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Star Touched: Vampire Bride #1
Black Sun
Embark on an adventure filled with magic, romance, and epic twists in the first book in USA Today bestselling author Michelle Madow’s Vampire Bride series—a fresh and enchanting take on the classic love story of Hades & Persephone.
Amber Benson has no idea what to do for the rest of her life, let alone what major to pick for college. So when she inherits an apartment in Manhattan from a grandmother she never knew, she moves there faster than a New York minute.
Her plan to find herself is soon derailed—on the subway, where she’s attacked by demons.
Even crazier? She defends herself with something she never knew existed: magic.
But it's not her newfound ability that saves her. It’s the intervention of a mesmerizing warrior with otherworldly grace… who then proceeds to kidnap her to a supernatural kingdom hidden in the heart of the city.
Because Amber’s savior—Damien Fairmont—is a king. A vampire king.
And he’s just declared to his entire kingdom that Amber’s destined to be his bride, whether she wants to be or not.
But trying to escape her so-called destiny as Damien’s queen isn’t Amber’s only problem. Because dark forces are rising in Manhattan. And now that they’ve gotten a taste of her powerful magic, she’s not just a target for Damien’s affections, but also for the sinister shadows that lurk in the underworld of the city.
Welcome to Black Sun, a fast-paced adventure perfect for fans of fierce heroines and brooding vampire royalty that will leave you turning the pages late into the night, until the very last twist.
Amber Benson has no idea what to do for the rest of her life, let alone what major to pick for college. So when she inherits an apartment in Manhattan from a grandmother she never knew, she moves there faster than a New York minute.
Her plan to find herself is soon derailed—on the subway, where she’s attacked by demons.
Even crazier? She defends herself with something she never knew existed: magic.
But it's not her newfound ability that saves her. It’s the intervention of a mesmerizing warrior with otherworldly grace… who then proceeds to kidnap her to a supernatural kingdom hidden in the heart of the city.
Because Amber’s savior—Damien Fairmont—is a king. A vampire king.
And he’s just declared to his entire kingdom that Amber’s destined to be his bride, whether she wants to be or not.
But trying to escape her so-called destiny as Damien’s queen isn’t Amber’s only problem. Because dark forces are rising in Manhattan. And now that they’ve gotten a taste of her powerful magic, she’s not just a target for Damien’s affections, but also for the sinister shadows that lurk in the underworld of the city.
Welcome to Black Sun, a fast-paced adventure perfect for fans of fierce heroines and brooding vampire royalty that will leave you turning the pages late into the night, until the very last twist.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 13, 2023
1799 people are currently reading
552 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Madow
70 books3,393 followersMichelle Madow is a USA Today bestselling author of fantasy romance novels filled with forbidden love, elemental magic, and epic twists that readers never see coming. With over three million books sold and translations in multiple languages, her addictive stories have captured hearts around the world.
She wrote her first novel in college and never looked back. Now, with 50 books published (and counting), she spends her time dreaming up magical realms and devastating romances that keep readers hooked from page one.
Originally from Maryland, she spent nearly two decades in Florida before a brief chapter in NYC—and now she’s back in the Sunshine State, where golden days fuel her creativity and moonlight sparks her imagination.
When she’s not writing, she’s likely getting lost in the magical world of reading, plotting her next big twist, or reminiscing about her travels to all seven continents.
She wrote her first novel in college and never looked back. Now, with 50 books published (and counting), she spends her time dreaming up magical realms and devastating romances that keep readers hooked from page one.
Originally from Maryland, she spent nearly two decades in Florida before a brief chapter in NYC—and now she’s back in the Sunshine State, where golden days fuel her creativity and moonlight sparks her imagination.
When she’s not writing, she’s likely getting lost in the magical world of reading, plotting her next big twist, or reminiscing about her travels to all seven continents.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
December 14, 2023
This did not work for me at all. There is very limited chemistry between Damien and Amber. On top of that, it starts with a massive violation of consent that he later excuses for the greater good/her own good and that it was not to manipulate her. It made me feel gaslit. The only way to make a manipulative character work is if they own it. The relationship lacks depth and gives very little reason to want the two of them to end up together.
The cover is beautiful though.
The cover is beautiful though.
