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How to Face Eternity, Part I
My life began where some might say it ended: the night I died.
As the “trophy girlfriend” of an infamous crime boss, I always suspected death would come for me. But when a tall, dark, handsome predator rescues me from the trunk of a rival mafioso’s Cadillac, I discover that the city of Creswell holds fears beyond mortal crime: creatures of the night in human skins, beautiful, fast, and hungry for blood.
Riftan swears I’ll despise him for giving me the curse of immortality, but contempt is the last thing I feel for him. We may have gotten off on the wrong foot, but our life together isn’t the hell he promised; rather, it’s my own messed-up version of heaven. He is my mentor and my friend, teaching me everything I need to know to face eternity… yet he shows affection shamelessly, pushing the boundaries of what is appropriate while claiming that our relationship can’t be romantic.
As the lines between friends and lovers blur, will he finally accept me as the equal he can love,
or will I be left to face the rest of my long eternity with the torment of a heart he’s broken?
How to Face Eternity is novel one of two following Leanne, a newly turned vampire, while she navigates the mysterious trials of immortality alongside Riftan, her immortal mentor.
Part one (How to Face Eternity) and part two (In the Face of Eternity) are highly entwined and should be read in sequence.
In the Face of Eternity projected release is set for Spring 2025
As the “trophy girlfriend” of an infamous crime boss, I always suspected death would come for me. But when a tall, dark, handsome predator rescues me from the trunk of a rival mafioso’s Cadillac, I discover that the city of Creswell holds fears beyond mortal crime: creatures of the night in human skins, beautiful, fast, and hungry for blood.
Riftan swears I’ll despise him for giving me the curse of immortality, but contempt is the last thing I feel for him. We may have gotten off on the wrong foot, but our life together isn’t the hell he promised; rather, it’s my own messed-up version of heaven. He is my mentor and my friend, teaching me everything I need to know to face eternity… yet he shows affection shamelessly, pushing the boundaries of what is appropriate while claiming that our relationship can’t be romantic.
As the lines between friends and lovers blur, will he finally accept me as the equal he can love,
or will I be left to face the rest of my long eternity with the torment of a heart he’s broken?
How to Face Eternity is novel one of two following Leanne, a newly turned vampire, while she navigates the mysterious trials of immortality alongside Riftan, her immortal mentor.
Part one (How to Face Eternity) and part two (In the Face of Eternity) are highly entwined and should be read in sequence.
In the Face of Eternity projected release is set for Spring 2025
382 pages, Paperback
Published June 25, 2024
16 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
About the author
S.H. Clasen
3 books14 followersA long-time resident of the Pacific Northwest, Sierra either loves to be immersed in nature or lost in a fantasy world. If she's not out snowboarding, surfing, or skating, Sierra can be found at her desk writing fantastical romances or cosplaying like she belongs in one. Though the local high school students know her as snowboard coach, her friends know her as an anime-loving, metal music-listening, role-playing, busybody who's always got something new going on.
Since you're here, it means you know her as the author, SH Clasen. A self-proclaimed romance enthusiast, Sierra's novels revolve around romance of all varieties, particularly fantasy, sci-fi, and paranormal. In her opinion, if it fights or bites, it's probably sexy.
Above all, Sierra's favorite thing in the world is talking about the many things she loves with like-minded people, so don't be shy to hit up her socials and start up a conversation about something cool!
@SHClasenAuthor (Tiktok, Instagram, Threads, & More)
SHClasen.com
Since you're here, it means you know her as the author, SH Clasen. A self-proclaimed romance enthusiast, Sierra's novels revolve around romance of all varieties, particularly fantasy, sci-fi, and paranormal. In her opinion, if it fights or bites, it's probably sexy.
Above all, Sierra's favorite thing in the world is talking about the many things she loves with like-minded people, so don't be shy to hit up her socials and start up a conversation about something cool!
@SHClasenAuthor (Tiktok, Instagram, Threads, & More)
SHClasen.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
June 3, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for this early copy in exchange for an honest review.
Surprisingly cozy for about 90% of the book, considering it's about vampires and the mafia. It's not very action-y, and most of the book is spent in a very domestic, cuddly, will they-won't they romantic "situationship" between the vampire maker Riftan, and his fledgling, Leanne. Not a whole lot happens beyond getting to know the two of them as they are in a domestic lifestyle. Riftan's whole backstory is maybe 5 pages, and he refuses outright to talk about who he was before he was a vampire. I think fans of Ali Hazelwood's Bride will enjoy this; it has a similar low stakes, high domestic vibe to it in a very modern setting.
This one could hit right for the right audience, so here's who I think this book is for:
- someone in search of a cozy, relatively safe, low stakes read
- someone who wants just a little spice, not full on erotica
- someone who likes their vampires to feel like people, not monsters
- someone who's cool with a book with not a lot of plot, but a lot of character moments, specifically between the romantic leads
Who this book is NOT for:
- someone who wants high stakes, violent action
- someone in the mood for spicy spice erotica
- someone who wants their vampires to be sadistic animals, or just mindless monsters a la The Strain
- someone in need of lots of fast paced plot points, or someone who's expecting this to be a crime Noir type book
I liked it enough I'll pick up the sequel when it hits next spring!
Surprisingly cozy for about 90% of the book, considering it's about vampires and the mafia. It's not very action-y, and most of the book is spent in a very domestic, cuddly, will they-won't they romantic "situationship" between the vampire maker Riftan, and his fledgling, Leanne. Not a whole lot happens beyond getting to know the two of them as they are in a domestic lifestyle. Riftan's whole backstory is maybe 5 pages, and he refuses outright to talk about who he was before he was a vampire. I think fans of Ali Hazelwood's Bride will enjoy this; it has a similar low stakes, high domestic vibe to it in a very modern setting.
This one could hit right for the right audience, so here's who I think this book is for:
- someone in search of a cozy, relatively safe, low stakes read
- someone who wants just a little spice, not full on erotica
- someone who likes their vampires to feel like people, not monsters
- someone who's cool with a book with not a lot of plot, but a lot of character moments, specifically between the romantic leads
Who this book is NOT for:
- someone who wants high stakes, violent action
- someone in the mood for spicy spice erotica
- someone who wants their vampires to be sadistic animals, or just mindless monsters a la The Strain
- someone in need of lots of fast paced plot points, or someone who's expecting this to be a crime Noir type book
I liked it enough I'll pick up the sequel when it hits next spring!
October 13, 2024
Vampires, mafia, and nonstop action in an urban fantasy world with a touch of horror—this book has it all! It’s perfect for those cozying up with a spooky read this season. From the first page, I was hooked by the intense, fast-paced plot and richly detailed setting.
Leanne, the FMC, completely stole the show for me. Her character development was incredible, as she faced the challenges of her transformation with strength and complexity. And the romance? Chef’s kiss! The tension between the main characters was so well-written, with that irresistible slow-burn build-up that kept me invested in every glance and every word. Their push-and-pull dynamic made the sweet moments that much sweeter.
And that cliffhanger?! I did not see it coming! Now I’m eagerly awaiting the next book to see where the story goes! If you love action-packed urban paranormal romance with strong characters and plenty of romantic tension, this is one you’ll want to pick up.
