Immortal

by V.E. Duncan

Kait Peters is a normal Mortal living a normal life until an accident one night on a rain slicked road. She doesn't know she's been exposed to a deadly parasite—and a secret world. Kait knows everyone has a skeleton or two in their closet, and she respects privacy. But she soon suspects that the secrets haunting her since that night are deeper and more dangerous than anything she could have imagined.

Jackson Cunningham is the stranger who helps Kait on that fateful night. But he's also an Immortal, infected with a parasite that bestows superhuman abilities at a terrible price. It’s his fault Kait was exposed, and he is duty-bound to observe her for signs of infection. For everyone’s sake he must also conceal the existence of Immortality from all Mortals, even Kait. But how can he do that when this Mortal sees through his carefully constructed lies?

Meanwhile, a rogue Immortal is hunting Mortals and committing the unspeakable act of infecting them with the immortality parasite. Could Jackson’s association with Kait put her next in the rogue’s crosshairs?

Jackson and Kait must fight to protect each other and those they care about, and as they grow closer, they must also navigate the web of lies and half-truths that keep them apart. Can their love survive the collision of two worlds?

Genres: Romance, Fantasy, Suspense, Fiction, Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Science Fiction

292 pages, Paperback

Published June 23, 2024

Reviews

[Charlotte Rebecca Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭑ ⭑ ⭑ ⭑ ✩

~

Okay I really enjoyed this book! It was a fun little read and I will definitely be reading the second book, I am excited to get more into this world and these characters and I'm excited to see where the story goes. Definitely recommend if this is you’re kinda vibe, was right up my street 🤩

~

Thank you to NetGalley and V.E Duncan for the ARC 🫶🏼

[Yvonne · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Immortal" by V.E. Duncan is a captivating blend of fantasy and science fiction, enriched with elements of thriller, mystery, and romance. This multifaceted narrative introduces readers to Kait, a resilient childhood cancer survivor who returns to her hometown to teach art to young patients in the pediatric oncology unit. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with Jackson, a intriguing immortal who belongs to a secretive underground society. This group is infected by a parasite that alters their lifespan and abilities, rendering them dangerous to mortals during a monthly event known as the Bloom.

The story begins with a fateful car accident that brings Jackson into Kait's life. Though he is bound by duty to maintain distance, Jackson finds himself irresistibly drawn to Kait. Their burgeoning, yet forbidden relationship unfolds against the backdrop of a darker narrative involving a rogue immortal with plans to genetically engineer the parasite and exploit innocent mortals for his experiments.

Duncan skillfully weaves a plot that is both engaging and thought-provoking, seamlessly blending romance with themes of danger and ethical dilemmas. The character development is commendable; both Kait and Jackson are nuanced and relatable, navigating their complex emotions amid external threats. The pacing of the story is well-balanced, keeping readers invested from start to finish.

Overall, "Immortal" is an enthralling read that successfully merges various genres into a cohesive and compelling narrative. V.E. Duncan has crafted a story that not only entertains but also prompts reflection on the nature of life and the ethical implications of immortality. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to fans of fantasy and science fiction alike.

I was fortunate to get an advanced reader copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Page_2_Pen · Rating 4 out of 5]

an interesting take on immortals

I found the idea of immortals existing due to an infection interesting. The plot was unique in that they could be created through infection from others carrying the strain. The characters were likeable, though the love interest was very rushed. Overall, the story flowed well, had a good pacing, and kept me interested. The ending has me wanting to read on to the next book to see how this story plays out.

[Shannon K G · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 🌟
Strong characters and unique plot. The pace keeps you engaged and the romance is a slow build in the best way.

[Elizabeth H. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was first drawn to this book by its pretty cover. I love a good paranormal/fantasy book. After the reading the synopsis, I decided to give it a try.

First for readers, this is definitely NOT a vampire book. It's a book about immortal beings. The way you become an immortal is being infected by a parasite (through blood/fluid transfer) that genetically alters a mortal human to an immortal. This process gives immortals superhuman abilities and makes them harder (but not impossible) to kill. Living forever and having superhero-type abilities may sound great, but there's a deadly price for immortality.

Kait is a strong heroine, surviving childhood cancer and three bone marrow transplants. Currently in remission, she's working in art therapy at a local hospital with children fighting cancer. Kait is temporarily living in a basement apartment at her mom's home. The relationship is strained because Kait's mom is a hoverer and overprotector. Kait has a lot of emotional baggage from her time in treatment and her relationship with her mom, which I could absolutely relate to. It was sometimes difficult to get through their scenes together because the feelings and emotions were so heightened and relatable.

Kait meets Jackson one fateful (and weird) night and can't get him out of her mind. As if she conjured him up, he starts coming around and inserting himself in her daily life, which is a blessing and a curse. While she's got feelings developing for this mysterious man, she knows he's not being fully honest with her, and that's something Kait will not tolerate. Kait's also leaving town in a few weeks so she decides to make the most of her time with Jackson.

