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Tombstone, Texas #1
The Quick and the Undead
Welcome to Tombstone, Texas, where anything is possible, even your wildest fantasy. Once a haven to outlaws, Tombstone is now a tourist town that gives travelers a taste of the old West. What visitors don’t realize, however, is that the super-hot cowboys, gunslingers, and lawmen walking the streets aren’t actors—they’re originals. These ancient vampires claimed Tombstone two centuries ago.
So step right up, folks, and book your trip today! The outlaws of Tombstone will be waiting . . .
Travel blogger Riley Davenport loves her job, travelling to the most exotic places in the world. Even better, it keeps her one step ahead of her stalking ex. The last thing she wants in her life is a strong alpha male. But that’s exactly what she gets when she comes face-to-face with Sheriff Boone Jarrett, a hero right out of her most erotic fantasies.
Boone isn’t just the law in Tombstone, Texas. He’s also an ancient vampire and the target of a crazed killer. He certainly doesn’t have time for romance. But a temporary fling? Now that he can handle.
Unfortunately, their first night together ends in disaster when Riley witnesses a murder. And to protect her, Boone forces her into hiding. Only her “captivity” ends up becoming the realization of her wildest, most carnal fantasies. Still, Riley’s not going to fall for him, at least that’s what she tells herself.
But as she gets to know him—the man and the vampire—she starts to wonder if she can hold out . . .
So step right up, folks, and book your trip today! The outlaws of Tombstone will be waiting . . .
Travel blogger Riley Davenport loves her job, travelling to the most exotic places in the world. Even better, it keeps her one step ahead of her stalking ex. The last thing she wants in her life is a strong alpha male. But that’s exactly what she gets when she comes face-to-face with Sheriff Boone Jarrett, a hero right out of her most erotic fantasies.
Boone isn’t just the law in Tombstone, Texas. He’s also an ancient vampire and the target of a crazed killer. He certainly doesn’t have time for romance. But a temporary fling? Now that he can handle.
Unfortunately, their first night together ends in disaster when Riley witnesses a murder. And to protect her, Boone forces her into hiding. Only her “captivity” ends up becoming the realization of her wildest, most carnal fantasies. Still, Riley’s not going to fall for him, at least that’s what she tells herself.
But as she gets to know him—the man and the vampire—she starts to wonder if she can hold out . . .
158 pages, Paperback
First published November 26, 2014
318 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Raye
138 books460 followersI've always been an incurable romantic. While I enjoy reading all types of fiction, my favorites, the books that touch my soul, are romance novels. From sexy to thrilling, sweet to humorous, I like them all. But what I really love is writing romance--the hotter the better!
I started my first novel back in high school and have been writing ever since. To date, I've published over thirty novels, one of them a prestigious RITA Award nominee, Romance Writers of America's highest award of excellence. I have also been nominated by Romantic Times magazine for several Reviewer's Choice awards, as well as a career achievement award.
I've written for several different publishers, including Harlequin Books, Leisure Books, Berkley/Jove, St. Martin's Press and Warner Books. Born and bred in the Lone Start State, I still live deep in the heart with my real-life hero, Curt, and our young children.
Like any over-worked, under-appreciated wife and mother, I have very little free time. But when I find a few precious moments, I LOVE to read. Some of my favorite authors include Janet Evanovich, Vicki Lewis Thompson, Charlaine Harris (see my Favorite Reads page for more) and the exceptionally talented Nina Bangs. Give me a bag of Sugar Babies, a Toby Keith or Kevin Fowler CD (I love Texas music), and a great book, and I'm in heaven!
I started my first novel back in high school and have been writing ever since. To date, I've published over thirty novels, one of them a prestigious RITA Award nominee, Romance Writers of America's highest award of excellence. I have also been nominated by Romantic Times magazine for several Reviewer's Choice awards, as well as a career achievement award.
I've written for several different publishers, including Harlequin Books, Leisure Books, Berkley/Jove, St. Martin's Press and Warner Books. Born and bred in the Lone Start State, I still live deep in the heart with my real-life hero, Curt, and our young children.
Like any over-worked, under-appreciated wife and mother, I have very little free time. But when I find a few precious moments, I LOVE to read. Some of my favorite authors include Janet Evanovich, Vicki Lewis Thompson, Charlaine Harris (see my Favorite Reads page for more) and the exceptionally talented Nina Bangs. Give me a bag of Sugar Babies, a Toby Keith or Kevin Fowler CD (I love Texas music), and a great book, and I'm in heaven!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
November 25, 2021
Westworld meets True Blood
This book is a quick and thrilling ride! I absolutely love the idea of ten former cowboy outlaws starting their own present-day tourist attraction. It was also a pleasant surprise to discover that two of the outlaws are women!
Because the book is so short and features a suspense plotline and some fun worldbuilding, we experience a little bit of instalove between Boone and the smart ass travel journalist who comes to write about Tombstone on her blog. I wasn’t super satisfied with the author's fantasy worldbuilding. The ways that vampires work in this book are a little too… convenient. (For instance, Boone just knows everything there is to know about the people by looking into their eyes. He knows all about Riley’s wants and her traumatic past and there really isn’t much need for them to have any meaningful conversations. I felt a little robbed of getting to see them build their relationship from the ground up.)
All in all, this is worth reading for the awesome setting and the fun suspense plotline and cute instalove!
This book is a quick and thrilling ride! I absolutely love the idea of ten former cowboy outlaws starting their own present-day tourist attraction. It was also a pleasant surprise to discover that two of the outlaws are women!
Because the book is so short and features a suspense plotline and some fun worldbuilding, we experience a little bit of instalove between Boone and the smart ass travel journalist who comes to write about Tombstone on her blog. I wasn’t super satisfied with the author's fantasy worldbuilding. The ways that vampires work in this book are a little too… convenient. (For instance, Boone just knows everything there is to know about the people by looking into their eyes. He knows all about Riley’s wants and her traumatic past and there really isn’t much need for them to have any meaningful conversations. I felt a little robbed of getting to see them build their relationship from the ground up.)
All in all, this is worth reading for the awesome setting and the fun suspense plotline and cute instalove!
December 14, 2014
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Bell Bridge Books via Net Galley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
1.5 Stars
I was not impressed by this book at all. When I requested a book about vampire cowboys from Net Galley, I wanted a fun but quirky read. I like things that are a bit different and since I like cowboys and I like vampires, I thought this would be a blast. Boy was I ever wrong. The idea had potential but the execution was lacking.
This book seemed confused about what kind of book it wanted to be. After the main character's vibrator is mentioned several times early in the story, I actually stopped reading to check and whether or not this was actually classified as erotica. It never really went there but at times the story almost seemed like it wanted to cross the line into erotica. Don't get me wrong - I am not a prude. Not at all. I don't read erotica because I have found that books that fall into that category are often lacking a decent plot. Sex seemed to be the major focus of the book and it did nothing to strengthen the plot. To make matters worse, I thought the sex scenes in this book were actually quite boring.
The plot had some potential. A group of vampires that were all turned in the Old West return as a group to reclaim the town of Tombstone. In order to make that possible, they operate a vacation destination that will bring back the Old West for travelers. This group of vampires were all sired by the same vampire and once were part of an outlaw vampire gang. The whole group is in the town of Tombstone with the exception of their maker. This was interesting....but the story spent more time focused on Riley's sexual longing than this group of vampires.
I didn't care about the characters at all. I thought much of the story was ridiculous. For example, when Boone thinks Riley might be in trouble does he keep her next to him to protect her at all times - no....he puts her in a cave by herself while he searches for the villian. She literally spends a large part of the story in a cave by herself.
I really cannot recommend this story to anyone. There are too many well done vampire stories out there to waste your time with this one. I was able to finish the story but I didn't enjoy any of it. I actually read the whole book because I kept think that it had to get better soon but it didn't.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Bell Bridge Books via Net Galley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
1.5 Stars
I was not impressed by this book at all. When I requested a book about vampire cowboys from Net Galley, I wanted a fun but quirky read. I like things that are a bit different and since I like cowboys and I like vampires, I thought this would be a blast. Boy was I ever wrong. The idea had potential but the execution was lacking.
This book seemed confused about what kind of book it wanted to be. After the main character's vibrator is mentioned several times early in the story, I actually stopped reading to check and whether or not this was actually classified as erotica. It never really went there but at times the story almost seemed like it wanted to cross the line into erotica. Don't get me wrong - I am not a prude. Not at all. I don't read erotica because I have found that books that fall into that category are often lacking a decent plot. Sex seemed to be the major focus of the book and it did nothing to strengthen the plot. To make matters worse, I thought the sex scenes in this book were actually quite boring.
