What do you think?
Rate this book
A Cruel Thirst
'Vampires, ancient evil, a centuries-long feud, and forbidden romance? Montoya brings it all, and I am HERE for every second of it!' - Tracy Wolff, author of the CRAVE series
LOVE IS AT STAKE . . . SO SHARPEN YOUR BLADES!
Carolina wants to join her family in hunting the bloodthirsty vampiros that plague her village, and prove she'll be a better slayer than wife, so she vows to take down a monster herself. But then she runs into an irresistible vampiro who challenges everything she ever knew.
Lalo was content leading a perfectly dull life until a vampiro turned him. Now forced to flee his city and hungry for revenge, he heads to where he believes the first vampiro was made. Instead of finding salvation, Lalo collides with a beautiful young woman who'd gladly drive a dagger through his heart.
Can her fists and his fangs stay focused long enough to triumph over their common enemy, or will their hatred for one another get in the way?
'Montoya breathes fresh life into the vampire-and-vampire-hunter trope with a vivid world beautifully woven with Latinx lore and a romance both searing and tender.' - Amélie Wen Zhao, author of THE SONG OF THE LAST KINGDOM
'A magnificent take on vampire lore. Angela Montoya takes the classic trope of vampire x vampire hunter and breathes new life into it, in more ways than one.' - Kamilah Cole, author of SO LET THEM BURN
'With action that will have you on the edge of your seat and banter that will leave you grinning, A Cruel Thirst has everything you could want in a paranormal romance' - Margie Fuston, author of THE REVENANT GAMES
LOVE IS AT STAKE . . . SO SHARPEN YOUR BLADES!
Carolina wants to join her family in hunting the bloodthirsty vampiros that plague her village, and prove she'll be a better slayer than wife, so she vows to take down a monster herself. But then she runs into an irresistible vampiro who challenges everything she ever knew.
Lalo was content leading a perfectly dull life until a vampiro turned him. Now forced to flee his city and hungry for revenge, he heads to where he believes the first vampiro was made. Instead of finding salvation, Lalo collides with a beautiful young woman who'd gladly drive a dagger through his heart.
Can her fists and his fangs stay focused long enough to triumph over their common enemy, or will their hatred for one another get in the way?
'Montoya breathes fresh life into the vampire-and-vampire-hunter trope with a vivid world beautifully woven with Latinx lore and a romance both searing and tender.' - Amélie Wen Zhao, author of THE SONG OF THE LAST KINGDOM
'A magnificent take on vampire lore. Angela Montoya takes the classic trope of vampire x vampire hunter and breathes new life into it, in more ways than one.' - Kamilah Cole, author of SO LET THEM BURN
'With action that will have you on the edge of your seat and banter that will leave you grinning, A Cruel Thirst has everything you could want in a paranormal romance' - Margie Fuston, author of THE REVENANT GAMES
380 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 17, 2024
303 people are currently reading
22257 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,234 reviews
December 20, 2024
➸ 5 stars
𓍢⊹ ࣪ thank you to netgalley and the publishers for the advanced readers copy!
🥀 vampire x vampire huntress
🩸 enemies to reluctant allies to lovers
🗡️ dagger to throat
🥀 fake engagement
🩸 latinx fantasy
🗡️ unique mythology based off mexican lore
🥀 forbidden love
🩸 cinnamon roll mmc x strong/feisty fmc
🗡️ addicting banter
this review took me two months to write because i was so overwhelmed by the amount of quotes i wanted to include so a little warning, there will be a lot of quotes and my thoughts are kind of all over the place since so much time has passed!!
this review is for me, to look back on and reread my favorite quotes and thoughts <3
𓍢⊹ ࣪
“That was the thing when one lived in a great rancho with their family and their family’s family—even in the silence, there was noise.”
words cannot explain how much i love this book. reading a book where i feel represented was truly such a wonderful experience, my culture and my language written in these pages made me utterly beam with joy!!! to me, it felt like i was a part of this family. everything about the family relationships, family trauma, the humor, siblings/cousins, the culture, the setting, the food, the fiestas, just felt so real.
“Do not let a moment go by where you aren’t loving the people you care for with all your might. Love ferociously, mija.”
𓍢⊹ ࣪
now let’s get into a little summary of the plot!
“She had turned him into to the very thing he wanted to destroy.”
when lalo villalobos gets turned into a vampire, he and his sister must flee the city and travels to a pueblo where he believes has the answers to reverse his curse. there, he runs into a headstrong vampire huntress and immediately tries to kill him. with a common enemy, they become reluctant allies to try and stop the vampiros…
𓍢⊹ ࣪
now onto the characters!!!
“He was rather moody and preferred the company of the characters in books over actual friends.”
➺ lalo villalobos - the gentle, clumsy, awkward, book-loving men WILL GET ME EVERY TIMEEEEEEEE OH MY GOSH I LOVE LALO SOOOOO MUCH!!!! MY HUSBAND FR!!! i need a man like him or i don’t want him!!!!!
“You couldn’t help yourself, could you?”
“I was bored,”
“Only you would cure boredom by dusting books.”
“They aren’t just any books. They are my salvation.”
every time there is a character who is a book lover as well i get so giddy because yes i get you!!!! and as a reader i absolutely loved how much lalo loves books!!
“Do you want company?”
“I’d rather hate myself in private, thank you very much.”
he was so funny without even trying!!! for one who doesn’t often jest, he was hilarious!!!
“Still, he’d take suffering over ruining another person’s life any day.”
he became the one thing he hated most and yet that never changed him!!! one thing i loved about lalo was how selfless he was, especially towards his sister.
“By birth, I am the big brother, but I look up to you.”
➺ lalo & fernanda - even when their lives were completely turned upside down, he needed to stay strong for his sister and he did. he’s cared so much for fernanda, wouldn’t ever let anything happen to her and does whatever it takes to keep her safe. i loved how the author portrayed the older sibling relationships and how real and accurate it’s shown!
“I love you, Fernanda. Know that everything I have done, it has been the cause of my love for you.”
𓍢⊹ ࣪
“She was a fighter. And she would not fail. Regardless of what her papá thought.”
➺ carolina fuentes - carolina is a passionate woman who wishes to fight vampiros alongside her father, her father wishes for her to marry a man and settle down… but carolina is a stubborn fighter and won’t let anyone stand in her way and i absolutely loved that about her!!
“But she didn’t want to just be some person’s dutiful wife. She wished for the wind to run through her hair. She wished for sedientos to see her and retreat in fear.”
she is a confident and sharp-tongued woman who wouldn’t ever change for anyone and it’s utterly amazing!!
“She assumed everyone knew she’d never marry for anything other than love.”
underneath all that passion is also a soft hearted woman. she wishes for love and that’s something i love in characters!!
i also loved her relationship with her cousin nena! they truly represented what hispanic cousins are like and i was constantly laughing whenever these two were together!!
𓍢⊹ ࣪
carolina and lalo’s first meeting
“He was utterly human-looking and more beautiful than any boy she’d ever witnessed before.”
carolina girl i get you because that man is fine and i too would’ve been mesmerized seeing him fr
“You will die this night,” she snarled, grabbing her rope.
“But…I’m already dead.”
“Do not mock me you…you…” What word was worse than “life-sucking prick”?
“Deplorable demon?” he suggested.
“Do not finish my sentences, you deplorable demon!”
“I will happily stop, when you cease trying to murder me!”
the enemies trope was done so differently in a fun hehehaha way like it was actually so adorable how carolina immediately tried (emphasis on the tried LOL) to kill lalo upon meeting him (she attempted so many times and was kicking him around) and lalo just trying to talk to her and the little chasing and running away was just so funny! nena with the frying pan as a weapon just topped it all! i don’t remember how he got away but it was such a cute stabby agressive meet cute
“Lalo’s very soul, if he still had one, fled his body.
This was the fiend from the woods who had tried to murder him. He’d know that velvety scent from anything. And those eyes. Infinitely brown and shielded by black lashes. Those very eyes has glared at him
behind her ridiculous mask.
Her full face startled him more than anything. Because—holy saints—she was the most stunning person he’d ever seen.”
THE WAY THEY BOTH WERE COMPLETELY MESMERIZED UPON FIRST SEEING EACH OTHER LIKE ARE YOU SERIOUS THEY ARE THE CUTEST!!!!
𓍢⊹ ࣪
the banter (this section will mostly be quotes)
“He turned, readying to make his escape, but froze when he felt the prick of a blade dig into his jugular.”
“One word and you’re dust, sanguijuela.”
“Though Lalo took offense to Carolina calling him a leech, he did not utter a word.“
“I asked you a question.”
“You said if I spoke, you’d turn me to dust. I’d very much like to remain in this form, so I choose to stay silent.”