December 20, 2023
*Source* Kindle Unlimited
*Genre* Paranormal, Romance
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
Michelle Madow's Black Sun is the first installment in the Star Touched: Vampire Bride series. This story is the retelling of the Hades and Persephone classic. 19-year-old Amber Benson has no idea what to do for the rest of her life, let alone what major to pick for college. Originally from Maplewood, Vermont, she has inherited an apartment in Manhattan from a grandmother she never knew, she moves there faster than a New York minute. During a solar eclipse, Amber is touched by a curious woman named Evie.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Paranormal, Romance
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
Michelle Madow's Black Sun is the first installment in the Star Touched: Vampire Bride series. This story is the retelling of the Hades and Persephone classic. 19-year-old Amber Benson has no idea what to do for the rest of her life, let alone what major to pick for college. Originally from Maplewood, Vermont, she has inherited an apartment in Manhattan from a grandmother she never knew, she moves there faster than a New York minute. During a solar eclipse, Amber is touched by a curious woman named Evie.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
June 24, 2024
2,3/5
- straszliwie nudne
- kiepsko zarysowana fabuła
- insta love???
- świat magiczny z potencjałem, ale kompletnie niewykorzystanym
- straszliwie nudne
- kiepsko zarysowana fabuła
- insta love???
- świat magiczny z potencjałem, ale kompletnie niewykorzystanym
did-not-finish
January 10, 2024Sorry, just can't get into the story
November 15, 2024
This was really freaking good. I was pleasantly surprised. Actually no, because NOBODY is talking about it on booktok, therefore, it’s not shit! Only hyped up books on booktok are shit! So nobody talk about this book because I don’t want it to get the booktok curse!
I think this book was like 4.5 stars. The only thing that could have made this book better is if it had spice! But, spice doesn’t make or beak a book. I think it just would have been a full 5 ⭐️ if it did.
The FMC was actually bad ass. She was really smart and didn’t take people’s shit. Did she make a really dumb impulsive decision at the end, yes. But, did she have remorse and actually learn from that mistake, also yes. Which is more than I can say for like Aelin in Throne of Glass who didn’t give a shit whether it affected people or not. This is the first book, so hopefully the FMC stays bad ass and doesn’t suck in the future.
I loved the twists at the end as well. I didn’t see that coming and my jaw hit the floor.
This book reminded me a lot of the Mortal Instruments series.
Hopefully this series stays as good as this first book was.
I think this book was like 4.5 stars. The only thing that could have made this book better is if it had spice! But, spice doesn’t make or beak a book. I think it just would have been a full 5 ⭐️ if it did.
The FMC was actually bad ass. She was really smart and didn’t take people’s shit. Did she make a really dumb impulsive decision at the end, yes. But, did she have remorse and actually learn from that mistake, also yes. Which is more than I can say for like Aelin in Throne of Glass who didn’t give a shit whether it affected people or not. This is the first book, so hopefully the FMC stays bad ass and doesn’t suck in the future.
I loved the twists at the end as well. I didn’t see that coming and my jaw hit the floor.
This book reminded me a lot of the Mortal Instruments series.
Hopefully this series stays as good as this first book was.
October 26, 2025
3.5 stars, 0 on the spice scale.
I picked this up after meeting the author at RARE — her covers are absolutely stunning, and I was curious to dive into her world. What I didn’t fully realise is that this is the first in a four-book series following the same characters and overarching story. I’m not entirely sure if it’s meant to be a romance, but there’s definitely a fated-mate vibe between the leads.
The premise is strong: Amber moves to New York and is invited to watch an eclipse from her rooftop. During the eclipse, she’s “star touched” by her neighbour — who turns out to be a Goddess — and gains Sun magic. This kicks off a paranormal adventure where ghouls start hunting her, and she’s rescued by a group of vampires on the subway. One of them, Damien, is the Vampire King and believes Amber is his destined bride. He whisks her away to his mansion/hotel and begins training her to fight and use her powers.
The training arc only lasts a month and felt a bit surface-level — Amber accesses her magic with ease, which made the stakes feel low. There’s a head Ghoul she seems mysteriously drawn to, and while Damien is clearly positioned as the romantic lead, the tension is minimal. One kiss, no real payoff. We’re also introduced to werewolves and another witch, setting up future plotlines.
The book is heavy on action — quests, mini-battles, villain setup — but light on emotional depth. I liked the concept and the writing was solid, but I wanted more romance.
I picked this up after meeting the author at RARE — her covers are absolutely stunning, and I was curious to dive into her world. What I didn’t fully realise is that this is the first in a four-book series following the same characters and overarching story. I’m not entirely sure if it’s meant to be a romance, but there’s definitely a fated-mate vibe between the leads.
