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Angelica Brown #1
Blood to Blood
****Kindle Book Review Awards Semi-finalist - 2013****
Clean YA Fantasy
Sexual content - Low to none
Violence - Moderate to low
Language - Clean
Enter the world of Bostonian teen Angelika Brown: budding pop star and descendant of an immortal race of sun-loving blood drinkers known as Shimshana (the folks that created vampires). Defying her parents' traditions of higher education, Angel plans to ditch high school to be a singer.
She's got an amazing voice, but she's also maturing into a full-grown Shimshana complete with fearsome power and insatiable bloodlust. What's worse, her soaring vocals are now capable of destroying everything, and everyone, within earshot; including her girl group, their mysterious producer and Angel's hunky new blood donor. To top it off, she must prove her worthiness to live by passing the tests in her Mahá-the ancient, mandatory coming-out-party for new-born immortals.
Will Angel survive her Mahá and quickly learn to control her new abilities? Or will her killer instincts bring her promising career, and her life, to an end?
Clean YA Fantasy
Sexual content - Low to none
Violence - Moderate to low
Language - Clean
Enter the world of Bostonian teen Angelika Brown: budding pop star and descendant of an immortal race of sun-loving blood drinkers known as Shimshana (the folks that created vampires). Defying her parents' traditions of higher education, Angel plans to ditch high school to be a singer.
She's got an amazing voice, but she's also maturing into a full-grown Shimshana complete with fearsome power and insatiable bloodlust. What's worse, her soaring vocals are now capable of destroying everything, and everyone, within earshot; including her girl group, their mysterious producer and Angel's hunky new blood donor. To top it off, she must prove her worthiness to live by passing the tests in her Mahá-the ancient, mandatory coming-out-party for new-born immortals.
Will Angel survive her Mahá and quickly learn to control her new abilities? Or will her killer instincts bring her promising career, and her life, to an end?
248 pages, Paperback
First published December 3, 2012
4 people are currently reading
3013 people want to read
About the author
Ife Oshun
3 books78 followers
Heart To Heart (the sequel to Blood To Blood) is now available!
Ifè Oshun is the author of the YA modern fantasy series The Angelica Brown Series of novels, Heart to Heart and Blood To Blood, as well as the short story tentacles. Starting out as an actress, the Fine Arts and English major attended the Rhode Island School of Design and Brown University before going on to work for over a decade as a music journalist for national magazines and major websites. She served as Editor-In-Chief for online music magazine HiphopRnbSoul.com. She also produced, and wrote for, television and theater. A couple of her sci-fi/fantasy plays were produced Off-Broadway and in Los Angeles, and she did her Writers Guild of America internship with Star Trek Enterprise and Voyager.
Her work incorporates fantasy elements with some combination of the following: humor, social issues, family themes, metaphysical concepts, and pop culture. She lives in Boston and can be found online at her personal website. She is open to all honest reviews, and available for interviews, contests/giveaways, tours, readings, signings and cool promo opportunities.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
March 9, 2016
Outside of the diverse protagonists, including a lead vampire family who are Black, and an interracial romance, I wish I knew exactly WHY I liked this book. Maybe the homage to Octavia Butler's Fledgling sealed the deal. Definitely the fact that there were a lot of strong female characters and positive female friendships. Normally, a love triangle and a super heroine with powers she doesn't quite understand but who seems destined to be "the one" are tropes that drive me nuts. And, being more of a rock fan, the ins and outs of pop music just don't interest me all that much.
With that said, I enjoyed this story. Fast paced, well written with engaging characters who have their own unique voices. In fact, I liked this so much, I bought the sequel Heart To Heart: Book Two in the Angelica Brown Series.
With that said, I enjoyed this story. Fast paced, well written with engaging characters who have their own unique voices. In fact, I liked this so much, I bought the sequel Heart To Heart: Book Two in the Angelica Brown Series.
November 18, 2012
3.5 stars.
I was offered an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and participation in the blog tour.
Angelika Brown is a budding singing sensation. She wants to defy her parents wishes: drop out of high school and pursue a life in the spotlight as a pop star. Although her parents agree, Angel is kept on a tight leash because, not only is she pursuing quite a public life, but she is a descendant of an immortal race of sun-loving vampires, otherwise known as Shimshana. But maturing into a full-grown Shimshana is not as easy as it seems. Angel must learn to control her powers and the bloodlust before it destroys all she loves, including her friends, her career, and her life.
In my opinion, most vampire stories are about the beings that only come out at night because the Sun is toxic to them. So when I heard about Blood to Blood I was very curious as to what this book would offer that other vampire books don't have. And I was pleasantly surprised. I love the fact that the Shimshana are sun-loving vamps. I love that they can easily blend in with, live among and act like humans. I love that they're not the most amazingly gorgeous beings you've ever laid eyes on. I'm a little sick of vampire books at the moment, but I'm glad I gave this one a shot. It's a very fresh story and is a very interesting take on vampires.