The plot had some potential. A group of vampires that were all turned in the Old West return as a group to reclaim the town of Tombstone. In order to make that possible, they operate a vacation destination that will bring back the Old West for travelers. This group of vampires were all sired by the same vampire and once were part of an outlaw vampire gang. The whole group is in the town of Tombstone with the exception of their maker. This was interesting....but the story spent more time focused on Riley's sexual longing than this group of vampires.
I didn't care about the characters at all. I thought much of the story was ridiculous. For example, when Boone thinks Riley might be in trouble does he keep her next to him to protect her at all times - no....he puts her in a cave by herself while he searches for the villian. She literally spends a large part of the story in a cave by herself.
I really cannot recommend this story to anyone. There are too many well done vampire stories out there to waste your time with this one. I was able to finish the story but I didn't enjoy any of it. I actually read the whole book because I kept think that it had to get better soon but it didn't.
December 23, 2014
DNF at 40%
The Quick and the Undead took an interesting idea and drowned it. In words.
When I decided to stop reading, I was almost midway, but still nothing had happened except the prologue. I was told repeatedly about their past, without seeing any real impact on the present, about her hormones and his hunger. But not really much more.
I wasn't really given a romance, at least a romance where there's a build up made of something different than ice cream and blood as a substitute for a story.
I appreciated the authors' attempt at writing a different path for her vamps. Even if I can't really call it world-building, it was really a fresh start in a somewhat stale genre. Unfortunately, it's more of a hint than mortar. But then, even the real world somewhat evades the author, if she can write that a penniless woman, who barely has the money for an escape trip, puts up a blog and wham she earns enough money to travel.
I'm sorry, but this is not for me.
ARC courtesy of publisher via NetGalley.
The Quick and the Undead took an interesting idea and drowned it. In words.
When I decided to stop reading, I was almost midway, but still nothing had happened except the prologue. I was told repeatedly about their past, without seeing any real impact on the present, about her hormones and his hunger. But not really much more.
I wasn't really given a romance, at least a romance where there's a build up made of something different than ice cream and blood as a substitute for a story.
I appreciated the authors' attempt at writing a different path for her vamps. Even if I can't really call it world-building, it was really a fresh start in a somewhat stale genre. Unfortunately, it's more of a hint than mortar. But then, even the real world somewhat evades the author, if she can write that a penniless woman, who barely has the money for an escape trip, puts up a blog and wham she earns enough money to travel.
I'm sorry, but this is not for me.
ARC courtesy of publisher via NetGalley.
February 12, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Not quite 4 stars.
I will start by saying that I really liked the premise of this book. 9 vampires and their sire were notorious wild west outlaws, but they have eventually settled down (sans sire) in Tombstone to run, what else? An authentic wild west vacation experience! This book introduces Boone, the local sheriff and vampire, and Riley Davenport, a vacation blogger.
The book overall was a little bit short and could have used a little more character development. This is a series and I am assuming that future books will feature the other vampires in their posse. I think it would have been nice to give the reader a little more insight into their characters and their backgrounds. The author gave us the biggest glimpse into Belle and Tag, who I am assuming will be featured in the next book. It wasn't enough, however, to make me feel like I really am dying to read more about them or any of the other characters. All Belle and Tag really did was fight and annoy each other - nothing I want to read more about. Usually the first book provides an intro into the new world the author created. The author did a nice job with Riley and Boone but missed an opportunity to really develop the series as a whole.
All in all, however, I enjoyed the book and the plot was interesting. I would definitely continue to read this series to see if we learn more about the rest of the characters. Hopefully the future books will start to portray the vampires as a family and a community and not so focus solely on the featured couple.
I will start by saying that I really liked the premise of this book. 9 vampires and their sire were notorious wild west outlaws, but they have eventually settled down (sans sire) in Tombstone to run, what else? An authentic wild west vacation experience! This book introduces Boone, the local sheriff and vampire, and Riley Davenport, a vacation blogger.
The book overall was a little bit short and could have used a little more character development. This is a series and I am assuming that future books will feature the other vampires in their posse. I think it would have been nice to give the reader a little more insight into their characters and their backgrounds. The author gave us the biggest glimpse into Belle and Tag, who I am assuming will be featured in the next book. It wasn't enough, however, to make me feel like I really am dying to read more about them or any of the other characters. All Belle and Tag really did was fight and annoy each other - nothing I want to read more about. Usually the first book provides an intro into the new world the author created. The author did a nice job with Riley and Boone but missed an opportunity to really develop the series as a whole.
All in all, however, I enjoyed the book and the plot was interesting. I would definitely continue to read this series to see if we learn more about the rest of the characters. Hopefully the future books will start to portray the vampires as a family and a community and not so focus solely on the featured couple.
January 10, 2015
2.5 stars - More vampire cowboys from Raye, she had an old Blaze series with them a while back. The framework for the Quick And The Undead, with the old undead tombstone gang was good and I liked the idea of the old west gang of vamps running an old west vacation resort.
While there was promise, I did have major nits with the execution - especially in the romance where the Smex is 0 to 60 in no time flat (complete with purple body parts and cruder language). Don't get me wrong the problem wasn't the heat level in itself but more that the short length meant that, with having to set up the series, everything else in the story was really thin- the characters, the relationship development and the suspense back plot. And there were things with the hero that really bothered me - the heroine has a trauma from a twisted ex in her background and the hero's strategy for 'protecting' her from the bad guy mirrors elements involved in the trauma - I just never could get past that even if the heroine did -it just felt like it robbed her of all of her personal power.
That said, there is promise in the sequel bait -a vamp vamp pairing with history - and I have liked Raye's other cowboy vamps, so I am hoping that this was just a case of first book-itis and I will likely give the next one a shot.
Complementary copy via Netgalley.
While there was promise, I did have major nits with the execution - especially in the romance where the Smex is 0 to 60 in no time flat (complete with purple body parts and cruder language). Don't get me wrong the problem wasn't the heat level in itself but more that the short length meant that, with having to set up the series, everything else in the story was really thin- the characters, the relationship development and the suspense back plot. And there were things with the hero that really bothered me - the heroine has a trauma from a twisted ex in her background and the hero's strategy for 'protecting' her from the bad guy mirrors elements involved in the trauma - I just never could get past that even if the heroine did -it just felt like it robbed her of all of her personal power.
That said, there is promise in the sequel bait -a vamp vamp pairing with history - and I have liked Raye's other cowboy vamps, so I am hoping that this was just a case of first book-itis and I will likely give the next one a shot.
Complementary copy via Netgalley.
December 16, 2014
The Tombstone Ten...Great start to what will likely be a fun series!
December 31, 2014
Travel blogger, Riley Davenport arrives at her most exotic destination yet and comes face to face with a hero right out of her most erotic fantasies only he’s a vampire and the target of a crazed killer, of course Riley’s sure not going to fall for him…or that what she tells herself in this exciting paranormal western romance.
A fast pace and smooth flowing plot captivates readers with lots of suspense, excitement and romance. The characters are strong, compelling and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning and the reader can’t help but get caught up in Riley’s story as she travels to an authentic old west town with real outlaws and finds out that the actors are really the very outlaws the founded the town. The attraction between Sheriff Boone Jarrett and Riley burns up the pages from the very first meeting but the relationship is complicated, she running from her ex and he’s a vampire with no plans to get attached to a human.
The well written scenes and details paints vivid images that capture the imagination and transport the reader right into the middle of the adventure. Spine tingling excitement builds throughout the story as the vampires become targets of a crazed serial killer but also as Riley learns of their existence. But that’s not where all the fun and excitement comes from there’s bar brawls and shoot outs and lots of fun to be found at this vacation spot and my, oh my, I do believe these sexy vampire cowboys ignited some red hot fantasies as well.
The author has taken too sexy types of alpha males that women love to drool over and put them in a fascinating world where the vampires are the cowboys and well they are definitely the baddest boys around and they kept me totally enthralled throughout the story…when is the next one coming out?
4 ½ STARS
A fast pace and smooth flowing plot captivates readers with lots of suspense, excitement and romance. The characters are strong, compelling and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning and the reader can’t help but get caught up in Riley’s story as she travels to an authentic old west town with real outlaws and finds out that the actors are really the very outlaws the founded the town. The attraction between Sheriff Boone Jarrett and Riley burns up the pages from the very first meeting but the relationship is complicated, she running from her ex and he’s a vampire with no plans to get attached to a human.
