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The Vampires of Crimson Cove #1
The Crimson Corset
Welcome to Crimson CoveSheltered by ancient redwoods overlooking the California coast, the cozy village of Crimson Cove has it sophisticated retreats, fine dining, and a notorious nightclub, The Crimson Corset. It seems like a perfect place to relax and get close to nature. But not everything in Crimson Cove is natural. When Cade Colter moves to town, he expects it to be peaceful to the point of boredom. But he quickly learns that after the sun sets and the fog rolls in, the little tourist town takes on a whole new kind of life – and death.Darkness at the Edge of TownRenowned for its wild parties and history of debauchery, The Crimson Corset looms on the edge of town, inviting patrons to sate their most depraved desires and slake their darkest thirsts. Proprietor Gretchen VanTreese has waited centuries to annihilate the Old World vampires on the other side of town and create a new race – a race that she alone will rule. When she realizes Cade Colter has the key that will unlock her plan, she begins laying an elaborate trap that will put everyone around him in mortal danger.Blood WarsThe streets are running red with blood, and as violence and murder ravage the night, Cade must face the darkest forces inside himself, and perhaps even abandon his own humanity, in order to protect what he loves.“Put Bram Stoker in a giant cocktail shaker, add a pinch of Laurell K. Hamilton, a shot of John Carpenter, and a healthy jigger of absinthe, and you’ll end up with Alistair Cross’s modern Gothic chiller, “The Crimson Corset” - a deliciously terrifying tale that will sink its teeth into you from page one.” - Jay Bonansinga, New York Times Bestselling author of THE WALKING INVASION and LUCID“This drop-deadly tale of seduction and terror will leave you begging to be fanged … ” - Tamara Thorne, international bestselling author of HAUNTED and MOONFALL“I couldn’t put this book down. It’s got more hooks than a day boat out of San Pedro Harbor!” - QL Pearce, bestselling author of SCARY STORIES FOR SLEEP-OVERS
500 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2015
130 people are currently reading
348 people want to read
About the author
Alistair Cross
53 books195 followersAlistair Cross' debut novel, The Crimson Corset, a vampiric tale of terror and seduction, was an immediate bestseller earning praise from veteran vampire-lit author, Chelsea Quinn Yarbro, and New York Times bestseller, Jay Bonansinga, author of The Walking Dead series. In 2012, Alistair joined forces with international bestseller, Tamara Thorne, and as Thorne & Cross, they write - among other things - the successful Gothic series, The Ravencrest Saga. Their debut collaboration, The Cliffhouse Haunting, was a bestseller. They are currently at work on their next solo novels and a new collaborative project.
In 2014, Alistair and Tamara began the radio show, Thorne & Cross: Haunted Nights LIVE!, which has featured such guests as Anne Rice, author of The Vampire Chronicles, Charlaine Harris of the Southern Vampire Mysteries and basis of the HBO series True Blood, Jeff Lindsay, author of the Dexter novels, Jay Bonansinga of The Walking Dead series, Laurell K. Hamilton of the Anita Blake novels, Peter Atkins, screenwriter of HELLRAISER 2, 3, and 4, worldwide bestseller V.C. Andrews, and New York Times best sellers Preston & Child, Christopher Rice, and Christopher Moore.
In 2014, Alistair and Tamara began the radio show, Thorne & Cross: Haunted Nights LIVE!, which has featured such guests as Anne Rice, author of The Vampire Chronicles, Charlaine Harris of the Southern Vampire Mysteries and basis of the HBO series True Blood, Jeff Lindsay, author of the Dexter novels, Jay Bonansinga of The Walking Dead series, Laurell K. Hamilton of the Anita Blake novels, Peter Atkins, screenwriter of HELLRAISER 2, 3, and 4, worldwide bestseller V.C. Andrews, and New York Times best sellers Preston & Child, Christopher Rice, and Christopher Moore.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
February 19, 2025
Vampires Galore!
Small backstory:
Crimson Cove is a small town in California that harbors an ancient and evil secret where creatures of the night roam and play. Cade Colter decides to move into town and stay with his brother Brooks but doesn't realize the danger that is simmering within the town as there lies within Crimson Cove vampires that are gearing up for a war and the brothers seem to end up in the middle of the fight!
That is about all I can hand out with a small backstory without giving away spoilers so if you are intrigued then go read this book and series!
