Secret Bloodlust

by Miranda Thorn

He’s the ultimate temptation. He’s also the enemy.

Lucy should have told the headmaster when the man of her dreams turned out to be the new combat instructor at the Bloodstone Institute, the underground academy that took her in as an orphan. But her accidental use of her forbidden psychic powers will ruin her chances of becoming a revered vampire hunter. She won’t breathe a word of her illicit dreams of Fin.

She’s his obsession.

Fin is the only vampire in an academy full of hunters who would behead him in an instant. Posing as a teacher got him close to the woman who haunts his dreams. Now, he just needs to convince her to run away with him before someone tries to kill him.

When Lucy’s best friend goes missing, Fin springs his trap. He’ll help her, but she’ll have to trust a monster she’s been taught to hate. Him.

But when dark secrets are revealed, Lucy must choose between her loyalty to the Institute and the vampire who says her life is a lie.

Secret Bloodlust is a standalone romance in the Bloodstone Institute series. If you like hidden identities, protective heroes and sarcastic best friends start reading today!

Everyone in this story is of legal age. This is a college for vampire hunters.

166 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 5, 2024

About the author

I've been obsessed with vampires, ghosts, witches and almost anything else paranormal since I can remember. Possibly before that.

I started devouring books at the late age of ten after battling the dyslexia monster. I quickly made up for all those lost reading years. The joke was that my end of the trailer was going to sink under the weight of all the books.

By the ripe old age of twelve I knew I wanted to be a writer after reading an author who was published at thirteen. I didn't make it by thirteen, and not to brag or anything ("who am I kidding? I love to brag!" - name that TV character!) but I was finally published at nineteen.

Things have happened since then. I've quit and tried to join the normal world. You can see how well that worked out because I've come back to writing. I've taken a new pen name. I've ripped apart my process and old books and now I'm trying to make up for lost time. Again!

You haven't failed until you quit. That's my piece of life advice for you.

If you know the TV quote above, you can probably guess that I'm obsessed with kick as* heroines, dastardly villains, and a little bit of romance. If you love those things too, you're in the right place.

All my love,

Miranda Thorn

Get early access to my stories on Ream:
https://reamstories.com/page/leiklquhwq

Reviews

[Nadene (Totally Addicted to Reading) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Secret Bloodlust book one in the Bloodstone Institute series. It tells the story of Lucy, a young vampire hunter and Fin the vampire who captured her heart.

This was an ok introduction to the world of the Bloodstone Institute. Lucy will learn that the information she's been given over the years were all lies. This was after she met Fin who literally has been starring in her dreams in the past couple of months.

The premise intrigued me so went in hoping for an exciting journey. It was exciting, but the journey was short. A lot more history regarding the characters and the institute would have added more depth to the story.

The events including the romanc took place quickly. Also Lucy's acceptance and trusting Fin so quickly was unrealistic.

I enjoyed the action and I was happy to see a few villain's getting their just desserts. The twist at the end took me by surprise and left me curious as to where the author plans to take the series.

Overall an exciting and quick read.

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lucy is at The Institute, a place to study and train to become hunters of vampires and other monsters. What she hasn't told anyone is that she is having dreams of a man where they are together. Finn has been dream walking with Lucy. She was quiet for a week but he felt her pain. When they finally reconnected he was happy. Now he is going into the Institute pretending to be a combat instructor. He is in the King's Guard and they are trying to figure out a way to get in but with the wards it's hard. But he needs to get to Lucy. There is something about her. Besides she could give them information that could help the King. When Lucy sees him she realizes he's real… not just a dream.

After a class he keeps both Kate and Lucy. Then sends Kate out to talk to Lucy. Afterwards he sees someone he knows but even worse who knows him and what he is. He learns some things and one thing is that Lucy can be in danger. Each meeting is harder than the last. He needs to find a way to get her out of here.

Will he succeed?

A spellbinding story that has lots of tension and anticipation in it!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sharon E. Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The protective wards and barriers of the training facility for vampire hunters should keep out all vampire psychic influences. So why is Lucy, a virgin vampire hunter in training, having spicy dreams that feel like more than just dreams?

He felt her pain before she went silent on him for five nights. Worry for her safety inside the web of lies, he will face an army to get her to safety and find out what their bond really is.