The premise is strong: Amber moves to New York and is invited to watch an eclipse from her rooftop. During the eclipse, she’s “star touched” by her neighbour — who turns out to be a Goddess — and gains Sun magic. This kicks off a paranormal adventure where ghouls start hunting her, and she’s rescued by a group of vampires on the subway. One of them, Damien, is the Vampire King and believes Amber is his destined bride. He whisks her away to his mansion/hotel and begins training her to fight and use her powers.
The training arc only lasts a month and felt a bit surface-level — Amber accesses her magic with ease, which made the stakes feel low. There’s a head Ghoul she seems mysteriously drawn to, and while Damien is clearly positioned as the romantic lead, the tension is minimal. One kiss, no real payoff. We’re also introduced to werewolves and another witch, setting up future plotlines.
The book is heavy on action — quests, mini-battles, villain setup — but light on emotional depth. I liked the concept and the writing was solid, but I wanted more romance.
December 14, 2023
For Amber moving to a new city was an adventure she couldn’t wait for. Amber had moved into her grandmothers apartment that had been left to her after her grandmother passed away she didn’t know her grandmother well but was grateful for the opportunity to move away from the town she grew up in to start afresh however shortly after moving in that’s when her life took on something new that she never would have dreamed off.
You see while unpacking her new neighbour introduced herself and invited her to watch the eclipse that was due to happen and in that moment the course of Amber’s life changes as that same neighbour is not just any woman but a Goddess I kid you not she’s a magical Goddess and one that has gifted Amber with powers and the magic she contains is about to upend her life in a way Amber never would have thought possible.
Through no fault of her own other than wrong place wrong time or so she thought Amber now has an evil enemy that wants not just her magic but her soul and the mysterious man who saved her from danger is so much more than what he seems you see he’s a Vampire yes I kid you not a Vampire but he wants Amber completely to be his woman and his Queen. This is an adventure that dreams and nightmares are made off. Can Amber defeat the Shadow Lord who wants her soul and magic she contains and build trust with Damien the Vampire King in her life who wants her to join with him in marriage and rule his people by becoming their Queen and his love. Wow this is one adventure Amber never saw coming but she has to fight to live through it all and maybe find her happy ending well if they can stay alive long enough only time will tell!!
You see while unpacking her new neighbour introduced herself and invited her to watch the eclipse that was due to happen and in that moment the course of Amber’s life changes as that same neighbour is not just any woman but a Goddess I kid you not she’s a magical Goddess and one that has gifted Amber with powers and the magic she contains is about to upend her life in a way Amber never would have thought possible.
Through no fault of her own other than wrong place wrong time or so she thought Amber now has an evil enemy that wants not just her magic but her soul and the mysterious man who saved her from danger is so much more than what he seems you see he’s a Vampire yes I kid you not a Vampire but he wants Amber completely to be his woman and his Queen. This is an adventure that dreams and nightmares are made off. Can Amber defeat the Shadow Lord who wants her soul and magic she contains and build trust with Damien the Vampire King in her life who wants her to join with him in marriage and rule his people by becoming their Queen and his love. Wow this is one adventure Amber never saw coming but she has to fight to live through it all and maybe find her happy ending well if they can stay alive long enough only time will tell!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 14, 2023
I don’t normally enjoy vampire books, and I’ve only read a couple of them over the years that I liked, but I love Michelle Madow as an author, so I thought I’d give it a try. Right off the bat, we meet characters from her last series of book, so I already felt right at home. But if you don’t really like vampire stories, you might be dragged into the story from he beginning. This book is worth trying, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
February 10, 2024
The story is typical king finds his queen that has powers but was living in a human world. When they switched characters I didn’t feel like it was a different person speaking. The way it was written was easy to read (felt like middle school reading level maybe?) but seemed to switch from first person to third person a lot which made it less enjoyable. It was short and mostly clean (one curse word and only a couple sexual innuendos).
December 4, 2023
(Review based on preview copy) I’ve read pretty much everything Michelle has released, and this was one of the best. I don’t give out 5 stars for just anything. While I enjoyed the shifter series in this “Star Touched” group, I couldn’t get into them as much as this one. Great book with twists I did not see coming! Keep up the good work!
December 6, 2023
Book one in a new series and it’s very good. The story keeps you enthralled from beginning to end. It’s going to be a cracking series that’s for sure. I enjoyed every word and I am looking forward to book two already. Highly recommended.
December 13, 2023
Book one in a new series and it’s very good. The story keeps you enthralled from beginning to end. It’s going to be a cracking series that’s for sure. I enjoyed every word and I am looking forward to book two. Highly recommended
January 8, 2024
Another great book by Michelle. The start wasnt what I am used to by her and felt like it was a bit rushed. Then the storyline slowly starts and even tho I liked it, it took me a long time to get into the flow. Amber has a lot of great moments and shows her stubborness. Damien I dont know he is very hot and cold and I disliked his statement that she is his bride without her consent or even knowing her.
