Beyond the Scarlet Moon

Blood Veil #4

by Nicholas Woode-Smith

What’s worse than dying? Hiding that fact from my nosy parents…

My parents are in town, asking too many questions and expecting sunny brunches. Minor I’m allergic to sunlight. And blood is my new breakfast. And if my parents find out I’m a vampire, it’ll be all our heads on the Enforcer’s chopping block.

Meanwhile, there’s a war brewing between the werewolves and vampires of my city, and my new boss wants me on the case.
Oh, and my talking cat? He won’t shut up about Dolly Parton.

Well, no one said that being a vampire would be easy. But this war could finally kill me. Again…

My name is Kali Black. Reluctant vampire. Paranormal investigator. And likely going mad.

Beyond the Scarlet Moon is book 4 in the thrilling Blood Veil Series, where the supernatural meets witty banter and dark secrets.

Genres: Urban Fantasy, Vampires

325 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 10, 2025

About the author

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

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

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

Reviews

[Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Undeclared War

Kali Black is not only a vampire, she is a detective for the paranormal realm. Her boss Theo is human, but trusts Kali to go places that he can’t.

Kali was just onto the trail of some paranormal mayhem when her long lost parents show up. Could there be a worse time for them to appear? She has no idea how to hide that she is a vampire, or how to do the job for the paranormal police unit she was only just introduced to.

I think this is the last book in this series, but I wouldn’t count on that. This author has a winning combination, so who knows? Four stars of paranormal magic.

[L & J Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great series! Kali Black has managed to take down the corrupt ORC leader but is now living in an ORC safe house as the war between the vampires and werewolves ramps up. To make matters worse, her parents have come to visit from Australia! This exciting story is filled with twists, turns and snark. The story ends on a cliffhanger so the Kali Black saga continues!
Thanks to the author for providing an e ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Darin Roodman · Rating 5 out of 5]

**BETA/ARC Reader—All opinions are my own!**

Welcome back to Cape Town, South Africa. A city, rife with crime, corruption, dizzying wealth, abject poverty, and places where ye must not tread, for there be monsters! Kali Black is a born-and-raised Capetonian and has lived there all her life. Unlike most, she has not turned a blind eye to the danger, misfortune, and corruption that permeate her city; instead, she’s spent the past 12 years trying to fight it any way she can while trying to find out what happened to one of her childhood best friends and fight the corruption that’s deep-rooted in her hometown.

Since being turned into a vampire, one of the few remaining members of a once-thought-to-be-extinct bloodline, Kali’s been adjusting to life behind the Veil. Between Freward (her demon duke of a feline companion)’s Dolly Parton obsession and the animosity that her friends Thalia (a Nyxari) and Nigel (a Nosfar) have, it’s a really good thing that she doesn’t need to breathe anymore because there’s no coming up for air. Add to that a brewing war between vampires and werewolves as well as the Doctor supplying vampire-melting chemicals to outside entities, and it’s gonna be a hot time in the ol’ Cape Town tonight.

The intrigue is high, the stakes (sharp) even higher, and the moon is rising on a new Stormfang set to lead the werewolves to war. Time to get to work!

“Beyond the Scarlet Moon” is the fourth book in Nicholas Woode-Smith’s brand new “Blood Veil” series. It’s dark, it’s gritty, it’s funny, it’s surprising, and trust me, you’re going to LOVE Fredward! Kali is fun, determined, never backs down, and refuses to give up on the people who matter. So what if she’s a blood-sucking fiend? There’s sure to be a cure for this…right? Well… maybe it’s not so bad… I think you’ll love everything going into this series and understand when I say that I can’t wait for the next one!