The well written scenes and details paints vivid images that capture the imagination and transport the reader right into the middle of the adventure. Spine tingling excitement builds throughout the story as the vampires become targets of a crazed serial killer but also as Riley learns of their existence. But that’s not where all the fun and excitement comes from there’s bar brawls and shoot outs and lots of fun to be found at this vacation spot and my, oh my, I do believe these sexy vampire cowboys ignited some red hot fantasies as well.
The author has taken too sexy types of alpha males that women love to drool over and put them in a fascinating world where the vampires are the cowboys and well they are definitely the baddest boys around and they kept me totally enthralled throughout the story…when is the next one coming out?
4 ½ STARS
February 23, 2015
When I requested The Quick and the Undead from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review, I wasn't expecting a quirky book like one of Raye's Dead End Dating books which I enjoy. The setup had a lot of potential with an interesting, diverse band of old west outlaw vampires staying together to continue their old lifestyle as a living old west museum/amusement park. Despite a few "shoot outs" and some saloon hi jinks, it could have taken place on a ranch instead.
The cover looks like a conventional western romance and that is basically how it felt to me. One could easily exchange the vampires for regular humans. So, as a romance the book was ok, but had no compelling romance (or chemistry between Riley and Boone). The writing flowed well and it wasn't a hardship to read this long novella, but I can't really recommend it as a paranormal read or romance.
Extra note: Boone hiding Riley in his cave was incredibly stupid. If he had been killed, she would have died behind the large boulder since no one else knew his hiding spot.
The cover looks like a conventional western romance and that is basically how it felt to me. One could easily exchange the vampires for regular humans. So, as a romance the book was ok, but had no compelling romance (or chemistry between Riley and Boone). The writing flowed well and it wasn't a hardship to read this long novella, but I can't really recommend it as a paranormal read or romance.
Extra note: Boone hiding Riley in his cave was incredibly stupid. If he had been killed, she would have died behind the large boulder since no one else knew his hiding spot.
December 5, 2014
Boone that boy will rearrange s*** to be with his woman again, "Clay can cover for me," he growled, dropping his jeans to the floor. She smiled and reached for his throbbing erection. And then everything else faded away except for his need to be inside her again." He surprises me sometimes he can actually be a thoughtful guy, "they're chocolate," he said, indicating the donut container sitting nearby. "Your favorite." His thoughts weren't very surprising as those of a typical man, "here he was trying to be nice, to make things a little more bearable for her while he saved her pretty little neck, and she was complaining about cold donuts?" This is a great start to a new series and I can't wait to see what the author has in store for us.
February 6, 2015
When I started this book,I thought I was going to be disappointed.It started off as a slow read but then it got better and deliciously sexy.I love Kimberly Raye books.They are awesome and I love reading her books.She does not disappoint her readers.I recommend this book to everyone.
December 4, 2014
So excited about this new series!!! I've missed my vampire cowboys!
August 22, 2018
I was surprised by this amazon freeby, it was a little predictable in places but the characters were fleshed out, the plot was solid, it was entertaining and it was sexy pants without being overly macho or cheesy. That's hard to do. It wrapped up super fast, like this author's pen must've run out of ink fast, but the story had resolved itself so I guess she was leaving it for book two :)
December 28, 2014
Originally published at Reading Reality
The town of Tombstone that you're probably thinking of, the one with the O.K. Corral? That's in Arizona. Not that I'm not pretty sure that the name Tombstone isn't designed to blend your memories of that Tombstone with this Tombstone. Using such a familiar name in popular Old West legends brings a whole lot of atmosphere to this new one, and it makes perfect sense both from the author's standpoint and in the context of the story.
In this new Tombstone, some old gunfighters are bringing in tourists for a taste of the real West. The one that they lived in 150 years ago, when they were all feared outlaws. Becoming vampires back in the day made them faster, stronger and of course, virtually immortal.
There were 10 of them, but in this modern day, there are only nine. Nine men and women who remember the west as it was, because they lived it. They should have scattered to the four winds, but in this particular version of vampirism, the vampires have to return to the place where they were turned on the anniversary of that life-changing event. For all of them, that place is Tombstone.
In the 21st century, they have become entrepreneurs of an expensive and exclusive Wild West resort (Think of Westwood without the rampaging androids). The Tombstone Ten (minus one) need the money from the resort to buy the land they need for their annual pilgrimages - and just plain because Tombstone is home and they want to preserve it.
The Quick and the Undead, while it sets up the scenario of Tombstone and gives us peeks at the previous lives of the vampires who run the show, is also a romance between a travel blogger and a man she thinks is just an actor plying the part of Sheriff Boone Taggart. It's also the setup of a long-term suspense plot about the certainty that other vampires know who they are and where they are, and that the old vampire who made them is on his way back with unknown and probably unwelcome intentions for the gang he created and the town they made.
Back to that travel blogger, Riley Davenport, and Boone. Riley has been on the run for three years from an abusive ex. Her travel blog keeps her moving, and therefore difficult to track. She posts on a time delay, so by the time her posts on location X are being run, she's already at location Y or even Z. She lives out of suitcase but it makes her feel safe. Also tired.
Boone and his vampire friends (and enemies) upset all of Riley's carefully made plans. Tombstone offers as real an Old West experience as they can make, so there is no electricity and no internet. Which doesn't mean that the vampires running the show don't have all the modern technology available to track their very modern business, but that tech is NOT available to the guests.
Riley has avoided relationships while she's been on the run. She's lonely but afraid of finding herself attracted to another alpha male who will take over her life and kill her personality if not her actual self. While she is attracted to Boone from the moment she sees him, it takes her a lot of story to figure out that while he may be as alpha as they come, he doesn't want to control her.
Especially since his drive to keep her safe from a crazed killer vampire is to lock her up in a cave until things are safe.
Escape Rating B-: I love the setup of the town and the series, but I'm not so certain about the romance between Riley and Boone.
The idea that they might experience a whole lot of insta-lust and decide on a short-term fling for the time she's in Tombstone makes sense. That she decides she really loves him while she is trapped in a cave, even if it is definitely for her own safety, smacks a bit of Stockholm Syndrome. That she calls herself on it doesn't make it any less true.
Riley's ex is also a bit of a failed 'Chekhov's Gun'. She has lived her entire life for the last three years in rightful fear of this bastard, but he's neither the big baddie nor even the little baddie in this story. He's swept out with the trash in a brief mention at the end that he's in prison for battering some other woman. (The irony is that this feels 'real' in a real world sense while at the same time being disappointing in a story sense.)
The suspense angles of the story, the question about who is after the vampires and why, worked well both as suspense and as a way of illuminating a whole lot more about Boone's character and his past. The way that his closure gets delivered worked well for me.
I will say that the all-inclusive tourist town run by vampires setup reminded me a lot of Nina Bangs' Castle of Dark Dreams series. Bang's series is lighter and Raye's is spookier/darker, but the idea of vampires creating fantasies for tourist consumption is fun either way.
The town of Tombstone that you're probably thinking of, the one with the O.K. Corral? That's in Arizona. Not that I'm not pretty sure that the name Tombstone isn't designed to blend your memories of that Tombstone with this Tombstone. Using such a familiar name in popular Old West legends brings a whole lot of atmosphere to this new one, and it makes perfect sense both from the author's standpoint and in the context of the story.
In this new Tombstone, some old gunfighters are bringing in tourists for a taste of the real West. The one that they lived in 150 years ago, when they were all feared outlaws. Becoming vampires back in the day made them faster, stronger and of course, virtually immortal.
There were 10 of them, but in this modern day, there are only nine. Nine men and women who remember the west as it was, because they lived it. They should have scattered to the four winds, but in this particular version of vampirism, the vampires have to return to the place where they were turned on the anniversary of that life-changing event. For all of them, that place is Tombstone.
In the 21st century, they have become entrepreneurs of an expensive and exclusive Wild West resort (Think of Westwood without the rampaging androids). The Tombstone Ten (minus one) need the money from the resort to buy the land they need for their annual pilgrimages - and just plain because Tombstone is home and they want to preserve it.
The Quick and the Undead, while it sets up the scenario of Tombstone and gives us peeks at the previous lives of the vampires who run the show, is also a romance between a travel blogger and a man she thinks is just an actor plying the part of Sheriff Boone Taggart. It's also the setup of a long-term suspense plot about the certainty that other vampires know who they are and where they are, and that the old vampire who made them is on his way back with unknown and probably unwelcome intentions for the gang he created and the town they made.