Leanne, the FMC, completely stole the show for me. Her character development was incredible, as she faced the challenges of her transformation with strength and complexity. And the romance? Chef’s kiss! The tension between the main characters was so well-written, with that irresistible slow-burn build-up that kept me invested in every glance and every word. Their push-and-pull dynamic made the sweet moments that much sweeter.
And that cliffhanger?! I did not see it coming! Now I’m eagerly awaiting the next book to see where the story goes! If you love action-packed urban paranormal romance with strong characters and plenty of romantic tension, this is one you’ll want to pick up.
June 6, 2024
Firstly, is it possible to rate this 6 stars? 🤩
How to Face Eternity is a slow burn vampiric novel following Leanne, partner to a mafia boss in small town Creswell. And then Leanne meets Riftan, a 700 year old vampire who turns her life completely upside down.
I was immediately hooked into this novel, and I cannot put into words how excited I am for part 2 to be released, especially after the cliffhanger of part 1! The author does such a beautiful job of painting the emotions of each character, resulting in a heartwarming, cozy feeling whilst reading. This is definitely a novel to read if you love morally grey MMCs with a cozy side, even if they are sworn off love!
Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this ARC, I’d love the opportunity to be an ARC reader for any future novels!
How to Face Eternity is a slow burn vampiric novel following Leanne, partner to a mafia boss in small town Creswell. And then Leanne meets Riftan, a 700 year old vampire who turns her life completely upside down.
I was immediately hooked into this novel, and I cannot put into words how excited I am for part 2 to be released, especially after the cliffhanger of part 1! The author does such a beautiful job of painting the emotions of each character, resulting in a heartwarming, cozy feeling whilst reading. This is definitely a novel to read if you love morally grey MMCs with a cozy side, even if they are sworn off love!
Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this ARC, I’d love the opportunity to be an ARC reader for any future novels!
May 31, 2024
I received an ARC to read and review of this book. Thank you so much for letting me read it in advance! I really loved this book! Leanne is a very likable FMC. You grow to understand her struggle with being stuck in a town with little hope of getting out. How she felt her life wasn’t hers and that her “death” is what truly started her living. Her journey with becoming acclimated to vampire life tied in all the great parts of vampire lore. Riftan is a charming and supportive mentor and friend. I loved Leanne and Riftan’s relationship.
They communicated, they were patient with each other and they were mostly healthy instead of toxic. I do hate Riftan just a little bit for setting strict boundaries with them only able to be friends but then mislead with his physical affection. But Leanne kept allowing it and pushing convinced she could get him to face his feelings. That never ends well. It broke my heart when they separated and she tried to live her life as an immortal. I feel like I would’ve done what Leanne did, going back to what she knew and falling into old patterns. She still has so much to learn and that ENDING!!! I need the second part right now!! This story is so much more than a romance and I need to see how they navigate the consequences of her actions at the end!!
How to FaceTime Eternity follows Leanne who is a trophy girlfriend to Creswell’s top Mob boss. Being the mob bosses girl comes with its risks and Leanne always knew a violent death would befall her someday. That day came sooner than expected when she’s kidnapped by a rival crime family. But when a tall, dark, handsome predator rescues her, she discovers that the city of Creswell holds fears beyond mortal crime: creatures of the night in human skins, beautiful, fast, and hungry for blood.
Her rescuer ends up being a murderous vampire who bites her and leaves her for dead. In her declining state she is forced to go on an impossible hunt for the only person who can save her. The nameless vampire who bite her. Through the help of an occult specialist and a vampire that wants her to give the biter trouble she’s able to locate Riftan. He swears she’ll despise him for giving her the curse of immortality. They may have gotten off on the wrong foot, but their life together isn’t the hell he promised; rather, it’s Leanne’s own messed-up version of heaven. Riftan is her mentor and her friend, teaching her everything she needs to know to face eternity… yet he shows affection shamelessly, pushing the boundaries of what is appropriate while claiming that their relationship can’t be romantic.
As the lines between friends and lovers blur, will he finally accept Leanne as the equal he can love, or will she be forced to face eternity with a broken heart
✨ headstrong bisexual FMC
✨ forced proximity
✨ sworn off love
✨ vampire lore, horror & gore
✨ morally grey immortal MMC
✨ tense sloooooow burn 🔥
They communicated, they were patient with each other and they were mostly healthy instead of toxic. I do hate Riftan just a little bit for setting strict boundaries with them only able to be friends but then mislead with his physical affection. But Leanne kept allowing it and pushing convinced she could get him to face his feelings. That never ends well. It broke my heart when they separated and she tried to live her life as an immortal. I feel like I would’ve done what Leanne did, going back to what she knew and falling into old patterns. She still has so much to learn and that ENDING!!! I need the second part right now!! This story is so much more than a romance and I need to see how they navigate the consequences of her actions at the end!!
How to FaceTime Eternity follows Leanne who is a trophy girlfriend to Creswell’s top Mob boss. Being the mob bosses girl comes with its risks and Leanne always knew a violent death would befall her someday. That day came sooner than expected when she’s kidnapped by a rival crime family. But when a tall, dark, handsome predator rescues her, she discovers that the city of Creswell holds fears beyond mortal crime: creatures of the night in human skins, beautiful, fast, and hungry for blood.
Her rescuer ends up being a murderous vampire who bites her and leaves her for dead. In her declining state she is forced to go on an impossible hunt for the only person who can save her. The nameless vampire who bite her. Through the help of an occult specialist and a vampire that wants her to give the biter trouble she’s able to locate Riftan. He swears she’ll despise him for giving her the curse of immortality. They may have gotten off on the wrong foot, but their life together isn’t the hell he promised; rather, it’s Leanne’s own messed-up version of heaven. Riftan is her mentor and her friend, teaching her everything she needs to know to face eternity… yet he shows affection shamelessly, pushing the boundaries of what is appropriate while claiming that their relationship can’t be romantic.
As the lines between friends and lovers blur, will he finally accept Leanne as the equal he can love, or will she be forced to face eternity with a broken heart
✨ headstrong bisexual FMC
✨ forced proximity
✨ sworn off love
✨ vampire lore, horror & gore
✨ morally grey immortal MMC
✨ tense sloooooow burn 🔥
June 6, 2024
First, thank you to NetGalley and S.H. Clasen for the arc of this read. I really appreciate it being trusted to review this book :) Now, I was HOOKED from the opening sentence till the very end. I could not put this book down and I definitely need the second book!! This had me laughing, gasping, tearful, and just feeling so much while reading.
This book follows Leanne, a mortal who is involved with a crime boss. She falls into some trouble and is saved by a very mysterious and handsome man. Unknown to Leanne, her mystery man is a vampire!! He ends up biting her and turning her into a vampire. That’s where their story begins.
When I tell you I was not expecting the emotional depth that they went through together and the trials Leanne had to face… I was not prepared!! Also, I don’t think I could ever prepare for the cliffhanger this ended on, my goodness! I cannot wait for the next book to be released, I will for sure be reading it. I really enjoyed this read and highly recommend picking it up!!
Tropes:
Mentor/Mentee
Vampires
Blood sharing
Mafia/Crime Family
This book follows Leanne, a mortal who is involved with a crime boss. She falls into some trouble and is saved by a very mysterious and handsome man. Unknown to Leanne, her mystery man is a vampire!! He ends up biting her and turning her into a vampire. That’s where their story begins.