I am definitely hoping for a sequel because there are a few things that I would like to see get developed further. Firstly, Angel's romance with Sawyer. There wasn't much there. She thought about him a lot and there were a few kisses and that's about it. I didn't find out a lot about Sawyer in this book, and I really wanted to. I wanted the romance to be more than it was so I could discover more about him.
I can definitely understand why this didn't happen, but I actually really wanted Angel to lose control in front of her friends. I wanted her to attack Sawyer or Jules or LaLa. God's honest truth, I wanted this to happen because it would've added an edgy element to the story. Without any slip-ups it just felt bland.
After she first matured and received her abilities, I wanted Angel to have less control on using them. She very quickly picked up on what triggered them and how to effectively use them. Her vocals in particular barely got a mention as an ability, and I had no idea it even was one until Angel started to use it as one. And the thing I disliked most about that is that she immediately knew how to use it - which notes induced which emotion, how to direct said note at a particular target etc. It was just a little too fast and could've done with a little development.
I am hoping for a sequel so I can hopefully see some development of the few things listed above. I would also like to see how Angel's connection with Justin affects her relationship with Sawyer. And of course, I want to learn more about Sawyer.
Despite the mediocre rating, I really did enjoy this book and I definitely recommend it. Although it felt quite slow at parts, and there could have been more development in certain areas, I am hoping for a sequel.
I was offered an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and participation in the blog tour.
Angelika Brown is a budding singing sensation. She wants to defy her parents wishes: drop out of high school and pursue a life in the spotlight as a pop star. Although her parents agree, Angel is kept on a tight leash because, not only is she pursuing quite a public life, but she is a descendant of an immortal race of sun-loving vampires, otherwise known as Shimshana. But maturing into a full-grown Shimshana is not as easy as it seems. Angel must learn to control her powers and the bloodlust before it destroys all she loves, including her friends, her career, and her life.
In my opinion, most vampire stories are about the beings that only come out at night because the Sun is toxic to them. So when I heard about Blood to Blood I was very curious as to what this book would offer that other vampire books don't have. And I was pleasantly surprised. I love the fact that the Shimshana are sun-loving vamps. I love that they can easily blend in with, live among and act like humans. I love that they're not the most amazingly gorgeous beings you've ever laid eyes on. I'm a little sick of vampire books at the moment, but I'm glad I gave this one a shot. It's a very fresh story and is a very interesting take on vampires.
I am definitely hoping for a sequel because there are a few things that I would like to see get developed further. Firstly, Angel's romance with Sawyer. There wasn't much there. She thought about him a lot and there were a few kisses and that's about it. I didn't find out a lot about Sawyer in this book, and I really wanted to. I wanted the romance to be more than it was so I could discover more about him.
I can definitely understand why this didn't happen, but I actually really wanted Angel to lose control in front of her friends. I wanted her to attack Sawyer or Jules or LaLa. God's honest truth, I wanted this to happen because it would've added an edgy element to the story. Without any slip-ups it just felt bland.
After she first matured and received her abilities, I wanted Angel to have less control on using them. She very quickly picked up on what triggered them and how to effectively use them. Her vocals in particular barely got a mention as an ability, and I had no idea it even was one until Angel started to use it as one. And the thing I disliked most about that is that she immediately knew how to use it - which notes induced which emotion, how to direct said note at a particular target etc. It was just a little too fast and could've done with a little development.
I am hoping for a sequel so I can hopefully see some development of the few things listed above. I would also like to see how Angel's connection with Justin affects her relationship with Sawyer. And of course, I want to learn more about Sawyer.
Despite the mediocre rating, I really did enjoy this book and I definitely recommend it. Although it felt quite slow at parts, and there could have been more development in certain areas, I am hoping for a sequel.
February 9, 2014
At first I wasn’t sure about this book. By the third chapter, I was hooked and read the book in one day. The characters, Angel, Sawyer, Justin and the others are believable and likeable. The creativeness in the story line is refreshing and interesting.
Angel is not only a teenager in mortal years, but dealing with a change which she knows very little about, by design. On top of that, she is falling in love for the first time and dealing with all of those emotions.
Sawyer, is troubled, aloof, creative, talented and unusual. There is something very different about him, but what is it? Besides being handsome, he's a mystery. He notices that Angel is different too. Can they be together?
In comes Justin. He wants Angel. He knows all about her and what she is. Logically, Justin is the better choice but Angel sees only Sawyer.
Angel must navigate the immortal and the mortal worlds while dealing with her change, her family, her infancy and her feelings for Sawyer and Justin.
