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The Originals #1
The Rise
Family is power. The Original vampire family swore it to each other a thousand years ago. They pledged to remain together always and forever. But even when you're immortal, promises are hard to keep.
Arriving in New Orleans in 1722, Original vampire siblings Klaus, Elijah and Rebekah Mikaelson believe they've escaped their dangerous past. But the city is lawless, a haven for witches and werewolves unwilling to share territory. The siblings are at their mercy…especially after Klaus meets the beautiful and mysterious Vivianne. Her impending marriage is key to ending the war between the supernatural factions—and Klaus's attraction to her could destroy the uneasy alliance. As Elijah works toward securing a piece of the city for his family, and Rebekah fights her unexpected feelings for a French captain, will Klaus's volatile desires bring their world crashing down—and tear them apart for good?
Arriving in New Orleans in 1722, Original vampire siblings Klaus, Elijah and Rebekah Mikaelson believe they've escaped their dangerous past. But the city is lawless, a haven for witches and werewolves unwilling to share territory. The siblings are at their mercy…especially after Klaus meets the beautiful and mysterious Vivianne. Her impending marriage is key to ending the war between the supernatural factions—and Klaus's attraction to her could destroy the uneasy alliance. As Elijah works toward securing a piece of the city for his family, and Rebekah fights her unexpected feelings for a French captain, will Klaus's volatile desires bring their world crashing down—and tear them apart for good?
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2015
689 people are currently reading
11565 people want to read
About the author
Julie Plec
22 books431 followersJulie Plec is a television producer and writer, known for her work on the Scream films and the television show Kyle XY.
Plec is an Executive Producer and writer on The Vampire Diaries, and often co-writes episodes with Kevin Williamson.
Plec is an Executive Producer and writer on The Vampire Diaries, and often co-writes episodes with Kevin Williamson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 421 reviews
January 5, 2015
I don't usually read books that are based on popular TV shows, but when I saw that there will be a story about my favorite antihero, I decided to make an exception and read it. Because, seriously, it is Klaus Mikaelson!
What I liked?
- It felt like I was watching new episode of TV show. I was surprised by how much writing reminded me of the show - I could picture everything in my head and I almost could hear their voices.
- Background story. The Rise is great addition to the show and I believe that fans will enjoy it a lot, because it offers small flashback to the past of the most notorious vampires in New Orleans.
- Fast, action-packed and fun. Once you start reading this, it goes really fast and before you know it, you'll read the last page.
- Glimpse of humanity. It was interesting to see more personal side of the trio and, what is even rarely, Klause being in love.
What I didn't like?
- Not recommended for people who don't watch the show. I have a feeling that you would be left with more questions than answers and that you will think that it is uncompleted. The Rise is the companion novel, great, fun and quick read that fans would enjoy, but I don't think other would appreciate it as much.
- Cheesy and overly melodramatic in the end. It started good and there were all things I love about Klaus, Elijah and Rebekah, but somewhere along the way it took turn to worse and I ended more annoyed than happy. I was especially disappointed with Klaus.
Final judgement? Great choice if you are suffering because there are no new episode of your favorite show at the moment. I believe that The Originals fans will appreciate this book.
Review posted at Ja čitam, a ti?
Read and like Emma's review, please!
What I liked?
- It felt like I was watching new episode of TV show. I was surprised by how much writing reminded me of the show - I could picture everything in my head and I almost could hear their voices.
- Background story. The Rise is great addition to the show and I believe that fans will enjoy it a lot, because it offers small flashback to the past of the most notorious vampires in New Orleans.
- Fast, action-packed and fun. Once you start reading this, it goes really fast and before you know it, you'll read the last page.
- Glimpse of humanity. It was interesting to see more personal side of the trio and, what is even rarely, Klause being in love.
What I didn't like?
- Not recommended for people who don't watch the show. I have a feeling that you would be left with more questions than answers and that you will think that it is uncompleted. The Rise is the companion novel, great, fun and quick read that fans would enjoy, but I don't think other would appreciate it as much.
- Cheesy and overly melodramatic in the end. It started good and there were all things I love about Klaus, Elijah and Rebekah, but somewhere along the way it took turn to worse and I ended more annoyed than happy. I was especially disappointed with Klaus.
Final judgement? Great choice if you are suffering because there are no new episode of your favorite show at the moment. I believe that The Originals fans will appreciate this book.
Review posted at Ja čitam, a ti?
Read and like Emma's review, please!
February 4, 2015
3 - "We will always have one another. We will always have family." Stars.
I have seen several seasons of The Vampire Diaries (and read, as well as preferred the original books the show was derived from). So when I saw The Originals: The Rise pop up on Netgalley I thought I would give it a go, I love a good Vampire saga, and having not seen any of the TV show my opinions are based solely on the book itself.
Something new had come to New Orleans, and the night would never be safe again.
The book gives you the stories of the Mikaelson siblings; Elijah, Rebekah and Klaus. It is pretty apparent that each of them has their own agenda as the book progresses. The story told from all the points of view is fast paced, varied (as they all are going about different things for the most part) and easy to imagine. Rebekah and Klaus are also dealing with love interests as well so there is a little romance, but it is not the mainstay of this story.
There was no future for them without one another.
This is a book firmly in the PNR genre for me, you are not only reading of Vampires, but Witches and Werewolves feature heavily as the book progresses. I liked Elijah for his diplomacy, Rebekah for her confidence, and Klaus for his sarcasm, two of them love and suffer loss in this book and although not the end of the story, it ended well, you know there are more adventures to come for this trio, but along in the future.
”A year is still a year to me; a lifetime is a lifetime. Having had more than a few of my own makes them no less vivid or important to me.”