December 8, 2023
Amber becomes next star touched heroine in this new series. She is saved in a subway attack by Damien who is a vampire King. He wants her to be his queen and then the suspense builds!
December 8, 2024
Amber Benson has no idea what to do for the rest of her life, let alone what major to pick for college. So when she inherits an apartment in Manhattan from a grandmother she never knew, she moves there faster than a New York minute.
Her plan to find herself is soon derailed—on the subway, where she’s attacked by demons.
Even crazier? She defends herself with something she never knew existed: magic.
But it's not her newfound ability that saves her. It’s the intervention of a mesmerizing warrior with otherworldly grace… who then proceeds to kidnap her to a supernatural kingdom hidden in the heart of the city.
Because Amber’s savior—Damien Fairmont—is a king. A vampire king.
And he’s just declared to his entire kingdom that Amber’s destined to be his bride, whether she wants to be or not.
But trying to escape her so-called destiny as Damien’s queen isn’t Amber’s only problem. Because dark forces are rising in Manhattan. And now that they’ve gotten a taste of her powerful magic, she’s not just a target for Damien’s affections, but also for the sinister shadows that lurk in the underworld of the city.
4.5 ★
Be prepared for a thrilling ride!
Intriguing characters and an action-packed storyline. These are only some of the many aspects of this book that I adore. While pursuing my associate's degree, I read Vampire Academy , which sparked my interest in vampire books. Over the years, I have read several vampire novels, but what I enjoy most about Black Sun is that it is unlike other vampire stories. The entire story kept me on the edge of my seat, and by the time I finished, I was eager to read the second book in the series because of how the first one ended. You can't help but wonder what will happen to Amber next and how that will affect her relationship with Damien because of how the first book ended.
Apart from Morgan and Damien, Amber was my favorite character in the novel. Her fierceness is something I adore. I’m curious to see if Amber would develop feelings for Damien; that doesn’t mean she would want to be his bride. I like Damien; at least, most of the time, I do. However, I wouldn’t say I liked how he forced that bond on her and tricked her. If it were me, I would have trouble trusting him after that. He didn't show it initially, but I could see how much he cared for Amber as the story continued. I can't wait to see what will happen to Amber and Damien next. There isn't yet a distinctive bond; now, I think Damien cares about Amber more than she does about him. I’m curious to see if those feelings might change.
Since she was first introduced in the last series, I have liked Morgan, and now I adore her. I'm delighted we saw more of her in the upcoming books, as I had hoped. Ruby's story in the Wolf Born series was enjoyable, but I'm already captivated by this series. This one doesn't feel as hurried and seems to have more action. I can’t wait to see what happens with Amber, Damien, and everyone else in the next book.
Her plan to find herself is soon derailed—on the subway, where she’s attacked by demons.
Even crazier? She defends herself with something she never knew existed: magic.
But it's not her newfound ability that saves her. It’s the intervention of a mesmerizing warrior with otherworldly grace… who then proceeds to kidnap her to a supernatural kingdom hidden in the heart of the city.
Because Amber’s savior—Damien Fairmont—is a king. A vampire king.
And he’s just declared to his entire kingdom that Amber’s destined to be his bride, whether she wants to be or not.
But trying to escape her so-called destiny as Damien’s queen isn’t Amber’s only problem. Because dark forces are rising in Manhattan. And now that they’ve gotten a taste of her powerful magic, she’s not just a target for Damien’s affections, but also for the sinister shadows that lurk in the underworld of the city.
4.5 ★
Be prepared for a thrilling ride!
Intriguing characters and an action-packed storyline. These are only some of the many aspects of this book that I adore. While pursuing my associate's degree, I read Vampire Academy , which sparked my interest in vampire books. Over the years, I have read several vampire novels, but what I enjoy most about Black Sun is that it is unlike other vampire stories. The entire story kept me on the edge of my seat, and by the time I finished, I was eager to read the second book in the series because of how the first one ended. You can't help but wonder what will happen to Amber next and how that will affect her relationship with Damien because of how the first book ended.
Apart from Morgan and Damien, Amber was my favorite character in the novel. Her fierceness is something I adore. I’m curious to see if Amber would develop feelings for Damien; that doesn’t mean she would want to be his bride. I like Damien; at least, most of the time, I do. However, I wouldn’t say I liked how he forced that bond on her and tricked her. If it were me, I would have trouble trusting him after that. He didn't show it initially, but I could see how much he cared for Amber as the story continued. I can't wait to see what will happen to Amber and Damien next. There isn't yet a distinctive bond; now, I think Damien cares about Amber more than she does about him. I’m curious to see if those feelings might change.