This book is both creative and interesting. I recommend it to those who love fantasy and are looking for a different take on blood drinkers. Four and a half stars. I received this book free from Goodreads ARR for an honest review.
Angel is not only a teenager in mortal years, but dealing with a change which she knows very little about, by design. On top of that, she is falling in love for the first time and dealing with all of those emotions.
Sawyer, is troubled, aloof, creative, talented and unusual. There is something very different about him, but what is it? Besides being handsome, he's a mystery. He notices that Angel is different too. Can they be together?
In comes Justin. He wants Angel. He knows all about her and what she is. Logically, Justin is the better choice but Angel sees only Sawyer.
Angel must navigate the immortal and the mortal worlds while dealing with her change, her family, her infancy and her feelings for Sawyer and Justin.
This book is both creative and interesting. I recommend it to those who love fantasy and are looking for a different take on blood drinkers. Four and a half stars. I received this book free from Goodreads ARR for an honest review.
April 16, 2014
The book introduces you to its protagonist, Angel, a teenager with exceptional ancestors, and a quite typical dream. She has learned how to hide her family’s secret. Her life gets more complicated as she matures to be a real Shimshana. She changes, so do her best friends. Falling in love and getting through her Mahá ritual at the same time gets her and her family in trouble. I will not tell you more about the story than shown in the Goodreads plot description. This would spoil the fun of reading this book yourself.
With Blood to Blood, Ifè Oshun has created a fantasy novel for young adults with romance and a certain thrill. Blood to Blood is very entertaining and makes you want to read more. Thank you so much, Ifè!
This is a book to read again. I liked this book so much that I had to buy Ifè's short story Tentacles, immediately.
4.4 stars
With Blood to Blood, Ifè Oshun has created a fantasy novel for young adults with romance and a certain thrill. Blood to Blood is very entertaining and makes you want to read more. Thank you so much, Ifè!
This is a book to read again. I liked this book so much that I had to buy Ifè's short story Tentacles, immediately.
4.4 stars
December 29, 2014
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal)*
Blood To Blood
By:Ife Oshun
I like this book. It about a girl becoming her true self (an immortal). All her life she love to sing and when she has a change to become a singer with her two best friends, everything changes. While she try to make a song with her friends and new kid Sawyer, she realize that, the change from mortal to immortal has come. In this book, Angel went threw a lot but still came out with everything she ever wish for and more.
This book has immortals, fallen Angel, Angels and more. If u like paranormals then this is a great book to read.
Blood To Blood
By:Ife Oshun
I like this book. It about a girl becoming her true self (an immortal). All her life she love to sing and when she has a change to become a singer with her two best friends, everything changes. While she try to make a song with her friends and new kid Sawyer, she realize that, the change from mortal to immortal has come. In this book, Angel went threw a lot but still came out with everything she ever wish for and more.
This book has immortals, fallen Angel, Angels and more. If u like paranormals then this is a great book to read.
May 31, 2015
(I received a copy from Netgalley, In exchange for an honest review.)
Actual rating - 2.5
This wasn't an awful read, but it wasn't one that I could really enjoy. The pacing was slow, and the story couldn't keep my interest very well. The characters could be pretty annoying at times as well, so I didn't really like them.
Actual rating - 2.5
This wasn't an awful read, but it wasn't one that I could really enjoy. The pacing was slow, and the story couldn't keep my interest very well. The characters could be pretty annoying at times as well, so I didn't really like them.
November 28, 2012
MICHELLE'S REVIEW 24TH NOVEMBER 2012:
RATING: 4 SAWYER CREED STARS!
I enjoyed Ife’s debut YA novel, Blood To Blood. The cover is very appealing and the characters were all likeable.
Immortality, when you can’t hide from what is happening to you, but you must hide it from your mortal band mates, this is when things get a bit sticky.
Kat Trio is made up of Juliette, Lala and Angel. They have earned a record deal with House Quake, but Angel’s parents will not be happy as Angel and her family have a secret that needs to stay safely hidden. They are Shimshana. Well, not all of them. Dad has his own thing going on, he practices magic, is a Wizard.
Angel has the gift of singing and her voice could be the death of mortals. Angel has to learn how to control what she is becoming or it could be her own death.
Sawyer Creed ( do we all love that name or what?) is the 18 yr old , 6ft 4”, long blonde haired music genius. He knows how to produce a hit. I really loved Sawyer’s character. I had a fave scene where Sawyer is at the piano and singing with Angel an Opera number. I really believed Sawyer was a musical genius. Reading Ife’s bio on Goodreads, I can see how she was able to write this well.
The Nest and meeting Justin, I wasn’t sure how Justin was going to play into Angel’s life as I was rooting for Sawyer. Justin may have ended up coming under stalker, lol! Bless him. I did feel sorry for him.