Nothing really new or unusual about the story, but it is well written and the characters are likeable. I will definitely be looking out for the second book in the trilogy The Loss due for release in March 2015.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
I have seen several seasons of The Vampire Diaries (and read, as well as preferred the original books the show was derived from). So when I saw The Originals: The Rise pop up on Netgalley I thought I would give it a go, I love a good Vampire saga, and having not seen any of the TV show my opinions are based solely on the book itself.
Something new had come to New Orleans, and the night would never be safe again.
The book gives you the stories of the Mikaelson siblings; Elijah, Rebekah and Klaus. It is pretty apparent that each of them has their own agenda as the book progresses. The story told from all the points of view is fast paced, varied (as they all are going about different things for the most part) and easy to imagine. Rebekah and Klaus are also dealing with love interests as well so there is a little romance, but it is not the mainstay of this story.
There was no future for them without one another.
This is a book firmly in the PNR genre for me, you are not only reading of Vampires, but Witches and Werewolves feature heavily as the book progresses. I liked Elijah for his diplomacy, Rebekah for her confidence, and Klaus for his sarcasm, two of them love and suffer loss in this book and although not the end of the story, it ended well, you know there are more adventures to come for this trio, but along in the future.
”A year is still a year to me; a lifetime is a lifetime. Having had more than a few of my own makes them no less vivid or important to me.”
Nothing really new or unusual about the story, but it is well written and the characters are likeable. I will definitely be looking out for the second book in the trilogy The Loss due for release in March 2015.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
January 27, 2015
A slow uninteresting start but quickly grew in interest and action.
The Originals, seem to have been cursed with epic unhappiness. Their father hunts them considering them abominations that must be ended. Their lives are endless battles spent running from hunters and other forces that hate them. This is a story that proves immortality is not a sure bet for a happy life.
Klaus, Rebekah and Elijah, search for a place to call home a place to belong. They have been in New Orleans for almost 10 years and feel it is time for permanence. When they are rejected once again by the werewolves and witches of New Orleans they step around the rules to make their dreams come true. Two siblings fall in true love, one gains some ground, all three will suffer.
This is not a happy tale. It is heartbreaking to watch the events unfold. It is the beginning of a new life perhaps to more. I struggled with the beginning, it might be because I have not seen the TV show but I have known them from their days on Vampire Diaries. Not great writing, it seemed like it came from a script with just some added details ? I think a fan of the show would really enjoy this peek into their lives.
The Originals, seem to have been cursed with epic unhappiness. Their father hunts them considering them abominations that must be ended. Their lives are endless battles spent running from hunters and other forces that hate them. This is a story that proves immortality is not a sure bet for a happy life.
Klaus, Rebekah and Elijah, search for a place to call home a place to belong. They have been in New Orleans for almost 10 years and feel it is time for permanence. When they are rejected once again by the werewolves and witches of New Orleans they step around the rules to make their dreams come true. Two siblings fall in true love, one gains some ground, all three will suffer.
This is not a happy tale. It is heartbreaking to watch the events unfold. It is the beginning of a new life perhaps to more. I struggled with the beginning, it might be because I have not seen the TV show but I have known them from their days on Vampire Diaries. Not great writing, it seemed like it came from a script with just some added details ? I think a fan of the show would really enjoy this peek into their lives.
March 30, 2021
I definitely liked this more the second time around, most likely because I've actually watched the TV show first this time 🤣 It was much more interesting when I could imagine the characters and even hear their voices say the words. I liked it.
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to Hachette Children's Books and NetGalley.)
This started off okay, but I lost interest.
First off, I obviously didn’t pay that much attention to the cover of this one, because I had no idea that this was anything to do with the Vampire Diaries until I started reading it. I haven’t read the Vampire Diaries series for years, and I only remember it being okay.
Anyway, I just got bored by this. I didn’t care what was happening or why. There were a couple of okay moments, and I did like the first couple of chapters, but after that it just all went downhill. I really don’t want to read any more books in this series.
4 out of 10
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to Hachette Children's Books and NetGalley.)
This started off okay, but I lost interest.
First off, I obviously didn’t pay that much attention to the cover of this one, because I had no idea that this was anything to do with the Vampire Diaries until I started reading it. I haven’t read the Vampire Diaries series for years, and I only remember it being okay.
Anyway, I just got bored by this. I didn’t care what was happening or why. There were a couple of okay moments, and I did like the first couple of chapters, but after that it just all went downhill. I really don’t want to read any more books in this series.
4 out of 10
July 10, 2015
3,5 Stars!
I'll simply start with that: how can someone not like Klaus? He is the ultimate anti-hero, he pontificates everything we hate to love, he analyzes all in such a way that is practically unthinkable not to feel the charm he exudes. But i can't lie, Elijah did it for me.
The whole book had a very show-like feeling, i even pictured it as a new episode and that was very good, mostly because the characters were genuine and true to what we know and love.
The storyline was also viewer-friendly and didn't turn away from the origins we all know, it just expanded them through a fresh and highly detailed take that made main heroes even more likeable.
I heard their voices in my head in every page and it absolutely felt like i peeked through the curtain to gain more info about the series. I could connect with all the issues that arose. The unresolved love interests, the pain, the struggle to live a "normal" life and put some roots in a place, the power games, the immorality, the vengeful plan to seek war.
The endless battle won't come to an end, no, not in this book, but i can tell you right away that it will turn to be a difficult, interesting and quite ambiguous task.
THOUGHTS ABOUT THE BOOK
- So much background.
- Multi POV.
- The mysterious Vivienne tangled everything up.
- Good writing. Even though i got somewhat destructed towards the end.
- Elijah, always the level-headed, diplomatic and trustworthy man.
- Every character has it's own agenda.
- Klaus and Rebekah, will suffer some losses.
- If you haven't seen the series, i would recommend to watch them and then read this book.
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review. Thank you!
I'll simply start with that: how can someone not like Klaus? He is the ultimate anti-hero, he pontificates everything we hate to love, he analyzes all in such a way that is practically unthinkable not to feel the charm he exudes. But i can't lie, Elijah did it for me.
