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Dead Camp #1
Dead Camp One
Eli is an ancient vampire with an ego the size of a planet and a sex drive to match, but his tumultuous past left him broken, so he hides from humanity and cowers from love, left to endure the crushing guilt that haunts his every waking moment. Even his best friend, Malachi, a ghost who is hopelessly in love with Eli, remains unaware of all that transpired in London. Malachi can never know the truth.
When the Angel Daniyyel pays an unwelcome visit, Eli must face his secrets, secrets that he has tried so long to hide. To make matters worse, a chance encounter with the most beautiful man he has ever seen shatters his beloved isolation, pushing him into the world of the living once more. Something about this strange man seems so familiar, but Eli can’t even remember who he was before he became a vampire, never mind explain the unwanted emotions the enigmatic stranger ignites in his dead heart. So Eli has a choice – return to the world that ruined him, or continue his self-imposed exile with no hope of salvation.
When the Angel Daniyyel pays an unwelcome visit, Eli must face his secrets, secrets that he has tried so long to hide. To make matters worse, a chance encounter with the most beautiful man he has ever seen shatters his beloved isolation, pushing him into the world of the living once more. Something about this strange man seems so familiar, but Eli can’t even remember who he was before he became a vampire, never mind explain the unwanted emotions the enigmatic stranger ignites in his dead heart. So Eli has a choice – return to the world that ruined him, or continue his self-imposed exile with no hope of salvation.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 22, 2015
14 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
About the author
Sean Kerr
30 books189 followersI think that as I approach that milestone that is fifty, I must be one of the oldest gamers on the face of this earth. Many a day you will find me lashed to my PS4 enjoying a good session of Skyrim. Who doesn’t love a good session of Skyrim?
I love writing—I have done it since I was a child when I would happily write about the latest episode of Doctor Who (Tom Baker in those days) in my schoolbooks. Growing up and becoming a business owner with my friend Jayne left little time to pursue my dream of publication, but of late the desire and the compulsion to put words onto paper have once again dominated my life so that now, my laptop has become surgically fused to my fingertips.
There is something desperately satisfying about telling a story. My fascination with History, Religion and Conspiracy theories have, in this instance, gone hand-in-hand with my love of all things vampire, fantasy, sci-fi and horror. I drove my parents nuts when I was young because that was all I would read about in books, all I would watch on television, but they have held me in good stead, and long may my obsession with the subjects continue, at least, that is, until the day they put me in my own wooden box. And imagination is such a wonderful thing. I once had a rather vivid dream about David Tennant and the Tardis console, but I could not possibly go into details about that here. Let’s just say that my polarity was well and truly reversed.
Dead Camp is just the beginning. I have to check my knickers every day at the thought that this book is now in the public domain. My first book, and I hope the first of many. And to those out there who love to write, who love to transport us to new worlds, or old worlds with a twisted perspective, I say to you keep going. I never thought I would ever see my work available to download, and thanks to eXtasy Books, the dream that I always thought unobtainable has finally come true. So thank you all at eXtasy, I am one happy homosexual thanks to you, and thank you the reader for taking the time to read this strange tale and allowing Eli and the incomparable Malachi into your lives.
And now I really need Skyrim.
I love writing—I have done it since I was a child when I would happily write about the latest episode of Doctor Who (Tom Baker in those days) in my schoolbooks. Growing up and becoming a business owner with my friend Jayne left little time to pursue my dream of publication, but of late the desire and the compulsion to put words onto paper have once again dominated my life so that now, my laptop has become surgically fused to my fingertips.
There is something desperately satisfying about telling a story. My fascination with History, Religion and Conspiracy theories have, in this instance, gone hand-in-hand with my love of all things vampire, fantasy, sci-fi and horror. I drove my parents nuts when I was young because that was all I would read about in books, all I would watch on television, but they have held me in good stead, and long may my obsession with the subjects continue, at least, that is, until the day they put me in my own wooden box. And imagination is such a wonderful thing. I once had a rather vivid dream about David Tennant and the Tardis console, but I could not possibly go into details about that here. Let’s just say that my polarity was well and truly reversed.
