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Order of Helsing #1
Stalk the Dark
A Vampire King without a heart needs a watcher who guards hers dearly, but I didn’t expect that watcher to be me.
The Order of Helsing have protected the innocent from the Vampire King’s ravenous hunger and cruel games for centuries.
He can’t be killed.
He can’t be stopped.
Because this ancient being has no master.
Once every century he rises from his vampiric sleep to feed, and the Order assigns an operative to watch over him.
This century, I’m that watcher.
I can’t say I’m thrilled. I have a disgust for suckers, so babysitting the first of their kind is not on my to do list. But when the Order says jump, you don’t ask why.
Ezekiel’s cruel beauty makes him the perfect predator, able to reel in his prey with pretty words and promises. Tempering his hunger until he falls back into a vampire coma won’t be easy. Others have tried and failed.
I’m determined to avoid his kill list, and with the help of the two rogue vampire hunters assigned to assist me, I might just succeed.
But the more time I spend with Ezekiel the more I’m drawn to the darkness inside him, because there’s a darkness inside me too. One which I’ve hidden for as long as I can remember. But now that it wants to come out and play, I’m afraid it isn’t just his hunger I’ll need to temper, but also my own.
The Order of Helsing have protected the innocent from the Vampire King’s ravenous hunger and cruel games for centuries.
He can’t be killed.
He can’t be stopped.
Because this ancient being has no master.
Once every century he rises from his vampiric sleep to feed, and the Order assigns an operative to watch over him.
This century, I’m that watcher.
I can’t say I’m thrilled. I have a disgust for suckers, so babysitting the first of their kind is not on my to do list. But when the Order says jump, you don’t ask why.
Ezekiel’s cruel beauty makes him the perfect predator, able to reel in his prey with pretty words and promises. Tempering his hunger until he falls back into a vampire coma won’t be easy. Others have tried and failed.
I’m determined to avoid his kill list, and with the help of the two rogue vampire hunters assigned to assist me, I might just succeed.
But the more time I spend with Ezekiel the more I’m drawn to the darkness inside him, because there’s a darkness inside me too. One which I’ve hidden for as long as I can remember. But now that it wants to come out and play, I’m afraid it isn’t just his hunger I’ll need to temper, but also my own.
428 pages, Paperback
Published April 28, 2024
704 people are currently reading
5001 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Cassidy
134 books2,747 followersDebbie Cassidy lives in England, Bedfordshire, with her three kids and very supportive husband. Coffee and chocolate biscuits are her writing fuels of choice, and she is still working on getting that perfect tower of solitude built in her back garden. Obsessed with building new worlds and reading about them, she spends her spare time daydreaming and conversing with the characters in her head. She writes Urban Fantasy, Romance, Fantasy and Reverse Harem Fantasy. All her books contain plenty of action, romance and twisty plots.
Connect with Debbie via her website at https://debbiecassidyauthor.com, email her at debbiecassidyauthor@gmail.com or check her out on twitter https://twitter.com/authordcassidy Sign up to her newsletter to grab a free short story, and stay up to date on new releases: http://www.subscribepage.com/f6u2k8 Or join her reader group on Facebook to stay in the know: https://www.facebook.com/groups/17595...
Connect with Debbie via her website at https://debbiecassidyauthor.com, email her at debbiecassidyauthor@gmail.com or check her out on twitter https://twitter.com/authordcassidy Sign up to her newsletter to grab a free short story, and stay up to date on new releases: http://www.subscribepage.com/f6u2k8 Or join her reader group on Facebook to stay in the know: https://www.facebook.com/groups/17595...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 230 reviews
January 26, 2025
Mayyyyybe this will go somewhere in book two. I’m hopeful. Hate when the FMC builds herself up to be bad ass but everything she does she fails at it gets her ass kicked it can’t control her libido. Weak FMCs are just not my thing.
Storyline is very interesting though. Giving book 2 a go.
Happy reading,
🥂DD🥂
Storyline is very interesting though. Giving book 2 a go.
Happy reading,
🥂DD🥂
November 24, 2024
I have a lot of things to say about this book so here is a list:
1. The heroine is honestly, one of the worst I've read as a main character. As someone who's from the Order, I was expecting a strong-headed independent woman yet I truly hated every single thing about her.
2. As mentioned in the synopsis: But the more time I spend with Ezekiel the more I’m drawn to the darkness inside him, because there’s a darkness inside me too. This was really misleading because yes, when they were together, the sexual tension was there. BUT In all honesty, Ezekiel really didn't have a big presence so I thought this was completely misleading.
3. Which relates to point #2, I had NO clue this was a reverse harem *which is not a key factor to the two star*. I know this is a series and there will be more romance in the other books but this book just doesn't set up any of the characters for romance. Yes there is some chemistry between Ordell and Hemlock and a teeny tiny bit with Ezekiel but them being a part of this "reverse harem" just doesn't seem believable.
4. Ezekiel was the biggest unconsenting asshole ever. For someone who could be in this "reverse harem", he was such a bad choice. I don't care if he's the first vampire and he's hot, but, literally the BIGGEST RED FLAG TO EVER EXIST. I feel like from the synopsis, he just seems completely misleading. Big ick from me.
Overall, I don't think I'll be continuing with the series but the premise was really interesting. Yet another book I saw from Instagram Reels but at least I gave it a try.
1. The heroine is honestly, one of the worst I've read as a main character. As someone who's from the Order, I was expecting a strong-headed independent woman yet I truly hated every single thing about her.
2. As mentioned in the synopsis: But the more time I spend with Ezekiel the more I’m drawn to the darkness inside him, because there’s a darkness inside me too. This was really misleading because yes, when they were together, the sexual tension was there. BUT In all honesty, Ezekiel really didn't have a big presence so I thought this was completely misleading.
3. Which relates to point #2, I had NO clue this was a reverse harem *which is not a key factor to the two star*. I know this is a series and there will be more romance in the other books but this book just doesn't set up any of the characters for romance. Yes there is some chemistry between Ordell and Hemlock and a teeny tiny bit with Ezekiel but them being a part of this "reverse harem" just doesn't seem believable.
4. Ezekiel was the biggest unconsenting asshole ever. For someone who could be in this "reverse harem", he was such a bad choice. I don't care if he's the first vampire and he's hot, but, literally the BIGGEST RED FLAG TO EVER EXIST. I feel like from the synopsis, he just seems completely misleading. Big ick from me.
Overall, I don't think I'll be continuing with the series but the premise was really interesting. Yet another book I saw from Instagram Reels but at least I gave it a try.
November 28, 2025
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Every one hundred years the first vampire awakens for a year to feed, and this year Orina has been assigned by the Order of Helsing to be his watcher and protector. Stalk the Dark is the first book of a quartet in the Order of Helsing series, set in the same world as Cassidy's other Demons of Morningstar series.