The whole book had a very show-like feeling, i even pictured it as a new episode and that was very good, mostly because the characters were genuine and true to what we know and love.
The storyline was also viewer-friendly and didn't turn away from the origins we all know, it just expanded them through a fresh and highly detailed take that made main heroes even more likeable.
I heard their voices in my head in every page and it absolutely felt like i peeked through the curtain to gain more info about the series. I could connect with all the issues that arose. The unresolved love interests, the pain, the struggle to live a "normal" life and put some roots in a place, the power games, the immorality, the vengeful plan to seek war.
The endless battle won't come to an end, no, not in this book, but i can tell you right away that it will turn to be a difficult, interesting and quite ambiguous task.
THOUGHTS ABOUT THE BOOK
- So much background.
- Multi POV.
- The mysterious Vivienne tangled everything up.
- Good writing. Even though i got somewhat destructed towards the end.
- Elijah, always the level-headed, diplomatic and trustworthy man.
- Every character has it's own agenda.
- Klaus and Rebekah, will suffer some losses.
- If you haven't seen the series, i would recommend to watch them and then read this book.
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review. Thank you!
June 26, 2019
The year is 1722. Elijah, Klaus, and Rebekah have fled, from Mikael their father who is hell-bent on killing them, to the new world. They try in New Orleans to build up a new life and have the past nine years lying low not really being able to settle in a town that is ruled by witches and werewolves. But everything is about to change. Vivianne, born of a mother who is a witch and a father who was a werewolf is betrothed to a werewolf to establish a union between witches and the werewolves that should bring peace between them. But then Klaus sets his eyes on Vivianne and the union is in jeopardy.
This is without a doubt a book written for the fans of the tv-series The Originals, if you don’t like the show or has not even heard of the Mikaelsons then you probably won’t like it as much as a fan of the show. Like me, who loved the book! I can’t remember the last time I read a book with such an enjoyment that the time just flew by and suddenly the book is over and I just wanted more, but there isn’t anymore because the last 8 % of the book is just the first part of the next book (that I want pronto!) and now I’m sad because it was so good.
I mean it had instalove and everything and I bought it. Sure Rebekah falls way too soon, but that is part of her character, she has never been very lucky when it comes to men. Seeing Klaus in love was more of a surprise, but it worked also. Elijah, as usual, is the one trying to stay level headed and keep his brother away from problems, but as always, Klaus is a loose cannon and Elijah will always put his family before anything. Was the ending predictable? Yes, but I didn’t mind that either. Damn, I just sucked up the story like a sponge sucking up water.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with a free copy for an honest review!
This is without a doubt a book written for the fans of the tv-series The Originals, if you don’t like the show or has not even heard of the Mikaelsons then you probably won’t like it as much as a fan of the show. Like me, who loved the book! I can’t remember the last time I read a book with such an enjoyment that the time just flew by and suddenly the book is over and I just wanted more, but there isn’t anymore because the last 8 % of the book is just the first part of the next book (that I want pronto!) and now I’m sad because it was so good.
I mean it had instalove and everything and I bought it. Sure Rebekah falls way too soon, but that is part of her character, she has never been very lucky when it comes to men. Seeing Klaus in love was more of a surprise, but it worked also. Elijah, as usual, is the one trying to stay level headed and keep his brother away from problems, but as always, Klaus is a loose cannon and Elijah will always put his family before anything. Was the ending predictable? Yes, but I didn’t mind that either. Damn, I just sucked up the story like a sponge sucking up water.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with a free copy for an honest review!
October 17, 2023
2,5
I will read the next 2 books, but this is one was an huge disapointment.
Sometimes I felt bored while reading it.
I will read the next 2 books, but this is one was an huge disapointment.
Sometimes I felt bored while reading it.
Want to read
June 20, 2016
September 3, 2020
This is the story of the Originals I never knew I needed. I prefer The Originals over The Vampire Diaries and of course we know a lot about their past, but this is their origin in New Orleans. This is a story where ‘always and forever’ gets tested from all sides. I loved it.
The story is told from three perspectives: Klaus, Elijah and Rebekah. And this is maintained structural throughout the book, with connected storylines yet adventures on their own. It helps you connect with the various characters, but also get impatient to continue the story of the other characters.
The characters are very like how we know them in the tv series (thank you Julie Plec). I knew the books of The Vampire Diaries are different from the tv series, so I prepared myself just in case. The only thing different with these books compared to the tv series is that you have to imagine their accents in your head (oh, yeah, it did naturally happen sometime halfway) and thankfully the use of old and difficult vocabulary is left out.
Even though the plot is a bit predictable if you’re familiar with the series – if you aren’t, I am not sure if you will enjoy it as much – it makes it very recognizable for fans and you are still rooting for happy endings. Even though you know where the characters are many years later and how they end up.
I am very curious to see where this book series leads us to in the other two parts. Thankfully I bought them all at the same time so hopefully I will find a moment soon with my huge TBR pile
The story is told from three perspectives: Klaus, Elijah and Rebekah. And this is maintained structural throughout the book, with connected storylines yet adventures on their own. It helps you connect with the various characters, but also get impatient to continue the story of the other characters.
The characters are very like how we know them in the tv series (thank you Julie Plec). I knew the books of The Vampire Diaries are different from the tv series, so I prepared myself just in case. The only thing different with these books compared to the tv series is that you have to imagine their accents in your head (oh, yeah, it did naturally happen sometime halfway) and thankfully the use of old and difficult vocabulary is left out.
Even though the plot is a bit predictable if you’re familiar with the series – if you aren’t, I am not sure if you will enjoy it as much – it makes it very recognizable for fans and you are still rooting for happy endings. Even though you know where the characters are many years later and how they end up.
