Beyond the Crimson Haze

Blood Veil #3

by Nicholas Woode-Smith

There’s a voice inside my head…

And it’s demanding I become a monster…

You’d think I’d already hit rock bottom becoming a vampire without a sire, with a talking cat roommate who can’t stop making musical references.

You’d be wrong.

My home has been taken from me. Along with all my stuff. That’s left me living underground with the help of a man I’m still not sure I can completely trust. The enigmatic detective Theo Goldhaus.

But I won’t give up. My enemies are still out there. And they’ve been joined by a mysterious and brutal serial killer who is now prowling the streets of my city.

I may be biting off more than I can chew, but I can’t just let a killer roam my streets.

I’ll keep fighting for justice. Or die trying. Again.

Beyond the Crimson Haze is book 3 of the Blood Veil Series, starring the determined and tad mad Kali Black in her adventure across a secret world of vampires, the paranormal and the fantastical.

Genres: Vampires

263 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2025

About the author

Nicholas Woode-Smith is a fantasy and science fiction author from Cape Town, South Africa. He has been writing since the age of twelve, writing short stories, novels, and RPG campaigns. In 2013, he published his first book, Fall of Zona Nox. Five years later, he published it again after greatly improving his skills.

Since then, he’s written dozens of books in the urban fantasy and sci-fi genre. Notably, the best-selling urban fantasy series, Kat Drummond.

Nicholas has a degree majoring in economic history and philosophy, and minors in political science, international relations, and English literature from the University of Cape Town. He has been involved in politics, civic activism, and political analysis since 2014.

Reviews

[Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Haze

Kali was learning to use her vampire powers and was invited to be a detective by the very handsome Theo. Unfortunately she has to stay hidden from the corrupt head of the police force.

Kali and her talking demon cat meet a lot of different supernatural characters, and get themselves into mess after mess. The good news is that Kali is learning just how powerful her vampire bloodline is.

This book started out slow, but ended with an exciting flourish. Solid four stars.

[Susan1566 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kali is in hiding, her apartment and all of her stuff has been taken by the ORC, but she’s trusting that Theo, although an ORC captain, really wants what’s best. She’s interested in his offer to make her a detective once Gunmede has been defeated but in the meantime, she has nothing to do. She’s even out of contact with her friends.
Because she’s bored, she joins Theo on an investigation of a possible haunted office. What they find is multiple mutilated bodies, signs of a serial killer. Leaving that to the regular police doesn’t sit well with Kali and when it’s closed because of Gunmede, she starts investigating.
There are several different things happening but they all come together, new friends and enemies.
I found the first quarter of the book a little slow but the rest of the book more that made up for it.
There is action, suspense, surprises, mystery and humour. Fredward has discovered Dolly Parton and is torn between her and Taylor Swift. I do appreciate the fewer Swifty references and love the mishmash of the two singers’ songs. Fredward is surprising in several spots.
This is a great read but I’m unhappy I have to wait for the next one. There are so many possible stories that could happen.
Definitely worth the read.

[L & J Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed Book 3 in this fast paced paranormal fantasy series. Kali, an investigative reporter who was investigating a child trafficking ring in Book 1 and was mortally wounded as a result but saved from certain death at the last minute through being turned by a vampire who apologized and then disappeared is still trying to bring down the corrupt cop in Book 3. She is aided by Theo, another officer in this elite force who is also trying to do this while working on the inside. Kali and her ragtag group of allies are also trying to figure out who is killing humans and harvesting their organs, possibly for magical purposes. This non-spicy urban fantasy is a quick read, with bits of humor and the possibility of a budding romance between Kali and the human Theo.

[Kris Cobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kali is going stir crazy in the safehouse. She needs to get out and try to find something to do, to try to find how to defeat Gumede.

Instead, she finds trouble and a case to work with Theo. With Amber's help, she gets leads on the cause of the trouble; with Theo's help she finds where it might head next.

Where it leads next is to more trouble... for Theo.

It will take all of Kali's resources and friendships to attempt to get Theo out of his trouble.

How much trouble is Theo in? Can they succeed in getting him out of it? Can Kali learn any more about her Dracul heritage? The answers lie in this fast-paced page-turner.

[Emma Bain · Rating 5 out of 5]

My word this one was satisfying!! Jam packed full of plot development and reveals, demon kitty hijinks, awkward sexual tension and the usual mystery investigation.

This book finds Kali going stir crazy in the safe house after hiding for a month. After being caught venturing out when she shouldn't have she gets pulled into a possible serial killer investigation which leads to links in the Veil.

This book flea by and I inhaled it in one sitting, I fully recommend putting your feet up with a pot of tea, a pack of biscuits and losing yourself in the Veil for a spell!