I really loved how the music part of the story, or the singing part with Angel being able to ‘see’ the notes and music, remember it and play it. It felt very believable and quite a 3D feeling to the story.
Maha is a sort of coming out party that newborn Shimshana must go through, lasting up to 7 days. There are rituals/tests that Angel must complete and pass.
I enjoyed all the dressing up, the clothes were gorgeous and Cici is a wonderful sister , mentoring Angel. I love the name of Cici’s boyfriend, Satchel. I would have liked to have met Satchel, more.
We get introduced to some more characters. I liked Markus, Bodiel and Knowledge. Some surprises with some other sub characters.
I could sense that Ife was sowing some seeds for a sequel. This story was different and nicely paced. The romance was sweet and the lads all very appealing.
Ife throws a couple great twists into her story which I enjoyed. I love twists.
FAVE QUOTE:
The pitcher’s label read “SEBASTIAN.” She put the glass under her nose and inhaled deeply. “He is Brazilian. He has a fabulous, nutty taste. With a hint of citrus.”
Michelle
RATING: 4 SAWYER CREED STARS!
I enjoyed Ife’s debut YA novel, Blood To Blood. The cover is very appealing and the characters were all likeable.
Immortality, when you can’t hide from what is happening to you, but you must hide it from your mortal band mates, this is when things get a bit sticky.
Kat Trio is made up of Juliette, Lala and Angel. They have earned a record deal with House Quake, but Angel’s parents will not be happy as Angel and her family have a secret that needs to stay safely hidden. They are Shimshana. Well, not all of them. Dad has his own thing going on, he practices magic, is a Wizard.
Angel has the gift of singing and her voice could be the death of mortals. Angel has to learn how to control what she is becoming or it could be her own death.
Sawyer Creed ( do we all love that name or what?) is the 18 yr old , 6ft 4”, long blonde haired music genius. He knows how to produce a hit. I really loved Sawyer’s character. I had a fave scene where Sawyer is at the piano and singing with Angel an Opera number. I really believed Sawyer was a musical genius. Reading Ife’s bio on Goodreads, I can see how she was able to write this well.
The Nest and meeting Justin, I wasn’t sure how Justin was going to play into Angel’s life as I was rooting for Sawyer. Justin may have ended up coming under stalker, lol! Bless him. I did feel sorry for him.
I really loved how the music part of the story, or the singing part with Angel being able to ‘see’ the notes and music, remember it and play it. It felt very believable and quite a 3D feeling to the story.
Maha is a sort of coming out party that newborn Shimshana must go through, lasting up to 7 days. There are rituals/tests that Angel must complete and pass.
I enjoyed all the dressing up, the clothes were gorgeous and Cici is a wonderful sister , mentoring Angel. I love the name of Cici’s boyfriend, Satchel. I would have liked to have met Satchel, more.
We get introduced to some more characters. I liked Markus, Bodiel and Knowledge. Some surprises with some other sub characters.
I could sense that Ife was sowing some seeds for a sequel. This story was different and nicely paced. The romance was sweet and the lads all very appealing.
Ife throws a couple great twists into her story which I enjoyed. I love twists.
FAVE QUOTE:
The pitcher’s label read “SEBASTIAN.” She put the glass under her nose and inhaled deeply. “He is Brazilian. He has a fabulous, nutty taste. With a hint of citrus.”
Michelle
November 28, 2012
MICHELLE'S REVIEW 24TH NOVEMBER 2012:
RATING: 4 SAWYER CREED STARS!
I enjoyed Ife’s debut YA novel, Blood To Blood. The cover is very appealing and the characters were all likeable.
Immortality, when you can’t hide from what is happening to you, but you must hide it from your mortal band mates, this is when things get a bit sticky.
Kat Trio is made up of Juliette, Lala and Angel. They have earned a record deal with House Quake, but Angel’s parents will not be happy as Angel and her family have a secret that needs to stay safely hidden. They are Shimshana. Well, not all of them. Dad has his own thing going on, he practices magic, is a Wizard.
Angel has the gift of singing and her voice could be the death of mortals. Angel has to learn how to control what she is becoming or it could be her own death.
Sawyer Creed ( do we all love that name or what?) is the 18 yr old , 6ft 4”, long blonde haired music genius. He knows how to produce a hit. I really loved Sawyer’s character. I had a fave scene where Sawyer is at the piano and singing with Angel an Opera number. I really believed Sawyer was a musical genius. Reading Ife’s bio on Goodreads, I can see how she was able to write this well.
The Nest and meeting Justin, I wasn’t sure how Justin was going to play into Angel’s life as I was rooting for Sawyer. Justin may have ended up coming under stalker, lol! Bless him. I did feel sorry for him.
