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Night Blood #1
The City Beneath
As a journalist, Cassidy DiRocco thought she had seen every depraved thing New York City’s underbelly had to offer. But while covering what appears to be a vicious animal attack, she finds herself drawn into a world she never knew existed. Her exposé makes her the target of the handsome yet brutal Dominic Lysander, the Master Vampire of New York City, who has no problem silencing her to keep his coven's secrets safe…
But Dominic offers Cassidy another ally. He reveals she is a night blood, a being with powers of her own, including the ability to become a vampire. As the body count escalates, Cassidy is caught in the middle of a vampire rebellion. Dominic insists she can help him stop the coming war, but wary of his intentions, Cassidy enlists the help of the charming Ian Walker, a fellow night blood. As the battle between vampires takes over the city, Cassidy will have to tap into her newfound powers and decide where to place her trust...
But Dominic offers Cassidy another ally. He reveals she is a night blood, a being with powers of her own, including the ability to become a vampire. As the body count escalates, Cassidy is caught in the middle of a vampire rebellion. Dominic insists she can help him stop the coming war, but wary of his intentions, Cassidy enlists the help of the charming Ian Walker, a fellow night blood. As the battle between vampires takes over the city, Cassidy will have to tap into her newfound powers and decide where to place her trust...
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 28, 2015
18 people are currently reading
535 people want to read
About the author
Melody Johnson
12 books344 followersMelody Johnson is the author of the “out of this world” Love Beyond series and the gritty, paranormal romance Night Blood series published by Kensington Publishing/ Lyrical Press. The City Beneath (Night Blood, book 1) was a finalist in the “Cleveland Rocks” and “Fool For Love” contests.
Melody graduated magna cum laude from Lycoming College with her B.A. in creative writing and psychology. Throughout college, she wrote contemporary love stories, but having read and adored the action and dark mystery of vampires her whole life, decided to add her fingerprint to the paranormal genre.
“The vampire sub-genre of paranormal romance has always been one of my favorites to read,” says Melody. “But it was just as important to me to explore the monster within the man as it was to reveal the man within the monster. The juxtaposition of good and evil and all the gray in between that composes a person is just as unique in my vampires as they are my human characters, and because of that, my heroine has more man troubles than she ever bargained for.”
Melody's unique perspective on vampires lends fresh bite to a classic paranormal genre. In addition to a reimagined transformation—the requirement of night blood—vampires have gargoyle-looking, vicious day forms, an orgasmic bite, and as the series progresses to Sweet Last Drop (book 2), a mindless, rampaging, zombie-like breed is introduced. Melody is constantly upping the stakes, and Day Reaper (book 4) is no exception.
Beyond the Next Star is an exciting branch from Melody's paranormal romance roots, keeping the dark grit from her Night Blood Series and taking it to new worlds. Told from the dual perspectives of both human pet and alien owner, Melody's story weaves a slow-burn romance that explores the bonds of love in all its forms, navigating the main characters’ relationship in delicate stages from oblivious ownership to woke, romantic love.
“Reading and writing romance is my life’s passion, but I’m particularly excited to add my voice to the sci-fi romance genre,” says Melody. “This book allowed me to explore the unconventional parameters that constitute home and family, something my heroine was denied in childhood and torn from in adulthood. But as she discovers through her adventure on Lorien, a home isn’t built with a foundation of concrete but of love.”
After moving from her northeast Pennsylvania hometown for some much needed Southern sunshine, Melody now works as a digital media coordinator for Southeast Georgia Health System’s marketing department. When she isn’t working or writing, Melody can be found swimming at the beach, reading at the pool, and exploring her new home in southeast Georgia.
Melody graduated magna cum laude from Lycoming College with her B.A. in creative writing and psychology. Throughout college, she wrote contemporary love stories, but having read and adored the action and dark mystery of vampires her whole life, decided to add her fingerprint to the paranormal genre.
“The vampire sub-genre of paranormal romance has always been one of my favorites to read,” says Melody. “But it was just as important to me to explore the monster within the man as it was to reveal the man within the monster. The juxtaposition of good and evil and all the gray in between that composes a person is just as unique in my vampires as they are my human characters, and because of that, my heroine has more man troubles than she ever bargained for.”
Melody's unique perspective on vampires lends fresh bite to a classic paranormal genre. In addition to a reimagined transformation—the requirement of night blood—vampires have gargoyle-looking, vicious day forms, an orgasmic bite, and as the series progresses to Sweet Last Drop (book 2), a mindless, rampaging, zombie-like breed is introduced. Melody is constantly upping the stakes, and Day Reaper (book 4) is no exception.
Beyond the Next Star is an exciting branch from Melody's paranormal romance roots, keeping the dark grit from her Night Blood Series and taking it to new worlds. Told from the dual perspectives of both human pet and alien owner, Melody's story weaves a slow-burn romance that explores the bonds of love in all its forms, navigating the main characters’ relationship in delicate stages from oblivious ownership to woke, romantic love.
“Reading and writing romance is my life’s passion, but I’m particularly excited to add my voice to the sci-fi romance genre,” says Melody. “This book allowed me to explore the unconventional parameters that constitute home and family, something my heroine was denied in childhood and torn from in adulthood. But as she discovers through her adventure on Lorien, a home isn’t built with a foundation of concrete but of love.”
After moving from her northeast Pennsylvania hometown for some much needed Southern sunshine, Melody now works as a digital media coordinator for Southeast Georgia Health System’s marketing department. When she isn’t working or writing, Melody can be found swimming at the beach, reading at the pool, and exploring her new home in southeast Georgia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
January 1, 2023
The City Beneath by Melody Johnson
Contemporary vampire, urban fantasy. Series book 1.
