Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
Vampires of Eden, Thomas, is the maximally comforting and heartfelt conclusion to a trilogy steeped in self-reflection and growth, overcoming hard things and surrendering to passionate, consenting (and sometimes unexpected) romance.

When Thomas Antony Blakeley is sold in a blind marriage contract to a mysterious purebred vampire, he doesn’t know what to think, and frankly, he doesn’t care. Thomas has recently been tortured and starved by his fathers, and he wonders if he’ll ever recover not just physically, but emotionally. If he’ll ever return to some semblance of the dignified, dynamic and intellectually curious vampire he once was before the abuse.

Cameron Dwight Ashford has made a hasty decision based on a wild instinct that he doesn’t quite understand. He is not inherently lustful like other vampires, but after being forced to make a marriage arrangement, he wonders if he’s forever ruined the carefully crafted peace within his home environment, and his mind.

Two unlikely paths collide in this slow-burn romance centered in healing, consent, patience and hope.

350 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 15, 2025

21 people are currently reading
53 people want to read

About the author

Karla Nikole

15 books515 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
116 (71%)
4 stars
38 (23%)
3 stars
7 (4%)
2 stars
1 (<1%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Alexia.
425 reviews
October 22, 2025
From the moment Thomas was introduced in the first book, I deeply desired to read his story. So, I was overjoyed to discover that the author finally brought it to life.

This book was heartwarming, brimming with love, warmth, and all the uplifting aspects of life. The author masterfully explored the intricate process of healing from trauma, presenting it in a way that felt both authentic and beautiful.

I absolutely adore how the author intricately developed the vampire society, weaving together a rich tapestry of lore that distinguishes this series from others in the genre.
From the elaborate hierarchy within the vampire community to the unique customs they observe, every detail adds layers to the narrative.

At the beginning of the story, Thomas was shrouded in hurt and cynicism because of his torture and betrayal by those he loved, so it was truly moving to witness his gradual journey toward healing and self-discovery. This transformation resonated deeply with me. The author painted his struggles with such care, allowing me to feel each step of his path towards reclaiming his identity and embracing his emotions.

Cameron, introduced as Thomas’s love interest, was like a ray of sunshine breaking through the clouds. His character added an extra layer of warmth to the narrative; he was precisely the partner Thomas needed at that critical juncture in his life. The patience and understanding Cameron displayed were truly remarkable. His unwavering support and abundant love helped Thomas open up so much.

The relationship between Thomas and Cameron was marked by healthy open communication and a striking absence of misunderstandings. Their dynamic was full of mutual respect, enthusiastic consent, and chemistry that felt real. It was especially touching to see how Thomas took the time to teach Cameron about receiving love, highlighting the importance of balance in giving and receiving affection.

In conclusion, this book was a wonderful journey that felt akin to mending every hurt I’ve carried over the years.
Profile Image for Lydia Herondale.
111 reviews2 followers
October 23, 2025
I expected nothing less from this book! I loved Thomas and Cameron from the start and their journey together was just so sweet and wholesome! Thank you Karla for writing another book in the series and for giving me another great read!
Profile Image for Kate.
188 reviews2 followers
October 22, 2025
I absolutely loved this! I'm so bad at talking about my favorite books and what makes them special to me, but I'm really going to give it my all, because I want people to know how special Karla's writing is, how special this story is, and that it deserves all the love in the world~

Thomas's book isn't necessarily a prequel since it takes place both before and after the first two Vampires of Eden books, so it should probably be read after those just in case of spoilers. That said, it can be read as a stand alone. 

We follow Thomas and Cameron as Thomas is essentially sold off for marriage. As per Karla's specialty, this book is filled with intense emphasis on the emotional healing journey of our hero and his growth in self love and his romance along the way. This book is a slow burn and open-door (not spicy, but still graphic). I am asexual and read mostly romance novels. I enjoy the tension and longing and yearning. This book delivers on all that - fulfils my romance-reader-heart - and also incorporates characters on the ace spectrum which brought so much love and joy to my heart. We still got spicy scenes, but with the spectrum of asexuality being mentioned and addressed in this story, I felt so unbelievably heard and respected! Karla's romances will always be close to my heart just for the level of communication and understanding that goes into the relationships of these characters, but I absolutely adored that we had discussion of this here. 