I received a free copy of this e-book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Susan1566 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kali has a couple of problems, finding out who her sire is, finding the Doctor – the vampire hunter who has created a potion that kills vampires painfully, and still learning about the veil and supernatural world.
But the biggest problem she has is that her parents have come to visit, she can’t tell them she’s a vampire without breaking the veil and they can’t understand why she meet them for meals or sightseeing. Her best friend, Amber, is helping out so much that she is falling asleep standing up, or sitting down for a meal, or basically anywhere.
While figuring out what to do about her parents, Kali is asked to investigate a vampire murder – was it done by werewolves or some other group.
This book explores more of the veil world and politics as well as Kali and her growing powers and understanding of the world.
And there seems to be a war happening, vampires vs werewolves.
There is action, surprise, suspense, mystery and humour. Fredward, the demon cat, with his obsession with Dolly Parton (who’s replaced Taylor Swift), is great. I didn’t realize there were so many song titles that could be worked into conversations.
Kali’s relationship with Theo is conflicted, he’s her boss as she is also becoming a member of the ORC, but doesn’t act like it a lot of the time.
This was a great addition to a great series and I’m loving it.
Definitely one for recommending.

[Darcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are beginning book 4 where basically book 3 ends. Kali has a lot going on in a short amount of time and it seems she just can’t catch a break. I love how we have seen Kali coming into herself and learning to be the best version of herself. Of course she has her try and true help at her side in the form of her amazing cat, Fredward. The antics of Fredward have you laughing throughout the story. We meet new characters and of course there are some that have been with us all along. The story is one that will quickly pull you in and keep you glued to it. It has you on the edge of your seat with anticipation. There are moments that will have your heart racing as we journey alongside Kali as she try’s to navigate the issues that are plaguing her. The story is extremely well written and developed. Then we get to the ending of this book and it will leave you shocked but extremely excited to see what happens next. A fantastic story that definitely doesn’t disappoint.

[Kris Cobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kali Black is pulled in multiple directions yet again: by a visit from her parents, getting her dream job, and an imminent Veiled war in plain sight. Her allies, having just finished one battle at her side, are reluctant to help so soon.

Who will help her with her parents during the day? Will she be able to spend any quality time with her parents? How will she fit in with the crew at her new job? Who is behind the war? Will she have the resources she needs to prevent the war?

All will be made clear in this action-packed episode in the ongoing unlife of Kali Black, sprinkled liberally with humor.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, was this a little cracker or was this a little cracker. This series rivals Kat Drummond for intensity that’s for sure. Where on earth this author gets these stories from I can’t even begin to imagine. This one had me from start to finish, just couldn’t put it down. I was so engrossed initially, and enthralled as well it has to be said. This book had everything in it you could think of. The only thing about this series is the books take too long to write, I cannot wait for the next book to arrive. Highly recommended.

[Geff Ratcheson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book in the series. This one is focused on plot & story development. Kail makes up with her parents after they are turned to Werewolves (& after she learns she is more afraid of their attitude than she is of any supernatural!), & kills a couple of her worst enemies. But they still have no clue who the mysterious & EVIL "Doctor" is.

Kali & Theo's relationship continues to slowly move forward for th romance fans, & Kali finally gets her wish & officially becomes a detective.

And then there's always Fredward, the Hellcat! Currently accepting that he's become a Dolly Parton Fan. I hope he plays a larger role in book 5.

This has been a fine series. I'd say this book is a "bridge" between books 3 & the upcoming 5.

[Roger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beyond the Scarlet Moon: A Vampire Urban Fantasy Novel (Blood Veil Book 4), my twelfth read from author Nicholas Woode-Smith, the concluding book in the occult suspense Blood Veil series. If you like Theophilus Monroe's books you'll might like this series. “I received a complementary Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. I look forward to reading more from this author. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).

[FionaH · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

Having taken down an evil vampire child-abduction ring and uncovered a gruesome serial killer, Kali faces her biggest challenge yet – a visit from her parents. Oh, and there’s also the nasty business of a war brewing between the vampires and the werewolves.

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

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

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

[Yael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great addition to the Blood Veil series. Kali has her hands full with her new job, an evil doctor that just won't quit, a looming war between the werewolves and vampires, and as if that's not enough, her parents are in town and worried about her. Beyond the Scarlet Moon is a well written, fast paced UF–I highly recommend the series.