If you love vampire romances and intrigue, this is book 1 of a series you are sure to love.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Dorrita Winch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lucy is our beautiful MFC. There’s much secrecy around her as to who and what she is exactly.
She had been hand pick for the advanced education for vampire hunters at the Bloodstone Institute. She had been told many a lie and had no reason to question it until she dreams of…
Fin, (Phineas Straker😁). He is our bad boy vampire MMC and I’d The Eternal Guard. He dreams of Lucy and has an unbearable need to be near and protect her, even though they have never met.
Things are fast paced in this book and moves fast. Seemed more so because it’s so good and I was unable to put it down. Started page one and read straight through.
Now I’m going to check the other books out! So excited😁!!
Highly recommended.👍🏻

[bookgoddess96 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Action packed. Vampire vs. Vampire hunter. Secrets. Lies. Brainwashing. Take a wild ride and discover all the secrets of bloodstone institute. This was a very fast past insta love action packed book regarding a vampire and a vampire hunter in training that’s been lied to and brainwashed. This book captivated me from the first chapter- I read it in a matter of hours. I can’t wait for book 2.

[Moonburst · Rating 4 out of 5]

Orphaned by vampires, Lucy lives at the Bloodstone Institute where she's training to become a vampire hunter. Life in the Institute is strongly regulated, but her only rebellion is she doesn't report her illicit dreams in which she has intimate encounters with the handsome Fin. When Fin shows up as an instructor at the Institute, and Lucy's friend goes missing, Lucy joins Fin in a quest to fine her. But she soon finds out that Fin is a vampire, and he has plans for Lucy's future.

Lucy is a rule-abiding character that truly wants to succeed as a vampire hunter. Unfortunately, a predatory, elite classmate is trying to force Lucy into bonding and marrying him. She would much rather be with Fin than her classmate, but she struggles to trust Fin due to some largely unexplored past trauma and trust issues. Fin is fascinated with Lucy and is determined to save her from the Institute. But his efforts bring about a bigger showdown between the Institute and the Vampire King.

Secret Bloodlust is a quick and enjoyable novella. It was quite fun to read, but I really wished for a little bit more. The writing is a bit rushed, and given the main character is supposed to be challenged on her foundational beliefs, she changes her mind fairly easily. I feel this book would have been much stronger with a little more time spent on character development, but it still was a very amusing read.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Tima · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars. Lucy, the female lead, is a “student” in a supernatural hunter college, being taught how to hunt vampires and having explicit “dreams” of Fin. Fin, the male vampire lead, is an agent investigating the new threat to his people that the college is, and wondering how and why Lucy is dreamsharing with him. Intrigued and curious, he goes undercover as an instructor in the college to discover what’s happening and why. When he realises that Lucy doesn’t know who she really is or what she’s being trained for, and then her roommate and best friend disappears, he convinces her to leave. But can he keep her safe? And what is the college actually doing?

This novella is dual POV, well written, and a fast-paced, fantasy romance that resolves happily, with an engaging non-romance plot that finishes on a cliffhanger leading into the next story. I was amused by Fin’s antics, and I enjoyed his determination. I enjoyed Lucy’s spirit and independence, especially given her situation. I enjoyed their expedited relationship development and animated banter, as well as the intimate chemistry. I enjoyed the non-romance plot and the secondary characters introduced. This is the first in a new series from the author and I’m looking forward to more!

I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.

[Yrah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have fun reading this novel, it makes me remember my Wattpad days where I am obsessed in reading paranormal and supernatural stories that was inspired by the movie Twilight and other vampire inspired movies and novels. It makes my heart flutter when I read about the poot since it's a combination of love story, romance, self-discovery and friendships. This is a page turner novel that makes you finish it in just one sitting since it feeds your own curiosity on why the protagonists act that way. I love how the author skillfully weaves together the elements of gothic romance with suspense intrigue, creating a storyline that keeps readers on edge from the first page to the last. The prose is richly descriptive immersing readers in a world where shadows holds secrets and every setting/location whispers with dangers.
The author's exploration of complex relationships, whether romantic, familial, or adversarial, adds layers pf depth to the narrative, ensuring that every character feels integral to the story's progression.
Kudos to the author for sharing this wonderful story to the world.Really hope to read another work from you.

[Lil Bit Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lucy is a student at the elite Bloodstone institute, a vampire hunter academy. Fin is a vampire connected to her telepathically. Although they have only met in dreams, he senses an unmistakable bond with her. He feels that she is in danger and infiltrates the academy as an instructor. They soon discover the academy is full of dangerous secrets and it could mean a life or death choice for them both.

This was a first read for me by this author and I have to say, I am hooked on her writing. I typically love the genre of paranormal romance and this story is beyond intriguing. The idea of being telepathically linked to your fated mate with an instant physical attraction is intense, to say the least. The author does well in describing the chemistry between the two main characters.