Orina has been seen in other books but this is the first where she is the main character. Sent to what looks like a medieval bubble world with carriages and castles, Orina must find a way to connect with the newly awoken vampire and try to keep him in check enough that he doesn't go on a killing rampage. With the help of a few other order members and two vampire hunter brothers, she will try to keep the most dangerous vampire in check while also looking great for a ball.
I found the premise of the book to be really interesting. We start out with a bit of a mystery as the reader is set up to try and figure out why does Ezekiel sleep for 100 years and then wake for one year? Why is the order trying to both protect him and protect people from him? And what is going on at this order chapter that they have been left with too few operatives and given some extra challenges with the organization structure. The reader discovers the answers to some of these questions as Orina does while many mysteries are still left unclear and will flow into subsequent books.
Do you like reverse harems? I'm really on the fence when it comes to those and it is rare that one works for me long term (I didn't realize this was going to have a possible harem). As this is the first book of the series, there is a lot of sexual tension between Orina and various characters with a set up of possibly three different love interests. I am struggling a bit with this aspect of the story for a few reasons. Right now Ezekiel is pretty monstrous, so it is extremely difficult to root for a romance between them. He kills with out much of a care for who it affects and he has a cruel streak even if at times he seems like he might be redeemable. The other romance interests are a pair of watcher brothers. I liked Ordell and Hemlock one affable and the other a bit grumpy. They have a great dichotomy between them, but then we run into the issue they are brothers and for me that means at least one of them should be out of the running, because brothers sharing a woman is a bit ick. Then there is Orina's other issue of not being able to take a lover since she is in the order, so that whole forbidden wanting thing is happening at the moment.
I liked the side characters and the potential story lines. I struggled a bit with Orina as she made so many missteps in the story and almost got killed or got someone else killed a lot. For the girl that is supposed to kick butt and take names, she got her ass handed to her a lot. I'm definitely interested in the plot progression, especially after the revelations made near the end of the story. But I'm still not a huge fan of the romantic aspects of the story currently.
Narration:
Performance: ★★★★
Character Separation: ★★★
Diction: ★★★★
Pacing/Flow: ★★★★
Sound Effects: None
Sharon Freedman is a new to me narrator. She was a solid pick for Orina's voice and PoV. There were a few times I lost track of who was talking with some of the male characters but other than that the performance was solid. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Every one hundred years the first vampire awakens for a year to feed, and this year Orina has been assigned by the Order of Helsing to be his watcher and protector. Stalk the Dark is the first book of a quartet in the Order of Helsing series, set in the same world as Cassidy's other Demons of Morningstar series.
Orina has been seen in other books but this is the first where she is the main character. Sent to what looks like a medieval bubble world with carriages and castles, Orina must find a way to connect with the newly awoken vampire and try to keep him in check enough that he doesn't go on a killing rampage. With the help of a few other order members and two vampire hunter brothers, she will try to keep the most dangerous vampire in check while also looking great for a ball.
I found the premise of the book to be really interesting. We start out with a bit of a mystery as the reader is set up to try and figure out why does Ezekiel sleep for 100 years and then wake for one year? Why is the order trying to both protect him and protect people from him? And what is going on at this order chapter that they have been left with too few operatives and given some extra challenges with the organization structure. The reader discovers the answers to some of these questions as Orina does while many mysteries are still left unclear and will flow into subsequent books.
Do you like reverse harems? I'm really on the fence when it comes to those and it is rare that one works for me long term (I didn't realize this was going to have a possible harem). As this is the first book of the series, there is a lot of sexual tension between Orina and various characters with a set up of possibly three different love interests. I am struggling a bit with this aspect of the story for a few reasons. Right now Ezekiel is pretty monstrous, so it is extremely difficult to root for a romance between them. He kills with out much of a care for who it affects and he has a cruel streak even if at times he seems like he might be redeemable. The other romance interests are a pair of watcher brothers. I liked Ordell and Hemlock one affable and the other a bit grumpy. They have a great dichotomy between them, but then we run into the issue they are brothers and for me that means at least one of them should be out of the running, because brothers sharing a woman is a bit ick. Then there is Orina's other issue of not being able to take a lover since she is in the order, so that whole forbidden wanting thing is happening at the moment.
I liked the side characters and the potential story lines. I struggled a bit with Orina as she made so many missteps in the story and almost got killed or got someone else killed a lot. For the girl that is supposed to kick butt and take names, she got her ass handed to her a lot. I'm definitely interested in the plot progression, especially after the revelations made near the end of the story. But I'm still not a huge fan of the romantic aspects of the story currently.
Narration:
Performance: ★★★★
Character Separation: ★★★
Diction: ★★★★
Pacing/Flow: ★★★★
Sound Effects: None
Sharon Freedman is a new to me narrator. She was a solid pick for Orina's voice and PoV. There were a few times I lost track of who was talking with some of the male characters but other than that the performance was solid. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
May 27, 2024
Oh my gosh. Just...oh my gosh. This author did it again...just OH. My. Gosh!!!
Can you tell we have no words? No words people! Our brain is broken!! We’re just literally stuck on Oh my gosh!!
Is that a good “oh my gosh” or a bad “oh my gosh” you ask? All good. Only good. Deliciously good. So good, our mind has been blown, and we’re already looking at the calendar, the clock, the sun and the moon to decipher if fall is here yet. Guess what...it’s not! Dang it!! LOL!
Stalk the Dark is the newest book in the newest series, and you are not going to want to miss out on this book! Stalk the Dark is the first book in the Order of Helsing series, and it is ridiculously rich in detail, storytelling, and just enough hints of steaminess that will leave you as frustrated, if not more so, than the main character Orina. Girl! We feel your pain! Oh my goooosh! LOL!
You’re getting tons of secrets, you’re getting vampires, you’re getting temptation, drama, and suspense in spades! This book is dripping with deliciousness that will keep you page-turning from beginning to end! By the time you finish this book you’ll be wishing you had taken your time with it like a decadent treat, but it was just too good to put down and so you went and finished it in one sitting.
This book is something else. Stalk the Dark is a power packed punched of awesomeness that promises plenty of drama, tension, and so much more to come.
Bring on book two!
5 out of 5
Can you tell we have no words? No words people! Our brain is broken!! We’re just literally stuck on Oh my gosh!!
Is that a good “oh my gosh” or a bad “oh my gosh” you ask? All good. Only good. Deliciously good. So good, our mind has been blown, and we’re already looking at the calendar, the clock, the sun and the moon to decipher if fall is here yet. Guess what...it’s not! Dang it!! LOL!
Stalk the Dark is the newest book in the newest series, and you are not going to want to miss out on this book! Stalk the Dark is the first book in the Order of Helsing series, and it is ridiculously rich in detail, storytelling, and just enough hints of steaminess that will leave you as frustrated, if not more so, than the main character Orina. Girl! We feel your pain! Oh my goooosh! LOL!