As we know from previous books, Thomas has a history of trauma and abuse, but I feel like of the three VOE books, this one is the least detailed in the traumatic experience. For me personally, it didn't feel as triggering, at least. I also just absolutely LOVE Thomas as a character! Karla is so phenomenal in her writing and something I've enjoyed of most of her leading men is their open sensitivity and emotional maturity. Thomas is presented as the eldest brother in the Blakeley lineup of children; he is educated, willful, smart and a bit sassy. Despite so much of his story focusing on healing and recovery, he maintains this level of confidence (which obviously he's lost a lot of, and has insecurities, but there's this determination that feels like confidence) that just adds so much to his character. I love how we have this character that is from a powerful family and has privilege, but has been put into a situation in which he is powerless, and still he strives to live and to heal. What I mostly wanted to say about his character is that although he has this intense aura around him, Thomas is very sensitive and it doesn't make him weak or lesser, or infantisized. There are plenty of moments in which he cries or is reliving traumatic moments and they aren't written in a way that makes him feel weak and hopeless. He understands he's been dealt a difficult hand and is just trying to pull himself out of the after effects of it. He still has this energy about him, this power, and his level of emotional maturity and sensitivity gives strength to. Thomas is probably one of my favorites of Karla's leading men! Although I love all her vampire books, this one hit especially hard. Will definitely be rereading the series in whole very soon!
Profile Image for Natalie.
1,120 reviews20 followers
October 19, 2025
This was such a delightful romance! Karla Nikole truly nourished my soul with the love story between Thomas and Cameron.

First and foremost, I was always going to be putty for this book when we have not one but TWO ace main characters. Be still my heart! I’m on my knees 🧎🏻‍♀️ I love being able to read about ace characters as someone who’s ace 🥺 It’s always so special to me, especially when it’s done so well. Thomas and Cameron are on different sides of the ace spectrum, but they were both still absolutely infatuated with each other and committed to making each other happy 🥰

I had so much fun reading the slow progression of Thomas and Cameron’s relationship. Although Thomas was always ahead of the curve in being ready to be in a relationship with Cameron, he still had his own reservations which made them go at a pace that was comfortable for them both. To add to that, Cameron and Thomas had so many conversations about consent at different points in their relationship and often even within the same interaction. It all melted my heart into a little puddle!

Beyond the relationship in this novel, I really appreciated the discussions we had around trauma in this book. We start the novel with Thomas having recently experienced a horrific trauma, and we see him wrestle with the complicated feelings that came from it. He’s in a really dark place at the beginning of the novel, full of despondency and fury. It was quite a cocktail that left him often vacillating between very strong, and detrimental, emotions. Ultimately, Thomas’ journey in this novel is about not forgetting his past and trauma but learning to live with it and find solace and comfort in his new and much happier life with Cameron.

My only complaint, I guess, about Thomas as a character was how he truly left his family estate and didn’t look back at all for a decade. As an older sibling, I would’ve been wracked with guilt to have left behind my younger siblings in such an abusive household. Sure, in part, some of what Thomas had to work through was how he blamed EVERYONE in the house for the abuse his fathers subjected him to, but his younger siblings truly played no part in that. They were kids! 🥺 I was glad that at least in the end there was a bit of a reconnection beginning between the siblings because it just felt so wrong for them to be apart for so long.

Anyway. I’ll finish this review by saying that I found Thomas and Cameron hilarious. Karla Nikole wrote so many absolutely hilarious lines for both of them, and I got a lot of joy from reading them.