Dead Camp is just the beginning. I have to check my knickers every day at the thought that this book is now in the public domain. My first book, and I hope the first of many. And to those out there who love to write, who love to transport us to new worlds, or old worlds with a twisted perspective, I say to you keep going. I never thought I would ever see my work available to download, and thanks to eXtasy Books, the dream that I always thought unobtainable has finally come true. So thank you all at eXtasy, I am one happy homosexual thanks to you, and thank you the reader for taking the time to read this strange tale and allowing Eli and the incomparable Malachi into your lives.
And now I really need Skyrim.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
January 26, 2016
I don't usually read in the paranormal/romance genre, but this is a fabulous first novel by Mr. Sean Kerr. Dead Camp is dark, chilling, exciting and erotic. All at the same time. The book introduces Eli the vampire, a damaged supernatural being with a dark shrouded past, The narrative is fast paced, flying through the German holocaust period with surprising plot twists and turns. I could not put this book down. I am dying to read what comes next from the sick, twisted, yet brilliant mind of Mr. Sean Kerr. This is an author we will all be hearing about for years to come.
December 24, 2017
Oh lol, I think Mr Kerr would get on famously with my husband when it comes to conspiracy theories and mixing up darkened trouble!
Okay, hands up here: Dead Camp had such a tough job because I don't usually read historicals, and this does mix time time periods as well locations (Germany v London, WWII with 1886 etc). It also has a mix of angels and demons (vampires, ghosts, and angels).
Sense said I should have hated this from the get go!
So much for sense, huh?
Kerr's got such a way of injecting humour and sarcasm into his characters that, despite all the locations, the crossover of angels and demons, it still reminds me so much of Wales! Added to how there's a lot of historical fact given a fictional twist, the complexity of character, plot, and location is fantastic.
Eli's one sarcastic vampire, with a way with words that leave you chuckling, okay it drives his *coughs* very egotistical side, but there's that haunting quality of using humour to hide hurt that's done just so well. Mal... where do you start with him? He's Eli's long-time live-in ghost and just so damn funny! These two bounce off each other so well!
I doubt I'd have picked up this book without understanding there was a very dark side to it, and it didn't disappoint.
I think my one crit would be with filtering, but it's minor enough to have not interrupted with the love of the read.
Fantastic and very imaginative read overall, and such a good step away from what I usually read!
Definitely recommended.
Eli didn't disappoint, not one bit!
Okay, hands up here: Dead Camp had such a tough job because I don't usually read historicals, and this does mix time time periods as well locations (Germany v London, WWII with 1886 etc). It also has a mix of angels and demons (vampires, ghosts, and angels).
Sense said I should have hated this from the get go!
So much for sense, huh?
Kerr's got such a way of injecting humour and sarcasm into his characters that, despite all the locations, the crossover of angels and demons, it still reminds me so much of Wales! Added to how there's a lot of historical fact given a fictional twist, the complexity of character, plot, and location is fantastic.
Eli's one sarcastic vampire, with a way with words that leave you chuckling, okay it drives his *coughs* very egotistical side, but there's that haunting quality of using humour to hide hurt that's done just so well. Mal... where do you start with him? He's Eli's long-time live-in ghost and just so damn funny! These two bounce off each other so well!
I doubt I'd have picked up this book without understanding there was a very dark side to it, and it didn't disappoint.
I think my one crit would be with filtering, but it's minor enough to have not interrupted with the love of the read.
Fantastic and very imaginative read overall, and such a good step away from what I usually read!
Definitely recommended.
Eli didn't disappoint, not one bit!
January 5, 2016
I have to say that this book has some really good points and the rest are great! You will laugh, cry, aww and cringe lol. It's a roller coaster ride with some history thrown in but not overly so. The MC is very likeable yet very hateable as well in his selfishness. Yet, I couldn't stop reading to see where it will go next. It's a definite read as far as I'm concerned!