You’re getting tons of secrets, you’re getting vampires, you’re getting temptation, drama, and suspense in spades! This book is dripping with deliciousness that will keep you page-turning from beginning to end! By the time you finish this book you’ll be wishing you had taken your time with it like a decadent treat, but it was just too good to put down and so you went and finished it in one sitting.
This book is something else. Stalk the Dark is a power packed punched of awesomeness that promises plenty of drama, tension, and so much more to come.
Bring on book two!
5 out of 5
May 24, 2024
*Reverse Harem
*Paranormal
*FMC-PoV only
*Vampire enemies
*Human protectors
*Mystery Curse
*Guilds
*Building Harem (3/4?)
*Slow Burn
*1/?
This was my first read of this authors and the blurb drew me in with talks of Vampire Kings and being drawn to a darkness and this book did no disappoint in that front 😍 Our FMC certainly has a connection with Ezekiel that draws them together but not always with positive affects 😮 and it’s something she has to learn the hard way 😖as the story develops you definitely get the inkling that there is more to what is inflicting her guardians, the brothers, and why she has been chosen as the watcher!! Moreover it’s clear that there’s issues going on with vampire politics and it’s something they’re being drawn in the middle of 🙄although she might just have a mysterious ally outside of ‘the king’ with that 🙈 I’m looking forward to the next one and seeing how all these strings tangle together 😌
*Paranormal
*FMC-PoV only
*Vampire enemies
*Human protectors
*Mystery Curse
*Guilds
*Building Harem (3/4?)
*Slow Burn
*1/?
This was my first read of this authors and the blurb drew me in with talks of Vampire Kings and being drawn to a darkness and this book did no disappoint in that front 😍 Our FMC certainly has a connection with Ezekiel that draws them together but not always with positive affects 😮 and it’s something she has to learn the hard way 😖as the story develops you definitely get the inkling that there is more to what is inflicting her guardians, the brothers, and why she has been chosen as the watcher!! Moreover it’s clear that there’s issues going on with vampire politics and it’s something they’re being drawn in the middle of 🙄although she might just have a mysterious ally outside of ‘the king’ with that 🙈 I’m looking forward to the next one and seeing how all these strings tangle together 😌
November 8, 2024
Ok I'm conflicted. On one hand, I want to give this book a lower score. I mean, nothing really happened other than crazy sexual tension. It was mainly fillers and not much meat and potato. However, this book was well written mechanically. More eloquent than most smut books nowadays. So I ended up settling with 3 stars.
Spice scale (as defined by Mysterious Galaxy): 🔥🔥 [Keeping it PG-13]
Spice scale (as defined by Mysterious Galaxy): 🔥🔥 [Keeping it PG-13]
June 12, 2025
unsure on this one
Not as good as all of Debbie’s other books. Writing was a bit different and hard to follow in places never really got good until the very end. Unsure if I will start book 2
Not as good as all of Debbie’s other books. Writing was a bit different and hard to follow in places never really got good until the very end. Unsure if I will start book 2
May 18, 2024
This is a strange world Debbie Cassidy has created. Modern and historical side-by-side and with a Gothic flare, enough to give off horror movie vibes. The world-building was excellent but the story was even better.
Orina Lighthart is a devout hunter determined to do her job and save human lives. Ezekiel Tepes is a old school movie vampire, he's all mindgames and massacres, he's the vampire to make all other vampires shutter and he's in a battle of wills Orina. It was so good. Orina has such faith in the Order determined to stop Ezekiel from killing every human in his territory you'd think they wouldn't have anything in common but there is an undeniable draw on both sides. They have this weird connection but Orina, has good intentions and she's not gonna let anything stand in her way.
Stalk the Dark was fabulous. It started off with pulse-pounding action and took off from there. The Order is an organization dedicated to protecting humans, they're a little sus. All the characters have secrets that we haven't even begun to touch upon so I don't know who to trust. The Singer brothers have piqued my curiosity, one golden the other a grump both could be romantic possibilities, I mean besides the moody vampire. Then there's the vampiric court that's all lavish and deadly, and there are the bat-like creatures that add to the whole horror movie feel.
What really hooked me was the mysteries on top of mysteries. The more I read the more things aren't adding up. I have so many questions, I think my head is gonna explode. What is happening? Then there was that ending, like, what was that Debbie? The final chapter had the mother-of-all plot twist and the final words made my heart stop. I'm not sure I'm ready for the next but I'm looking forward to it anyway. Up next is Hunt the Dark.
Orina Lighthart is a devout hunter determined to do her job and save human lives. Ezekiel Tepes is a old school movie vampire, he's all mindgames and massacres, he's the vampire to make all other vampires shutter and he's in a battle of wills Orina. It was so good. Orina has such faith in the Order determined to stop Ezekiel from killing every human in his territory you'd think they wouldn't have anything in common but there is an undeniable draw on both sides. They have this weird connection but Orina, has good intentions and she's not gonna let anything stand in her way.
Stalk the Dark was fabulous. It started off with pulse-pounding action and took off from there. The Order is an organization dedicated to protecting humans, they're a little sus. All the characters have secrets that we haven't even begun to touch upon so I don't know who to trust. The Singer brothers have piqued my curiosity, one golden the other a grump both could be romantic possibilities, I mean besides the moody vampire. Then there's the vampiric court that's all lavish and deadly, and there are the bat-like creatures that add to the whole horror movie feel.
What really hooked me was the mysteries on top of mysteries. The more I read the more things aren't adding up. I have so many questions, I think my head is gonna explode. What is happening? Then there was that ending, like, what was that Debbie? The final chapter had the mother-of-all plot twist and the final words made my heart stop. I'm not sure I'm ready for the next but I'm looking forward to it anyway. Up next is Hunt the Dark.
May 28, 2024
Orina is a Watcher, and is assigned by the Order to keep the ancient Vampire King Ezekiel in line after he awakens from a hundred-year sleep. She’s not sure why she’s the lucky chosen one, but knows better than to question the Order’s directive.
Orina steps into the world of the vampires, and is given a crash course into how their hierarchy works. Unfortunately for them, Orina is not thrilled about some of the injustices their leadership commits and the lack of oversight the Order has. Things need to change.
Luckily for Orina, she isn’t alone. She’s got a few members of the Order and two hunters to act as her own personal protectors. It certainly doesn’t hurt that the hunters are attractive as hell. However, so is Ezekiel, and he sets his sights on Orina. That is definitely a problem.
After reading this book, I went back and read the Wolves of Hawthorne Cove and Demons of Morningstar series, since I was intrigued by the mentions of Orina’s friends & wanted to learn more about their stories. They are both excellent series, and although you don’t need to read them to follow this one, I would recommend them simply because they are great! And they give you something to read while we wait for book 2 in this series. :)
Orina steps into the world of the vampires, and is given a crash course into how their hierarchy works. Unfortunately for them, Orina is not thrilled about some of the injustices their leadership commits and the lack of oversight the Order has. Things need to change.