Back to that travel blogger, Riley Davenport, and Boone. Riley has been on the run for three years from an abusive ex. Her travel blog keeps her moving, and therefore difficult to track. She posts on a time delay, so by the time her posts on location X are being run, she's already at location Y or even Z. She lives out of suitcase but it makes her feel safe. Also tired.
Boone and his vampire friends (and enemies) upset all of Riley's carefully made plans. Tombstone offers as real an Old West experience as they can make, so there is no electricity and no internet. Which doesn't mean that the vampires running the show don't have all the modern technology available to track their very modern business, but that tech is NOT available to the guests.
Riley has avoided relationships while she's been on the run. She's lonely but afraid of finding herself attracted to another alpha male who will take over her life and kill her personality if not her actual self. While she is attracted to Boone from the moment she sees him, it takes her a lot of story to figure out that while he may be as alpha as they come, he doesn't want to control her.
Especially since his drive to keep her safe from a crazed killer vampire is to lock her up in a cave until things are safe.
Escape Rating B-: I love the setup of the town and the series, but I'm not so certain about the romance between Riley and Boone.
The idea that they might experience a whole lot of insta-lust and decide on a short-term fling for the time she's in Tombstone makes sense. That she decides she really loves him while she is trapped in a cave, even if it is definitely for her own safety, smacks a bit of Stockholm Syndrome. That she calls herself on it doesn't make it any less true.
Riley's ex is also a bit of a failed 'Chekhov's Gun'. She has lived her entire life for the last three years in rightful fear of this bastard, but he's neither the big baddie nor even the little baddie in this story. He's swept out with the trash in a brief mention at the end that he's in prison for battering some other woman. (The irony is that this feels 'real' in a real world sense while at the same time being disappointing in a story sense.)
The suspense angles of the story, the question about who is after the vampires and why, worked well both as suspense and as a way of illuminating a whole lot more about Boone's character and his past. The way that his closure gets delivered worked well for me.
I will say that the all-inclusive tourist town run by vampires setup reminded me a lot of Nina Bangs' Castle of Dark Dreams series. Bang's series is lighter and Raye's is spookier/darker, but the idea of vampires creating fantasies for tourist consumption is fun either way.
March 14, 2015
Boone was once a Sheriff, but was turned into a vampire and become part of the Tombstone Ten, an infamous group of robbers. A hundred years later, the once disbanded 10 regrouped to try and make a go of an old west themed vacation resort. Boone now is the pretend Sheriff for vacationers, letting them get a thrill of what Tombstone once was. Riley is a travel blogger with a ton of excess baggage (metaphorically, not actually) trying to get a new experience for her followers. Boone and Riley instantly connect, but personal demons as well as a murderer on the loose may stop them from being happy.
To be perfectly honest, this wasn’t great. I read Ms. Raye’s Dead End Dating series and absolutely loved every wacky hilarious moment of it, so I had high hopes for a new series by her. Unfortunately, this fell flat. Don’t get me wrong, it was not terrible, it just was not what I wanted and is nothing like her previous books except there happens to be vampires involved. This is most certainly a romance with a happily ever after, no if ands or buts. The book seemed really short at 180 pages and it read really fast if you want a quick book. There was a complete story, but I personally would have liked more from this book over all.
The book was told from alternating views of Riley and Boone. I felt like the characters were well developed as individuals, but as a couple they did not really exist. The story has the two meeting and it’s LUST at first sight. They want each other, finally get over reservations, and sleep together the first night. Ok, whatever. But then they don’t really interact with each other for the rest of the book, but then all of a sudden (and yes, it was sudden) they love each other. The story takes place over a week, so it is a whirl wind. But I feel like lusting is fine, but where did the love come from? Seriously, they barely interact except for inappropriate thoughts here and there after the first night. I can kinda understand why Boone develops feelings for her since he can literally read her mind and see her past to determine what kind of person she really is. I can buy into him admiring who she has become and the adversities she had to overcome. But Riley develops feelings for him based on her assumptions of who he is, even though she thought he was an actor at first anyway. He keeps her captive (for her own good of course, as is always the way) and brings her baked goods nightly, she is convinced he does not want her in any shape or form, so of course she comes to love him. Maybe a little Stockholm syndrome going on? Sigh. I find the two of them to be a little ridiculous.
There was murderer coming for the Tombstone Ten, and you get little snippets of this person throughout the book. I did not read the end until I came to it in the story (which is absolutely shocking for anyone who knows me since I always read the ending first) but I had figured out the murderer almost from the start and I was correct. I guess this was not really a mystery but a romance, but I like to be stumped or lead astray a bit more when trying to figure out who the villain is. The characters try to accuse another suspect but it was pretty dang obvious to me who was after everyone. And the whole showdown thing with said murder was a letdown that resolved super fast and occurred predominantly off screen anyway. I was also looking for more info or a follow up on Riley’s ex and his unfortunate stalking, but the book never resolved the problem. As if 3 years of fear just vanished with the power of positive thinking? Sure, whatever.
I was not in love with this book and would recommend the Dead End Dating series hands down over this potential series starter. I am sure some people would prefer this title to the other series though since this was more of a sexy drama than the goofy bumbling vampire comedy I was expecting. I will read more from this author, just not in this series.
I received this title from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
To be perfectly honest, this wasn’t great. I read Ms. Raye’s Dead End Dating series and absolutely loved every wacky hilarious moment of it, so I had high hopes for a new series by her. Unfortunately, this fell flat. Don’t get me wrong, it was not terrible, it just was not what I wanted and is nothing like her previous books except there happens to be vampires involved. This is most certainly a romance with a happily ever after, no if ands or buts. The book seemed really short at 180 pages and it read really fast if you want a quick book. There was a complete story, but I personally would have liked more from this book over all.
The book was told from alternating views of Riley and Boone. I felt like the characters were well developed as individuals, but as a couple they did not really exist. The story has the two meeting and it’s LUST at first sight. They want each other, finally get over reservations, and sleep together the first night. Ok, whatever. But then they don’t really interact with each other for the rest of the book, but then all of a sudden (and yes, it was sudden) they love each other. The story takes place over a week, so it is a whirl wind. But I feel like lusting is fine, but where did the love come from? Seriously, they barely interact except for inappropriate thoughts here and there after the first night. I can kinda understand why Boone develops feelings for her since he can literally read her mind and see her past to determine what kind of person she really is. I can buy into him admiring who she has become and the adversities she had to overcome. But Riley develops feelings for him based on her assumptions of who he is, even though she thought he was an actor at first anyway. He keeps her captive (for her own good of course, as is always the way) and brings her baked goods nightly, she is convinced he does not want her in any shape or form, so of course she comes to love him. Maybe a little Stockholm syndrome going on? Sigh. I find the two of them to be a little ridiculous.
There was murderer coming for the Tombstone Ten, and you get little snippets of this person throughout the book. I did not read the end until I came to it in the story (which is absolutely shocking for anyone who knows me since I always read the ending first) but I had figured out the murderer almost from the start and I was correct. I guess this was not really a mystery but a romance, but I like to be stumped or lead astray a bit more when trying to figure out who the villain is. The characters try to accuse another suspect but it was pretty dang obvious to me who was after everyone. And the whole showdown thing with said murder was a letdown that resolved super fast and occurred predominantly off screen anyway. I was also looking for more info or a follow up on Riley’s ex and his unfortunate stalking, but the book never resolved the problem. As if 3 years of fear just vanished with the power of positive thinking? Sure, whatever.
I was not in love with this book and would recommend the Dead End Dating series hands down over this potential series starter. I am sure some people would prefer this title to the other series though since this was more of a sexy drama than the goofy bumbling vampire comedy I was expecting. I will read more from this author, just not in this series.
I received this title from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
January 31, 2015
Note: This ebook was provided by BelleBooks via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Quick and the Undead is the first in the Tombstone, Texas series by author Kimberly Raye. The premise of a legendery town like Tombstone being turned into a tourist attraction that allows guests to fully experience what life must have been like at the height of the town's notoriety but with the main players being the actual people who lived at that time (cowboys and outlaws who were turned into vampires) was certainly an original one. Add to that a human for the female lead character and you end up with a book that promises to be an interesting paranormal romance ride.
Riley Davenport is a travel blogger and her latest tourist spot to check out is the one in Tombstone, Texas. The minute her eyes land on a man that screams "alpha", she knows she should keep her distance but there's something about him that she seems unable to resist. She's experienced firsthand what it's like to be with someone overly controlling and demanding and she refuses to suffer the same fate again. However, the sheriff of Tombstone appears to be a different kind of man altogether and we she realizes just how different he is, it may be too late for her to turn her back on him.