I recommend this book for mature audiences and lovers of the paranormal. This ARC was sent to me in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Lydia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was definitely an interesting book. Some of the magic was wonky but still a good interesting.
The book starts off with Lucy realizing her psychic warding charm called a Bloodstone isn’t working anymore. This is distressing because she lived at a renowned vampire hunting school called Bloodstone Institute. If her psychic abilities become too powerful, it can alert vampires to her location and the school. Little does she know that the man she’s dreaming about is a vampire himself.
Fin has been a vampire for a long time. He remains a romantic and believes Lucy could be his mate so he plans an infiltration of Bloodstone Institute to try and get Lucy out. Not only is this self-serving obviously but Fin believes there is more to Lucy than just a human vampire hunter.
Two of the main side characters are Jack and Kate. Kate is Lucy’s best friend. She’s a bit rebellious but luckily for her, her best friend will always cover for her. Jack is a new kid at the Institution. Kate and Jack have a fling that Lucy does not really understand but still helps Kate sneak out to see him. Until one night Kate doesn’t come back from her excursion with Jack.
No one seems to care except Lucy which is what sets off the course of events that leads to the climax. Lucy realizes something isn’t right with the Institution and Fin is there to help guide her through that.
I really liked this book. It was definitely a short read but nevertheless kept me hooked. I did feel like the romance was a bit fast. Maybe that’s me just not understanding love at first sight. I did think they worked as a couple though. They had enough push and pull it felt natural. The magic isn’t all that easy to understand. I think that may be because we don’t have the fully story yet and once we get that it will start to add up.
Overall I found this to be an interesting story and I would definitely recommend it for those who like romance driven vampire books.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to review this book. I was given this book as an ARC for an honest review.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Academy of secrets and lies

Lucy is a student training to be a vampire hunter. She and her friends and fellow students are working towards becoming soldiers in a war against the paranormal. But everything at the institute isn’t quite as it seems and then there’s this Fin who appears in her dreams and then real life. What’s between them? What’s really going on at the academy? Who really are the bad guys in this conflict?
Spicy romance with tons of action and intrigue. I liked the dual pov so we could see how both Lucy and Fin were feeling and both sides of the love story that drives the conflict here. A good foundation for further stories. I liked the world building and the gray world that both sides are fighting in. Very good read!

[Trina Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG 😱 I absolutely loved this book. Lucy was a vampire hunter and Fin was a vampire. I was on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t even put it down. It was a quick read. This was her mission to get revenge on vampires but she never knew that she would falling in love with a vampire name Fin. Could her reputation be destroyed if someone knew about her personal relationship. It was a mind blowing moment and action packed of drama and mystery.
I definitely recommend this book and you won’t be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion. Trina Jones

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

So this was an intriguing read! Lucy is a student at an elite vampire academy, Fin is a vampire who believes that Lucy could be his mate and is in trouble and so infiltrates said academy to get closer to Lucy. Lucy is having issues with her so called bloodstone that is supposed to hide her telepathic powers and protect the academy from being found and then to top it all off, her best friend goes missing and no one seems to give a dam. It’s a well written, fantasy, paranormal read where there are many secrets and lies in this hunters academy, it’s exciting and it’s intense, and it’s a great read and I look forward to reading more from this world.

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Secret Bloodlust by Miranda Thorn was a great read.

** This book does contain spice and it was *chef’s kiss*.

I was excited to read this book because it felt like it would be the perfect cocktail for me and I was right. The book was so exciting and I didn't want to put it down. It was just the right mele of action, mystery, powers and spicy scenes.

I loved the each character in this book. Each had unique and interesting backstories that made you love or hate them. If this is book one of the bloodstone institute series I cannot wait for book two.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Shalei · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lucy is the MFC. There’s some secrecy around her as to who she is. She was hand picked for the education at the Bloodstone Institute. She didn’t question it until she dreamt of Fin. Fin is the vampire MMC and of the Eternal Guard. He dreams of Lucy and feels like he has to protect her at all cost even though he’s never met her.
The book has a good plot and I’d rather have more background of everything or even a prequel mini story before reading this one. It’s a short quick story that’s worth the read if you’re in to quick stories 😊

[Karen Sorg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love, love, love this book. Vampire books are some of my favorite and this does not let down. Lucy has been training to be a vampire hunter forever and she will be finally doing the Ceremony, where her Elite will be her partner. But Alex wants to marry her, but she is dreaming about Fin. Kate has had to wake her up because her dreams are so loud. Kate is the closest thing to a friend she has. Kate has been "dating" Jack, which is not allowed. Then one day Fin, from her dreams shows up as an instructor.