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

[Linda Collister · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kali has a lot of things on her plate. Werewolves at war with the vampires, her parents unexpected visit. Keeping her parents in the dark is the least of her problems. Investigating only leads to more danger not only to her but her family and friends. Can she figure out who's behind the attacks and stop a war? Lots of twists and turns and a surprising conclusion. I received the ARC of this book and could hardly wait to finish it.

[Emma Bain · Rating 5 out of 5]

The plot doth thicken!! Lots going on in this fourth installment of the Blood Veil series, we have werewolves, busybody parents, social media spin doctors, new lamia to love and hate alongside a war and murder investigation - all to the stupendous soundtrack of Dolly Parton! This one ends on a little bit of a cliffhanger which REALLY whets the appetite for book 5! Extra points for the Father Ted reference!

[LizJ. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond the Scarlet Moon Book 4 in the Blood Veil series by Nicholas Woode-Smith is another great book in the series. The hits keep coming for Kali, parents visiting, new job, evil doctor and a coming war between the vampires and werewolves. Beyond the Scarlet Moon is a fast-paced, action-packed, tear Kali in so many directions book! Wow, just wow!! Highly recommend!!

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

[Phthon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another crisis averted. A family reunion that ends in disaster for Kali’s parents. This was such an intense book that it was hard for me to put it down. Everyone was fighting in the war between the werewolves and the vampires. I really hope the instigator faces justice in its most severe form. I hope Kali and Theo can figure out their friendship. And I REALLY need the story of Fredward and his history. Loved this book!

[Kathy Brenzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series just gets better and better.
Kali's parents make a surprise visit and she is having a hard time keeping her secret. Thankfully, she has Amber to run interference and also let them stay at her home. Meanwhile, there is a war happening where Werewolves are trying to take over. Kali really has her hands full.

[Margaret lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's all fight

This book put my heart rate up a few times , it is fast paced and edge of you seat and even shout out at your book , this has been a superb series , I've got to wait on the next book with baited breathe a brilliant 5 stars I recommend these books well worth your time

[Andi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love this series, but this latest installment stumbled for me. First, it started off so slowly. And the Fredward’s Dolly Parton schtick was just so annoying!

When the action finally picked up after a hundred pages, it almost felt like too little, too late. But the ending was very good, so I expect I’ll continue!

[Jacqualine Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had amazing characters, wonderful world building, and a terrific storyline. You just get drawn into the story and by the time you realize that you’ve read the whole book, it is a definite must read and definite page Turner and I would highly recommend this book. Hope there is going to be a series cause I will be looking forward to book 2.

[Laurie Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

More twists in this episode, many I didn’t see coming. Kali is still very much on the learning curve but is gaining knowledge quickly. Some of which appears to be by instinct. Loving the way this series is progressing as we continue to learn more about the Veil and the political style machinations.

[Melissa Horn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really liked this novel

Good story. It hung together Fred ward. One thing I wonder about is why the main character hasnt thought about trying to remove the curse on her childhood friend. And I want to see what happens with Fredward.

[Janice Drake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kali jumps from one crisis to another in this book. Great characters and plenty of action in this one. Love the book.

[Beba Andric · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm completely and utterly addicted to this series! I'm completely addicted to this author! Not only does he write the most engaging, captivating and riveting reads, he infuses his books with South Africanisms, phrases, places, slang, I'm very familiar with and I have to say, it's more than a treat to be able to read books in settings I know, with words I know, with a culture I know. I do think his prose is very clever, very artfully littered with sayings and places inherintly South African, just Nicholas infused, like Cape Mountain Mart, which really IS a string of shops, except they're Cape Union Mart. And, he doesn't shy away from highlighting some very real political issues, veiled(yes...I did that 😁) brilliantly between the layers of, quite frankly, a brilliant series! Nicholas has taken basic vamps, wolves, shifters, magic and injected his special muti(Zulu for medicine for those that don't know), making him my favourite sangoma of all times! Ok...THAT means Shaman or Witch Doctor....and as such, I follow the dr's orders, consuming every tidbit and morsel he offers. He gives new meaning to "local is lekker!"

