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Vampire Cherry #1
Cherry Stem
Turned at the cusp of a promising career in the adult movie industry, Cherry Stem has to rely on her mesmerizing vampire gaze for her meals and money. With the rent deadline approaching, settling for pocket change isn’t an option, so she reluctantly lets tall, dark, and handsome Detective Alex Marsden take her home for the night and fulfill her needs.
Only she gets more than she bargained for.
When Cherry meets Alex, she expects him to be nothing more than another “girl meets boy, girl feeds from boy, girl erases boy’s memories” hook-up. Once missing young women, the vampire council, and her irresistible ex are thrown into the mix though, she realizes nothing is as simple or random as she thought it was.
And her unlife isn't the only thing at stake.
Only she gets more than she bargained for.
When Cherry meets Alex, she expects him to be nothing more than another “girl meets boy, girl feeds from boy, girl erases boy’s memories” hook-up. Once missing young women, the vampire council, and her irresistible ex are thrown into the mix though, she realizes nothing is as simple or random as she thought it was.
And her unlife isn't the only thing at stake.
268 pages, Paperback
First published January 13, 2011
17 people are currently reading
1182 people want to read
About the author
Sotia Lazu
61 books282 followersSotia cries at sappy movies and wishes she could take in all the stray dogs in the world. She lives in Athens, Greece, with her husband--whom she met through writing--their son, and their two rescue dogs, one of which might be part-pony.
Her genres of choice are romances with a twist and urban fantasy novels, always with vivid erotic elements. Her characters aren't exactly hero-material at first glance; she likes making them fight for their happiness. Still, the romantic in her can’t resist happy endings.
Her genres of choice are romances with a twist and urban fantasy novels, always with vivid erotic elements. Her characters aren't exactly hero-material at first glance; she likes making them fight for their happiness. Still, the romantic in her can’t resist happy endings.
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January 16, 2015
Originally posted http://smexybooks.com/2015/01/review-...
Favorite Quote: “My mom always told me not to play with my food […] She never told me not to let my food play with me.”
Cherry Stem was involuntarily turned into a vampire. A former model and rising adult film star, her now undead status has stymied her career and left her hustling for food and rent. When her normal trolling hooks her up with the gorgeous detective, Alex Marsden, Cherry figures she’ll let him wine and dine her, get what she needs, erase their memories together, and everyone will be happy. Except plans change when she falls asleep at Alex’s house and he discovers his one night stand is actually a vampire.
“So it’s Bram Stoker more than Stephenie Meyer?”
I couldn’t contain a very eloquent, “Huh?”
“Your hand.” As if that explained everything. “Stoker had the vampire thing down better than Meyer, right?”
He sounded like he really wanted to know the answer.
Only a dead and buried person would have missed the buzz the latter’s works had caused, and the former was a legend. “Stoker’s definitely closer—I mean, sparkling? Seriously? Neither is completely right, though.”
One steamy passion filled night leads to many more when Alex makes the connection between Cherry’s turning and a series of unsolved cases involving other young females. When Cherry finds out the man who turned her may be involved, she is forced to contact her ex boyfriend, the man who broke her heart, for help in convincing the vampire council of her fears. As the clues mount up, Cherry begins to realise that everything that happened to her was for a reason. Now she just needs to discover what that reason was.
Fans of MaryJanice Davidson and Michele Bardsley will enjoy the snarky humor, steamy hot romance, and intriguing paranormal storyline that Sotia Lazu employs in the first book of her new vampire series. Lazu takes readers on a light hearted journey that leaves you giggling while giving you a couple of mysteries to solve. Well written with engaging dialogue and smooth steady pacing made for a quick fun read. Lazu produces a vampire romance that sticks close to the legends but adds her own twists that modernizes it. While the old adage of sunlight kills is still in effect, garlic and religious artifacts don’t bother them at all.
Cherry Stem (giggle) is an amusing heroine with her witty monologues and no-nonsense attitude. Lazu gives us a supernatural who isn’t warrior trained or self hating. She isn’t stunning beautiful, all powerful, or a special snowflake that everyone adores. Cherry is a normal 23 year old woman, with normal issues, who happens to be immortal. And she has problems with that.
The main reason I’d been pissed off for the better part of six years was that I’d been turned before getting the lipo and boob job I’d planned on pampering myself with for my twenty-fourth birthday. Now I was doomed to go through eternity without the perfectly flat belly and double D breasts Dr. King had promised me.
Alex Marsden is the perfect match for Cherry. As a homicide detective, he rocks the whole knight in shining armor personae, but with a hint of vulnerability and little boy charm. He wears his heart on his sleeve, is overly protective, cooks a mean omelet, and makes love like a veteran porn star. Funny and smart, he is everything Cherry could ever want…except his human. Cherry doesn’t date humans due to their less than stellar life spans but when she meets Alex, he makes her want to stay wrapped in his arms forever.
The romance comes at the readers fast. Sex on the first “date” and it’s rinse, lather, and repeat from there. Combustible chemistry and plausible attraction made this easier to swallow than normal. Steamy love scenes with a dominant Alex in the bedroom also helps. *wink* Cherry rightly questions her relationship with Alex in that it could be dangerous for him to be with her and of course, that fact his life span doesn’t even come close to matching hers. Though…SEXY RACY love making makes up for a lot of things in mine and Cherry’s book.
And Alex doesn’t disappoint.
“Do you want me?” he asked. I barely had time to raise an eyebrow in question before he pushed two fingers inside me. “Do you want me, Cherry?”
I swallowed. “You know I do, but—” We were outside his mom’s house, on top of his car. Even I knew that wasn’t right.
“Because I want you. All the time.” He withdrew his fingers slowly and made a show of licking them clean.
Hell, it wasn’t my neighborhood.
“Show me,” I whispered, pushing my hips upward. I wanted more of him. I tried to sit up, reached for him, but he held me down.
“Sit back.”
I did, and waited for his next move.
It didn’t disappoint.
The conflict is interesting though not as well defined or evenly balanced as the romance. Certain aspects are fleshed out but over all I felt the reasons behind the main conflict were weak and not executed clearly. Various characters come into play to help expand the plot lines but their scenes and development also remains weak as the narrative is from Cherry’s pov so we miss seeing their thoughts behind their actions. The only character who was on par developmentally with Cherry and Alex is Cherry’s ex-Constantine. A overly confident and narcissistic vampire who mentored Cherry after her turning and betrayed her in the most basic of ways. His somewhat ruthless manners are offset by the visible love he still holds for Cherry and his willingness to step aside for Alex. I do hope he gets his own book.
Lazu ends the book with a conclusion of sorts, wrapping up some issues but leaving a door open for the arc to continue. Sadly though she uses an deus ex machina to achieve her happy ending. Regardless of the contrived ending, Cherry Stem is a light hearted fun and sexy paranormal romance that is sure to appeal to fans who love their heroes sexy, their heroines funny, and their romance steamy. The second book, Cherry Blossom, is currently available.
RATING: B
Favorite Quote: “My mom always told me not to play with my food […] She never told me not to let my food play with me.”