Thoughts:
This story just grabbed me from the get-go as I do love to read vampire stories and this one has tons of action above the sheets and beneath the sheets as well! Lots of steamy sex action that was making my mirrors in my room foggy! 😆
There is tons of other action too along with lots of suspense, disappearances, and murder. The pace of the story was slow at first with background world building and the introduction of characters as there are quite a few characters within the story but then the book picks up speed and things start rolling along at a faster pace. I was literally up till 4 am one morning reading this story as I just could not put it down! Read about 30% within a couple of hours!
I loved all the characters in this story as the author goes into some back stories with some of the characters to round them out and the characters begin to mesh well within the story. Looking forward to continuing on with the series as there are a few books to read yet and I own them all. Giving this book five "Vicious Vamps" stars!
Small backstory:
Crimson Cove is a small town in California that harbors an ancient and evil secret where creatures of the night roam and play. Cade Colter decides to move into town and stay with his brother Brooks but doesn't realize the danger that is simmering within the town as there lies within Crimson Cove vampires that are gearing up for a war and the brothers seem to end up in the middle of the fight!
That is about all I can hand out with a small backstory without giving away spoilers so if you are intrigued then go read this book and series!
Thoughts:
This story just grabbed me from the get-go as I do love to read vampire stories and this one has tons of action above the sheets and beneath the sheets as well! Lots of steamy sex action that was making my mirrors in my room foggy! 😆
There is tons of other action too along with lots of suspense, disappearances, and murder. The pace of the story was slow at first with background world building and the introduction of characters as there are quite a few characters within the story but then the book picks up speed and things start rolling along at a faster pace. I was literally up till 4 am one morning reading this story as I just could not put it down! Read about 30% within a couple of hours!
I loved all the characters in this story as the author goes into some back stories with some of the characters to round them out and the characters begin to mesh well within the story. Looking forward to continuing on with the series as there are a few books to read yet and I own them all. Giving this book five "Vicious Vamps" stars!
January 23, 2017
Thank you, Mr. Cross. A very fun read, indeed!
March 2, 2024
I was delighted to immerse myself in the world of vampires, and I quickly found myself lost in it. The characters were excellent; they were well-developed and well-written. The two distinct vampire clans, the world-building, and the idea that one individual could cause such a whirlwind were all intriguing to me. I thought it was excellent that there wasn't a lot of closeness and that the characters and the following mayhem were the main emphasis. More lustful actions, in my opinion, would have substantially detracted from the narrative. It was difficult to predict what would happen next, which added to the enjoyment of this amazing vampire story. I haven't tried Alistair's work before, but this was my first taste!
December 9, 2021
Absolutely brilliant
If I told you everything I loved about it, there'd be too many spoilers. But Alistair does a great job at creating characters you fall in love with. Including the bad guys. When the main antagonist came on the scene she just blew me away. She and her followers are all seriously badass vampires and not for the faint hearted. I wished there was more romance, but it wasn't labelled paranormal romance, so I can't really complain about that. The rest of the plot made up for it anyway. It was thrilling, it had funny moments and very dark moments.
If I told you everything I loved about it, there'd be too many spoilers. But Alistair does a great job at creating characters you fall in love with. Including the bad guys. When the main antagonist came on the scene she just blew me away. She and her followers are all seriously badass vampires and not for the faint hearted. I wished there was more romance, but it wasn't labelled paranormal romance, so I can't really complain about that. The rest of the plot made up for it anyway. It was thrilling, it had funny moments and very dark moments.
December 16, 2021
I started reading this book with the expectation to learn something new, and learn I did. Alistair has a brilliant way of creating his characters. I was most impressed with the main protagonist and her followers. However much I would have wished there was more romance to have taken from this, the rest of the plot was so fast-paced I struggled to put the book down. This book is definitely one of those books I will constantly recommend to authors as a writing tool. And if you're just a reader, let this book entertain you, because you're in for a hell of a ride.
October 29, 2022
Don’t pass this one up!
One of the best horror books I’ve read in awhile. It’s the characters that make this story come alive. And it’s just not one or two. There are several that give you a different perspective on the storyline, and all of them are unique and interesting. The plot was solid and unpredictable. The unpredictable nature was a plus for me. The scene settings were adequate and for my tastes could have been punched up a little. This is worth your time and money.
One of the best horror books I’ve read in awhile. It’s the characters that make this story come alive. And it’s just not one or two. There are several that give you a different perspective on the storyline, and all of them are unique and interesting. The plot was solid and unpredictable. The unpredictable nature was a plus for me. The scene settings were adequate and for my tastes could have been punched up a little. This is worth your time and money.