I am very curious to see where this book series leads us to in the other two parts. Thankfully I bought them all at the same time so hopefully I will find a moment soon with my huge TBR pile
July 11, 2015
(I got a copy through NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.)
I have only watched a few episodes from the TV show, so I'm far from being an expert on the Mikaelson siblings and the kind of plots they get into in episodes. However, I'm not sure at all I found them here, nor that they were really interesting at all, in a more generic way. I kept thinking that they were, well, out of character—which was baffling, since I was under the impression that the people who worked on this novel were also those who worked on the series?
There was a lot of love in there, and of the insta-love, not very impressive kind. Rebekah, why not, as the series very early on showed that she was quick to develop interest for human guys. But in many other ways, she was so far from the badass girl I saw on screen. Neither could I find ruthless Klaus in the love-smitten dullard that ambled through the novel most of the time—and his reaction regarding Rebekah's love interest was way too removed from what I would have expected (TV!Niklaus would never have had such a mellow reaction, let her do as she pleased so easily). Elijah was closest to his character, I think, with his desire and efforts to build a home for his family, and thus keep the latter together. I must not be the right audience for so much romance, especially when involving immortals, who I wouldn't expect to develop feelings so quickly.
Mostly Elijah's plot seemed to be the main one, with his siblings' antics supposed to help (Rebekah recruiting an army) yet not helping much in the end, or just consisting in wooing a girl—at least the not-caring-about-what-others-do was somewhat Klaus-like, but that was all. (Also, why they absolutely had to remain in New Orleans, where they weren't welcome, was a bit puzzling. But I guess finding another city would've demanded long days or weeks of travel, uncertainty as to what they'd find there, and having to delay finding a home at last... So, well, I could live with that.)
Speaking of plots and ways of moving it forward, I would also have expected vampires to be more cunning, more prepared. As mentioned at the beginning of my review, I haven't watched many episodes; yet I remember Klaus's plan regarding how to undermine Marcel's influence, and... there wasn't much of that here. These vampires seemed too naive, too easily surprised by other characters or events, too vulnerable, compared to the "Originals" I had been led to expect. This doesn't fit with my idea of immortals.
In the end, my feelings about this book were mostly annoyance and boredom, and I couldn't care less about what would happen to its characters (including the secondary ones, whose fates were so easy to guess anyway). I'll stick to the TV series.
I have only watched a few episodes from the TV show, so I'm far from being an expert on the Mikaelson siblings and the kind of plots they get into in episodes. However, I'm not sure at all I found them here, nor that they were really interesting at all, in a more generic way. I kept thinking that they were, well, out of character—which was baffling, since I was under the impression that the people who worked on this novel were also those who worked on the series?
There was a lot of love in there, and of the insta-love, not very impressive kind. Rebekah, why not, as the series very early on showed that she was quick to develop interest for human guys. But in many other ways, she was so far from the badass girl I saw on screen. Neither could I find ruthless Klaus in the love-smitten dullard that ambled through the novel most of the time—and his reaction regarding Rebekah's love interest was way too removed from what I would have expected (TV!Niklaus would never have had such a mellow reaction, let her do as she pleased so easily). Elijah was closest to his character, I think, with his desire and efforts to build a home for his family, and thus keep the latter together. I must not be the right audience for so much romance, especially when involving immortals, who I wouldn't expect to develop feelings so quickly.
Mostly Elijah's plot seemed to be the main one, with his siblings' antics supposed to help (Rebekah recruiting an army) yet not helping much in the end, or just consisting in wooing a girl—at least the not-caring-about-what-others-do was somewhat Klaus-like, but that was all. (Also, why they absolutely had to remain in New Orleans, where they weren't welcome, was a bit puzzling. But I guess finding another city would've demanded long days or weeks of travel, uncertainty as to what they'd find there, and having to delay finding a home at last... So, well, I could live with that.)
Speaking of plots and ways of moving it forward, I would also have expected vampires to be more cunning, more prepared. As mentioned at the beginning of my review, I haven't watched many episodes; yet I remember Klaus's plan regarding how to undermine Marcel's influence, and... there wasn't much of that here. These vampires seemed too naive, too easily surprised by other characters or events, too vulnerable, compared to the "Originals" I had been led to expect. This doesn't fit with my idea of immortals.
In the end, my feelings about this book were mostly annoyance and boredom, and I couldn't care less about what would happen to its characters (including the secondary ones, whose fates were so easy to guess anyway). I'll stick to the TV series.
June 20, 2020
Rilettura in italiano mentre mi leggo il terzo in inglese. Mi serve anche per capire alcune parti che magari in inglese mi sono sfuggite o ho capito male. In inglese non era o è difficile da leggere ma ci sono sempre alcuni punti in cui magari non troviamo le parole e cerchiamo comunque di arrivarci. Penso ci siamo passati tutti. Ecco questi sono i punti che magari devo chiarire. Poi ho fatto una cazzata e ho preso la UK version e non l'originale ma pazienza vista la semplicità.
Mi rinfrescherà anche alcuni punti considerando che la prima volta l'ho letto nel 2017.
L'ho ricomprato come ebook perchè essendo un NC è stato possibile prenderlo scontato. Potevo anche scaricarlo pensandoci avendoli in inglese ma ho voluto supportare il mercato italiano anche se scontati nonostante sapete bene quanto sia pedante sulle traduzioni.
Per la traduzione non ho niente da dire a parte sweet nothing che quando ho visto la traduzione ho capito che è stata fatta leterale dato che non potevo ricordarmi le parole dal 2017. Pazienza. Un errore. Si, insomma non è molto e non ho niente da dire.
Essendo poi tradotto bene, per quel che mi ricordo, è stata una piacevole rilettura.
Mi rinfrescherà anche alcuni punti considerando che la prima volta l'ho letto nel 2017.
L'ho ricomprato come ebook perchè essendo un NC è stato possibile prenderlo scontato. Potevo anche scaricarlo pensandoci avendoli in inglese ma ho voluto supportare il mercato italiano anche se scontati nonostante sapete bene quanto sia pedante sulle traduzioni.