Since she was first introduced in the last series, I have liked Morgan, and now I adore her. I'm delighted we saw more of her in the upcoming books, as I had hoped. Ruby's story in the Wolf Born series was enjoyable, but I'm already captivated by this series. This one doesn't feel as hurried and seems to have more action. I can’t wait to see what happens with Amber, Damien, and everyone else in the next book.
December 5, 2023
I’ve read a lot of this author’s books and enjoyed them, so I always look forward to hearing more about her next book! I received an ARC of this book and I started reading it straightaway! After reading, I can say that I liked this book a lot! The plot pretty much stated from a few pages in and a lot of secrets were revealed in a short space of time! I also knew that this book was set in the same world as this author’s other series and I’ve only read a few books in that series, but I was still able to work out what had happened in that series and how to connected to this series! There was the start of a romance between the two main characters and I definitely see it developing further as the series progresses! There was also some action and suspense in the book, which added to the plot and made me enjoy it more! The characters were also great and added a lot to the plot! Amber was the main female character, and in this book her life changed and she found herself amongst vampires, shifters and demons! I felt for her because it was a lot, but I felt like Amber handled it well and she took it in stride to learn her new powers and become stronger! Damien was the main male character and love interest of Amber! Damien was a vampire king and he had duties to do and people to protect! I found Damien an intriguing character and I wanted to know more about him and his background! I also felt like he had feelings for Amber, but he tried to not act on them and then circumstances did bring them closer together! This book was mainly written from Amber and Damien’s point of views! I have to be honest and say that I thought that it was only going to be written from Amber’s point of view, especially after I read the synopsis! I’m really happy that some chapters were written from Damien’s point of view because it helped me connect more with both characters and see how they were dealing with everything going on! It allowed for a few more things to happen in the plot as well, even though Amber and Damien did spend a lot of the plot together! A few chapters were also written from Morgan’s point of view, who was a secondary character and I think she’s going to be an important character as this series progresses! I now can’t wait to read the next book in this series! I know that the next book releases next month, which isn’t long of a wait at all! I’ll definitely be reading it as soon as it releases and I can’t wait to continue the characters story! The cover for this book is also very pretty and it suits the book perfectly! It would draw me to the book if I didn't already know the author's name and the cover model suits the character of Amber! Big thank you to Michelle for an ARC of Black Sun!
March 7, 2024
It was actually okay, but may be a bit too cringe for people over 25 years old.
I liked Amber, but I wish she had fought harder when she was declared a "bride" against her will. I mean, she was upset, but "upset" didn't fit the bill. I was looking for a legitimate and realistic reaction, like rage. Also, when the servant gave her a hint about the dinner, I didn't understand how she could proceed to ignore it. Seeing as this all happened at the same dinner, the results of that, combined with the declaration, warranted that overall RAGE that I mentioned earlier. I like an FMC with some grit and intelligence, but Amber just folds too quickly, and her inner dialog does not come close to matching her actions. To me, Damien seems a bit like a selfish and spoiled a$$h*!!. The nerve he has to act all hurt and then force the feelings upon her are a bit much to handle. I get that she's a baby and that at 19, all this is a lot to swallow, but right is right, wrong is wrong, and too much is enough. Even I realized that much at that age.
Another thing I found odd is that Amber never inquires about Eve's relationship with her grandmother. Whether it was a real relationship or a fictitious one, wouldn't you still want to know how this goddess knew your grandma? And, seeing as she'd just moved, why did she never enquire about her things, or the apartment she'd just inherited, which now sits empty? And, how and when did Amber learn all about vampires and supernatural society? It's implied that Ruby's mom told her, but even if it was just a blurb, why was that part excluded? That would have made much more sense than Amber seeming to suddenly know all of these impossible things about an entire society she knew nothing at all about just days ago. We are also all supposed to already know about Morgan and her sisters reasons for hiding out. Apparently, there are more series before this one, and those of us who didn't read them are not allowed to know what the heck is going on.
Overall, I think this was a decently entertaining book, even though parts seemed to drag on and on. But, I definitely think this is a book for a "younger and don't know any better" crowd. If you're a fully grown and experienced adult, you may find some of the scenes a little too lackluster and irritating for you to excuse the FMC. For those reasons, I'm not sure I'll even bother with book 2. Thanks for the ride, though.