August 7, 2020
This was one of my favorites books so far this Year. I love fantasy and vampire stories! Very well writen and such an amazing characters! I found myself laughing hard several times, the humor here is nonstop! ¡Great book! Highly recommended to everyone.👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
July 17, 2024
Nothing is happening. So boring.
DNF @ 29%
DNF @ 29%
September 20, 2025
This book had great vampires. It had action and gore. It was just really hard to get to them for me.
Want to read
October 18, 2023Amz Prch. Oct. 17, 2023
September 3, 2022
Falling somewhere between paranormal romance and vintage horror, The Crimson Corset is a tale of small towns, family ties, and vampires. Alistair Cross puts just enough of a spin on vampire mythology to distinguish his tale from the competition, and tells it with a slow-burning, subtle sort of flair that really pays off in the end.
Reading the first few chapters of this, I was reminded of my introduction to the world of Twin Peaks so long ago. Crimson Cove is a quaint, but curious, little town on the coast of California, marked by more than a few eccentric locals and one fish-out-of-water new arrival. First, we're introduced to a pair of brothers - a writer who talks to his dead mother's fern, and a mechanic with a health food obsession - along with the crazy psycho ex-girlfriend stalker of the latter. Next, we meet the town sheriff, who is secretly addicted to romance novels, and just as secretly in love with the town mortician. Not long after, we meet a pair of bickering shop owners, one an incense-loving psychic who runs a bookstore, and the other a bow-tie wearing grumpy old man who sells unicorns and crystal balls. I could go on, but you get the point - we've already got one hell of a fascinating small town story going on the 50 pages, and we haven't even touch on the vampires yet.
As for those vampires, there are two camps in town. The Eudemonia health spa, nestled deep in the woods, is home to Michael and his coven of 'good' vampires. They're a friendly, protective bunch who feed rather delicately upon the yoga-loving health nuts who frequent the spa. The Crimson Corset, across town, is home to Gretchen and her coven of 'bad-ass' vampires. They're a rough and tumble sort who are almost as addicted to violence as they are to the poison in their leader's blood. There's no shortage of eccentricity among the vampires either, especially in how they continue to fulfill the roles they once served in life, whether it be caring for abandoned tigers, putting on nightly magic shows, or playing mad scientist. There's been a long-simmering feud going on between them for centuries, but it's all about to come to a head with the arrival of Cade, the brother who talks to his death mother's fern, and who just happens to be the near-mythological 'sire' that vampires have been looking for.
It sounds like there's a lot going on, and there is, but Cross handles all the characters and plot lines with a deft touch. It's a slow moving story, content to draw the reader in and make us feel a part of the crazy little town, but when the conflict comes to a head . . . well, Cross also knows how to write a final story arc that delivers on just about every level. What's more, in Gretchen he has created one of the most innovative, original, compelling vampire villains I've come across in a long time. The sheer inventiveness of her corset alone - it's boning posthumously donated by the mother she murdered - is brilliant. She's cruel, sadistic, seductive, and oh-so-very clever. She's one of those characters you love to hate, but more importantly she's a worthy foe for the combined forces of the brothers, the sheriff, and the vampires across town.
Part mystery, part horror, and part small-town drama, The Crimson Corset is one of those rare novels that manages to succeed across the board.
Originally reviewed at Beauty in Ruins
Reading the first few chapters of this, I was reminded of my introduction to the world of Twin Peaks so long ago. Crimson Cove is a quaint, but curious, little town on the coast of California, marked by more than a few eccentric locals and one fish-out-of-water new arrival. First, we're introduced to a pair of brothers - a writer who talks to his dead mother's fern, and a mechanic with a health food obsession - along with the crazy psycho ex-girlfriend stalker of the latter. Next, we meet the town sheriff, who is secretly addicted to romance novels, and just as secretly in love with the town mortician. Not long after, we meet a pair of bickering shop owners, one an incense-loving psychic who runs a bookstore, and the other a bow-tie wearing grumpy old man who sells unicorns and crystal balls. I could go on, but you get the point - we've already got one hell of a fascinating small town story going on the 50 pages, and we haven't even touch on the vampires yet.
