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Heart's True Desire #3
Unholy
In her last semester of college, Beth D’Angelo has one goal—to get her thermodynamics experiment to work so she can graduate. But everything changes when she nearly runs over a mysterious stranger with her car—a man whose hauntingly handsome face fills her with an inexplicable sense of dread. Suddenly, her failed experiment becomes the least of her worries.
Strong, alluring, and centuries-old, Thomas Callahan is a vampire whose powers are as dangerous as his secrets. After Beth nearly runs him over, her sweet nature and innate fear of him become an irresistible challenge—to corrupt her innocence.
As they spend more time together, Beth’s fear dissipates and becomes something Thomas finds himself craving more than blood. Knowing it is only a matter of time before she discovers what he truly is, and with two hunters on his trail seeking vengeance, Thomas must decide if loving Beth is worth risking both their lives.
Strong, alluring, and centuries-old, Thomas Callahan is a vampire whose powers are as dangerous as his secrets. After Beth nearly runs him over, her sweet nature and innate fear of him become an irresistible challenge—to corrupt her innocence.
As they spend more time together, Beth’s fear dissipates and becomes something Thomas finds himself craving more than blood. Knowing it is only a matter of time before she discovers what he truly is, and with two hunters on his trail seeking vengeance, Thomas must decide if loving Beth is worth risking both their lives.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 20, 2025
3 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Amurra
6 books23 followersKathryn Amurra has been making up stories for as long as she can remember and writing since grade school. She found her own hero just after graduating college and married him, and they have three girls together. Although her characters live inside her head all day, she writes at night, when she has logged off from her "day job" and her kids are asleep.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
October 21, 2025
As a Reviewer, this is my honest review of Unholy by Kathryn Amurra.
Unholy is the third and final book in the “Heart’s True Desire” series by Kathryn Amurra. The books in this series are all very unique, and the one thing that ties them together is a very unusual necklace.
Unholy is a Vampire Romance. However, the vampire is the most unique vampire character I have ever encountered, and the story is the most unique Vampire Romance story I have ever read. The main character is Beth D’Angelo, who is a college student. She is striving to get her thermodynamics experiment to work so that she can graduate. She is working with another college student, and she has a boyfriend. Beth has strong beliefs she lives by.
Between Beth’s frustrations with her experiment and the issues between her and her boyfriend, Beth is quite stressed. Then, one evening as she’s driving, she is certain that she has hit someone with her car, adding to her stress levels.
When she meets, Thomas, a very attractive man, who takes an interest in her, she finds herself drawn to him. Thomas, who is actually a centuries old vampire, finds Beth’s sweet nature a challenge to corrupt her. However, it isn’t long before Thomas finds that Beth has something that he craves more than blood.
What happens between Beth and Thomas, and Beth and her boyfriend, makes for a very interesting twist in Unholy. It’s been years since I have even considered reading a vampire story, but I found that once I started reading Unholy, I couldn’t put it down. The uniqueness of several characters and the story line held my attention.
Ms. Amurra created deep, interesting characters that she developed so well from the beginning of the book and throughout the story. Even the vampire was realistic. Ms. Amurra produced such a unique story line that I was intrigued and captivated until the very end.
I will say that there is some profanity in this book, but it is spread throughout and not overwhelming. There are two scenes that may be problematic for sensitive readers. However, there are no scenes that include a lot of graphic violence, blood, and gore.
I highly recommend this book to adult readers who crave unique stories, as well as those who enjoy vampire stories. I will also say that, after reading Unholy by Kathryn Amurra, I believe Thomas will forever be my favorite vampire.
Although I have read most of Kathryn Amurra’s books, after reading Unholy, I have truly become a dedicated fan and cannot wait to see what she comes up with next.
Unholy is truly worthy of 5 stars.
Unholy is the third and final book in the “Heart’s True Desire” series by Kathryn Amurra. The books in this series are all very unique, and the one thing that ties them together is a very unusual necklace.
