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Vampire Odyssey: or The Blue Blood of the Elizabethan Upper Crust
An aging, vain, lonely, pretentious and failed indie writer is forced to give a glowing, five-star review to 'Vampire Odyssey', the worst book ever written.
- GenresComedy
161 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 29, 2024
9 people are currently reading
7 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
November 4, 2024
A Satirical Take on Vampires and Self-Publishing
Vampire Odyssey: or The Blue Blood of the Elizabethan Upper Crust offers a fresh and humorous spin on vampire lore. The author brilliantly satirizes the world of indie publishing while weaving a quirky narrative filled with unique characters and situations. Set against an Elizabethan backdrop, this story isn’t just about the undead but explores the absurdity of fame, fortune, and the literary world. It's a unique blend of history, humor, and horror that will resonate with fans of unconventional storytelling.
Vampire Odyssey: or The Blue Blood of the Elizabethan Upper Crust offers a fresh and humorous spin on vampire lore. The author brilliantly satirizes the world of indie publishing while weaving a quirky narrative filled with unique characters and situations. Set against an Elizabethan backdrop, this story isn’t just about the undead but explores the absurdity of fame, fortune, and the literary world. It's a unique blend of history, humor, and horror that will resonate with fans of unconventional storytelling.
May 9, 2024
I decided to read a non-horror book as a palette cleanser and bumped into this book from an author that I enjoyed. It's a comedy like no other. Imagine you were an author and forced to give a book a five-star review. However, as you read it, the book proves to be absolutely bad. The story itself is a parody of Snow White and Frankenstein. This is a story that is clearly not taking itself seriously as the author reading the book has to decide if the story is really that bad or if it's actually a work of art.
It's a story that clearly doesn't take itself seriously. If you want to laugh and just want something that's light, this is the book for you.
It's a story that clearly doesn't take itself seriously. If you want to laugh and just want something that's light, this is the book for you.
May 20, 2024
The main character is literate but pompous; his book has clearly been panned and he needs the five ratings from "trading" to prop up his image. The horrid book he's reading has Frankenstein, Dracula, Snow White and Lycaon running around, and it's hard to keep track of them let alone figure out why we should. To me it was an elaborate parody of my own situation, with the fantasy characters thrown in to make me mad. But without taking it personally, I can at least say that he has mocked all things at once - the indie writer's quest, the fantasy-vampire culture, the vacuousness of modern writing, and the inflated egos of the actors....ouch!
May 2, 2024
This book throws away the dusty coffin and injects the genre with a creative take on classic vampire tropes that will certainly entertain you. It's aimed at an adult audience, tackling themes with more bite than a sparkly romance novel. Whether you're a vampire fanatic or just crave a surprising read, this one offers a provocative perspective on the supernatural.
May 31, 2024
ANOTHER GREAT RIDE THRU ‘THE BYER-VERSE’
Rk Byers never ceases to amaze me. The best way to describe his writing style is - "uniquely rhythmic." And for Vampire Odyssey - or the Blue Blood of the Elizabethan Uppercrust, there is a synchronicity that makes the read that much more immersive. The experience is like listening to a high energy jazz version of MacArthur Park and right when you get to the point of a squealing climactic trumpet riff the music switches up to a full orchestral offering of Vivaldi's ‘Four Seasons.’ (complete with a hundred-british- string players in formal wear)
The 'bad story' of Darelle Sherman’s Vampire Odyssey - that Mr. Upington Smythe is obliged to read is like devouring an Ed Wood movie. It's so bad that you can't look away and that's what makes it so great. In fact it's so goodly-bad, you'll probably watch it again. After some legally sanctioned medicinal assistance.
And of course how can you go wrong when bada** Dracula and Frankenstein are powering it up with an erotically motivated Snow White? (I made that PG-13). Now take all that and pivot it with the introspective saga of Smythe forcing himself to endure it , while comparing it to his own masterpiece (The Blue Blood of the Elizebeathan Uppercrust) All that, for an indie writer, is hilariously but intensely relatable. And it combines for an entertaining, engaging and fast paced read.
This is not my first venture into the Byer-verse. (Go read ‘Amazing in it’s Effrontery’ – seriously, as soon as you finish reading this review make it your next kindle download) And though it's obvious in previous writing that the authors humor and life perspective is ingrained into the story, this book goes to another dimension in that, behind it all is RKs personal struggle as a book reviewer who maintains tremendous support for independent authors. There's an underlying conflict which is an inevitable part of the Indie experience.
And while it's obvious that the Upington Smythe character is an imaginative creation born of the authors unfiltered sarcasm, one can't help but realize that his dilemma in dealing with Sherman’s abomination is inspired by true life experience.
And that's my favorite part of this read. That RK can blend that outrageousness with a profound insight into the world of Indie writing.