Cassidy is a journalist. She witnesses a horrific scene where bodies appear to have been killed by wild animals. She finds one victim still breathing but must convince the paramedic that can’t find a pulse that he still lives. Turns out he didn’t have a pulse since he was a vampire. So starts a nightmare for Cassidy as she gets involved with master vampire Dominic and a war from a vampire rebellion.
Bloody and controversy between vampires has Cassidy attacked again and again. Someone always seems to be biting, bleeding, staking or tearing pieces off a body. Cassidy has her own powers but it’s a fight to survive. She’s a Nightblood and it’s a whole new world.
This wasn’t what I expected. Much darker and bloody and vicious and in the middle of wars. I have the next book in the series but I’m not sure. My taste these days is for lighter and uplifting. This is not a romance but does have considerable world building and a female that doesn’t give up or in.
Contemporary vampire, urban fantasy. Series book 1.
Cassidy is a journalist. She witnesses a horrific scene where bodies appear to have been killed by wild animals. She finds one victim still breathing but must convince the paramedic that can’t find a pulse that he still lives. Turns out he didn’t have a pulse since he was a vampire. So starts a nightmare for Cassidy as she gets involved with master vampire Dominic and a war from a vampire rebellion.
Bloody and controversy between vampires has Cassidy attacked again and again. Someone always seems to be biting, bleeding, staking or tearing pieces off a body. Cassidy has her own powers but it’s a fight to survive. She’s a Nightblood and it’s a whole new world.
This wasn’t what I expected. Much darker and bloody and vicious and in the middle of wars. I have the next book in the series but I’m not sure. My taste these days is for lighter and uplifting. This is not a romance but does have considerable world building and a female that doesn’t give up or in.
November 21, 2025
The City Beneath is a swift moving paranormal adventure that lays deep in the depths of New York City.
Cassidy is your every day journalist looking for the next best scoop when her world collides with Dominic Lysander, master vampire. Dominic tells Cassidy that she is a “night blood”. He gives Cassidy a choice, join his clan and eventually become a vampire or be silenced forever.
Just when she thought there was no escape, Ian arrives. He claims also to be a night blood and wants to destroy all vampires.
There is a war brewing deep within the vampire clan. Cassidy must decide if the enemy she knows is better than the unknown.
Lots of machinations, unexpected plot twists and a somewhat love triangle highlight this new series' plot.
Great potential for a marvelous urban fantasy, Melody Johnson's new series Night Blood is one to watch.
I received this ARC copy of City Beneath from Kensington Books in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication April 28, 2015.
Cassidy is your every day journalist looking for the next best scoop when her world collides with Dominic Lysander, master vampire. Dominic tells Cassidy that she is a “night blood”. He gives Cassidy a choice, join his clan and eventually become a vampire or be silenced forever.
Just when she thought there was no escape, Ian arrives. He claims also to be a night blood and wants to destroy all vampires.
There is a war brewing deep within the vampire clan. Cassidy must decide if the enemy she knows is better than the unknown.
Lots of machinations, unexpected plot twists and a somewhat love triangle highlight this new series' plot.
Great potential for a marvelous urban fantasy, Melody Johnson's new series Night Blood is one to watch.
I received this ARC copy of City Beneath from Kensington Books in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication April 28, 2015.
March 29, 2015
This book had good potential, but unfortunately it lacked the depth to win me over. It was just an okay read for me. I often felt like I was watching television or reading a screen play instead of a novel. I was being told what was happening, without enough detail to make me feel like I was part of the story. A bit like I was watching through a window. I could not connect with the characters.
There was a bit of a love triangle, but we really don't know anything about Dominic or Ian, other than superficial information. I did not understand Cassidy's continuing relationship with Ian, as it was apparent to me that he was only interested in killing vampires, no matter the fallout. I felt like, despite wanting to turn her, Dominic truly cared about her. However, I would have liked much more back story on these gentlemen. Dominic is a 500 year old vampire, there is so much room there to write a compelling character, and we just don't have it in this book.
The book is written from Cassidy's point of view... yet the details of her life are vague or glossed over. Outside of her work, we are only briefly told about how she received her injury, the death of her parents, and quickly meet her brother, Nathan. She also appears to have some sort of sexual hangup or issue that is mentioned during an encounter with Ian, but we never learn what is or the reasons behind it. Like I said before, there is just not enough depth.
I know all I have said so far sounds negative, but it was not a bad read. It just did not hold my interest as much as I would have liked. There are some interesting things. The vampires are not your normal unflawed beautiful characters. Rather they can appear beautiful if they are well-fed, but they also transform into gruesome creatures that look somewhat like gargoyles. So that was a new take on this fictional species. And while the vampires were humans before they turned, not all humans can become a vampire. Only special humans, such as Cassidy and Ian, which are called night bloods. Only their DNA can accept the mutation. This is not a novel idea, but its not used as often as other paranormal tropes. I will read the next book in the series to see where it goes... but I really hope the love triangle doesn't continue because I just didn't buy the relationship with Ian Walker.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
There was a bit of a love triangle, but we really don't know anything about Dominic or Ian, other than superficial information. I did not understand Cassidy's continuing relationship with Ian, as it was apparent to me that he was only interested in killing vampires, no matter the fallout. I felt like, despite wanting to turn her, Dominic truly cared about her. However, I would have liked much more back story on these gentlemen. Dominic is a 500 year old vampire, there is so much room there to write a compelling character, and we just don't have it in this book.