Things to keep in mind while reading this book:
It's based in Germany during the Nazi occupation.
It has Vamipres, ghosts, angles and demons Oh My :)
It's written by a brit, so camp has a few different cheeky meanings as well as the obvious.
It's going to be a character series, so we get more of the great characters soon I hope!
Things to keep in mind while reading this book:
It's based in Germany during the Nazi occupation.
It has Vamipres, ghosts, angles and demons Oh My :)
It's written by a brit, so camp has a few different cheeky meanings as well as the obvious.
It's going to be a character series, so we get more of the great characters soon I hope!
January 30, 2016
Sean Kerr paints a story with his pen like the old masters did with their brush, every brush stroke sublimely highlighting nuances in the sub plot, there are areas of light and shade as good fights against evil, and colour superbly used as he paints a detailed picture with words creating a beautifully detailed universe. It is most refreshing to come across an author who can truly write, unlike many current authors populating this genre. Buy this book, absorb the imagery, engage in the adventures of Eli an: board the roller coaster ride that is Dead Camp, you won't be disappointed.
January 6, 2016
This book is fantastic not your typical vampire book I could not put it down can not wait for the next instalment.
July 25, 2016
**Originally Posted on Kiki's Kinky Picks**
Reviewed by Brandy
Dead Camp by Sean Kerr is a phenomenal first book in the Dead Camp series. I went into this story really unaware of what I would discover, but once I read that very first page, I was hooked. You could not tear me away from this book. I HAD to find out what was going to happen to our Eli.
To say this book teases you with questions is an understatement. There are so many questions throughout the book and only a few are answered. Even with so many secrets in this book, it’s written so beautifully that you get caught up in the stories shared by the different characters. Sean Kerr is an evil genius.
Eli is an ancient vampire who can’t remember how he was made, or who he once was. He has exiled himself to his secluded house Alte. His only friend is Malachi, a ghost who also doesn’t remember who he was before he died and who is achingly in love with Eli. Eli, however, has decided to harden his heart to love because the man he loved more than any other broke his and left him to be alone. SO sad. My heart broke for Eli.
Then suddenly, after a visit from the angel Daniyyel, also a big yelling match, Eli runs away and into a horrific scene of death. He discovers among the dead bodies one lone man still alive, and guess what happens? MORE QUESTIONS! He saves said man and brings him to his home and then we learn of Ethan’s life and that of his father Isaiah. SO even though a ton more questions are starting to float around your head, a few from before are answered.
This book is a marathon. You get pulled through so much in this book. It really leaves you drained but in the best way possible. How could I not give this one a 5 star rating? As soon as I finished it, with the unanswered questions still lingering in my mind, I simply HAD to get the second one! Highly recommend this book to anyone! Sean Kerr is a fantastic story teller who I hope continues to delight and awe!
Reviewed by Brandy
Dead Camp by Sean Kerr is a phenomenal first book in the Dead Camp series. I went into this story really unaware of what I would discover, but once I read that very first page, I was hooked. You could not tear me away from this book. I HAD to find out what was going to happen to our Eli.
To say this book teases you with questions is an understatement. There are so many questions throughout the book and only a few are answered. Even with so many secrets in this book, it’s written so beautifully that you get caught up in the stories shared by the different characters. Sean Kerr is an evil genius.
Eli is an ancient vampire who can’t remember how he was made, or who he once was. He has exiled himself to his secluded house Alte. His only friend is Malachi, a ghost who also doesn’t remember who he was before he died and who is achingly in love with Eli. Eli, however, has decided to harden his heart to love because the man he loved more than any other broke his and left him to be alone. SO sad. My heart broke for Eli.
Then suddenly, after a visit from the angel Daniyyel, also a big yelling match, Eli runs away and into a horrific scene of death. He discovers among the dead bodies one lone man still alive, and guess what happens? MORE QUESTIONS! He saves said man and brings him to his home and then we learn of Ethan’s life and that of his father Isaiah. SO even though a ton more questions are starting to float around your head, a few from before are answered.