Cherry Stem was involuntarily turned into a vampire. A former model and rising adult film star, her now undead status has stymied her career and left her hustling for food and rent. When her normal trolling hooks her up with the gorgeous detective, Alex Marsden, Cherry figures she’ll let him wine and dine her, get what she needs, erase their memories together, and everyone will be happy. Except plans change when she falls asleep at Alex’s house and he discovers his one night stand is actually a vampire.
“So it’s Bram Stoker more than Stephenie Meyer?”
I couldn’t contain a very eloquent, “Huh?”
“Your hand.” As if that explained everything. “Stoker had the vampire thing down better than Meyer, right?”
He sounded like he really wanted to know the answer.
Only a dead and buried person would have missed the buzz the latter’s works had caused, and the former was a legend. “Stoker’s definitely closer—I mean, sparkling? Seriously? Neither is completely right, though.”
One steamy passion filled night leads to many more when Alex makes the connection between Cherry’s turning and a series of unsolved cases involving other young females. When Cherry finds out the man who turned her may be involved, she is forced to contact her ex boyfriend, the man who broke her heart, for help in convincing the vampire council of her fears. As the clues mount up, Cherry begins to realise that everything that happened to her was for a reason. Now she just needs to discover what that reason was.
Fans of MaryJanice Davidson and Michele Bardsley will enjoy the snarky humor, steamy hot romance, and intriguing paranormal storyline that Sotia Lazu employs in the first book of her new vampire series. Lazu takes readers on a light hearted journey that leaves you giggling while giving you a couple of mysteries to solve. Well written with engaging dialogue and smooth steady pacing made for a quick fun read. Lazu produces a vampire romance that sticks close to the legends but adds her own twists that modernizes it. While the old adage of sunlight kills is still in effect, garlic and religious artifacts don’t bother them at all.
Cherry Stem (giggle) is an amusing heroine with her witty monologues and no-nonsense attitude. Lazu gives us a supernatural who isn’t warrior trained or self hating. She isn’t stunning beautiful, all powerful, or a special snowflake that everyone adores. Cherry is a normal 23 year old woman, with normal issues, who happens to be immortal. And she has problems with that.
The main reason I’d been pissed off for the better part of six years was that I’d been turned before getting the lipo and boob job I’d planned on pampering myself with for my twenty-fourth birthday. Now I was doomed to go through eternity without the perfectly flat belly and double D breasts Dr. King had promised me.
Alex Marsden is the perfect match for Cherry. As a homicide detective, he rocks the whole knight in shining armor personae, but with a hint of vulnerability and little boy charm. He wears his heart on his sleeve, is overly protective, cooks a mean omelet, and makes love like a veteran porn star. Funny and smart, he is everything Cherry could ever want…except his human. Cherry doesn’t date humans due to their less than stellar life spans but when she meets Alex, he makes her want to stay wrapped in his arms forever.
The romance comes at the readers fast. Sex on the first “date” and it’s rinse, lather, and repeat from there. Combustible chemistry and plausible attraction made this easier to swallow than normal. Steamy love scenes with a dominant Alex in the bedroom also helps. *wink* Cherry rightly questions her relationship with Alex in that it could be dangerous for him to be with her and of course, that fact his life span doesn’t even come close to matching hers. Though…SEXY RACY love making makes up for a lot of things in mine and Cherry’s book.
And Alex doesn’t disappoint.
“Do you want me?” he asked. I barely had time to raise an eyebrow in question before he pushed two fingers inside me. “Do you want me, Cherry?”
I swallowed. “You know I do, but—” We were outside his mom’s house, on top of his car. Even I knew that wasn’t right.
“Because I want you. All the time.” He withdrew his fingers slowly and made a show of licking them clean.
Hell, it wasn’t my neighborhood.
“Show me,” I whispered, pushing my hips upward. I wanted more of him. I tried to sit up, reached for him, but he held me down.
“Sit back.”
I did, and waited for his next move.
It didn’t disappoint.
The conflict is interesting though not as well defined or evenly balanced as the romance. Certain aspects are fleshed out but over all I felt the reasons behind the main conflict were weak and not executed clearly. Various characters come into play to help expand the plot lines but their scenes and development also remains weak as the narrative is from Cherry’s pov so we miss seeing their thoughts behind their actions. The only character who was on par developmentally with Cherry and Alex is Cherry’s ex-Constantine. A overly confident and narcissistic vampire who mentored Cherry after her turning and betrayed her in the most basic of ways. His somewhat ruthless manners are offset by the visible love he still holds for Cherry and his willingness to step aside for Alex. I do hope he gets his own book.
Lazu ends the book with a conclusion of sorts, wrapping up some issues but leaving a door open for the arc to continue. Sadly though she uses an deus ex machina to achieve her happy ending. Regardless of the contrived ending, Cherry Stem is a light hearted fun and sexy paranormal romance that is sure to appeal to fans who love their heroes sexy, their heroines funny, and their romance steamy. The second book, Cherry Blossom, is currently available.
RATING: B
March 16, 2014
Oh what can you say about the infamous, recently turned Cherry Stem other than the fact that she is totally adorable, completely lovable and amazing in a lot of ways that you don't usually see from vampires? Especially when people are turned without previous knowledge that the supernatural actually exists. Can you imagine being attacked and fearing for your life? Waking up later and your first thought must be "I SURVIVED!" but then you start to wonder - things seem different. Colors are more vivid, sounds are louder and why are you so THIRSTY? SO SO THIRSTY! And so begins a brand new type of life...
This book was more than a vampire book, more than a mystery, more than a romance, more than a story of finding yourself and learning your worth - it was all those things brought together by a talented, creative and funny writer. One who also knows how to write a love scene. Great smexy times and just a little sweetness, sometimes some tenderness and definitely lots of hotness. Sotia manages to combine all these elements, at different times and in different ways, with other essentials such as drama, a little jealousy, lots of good (and some not so good) honesty and always some humor. She creates a book that makes you laugh, that puts that "silly, happy, goofy book grin" on your face and becomes one that you will want to read over and over again. She also created my newest book boyfriend and current book crush Alex so hands off to all the rest of you out there reading this - he's mine. *Sotia checked with Cherry and she is willing to share with me!*
My favorite quote from this book is "but love can flash like lightning, striking you down in a split second." Sometimes a love this good is worth fighting for - again and again and again....
This book was more than a vampire book, more than a mystery, more than a romance, more than a story of finding yourself and learning your worth - it was all those things brought together by a talented, creative and funny writer. One who also knows how to write a love scene. Great smexy times and just a little sweetness, sometimes some tenderness and definitely lots of hotness. Sotia manages to combine all these elements, at different times and in different ways, with other essentials such as drama, a little jealousy, lots of good (and some not so good) honesty and always some humor. She creates a book that makes you laugh, that puts that "silly, happy, goofy book grin" on your face and becomes one that you will want to read over and over again. She also created my newest book boyfriend and current book crush Alex so hands off to all the rest of you out there reading this - he's mine. *Sotia checked with Cherry and she is willing to share with me!*
My favorite quote from this book is "but love can flash like lightning, striking you down in a split second." Sometimes a love this good is worth fighting for - again and again and again....