Another fun literary roller coaster from the Byer-verse!
Rk Byers never ceases to amaze me. The best way to describe his writing style is - "uniquely rhythmic." And for Vampire Odyssey - or the Blue Blood of the Elizabethan Uppercrust, there is a synchronicity that makes the read that much more immersive. The experience is like listening to a high energy jazz version of MacArthur Park and right when you get to the point of a squealing climactic trumpet riff the music switches up to a full orchestral offering of Vivaldi's ‘Four Seasons.’ (complete with a hundred-british- string players in formal wear)
The 'bad story' of Darelle Sherman’s Vampire Odyssey - that Mr. Upington Smythe is obliged to read is like devouring an Ed Wood movie. It's so bad that you can't look away and that's what makes it so great. In fact it's so goodly-bad, you'll probably watch it again. After some legally sanctioned medicinal assistance.
And of course how can you go wrong when bada** Dracula and Frankenstein are powering it up with an erotically motivated Snow White? (I made that PG-13). Now take all that and pivot it with the introspective saga of Smythe forcing himself to endure it , while comparing it to his own masterpiece (The Blue Blood of the Elizebeathan Uppercrust) All that, for an indie writer, is hilariously but intensely relatable. And it combines for an entertaining, engaging and fast paced read.
This is not my first venture into the Byer-verse. (Go read ‘Amazing in it’s Effrontery’ – seriously, as soon as you finish reading this review make it your next kindle download) And though it's obvious in previous writing that the authors humor and life perspective is ingrained into the story, this book goes to another dimension in that, behind it all is RKs personal struggle as a book reviewer who maintains tremendous support for independent authors. There's an underlying conflict which is an inevitable part of the Indie experience.
And while it's obvious that the Upington Smythe character is an imaginative creation born of the authors unfiltered sarcasm, one can't help but realize that his dilemma in dealing with Sherman’s abomination is inspired by true life experience.
And that's my favorite part of this read. That RK can blend that outrageousness with a profound insight into the world of Indie writing.
Another fun literary roller coaster from the Byer-verse!
October 13, 2024
A unique and hilarious insight into the mind of a modern writer
I can honestly say that I have never read a book comparable to this one. Humorous and insightful, the story takes us through the reflections of a modern independent writer struggling to give a good rating to another author’s book of a cheap quality. The plot is split into two parts one from the narrator’s POV and the other part is the story that he is reviewing Vampire Odyssey.
The Narrator-Our intrepid narrator, reflects on the challenges and absurdities of being a modern writer. He extol the virtues of his own book, The Blue Blood of the Elizabethan Upper Crust and expects the reader to take his word that his work is the best and that Vampire Odyssey is a cheap book of the lowest quality. What is interesting here is that the story does not share any text from Blue Bloods itself, only the author’s musings of his background and beliefs which suggests that the narrator is unreliable. This reflects an aspect of authors in real life. We tend to be more critical about other peoples works than our own in some ways. The narrator also claims that the book market and the average reader are more likely to produce and consume content, derived from familiar characters and traditional properties then read for self improvement and explore new ideas, which is sadly another truth about the world of modern literature.
Vampire Odyssey- this one star story is an absurd parody, focused on caricatures of four iconic characters, Snow White, Frankenstein‘s monster Dracula, and the Werewolf. Filled to the brim with raunchy, gory, sexual and politically incorrect content. This book would be rated R. These four people undertake a quest and the quality of the language is below basic. A shameless parody!
I can honestly say that I have never read a book comparable to this one. Humorous and insightful, the story takes us through the reflections of a modern independent writer struggling to give a good rating to another author’s book of a cheap quality. The plot is split into two parts one from the narrator’s POV and the other part is the story that he is reviewing Vampire Odyssey.
The Narrator-Our intrepid narrator, reflects on the challenges and absurdities of being a modern writer. He extol the virtues of his own book, The Blue Blood of the Elizabethan Upper Crust and expects the reader to take his word that his work is the best and that Vampire Odyssey is a cheap book of the lowest quality. What is interesting here is that the story does not share any text from Blue Bloods itself, only the author’s musings of his background and beliefs which suggests that the narrator is unreliable. This reflects an aspect of authors in real life. We tend to be more critical about other peoples works than our own in some ways. The narrator also claims that the book market and the average reader are more likely to produce and consume content, derived from familiar characters and traditional properties then read for self improvement and explore new ideas, which is sadly another truth about the world of modern literature.
Vampire Odyssey- this one star story is an absurd parody, focused on caricatures of four iconic characters, Snow White, Frankenstein‘s monster Dracula, and the Werewolf. Filled to the brim with raunchy, gory, sexual and politically incorrect content. This book would be rated R. These four people undertake a quest and the quality of the language is below basic. A shameless parody!