I really loved how the music part of the story, or the singing part with Angel being able to ‘see’ the notes and music, remember it and play it. It felt very believable and quite a 3D feeling to the story.
Maha is a sort of coming out party that newborn Shimshana must go through, lasting up to 7 days. There are rituals/tests that Angel must complete and pass.
I enjoyed all the dressing up, the clothes were gorgeous and Cici is a wonderful sister , mentoring Angel. I love the name of Cici’s boyfriend, Satchel. I would have liked to have met Satchel, more.
We get introduced to some more characters. I liked Markus, Bodiel and Knowledge. Some surprises with some other sub characters.
I could sense that Ife was sowing some seeds for a sequel. This story was different and nicely paced. The romance was sweet and the lads all very appealing.
Ife throws a couple great twists into her story which I enjoyed. I love twists.
FAVE QUOTE:
The pitcher’s label read “SEBASTIAN.” She put the glass under her nose and inhaled deeply. “He is Brazilian. He has a fabulous, nutty taste. With a hint of citrus.”
Michelle
RATING: 4 SAWYER CREED STARS!
I enjoyed Ife’s debut YA novel, Blood To Blood. The cover is very appealing and the characters were all likeable.
Immortality, when you can’t hide from what is happening to you, but you must hide it from your mortal band mates, this is when things get a bit sticky.
Kat Trio is made up of Juliette, Lala and Angel. They have earned a record deal with House Quake, but Angel’s parents will not be happy as Angel and her family have a secret that needs to stay safely hidden. They are Shimshana. Well, not all of them. Dad has his own thing going on, he practices magic, is a Wizard.
Angel has the gift of singing and her voice could be the death of mortals. Angel has to learn how to control what she is becoming or it could be her own death.
Sawyer Creed ( do we all love that name or what?) is the 18 yr old , 6ft 4”, long blonde haired music genius. He knows how to produce a hit. I really loved Sawyer’s character. I had a fave scene where Sawyer is at the piano and singing with Angel an Opera number. I really believed Sawyer was a musical genius. Reading Ife’s bio on Goodreads, I can see how she was able to write this well.
The Nest and meeting Justin, I wasn’t sure how Justin was going to play into Angel’s life as I was rooting for Sawyer. Justin may have ended up coming under stalker, lol! Bless him. I did feel sorry for him.
I really loved how the music part of the story, or the singing part with Angel being able to ‘see’ the notes and music, remember it and play it. It felt very believable and quite a 3D feeling to the story.
Maha is a sort of coming out party that newborn Shimshana must go through, lasting up to 7 days. There are rituals/tests that Angel must complete and pass.
I enjoyed all the dressing up, the clothes were gorgeous and Cici is a wonderful sister , mentoring Angel. I love the name of Cici’s boyfriend, Satchel. I would have liked to have met Satchel, more.
We get introduced to some more characters. I liked Markus, Bodiel and Knowledge. Some surprises with some other sub characters.
I could sense that Ife was sowing some seeds for a sequel. This story was different and nicely paced. The romance was sweet and the lads all very appealing.
Ife throws a couple great twists into her story which I enjoyed. I love twists.
FAVE QUOTE:
The pitcher’s label read “SEBASTIAN.” She put the glass under her nose and inhaled deeply. “He is Brazilian. He has a fabulous, nutty taste. With a hint of citrus.”
Michelle
November 1, 2012
I was offered this book to review as part of a blog tour and having not heard of it before was a little sceptical. The blurb is also a little vague and I had no idea what I was about to pick up. But I started it straight away and had it finished within a few days! I really loved it! It's the perfect mix of Twilight and The Immortal Rules and I completely devoured it!
It was a little slow starting but you immediately get set on the plot line and once you get in to it, it is clear that the book is going to be amazing! It offers a great new look at the Vampire world which can be a little predictable after Twilight which worried me a little: you never know what you are getting in to with Vampire books. But this was completely different!
The main character, Angel Brown, is lovable and sweet, if not a little blood-thirsty! I loved reading about her transformation from human to vampire and watching her struggle to come to terms with her evergrowing thirst for human blood.
And now I shall talk about Sawyer Creed. Isn't that just an awesome name? I really loved him, right from the start! I was screaming at Angel to love him like I loved him! What made this romance believable was that Angel didn't instantly like him: she actually hated him, even when she hadn't met him! No insta-love in this book!
I don't know a lot about the music industry but this gave a lovely insight in to the music world and I felt very comfortable reading about it.
I also really loved the idea of a 'blood bank' where the Vampires go to feed off humans. It's not something that I've read about before and it was great to read about something new.
The settings were believable and enjoyable to read.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am hoping that there will be a second book for me to devour! It was well-written and had a story line that I loved!