[Roger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beyond the Crimson Haze: A Vampire Urban Fantasy Novel (Blood Veil Book 3), my eleventh read from author Nicholas Woode-Smith, the concluding book in the occult suspense Blood Veil series. If you like Theophilus Monroe's books you'll probably like this series. “I received a complementary Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. I look forward to reading more from this author. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, I have to be honest with you, I got towards the end and stopped cos I didn’t want it to end. I’d go back read a chapter and put down. When a book or series are this good you don’t want to ever finish them. At least I shall be able to re-read them. I absolutely loved this one from the beginning right through to the ending which gave me cause to think that there maybe another book, here’s hoping anyway. Very highly recommended.

[Yael · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great read that introduces a new threat to the Veiled community. Kali continues her efforts to rid the city of the corruption that plagues the police, while getting to know her powers better, and forging new alliances. This book has a compelling narrative, well written characters, and a fast paced story that will keep you reading, and begging for more.

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

[Geff Ratcheson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good stuff like usual from Mr. Woode-Smith.

Believable characters. Entertaining, thoughtful with action.

And I LOVE Fredward the Hellcat. He makes the series!

This set is really worth the time to read. And as a bonus, I have learned a bit about South Africa (the author's home). I had no idea it was so dangerous.

I received an Advanced Reader's copy at no charge & am leaving an unbiased review.

[Paul Cobbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kali the fugitive. After the events of Book 2, Kali needs to lay low. She accomplished some incredible things, but she solidified enemy status with some very powerful people whilst doing so. Now her undead life is at risk, as well as the lives of everybody she holds dear. And her quest still isn't over.

[LizJ. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond the Crimson Haze Book 3 in the Blood Veil series by Nicholas Woode-Smith is reminiscent of Mercy from Theophilus Monroe's books. Kali Black may have lost everything, but she has her Taylor Swift loving cat, possible backup (if she can trust him) and her determination to fight for justice. I'm loving this series!

I received an ARC from StoryOrigin and am leaving my review freely.

[Ken Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great Kali Black story. Kali continues chasing down leads to Gunmede, a corrupt police commissioner, who was responsible for a child trafficking ring. In order to get to him, Kali eventually has to form a coalition with multiple vampire factions. Lots of character development and action. Very entertaining read.

[Laurie Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another episode in the life of the undead. Lots of action in this one which will keep you engaged for sure. Kali's cat finally shows his true form and Theo continues to both assist and request Kali's aid.
Looking forward to the next in series as further confrontations are sure to emerge.

[Jacqualine Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

What’s not to love about a little paranormal hocus-pocus you’ll definitely get into the story because it has amazing characters. Terrific storyline, and fantastic world building is a defend page. Turner must read and I would highly recommend this book. You’re gonna love the action in this book.

[Kathy Brenzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This marvellous series is getting better and better. Kali is still fighting evil both old and new. She has friends she can trust and some she is unsure about. However, nothing stops her from doing the things she feels she must.

[Andi · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. For being such a short novel, the first half of this book unfortunately dragged for me. There was some movement on Kali’s storyline, but there’s more to come. I’ll definitely continue the series.

[Janice Drake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kali is a super character! Love her. This latest book is one big action fest and kept me reading half the night. Looks like her scariest opponent will show up the in next book. Can't wait.

[Darcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

We continue Kali’s journey to Gumede and is evil doings. We see Kali coming into herself and growing into the vampire that she should be. We learn a tiny bit more about her bloodline and what it means to be a Dracul. I absolutely love Fredward and his commentary. He will have me laughing so much at times. Him and Kali together work so well and then their banter back and forth will just draw you further into this fantastic series. I love the action and drama that is throughout this story. We have are amazing side characters that seem to always be in the right place at the right time. This story had me glued to it and absolutely engulfed with all that takes place. We get to the end and boy do we have a moment that leads me to see there is possibly a new book that will definitely be exciting to read. Such a fun series that is absolutely a must read.

[Phthon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kali finally brings Gumede down. Revenge can be bittersweet. I won’t say anything more, but it was so fitting! Sadly, Kali’s work isn’t finished just yet. Another adversary to vanquish…and an unexpected surprise waiting for her. Whether this surprise is good or bad remains to be seen. This was fantastic! I loved this book!