As for those vampires, there are two camps in town. The Eudemonia health spa, nestled deep in the woods, is home to Michael and his coven of 'good' vampires. They're a friendly, protective bunch who feed rather delicately upon the yoga-loving health nuts who frequent the spa. The Crimson Corset, across town, is home to Gretchen and her coven of 'bad-ass' vampires. They're a rough and tumble sort who are almost as addicted to violence as they are to the poison in their leader's blood. There's no shortage of eccentricity among the vampires either, especially in how they continue to fulfill the roles they once served in life, whether it be caring for abandoned tigers, putting on nightly magic shows, or playing mad scientist. There's been a long-simmering feud going on between them for centuries, but it's all about to come to a head with the arrival of Cade, the brother who talks to his death mother's fern, and who just happens to be the near-mythological 'sire' that vampires have been looking for.
It sounds like there's a lot going on, and there is, but Cross handles all the characters and plot lines with a deft touch. It's a slow moving story, content to draw the reader in and make us feel a part of the crazy little town, but when the conflict comes to a head . . . well, Cross also knows how to write a final story arc that delivers on just about every level. What's more, in Gretchen he has created one of the most innovative, original, compelling vampire villains I've come across in a long time. The sheer inventiveness of her corset alone - it's boning posthumously donated by the mother she murdered - is brilliant. She's cruel, sadistic, seductive, and oh-so-very clever. She's one of those characters you love to hate, but more importantly she's a worthy foe for the combined forces of the brothers, the sheriff, and the vampires across town.
Part mystery, part horror, and part small-town drama, The Crimson Corset is one of those rare novels that manages to succeed across the board.
Originally reviewed at Beauty in Ruins
April 7, 2023
Riveting, horrific, original. This book was an amazing read, and I'm so glad I gave this a shot!
This novel centers on Cade Colter, a young adult moving back to Crimson Cove where his brother Brooks lives. Looking to start anew he quickly finds a job, but can't ignore the strange individuals that walk the streets at night and people that go missing. It all seems to involve him somehow. What is really happening in Crimson Cove? Can Cade figure it out unscathed, or will he become another victim of the night?
Let's start with characters. Cade is a great MC to follow around. He's your typical writer guy with not a lot going for him. We got to know a bit about his backstory, and while he didn't have a ton of depth there I think we got more depth from what's happening in the present and how it changes him. Brooks was something of a douchey brother, but his character felt authentic in its own way.
There's a plethora of other characters throughout, human and nonhuman, and many of them get their own chapters, however small they are. I think that really added to the story to see it from all sides. Oh, and extra kudos for the lovable kitty Purrcy!
Plot was really great. Most chapters were relatively short, which I loved, and each scene felt important to building up the story. This was a slow burn, but it amped up with each chapter for an amazing climax that was super exciting. There are some erotic scenes in this book, but they are well placed. After all, lust is integral to a vampire's existence, so to cut that out would be insane. I don't tend to read erotic horror, but after this book I may have to rethink that! Cross approached it in a tasteful manner that didn't really bug me at all, so I think the average reader will be fine with it.
Ultimately, this was a stellar beginning to what I hope will be an unforgettable series. I can't wait to start the next book!
This novel centers on Cade Colter, a young adult moving back to Crimson Cove where his brother Brooks lives. Looking to start anew he quickly finds a job, but can't ignore the strange individuals that walk the streets at night and people that go missing. It all seems to involve him somehow. What is really happening in Crimson Cove? Can Cade figure it out unscathed, or will he become another victim of the night?
Let's start with characters. Cade is a great MC to follow around. He's your typical writer guy with not a lot going for him. We got to know a bit about his backstory, and while he didn't have a ton of depth there I think we got more depth from what's happening in the present and how it changes him. Brooks was something of a douchey brother, but his character felt authentic in its own way.
There's a plethora of other characters throughout, human and nonhuman, and many of them get their own chapters, however small they are. I think that really added to the story to see it from all sides. Oh, and extra kudos for the lovable kitty Purrcy!
Plot was really great. Most chapters were relatively short, which I loved, and each scene felt important to building up the story. This was a slow burn, but it amped up with each chapter for an amazing climax that was super exciting. There are some erotic scenes in this book, but they are well placed. After all, lust is integral to a vampire's existence, so to cut that out would be insane. I don't tend to read erotic horror, but after this book I may have to rethink that! Cross approached it in a tasteful manner that didn't really bug me at all, so I think the average reader will be fine with it.
Ultimately, this was a stellar beginning to what I hope will be an unforgettable series. I can't wait to start the next book!