Per la traduzione non ho niente da dire a parte sweet nothing che quando ho visto la traduzione ho capito che è stata fatta leterale dato che non potevo ricordarmi le parole dal 2017. Pazienza. Un errore. Si, insomma non è molto e non ho niente da dire.
Essendo poi tradotto bene, per quel che mi ricordo, è stata una piacevole rilettura.
December 29, 2015
Beklentim düşük olduğundan mı bilmiyorum ama sevdim kitabı. Seveceğimi düşündüğümden daha fazla hem de :')
January 5, 2015
Buddy read with the lovely Glass
Great adaption to the TV series.
My Review...
First derived from The Vampire Diaries books by L.J Smith, came the TV show, which then after a few series came the spin off, The Originals. Now based on the TV series, comes the novels. After a recent lover of The Originals, I was super excited to receive this book review, only after Glass posted a picture on Instagram. We then said we would buddy read it as we are major fangirls of the series. (I'm Team Elijah, girls!)
Before, New Orleans became a home for them, it was just a city, including the supernatural, witches and werewolves. When three strangers arrived inland, it became a tense and dangerous place to live especially in the 1700s, the unknown and bloody world around them. When a treaty is being held between the witches and werewolves, the city is at it most vulnerable and tension is rife for the clans and the city. When Klaus, Elijah and Rebekah come between them, they are each others mercy and promise to try and bridge an alliance but who do it favour the most. Thus begins a war, between witches, werewolves and now vampires. The Original Vampires. New Orleans, a home that they have both learned to love and hate, when their greatest happiness can be destroyed with minutes.
When I first begun this book, I felt like I transported instantly to the 1700s and that Klaus, Elijah and Rebekah never left the screen at all. What helps is the fact that you already have the characters so you can visualise them as if it was another episode. What I loved was the alternate POVs especially Elijah's and Klaus as if the book was read out loud to you, this particular aspect reminded me of how it all started with The Vampire Diaries with Elena and Stefan. Each plotline was different from the show which I admired, we saw a different side to each of the other characters whilst having their personalities shining through. Klaus stiring up trouble where it's needed in his eyes. Elijah protecting his family and finding comfort where it is needed. And Rebekah searching to find happiness and love.
However, whilst I enjoyed the characteristic aspect of the novel, I found that the story lacked follow through. The is certainly more room for potential that could be explored. It could be seen to be very melodramatic at times, but its The Original's were talking, Klaus loves to make a fuss, Elijah, I'd say in his lovely voice, less dramatic, and Rebekah, well she is kick-ass, drama queen by nature of her life and her happiness. But in the end, they will always be together forever.
The Originals: The Rise is a great addition to the TV series and for that I'm looking forward to continuing the series, to find out what other messes that Klaus likes to drive them into. But for those who want to start out with this novel first, I wouldn't recommend it as you won't get the feels as the TV show. I'm always for read the book before the movie/TV show, but in this instance, I disagree with that.
Rating - 3.5
You can find this review on my blog
Great adaption to the TV series.
My Review...
First derived from The Vampire Diaries books by L.J Smith, came the TV show, which then after a few series came the spin off, The Originals. Now based on the TV series, comes the novels. After a recent lover of The Originals, I was super excited to receive this book review, only after Glass posted a picture on Instagram. We then said we would buddy read it as we are major fangirls of the series. (I'm Team Elijah, girls!)
Before, New Orleans became a home for them, it was just a city, including the supernatural, witches and werewolves. When three strangers arrived inland, it became a tense and dangerous place to live especially in the 1700s, the unknown and bloody world around them. When a treaty is being held between the witches and werewolves, the city is at it most vulnerable and tension is rife for the clans and the city. When Klaus, Elijah and Rebekah come between them, they are each others mercy and promise to try and bridge an alliance but who do it favour the most. Thus begins a war, between witches, werewolves and now vampires. The Original Vampires. New Orleans, a home that they have both learned to love and hate, when their greatest happiness can be destroyed with minutes.
When I first begun this book, I felt like I transported instantly to the 1700s and that Klaus, Elijah and Rebekah never left the screen at all. What helps is the fact that you already have the characters so you can visualise them as if it was another episode. What I loved was the alternate POVs especially Elijah's and Klaus as if the book was read out loud to you, this particular aspect reminded me of how it all started with The Vampire Diaries with Elena and Stefan. Each plotline was different from the show which I admired, we saw a different side to each of the other characters whilst having their personalities shining through. Klaus stiring up trouble where it's needed in his eyes. Elijah protecting his family and finding comfort where it is needed. And Rebekah searching to find happiness and love.
However, whilst I enjoyed the characteristic aspect of the novel, I found that the story lacked follow through. The is certainly more room for potential that could be explored. It could be seen to be very melodramatic at times, but its The Original's were talking, Klaus loves to make a fuss, Elijah, I'd say in his lovely voice, less dramatic, and Rebekah, well she is kick-ass, drama queen by nature of her life and her happiness. But in the end, they will always be together forever.
The Originals: The Rise is a great addition to the TV series and for that I'm looking forward to continuing the series, to find out what other messes that Klaus likes to drive them into. But for those who want to start out with this novel first, I wouldn't recommend it as you won't get the feels as the TV show. I'm always for read the book before the movie/TV show, but in this instance, I disagree with that.