The book is written from Cassidy's point of view... yet the details of her life are vague or glossed over. Outside of her work, we are only briefly told about how she received her injury, the death of her parents, and quickly meet her brother, Nathan. She also appears to have some sort of sexual hangup or issue that is mentioned during an encounter with Ian, but we never learn what is or the reasons behind it. Like I said before, there is just not enough depth.
I know all I have said so far sounds negative, but it was not a bad read. It just did not hold my interest as much as I would have liked. There are some interesting things. The vampires are not your normal unflawed beautiful characters. Rather they can appear beautiful if they are well-fed, but they also transform into gruesome creatures that look somewhat like gargoyles. So that was a new take on this fictional species. And while the vampires were humans before they turned, not all humans can become a vampire. Only special humans, such as Cassidy and Ian, which are called night bloods. Only their DNA can accept the mutation. This is not a novel idea, but its not used as often as other paranormal tropes. I will read the next book in the series to see where it goes... but I really hope the love triangle doesn't continue because I just didn't buy the relationship with Ian Walker.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2016
When life gets crazy I unabashedly escape by searching my e-library for paranormal romance. Stand aside, real world problems, there are vampires to rein in and maybe even fall in love with!
The City Beneath is successful in that it's a quick read that helped me forget my worries, but the world doesn't hold up as well as it should.
The good:
- Cassidy has realistic baggage and is as strong as she can be, considering the circumstances.
- Dominic is alpha without being an asshole, and has a history that will probably be covered in future books.
- Cassidy doesn't let Dominic pull the wool over her eyes. She participates in his plans only after she's taken all angles into account and called out any bullshit. How I love a heroine that thinks.
- The characterization is strong and the plot never loses its speed.
The not-so-good:
- Cassidy is treated as a human pin cushion. For all her smarts she ends up getting used as bait. A lot. She calls Dominic out on this, which makes it nearly tolerable, but the "powers of her own" outlined in the jacket copy are scant, indeed.
- While the book takes place in Brooklyn I never felt like I was there, or even in a major East coast city. It could take place in any large city, really.
- Hand in hand with that, the world building is weak. Certain elements are well-covered (vampire care and feeding) and others are neatly ignored (anything more than 10 feet away from the heroine). While I liked the characters there's not enough of a world here to make me want to go back.
- There's not a love triangle, but more of a trust triangle that's set up early on. Part way through one corner of the triangle does something unforgivable, but the heroine keeps working with him anyway. I couldn't wrap my mind around it.
- Cassidy is a reporter but sometimes she acts like a police detective. In the past she was shot while backing up a police officer... but why the hell was a reporter back up for a police officer?!
While The City Beneath was diverting I won't be reading the sequel. It does make me want to get back into paranormal and urban fantasy, though....
The City Beneath is successful in that it's a quick read that helped me forget my worries, but the world doesn't hold up as well as it should.
The good:
- Cassidy has realistic baggage and is as strong as she can be, considering the circumstances.
- Dominic is alpha without being an asshole, and has a history that will probably be covered in future books.
- Cassidy doesn't let Dominic pull the wool over her eyes. She participates in his plans only after she's taken all angles into account and called out any bullshit. How I love a heroine that thinks.
- The characterization is strong and the plot never loses its speed.
The not-so-good:
- Cassidy is treated as a human pin cushion. For all her smarts she ends up getting used as bait. A lot. She calls Dominic out on this, which makes it nearly tolerable, but the "powers of her own" outlined in the jacket copy are scant, indeed.
- While the book takes place in Brooklyn I never felt like I was there, or even in a major East coast city. It could take place in any large city, really.
- Hand in hand with that, the world building is weak. Certain elements are well-covered (vampire care and feeding) and others are neatly ignored (anything more than 10 feet away from the heroine). While I liked the characters there's not enough of a world here to make me want to go back.
- There's not a love triangle, but more of a trust triangle that's set up early on. Part way through one corner of the triangle does something unforgivable, but the heroine keeps working with him anyway. I couldn't wrap my mind around it.
- Cassidy is a reporter but sometimes she acts like a police detective. In the past she was shot while backing up a police officer... but why the hell was a reporter back up for a police officer?!
While The City Beneath was diverting I won't be reading the sequel. It does make me want to get back into paranormal and urban fantasy, though....
May 20, 2018
The City Beneath by Melody Johnson
Intriguing and splendidly penned tale of heroine, Cassidy DiRocco, and her efforts as an investigative reporter to work alongside police and solve cases in New York City. Soon she learns that events occurring are being (astonishingly and unbelievably) caused by Vampires—and furthermore, are disguised to appear that humans are portraying the violence that has erupted.
Master Vampire, Dominic Lysander, is gravely injured in one of the attacks and it is Cassidy who saves him from his ultimate death; beginning a turbulent and turmoil filled relationship that can only be described as: complicated. The two of them, have the same goal; but need differing reasons to reach it. They must save the city!
This is a representation of paranormal fiction that delighted me throughout. It is not the typical portrayal of Vampires or their culture—which was refreshing and alluring. There is well plotted information full of detail to weave the storyline and a cast of integral characters. Extreme violence is explained graphically. In some cases, I was unable to picture the descriptions but took it at face value of being horrific. Admittedly, some became a touch nauseating, and I cried at the skill of the author for writing gore so well, that moments after reading something gruesome; it is forgotten as I continued to read. I don’t classify this as a “light read,” but it has some light-hearted moments and is tempered with humor and sarcasm. Melody Johnson has written the first title in this series full of complexities that I completely devoured!
Intriguing and splendidly penned tale of heroine, Cassidy DiRocco, and her efforts as an investigative reporter to work alongside police and solve cases in New York City. Soon she learns that events occurring are being (astonishingly and unbelievably) caused by Vampires—and furthermore, are disguised to appear that humans are portraying the violence that has erupted.