When one of Kait's patients becomes a target by a strange man lurking in the hospital, she works to discover his identity and intentions. Soon, Kait realizes she's now a target and Jackson may be involved. Was she wrong about him all along?

The plot kept me engaged and entertained throughout the story. The characters are interesting and the chemistry between Kait and Jackson was sweet and savory.

The book ends with several loose ends, not necessarily a cliffhanger-type situation, but more like a trilogy situation. I'm not sure how the series is constructed, but it left me with enough breadcrumbs to want to find out what happens next.

**NetGalley generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**

[Makayla Jenkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have reviewed this book based on the CAWPILE method. This book averaged at a 5 Star rating.

CHARACTERS- 9/10

The characters are written very well, with a unique voice to them. Once introduced, they were easy to remember. Only thing was I wasn’t as enamored with Jackson as I’d like to have been. Something about him seemed really neurotic and off kilter, and that really stood out to me. I think I would’ve enjoyed his character more if he was a little bit less… innocent? Feels like the wrong word but, if you know, you know.

ATMOSPHERE/SETTING- 10/10

Loved everything about this. The places they went were easily imagined and I did get the creeps a few times, which I love. The author did a really good job with this.

WRITING STYLE- 10/10

Loved everything about the writing style! The author has a really good way of pulling you in and keeping you invested, but also driving the plot forward at a steady even pace.

PLOT- 9/10

At first I rolled my eyes a little at the whole secret society thing, but at some point it grew on me, so I can’t be mad about it. Something I am bummed about is I guessed with absolute certainty who the rogue was very early on. BUT, I think the author might’ve wanted the reader to catch on so that there could be an extra layer of suspense. Who knows?

INTRIGUE- 10/10

There was an impressive amount of intrigue throughout the book, making it easy to read in just a few sittings.

LOGIC/RELATIONSHIPS- 10/10

The logic in this book is sound. (Not surprising considering who the author is (did you see that resume in the back? Holy crap, impressive!)) and the relationships felt very real to me. The trials and tribulations that come with meeting someone and deciding if they are worth working through issues for.

ENJOYMENT- 10/10

I have enjoyed this immensely. I figured I would, but it’s so good to be proven right. I would recommend this to anyone who’s a dystopian/sci-fi lover like me.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Harley | thimblefullofbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC received via NetGallery in exchange for an honest review.
4/5

An interesting take on immortality, Immortal blends elements of paranormal, sci-fi, thriller and romance all into one delightful read. I really enjoyed how much thought and medical science went into the design of the parasitic virus and playing it parallel to Kait’s childhood cancer made it seem all the more harrowing, terrifying and interesting in its own morbid way.

Death is a constant companion throughout the book, intertwined with themes of grief for oneself and others. Kait juggles the weight of possibly dying as a child with the trauma of living through that, making her a multifaceted and empathetic character. In contrast to Duncan who has dealt with death around him while he lives on through his parasitically altered lifespan. It’s two opposing situations and watching both of them navigate their own emotions around their unique circumstances while slowly circling and falling deeper into each other’s lives despite both of them trying to keep each other at a distance kept me hooked.

The hidden world of the Immortals slides seamlessly into the real world, fraught with dangers and ethical dilemmas. The slow build of the overarching plot combined with the steady shift in the dynamics of Kait and Duncan’s relationship was balanced well within the pacing of the book.

Overall Immortal is an engaging read with a strong and compelling narrative. I really enjoyed it and will be keeping my eye out for the second book because I want more from this world and these characters. I’m excited to see where the story goes.

As a final note I would caution readers to check the triggers before reading.

[Angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, that was a novel with a difference, giving a fresh new take on immortality! In a world where the subject of immortality has been much covered, I enjoyed the blend of science fiction and science fact, making the narrative believable. It made me think how one needs to be careful about what they wish for, as what may seem a gift can come with unpleasant side effects.

The romance between Kait and Jackson was well-handled and didn’t overshadow the plot or storytelling; I felt it added depth to the well-paced suspense. The theme of forbidden love was relatable, as was the chemistry between Kait and Jackson, which evolved in line with plot twists and reveals. I can see how some readers may want more depth in the relationship between the two; however, allowing the mortal versus immortal story to unfold without too much sentimentality or hindrance added to the novel, which wasn't all steamy sex and romance but a realistic take on the human condition and associated relationships.

The ethical dilemmas of immortality, blended with the ethics of scientific experimentation, gave food for thought. The author understood the science she was writing about and pitched the scientific information at an understandable level.

The darker side of humanity was sensitively handled, including suicide and childhood cancer, both adding depth to the narrative; a novel of relationships on many levels.

