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The Vitandi
Nestled high atop a mountain range in his father's mansion, sexy, 'emo' vampire KELLAN DONNOLLY is living a life of carefree immortality. Born in 1003 in Ireland, to a peasant woman named Catherine, and the apostle SIMON, Kellan is bound by an ancient prophecy decreed by God, one that must be fulfilled or the entire vampire race will be destroyed. Simon, along with the other eleven apostles, were punished by Christ, forced to live as vampires by drinking Christ’s blood from the Holy Grail at the Last Supper for their roles of betrayal in his crucifixion. Now, Kellan must find a descendant of Christ, his niece in fact, and father a child with her to keep their species alive.
In New York City, spunky NICOLE ERWIN, a country girl from Coalmont, VA., and her friend, MIA ROUNDTREE, a sassy, outspoken, Chicagoan, work part-time at Harbor Way Orphanage, and soon discover working part-time in a big city, doesn't pay the bills. When Mia sees an ad in the paper offering two hundred dollars for blood donations taken by The National Bloodmobile, she presents the idea to Nicole, who reluctantly agrees to go for the extra cash, unaware her donation will change her destiny. While at the bloodmobile, Mia gets a date, and commits Nicole into accompanying her by setting her up with her date’s friend. Born with an ugly, scar shaped birthmark on her left wrist and raised by a cold, uncaring father, Nicole has acquired a defensive nature but decides to go on the date and soon learns finding Mr. Right is a lot harder than she thought.
After centuries of hiding for fear of detection, Kellan and the Apostles, lose track of The Daughter of Christ. In the twentieth century, the Apostles resurfaced and formed The National Blood Association, establishing blood banks all over the globe to live among humans undetected and to renew their search for The Daughter.
When the time of the prophecy is at hand, The Daughter's identity is still unknown. The Apostles become concerned with Kellan's lack of interest in finding her, and Simon reveals to Kellan a secret he's kept hidden for over twenty years. In 1986, when a new form of technology DNA extraction, was unveiled The Apostles utilized its potential. They enlisted the aid of WINSTON DEFRIES, a smart, arrogant, biotechnology scientist who was the first man to extract and successfully match DNA to an individual. To keep Winston in the dark of their intentions JOHN THE APOSTLE, approached him and offered a job with The National Blood Association, under the ruse of finding a cure for HIV by testing blood donations taken from their blood banks and linking a genetic protein found in uninfected donors. Little does Winston know his quest will help an ancient sect of vampires locate the savior of their race.
When The Apostles learn The Daughter of Christ's lineage is in New York City, it is up to Kellan to win her trust, while The Apostles try to keep Lucifer's demon scout, ARIUS, from destroying her. Kellan finds Nicole and reluctantly pursues her, expecting to fulfill the prophecy and return to his life of immortal luxury. To his amazement, he discovers Nicole means more to him than just the salvation of his people and together, they embark on an adventure full of suspense and drama, with an unexpected 'Savior' who will aid Kellan and The Apostles on their journey for survival.
In New York City, spunky NICOLE ERWIN, a country girl from Coalmont, VA., and her friend, MIA ROUNDTREE, a sassy, outspoken, Chicagoan, work part-time at Harbor Way Orphanage, and soon discover working part-time in a big city, doesn't pay the bills. When Mia sees an ad in the paper offering two hundred dollars for blood donations taken by The National Bloodmobile, she presents the idea to Nicole, who reluctantly agrees to go for the extra cash, unaware her donation will change her destiny. While at the bloodmobile, Mia gets a date, and commits Nicole into accompanying her by setting her up with her date’s friend. Born with an ugly, scar shaped birthmark on her left wrist and raised by a cold, uncaring father, Nicole has acquired a defensive nature but decides to go on the date and soon learns finding Mr. Right is a lot harder than she thought.
After centuries of hiding for fear of detection, Kellan and the Apostles, lose track of The Daughter of Christ. In the twentieth century, the Apostles resurfaced and formed The National Blood Association, establishing blood banks all over the globe to live among humans undetected and to renew their search for The Daughter.
When the time of the prophecy is at hand, The Daughter's identity is still unknown. The Apostles become concerned with Kellan's lack of interest in finding her, and Simon reveals to Kellan a secret he's kept hidden for over twenty years. In 1986, when a new form of technology DNA extraction, was unveiled The Apostles utilized its potential. They enlisted the aid of WINSTON DEFRIES, a smart, arrogant, biotechnology scientist who was the first man to extract and successfully match DNA to an individual. To keep Winston in the dark of their intentions JOHN THE APOSTLE, approached him and offered a job with The National Blood Association, under the ruse of finding a cure for HIV by testing blood donations taken from their blood banks and linking a genetic protein found in uninfected donors. Little does Winston know his quest will help an ancient sect of vampires locate the savior of their race.
When The Apostles learn The Daughter of Christ's lineage is in New York City, it is up to Kellan to win her trust, while The Apostles try to keep Lucifer's demon scout, ARIUS, from destroying her. Kellan finds Nicole and reluctantly pursues her, expecting to fulfill the prophecy and return to his life of immortal luxury. To his amazement, he discovers Nicole means more to him than just the salvation of his people and together, they embark on an adventure full of suspense and drama, with an unexpected 'Savior' who will aid Kellan and The Apostles on their journey for survival.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 31, 2014
15 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
February 15, 2015
This book was a well written book for me. I love vampire stories but I love them even more when they are original. This book was one of those. I think the author did a great job with the story line and the characters. * I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
August 6, 2014
I am giving this review for author Denver Batiste. This is not your typical vampire book and if you are very religious then I suggest that you not read this book.
KELLAN DONNOLLY has a mission to do, he has to find The Daughter of Christ. Little does he know that falling in love with her is not an option for him. Nicole Erwin is a small town girl living in New York trying to help people the best way that she can. When she meets Kellan sparks fly between them and she finds herself in very different company.
This story is not your average vampire story because of how the author comes up with the starting of vampires. The author gives you a lot of details and captures your attention with out being boring. The characters and their interaction kept my attention and I had a hard time putting the book down.
This book is for any paranormal book reader who likes to read outside the norm of a story line.
KELLAN DONNOLLY has a mission to do, he has to find The Daughter of Christ. Little does he know that falling in love with her is not an option for him. Nicole Erwin is a small town girl living in New York trying to help people the best way that she can. When she meets Kellan sparks fly between them and she finds herself in very different company.
This story is not your average vampire story because of how the author comes up with the starting of vampires. The author gives you a lot of details and captures your attention with out being boring. The characters and their interaction kept my attention and I had a hard time putting the book down.
This book is for any paranormal book reader who likes to read outside the norm of a story line.
December 24, 2014
OH..EMMM..GEEE What in hell did I just read?!
"One day fate will bring us again."
VAMPIRE WITH A TWIST!!
IT'S INTELLIGENT, CAPTIVATING and HEART-POUNDING!
I WANT TO SCREAM ON THE TOP OF MY LUNGS!!! Really.. that one heck of an ending.. gosh, I think I won't have a peaceful holidays this year!
This should better published soon, it's a perfect gift for vampire/mystery fanatics out there.
Mind you, this is not just your ordinary vampire novel. I fell in love with just the first few glimpses of the characters. This novel didn't make me read an entire chapter to make me like it, it just used a few words to get me hooked.
(just a note: the author generously gave a copy for an honest review, but the praises I'll say about this book in my succeeding paragraphs has nothing to do with the author giving me a copy, I don't say good things because the author wants to hear it but because his/her work deserves praises and the author itself deserves it as well.)
Ok, enough with my non-sense antics. It's time to gather my wits after it blown my mind to pieces. As much as possible, I'll try to give a coherent review and give it proper justice but seriously, my thoughts are in shambles.
WARNING! MIGHT CONTAIN SPOILERS (But I did get some from the synopsis given in the book page)
A very brief synopsis:
Their problem started when Christ, (You heard it right, The Son of God) let his Apostles drink his blood from the Holy Grail without the Apostles knowing that they will be turned into vampires because of "their" part of betrayal for the crucifixion. But hope is not so lost to them because there is an ancient prophecy decreed by God, wherein one must fulfill it in order to save the existence of the vampires or else, they will cease to exist in this Earth.
Enter Kellan Donnolly, he is tasked or rather prophesied that he will have to find the "Daugther" of Christ's bloodline and to father a child with her for the survival of his kind. At first he is reluctant to do his bidding but eventually he changed his mind after meeting her.
STORY :
This is what really caught my attention. When I saw the synopsis of the Vitandi at the bookbuzz, I was a bit drawn into it. The synopsis did caught my interest like the other books I've read, I'm curious as what it has to tell to the readers and what makes it different from any other vampire novels.
It's very intelligently crafted. The author really knows where is the direction she likes to take the story. She knows what she is writing and I feel the confidence and extensive research she puts unto her work to make it and look realistic. Who could have thought that the Last Supper would be so famous in this novel?! with all those twists and turns, it's a bit shocking to the core if it were all true. Hahaha, imagine our surprise to find that those 12 Apostles are living with us today, just disguising themselves as an ordinary human being.
Ever since I've read The Da Vinci Code I've become enamored with the Holy Grail, one of the most priceless and very controversial treasure on Earth and now it appeared again in this story no wonder it could do the unthinkable.
While reading this I was like "What the hell?" again and again and again. There are lot of "JAW-DROPPING-BOMBS" in here than I could imagine. No boring, dull or slow parts, just the right amount of pacing and progress. The scenes and lines are properly included, all chapters are necessary to the story. It's nicely wrap-upped.
I also love the changing POVs so the readers got to glimpse what's going on in someones mind. Though I really enjoy reading from Kellans' POV.
As for the CHARACTERS:
12 Apostles: Well, I so love their brotherhood! their protectiveness towards their brethren and love for each other is just overwhelming, one for all, all for one. I love their solidarity. They function as one though each have different expertise. Out of the 12, John and Simon did stood out. John being a very effective and efficient leader and Simon being a proud and supportive father to Kellan, a well model for a father and son relationship. I just couldn't say more to John, my heart breaks whenever I think about him.
Connor: Haha, May you find peace wherever you are. (being sarcastic here) ;)
Adrian: May you hopefully be reunited with "him"
Mia Roundtree: She is the perfect best friend to have. But there are times when I'm pissed at her for being insensitive and the like but she's only human being and still a blessing to be around.
Kellan Donnolly: This is the first time in about 2 years I've read an emo lead guy but of course in a good way. I love how he is confident with his self, how he stand for what he believed in, his patience and love and forgiveness for his father and of course his undying love and protectiveness for her mortal beloved, Nicole Erwin. You can see and feel it in his eyes his true love for Nicole, it is not just because of the prophecy but it is because of "love" it self that made him that way. You won't really doubt his intentions toward her because it's true.
Nicole Erwin: Your POVs made my eyes teary. She's a very strong head independent woman. She's doesn't want to depend on others for her needs especially when . I love how she accepted the fact that the love of her life might or might not come back to her because she already readied for that possibility. I also love how she thinks and act clearly in spite of her situation back home in Virginia with Arius. But one thing is for sure, I did feel some bad vibes coming off her after she awakened at the ending.
THE ENDING:
To be honest, it is a classic example of a bitter-sweet ending. I think I won't have a peaceful nights after tonight. PLEASE...I just need the sequel right now! How could you ended it that way! T_T
I fear for the safety of the Apostles and Kellan. Honestly, Kellan's decision is selfish, by taking away the free will of a person to choose what is the best for herself/himself. If it were to happen to me, I would be royally pissed off BIG TIME! He didn't think clearly maybe because of the time pressure but we can't blame it all to him, the Apostles urge him to do so as well. I just say GOOD LUCK to all of them in the sequel.
"He needed her in a way he'd never needed anyone."
December 3, 2014
The Vitandi
Note - The Author Visits received a copy of The Vitandi by Denver Batiste in exchange for a honest review.
Reviewer: Kristin Lundgren for The Author Visits
Two millennia ago, when Christ had his Last Supper, things actually went a bit differently than the bible says. He believed he had been betrayed by all his Disciples, not just Judas, and had them drink his blood from the Holy Grail, which transmuted the blood to cause them to transform into vampires, the Twelve Tribes. These Disciples can change humans, by their own choice, into vampires, the Vitandi, a name taken by the Disciples from it's original meaning of excommunicated by the Church for evil. Others they bite and take a small drink from, and they become bonded to them, their Protectors, for 1000 years until they die. One of the Disciples, Simon, the most-beloved of all, had a son Kellan, by a woman who was a descendant of Adam. A prophecy foretells that he must have a son by the Daughter, a woman descended straight from the line of Jesus's mother Mary. Without this, the vampires will cease to exist. For years they were forced into hiding, and lost the line, but modern DNA technology, and their own blood bank, soon brings the Daughter into sight, but time is running out, and Lucifer also wants her, for his own designs.
Pros: This is a captivating, complete reimagining of both the biblical Last Supper, Jesus, and the whole vampiric lore. She weaves in new meaning to biblical events, and creates vampires that are, for the most part, modern, urbane businessmen in bespoke suits that travel in personal jets, and live in penthouses. The one deviation is Kellan, who prefers Emo, saying that the young women love it. His electric blue or fire-engine red hair, his lips rings, and his black clothing, along with his modern attitudes are a persona he puts on. The traditional elements of vampires - no sun, coffins, no food or drink, no crosses, mirrors, etc., aren't here. They are basically immortal beings, with extra strength, an ability to creep climb walls, and to read minds sometimes, and force thoughts or erase them.
Her writing is enjoyable, and the story flows smoothly, and is well-paced. The characters are interesting, so much so that you really want to get to know some of the other Disciples better. Her young heroine, Nicole, is feisty and determined, and the humor is brought in to provide levity in what might be a dark time. There were very few typos/errors. And as for me, I loved the ending. To me it was a knockout.
Cons: The story ebbs and flows - sometimes time was dilated, and sometimes compressed. The last day in the book encompasses at least 1/4 to 1/3 of the book, while almost a year happens in the preceding pages. There is a lot of tell v. show, which can be explained in part by the elaborate plot and backstory. But there was also a lot of unnecessary explanations for plot devices that weren't needed to move the narrative forward
The dialogue and inner thought were anachronistic at times, esp. for Kellan, the youngest of the vampires, and the one emulating Emos, using words like "highfalutin', riff-raff, marlarky, little fop, and cocksure little bantam." Those felt very Victorian. But other times, the majority, he used the normal vernacular of our time, interspersed with cursing. In fact all the Disciples seemed to curse, something that spoke more of their beginnings as men, rather than religious icons. Some of the plot issues were taken care of too easily, and were almost miraculous - the Hell Scout Arius, who didn't even know what a computer was, in a short time turns it on, finds the files he needs, and prints them out. Hard for many adults to do on someone else's computer.
I had some trouble connecting to Kellan, as the Emo stuff didn't strike me as something that post-college women swoon over, at least those I know, and he talked about liking prostitutes (for blood) as they were "easy targets." Although he was a vampire, there wasn't much discussion about their feeding, so some of these comments early on made it hard to warm up to him. And Nicole and her best friend Mia, both teachers, acted like they were in high school at times, Nicole even reading gossip rags while her students worked. And I could do without the discussions of women's cycles and periods, and all the details. This would be a NA to adult novel with one descriptive sex scene
End result: I really liked the story, the imaginative and innovative way she turned the vampire genre on it's ear, and also rewrote biblical history. I am eagerly awaiting what I hope is Book Two.
Rating: 4 1/2 blood-tinged stars
Enjoy our reviews at The Author Visits.
Note - The Author Visits received a copy of The Vitandi by Denver Batiste in exchange for a honest review.
Reviewer: Kristin Lundgren for The Author Visits
Two millennia ago, when Christ had his Last Supper, things actually went a bit differently than the bible says. He believed he had been betrayed by all his Disciples, not just Judas, and had them drink his blood from the Holy Grail, which transmuted the blood to cause them to transform into vampires, the Twelve Tribes. These Disciples can change humans, by their own choice, into vampires, the Vitandi, a name taken by the Disciples from it's original meaning of excommunicated by the Church for evil. Others they bite and take a small drink from, and they become bonded to them, their Protectors, for 1000 years until they die. One of the Disciples, Simon, the most-beloved of all, had a son Kellan, by a woman who was a descendant of Adam. A prophecy foretells that he must have a son by the Daughter, a woman descended straight from the line of Jesus's mother Mary. Without this, the vampires will cease to exist. For years they were forced into hiding, and lost the line, but modern DNA technology, and their own blood bank, soon brings the Daughter into sight, but time is running out, and Lucifer also wants her, for his own designs.
Pros: This is a captivating, complete reimagining of both the biblical Last Supper, Jesus, and the whole vampiric lore. She weaves in new meaning to biblical events, and creates vampires that are, for the most part, modern, urbane businessmen in bespoke suits that travel in personal jets, and live in penthouses. The one deviation is Kellan, who prefers Emo, saying that the young women love it. His electric blue or fire-engine red hair, his lips rings, and his black clothing, along with his modern attitudes are a persona he puts on. The traditional elements of vampires - no sun, coffins, no food or drink, no crosses, mirrors, etc., aren't here. They are basically immortal beings, with extra strength, an ability to creep climb walls, and to read minds sometimes, and force thoughts or erase them.
Her writing is enjoyable, and the story flows smoothly, and is well-paced. The characters are interesting, so much so that you really want to get to know some of the other Disciples better. Her young heroine, Nicole, is feisty and determined, and the humor is brought in to provide levity in what might be a dark time. There were very few typos/errors. And as for me, I loved the ending. To me it was a knockout.
Cons: The story ebbs and flows - sometimes time was dilated, and sometimes compressed. The last day in the book encompasses at least 1/4 to 1/3 of the book, while almost a year happens in the preceding pages. There is a lot of tell v. show, which can be explained in part by the elaborate plot and backstory. But there was also a lot of unnecessary explanations for plot devices that weren't needed to move the narrative forward
The dialogue and inner thought were anachronistic at times, esp. for Kellan, the youngest of the vampires, and the one emulating Emos, using words like "highfalutin', riff-raff, marlarky, little fop, and cocksure little bantam." Those felt very Victorian. But other times, the majority, he used the normal vernacular of our time, interspersed with cursing. In fact all the Disciples seemed to curse, something that spoke more of their beginnings as men, rather than religious icons. Some of the plot issues were taken care of too easily, and were almost miraculous - the Hell Scout Arius, who didn't even know what a computer was, in a short time turns it on, finds the files he needs, and prints them out. Hard for many adults to do on someone else's computer.
I had some trouble connecting to Kellan, as the Emo stuff didn't strike me as something that post-college women swoon over, at least those I know, and he talked about liking prostitutes (for blood) as they were "easy targets." Although he was a vampire, there wasn't much discussion about their feeding, so some of these comments early on made it hard to warm up to him. And Nicole and her best friend Mia, both teachers, acted like they were in high school at times, Nicole even reading gossip rags while her students worked. And I could do without the discussions of women's cycles and periods, and all the details. This would be a NA to adult novel with one descriptive sex scene
End result: I really liked the story, the imaginative and innovative way she turned the vampire genre on it's ear, and also rewrote biblical history. I am eagerly awaiting what I hope is Book Two.
Rating: 4 1/2 blood-tinged stars
Enjoy our reviews at The Author Visits.
September 3, 2016
I was intrigued by the concept of this book when I read the synopsis. I am a HUGE fan of all things vampire - and have been since reading Interview with a Vampire as a teen almost 25 years ago. Add to this the involvement of Christ and His Apostles, and you have a story that I am drawn to like a moth to the flame.
Denver Batiste has woven an amazingly detailed cast of characters and settings that hook you right from the get go. From Simon, Paul and John the Baptist to Nicole and Mia, Denver’s characters are completely believable, endearing and have quirks that create an instant connection with the reader.
Without spoiling too much of the story, we find out that Kellan & Co. are searching for The Daughter - a key ingredient in a ritual that will restore them to humankind. Kellan is charged with wooing and seducing Nicole for the express purpose of having her conceive the child who will break the curse. I will admit that at the beginning, I disliked Kellan. His whole attitude grated on me. I was quickly proven a fool as finding love brought out a person who I could not only root for, but also empathize with.
It was really refreshing to have an author write a vampire tale that turns the genre on its head. Many of the preconceived notions of vampires are thrown completely out the window, relying instead on nearly-human foibles and interaction to move the story along. I nearly choked on my drink when Nicole asks Kellan “So you don’t sparkle?” after he revealed his true nature.
There is enough action, enough romance, and enough twists and turns to keep anyone engaged. While reading The Vitandi I found myself frequently reading into the early hours of the morning wanting to finish one more chapter or one more paragraph, unable to put the book down, but bound by the demands of my work (darn work!).
I am very happy I took a chance on this book. It was a very well written story that hooked me and kept me captivated through to the end. While enough to stand on its own, the storyline is open enough to have a sequel, which I am eagerly anticipating. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a fast-paced action story with intrigue, romance, and history all rolled in to one. There is something for everyone.
Denver Batiste has woven an amazingly detailed cast of characters and settings that hook you right from the get go. From Simon, Paul and John the Baptist to Nicole and Mia, Denver’s characters are completely believable, endearing and have quirks that create an instant connection with the reader.
Without spoiling too much of the story, we find out that Kellan & Co. are searching for The Daughter - a key ingredient in a ritual that will restore them to humankind. Kellan is charged with wooing and seducing Nicole for the express purpose of having her conceive the child who will break the curse. I will admit that at the beginning, I disliked Kellan. His whole attitude grated on me. I was quickly proven a fool as finding love brought out a person who I could not only root for, but also empathize with.
It was really refreshing to have an author write a vampire tale that turns the genre on its head. Many of the preconceived notions of vampires are thrown completely out the window, relying instead on nearly-human foibles and interaction to move the story along. I nearly choked on my drink when Nicole asks Kellan “So you don’t sparkle?” after he revealed his true nature.
There is enough action, enough romance, and enough twists and turns to keep anyone engaged. While reading The Vitandi I found myself frequently reading into the early hours of the morning wanting to finish one more chapter or one more paragraph, unable to put the book down, but bound by the demands of my work (darn work!).
I am very happy I took a chance on this book. It was a very well written story that hooked me and kept me captivated through to the end. While enough to stand on its own, the storyline is open enough to have a sequel, which I am eagerly anticipating. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a fast-paced action story with intrigue, romance, and history all rolled in to one. There is something for everyone.
November 5, 2014
The Vitandi by Denver Batiste is a good novel with a great storyline. When the author contacted me about reviewing this book I didn’t have to think twice when I read the description of the book. I’m a huge fan of the paranormal romance and especially the vampires’ novels, so what could go wrong.
Kellan Donnolly is a vampire who is searching for “The Daughter of Christ”, along with his father and a bunch of other vampires. This woman will be the key to restore them back to human kind. It is Kellan’s job to find her, seduce her and conceive a child with her. That child will break the curse they have been living with for thousands of years. Will Kellan find her on time?
Nicole Erwin is a young woman who is living in the big city, struggling to survive and helping others in need. Never could she know that donating her blood to the blood bank would change her life forever. The moment she meets Kellan she should have known that it was too good to be true to have someone like him in her life, but the attraction between them is huge. Can she accept Kellan for who he really is or will his enemy get to her before that?
I have to say that I didn’t like Kellan and his father in the beginning. The way they wanted to interrupt Nicole’s life and do what they had to do, was not likable to me. But Kellan changed through this book and he grew on me along the way.
This book had me hooked from the beginning and kept my attention through the whole book. I love it and since the ending of this book is quite open, I really hope that the author will write a sequel, because I have a feeling that this story isn’t done yet.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Kellan Donnolly is a vampire who is searching for “The Daughter of Christ”, along with his father and a bunch of other vampires. This woman will be the key to restore them back to human kind. It is Kellan’s job to find her, seduce her and conceive a child with her. That child will break the curse they have been living with for thousands of years. Will Kellan find her on time?
Nicole Erwin is a young woman who is living in the big city, struggling to survive and helping others in need. Never could she know that donating her blood to the blood bank would change her life forever. The moment she meets Kellan she should have known that it was too good to be true to have someone like him in her life, but the attraction between them is huge. Can she accept Kellan for who he really is or will his enemy get to her before that?
I have to say that I didn’t like Kellan and his father in the beginning. The way they wanted to interrupt Nicole’s life and do what they had to do, was not likable to me. But Kellan changed through this book and he grew on me along the way.
This book had me hooked from the beginning and kept my attention through the whole book. I love it and since the ending of this book is quite open, I really hope that the author will write a sequel, because I have a feeling that this story isn’t done yet.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
January 14, 2015
Wow. What a great book! I enjoyed every minute! When I was at around ¾ of the way finished, I absolutely couldn’t put it down. I just could not wait to see what was going to happen!
The Vitandi is a very nicely written, interesting, and unique story about vampires and the 12 Apostles of Jesus. They are trying to fulfill a prophecy to save their souls. We are introduced to several of the Apostles, while some of them are more background characters. There is also the appropriate amount of villains and suspense. Author Denver Batiste gives the reader a lot of information, from how to fulfill the prophecy, why there is a prophecy, and who is involved. There is love, and angst, as well as good vs evil in a crazy climax where the faith of the Vitandi faces the ultimate test.
One of the things I really enjoyed about The Vitandi is the unique approach to the Vampire myth. I’ve heard of other myths linking the first Vampires to other biblical characters, but for me, this is the first I’ve heard of one declaring the most faithful of Jesus’s followers as vampires. We are given a glimpse into the world of faith and how things work as far as that goes. I have a weird fascination (obsession) with all things religion, so this book was a real treat for me, having two of my favorite things, Vampires and Religion!
In addition to the 12 apostles being vampires, Batiste also reconstructed the methods by which someone actually becomes a vampire, as well as their “symptoms.” I love the creativity of this author and I really look forward to reading more.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good, in depth, vampire story that combines with religion in one of the best ways possible.
The Vitandi is a very nicely written, interesting, and unique story about vampires and the 12 Apostles of Jesus. They are trying to fulfill a prophecy to save their souls. We are introduced to several of the Apostles, while some of them are more background characters. There is also the appropriate amount of villains and suspense. Author Denver Batiste gives the reader a lot of information, from how to fulfill the prophecy, why there is a prophecy, and who is involved. There is love, and angst, as well as good vs evil in a crazy climax where the faith of the Vitandi faces the ultimate test.
One of the things I really enjoyed about The Vitandi is the unique approach to the Vampire myth. I’ve heard of other myths linking the first Vampires to other biblical characters, but for me, this is the first I’ve heard of one declaring the most faithful of Jesus’s followers as vampires. We are given a glimpse into the world of faith and how things work as far as that goes. I have a weird fascination (obsession) with all things religion, so this book was a real treat for me, having two of my favorite things, Vampires and Religion!
In addition to the 12 apostles being vampires, Batiste also reconstructed the methods by which someone actually becomes a vampire, as well as their “symptoms.” I love the creativity of this author and I really look forward to reading more.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good, in depth, vampire story that combines with religion in one of the best ways possible.
August 26, 2016
This book is a vampire book, in a sense, but it doesn't take too many cues from traditional vampire tales. It's not Dracula and it's not Twilight either, and it takes some nice subtle jabs at Twilight in a couple places that make me smile.
"The Vitandi" has a plotline that might bother a lot of devout Christians, because the premise is that the Apostles were turned into vampires by Christ Himself. There's a lot of depth to the main characters, both old and young, and a lot of humor to go along with it as well. Hidden cleverly within the verbose and finely-tuned descriptive prose are expressions that have evolved in the Engligh language over the centuries which are built around words like "God", "Hell", "damn", etc. Their placement is surely deliberate and I appreciate an author who can handle a good play on words. There are also quite a few instances of "Simon said" after the Apostle Simon speaks, which I couldn't help but chuckle at.
It's a grim book, to be sure. There are combat scenes which are very beautifully descriptive, as well as demons, animated rotting corpses and blood rituals. On the other hand, there's also a well-crafted lovemaking scene. All the romance is handled with aplomb, and this is a couple that's literally destined to be together.
All in all, "The Vitandi" is clearly a novel that the author spent a lot of good time and effort on. From the story to the description to the exhaustive amount of research, it's a solid piece.
"The Vitandi" has a plotline that might bother a lot of devout Christians, because the premise is that the Apostles were turned into vampires by Christ Himself. There's a lot of depth to the main characters, both old and young, and a lot of humor to go along with it as well. Hidden cleverly within the verbose and finely-tuned descriptive prose are expressions that have evolved in the Engligh language over the centuries which are built around words like "God", "Hell", "damn", etc. Their placement is surely deliberate and I appreciate an author who can handle a good play on words. There are also quite a few instances of "Simon said" after the Apostle Simon speaks, which I couldn't help but chuckle at.
It's a grim book, to be sure. There are combat scenes which are very beautifully descriptive, as well as demons, animated rotting corpses and blood rituals. On the other hand, there's also a well-crafted lovemaking scene. All the romance is handled with aplomb, and this is a couple that's literally destined to be together.
All in all, "The Vitandi" is clearly a novel that the author spent a lot of good time and effort on. From the story to the description to the exhaustive amount of research, it's a solid piece.
June 7, 2014
I received this book for an honest review from Miss. Denver. I believe she is a new author since I having come across anything else from her, but that is quite alright for now because Vatandi absolutely blew me away! I have to admit that at first I had my concerns. Circling this around religion and being able to pull the story together featuring Vampires! Well, I was wrong, the descriptive writing was amazing and I give props to Miss. Denver in having the gal to write such a dangerous story. As saying people may not like it! As I can tell he hit a home run! Amazing! Okay so the plot. Simon the Apostle and the other 11 disciples were transformed into Vampires by Christ at the last supper using the holy grail Filled with blood to do it. After they fall the disciples decide to create a legion of vampires using the grail ergo Vampire race in the beginning!
Then here comes Lucifer of course wanting the frail to himself. The apostles decline and Lucifer vows to destroy the disciples. Then God shows up and allows the Apostles to keep the Grail safe but in exchange God speaks of a PROPHECY. Simon will/must father a son with a descendant of Adam (kellan) and in turn the son must father a child with the descendant of Mary ( Nicole ). If the procedure is failed to be fulfilled
Within 2000years God will turn their souls to Lucifer and all the vampires will be destroyed.
Brave! I really enjoyed this novel and I can't wait for the next installment
Then here comes Lucifer of course wanting the frail to himself. The apostles decline and Lucifer vows to destroy the disciples. Then God shows up and allows the Apostles to keep the Grail safe but in exchange God speaks of a PROPHECY. Simon will/must father a son with a descendant of Adam (kellan) and in turn the son must father a child with the descendant of Mary ( Nicole ). If the procedure is failed to be fulfilled
Within 2000years God will turn their souls to Lucifer and all the vampires will be destroyed.
Brave! I really enjoyed this novel and I can't wait for the next installment
October 26, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I’m not going to go into a description of the book. You can read the blurb for that. It does a better job than I’d ever do.
When I first started this book, I found the writing to be just a little choppy. It didn’t seem to flow nicely. Once I got into the meat of the storyline, I was hooked and couldn’t put it down. It does give its own spin to religion, so keep that in mind while reading. I wasn’t sure what to make of the characters. I found Nicole to be strong, but she seemed to dwell on the negative. She didn’t like to show her birthmark because people made the wrong assumptions about it. She also avoided relationships because she couldn’t have children and dreaded telling any potential boyfriends. Kellan was a jerk that couldn’t or wouldn’t stand up for himself and the woman he loves. He went along with the prophecy. He planned to get Nicole pregnant and leave her during her pregnancy. He then planned to come back, take the baby, and wipe the whole event from Nicole’s memory. What a cold bunch of jerks. I will say that I had to keep reading just to see if Nicole and Kellan got their HEA. I did find that the whole story wrapped up a little too sunshiny for me. I’m not going to say any more because I don’t want to give away the ending. I am glad Denver is working on a second book so we’ll get to see where the story goes from here.
3.5-Bombs
Reviewed by Tracy
I’m not going to go into a description of the book. You can read the blurb for that. It does a better job than I’d ever do.
When I first started this book, I found the writing to be just a little choppy. It didn’t seem to flow nicely. Once I got into the meat of the storyline, I was hooked and couldn’t put it down. It does give its own spin to religion, so keep that in mind while reading. I wasn’t sure what to make of the characters. I found Nicole to be strong, but she seemed to dwell on the negative. She didn’t like to show her birthmark because people made the wrong assumptions about it. She also avoided relationships because she couldn’t have children and dreaded telling any potential boyfriends. Kellan was a jerk that couldn’t or wouldn’t stand up for himself and the woman he loves. He went along with the prophecy. He planned to get Nicole pregnant and leave her during her pregnancy. He then planned to come back, take the baby, and wipe the whole event from Nicole’s memory. What a cold bunch of jerks. I will say that I had to keep reading just to see if Nicole and Kellan got their HEA. I did find that the whole story wrapped up a little too sunshiny for me. I’m not going to say any more because I don’t want to give away the ending. I am glad Denver is working on a second book so we’ll get to see where the story goes from here.
3.5-Bombs
Reviewed by Tracy
April 12, 2014
I am a huge fan of anything vampire. Lately though, with them being so popular, so many novels have fallen short and sounded the same. Lucky for me though, this did not happen with the Vitandi. It is a very descriptive, detailed novel that had a new religious aspect to the idea of vampires that I haven't seen before. It was a nice twist to see the main characters be ones that I heard stories about while attending mass on Sundays. I'm very curious to see where the next installment will go with this. The only criticism I have is just a personal preference, as I would have liked to know what happened on the first few dates the MC's went on. I love watching the beginning of a relationship bloom, so I was just left wanting more of that in the middle of the novel. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I will be watching for the next in the series.
August 1, 2014
free book for honest review. juliesbookreview.blogspot.com
A new twist on Vampires with a religious aspect on how Vampires came to be.
An ancient prophecy decreed by God to save the race of Vampires. Kellan Donnolly
is the son of one of the Original Vampires. He is part of the prophecy. He must find The Daughter, conceive a child and take the baby to a place only known by the 12. Nicole Erwin was raised by an uncaring father and has a birthmark on her wrist. With her past still haunting her she is very defensive nature. Nicole and her best friend go to a blood bank for extra cash, this 1 act will change Nicole forever.
Now it is a race to Get to Nicole and get her pregnant and deliver a baby before Lucifer finds her first.
This was a great new take on Vampires , the book was well written and the storyline kept your attention, page turner book.
4 Stars
Patches
A new twist on Vampires with a religious aspect on how Vampires came to be.
An ancient prophecy decreed by God to save the race of Vampires. Kellan Donnolly
is the son of one of the Original Vampires. He is part of the prophecy. He must find The Daughter, conceive a child and take the baby to a place only known by the 12. Nicole Erwin was raised by an uncaring father and has a birthmark on her wrist. With her past still haunting her she is very defensive nature. Nicole and her best friend go to a blood bank for extra cash, this 1 act will change Nicole forever.
Now it is a race to Get to Nicole and get her pregnant and deliver a baby before Lucifer finds her first.
This was a great new take on Vampires , the book was well written and the storyline kept your attention, page turner book.
4 Stars
Patches
May 12, 2014
An original take on the vampire novel, The Vitandi offers something new and very exciting for any vampire lover. I was intrigued by the authors reworking of vampire lore, having these vampires blend in with humankind and making them feel even more sinister. The characters were well-written and strongly developed carrying the reader deeper into the story. I especially loved the interaction between Kellan and Nicole. Their relationship is a focal point of the novel and is deftly handled. I also loved the way Denver Batiste created a new way to view The New Testament, adding a very realistic component to the vampire legend. The attention to detail was superb and I was enthralled page after page. So worth reading and I can’t wait to see where this series leads. A resounding five stars.
July 2, 2014
The Vitandi has a fascinating premise. Remember when Jesus gave his apostles wine and said that it was his blood and that they should drink it and then they would live forever? Well, what if it really were his blood and drinking it turned the apostles into immortal vampires? Well, that's The Vitandi. Again, an awesome premise.
However, it's not the apostles who are the protagonists of The Vitandi, but a son of one of them. Kellan is Simon's son, and to save his father and the other apostles from hell for being vampires, he has to find a woman who is a descendent of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Nicole, Mary's descendent, is a very sympathetic character. I liked following her adventures. All in all, I enjoyed the book.
However, it's not the apostles who are the protagonists of The Vitandi, but a son of one of them. Kellan is Simon's son, and to save his father and the other apostles from hell for being vampires, he has to find a woman who is a descendent of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Nicole, Mary's descendent, is a very sympathetic character. I liked following her adventures. All in all, I enjoyed the book.
July 2, 2014
Batiste creates a whole new origin for the vampire giving a soul saving mission for the Kellan, the main character. Kellan must find the future mother of his child in order to save his race but he mistakenly falls in love with her. Kellan proves to be the perfect boyfriend and their romance is short, hot and steamy. However the beginning of the story and early descriptions are written in a weird almost choppy manner like they were forced out by the writer. I struggled to get into the story throughout most of the book. The last couple of chapters redeemed the book by capturing me throughout the epic battle to the end. I was personally disturbed by the origin of the Vitandi. This is not a series I am likely to follow because of my religion but others may be comfortable with this.
September 11, 2014
This is a very well written and involved tale. The petulance of the emo vampire and the obstinate nature of the older ones is so familiar in so many ways. You wonder if they are ever going to work things out. Nicole has no idea how she fits into the scheme of things and it takes her awhile to catch on. Her friend Mia is a most interesting and amusing character. The characters in this story are well plotted and thought out. The story, although complicated, runs smoothly and is painted in such rich tones that you forget you are reading at times. I love the conflicts, both big and small that are played out in this particular scenario. It makes one wonder if this could actually take place, it is that believable. A great book by Denver Batiste and I can't wait to read more from this author.
May 19, 2014
I received this book for an honest review. Honestly, I love this book! Let me start by saying this may contain a few unintentional spoilers. This story combines vampires and the Bible. Anyone uncomfortable with fictional ideas of the Bible may not like this, but if you have an open mind and a love of unusual vampire stories then you should give this book a try. It starts a little slow but picks up fairly quickly and then never stops. There are some unexpected twists, and a few comedic moments. I found this book a refreshingly different vampire story and recommend it to anyone looking for a new vampire book.
May 22, 2014
Okay…So when I chose this book I will admit I was beyond curious, being a Christian and all…I really wanted to see how the author would portray the Apostles and God by “filling in the gaps” so to speak about what happened in their lives after the Last Supper I was surprised by the story and enjoyed it for the most part.
The idea this author has here is a winner, that’s for sure…who else has thought of this? None that I’ve found and I did look. Lol.
I didn’t like the ending…I’m sorry but I seriously face palmed at the end. After everything they’d been through to have it end like it did…I wanted to scream…
And this is why I’ve given it 4/5 Stars.
The idea this author has here is a winner, that’s for sure…who else has thought of this? None that I’ve found and I did look. Lol.
I didn’t like the ending…I’m sorry but I seriously face palmed at the end. After everything they’d been through to have it end like it did…I wanted to scream…
And this is why I’ve given it 4/5 Stars.
August 23, 2014
Denver Batiste's “The Vitandi” is an interesting paranormal fantasy read. It's not a romance, but there is a love story arcing through the larger storyline. I was pulling for Kellan and Nicole the whole time. I couldn't stop reading this book – read it straight through until I finished at 3am. The fantasy does give an alternate take on Jesus and the Apostles, so if you're the type of person who might be offended by vampirism infecting your bible stories, this one may not be for you. This book definitely was for me though!
November 22, 2015
You can find more reviews Mademoisellesnow Blog
I love vampire books so when I read the description for this book I jumped at the chance to read. I loved the writing style, the way that the author engaged the reader very early on as well as it being quite easy to read. I liked the romantic aspect of it and felt that it was well structured and didn’t over take the entire story. And the idea is quite fresh and new in this genre.
What I didn’t enjoy were the finer details of the vampire group.
I love vampire books so when I read the description for this book I jumped at the chance to read. I loved the writing style, the way that the author engaged the reader very early on as well as it being quite easy to read. I liked the romantic aspect of it and felt that it was well structured and didn’t over take the entire story. And the idea is quite fresh and new in this genre.
What I didn’t enjoy were the finer details of the vampire group.
February 13, 2015
This book is brilliantly written. I love stories that have a strong foot hold in reality. If you think you’ve read every vampire book there is, this one will not disappoint you. I was completely sucked in from the start. I’ve always wondered what would happen if the birth of vampires was linked to the twelve apostles, and Batiste has given me my answer.
Full review and contest here - http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
Full review and contest here - http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
April 3, 2014
Unique concept, but slow pacing and an anti-climactic ending kinda ruined the book for me.
February 5, 2015
A new twist on vampires, as Kellan, the son of an apostle, searches for the Daughter, the woman he must have a child with in order to save his own kind. Well worth reading.
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