Master Vampire, Dominic Lysander, is gravely injured in one of the attacks and it is Cassidy who saves him from his ultimate death; beginning a turbulent and turmoil filled relationship that can only be described as: complicated. The two of them, have the same goal; but need differing reasons to reach it. They must save the city!
This is a representation of paranormal fiction that delighted me throughout. It is not the typical portrayal of Vampires or their culture—which was refreshing and alluring. There is well plotted information full of detail to weave the storyline and a cast of integral characters. Extreme violence is explained graphically. In some cases, I was unable to picture the descriptions but took it at face value of being horrific. Admittedly, some became a touch nauseating, and I cried at the skill of the author for writing gore so well, that moments after reading something gruesome; it is forgotten as I continued to read. I don’t classify this as a “light read,” but it has some light-hearted moments and is tempered with humor and sarcasm. Melody Johnson has written the first title in this series full of complexities that I completely devoured!
June 30, 2022
This book sets the scene for the rest of the series. We learn about all the major players, get introduced to the vampires that inhabit the city and how they have remained a secret, and get pulled into the hierarchy struggles that are making a splash and leaving evidence of their existence.
Cassidy DiRocco is a sassy heroine who is painted as being a force to reckon with in the reporter world. Her respected position paints a picture of someone who can handle what the vampires throw at her more than the average person. She gets put through the ringer as she discovers the city beneath and the existence of things that do more than go bump in the night.
There are two male characters, Ian Walker and Dominic Lysander, that Cassidy has a pull to, often unwillingly, and I am intrigued as to where the series will take the romantic element.
Read this if you like dark vampires, gritty city settings, much chemistry and pull between the characters, and a sassy heroine who refuses to tap out when any normal person would have long before!
Maybe don’t read it if violence and gore is off-putting to you…. But recommend it to someone who isn’t adverse to a little intensity in that department!!!
This book totally played out like a movie in my head!
Cassidy DiRocco is a sassy heroine who is painted as being a force to reckon with in the reporter world. Her respected position paints a picture of someone who can handle what the vampires throw at her more than the average person. She gets put through the ringer as she discovers the city beneath and the existence of things that do more than go bump in the night.
There are two male characters, Ian Walker and Dominic Lysander, that Cassidy has a pull to, often unwillingly, and I am intrigued as to where the series will take the romantic element.
Read this if you like dark vampires, gritty city settings, much chemistry and pull between the characters, and a sassy heroine who refuses to tap out when any normal person would have long before!
Maybe don’t read it if violence and gore is off-putting to you…. But recommend it to someone who isn’t adverse to a little intensity in that department!!!
This book totally played out like a movie in my head!
June 20, 2022
The City Beneath is a dark and gritty urban fantasy. The heroine, Cassidy, is a reporter who discovers the charred body of a man in an alley. When she discovers he is still breathing, she calls someone to help save him. The man turns out to be Dominic Lysander, master vampire. Cassidy quickly becomes involved in a war between warring factions of the vampire coven. As a night blood, Cassidy is a valuable resource to master vampires. The book is not a romance, but there is some romantic tension between Cassidy and Dominic and Cassidy and a fellow night blood, Ian Walker. There is a possible love triangle in the making. I recommend this book to anyone who likes their vampire stories to be dark and action packed. Melody Johnson did a fantastic job of world building and creating a unique take on the vampire mythology.
November 29, 2025
Night Blood Series Book 1
Paranormal, Contemporary vampire, urban fantasy
Action, some gore, bit of sexual tension, little steam, plenty of suspense.
I really enjoyed this book
Paranormal, Contemporary vampire, urban fantasy
Action, some gore, bit of sexual tension, little steam, plenty of suspense.
I really enjoyed this book
February 5, 2023
a bit dark
I liked the book but it was a bit darker than I was expecting. I found Cassidy to be an interesting character. I’m willing to try to next book in the series.
I liked the book but it was a bit darker than I was expecting. I found Cassidy to be an interesting character. I’m willing to try to next book in the series.
September 7, 2024
"The City Beneath" by Melody Johnson is the first book in her "Night Blood" series. It is such a great start to a series. I absolutely enjoyed reading about Cassidy, Ian, Dominic, and the gang. Cassidy is a journalist and writes a story about killings that have been happening that gets revoked. She can't understand why they would say that what she wrote really didn't happen. So, as she is investigating why no one remembers and more about what is going on, she uncovers a whole new world that she knew nothing about. She meets Dominic, who can't be out at night. Ian, who is in town to check into the "animal" bites that the bodies are having on them. Cassidy has to figure out what is real and who she can trust. My favorite part in this book is when Cassidy and Ian think they were sneaking out. This is my first book by Melody Johnson, and I enjoyed it immensely. I can't wait to move on to the second one in this series and to check out other books by her.
May 2, 2015
**3.5 stars**
***ARC given by author & Tasty Book Tours***
ARA'S NOTE:
I'm going to start-off by saying that, for some reason, when I was given an opportunity to review this book, I assumed it was a paranormal romance book. I mean, look at the cover! I'm pretty sure more than 50% would think the same thing I did. Was I right? The answer is already pretty obvious, right? But let me explain further...
SYNOPSIS:
As a journalist, Cassidy DiRocco thought she had seen every depraved thing New York City’s underbelly had to offer. But while covering what appears to be a vicious animal attack, she finds herself drawn into a world she never knew existed. Her exposé makes her the target of the handsome yet brutal Dominic Lysander, the Master Vampire of New York City, who has no problem silencing her to keep his coven's secrets safe…
But Dominic offers Cassidy another option: ally. He reveals she is a night blood, a being with powers of her own, including the ability to become a vampire. As the body count escalates, Cassidy is caught in the middle of a vampire rebellion. Dominic insists she can help him stop the coming war, but wary of his intentions, Cassidy enlists the help of the charming Ian Walker, a fellow night blood. As the battle between vampires takes over the city, Cassidy will have to tap into her newfound powers and decide where to place her trust.
REVIEW:
Vampire books have always interested me. The more action-packed the better. If it's sexy and hot then score! But I also expect some sort of romance or love interest in the paranormal books I read. So imagine my surprise when I found out I'm not getting that here. But as a consolation, there is a hint or prospect of one forming in the future. I guess it's completely understandable considering they can't really trust each other. I believe there's a chance of a love triangle in the future. Maybe an Edward - Bella - Jacob thing going on. I'm totally Team Dominic guys, I'm calling that one right now.
The book was well-written in a technical standpoint; Punctuation marks are used properly, avoiding confusion, and the likes. This is a great thing because a book that is full of grammatical errors, mispelled words, and missing punctutation marks turns me off. No matter how good the plot is, I aikl stop reading it. So kudos on the proofreading and editing team for doing their jobs well. *applaudes*
The City Beneath has the making of a really good series. This early on there are already loads of controversy, mistrust, and hidden agendas. Our heroine is an interesting character; she's strong, smart, persistent, and reliable. She's no femme fatale, thank goodness for that, because I would've skipped this.
SUMMARY:
I rate The City Beneath (Night Blood #1) 3.5 stars. It is a good read but it wasn't extraordinary or anything. I would still recommend it to other readers because I believe Melody Johnson would do everything she can to make the following instalments perfect.
***ARC given by author & Tasty Book Tours***
ARA'S NOTE:
I'm going to start-off by saying that, for some reason, when I was given an opportunity to review this book, I assumed it was a paranormal romance book. I mean, look at the cover! I'm pretty sure more than 50% would think the same thing I did. Was I right? The answer is already pretty obvious, right? But let me explain further...
SYNOPSIS:
As a journalist, Cassidy DiRocco thought she had seen every depraved thing New York City’s underbelly had to offer. But while covering what appears to be a vicious animal attack, she finds herself drawn into a world she never knew existed. Her exposé makes her the target of the handsome yet brutal Dominic Lysander, the Master Vampire of New York City, who has no problem silencing her to keep his coven's secrets safe…
But Dominic offers Cassidy another option: ally. He reveals she is a night blood, a being with powers of her own, including the ability to become a vampire. As the body count escalates, Cassidy is caught in the middle of a vampire rebellion. Dominic insists she can help him stop the coming war, but wary of his intentions, Cassidy enlists the help of the charming Ian Walker, a fellow night blood. As the battle between vampires takes over the city, Cassidy will have to tap into her newfound powers and decide where to place her trust.
REVIEW:
Vampire books have always interested me. The more action-packed the better. If it's sexy and hot then score! But I also expect some sort of romance or love interest in the paranormal books I read. So imagine my surprise when I found out I'm not getting that here. But as a consolation, there is a hint or prospect of one forming in the future. I guess it's completely understandable considering they can't really trust each other. I believe there's a chance of a love triangle in the future. Maybe an Edward - Bella - Jacob thing going on. I'm totally Team Dominic guys, I'm calling that one right now.
The book was well-written in a technical standpoint; Punctuation marks are used properly, avoiding confusion, and the likes. This is a great thing because a book that is full of grammatical errors, mispelled words, and missing punctutation marks turns me off. No matter how good the plot is, I aikl stop reading it. So kudos on the proofreading and editing team for doing their jobs well. *applaudes*
The City Beneath has the making of a really good series. This early on there are already loads of controversy, mistrust, and hidden agendas. Our heroine is an interesting character; she's strong, smart, persistent, and reliable. She's no femme fatale, thank goodness for that, because I would've skipped this.
SUMMARY:
I rate The City Beneath (Night Blood #1) 3.5 stars. It is a good read but it wasn't extraordinary or anything. I would still recommend it to other readers because I believe Melody Johnson would do everything she can to make the following instalments perfect.
April 21, 2015
I'm not going to lie. I expected a romance. I'm not going to say this is the furthest thing from a romance since there were a few heated moments, but that certainly didn't not make this book a romance. Instead, The City Beneath is more of a paranormal, suspense mystery.
Surprisingly, I actually enjoyed this book. I tend to be drawn to vampire stories that really don't have much variety to them. The formula that I fall for is the usual girl meets vamp, vamp is all angsty, girl is in danger, vamp caves, turns her and they live HEA. This really wasn't the case here. Rarely do I see a author come up with a new twist to this old vampire story formula. Not the case here. Ms. Johnson has managed to introduce a new way of creating vampires. Night bloods, and that's what Cassidy is. She's also a nosy journalist which of course lands her smack dab in trouble. Trouble being a vampire rebellion. Vampire rebellions are not original however I found the plot line regarding night bloods a refreshing change from the typical bite-suck-your a vamp conversion.
Over-all, The City Beneath was fun for me. The dialog was snappy, the characters engaging, and the plot line, even though not too original (hello vamp rebellion!), I still enjoyed. The lack of romantic entanglements instead of detracting from the story, actually added to it. I could relax and absorb all the action and mystery without being to concern that things were going to turn hot and heavy at the most inopportune moments. Even though there's a nice mystery feel to the whole plot, the dialog between characters still had moments of getting me to chuckle.
Too many mystery movies have me guessing the the whodunit from the get go so I wasn't exactly too surprised when the 'dunt dunt dunt' reveal happened. Guessing from early on and having my thoughts confirmed didn't detract from the story. Actually, if anything, it made it more interesting. I didn't know the why and when I did find out...light bulb. I got it now. The ending was all I liked and more. I'm finding myself excited and anticipating what happens next, which is rare for me. Not being a mystery fan usually I am over it quickly once all the cards have been played. But in this instance, I can't wait to find out what happens next. Well played Ms. Johnson!
I received this book from the JeepDiva for the express purposes of an honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine and in no way was I compensated.
Stars - 4, Flames - 2
Surprisingly, I actually enjoyed this book. I tend to be drawn to vampire stories that really don't have much variety to them. The formula that I fall for is the usual girl meets vamp, vamp is all angsty, girl is in danger, vamp caves, turns her and they live HEA. This really wasn't the case here. Rarely do I see a author come up with a new twist to this old vampire story formula. Not the case here. Ms. Johnson has managed to introduce a new way of creating vampires. Night bloods, and that's what Cassidy is. She's also a nosy journalist which of course lands her smack dab in trouble. Trouble being a vampire rebellion. Vampire rebellions are not original however I found the plot line regarding night bloods a refreshing change from the typical bite-suck-your a vamp conversion.
Over-all, The City Beneath was fun for me. The dialog was snappy, the characters engaging, and the plot line, even though not too original (hello vamp rebellion!), I still enjoyed. The lack of romantic entanglements instead of detracting from the story, actually added to it. I could relax and absorb all the action and mystery without being to concern that things were going to turn hot and heavy at the most inopportune moments. Even though there's a nice mystery feel to the whole plot, the dialog between characters still had moments of getting me to chuckle.
Too many mystery movies have me guessing the the whodunit from the get go so I wasn't exactly too surprised when the 'dunt dunt dunt' reveal happened. Guessing from early on and having my thoughts confirmed didn't detract from the story. Actually, if anything, it made it more interesting. I didn't know the why and when I did find out...light bulb. I got it now. The ending was all I liked and more. I'm finding myself excited and anticipating what happens next, which is rare for me. Not being a mystery fan usually I am over it quickly once all the cards have been played. But in this instance, I can't wait to find out what happens next. Well played Ms. Johnson!
I received this book from the JeepDiva for the express purposes of an honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine and in no way was I compensated.
Stars - 4, Flames - 2
April 29, 2015
✦Blog Tour, Review & Giveaway: The City Beneath (Night Blood # 1) by Melody Johnson http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-2o7
Publication Date: April 28, 2015
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 3.5 Stars
REVIEW:
I enjoyed this book and the series looks to be a good one. I wish it had some romance or sex or something more than just the possibility of it, it was not a romance. The lack of any romantic aspects could be because no one trusted each other and with good reason too. This book has me torn but the fact that I kept reading to see what happens was enough for me to give it the score I did.
*Review copy provided by Kensington in exchange for an honest review.
Publication Date: April 28, 2015
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 3.5 Stars
REVIEW:
I enjoyed this book and the series looks to be a good one. I wish it had some romance or sex or something more than just the possibility of it, it was not a romance. The lack of any romantic aspects could be because no one trusted each other and with good reason too. This book has me torn but the fact that I kept reading to see what happens was enough for me to give it the score I did.
*Review copy provided by Kensington in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2015
This book had action, a bit of gore, some sexual tension, a little steam, and plenty of suspense. This is sure to please.
I liked this a lot! I am eager to read the next book and find out more about what is going on with Nathan!
It was a decent page length, a steady pace after the first chapter or so and a writing style that was entertaining and easy to fall into.
I received an ecopy in exchange for my honest opinion. I thought it was great.
I liked this a lot! I am eager to read the next book and find out more about what is going on with Nathan!
It was a decent page length, a steady pace after the first chapter or so and a writing style that was entertaining and easy to fall into.
I received an ecopy in exchange for my honest opinion. I thought it was great.
July 9, 2024
I love this book! Melody definitely knows how to write suspense and action (gore)! I really enjoyed this new way vampires were described - very original mixed with the classic vampire style! I could picture in my head, what Melody must have envisioned when she wrote the book!
I have seen some comments about the lack of romance: between Dominic and Cassidy. I understand. However, I can see this is going to be a slow burn and I am here for it!!I found Dominic very romantic in the way he treated Cassidy! He is a character that you have to read between the lines to see his intentions.
I have bought all the ebooks, just wish I had them in paperback! Read this book if you are looking for a unique but classic vampire suspense!
I have seen some comments about the lack of romance: between Dominic and Cassidy. I understand. However, I can see this is going to be a slow burn and I am here for it!!I found Dominic very romantic in the way he treated Cassidy! He is a character that you have to read between the lines to see his intentions.
I have bought all the ebooks, just wish I had them in paperback! Read this book if you are looking for a unique but classic vampire suspense!
October 13, 2022
Great start to a new series. I really enjoyed the vampires as bad guys angle, or at least living in the morally gray area. There are familiar things about the vampire lore, but I love the tweaks made to that take them to the next level. How Cassidy juggles her job and friends is really clever. The action hooked me from the beginning and the overall story unfolded in so many great ways. While book 1 is not a romance, I don't trust either of Cassidy's possible love interests. They've both used her for their own gain. Not only is she aware, but she's allowing it for now because she has her own agenda, too. The hook at the end makes me glad the next book is already out.
July 30, 2017
This was such an amazing read!! Melody did a wonderful job with this well thought out and well written story. It is the darker side of vampires with a ton of action. If you're looking for a full blown paranormal romance, this isn't it! None of the pretty, sparkling vampire who you will obsess over. They are monsters and look like such, and can also still look like their human self before turning. There's action, there's violence, there's a damn good story. Ack! So good!! I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
October 3, 2024
Super dangerous, yet sexy vampires? Sign me up. I have always enjoyed vampire and werewolf books, as I was of the "Twilight" age, where all things were centered around those concepts/creatures, but this took it to a whole new level. These are not the "nice" vampires, and they will use you as they seem fit, but man there is twist in the story that I did not see coming. I am not a fan of love triangles. or cliff hangers but this book did do it right so that now I am dying to read the next book in the series, to continue the story.
November 3, 2025
This story introduces you to the underground world of vampires. There is a power grab within the coven. Cassidy is a reporter who gets caught up in the trouble. She has had to deal with Dominic the Vampire Master and Ian a vampire hunter. It felt like all of the main characters seemed to be using each other. This book does a great job of world building and setting you up for the rest of the series. But I will admit that I personally had a hard time with the is story which reflects my rating. I just didn’t do so well with the blood and gore. #CMCon26
December 27, 2023
Cassidy is a reporter for the local paper who always manages to get to the root of the story. Dominic is the master vampire of New York and he doesn’t want her to get to the root of the current story. Cassidy learns secrets from Dominic and Cassidy is torn between his information and what she is learning from Ian, another person brought into the story by her Detective friend Greta. It is hard to know who Cassidy should trust. This was a great read and I want to see what happens next!
October 3, 2025
If you like a good paranormal story, you will love this book. Cassidy is such a fun character to read and get to know. She learns things about her favorite city that she never knew, and would never believe if she didn't see and experience them for herself. Her journey puts her in the cross hairs of some very unsavory and dangerous beings. Who will ultimately save her? The boom will keep you guessing and sitting on the edge of your seat. Unbelievable story! I can't wait for book 2.
February 8, 2024
Overall, I enjoyed the plot and I really liked the main character. If you like a Vampire book with lots of blood, graphic detail, and gore then you'll like this book. I prefer my vampire stories to have a little less blood flying everywhere, but these are vampires so if was not completely unexpected. That being said, it ended in such a way, that I do want to know what happens next.
May 1, 2015
It’s been a while since I jumped into a pure paranormal romance, and this new series from Melody Johnson just looked too good to pass up. While I was expecting more romance, the twists and turns and overwhelming tension add to the mystery feel of the story, leaving the more tried and true Vamp meets Girl, Girl is in danger, fights happen and HEA appears in the dust.
Cassidy is a journalist, curious by nature and profession she is after the next newest thing, and she uncovers far more than she could have expected. A purported animal attack victim catches her interest, and her exposing the possibility that more is in play than anyone expected put her right in danger and in the middle of a world she didn’t know existed.
Dominic is the master vampire of New York City, and Cassidy’s continued poking at the world she has no idea about may lead him to drastic measures: it won’t be the first or last time a curious looky-loo was silenced. But, when he realizes that she has powers of her own, and can become vampire, her intelligence, organization and experience as a journalist become an asset: she can work with him to quash the potential rebellion.
Oh this was fun, even though I had ideas about the ‘bad guy’ early on, it wasn’t completely revealed or gave me the solid “ok- I understand it all now” moment until the very end, a wonderful note to end this story but keep me curious about the next in the series.
Full of action and suspense, the new creation story for the vampires and a refreshing lack of the romantic triangles or angst that often overtakes a plot and pushes all else to the side, Johnson’s snappy dialogue, action packed moments and a clear sense of explaining the new world to Cassidy without dumbing down the many factors that contributed to the potential uprising kept the story fresh with a solid mystery arc that flowed nicely from beginning to end.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Cassidy is a journalist, curious by nature and profession she is after the next newest thing, and she uncovers far more than she could have expected. A purported animal attack victim catches her interest, and her exposing the possibility that more is in play than anyone expected put her right in danger and in the middle of a world she didn’t know existed.
Dominic is the master vampire of New York City, and Cassidy’s continued poking at the world she has no idea about may lead him to drastic measures: it won’t be the first or last time a curious looky-loo was silenced. But, when he realizes that she has powers of her own, and can become vampire, her intelligence, organization and experience as a journalist become an asset: she can work with him to quash the potential rebellion.
Oh this was fun, even though I had ideas about the ‘bad guy’ early on, it wasn’t completely revealed or gave me the solid “ok- I understand it all now” moment until the very end, a wonderful note to end this story but keep me curious about the next in the series.
Full of action and suspense, the new creation story for the vampires and a refreshing lack of the romantic triangles or angst that often overtakes a plot and pushes all else to the side, Johnson’s snappy dialogue, action packed moments and a clear sense of explaining the new world to Cassidy without dumbing down the many factors that contributed to the potential uprising kept the story fresh with a solid mystery arc that flowed nicely from beginning to end.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
April 29, 2015
**I received an ARC of this story in exchange for an honest review
Cassidy DiRocco is a reporter. She heard a hiss from the alley and went to see what it was. It was a man severely burned with 3rd degree burns all over his body. She called Detective Gretta Wahl to let her know they had another live victim. They already had 7. She asked her to send her brother Nathan. Detective Wahl was a friend and sometimes informant to Cassidy. Meridith Drake was photographer and a close friend. Donovan, Nathan's medic partner, showed up at the site and said the man was dead. Nathan had also stopped and said the man was still alive but had died shortly thereafter. Walking home to her apartment, Cass was plowed down by the man who was supposed to be dead, but he's not completely human. Cass's intervention saved him. His gift to her is not to kill her, Meridith, Donovan, Nathan, and Detective Wahl. Cass was again attacked and she ran to get home. First her arm, then her legs, then her stomach. Lysander saved her. He was the creature from the night before. Lysander told Cass she was a Night Blood. She found out Lysander's other name was Dominic and he was the Master Vampire of NYC. Dominic asked Cass to help him subdue Kaden and his followers, the ones that attacked her, before they massacred the city and exposed the existence of vampires to the world.