RATING: 5/5
It was a little slow starting but you immediately get set on the plot line and once you get in to it, it is clear that the book is going to be amazing! It offers a great new look at the Vampire world which can be a little predictable after Twilight which worried me a little: you never know what you are getting in to with Vampire books. But this was completely different!
The main character, Angel Brown, is lovable and sweet, if not a little blood-thirsty! I loved reading about her transformation from human to vampire and watching her struggle to come to terms with her evergrowing thirst for human blood.
And now I shall talk about Sawyer Creed. Isn't that just an awesome name? I really loved him, right from the start! I was screaming at Angel to love him like I loved him! What made this romance believable was that Angel didn't instantly like him: she actually hated him, even when she hadn't met him! No insta-love in this book!
I don't know a lot about the music industry but this gave a lovely insight in to the music world and I felt very comfortable reading about it.
I also really loved the idea of a 'blood bank' where the Vampires go to feed off humans. It's not something that I've read about before and it was great to read about something new.
The settings were believable and enjoyable to read.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am hoping that there will be a second book for me to devour! It was well-written and had a story line that I loved!
RATING: 5/5
July 11, 2015
In Blood to Blood by Ife Oshun, Angelica Angel Brown knows she is destined to one day become Shimshana, a blood drinking immortal, but for now, all she wants is to be a music sensation. And she's close. Her all-girl group, Kat Trio is about to record their first demo and is the opening act for a huge concert. She's also on the precipice of romantically connecting with her record producer. It's inconvenient for the blood lust to manifest at this moment in her life, but Angel has no choice but to deal with it, manage her meddling family, and get the song recorded, trying not to kill anyone in the process.
Blood to Blood is a different take on the vampire and paranormal media craze. Though vampires, witches and werewolves exist in Oshun's world, a Shimshana is something different, which breathes a degree of freshness into the story. And while paranormal tropes are prominent in the novel--such as a love triangle and the co-existence of vampires, witches and werewolves--the story and characters do not suffer, thanks to Oshun's expert storytelling ability. The one thing I liked is that the characters remain real throughout, they are not caricatures and they are not cliche, which helps endear Angel, her friends in Kat Trio, her suitors and her family to the reader.
Ife Oshun's work is polished. Her story is interesting. Her narrative voice is endearing. Her characters are believable. Blood to Blood is the first book in a series, so at times, there is a lot of backstory into the rules of Shimshana life and the powers that govern it, but this does not detract from the story. Oshun releases necessary information in bursts at just the right time. The next time I am looking for a fun paranormal romp, I'm going to grab a copy of the next book in Oshun's series.
Note: I was gifted an eCopy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Blood to Blood is a different take on the vampire and paranormal media craze. Though vampires, witches and werewolves exist in Oshun's world, a Shimshana is something different, which breathes a degree of freshness into the story. And while paranormal tropes are prominent in the novel--such as a love triangle and the co-existence of vampires, witches and werewolves--the story and characters do not suffer, thanks to Oshun's expert storytelling ability. The one thing I liked is that the characters remain real throughout, they are not caricatures and they are not cliche, which helps endear Angel, her friends in Kat Trio, her suitors and her family to the reader.
Ife Oshun's work is polished. Her story is interesting. Her narrative voice is endearing. Her characters are believable. Blood to Blood is the first book in a series, so at times, there is a lot of backstory into the rules of Shimshana life and the powers that govern it, but this does not detract from the story. Oshun releases necessary information in bursts at just the right time. The next time I am looking for a fun paranormal romp, I'm going to grab a copy of the next book in Oshun's series.
Note: I was gifted an eCopy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 4, 2012
First of all, I would like to thank Ife for sending me a review PDF copy of this book, giving me the opportunity to read it!
So. Usually, I don't really like vampires that much, (yeah, thanks to Twilight for that.)but this was an exception! The cover looks really cool, and the summary is great as well.
I would say it's a Modern/Paranormal/Romance story. The romance is not too slow and not too forward. I was completely oblivious to what would happen at the end, who Angel, the main character, would end up with.
It is definitely MUCH better than Twilight, just to put that out there. The romance is actually believable here.
In the story, the main character wants to drop out of school so she can live her life as a famous singer, but her parents are being parent-like and only would let her if they had access to all her thoughts. Angel then meets Sawyer, thinking he's all moody and stuff. She meets Justin, her blood donor, and they start to build this sort of relationship. But then Sawyer comes and ruins that relationship, and then yeah! The romance begins~(Or should I say, continues.)
Fans of vampires: You can't afford to miss out on this.. vampalicious~ book!
And I guess that's all I have to say.
So. Usually, I don't really like vampires that much, (yeah, thanks to Twilight for that.)but this was an exception! The cover looks really cool, and the summary is great as well.