Boone Jarrett is Tombstone's sheriff, a position he held once before...give or take about two centuries ago. He, along with eight other members of "The Ten", are vampires and were turned by their sire Ike McCoy. Ike's gone missing for several decades now but Boone's getting a feeling deep in his bones, one that's telling him that a vampire bent on revenge is out to get the remaining Ten. Something else he's been feeling is an intense fascination for and attraction to their guest, a travel blogger who makes him crave her body and something more, something he's never felt for any other woman.
When Riley and Boone's attraction for one another becomes physical, they quickly realize just how powerful the pull is between them. Riley's past still haunts her, causing her to be hesitant, and Boone knows what becoming more involved with a human may mean for him. As they become even more connected, Riley witnesses a violent crime in Tombstone and Boone goes above and beyond to protect her as he and the other vampires begin to seek out the dangerous element that they need to face. Will Boone and Riley's relationship survive the danger and doubt that surrounds them?
Like I mentioned at the beginning of my review, the premise of this book was both original and interesting, a combination that I always consider a plus and one that draws me in. And yes, the story was both of those things and the characters were mostly likable, though Riley's inner monologue did grate on my nerves more than once. However, the text had a tendency to be repetitive and I'm sorry but vampires are the undead, ergo, they don't have heartbeats. I found it unbelievable that Boone could feel his own heartbeat when, in fact, he wasn't supposed to have one because, ummm, he's dead.
The twist in the story was a good one, though I did figure it out early on. It made the impending confrontation seem like one that would be filled with suspense but it kind of fell flat for me. Though, allow me to point out that while the suspense part of the book left a lot to be desired, the romance part was rather satisfactory. Riley and Boone's connection seemed natural, even though one was human and the other wasn't, and they were pretty good as a couple. All in all, The Quick and the Undead wasn't bad but it did stumble quite a bit. I'm going to give it three out of five stars. ♥
The Quick and the Undead is the first in the Tombstone, Texas series by author Kimberly Raye. The premise of a legendery town like Tombstone being turned into a tourist attraction that allows guests to fully experience what life must have been like at the height of the town's notoriety but with the main players being the actual people who lived at that time (cowboys and outlaws who were turned into vampires) was certainly an original one. Add to that a human for the female lead character and you end up with a book that promises to be an interesting paranormal romance ride.
Riley Davenport is a travel blogger and her latest tourist spot to check out is the one in Tombstone, Texas. The minute her eyes land on a man that screams "alpha", she knows she should keep her distance but there's something about him that she seems unable to resist. She's experienced firsthand what it's like to be with someone overly controlling and demanding and she refuses to suffer the same fate again. However, the sheriff of Tombstone appears to be a different kind of man altogether and we she realizes just how different he is, it may be too late for her to turn her back on him.
Boone Jarrett is Tombstone's sheriff, a position he held once before...give or take about two centuries ago. He, along with eight other members of "The Ten", are vampires and were turned by their sire Ike McCoy. Ike's gone missing for several decades now but Boone's getting a feeling deep in his bones, one that's telling him that a vampire bent on revenge is out to get the remaining Ten. Something else he's been feeling is an intense fascination for and attraction to their guest, a travel blogger who makes him crave her body and something more, something he's never felt for any other woman.
When Riley and Boone's attraction for one another becomes physical, they quickly realize just how powerful the pull is between them. Riley's past still haunts her, causing her to be hesitant, and Boone knows what becoming more involved with a human may mean for him. As they become even more connected, Riley witnesses a violent crime in Tombstone and Boone goes above and beyond to protect her as he and the other vampires begin to seek out the dangerous element that they need to face. Will Boone and Riley's relationship survive the danger and doubt that surrounds them?
Like I mentioned at the beginning of my review, the premise of this book was both original and interesting, a combination that I always consider a plus and one that draws me in. And yes, the story was both of those things and the characters were mostly likable, though Riley's inner monologue did grate on my nerves more than once. However, the text had a tendency to be repetitive and I'm sorry but vampires are the undead, ergo, they don't have heartbeats. I found it unbelievable that Boone could feel his own heartbeat when, in fact, he wasn't supposed to have one because, ummm, he's dead.
The twist in the story was a good one, though I did figure it out early on. It made the impending confrontation seem like one that would be filled with suspense but it kind of fell flat for me. Though, allow me to point out that while the suspense part of the book left a lot to be desired, the romance part was rather satisfactory. Riley and Boone's connection seemed natural, even though one was human and the other wasn't, and they were pretty good as a couple. All in all, The Quick and the Undead wasn't bad but it did stumble quite a bit. I'm going to give it three out of five stars. ♥
April 22, 2015
I grabbed this one from Netgalley because I wanted something different, and fluffy. Something akin to potato chips or popcorn. I didn’t want to have to commit to anything too much. I just wanted it to be, and to fluff about being ridiculous. This book hit the mark in some aspects of that, and then fell flat in others. I was looking for vampire cowboys, and I got vampire cowboys, but the execution of said vampire cowboys was lacking.
Honestly, the first chunk of the book was a lot of fun. We met the main characters, and learned plenty about them. Boone was a sheriff before he was turned, followed his gut feeling and ended up on the gallows, and into the waiting arms of his sire. There’s so much potential back story for the characters that has just been hinted at. I know that the author knows everyone’s back story, but she’s only giving it to us morsel by morsel. It’s kind of infuriating, because with the potential I can see, vs what I get, I’m left wanting. Even with this book, there were only certain snippets that could pertain to the villain, and even those were a little confusing. They brushed over his motives and his sudden growth of balls (I guess it was a couple hundred years, but whatever) and I just didn’t FEEL like he was that much of a threat. Considering he was brought down by being easily distracted, you can see why I couldn’t even worry about him to begin with.
Anyway, the series revolves around an old wild west gang who are also vampires. They all have sordid pasts, but were all a gang at one point, and did a lot of looting and Robin Hood type antics in their heyday. All sired in Tombstone, Texas, they decided to pool their resources and buy the land, turning it into a immersive wild west experience for tourists. And so our love interest comes in. Riley blogs about the more interesting and offbeat vacation destinations, and she’s come to check out the little town for her blog. She has been stalked by her ex-boyfriend and harassed and had an awful relationship, and didn’t initially seem eager to start a new one with anyone but a beta. Though, that changes immediately when she sees Boone. Apparently he’s sexy enough to set her bits aflame.
The initial dance was interesting, the lead up to their random encounter in Boone’s hotel room (set aside just for romps with guests). Honestly, the romance scenes didn’t do it for me. They were a little too boring and a little too repetitive. Even when different characters were in charge of the sexual situation it was still cookie cutter. This brings me to another issue. I couldn’t tell what character was being focused on at any one time. Even if it was Boone’s chapter, instead of saying he thought she felt certain ways, it would literally just say how she felt. I understand that he was in her head or could feel her thoughts, but despite that, they were so far off base from each other. They still had misunderstandings and still found ulterior motives DESPITE being given the exact answer. They also mentioned a vibrator several times, but brushed over any acts of masturbation even though one would realize the other was doing such. Ugh. It was frustrating to say the least. Plenty of potential for overheated encounters but no payout.
All in all, it was a quick read and it was mindless enough to be satisfying. I just wish there was more to it, I guess. There’s so much potential, but not a lot of it is being displayed. Hopefully the rest of the series can ramify the mistakes of this one. All is not lost! But, currently, it’s just meh.
Honestly, the first chunk of the book was a lot of fun. We met the main characters, and learned plenty about them. Boone was a sheriff before he was turned, followed his gut feeling and ended up on the gallows, and into the waiting arms of his sire. There’s so much potential back story for the characters that has just been hinted at. I know that the author knows everyone’s back story, but she’s only giving it to us morsel by morsel. It’s kind of infuriating, because with the potential I can see, vs what I get, I’m left wanting. Even with this book, there were only certain snippets that could pertain to the villain, and even those were a little confusing. They brushed over his motives and his sudden growth of balls (I guess it was a couple hundred years, but whatever) and I just didn’t FEEL like he was that much of a threat. Considering he was brought down by being easily distracted, you can see why I couldn’t even worry about him to begin with.
Anyway, the series revolves around an old wild west gang who are also vampires. They all have sordid pasts, but were all a gang at one point, and did a lot of looting and Robin Hood type antics in their heyday. All sired in Tombstone, Texas, they decided to pool their resources and buy the land, turning it into a immersive wild west experience for tourists. And so our love interest comes in. Riley blogs about the more interesting and offbeat vacation destinations, and she’s come to check out the little town for her blog. She has been stalked by her ex-boyfriend and harassed and had an awful relationship, and didn’t initially seem eager to start a new one with anyone but a beta. Though, that changes immediately when she sees Boone. Apparently he’s sexy enough to set her bits aflame.
