hunting and everything goes wrong after she picks the wrong human, and cannot wipe his memory, so she lives in fear of the death sentence for the discovery of her race. First off I enjoyed this book and read it in a day. The whole concept was good, the hunting, the Blood Ball and the Mating ceremony and I really liked Cody and Callie even though they kind of annoyed me sometimes with the whole lovey dovey stuff. Jane too was a great character, she was a really good friend that everybody would want to have. There were some interesting twists too that will make you want to read till the very end.
March 14, 2013
I really enjoyed this book and thought that it was an interesting take on vampires. The story was well developed and flowed smoothly. There were some interesting twists and alot of great characters.
Callie was a likeable heroine, although she acted very immaturely at times. I loved Cody - her was a perfect hero and so devoted to Callie. Jane, Callie's best friend, was a great character - she was very fiesty and I'm kind of hoping that the author will write a second book focusing on Jane. Chase's character appealed to me at first, but he got super annoying - although he started to redeem himself in my eyes at the end of the book.
If you enjoy YA vampire stories, then I think you'll enjoy this book.
Callie was a likeable heroine, although she acted very immaturely at times. I loved Cody - her was a perfect hero and so devoted to Callie. Jane, Callie's best friend, was a great character - she was very fiesty and I'm kind of hoping that the author will write a second book focusing on Jane. Chase's character appealed to me at first, but he got super annoying - although he started to redeem himself in my eyes at the end of the book.
If you enjoy YA vampire stories, then I think you'll enjoy this book.
November 30, 2013
My Thoughts - 3 out of 5 unicorns - I liked it!!
**Received this book as part of Authors & Readers Convention for an honest review
The cover is beautiful, and I really love it. Purple is my favorite color, so I loved her eyes :)
Okay, this book is okay, but it didn’t do anything special for me. This is just like a teen as far as infatuation and lust. It is basically about a teen dating, so you hear about a bunch of dates. The end was better, but there just wasn’t enough action for me or emotional connection to invest me. I haven’t seen anything to indicate this is a series. I will definitely try some of this author’s other books because she has quite an assortment of paranormal books which is my favorite.
I think teens who are into romance and dating would love this book.
**Received this book as part of Authors & Readers Convention for an honest review
The cover is beautiful, and I really love it. Purple is my favorite color, so I loved her eyes :)
Okay, this book is okay, but it didn’t do anything special for me. This is just like a teen as far as infatuation and lust. It is basically about a teen dating, so you hear about a bunch of dates. The end was better, but there just wasn’t enough action for me or emotional connection to invest me. I haven’t seen anything to indicate this is a series. I will definitely try some of this author’s other books because she has quite an assortment of paranormal books which is my favorite.
I think teens who are into romance and dating would love this book.
May 14, 2013
I loved a lot of different things that Ms. Heltsley incorporated into this story. The banter the two participated in was really fun. Jane and Callie had an amazing friendship that jumps out of the pages.
I love these two!
Together they’re off the charts!!!
My Rating
4.0 Violet halo, Amber halo, Blood Ball, First Dance, Stolen Kiss, Dhampir, True Mates, Castle, Everlasting Love filled stars!! If you like paranormal, and are in a mood for a fun light read, you will devour, Devour!!! :)
Full Review @http://www.abookishescape.com/2013/05...
I love these two!
Together they’re off the charts!!!
My Rating
4.0 Violet halo, Amber halo, Blood Ball, First Dance, Stolen Kiss, Dhampir, True Mates, Castle, Everlasting Love filled stars!! If you like paranormal, and are in a mood for a fun light read, you will devour, Devour!!! :)
Full Review @http://www.abookishescape.com/2013/05...
September 19, 2013
Loved it. The story could have branched in many ways, but Heltsley did it perfectly. Royal vampires are a fav of mine. This story could have gone several different directions. She gives just the right amount of action and romance that I like.
Callie is determined, but love steps in the way. Her dreams and ambitions change a bit, but love does that to you. It doesn't mean they go on hold, just change to be together. Life throws you curveballs, you catch them and go on...even in the vampire world.
Love her other series too. Can't wait for the up and coming.
Callie is determined, but love steps in the way. Her dreams and ambitions change a bit, but love does that to you. It doesn't mean they go on hold, just change to be together. Life throws you curveballs, you catch them and go on...even in the vampire world.
Love her other series too. Can't wait for the up and coming.