I would say it's a Modern/Paranormal/Romance story. The romance is not too slow and not too forward. I was completely oblivious to what would happen at the end, who Angel, the main character, would end up with.
It is definitely MUCH better than Twilight, just to put that out there. The romance is actually believable here.
In the story, the main character wants to drop out of school so she can live her life as a famous singer, but her parents are being parent-like and only would let her if they had access to all her thoughts. Angel then meets Sawyer, thinking he's all moody and stuff. She meets Justin, her blood donor, and they start to build this sort of relationship. But then Sawyer comes and ruins that relationship, and then yeah! The romance begins~(Or should I say, continues.)
Fans of vampires: You can't afford to miss out on this.. vampalicious~ book!
And I guess that's all I have to say.
January 19, 2015
I was asked to read this book in exchange for an honest review LoP (Lovers of Paranormal).
I'm split minded on whether i actually like this book or not.. The story became a mixture of so boring i couldn't read anymore and had to put it down to i literally couldn't put it down. Although the book seemed to totally skip a section, seriously what happened at her Mahá besides meeting all those angels and originals.
Okay so, Angel was... Irritating, whiny, seriously under-controlled and to top it off she had not one but two love interests. She's the main character and the one that irritated me the most. She's a singer always had been but suddenly since she was awakened she's scared to sing?? Just practice till you stop killing people... Okay that was morbid..
And her name... Not to be mean but seriously how ironic, she's immortal; she drinks blood; has killed someone and is called Angel!! Jeez.
The writing was average, not great but not terrible. But strangely enough i'm excited for book 2...
I'm split minded on whether i actually like this book or not.. The story became a mixture of so boring i couldn't read anymore and had to put it down to i literally couldn't put it down. Although the book seemed to totally skip a section, seriously what happened at her Mahá besides meeting all those angels and originals.
Okay so, Angel was... Irritating, whiny, seriously under-controlled and to top it off she had not one but two love interests. She's the main character and the one that irritated me the most. She's a singer always had been but suddenly since she was awakened she's scared to sing?? Just practice till you stop killing people... Okay that was morbid..
And her name... Not to be mean but seriously how ironic, she's immortal; she drinks blood; has killed someone and is called Angel!! Jeez.
The writing was average, not great but not terrible. But strangely enough i'm excited for book 2...
September 18, 2012
I was given this book by Ms. Oshun to read and review. I'm so honored that she asked me and so glad that I got a chance to read this book as I really enjoyed it!
I thought it was a well written, well researched story. Her background and knowledge of the recording industry definitely shone!
I'm no stranger to paranormal fiction BUT I am new to the young adult fiction. The bulk of my ya reads are historical fiction or those focused on Greek Gods.
More than anything I enjoyed the paranormal aspect of the novel. I have quite a few vampire novels but all of them are geared toward adults. I would have liked to learn more about a being that creates vampires but I'm thinking maybe that's how ya paranormal books are written. I wouldn't know as this is my first.
Also, Angelika is a great female character. She really knows herself, respects herself, family and friends.
Hope there is a sequel Ms. Oshun!
I thought it was a well written, well researched story. Her background and knowledge of the recording industry definitely shone!
I'm no stranger to paranormal fiction BUT I am new to the young adult fiction. The bulk of my ya reads are historical fiction or those focused on Greek Gods.
More than anything I enjoyed the paranormal aspect of the novel. I have quite a few vampire novels but all of them are geared toward adults. I would have liked to learn more about a being that creates vampires but I'm thinking maybe that's how ya paranormal books are written. I wouldn't know as this is my first.
Also, Angelika is a great female character. She really knows herself, respects herself, family and friends.
Hope there is a sequel Ms. Oshun!
November 21, 2012
I particularly enjoy novels which explore the limits of the human spirit. These books have ordinary humans face intense challenges that show me what people are made of. Blood to Blood is such a novel.
The main character of this present-day fiction is about a gifted singer, but otherwise seemingly normal 16yo girl. After a little time we find that she is not to stay human. She transforms into an immortal human blood-consuming human-looking being with magical powers.
Angel is not prepared for this transformation. It gives her immense powers and intense passions: good and bad that initially she cannot control. She discovers that she can kill or heal with her singing. Her craving for human blood is most intense for those she cares: close friends and lovers. Her parents, elder sister and many others that have gone before stand her by.
The novel allowed me to imagine what it would be like if I were given immense powers and passion.
June 21, 2013
This book was given to me as part of a Goodreads first-reads giveaway.
Angel is a young girl who is about to change into a vampire race called the Shimshana. She is suppose to be blending in, but instead is sneaking around doing gigs with her band Kat Trio which is putting her into the spotlight. She finds out more about the abilities she possesses and as she goes through the change from mortal to Shimshana and finds out that some of her abilities could be deadly. Throughout all the madness Angel finds herself falling in love with Sawyer who is a mortal even though it is forbidden. Will Angel and Sawyer get together and will Angel manage to control the deadly abilities she has so that she doesn't kill anybody?