February 4, 2016
Just when you think you’ve read everything you need to know about Vampires, another book comes along and shows you that there is more out there. The Crimson Corset is so much more than just another vampire book. Full of darkness and horror, this story features a war against good vs evil. Those that cherish humans and those that drain them. The Crimson Corset is full of many plot twists. Gretchen is not a meek little girl, but a kick-butt woman bent on controlling the vampires and making them her’s. She’ll go to any length to do that, including manipulation of Cade.
I found this story to be intriguing and very well done. I love a good horror story, but I don’t like too much gore. This one has the perfect balance between horror and fantasy, making me want to keep on reading. The characters are very well developed and unexpected in certain parts of the story. Just when you think you know what is going on, the plot takes a turn and you have to start guessing all over, again. Love that kind of story! It’s a must read for those that enjoy a little horror with your paranormal.
*Copy provided for review.
I found this story to be intriguing and very well done. I love a good horror story, but I don’t like too much gore. This one has the perfect balance between horror and fantasy, making me want to keep on reading. The characters are very well developed and unexpected in certain parts of the story. Just when you think you know what is going on, the plot takes a turn and you have to start guessing all over, again. Love that kind of story! It’s a must read for those that enjoy a little horror with your paranormal.
*Copy provided for review.
February 16, 2022
I love this book! The vampires are fantastic and the story is one of the best I've ever read. I'm very glad I didn't find this series by Alistair Cross until now because I'm currently waiting on the fourth book which I heard should be out in 2022.
October 16, 2021
More please!
Okay. Loved it! I’m a sucker for vampires. Pun intended. And this story had me hooked right away. Great characters and action packed! Give me more!
Okay. Loved it! I’m a sucker for vampires. Pun intended. And this story had me hooked right away. Great characters and action packed! Give me more!
October 24, 2019
Well this might just be one of my favourite supernatural series. It is a mature mixture of Vampire Diaries, Dracula and Anne Rice books and somehow it works. It is a bit dirty; it has great characters, fabulous setting and secrets of night creature that are being slowly revealed throughout the story.
Cade turns up in Crimson Cove after the death of his mother, he comes to live with his brother Brooks that has made the little town his home a few years back. Things are going great for the brothers, until strange characters start turning up around Cade – pale, cold people that makes the hairs on his neck stand. Throw in the strangely protective behaviours of local Sherriff and friend Ethan and you have a great mix to start up paranoia in anyone.
And then Brooks gets a new, secret girlfriends and that’s when all goes downhill for Cade and Ethan. Cade gets a quick lecture on the night life creatures that have been roaming the woods of Crimson Cove for centuries and a battle to save his brother commences.
It’s a great-paced novel that keeps you on the edge of your seat. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book and am already reading the second instalment. Alistair Cross has skilfully married the good and evil here and shown that not all that appears evil actually is.
Cade turns up in Crimson Cove after the death of his mother, he comes to live with his brother Brooks that has made the little town his home a few years back. Things are going great for the brothers, until strange characters start turning up around Cade – pale, cold people that makes the hairs on his neck stand. Throw in the strangely protective behaviours of local Sherriff and friend Ethan and you have a great mix to start up paranoia in anyone.
And then Brooks gets a new, secret girlfriends and that’s when all goes downhill for Cade and Ethan. Cade gets a quick lecture on the night life creatures that have been roaming the woods of Crimson Cove for centuries and a battle to save his brother commences.
It’s a great-paced novel that keeps you on the edge of your seat. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book and am already reading the second instalment. Alistair Cross has skilfully married the good and evil here and shown that not all that appears evil actually is.
March 27, 2021
As a reader of Vampire fiction for over 50 years, I am always in search of the next great tale. This book had a lot of unique aspects to it and, overall, was enjoyable. That being said, I do have a couple of comments about the book. There was more of an erotic aspect to the book than I anticipated. If I had been reading the book instead of listening, I would have skipped over several chapters. I realize that vampires are supposed to be sexual creatures, but this book focused on that a little too much for my taste.
I liked the author's take on the typical vampire tale by having a male character be the one enthralled by a female vampire instead of the usual male vampire/female subject. Also, the comparison of the vampire's hold over her "subjects" to a drug addiction was well done.
I had a hard time getting into the listening of this book. At first, the narrator seemed bored with what he was doing and I had a hard time continuing to listen. After a while, either I got used to his delivery or he improved (I think it was the latter). He was much more animated in the latter part of the book and had some pretty good voices for the different characters. I was given the chance to listen to this audiobook by the author/narrator/publisher and I chose to review it.