July 12, 2017
I loved this - something a bit different in the vampire genre. I found this novel engaged me straight away. I love Cherry, for all her bluster and forthright manner, she is at heart like most of us - an intricate mixture giving the appearance of confidence but underneath it all a complexity of delicate sensitivity, flawed behaviour and a good dose of insecurity.
I love it when I pick up a new series and can rumble straight through a good handful of them which manages to keep up the pace whilst offering a continuous flow.
I love it when I pick up a new series and can rumble straight through a good handful of them which manages to keep up the pace whilst offering a continuous flow.
February 23, 2014
My rating:4 out of 5 stars
***Please note, book gifted to me by the author via PaC Romance group on Goodreads***
"I sound like a chick."
~Alex
Yes Alex, indeed you did...and I loved you for it. Sometimes, just sometimes, I'm lucky enough to snag just the right book that's just right for me at just the right time and Cherry Stem has earned its spot on that short list.
Cherry Stem is a vampire that is pretty much on her own. She's still aching from a broken heart and aside from the occasional (and mandatory) meal...she generally keeps to herself. It's that need to feed that brings her face to face with a hot human cop by the name of Alex.
Alex is SUCH. A. GIRL. but in the most manliest ways possible. ;-) The tough cop wears his damaged heart on his sleeve, has a lopsided grin and is prone to a blush or two when jealous. With that being said, don't underestimate him. Officer Alex is all man and quite the dominant when it counts. On that note, the steam factor here is off the charts and can I just say...when his insecurities rise....O.O
Not to be outdone, we also have Constantine. This grey character has more of an edge to him and I do love my vamps. Not all love triangles work for me as I typically have a clear favorite but that wasn't the case here. I went back and for and back again. Maybe I'll just pretend they all three lived happily ever after!!!
Cherry is a great heroine. Sure, she's suffered loss and heartache but it hasn't completely turned her to stone and left her emotionally crippled. I look forward to more of her story. I haven't seen anything in regards to a sequel but there has to be a book 2. There just HAS TO BE!!!
Originally reviewed at http://prufreads.blogspot.com/
***Please note, book gifted to me by the author via PaC Romance group on Goodreads***
"I sound like a chick."
~Alex
Yes Alex, indeed you did...and I loved you for it. Sometimes, just sometimes, I'm lucky enough to snag just the right book that's just right for me at just the right time and Cherry Stem has earned its spot on that short list.
Cherry Stem is a vampire that is pretty much on her own. She's still aching from a broken heart and aside from the occasional (and mandatory) meal...she generally keeps to herself. It's that need to feed that brings her face to face with a hot human cop by the name of Alex.
Alex is SUCH. A. GIRL. but in the most manliest ways possible. ;-) The tough cop wears his damaged heart on his sleeve, has a lopsided grin and is prone to a blush or two when jealous. With that being said, don't underestimate him. Officer Alex is all man and quite the dominant when it counts. On that note, the steam factor here is off the charts and can I just say...when his insecurities rise....O.O
Not to be outdone, we also have Constantine. This grey character has more of an edge to him and I do love my vamps. Not all love triangles work for me as I typically have a clear favorite but that wasn't the case here. I went back and for and back again. Maybe I'll just pretend they all three lived happily ever after!!!
Cherry is a great heroine. Sure, she's suffered loss and heartache but it hasn't completely turned her to stone and left her emotionally crippled. I look forward to more of her story. I haven't seen anything in regards to a sequel but there has to be a book 2. There just HAS TO BE!!!
Originally reviewed at http://prufreads.blogspot.com/
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December 8, 2012
A fun read that manages to be both lighthearted and heartbreakingly serious by turns. Just when you're chuckling and settling into this book as something of a light comedy perhaps, something happens that has you holding your breath for Cherry or for one of her guys. While the end is largely predictable, still you'll feel Cherry's heartbreak right along with her.
Cherry is a very down to earth kind of gal with a rather pragmatic view of right and wrong. Sure, there are absolutes she adheres to, such as not hurting her dinner any more than necessary, and not whoring herself out just for the sake of a snack, but in other things her morals are rather more flexible. There are hints that she frequently takes money from her "dates", but if so, we never see it in action, and it's largely glossed over and then forgotten. Fairly young for a vampire, she's still in complete control of her powers, routinely uses them to her advantage, both out of convenience and out of necessity, but she also is still rather human in the way she thinks, at least at times. She's generally more worried about how she looks, and with paying the rent, than most anything else and it gives you the feeling that in the ways that matter, she's really not any different from most 20-somethings on their own in a big city and living on the fringes at least of the fast crowd.
Alex is everything you'd expect in a PNR hero for all that he's "merely" human. Very much an alpha male sort, he takes charge of things between him and Cherry right from the start and insists on playing the part of her protector even though in many cases she's more capable than he is for the task simply because of what she is. At the very least she's a bit more sturdy. Unlike a lot of alpha male types, however, he isn't really the overly controlling type, nor is he a jerk at all. It's clear from the start that he's really a very caring individual, one who's just getting over his own heartbreak after being dumped by his fiancée in the recent past. While that make some men seem weak, it just makes him more endearing, like a big strong teddy bear that you just want to cuddle and make him feel better.
Another character worth mentioning here is Constantine, Cherry's ex, and the man who was her vampire mentor after she was turned. He's the one who taught her all she needed to know to survive, and he fell in love with her in the process. While Cherry still has strong feelings for him, including very lustful feelings for him, at least at the beginning of the book, she's still not as enamored of him as he is of her, and she sticks to her guns that it's over between them, however much she might be tempted to have one last fling with him for old time's sake. While Constantine certainly has his cold and calculating side, especially where vampire politics is concerned, his feelings for Cherry make him a totally relatable character, and it's easy to feel sorry for him for being constantly spurned by Cherry.
While I typically prefer my vampires to be males, Cherry was very easy to like, and I found this to be a very enjoyable read. The author sticks pretty close to traditional vampire lore, but adds in a few twists of her own to make her world unique. There is plenty of witty dialog, plenty of realistic dialog between characters dealing with some very ordinary problems along with the paranormal problems they face, and enough steam thrown in to keep things interesting. The armchair sex between Alex and Cherry near the beginning of the book sets the bar high on that score right from the start, and it continues to live up to the standard that set. But though the passion may be at a constant simmer, especially between Cherry and Alex, but also to a lesser extent between her and Constantine, the sex never overtakes the main plot in importance, instead winding itself around the plot to nicely fill in the gaps.
All in all, this is one I would definitely recommend to anyone who likes paranormal romance, especially of the steamy variety. I give it a strong 4½ stars. Why not 5? Well, I'm not sure I can point to anything in particular that downgrades it that little bit for me, other than for all that I enjoyed it, it just lacked that extra bit of wow factor that makes something a 5 star read for me. Check this one out if PNR is your thing. You won't be sorry you did.
Cherry is a very down to earth kind of gal with a rather pragmatic view of right and wrong. Sure, there are absolutes she adheres to, such as not hurting her dinner any more than necessary, and not whoring herself out just for the sake of a snack, but in other things her morals are rather more flexible. There are hints that she frequently takes money from her "dates", but if so, we never see it in action, and it's largely glossed over and then forgotten. Fairly young for a vampire, she's still in complete control of her powers, routinely uses them to her advantage, both out of convenience and out of necessity, but she also is still rather human in the way she thinks, at least at times. She's generally more worried about how she looks, and with paying the rent, than most anything else and it gives you the feeling that in the ways that matter, she's really not any different from most 20-somethings on their own in a big city and living on the fringes at least of the fast crowd.
Alex is everything you'd expect in a PNR hero for all that he's "merely" human. Very much an alpha male sort, he takes charge of things between him and Cherry right from the start and insists on playing the part of her protector even though in many cases she's more capable than he is for the task simply because of what she is. At the very least she's a bit more sturdy. Unlike a lot of alpha male types, however, he isn't really the overly controlling type, nor is he a jerk at all. It's clear from the start that he's really a very caring individual, one who's just getting over his own heartbreak after being dumped by his fiancée in the recent past. While that make some men seem weak, it just makes him more endearing, like a big strong teddy bear that you just want to cuddle and make him feel better.
Another character worth mentioning here is Constantine, Cherry's ex, and the man who was her vampire mentor after she was turned. He's the one who taught her all she needed to know to survive, and he fell in love with her in the process. While Cherry still has strong feelings for him, including very lustful feelings for him, at least at the beginning of the book, she's still not as enamored of him as he is of her, and she sticks to her guns that it's over between them, however much she might be tempted to have one last fling with him for old time's sake. While Constantine certainly has his cold and calculating side, especially where vampire politics is concerned, his feelings for Cherry make him a totally relatable character, and it's easy to feel sorry for him for being constantly spurned by Cherry.
While I typically prefer my vampires to be males, Cherry was very easy to like, and I found this to be a very enjoyable read. The author sticks pretty close to traditional vampire lore, but adds in a few twists of her own to make her world unique. There is plenty of witty dialog, plenty of realistic dialog between characters dealing with some very ordinary problems along with the paranormal problems they face, and enough steam thrown in to keep things interesting. The armchair sex between Alex and Cherry near the beginning of the book sets the bar high on that score right from the start, and it continues to live up to the standard that set. But though the passion may be at a constant simmer, especially between Cherry and Alex, but also to a lesser extent between her and Constantine, the sex never overtakes the main plot in importance, instead winding itself around the plot to nicely fill in the gaps.
All in all, this is one I would definitely recommend to anyone who likes paranormal romance, especially of the steamy variety. I give it a strong 4½ stars. Why not 5? Well, I'm not sure I can point to anything in particular that downgrades it that little bit for me, other than for all that I enjoyed it, it just lacked that extra bit of wow factor that makes something a 5 star read for me. Check this one out if PNR is your thing. You won't be sorry you did.
December 2, 2012
I devoured Cherry Stem over 2 days (I had to work and sleep as well, you see) and I LOVED it completely.
Cherry was young and despite being a vamp, still slightly naive. I loved that she fretted over normal things like her hair and clothes. Her friends. Apart from the whole vampire-sucking-blood thing, she could be a friend of mine.
Alex.... Hubba Hubba.... Smokin' HOT. Yes. It wasn't just his looks, it was his morality and protectiveness. His possessive urges. The way he tried to look after Cherry.
She picks him out in a bar and decides he will be good to feed on, so they go back to his place. Only problem, Alex - a cop - has jumped to entirely the wrong conclusion:
He opened his mouth, then closed it again and rubbed his temples. "I may be about to say the stupidest thng," he said, "but... I'd never pay for sex."
They spend an unexpectedly fantastic night together, and Cherry forgets to go home... not good when you're a vamp and, uh, allergic to sunlight. She flees for his basement and tries to explain to the exceedingly confused Alex:
"I shouldn't trust you with the place," he said with a sigh, "but I guess I don't have a choice."
My day had just gotten better, except for one thing. "Will you tell people about me?" I hated how small and worried my voice sounded.
"Of course I will. Nothing says 'captain material' more than a cop claiming he has a vampire locked in his basement."
I liked Constantine too and the way he still had feelings for Cherry but at the same time, respected her relationship with Alex.
Plot? Great! Twisty and turning, I was constantly guessing how it would be resolved and the way things developed at a believable pace.
We were not supposed to like each other. We were supposed to fight and yell. And I wasn't supposed to want to kiss him again.
And the steam factor was HIGH! * fans myself * The shower scene deserves a mention:
Just like staying there again had gradually become a good idea and telling Alex about vampires had seemed preferable to making him forget he'd ever met one, having sex with him one more time struck me as the only viable scenario once he was in the shower stall.
I didn't care how he'd take me; he could press my face against the glass door, my back against the tiles, or have me on all fours. I just wanted him inside me. As soon as possible.
Thankfully, the sequel to Cherry Stem is in the pipeline from this amazingly talented new author.
Cherry was young and despite being a vamp, still slightly naive. I loved that she fretted over normal things like her hair and clothes. Her friends. Apart from the whole vampire-sucking-blood thing, she could be a friend of mine.
Alex.... Hubba Hubba.... Smokin' HOT. Yes. It wasn't just his looks, it was his morality and protectiveness. His possessive urges. The way he tried to look after Cherry.
She picks him out in a bar and decides he will be good to feed on, so they go back to his place. Only problem, Alex - a cop - has jumped to entirely the wrong conclusion:
He opened his mouth, then closed it again and rubbed his temples. "I may be about to say the stupidest thng," he said, "but... I'd never pay for sex."
They spend an unexpectedly fantastic night together, and Cherry forgets to go home... not good when you're a vamp and, uh, allergic to sunlight. She flees for his basement and tries to explain to the exceedingly confused Alex:
"I shouldn't trust you with the place," he said with a sigh, "but I guess I don't have a choice."
My day had just gotten better, except for one thing. "Will you tell people about me?" I hated how small and worried my voice sounded.
"Of course I will. Nothing says 'captain material' more than a cop claiming he has a vampire locked in his basement."
I liked Constantine too and the way he still had feelings for Cherry but at the same time, respected her relationship with Alex.
Plot? Great! Twisty and turning, I was constantly guessing how it would be resolved and the way things developed at a believable pace.
We were not supposed to like each other. We were supposed to fight and yell. And I wasn't supposed to want to kiss him again.
And the steam factor was HIGH! * fans myself * The shower scene deserves a mention:
Just like staying there again had gradually become a good idea and telling Alex about vampires had seemed preferable to making him forget he'd ever met one, having sex with him one more time struck me as the only viable scenario once he was in the shower stall.
I didn't care how he'd take me; he could press my face against the glass door, my back against the tiles, or have me on all fours. I just wanted him inside me. As soon as possible.
Thankfully, the sequel to Cherry Stem is in the pipeline from this amazingly talented new author.
November 3, 2015
Cherry Stem is the first book by Greek author Sotia Lazu in her Vampire Cherry series.
Cherry was turned into a vampire just before she could become famous in the adult film industry. Still in her mid-twenties, she's really just your average girl who needs to pay rent and get through the nights. Told in first person narrative from Cherry's point of view, following her inner monologues was priceless. "My mom always told me not to play with my food … She never told me not to let my food play with me." Cherry is a vampire with self-doubt, normal "human" issues and quirky humor, which I really appreciated. She is just adorable.
Detective Alex Marsden is a real alpha male with a lovely emotional side to him, "I sound like a chick". He was only meant to be Cherry's hook-up and meal for the night, but they end up investigating the strange disappearance of several young women. At the same time, they are trying to fight their growing feelings for each other. In need of some vampire help to aid their investigation, Cherry is forced to consult with her ex-boyfriend Constantine, who is an ancient vampire and still very much in love with Cherry.
This was my first ever (audio) book about vampires, and I truly loved it. In fact, I could not stop listening and finished it in one setting in a single day.
Cherry Stem is a light hearted vampire romance with some steamy sex scenes as well as good old-fashioned vampire fighting and conniving. The chemistry and attraction between Cherry and Alex were palpable.
The narration by Wendy Tremont King was exceptional. I actually checked out what other audio books she narrates, as I definitely want to hear more of her.
Her pacing and intonation were great. It really felt as if she was telling you her story there and then. She sounded completely natural and managed to express the emotions perfectly. All the voices were clear and distinct. She truly made all the characters come to life. I have rarely listened to a female narrator who pulls off sexy male voices quite this convincingly.
Huge recommendation for anybody interested in paranormal romance / vampire fantasy.
Audiobookreviewer.com provided me with a free copy in exchange for an unbiased review.
Cherry was turned into a vampire just before she could become famous in the adult film industry. Still in her mid-twenties, she's really just your average girl who needs to pay rent and get through the nights. Told in first person narrative from Cherry's point of view, following her inner monologues was priceless. "My mom always told me not to play with my food … She never told me not to let my food play with me." Cherry is a vampire with self-doubt, normal "human" issues and quirky humor, which I really appreciated. She is just adorable.
Detective Alex Marsden is a real alpha male with a lovely emotional side to him, "I sound like a chick". He was only meant to be Cherry's hook-up and meal for the night, but they end up investigating the strange disappearance of several young women. At the same time, they are trying to fight their growing feelings for each other. In need of some vampire help to aid their investigation, Cherry is forced to consult with her ex-boyfriend Constantine, who is an ancient vampire and still very much in love with Cherry.
This was my first ever (audio) book about vampires, and I truly loved it. In fact, I could not stop listening and finished it in one setting in a single day.
Cherry Stem is a light hearted vampire romance with some steamy sex scenes as well as good old-fashioned vampire fighting and conniving. The chemistry and attraction between Cherry and Alex were palpable.
The narration by Wendy Tremont King was exceptional. I actually checked out what other audio books she narrates, as I definitely want to hear more of her.
Her pacing and intonation were great. It really felt as if she was telling you her story there and then. She sounded completely natural and managed to express the emotions perfectly. All the voices were clear and distinct. She truly made all the characters come to life. I have rarely listened to a female narrator who pulls off sexy male voices quite this convincingly.
Huge recommendation for anybody interested in paranormal romance / vampire fantasy.
Audiobookreviewer.com provided me with a free copy in exchange for an unbiased review.
August 10, 2015
I have to admit, Cherry Stem was even better than I expected. I entered the book thinking the main character was going to be a flashy woman I wouldn't be able to connect with. She's a model turned adult movie star that was turned into a vampire. I figured the book would focus on that, but it didn't really. It opens with those details and Cherry going out and hitting the bar scene so she can get her next meal. Little did she know that her undead life would be changed that night. She meets a hunky police officer, Alex Marsden, and they wind up going back to his house. Things were going great, until the morning rolled around and all of a sudden we're getting BBQ'ed Cherry. Talk about not a pleasant way to wake up. That pretty much sealed the deal that Alex finds out about Cherry being a vampire.
This is where it gets interesting. The duo continues with their relationship and a vampire winds up threatening Alex to stop looking into a case. Forced to enlist Cherry's old flame for help, they all have to figure out who is behind girls going missing and some other nasty deeds before it's too late. The mystery element was nice, I wasn't able to figure out the whodunit before that part of the story unfolded. That's always a plus in my book, especially when it's not a person out of left field. The characters were solid, I enjoyed Cherry's character the most. She has a bit of spunk that kept me entertained. I really enjoyed Cherry Stem and can't wait to read book two. I suggest this if you're looking for an Urban Fantasy vampire book.
The Narrator:
Wendy Tremont King, the narrator, was enjoyable to listen to. I feel like I've heard her voice before, but can't place it. She brought the story to life well, and held my attention. I'm glad I was able to experience a new to me narrator, and I can't wait to get book two on audiobook.
This is where it gets interesting. The duo continues with their relationship and a vampire winds up threatening Alex to stop looking into a case. Forced to enlist Cherry's old flame for help, they all have to figure out who is behind girls going missing and some other nasty deeds before it's too late. The mystery element was nice, I wasn't able to figure out the whodunit before that part of the story unfolded. That's always a plus in my book, especially when it's not a person out of left field. The characters were solid, I enjoyed Cherry's character the most. She has a bit of spunk that kept me entertained. I really enjoyed Cherry Stem and can't wait to read book two. I suggest this if you're looking for an Urban Fantasy vampire book.
The Narrator:
Wendy Tremont King, the narrator, was enjoyable to listen to. I feel like I've heard her voice before, but can't place it. She brought the story to life well, and held my attention. I'm glad I was able to experience a new to me narrator, and I can't wait to get book two on audiobook.
November 7, 2012
Wow" I want to read it again right now!
It's a fabulous vampire book!
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Summary
Cherry was turned 6 years before against her will. Now she just gets through life, not really enjoying it. Of course she is a vampire and as such, she needs to feed, but she avoids any kind of relationship and lives a solitary life.
Alex is a cop and can't/won't change that. It doesn't mean that it's not lonely, since he is still trying to cope with his last break up because of his "not ideal job".
They meet in a bar, each with their own agenda. What they didn't know was, that fate would keep them together and the past could break them apart.
In this fun, fast-paced, sexy vampire book, you will find great characters, amazing plot and hot steamy sex.
Impressions and Opinion
Sotia is a superb writer. Her writing style is impeccable and her creativity flawless.
Her characters were hard to dislike. The hero was as alpha as he could get, but so beautifully kind. The heroine, witty, funny and vulnerable at the same time.
Oh my, what would I do on top of the hood of a car? Still fanning myself!
I just have want thing to say... I want more! :)
It's a fabulous vampire book!
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Summary
Cherry was turned 6 years before against her will. Now she just gets through life, not really enjoying it. Of course she is a vampire and as such, she needs to feed, but she avoids any kind of relationship and lives a solitary life.
Alex is a cop and can't/won't change that. It doesn't mean that it's not lonely, since he is still trying to cope with his last break up because of his "not ideal job".
They meet in a bar, each with their own agenda. What they didn't know was, that fate would keep them together and the past could break them apart.
In this fun, fast-paced, sexy vampire book, you will find great characters, amazing plot and hot steamy sex.
Impressions and Opinion
Sotia is a superb writer. Her writing style is impeccable and her creativity flawless.
Her characters were hard to dislike. The hero was as alpha as he could get, but so beautifully kind. The heroine, witty, funny and vulnerable at the same time.
Oh my, what would I do on top of the hood of a car? Still fanning myself!
I just have want thing to say... I want more! :)
May 16, 2014
*Book source ~ A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Cherry Stem is a vampire, but she was a model and an upcoming porn star before the whole undead thing derailed her not quite career. When she meets hot detective Alex Marsden at a bar, she hopes for a quick meal and some not so quick sex before she erases herself from his memory. As many things have gone before in her life, that isn’t quite what happens. Instead Alex discovers she’s a vampire and then they work together to find some missing girls who seem to have a connection to Cherry. The more they find the more confused Cherry gets about her turning. What on Earth is going on?
This is a funny and hot vampire story that has a bit of a mystery going on. I love Alex, but Cherry…well, there were times when I wanted to smack her upside the head. She’s funny and plucky, but she has ex-boyfriend issues even though she has hot Alex to take care of all her needs. Cherry’s head, meet my hand. Multiple times. The story ends, but not everything is resolved, so I hope we’ll see more of hot Alex and funny Cherry. Plus, you know, Constantine sounds quite yummy and he’s not in a relationship. Just sayin’.
Cherry Stem is a vampire, but she was a model and an upcoming porn star before the whole undead thing derailed her not quite career. When she meets hot detective Alex Marsden at a bar, she hopes for a quick meal and some not so quick sex before she erases herself from his memory. As many things have gone before in her life, that isn’t quite what happens. Instead Alex discovers she’s a vampire and then they work together to find some missing girls who seem to have a connection to Cherry. The more they find the more confused Cherry gets about her turning. What on Earth is going on?
This is a funny and hot vampire story that has a bit of a mystery going on. I love Alex, but Cherry…well, there were times when I wanted to smack her upside the head. She’s funny and plucky, but she has ex-boyfriend issues even though she has hot Alex to take care of all her needs. Cherry’s head, meet my hand. Multiple times. The story ends, but not everything is resolved, so I hope we’ll see more of hot Alex and funny Cherry. Plus, you know, Constantine sounds quite yummy and he’s not in a relationship. Just sayin’.
December 15, 2018
** I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review **
OMG THIS WAS FABULOUS!!! I love a good vamp series and I have definitely found one!!!
Cherry is a newly turned vamp of 6yrs...and she kind of hangs out at bars and nightclubs to feed and we will say get some male attention...lol She then wipes there mind and they just think they had a sexy night! She is out one night and meets Alex...he is a cop and she is super attracted to him...she goes home with him and after a case of mistaken identity..lol They have a great night together, Cherry accidentally falls asleep, and then almost gets fried by the sun..lol She has A LOT of explaining to do after this....Well Alex has been on a case where young women are disappearing and Cherry just so happens to be part of that without her knowledge..and it all takes off from there...This book also has quite a bit of sexy time...SO ENJOY!!!
100% RECOMMEND AND I AM MOVING ON TO #2 NOW!!!!
OMG THIS WAS FABULOUS!!! I love a good vamp series and I have definitely found one!!!
Cherry is a newly turned vamp of 6yrs...and she kind of hangs out at bars and nightclubs to feed and we will say get some male attention...lol She then wipes there mind and they just think they had a sexy night! She is out one night and meets Alex...he is a cop and she is super attracted to him...she goes home with him and after a case of mistaken identity..lol They have a great night together, Cherry accidentally falls asleep, and then almost gets fried by the sun..lol She has A LOT of explaining to do after this....Well Alex has been on a case where young women are disappearing and Cherry just so happens to be part of that without her knowledge..and it all takes off from there...This book also has quite a bit of sexy time...SO ENJOY!!!
100% RECOMMEND AND I AM MOVING ON TO #2 NOW!!!!
October 17, 2016
Alex Marsden
Cherry Stem
Cherry is on the prowl for her next feed when she runs into Alex Marsden.
Cherry is vampire, young and still somewhat naive to the ways of vampirism, and Alex is a Detective.
Together they spend their time divided between their love life and solving the crime of several missing girls, and why Cherry was turned in the first place.
I loved these characters, they are both sensitive and caring, with each others feelings a concern to both. They have immense feelings for each other, and this shows in the bickering that goes on between the two over the course of the story. It's great and makes the characters seem so much more real.
This was a great, light, sweet story, that was very easy to read, and took me next to no time to devour, something I intend doing with more of Ms. Lazu's work.
Cherry Stem
Cherry is on the prowl for her next feed when she runs into Alex Marsden.
Cherry is vampire, young and still somewhat naive to the ways of vampirism, and Alex is a Detective.
Together they spend their time divided between their love life and solving the crime of several missing girls, and why Cherry was turned in the first place.
I loved these characters, they are both sensitive and caring, with each others feelings a concern to both. They have immense feelings for each other, and this shows in the bickering that goes on between the two over the course of the story. It's great and makes the characters seem so much more real.
This was a great, light, sweet story, that was very easy to read, and took me next to no time to devour, something I intend doing with more of Ms. Lazu's work.
April 29, 2012
My lovely friend Sotia wrote this book! I can highly recommend this read if you like vampires, you like good stories, and you like a bit of naughtiness.
May 10, 2017
Loved, loved, loved, loved it !
I'm cleaning out my e-reader, so I deleted several novels I couldn't get into, but when it came to Sotia Lazu, I hoped she wouldn't disappoint. And she didn't.
I'm so glad I discovered this author through a freebie and have been following her ever since. Half-way through this book, I looked up to see if it was a series and yes, it is ! I squeed. I never squee.
What did I like in here ? Oh well, everything, but mostly the characters.
The story is good, the pacing is right, the sex is hot, the characters are endearing. Cherry is fun and fragile at the same time, though she's really strong. Every woman would like an Alex in their life. And they surely wouldn't mind a Constantine, faithful or not ^^
I fell asleep on this book - it was very late. I woke up in the middle of the night and kept reading. I woke up this morning and kept reading. I ate and kept reading. And now that I've finished it, I'm so happy and want to read some more !
I'm torn between continuing to clean out my e-reader or buying the next novel now. We'll see how long I last. Anyway, highly recommended, have fun with Cherry and her men !
PS : I just noticed the prequel is free and bought it !!!
I'm cleaning out my e-reader, so I deleted several novels I couldn't get into, but when it came to Sotia Lazu, I hoped she wouldn't disappoint. And she didn't.
