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Black-Bloods and Vampire Keepers

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Sabine didn’t choose her immortality. She had it brutally forced upon her nearly two-hundred years ago. She was ripped out of her happy, peaceful life, and turned into a bloodthirsty assassin.

Life in a vampire coven is designed to shred your humanity, rid you of your morals, and turn you into the ultimate killing machine. And it was that transformation that allowed Sabine to gain her freedom. She has been on the run for fifty years, hiding in the shadows, and trying to do her part to rid the world of the monsters seeking to harm the innocent, whether they’re among her own kin, humans, or werewolves.

But when she kills two vampires to save a human, she has to try to outrun the most powerful coven in the city. When she finds herself cornered, she receives help from a creature she never even knew existed.

Sabine and Elena choose to trust each other and flee the city together. But with rumors of war stirring up tensions between vampires and werewolves, they’ll have to fight to remain free. Blood will be shed. Things will be blown up. And the harrowing battles and their similarly painful pasts will bond them like they’ve never experienced.

And they’ll need that bond to navigate Hawthorn, the most powerful vampire society in the world.



Trigger warning: This book contains graphic violence that may not be suitable for some readers. The subject of rape is mentioned - no details are provided, only the word is mentioned.

Paperback

Published December 28, 2023

82 people are currently reading
186 people want to read

About the author

Amy DeMeritt

36 books89 followers
Amy DeMeritt is an author of Sapphic romance and an occasional poet. She is a lover of the arts, coffee and tea, a day of sitting on the beach watching the waves crashing against the shore, and good books and music to get lost in. (A good thunderstorm is one of her favorite forms of music.)

Amy takes inspiration from every experience in life and gives her imagination full reign to take a small detail and expand it into an intricate tale. Weaving experience, interests, and even pushing the boundaries of personal comfort, Amy’s stories take a reader on a journey of varying emotions and the joys and trials of love, romance, and growing as an individual, all of which are embodied in an entertaining plot with complex characters.

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5 stars
178 (62%)
4 stars
66 (22%)
3 stars
31 (10%)
2 stars
11 (3%)
1 star
1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for Lady Olenna.
853 reviews67 followers
March 4, 2024
5 Stars!!!!

Ok…WOW! This was… an immersive experience in the world of vampires I have never experienced before!!!

First it was all action packed mafia style fighting bad guys which was already satisfying but there was more, sooo much more in store!

Then we get to the anatomy and physiology of vampires and their capabilities. And then! And then graduated to neurological pathways of a vampire’s capabilities!! Like, wow! Talk about elevating a vampire story. This story takes the cake! The author is a genius!
Profile Image for bookster.
766 reviews
February 3, 2024
1st read: November 2022 - 5 Stars

2nd read: February 2024
Re-read before I start book 2 which's just released on 1st Feb. Glad that I re-read this as there're many details that I don't remember and I think the series deserve full attention. Now going on to book 2!

Profile Image for Tory.
392 reviews11 followers
April 14, 2024
I wanted to write a review before I get too far in book 2. Let me just say that this book is an awesome read. If I was able to piece together my favorite things into a book, it would be this one.
I wanted to include a lot more but I don’t want to give anything away! Just read the book, it’s great!

Profile Image for C C Garrison.
212 reviews3 followers
September 23, 2023
Ready for second book

The plot was very interesting. It is why I chose it. The concept in book not only that of vampires and keeper but their abilities.
12 reviews
January 13, 2023
Mixed feelings

On one hand the book is a very interesting take on vampires which is why I leaned towards 4stars. On the other hand there two things that bothered me. One there was subtle manipulation and abuse toward the main characters from those that claimed to be friends.Two there is way too much time spent describing their training but I'm suspect the author did it for a reason that will play out I later books. I did like the fact the MC were flawed. They were strong but also wasn't the strongest and you can see them grow into their strength. I see them out pacing some of the stronger characters soon.
Profile Image for Kelly.
388 reviews25 followers
November 29, 2022
4.25 stars

This book is 2 styles in one. The first half an action packed thriller. The second half is more suspense & love story. Some parts are a bit rushed or jumbled but for the most part, if the beginning grabs ya, then you will be in for one entertaining ride. Hoping to see the sequel soon, bonus it's available on KU.
Profile Image for RA Young.
321 reviews6 followers
January 18, 2023
About what I expected, including the unexpected

With this author, I expect a new take on existing genres. It's not a conventional vamp novel, it does new things with vampire mythology that are really interesting.
The first quarter of the book is non stop action, then middle chunk is just emotional processing and character development, and then the last bit is set up for the next book. Which is also what I expect when I read this author, who I really enjoy.