[Beba Andric · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought the first 2 books in this series were amazing, well, THIS book surpassed that, it was SPECTACULAR! I love the South Africanisms, I love reading slang I can relate to, and it more than warms my heart that Nicholas keeps to his roots, taking me to places I know, feeding me a language I'm familiar with. The references to so many things, like the cops, the gangs, are accurately portrayed, albeit in a fictional setting, and he doesn't shy away from highlighting events, which some would deem, political, nor does he shy away from the horrifically gore, but he does it in a, dare I say, palatable way. And there's Fredward, the snarkiest, most adorable cat, who has a Tyler Swift obsession too, and is facing a major crisis, he dared to like Dolly Parton! You just can't help loving this demon in cat form. The reality cool part is that though it's fiction, certain elements are steeped in the South African "scene" of corruption, the greed, the law unto themselves institutions like the police, the fear of the "untouchables". There's magic sure, but there's also Sangoma's, rituals, and mediums thrown in the mix, as well as all types of supernaturals, combining action with drama and a flair for comedic relief in just the right places. Heck did I laugh when Kali and Theo were in a really dire situation and this was Kali's thought "it sounded an awful lot like he was calling the half lady a "doos", which was unnecessary rude". The way Nicholas fuses dramatic situations with humour is honestly brilliant. There are a few South Africanisms that made me laugh so much my sides ached.

And this is exactly what Kali and Theo are trying to prevent, a corruption that has sunk so deep it'll tear a new butthole if it's ripped out! Compounded is the "thing" happening between them, Kali trying to come to terms with her new vampire self and her new....status...as a rare, of the extinct kind, issues with trust and her need to find her sire, so they sure have a lot on their plate! Kali is a wannabe detective who turned to journalism, who GOT turned into a vamp without her consent. She's one of the most endearingly characters I've read, her sense of right, her indisputable sticking her face where it doesn't belong attitude, has always been her mantra. But hey, she WAS and IS trying to put an end to kids being kidnapped for vamp food or worse.... so very honourable sticking of nose it is! Forced into hiding, by Theo, to keep off Gumede's radar, she desperately misses her friends, who are the most unlikely motley crew if ever there was one, Amber, a human who's feisty and fearless and the best bff on the planet, Nigel, the 3rd element of the three amigos since way back when, who's a Nosfar vamp slowly going coo-coo, Thalia, a Nyxari vamp, stoic, for all extents and purposes emotionless but she's a real mench.

What an incredible ride this read is, indeed the entire series! By the time I was 80% in this book, I was in danger of having an aneurysm, Nicholas almost snuck this up on me, I was suddenly on super charge mode, dry mouth, the whole caboodle! Fighting a cause for unsuspecting children is one thing but fighting for Theo takes Kali to the weirdest of places, she enropes her nemesary, as well as factions of vampires who loathe one another, heck, even a few non dirty cops to her side. And geez did that go down with a bang! Yeah yeah yeah, corny I know but it did!

Nicholas puts his characters, and audience, through their paces, fast, energetic, adrenaline pumping, yep, not only the characters, me too, delivering a read that's intoxicating! The banter is effortlessly delightful and extremely compelling, I'm alternating clenching my teeth in anxiety and howling with laughter. He mixes all the ingredients together skilfully and comes up with the most delicious "potjiekos" I've tasted! Bravo MasterChef Nicholas!

[Sarah Metcalf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another incredible book in the Blood Veil series! Kali is now in hiding after she saved the children from the vampires. That made her an even bigger target than she was before. After sneaking out of the safe house one night, Theo finds her and they end up going on a case together. But what they find is more than the simple haunting they had expected. A gruesome scene that speaks of a serial killer with supernatural ties is only part of Kali’s issues. She still needs to figure out as much as she can about her bloodline.
Kali is now struggling with the voice in her head that wants her to take over. She must learn everything she can about what she is before does something she may regret. She is feeling lonely and useless trapped in the safe house with no one besides Fredward. And Fredward, omg what can I say about him?! He is evolving and starting to find a new musical love, one I would never have seen coming. Nor what happens with Fredward when Kali is really put to the test in this book.
This book had me glued to my e-reader! There are new foes and new allies as well. Kali is definitely good at getting humans and vampires to come together. There was so much that goes on and especially at the end I was absolutely holding my breath! Even though I know there will be more books in this series I was wondering how it would all play out. It was an exciting ending to this book/story arc with a dramatic build up towards the next book.

[FionaH · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to get an advance copy of this book, the third in a fantastic new series by one of my favourite authors. As ever, Nicholas has created a world that is compelling and believable, populated by characters that you want to meet in real life.

Kali has finally solved the mystery of the missing children, and brought down the perpetrators. But in the process she has lost her home and her career, and is now hiding from everyone she loves in order to keep them safe.

Theo, an attractive human detective who may or may not be one of the good guys, is trying to recruit her to help him solve Occult Related Crimes. On their first “case” they uncover the lair of a serial killer, and must work together to find them before it is too late.

With the perfect mix of action, snark, mystery, and humour, this book had me completely enthralled right up to the very last page.

The Blood Veil series takes an intriguing approach to imagining a vampire society, with different castes of vampire having different talents and limitations. And there are more than vampires beyond the veil – including shape-shifting demons, one of whom has been living with her for years in the guise of her pet cat, Fredward.

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