May 19, 2013
What a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon! I started this gem late last night and had the pleasure of finishing it up today. With the exception of The Warden's Lover At Last, I haven't read anything paranormal in a while. I've been all about contemporary romance.
Devour was a refreshing change of pace!
The writing was smooth, the characters interesting and believable. It was also nice to see a romance between a h/h that wasn't in a constant state of back and forth turmoil. Looking forward to reading more from this author!
Devour was a refreshing change of pace!
The writing was smooth, the characters interesting and believable. It was also nice to see a romance between a h/h that wasn't in a constant state of back and forth turmoil. Looking forward to reading more from this author!
May 27, 2013
I have to admit to being neither young adult or new adult but still enjoyed this book very much.
It was an interesting concept to have young vampires going out and feeding from humans and then erasing their memories until they find their mate at the 'blood ball'. Trouble naturally follows when one human doesn't forget which could lead to the death of both the human and the vampire.
I don't know if this is a stand alone book or if their will be a sequel but if there is, I will definitely be reading it
It was an interesting concept to have young vampires going out and feeding from humans and then erasing their memories until they find their mate at the 'blood ball'. Trouble naturally follows when one human doesn't forget which could lead to the death of both the human and the vampire.
I don't know if this is a stand alone book or if their will be a sequel but if there is, I will definitely be reading it
March 6, 2013
I was given this book for an honest review.
The story flowed fairly well and the characters were developed nicely. I love the vampire aspect and I read the whole book in one sitting!
The present tense was a little confusing and the mating/bond part wasn't completely understandable for me.
Other than that, I really enjoyed this book!
The story flowed fairly well and the characters were developed nicely. I love the vampire aspect and I read the whole book in one sitting!
The present tense was a little confusing and the mating/bond part wasn't completely understandable for me.
Other than that, I really enjoyed this book!
March 18, 2013
I love this book. I love characters. I'm giving 5 stars.
April 5, 2013
Couldnt finish.
January 10, 2015
Review to follow on Audible
August 1, 2015
The book start off with a good bang and ends with a serious WOW factor. I would love to see a second book
April 21, 2013
I am, was, and probably always will be, a vampire fan-girl. Before I started blogging & reviewing books, all you had to do was mention vampires and I was automatically interested. And I probably loved the book, even if it was just ok. If I had read this book back then, I would have loved it. Now, I just liked it. They story certainly sucked me in but it seemed to have been written in such a way where I am not supposed to know their society and just take everything as it came. There was little set-up; as rules & laws & traditions were introduced as they came up I had to just go with it. They made sense, but I like some set up or more explanation when things come up. Again, if you've ever read a review by me, I will almost never complain about too much information.
And then the love story. Talk about insta-love to the nth degree. The word love was used 123 times. True, not all of those times are between Callie & her man, but "I love you" or some combo was used 58 times. O_O. Again, sometimes it was to parents, or talking about dresses, but there are other adjectives. They should have to work for that love, not be "true mates" and like magic, they are in love. The whole mating process was fascinating and I would have loved more information on it. There were parts, like the true mate thing, that were never fully explained. What makes a true mate different from a regular mate? If they can test blood to prove it, why don't they test everyone's blood to find their true mates?
One more little thing, then I will move onto why I liked the book ... Callie sometimes has an aside to the reader. NO. Don't do that, it makes me crazy. It sucks (Look at me making vampire jokes today!). That's not a direct quote, but pretty much exactly how it looked in the story.
Now, Callie is a pretty realistic character most of the time. She messes up, gets in trouble, pouts, but eventually owns up to her mistake and takes the punishment. She goes to the ball to find a mate, even though she doesn't want to, and is pleasantly surprised. (More back story here would have been nice too, but I digress). Her friend Jane is a riot. They are kind of like the snobby rich girls that everyone likes yet no one likes. Which makes them fun to read about.
The male MC (and yes I know his name but it may or may not be who you think it is so I am not telling) is an interesting character. I would have loved to get inside his head from time to time to see what he was thinking. He is very sweet and pretty much perfect, so I have no complaints on that end. Not a love interest for me, but he is still adorable.
If you are a vampire fan-girl, and like YA, you will probably like this book. There are some things, as I mentioned, that aren't exactly plot holes, but things I would have liked more explanation on. The story keeps you guessing, and when not reading I wanted to go back to it to see what was going to happen, so for all that I give it a good 3 1/2 stars.