Duncan’s world-building was immersive; I could visualise this book as a film and look forward to reading the prequel and book two in the series. Immortal is a promising start to this series, it left me wanting to know how the future unfolds for the characters, good and evil. If you like dark fantasy, I would recommend this book.

Thank you to Book Sirens and VE Duncan for this ARC.

[Dionne Muller · Rating 2 out of 5]

"Immortal," the first instalment in V.E. Duncan's series, promises a thrilling collision between the mortal and immortal worlds, but unfortunately falls short of delivering a truly engaging experience.

While the premise – a normal girl thrust into a hidden world after an accident exposes her to a deadly parasite – holds initial intrigue, the execution feels laboured and ultimately unconvincing. The opening chapter, intended to establish the foundation of this hidden reality, fails to draw the reader in, lacking the necessary spark to ignite curiosity.

The narrative struggles to maintain momentum, particularly in its early stages. The second chapter, which hints at the unfolding storyline, quickly diverts into an extended and somewhat tedious exploration of Kait's fraught relationship with her mother. While character development is important, the protracted explanation of Kait's antipathy feels unnecessary and disrupts the pacing, leaving the reader impatiently waiting for the central plot to take shape. It's as if the author is intentionally obscuring the core narrative, creating an artificial sense of mystery that ultimately feels forced and contrived.

Furthermore, the relationship between Kait and Jackson, the enigmatic Immortal, lacks the depth and authenticity needed to resonate with the reader. Their connection feels superficial and rushed, failing to establish the genuine emotional bond necessary to believe in their growing feelings amidst the chaos of their colliding worlds.

Ultimately, "Immortal" suffers from a lack of narrative focus and underdeveloped character relationships, leaving the reader feeling disconnected from the story and its potential.

[Charles L · Rating 5 out of 5]

The “Immortal” is a visionary work of art that elevates the typical sci-fi fiction where a deadly blood infection leads to disastrous consequences. Our protagonist Kait gets exposed to a potentially deadly contagion when the blood of an infected person makes contact with her skin. Her potential to become infected is high and she becomes the subject of observation by a secret society who is task in monitoring her for signs of been infected. During the observation process, she becomes the target of a rogue agent who recognizes her potential to be one of them is determined to make it so. Kait and her observer Jackson must do their absolute best to thwart the rogue’s efforts to keep her alive and human. Do they succeed? Keep reading and the answer will reveal itself as you are immersed in one of the greatest pieces of fiction available today.
This is a delightful book and I highly recommend it.

[Michele · Rating 3 out of 5]

Immortal by VE Duncan is a romantic science fiction novel about Kait, a mortal, accidentally exposed to a parasite that causes immortality and Jackson, the immortal tasked with monitoring her for symptoms of the parasite. I really enjoyed this twist on immortality and learning about the hidden world. It was a lot different than I expected. There’s also a mystery and romance woven in. The mystery aspect I really enjoyed and it kept me entertained. The romance was ok. I would’ve liked more chemistry between Kait and Jackson. There were a few dates and interactions we’re told about that I think would’ve been beneficial to the romantic development if we’d seen the scenes actually play out. Overall, I enjoyed the book but would’ve like a better developed romance since the relationship was a major plot point.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kait is a childhood cancer survivor who returns home to teach art in the pediatric oncology unit. Jackson is an immortal, part of a secret society that is infected with a parasite that alters their lifespan and provides them different abilities that makes them a danger during the Bloom..

Despite being bound to maintain distance from Kait, Jackson finds himself drawn to Kait. Soon they find themselves thrust into a forbidden relationship. Meanwhile, an immortal is genetically modifying the parasite to be used and experimented on innocent mortals.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters were well developed. I was drawn into the book. I feel like it was a multifaceted book in so much that it is a sci-fi, fantasy, thriller, romance book. Very entertaining and easy to follow along.

I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley for an honest review.

[Kaitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although not directly about vampires and werewolves, if you're interested in immortal creatures like them, this one's for you. This book felt like something I would have read as a teenager (that's a good thing, that's when I did most of my reading) but still felt fresh enough to enjoy it and wonder what was going to happen next. The main character, who coincidentally shares my name, Kait, was a likable, well written character who wasn't too standoffish and wasn't afraid to feel vulnerable without beating herself up about it which is hard to find sometimes with female main characters in fantasy books. Honestly, all of the characters felt personable and memorable and I liked every single one of them which is also sometimes rare in the fantasy genre. All in all, I'd highly recommend this one and I'd love to read a sequel!

Thank you to Netgalley and Victory Editing for this eARC.

[ReneeReads · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think this an interesting take on the immortality type of book and one that many readers will like. I enjoyed this book and I liked both of the main characters. The ending was definitely good and sets up the plot for the next book in the series.