When I tell you I was not expecting the emotional depth that they went through together and the trials Leanne had to face… I was not prepared!! Also, I don’t think I could ever prepare for the cliffhanger this ended on, my goodness! I cannot wait for the next book to be released, I will for sure be reading it. I really enjoyed this read and highly recommend picking it up!!
Tropes:
Mentor/Mentee
Vampires
Blood sharing
Mafia/Crime Family
June 26, 2024
1.0 / 5.0 DNF 17%
This is just bad. Like hurts to read bad.
One of my check-ins said this could go one of two ways, the first being good and the other being just gouge my eyes out, give me a lobotomy, and chop off my fingertips bad…
I hate it when I’m right sometimes…
This is just bad. Like hurts to read bad.
One of my check-ins said this could go one of two ways, the first being good and the other being just gouge my eyes out, give me a lobotomy, and chop off my fingertips bad…
I hate it when I’m right sometimes…
July 2, 2024
This book was intriguing that’s for sure 😂
But in all honesty this book just wasn’t my vibe…
It was so bad that it was good. I was bored yet I kept reading because I was genuinely curious 👀
I could see where the book was headed the entire time reading, yet I was still shocked and upset 😂
I found the writing to be… let’s just say not my style. I can see how some people would enjoy their book, because honestly the plot was really good. The twists and turns were good enough to keep me from dnfing the book. But I just didn’t understand the romance, I just didn’t understand where the sudden interest came from.
BUT the opening for this book was AMAZING 🫡 I really did love it
Overall I rated it 2.75 ⭐️
But in all honesty this book just wasn’t my vibe…
It was so bad that it was good. I was bored yet I kept reading because I was genuinely curious 👀
I could see where the book was headed the entire time reading, yet I was still shocked and upset 😂
I found the writing to be… let’s just say not my style. I can see how some people would enjoy their book, because honestly the plot was really good. The twists and turns were good enough to keep me from dnfing the book. But I just didn’t understand the romance, I just didn’t understand where the sudden interest came from.
BUT the opening for this book was AMAZING 🫡 I really did love it
Overall I rated it 2.75 ⭐️
July 16, 2024
This starts out with a woman who finds out there is darker things in the world than her mob boss boyfriend when she ends up being kidnapped. Opening the book you are thrown right into the action of Lee being trapped in the trunk of a car searching for a way to make it out alive. But does she?
You follow the story of Lee who does not have a choice but to leave her life behind and discovers who she has the potential to be while rediscovering herself, falling in love and creating new friendships. Unfortunately, this new life of hers and all she knows has an unknown deadline that is out of her control. Can Lee make it on her own? Will the feelings she experiences ever pass?
This book has it all. Action, romance, vampires, underground government, spice. The tension between Lee and her new love is unmatched. The cliff hanger is unmatched. I have to know what happens when Lee spirals, what happens with the other characters, and more about the underground government. I need more. I will be impatiently waiting for the second book.
How to Face Eternity by SH Clasen is Part 1 of A Dawn of Eternity duology. It is set to publish tomorrow, June 25th and everyone needs to read this. Thank you SH Clasen and BDE Publishing for allowing me to review. Please check your trigger warnings before reading.
You follow the story of Lee who does not have a choice but to leave her life behind and discovers who she has the potential to be while rediscovering herself, falling in love and creating new friendships. Unfortunately, this new life of hers and all she knows has an unknown deadline that is out of her control. Can Lee make it on her own? Will the feelings she experiences ever pass?
This book has it all. Action, romance, vampires, underground government, spice. The tension between Lee and her new love is unmatched. The cliff hanger is unmatched. I have to know what happens when Lee spirals, what happens with the other characters, and more about the underground government. I need more. I will be impatiently waiting for the second book.
How to Face Eternity by SH Clasen is Part 1 of A Dawn of Eternity duology. It is set to publish tomorrow, June 25th and everyone needs to read this. Thank you SH Clasen and BDE Publishing for allowing me to review. Please check your trigger warnings before reading.
December 18, 2024
“I softened around him in a way I was afraid I couldn’t reharden again.”
“How to Face Eternity,” by SH Clasen
This book was very unique and interesting. It was more of a slice of life with a vampire and her sire. It was a lot of character building and interaction of him teaching her how to be a vampire while dealing with their attraction and trauma at the same time. It was really cool to read, and I didn’t get bored at all which I thought was surprising because of how mundane most of the book was. 5 out of 5 stars, so good.
-Vampires
-Gangs
-Forced Proximity
-Bisexual
Thank you for the ARC, Netgalley.
“How to Face Eternity,” by SH Clasen
This book was very unique and interesting. It was more of a slice of life with a vampire and her sire. It was a lot of character building and interaction of him teaching her how to be a vampire while dealing with their attraction and trauma at the same time. It was really cool to read, and I didn’t get bored at all which I thought was surprising because of how mundane most of the book was. 5 out of 5 stars, so good.
-Vampires
-Gangs
-Forced Proximity
-Bisexual
Thank you for the ARC, Netgalley.
June 26, 2024
I'm fully back in my Vampire Era. I don't think I've ever completely been out of it, but details. Whenever I see a book about vampires, I just want to have it. I wanna see what kind of vampires the author will be writing about, I want to hear how old they are and during which time periods they were alive and I want to fall in love with them. So, when I saw this book on Netgalley I had to request a copy and luckily the author granted me a copy.
I think the main issue why this book eventually wasn't as amazing as I had hoped it would be, is that my expectations and the book didn't completely match. The story is much more focussed on the relationship between our heroine and her vampire than I had thought. It's way more romantic, it's actually at times really sweet and we actually watch two people fall in love with each other while also fighting those feelings.
So, if you're looking for something with vampires, that does talk about killing humans and the dangers of vampires, while it's also cute and sweet and at times light hearted, you really wanna check this book out. Especially because it's well written, the characters feel realistic and I especially loved their dialogues because they sounded so authentic. There are a couple of side characters I hope to see more of in the sequel, though.
I also hope that the sequel might be a little on the darker and more political side, which I was longing for. The finale of this book at least satiated my hunger slightly. I hadn't seen that coming and I enjoyed every second of it. Especially because I'm really excited about what's going to happen now. There's for sure gonna be a fallout. It's for sure not gonna be pretty and I think it might be really exciting to read about! And yes, I also hope there will be a happily ever after. I'm not a monster!
I think the main issue why this book eventually wasn't as amazing as I had hoped it would be, is that my expectations and the book didn't completely match. The story is much more focussed on the relationship between our heroine and her vampire than I had thought. It's way more romantic, it's actually at times really sweet and we actually watch two people fall in love with each other while also fighting those feelings.
So, if you're looking for something with vampires, that does talk about killing humans and the dangers of vampires, while it's also cute and sweet and at times light hearted, you really wanna check this book out. Especially because it's well written, the characters feel realistic and I especially loved their dialogues because they sounded so authentic. There are a couple of side characters I hope to see more of in the sequel, though.
I also hope that the sequel might be a little on the darker and more political side, which I was longing for. The finale of this book at least satiated my hunger slightly. I hadn't seen that coming and I enjoyed every second of it. Especially because I'm really excited about what's going to happen now. There's for sure gonna be a fallout. It's for sure not gonna be pretty and I think it might be really exciting to read about! And yes, I also hope there will be a happily ever after. I'm not a monster!