I liked the author's take on the typical vampire tale by having a male character be the one enthralled by a female vampire instead of the usual male vampire/female subject. Also, the comparison of the vampire's hold over her "subjects" to a drug addiction was well done.
I had a hard time getting into the listening of this book. At first, the narrator seemed bored with what he was doing and I had a hard time continuing to listen. After a while, either I got used to his delivery or he improved (I think it was the latter). He was much more animated in the latter part of the book and had some pretty good voices for the different characters. I was given the chance to listen to this audiobook by the author/narrator/publisher and I chose to review it.
August 21, 2019
Magnificently scary
Cross has done it again, and this time with the start of a new series, Crimson Cove. I am a fan of Cross's work, and enjoyed each word as it kept me on the edge of my seat. Crimson Cove is definitely a scary and terrifying place to be, and it was magnificent. It's not a typical vampiric story, and each character was extremely well written. This story was definitely unpredictable, and could easily make one jump. A grand story by a wonderful author, who definitely controls his pen, and does it wonderfully. If he writes it, I will read it.
Cross has done it again, and this time with the start of a new series, Crimson Cove. I am a fan of Cross's work, and enjoyed each word as it kept me on the edge of my seat. Crimson Cove is definitely a scary and terrifying place to be, and it was magnificent. It's not a typical vampiric story, and each character was extremely well written. This story was definitely unpredictable, and could easily make one jump. A grand story by a wonderful author, who definitely controls his pen, and does it wonderfully. If he writes it, I will read it.
October 27, 2024
expectations exceeded
I found this book on TikTok and So I decided to give it a try. From the first chapter I was intrigued. I will say it is a slow build but it is completely worth the time spent. When the action hit it was one after the other. I didn’t like how it ended because it was so accurate; I mean spot on. What happens when you make men the center of your life. I hated that Gretchen put herself in a position to be overtaken. I still have hope she’s going to come out victorious. Happy reading!
I found this book on TikTok and So I decided to give it a try. From the first chapter I was intrigued. I will say it is a slow build but it is completely worth the time spent. When the action hit it was one after the other. I didn’t like how it ended because it was so accurate; I mean spot on. What happens when you make men the center of your life. I hated that Gretchen put herself in a position to be overtaken. I still have hope she’s going to come out victorious. Happy reading!
November 5, 2023
Vampire books aren't my typical genre, but I was in the mood for something different and this story did not disappoint. There were a lot of characters, but I didn't have trouble keeping track of who was who, and none of them felt unnecessary. Would have given it 5 stars, but several times characters made totally idiotic decisions...that's a pet peeve of mine. Overall, this book was hard to put down and I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
March 17, 2017
Read this review and more at FaerieFits
The Crimson Corset is punny. Oh, how I love puns!
There's nothing better than starting a book off with a few good puns. Characters that bring some puns to the table are just so much more enjoyable than characters who are boring. Obviously.
I mean, right off the bat we get to observe a conversation between Cade,=, one of the main characters and his fern named Fernando! (Get it? Yeah, totally took me two thirds of the book to catch the pun) Cade also later named his cat Sir Purrcival. I mean, the punny in The Crimson Corset was spectacular.
And it's not just puns. Even through the worst of the goings-on (see next section), Cade and the other characters still kept a sense of humor. Dry humor. Some of which may have involved holy water water guns leaking in pants. (But no, seriously)
The Crimson Corset is filled with graphic, detailed, gory imagery
The Crimson Corset totally starts off light-hearted and fun. By the time I started to get a sense of the plot, I was definitely expecting it to be quick, fun read. But man, it gets dark ! (YAY!) There's sex (I mean, the title involves a corset; what did you expect?), violence, violent sex. Complete and utter brainwashing by way of vampiric venom. Psycho murderous blood-hungry cross-dressing children.
You know, the works.
(Yeah, maybe not the best choice of books to read aloud to my daughter.)
Plus, the descriptions were just plain ... well, good. They were powerful, and even though I'm not one to really care about knowing exactly what a character looks like, I LOVED Cross' descriptions. They conveyed so much more than just appearance. Personality came across, as did insanity, where appropriate. It really made the experiences feel almost relatable.
The Crimson Corset adds a unique flavor to a common theme
Ok, this book is totally (at least partially) about vampires who kill humans against vampires who don't kill humans. Totally cliche, right? But it felt unique and fun in a horrifying oh-dear-god-is-that-really-happening kind of way. There are enough fresh ideas to keep me from feeling bored.