And then the love story. Talk about insta-love to the nth degree. The word love was used 123 times. True, not all of those times are between Callie & her man, but "I love you" or some combo was used 58 times. O_O. Again, sometimes it was to parents, or talking about dresses, but there are other adjectives. They should have to work for that love, not be "true mates" and like magic, they are in love. The whole mating process was fascinating and I would have loved more information on it. There were parts, like the true mate thing, that were never fully explained. What makes a true mate different from a regular mate? If they can test blood to prove it, why don't they test everyone's blood to find their true mates?
One more little thing, then I will move onto why I liked the book ... Callie sometimes has an aside to the reader. NO. Don't do that, it makes me crazy. It sucks (Look at me making vampire jokes today!). That's not a direct quote, but pretty much exactly how it looked in the story.
Now, Callie is a pretty realistic character most of the time. She messes up, gets in trouble, pouts, but eventually owns up to her mistake and takes the punishment. She goes to the ball to find a mate, even though she doesn't want to, and is pleasantly surprised. (More back story here would have been nice too, but I digress). Her friend Jane is a riot. They are kind of like the snobby rich girls that everyone likes yet no one likes. Which makes them fun to read about.
The male MC (and yes I know his name but it may or may not be who you think it is so I am not telling) is an interesting character. I would have loved to get inside his head from time to time to see what he was thinking. He is very sweet and pretty much perfect, so I have no complaints on that end. Not a love interest for me, but he is still adorable.
If you are a vampire fan-girl, and like YA, you will probably like this book. There are some things, as I mentioned, that aren't exactly plot holes, but things I would have liked more explanation on. The story keeps you guessing, and when not reading I wanted to go back to it to see what was going to happen, so for all that I give it a good 3 1/2 stars.
May 5, 2013
Devour
I’m having mixed feelings about Devour by Andrea Heltsley. The story starts off with Callie, a royal vampire, and her friend Jane going out for a hunt. While at the club Callie finds a human named Chase to feed on and everything from that point on goes to hell. Now I really enjoyed this story. The writing is flawless and it kept me so engaged that I finished the book within a day.
I loved the characters, especially Cody and Jane. But I’m unsure how I feel about the instant love connection. In vampire society, especially the royal ones, every girl has a coming out at what they call a Blood Ball. The whole point is to find their mate, who they will bond with and spend the rest of their unlife with.
I get the concept and I don’t dislike it, but at the same time before the Blood Ball and before everything that happened with Chase (which I will not spoil for you) Callie was dead set on going to college and not worrying about a mate until after she finished school and experienced things. But then she and Cody shared blood and everything changed.
Her entire life became about Cody, and while I love him because he’s hot and sweet, I would have liked to read them getting to know each other better and experiencing things together before they mated. I like the process leading up to the commitment or relationship, just as much as I enjoy the actual relationship.
Other than that I have absolutely no complaints about this story. I really do hope there is a sequel so we can learn more about vampire lore as well as see what is going to happen with Cody and Callie now that they’ve entered the mating process among other things. Heltsley did a great job of creating characters that I want to get to know better. You never can go wrong with vampires!
I’m having mixed feelings about Devour by Andrea Heltsley. The story starts off with Callie, a royal vampire, and her friend Jane going out for a hunt. While at the club Callie finds a human named Chase to feed on and everything from that point on goes to hell. Now I really enjoyed this story. The writing is flawless and it kept me so engaged that I finished the book within a day.
I loved the characters, especially Cody and Jane. But I’m unsure how I feel about the instant love connection. In vampire society, especially the royal ones, every girl has a coming out at what they call a Blood Ball. The whole point is to find their mate, who they will bond with and spend the rest of their unlife with.
I get the concept and I don’t dislike it, but at the same time before the Blood Ball and before everything that happened with Chase (which I will not spoil for you) Callie was dead set on going to college and not worrying about a mate until after she finished school and experienced things. But then she and Cody shared blood and everything changed.
Her entire life became about Cody, and while I love him because he’s hot and sweet, I would have liked to read them getting to know each other better and experiencing things together before they mated. I like the process leading up to the commitment or relationship, just as much as I enjoy the actual relationship.
Other than that I have absolutely no complaints about this story. I really do hope there is a sequel so we can learn more about vampire lore as well as see what is going to happen with Cody and Callie now that they’ve entered the mating process among other things. Heltsley did a great job of creating characters that I want to get to know better. You never can go wrong with vampires!
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