Unholy is a Vampire Romance. However, the vampire is the most unique vampire character I have ever encountered, and the story is the most unique Vampire Romance story I have ever read. The main character is Beth D’Angelo, who is a college student. She is striving to get her thermodynamics experiment to work so that she can graduate. She is working with another college student, and she has a boyfriend. Beth has strong beliefs she lives by.
Between Beth’s frustrations with her experiment and the issues between her and her boyfriend, Beth is quite stressed. Then, one evening as she’s driving, she is certain that she has hit someone with her car, adding to her stress levels.
When she meets, Thomas, a very attractive man, who takes an interest in her, she finds herself drawn to him. Thomas, who is actually a centuries old vampire, finds Beth’s sweet nature a challenge to corrupt her. However, it isn’t long before Thomas finds that Beth has something that he craves more than blood.
What happens between Beth and Thomas, and Beth and her boyfriend, makes for a very interesting twist in Unholy. It’s been years since I have even considered reading a vampire story, but I found that once I started reading Unholy, I couldn’t put it down. The uniqueness of several characters and the story line held my attention.
Ms. Amurra created deep, interesting characters that she developed so well from the beginning of the book and throughout the story. Even the vampire was realistic. Ms. Amurra produced such a unique story line that I was intrigued and captivated until the very end.
I will say that there is some profanity in this book, but it is spread throughout and not overwhelming. There are two scenes that may be problematic for sensitive readers. However, there are no scenes that include a lot of graphic violence, blood, and gore.
I highly recommend this book to adult readers who crave unique stories, as well as those who enjoy vampire stories. I will also say that, after reading Unholy by Kathryn Amurra, I believe Thomas will forever be my favorite vampire.
Although I have read most of Kathryn Amurra’s books, after reading Unholy, I have truly become a dedicated fan and cannot wait to see what she comes up with next.
Unholy is truly worthy of 5 stars.
October 14, 2025
In “Unholy” Kathryn Amurra delivers a thrilling blend of romance, suspense, and supernatural elements that drew me in from the very first page.
Set against the backdrop of college life and the impending graduation, this third installment in the Heart's True Desire series introduces us to Beth, whose world is turned upside down when she nearly runs over the enigmatic Thomas Callahan!
Beth is a great character, focused on her studies and ambitious goals. However, her encounter with Thomas shatters her routine and plunges her into a realm of danger and intrigue.
Thomas Callahan is a centuries old vampire, he exudes strength and danger, and his tortured past drew me in, (I do love a tortured soul 😉) His desire to corrupt Beth's innocence presents a compelling dynamic, merging romance with a hint of ethical conflict.
The author captures the tension between their worlds, portraying Thomas’s struggle to balance his predatory instincts with newfound feelings for Beth. And as their relationship deepens, the stakes rise, blending romance with a sense of impending doom, especially with the hunters pursuing Thomas! 😦
The chemistry between Beth and Thomas is electric, evolving from fear to attraction.
The power of love is a strong theme, as Beth’s innocence and strength challenge Thomas's centuries old perspective on life and love.
The pacing of the book is well-thought out, with moments of romantic tension, character development, and action.
The hunters add a layer of suspense that propels the story forward, creating a sense of urgency.
Set against the modern backdrop of college life intertwined with gothic themes, the world building is rich and immersive. The author paints vivid scenes, drawing us into both the academic life of Beth and the dark, alluring world in which Thomas exists.
“Unholy” is a gripping tale of love, danger, and self discovery. Kathryn Amurra successfully combines great characters with thrilling supernatural elements.
You don’t need to read books 1 & 2 to enjoy this one. But I did and they are both a great read 👍🏻
This novel is a must read for fans of paranormal romance who enjoy a mix of tension, intrigue, and heartwarming moments.
🦋
* copy supplied for review
Set against the backdrop of college life and the impending graduation, this third installment in the Heart's True Desire series introduces us to Beth, whose world is turned upside down when she nearly runs over the enigmatic Thomas Callahan!
Beth is a great character, focused on her studies and ambitious goals. However, her encounter with Thomas shatters her routine and plunges her into a realm of danger and intrigue.