Cassy stubborn, gutsy reporter. She is willing to take risks and is ambitious. She doesn't think anything is taboo for a story. She can be caring but her parents' death seemed to freeze her feelings. Dominic is a Master of a coven in NYC. He is a very determined being. He'll stop at nothing to get what he wants, or so it seems, but he does bend for Cass. They become partners to a degree. He is very protective and everything a master vampire should be.
This was a very good story. I would recommend it to anyone that likes Paranormal books.
Cassidy DiRocco is a reporter. She heard a hiss from the alley and went to see what it was. It was a man severely burned with 3rd degree burns all over his body. She called Detective Gretta Wahl to let her know they had another live victim. They already had 7. She asked her to send her brother Nathan. Detective Wahl was a friend and sometimes informant to Cassidy. Meridith Drake was photographer and a close friend. Donovan, Nathan's medic partner, showed up at the site and said the man was dead. Nathan had also stopped and said the man was still alive but had died shortly thereafter. Walking home to her apartment, Cass was plowed down by the man who was supposed to be dead, but he's not completely human. Cass's intervention saved him. His gift to her is not to kill her, Meridith, Donovan, Nathan, and Detective Wahl. Cass was again attacked and she ran to get home. First her arm, then her legs, then her stomach. Lysander saved her. He was the creature from the night before. Lysander told Cass she was a Night Blood. She found out Lysander's other name was Dominic and he was the Master Vampire of NYC. Dominic asked Cass to help him subdue Kaden and his followers, the ones that attacked her, before they massacred the city and exposed the existence of vampires to the world.
Cassy stubborn, gutsy reporter. She is willing to take risks and is ambitious. She doesn't think anything is taboo for a story. She can be caring but her parents' death seemed to freeze her feelings. Dominic is a Master of a coven in NYC. He is a very determined being. He'll stop at nothing to get what he wants, or so it seems, but he does bend for Cass. They become partners to a degree. He is very protective and everything a master vampire should be.
This was a very good story. I would recommend it to anyone that likes Paranormal books.
June 29, 2015
Ok. This was a shot from outside the field!!
As with the majority of paranormal/ vamp books you automatically assume that romance will be intertwined in the main storyline...don't get me wrong, there's definite heat and suggestion but not the usual to and fro you come to read and learn to love in the pnr books.
The book is oddly compelling...I honestly didn't want to put it down. But I do get the feeling that it's setting the scene for a potentially long series.
Cassidy DiRocco is a reporter for the local paper who has a buddy on the police force which has helped her gain a lot of the big scoops before many of the others.
She's a good worker, constantly in reporter mode....and it's this attribute that lands her in more trouble than she anticipated....
As she walked home from another crime scene she heard gasping in an alley. Unable to ignore it she investigates to find a man burnt horrendously. She calls her brother, a paramedic, who takes him to the hospital, but she hears he died.
.....then how come he has her pinned to the wall outside her apartment?....with his....wait....TALONS????!!! Eyes lasered to her telling her to forget what she saw at the crime scene....?
The next day takes her deeper down the rabbit hole when all who was involved in reporting the crime have had their memories completely blank. Cassidy is infuriated this man is messing about and makes it her job to find the pictures and proof of yesterday. Just when she's got people comvinced....she finds put why the memory had been wiped....and how much safer it would have been for all of them had it have stayed that way....
The writing flowed, the characters developed in front of you, a good old cliffhanger at the end -which has ensued that I will be getting the next one- of it's going to be as well written and paced as this one, this could turn into a great series.
One to watch ....and see how it develops!
As with the majority of paranormal/ vamp books you automatically assume that romance will be intertwined in the main storyline...don't get me wrong, there's definite heat and suggestion but not the usual to and fro you come to read and learn to love in the pnr books.
The book is oddly compelling...I honestly didn't want to put it down. But I do get the feeling that it's setting the scene for a potentially long series.
Cassidy DiRocco is a reporter for the local paper who has a buddy on the police force which has helped her gain a lot of the big scoops before many of the others.
She's a good worker, constantly in reporter mode....and it's this attribute that lands her in more trouble than she anticipated....
As she walked home from another crime scene she heard gasping in an alley. Unable to ignore it she investigates to find a man burnt horrendously. She calls her brother, a paramedic, who takes him to the hospital, but she hears he died.
.....then how come he has her pinned to the wall outside her apartment?....with his....wait....TALONS????!!! Eyes lasered to her telling her to forget what she saw at the crime scene....?
The next day takes her deeper down the rabbit hole when all who was involved in reporting the crime have had their memories completely blank. Cassidy is infuriated this man is messing about and makes it her job to find the pictures and proof of yesterday. Just when she's got people comvinced....she finds put why the memory had been wiped....and how much safer it would have been for all of them had it have stayed that way....
The writing flowed, the characters developed in front of you, a good old cliffhanger at the end -which has ensued that I will be getting the next one- of it's going to be as well written and paced as this one, this could turn into a great series.
One to watch ....and see how it develops!
March 17, 2024
This is not my normal vampire read. It is dark, violent, brutal and lacks the romance I prefer. That said, it was quite an interesting vampire premise beneath the city of New York. Cassidy, a Night Blood, has stumbled on a story that needs to be told but Dominic, master Vampire doesn't. Add in another Night Blood, Cassidy struggles to figure out who to trust. My question is, where is her brother Nathan?
December 8, 2016
Turns out I forgot to review this. Pretty sure I liked it.
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