I liked Amber, but I wish she had fought harder when she was declared a "bride" against her will. I mean, she was upset, but "upset" didn't fit the bill. I was looking for a legitimate and realistic reaction, like rage. Also, when the servant gave her a hint about the dinner, I didn't understand how she could proceed to ignore it. Seeing as this all happened at the same dinner, the results of that, combined with the declaration, warranted that overall RAGE that I mentioned earlier. I like an FMC with some grit and intelligence, but Amber just folds too quickly, and her inner dialog does not come close to matching her actions. To me, Damien seems a bit like a selfish and spoiled a$$h*!!. The nerve he has to act all hurt and then force the feelings upon her are a bit much to handle. I get that she's a baby and that at 19, all this is a lot to swallow, but right is right, wrong is wrong, and too much is enough. Even I realized that much at that age.
Another thing I found odd is that Amber never inquires about Eve's relationship with her grandmother. Whether it was a real relationship or a fictitious one, wouldn't you still want to know how this goddess knew your grandma? And, seeing as she'd just moved, why did she never enquire about her things, or the apartment she'd just inherited, which now sits empty? And, how and when did Amber learn all about vampires and supernatural society? It's implied that Ruby's mom told her, but even if it was just a blurb, why was that part excluded? That would have made much more sense than Amber seeming to suddenly know all of these impossible things about an entire society she knew nothing at all about just days ago. We are also all supposed to already know about Morgan and her sisters reasons for hiding out. Apparently, there are more series before this one, and those of us who didn't read them are not allowed to know what the heck is going on.
Overall, I think this was a decently entertaining book, even though parts seemed to drag on and on. But, I definitely think this is a book for a "younger and don't know any better" crowd. If you're a fully grown and experienced adult, you may find some of the scenes a little too lackluster and irritating for you to excuse the FMC. For those reasons, I'm not sure I'll even bother with book 2. Thanks for the ride, though.
December 16, 2023
Excellent beginning to a new series. I've never read a book from Ms Madow that I didn't enjoy!
Amber didn't know she had magic, until a Goddess Opens up the magic in her & gives her more.
She joins up with a witch & 2 vampires to save the world from evil soul sucking creatures.
Great plotting, great characters, & (this is getting rarer & rarer in the paranormal genre), no gratuitous adult scenes. I am not suggesting this is a children's book. It is intelligently written, & this 66 y.o. thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm really looking forward to the future releases from this series.
There is an "enemies to lovers" subplot; but fortunately it's resolved in this book (I say fortunately, because I don't know about you, but I've never seen E2L happen in real life, & I don't know why that's become a paranormal genre "thing".
Though I'm old, I Just got into the modern paranormal genre about 2 years ago, & I would definitely place Ms Madow in my top 5 authors of the genre; possibly #1. If you like the PN genre, you can't go wrong with her books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Amber didn't know she had magic, until a Goddess Opens up the magic in her & gives her more.
She joins up with a witch & 2 vampires to save the world from evil soul sucking creatures.
Great plotting, great characters, & (this is getting rarer & rarer in the paranormal genre), no gratuitous adult scenes. I am not suggesting this is a children's book. It is intelligently written, & this 66 y.o. thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm really looking forward to the future releases from this series.
There is an "enemies to lovers" subplot; but fortunately it's resolved in this book (I say fortunately, because I don't know about you, but I've never seen E2L happen in real life, & I don't know why that's become a paranormal genre "thing".
Though I'm old, I Just got into the modern paranormal genre about 2 years ago, & I would definitely place Ms Madow in my top 5 authors of the genre; possibly #1. If you like the PN genre, you can't go wrong with her books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
December 13, 2023
Amber Benson has inherited an apartment from her grandmother in Manhattan and not knowing what else to do, she heads off and on the subway she is attacked by Demons. She fights them and discovers she has a power she never knew was there. She also gets the help of two men, one being Damien Fairmont, a vampire who whisks her away to his kingdom since he just happens to be a Vampire King. He declares to his people that Amber is going to be his bride. And he will help her control her newfound magic. He explains to her that she is Star Kissed and that makes her very powerful. Now things get crazy and so interesting with evil everywhere and demons wanting to get their hands on Amber and her magic and with Amber not looking to be Damien's bride things go flying page to page until the end! What a fantastic first book in the author's new series! I am totally excited about where this series can go. I received and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
February 15, 2024
Planning to enroll in college and enjoy her inherited apartment Amber Benson goes along with her peppy new neighbor to see the eclipse but awakens in Eve’s apartment with holes in her memory. Next Eve gives Amber a ticket to a show, on the way home by train, Amber’s attacked… by shadow souls (soul-sucking demons). Luckily for Amber, vampire King, Damien Fairmont is on the train to defeat them, he takes her to his nest for protection.