Luckily for Orina, she isn’t alone. She’s got a few members of the Order and two hunters to act as her own personal protectors. It certainly doesn’t hurt that the hunters are attractive as hell. However, so is Ezekiel, and he sets his sights on Orina. That is definitely a problem.
After reading this book, I went back and read the Wolves of Hawthorne Cove and Demons of Morningstar series, since I was intrigued by the mentions of Orina’s friends & wanted to learn more about their stories. They are both excellent series, and although you don’t need to read them to follow this one, I would recommend them simply because they are great! And they give you something to read while we wait for book 2 in this series. :)
January 30, 2025
Showing growth!
I read Cassidy's 2nd series, Demons of Morningstar first. Amazing. Then I read the 1st series, Wolves of Hawthorne Cove. Not great. I was hoping Order of Helsing would be as developed as DoM and I'm glad to say it is so far. Lots of mystery, loss, connection. Relationships are building steadily and I love that. The plot so far shows that there's more than meets the eye which foreshadows a lot of growth throughout the series. At least, that's what I'm hoping for. Lots of side characters keeps the story interesting, and just like in DoM, each character is very individual and easily identifiable. Excited to see where this goes!
I read Cassidy's 2nd series, Demons of Morningstar first. Amazing. Then I read the 1st series, Wolves of Hawthorne Cove. Not great. I was hoping Order of Helsing would be as developed as DoM and I'm glad to say it is so far. Lots of mystery, loss, connection. Relationships are building steadily and I love that. The plot so far shows that there's more than meets the eye which foreshadows a lot of growth throughout the series. At least, that's what I'm hoping for. Lots of side characters keeps the story interesting, and just like in DoM, each character is very individual and easily identifiable. Excited to see where this goes!
August 8, 2025
3.5
This book started out so slowly that I almost put it down and called it quits. But I kept pressing forward anyway because I usually like series by this author. It got better around the 40% mark. Orina is really not what I consider a great main character, at least not so far. She's with an organization called the Order and has been sent to Dracul territory to be the watcher for the big bad. Considering that this, and protecting humanity, is her job, you would think she'd have impressive defense and attack skills. But, pretty much every big fight she's been in, she's failed. So I'm struggling a little with her character because I don't get the point of her job when she can't do anything to prevent bad things from happening. Obviously, the plot is progressing and I may get some answers to the whole situation. I'll give book 2 a chance. Right now I don't really care for any of the characters. I may like the plot, but it's taken so long to get to any of the plot that I'm not sure yet....
This book started out so slowly that I almost put it down and called it quits. But I kept pressing forward anyway because I usually like series by this author. It got better around the 40% mark. Orina is really not what I consider a great main character, at least not so far. She's with an organization called the Order and has been sent to Dracul territory to be the watcher for the big bad. Considering that this, and protecting humanity, is her job, you would think she'd have impressive defense and attack skills. But, pretty much every big fight she's been in, she's failed. So I'm struggling a little with her character because I don't get the point of her job when she can't do anything to prevent bad things from happening. Obviously, the plot is progressing and I may get some answers to the whole situation. I'll give book 2 a chance. Right now I don't really care for any of the characters. I may like the plot, but it's taken so long to get to any of the plot that I'm not sure yet....
February 4, 2025
Necesitaba leer algo con muchos giros, drama, lucha contra el bien y el mal, vampiros y otros seres sobrenaturales, fantasía urbana, una prota intrépida y con sentido innato a hacer actos de valentía sin mirar atrás (punto aquí que estoy siendo un poco irónica jajaa) Helo aquí con este primer libro, me mantuvo muy al pendiente de lo que sucedía (admito que esperaba muchas veces que fuera más contundente y cerrara un con un final) no es lo que sucede porque los libros siguientes son continuación de los sucesos exactamente del el primero, casi que no se nota la diferencia entre libro y otro si se se lee seguido. Y el misterio e intriga de como resolver el problema inicial, continúa... Orina se queda como mis protagonistas fav de lo que va de año hasta ahora✨🫣
June 1, 2024
This is the first book by Dabbie Cassidy that I have read and she has got me hooked! Stalk the Dark is a paranormal, why choose, fantasy with shifters, vampires, watchers and more.
The badass MFC is absolutely amazing and sassy! This book is all about character introductions and world building that will leave you at a cliffhanger wanting more...
The badass MFC is absolutely amazing and sassy! This book is all about character introductions and world building that will leave you at a cliffhanger wanting more...
May 22, 2024
Right off the bat we get hit with some amazing intense action. I love Orina’s attitude and sass! We first saw Orina in Wolves of Hawthorne as a minor character (you don’t have to read it first if you haven’t, but might find a few spoilery things regarding the ending if you read this set first) and the vibe I got from her in that series and in Nyx’s set was that Orina was serious in work mode, lighter around her friends, work is her #1 commitment except her two girl friends. In this series we get to see why she is so serious about her work, and as her friends move on with their lives and find their hea in their respective series, Orina seems to be struggling with her blind faith in the order and what she’s giving up but maybe feels like at least she is good at what she does so the sacrifices are worth it. But THEN she gets sent on this job, and we see her struggles amp up, she gives so much of herself to her work and other people that she has nothing left for herself - like being bored in the castle when there was no one there really hitting it home how alone she is/feels. I really connect with Orina on a base level, so I’m really excited to see how she solves all of the things and hopefully finds her fulfillment along the way.
There are so many different puzzles and pieces already that I have a million different suspicions and theories, and we are only on book 1! I also love Crush - I’m hopeful we get more! I feel like there are a lot of parallels to Beauty and the Beast (albeit adult themed lol), which is one of my favorites, and it made the story that much more intriguing to me. We get heartwrenching moments all throughout, especially at the end. The mystery overshadowing the town is what has me intrigued the most, I am definitely hooked! And the spark between Orina and the guys is electric! I can’t possibly pick a favorite. I feel like Orina has this drive to be independent even though she needs that relief of someone making decisions for her - I love seeing that ease with Ordell and how well they mix; but then the other guys give her pieces she needs as well and it just all fits so well already.
A definite must read that will have you reeling page after page - especially at the end when you get bucket loads of WTF moments hitting one after another.
There are so many different puzzles and pieces already that I have a million different suspicions and theories, and we are only on book 1! I also love Crush - I’m hopeful we get more! I feel like there are a lot of parallels to Beauty and the Beast (albeit adult themed lol), which is one of my favorites, and it made the story that much more intriguing to me. We get heartwrenching moments all throughout, especially at the end. The mystery overshadowing the town is what has me intrigued the most, I am definitely hooked! And the spark between Orina and the guys is electric! I can’t possibly pick a favorite. I feel like Orina has this drive to be independent even though she needs that relief of someone making decisions for her - I love seeing that ease with Ordell and how well they mix; but then the other guys give her pieces she needs as well and it just all fits so well already.