I'm so glad I discovered this author through a freebie and have been following her ever since. Half-way through this book, I looked up to see if it was a series and yes, it is ! I squeed. I never squee.
What did I like in here ? Oh well, everything, but mostly the characters.
The story is good, the pacing is right, the sex is hot, the characters are endearing. Cherry is fun and fragile at the same time, though she's really strong. Every woman would like an Alex in their life. And they surely wouldn't mind a Constantine, faithful or not ^^
I fell asleep on this book - it was very late. I woke up in the middle of the night and kept reading. I woke up this morning and kept reading. I ate and kept reading. And now that I've finished it, I'm so happy and want to read some more !
I'm torn between continuing to clean out my e-reader or buying the next novel now. We'll see how long I last. Anyway, highly recommended, have fun with Cherry and her men !
PS : I just noticed the prequel is free and bought it !!!
February 12, 2021
This is book 1 in Lazu's Vampire Cherry series and what a ride this is! This read has everything. Romance, steamy chemistry, mystery, action, twists and turns, betrayal and more! I love how fiery Cherry is. She thinks and pretends to be so tough but in reality she cares so deeply. Alex is the sweetest with the perfect balance of protective and jealousy. I just loved it...thank goodness for the epilogue but I need to know what will happen next!
I received a free copy of this book at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read
I received a free copy of this book at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read
January 15, 2020
Interesting characters mostly, and a good story, making the first book in the series an okay read.
The second, however, was a page-turner. If you like the first book in the series, you'll love the second.
The second, however, was a page-turner. If you like the first book in the series, you'll love the second.
May 14, 2021
Much better than I expected. The mystery was good. I got part of it figured out but not all. The story was pretty much wrapped up with a couple of lingering questions to lead you into the next in the series. A lot of editing problems that I hope improve in future editions.
March 4, 2018
I'm really not feeling this story. The beginning seemed promising and something new, but the instalove turned me off. I know these two haven't said I love you 50 pages in yet, but I know that's what this is. Alex already feels a fierce need to protect Cherry and they are all over each other. There is a nice story here so I give credit to that, but I am not a fan of the romance here.
June 16, 2020
It's a fun read, not amazing, but enjoyable.
April 19, 2021
Vampire
Sometimes getting a meal is an adventure. A young vampire goes to get a meal at a bar and comes home with a cop
Sometimes getting a meal is an adventure. A young vampire goes to get a meal at a bar and comes home with a cop
December 22, 2021
First book and I like it enough to continue to the next one in the series.
October 19, 2019
Interesting
Interesting story line. Keeps you wanting more. Good vs evil comes to a head and consequences make interesting reading. Bravo
Interesting story line. Keeps you wanting more. Good vs evil comes to a head and consequences make interesting reading. Bravo
March 11, 2014
I love vampire books for all of the cliche reasons. Who wouldn't want (at least in theory) to be immortal, have immense strength, enhanced senses, and be able to fly?
Cherry Stem is a 20-something former adult film actress and model who's turned just before the movie for which she changed her name. She lives simply and has been on her own for a number of years. She goes out to feed every night, sometimes disguising herself, and brings unsuspecting humans somewhere quiet where she can enthrall them so they don't remember giving her some of their blood. But all that changes when she meets Alex, a human cop who mistakes her for a prostitute and brings her home to try to reform her. When he realizes his mistake, the two do, indeed, have sex. Cherry falls asleep at his place, and since she can't go home in the morning, events transpire to let Alex know that vampires are real.
This is a love story with a bit of intrigue woven in to keep things interesting. Girls are disappearing, girls like Cherry, and Alex is looking into the matter. There's a vampire council, laws, and an ex-vampire lover of Cherry's who all want to get in the way. Cherry herself, though, is the most in the way. She knows that she can't be with a human. Not only is it against the law, but he'll die long before she will and then what will she do?
I loved Cherry's narration. She's irreverent, a bit funny, and doesn't take herself too seriously. Alex is, of course, handsome and strong and he's truly one of the good guys. There's a lot of sex, some described in pretty clear detail, and all very well done. There are the little details like learning about Alex's job and one of his coworkers, him talking to his mother, and Cherry's neighbor Dotty.
The book is very well written and edited and the story kept moving the whole time. I wish that the ending had been a bit more drawn out though. At times it felt like the mystery was only there to further the events of the romance, and while that might seem to some to be a significant criticism, I loved the romance aspect of the book so much that I didn't mind. The ending is heartpounding in parts, predictable in others, and you will shout at Cherry at least once if not twice for her decisions. That said, it ends well and there is no cliffhanger.
While there might have been a thing or two I would have changed, overall, this was a very enjoyable romp. It's a quick read and after finishing it, I'll definitely be checking out more of Sotia Lazu's books.
**This review originally appeared on Author Alliance.**
Cherry Stem is a 20-something former adult film actress and model who's turned just before the movie for which she changed her name. She lives simply and has been on her own for a number of years. She goes out to feed every night, sometimes disguising herself, and brings unsuspecting humans somewhere quiet where she can enthrall them so they don't remember giving her some of their blood. But all that changes when she meets Alex, a human cop who mistakes her for a prostitute and brings her home to try to reform her. When he realizes his mistake, the two do, indeed, have sex. Cherry falls asleep at his place, and since she can't go home in the morning, events transpire to let Alex know that vampires are real.
This is a love story with a bit of intrigue woven in to keep things interesting. Girls are disappearing, girls like Cherry, and Alex is looking into the matter. There's a vampire council, laws, and an ex-vampire lover of Cherry's who all want to get in the way. Cherry herself, though, is the most in the way. She knows that she can't be with a human. Not only is it against the law, but he'll die long before she will and then what will she do?
I loved Cherry's narration. She's irreverent, a bit funny, and doesn't take herself too seriously. Alex is, of course, handsome and strong and he's truly one of the good guys. There's a lot of sex, some described in pretty clear detail, and all very well done. There are the little details like learning about Alex's job and one of his coworkers, him talking to his mother, and Cherry's neighbor Dotty.
The book is very well written and edited and the story kept moving the whole time. I wish that the ending had been a bit more drawn out though. At times it felt like the mystery was only there to further the events of the romance, and while that might seem to some to be a significant criticism, I loved the romance aspect of the book so much that I didn't mind. The ending is heartpounding in parts, predictable in others, and you will shout at Cherry at least once if not twice for her decisions. That said, it ends well and there is no cliffhanger.
While there might have been a thing or two I would have changed, overall, this was a very enjoyable romp. It's a quick read and after finishing it, I'll definitely be checking out more of Sotia Lazu's books.
**This review originally appeared on Author Alliance.**
November 28, 2018
Good solid story.
Recommended.
Recommended.
May 13, 2019
Very action packed story with so many twists you wont know who to trust. Oh and did I forget to mention steam!!! You be on the edge wanting to find out who is causing all this trouble and why in Cherry's unlife. Has it all been a coincident or a bigger plan.