[L KQ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Infiltrating Bloodstone Institute

Suspenseful and forbidden, the connection between Fin (a vampire) and Lucy (vampire hunter, psychic) borders on obsession and protection. Not only is she in danger if the wrong people find out about her abilities but her friend has gone missing. Fin will risk his own life to infiltrate the Institute to keep her safe. It was a fantastic read with twists and turns that drove the story into a wonderfully well written book.

I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily leave this review.

[Phyllis Farmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unlikely Love

Miranda Thorn’s first book in her new series Bloodstone Institute takes a slightly new spin with fated mates and vampires. Fin and Lucy are the two main characters that add spicy goodness to the drama. There’s plenty of exciting adventure, mystery, suspense and steamy situations to keep you on the edge of your seat. This is the first time I’ve ever read anything by this author but it certainly won’t be my last. I can’t wait to see what’s coming next. Highly recommended and definitely a MUST read!

[Christine]

Once I started reading this book, I found it hard to put down. I even pulled an all-nighter. I do love mystery, romance and paranormal novels. This story ties all three together with their own twists. It leaves you hanging for more and wanting to read the next novel in the series.

I also wish that the story was a little more drawn out to soak up the characters personal struggles and past history more. It is still an enjoyable novel to read.

I received an advanced copy for free. Voluntarily, I leave a review.

[Amber · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book has so much potential but reads like a novella. I would love a lot more history and background before jumping right into the story. The ending was wrapped up too quickly and I feel Lucy’s decision was rash and not thought out. I would love to see this book be twice as long with more story building. Overall good quick read. 3.5/5 stars

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Mariaan Belinfante · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable novella, but just too short or maybe the storyline/plot was too condensed. I was left with quite a few questions e.g. what would Lucy's memories reveal? Some erotic dreams before Lucy meets Fin. Interesting mix of characters. I hope book 2 will reveal more of what really happened to Kate and Jack. The end came much too soon in this book.
I received an advanced review copy and leave this review voluntary Thank you BookSirens

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick, engaging read and an exciting start to the series! My only complaint is I wish there had been a bit more worldbuilding! I have questions! 😅 Lucy and Fin discover they are fated mates after forming a psychic connection through some very steamy shared dreams and are quick to put aside their differences. Looking forward to more stories in this world!
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[RoseyLovesBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lucy has been having x-rated dreams about Fin and wants them to stop, and yet… she doesn’t. Fin's her only comfort at the vampire hunter Bloodstone Institute, even if he isn’t real. What happens when Lucy find out her new combat instructor is Fin? Secret Bloodlust is a paranormal romance with a riveting mix of action, suspense, drama, intrigue, twists and steam with a cliffhanger ending that kept the pages turning! I can't wait to find out what happens next!

[Tonia Rodriguez · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the actual Book 1 of the series. A little longer than winter Bloodlust and we get more information here about the institute and the people behind it. Lucy and Fin are super hot. It's not all focused on that though. There's lots of action and fighting and background information. I'll look for more of this series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a fan of vampires and erotic novels, I wasn't going to turn down a free copy of this book.

A vampire infiltrating a school for vampire hunters? That is pretty bold. But, to protect the LITERAL woman of his dreams, it had to be done. Not a moment too soon, either. I love that Lucy and Fin found each other and actually got to see the other in the flesh. I'll be looking for the second book in the series now!

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was darker and deeper but I really like that the vampires aren’t always the bad guys. In this one the vampires are getting the “fated “ mates and are fighting to save those that are preyed upon by the “evil” ones. I’m hoping that in the stories to come that the suppressed memories start to come back and some of the back story is revealed. I’d really like longer books with more story to them.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Abbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next one to be released

I love academy romances in any shape or form and this is no exception. Fin was my favourite character and I loved his I traction and possessiveness. The book doesn't end on a cliff hanger but enough mystery I will be thinking about it days later

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put book down! Oh my gosh I can’t wait for the next book! If you love a good spicy MF, vampire/paranormal, fated mate romance with a FMC & MMC who will fight for their loved ones look no further. This secret academy is supposedly training orphans to become vampire slayers, but more is going on than it seems. Dig into this book and enjoy the ride!

[Chere Gruver · Rating 5 out of 5]

Entrancing enemies to lovers’ story!

This is a quick, entertaining read. I was caught up in the story from the very beginning and honestly can’t wait to see what happens next in this series. I really enjoyed learning about these two characters and the institute. The heart of this story is about trust.

[Karen Light · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow 🤩 secret bloodlust is a quick read that has you enticed from the beginning! Spice started early on! By page 13!

Vampires and witches, human hunters and other creatures.

Secret sex dreams, connections of mates. Missing students, and ass hole guys that deserve to die. This book has it all.

I read it in 24 hours, and can’t wait for more!