The initial dance was interesting, the lead up to their random encounter in Boone’s hotel room (set aside just for romps with guests). Honestly, the romance scenes didn’t do it for me. They were a little too boring and a little too repetitive. Even when different characters were in charge of the sexual situation it was still cookie cutter. This brings me to another issue. I couldn’t tell what character was being focused on at any one time. Even if it was Boone’s chapter, instead of saying he thought she felt certain ways, it would literally just say how she felt. I understand that he was in her head or could feel her thoughts, but despite that, they were so far off base from each other. They still had misunderstandings and still found ulterior motives DESPITE being given the exact answer. They also mentioned a vibrator several times, but brushed over any acts of masturbation even though one would realize the other was doing such. Ugh. It was frustrating to say the least. Plenty of potential for overheated encounters but no payout.
All in all, it was a quick read and it was mindless enough to be satisfying. I just wish there was more to it, I guess. There’s so much potential, but not a lot of it is being displayed. Hopefully the rest of the series can ramify the mistakes of this one. All is not lost! But, currently, it’s just meh.
June 15, 2015
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
3.5 stars
Review originally appeared on Books That Hook
“The Quick and the Undead” by Kimberly Raye is the first novella in the Tombstone, Texas series. I thought the idea was great. I was totally sold on a Western re-creation that is actually the real town with its original inhabitants who have lived for so long because they are vampires. The writing itself was excellent; I could clearly visualize everything. The metaphors and similes caught my interest, especially when Raye was describing the super sexy sheriff, Boone. Unfortunately, the plot left a lot to be desired.
The majority of the book is history of the town’s inhabitants and the history of a visitor to the town named Riley, who falls for the aforementioned hot sheriff. Some of the backstory given is necessary, but some of it isn’t. Perhaps this book is setting the stage for further books, getting all that information out of the way, but I felt like the reader didn’t really need to know everything being told. Aside from the history of characters, the book focuses on Riley’s obsession to get laid, even if it is by her vibrator she mentions over and over again (at six mentions of the vibrator, I quit counting).
In the first half of the book, there is a hint that danger might be on its way to Tombstone. This danger isn’t introduced until halfway through the book. Even then, the threat isn’t real exciting because it isn’t directed at Riley. Never once does the bad guy actually look for her or go after her, despite the sheriff’s worries that he might.
I didn’t understand how lust equaled love. There just wasn’t enough time in this story for real love to develop. I think this should have been a full novel instead of a novella to give the relationship more time to develop naturally. Instead, it was mostly having sex, which somehow, miraculously, turned into love.
To me, the story goal had nothing to do with vampires, outlaws, or the Western town. I sum it up as: horny travel blogger meets sexy guy and has lots of sex.
For some readers, this might be enough. The writing was good and the characters were well-developed, but the romance was rushed and the story lacked an antagonist. I don’t count the villain who was introduced because he only interacted with Riley one time, and that was only because she tried to interfere with what he was doing.
I think this series could turn still turn out okay. I’m not sure if I would read the next one or not. If it were a novel, maybe.
As far as recommending it to others, I would have to do so with a warning that it’s basically about sating sexual desires. If that’s what you like to read, this would be a good book for you. If you want more mystery and danger, then I would say pass on this one.
3.5 stars
Review originally appeared on Books That Hook
“The Quick and the Undead” by Kimberly Raye is the first novella in the Tombstone, Texas series. I thought the idea was great. I was totally sold on a Western re-creation that is actually the real town with its original inhabitants who have lived for so long because they are vampires. The writing itself was excellent; I could clearly visualize everything. The metaphors and similes caught my interest, especially when Raye was describing the super sexy sheriff, Boone. Unfortunately, the plot left a lot to be desired.
The majority of the book is history of the town’s inhabitants and the history of a visitor to the town named Riley, who falls for the aforementioned hot sheriff. Some of the backstory given is necessary, but some of it isn’t. Perhaps this book is setting the stage for further books, getting all that information out of the way, but I felt like the reader didn’t really need to know everything being told. Aside from the history of characters, the book focuses on Riley’s obsession to get laid, even if it is by her vibrator she mentions over and over again (at six mentions of the vibrator, I quit counting).
In the first half of the book, there is a hint that danger might be on its way to Tombstone. This danger isn’t introduced until halfway through the book. Even then, the threat isn’t real exciting because it isn’t directed at Riley. Never once does the bad guy actually look for her or go after her, despite the sheriff’s worries that he might.
I didn’t understand how lust equaled love. There just wasn’t enough time in this story for real love to develop. I think this should have been a full novel instead of a novella to give the relationship more time to develop naturally. Instead, it was mostly having sex, which somehow, miraculously, turned into love.
To me, the story goal had nothing to do with vampires, outlaws, or the Western town. I sum it up as: horny travel blogger meets sexy guy and has lots of sex.
For some readers, this might be enough. The writing was good and the characters were well-developed, but the romance was rushed and the story lacked an antagonist. I don’t count the villain who was introduced because he only interacted with Riley one time, and that was only because she tried to interfere with what he was doing.
I think this series could turn still turn out okay. I’m not sure if I would read the next one or not. If it were a novel, maybe.
As far as recommending it to others, I would have to do so with a warning that it’s basically about sating sexual desires. If that’s what you like to read, this would be a good book for you. If you want more mystery and danger, then I would say pass on this one.
December 8, 2014
Review featured at www.books-n-kisses.com
This book had so much potential but it just didn’t meet up to it. I wanted to enjoy it. I mean what a great concept about original outlaw cowboys being vampires and now running a vacation spot to save their land. I really like the idea and if the story had been through a revision or two (or three) I think it would have worked.
First the good. The characters are interesting. Riley and Boone have an instant connection that continues throughout the whole book. The relationship between Tag and Belle is adorable and I look forward to hearing more about them. There was a bit of suspense. But I think some of the suspense was dropped without much-ado. I mean we heard so much about Phil and then he never shows up. So much could have happened to add to the story if he had shown up as well as the vampire who was there causing trouble.
Now the bad. The thing that drove me the craziest is how many times things were repeated. I mean you don’t need to tell the reader a half a dozen times that Riley had no childhood because of her father. We got it. Over and over we heard about her ex and how he was. Again we got it. And Boone’s father issues were repeated so many times I wanted to slap and tell him he was a outlaw get over it. And finally the fact that each time a character was mentioned we had to be told what he/she was (gunslinger/thief/etc). Maybe in the beginning but not every time.
I have to say usually at the end of vampire books something happens to the non-vampire causing the vampire to have to turn his/her love and they un-live happily ever after. Well that didn’t happen and it left me hanging. I mean what happens now? Will Riley eventually be turned? Will he only have her a few decades and then he moves on? What? BTW: I will never complain about the typical ending happening ever again.
As I said this book had a lot of potential and I wish it had actually met it.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This book had so much potential but it just didn’t meet up to it. I wanted to enjoy it. I mean what a great concept about original outlaw cowboys being vampires and now running a vacation spot to save their land. I really like the idea and if the story had been through a revision or two (or three) I think it would have worked.
First the good. The characters are interesting. Riley and Boone have an instant connection that continues throughout the whole book. The relationship between Tag and Belle is adorable and I look forward to hearing more about them. There was a bit of suspense. But I think some of the suspense was dropped without much-ado. I mean we heard so much about Phil and then he never shows up. So much could have happened to add to the story if he had shown up as well as the vampire who was there causing trouble.
Now the bad. The thing that drove me the craziest is how many times things were repeated. I mean you don’t need to tell the reader a half a dozen times that Riley had no childhood because of her father. We got it. Over and over we heard about her ex and how he was. Again we got it. And Boone’s father issues were repeated so many times I wanted to slap and tell him he was a outlaw get over it. And finally the fact that each time a character was mentioned we had to be told what he/she was (gunslinger/thief/etc). Maybe in the beginning but not every time.
I have to say usually at the end of vampire books something happens to the non-vampire causing the vampire to have to turn his/her love and they un-live happily ever after. Well that didn’t happen and it left me hanging. I mean what happens now? Will Riley eventually be turned? Will he only have her a few decades and then he moves on? What? BTW: I will never complain about the typical ending happening ever again.
As I said this book had a lot of potential and I wish it had actually met it.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
December 31, 2014
The Quick and the Undead, Kimberly Raye
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy Romance
This sounded a fun read, a paranormal with some humour – Vampire Cowboys! It was fun, made me smile, but it was a kind of gentle, subtle humour most of the while mixed in with a bit of vampire trickery, and set in a Western old time world.