Damien explains Eve’s a sun goddess who imbued Amber with powers and she’s the 2nd known star touched being. He also publicly introduces Amber as his future bride but privately strike a bargain to delay. Meanwhile, some of Damen’s clan don’t want Amber around but need her power to help fight shadow souls from overrunning the world! Rogue vampire leader, Lucas wants Amber and the chaos shadow souls bring. Mistakes, assumptions and betrayal during a quest for a weapon to locate demons cause an unexpected outcome.
Rating: 4stars
Damien explains Eve’s a sun goddess who imbued Amber with powers and she’s the 2nd known star touched being. He also publicly introduces Amber as his future bride but privately strike a bargain to delay. Meanwhile, some of Damen’s clan don’t want Amber around but need her power to help fight shadow souls from overrunning the world! Rogue vampire leader, Lucas wants Amber and the chaos shadow souls bring. Mistakes, assumptions and betrayal during a quest for a weapon to locate demons cause an unexpected outcome.
Rating: 4stars
August 27, 2024
Unless I missed it entirely this is a YA read
It’s still a decent read but everything is pretty obvious. Can’t be 100% sure but I think this series might be later in an ongoing series story arc. Or in other words I might not have started the overreaching plot in the right place. So if I decide to read on I’ll make sure I’m in the right place even if it means putting this specific series on hold .
It’s an urban fantasy read about a young woman (19) who rolls into NYC to occupy an apartment bequeathed to her by a previously unknown family member (gran). She’s taking a gap year before choosing her options at university. It’s a rocky start that gets bad quickly as the supernatural is basically shoved down her throat. It got weird really fast!
Give it a shot it could be right up your alley.
It’s still a decent read but everything is pretty obvious. Can’t be 100% sure but I think this series might be later in an ongoing series story arc. Or in other words I might not have started the overreaching plot in the right place. So if I decide to read on I’ll make sure I’m in the right place even if it means putting this specific series on hold .
It’s an urban fantasy read about a young woman (19) who rolls into NYC to occupy an apartment bequeathed to her by a previously unknown family member (gran). She’s taking a gap year before choosing her options at university. It’s a rocky start that gets bad quickly as the supernatural is basically shoved down her throat. It got weird really fast!
Give it a shot it could be right up your alley.
Read
July 11, 2025Black Sun (Star Touched: Vampire Bride #1)
Black Sun (Star Touched: Vampire Bride #1) ~ Amber Benson’s life changes the moment she’s absolutely! Here are your Amazon-style reviews for the Star Touched: Vampire Bride series by Michelle Madow, now with the correct character names — Amber Benson and Damien Fairmont — and your personal “I loved it” wrap-ups: chosen as a Star Touched bride and taken to the vampire kingdom. What follows is a dark, addictive plunge into a world of blood magic, fear, and forbidden attraction. Damien Fairmont, the ruthless Vampire King, is both terrifying and magnetic. Amber’s resilience shines as she’s thrown into deadly rituals, cruel enemies, and a fate she never asked for. The tension between her and Damien had me hooked from the start.
I loved this book and can’t wait to start the next one!
Black Sun (Star Touched: Vampire Bride #1) ~ Amber Benson’s life changes the moment she’s absolutely! Here are your Amazon-style reviews for the Star Touched: Vampire Bride series by Michelle Madow, now with the correct character names — Amber Benson and Damien Fairmont — and your personal “I loved it” wrap-ups: chosen as a Star Touched bride and taken to the vampire kingdom. What follows is a dark, addictive plunge into a world of blood magic, fear, and forbidden attraction. Damien Fairmont, the ruthless Vampire King, is both terrifying and magnetic. Amber’s resilience shines as she’s thrown into deadly rituals, cruel enemies, and a fate she never asked for. The tension between her and Damien had me hooked from the start.
I loved this book and can’t wait to start the next one!
December 13, 2023
Amber moved to Manhattan when she inherited an apartment from her grandmother - who she never knew. After a lunar eclipse, she apparently gained powers she didn't know she had until she was attacked on the subway by demons. She instinctively blasted one to ash. She was then whisked away by two guys on the train who also fought the demons. She found out later that one was Damien - King of the Vampires and apparently she was to be his queen - so he said. There was a rising evil in the city and they were after her for the power that she had. She has to stay (for the time being) and learn to fight.