The reason for my 3 star review is that I felt this book had some repetitive scenes and dialogue and could have been trimmed down a bit. I don't like when two main characters have obvious chemistry and one or both of them keep pushing the other away because it puts me off wanting to read it. If they have feelings for each other it is my thought that they would do anything they can to keep that person. And yes, that may be rejecting them but it's a trope I don't like.

Overall I think this is a good sci-fi type fantasy and I will likely continue the series to see where the story takes us.

[Tavia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kait is past her teenage cancer diagnosis and in remission. She’s back home working as an art therapist temporarily at the hospital she was originally treated at. Everything changes for Kait, when she meets Jackson & is drawn into his world. He is an Immortal, a person infected with a parasite that extends their lifespan. Meanwhile, an Immortal nicknamed the Rogue is infecting humans with his own homegrown parasite. Is Kait next? Can Jackson save her?

This book definitely gave Twilight vibes, but no vampires or ware wolves.i didn’t feel the connection between Kait and Jackson, so that needed to be developed more. Also, it was extremely obvious who the Rogue was. Would have liked a bit more trickery.

Thank you NetGalley and Victory Editing for a copy of this book.

[kassidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book pulled me in from the first chapter and didn’t let go. Kait is a relatable, strong heroine, and her accidental plunge into a hidden world of Immortals made for a thrilling ride. The dynamic between Kait and Jackson was compelling, tense, emotional, and full of chemistry. I loved how their relationship developed alongside the action, with just enough mystery to keep me turning the pages.

The concept of the immortality parasite was unique and well-executed, raising some fascinating moral questions. The rogue Immortal added a great layer of danger, and the tension never really let up. My only wish is that we got a bit more detail about the Immortal world itself; it felt like there was more to explore.

[Emma Farrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been searching for an urban fantasy read for a while, and this landed on my NetGalley shelf. I didn’t realise this actually came out in April, but that’s a win because I definitely want to read the second book!

This gave real twilight vibes, and Jackson was a lot like Edward Cullen who is one of my favourite book characters of all time.

Things I liked:
- tortured soul MMC
- Well thought out fantasy elements
- Action packed, suspenseful and romantic

Things I would have liked:
- a bit longer to build the romance
- More core female characters

[Bob C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting new perspective on Immortality!

I really enjoyed this book. A very different take on the good and the bad consequences of immortality. Great plot and characters, both the good, the “bad”, and even the neutral characters. The story line keeps your attention and keeps you guessing. I highly recommend this story and I’m eagerly looking forward to both the prequel and the sequel! :)

[Wildborne Fantasy · Rating 3 out of 5]

(Thank you NetGalley and Victory Editing for a copy of this ARC! This is my honest review.)

Unfortunately, I found this book to be underwhelming. I enjoyed the unique premise—immortality blood parasites. However, the romance was subpar. The love felt shallow and it developed too quickly. There were a number of scenes where the writing felt overly dramatic and unnatural. I think there was a lot of potential for this storyline, it just didn’t deliver for me.

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

This isn’t my usual genre, but I was completely intrigued by the synopsis. It’s part fantasy, part love story and part thriller and it completely captivated me from the start. The main characters worked well together and the plot unfolded at pace. Thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing and the author for the chance to review.

[yvonne robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Immoral by VE Duncan

Started reading this book and thinking it was about vampires but soon discovered it was totally different. I really enjoyed this story as I consider it unique. Kept my attention throughout. Great story.

[Denise Doughten · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good vampire type story

This was an immortal story. Blood parasites. They have a center and study the parasites. Their is a love story. But more of a slow build. All the characters seem it have to get over emotional problems.

[Holly Mavigliano · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hmmmm

Good book. Interesting premise. A little bit of romance, mystery, and immortals. Book can be read as a stand alone, but there is a small cliffhanger. I was very interested for the majority of the book, but not interested in continuing with the next one.

[Ann Isaacs · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a unique take on immortals. It's more sci-fi than paranormal, but it was a delightful read.

[Niki Gardner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

Great take on immortality. Great characterization. Definitely worth the read. Will be adding it to my read again list. Loved it!

[Mary Anne Fraser · Rating 4 out of 5]

Caught my interest, looking for the second book now.

[Mark Gibbons · Rating 2 out of 5]

Half way through it was clear there was going to have to be a sequel, 2/3 of the way won't this ever end, finish is a sappy ending. Just no, unfortunately. It starts well.

[Michael C Goodhope · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nicely paced

I liked the storyline, a fresh view of old legends. I look forward to reading the next book soon. I hope the author keeps writing this series.

[DMA · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow this was a truly unique read. A brilliantly imagined world with unusual immortals causing both chaos and calm.

Superb read.

Highly recommended

[Sara Wilson · Rating 1 out of 5]

This turned my brain into mush. I struggled to get through it. It was boring.