June 27, 2024
Appreciation to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for access to this digital ARC in return for an honest review.
OH jeez. Okay so where to start? If you're looking for long paragraphs about an emotionally immature mans beautiful body paired with zero plot development, this is your book. Silence my screams with your label of "slow burn".
I will be fair here and say that the author does do something with the last 5 chapters, but aside from that she misses about 20 instances where the plot could have been made exciting. The developments of the entire first couple of chapters consists of a random kidnapping, a random savior, a random bite, and noticeable lack of genuine reader anxiety. Then from there Clasen misses so many opportunities to create excitement. MMC wants to give the FMC a clearly rare and sought after necklace? Let's just hand it to her and make it a mildly romantic moment. FMC goes after dangerous human trafficker? Uses it as a moment to make the MMC mildly jealous then easily kill him with no additional situational complexity.
I threw Clasen 2 stars here since she does have me curious about what goes down in the next book and she gave the reader a somewhat novel perspective in what it means to be an immortal day to day.
OH jeez. Okay so where to start? If you're looking for long paragraphs about an emotionally immature mans beautiful body paired with zero plot development, this is your book. Silence my screams with your label of "slow burn".
I will be fair here and say that the author does do something with the last 5 chapters, but aside from that she misses about 20 instances where the plot could have been made exciting. The developments of the entire first couple of chapters consists of a random kidnapping, a random savior, a random bite, and noticeable lack of genuine reader anxiety. Then from there Clasen misses so many opportunities to create excitement. MMC wants to give the FMC a clearly rare and sought after necklace? Let's just hand it to her and make it a mildly romantic moment. FMC goes after dangerous human trafficker? Uses it as a moment to make the MMC mildly jealous then easily kill him with no additional situational complexity.
I threw Clasen 2 stars here since she does have me curious about what goes down in the next book and she gave the reader a somewhat novel perspective in what it means to be an immortal day to day.
June 14, 2024
Wow.
This book was a bit of a rollercoaster, starting strong from the first page with excitement and danger. So many questions in quick succession.
But then it dipped? It became a cozy story, warm, fuzzy and slightly mundane. I almost forgot that this was a supernatural/mafia tale. Initially, this was confusing and slight tonal whiplash, going from fast paced to slow burn mystery, but it worked so well!!
I spent the last 70 pages wondering what could happen next and how it could be resolved; surely this wasn’t just a cute romance? These pages were where it picked up the pace again drastically, and oh my goodness I need the next book now!
Overall the book was passionate and well thought out, an extremely enjoyable read!
Thank you to NetGalley, the amazing author and the publishers for allowing me to read this beautiful book!
This book was a bit of a rollercoaster, starting strong from the first page with excitement and danger. So many questions in quick succession.
But then it dipped? It became a cozy story, warm, fuzzy and slightly mundane. I almost forgot that this was a supernatural/mafia tale. Initially, this was confusing and slight tonal whiplash, going from fast paced to slow burn mystery, but it worked so well!!
I spent the last 70 pages wondering what could happen next and how it could be resolved; surely this wasn’t just a cute romance? These pages were where it picked up the pace again drastically, and oh my goodness I need the next book now!
Overall the book was passionate and well thought out, an extremely enjoyable read!
Thank you to NetGalley, the amazing author and the publishers for allowing me to read this beautiful book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 12, 2024
I really enjoyed this one,
It’s a cute cuddly slow burn vampire novel.
I was hooked from the beginning,
I quite liked Leanne she was dating this crime boss & made a dumb choice that lead her to trouble, but thanks to that she meets Riftan.
Riftan, I loved him even though he kinda annoyed me setting some boundaries, but then misleading with physical contact.
I’m trying not to give too much away🫠🫠
& That cliffhanger at the end wow was not expecting that!! I can’t wait for book two!! I will definitely be picking that one up as well!!
Def recommend checking this one out!
It’s a cute cuddly slow burn vampire novel.
I was hooked from the beginning,
I quite liked Leanne she was dating this crime boss & made a dumb choice that lead her to trouble, but thanks to that she meets Riftan.
Riftan, I loved him even though he kinda annoyed me setting some boundaries, but then misleading with physical contact.
I’m trying not to give too much away🫠🫠
& That cliffhanger at the end wow was not expecting that!! I can’t wait for book two!! I will definitely be picking that one up as well!!
Def recommend checking this one out!
June 23, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Can we please talk about this cover first? It drew me in right away. I don’t typically read paranormal romance/fantasy, dark/romance, but that cover is just chef’s kiss, and I just had to! The book ends up slowing down, but to be honest I don't see anything wrong with that. I feel that this book has a lot of information in regard to turning into a vampire. Now, for someone like myself who isn’t versed in the “vampire” culture or world, this helps explain a lot. The take that author SH Classen, takes in her narration with explaining immortality in her story has a unique flare, and I enjoy that very much. We have Leanne our main FMC. She undergoes this entire transition to rediscover her new assumed identity. She is then joined by our main MMC, Riftan who ends up being her mentor. Their relationship develops in this book, and you can read the dynamic between both characters. This book has everything from drama, thrillers, romance, fantasy, and the supernatural.
I gave this book a higher score because it was left on a cliffhanger, hence making me want to reach for number two. I like this book very much, and I see the potential in where this storyline can really amp up. I can’t wait to see how the characters will grow and develop in the next chapter of their lives in the following installment. I also want to know more about their backstories, maybe get a bit more details. There were some parts that I felt were vague, but that could just be me. Maybe I’m missing a few parts and pieces of the story that I didn't understand. Sometimes I feel it might be more the reader than the writer. I will add that the paranormal genre is not for everyone. You’d already have to have some kind of interest in this genre to enjoy the story much more. I think people might be blindsided by other stories and compare them to those that are not even in the same genre, such as fantasy (it’s different). It’s also the reason why my score is higher. I am walking in with an open mind, and it’s definitely different from the fantasy genre that I would typically pick up and read. It’s outside my element, but the intrigue and uniqueness is there. That’s why I feel like my review is not biased. With that said, I think that this is a new genre that I believe I will be exploring more and getting into. This book will be part of the gateway that’ll be my reference guide for future paranormal stories. I’m excited to know more about what happens next with the society . Personally, I find that this book would be great for someone like myself who would be looking to read into a new genre or someone who already enjoys reading paranormal romance. I would describe this book as a cozy, slow burn, cozy, paranormal, thriller, romance story. It’s worth reading if you’re into vampires or getting into vampires, or simply want something fresh to read that’s different.
Can we please talk about this cover first? It drew me in right away. I don’t typically read paranormal romance/fantasy, dark/romance, but that cover is just chef’s kiss, and I just had to! The book ends up slowing down, but to be honest I don't see anything wrong with that. I feel that this book has a lot of information in regard to turning into a vampire. Now, for someone like myself who isn’t versed in the “vampire” culture or world, this helps explain a lot. The take that author SH Classen, takes in her narration with explaining immortality in her story has a unique flare, and I enjoy that very much. We have Leanne our main FMC. She undergoes this entire transition to rediscover her new assumed identity. She is then joined by our main MMC, Riftan who ends up being her mentor. Their relationship develops in this book, and you can read the dynamic between both characters. This book has everything from drama, thrillers, romance, fantasy, and the supernatural.