“You just spoke. And far too much.”
“I apologize. I don’t know the proper protocol for one holding a weapon to my throat.”
“I had to get you somewhere no one would go while you healed.”
“So you can finally have your way with me in private?”
“Behave yourself.” She wiggled her brows.
“Saints, woman, that isn’t what I meant. I meant so you can kill me like the murderess you are.”
“I’m only wearing breeches.”
“Shall I strip down too so we are on even ground?”
“Saints, no. You are a heathen.”
“I suppose you are right.”
“Say that again.”
“I don’t think your ego needs the encouragement.”
𓍢⊹ ࣪
their development
i absolutely loved how these characters developed both individually as well as together so let’s get into that!
“He was awkward and shy, and he didn't care for going to balls or enduring meaningless small talk about people's wealth and popularity. He hated how the upper crust of society thought they were somehow more valuable than others just because of what was in their pocketbooks. He was easily brushed off as a bore. And after so long, he decided he would rather be alone and figure things out by himself than try.
Until now.”
“He had to be made a monster to really understand what he’d been missing out on. And that thing he was missing out on was his own life.”
i saw a lot of myself in lalo, seeing his character development made me so happy and i literally had tears in my eyes at times… i love his character so so much. his realization that he wasn’t truly living to WANTING to truly live and then to have found that in carolina was so beautifully written and i loved every second of it.
“She used to see the world in black and white. Right or wrong. Monster or human. Why did Lalo have to add color where it didn’t belong?”
carolina started off hating all and every vampiro she’d come across, even lalo. growing up in a family with vampiro hunters and always wanted to be a huntress herself, but not allowing to, lit a spark in this hatred. starting off trying to kill lalo so being torn between wanting to kill him and pining for him, seeing the lines start to blur for her and the realization not every vampiro is evil, especially lalo, was such amazing character development!!
“She was his enemy in every sense of the word.”
AND YET HE CRAVES FOR HER TOUCH, FOR HER COMFORT!!!
“She was good at running from her emotions or things that made her feel vulnerable.
AND YET SHE DOESNT WANT TO HIDE HERSELF FROM HIM!!!
"I know it's hard to believe I wasn't the crown jewel of high society, but it's true. I have never felt comfortable around people. And when I am, my mouth takes on a mind of its own. I cannot tell you how many times I left a party early because I embarrassed myself in conversation. I haven’t… Never mind … Are you feeling better?”
“You haven’t what, Lalo?”
“Nothing. You will probably just tease me for it.”
“Now I must know.”
“I’ve haven’t danced with anyone before.”
“Why not? I’m certain every young person at those parties wished for you to ask them.”
“I guess I was afraid of coming off as silly or getting laughed at. But mostly because … I don’t like people.”
“You and I are much more alike than I originally thought.”
when he immediately notices something is wrong without her ever having to say anything>>> THEN PROCEEDS TO GO AFTER HER BECAUSE HE CARES!!!!! AND THEN A BEAUTIFUL DANCE SCENE UNDER THE MOON AND THE STARS WHERE HE DANCES WITH HER FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER AHHH i love this book
𓍢⊹ ࣪
the romance
➺ lalo & lina - the romance in this book was one of my favorites ever!! i loved the slow burn and i feel like i was smiling every second of it! these two literally made me so happy and giddy!!! i loved how different they are yet are so much alike!! them both being book lovers and loving the exact same one, knowing it by memory, was one of my favorite things ever it was so cute!!
“She glanced up at him, shining stars dancing in her eyes. He didn't think the greatest artist could paint a face as beautiful as hers. Even that little line between her brows was a work of wonder.”
“Stars, she was beautiful. She’d only ever truly seen her at night or when clouds covered the skies. But here, with the light of day highlighting her rosy cheeks, she was like a goddess walking among them.”
the way lalo was ALWAYS thinking about how beautiful she was and was so mesmerized by her was EVERYTHING like this man was down bad and i am so here for it!!!
“She liked watching him in any light, but here, away from the crowd, with only the stars and the moon spectating, Carolina found Lalo to be the most beautiful person in all the world.”
the way they are both just constantly staring at each other because of how beautiful they think the other is LIKEEE AHHHHHH!!!!! and carolina being the first girl to hold his has was also one of my favorite things ever THESE TWO ARE THE CUTEST!!!
“Since we are working together, you might want to reel in that tone of yours. Starry-eyed lovers are supposed to bat their lashes at each other and call each other cariño.”
“Did you read that somewhere?”
“Well…yes.”
the fake engagement was so well done and one of my favorite tropes in a book!! the way it all happened had me laughing out loud, it was hilarious! one of my favorite moments was when carolina subconsciously starting calling lalo “her vampiro” LIKE YES HES YOURS AHH it happened like twice but i was giggling like crazy!
“That’s…You’re…”
“Exaggerating?”
“No, that wasn’t what I was going to say in the slightest.”
“What were you going to say?”
“I was going to say that you are amazing”
their love is so beautiful and pure! the yearning was exquisite and their interactions were just so cute!! THEY ARE SO PRECIOUS AND MEAN SO MUCH TO ME
“I feel rather foolish.”
“Don’t. Never be embarrassed about anything when it comes to me.”
OH TO HAVE SOMEONE LIKE LALO VILLALOBOS.
“Relax,”
“This is me relaxed”
“Carolina smiled. She placed her hands on his shoulders. Lalo’s eyes widened. Before he could say anything, she shook him hard.”
“What in the…”
She laughed. “I’m trying to loosen you up.” She grasped his waist and twisted his hips. “You’re as stiff as the target board.” She wiggled him around until Lalo was smiling too. And, stars, what a smile it was.”
the way they always smiled and laughed around each other WAS EVERYTHING TO ME. especially because of the fact that lalo rarely ever laughs with his full chest!
“The grin that beamed from her was as stunning as the night sky. It was vast and unending and full of mysteries he knew he could spend his entire life searching through.”
them bringing out happiness in each other as well as WANTING to make each other smile?! oh gosh i love them.
“Why do you look to terrified?”
“Because … Because I desperately want to kiss you.”
“Why don’t you?”
“I’m afraid. I’ve never … I haven’t … I want to kiss you, Carolina. But I fear if I do, I might never stop.”
“Kiss me anyway.”
THE SLOW BURN WAS SOOOO WORTH IT OH MY GOD WHEN THEY KISSED I WAS GIGGLING AND KICKING MY FEET!! they just make me so happy.
“If he could, he’d forget everything and kiss her until the world slipped away.”
i love them so much.
“He loved her. She had seen it. He loved her, and it scared the life out of him. She loved him too, but that love didn't scare her. If anything, his love made her feel braver than ever before. Because if he could see her, see the truest and most private parts of her, and love her still, then that love was something worth facing a thousand monsters for.”
this quote?! to be truly seen and loved is so intimately beautiful, they’re literally soulmates i’m gonna cry
few more quotes to end it off:
“He thought of their kisses. How she pulled loose something he thought he never craved. Laughter. Joy. Friendship. Desire. What he wouldn't do to have more time with her. To ride into the valley just to watch the sun rise. To kiss her always. To hold her and watch as her hair turned gray.”
"You are beautiful when irritated. I remember when I first saw you, even as you snarled, I thought you were the most beautiful woman I'd ever seen."
"And did you think that still after all the times I tried to murder you?"
"I didn't say I liked you very much, but yes."
“And, oh, did he still. She was hardly wearing anything now. Her hair was a mess of tangles framing her face. He imagined this would be how she looked like in the morning when she woke. Save for the dirt on her face and clothes. What he wouldn't give to wake up next to her daily, to see the morning sun kiss her cheeks as they nuzzled close.”
"But life isn't something one just eases through. Life is a constant battle. Every moment of peace, every smile, every kiss that is worth a damn must be earned. So fight with me, Lalo. And if you are too weary from everything you've already been through, then I'll raise my fists and fight for us both."
𓍢⊹ ࣪
“If you are ever lost, simply search into my heart and there you will be.”
“Hope is a strange thing, don’t you think? It can pull you out of your darkest thoughts, but also leave you destroyed if that hope turns into nothing greater.
That’s when we must lean on the people who care for us the most. They hold us steady and do the hoping for us when we no longer can.”
𓍢⊹ ࣪ thank you to netgalley and the publishers for the advanced readers copy!