And honestly, the "bad" vampires were so interesting (read: graphically horrifying and very consistently motivated) that I didn't really care that this is a common/overused theme.
The Crimson Corset is easily the best vampire-dedicated book I've read. Ever.
And that's saying something. Since, you know, I went through that phase. And, you know, I totally still read an awful lot of vampire books.This review was originally posted on FaerieFits
I honestly had no idea what to expect when I picked up The Crimson Corset. I don't actually even know how I found it, but you know, it showed up on my Kindle and who wouldn't be curious about a book with a cover of a woman wearing a bright red corset? Especially when the series is clearly about vampires? (Turns out that the corset's ribbing is made out of bones of its owner's own mother; how creepy is that?!)
So anyway, it took me about 5 pages to realize that I LOVE THIS BOOK!
Some context: I was reading this out loud to my daughter (don't judge; a 7 week old isn't going to understand what I'm reading to her, just that she's hearing me). Ease of articulating was super important!
The Crimson Corset is punny. Oh, how I love puns!
There's nothing better than starting a book off with a few good puns. Characters that bring some puns to the table are just so much more enjoyable than characters who are boring. Obviously.
I mean, right off the bat we get to observe a conversation between Cade,=, one of the main characters and his fern named Fernando! (Get it? Yeah, totally took me two thirds of the book to catch the pun) Cade also later named his cat Sir Purrcival. I mean, the punny in The Crimson Corset was spectacular.
And it's not just puns. Even through the worst of the goings-on (see next section), Cade and the other characters still kept a sense of humor. Dry humor. Some of which may have involved holy water water guns leaking in pants. (But no, seriously)
The Crimson Corset is filled with graphic, detailed, gory imagery
The Crimson Corset totally starts off light-hearted and fun. By the time I started to get a sense of the plot, I was definitely expecting it to be quick, fun read. But man, it gets dark ! (YAY!) There's sex (I mean, the title involves a corset; what did you expect?), violence, violent sex. Complete and utter brainwashing by way of vampiric venom. Psycho murderous blood-hungry cross-dressing children.
You know, the works.
(Yeah, maybe not the best choice of books to read aloud to my daughter.)
Plus, the descriptions were just plain ... well, good. They were powerful, and even though I'm not one to really care about knowing exactly what a character looks like, I LOVED Cross' descriptions. They conveyed so much more than just appearance. Personality came across, as did insanity, where appropriate. It really made the experiences feel almost relatable.
The Crimson Corset adds a unique flavor to a common theme
Ok, this book is totally (at least partially) about vampires who kill humans against vampires who don't kill humans. Totally cliche, right? But it felt unique and fun in a horrifying oh-dear-god-is-that-really-happening kind of way. There are enough fresh ideas to keep me from feeling bored.
And honestly, the "bad" vampires were so interesting (read: graphically horrifying and very consistently motivated) that I didn't really care that this is a common/overused theme.
The Crimson Corset is easily the best vampire-dedicated book I've read. Ever.
And that's saying something. Since, you know, I went through that phase. And, you know, I totally still read an awful lot of vampire books.This review was originally posted on FaerieFits
May 28, 2021
I enjoyed the story line, the narrative could have been better.
I ended up running into an issue when I had one hour remaining in my audio, which is disappointing since I have no idea how the story ends.
I ended up running into an issue when I had one hour remaining in my audio, which is disappointing since I have no idea how the story ends.
July 21, 2021
One of the best. . .
Hands down the best vampire novel I've read in a long time. Since the early days of the Anita Blake series. I devoured this book ! A must read of vampire lovers!
Hands down the best vampire novel I've read in a long time. Since the early days of the Anita Blake series. I devoured this book ! A must read of vampire lovers!
August 31, 2019
Very good series beginning.
January 5, 2021
I was not feeling it.
April 23, 2021
Another brilliant read by the highly talented Mr Cross. One of the best vampire novels I've come across. Can't wait to start part 2
Read
April 25, 2022DNF at 37% couldn’t get into it.
December 24, 2024
Didn't finish. It wasn't for me.
October 15, 2025
Excellent book! Nothing else to say. Just creepy and disgusting enough but also filled with goodness. Such a perfect read. And the cover art… fabulous
September 26, 2015
Bloody AMAZING!