Usually DeMeritt's characters are super well developed, even when there's a lot of them, but this time, that development was only fleshed out well with the main two characters. There's not much description of the supporting cast physically, and then their personalities kind of blend together and are basically all the same. If they'd been more clearly defined and developed, which there was tons of time to do as most of the book was character development, this would have been 5 stars. It was still enjoyable and I'll still read the next one, so four it is.
Profile Image for Issy Waldrom.
Author 10 books55 followers
June 17, 2023
This book certainly adds some interesting twists to vampire lore, and I have to say that I rather enjoyed it. Black-Bloods, Vampire Keepers, it's all there in the title, and a lot more significant than at first glance.

The authors style is definitely different, though familiar to me, and there is a lot of character thoughts and emotions, which I appreciate. The regularly tell each other how much they mean t o each other, and then on top of that is the relationships that develop with other significant characters as well. Very much found family.

The book has two distinct sections to it, the first very heavily action focused, and then it transitions to a fluffier half as they settle into their new home and the training that is involved (and then of course there is the lead up to the second book).

Very enjoyable book, and I look forward to seeing how the series develops.
15 reviews
October 26, 2022
What a REMARKABLE read!

This book needs ATTENTION!

This writer has sincerely mastered writing such a beautiful new world. The 2 MC’s are now one of my all time favorite book couples. The level of emotional intimacy Amy achieved in her writing to choreograph such a deep relationship between these two, is beyond beauty. They are the epitome of “devotion” to another. Yet, this is not just a romance or love story. This is a readers dream for a whole new written world!

This sensational writer knocked this story out of the park! This novel sincerely should be high on a New York Times List, with tens of thousands of sold copies!

The plot is unique, and so one of a kind. There is no “tropey” writing embedded in this, as this is 100% one of a kind plot writing, of a 100% one of a kind never before written brand NEW world. How often does THAT happen these days?!

This was nearly a 400 page novel, which is super rare in this category these days. Such depth written within this story. I was already addicted to her writing from her “The Dancing Wolf” series; which in itself is as duly unique ridden with sincerity and wonder.

Overall, a superb one of a kind twist on Vampires and a love story that imprints on your memory. The writing and editing was perfect, as all near 400 pages were a reading dream that had me falling off the edge of my seat to flip a page. Just Outstanding. The deepest and most imaginative book I’ve read in a very long time.

Huge hopes this book doesn’t get looked over by the masses. Fingers crossed that at minimum it soars high at least within our “family” reading world.

Overall simply MAGNIFICENT and STUNNING!
51 reviews
December 10, 2022
Black-bloods and Vampire keepers

This book was awesome! I can’t wait for the sequel! The characters are surprisingly human for vampires and very well developed. What really stood out to me was the science. The only vampire/werewolf Syfy I’ve read with as much innovative science was by Radcylffe. The science of the Bremen electricity and blood in our memories can be transmitted and things controlled mind bending. This book has everything! that a great book should have in my opinion. More please!!!
63 reviews2 followers
November 8, 2022
This book just did not work for me as much as it seems to work for everybody else.
First off, I thing this story should come with triger warning, since it has so much mention of rape and torture in both of the heroines pasts. It was kinda difficult for me to read.

Now I liked the first half well enough, it had vampire chases midway point the book didn't flow for me anymore. And I know it is a vampire story, but I was just tired of everybody feeding on everybody and climaxing and the relationship between Elena, Sabine, Francesca, Zola and Svetlana was just weirdly intimate with the constant feeding, touches interwined fingers and I don't know I just wasn't in to it. The story just did not go at all the way I imagined it would and it was very dissapointing for me.

Not saying that this is a bad book, because I like Amy Demerrit as an autor, her writing is amazing, but this particular story just wasn't for me personaly.
Profile Image for M L Brooks .
593 reviews9 followers
February 9, 2024
Unusual and a little rough around the edges

So this book has some interesting concepts, I like Sabine and Elena but the whole training part kinda started to really drag and constantly it would skip from scene to scene in a way that was a little jarring. Like one night they were at the cinema trying to decide where to sit and the next page it was like a day later.