December 13, 2023
This was sooooooo good! It’s a fantastic start to this series told with a fresh and enchanting take on the classic love story of Hades & Persephone. Well written, the author has definitely put their spin on this tale and you find yourself glued to the pages unable to stop reading. Incredible world building, intriguing and fascinating storyline and characters that are strong, exciting and has you on the edge of your seat as their journey is just beginning. Witches, vampires, demons, magic, romance, this draws you in from start to finish as we follow Amber and Damien and I have to say, I am definitely looking forward to reading more.
December 16, 2023
Enthralled. Every time I start reading I am enthralled with this story that I don’t want to put it down. Realistic personalities that grab the readers attention. Amber is a nineteen year old starting out in life trying to find her calling only it found her. King of the Uptown Clan, Damien Fairmont is out battling the darkness from overtaking Manhattan let alone New York City only he finds his queen. High intense drama and action leaves angst and edge of your seat anticipation. I cannot wait to read book 2 because finding out Amber is star touched and the North Star is pretty incredible. Plus Ruby has her own story and she premieres as the first star touched witch-shifter.
January 3, 2024
I enjoyed reading this first book of the series. I am certainly looking forward to the next. Michelle Madow did a fantastic job of including characters from other series into this one. but it is not necessary to read the other series to follow along. The main Character is Amber she recently moved to NYC into an apartment she inherited from her Grandmother. She has not really settled in yet when her world turns upside down. The pace of the book is great I had difficulty putting it down as I do with all of this authors works.
March 27, 2024
I was interested to see where this would go next since this is still continuing on from her last series.
Its an interesting take on Vampires and connecting everything together was interesting.
The main character is very strong willed and stubborn which is good for entering a new world they had no idea about, it was interesting watching her interact with the people around her and start to see how she interacts with this world.
Its a whirl wide of a store and its interesting to see what is going to happen next
Its an interesting take on Vampires and connecting everything together was interesting.
The main character is very strong willed and stubborn which is good for entering a new world they had no idea about, it was interesting watching her interact with the people around her and start to see how she interacts with this world.
Its a whirl wide of a store and its interesting to see what is going to happen next
June 11, 2024
Builds quickly
Action and adventure build quickly and grabs your attention. Starts off better than most series - with immediate action …. the reader is left trying to understand the characters, without their background or context (… admittedly, that could just be one of my personal ‘likes’ so don’t take it as a negative). That said, the characters are immediately likable and the action is great. The plot develops quickly, the PNR is intriguing, and the writing style is very good.
I’m looking forward to reading book two!!
Action and adventure build quickly and grabs your attention. Starts off better than most series - with immediate action …. the reader is left trying to understand the characters, without their background or context (… admittedly, that could just be one of my personal ‘likes’ so don’t take it as a negative). That said, the characters are immediately likable and the action is great. The plot develops quickly, the PNR is intriguing, and the writing style is very good.
I’m looking forward to reading book two!!
February 13, 2025
Black sun
Black sun was not black at all. It is a continuation from another series. Another star touched is created. Amber is interesting & a strong lead. She is trying to figure out her power. There are some old characters & some new all joined together to make an excellent book. I could not get enough. Madow has done it again. She sure knows how to tell a story. I can't wait to start the next book. I recommend this book. It is full of action, adventure, magic, & sprinkles of lust. I felt the emotions like they are a living breathing thing.
Black sun was not black at all. It is a continuation from another series. Another star touched is created. Amber is interesting & a strong lead. She is trying to figure out her power. There are some old characters & some new all joined together to make an excellent book. I could not get enough. Madow has done it again. She sure knows how to tell a story. I can't wait to start the next book. I recommend this book. It is full of action, adventure, magic, & sprinkles of lust. I felt the emotions like they are a living breathing thing.
August 19, 2025
Another great read
This book gets a great big two thumbs up from me. I fell in love with Amber & Damien immediately. To be honest, I love that she questions but doesn't deny or reject the supernatural. Ok, she struggles with reconciling the supernatural approach to living and how she was raised as a human, but she's a quick learner!
Damien is just such a sweetheart. When he needs to be, he's strong & determined - to the point of being cold, but I think his connection to Amber will make him a better king.
This book gets a great big two thumbs up from me. I fell in love with Amber & Damien immediately. To be honest, I love that she questions but doesn't deny or reject the supernatural. Ok, she struggles with reconciling the supernatural approach to living and how she was raised as a human, but she's a quick learner!
Damien is just such a sweetheart. When he needs to be, he's strong & determined - to the point of being cold, but I think his connection to Amber will make him a better king.
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