I gave this book a higher score because it was left on a cliffhanger, hence making me want to reach for number two. I like this book very much, and I see the potential in where this storyline can really amp up. I can’t wait to see how the characters will grow and develop in the next chapter of their lives in the following installment. I also want to know more about their backstories, maybe get a bit more details. There were some parts that I felt were vague, but that could just be me. Maybe I’m missing a few parts and pieces of the story that I didn't understand. Sometimes I feel it might be more the reader than the writer. I will add that the paranormal genre is not for everyone. You’d already have to have some kind of interest in this genre to enjoy the story much more. I think people might be blindsided by other stories and compare them to those that are not even in the same genre, such as fantasy (it’s different). It’s also the reason why my score is higher. I am walking in with an open mind, and it’s definitely different from the fantasy genre that I would typically pick up and read. It’s outside my element, but the intrigue and uniqueness is there. That’s why I feel like my review is not biased. With that said, I think that this is a new genre that I believe I will be exploring more and getting into. This book will be part of the gateway that’ll be my reference guide for future paranormal stories. I’m excited to know more about what happens next with the society . Personally, I find that this book would be great for someone like myself who would be looking to read into a new genre or someone who already enjoys reading paranormal romance. I would describe this book as a cozy, slow burn, cozy, paranormal, thriller, romance story. It’s worth reading if you’re into vampires or getting into vampires, or simply want something fresh to read that’s different.
June 2, 2024
Title: How to Face Eternity by SH Clasen
Release Date: June, 27th, 2024
3.5 Stars
"My life began where some might say it ended: the night I died." With an opening line like that, you know you're in for an intriguing ride with S.H. Clasen's "How to Face Eternity."
Leanne, the "trophy girlfriend" of an infamous crime boss, always suspected that death would come for her.
But when she is rescued from a rival mafiosos Cadillac by a tall, dark, and handsome predator, she discovers that the city of Creswell harbors fears far beyond mortal crime. Enter the world of creatures of the night, beautiful, fast, and hungry for blood.
What I Enjoyed:
* Unique Take on Immortality: The novel offers a fresh perspective on the vampire genre, blending crime, romance, and the supernatural in a way that feels both original and engaging.
* Compelling Characters: Leanne and Riftan are an interesting duo. Their relationship, full of tension and unspoken feelings, drives the story forward. Riftan’s role as both mentor and potential love interest adds a layer of complexity to their dynamic.
* Atmospheric Setting: Clasen paints a vivid picture of Creswell, a city teeming with danger and allure. The setting enhances the dark, mysterious vibe of the story, making it easy to get lost in its shadowy streets and hidden corners.
* Emotional Depth: The book explores themes of transformation, love, and the struggle for acceptance. Leanne’s journey from mortal to immortal is fraught with challenges, both external and internal, that add depth to her character.
While the story is intriguing, it does feel slow-paced at times. There are moments where the plot drags. However, the character development and atmospheric setting helped me to push through.
"How to Face Eternity" is a good read that brings a different twist to the vampire genre. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of romance, crime, and the supernatural.
The relationship between Leanne and Riftan is compelling, and the city of Creswell provides a darkly enchanting backdrop for their story.
If you're looking for a vampire novel that dives deep into the emotional and psychological aspects of immortality, then this book is worth checking out. Just be prepared for a slower pace as you navigate the mysterious trials of eternity alongside Leanne and her enigmatic mentor, Riftan.
Despite the pacing issues, I enjoyed this read and am curious to see where part two, "In the Face of Eternity," will take these characters next. It's a haunting, atmospheric tale that lingers in your mind long after you’ve turned the last page.
Thank you to The Publisher Best Day Ever Publishing ,The Author SH Clasen & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.
Release Date: June, 27th, 2024
3.5 Stars
"My life began where some might say it ended: the night I died." With an opening line like that, you know you're in for an intriguing ride with S.H. Clasen's "How to Face Eternity."
Leanne, the "trophy girlfriend" of an infamous crime boss, always suspected that death would come for her.
But when she is rescued from a rival mafiosos Cadillac by a tall, dark, and handsome predator, she discovers that the city of Creswell harbors fears far beyond mortal crime. Enter the world of creatures of the night, beautiful, fast, and hungry for blood.
What I Enjoyed:
* Unique Take on Immortality: The novel offers a fresh perspective on the vampire genre, blending crime, romance, and the supernatural in a way that feels both original and engaging.
* Compelling Characters: Leanne and Riftan are an interesting duo. Their relationship, full of tension and unspoken feelings, drives the story forward. Riftan’s role as both mentor and potential love interest adds a layer of complexity to their dynamic.
* Atmospheric Setting: Clasen paints a vivid picture of Creswell, a city teeming with danger and allure. The setting enhances the dark, mysterious vibe of the story, making it easy to get lost in its shadowy streets and hidden corners.
* Emotional Depth: The book explores themes of transformation, love, and the struggle for acceptance. Leanne’s journey from mortal to immortal is fraught with challenges, both external and internal, that add depth to her character.
While the story is intriguing, it does feel slow-paced at times. There are moments where the plot drags. However, the character development and atmospheric setting helped me to push through.
"How to Face Eternity" is a good read that brings a different twist to the vampire genre. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of romance, crime, and the supernatural.
The relationship between Leanne and Riftan is compelling, and the city of Creswell provides a darkly enchanting backdrop for their story.
If you're looking for a vampire novel that dives deep into the emotional and psychological aspects of immortality, then this book is worth checking out. Just be prepared for a slower pace as you navigate the mysterious trials of eternity alongside Leanne and her enigmatic mentor, Riftan.
Despite the pacing issues, I enjoyed this read and am curious to see where part two, "In the Face of Eternity," will take these characters next. It's a haunting, atmospheric tale that lingers in your mind long after you’ve turned the last page.
Thank you to The Publisher Best Day Ever Publishing ,The Author SH Clasen & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.
June 29, 2024
1st POV, short chapters, TW bellow / ARC / 2 stars
🩸low fantasy
🩸vampires with a "glow up" after being turned
🩸ages: 23 (FMC), 780+ (MMC)
🩸slow burn (but she has a "carnal" crush early on)
What I liked: the cover, short chapters, quotes as names of chapters
The writing and story are giving Wattpad, which I was ready to ignore, but after MMC said that he "merely prefers a comfortable meal to be that of a female" because he sees it as something sexual - and drinking from men disgusts him – I was disgusted. I don't even wanna think of them being together, to be honest.
He only turned her because he was bored and wanted a pretty young girl to be dependent on him and addicted to touching him because it seemed to help with the transformation. I love morally gray vampires when they are charming and charismatic, but for an almost 800-year-old, he acted like he was a 19-year-old creep...What do you mean they took a private jet because he hypnotized a few people to give it to him and not because he's rich? 😅😫 Also, since when is English accent "exotic"?
The FMC acted like she was 16, and her behavior and opinions were inconsistent. She felt desperate and weak; even when she started feeling confident, it felt childish.
Part of it is in Prague which surprised me because I'm Czech, haha. I'm honestly not sure if the author has been here or just read about it, but they definitely romanticized it a bit, which is understandable.
Trigger warnings: violence, drugging women in a bar, brief attempted rape on page, blood/gore, hypnotizing, mild sexual scenes –– (there might be more; the author's are pretty vague)
Cliffhanger?
Happy Ending?