Also the content warning about rape says it's only mentioned with little detail which is blatantly false, it comes up constantly and is quite the point of discussion.
29 reviews
January 15, 2025
Hawthorns Revolution Book 1 .,........ Wow !!! Amazing !

I don't often leave reviews But Wow Wow Wow !

THE BEST BOOK In THE WORLD Hands Down !!!!!!!!!

This is the most amazing mind blowing book in its subject I've ever had the pleasure of reading in 40yrs !!! & I read on average a thousand books a year according to Amazon.

It is filled with love,fear,anger, belonging, justice & family .

It is one of those books that transports you into the story where you can see the surroundings, feel the wind churning around you & feel the characters feelings from their anger, fear etc to their profound love & friendships.
It is a mystery that has you sitting on the edge of your seat wanting to enjoy the book but get to the end as fast as possible to see what happens.

You are guaranteed to fall in love with the characters & want to fight for their survival along with them.
I couldn't put this book down I read it in 40hrs jumping at the bit to finish work and run home as if my house was on fire just to continue the experience !

Thank you So So So Much to the Author Amy DeMeritt for such a wonderful experience & Masterfully Written book ! May you have many many years of sharing your beautiful creative mind in books for future generations to experience them like we had the gift to do !

I wish you success throughout your life of writing Thank you again x I'm away for share this title with my friends and strangers alike .

This is one of the handful of books that I will re read many times over the rest of my life.

I can't wait to start book 2 but I need some catch up sleep 😂
112 reviews4 followers
December 4, 2022
Loved it

I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait for the 2nd one. Sabine and Elena are terrific together. While neither have had a happy life during their immortal years, they have not let those experiences turn them into the monsters of their past. Both fight every day to remain free from the grips of others until Sabine’s troubles requires the help of Elena to escape. Their journey from that point is loving, harrowing, and self-affirming for each woman as they navigate the possibility of belonging somewhere. While we just really get the beginning of new friendships and relationships for each during this first book, I enjoyed their journey and the foundations of the world they find themselves in. Glimpses of their past and what each have endured coupled with their openness to take the initial chance with each other was well written. Can’t wait to see how their journey within the Hawthorn governance and their relationship and abilities progress.
Profile Image for wren4777.
227 reviews3 followers
November 15, 2024
I'm sorry, I know this book has great reviews, but the way DeMeritt writes interactions between characters is just so incredibly off-putting. The side characters are physically affectionate to the point of ickyness with the leads, including kissing them on the lips, and Sabine and Elena are basically kissing and engaging in heavy petting the entire time through the novel.

I've read another of DeMeritt's novels that had this problem and I wasn't planning on reading another, but I thought the paranormal context might make this one different. That wasn't the case unfortunately.

There's also the whole thing with the culty vampire commune and their bizarre training practices. It would be one thing if it was positioned as an antagonistic force, but Sabine and Elena embrace it wholeheartedly.

The whole thing just gave me the ick and I don't think I'll be reading another book from this author. :(
Profile Image for Victoria.
531 reviews83 followers
June 20, 2023
There are numerous vampire sapphic stories available in the market, but Black-Bloods and Vampire Keepers stand out as truly unique ones. This is my first Amy DeMeritt book, and I love her writing style. She has created an incredible world and an interesting perspective. Instead of all the powerful and cocky vampires I've read from most of the sapphic urban paranormal, this one only gives me pain and endless sorrow from the beginning.

I love Sabine and Elena, and their past story is heart-wrenching until they meet each other. You can feel the strong affection they have for each other, and their bond grows stronger and stronger.

Overall, I enjoyed this book and can't wait for the sequel.
Profile Image for ARR62.
257 reviews5 followers
November 22, 2022
I Love This World

I love the layering of worlds between human, werewolf, witch, and vampire. The interactions between them and the differences between Hawthorn and other vampires are drawn clearly. The introduction of Keepers and of yarost is fascinating. Add, the very real portrayals of having to stay hidden and how that affects one's psyche and the fear of being captured, tortured, and manipulated by those with greed and power in mind is well done.
I've read a fair few vamp tales (always excluding those twinkly ones) and this ranks with the best. If you like vamp tales, romance, and thriller, you've found a good story. Enjoy.
Profile Image for Jacques.
71 reviews
October 15, 2024
As a first in a series it does set up with pretty decent world building. There are great tragic back stories for the characters, and a closeness among them that pulls on the heartstrings. I do look forward to seeing what this series has in store.