It was a quick and easy read, which I really enjoyed. It wasn't like other vampire novels I've read before, which is nice too. It is worth reading and it kept me entertained all the way through.
Angel is a young girl who is about to change into a vampire race called the Shimshana. She is suppose to be blending in, but instead is sneaking around doing gigs with her band Kat Trio which is putting her into the spotlight. She finds out more about the abilities she possesses and as she goes through the change from mortal to Shimshana and finds out that some of her abilities could be deadly. Throughout all the madness Angel finds herself falling in love with Sawyer who is a mortal even though it is forbidden. Will Angel and Sawyer get together and will Angel manage to control the deadly abilities she has so that she doesn't kill anybody?
It was a quick and easy read, which I really enjoyed. It wasn't like other vampire novels I've read before, which is nice too. It is worth reading and it kept me entertained all the way through.
January 26, 2015
Angel���s dream of becoming a singer hits a dangerous turn when she starts to become an adult immortal and her voice suddenly has the ability to do so much more. Things get even harder when she is torn between her heart's desires and protecting the ones she loves from her new and uncontrollable power and hunger. Fortunately, her family and friends are right there by her side to help, and she will need them as the Council threatens to end her life if she can���t get her powers under control.
'Blood to Blood' is an entertaining mix of teenage angst, vampires and romance for young adults and older, and overall a great book for supernatural fans who enjoy a solid storyline and believable characters.
'Blood to Blood' is an entertaining mix of teenage angst, vampires and romance for young adults and older, and overall a great book for supernatural fans who enjoy a solid storyline and believable characters.
September 19, 2012
LOVE this book. I'm a huge magick/mysticism geek. Love stories about Vampires and other magical creatures. This book creates a brand new folklore around the origin of Vamps and other magical beings. I don't always love the folklore folks come up with, but I thought this one was so creative. I read the whole thing in a couple days because I couldn't put it down. I really hope she writes a sequel because I can't wait to see what happens to the characters next!
January 2, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. I haven't been reading much in the supernatural genre recently, typically getting my vampire, werewolf fix from True Blood, but it was fun to experience in this book. I loved the pomp and circumstance around Angel becoming immortal, and learning some history about her family. I'd love a prequel that went back in time and covered more of that!
June 16, 2013
In my opinion, the book was very slow to start. I think more 'action' could have been included in the first half. On that note, the second half held my attention and I found it hard to put down, and am now left wondering what is going to happen.
September 3, 2014
Words cannot describe how much I enjoyed not only the writing itself, but the protagonist and the different attitudes. CANNOT WAIT to read the next one. (won in Goodreads giveaway)
July 12, 2014
I loved this book!!! It was great from start to finish!!! I will share with everyone I know!!!!
November 14, 2012
Fabu! This was very original and fun to read.
December 24, 2019
I've always been a fan of a good vampire story, and this one definitely ticks off all the boxes! It's unique (never before have I read such rich, vivid details about a lineage and their powers), and it's also very smart, funny, and charming. I really enjoyed all of the characters, and as a fan of music, I especially loved any time Angel sang. The descriptions of how she soothes (and sometimes accidentally harms) with her voice are gorgeous. I also really enjoyed her bond with the mortal Sawyer. Yes, immortal/mortal romances have been written before, but theirs comes with a twist that I won't reveal! You should definitely give this a try if you love YA vampires with a twist!
July 28, 2020
Misunderstood teenage soon to be immortal vampire wannabe singing sensation. Nuff said.
November 20, 2014
Okay, the reason I've given this a fairly low rating is not for the quality of the writing, but because it's just not for me. It's a personal rating rather than a professional one. I think Blood to Blood is one of those YA books that will be enjoyed a lot more by actual Young Adults than us older readers. The hip-hop music alone was enough to make me shudder!
Oshun's version of vampires was interesting, but the range of talents/skills/magic they have was a bit over the top I found - one of those cases of inventing magic to make a story work, rather than because it makes sense. I would imagine a lot of teens (especially younger ones with aspirations to be pop stars) would really enjoy the book though.
Oshun's version of vampires was interesting, but the range of talents/skills/magic they have was a bit over the top I found - one of those cases of inventing magic to make a story work, rather than because it makes sense. I would imagine a lot of teens (especially younger ones with aspirations to be pop stars) would really enjoy the book though.
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January 23, 2019I did not finish this. It didn't hold my interest.
May 29, 2020
This was a fun YA read . . . a little PG for me, but otherwise imaginative, different and enjoyable for a teenager
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