Thomas Callahan is a centuries old vampire, he exudes strength and danger, and his tortured past drew me in, (I do love a tortured soul 😉) His desire to corrupt Beth's innocence presents a compelling dynamic, merging romance with a hint of ethical conflict.
The author captures the tension between their worlds, portraying Thomas’s struggle to balance his predatory instincts with newfound feelings for Beth. And as their relationship deepens, the stakes rise, blending romance with a sense of impending doom, especially with the hunters pursuing Thomas! 😦
The chemistry between Beth and Thomas is electric, evolving from fear to attraction.
The power of love is a strong theme, as Beth’s innocence and strength challenge Thomas's centuries old perspective on life and love.
The pacing of the book is well-thought out, with moments of romantic tension, character development, and action.
The hunters add a layer of suspense that propels the story forward, creating a sense of urgency.
Set against the modern backdrop of college life intertwined with gothic themes, the world building is rich and immersive. The author paints vivid scenes, drawing us into both the academic life of Beth and the dark, alluring world in which Thomas exists.
“Unholy” is a gripping tale of love, danger, and self discovery. Kathryn Amurra successfully combines great characters with thrilling supernatural elements.
You don’t need to read books 1 & 2 to enjoy this one. But I did and they are both a great read 👍🏻
This novel is a must read for fans of paranormal romance who enjoy a mix of tension, intrigue, and heartwarming moments.
🦋
* copy supplied for review
October 5, 2025
Beth D’Angelo needs her experiment to work so she can graduate College. When she nearly runs over a strange man with her car, she has a deep sense of dread. The experiment is the last thing on her mind as she gets to know Thomas Callahan, a vampire with secrets and the desire to corrupt her. They spend time together, and he craves more than blood. Two hunters on his trail seek vengeance, so Thomas must decide if loving Beth is worth risking both their lives.
This is the third book of the Heart's True Desires series, which involves romances involving an amulet and a ring blessed with the love their creator had for his children. (Amulet and Timeless) It's not until the final quarter of the book that we discover the link to the prior books of the series; Beth's cousin gives her the amulet.
Anyone who has ever done research will understand Beth's frustration in the beginning and how distracted she is after comforting a friend. She is the quintessential good girl, even refusing to have sex before marriage. Thomas takes advantage from the start, and absolutely loathes any sign of weakness or humanity he shows. He finds ways to cross her path constantly, and she thinks he's another researcher. The casual dates and walks around campus mean a pair of hunters catch sight of him and his victims, and they begin to stalk Thomas for opportunities to kill him.
There are two main threads in this story: the romance and the hunters with the intent to kill Thomas. As Thomas falls in love with Beth and tries to keep from harming people, the hunters try to close ranks. They're descendants of the lone survivor Thomas hadn't killed when he didn't see the little girl, and are eager to get vengeance. It's a mother and son pair, and the son is Beth's research assistant, so he gets a firsthand view of Thomas' changes. The supernatural elements are otherwise pretty low-key, so if you're not a fan of them, this book might still be fun to read. I happen to love vampires, so that drew me in. This is a romance novel, so we get a happily ever after even though there are very real stakes (in more than one sense of the word) and a real threat of death. It's a fun and quick read.
This is the third book of the Heart's True Desires series, which involves romances involving an amulet and a ring blessed with the love their creator had for his children. (Amulet and Timeless) It's not until the final quarter of the book that we discover the link to the prior books of the series; Beth's cousin gives her the amulet.
Anyone who has ever done research will understand Beth's frustration in the beginning and how distracted she is after comforting a friend. She is the quintessential good girl, even refusing to have sex before marriage. Thomas takes advantage from the start, and absolutely loathes any sign of weakness or humanity he shows. He finds ways to cross her path constantly, and she thinks he's another researcher. The casual dates and walks around campus mean a pair of hunters catch sight of him and his victims, and they begin to stalk Thomas for opportunities to kill him.