🥀 vampire x vampire huntress
🩸 enemies to reluctant allies to lovers
🗡️ dagger to throat
🥀 fake engagement
🩸 latinx fantasy
🗡️ unique mythology based off mexican lore
🥀 forbidden love
🩸 cinnamon roll mmc x strong/feisty fmc
🗡️ addicting banter
this review took me two months to write because i was so overwhelmed by the amount of quotes i wanted to include so a little warning, there will be a lot of quotes and my thoughts are kind of all over the place since so much time has passed!!
this review is for me, to look back on and reread my favorite quotes and thoughts <3
𓍢⊹ ࣪
“That was the thing when one lived in a great rancho with their family and their family’s family—even in the silence, there was noise.”
words cannot explain how much i love this book. reading a book where i feel represented was truly such a wonderful experience, my culture and my language written in these pages made me utterly beam with joy!!! to me, it felt like i was a part of this family. everything about the family relationships, family trauma, the humor, siblings/cousins, the culture, the setting, the food, the fiestas, just felt so real.
“Do not let a moment go by where you aren’t loving the people you care for with all your might. Love ferociously, mija.”
𓍢⊹ ࣪
now let’s get into a little summary of the plot!
“She had turned him into to the very thing he wanted to destroy.”
when lalo villalobos gets turned into a vampire, he and his sister must flee the city and travels to a pueblo where he believes has the answers to reverse his curse. there, he runs into a headstrong vampire huntress and immediately tries to kill him. with a common enemy, they become reluctant allies to try and stop the vampiros…
𓍢⊹ ࣪
now onto the characters!!!
“He was rather moody and preferred the company of the characters in books over actual friends.”
➺ lalo villalobos - the gentle, clumsy, awkward, book-loving men WILL GET ME EVERY TIMEEEEEEEE OH MY GOSH I LOVE LALO SOOOOO MUCH!!!! MY HUSBAND FR!!! i need a man like him or i don’t want him!!!!!
“You couldn’t help yourself, could you?”
“I was bored,”
“Only you would cure boredom by dusting books.”
“They aren’t just any books. They are my salvation.”
every time there is a character who is a book lover as well i get so giddy because yes i get you!!!! and as a reader i absolutely loved how much lalo loves books!!
“Do you want company?”
“I’d rather hate myself in private, thank you very much.”
he was so funny without even trying!!! for one who doesn’t often jest, he was hilarious!!!
“Still, he’d take suffering over ruining another person’s life any day.”
he became the one thing he hated most and yet that never changed him!!! one thing i loved about lalo was how selfless he was, especially towards his sister.
“By birth, I am the big brother, but I look up to you.”
➺ lalo & fernanda - even when their lives were completely turned upside down, he needed to stay strong for his sister and he did. he’s cared so much for fernanda, wouldn’t ever let anything happen to her and does whatever it takes to keep her safe. i loved how the author portrayed the older sibling relationships and how real and accurate it’s shown!
“I love you, Fernanda. Know that everything I have done, it has been the cause of my love for you.”
𓍢⊹ ࣪
“She was a fighter. And she would not fail. Regardless of what her papá thought.”
➺ carolina fuentes - carolina is a passionate woman who wishes to fight vampiros alongside her father, her father wishes for her to marry a man and settle down… but carolina is a stubborn fighter and won’t let anyone stand in her way and i absolutely loved that about her!!
“But she didn’t want to just be some person’s dutiful wife. She wished for the wind to run through her hair. She wished for sedientos to see her and retreat in fear.”
she is a confident and sharp-tongued woman who wouldn’t ever change for anyone and it’s utterly amazing!!
“She assumed everyone knew she’d never marry for anything other than love.”
underneath all that passion is also a soft hearted woman. she wishes for love and that’s something i love in characters!!
i also loved her relationship with her cousin nena! they truly represented what hispanic cousins are like and i was constantly laughing whenever these two were together!!
𓍢⊹ ࣪
carolina and lalo’s first meeting
“He was utterly human-looking and more beautiful than any boy she’d ever witnessed before.”
carolina girl i get you because that man is fine and i too would’ve been mesmerized seeing him fr
“You will die this night,” she snarled, grabbing her rope.
“But…I’m already dead.”
“Do not mock me you…you…” What word was worse than “life-sucking prick”?
“Deplorable demon?” he suggested.
“Do not finish my sentences, you deplorable demon!”
“I will happily stop, when you cease trying to murder me!”
the enemies trope was done so differently in a fun hehehaha way like it was actually so adorable how carolina immediately tried (emphasis on the tried LOL) to kill lalo upon meeting him (she attempted so many times and was kicking him around) and lalo just trying to talk to her and the little chasing and running away was just so funny! nena with the frying pan as a weapon just topped it all! i don’t remember how he got away but it was such a cute stabby agressive meet cute
“Lalo’s very soul, if he still had one, fled his body.
This was the fiend from the woods who had tried to murder him. He’d know that velvety scent from anything. And those eyes. Infinitely brown and shielded by black lashes. Those very eyes has glared at him
behind her ridiculous mask.
Her full face startled him more than anything. Because—holy saints—she was the most stunning person he’d ever seen.”
THE WAY THEY BOTH WERE COMPLETELY MESMERIZED UPON FIRST SEEING EACH OTHER LIKE ARE YOU SERIOUS THEY ARE THE CUTEST!!!!
𓍢⊹ ࣪
the banter (this section will mostly be quotes)
“He turned, readying to make his escape, but froze when he felt the prick of a blade dig into his jugular.”
“One word and you’re dust, sanguijuela.”
“Though Lalo took offense to Carolina calling him a leech, he did not utter a word.“
“I asked you a question.”
“You said if I spoke, you’d turn me to dust. I’d very much like to remain in this form, so I choose to stay silent.”
“You just spoke. And far too much.”
“I apologize. I don’t know the proper protocol for one holding a weapon to my throat.”
“I had to get you somewhere no one would go while you healed.”
“So you can finally have your way with me in private?”
“Behave yourself.” She wiggled her brows.
“Saints, woman, that isn’t what I meant. I meant so you can kill me like the murderess you are.”
“I’m only wearing breeches.”
“Shall I strip down too so we are on even ground?”
“Saints, no. You are a heathen.”
“I suppose you are right.”
“Say that again.”
“I don’t think your ego needs the encouragement.”
𓍢⊹ ࣪
their development
i absolutely loved how these characters developed both individually as well as together so let’s get into that!
“He was awkward and shy, and he didn't care for going to balls or enduring meaningless small talk about people's wealth and popularity. He hated how the upper crust of society thought they were somehow more valuable than others just because of what was in their pocketbooks. He was easily brushed off as a bore. And after so long, he decided he would rather be alone and figure things out by himself than try.
Until now.”
“He had to be made a monster to really understand what he’d been missing out on. And that thing he was missing out on was his own life.”
i saw a lot of myself in lalo, seeing his character development made me so happy and i literally had tears in my eyes at times… i love his character so so much. his realization that he wasn’t truly living to WANTING to truly live and then to have found that in carolina was so beautifully written and i loved every second of it.
“She used to see the world in black and white. Right or wrong. Monster or human. Why did Lalo have to add color where it didn’t belong?”
carolina started off hating all and every vampiro she’d come across, even lalo. growing up in a family with vampiro hunters and always wanted to be a huntress herself, but not allowing to, lit a spark in this hatred. starting off trying to kill lalo so being torn between wanting to kill him and pining for him, seeing the lines start to blur for her and the realization not every vampiro is evil, especially lalo, was such amazing character development!!
“She was his enemy in every sense of the word.”
AND YET HE CRAVES FOR HER TOUCH, FOR HER COMFORT!!!
“She was good at running from her emotions or things that made her feel vulnerable.
AND YET SHE DOESNT WANT TO HIDE HERSELF FROM HIM!!!
"I know it's hard to believe I wasn't the crown jewel of high society, but it's true. I have never felt comfortable around people. And when I am, my mouth takes on a mind of its own. I cannot tell you how many times I left a party early because I embarrassed myself in conversation. I haven’t… Never mind … Are you feeling better?”
“You haven’t what, Lalo?”
“Nothing. You will probably just tease me for it.”
“Now I must know.”
“I’ve haven’t danced with anyone before.”
“Why not? I’m certain every young person at those parties wished for you to ask them.”
“I guess I was afraid of coming off as silly or getting laughed at. But mostly because … I don’t like people.”
“You and I are much more alike than I originally thought.”
when he immediately notices something is wrong without her ever having to say anything>>> THEN PROCEEDS TO GO AFTER HER BECAUSE HE CARES!!!!! AND THEN A BEAUTIFUL DANCE SCENE UNDER THE MOON AND THE STARS WHERE HE DANCES WITH HER FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER AHHH i love this book
𓍢⊹ ࣪
the romance
➺ lalo & lina - the romance in this book was one of my favorites ever!! i loved the slow burn and i feel like i was smiling every second of it! these two literally made me so happy and giddy!!! i loved how different they are yet are so much alike!! them both being book lovers and loving the exact same one, knowing it by memory, was one of my favorite things ever it was so cute!!