Poor Kali, she can't seem to get a break, she thought getting turned was bad, she thought getting to the reason why was bad, she thought finding her sire was bad, she thought trying to stay alive (in a very unalive way) was bad, but NO... having to face her parents is really really bad! Yet things rev up even more, there's a murder, there are werewolves on the rampage, non part of the Strigoi, pure werewolves that tore apart any vamps they came across. Oh and let's not forget The Doctor, a crazed vampire Hunter who enjoys dabbling in torture too. So, no, Kali isn't having a great time. While the wolves are not usually organised or even coordinated, Kali suspects something else is charging this killing spree, and she's right, a new leader, the Stormfang is collecting wolves and humans and supers and....And here's how the author excels in his storytelling, as I'm thinking it's a slam dunk "whodunnit", he goes "Huh! Got you!" All his characters are a breed apart (yes, I did that on purpose 😁) They identifiable, recognisable, loveable, snarky, feisty, yes, you get the entire kaleidescope of colours from each one!

Kali's powers, her magic is so awesome! She can literally do anything with it, her blood is special. But that's also a problem, the entire supernatural world is iffy about Dracul's, like wanting to eliminate them iffy. And she tries desperately to keep her ...... a secret, but as things escalate between the wolves and the rest, she has no option but to use her unique powers. But heck is she still naive, still "humane", I love that about her, she won't do violence for the sake of violence and she always looks to the why, to get the full picture before she resorts into killer mode. She's not the hardened don't care type of person, or vamp...she sees the best in everyone, even those loathed by others, she would rather avert a war than jump in claws and fangs first! One of the reasons so many supernaturals think she's a walkover. Hell, even someone who's supposed to be her ally, says "Vampires kill. Werewolves kill. Mortals kill. That's what we do. We don't need lies to make us kill each other. We were doing it before we could even speak". Nicholas has given her such a strong voice, she's so likeable! And her kitty cat, who's not a cat, well, no question about it, I adore Fredward! He's Kali's music obsessed demon cat, like for real demon! Their banter never fails to make me chuckle, it's light, it's funny and very endearing.

The first half of the book was more laid back, refreshing, it's so out of "same old, same old" it titillates every sense. And shoot did the author titillate! He made my head spin with his account of conspiracies, cover-ups, deadly intent, loyalities. But Nicholas is not a "simple" author, he never presents the full picture, instead, he sets a trap, a heck of a lot of twists, revealed shockingly, like I'd been on the receiving end of a taser! He picks up all the loose ends so neatly, ties them nicely together in a beautiful bow and presents a magnificent package. And then he blows me out of my socks with THAT ending! Geez, it's impossible NOT to be desperate for more!

[Sarah Metcalf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kali Black has just taken on and beaten her long time “enemy”. But now she has to face an even bigger fear - her parents. Since she been MIA for a while, they have just shown up in South Africa to check on her. She has to find a way to keep them from knowing what she is now and do her job while managing them being there. And of course, this is when a war between vampires and werewolves starts to heat up and a vampire was found murdered by The Doctor’s concoction.
Kali is definitely stretched to her limits in this book. She has been stewing about her anger at her parents for a long time, ever since they left for Australia. She manages to push aside her emotions (mostly) long enough to do her job and investigate the death of a Nyxari she’s been aquatinted with. She is determined to solve this, even if she has to walk into the belly of the vampiric beast. And if Kali is stretched to her limits, Amber is stretched even farther! She is working overtime trying to help keep Kali’s secret and mitigate the situation. I really felt bad for Amber having to be middleman and sleep deprived! As always, Fredward was a perfect addition to the story!! He’s the perfect snarky animal companion and had me giggling throughout the story. I love the dedication to incorporating Dolly lyrics both by Fredward and the author.
This book doesn’t have quite as much action as previous books, but there is still plenty of shadowy intrigue (see what I did there!). There is a mystery to solve and the plot takes so many twists and turns. As I read this book, there were so many times I thought “how could you” and was surprised so many times. It was a bittersweet ending for Kali and some of the other characters, but I am excited to see what comes next in this world.