A definite must read that will have you reeling page after page - especially at the end when you get bucket loads of WTF moments hitting one after another.
October 8, 2024
(2.5 Stars)
"Stalk the Dark" is a dark fantasy about Orina, an operative for the Order of Helsing sent to Drakul to watch over the arising vampire King, Ezekial. In this world, the vampire king arises for a year and then goes back into a sleep type statis. While he is awake he must be protected and he is merciless in his inhumanity towards others. How do you protect someone of something you greatly dislike? Oh, did I mention that Ezekiel is also the very first vampire?
When Orina first arrives into town she fails at her very first task of trying to keep a woman and her husband alive from the likes of the vampire bats as well as the werewolves. Not only that, she barely escapes with her own life but with the help of one of the vamps she is whisked away to safety where she can heal.
While trying to maneuver her way through the shark infested waters of this new assignment she is tested at every turn by people who treat her as a "snack" or a little girl. She is constantly being challenged and is often being displayed as a possession of Ezekiel. Ezekiel is not one to share and he does not want anyone bothering his most prized possession.
I will be honest, there were very few characters in this read that I truly liked. I often wondered why do so many find Orina so special. She often fails at keeping her charges safe, and she cannot seem to make up her mind who she is attracted to. At times I questioned if she is truly an adult or a teen pretending to be an adult. I am really not sure about this series at this point. While I was initially entertained, I have not real emotional attachment to this world or these characters. I will read the second book in this series before deciding whether or not I will go on with the series. This can definitely be a hit or miss.
"Stalk the Dark" is a dark fantasy about Orina, an operative for the Order of Helsing sent to Drakul to watch over the arising vampire King, Ezekial. In this world, the vampire king arises for a year and then goes back into a sleep type statis. While he is awake he must be protected and he is merciless in his inhumanity towards others. How do you protect someone of something you greatly dislike? Oh, did I mention that Ezekiel is also the very first vampire?
When Orina first arrives into town she fails at her very first task of trying to keep a woman and her husband alive from the likes of the vampire bats as well as the werewolves. Not only that, she barely escapes with her own life but with the help of one of the vamps she is whisked away to safety where she can heal.
While trying to maneuver her way through the shark infested waters of this new assignment she is tested at every turn by people who treat her as a "snack" or a little girl. She is constantly being challenged and is often being displayed as a possession of Ezekiel. Ezekiel is not one to share and he does not want anyone bothering his most prized possession.
I will be honest, there were very few characters in this read that I truly liked. I often wondered why do so many find Orina so special. She often fails at keeping her charges safe, and she cannot seem to make up her mind who she is attracted to. At times I questioned if she is truly an adult or a teen pretending to be an adult. I am really not sure about this series at this point. While I was initially entertained, I have not real emotional attachment to this world or these characters. I will read the second book in this series before deciding whether or not I will go on with the series. This can definitely be a hit or miss.
April 30, 2024
Our FMC, Orina, works for the Order (protectors of humanity) and they keep Vampires and other monsters in line - more-so the 'suckers' who don't know how to behave and control themselves compared to their counterparts that are just policed for not taking blood without permission.
The Order has sent Orina to watch the head Vampire, Ezekiel, after he has awakened after being desiccated for a century. This watch assignment lasts for a whole year in which Orina must keep Ezekiel from murdering innocents due to his thirst. Along with our Orina, she has two guards that are with her for the year to help her with her assignment.
As time passes, Orina finds herself attracted to several people which is hard for her because the Order is ordained and not allowed to have pleasures of the flesh as it will weaken their blessing. Will she be able to resist the temptation that is right in front of her? Can she keep Ezekiel from killing innocents? Take a chance and go on a wild ride with a fun cast of characters in this series opener!
Personal Thoughts:
An exciting new series that took me a moment to really sink my teeth into but once I did, wowza! It does end on a cliffhanger with the next book expected in Fall 2024 - so keep that in mind once you pick this one up.
I will say that it took me about 40-50% to really get hooked but I think it was just trying to get the foundation of this book settled and then things really took off and many twists and turns were coming out. Even saying that, this is definitely a series that I will be continuing because I have to know what happens next - a major piece of information was given to us literally in the last moment of this book!
The Order has sent Orina to watch the head Vampire, Ezekiel, after he has awakened after being desiccated for a century. This watch assignment lasts for a whole year in which Orina must keep Ezekiel from murdering innocents due to his thirst. Along with our Orina, she has two guards that are with her for the year to help her with her assignment.
As time passes, Orina finds herself attracted to several people which is hard for her because the Order is ordained and not allowed to have pleasures of the flesh as it will weaken their blessing. Will she be able to resist the temptation that is right in front of her? Can she keep Ezekiel from killing innocents? Take a chance and go on a wild ride with a fun cast of characters in this series opener!
Personal Thoughts:
An exciting new series that took me a moment to really sink my teeth into but once I did, wowza! It does end on a cliffhanger with the next book expected in Fall 2024 - so keep that in mind once you pick this one up.
I will say that it took me about 40-50% to really get hooked but I think it was just trying to get the foundation of this book settled and then things really took off and many twists and turns were coming out. Even saying that, this is definitely a series that I will be continuing because I have to know what happens next - a major piece of information was given to us literally in the last moment of this book!
May 27, 2024
Interesting world
I’m a little heartbroken over the final few scenes of this book. What the heck. This had better be a fake scene or something because no. Just no.
Obviously, I’m still recovering and I’m not sure if a big redemption is coming or not, but my mind had better be blown for it to work. The final few revelations actually leave us with more questions than answers. Once I recover, I’ll probably reflect on some of these revelations to see how they were shown throughout the book.
This book is connected to another one of the author’s series, but you don’t need to have read that series to enjoy this book. Some things are referenced, but nothing detrimental. It’s an interesting world and for some background I would recommend the other series.
I liked the FMC and I do like that she isn’t invincible. Sometimes it was a little frustrating that she wasn’t, but I think it made her more realistic. I did question her a few times and I wish she acted differently but I’m sure there is a reason.
This was an interesting story and concept. I would have liked more world building and explanations of the Order and the territories. The few revelations at the end did explain this world a bit more but it was more of a tease of what’s to come.
I enjoyed the story but I did find it slow at times. Obviously the ending has me very invested for the next book. Not surprising since this author somehow always pulls me into her books, it was only a matter of time.
I’m a little heartbroken over the final few scenes of this book. What the heck. This had better be a fake scene or something because no. Just no.
Obviously, I’m still recovering and I’m not sure if a big redemption is coming or not, but my mind had better be blown for it to work. The final few revelations actually leave us with more questions than answers. Once I recover, I’ll probably reflect on some of these revelations to see how they were shown throughout the book.
This book is connected to another one of the author’s series, but you don’t need to have read that series to enjoy this book. Some things are referenced, but nothing detrimental. It’s an interesting world and for some background I would recommend the other series.