I wasn’t wholly won over by the characters, Riley had some history but though it had affected her adversely for the last three years, I just didn’t really get that sense from her that it was affecting her life and emotions as much as I’d have expected. Similarly the vampires, they each had a slightly different angle, but somehow they seemed a little flat. Though this book concentrated on Boone we met the others, and I’d have liked to see a bit more interaction with them. It kind of feels superficial at the moment, as if we’re just glossing over their surface and underneath they’ve real depth – and I want that depth now...
Still, its early days and first novels in a series are notoriously difficult, when the author has the difficulty of introducing a new group of characters, setting the place and stories for future episodes and keeping the reader interested. Its a fine balance. I found it slow to start but once it picked up it held my interest, had a couple of sensual, sexy interludes, and a plotline that’s going to develop later through the series. Its got enough content to hook me into future reads, and maybe on a re reading I’d rate it higher but for now its an OK read, a good one with potential.
Stars: Three and a half – its a decent read and I think shows potential for a series with something a bit different to it. As ever though I’m just one reader and everyone will have a different view.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy Romance
This sounded a fun read, a paranormal with some humour – Vampire Cowboys! It was fun, made me smile, but it was a kind of gentle, subtle humour most of the while mixed in with a bit of vampire trickery, and set in a Western old time world.
I wasn’t wholly won over by the characters, Riley had some history but though it had affected her adversely for the last three years, I just didn’t really get that sense from her that it was affecting her life and emotions as much as I’d have expected. Similarly the vampires, they each had a slightly different angle, but somehow they seemed a little flat. Though this book concentrated on Boone we met the others, and I’d have liked to see a bit more interaction with them. It kind of feels superficial at the moment, as if we’re just glossing over their surface and underneath they’ve real depth – and I want that depth now...
Still, its early days and first novels in a series are notoriously difficult, when the author has the difficulty of introducing a new group of characters, setting the place and stories for future episodes and keeping the reader interested. Its a fine balance. I found it slow to start but once it picked up it held my interest, had a couple of sensual, sexy interludes, and a plotline that’s going to develop later through the series. Its got enough content to hook me into future reads, and maybe on a re reading I’d rate it higher but for now its an OK read, a good one with potential.
Stars: Three and a half – its a decent read and I think shows potential for a series with something a bit different to it. As ever though I’m just one reader and everyone will have a different view.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
January 14, 2015
I received this book from netgalley for an honest review.
4 1/2 Stars
I'm not sure if I've read anything by Ms Raye before or not, but I really liked this book. A step back in time, Reilly visits Tombstone, TX, a destination resort that takes you back to the Wild West. Boone is the sheriff, and one of the original Tombstone Ten, a gang of outlaws who are also vampires. Of course the guests at the resort, and the majority of the staff, have no idea of the supernatural nature of the Tombstone Ten. Most think they are actors playing the parts of these outlaws turned business owners. Reilly is trying to outrun her abusive ex-husband, and Boone starts having nightmares, even though vampires don't dream. He comes to realize that the nightmares are an omen, telling him of evil that is on its way to Tombstone. When one of the employees is attacked and Reilly tries to help her, Reilly learns of the existence of vampires, and that the man she just had a one night stand with is one. He takes her and hides her in a cave that only he knows of, to keep her safe while he and the rest of the Ten try to find the vampire that attacked the employee and that Reilly got a good look at. Everyone is afraid this rogue vampire will come back for both of the women, since they know what he looks like. The rest of the story is about Boone and Reilly fighting their attraction as he keeps her hidden in the cave while he searches for the rogue.
This seems to be the first book in a series that will include all of the remaining members of the Tombstone Ten, which I would guess will be about nine books, unless anyone's story is combined. I will be following this series, as that this first book was great. I'd recommend it to any fans of cowboy or paranormal romances. Ms Raye did an amazing job of mixing the Old West, vampires and the modern world together.
4 1/2 Stars
I'm not sure if I've read anything by Ms Raye before or not, but I really liked this book. A step back in time, Reilly visits Tombstone, TX, a destination resort that takes you back to the Wild West. Boone is the sheriff, and one of the original Tombstone Ten, a gang of outlaws who are also vampires. Of course the guests at the resort, and the majority of the staff, have no idea of the supernatural nature of the Tombstone Ten. Most think they are actors playing the parts of these outlaws turned business owners. Reilly is trying to outrun her abusive ex-husband, and Boone starts having nightmares, even though vampires don't dream. He comes to realize that the nightmares are an omen, telling him of evil that is on its way to Tombstone. When one of the employees is attacked and Reilly tries to help her, Reilly learns of the existence of vampires, and that the man she just had a one night stand with is one. He takes her and hides her in a cave that only he knows of, to keep her safe while he and the rest of the Ten try to find the vampire that attacked the employee and that Reilly got a good look at. Everyone is afraid this rogue vampire will come back for both of the women, since they know what he looks like. The rest of the story is about Boone and Reilly fighting their attraction as he keeps her hidden in the cave while he searches for the rogue.
This seems to be the first book in a series that will include all of the remaining members of the Tombstone Ten, which I would guess will be about nine books, unless anyone's story is combined. I will be following this series, as that this first book was great. I'd recommend it to any fans of cowboy or paranormal romances. Ms Raye did an amazing job of mixing the Old West, vampires and the modern world together.
February 6, 2015
This is a good series opener from a tried and true author of vampire cowboy novels. She sets the stage for new books in the series by including the additional members of the Tombstone Ten gang, minus their maker, who disappeared a century earlier. And while this book is a standalone, she leaves a teaser for the next book in the epilogue, just enough to pique the readers interest into watching for book two's release.
At one time the Tombstone Ten were the most feared outlaws in Texas. That was 150 or so years ago. Today they run a vacation resort in their home town for tourists who want a taste of the old west. And the tall tales and reenactments are more accurate than the visitors could ever imagine.
Boone Jarrett is the town's sheriff, a former bank robber and a current Texas homicide detective on extended leave while he helps the rest of the gang get the business up and running. As soon as they are in the black, he will be heading back to Austin.
Riley is an extreme vacation blogger running from an abusive ex boyfriend by traveling for a living. Recently she has been in Florida and Arizona. Now she's stepping off a stagecoach in Tombstone, Texas. And the first person to catch her attention is a tall, well built alpha male-just like her ex. Which makes him totally off limits. But the attraction is mutual and Boone finds himself pulling the feisty human closer, while at the same time keeping his distance. And the prickle on the back of his neck increases when one of the resort's employees is attacked by a rogue, to be saved when Riley stumbles on them and calls for help. But now, because she can identify the attacker, Riley is in danger and Boone realizes he will move heaven and boulders to keep her safe. Then he can let her go back to her life.
Copy graciously provided through Netgalley for an honest review.
At one time the Tombstone Ten were the most feared outlaws in Texas. That was 150 or so years ago. Today they run a vacation resort in their home town for tourists who want a taste of the old west. And the tall tales and reenactments are more accurate than the visitors could ever imagine.
Boone Jarrett is the town's sheriff, a former bank robber and a current Texas homicide detective on extended leave while he helps the rest of the gang get the business up and running. As soon as they are in the black, he will be heading back to Austin.
Riley is an extreme vacation blogger running from an abusive ex boyfriend by traveling for a living. Recently she has been in Florida and Arizona. Now she's stepping off a stagecoach in Tombstone, Texas. And the first person to catch her attention is a tall, well built alpha male-just like her ex. Which makes him totally off limits. But the attraction is mutual and Boone finds himself pulling the feisty human closer, while at the same time keeping his distance. And the prickle on the back of his neck increases when one of the resort's employees is attacked by a rogue, to be saved when Riley stumbles on them and calls for help. But now, because she can identify the attacker, Riley is in danger and Boone realizes he will move heaven and boulders to keep her safe. Then he can let her go back to her life.
Copy graciously provided through Netgalley for an honest review.
December 14, 2014
The Quick and the Undead had so much potential that it was bursting at the seams with it. Unique story? Yes. Hot men? Yes. A historical feel set in the modern world? Yes. Yet, by the end of it I was left wanting so much more.
Travel blogger Riley has come to Tombstone to live in the past. The brochure promises gun-slinging outlaws, saloons and rustic charm. What it doesn't advertise is the establishment is run by vampires...ten of them. Among them is Sheriff Boone and from the first moment she sees him, Riley is hooked. Even her rational, I've been burned by a man side, can't hold out. Yet that attraction she claims she feels fell completely flat with me. She's supposedly the target of a crazed killer but nothing really happens to her. She's attacked once and then sequestered into hiding. The threat was paper thin and definitely not worthy of the set up in the blurb.