Rating - 3.5
You can find this review on my blog
February 15, 2015
Well this was just awesome!! I loved Klaus and Elijah since they appeared in The Vampire Diaries and when they got there own series I was thrilled! Then to hear that they have their own books, well lets just say I squeeed a little ;)
The year is 1722 and the Mikaelson family is trying to find somewhere to make a home. They have been on the run from their father for a long time and need to down some roots. They arrive in New Orleans and decide to stay. The only thing is there are witches and werewolves already in the city and the vamps have to keep a low profile. Well 9 years pass and Klaus has had enough with the low profile, he wants more. Elijah makes it his business to find a home and make it safe, but with Klaus as your brother and Rebekah as your sister, you know nothing will run smoothly!! Klaus ends up falling for a witch who is to marry a werewolf and Rebekah falls for French Army captain, who isn't all he seems! Can Elijah secure a home and keep them safe?
Where to start with this?? I suppose we will start with Rebekah. She is as stubborn and fickle as always. She falls in love quickly but that's part of her charm. She goes off by herself to try to secure the armies help in getting rid of the werewolves but ends up falling for the captain. She longs to be with him but will she be able to? He seems to have an inkling that there are some supernatural beings in the world but doesnt know that Rebekah is one. He thinks she is a widow who lost her husband to bandits.
Then we have Elijah being the stoic brother he always is. He is always so put together and regal that its hard not to love him. He always seems to be mopping up both Klaus and Rebakahs messes and this is no different. He wants to find a house and protect it so they have somewhere safe to stay. He does everything he can to try to please everyone. He has always been one of my favourite characters.
Now onto Klaus!! He is as charming as ever. He is such an anti hero but it's so hard not to fall in love with him. He is so bad but shows hints of being good. He falls for Vivianne, an half witch/ half werewolf who is to marry the head werewolfs son, in an effort to gel the two supernatural covens together. He falls hard and deep for her and tries all he can to make her see that she will be better off with him. He is selfish, only thinks of himself and doesn't care what consequences his actions have but he is such a lovable baddy all the same.
Anyway, while reading this, it played out as an episode of the show in my head and I loved it. I could picture the setting and the characters perfectly. I loved that its set in New Orleans as well. Its steeped in so much history that you could almost imagine that witches, vampires and werewolves exist there. This book, while being short is action packed and fans of the series will love it. I love that these characters were given there own books and I really look forward to reading more from them, especially Elijah!!
The year is 1722 and the Mikaelson family is trying to find somewhere to make a home. They have been on the run from their father for a long time and need to down some roots. They arrive in New Orleans and decide to stay. The only thing is there are witches and werewolves already in the city and the vamps have to keep a low profile. Well 9 years pass and Klaus has had enough with the low profile, he wants more. Elijah makes it his business to find a home and make it safe, but with Klaus as your brother and Rebekah as your sister, you know nothing will run smoothly!! Klaus ends up falling for a witch who is to marry a werewolf and Rebekah falls for French Army captain, who isn't all he seems! Can Elijah secure a home and keep them safe?
Where to start with this?? I suppose we will start with Rebekah. She is as stubborn and fickle as always. She falls in love quickly but that's part of her charm. She goes off by herself to try to secure the armies help in getting rid of the werewolves but ends up falling for the captain. She longs to be with him but will she be able to? He seems to have an inkling that there are some supernatural beings in the world but doesnt know that Rebekah is one. He thinks she is a widow who lost her husband to bandits.
Then we have Elijah being the stoic brother he always is. He is always so put together and regal that its hard not to love him. He always seems to be mopping up both Klaus and Rebakahs messes and this is no different. He wants to find a house and protect it so they have somewhere safe to stay. He does everything he can to try to please everyone. He has always been one of my favourite characters.
Now onto Klaus!! He is as charming as ever. He is such an anti hero but it's so hard not to fall in love with him. He is so bad but shows hints of being good. He falls for Vivianne, an half witch/ half werewolf who is to marry the head werewolfs son, in an effort to gel the two supernatural covens together. He falls hard and deep for her and tries all he can to make her see that she will be better off with him. He is selfish, only thinks of himself and doesn't care what consequences his actions have but he is such a lovable baddy all the same.
Anyway, while reading this, it played out as an episode of the show in my head and I loved it. I could picture the setting and the characters perfectly. I loved that its set in New Orleans as well. Its steeped in so much history that you could almost imagine that witches, vampires and werewolves exist there. This book, while being short is action packed and fans of the series will love it. I love that these characters were given there own books and I really look forward to reading more from them, especially Elijah!!
May 21, 2022
What will follow is an absolutely biased review because I can't think straight when Daniel Gillies (Elijah Mikaelson) is involved. Even if I were told the books are awful, I'd purchase and read them anyway.
'The Rise' by Julie Plec opens the series of three books about the Mikaelson siblings, Klaus, Elijah, and Rebekah, searching for a new home after leaving Europe, chased by their murderous father.
Julie Plec made sugary, pretentiously sweet love lines the main driving force of the book, whereas, in the TV show, the threat to the Original vampires' existence pushes the story further. In the dire circumstances, Klaus Mikaelson of the TV show openly acknowledged his love (to dying Camille) - the book makes him say 'I love you' several times. Add to this feeble Klaus the parallel love story of Rebekah and Eric Moquet, and you'll get the typical romance under a supernatural veil. Where is the strong family bond? Where is a combination of tortures and delicate politics? Where is the great-great threat (except for Mikael, looming beyond the horizon)? What are the high stakes?
If it had been another book based on another TV series, I would have rated it two stars: contradictions with the show can be the size of Antarctica. Several of them are:
The biggest one is Klaus madly falling in love with the 19-year-old witch.
Rebekah, who suddenly doesn't want to use the compulsion to get the necessary support of humans,
People trained by Mikael can withstand the compulsion without drinking the vervain.
The Originals using the day rings. I admit the topic hasn't been appropriately developed within the show. Otherwise, other vampires could have simply stolen the day rings, and the Originals could have burned to ashes under the sunlight as normal vampires.
Silly witches who, trying to destroy vampires and werewolves, didn't bother to protect their own kind,
The constant reminder that the siblings have been together for 1000 years, while in the reality of the book, it's 700 years,
etc., etc., etc.