I liked the FMC and I do like that she isn’t invincible. Sometimes it was a little frustrating that she wasn’t, but I think it made her more realistic. I did question her a few times and I wish she acted differently but I’m sure there is a reason.
This was an interesting story and concept. I would have liked more world building and explanations of the Order and the territories. The few revelations at the end did explain this world a bit more but it was more of a tease of what’s to come.
I enjoyed the story but I did find it slow at times. Obviously the ending has me very invested for the next book. Not surprising since this author somehow always pulls me into her books, it was only a matter of time.
May 27, 2024
This was such a good book. It had me intrigued from the start and just kept building on it until we reach the end and was given that crazy ending. Not really a cliffhanger but still left with some intense information I did not see coming. We meet Orina she is entrusted with watching the territory of Dracul. It’s an area that contains the vampires of the world. She is part of a group called the Order and they are entrusted with the safety of the humans I. This area. She is meant to try and make sure things don’t get out of hand with the rising of the top vampire Ezekiel . She has others helping her during her year of service and this is where she meets the hunter brother duo Hemlock and Ordell. Along the way she slowly starts becoming engulfed in the mystery of the area. She wants to try and unravel these problems, as well as keep the humans safe and finish up her year of service.
What interred me most about the book is the different take on the vampire, shifter, and vampire hunter stories that I normally see. I’m very excited to see what happens in the next book after that information was given to Orina. All of my theories had went right out the window when Hemlock and Ordell shared some top secret information with her that they don’t want others to be aware of. Really hope it jumps into more of this information in the next book and that we see things heating up with Orina and her guys.
What interred me most about the book is the different take on the vampire, shifter, and vampire hunter stories that I normally see. I’m very excited to see what happens in the next book after that information was given to Orina. All of my theories had went right out the window when Hemlock and Ordell shared some top secret information with her that they don’t want others to be aware of. Really hope it jumps into more of this information in the next book and that we see things heating up with Orina and her guys.
May 2, 2024
Holy guacamole!
Wow, talk about a cliffhanger! Left me on the edge of my seat with my jaw hanging open. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book! So many mysteries left to unravel. Stalk the Dark reminds me of a darker version of Beauty and the Beast mixed with the Underworld Film Series and the Warrior Nun Netflix Series.
A great start that pulls you in from the first chapter and keeps you guessing with each page. So many questions left unanswered! I am excited to see how Orina’s story unfolds. She is a fierce warrior struggling with her vulnerability. Driven by her need to protect innocents, she keeps finding herself in over her head and needing to be rescued.
Orina has been assigned to Dracul territory to watch over the Vampire King Ezekiel and assigned two hunters Ordell and Hemlock to aid her in her assignment to protect the Vampire king and help innocent lives in danger from his bloodlust. The confusing hot and cold relationships with these three men, put Orina’s beliefs to the test. While she fights her demons and struggles with her attraction to them, the lines between friend and enemy start to blur.
Check out Stalk the Dark and dive into an adventure with unexpected twists and turns, that challenge Orina as she learns nothings is as it appears. Get drawn in and watch as the secrets unfold.
Wow, talk about a cliffhanger! Left me on the edge of my seat with my jaw hanging open. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book! So many mysteries left to unravel. Stalk the Dark reminds me of a darker version of Beauty and the Beast mixed with the Underworld Film Series and the Warrior Nun Netflix Series.
A great start that pulls you in from the first chapter and keeps you guessing with each page. So many questions left unanswered! I am excited to see how Orina’s story unfolds. She is a fierce warrior struggling with her vulnerability. Driven by her need to protect innocents, she keeps finding herself in over her head and needing to be rescued.
Orina has been assigned to Dracul territory to watch over the Vampire King Ezekiel and assigned two hunters Ordell and Hemlock to aid her in her assignment to protect the Vampire king and help innocent lives in danger from his bloodlust. The confusing hot and cold relationships with these three men, put Orina’s beliefs to the test. While she fights her demons and struggles with her attraction to them, the lines between friend and enemy start to blur.
Check out Stalk the Dark and dive into an adventure with unexpected twists and turns, that challenge Orina as she learns nothings is as it appears. Get drawn in and watch as the secrets unfold.
April 21, 2024
In the thrilling outstanding urban fantasy novel, join Orina, a vigilant member of the Order of Van Helsing, as she embarks on a mission to safeguard the innocent from supernatural threats. With her committed team by her side, they navigate a world where danger lurks at every turn.
But beware, for appearances can be deceiving. In a story where nothing is as it seems, Orina's journey takes unexpected twists and turns. Dark secrets unravel that challenge her beliefs and test her loyalty.
As Orina delves deeper into her mission, she uncovers more than she anticipated which threatens not only her own life but the very foundation of the Order. With each revelation, the stakes escalate, pushing Orina and her team to their limits.
In a race against time, Orina must unravel the truth and confront her demons. Will she rise above the shadows that cloud her path? Can she protect the innocents when the lines between friend and foe blur? The fate of both the mortal and supernatural realms hangs in the balance.
The plot is brilliantly crafted, keeping me on the edge of my seat with its suspense and constant surprises. Overall it's a must-read. Its gripping storyline, well-rounded characters, and skillful writing make it an exceptional book that I wholeheartedly recommend.
But beware, for appearances can be deceiving. In a story where nothing is as it seems, Orina's journey takes unexpected twists and turns. Dark secrets unravel that challenge her beliefs and test her loyalty.
As Orina delves deeper into her mission, she uncovers more than she anticipated which threatens not only her own life but the very foundation of the Order. With each revelation, the stakes escalate, pushing Orina and her team to their limits.
In a race against time, Orina must unravel the truth and confront her demons. Will she rise above the shadows that cloud her path? Can she protect the innocents when the lines between friend and foe blur? The fate of both the mortal and supernatural realms hangs in the balance.
The plot is brilliantly crafted, keeping me on the edge of my seat with its suspense and constant surprises. Overall it's a must-read. Its gripping storyline, well-rounded characters, and skillful writing make it an exceptional book that I wholeheartedly recommend.
April 27, 2024
I voluntarily reviewed "STALK THE DARK" WOW!!! What an on the edge of your seat story that hooks you right from the start so full suspense, intrigue, surprises, dark secrets, danger, innocents, angst, supernatural threats, twists that makes this one addicting page turner.
Orina Lighthearted is part of the Order of Van Helsing she's the new leader for the Dracula territory her mission is to watch over the Vampire King Ezekial who rises every year, she has to keep his death & destryction to a minimum, with her own men Ordell & Hemlock to keep her safe they come with their own secrets.
Orina looks deeper into her mission uncovering things that could threaten her life & that of the Order pushing her team to their limits a race to unravel the truth & confront her own demons, will she be able to protect the innocence, because the fate of mortal realm & supernatural are at stake.