“She glanced up at him, shining stars dancing in her eyes. He didn't think the greatest artist could paint a face as beautiful as hers. Even that little line between her brows was a work of wonder.”
“Stars, she was beautiful. She’d only ever truly seen her at night or when clouds covered the skies. But here, with the light of day highlighting her rosy cheeks, she was like a goddess walking among them.”
the way lalo was ALWAYS thinking about how beautiful she was and was so mesmerized by her was EVERYTHING like this man was down bad and i am so here for it!!!
“She liked watching him in any light, but here, away from the crowd, with only the stars and the moon spectating, Carolina found Lalo to be the most beautiful person in all the world.”
the way they are both just constantly staring at each other because of how beautiful they think the other is LIKEEE AHHHHHH!!!!! and carolina being the first girl to hold his has was also one of my favorite things ever THESE TWO ARE THE CUTEST!!!
“Since we are working together, you might want to reel in that tone of yours. Starry-eyed lovers are supposed to bat their lashes at each other and call each other cariño.”
“Did you read that somewhere?”
“Well…yes.”
the fake engagement was so well done and one of my favorite tropes in a book!! the way it all happened had me laughing out loud, it was hilarious! one of my favorite moments was when carolina subconsciously starting calling lalo “her vampiro” LIKE YES HES YOURS AHH it happened like twice but i was giggling like crazy!
“That’s…You’re…”
“Exaggerating?”
“No, that wasn’t what I was going to say in the slightest.”
“What were you going to say?”
“I was going to say that you are amazing”
their love is so beautiful and pure! the yearning was exquisite and their interactions were just so cute!! THEY ARE SO PRECIOUS AND MEAN SO MUCH TO ME
“I feel rather foolish.”
“Don’t. Never be embarrassed about anything when it comes to me.”
OH TO HAVE SOMEONE LIKE LALO VILLALOBOS.
“Relax,”
“This is me relaxed”
“Carolina smiled. She placed her hands on his shoulders. Lalo’s eyes widened. Before he could say anything, she shook him hard.”
“What in the…”
She laughed. “I’m trying to loosen you up.” She grasped his waist and twisted his hips. “You’re as stiff as the target board.” She wiggled him around until Lalo was smiling too. And, stars, what a smile it was.”
the way they always smiled and laughed around each other WAS EVERYTHING TO ME. especially because of the fact that lalo rarely ever laughs with his full chest!
“The grin that beamed from her was as stunning as the night sky. It was vast and unending and full of mysteries he knew he could spend his entire life searching through.”
them bringing out happiness in each other as well as WANTING to make each other smile?! oh gosh i love them.
“Why do you look to terrified?”
“Because … Because I desperately want to kiss you.”
“Why don’t you?”
“I’m afraid. I’ve never … I haven’t … I want to kiss you, Carolina. But I fear if I do, I might never stop.”
“Kiss me anyway.”
THE SLOW BURN WAS SOOOO WORTH IT OH MY GOD WHEN THEY KISSED I WAS GIGGLING AND KICKING MY FEET!! they just make me so happy.
“If he could, he’d forget everything and kiss her until the world slipped away.”
i love them so much.
“He loved her. She had seen it. He loved her, and it scared the life out of him. She loved him too, but that love didn't scare her. If anything, his love made her feel braver than ever before. Because if he could see her, see the truest and most private parts of her, and love her still, then that love was something worth facing a thousand monsters for.”
this quote?! to be truly seen and loved is so intimately beautiful, they’re literally soulmates i’m gonna cry
few more quotes to end it off:
“He thought of their kisses. How she pulled loose something he thought he never craved. Laughter. Joy. Friendship. Desire. What he wouldn't do to have more time with her. To ride into the valley just to watch the sun rise. To kiss her always. To hold her and watch as her hair turned gray.”
"You are beautiful when irritated. I remember when I first saw you, even as you snarled, I thought you were the most beautiful woman I'd ever seen."
"And did you think that still after all the times I tried to murder you?"
"I didn't say I liked you very much, but yes."
“And, oh, did he still. She was hardly wearing anything now. Her hair was a mess of tangles framing her face. He imagined this would be how she looked like in the morning when she woke. Save for the dirt on her face and clothes. What he wouldn't give to wake up next to her daily, to see the morning sun kiss her cheeks as they nuzzled close.”
"But life isn't something one just eases through. Life is a constant battle. Every moment of peace, every smile, every kiss that is worth a damn must be earned. So fight with me, Lalo. And if you are too weary from everything you've already been through, then I'll raise my fists and fight for us both."
𓍢⊹ ࣪
“If you are ever lost, simply search into my heart and there you will be.”
July 11, 2024
vampire x vampire hunter is an elite pairing
thank you to the publisher for providing this arc
Follow me on Instagram
thank you to the publisher for providing this arc
Follow me on Instagram
lost-interest
December 24, 2024I need to share that I am not feeling this atm, which is so sad because I was so unbelievably excited. I need to come back to this later to give it a fair shot.
----------------------------
LOOK WHAT JUST BECAME AVAILABLE ON LIBBY!
----------------------------------
GUYS WHAT IS THIS COVER???? NO WORDS
----------------------------
LOOK WHAT JUST BECAME AVAILABLE ON LIBBY!
----------------------------------
GUYS WHAT IS THIS COVER???? NO WORDS
October 14, 2025
➸ 2.5/5 stars
This book had some seriously top-tier tropes and an amazing setting, and I was all in at the beginning. The first half of the story had me hooked — everything felt fresh, exciting, and full of potential. But around the 50% mark, things started to lose steam, and it just kind of… fell apart. The relationship development felt rushed and over-the-top. It was like it escalated way too quickly, and I couldn’t fully buy into it. my absolute favorite part of the book was that the mmc is so afraid and freaked out by the fmc that every time she looked at him, he swore his soul fled his body. (that sums up what type of woman I am)
***ARC provided by the publisher Random House Children's.***
This book had some seriously top-tier tropes and an amazing setting, and I was all in at the beginning. The first half of the story had me hooked — everything felt fresh, exciting, and full of potential. But around the 50% mark, things started to lose steam, and it just kind of… fell apart. The relationship development felt rushed and over-the-top. It was like it escalated way too quickly, and I couldn’t fully buy into it. my absolute favorite part of the book was that the mmc is so afraid and freaked out by the fmc that every time she looked at him, he swore his soul fled his body. (that sums up what type of woman I am)
***ARC provided by the publisher Random House Children's.***
Currently reading
November 1, 2025⋮ ⌗ ┆pre-read⋆˚꩜｡
╰ another vampire x vampire slayer book! the cover is so pretty and I’m just so excited to see where this goes, I’m on a vampire book grind and I’m not giving it up. whatever keeps me out of a reading slump 🙏
╰ another vampire x vampire slayer book! the cover is so pretty and I’m just so excited to see where this goes, I’m on a vampire book grind and I’m not giving it up. whatever keeps me out of a reading slump 🙏
January 2, 2025
2.5 ★'s
─ .✦what to expect:
🩸 vampire huntress ✗ vampire
🥀 enemies to lovers
🩸 slow burn
🥀 fake engagement
🩸 mexican mythology & lore
🥀 dual pov's
⸝⸝
─ .✦mini summary:
lalo (mmc) is forced turned into a vampire after trying to avenge his parents death. he then flees the city north to a small town in hopes to find answers about the first vampire made so he can try and reverse his curse.
there he meets carolina (fmc) a vampire hunter who wants to join her family in hunting the monsters that plague her town. her father is trying to set up a arranged marriage she doesn't want. carolina and lalo realize they can help each other and decide to team up...
─ .✦my thoughts:
this book was definitely on the younger side of YA for my personal taste and i found characters and dialogue to be cheesy.
the beginning was slow going making it hard for me to get fully invested. it never really picked up and i found it to be rather dull especially for a vampire novel.
romance fell flat but a big part of this is because i couldn't connect to the characters i ended up not caring. i wanted more tension and chemistry.
although this book didn't work for me i think others will find it more enjoyable. this was all just personal preference and in the end i just couldn't connect to the story.
________________________________
thank you netgalley and publisher black & white | ink road for a eARC in exchange for a honest review
─ .✦what to expect:
🩸 vampire huntress ✗ vampire
🥀 enemies to lovers
🩸 slow burn
🥀 fake engagement
🩸 mexican mythology & lore
🥀 dual pov's
⸝⸝
❝ And what is a few moments when our souls have loved each other since the beginning of time ❞
─ .✦mini summary:
lalo (mmc) is forced turned into a vampire after trying to avenge his parents death. he then flees the city north to a small town in hopes to find answers about the first vampire made so he can try and reverse his curse.
there he meets carolina (fmc) a vampire hunter who wants to join her family in hunting the monsters that plague her town. her father is trying to set up a arranged marriage she doesn't want. carolina and lalo realize they can help each other and decide to team up...
─ .✦my thoughts:
this book was definitely on the younger side of YA for my personal taste and i found characters and dialogue to be cheesy.
the beginning was slow going making it hard for me to get fully invested. it never really picked up and i found it to be rather dull especially for a vampire novel.
romance fell flat but a big part of this is because i couldn't connect to the characters i ended up not caring. i wanted more tension and chemistry.
although this book didn't work for me i think others will find it more enjoyable. this was all just personal preference and in the end i just couldn't connect to the story.
________________________________
thank you netgalley and publisher black & white | ink road for a eARC in exchange for a honest review
December 21, 2024
💌He loved her. She had seen it. He loved her, and it scared the life out of him. She loved him too, but that love didn't scare her. If anything, his love made her feel braver than ever before. Because if he could see her, see the truest and most private parts of her, and love her still, then that love was something worth facing a thousand monsters for.
okay don’t make me cry 😾
you know like when you’re watching a horror movie and main character goes blindly into some dimly lit alley or basement and you’ll be like ”DON’T GO THERE HE’S RIGHT BEHIND YOU!!”
yeah reading the first chapter was like that
our mmc Lalo saw his parents get killed by a vampiro so he did what a logical person would do, went to kill her!! except he’s not some strong heroic character but a nineteen years old boy who loves reading🥹 it’s okay babygirl not everyone has to be the badass killer main character we love you just the way you are 💘💝🩷💞💓 long story short the woman who killed his parents turned him into a vampiro *dramatic gasp* are you kidding me what do you want from this poor boy?!
anyways enter our actually badass vampire slayer fmc Carolina💅🏻 her chapter starts rather dramatic too with vampiro attacks and deaths, like please whose idea was to make young adults suffer like this💔
🗡️“I asked you a question.”
“You said if I spoke, you’d turn me to dust. I’d very much like to remain in this form, so I choose to stay silent.”
“You just spoke. And far too much.”
“I apologize. I don’t know the proper protocol for one holding a weapon to my throat.”
so you might wonder how is this relationship gonna work? a vampiro and the slayer? pffts please this is a disaster waiting. except it’s not because after a couple of dagger to throat scene and some pistol duel and fights Carolina realizes that our sweet Lalo is in fact sweet🌝 killing him would be like kicking a puppy so why not work together to solve world’s vampiro problem😌
💖“Why do you look to terrified?”
“Because … Because I desperately want to kiss you.”
“Why don’t you?”
“I’m afraid. I’ve never … I haven’t … I want to kiss you, Carolina. But I fear if I do, I might never stop.”
“Kiss me anyway.”
it was adorable, funny and cute. the banter was bantering. i stayed up until 5am so i could keep reading about them🤭 honestly who wouldn’t love a puppy-like awkward hero and a totally badass heroine who keeps saving hero’s ass?? also they’re fake courting, did i mention that? and he never even kissed anyone before her?? like please give him to me i’m gonna bubble wrap him and keep him safely tucked away
💘 Seeing her face, unmasked, startled him more than anything. Because—holy saints—she was the most stunning person he’d ever seen.
💝 Stars, she was beautiful. He’d only ever truly seen her at night or when clouds covered the skies. But here, with the light of day highlighting her rosy cheeks, she was like a goddess walking among them.
💞She glanced up at him, shining stars dancing in her eyes. He didn't think the greatest artist could paint a face as beautiful as hers. Even that little line between her brows was a work of wonder.
see how whipped he is😽
okay don’t make me cry 😾
you know like when you’re watching a horror movie and main character goes blindly into some dimly lit alley or basement and you’ll be like ”DON’T GO THERE HE’S RIGHT BEHIND YOU!!”
yeah reading the first chapter was like that
our mmc Lalo saw his parents get killed by a vampiro so he did what a logical person would do, went to kill her!! except he’s not some strong heroic character but a nineteen years old boy who loves reading🥹 it’s okay babygirl not everyone has to be the badass killer main character we love you just the way you are 💘💝🩷💞💓 long story short the woman who killed his parents turned him into a vampiro *dramatic gasp* are you kidding me what do you want from this poor boy?!
anyways enter our actually badass vampire slayer fmc Carolina💅🏻 her chapter starts rather dramatic too with vampiro attacks and deaths, like please whose idea was to make young adults suffer like this💔
🗡️“I asked you a question.”
“You said if I spoke, you’d turn me to dust. I’d very much like to remain in this form, so I choose to stay silent.”
“You just spoke. And far too much.”
“I apologize. I don’t know the proper protocol for one holding a weapon to my throat.”
so you might wonder how is this relationship gonna work? a vampiro and the slayer? pffts please this is a disaster waiting. except it’s not because after a couple of dagger to throat scene and some pistol duel and fights Carolina realizes that our sweet Lalo is in fact sweet🌝 killing him would be like kicking a puppy so why not work together to solve world’s vampiro problem😌
💖“Why do you look to terrified?”
“Because … Because I desperately want to kiss you.”
“Why don’t you?”
“I’m afraid. I’ve never … I haven’t … I want to kiss you, Carolina. But I fear if I do, I might never stop.”
“Kiss me anyway.”
it was adorable, funny and cute. the banter was bantering. i stayed up until 5am so i could keep reading about them🤭 honestly who wouldn’t love a puppy-like awkward hero and a totally badass heroine who keeps saving hero’s ass?? also they’re fake courting, did i mention that? and he never even kissed anyone before her?? like please give him to me i’m gonna bubble wrap him and keep him safely tucked away
💘 Seeing her face, unmasked, startled him more than anything. Because—holy saints—she was the most stunning person he’d ever seen.
💝 Stars, she was beautiful. He’d only ever truly seen her at night or when clouds covered the skies. But here, with the light of day highlighting her rosy cheeks, she was like a goddess walking among them.
💞She glanced up at him, shining stars dancing in her eyes. He didn't think the greatest artist could paint a face as beautiful as hers. Even that little line between her brows was a work of wonder.
see how whipped he is😽
February 22, 2025
"She used to see the world in black and white. Right or wrong. Monster or human. Why did Lalo have to add color where it didn’t belong?”
𓏲 ๋࣭ ࣪ ˖4.25🌟 🔥🧛♂️🙈💃
This was my first book by Angela Montoya and , I might read her other books as well hehe 🤭🤸♀️.
Carolina Fuentes was a headstrong, sharp-tongued, and fiercely loyal young woman who had a “take no prisoners” attitude when it came to hunting vampires and protecting her family. She wants so badly to prove to her father that she’s more than capable of being taken seriously as a vampire hunter .
Carolina was fierce, determined, and so easy to root for. Their relationship was beautifully developed, full of tension and sweetness in equal measure.
“She liked watching him in any light, but here, away from the crowd, with only the stars and the moon spectating, Carolina found Lalo to be the most beautiful person in all the world.”
Opposites certainly attracted between them and in total contrast to her fierceness, Lalo Villalobos was a deathly serious, soft-hearted, socially awkward, and scholarly young man who loved his books and hated peopling (hard relate). Lalo was adorable! He was such an easy character to empathise with and root for.
"You couldn’t help yourself, could you?”
“I was bored,”
“Only you would cure boredom by dusting books.”
“They aren’t just any books. They are my salvation.”
The plot is pretty straightforward and fairly predictable as more elements come to light. There wasn’t a need for a lot of snooping or heavy planning because Lalo, the brilliant nerd that he is, already had years of research tucked under his belt about vampires.
"But if he was to face the original sediento soon and possibly die for real this time, shouldn't he be allowed to kiss the girl he was falling for?
"Bloody hell," he murmured. "You've fallen for Carolina Victoria Fuentes." His head dropped. "And you are going to lose her before she was ever even yours."
Despite the enmity from the moment they lay eyes on each other there is also a big physical attraction between the two. It was amusing at first to hear them be shocked at how beautiful and handsome the other was while they were fighting for their lives against each other (lol) but if I’m being honest, it got tiring after a while how often their attraction was pushed on the page. Their attraction/romance was also a lot more “telling” when “showing” how they felt and what they saw in each other.
And to add to say more , the end felt rushed , it was like if the author wanted just to give us a HEA even if the end was good by me , I wanted more 💁♀️.
And please just when there were some action , paf the villains dead , or apologizing 🤡.
“He loved her. She had seen it. He loved her, and it scared the life out of him. She loved him too, but that love didn't scare her. If anything, his love made her feel braver than ever before. Because if he could see her, see the truest and most private parts of her, and love her still, then that love was something worth facing a thousand monsters for.”
--
Pre-Read :
Please please please be a good swoony romantasy 🙌😩
𓏲 ๋࣭ ࣪ ˖4.25🌟 🔥🧛♂️🙈💃
This was my first book by Angela Montoya and , I might read her other books as well hehe 🤭🤸♀️.
Carolina Fuentes was a headstrong, sharp-tongued, and fiercely loyal young woman who had a “take no prisoners” attitude when it came to hunting vampires and protecting her family. She wants so badly to prove to her father that she’s more than capable of being taken seriously as a vampire hunter .
Carolina was fierce, determined, and so easy to root for. Their relationship was beautifully developed, full of tension and sweetness in equal measure.
“She liked watching him in any light, but here, away from the crowd, with only the stars and the moon spectating, Carolina found Lalo to be the most beautiful person in all the world.”
Opposites certainly attracted between them and in total contrast to her fierceness, Lalo Villalobos was a deathly serious, soft-hearted, socially awkward, and scholarly young man who loved his books and hated peopling (hard relate). Lalo was adorable! He was such an easy character to empathise with and root for.
"You couldn’t help yourself, could you?”
“I was bored,”
“Only you would cure boredom by dusting books.”
“They aren’t just any books. They are my salvation.”
The plot is pretty straightforward and fairly predictable as more elements come to light. There wasn’t a need for a lot of snooping or heavy planning because Lalo, the brilliant nerd that he is, already had years of research tucked under his belt about vampires.
"But if he was to face the original sediento soon and possibly die for real this time, shouldn't he be allowed to kiss the girl he was falling for?
"Bloody hell," he murmured. "You've fallen for Carolina Victoria Fuentes." His head dropped. "And you are going to lose her before she was ever even yours."
Despite the enmity from the moment they lay eyes on each other there is also a big physical attraction between the two. It was amusing at first to hear them be shocked at how beautiful and handsome the other was while they were fighting for their lives against each other (lol) but if I’m being honest, it got tiring after a while how often their attraction was pushed on the page. Their attraction/romance was also a lot more “telling” when “showing” how they felt and what they saw in each other.
And to add to say more , the end felt rushed , it was like if the author wanted just to give us a HEA even if the end was good by me , I wanted more 💁♀️.
And please just when there were some action , paf the villains dead , or apologizing 🤡.
“He loved her. She had seen it. He loved her, and it scared the life out of him. She loved him too, but that love didn't scare her. If anything, his love made her feel braver than ever before. Because if he could see her, see the truest and most private parts of her, and love her still, then that love was something worth facing a thousand monsters for.”
--
Pre-Read :
Please please please be a good swoony romantasy 🙌😩
December 27, 2024
4.75 ⭐️ | TikTok |
Whoa, that was a good book.
This is a great one to go into somewhat blind. I’d recommend skipping the synopsis and diving in without too much detail, that is what I did and I really enjoyed the unexpected (but would otherwise be expected, if you read the synopsis) events!
What I loved…
- Such a unique take on the vampire/vampire hunter
- laugh out loud funny
- Grade A+ banter
- the most perfect MMC
- badass strong, takes no crap, FMC
- family forward (they’ll do anything to protect their family and community!)
- imagery & atmosphere for dayyyyssss
- adventure, a quest, and some really great fight scenes.
- detailed world, brimming with culture and lore.
- enemies to lovers, fake engagement - but these “tropes” don’t feel like tropes they are done flawlessly and naturally! 10/10
What I didn’t love…
- The only issue I have is very minor… At the beginning of the book some of the prose was choppy, but it was only at the very beginning of the book, and quickly resolved itself.
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Children’s (Joy Revolution) for sending this book (eARC) for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Whoa, that was a good book.
This is a great one to go into somewhat blind. I’d recommend skipping the synopsis and diving in without too much detail, that is what I did and I really enjoyed the unexpected (but would otherwise be expected, if you read the synopsis) events!
What I loved…
- Such a unique take on the vampire/vampire hunter
- laugh out loud funny
- Grade A+ banter
- the most perfect MMC
- badass strong, takes no crap, FMC
- family forward (they’ll do anything to protect their family and community!)
- imagery & atmosphere for dayyyyssss
- adventure, a quest, and some really great fight scenes.
- detailed world, brimming with culture and lore.
- enemies to lovers, fake engagement - but these “tropes” don’t feel like tropes they are done flawlessly and naturally! 10/10
What I didn’t love…
- The only issue I have is very minor… At the beginning of the book some of the prose was choppy, but it was only at the very beginning of the book, and quickly resolved itself.
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Children’s (Joy Revolution) for sending this book (eARC) for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
July 11, 2025
el concepto es muy bueno. amé el mundo mexicano y vampiro del libro. las referencias a dioses indígenas y su legado fue mi punto favorito de la historia.
pero creo que hay un gran declive al 60% de la historia. hay muchas coincidencias que hacen la trama muy conveniente.
me hubiese gustado que el romance hubiese sido más lento o manejado de otra forma que no se sintiera como “lo vi, estaba guapo y lo quiero tocar” desde un principio.
sé que es un libro juvenil y bastante corto de leer (cosa que está muy bien), pero el romance siento que pudo haber sido mejor.
lo que sí me dio en la madre fue todas las interacciones familiares. es un libro que ama a la familia, traumada y con problemas, pero familia al final del día. sí sentí que se me apretaba el corazón.
es una lectura rápida, entretenida y para pasar el rato. pero me hubiese gustado que fuera aún más espectacular
pero creo que hay un gran declive al 60% de la historia. hay muchas coincidencias que hacen la trama muy conveniente.
me hubiese gustado que el romance hubiese sido más lento o manejado de otra forma que no se sintiera como “lo vi, estaba guapo y lo quiero tocar” desde un principio.
sé que es un libro juvenil y bastante corto de leer (cosa que está muy bien), pero el romance siento que pudo haber sido mejor.
lo que sí me dio en la madre fue todas las interacciones familiares. es un libro que ama a la familia, traumada y con problemas, pero familia al final del día. sí sentí que se me apretaba el corazón.
es una lectura rápida, entretenida y para pasar el rato. pero me hubiese gustado que fuera aún más espectacular
Want to read
April 11, 2024People who say don't judge a book by its cover, don't understand the power of a beautiful cover. I was just scrolling down my feed when I saw one of my mutuals added this to their TBR and I immediately clicked on it based solely on the cover.
The synopsis also seems like my cup of tea, so hopefully it delivers. Finger crossed.
The synopsis also seems like my cup of tea, so hopefully it delivers. Finger crossed.
January 19, 2025
̨ ╭╯ꗃ 01. 14. 25 ˚﹒
︵࣪ ˖ ໒꒱ post-read
╰› i finished before nat because she said she'd finish yesterday and i only saw her message just now saying she didn't. shame on you 😡
2.5, the first 20% was soooo boring I had to go through the trenches to get past it and last 20% was just lowk underwhelming and made no sense to me. but the 60% in the middle was fine, rtc
̨ ╭╯ꗃ 01. 05. 25 ˚﹒
︵࣪ ˖ ໒꒱ pre-read
╰› first buddy-read of 2025, only with my favorite educated hater– nat 🤭🤍
I was deeply in love with the cover until I laid eyes on the mustache… huge turn-off. But this is vampire x vampire hunter and I will pretend like the mustache doesn’t exist, so I lowk think this will serve 😍
︵࣪ ˖ ໒꒱ post-read
╰› i finished before nat because she said she'd finish yesterday and i only saw her message just now saying she didn't. shame on you 😡
2.5, the first 20% was soooo boring I had to go through the trenches to get past it and last 20% was just lowk underwhelming and made no sense to me. but the 60% in the middle was fine, rtc
̨ ╭╯ꗃ 01. 05. 25 ˚﹒
︵࣪ ˖ ໒꒱ pre-read
╰› first buddy-read of 2025, only with my favorite educated hater– nat 🤭🤍
I was deeply in love with the cover until I laid eyes on the mustache… huge turn-off. But this is vampire x vampire hunter and I will pretend like the mustache doesn’t exist, so I lowk think this will serve 😍
December 19, 2025
3.5/5
I came for the cover and stayed for the vampire x vampire hunter chaos 😋🔪🩸
this was a really entertaining and quick read for the spooky season. I loved how our vampire hunter was the determined and more serious character while our vampire was an unlucky soul who could not have been a worse vampire 💀 every time he did something I was like oh no please someone save him 😅
there were a few lines that really stood out to me and I liked the overall story, but my main complaint was that it felt a bit too unserious at times that made it hard to take this book seriously. for example, we would have a gruesome death occur that was described to affect our FMC hard, but the next chapter she was acting totally fine and not bothered at all. these types of things happened often and unfortunately took away from the more serious messaging the author tried to portrayed.
the romance was also ok - there were some really cute moments but they felt sparse! I wish the author spent a bit more time exploring their connection instead of forcing this ‘hate’ between them when it was so obvious they liked each other.
regardless, I still really enjoyed it and would recommend for the spookier months!
I came for the cover and stayed for the vampire x vampire hunter chaos 😋🔪🩸
this was a really entertaining and quick read for the spooky season. I loved how our vampire hunter was the determined and more serious character while our vampire was an unlucky soul who could not have been a worse vampire 💀 every time he did something I was like oh no please someone save him 😅
there were a few lines that really stood out to me and I liked the overall story, but my main complaint was that it felt a bit too unserious at times that made it hard to take this book seriously. for example, we would have a gruesome death occur that was described to affect our FMC hard, but the next chapter she was acting totally fine and not bothered at all. these types of things happened often and unfortunately took away from the more serious messaging the author tried to portrayed.
the romance was also ok - there were some really cute moments but they felt sparse! I wish the author spent a bit more time exploring their connection instead of forcing this ‘hate’ between them when it was so obvious they liked each other.
regardless, I still really enjoyed it and would recommend for the spookier months!
December 16, 2024
4.5 stars - I LOVED THIS. So much fun and also incredibly hilarious?? I genuinely laughed out loud multiple times.
Vampire x vampire hunter but the vampire was turned against his will so they pair up to take down vampires??? And also pretend to be engaged???? The MMC was so adorable and wholesome and aloof and the FMC was sharp and determined and also funny. This was just such a delight. Will update with full thoughts later!
thank you Penguin Teen Canada for the eARC!
Vampire x vampire hunter but the vampire was turned against his will so they pair up to take down vampires??? And also pretend to be engaged???? The MMC was so adorable and wholesome and aloof and the FMC was sharp and determined and also funny. This was just such a delight. Will update with full thoughts later!
thank you Penguin Teen Canada for the eARC!
December 22, 2024
It was cute but overall just a little bit too childish and corny for me. Character arcs were abrupt and plot relevant information was just dropped in the characters’ laps.
I don’t want to rate it lower because I recognize this was likely intended for a younger YA audience. (Honestly take out one scene and I would say this could be middle grade)
I don’t want to rate it lower because I recognize this was likely intended for a younger YA audience. (Honestly take out one scene and I would say this could be middle grade)
January 19, 2025
Someone remind me why I keep subjecting myself to romantasy books, this was ass (rtc)
-`🫀´- pre read: buddy read with my fellow hate reader niyya!!!
That cover tho>>> (let’s ignore the mustache k)
As someone who ahas been team Edward since 9 years old I LOVE vampires, hopefully we love this too!
January 17, 2025
I’m so sorry but why did every villain literally apologize at the end???? this was wayyyyy too kumbaya after the BANGER that was Sinner’s Isle.
This is a YA book but it read more like middle grade the with way the characters were written (which made some things feel very awkward). Lalo was just not it for me. Like I wish this was just from Carolina’s POV.
The plot didn’t feel like much and nothing really kept my interest after I learned that nothing about being a vampire was fun and all the typical vampire tropes I’ve come to love just didn’t work here. Like why do I want to read an anti-vampire romance? Bella at least wanted to be a vampire even if Edward hated it, you know? Which I guess is a me thing, so take this review with a grain of salt.
The narrators were okay; I’m not sure which one I liked better? Like they were fine but something about them together didn’t quite work for me.
I received a free audiobook from PRH Audio. All opinions are honest and my own.
This is a YA book but it read more like middle grade the with way the characters were written (which made some things feel very awkward). Lalo was just not it for me. Like I wish this was just from Carolina’s POV.
The plot didn’t feel like much and nothing really kept my interest after I learned that nothing about being a vampire was fun and all the typical vampire tropes I’ve come to love just didn’t work here. Like why do I want to read an anti-vampire romance? Bella at least wanted to be a vampire even if Edward hated it, you know? Which I guess is a me thing, so take this review with a grain of salt.
The narrators were okay; I’m not sure which one I liked better? Like they were fine but something about them together didn’t quite work for me.
I received a free audiobook from PRH Audio. All opinions are honest and my own.
February 19, 2025
This was really cute! Just missing the depth I wanted. Probably bc it’s YA
July 24, 2025
Will be in my next vlog
January 2, 2025
2024 reads: 336/250
i received an advanced review copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
carolina fuentes has always wanted to join her family in hunting vampires, but her father is more concerned with who she’ll marry. carolina’s determined to prove herself as a capable vampire slayer to everyone. when she meets a kind and handsome sediento, though, she begins questioning everything she’s been told about vampires.
lalo villalobos just wants to take care of his younger sister. after being turned into a sediento and being forced to flee the city, this task proves more difficult than he anticipated. he just wants to return to normal, and when he runs into a vampire slayer with a common enemy, he’s sure he can achieve his goal.
ever since i saw this cover, i knew i had to read this book. i love vampires and ships from opposing sides, so i knew i’d like this (and i was right!). i loved both characters so much, especially lalo, who is entirely different from your average YA vampire. he was recently turned, and even before that, he knew a lot about vampires as he wanted to avenge his parents’ deaths. he also doesn’t have the best people skills. carolina, on the other hand, is a strong character who knows what she wants and goes for it. these two worked so well together and i really loved seeing them grow both individually and as a couple!
i’d highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys YA fantasy.
i received an advanced review copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
carolina fuentes has always wanted to join her family in hunting vampires, but her father is more concerned with who she’ll marry. carolina’s determined to prove herself as a capable vampire slayer to everyone. when she meets a kind and handsome sediento, though, she begins questioning everything she’s been told about vampires.
lalo villalobos just wants to take care of his younger sister. after being turned into a sediento and being forced to flee the city, this task proves more difficult than he anticipated. he just wants to return to normal, and when he runs into a vampire slayer with a common enemy, he’s sure he can achieve his goal.
ever since i saw this cover, i knew i had to read this book. i love vampires and ships from opposing sides, so i knew i’d like this (and i was right!). i loved both characters so much, especially lalo, who is entirely different from your average YA vampire. he was recently turned, and even before that, he knew a lot about vampires as he wanted to avenge his parents’ deaths. he also doesn’t have the best people skills. carolina, on the other hand, is a strong character who knows what she wants and goes for it. these two worked so well together and i really loved seeing them grow both individually and as a couple!
i’d highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys YA fantasy.
November 8, 2024
Carolina Fuentes has always aspired to join her family in hunting the bloodthirsty monsters that plague her home. However, her family has different plans; they want her married and far away from the town's dangers. Defiant, she sets out to prove she can also slay vampires. But her encounter with a sediento, who is unexpectedly handsome and kind, leads her to question everything she knows. Lalo Villalobos's duties were to care for his younger sibling, continue the family business, and start his own family. Yet, everything changes when he becomes a sediento and must leave the city, determined to find the first of his kind and end the curse. When Lalo meets a determined young woman intent on staking him, they discover a shared enemy. Together, this unlikely duo embarks on a quest to defeat these malevolent creatures.
I adored this unexpected romantic fantasy featuring vampires and vampire slayers. The banter between the MMC and FMC was delightful, with a strong MMC to root for and their shared commitment to protecting their loved ones. Rich in culture and lore, this book captivated me from the beginning. And the cover? Absolute perfection!
This is my first encounter with Angela Montoya's work, and I am certainly inclined to explore more of her books.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review..
I adored this unexpected romantic fantasy featuring vampires and vampire slayers. The banter between the MMC and FMC was delightful, with a strong MMC to root for and their shared commitment to protecting their loved ones. Rich in culture and lore, this book captivated me from the beginning. And the cover? Absolute perfection!
This is my first encounter with Angela Montoya's work, and I am certainly inclined to explore more of her books.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review..
April 5, 2025
[image error]
May 5, 2024
The book cover is what got my attention and plot sounded interesting. The beginning was good, but it lost steam in the middle. Still romance, even though it didn't have much of tension, was cute, just like characters.
ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 18, 2024
Thank you so much to Random House Children's for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Forever obsessed with Angela Montoya's Latinx fantasy books! I loved this historical fantasy novel set in a fictional town in 1800's Mexico. Our two characters, Lalo and Carolina, are the star of the show. Whereas most vampire romance novels involve a broody 1000-year-old vampire who looks like a young man and an innocent human girl, here, Lalo is a 19-year old boy newly turned into a vampire after trying to avenge his parents' death. His clumsy, awkward, anxious-ridden self thinks being a vampire is the worst thing that could've happened to him. Meanwhile, stubborn and fierce Carolina comes from a long line of vampire hunters and is out for blood after the death of several of her family members at the hands of vampires. Seeing Carolina and Lalo's paths collide was so much fun, and I love how refreshing this vampire novel was.
If you're a fan of Vampires of El Norte, but a more comedic and YA version, I definitely recommend picking A Cruel Thirst up!
Follow me on TikTok | Instagram | Twitter for more book reviews & recommendations!
Forever obsessed with Angela Montoya's Latinx fantasy books! I loved this historical fantasy novel set in a fictional town in 1800's Mexico. Our two characters, Lalo and Carolina, are the star of the show. Whereas most vampire romance novels involve a broody 1000-year-old vampire who looks like a young man and an innocent human girl, here, Lalo is a 19-year old boy newly turned into a vampire after trying to avenge his parents' death. His clumsy, awkward, anxious-ridden self thinks being a vampire is the worst thing that could've happened to him. Meanwhile, stubborn and fierce Carolina comes from a long line of vampire hunters and is out for blood after the death of several of her family members at the hands of vampires. Seeing Carolina and Lalo's paths collide was so much fun, and I love how refreshing this vampire novel was.
If you're a fan of Vampires of El Norte, but a more comedic and YA version, I definitely recommend picking A Cruel Thirst up!
Follow me on TikTok | Instagram | Twitter for more book reviews & recommendations!
December 24, 2024
I’m in love with Lalo 🥺 please can he be real?
I was beyond excited when I read the blurb. Vampire x vampire hunter? Yes, please! Vampire hunters are so underused in romance, and this sounded perfect. But guys, this book is a prime example of “story” versus “plot”. Yes, there’s a story, but the plot is very weak. The characters seem to be thrown into random scenes without causality, as if the author had rolled dice. I found myself questioning the characters and their motifs, and the narrative quickly became stale. There’s no real “hook”, and I solely kept reading because of Lalo.
Nevertheless, I’m going to keep an eye on this author because the characters are strong. I think a different editor could do wonders here. 🖋️
I received an ARC via NetGalley. All my opinions are my own.
I was beyond excited when I read the blurb. Vampire x vampire hunter? Yes, please! Vampire hunters are so underused in romance, and this sounded perfect. But guys, this book is a prime example of “story” versus “plot”. Yes, there’s a story, but the plot is very weak. The characters seem to be thrown into random scenes without causality, as if the author had rolled dice. I found myself questioning the characters and their motifs, and the narrative quickly became stale. There’s no real “hook”, and I solely kept reading because of Lalo.
Nevertheless, I’m going to keep an eye on this author because the characters are strong. I think a different editor could do wonders here. 🖋️
I received an ARC via NetGalley. All my opinions are my own.
January 9, 2025
Meh. More on the mushy side than the action side of the spectrum. I won’t remember much about it in another week or two.
February 17, 2025
✨️ 3.5
cute! not necessarily lifechanging, but i'll always have fun reading about angsty vampires :)
🩸 soundtrack 🩸
lana del rey - gods and monsters
laura marling - devil's resting place
kt tunstall - black horse and the cherry tree
lera lynn, shovels & rope - wolf like me
cage the elephant - cold cold cold
little red lung - fangs
delta rae - dance in the graveyards
zella day - seven nation army
wolf alice - visions of a life
lorde - biting down
aurora - blood in the wine
white lies - to lose my life
my chemical romance - vampires will never hurt you
paramore - monster
5 seconds of summer - daylight
panic! at the disco - hurricane
nothing but thieves - honey whiskey
mads langer - beauty of the dark
ellie goulding - my blood
blood red shoes - eye to eye (alt version)
hozier - sunlight
civil twilight - human
tom odell - heal
daughter - home
ed sheeran - give me love
the civil wars - poison and wine
silverstein - mary (orchestral)
the sundays - wild horses
secondhand serenade - your call
motion city soundtrack - crooked ways
as it is - you, the room and the devil on your shoulder
cute! not necessarily lifechanging, but i'll always have fun reading about angsty vampires :)
🩸 soundtrack 🩸
lana del rey - gods and monsters
laura marling - devil's resting place
kt tunstall - black horse and the cherry tree
lera lynn, shovels & rope - wolf like me
cage the elephant - cold cold cold
little red lung - fangs
delta rae - dance in the graveyards
zella day - seven nation army
wolf alice - visions of a life
lorde - biting down
aurora - blood in the wine
white lies - to lose my life
my chemical romance - vampires will never hurt you
paramore - monster
5 seconds of summer - daylight
panic! at the disco - hurricane
nothing but thieves - honey whiskey
mads langer - beauty of the dark
ellie goulding - my blood
blood red shoes - eye to eye (alt version)
hozier - sunlight
civil twilight - human
tom odell - heal
daughter - home
ed sheeran - give me love
the civil wars - poison and wine
silverstein - mary (orchestral)
the sundays - wild horses
secondhand serenade - your call
motion city soundtrack - crooked ways
as it is - you, the room and the devil on your shoulder
June 26, 2025
« For wild-hearted daughters : May you continue to give the world hell. » ❤️🔥
The world building is rich and the plots are very interesting. But it was so cheesy🥲 I feel terrible but I couldn’t help but cringe at the interactions. The insta-lust was strong but honestly, the interactions between the characters ruined this for me. It was on the extreme younger side of YA (except maybe 1-2 scenes).
« And what is a few moments when our souls have known each other since the beginning of time? »
The world building is rich and the plots are very interesting. But it was so cheesy🥲 I feel terrible but I couldn’t help but cringe at the interactions. The insta-lust was strong but honestly, the interactions between the characters ruined this for me. It was on the extreme younger side of YA (except maybe 1-2 scenes).
« And what is a few moments when our souls have known each other since the beginning of time? »
August 22, 2025
Loved. Every. Single. Second.
More thoughtful review to come soon!
4/24: okay official review here we goooo…
First of all, AAAHHHHH!!!!
I loved this book, you guys. From the very beginning, Angela Montoya captured my attention with who would turn out to be one of my absolute most beloved characters, Lalo. Poor sweet baby Lalo who must be protected at all times, accidentally becomes a vampire while avenging the deaths of his parents and boy does he HATE. IT.
We get this angsty, self-loathing vampire who goes on a mission to destroy vampires and ends up accidentally teams up with THE CAROLINA, vampire hunter, who initially tries to unalive him (seriously this kid, for someone who does a lot of research, ends up doing a lot of this on accident).
I can’t describe to you how precious Lalo and Lina are to me (and to each other 🥹). This book was bursting with longing and humor and such a fresh take on the lore of vampirism, it was unlike anything I’ve read before. It was adventurous but also somehow the coziest thing I’ve read in awhile. I devoured it.
Thank you Angela for trusting me with an early early copy of this DELIGHT. I loved it, I still think about it all the time. What a triumph!
More thoughtful review to come soon!
4/24: okay official review here we goooo…
First of all, AAAHHHHH!!!!
I loved this book, you guys. From the very beginning, Angela Montoya captured my attention with who would turn out to be one of my absolute most beloved characters, Lalo. Poor sweet baby Lalo who must be protected at all times, accidentally becomes a vampire while avenging the deaths of his parents and boy does he HATE. IT.
We get this angsty, self-loathing vampire who goes on a mission to destroy vampires and ends up accidentally teams up with THE CAROLINA, vampire hunter, who initially tries to unalive him (seriously this kid, for someone who does a lot of research, ends up doing a lot of this on accident).
I can’t describe to you how precious Lalo and Lina are to me (and to each other 🥹). This book was bursting with longing and humor and such a fresh take on the lore of vampirism, it was unlike anything I’ve read before. It was adventurous but also somehow the coziest thing I’ve read in awhile. I devoured it.
Thank you Angela for trusting me with an early early copy of this DELIGHT. I loved it, I still think about it all the time. What a triumph!
October 12, 2024
Despite me taking forever to read this book, I thoroughly enjoyed my experience reading it, especially because I was craving a good vampire romance book. I love the chemistry between Carolina and Lalo and their development, I love the humor they both have, and I really enjoyed them as characters. I feel like they went through a good development while still staying true to who they are in terms of personality. The storyline was also enjoyable to follow and I really appreciate the different bonds these 2 have with their families. My complaint about this book was that the last 15% felt so, so rushed. It would've benefitted from an additional 30-50 pages to wrap up the climax of the story and the after of it.
Overall, I highly recommend this book if you're looking for a good vampire enemies? hate? to love book with a good plot to accompany it
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for providing me with the arc
Overall, I highly recommend this book if you're looking for a good vampire enemies? hate? to love book with a good plot to accompany it
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for providing me with the arc
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,234 reviews