Romance
OM/OW
I really wanted to finish this book and write a full review, but I simply can't. I hate writing bad reviews, but I want to give my honest opinion. Please take into consideration that I didn't finish it.
"We are bound by blood now. There's not anyone out there who's going to lay a finger on you–not over my dead body." was cute, though. 🥰
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
🩸low fantasy
🩸vampires with a "glow up" after being turned
🩸ages: 23 (FMC), 780+ (MMC)
🩸slow burn (but she has a "carnal" crush early on)
What I liked: the cover, short chapters, quotes as names of chapters
The writing and story are giving Wattpad, which I was ready to ignore, but after MMC said that he "merely prefers a comfortable meal to be that of a female" because he sees it as something sexual - and drinking from men disgusts him – I was disgusted. I don't even wanna think of them being together, to be honest.
He only turned her because he was bored and wanted a pretty young girl to be dependent on him and addicted to touching him because it seemed to help with the transformation. I love morally gray vampires when they are charming and charismatic, but for an almost 800-year-old, he acted like he was a 19-year-old creep...What do you mean they took a private jet because he hypnotized a few people to give it to him and not because he's rich? 😅😫 Also, since when is English accent "exotic"?
The FMC acted like she was 16, and her behavior and opinions were inconsistent. She felt desperate and weak; even when she started feeling confident, it felt childish.
Part of it is in Prague which surprised me because I'm Czech, haha. I'm honestly not sure if the author has been here or just read about it, but they definitely romanticized it a bit, which is understandable.
Trigger warnings: violence, drugging women in a bar, brief attempted rape on page, blood/gore, hypnotizing, mild sexual scenes –– (there might be more; the author's are pretty vague)
Cliffhanger?
Happy Ending?
Romance
OM/OW
I really wanted to finish this book and write a full review, but I simply can't. I hate writing bad reviews, but I want to give my honest opinion. Please take into consideration that I didn't finish it.
"We are bound by blood now. There's not anyone out there who's going to lay a finger on you–not over my dead body." was cute, though. 🥰
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2024
3.5 stars
First off I want to say that there are absolutely going to be people that love this book. They're going to adore MMC Riften, the low stakes going on for much of the book, the very slice of life-ish nature of it. It certainly feels (to my reading history) like a unique spin on vampire romances. This story will find its people, they will eat it up, and I wish S.H. Clasen all the best for that.
I am not, however, sure that I am one of those people. I struggled with how little happened for large parts of the middle of the book. I think I also wanted for more things to be naturally revealed than explained by the FMC - I didn't necessarily feel all of the emotions she had, for example how she felt about her best friend. FMC Leanne was also so incredibly passive for much of the story, before her sudden flip around towards the end. That transition felt jarring to me, as I hadn't seen anything in her personality up to that point to justify her behaviour. I think if I had been more on board with her journey this wouldn't have bothered me.
There were some things I really liked, and I'm giving serious thought to reading Part II when it comes out on the strength of them. The point when the slow burn turns to spice was very, very good. I felt like Clasen did such a great job building up the scene's tension towards that crescendo. I noted in the content note that Part II will have more spice in it than this book - I'd be very interested to see how Clasen handles those scenes. I also - and I'm trying hard here to have no spoilers so sorry if this is all very vague - thought the FMCs big scene by the end was so compelling. I also do want to see how everything turns out. Our understanding of the MMC Riften is still very limited, and I assume there's a lot of backstory to what he behaves as he does.
I read an advance copy of this book. My thoughts are very much my own.
First off I want to say that there are absolutely going to be people that love this book. They're going to adore MMC Riften, the low stakes going on for much of the book, the very slice of life-ish nature of it. It certainly feels (to my reading history) like a unique spin on vampire romances. This story will find its people, they will eat it up, and I wish S.H. Clasen all the best for that.
I am not, however, sure that I am one of those people. I struggled with how little happened for large parts of the middle of the book. I think I also wanted for more things to be naturally revealed than explained by the FMC - I didn't necessarily feel all of the emotions she had, for example how she felt about her best friend. FMC Leanne was also so incredibly passive for much of the story, before her sudden flip around towards the end. That transition felt jarring to me, as I hadn't seen anything in her personality up to that point to justify her behaviour. I think if I had been more on board with her journey this wouldn't have bothered me.
There were some things I really liked, and I'm giving serious thought to reading Part II when it comes out on the strength of them. The point when the slow burn turns to spice was very, very good. I felt like Clasen did such a great job building up the scene's tension towards that crescendo. I noted in the content note that Part II will have more spice in it than this book - I'd be very interested to see how Clasen handles those scenes. I also - and I'm trying hard here to have no spoilers so sorry if this is all very vague - thought the FMCs big scene by the end was so compelling. I also do want to see how everything turns out. Our understanding of the MMC Riften is still very limited, and I assume there's a lot of backstory to what he behaves as he does.
I read an advance copy of this book. My thoughts are very much my own.
June 17, 2024
ARC review: How To Face Eternity by S.H Clasen
⚠️Check Trigger Warnings⚠️
I loved this book and can’t wait for part two because I need to know what happens to Leanne and Riftan next. I need all my questions answered lol. If you love morally grey men who are immortal you will fall for Riftan just like Leanne has.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
🩸 headstrong bisexual FMC
🩸forced proximity
🩸 sworn off love
🩸vampire lore, horror & gore
🩸morally grey immortal MMC
🩸tense sloooooow burn
🩸touch her and you die
🩸mentor and student
LEANNE
—Mob bosses girl who goes from headstrong to adapting just to keep him happy including changing her looks. She is 23 and goes from being kidnapped to being saved by a creature of the night who leaves her for dead.
RIFTAN
— He is 780 years old vampire. He goes from shamelessly killing a man to finding a woman on the man’s trunk. He knows the mob boss she refers to but he thinks she’s just his wh0** and nothing more. He bites her and leaves her with memories of that night when usually he doesn’t. He likes being alone.
She finds out the way to save herself is to find RIFTAN and once she does he tells her the only way to save her is to turn her. She agrees to eternity. He mentors her on how to live as a vampire but he is also very touchy with her. He has no boundaries and no shame to touching his new friend but makes it clear at every turn that they will never be romantic. They stay this way for years. He may have killed her and cursed her to eternity but she feels like he is her heaven.
Will he give in and finally bed her or will he make her leave and never touch her again? Will she finally get the man she has fallen for or will she be doomed to spend eternity heart broken from rejection?
⚠️Check Trigger Warnings⚠️
I loved this book and can’t wait for part two because I need to know what happens to Leanne and Riftan next. I need all my questions answered lol. If you love morally grey men who are immortal you will fall for Riftan just like Leanne has.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
🩸 headstrong bisexual FMC
🩸forced proximity
🩸 sworn off love
🩸vampire lore, horror & gore
🩸morally grey immortal MMC
🩸tense sloooooow burn
🩸touch her and you die
🩸mentor and student
LEANNE
—Mob bosses girl who goes from headstrong to adapting just to keep him happy including changing her looks. She is 23 and goes from being kidnapped to being saved by a creature of the night who leaves her for dead.
RIFTAN
— He is 780 years old vampire. He goes from shamelessly killing a man to finding a woman on the man’s trunk. He knows the mob boss she refers to but he thinks she’s just his wh0** and nothing more. He bites her and leaves her with memories of that night when usually he doesn’t. He likes being alone.