There are two main threads in this story: the romance and the hunters with the intent to kill Thomas. As Thomas falls in love with Beth and tries to keep from harming people, the hunters try to close ranks. They're descendants of the lone survivor Thomas hadn't killed when he didn't see the little girl, and are eager to get vengeance. It's a mother and son pair, and the son is Beth's research assistant, so he gets a firsthand view of Thomas' changes. The supernatural elements are otherwise pretty low-key, so if you're not a fan of them, this book might still be fun to read. I happen to love vampires, so that drew me in. This is a romance novel, so we get a happily ever after even though there are very real stakes (in more than one sense of the word) and a real threat of death. It's a fun and quick read.
October 25, 2025
Unholy is the third in the Heart's True Desire series, but each book is a standalone. The only connection is the magic of love in the amulet and ring's stones, and the theme of true love. Overall, I think the second book is still my favorite in the series.
This story is character-driven, with Beth, our brilliant Engineering student, working on her research project, and Thomas, a centuries-old vampire. When they meet, things change for both of them. Suddenly, Thomas, the ruthless, soulless killer, is finding his humanity again, all because of this sweet girl whom he has fallen for. The romance between them is instant and intense, and neither of them understands this pull they feel. But they can't deny it or resist each other. Meanwhile, a family of hunters is searching for Thomas to take their revenge on him for slaughtering their family a century ago. When these plot lines intersect, you'll get sucked in (pun intended) to find out how it all ends. There are also side characters of Beth's boyfriend/ex-boyfriend and her best friend, who affect Beth's actions and unfold the plot.
Some of it was a bit hand-wavy, while other conversations were deeper, helping form connections. Both characters are flawed and make human mistakes, which makes them endearing to each other and to the reader. I enjoy a villain who turns good because of his love for the main character, so if you're into that, you'll enjoy this read as well.
While this book isn't super graphic, it does touch on some themes where trigger warnings may need to be mentioned (attempted rape, attempted murder, vampire feedings), but generally, this book and series are upper YA level.
This story is character-driven, with Beth, our brilliant Engineering student, working on her research project, and Thomas, a centuries-old vampire. When they meet, things change for both of them. Suddenly, Thomas, the ruthless, soulless killer, is finding his humanity again, all because of this sweet girl whom he has fallen for. The romance between them is instant and intense, and neither of them understands this pull they feel. But they can't deny it or resist each other. Meanwhile, a family of hunters is searching for Thomas to take their revenge on him for slaughtering their family a century ago. When these plot lines intersect, you'll get sucked in (pun intended) to find out how it all ends. There are also side characters of Beth's boyfriend/ex-boyfriend and her best friend, who affect Beth's actions and unfold the plot.
Some of it was a bit hand-wavy, while other conversations were deeper, helping form connections. Both characters are flawed and make human mistakes, which makes them endearing to each other and to the reader. I enjoy a villain who turns good because of his love for the main character, so if you're into that, you'll enjoy this read as well.
While this book isn't super graphic, it does touch on some themes where trigger warnings may need to be mentioned (attempted rape, attempted murder, vampire feedings), but generally, this book and series are upper YA level.
October 2, 2025
This was a different type of vampire story. First of all, it’s really clean and sweet. Yes, Thomas is a vampire and drinks blood – but it’s not graphic or nightmare-ish. Nor does he kill (anymore). When he meets Beth, his undead life starts to change. He starts to remember his real life. He starts to…want something different than what he has. And that could be dangerous to both of them. Beth is in her last semester at college. She has a boyfriend who wants more from her than she is willing to give. When she meets Thomas, at first, she’s afraid of him, but then, she comes to find him irresistible. She breaks up with her boyfriend and, as the weeks go by, she comes to desire more from Thomas. Finding out the truth about Thomas brings her into danger, but not from Thomas–from the vampire hunter after him. But Beth believes in him. And in the amulet that might grant them a wish.
I generally do not like vampire stories, but I did like this one. As pointed out, it is sweet (sex is behind closed doors) and the conflict between the characters is well-done without being over-the-top. I loved how Thomas dealt with the ex-boyfriend. And with the hunter. And I absolutely loved the ending! The only thing I’m missing, I wished I knew what she got on her final project grade! LOL
Recommended.