Despite all the heaviness in this story, reading it felt like a warm hug 💖
Profile Image for Shaybutter.
197 reviews9 followers
October 16, 2025
I started reading this as soon as it dropped yesterday! I have loved all of Karla’s books and am always so excited when a new book of hers is released! (Apologies if my thoughts seem disjointed or out-of-place, I will try to organize these better, but for the moment I just need to get them written down)

Thomas’s book is SO WHOLESOME. His healing journey was just lovely to read. And his relationship development with Cameron was delightful. I love Cameron’s character and his steadfast support of Thomas, and their banter and bookish critiques were amazing!

I loved the chance to get to know Thomas and his trauma and abuse, but was happy that the book began after-the-fact and focused on his life after (and gave us a chance to see his struggle to break out of the depression that resulted). His connection with Cameron was moving and sweet, and (as always) I love the queer relationship representation! I loved so many scenes in this book but I think my favorite was when Cameron first scented Thomas in his house. His monologue when he calls Thomas a “beautiful soul”? SWOON. I also really enjoyed reading both characters’ perspectives on the night they first met.

Thanks to the author for another lovely book! I can’t wait to read whatever you write next! ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Alex Wolf.
Author 7 books55 followers
October 22, 2025
Caution from a devoted fan: This review is deeply biased and brimming with admiration for Karla Nikole’s incredible storytelling.
This book moved me in ways I didn’t expect. As someone who lives with social anxiety and has only recently come to understand my own demi-sexuality, Thomas made me feel profoundly seen. It held up a mirror to parts of myself I’m still learning to accept and offered a quiet, remarkable lesson in hope, kindness, and patience — especially with myself.
Now, onto the story itself: I adored Cameron and Thomas from the very first pages. Their careful, tentative dance toward love and intimacy was captivating. The way their connection unfolded — tender yet powerful — had me completely engrossed. I devoured this book in what felt like a heartbeat.
Finishing it left me with that rare, aching feeling of not wanting to leave this world behind. So, naturally, I’ve started the series over again. There’s simply too much beauty here to walk away from just yet.
In a world that often feels loud and overwhelming, Vampires of Eden: Thomas was a gentle balm for my tender soul. Thank you, Karla Nikole, for writing something so emotionally resonant and full of heart.
Profile Image for S.
88 reviews
October 26, 2025
just when I thought this book couldn't get better it did again and again till the last page. its one of the best books i have read. everything about it was beautiful. I would love to read more about thomas and cameron. to see their relationship develop more physically and emotionally. I wanna see cameron be driven insane by how much he desires thomas. he wants him so much more than he realises and I want them to explore and realise that part physically too. thomas needs to be devoured and consumed by cameron on every damn surface. and Id love to see thomas cameron and alexander meet they be besties lol my selfless lil babies. oh author pls pls countinue this series and extra love if it's with part two of thomas and cameron. love ya for this book.
Profile Image for Caitlin (Dork.of.the.books).
38 reviews
November 9, 2025
Thomas is exactly the read I wanted it to be. First off, I LOVE Karla Nikole’s writing; it’s airy and gorgeous, and it suits the world she’s created so perfectly. This is a rather straightforward story, but I actually think it’s great for precisely that reason. The combination of writing, setting, and tone makes Nikole’s stories special without the need for intense complexity or heavy world-building. As someone who is a fan of both, I’m absolutely thrilled that I’m starstruck by these books. Beyond that, I just really loved both Thomas and Cameron as characters; their gentleness and consideration of each other as they became friends felt good to read. The cherry on top is that Nikole writes some of the best affirmative consent spice out there, and it’s so hot because of it.
Profile Image for Snow Bite.
5 reviews
October 19, 2025
I wasn’t prepared for how much I needed this gorgeous tale of healing and love, but I am so thankful that Karla wrote it. Previously, I had only thought of Thomas as Oliver’s tortured, mysterious older brother, but getting to share his journey with him as he embraces life and love again…tears were shed…TEARS WERE SHED! Plus, getting to witness the merging of storylines and to gain a better perspective of this compelling world that the author created for us and them was such a satisfying gift. Mood reader alert: I fear I may need to reread the entire series now in order to fully embrace this moment. ❤️
Profile Image for Alexix.
20 reviews1 follower
November 2, 2025
OMG this was absolutely beautiful! Seeing the wonder that is Cameron through Thomas’s eyes was everything. The story was written with so much heart that I laughed, cried, and wished I could be one of the books in Cameron’s library just to soak in their presence.