Riley spends a great deal of the book lamenting on her stalking ex boyfriend but he never appears. Why spend so much time on something you're not going to follow through with? I would have been just as content to just have her mention it in passing that he was a jerk and then move on. It added nothing to the story that he was a stalker....who never actually stalked.
Most of all...I was bored. Very bored. With no heat and no action I was left with nothing but deadend conversation. If this series continues I doubt I will continue with it.
I give The Quick and the Undead by Kimberly Raye 2 stars
Travel blogger Riley has come to Tombstone to live in the past. The brochure promises gun-slinging outlaws, saloons and rustic charm. What it doesn't advertise is the establishment is run by vampires...ten of them. Among them is Sheriff Boone and from the first moment she sees him, Riley is hooked. Even her rational, I've been burned by a man side, can't hold out. Yet that attraction she claims she feels fell completely flat with me. She's supposedly the target of a crazed killer but nothing really happens to her. She's attacked once and then sequestered into hiding. The threat was paper thin and definitely not worthy of the set up in the blurb.
Riley spends a great deal of the book lamenting on her stalking ex boyfriend but he never appears. Why spend so much time on something you're not going to follow through with? I would have been just as content to just have her mention it in passing that he was a jerk and then move on. It added nothing to the story that he was a stalker....who never actually stalked.
Most of all...I was bored. Very bored. With no heat and no action I was left with nothing but deadend conversation. If this series continues I doubt I will continue with it.
I give The Quick and the Undead by Kimberly Raye 2 stars
December 17, 2014
Karia's 4 1/2 Star Review
Okay…we all know I love Cowboys…and we all know I love strong uber alpha vampires…Enter Boone Jarrett! Smoking hot, undead lawman and former posse member of the Tombstone Ten: the created vampire gang of olde!
The story was short (whipped it off in about an hour and half) but the characters each had their own personality and issues that they struggled with throughout the book. Riley had some SERIOUS baggage, but none more than Boone, who still holds some fear over tapping the vein and accidently killing. It has been over 150 years since he tried to feed from human blood, choosing instead to feed off their energy during sex (ah, novel spin on the vampire/succubus). While Boone was with many others before Riley, something deep in him and her recognize that they belong together (ah, the idea of fated partner…yeah!).
The story moves fast, villains are all about, while the Tombstone Nine (since one has been “missing” for over 100 years) try to make a go of their destination travel holiday resort. I sincerely look forward to meeting Ike, the creator of the Tombstone Ten, and reading all the HEAs for the others. Enjoy!
Okay…we all know I love Cowboys…and we all know I love strong uber alpha vampires…Enter Boone Jarrett! Smoking hot, undead lawman and former posse member of the Tombstone Ten: the created vampire gang of olde!
The story was short (whipped it off in about an hour and half) but the characters each had their own personality and issues that they struggled with throughout the book. Riley had some SERIOUS baggage, but none more than Boone, who still holds some fear over tapping the vein and accidently killing. It has been over 150 years since he tried to feed from human blood, choosing instead to feed off their energy during sex (ah, novel spin on the vampire/succubus). While Boone was with many others before Riley, something deep in him and her recognize that they belong together (ah, the idea of fated partner…yeah!).
The story moves fast, villains are all about, while the Tombstone Nine (since one has been “missing” for over 100 years) try to make a go of their destination travel holiday resort. I sincerely look forward to meeting Ike, the creator of the Tombstone Ten, and reading all the HEAs for the others. Enjoy!
January 7, 2015
3.5 Stars
When I first read the blurb for this book I got really excited. I mean who doesn't love cowboys or vampires? So imagine my delight when this book ended up being about vampire cowboys. I really liked the ARC of this series;nine vampires running a wild west attraction. And said vampires being real outlaws, lawmen, and prostitutes from the 1800's. I loved Boone, the sheriff. He was described as tall, dark and sexy and that pretty much stuck in my head each time he's mentioned. Riley is a travel blog writer who has decided to do a write up about Tombstone and falls for the sheriff. What I didn't care for was the time they actually spent together was way too short for them to fall in love, IMO. The book was interesting and I read it in one day, so that shows it kept my attention. I'll keep a look out for the next in the series and hope that each book just keeps getting better and better.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
When I first read the blurb for this book I got really excited. I mean who doesn't love cowboys or vampires? So imagine my delight when this book ended up being about vampire cowboys. I really liked the ARC of this series;nine vampires running a wild west attraction. And said vampires being real outlaws, lawmen, and prostitutes from the 1800's. I loved Boone, the sheriff. He was described as tall, dark and sexy and that pretty much stuck in my head each time he's mentioned. Riley is a travel blog writer who has decided to do a write up about Tombstone and falls for the sheriff. What I didn't care for was the time they actually spent together was way too short for them to fall in love, IMO. The book was interesting and I read it in one day, so that shows it kept my attention. I'll keep a look out for the next in the series and hope that each book just keeps getting better and better.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
January 27, 2015
The blurb for this book sounded pretty good, but unfortunately there were a lot of holes left in the story. Cowboy/wild west vampires sounds good in theory, however they couldn't be out in the sun. But they are running a tourist town in Texas and they kinda need to be able to venture out in the daytime. Several of the vampire taboos were present, but then some weren't, so I think the author could've played around with this a bit. Too many mentions of the Twilight book too. We get it, not all vampires sparkle, but every author is entitled to make their own world, don't denigrate another author's work. Will maybe read the next in this series to see if it gets any better. I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
December 15, 2014
This was not what I was expecting at all. The Quick and the Undead seemed intriguing to me. I mean cowboys running Tombstone who just happen to be the original cowboys? Okay sounds cool. I like vampire books as well so it seemed like a good choice.
I will admit I wish it could have had something a bit more, but it was a great story. I mean both Boone and Riley had some issues in their past that seemed to make them who they are today But Boone got to face his and I think it felt like a cop out for how Riley got to deal with hers
The Story was good though. There was enough of the others that makes you want to read more about them. I can't wait for more.
I will admit I wish it could have had something a bit more, but it was a great story. I mean both Boone and Riley had some issues in their past that seemed to make them who they are today But Boone got to face his and I think it felt like a cop out for how Riley got to deal with hers
The Story was good though. There was enough of the others that makes you want to read more about them. I can't wait for more.
December 27, 2014
If you are looking for light and fluffy vampires like Kimberly Raye‘s Dead End Dating series The Quick and the Undead is not for you.. There are strong alpha cowboy vampires and feisty modern day women but definitely no pink bats and fabulous wardrobe. The Quick and the Undead appears to be the first in a new series. It has possibilities but honestly this first book left me wanting and I’m not sure exactly why. I will pick up the next installment in the hopes that my dissatisfaction had to do with world building rather than the story itself.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
March 26, 2015
An interesting premise and start to the series but it seemed to get pretty repetitive.
While I liked Boone, Riley was pretty meek and not terribly likeable. Yeah, I get that she'd been through some bad shit with her ex, that was hammered home enough times. But, really, her affection for Krispy Kreme was the only interesting thing about her.
I could take or leave any further books in the series. Decent enough to read, but not an OMG I have to have it title.
*Digital review copy provided by NetGalley and the publisher.
While I liked Boone, Riley was pretty meek and not terribly likeable. Yeah, I get that she'd been through some bad shit with her ex, that was hammered home enough times. But, really, her affection for Krispy Kreme was the only interesting thing about her.
I could take or leave any further books in the series. Decent enough to read, but not an OMG I have to have it title.
*Digital review copy provided by NetGalley and the publisher.
May 13, 2015
This book was so different than any paranormal book I have ever read and I really enjoyed it. It's about a western tourist town filled vampires. Riley is a travel blogger who has come to town to feature it and meets hot alpha vamp Boone. She is running from a crazy ex and he is being targeted by his own brand of crazy. This story is full of passion and suspense and action. I loved every bit of it and hope this turns into a series as I would love to revisit this exciting town.
I give The Quick and the Undead 4 hearts!
I give The Quick and the Undead 4 hearts!
December 19, 2014
I really wanted to enjoy this book, but it just didn't live up to the potential I thought would have. The characters are very interesting and so is the whole concept of the story, we just could have done without the constant repeat of their backgrounds. The ending kind of leaves you hanging with no inclination of what would've happened. The writing style is good.
I was given a copy by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was given a copy by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
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