Because of Daniel Gillies, my rating is four stars. I recommend the book to the fans of the TV show. The book doesn't contain enough of the backstory for those who haven't seen 'The Originals.'
I'm determined to finish all three books in four days to feel the connection with the Mikaelson family again.
'The Rise' by Julie Plec opens the series of three books about the Mikaelson siblings, Klaus, Elijah, and Rebekah, searching for a new home after leaving Europe, chased by their murderous father.
Julie Plec made sugary, pretentiously sweet love lines the main driving force of the book, whereas, in the TV show, the threat to the Original vampires' existence pushes the story further. In the dire circumstances, Klaus Mikaelson of the TV show openly acknowledged his love (to dying Camille) - the book makes him say 'I love you' several times. Add to this feeble Klaus the parallel love story of Rebekah and Eric Moquet, and you'll get the typical romance under a supernatural veil. Where is the strong family bond? Where is a combination of tortures and delicate politics? Where is the great-great threat (except for Mikael, looming beyond the horizon)? What are the high stakes?
If it had been another book based on another TV series, I would have rated it two stars: contradictions with the show can be the size of Antarctica. Several of them are:
The biggest one is Klaus madly falling in love with the 19-year-old witch.
Rebekah, who suddenly doesn't want to use the compulsion to get the necessary support of humans,
People trained by Mikael can withstand the compulsion without drinking the vervain.
The Originals using the day rings. I admit the topic hasn't been appropriately developed within the show. Otherwise, other vampires could have simply stolen the day rings, and the Originals could have burned to ashes under the sunlight as normal vampires.
Silly witches who, trying to destroy vampires and werewolves, didn't bother to protect their own kind,
The constant reminder that the siblings have been together for 1000 years, while in the reality of the book, it's 700 years,
etc., etc., etc.
Because of Daniel Gillies, my rating is four stars. I recommend the book to the fans of the TV show. The book doesn't contain enough of the backstory for those who haven't seen 'The Originals.'
I'm determined to finish all three books in four days to feel the connection with the Mikaelson family again.
February 6, 2015
I just finished The Orginals: The Rise, and I quite enjoyed it! I don't know if this book is enjoyable if you don't watch the show, but if you do I really recommend it. It's funny to read a description of what one of the characters is doing, and being able to know exactly what it looks like.
January 14, 2015
I read The Vampire Diaries ages ago and watched the television adaptation off and on over the seasons. I was most intrigued about a spin off for Elijah, Klaus, Rebekah and meeting Vivianne. So I did a quick binge of The Originals and detoured to New Orleans. This story did not disappoint. If you aren't familiar with any of the characters, this story does a nice job of catching you up on the characters but you might get a bit lost at certain points. So you have all of the guilty pleasure of the Mikaelson family.
Elijah always had my heart but this features more of Klaus and I found that very interesting as he thinks he finds his true love with Vivianne, a half-witch, werewolf hybrid. As paranormal historical fiction, this is a winner and I really enjoyed the writing style of Plec. You can tell she can set a scene and the dialogue sings. It is a quick read and best suited for teens. Overall, it is a must read for fans of the shows.
Elijah always had my heart but this features more of Klaus and I found that very interesting as he thinks he finds his true love with Vivianne, a half-witch, werewolf hybrid. As paranormal historical fiction, this is a winner and I really enjoyed the writing style of Plec. You can tell she can set a scene and the dialogue sings. It is a quick read and best suited for teens. Overall, it is a must read for fans of the shows.
March 4, 2015
I was surprised how good it was. Review: http://youtu.be/iYF8bnNmx5w
April 9, 2021
I told myself I'll just read this for a taste of nostalgia but a bit of me might be back for the other two.
Quite well down.
Quite well down.
January 1, 2024
if I wanted to read cheap self-insert fanfic where Klaus behaves completely out of character because he would never swoon over the LI otherwise, I would dig through wattpad, not pay £9 in a bookstore. Seriously, who wrote this utter trash? How did it get published when I wrote better fanfic at age 14? And most importantly: Who do I contact to get my time back and this nonsense cleansed from my memory?
March 19, 2015
7.5/10
‘The Originals: The Rise’ is a story about three original, ancient vampires who are impossible to hate and surprisingly easy to love. The plot of the novel was intriguing if not a bit cliche. Once I forgave them for their faults and their errors, I got sucked in the story of their rise to power and settlement in New Orleans.
The pace of the novel was alright most of the time, however, sometimes it drawled a bit on. The ending was sad, my heart went out to the characters, especially Klaus, he deserved more.
This novel only enhanced my love for the already familiar and much-loved (and hated - depends on who you ask -> don’t ask certain werewolves) Originals. I have been a fan of Elijah from the moment I saw his appearance on The Vampire Diaries and I have loved him ever since.
The characters are amazing, I love their personalities and the dialogue amongst them. There was some great character development that is significant for the future of the characters.
The writing is good, it’s like watching the show but then in a novel format. I could really hear the voice of each individual character. And in my mind’s eye I saw the actors that belonged to the voices. Julie Plec has delivered an amazing novel.
I recommend the novel to everyone who likes the Originals and/or the Vampire Diaries and to people who love reading about non-sparkly vampires and badass witches and werewolves.
I received an ARC of this novel thanks to the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. My thanks for the opportunity.
‘The Originals: The Rise’ is a story about three original, ancient vampires who are impossible to hate and surprisingly easy to love. The plot of the novel was intriguing if not a bit cliche. Once I forgave them for their faults and their errors, I got sucked in the story of their rise to power and settlement in New Orleans.
The pace of the novel was alright most of the time, however, sometimes it drawled a bit on. The ending was sad, my heart went out to the characters, especially Klaus, he deserved more.
This novel only enhanced my love for the already familiar and much-loved (and hated - depends on who you ask -> don’t ask certain werewolves) Originals. I have been a fan of Elijah from the moment I saw his appearance on The Vampire Diaries and I have loved him ever since.