Do yourself a HUGE favour - if you only read ONE horror/vampire themed book this year then be sure to make it The Crimson Corset by Alistair Cross. Horror lovers will adore its unashamed gore and graveyard humour and it has plenty of romance to satisfy paranormal romance fans who fancy a darker, Gothic inspired read!I first read Mr Cross when I reviewed. Darker Shadows: The Ghosts of Ravencrest book 1, his collaborative work with Tamara Thorne, a Gothic erotic which left me salivating for more. In The Crimson Corset Alistair has excelled himself with a tale that not only has a lot of bite but also plays with the readers' emotions, in one scary, bloody and lust filled ride!
The novel is full of memorable, quirky characters who populate the West Coast tourist town of Crimson Cove. Yet unknown to most, evil exists among them and one powerful vampire temptress, Gretchen VanTresse, has her sights on Cade, who has something she craves very badly indeed...... She will stop at nothing to get her hands on him, regardless of collateral damage, her sights set on ruling her kind and subjugating the human race. Gretchen is a formidable adversary: beautiful, deadly and remorseless in her quest for power. Yet, despite her undeniable evil which borders on madness, I could not help but have a sneaking respect and fascination for her as she is such a great kick-ass character!
Yet Gretchen does not bank on the bonds of brotherly love and friendship which exist between Cade, his big brother Brooks and Ethan the town’s sheriff. These three seriously hot men have each other’s back and when the chips are down they risk life and limb and their own humanity to annihilate her and her cohorts. Add a hefty dose of romance, some intriguing vamps from the other side of town (they are not all evil) to the bloody mix of terror and seduction and you have a read that will remain in your conscious and unconscious mind long into the darkness of the night and beyond....... To reveal more of the plot would spoil the adventure that I urge you embark on by reading this book!
Once more Alistair Cross' writing and characterisations are truly sublime. The lush, often gothic like descriptions of Crimson Cove after dark contrast well with the seemingly mundane details of everyday life in the small town. The read had me quaking in my boots one minute to smiling at the wry humour and quirky exploits of its characters.
I sincerely hope that Mr Cross has the next book in this series lined up soon as I am itching to learn more about the many characters, humans and vampires, that he introduced. Highly recommended to fans of horror and the paranormal alike.
Please note, a copy of this novel was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
Do yourself a HUGE favour - if you only read ONE horror/vampire themed book this year then be sure to make it The Crimson Corset by Alistair Cross. Horror lovers will adore its unashamed gore and graveyard humour and it has plenty of romance to satisfy paranormal romance fans who fancy a darker, Gothic inspired read!I first read Mr Cross when I reviewed. Darker Shadows: The Ghosts of Ravencrest book 1, his collaborative work with Tamara Thorne, a Gothic erotic which left me salivating for more. In The Crimson Corset Alistair has excelled himself with a tale that not only has a lot of bite but also plays with the readers' emotions, in one scary, bloody and lust filled ride!
The novel is full of memorable, quirky characters who populate the West Coast tourist town of Crimson Cove. Yet unknown to most, evil exists among them and one powerful vampire temptress, Gretchen VanTresse, has her sights on Cade, who has something she craves very badly indeed...... She will stop at nothing to get her hands on him, regardless of collateral damage, her sights set on ruling her kind and subjugating the human race. Gretchen is a formidable adversary: beautiful, deadly and remorseless in her quest for power. Yet, despite her undeniable evil which borders on madness, I could not help but have a sneaking respect and fascination for her as she is such a great kick-ass character!
Yet Gretchen does not bank on the bonds of brotherly love and friendship which exist between Cade, his big brother Brooks and Ethan the town’s sheriff. These three seriously hot men have each other’s back and when the chips are down they risk life and limb and their own humanity to annihilate her and her cohorts. Add a hefty dose of romance, some intriguing vamps from the other side of town (they are not all evil) to the bloody mix of terror and seduction and you have a read that will remain in your conscious and unconscious mind long into the darkness of the night and beyond....... To reveal more of the plot would spoil the adventure that I urge you embark on by reading this book!
Once more Alistair Cross' writing and characterisations are truly sublime. The lush, often gothic like descriptions of Crimson Cove after dark contrast well with the seemingly mundane details of everyday life in the small town. The read had me quaking in my boots one minute to smiling at the wry humour and quirky exploits of its characters.
I sincerely hope that Mr Cross has the next book in this series lined up soon as I am itching to learn more about the many characters, humans and vampires, that he introduced. Highly recommended to fans of horror and the paranormal alike.
Please note, a copy of this novel was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
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