She finds out the way to save herself is to find RIFTAN and once she does he tells her the only way to save her is to turn her. She agrees to eternity. He mentors her on how to live as a vampire but he is also very touchy with her. He has no boundaries and no shame to touching his new friend but makes it clear at every turn that they will never be romantic. They stay this way for years. He may have killed her and cursed her to eternity but she feels like he is her heaven.
Will he give in and finally bed her or will he make her leave and never touch her again? Will she finally get the man she has fallen for or will she be doomed to spend eternity heart broken from rejection?
June 21, 2024
"How To Face Eternity" is the first installment in "A Dawn Of Eternity" series by SH Clasen.
Let me tell you, if you never liked vampires before, you're going to love them now. This wonderful debut featuring vampires is the best vampire read yet.
This was such a fun read. I LOVED IT!!! I was hooked right from chapter one.
Leanne Cowitz, partner to Johnny Roufe, the most notorious crime lord in Creswell, is kidnapped one day. While trying to escape, she encounters a vampire. After quite a struggle, she falls unconscious and wakes up to find herself dying. Now, she must find the vampire she encountered the previous night, as he is the only one who can save her. After turning Leanne into a vampire, Riftan now has to teach her how to face eternity.
This debut was simply amazing, add it to your TBR if you haven't already. It's been a while since I laughed this much while reading a book; it was honestly so funny!!! There were also some instances that were truly heartwarming. And then it got frustrating because of Riftan, UGH!!!! Also, the ending gave me too much anxiety. Sierra!!! Why couldn't you have, you know, just wrote one more chapter to ensure all was well???!!! Aaahhhh!!!! I can't wait for the sequel, In the Face of Eternity!!!!!
I was gifted an arc by the author, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Let me tell you, if you never liked vampires before, you're going to love them now. This wonderful debut featuring vampires is the best vampire read yet.
This was such a fun read. I LOVED IT!!! I was hooked right from chapter one.
Leanne Cowitz, partner to Johnny Roufe, the most notorious crime lord in Creswell, is kidnapped one day. While trying to escape, she encounters a vampire. After quite a struggle, she falls unconscious and wakes up to find herself dying. Now, she must find the vampire she encountered the previous night, as he is the only one who can save her. After turning Leanne into a vampire, Riftan now has to teach her how to face eternity.
This debut was simply amazing, add it to your TBR if you haven't already. It's been a while since I laughed this much while reading a book; it was honestly so funny!!! There were also some instances that were truly heartwarming. And then it got frustrating because of Riftan, UGH!!!! Also, the ending gave me too much anxiety. Sierra!!! Why couldn't you have, you know, just wrote one more chapter to ensure all was well???!!! Aaahhhh!!!! I can't wait for the sequel, In the Face of Eternity!!!!!
I was gifted an arc by the author, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 10, 2024
This book was such a laid back casual read. It is great for people who want a break from high stakes and dramatic suspense. The book follows the FMC, Leanne, as she abruptly abandons her old mortal life and learns the ropes of becoming a new immortal vampire. I loved the story and the characters. I loved the atmosphere and the author’s writing style.
Leanne and the MMC, Riftan, have a cozy friendship as he is her mentor. They fall for each other and find themselves in a super slow burn situationship.
“𝐈𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐜𝐫𝐚𝐳𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈’𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐦𝐲 𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡. 𝐈’𝐝 𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐝, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐈’𝐝 𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐚 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬. 𝐈’𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐨𝐦 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐈 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝, 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐑𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐚𝐧.”
Even though the book is a low stakes slow burn, it kept me hooked from the first page. How to Face Eternity is part one of a two part duology. I will definitely be reading Part Two and anything else S.H. Clasen writes!
A must read if you like:
-domesticated vampires
-forced proximity
-slow burn
-low stakes
-underground vampire life
-modern gothic fantasy
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️
Coming June 25th!!
Leanne and the MMC, Riftan, have a cozy friendship as he is her mentor. They fall for each other and find themselves in a super slow burn situationship.
“𝐈𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐜𝐫𝐚𝐳𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈’𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐦𝐲 𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡. 𝐈’𝐝 𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐝, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐈’𝐝 𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐚 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬. 𝐈’𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐨𝐦 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐈 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝, 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐑𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐚𝐧.”
Even though the book is a low stakes slow burn, it kept me hooked from the first page. How to Face Eternity is part one of a two part duology. I will definitely be reading Part Two and anything else S.H. Clasen writes!
A must read if you like:
-domesticated vampires
-forced proximity
-slow burn
-low stakes
-underground vampire life
-modern gothic fantasy
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️
Coming June 25th!!
July 22, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, the Author, and the Publisher for this ARC.
So the cover made me believe this was more dark than it actually is. (This is a ME problem)
Loved the cover by the way!!!
Surprisingly cozy considering it's about vampires and the mafia. So not what I expected. It's not very fast paced and it really took me a while to get into it. And even then it was more of a slow, get to know them; cuddly will they won't they kind of relationship.
I read "Bride" by Ali Hazelwood and this gave me the same vibes, it has a similar low stakes, high domestic vibe to it in a modern setting.
If you are looking for a cozy, relatively safe, low stakes book with just a little spice and vampires who feel like people, not monsters, then this is for you.
BUT
If you like high stakes, violent action and spicy spice, like chili pepper hot, with vampires who are sadistic or really dark and broody with that murderous strike and a fast paced plot. THIS is NOT for you. I'm sorry.
It made me curious enough to put the second book on my "keep an eye out for this book" list. But that's it.
So the cover made me believe this was more dark than it actually is. (This is a ME problem)
Loved the cover by the way!!!
Surprisingly cozy considering it's about vampires and the mafia. So not what I expected. It's not very fast paced and it really took me a while to get into it. And even then it was more of a slow, get to know them; cuddly will they won't they kind of relationship.
I read "Bride" by Ali Hazelwood and this gave me the same vibes, it has a similar low stakes, high domestic vibe to it in a modern setting.
If you are looking for a cozy, relatively safe, low stakes book with just a little spice and vampires who feel like people, not monsters, then this is for you.
BUT
If you like high stakes, violent action and spicy spice, like chili pepper hot, with vampires who are sadistic or really dark and broody with that murderous strike and a fast paced plot. THIS is NOT for you. I'm sorry.
It made me curious enough to put the second book on my "keep an eye out for this book" list. But that's it.
June 1, 2024
How to Face Eternity (Part 1) by SH Clasen
Rating:2.5/5
Release Date: 25 June 2025
"How to Face Eternity" is the first novel in a series that follows Leanne, a newly turned vampire, as she navigates the enigmatic challenges of immortality with the guidance of her immortal mentor, Riftan.
I was completely captivated by the cover of this novel, but I ended up disappointed. The story wasn't for me—the characters felt completely unrelatable, and the plot moved at a snail's pace which left me bored.
I honestly had to struggle not to DNF (did not finish) the book.
Unfortunately, it won't be one of my recommendations this year.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Best Day Ever Publishing, and the author, SH Clasen, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
Rating:2.5/5
Release Date: 25 June 2025
"How to Face Eternity" is the first novel in a series that follows Leanne, a newly turned vampire, as she navigates the enigmatic challenges of immortality with the guidance of her immortal mentor, Riftan.
I was completely captivated by the cover of this novel, but I ended up disappointed. The story wasn't for me—the characters felt completely unrelatable, and the plot moved at a snail's pace which left me bored.