The characters are amazing, I love their personalities and the dialogue amongst them. There was some great character development that is significant for the future of the characters.
The writing is good, it’s like watching the show but then in a novel format. I could really hear the voice of each individual character. And in my mind’s eye I saw the actors that belonged to the voices. Julie Plec has delivered an amazing novel.
I recommend the novel to everyone who likes the Originals and/or the Vampire Diaries and to people who love reading about non-sparkly vampires and badass witches and werewolves.
I received an ARC of this novel thanks to the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. My thanks for the opportunity.
January 15, 2015
En bref, même si je n’ai pas eu de coup de coeur pour ce premier tome, j’ai pris énormément de plaisir à suivre Elijah, Rebekah et Klaus lorsqu’ils ont décidé de s’installer à la Nouvelle Orléans au 18ème siècle. L’intrigue apporte un excellent complément à la série TV, elle reste d’ailleurs dans la continuité de celle-ci sans être une resucée de ce que le lecteur a déjà vu à la télé.
L’intrigue se découpe en 3 sous-histoires, chacune concernant l’un des 3 Originaux, pour finalement se recouper sur la fin. J’ai aimé suivre les petites histoires de chacun et retrouver les 3 personnages que j’ai trouvés cohérents au niveau de leur personnalité, de leur comportement par rapport à la série.
C’est difficile de ne pas vous parler de la série pour faire cette chronique, je pense d’ailleurs que c’est impossible…. sauf pour la personne qui ne la connaît pas !
Ma chronique en entier : http://jess.livraddict.com/2015/01/15...
L’intrigue se découpe en 3 sous-histoires, chacune concernant l’un des 3 Originaux, pour finalement se recouper sur la fin. J’ai aimé suivre les petites histoires de chacun et retrouver les 3 personnages que j’ai trouvés cohérents au niveau de leur personnalité, de leur comportement par rapport à la série.
C’est difficile de ne pas vous parler de la série pour faire cette chronique, je pense d’ailleurs que c’est impossible…. sauf pour la personne qui ne la connaît pas !
Ma chronique en entier : http://jess.livraddict.com/2015/01/15...
June 3, 2015
Tenía muchas ganas de leer este libro, porque sigo los personajes de los que trata en The Vampire Diaries Y The Originals (series de TV), pero me ha decepcionado bastante. El argumento en sí es aburrido y da la sensación de que no pasa nada durante páginas y páginas. Además, el estilo narrativo es mejorable y, personalmente, me resultaba un poco cansino que se utilice el nombre propio de los personajes más de lo necesario, a razón de media docena de veces por página: "Klaus pensó tal cosa" "Klaus la agarró por el cuello", "Klaus entrecerró los ojos", "A Klaus le pareció divertido". Hay muchos recursos literarios para no caer en esa repetición innecesaria.
Estaba deseando enamorarme de Klaus en papel, pero no ha podido ser.
May 25, 2020
I loved making my way through The Originals TV series after watching The Vampire Diaries and being a big fan of this universe, I was glad to come across The Originals book.
It was great to read more about their past lives of Klaus, Rebekah and Elijah and contains all the spark, magic and chaos of the show. Written well and extremely in keeping with the TV series, the characters and their interactions were spot on and I was quite frankly more than happy to spend a bit more time with the Originals trio and all the troubles they get up to. Which was a lot. As you can imagine. Werewolf battles, run ins with witches, murder death and blood. Pretty much what you’d expect from a book about vampires!
It was great to read more about their past lives of Klaus, Rebekah and Elijah and contains all the spark, magic and chaos of the show. Written well and extremely in keeping with the TV series, the characters and their interactions were spot on and I was quite frankly more than happy to spend a bit more time with the Originals trio and all the troubles they get up to. Which was a lot. As you can imagine. Werewolf battles, run ins with witches, murder death and blood. Pretty much what you’d expect from a book about vampires!
May 29, 2015
Okay book. Nice to get more stories that have the Original vampires. Especially Elijah and Rebecca.
May 24, 2018
Bi ara Klaus vivianne ' ye hayatımın minnoşu diyecek diye korkmadım değil. En bi kötü adamımı ne hallere sokmuşlar . Olmamış , resmen hayal kırıklığına uğradım:(
April 30, 2020
Ayıp olmasın diye 3 vermişim zamanında, ah minnoş kalbim... Klaus üzgünüm kanlı kekim ama 1
March 20, 2023
This book started off very slow, to a point where I thought I was going to have to DNF, but eventually it picked up and the plots for each of the siblings started to thicken. A lot of the book felt very rushed and if you haven’t watched the show you definitely will have no clue what is going on in the book. But I like that it gives little background stories for the characters, that play into why they act the way they do on tv. Some of it felt regurgitated, so hopefully the next book offers new themes, and less predictability. (Also, I don’t understand why the originals seemed very scared of dying in this book. It seemed out of character for them, but maybe it’s because it was still early on in their vampirism?)
February 4, 2025
This is the first of a series that was published after the airing of the first seasons of the show, but is a prequel to the show, taking place when the Originals first arrived in New Orleans in the 1700s. I was dazzled by how the characters' voices and arcs are dead ringers for their characters in the show. It captures a time when Klaus' heart wasn't as hardened as it is, Rebekah is falling for all the wrong men, and Elijah is as Elijah as ever, establishing that family is power. The writing brings a depth and nuance to the character's backstories while remaining true to what the show's fans find most lovable about them. This book is well worth the read for true fans and I look forward to continuing the series.
September 28, 2018
Hazır dizinin izlenecek son iki bölümü kalmışken kitabı okumak güzel oldu.
Ama... Ama dizimi kitap mı diye sorulacak olursa, sanırım dizi diyeceğim ;)
Ama... Ama dizimi kitap mı diye sorulacak olursa, sanırım dizi diyeceğim ;)
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