July 4, 2016
BOOK AND AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: I'm a big fan of vamp romance, and over the years, I've definitely heard the good, the bad and the ugly. I really, really liked this. Cherry was such a real character. She was young and a little naive when she was turned against her will, but in the ensuing 6 years, she's grown up and adapted to her circumstances. She's not excessively good or bad. She's "normal." When she meets a guy who would appear to be all wrong for her, she falls for him anyway, and Alex, a human cop, is the same way. This makes them pretty perfect for each other. Ain't love grand? I also LOVE that Cherry doesn't become some TSTL airhead and Alex doesn't turn into an incommunicative jerk in order to propel the story line. (Thank you, Sotia Lazu!!) Of course, it's not all moonlight and roses. There are young girls disappearing in the same way Cherry did, baggage from past relationships, a vampire council that may or may not be trustworthy and psycho vamp killers after them while they team up to watch each others' backs and deal with their growing feelings, which are expressed through some very steamy, sexy times that might melt your earbuds. This is Book 1 in a series, but it could be seen as a complete story and does NOT end in a cliffhanger! YEAH!! (Thank you again, SL!!)
Wendy Tremont King does an excellent job with performing various voices of both males and females. Her inflection in some places was just off. Having heard her performances before, it seems this was more laziness than lack of talent. However, it didn't detract from the overall experience too much. The only "wince moments" I would point out were when the word "jugular" was read. The long U sound is particularly important because "jugular" should NOT sound the same as "juggler," ESPECIALLY when reading a vampire book. I'm super critical, so I actually consider those 2 things minor, and they only constitute the loss of 1 star. WTK is an exceptional narrator, and overall, she did a great job. I'm on to Book 2 now!!
Wendy Tremont King does an excellent job with performing various voices of both males and females. Her inflection in some places was just off. Having heard her performances before, it seems this was more laziness than lack of talent. However, it didn't detract from the overall experience too much. The only "wince moments" I would point out were when the word "jugular" was read. The long U sound is particularly important because "jugular" should NOT sound the same as "juggler," ESPECIALLY when reading a vampire book. I'm super critical, so I actually consider those 2 things minor, and they only constitute the loss of 1 star. WTK is an exceptional narrator, and overall, she did a great job. I'm on to Book 2 now!!
April 2, 2013
This is the first time I have heard of this author and based on this book she is definitely a new indie writer who I will be keeping an eye on and checking out more of her books.
Cherry Stem is a different paranormal romance book then most I have read. Usually the male hero is the paranormal creature (vampire, werewolf, shapeshifter etc.) and the heroine is the mortal who eventually can't resist the charm of the male protagonist. In this Cherry Stem, the heroine is the vampire and the hero is the gorgeous, male mortal, who despite his lack of strength and speed (in comparison to the heroine) still had a strong, dominant, alpha presence that can even make a vampire melt with his gaze and sensuality. What I loved about this story is how despite Cherry being a vampire she still showed her humanity, vulnerability and weaknesses to Alex, who in turn showed her strength, determination and power both in dealing with the challenges that they faced and in love.
Cherry Stem had so much happening that I was glued to the pages. Action, love, betrayal, trust, a sexy ex, intrigue and twists and turns that had me cheering for these two to overcome the obstacles that they faced. I wanted Cherry and Alex to take of hold of the love that was in front of them and to not be afraid of the possibilities. As you can tell I did develop an emotional connection with these two especially Alex. I just don't know to describe it, but there was something about him that made him seem so real and such a wonderful guy that any woman would be lucky to have him (it didn't hurt that was described to look like a yummy Greek God and really knew how to satisfy a woman). There were moments in the book that I did have tears in my eyes because of everything that happened to these two and how they both deserved happiness with each other.
This is one book that paranormal romance fans will enjoy sinking their teeth into and savouring both the bittersweet and sexy, tender moments.
4 Stars
Cherry Stem is a different paranormal romance book then most I have read. Usually the male hero is the paranormal creature (vampire, werewolf, shapeshifter etc.) and the heroine is the mortal who eventually can't resist the charm of the male protagonist. In this Cherry Stem, the heroine is the vampire and the hero is the gorgeous, male mortal, who despite his lack of strength and speed (in comparison to the heroine) still had a strong, dominant, alpha presence that can even make a vampire melt with his gaze and sensuality. What I loved about this story is how despite Cherry being a vampire she still showed her humanity, vulnerability and weaknesses to Alex, who in turn showed her strength, determination and power both in dealing with the challenges that they faced and in love.
Cherry Stem had so much happening that I was glued to the pages. Action, love, betrayal, trust, a sexy ex, intrigue and twists and turns that had me cheering for these two to overcome the obstacles that they faced. I wanted Cherry and Alex to take of hold of the love that was in front of them and to not be afraid of the possibilities. As you can tell I did develop an emotional connection with these two especially Alex. I just don't know to describe it, but there was something about him that made him seem so real and such a wonderful guy that any woman would be lucky to have him (it didn't hurt that was described to look like a yummy Greek God and really knew how to satisfy a woman). There were moments in the book that I did have tears in my eyes because of everything that happened to these two and how they both deserved happiness with each other.
This is one book that paranormal romance fans will enjoy sinking their teeth into and savouring both the bittersweet and sexy, tender moments.
4 Stars
July 10, 2013
A vampire book with a mystery to solve, sexy ex vampire boyfriend and promising new conquest well I must say that doesn't sound bad at all. The book had its romantic moments and its action packed moments also. Cherry is a witty character with a no nonsense attitude yet she's good at not showing her softer vulnerable side. I thought that Alex the good guy that's lovable by all accounts seems to take everything rather easily. I did expect more of a freak out instead of him falling in love so fast and dealing rather well with the vampire thing. The moments between Alex and Cherry are great with lots of spice. The sexual tension between them and the denial on her part on falling love was sweet and endearing.
It was nice to see that the book is more practical when it comes to the vampires. The way that they have a support system for new vampires and the fact that they survive better on another vampires blood instead of that of humans was a good twist. You still have your flying vampires and memory wiping tricks. I did find it funny that they have vampire sponsors and manuals on how to live now that they're vampires.
The mystery was good and I completely thought it was someone else who was behind it all. The twist in the end was good and I felt so bad for Cherry. Yes the ending was predictable but the hopeless romantic in me was happy with it all. I would like to read about what happens with the council and with Constantine. There's also the fact that we didn't get the reasons behind Cherry's turning which I would also like to read about. Overall it was a good book and would read further installments.
It was nice to see that the book is more practical when it comes to the vampires. The way that they have a support system for new vampires and the fact that they survive better on another vampires blood instead of that of humans was a good twist. You still have your flying vampires and memory wiping tricks. I did find it funny that they have vampire sponsors and manuals on how to live now that they're vampires.
The mystery was good and I completely thought it was someone else who was behind it all. The twist in the end was good and I felt so bad for Cherry. Yes the ending was predictable but the hopeless romantic in me was happy with it all. I would like to read about what happens with the council and with Constantine. There's also the fact that we didn't get the reasons behind Cherry's turning which I would also like to read about. Overall it was a good book and would read further installments.
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