I definitely recommend to get this extremely well written adventure you can't put down it's such a gripping story with awesome characters that pull you right into all the intense drama, so many surprises you don't expect.
I'm so looking forward to the next book ASAP after that mind-blowing cliffhanger to see what happens next.
EXCELLENT MINDBLOWING RIVITING INTENSE PARANORMAL ADVENTURE I LOVED IT🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Orina Lighthearted is part of the Order of Van Helsing she's the new leader for the Dracula territory her mission is to watch over the Vampire King Ezekial who rises every year, she has to keep his death & destryction to a minimum, with her own men Ordell & Hemlock to keep her safe they come with their own secrets.
Orina looks deeper into her mission uncovering things that could threaten her life & that of the Order pushing her team to their limits a race to unravel the truth & confront her own demons, will she be able to protect the innocence, because the fate of mortal realm & supernatural are at stake.
I definitely recommend to get this extremely well written adventure you can't put down it's such a gripping story with awesome characters that pull you right into all the intense drama, so many surprises you don't expect.
I'm so looking forward to the next book ASAP after that mind-blowing cliffhanger to see what happens next.
EXCELLENT MINDBLOWING RIVITING INTENSE PARANORMAL ADVENTURE I LOVED IT🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
May 7, 2024
"Stalk the Dark" is the start of a new paranormal RH series, with a touch of dystopian feel like only this author can write. The story jumps right in with this one, and I have to admit it took me a few chapters to really grab the story, the worldbuilding and its characters. I don't even know where it really clicked, but I suddenly noticed I was completely stuck into the story and it became quite hard to put it down.
I absolutely love this author's combination of paranormal and dystopian tropes, and she once again created a fascinating world with this series. The slow build romance is completely throwing me for a loop as I have no clue who will ultimately end up in our fmc's harem. Honestly, I believe I already spotted six options, but with this author you just never know. I'm at least hoping she will add some options outside of those she ends up living with, because there is a very fascinating vampire I would love to get to know better...
This series has all the paranormal characters you might like, tons of magic and secrets, a fascinating plot and so much tension between our fmc and a whole bunch of men! I can't wait to see what's coming next; something tells me we're in for an amazing ride with this new series.
I absolutely love this author's combination of paranormal and dystopian tropes, and she once again created a fascinating world with this series. The slow build romance is completely throwing me for a loop as I have no clue who will ultimately end up in our fmc's harem. Honestly, I believe I already spotted six options, but with this author you just never know. I'm at least hoping she will add some options outside of those she ends up living with, because there is a very fascinating vampire I would love to get to know better...
This series has all the paranormal characters you might like, tons of magic and secrets, a fascinating plot and so much tension between our fmc and a whole bunch of men! I can't wait to see what's coming next; something tells me we're in for an amazing ride with this new series.
May 24, 2024
I absolutely loved reading about Orina and this world again. I enjoyed Quinn and Nyx's stories, and I can't wait to see how all these new characters play out between The Order, Orina, the Hunters, the Sangualux, and the Vampire King. Orina has a special blessed sword that usually helps her kill the cold ones, but now she has been sent to Dracul territory as a watcher over the first vampire for the next year. I like how she fights with her whole heart and soul, but that she isn't always totally successful in saving her human charges. This seems more real to me than always winning every fight.
Orina has Padma, Merry, and Gideon as Order agents to take care of their offices and deal with regular human cases. She also has started becoming close with her hunter protectors, Hemlock and Ordell. Her main duty, though, lies in trying to keep the Vampire King, Ezekiel, from draining and killing too many humans. The main struggle is that during this one rising year out of 100, Ezekiel has to build back his own strength and reputation, so he needs to feed. Will Orina be able to find some humanity left within him, or will he continue to kill as much as he wants? I really recommend this book to lovers of RH, adventure, action, and vampires!
Orina has Padma, Merry, and Gideon as Order agents to take care of their offices and deal with regular human cases. She also has started becoming close with her hunter protectors, Hemlock and Ordell. Her main duty, though, lies in trying to keep the Vampire King, Ezekiel, from draining and killing too many humans. The main struggle is that during this one rising year out of 100, Ezekiel has to build back his own strength and reputation, so he needs to feed. Will Orina be able to find some humanity left within him, or will he continue to kill as much as he wants? I really recommend this book to lovers of RH, adventure, action, and vampires!
May 28, 2024
Stalk the Dark by Debbie Cassidy is book one in the Order of Helsing Series. I’ve read many other books by this author but this may be hands down my favorite. I devoured this book when I started, I couldn’t put it down. This story hooked me and kept my attention all the way until the end. I love a good vampire story but this author took it and really made it their own. It has drama, suspense and some action to boot. I loved the characters all of them fleshed out with characteristics I could picture. I’m so intrigued by Ezekiel and I can’t wait to see where the story goes with him. Also loved Orina with how strong she holds her beliefs. She has her hands full with everything going on around her. I will mention that this does end in a cliffhanger so be forewarned about that because of my gosh. Needless to say I’m eagerly awaiting the next book. This was written fantastically with such an amazing and steady plot. The worldbuilding is incredible; I could imagine everything I was reading as it I was there on this journey myself. Debbie Cassidy has written another wonderful engaging book. I urge you to not only read this one but any of the other works this author has published. Two thumbs way up.
Final review:
5 out of 5 stars
Final review:
5 out of 5 stars
June 10, 2024
I've been waiting for Orina's story for quite some time, and I wasn't disappointed. She's become the chosen watcher of the vampire King, Ezekiel who awakens after ninety-nine years of sleep for just one year. In this time he reeks all sorts of havoc and it's up to the Order's Watcher to keep an eye on him and keep the kill count as low as they can. The world we are thrown into is a mixture of new and old, literally called New Town where it's acceptable to wear jeans and a t-shirt and cell phones work to Old Town, where the mode of transport is horse and carriage, communication is through birds and if you are wearing a corset and bustle it's frowned upon.
Orina must navigate her new title with the help of Hunter brothers, Hemlock and Ordell in a world she doesn't fully understand, and definitely hasn't been prepared for.
There is heat in this book but not between the sheets, in fact, it's against the Order's code to take part in sexual relations with another. Somehow though the author, Debbie Cassidy still manages to make you hot under the collar. We get a major bombshell at the end of the book, which while I was partly correct, I didn't see the whole picture and now I'm desperate for more. Can't wait for the next book.
Orina must navigate her new title with the help of Hunter brothers, Hemlock and Ordell in a world she doesn't fully understand, and definitely hasn't been prepared for.
There is heat in this book but not between the sheets, in fact, it's against the Order's code to take part in sexual relations with another. Somehow though the author, Debbie Cassidy still manages to make you hot under the collar. We get a major bombshell at the end of the book, which while I was partly correct, I didn't see the whole picture and now I'm desperate for more. Can't wait for the next book.