I generally do not like vampire stories, but I did like this one. As pointed out, it is sweet (sex is behind closed doors) and the conflict between the characters is well-done without being over-the-top. I loved how Thomas dealt with the ex-boyfriend. And with the hunter. And I absolutely loved the ending! The only thing I’m missing, I wished I knew what she got on her final project grade! LOL
Recommended.
October 24, 2025
Unholy by Kathryn Amurra is book 3 in the Heart's True Desire series by the author. You can read this one as a stand alone book:) It is a vampire book that starts off with a story about mysterious pieces of jewelry, specifically a necklace and a ring. The story is that the necklace grants the wearer one thing that you desire the most in life. That brings the readers to the present day in a university in upstate NY with our FMC, named Beth. Beth is trying to graduate with her Ph.D from the school and can't figure out a problem with her experiment. Thomas is our other MC who is a vampire and is feeding on a young girl and then left the scene but runs into a car, literally, Beth's car. Beth has no idea that she hit Thomas and what he is but accepts Thomas' help with the car that got damaged by Thomas' leg. Beth is instantly attracted to Thomas and Thomas is wanting to corrupt her innocence and wants more than just her blood. I love a vampire story and also a centuries-old male who is a bit tortured or has had a long life. Thomas definitely has a past in this one! I love the writing in this one and vampires are one of my favorites to read about and I love when vampire hunters are thrown into to make the story more action packed!
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October 31, 2025Heat Factor: Fade to black
Character Chemistry: So fated that his vampirism is reversing
Plot: Girl meets vampire, some angst ensues, but not as much as you might expect
Overall: Overall, I liked this one
While this is a vampire romance (complete with vampire hunters stalking Thomas), it’s still fairly low angst and gentle, and I thought Amurra came up with a clever solution to give these two lovebirds a happy ending.
Read our full review at The Smut Report
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.
Blog | Bluesky | Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Pinterest
Character Chemistry: So fated that his vampirism is reversing
Plot: Girl meets vampire, some angst ensues, but not as much as you might expect
Overall: Overall, I liked this one
While this is a vampire romance (complete with vampire hunters stalking Thomas), it’s still fairly low angst and gentle, and I thought Amurra came up with a clever solution to give these two lovebirds a happy ending.
Read our full review at The Smut Report
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.
Blog | Bluesky | Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Pinterest
October 20, 2025
UNHOLY is the third installment in Amurra's Heart's True Desire trilogy but it can also be read as a standalone.
Beth is a senior in college studying mechanical engineering in New york. Thomas is an undead creature prowling the streets of her campus. Fate brings them together. Passion kindles a spark. Desire threatens to burn it all down. Add in a family duo hellbent on seeking revenge, a science project that will not end, and dark and dreary background, and you've got the perfect paranormal thriller to keep you up and reading well into the night.
UNHOLY touchs on religiosity and delves deep into the metaphysical. I particularly enjoyed the restaurant scenes, and the heartfelt dialogue between Beth and her best friend. I loved this installment in Amurra's Heart's True Desire trilogy, and highly recommend reading it to all of you, my family and book loving friends.
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for a free and honest review.
Beth is a senior in college studying mechanical engineering in New york. Thomas is an undead creature prowling the streets of her campus. Fate brings them together. Passion kindles a spark. Desire threatens to burn it all down. Add in a family duo hellbent on seeking revenge, a science project that will not end, and dark and dreary background, and you've got the perfect paranormal thriller to keep you up and reading well into the night.
UNHOLY touchs on religiosity and delves deep into the metaphysical. I particularly enjoyed the restaurant scenes, and the heartfelt dialogue between Beth and her best friend. I loved this installment in Amurra's Heart's True Desire trilogy, and highly recommend reading it to all of you, my family and book loving friends.
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for a free and honest review.
August 12, 2025
This book is a wonderful read. I’m not a fan of vampires. With that being said. After reading the first two pages I was hooked. I don’t like books with a lot of gore and or explicit sexual references. This book is so very well written. The gore and sexually is tastefully written. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND reading. Thank you Kathryn Amurra! Looking forward to your next writing endeavors.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews