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Amara: The Rebirth
Legendary vampire, Emrys Amara, changes Matthew's destiny when he's thrown into a world of kidnap victims, werewolves, deceit, and the rebirth of the greatest vampire clan in history.
Matthew and his husband Dean are slayers, trying to end a chokehold Amara half-breed vampires put on Nottingham and kill the leader, Amdis. A diary supposedly written by legendary Emrys Amara is sent to them, yet they doubt the orphaned vampire could have survived the demise of his clan.Meeting Emrys proves them wrong. Matthew falls deeply; Dean's jealousy takes a sinister turn.
A chain of events involving kidnapped children and werewolves follows as Amdis teams up with another vampire clan.Can Matthew and Emrys save the children while rebuilding the Amaras as the greatest vampire clan in history?
**Note: was originally a serial fiction that was never completed and is no longer available. It has been re-worked and included in the MLR title Amara: The Rebirth***
Matthew and his husband Dean are slayers, trying to end a chokehold Amara half-breed vampires put on Nottingham and kill the leader, Amdis. A diary supposedly written by legendary Emrys Amara is sent to them, yet they doubt the orphaned vampire could have survived the demise of his clan.Meeting Emrys proves them wrong. Matthew falls deeply; Dean's jealousy takes a sinister turn.
A chain of events involving kidnapped children and werewolves follows as Amdis teams up with another vampire clan.Can Matthew and Emrys save the children while rebuilding the Amaras as the greatest vampire clan in history?
**Note: was originally a serial fiction that was never completed and is no longer available. It has been re-worked and included in the MLR title Amara: The Rebirth***
250 pages, ebook
First published April 1, 2014
8 people are currently reading
332 people want to read
About the author
Zathyn Priest
11 books376 followersZathyn Priest is an Australian writer with severe vampiric tendencies. Absolutely convinced the sun could turn him to a pile of ash, Zathyn prefers to write under the cover of darkness. This serves two purposes, with the first being the afore mentioned sunlight danger, and the second being the fact that nighttime means no annoying phones ringing or people knocking at the door.
Zathyn has written three published novels using this strange moonlight technique. The Curtis Reincarnation, which is now available in paperback. The Slayer’s Apprentice, soon to be available in paperback. And, Liquid Glass, soon to be available from Torquere Press. He has also written two short fiction works. Left of Center, available from Torquere Press, and One of Those Days, an eBook downloadable from www.zathynpriest.com - because even though Zathyn has vampiric traits, he’s actually quite a nice guy and wrote One of Those Days as a freebie.
When Zathyn isn’t writing, or running for cover before sunlight turns him to cinders, he likes to pretend he’s really good at playing his MIDI keyboard. Thankfully, Zathyn is a conscientious neighbour. Rather than drive the street insane with repeated renditions of Greensleeves, he uses headphones because, let’s face it, no matter how beautiful Greensleeves is, most people don’t want to hear it one hundred times a night.
Zathyn lives with a retired greyhound called Chrissy, who lives the life of luxury sleeping away most of her days on the sofa and generally only waking up when there’s food around or if it’s time for a walk. There’s also a cat called Fran, who doesn’t like Chrissy very much and feels she should reiterate this fact by occasionally smacking her in the face. Just when you thought the household couldn’t get any stranger, there’s a duck - or drake, he’d probably rather be called - named Charlie who originally lived on a farm, but moved in with Zathyn after a fox ate all his girlfriends and was eying Charlie for dessert.
Zathyn has written three published novels using this strange moonlight technique. The Curtis Reincarnation, which is now available in paperback. The Slayer’s Apprentice, soon to be available in paperback. And, Liquid Glass, soon to be available from Torquere Press. He has also written two short fiction works. Left of Center, available from Torquere Press, and One of Those Days, an eBook downloadable from www.zathynpriest.com - because even though Zathyn has vampiric traits, he’s actually quite a nice guy and wrote One of Those Days as a freebie.
When Zathyn isn’t writing, or running for cover before sunlight turns him to cinders, he likes to pretend he’s really good at playing his MIDI keyboard. Thankfully, Zathyn is a conscientious neighbour. Rather than drive the street insane with repeated renditions of Greensleeves, he uses headphones because, let’s face it, no matter how beautiful Greensleeves is, most people don’t want to hear it one hundred times a night.
Zathyn lives with a retired greyhound called Chrissy, who lives the life of luxury sleeping away most of her days on the sofa and generally only waking up when there’s food around or if it’s time for a walk. There’s also a cat called Fran, who doesn’t like Chrissy very much and feels she should reiterate this fact by occasionally smacking her in the face. Just when you thought the household couldn’t get any stranger, there’s a duck - or drake, he’d probably rather be called - named Charlie who originally lived on a farm, but moved in with Zathyn after a fox ate all his girlfriends and was eying Charlie for dessert.
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December 14, 2014
My #1 Favorite Book of 2014.
Zathyn Priest stopped by On Top Down Under and discussed his art, his books and his writing process. You can find the interview here.
Full review can be found at -
I have been a huge fan of Zathyn Priest since I was first introduced to the LGBT genre. He was actually the first author whose work I read in it. I have since read everything he's written - more than once - and my love for his writing continues to grow with each new release. The Curtis Reincarnation is (and forever will be) my all-time favorite M/M book.
With that being said -
Matthew and Dean are vampire slayers. They are also married, though no one would ever say their marriage is a good one. Dean is the ultimate ass. He's constantly berating and criticizing Matthew but Matthew stays in the marriage. He stays, even knowing that Dean is cheating on him. He stays because he doesn't want to deal with the shame of walking away. This changes when he and Dean meet the elusive Emrys Amara.
Emrys is the most powerful, and pure, vampire in existence. He is the only survivor of the Amara clan. When a diary of Emrys' is sent to Matthew and Dean, Dean is convinced that Emrys exists. Matthew doesn't buy it. He's convinced that the diary is a forgery and that Emrys is long dead. The last entry in the diary was in 1942. If Emrys Amara were still alive, wouldn't he have made his presence known before now? Would rogue vampires be on the loose, and growing in numbers daily, if the legendary Emrys Amara were still around?
That doubt disappears the day Matthew meets the vampire face-to-face. There is a connection between Matthew and Emrys that can't be denied. This ultimately leads to the end of the marriage to Dean and one of the sweetest love stories Zathyn Priest has written to date.
There are rogue vamps that need to be taken care of, missing children, and even werewolves.
The characters are all amazing. Emrys is adorable. I fell head over heels in love with him and this love grew the more I read. Then there's Matthew, who only wants to be loved. He thankfully finds that love in Emrys. There's Vic, Matthew's father, who everyone would love to have as theirs. And then there's Dean. Dean is a character you will love to hate, and believe me, you will hate him from his introduction. The way the Dean thing was resolved was perfect.
I've had a couple of people ask me about the cheating aspects of this story. If you're not a fan of cheating in your books, you have nothing to worry about with Amara: The Rebirth. Yes, Matthew falls in love with Emrys while he's still married to Dean, but I assure you that you will be on Matthew and Emrys' side from the very beginning. Don't allow that part of it to keep you from reading this book.
There's a lot of humor, a bit of violence, and a lovely love story between two very special men. You'll fall in love with some characters and hate others. You'll laugh a lot and I can guarantee more than a few sappy tears. You'll probably cringe a couple of times but in the end, you'll be glad you read this.
This is another outstanding book by Zathyn Priest. He simply can not write a bad book.
Highly recommended.
Update on 05/13/2014: Original review of serial fiction removed from "merged" review.
Zathyn Priest stopped by On Top Down Under and discussed his art, his books and his writing process. You can find the interview here.
Full review can be found at -
I have been a huge fan of Zathyn Priest since I was first introduced to the LGBT genre. He was actually the first author whose work I read in it. I have since read everything he's written - more than once - and my love for his writing continues to grow with each new release. The Curtis Reincarnation is (and forever will be) my all-time favorite M/M book.
With that being said -
Matthew and Dean are vampire slayers. They are also married, though no one would ever say their marriage is a good one. Dean is the ultimate ass. He's constantly berating and criticizing Matthew but Matthew stays in the marriage. He stays, even knowing that Dean is cheating on him. He stays because he doesn't want to deal with the shame of walking away. This changes when he and Dean meet the elusive Emrys Amara.
Emrys is the most powerful, and pure, vampire in existence. He is the only survivor of the Amara clan. When a diary of Emrys' is sent to Matthew and Dean, Dean is convinced that Emrys exists. Matthew doesn't buy it. He's convinced that the diary is a forgery and that Emrys is long dead. The last entry in the diary was in 1942. If Emrys Amara were still alive, wouldn't he have made his presence known before now? Would rogue vampires be on the loose, and growing in numbers daily, if the legendary Emrys Amara were still around?
That doubt disappears the day Matthew meets the vampire face-to-face. There is a connection between Matthew and Emrys that can't be denied. This ultimately leads to the end of the marriage to Dean and one of the sweetest love stories Zathyn Priest has written to date.
There are rogue vamps that need to be taken care of, missing children, and even werewolves.
The characters are all amazing. Emrys is adorable. I fell head over heels in love with him and this love grew the more I read. Then there's Matthew, who only wants to be loved. He thankfully finds that love in Emrys. There's Vic, Matthew's father, who everyone would love to have as theirs. And then there's Dean. Dean is a character you will love to hate, and believe me, you will hate him from his introduction. The way the Dean thing was resolved was perfect.
I've had a couple of people ask me about the cheating aspects of this story. If you're not a fan of cheating in your books, you have nothing to worry about with Amara: The Rebirth. Yes, Matthew falls in love with Emrys while he's still married to Dean, but I assure you that you will be on Matthew and Emrys' side from the very beginning. Don't allow that part of it to keep you from reading this book.
There's a lot of humor, a bit of violence, and a lovely love story between two very special men. You'll fall in love with some characters and hate others. You'll laugh a lot and I can guarantee more than a few sappy tears. You'll probably cringe a couple of times but in the end, you'll be glad you read this.
This is another outstanding book by Zathyn Priest. He simply can not write a bad book.
Highly recommended.
Update on 05/13/2014: Original review of serial fiction removed from "merged" review.
July 22, 2014
I love Zathyn Priest. No joke, I love him. He always writes amazing books that never fails to make me fall in love with the story and the characters. Amara: The Rebirth is no different. It's an amazing, funny and sweet book that has made me want to read more from this world and these characters.
I want to start off by saying there is no cheating in this book. Yes, Matthew is married, but it's not what people think. But, if I'm going to be honest, I would not have hated this book if Matthew had cheated on his husband. I mean, I despise cheating in book, and I avoid it whenever I can, but this one of those cases where it would not have driven me mad.
Amara: The Rebirth is an amazing vampire story, and one of my overall favorite books in the genre. The MC's are very lovable, especially Amara. Their relationship is so sweet and they're so cute together. I think I might have awwed a couple of times while reading this. And Matthew's dad is really easy to like after a while. It took a bit of time for me, but I did see that he loves his son and that he was able to look past what he was being told and believe his son. I love it when that happens and it endears me to a character.
Then there's Dean, Matthew's husband. I don't think it will shock anyone who's read this when I say I don't like Dean. Like him? I despise him. He's an ass, and I wanted him gone so many time it's not even funny.
I want to start off by saying there is no cheating in this book. Yes, Matthew is married, but it's not what people think. But, if I'm going to be honest, I would not have hated this book if Matthew had cheated on his husband. I mean, I despise cheating in book, and I avoid it whenever I can, but this one of those cases where it would not have driven me mad.
Amara: The Rebirth is an amazing vampire story, and one of my overall favorite books in the genre. The MC's are very lovable, especially Amara. Their relationship is so sweet and they're so cute together. I think I might have awwed a couple of times while reading this. And Matthew's dad is really easy to like after a while. It took a bit of time for me, but I did see that he loves his son and that he was able to look past what he was being told and believe his son. I love it when that happens and it endears me to a character.
Then there's Dean, Matthew's husband. I don't think it will shock anyone who's read this when I say I don't like Dean. Like him? I despise him. He's an ass, and I wanted him gone so many time it's not even funny.
August 19, 2015
I just finished reading this book. I followed it while it was a blog serial, but the author took it down before it was finished people someone was trying to steal it. So, I was very excited to revisit the characters and read past the point that I'd read (which had been changed and polished). I was especially curious about who the fourth character was on the cover. Oh my gods, I laughed so much when that fourth character joined them.
For the longest time, Zathyn's One of Those Days was my favorite of his, but now it's had to step aside for Amara: The Rebirth. This is beyond a doubt the best M/M paranormal I've ever read.
Old review: I'm following this read - it's amazing, like everything Zathyn does.
For the longest time, Zathyn's One of Those Days was my favorite of his, but now it's had to step aside for Amara: The Rebirth. This is beyond a doubt the best M/M paranormal I've ever read.
Old review: I'm following this read - it's amazing, like everything Zathyn does.
September 22, 2023
Re-read September 22, 2023
I still love his writing.
I still love his writing.
April 27, 2014
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
4.5 Stars
In 1773 a young boy leaves his home on a message and never returns. He is snatched from the streets by a member of the Massimo vampire clan and held captive, as a blood source and sex toy, for the next two years. As a bargaining chip for more land his ‘ownership’ is transferred to the Amara clan, a peaceful group of vampires who will love and cherish him, lead by Master Mihangel Amara.
The Amara clan prides itself on only ‘changing’ worthy and gentle humans into vampires. When Mihangel turns Aled he condemns himself to a life of unrequited love. Aled, now known as Emrys, loves and respects his master but will never forgive him for not asking his consent thus never returning his overpowering love. For the next 167 years they live side by side until in despair and desperation Mihangel tricks Emrys and leaves him alone in the world.
Dean and Matthew have been married for two years and work together as vampire slayers. Their latest job sees them searching for the elusive and powerful Emrys Amara. When they finally meet up with the vampire their lives change quickly and drastically.
Matthew is attracted to this beautiful vampire and feels it in the depth of his soul. He feels as though he has found his destiny and his soul mate. For those of you who are not keen on cheating, and I am one of those, fear not. Matthew and Deans marriage was over before it even began. Dean is a crook, completely dishonest and totally narcissistic. He married Matthew for his familys money and treats him like a fool but Matthew has been too ashamed of the situation to leave him.
Zathyn writes with such power and feeling that by 5% in this book had me in tears. Emrys is stunning in body, mind and soul and the love that he first tries to return to Mihangel and then succeeds in giving to Matthew, his true soul mate, is beautiful. The more that Matthew returns his love, the more confident he becomes and he is soon able to step us as the true leader of the Amara clan. For their love to survive and the Amara clan to rebuild they must first fight and defeat the rogues.
You are led through an enthralling story that takes you through a dark and secret side of the world where you meet not only vampires but werewolves and ghosts. There is fear, death and destruction but always there is the Amara gentleness. Matthew takes Emrys from total desperation to soaring heights as their love story unfolds and it will give you tears, laughs and a few moments where you want to kill Dean before the end of the book! Highly recommended!
4.5 Stars
In 1773 a young boy leaves his home on a message and never returns. He is snatched from the streets by a member of the Massimo vampire clan and held captive, as a blood source and sex toy, for the next two years. As a bargaining chip for more land his ‘ownership’ is transferred to the Amara clan, a peaceful group of vampires who will love and cherish him, lead by Master Mihangel Amara.
The Amara clan prides itself on only ‘changing’ worthy and gentle humans into vampires. When Mihangel turns Aled he condemns himself to a life of unrequited love. Aled, now known as Emrys, loves and respects his master but will never forgive him for not asking his consent thus never returning his overpowering love. For the next 167 years they live side by side until in despair and desperation Mihangel tricks Emrys and leaves him alone in the world.
Dean and Matthew have been married for two years and work together as vampire slayers. Their latest job sees them searching for the elusive and powerful Emrys Amara. When they finally meet up with the vampire their lives change quickly and drastically.
Matthew is attracted to this beautiful vampire and feels it in the depth of his soul. He feels as though he has found his destiny and his soul mate. For those of you who are not keen on cheating, and I am one of those, fear not. Matthew and Deans marriage was over before it even began. Dean is a crook, completely dishonest and totally narcissistic. He married Matthew for his familys money and treats him like a fool but Matthew has been too ashamed of the situation to leave him.
Zathyn writes with such power and feeling that by 5% in this book had me in tears. Emrys is stunning in body, mind and soul and the love that he first tries to return to Mihangel and then succeeds in giving to Matthew, his true soul mate, is beautiful. The more that Matthew returns his love, the more confident he becomes and he is soon able to step us as the true leader of the Amara clan. For their love to survive and the Amara clan to rebuild they must first fight and defeat the rogues.
You are led through an enthralling story that takes you through a dark and secret side of the world where you meet not only vampires but werewolves and ghosts. There is fear, death and destruction but always there is the Amara gentleness. Matthew takes Emrys from total desperation to soaring heights as their love story unfolds and it will give you tears, laughs and a few moments where you want to kill Dean before the end of the book! Highly recommended!
May 1, 2014
Awwww. A VERY satisfying read! Wonderful twist on vampires and shifters, and I fell in love with the world-building. Highly recommended to lovers of fantasy and paranormal! Thank you for an excellent story, Zathyn! Looking forward to more *happy smile*
May 24, 2014
Why I’m always amazed at the superior storytelling by Zathyn Priest, I do not know. Some of my all-time favorite books are by this author, but, yet again, I find that his ability to breathe life into his characters, and make me really care about them, takes me by pleasant surprise. This book was no different. The prologue alone made me fall in love with Emrys Amara (nee Aled Tudor) but also broke my heart. His story is a difficult one, and his sadness lasts way too long. He does eventually get his HEA, but he suffered tremendously to get there.
Emrys Amara was born in Wales as Aled Tudor in the 1700s. He was kidnapped by vampires as a child, used and abused for two years by the Massimo Clan before being rescued by the Amara Clan and mated with the Master Amara. The Amara vampire clan is pure and non-violent and only those exhibiting those qualities are turned. Emrys was turned at age 16 and will, for eternity, appear as a red-headed boy while in his human form.
When we meet Matthew and his husband Dean, you are instantly drawn into a relationship that has gone sour. Not only has it gone sour, but it’s at the rancid point, and Dean is just an awful, awful man. He has zero redeeming qualities, and I was rooting for Matthew to kick his lying, cheating, and gold digging butt to the curb. Some might have an issue with the cheating aspects, but I did not. Matthew gives the marriage his all until he learns the truth about Dean, and that truth made the marriage null and void in my mind.
What makes Emrys: The Rebirth such a great story is the fact that it’s a whole story, the complete package. You become completely invested in the characters and want them to win this battle that’s raging on. You have full and complete characterization; you “know” these people inside and out…the good ones and the bad ones. And the story isn’t predictable. That, in and of itself, grabs me and won’t allow me to stop reading until I’ve finished the whole book.
There are some surprises and twists. Some that made complete sense and others that threw me because I just didn’t see them coming..at all. So do yourself a favor and read this book. If you love a good paranormal romance that’s more brilliant storytelling and world building and less sex, then this is the book for you. You don’t even realize that there is very little sex in the story because the prevailing theme is more paranormal romance and less erotica. That just works for me, and I am sure Zathyn Priest’s fans will love to add this little gem to their collection.
See this and all my reviews at: The Blogger Girls
Emrys Amara was born in Wales as Aled Tudor in the 1700s. He was kidnapped by vampires as a child, used and abused for two years by the Massimo Clan before being rescued by the Amara Clan and mated with the Master Amara. The Amara vampire clan is pure and non-violent and only those exhibiting those qualities are turned. Emrys was turned at age 16 and will, for eternity, appear as a red-headed boy while in his human form.
When we meet Matthew and his husband Dean, you are instantly drawn into a relationship that has gone sour. Not only has it gone sour, but it’s at the rancid point, and Dean is just an awful, awful man. He has zero redeeming qualities, and I was rooting for Matthew to kick his lying, cheating, and gold digging butt to the curb. Some might have an issue with the cheating aspects, but I did not. Matthew gives the marriage his all until he learns the truth about Dean, and that truth made the marriage null and void in my mind.
What makes Emrys: The Rebirth such a great story is the fact that it’s a whole story, the complete package. You become completely invested in the characters and want them to win this battle that’s raging on. You have full and complete characterization; you “know” these people inside and out…the good ones and the bad ones. And the story isn’t predictable. That, in and of itself, grabs me and won’t allow me to stop reading until I’ve finished the whole book.
There are some surprises and twists. Some that made complete sense and others that threw me because I just didn’t see them coming..at all. So do yourself a favor and read this book. If you love a good paranormal romance that’s more brilliant storytelling and world building and less sex, then this is the book for you. You don’t even realize that there is very little sex in the story because the prevailing theme is more paranormal romance and less erotica. That just works for me, and I am sure Zathyn Priest’s fans will love to add this little gem to their collection.
See this and all my reviews at: The Blogger Girls
May 23, 2014
I fell in love with the writings of Zathyn Priest back in 2012. When I saw Amara the Rebirth was finally available I was more than a little excited.
That excitement carried on for me as I read more and more of this Vampire story. I admit my Vampire reading is not great. I've read a few but none really stand out as anything new. This story however gave me so much more than the average Vamp read.
I was pulled into the story immediately. Hearing how Emerys came to be and all he endured up till meeting Mathew pulled at my heart. Watching them fall in love gave me a sense of peace. The ride they took me on gave me thrills, and meeting Leo melted me into a puddle of goo lol.
It's hard to say more on this story as I would hate to give even the smallest part away. But rest assured this is a full bodied well rounded story with wonderful characters you can believe in just as I have come to expect from this author.
The emotions in this story are strong. I was reduced to tears and made to laugh. I had violent urges towards some people and others I wanted to hug. Never was I left bored or uniterested.
It has been a long time coming but the wait was worth it. Zathyn Priest is one of my favorite story tellers. I wish he wrote more but then sometimes it just pays to have to wait, and in this authors case I will gladly wait for as long as it takes.
That excitement carried on for me as I read more and more of this Vampire story. I admit my Vampire reading is not great. I've read a few but none really stand out as anything new. This story however gave me so much more than the average Vamp read.
I was pulled into the story immediately. Hearing how Emerys came to be and all he endured up till meeting Mathew pulled at my heart. Watching them fall in love gave me a sense of peace. The ride they took me on gave me thrills, and meeting Leo melted me into a puddle of goo lol.
It's hard to say more on this story as I would hate to give even the smallest part away. But rest assured this is a full bodied well rounded story with wonderful characters you can believe in just as I have come to expect from this author.
The emotions in this story are strong. I was reduced to tears and made to laugh. I had violent urges towards some people and others I wanted to hug. Never was I left bored or uniterested.
It has been a long time coming but the wait was worth it. Zathyn Priest is one of my favorite story tellers. I wish he wrote more but then sometimes it just pays to have to wait, and in this authors case I will gladly wait for as long as it takes.
July 6, 2012
Wow, this has got to be Zathyn Priest's best yet. When he does eventually finish I hope he publishes it for e-book purchase. The graphics are beautiful and very detailed, the storyline magnificent. Perfect blend on drama, comedy, touching moments. It will rouse the entire spectrum of emotions which are mostly positive. I have yet to meet a Zathyn book I do not love.
May 6, 2017
My first reaction after completing this book.....HOLY CRAP! I LOVED THIS BOOK! I LOVED EVERYTHING ABOUT IT!
The MCs, Emrys and Matt were perfect. The evil bad guys were more than bad making the fight between good and evil intense, add that to the struggle to achieve the all important HEA and you had me. This was one of those books I didn't want to put down or see 'The End'. My favorite character was sweet, lovable Leo! That boy captured my heart, I'll miss him.
I was looking for a good vampire story and this one fit the bill perfectly! A must read for those who love Vampires and Shifters.
Bravo Zathyn, you did it again!
June 6, 2014
It's very funny, and also VERY romantic (Amara and Matthew are a great couple!). Also original!
The only reason it's not a 5 stars for me is how juvenile it is. How Amara behave, and also another character (can't say his name, don't want to spoil something of the plot!). I like more mature characters, not how Amara is... I didn't enjoy much, the explanation of how he is a eternal teen because he was so young when he was turned... BUT that's my personal opinion, and I would certainly recommend it because it's very good :)
Also... I liked that there is no cheating. Reading the blurb I was worried, because Matthew is married when the story start, but I must said that if you fear it don't worry... His marriage is long gone... He will not cheat his husband.
The only reason it's not a 5 stars for me is how juvenile it is. How Amara behave, and also another character (can't say his name, don't want to spoil something of the plot!). I like more mature characters, not how Amara is... I didn't enjoy much, the explanation of how he is a eternal teen because he was so young when he was turned... BUT that's my personal opinion, and I would certainly recommend it because it's very good :)
Also... I liked that there is no cheating. Reading the blurb I was worried, because Matthew is married when the story start, but I must said that if you fear it don't worry... His marriage is long gone... He will not cheat his husband.
July 29, 2015
Very good read.
I put this off for so long, thrown by the cover. IDK why it looked sci-fi to me.
But I am very glad I finally read this.
The story had me hooked right away.
There were to paces to this book. The first half was a little slower paced than the second half.
I enjoyed the first half, which was mostly the get to know you and fall in love section.
When the romance portion was starting to come together, I thought it was going to start wrapping up.
But that is were all the action started.
I liked the vampire wars, and werewolf story lines. It changed my opinion from a 3 star to a 4 star read.
This was picked for me to read in a challenge, and I very glad that it was.
Very enjoyable story.
I put this off for so long, thrown by the cover. IDK why it looked sci-fi to me.
But I am very glad I finally read this.
The story had me hooked right away.
There were to paces to this book. The first half was a little slower paced than the second half.
I enjoyed the first half, which was mostly the get to know you and fall in love section.
When the romance portion was starting to come together, I thought it was going to start wrapping up.
But that is were all the action started.
I liked the vampire wars, and werewolf story lines. It changed my opinion from a 3 star to a 4 star read.
This was picked for me to read in a challenge, and I very glad that it was.
Very enjoyable story.
April 22, 2014
Loved this, a great story with some great new ideas about the origins of vampires. I am always a sucker for true mates
April 30, 2014
God I love Zathyn Priest! This book so didn't disappoint. I can't wait for more (especially Leo...hint hint!).
May 11, 2014
#10wordreview #pedantalert
Remarkable take on vampires, wrapped in a marvelously written story.
So why not a 5 star? More of a 4.5, but British pedant in me had a couple of issues with the setting, pacing and language.
Overall though, really really strong read, thoroughly recommended - bravo ZP!
Remarkable take on vampires, wrapped in a marvelously written story.
So why not a 5 star? More of a 4.5, but British pedant in me had a couple of issues with the setting, pacing and language.
Overall though, really really strong read, thoroughly recommended - bravo ZP!
thinking-about-it
August 11, 2016I'm a huge Zathyn Priest fan. Ever since reading Slayer's apprentice way back when. I even loved Liquid Glass which was half historical flashbacks, two things I normally hate and he made me love it.
That said I can't get excited for this book because the blurb does nothing for me. And I strongly dislike the cover. It seems like it's from a 90's computer game. All the faces look the same and are really vague with no real detail. And none of the hair works for me, it's just off when I look at it. And I'm confused why the unnatural red colored hair is blowing in the wind but the other long haired guy is just laying flat?
I don't know, I just don't feel as excited about this as I should, I'm going to wait for some reviews before deciding to read or not.
That said I can't get excited for this book because the blurb does nothing for me. And I strongly dislike the cover. It seems like it's from a 90's computer game. All the faces look the same and are really vague with no real detail. And none of the hair works for me, it's just off when I look at it. And I'm confused why the unnatural red colored hair is blowing in the wind but the other long haired guy is just laying flat?
I don't know, I just don't feel as excited about this as I should, I'm going to wait for some reviews before deciding to read or not.
Want to read
May 2, 2014Cindi interviews author Zathyn Priest here -
December 10, 2022
4.5*
He did it again-loved this book. Reviewed for Rainbow Gold Reviews here
He did it again-loved this book. Reviewed for Rainbow Gold Reviews here
May 15, 2019
Fun story on the romantic/cliché side, but nothing extraordinary.