The main issue I had with this particular book however, was that the keepers are supposed to be relatively more advanced physically speaking. Yet, there is only one practice scene barely showcasing that aspect. It felt like it sort glossed over important attributes to an entirely new species in vampire fiction. The special powers of the vampire MC were showcased in abundance, but not her partner's.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
375 reviews
December 13, 2022
Good writing!

This book was a surprise to me. There wasn't any indication in the synopsis - that I could see - that this was a lesbian romance. It suddenly dawned on me (chapter 6) what I was reading. The 4 stars is for the writing skill, but if I didn't have KU I'd have been pi**ed off that I'd paid for a book that I couldn't enjoy, and would have given 1 star (Hint, Hint author, make it obvious). I would have persevered with the book if the sexuality of the pair hadn't been so full on, but it was, and I found myself having to skip huge chunks, so I didn't complete it.
Profile Image for Nic.
69 reviews7 followers
February 5, 2024
Great flow, multiple possible endings but left in 1 book

So many opportunities for this writer to end this book and yet she kept writing. She balanced it all so well, it doesn't feel rushed and or drawn out at any time. Loving the concepts and characters. Def hoping there are Howthorn Emergence books, who founded it, the fight for each commander...could be ab epic tv series if the books are written. Excited about this series.
Profile Image for Holly Violet.
137 reviews4 followers
February 16, 2024
Mixed

This book started really strong with lots of action. Great I thought, then all of a sudden it s!owed right down and I stated to lose interest, there was far to much explaining of situations going on and it lost it's spark. I kept reading as I liked the idea of where it was going and was sure it would pick up soon. It didn't right until the last chapter. so now I'm torn between giving up on the series of forging ahead.
Profile Image for Susan.
671 reviews3 followers
December 26, 2022
Fantastic!

I can't wait to read more in this series that promises a new and unique approach to the paranormal genre that I enjoy so much. Amy DeMeritt has long been one of my favorite authors, and this cements her place near the top. If you enjoy vampire stories, I highly recommend you immediately place this book on your must read list!
1 review
January 17, 2023
Wow…. The characters are so vibrant, their stories,their hopes,dreams,struggles; beautiful to be a part of. The writing is an easy flow, balanced and wonderful way to lose track of time wanting more. I hope this becomes a long loving series. Please bring the next one soon your writing is a joy. Thanks
Profile Image for Evone Elia-Clancy.
23 reviews2 followers
April 11, 2024
I am very sad, I wanted to enjoy this book so bad. But I just couldn't. The constant "darling" and over use of names when the MCs talk to each other is just over the top, cringe-y even. DNF'd at about 48% I was going to stop it earlier but thought it may get better I may like it and I just could not get into it. 3 stars because vampires, and I LOVE vampires.
45 reviews
Read
July 27, 2024
DNF at 40%
This one really did not work for me. It has two tropes i hate, insta-love and bonding over rape and suffering. This is not a love story, just a poorly made trauma bond. The beginning was interesting enough for me to look past that but then I gave up when sabin and elena arrived to that weird organization where everyone touch others inappropriately.
Profile Image for terry.
289 reviews6 followers
October 29, 2022
Excellent story

WOW!!! I loved this story and can’t wait for Book 2. Well written and the world building is great. I am on pins and needles waiting to see what will happen next. Highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Marsha.
204 reviews2 followers
December 3, 2022
Great

A great start to a fascinating story. Much time has been spent in this book building out the storyline. I do expect way more action in the next book, but a fascinating start nonetheless.
Profile Image for The Wild Weary Cow Reads Sapphic .
205 reviews11 followers
March 13, 2024
The story was really good but I struggled towards the end with how much it went on for but that's just my take on it.. I'll definitely be reading the next book but not right away .....give it a whirl!
Profile Image for Kira Fields.
19 reviews
May 30, 2024
Wonderful writting

I could see everything. I loved this book! I can't wait to start the next one. I love the story line and the charter development. Such a viaual and well writtwn story. If you like sifi,wlw, and vamps this a book for you!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews

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