The Epilogue completely shattered me in the best way. When Thomas remembered the night he first met Cameron and all the emotions that had once been taken from him, my heart ached and healed all at once. It was pure magic.

Amazing Karla N.
Profile Image for Kenike.
213 reviews
October 27, 2025
Beautifully written!

I hate to see this series go but I look forward to more from this author! I had been waiting on Thomas’ story and I am not disappointed!! I loved the flow of the book and the characters! This is a different take on vampires and was an amazing story! I can’t wait to read more!
Profile Image for Angela I..
300 reviews40 followers
November 2, 2025
This book was very different than the first two, but I'm so glad I got to discover Thomas's story.
I was a bit lost on the story and timeline at first but then I got swept away in Thomas and Cameron's story. Such a beautiful story of acceptance ❤️❤️❤️
Be warned though: it's slooooow burn ❤️‍🔥 but beautifully done.
251 reviews
December 4, 2025
What a lovely, heartwarming read this was! Perfect for cozy evenings with tea and a soft blanket - despite being a bit darker than the previous installments. It was a wonderful exploration of recovery from trauma and the importance of open and honest communication. I cannot properly express how grateful I am for characters that actually talk to each other and don’t stew in misunderstandings!
Profile Image for why_books_reviews_.
60 reviews1 follower
October 19, 2025
liked it but

I really enjoyed this series especially Alexander’s story, it was great …
This one also was lovely however left me wanting more … more sensational more explosive …overall great writing and nice
Profile Image for Isela.
3 reviews1 follower
October 24, 2025
i didn't know I needed a Thomas story until I read this.
I love Karla's books because they're mostly focused on characters and their development, their feelings and how they overcome their struggles and trauma.
2 reviews1 follower
October 25, 2025
Amazing

Loved the slow burn. The healing. The resolution. Fantastic piece of art. Literature you can come back to and it will be there like a comfortable blanket, ready to wrap you in its warmth. 10/10 you need to read this series!
Profile Image for Trish Skywalker.
1,076 reviews64 followers
December 11, 2025
another gorgeous vampire romance from Karla!

I have loved every vampire book Karla has written, and this one was no different. I love a healing story, and this was definitely that.
We met Thomas in Oliver’s book, and we knew something terrible had happened to him, but here we get the full story. He’s gone through trauma and betrayal, and is losing his hope and his will. When his awful father tells him he’s set up a bonding contract for him, he doesn’t care either way. Until he meets Cameron.
Cameron knows he’s not like other vampires; he’s been a bit sheltered and focused on his responsibilities. But a brief encounter with Thomas stuck with him, and he knows they could have a good life together. What starts as an arrangement turns to a beautiful friendship, and their romance develops slowly and carefully. Both men have had their struggles, but they are so understanding and compassionate to each other. I loved watching their relationship develop, and seeing Thomas heal and Cameron come into his own. Such a beautiful story!
Profile Image for Isa aka the "anintrovertrambles".
191 reviews
October 19, 2025
Every single time she writes about book, i fall in love with all of her characters and this was just the same.

Thomas & Cameron, an unlikely pair that made this whole book, actually wholesome.
Profile Image for Aleksei .
57 reviews5 followers
October 8, 2025
Received my copy today and read (devoured) it in one sitting. I need to put my thoughts together but wow. I really loved this book and reading Thomas and Cameron's story.
Profile Image for Simone.
23 reviews1 follower
December 3, 2025
I have loved every book in this world and series, and this one is no different. This was so soft and sweet, and I swear reading this felt like cuddling in a comfy bed with soft blankets. Whatever you imagine is the coziest afternoon, warm and content, that's this book. Thomas also got a little bit of retribution at the end, but I hope we see some more justice for what he experienced at the hands of his parents. I adored this book, and I could've read 100 more pages of them just being together and happy.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.