May 21, 2024
good
An interesting different unique read in a good way. I enjoyed reading this book, it is well written and RK Byers has got a very talented imagination.
An interesting different unique read in a good way. I enjoyed reading this book, it is well written and RK Byers has got a very talented imagination.
July 29, 2024
Transgressive Horror
I went into this book blind as the author presents as a very likeable fellow on social media. The numerous 5 star reviews suggest that this romp is a budding underground classic due to its humour, satire of the self-publishing industry, and parodies of b-grade horror schlock, though this book was not for me as I found the narrative gimmicky and disingenuine. At times I wasn't sure if this book was meant to be a self-mockery or a cry for attention disguised as a spoof. While the intentions of so-bad-it's-good were apparent, they didn't spark any enjoyment.
If you enjoy critiques of fiction or parodies of b-movie horror, perhaps you will enjoy this.
I went into this book blind as the author presents as a very likeable fellow on social media. The numerous 5 star reviews suggest that this romp is a budding underground classic due to its humour, satire of the self-publishing industry, and parodies of b-grade horror schlock, though this book was not for me as I found the narrative gimmicky and disingenuine. At times I wasn't sure if this book was meant to be a self-mockery or a cry for attention disguised as a spoof. While the intentions of so-bad-it's-good were apparent, they didn't spark any enjoyment.
If you enjoy critiques of fiction or parodies of b-movie horror, perhaps you will enjoy this.
June 14, 2024
An addictively bizarre book within a book
Anyone who is a self-published author will appreciate the cynicism and humour in this whacky book. Throughout, you will seesaw between the rantings of a morally questionable, self-aggrandising and frustrated indie author who trades reviews for reviews and the book he agreed to read to review—a perverse tale, so bad that it’s kind of addictively good, about Frankenstein (Cree), an erotically charged Snow White, a hip bisexual Dracula and a sex obsessed werewolf (Lycaon) who set out together on a road trip to get old mate Dracula back to Transylvania.
Ultimately, the fictional author ponders whether to give this trashy book five stars or to not give it five stars. That is the question.
Funny, perverted, and completely unforgettable.
Anyone who is a self-published author will appreciate the cynicism and humour in this whacky book. Throughout, you will seesaw between the rantings of a morally questionable, self-aggrandising and frustrated indie author who trades reviews for reviews and the book he agreed to read to review—a perverse tale, so bad that it’s kind of addictively good, about Frankenstein (Cree), an erotically charged Snow White, a hip bisexual Dracula and a sex obsessed werewolf (Lycaon) who set out together on a road trip to get old mate Dracula back to Transylvania.
Ultimately, the fictional author ponders whether to give this trashy book five stars or to not give it five stars. That is the question.
Funny, perverted, and completely unforgettable.
August 21, 2024
An absurd, comical, and oddly entertaining narrative
Unique, bizarre, raunchy, genius, gutsy, raw, brilliant…a plethora of adjectives spun through my thoughts as I dove head first into RK Byers’ Vampire Odyssey: or The Blue Blood of the Elizabethan Upper Crust, a book that strangely fell into my lap—or as one reader eloquently reported—a book that found him. The satire saga appropriately describes the roller coaster ride self publishing authors deal with as we swim like hell to rise to the surface and be seen in an ocean of publications—according to the Internet, 1,804,535 reported to date August 21, 2024, this year alone. The unconventional storyline, disguised by familiar fantasy characters drawn from fairy tales and monster shows circa 1960s/1970s, turn the genre on its head with unexpected personalities I visually can’t unsee. But, in an absurd, comical, and oddly entertaining narrative, the hero manages to accurately describe the indie writer’s plight as he drudges through the worst book ever written in exchange for a push upward through the vast sea. Five stars for the mere creativity Byers bestowed.
Unique, bizarre, raunchy, genius, gutsy, raw, brilliant…a plethora of adjectives spun through my thoughts as I dove head first into RK Byers’ Vampire Odyssey: or The Blue Blood of the Elizabethan Upper Crust, a book that strangely fell into my lap—or as one reader eloquently reported—a book that found him. The satire saga appropriately describes the roller coaster ride self publishing authors deal with as we swim like hell to rise to the surface and be seen in an ocean of publications—according to the Internet, 1,804,535 reported to date August 21, 2024, this year alone. The unconventional storyline, disguised by familiar fantasy characters drawn from fairy tales and monster shows circa 1960s/1970s, turn the genre on its head with unexpected personalities I visually can’t unsee. But, in an absurd, comical, and oddly entertaining narrative, the hero manages to accurately describe the indie writer’s plight as he drudges through the worst book ever written in exchange for a push upward through the vast sea. Five stars for the mere creativity Byers bestowed.
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September 23, 2025Shockingly magnificent!
This is, without a doubt, one of the weirdest and most fascinating books I have ever read. Vampire Odyssey is a truly meta experience, brilliantly mirroring the reader’s journey through the story itself. What begins as a seemingly confusing and frustrating read quickly transforms into a compelling and magnetic obsession.
The book operates on two levels. On the one hand, you have the outer narrative of the author who despises the bizarre book he is forced to review, which at times can feel a bit tiresome. On the other hand, you have the core narrative—the mythical heroes tale he is reviewing—which is a truly wild, unsettling, and exhilarating ride. This story-within-a-story is a magnificent parody, twisting old tales with kinky, spicy themes and a delightfully unpredictable plot.
The author's audacious, stream-of-consciousness style breaks all the rules, but in doing so, creates a narrative that is both shocking and impossible to put down. It's a dark, satirical, and fiercely unique read that constantly makes you wonder where on earth it's going next. If you're looking for something like nothing you've ever read before, that will astound you and leave you wanting more, this is the book for you.
This is, without a doubt, one of the weirdest and most fascinating books I have ever read. Vampire Odyssey is a truly meta experience, brilliantly mirroring the reader’s journey through the story itself. What begins as a seemingly confusing and frustrating read quickly transforms into a compelling and magnetic obsession.
The book operates on two levels. On the one hand, you have the outer narrative of the author who despises the bizarre book he is forced to review, which at times can feel a bit tiresome. On the other hand, you have the core narrative—the mythical heroes tale he is reviewing—which is a truly wild, unsettling, and exhilarating ride. This story-within-a-story is a magnificent parody, twisting old tales with kinky, spicy themes and a delightfully unpredictable plot.
The author's audacious, stream-of-consciousness style breaks all the rules, but in doing so, creates a narrative that is both shocking and impossible to put down. It's a dark, satirical, and fiercely unique read that constantly makes you wonder where on earth it's going next. If you're looking for something like nothing you've ever read before, that will astound you and leave you wanting more, this is the book for you.
May 19, 2024
I want to say how impressed I was with this book within a book. The author has combined two tales and fascinated the reader with both. It was interesting to follow how the author of the Blue Upper Blood felt about the book and, in turn, the author of the Vampire Odyssey. He was able to clearly explain the emotions attached to getting a review for the vast majority of authors.
We need reviews and so we are constantly on the lookout for how we can get reviews for our books. The author's attitude towards the writer of the Vampire Odyssey was completely turned when he read that book's author's review. This, too, is part of the emotional ride for some authors seeking reviews.
I think anyone who likes an old tale rewritten may like the Odyssey very much, I think those who like vampire stories will be entertained by the Odyssey but most of all, I believe that those looking for reviews will be compelled to take an inward look and to see how their mindset compares to the author of The Blue Blood
We need reviews and so we are constantly on the lookout for how we can get reviews for our books. The author's attitude towards the writer of the Vampire Odyssey was completely turned when he read that book's author's review. This, too, is part of the emotional ride for some authors seeking reviews.
I think anyone who likes an old tale rewritten may like the Odyssey very much, I think those who like vampire stories will be entertained by the Odyssey but most of all, I believe that those looking for reviews will be compelled to take an inward look and to see how their mindset compares to the author of The Blue Blood
April 6, 2025
An Imaginative Tirade
RK speaks eloquently (then vulgarly), articulately (then crassly), and truthfully (then brutally honestly) in this book within a book about the travails of being an indie author and the unflattering reality of the need to worship at the feet of the "Gods of Reviews" to be commercially successful. In the 1970's, this book would be sold in a black wrapper like the X rated porn that it is. But the porn is a satirical exaggeration that serves the authors purpose and makes the contrasting self-important "main" book even more compellingly narcissistic. You will likely not encounter a more imaginative tirade about the vagaries of being a published writer. With tongue planted firmly in cheek, RK delivers a not so subtle indictment of the methods that unknown writers are forced to use to find reviewers to boost book sales, no matter how excellent their work.
This is a courageous diatribe, but reader beware--the book within the book is crude, base and intentionally vulgar. And that's the point of this clever parody.
RK speaks eloquently (then vulgarly), articulately (then crassly), and truthfully (then brutally honestly) in this book within a book about the travails of being an indie author and the unflattering reality of the need to worship at the feet of the "Gods of Reviews" to be commercially successful. In the 1970's, this book would be sold in a black wrapper like the X rated porn that it is. But the porn is a satirical exaggeration that serves the authors purpose and makes the contrasting self-important "main" book even more compellingly narcissistic. You will likely not encounter a more imaginative tirade about the vagaries of being a published writer. With tongue planted firmly in cheek, RK delivers a not so subtle indictment of the methods that unknown writers are forced to use to find reviewers to boost book sales, no matter how excellent their work.
This is a courageous diatribe, but reader beware--the book within the book is crude, base and intentionally vulgar. And that's the point of this clever parody.
July 20, 2024
“Vampire Odyssey: or The Blue Blood of the Elizabethan Upper Crust” is a searing satire of indie authors written with tongue fully in cheek by R.K, Byers, an indie author. Rather than attempt a comprehensive list of trigger warnings, I shall say that if you are triggered by anything, you ought to avoid this book.
The MC, also an indie author, is named Landsford Uppington-Smythe, and his latest book, “The Blue Blood of the Elizabethan Upper Crust,” is a literary masterpiece, if he does say so himself (and he does, often). Landsford is comically self-absorbed and conceited; we later learn that this is the least of his vices. “Vampire Odyssey,” is an indie book Landsford is reading, and he finds it to be terrible. The text of “Vampire Odyssey” is included in this story, and it is indeed juvenile and badly written, but it has moments of absurd hilarity. This is a creative and amusing look at the plight of indie authors, struggling to get their work noticed.
The MC, also an indie author, is named Landsford Uppington-Smythe, and his latest book, “The Blue Blood of the Elizabethan Upper Crust,” is a literary masterpiece, if he does say so himself (and he does, often). Landsford is comically self-absorbed and conceited; we later learn that this is the least of his vices. “Vampire Odyssey,” is an indie book Landsford is reading, and he finds it to be terrible. The text of “Vampire Odyssey” is included in this story, and it is indeed juvenile and badly written, but it has moments of absurd hilarity. This is a creative and amusing look at the plight of indie authors, struggling to get their work noticed.
September 5, 2024
On a new level, original, satire!
I must commend RK Byers on the sheer originality and creativity of Vampire Odyssey. While it wasn't an easy read, I applaud his bold approach to intertwining monsters with Snow White and with a memoir-style tale that shines a light on the struggles of independent authors. His writing is infused with a unique blend of humor, often walking the fine line between tasteful and irreverent. He showcased his immense cultural knowledge that had me googling to learn more about the topic.
The Katie storyline, in particular, was both uncomfortable but well-executed, showcasing your skill as a writer. Overall, I gave his writing ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for its innovative spirit and labor-of-love craftsmanship.
And kudos on the memorable line: "I am flabby. I am old. I am sad. And yet, I am great." It's a testament to his writing prowess that it stuck with me. Well done, RK Byers!
I must commend RK Byers on the sheer originality and creativity of Vampire Odyssey. While it wasn't an easy read, I applaud his bold approach to intertwining monsters with Snow White and with a memoir-style tale that shines a light on the struggles of independent authors. His writing is infused with a unique blend of humor, often walking the fine line between tasteful and irreverent. He showcased his immense cultural knowledge that had me googling to learn more about the topic.
The Katie storyline, in particular, was both uncomfortable but well-executed, showcasing your skill as a writer. Overall, I gave his writing ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for its innovative spirit and labor-of-love craftsmanship.
And kudos on the memorable line: "I am flabby. I am old. I am sad. And yet, I am great." It's a testament to his writing prowess that it stuck with me. Well done, RK Byers!
June 20, 2025
A Bloody Brilliant Ride Through Time
I have always enjoyed vampire stories, from watching Blackula as a kid to laughing through Vampire in Brooklyn. But this book felt different and it pulled me in from the first page like I was watching a cross between Sinbad and Kevin Hart dropped into a supernatural period piece. What really made me dive in was knowing the author is a young Black man navigating the struggles of indie publishing. That alone made me want to support it, but the storytelling? Next level. The blend of comedy, gore, and history felt cinematic, but it was Snow White’s eerie grip on the men around her that kept the tension simmering. The pacing was quick, the dialogue sharp, and the energy never dropped. If you enjoy stories that are unapologetically original and wildly unexpected, give this one a shot. It’s more than a vampire tale, it’s a creative rebellion told with bite
I have always enjoyed vampire stories, from watching Blackula as a kid to laughing through Vampire in Brooklyn. But this book felt different and it pulled me in from the first page like I was watching a cross between Sinbad and Kevin Hart dropped into a supernatural period piece. What really made me dive in was knowing the author is a young Black man navigating the struggles of indie publishing. That alone made me want to support it, but the storytelling? Next level. The blend of comedy, gore, and history felt cinematic, but it was Snow White’s eerie grip on the men around her that kept the tension simmering. The pacing was quick, the dialogue sharp, and the energy never dropped. If you enjoy stories that are unapologetically original and wildly unexpected, give this one a shot. It’s more than a vampire tale, it’s a creative rebellion told with bite
June 2, 2024
I've devoured all of Rk's works, and let me tell you, this one is the cream of the crop! As soon as I heard Rk had a new book out, I knew I had to grab it. Sure, the vampire element hooked me—who doesn't love a good supernatural twist?—but I also knew I was in for one heck of a ride. And wow, did Rk deliver!
I laughed so loud and so often, my neighbors probably think I'm losing it. This book is unlike anything I've ever read. It's hilarious, relatable (especially if you're an author), and packed with so many quirky, dark, and cynical moments that you'll be cackling with glee.
Rk has this magical ability to blend fun, eye-opening, and jaw-dropping moments into a seamless narrative that keeps you on your toes. If you're on the hunt for a book that's all of that and more, then look no further. And the ending? Freaking priceless! Trust me, you don't want to miss this one.
I laughed so loud and so often, my neighbors probably think I'm losing it. This book is unlike anything I've ever read. It's hilarious, relatable (especially if you're an author), and packed with so many quirky, dark, and cynical moments that you'll be cackling with glee.
Rk has this magical ability to blend fun, eye-opening, and jaw-dropping moments into a seamless narrative that keeps you on your toes. If you're on the hunt for a book that's all of that and more, then look no further. And the ending? Freaking priceless! Trust me, you don't want to miss this one.
October 5, 2024
Interesting and entertaining
When I first began this book, I was a little confused as to what the book was about. Going from, what I thought was the author's account of reading a really bad book to actually reading the book that was actually very entertaining. But as I continued reading, I realized the author was writing about an indie author named Landsford Uppington-Smythe who was reviewing the Vampire Odyssey. While reading the Vampire Odyssey, the indie author gives many valid points of the struggles including getting reviews for self-published authors as myself. He also included how important it is to read anything and everything because all writings can make one a better writer. I'm glad that I continued reading and finished this book especially to find out how the Bride of Frankenstein "truly" got her name! Haha
When I first began this book, I was a little confused as to what the book was about. Going from, what I thought was the author's account of reading a really bad book to actually reading the book that was actually very entertaining. But as I continued reading, I realized the author was writing about an indie author named Landsford Uppington-Smythe who was reviewing the Vampire Odyssey. While reading the Vampire Odyssey, the indie author gives many valid points of the struggles including getting reviews for self-published authors as myself. He also included how important it is to read anything and everything because all writings can make one a better writer. I'm glad that I continued reading and finished this book especially to find out how the Bride of Frankenstein "truly" got her name! Haha
December 19, 2024
You can be the juiciest peach in the fruit bowl, but if someone doesn’t like peaches, they’ll never pick you. For me, Vampire Odyssey: or The Blue Blood of the Elizabethan Upper Crust is exactly that peach. This book is bursting with flavors: zesty literary references, a lush historical setting, thoughtful/funny reportage on writers and writing, and a surprising cast that hops straight out of pop culture. I imagine it would be succulent nectar for those who love a rich, spicy blend of romance, witty sarcasm and the supernatural. But since my tastes lean more toward milder fare, I found the intensity—and the sheer number of high-profile cameos—a bit overwhelming.
If you’re into a wild, genre-hopping feast of a story, sink your teeth in.
But if, like me, you’re not fond of these types of word fruit, you might find yourself putting this one back on the shelf.
If you’re into a wild, genre-hopping feast of a story, sink your teeth in.
But if, like me, you’re not fond of these types of word fruit, you might find yourself putting this one back on the shelf.
August 19, 2025
This Author is a genius. Not so much for his writing but for the clever way he collects reviews. To be brutally honest I was torn between being unable to stop reading and the overwhelming compulsion to drive nails into my eyes.
The satirical style of the writing, being that of an ageing indie author writing a review of a truly awful vampire porn novel with creative reimagining of fairy tale characters sucked me in. For the first ten pages I was completely confused but then became fascinated / horrified by the two completely diverse writing styles in the same book. I'll never be able to look at Snow White again! The towering ego of the indie author and his assertation that an Uppington-Smythe was behind every significant event in the history of man was quite entertaining.
The Author shows great creativity, writing in a style I would have never imagined. Well Done.
The satirical style of the writing, being that of an ageing indie author writing a review of a truly awful vampire porn novel with creative reimagining of fairy tale characters sucked me in. For the first ten pages I was completely confused but then became fascinated / horrified by the two completely diverse writing styles in the same book. I'll never be able to look at Snow White again! The towering ego of the indie author and his assertation that an Uppington-Smythe was behind every significant event in the history of man was quite entertaining.
The Author shows great creativity, writing in a style I would have never imagined. Well Done.
August 30, 2025
I’ve always had a passion for vampire tales—everything from the classic camp of Blacula to the laughs of Vampire in Brooklyn. But this book hit different. From the very first page, it felt like watching Sinbad and Kevin Hart stumble into a supernatural period drama—unexpected, hilarious, and gripping all at once.
There is a mix of dark humor, blood-soaked moments, and historical atmosphere played out like a film, but it was Snow White’s unsettling hold over the men around her that kept the suspense alive. Genius penning here!
The pace never lagged, the dialogue snapped, and the energy carried straight through. If you’re looking for something bold, imaginative, and unlike anything you’ve read before, this one delivers. It’s not just another vampire novel—it’s a fierce, creative statement told with razor-sharp bite.
There is a mix of dark humor, blood-soaked moments, and historical atmosphere played out like a film, but it was Snow White’s unsettling hold over the men around her that kept the suspense alive. Genius penning here!
The pace never lagged, the dialogue snapped, and the energy carried straight through. If you’re looking for something bold, imaginative, and unlike anything you’ve read before, this one delivers. It’s not just another vampire novel—it’s a fierce, creative statement told with razor-sharp bite.
June 18, 2024
Delightfully Bizarre and Unconventional[book:Vampire Odyssey: or The Blue Blood of the Elizabethan Upper Crust
"Vampire Odyssey: or The Blue Blood of the Elizabethan Upper Crust" is a delightfully bizarre and unconventional book that defies genre conventions and offers a unique reading experience. It's innovative fusion of vampire lore with Elizabethan history, combined with candid reflections on the life of an indie writer, makes this novel a unique and interesting piece of literature. It’s a wild ride through the supernatural and the struggles of self-publishing, providing both entertainment and insight. For readers seeking something different and darkly fun, "Vampire Odyssey" is a journey worth taking.
"Vampire Odyssey: or The Blue Blood of the Elizabethan Upper Crust" is a delightfully bizarre and unconventional book that defies genre conventions and offers a unique reading experience. It's innovative fusion of vampire lore with Elizabethan history, combined with candid reflections on the life of an indie writer, makes this novel a unique and interesting piece of literature. It’s a wild ride through the supernatural and the struggles of self-publishing, providing both entertainment and insight. For readers seeking something different and darkly fun, "Vampire Odyssey" is a journey worth taking.
July 31, 2024
Very interesting read!
This is a very interesting read. It is not blandly about Vampire. But it has all the characters like Dracula, Snow White, and Frankenstein together. It is not traditional Vampire, but modern one. However, during the process of writing a book or reading a book about Vampire Odyssey, the author also writes his own reflection about the book review process and other stuff in between. The author goes back and forth of his thoughts during the process and the story. It’s like the author writes the story and there are other thoughts that he has in between his book. It reminds me of the YouTube video that people sitting and watching others video and reflecting others.
This is a very interesting read. It is not blandly about Vampire. But it has all the characters like Dracula, Snow White, and Frankenstein together. It is not traditional Vampire, but modern one. However, during the process of writing a book or reading a book about Vampire Odyssey, the author also writes his own reflection about the book review process and other stuff in between. The author goes back and forth of his thoughts during the process and the story. It’s like the author writes the story and there are other thoughts that he has in between his book. It reminds me of the YouTube video that people sitting and watching others video and reflecting others.
August 31, 2024
Unique, but not in a good way.
Primarily a rant on the difficulty of getting published, it chronicles the anguish the author experiences giving a promised five star review to one of the worst books ever written—Vampire Odyssey. That, at least, is true. Vampire Odyssey is awful, but it’s also obscene, vulgar.
The author frequently mentions his make-believe blue blood family, and muses about many injustices he perceives. But it’s the publishing industry that gets his primary focus.
He displays writing talent, particularly in his passages on his real, non-blue blood family.
One truth he revels is that all writers believe their work is great. Even the author of Vampire Odyssey. Even Mr. Byers.
Primarily a rant on the difficulty of getting published, it chronicles the anguish the author experiences giving a promised five star review to one of the worst books ever written—Vampire Odyssey. That, at least, is true. Vampire Odyssey is awful, but it’s also obscene, vulgar.
The author frequently mentions his make-believe blue blood family, and muses about many injustices he perceives. But it’s the publishing industry that gets his primary focus.
He displays writing talent, particularly in his passages on his real, non-blue blood family.
One truth he revels is that all writers believe their work is great. Even the author of Vampire Odyssey. Even Mr. Byers.
July 16, 2025
A unique story that will make you laugh & cringe!!
I had my doubts about this book when I first began reading it, as the main characters are Snow White, Frankenstein, Dracula, & a half man-half wolf, who team up to get from one side of America to the other, but they sure do have a lot of fun on the way. Packed with sexual content & violence, this story is a must for fans of horror who want to see a different side to their favourite characters. Plus, a sexually active, sexy Snow White.
I loved the mix of the protagonist telling the story of the 4 individuals, in a way that's meant to slander their story, but in a way it makes it more fun to read.
A very clever imagination!!
Quality!
I had my doubts about this book when I first began reading it, as the main characters are Snow White, Frankenstein, Dracula, & a half man-half wolf, who team up to get from one side of America to the other, but they sure do have a lot of fun on the way. Packed with sexual content & violence, this story is a must for fans of horror who want to see a different side to their favourite characters. Plus, a sexually active, sexy Snow White.
I loved the mix of the protagonist telling the story of the 4 individuals, in a way that's meant to slander their story, but in a way it makes it more fun to read.
A very clever imagination!!
Quality!
August 27, 2025
An absolute blast, clever, hilarious, and brilliantly unique!
Wow! This book completely surprised me. RK Byers has created something truly different with Vampire Odyssey. On the surface it is a funny and chaotic vampire adventure, but underneath it is a smart and sharp commentary on writing, indie publishing, and how we think about books and reviews. The humor lands perfectly, the writing style is bold and refreshing, and the creativity behind this story is impressive. Byers clearly poured his passion and wit into every page, and it shows. This is easily one of the most original and entertaining reads I have picked up in a long time. I highly recommend it!
Wow! This book completely surprised me. RK Byers has created something truly different with Vampire Odyssey. On the surface it is a funny and chaotic vampire adventure, but underneath it is a smart and sharp commentary on writing, indie publishing, and how we think about books and reviews. The humor lands perfectly, the writing style is bold and refreshing, and the creativity behind this story is impressive. Byers clearly poured his passion and wit into every page, and it shows. This is easily one of the most original and entertaining reads I have picked up in a long time. I highly recommend it!
August 30, 2025
RK Byers has a voice, and it bites.
Whether he's laying out a gentle array of poetic words or going full trash-talk, Byers delivers punchy, witty commentary with encyclopedic ease. Vampire Odyssey follows a delusional author and book trader as he reads a novel that monstrously mirrors his own unraveling. His thoughts spiral through society’s worst impulses, personal experiences, cultural absurdities, and self-inflicted fables, all filtered through a lens that’s equal parts satire and soul-searching.
It’s an R-rated comedy with fangs: a spoof layered with creep show chaos, sharp wit, and unexpected depth.
Whether he's laying out a gentle array of poetic words or going full trash-talk, Byers delivers punchy, witty commentary with encyclopedic ease. Vampire Odyssey follows a delusional author and book trader as he reads a novel that monstrously mirrors his own unraveling. His thoughts spiral through society’s worst impulses, personal experiences, cultural absurdities, and self-inflicted fables, all filtered through a lens that’s equal parts satire and soul-searching.
It’s an R-rated comedy with fangs: a spoof layered with creep show chaos, sharp wit, and unexpected depth.
Read
December 16, 2025One of the brightest of these gems was Scott Ciencin's "Vampire Odyssey" series, which started with "The Vampire Odyssey" and continued through "The Wildlings" and "Parliament of Blood." Very well-written and full of evocative scenes that have stuck with me for years, Ciencin's vampire books are definitely worth a look. If I have a couple of complaints, they are that Ciencin goes a little too far over the top at times and his creatures bear very little resemblance to vampires as we know them. But if you are looking for fast, action-packed novels full of horror and interesting characters, you could do a lot worse than these.
June 18, 2024
what a book!
This book is hilarious and schizophrenic and disjointed and disturbing and maybe a little gross. The story flips back and forth between an Odyssey to England undertaken by Frankenstein ( or Cree) and Dracula, the wolf man and Snow White, and is frequently interrupted by the “author” discussing the trials of getting reviews and the struggles of an indie author. He also refers to the characters in the main story as “monstrous adaptations of established icons” which was a very funny moment. This book does contain adult language and situations.
This book is hilarious and schizophrenic and disjointed and disturbing and maybe a little gross. The story flips back and forth between an Odyssey to England undertaken by Frankenstein ( or Cree) and Dracula, the wolf man and Snow White, and is frequently interrupted by the “author” discussing the trials of getting reviews and the struggles of an indie author. He also refers to the characters in the main story as “monstrous adaptations of established icons” which was a very funny moment. This book does contain adult language and situations.
August 14, 2024
Not for everyone
This book is definitely in a category of its own. I was unprepared for the content and it is not my taste. However if you like salacious at times grotesque descriptions of sex and murder this book is for you! I found the content to be a bit confusing at times and I had not seen a book before that openly discussed the reviewing of another book. I wish this author all the success in the world. If you enjoy this genre of book/story then you would probably find this entertaining. Overall the writing that he did was well done.
This book is definitely in a category of its own. I was unprepared for the content and it is not my taste. However if you like salacious at times grotesque descriptions of sex and murder this book is for you! I found the content to be a bit confusing at times and I had not seen a book before that openly discussed the reviewing of another book. I wish this author all the success in the world. If you enjoy this genre of book/story then you would probably find this entertaining. Overall the writing that he did was well done.
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