April 17, 2024
Book 1 of the Order of Helsing series and I am already hooked. After getting small glimpses of Orina in previous series, I couldn't wait to start this series and it did not disappoint. Orina has always been a bid of a mystery and that doesn't change in this book. There is a lot we don't know about her and I can't wait to find out more in coming books. If you are looking for spice, you're not going to get it in this boo. The buildup, however, is off the charts and when it hits, and if you've ever read a Debbie Cassidy book you know it will, it is going to be explosive. Orina has a lot of guys circling her and it isn't clear what their motivations are. Honestly, all of them are different levels of problematic and it's hard to tell if they will be in her life or just try to take her life. Cassidy comes at you hard with this series, breaking your heart already in just book 1 (she usually gives you a grace period and at least waits until book 2). That said, I was left devastated when I reached the end, which of course was a vicious cliffhanger, and am now desperately waiting for the next book. This was a great read!
April 25, 2024
Debbie Cassidy is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Seriously, every book I've read of hers thus far, I'm not left disappointed, in fact, her books have made me want to read more and more of her works.
This book is about the origin of "vampirism" and how evil can come in many forms. The FMC, Orina, struggles with her task as Watcher over the Vampire King "Ezekial" who's, dare we say captivating, even in his sadism and deviant ways, a borderline psychopath. However, we eventually learn that it's the ripple effect of a bad choice, made while unaware of being used for making that choice.
I struggled to empathize with Ezekiel while also understanding why Orlina gave into the temptation, albeit not fully, so go her will power!
The two hunters, Hemlock and Ordell, I loved! Yes, they were a pain and sometimes we just wanted to punch some sense into them but, at the end of the story, we finally understood why they acted the way they did.
I can't wait to read what happens next and to see if Ezekial will be able to be redeemed (even if he stays morally gray, like heavy on the gray side).
This book is about the origin of "vampirism" and how evil can come in many forms. The FMC, Orina, struggles with her task as Watcher over the Vampire King "Ezekial" who's, dare we say captivating, even in his sadism and deviant ways, a borderline psychopath. However, we eventually learn that it's the ripple effect of a bad choice, made while unaware of being used for making that choice.
I struggled to empathize with Ezekiel while also understanding why Orlina gave into the temptation, albeit not fully, so go her will power!
The two hunters, Hemlock and Ordell, I loved! Yes, they were a pain and sometimes we just wanted to punch some sense into them but, at the end of the story, we finally understood why they acted the way they did.
I can't wait to read what happens next and to see if Ezekial will be able to be redeemed (even if he stays morally gray, like heavy on the gray side).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2025
2.5 stars. It would have been 4 or 5 if not for the main character.
The premise and writing were good but my god, the FMC is thick as mince and useless besides.
I was genuinely embarrassed for her on multiple occasions.
As with all Debbie Cassidy books you get incredible world-building, lots of action and a huge cast of characters, and I enjoyed all of that immensely.
Sadly I couldn't get past how irritating I found the heroine.
Also the men are blatantly bad for her in various ways but she's not wary at all...? Like early on on her first "date" with Ordell she meets his troupe of kids and she just shrugs it off and it's never discussed again? Ezekiel kills people on the daily and yet she's always surprised whenever he kills more humans...? Legit makes no sense.
She acts more like a ditsy human who's been dumped into the situation rather than a trained fighter. So disappointing.
Quote from 86% on kindle:
"Sure, he’d turned into a monster and chased me through the creepy forest and then tried to fuck me, but he hadn’t been himself. I forgave him, but it was obvious he didn’t forgive himself. We’d talk later."
The premise and writing were good but my god, the FMC is thick as mince and useless besides.
I was genuinely embarrassed for her on multiple occasions.
As with all Debbie Cassidy books you get incredible world-building, lots of action and a huge cast of characters, and I enjoyed all of that immensely.
Sadly I couldn't get past how irritating I found the heroine.
Also the men are blatantly bad for her in various ways but she's not wary at all...? Like early on on her first "date" with Ordell she meets his troupe of kids and she just shrugs it off and it's never discussed again? Ezekiel kills people on the daily and yet she's always surprised whenever he kills more humans...? Legit makes no sense.
She acts more like a ditsy human who's been dumped into the situation rather than a trained fighter. So disappointing.
Quote from 86% on kindle:
"Sure, he’d turned into a monster and chased me through the creepy forest and then tried to fuck me, but he hadn’t been himself. I forgave him, but it was obvious he didn’t forgive himself. We’d talk later."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2024
Have you ever started a book that was a little slow in the beginning, but by the end you are shaking your kindle and internally screaming, because it is going full steam only to end in the biggest cliff hanger? Yeah, I am talking about this book.
Orina Lightheart: Newly appointed leader of the Order of Helsing for the Dracul territory. Bad to the bone babe, who holds on to her belief and blessing like any new recruit. She is out to make a difference and change the lives of those around her.
Ezekial: Vampire leader of Dracul territory recently risen from a century long sleep. Dark, decadent, and losing the last of his humanity.
Ordell and Hemlock: Brothers and hunters, that are Orina's protectors while engaging with Ezekial
Both with a past. Both hiding secrets. Both hot as hell and completely opposite.
Godor: Because he is worth mentioning and I sense big things for this creature.
Spice: SLOW BURN ALERT.
Is it a love triangle? Is it RH? WE DON'T KNOW!
Triggers: Murder, attempted assault, Dubcon touch
Orina Lightheart: Newly appointed leader of the Order of Helsing for the Dracul territory. Bad to the bone babe, who holds on to her belief and blessing like any new recruit. She is out to make a difference and change the lives of those around her.
Ezekial: Vampire leader of Dracul territory recently risen from a century long sleep. Dark, decadent, and losing the last of his humanity.
Ordell and Hemlock: Brothers and hunters, that are Orina's protectors while engaging with Ezekial
Both with a past. Both hiding secrets. Both hot as hell and completely opposite.
Godor: Because he is worth mentioning and I sense big things for this creature.
Spice: SLOW BURN ALERT.
Is it a love triangle? Is it RH? WE DON'T KNOW!
Triggers: Murder, attempted assault, Dubcon touch
May 5, 2024
Orina worked for the Order of Helsing, as a watcher she had been sent for one year to try and keep Ezekiel Tepes, a monster from killing to many people, the first vampire the father of all, a “Monster”. Orina had read his file, and had read what had happened to other operatives. The Order had an agreement with Ezekiel, but for Orina's part it was not looking so great, she had already lost two people that she was unable to save, was bitten by the wolves of Silverwood and they had toxin in their saliva, lethal to many and she was in Ezekiel's cell. He wanted to make a deal to save her but it would give him the right to do whatever he wanted. Would she survive? What of the two hunters, Ordell and Hemlock, that were to be her back up? Who and What were they? Secrets she was up against so many secrets and losing people she cared about. Would Orina as assigned watcher be able to help and would she make it one year? This story has twists and turns and shocking discoveries and the cliffhanger has me waiting!!!
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