I honestly had to struggle not to DNF (did not finish) the book.
Unfortunately, it won't be one of my recommendations this year.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Best Day Ever Publishing, and the author, SH Clasen, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
June 21, 2024
I enjoyed this book so much more than I expected. It's a slow-burn, low stakes, cozy vampire book.
I really liked the whole situationship and I feel like they were really cute together, but I have to warn you, it's a real slooooow burn type. The domestic part of this book was perfect for me, but if you are looking for high stakes or more smut, this is not that.
The book is focused on Leanna's first years as a vampire, where the person that transformed her will also teach her everything. The book is set most;y in Prague, but apart from telling us that they went to Europe and traveled a lot, I don't feel it made such a huge difference.
I partially expected the ending, but I wasn't sure how or to whom it will happen. The ending was also a bit sudden, compared to the rest of the book.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion
I really liked the whole situationship and I feel like they were really cute together, but I have to warn you, it's a real slooooow burn type. The domestic part of this book was perfect for me, but if you are looking for high stakes or more smut, this is not that.
The book is focused on Leanna's first years as a vampire, where the person that transformed her will also teach her everything. The book is set most;y in Prague, but apart from telling us that they went to Europe and traveled a lot, I don't feel it made such a huge difference.
I partially expected the ending, but I wasn't sure how or to whom it will happen. The ending was also a bit sudden, compared to the rest of the book.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion
June 22, 2024
What to Expect
-a fledgling vampire & mentor
-character focused
-slow burn
-mafia
-forced proximity
My Thoughts
This was overall a very cozy book with pretty low drama overall and revolved a lot around the day to day life of a vampire. The pacing was a little slow for me personally, but I can see the appeal this would have for some people. Overall though this was a solid, enjoyable read.
Riftan was so gentle and understanding, Leaanne was genuinely relatable and they both had wonderful chemistry. There was a constant push and pull between them that was engaging and so very frustrating.
I will definitely be checking out book 2 because I have to see what happens next!
Thank you to the Author, Publisher & NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. 💕
-a fledgling vampire & mentor
-character focused
-slow burn
-mafia
-forced proximity
My Thoughts
This was overall a very cozy book with pretty low drama overall and revolved a lot around the day to day life of a vampire. The pacing was a little slow for me personally, but I can see the appeal this would have for some people. Overall though this was a solid, enjoyable read.
Riftan was so gentle and understanding, Leaanne was genuinely relatable and they both had wonderful chemistry. There was a constant push and pull between them that was engaging and so very frustrating.
I will definitely be checking out book 2 because I have to see what happens next!
Thank you to the Author, Publisher & NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. 💕
June 24, 2024
I won't lie I almost DNF'd this book in the beginning but I kept going to give it a fair chance. I'm glad I did because I did end up liking it. However, I feel the book left so much to be desired when reading. The book follows Leanne and Riftan's vampire platonic relationship over the course of a few years. It was a very slow and long character and world building up until Riftan made her leave to be on her own. And then it got a little different, as if it was trying to go back to the beginning but it left out so many details and was just almost rushed. I will say I did not expect the ending the way it was especially not the cliffhanger.
Cover 11/10
Story 3.5/5
Themes - Vampire, forced proximity, mafia, slow burn
Thank you to NetGalley and Best Day Ever Publishing for the early ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
Cover 11/10
Story 3.5/5
Themes - Vampire, forced proximity, mafia, slow burn
Thank you to NetGalley and Best Day Ever Publishing for the early ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
July 7, 2024
I was very excited for this once I read the blurb.
“My life began where some might say it ended:
the night I died.
As the “trophy girlfriend” of an infamous crime boss, I always suspected death would come for me. But when a tall, dark, handsome predator rescues me from the trunk of a rival mafioso’s Cadillac, I discover the city of Creswell holds horrors beyond mortal crime: creatures of the night in human skins—beautiful, fast, and hungry for blood.”
That’s not even the full blurb so you can guess why I was hooked immediately! I will say for my taste it had a little too much slow burning tension. The whole will they won’t they drives me a little mad… though that may just be me so that won’t effect my review!
The amount of feeling this book made me feel alone it is worth recommending. Vampires will always be my thing and I will always recommend them most! Happy reading!!!
“My life began where some might say it ended:
the night I died.
As the “trophy girlfriend” of an infamous crime boss, I always suspected death would come for me. But when a tall, dark, handsome predator rescues me from the trunk of a rival mafioso’s Cadillac, I discover the city of Creswell holds horrors beyond mortal crime: creatures of the night in human skins—beautiful, fast, and hungry for blood.”
That’s not even the full blurb so you can guess why I was hooked immediately! I will say for my taste it had a little too much slow burning tension. The whole will they won’t they drives me a little mad… though that may just be me so that won’t effect my review!
The amount of feeling this book made me feel alone it is worth recommending. Vampires will always be my thing and I will always recommend them most! Happy reading!!!
June 11, 2024
A cuddly vampire story with a side of mobsters and Dexter. Principled murder. There’s not a lot of world building. Running off with her new vampire dad/mentor to Europe is fun, getting to know her new body and its limits. Leanne and Riftan begin an entertaining journey.
With the context provided in the beginning and the description I was expecting more excitement. But it does not. So far it’s like the ideal “childhood” for a fledgling vampire to learn. An teacher with self discipline and principle’s. Appropriate times to kill for food or culling as he deems appropriate.
Hypocritical in some respects, playing god.
June 21, 2024
I just finished this amazing book! It's a supernatural mafia romance with a slow-burn twist, and the supernatural aspect really shines through. The story revolves around Leanne, who opts for immortal life as a vampire to evade death, guided by her mentor, Riftan. As their relationship deepens, chaos erupts, and now I can't wait for the sequel to come out! Although the story started off slow, I found myself getting more and more excited as I got halfway through the book. I also loved how the title of each chapter was incorporated into it. Huge thanks to NetGalley, Best Day Ever Publishing, and SH Clasen for the opportunity to read this incredible book.
June 24, 2024
If you're looking for a cosy vampire romance, this book is for you! I really fell in love with the MMC! Super cosy until the last 10% where it goes from 0-100 real quick!
This book for the most part felt comforting for my soul. I enjoyed learning about the vampire abilities and seeing Leanne grow into this new woman with confidence. Who doesn't want to leave their life behind and start afresh in Europe? Reading this book was like living out the cosiest of fantasy.
This book is a big old vampire hug!
This book for the most part felt comforting for my soul. I enjoyed learning about the vampire abilities and seeing Leanne grow into this new woman with confidence. Who doesn't want to leave their life behind and start afresh in Europe? Reading this book was like living out the cosiest of fantasy.
This book is a big old vampire hug!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2024
What started as an expected, kind of cozy (due to Twilight nostalgia hitting me hard lately) vampire read turned into a literal biting off more than you can chew cliff hanger!! And yes, SH Clasen, I do hate you right now. Only for the mere fact that I have to wait until Spring 2025 for the second book.
I foolishly ate up this story and this authors writing style before realizing it would end so quickly. The relationship and banter between Riften and Leeanne is complicated, comical, and frustratedly teasing.
I foolishly ate up this story and this authors writing style before realizing it would end so quickly. The relationship and banter between Riften and Leeanne is complicated, comical, and frustratedly teasing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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