Matthew & his husband Dean are hunters. Their targets are rogue Amara half-breed vampires. The pure Amara were a clan of sun walker, non-violent vampires and are now supposedly extinct. Emery Amara, the most powerful one of them is only a legend, or so Matthew thought. The two hunters get their hands on Emery’s journal and meet the young immortal teen.
He needs their help to track & kill the leader of the rogue. Emery cannot stand Dean (with good reasons) but get closer to Matthew and feel a pull toward the human man. Call this insta-love/soulmate bound since vampire cannot “live” without a mate.
Dean is a real asshole through the entire book, and this even start at the first page! He is a liar, a cheater, a manipulator, use blackmail and the list goes on. I did not feel sorry for him at all when Matthew start to be interested in Emery.
The whole vampire/werewolf war seems somehow incomplete and not much develop, oh well, it is such a short book.
Matthew & his husband Dean are hunters. Their targets are rogue Amara half-breed vampires. The pure Amara were a clan of sun walker, non-violent vampires and are now supposedly extinct. Emery Amara, the most powerful one of them is only a legend, or so Matthew thought. The two hunters get their hands on Emery’s journal and meet the young immortal teen.
He needs their help to track & kill the leader of the rogue. Emery cannot stand Dean (with good reasons) but get closer to Matthew and feel a pull toward the human man. Call this insta-love/soulmate bound since vampire cannot “live” without a mate.
Dean is a real asshole through the entire book, and this even start at the first page! He is a liar, a cheater, a manipulator, use blackmail and the list goes on. I did not feel sorry for him at all when Matthew start to be interested in Emery.
The whole vampire/werewolf war seems somehow incomplete and not much develop, oh well, it is such a short book.
July 13, 2014
Review by Tanja
4.5*
Ok let´s get started :D This book begins with the diary of Emrys Amara and after that is told from Matthew´s point of view.
Matthew and Dean are vampire slayers and have been married for two years. They have a great reputation as slayers, because only a dead vampire is a good vampire. Well that changes as they receive the diary of Emrys Amara. Matthew, not believing that the diary could be real, goes with Dean to meet the mysterious person who sent it to them. They have a big surprise coming their way, because it turns out to be none other than the legendary vampire himself.
From there the story progresses with different layers: The sweet love story, the hunt after the rogue vampires, finding the missing children and rebuilding the Amara clan. Meanwhile, I was glued to my kindle the whole time, enjoying the ride :).
The characters of this story are well written, from the main protagonists to the secondary characters-I had the feeling I knew them.
Dean and Matthew: As a couple, they are, umm, how should I say this…a disaster, failure, not working….decide for yourself ;).
"At times it wasn’t worth my effort to react to Dean’s antagonism. For almost two years I’d played the charade of a happy couple and it had worn me down. Dean thrived on arguments, picked a fight over anything and everything, and got a kick out of belittling me in front of other people. I wasn’t a quitter. I didn’t want the shame of being the one who walked out on the marriage."
Mathew is a kind, thoughtful human, but starving for affection. He absolutely deserves someone better than Dean.
Dean on the other hand is a lying, cheating bastard, but he fills the spot as villain perfectly. You will love to hate him.
“Our reputations would be ruined if anyone saw us chatting to an ugly redhead. Go do something useful for the world like… Oh I don’t know… Kill yourself.”
Of course he didn´t know that he was talking to Emrys Amara while spitting those hateful words and the payback was just great :).
Emrys Amara….I fell in love with him. He is so adorable…kind, funny but also extremely powerful. I laughed so hard when he had one of his teenager moments or hilarious scenes like the nail polish disaster. He also shows a backbone you wouldn´t have thought of him. Near the end, there was a scene with a Master vampire, where he caught me by surprise.
Then, there is his vulnerable side….him being all alone…and I rooted for him and his HEA, which he found in Matthew.
There were drawn to each other the moment they met. For all of you, who now cry Matthew is a cheater, rest assured he is not. Nothing happens behind Dean´s back and you´ll see Matthew and Emrys have to be together.
The love story is a sweet one, sometimes a little too sweet, but that´s just me, not liking if something is too sappy. Overall the love story is fitting for the characters, the intimate moments are wonderful and although they mated rather fast, there still are insecurities on both sides. It´s not all sappy, happy….they have a few obstacles to overcome.
Other characters I really liked were Matthew´s father Victor and Leo. Victor is a supportive, kind and wise man. He is a person you want to have as a father. Leo, a werewolf, ok he is more than a werewolf – I fell in love with him – he is that cute and funny!!!
“Surely you can´t blame me, Matthew?” Emrys stared at me with a heavy frown. “This is a vendetta of honour. Dean has crossed me more than once.” Em?” “Yes?” My voice squeaked. “Your wolf has my crotch in his jaws and he´s ready to de-cock me!”
Beside Dean there is a bunch of other villains too. Amdis, his rouges and a Master Vampire plus his clan. They are all very well portrayed and the way they are connected is quite interesting. There were a few twists and turns along the way. I loved how the pieces came together and they all got what they deserved. In Dean´s case it was a surprise, but I had a huge smile on my face.
The only other complaint I had with this book is that I don´t understand how Emrys survived the death of his clan. Though I might just have missed it :P. Zathyn Priest describes how to kill a clan of vampires, but wouldn’t the same go for the Amara Clan?? I can´t say more about it without giving spoilers, but it confused me a bit.
Nonetheless, this was another great read from this author. Rumor has it that this book could be turned into a series; I´m only going to say this: MORE, PLEASE <3
Highly recommend if you like paranormal, sweet romance, a good storyline with well fleshed out characters and humour in it.
4.5*
Ok let´s get started :D This book begins with the diary of Emrys Amara and after that is told from Matthew´s point of view.
Matthew and Dean are vampire slayers and have been married for two years. They have a great reputation as slayers, because only a dead vampire is a good vampire. Well that changes as they receive the diary of Emrys Amara. Matthew, not believing that the diary could be real, goes with Dean to meet the mysterious person who sent it to them. They have a big surprise coming their way, because it turns out to be none other than the legendary vampire himself.
From there the story progresses with different layers: The sweet love story, the hunt after the rogue vampires, finding the missing children and rebuilding the Amara clan. Meanwhile, I was glued to my kindle the whole time, enjoying the ride :).
The characters of this story are well written, from the main protagonists to the secondary characters-I had the feeling I knew them.
Dean and Matthew: As a couple, they are, umm, how should I say this…a disaster, failure, not working….decide for yourself ;).
"At times it wasn’t worth my effort to react to Dean’s antagonism. For almost two years I’d played the charade of a happy couple and it had worn me down. Dean thrived on arguments, picked a fight over anything and everything, and got a kick out of belittling me in front of other people. I wasn’t a quitter. I didn’t want the shame of being the one who walked out on the marriage."
Mathew is a kind, thoughtful human, but starving for affection. He absolutely deserves someone better than Dean.
Dean on the other hand is a lying, cheating bastard, but he fills the spot as villain perfectly. You will love to hate him.
“Our reputations would be ruined if anyone saw us chatting to an ugly redhead. Go do something useful for the world like… Oh I don’t know… Kill yourself.”
Of course he didn´t know that he was talking to Emrys Amara while spitting those hateful words and the payback was just great :).
Emrys Amara….I fell in love with him. He is so adorable…kind, funny but also extremely powerful. I laughed so hard when he had one of his teenager moments or hilarious scenes like the nail polish disaster. He also shows a backbone you wouldn´t have thought of him. Near the end, there was a scene with a Master vampire, where he caught me by surprise.
Then, there is his vulnerable side….him being all alone…and I rooted for him and his HEA, which he found in Matthew.
There were drawn to each other the moment they met. For all of you, who now cry Matthew is a cheater, rest assured he is not. Nothing happens behind Dean´s back and you´ll see Matthew and Emrys have to be together.
The love story is a sweet one, sometimes a little too sweet, but that´s just me, not liking if something is too sappy. Overall the love story is fitting for the characters, the intimate moments are wonderful and although they mated rather fast, there still are insecurities on both sides. It´s not all sappy, happy….they have a few obstacles to overcome.
Other characters I really liked were Matthew´s father Victor and Leo. Victor is a supportive, kind and wise man. He is a person you want to have as a father. Leo, a werewolf, ok he is more than a werewolf – I fell in love with him – he is that cute and funny!!!
“Surely you can´t blame me, Matthew?” Emrys stared at me with a heavy frown. “This is a vendetta of honour. Dean has crossed me more than once.” Em?” “Yes?” My voice squeaked. “Your wolf has my crotch in his jaws and he´s ready to de-cock me!”
Beside Dean there is a bunch of other villains too. Amdis, his rouges and a Master Vampire plus his clan. They are all very well portrayed and the way they are connected is quite interesting. There were a few twists and turns along the way. I loved how the pieces came together and they all got what they deserved. In Dean´s case it was a surprise, but I had a huge smile on my face.
The only other complaint I had with this book is that I don´t understand how Emrys survived the death of his clan. Though I might just have missed it :P. Zathyn Priest describes how to kill a clan of vampires, but wouldn’t the same go for the Amara Clan?? I can´t say more about it without giving spoilers, but it confused me a bit.
Nonetheless, this was another great read from this author. Rumor has it that this book could be turned into a series; I´m only going to say this: MORE, PLEASE <3
Highly recommend if you like paranormal, sweet romance, a good storyline with well fleshed out characters and humour in it.
October 30, 2016
3 stars.
This novel features a love-at-first-sight romance between Matthew and Emrys. Don't worry about the cheating aspect of this story, as Matthew and Dean's marriage has long since ended and is only a marriage in name.
Emrys is extremely endearing, and readers will find themselves smiling at his antics. Priest handled the situation of his age (mental and physical) well, and although I did find myself originally disturbed by the idea of Emrys getting together with Matthew, I eventually grew to understand and accept it.
I felt bad for Matthew, since he was in an abusive relationship with Dean. I was glad he met Emrys and moved on. While Matthew's own issues and fears were discussed and dealt with in the novel, I wish it had happened sooner than later. Since it came near the end of the novel, it felt a bit out of place.
As for Dean, wow, he's a piece of work. What he does to Matthew is completely unfair, and he doesn't even redeem himself. He's just a bad apple to the core. But don't worry, he gets a ending that is suitable to his personality.
I loved the secondary characters, especially Victor, Matthew's father, and Leo.
Victor was one of the best father figures I've had the pleasure to read about. While initially wary and horrified by Matthew's coming out, he realized his mistake and apologized deeply for it. He made up for his mistreatment of his son and learned to love his son for who he was. Victor was incredibly supportive, both to his son and Emrys.
Leo, who comes into the novel much later, also grows on the reader. I just wish he had appeared sooner, since I would have liked to see more scenes with him getting along with the others.
There are a lot of plot twists in this novel, which I can understand because it used to be a serial. However, it gets a tad messy near the end, and I found myself skimming the whole "let's plan to infiltrate" stage. Also, while the ending is a complete one, it also ends on a slightly open note. I doubt that Priest will continue this story, however.
A nice, satisfying read with interesting characters.
This novel features a love-at-first-sight romance between Matthew and Emrys. Don't worry about the cheating aspect of this story, as Matthew and Dean's marriage has long since ended and is only a marriage in name.
Emrys is extremely endearing, and readers will find themselves smiling at his antics. Priest handled the situation of his age (mental and physical) well, and although I did find myself originally disturbed by the idea of Emrys getting together with Matthew, I eventually grew to understand and accept it.
I felt bad for Matthew, since he was in an abusive relationship with Dean. I was glad he met Emrys and moved on. While Matthew's own issues and fears were discussed and dealt with in the novel, I wish it had happened sooner than later. Since it came near the end of the novel, it felt a bit out of place.
As for Dean, wow, he's a piece of work. What he does to Matthew is completely unfair, and he doesn't even redeem himself. He's just a bad apple to the core. But don't worry, he gets a ending that is suitable to his personality.
I loved the secondary characters, especially Victor, Matthew's father, and Leo.
Victor was one of the best father figures I've had the pleasure to read about. While initially wary and horrified by Matthew's coming out, he realized his mistake and apologized deeply for it. He made up for his mistreatment of his son and learned to love his son for who he was. Victor was incredibly supportive, both to his son and Emrys.
Leo, who comes into the novel much later, also grows on the reader. I just wish he had appeared sooner, since I would have liked to see more scenes with him getting along with the others.
There are a lot of plot twists in this novel, which I can understand because it used to be a serial. However, it gets a tad messy near the end, and I found myself skimming the whole "let's plan to infiltrate" stage. Also, while the ending is a complete one, it also ends on a slightly open note. I doubt that Priest will continue this story, however.
A nice, satisfying read with interesting characters.
June 13, 2014
Once again, WOW! Zathyn always manages to put the POP! BAM! into his creative creations. I was in the mood for an out-of-the-ordinary M/M vampire or shifter story and Mr. Priest delivered it hands down in his new release.
The story evolves in a natural, easy flowing style that quickly draws the reader in. Once inside, that's it, you're captured; but you don't care. In fact, you want to be there and are actually a bit disappointed when the story ends and you have to leave. But even then your exit is handled with the expertise and finesse of a master and you are lovingly re-united with the real world.
An added bonus; if you fancy research/history then you will enjoy Zathyn's method of introduction and explanation of the Amara Clan, which serves as a necessary adhesive to hold everything together.
The story evolves in a natural, easy flowing style that quickly draws the reader in. Once inside, that's it, you're captured; but you don't care. In fact, you want to be there and are actually a bit disappointed when the story ends and you have to leave. But even then your exit is handled with the expertise and finesse of a master and you are lovingly re-united with the real world.
An added bonus; if you fancy research/history then you will enjoy Zathyn's method of introduction and explanation of the Amara Clan, which serves as a necessary adhesive to hold everything together.
June 29, 2016
I loved it.
It's quite original and the writing is really good.
The prologue is beautifully written and you'll fall instantly in love with Emrys.
The characters are all different and interesting in their own way. Dean is the kind you'll love to hate. I wanted to cut his throat from the moment he opened his mouth.
The story is dark and mesmerizing. It's sweet, violent, funny and sometimes sad.
I highly recommend it. If you love a good paranormal romance don't even hesitate.
I can't wait for another story of Zathyn Priest. He's totally one of my favorite author and an auto-buy.
It's quite original and the writing is really good.
The prologue is beautifully written and you'll fall instantly in love with Emrys.
The characters are all different and interesting in their own way. Dean is the kind you'll love to hate. I wanted to cut his throat from the moment he opened his mouth.
The story is dark and mesmerizing. It's sweet, violent, funny and sometimes sad.
I highly recommend it. If you love a good paranormal romance don't even hesitate.
I can't wait for another story of Zathyn Priest. He's totally one of my favorite author and an auto-buy.
November 24, 2014
I love Zathyn's work. His characters are three dimensional and quirky and vulnerable. I had not read this one for a while as vampires are not my favorite genre --I think they get too dark and kill-y with not enough character and fun. This was very much not the case with this story. Yes, there are vampires and hunters and angst, but there is also a great family found story, silliness and satisfying story arc and resolution and smut, don't forget about the sex. The resolution and road to get there was not simple and there were definite moral conflicts. And Emry was just a cutie-pie. Yeah, Zathyn!
July 29, 2014
Really enjoyed this book. The author is a talented storyteller. His characters are ones you bond with and the story line is compelling. I also enjoyed his take on vampires and werewolves. I won this book and wasn't sure how I'd like it, as I don't normally read paranormal. However, it was written well enough to grab me and keep me interested through the end.
I would recommend this book to others. I have also read The Statue by the same author. He is one I will read more of.
I would recommend this book to others. I have also read The Statue by the same author. He is one I will read more of.
September 6, 2015
I enjoyed the story. The writer is very good. The way he describes the scene and explains the story is so good. I did think some of the plot line was a bit light but I thought the overall plot was interesting. I was drawn into the story and kept there by the author throughout. This was a fun story that is very heart warming.
May 13, 2014
I wanted to like this book but couldn't. Both main characters acted like teenagers. One of them was in a way since he was turned as a teenager but the other was an adult. Also, their love scenes were more like teenage girls than men. I did like the story, though - just wish the drama had been toned down a lot.
May 6, 2015
Nothing I love more than a good vampire story. This one sucked me in quick, with a little star-crossed lovers feel to it. Can't recall having read a vampire/hunter book before, this was exactly what I needed, even if it was a bit "insta-love" for my taste. I'll forgive it, because, it sucked me in. And I LOVE how this family developed. :)
October 11, 2022
⁷Me encanta Zathyn Priest. Siempre consigue engancharme. Tenía muchas ganas de leerme este libre y desde luego me ha encantado, como siempre. Espero que siga escribiendo, ya estoy deseando leer su próximo libro.
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