This book is a marathon. You get pulled through so much in this book. It really leaves you drained but in the best way possible. How could I not give this one a 5 star rating? As soon as I finished it, with the unanswered questions still lingering in my mind, I simply HAD to get the second one! Highly recommend this book to anyone! Sean Kerr is a fantastic story teller who I hope continues to delight and awe!
February 18, 2018
3.5 out of 5
Pros:
* I enjoyed the reimagining of the holocaust and how the author took real life events and gave them supernatural elements.
* when the plot line actually progressed, it was thrilling.
* there are several character reveals that seemed like they are supposed to make the audience gasp, and while some of the reveals I saw coming, there was one that I didn’t and I gasped so props to the author.
* there were a few comedic moments that got me good
Cons:
*i have literally no sense of who the main characters are. A majority of this book is spent on the backstory of secondary characters. Like at some points, I was confused who the main characters were.
* in the blurb, the MC is supposed to have a giant ego but like every other paragraphs he mentions how good looking he is but it’s like ok I get it. It would’ve been nice to get some character development and I thought it was going to happen near the end but then boom another backstory of a secondary character.
* transitions. The transitions in this book gave me whiplash. Segues in this were like not a thing and I found myself having to continually flip back a few pages to see how I ended up here.
* Diversity. Diversity can be such beautiful thing. This book have several paragraphs with asians... but diversity wasn't really there. If this isn't a problem for then disregard. It's a major make-or-break a story for me
I’m going to give the 2nd book in this series a chance. I feel like this book could be amazing if there was good character development. I’m rooting for it so we’ll see.
Pros:
* I enjoyed the reimagining of the holocaust and how the author took real life events and gave them supernatural elements.
* when the plot line actually progressed, it was thrilling.
* there are several character reveals that seemed like they are supposed to make the audience gasp, and while some of the reveals I saw coming, there was one that I didn’t and I gasped so props to the author.
* there were a few comedic moments that got me good
Cons:
*i have literally no sense of who the main characters are. A majority of this book is spent on the backstory of secondary characters. Like at some points, I was confused who the main characters were.
* in the blurb, the MC is supposed to have a giant ego but like every other paragraphs he mentions how good looking he is but it’s like ok I get it. It would’ve been nice to get some character development and I thought it was going to happen near the end but then boom another backstory of a secondary character.
* transitions. The transitions in this book gave me whiplash. Segues in this were like not a thing and I found myself having to continually flip back a few pages to see how I ended up here.
* Diversity. Diversity can be such beautiful thing. This book have several paragraphs with asians... but diversity wasn't really there. If this isn't a problem for then disregard. It's a major make-or-break a story for me
I’m going to give the 2nd book in this series a chance. I feel like this book could be amazing if there was good character development. I’m rooting for it so we’ll see.
January 1, 2018
uhhhh...yeah..
it's bad lmao
..am I missing something? the rating is so high? Did I somehow end up reading a completely different thing than other people?
Like for me, the first chap: made 0 sense
the second chap: a lot of wangst, plus it still lowkey made no sense, and also Nazis. Granted, Nazis are perhaps a bit more of a sore topic now that they're actually in reality popping up everywhere than a couple years back but like... well I was still taken aback by how blase this was about consorting with Nazis in whatever form.
Also like, the blurb is like "Mal can never know what happened in London," but it kind of seems like they wasted no time delving right into it? It either gets a bit fuzzy who is saying what when, or I started tuning out lol
(after a brief moment of thought I'm putting this behind a spoiler but it's really patently ridiculous and like........Does The Author Know. Because like.....what)
Anyway this story does kind of seem like it might have potential but it also feels like five concepts in a trenchcoat
it's bad lmao
..am I missing something? the rating is so high? Did I somehow end up reading a completely different thing than other people?
Like for me, the first chap: made 0 sense
the second chap: a lot of wangst, plus it still lowkey made no sense, and also Nazis. Granted, Nazis are perhaps a bit more of a sore topic now that they're actually in reality popping up everywhere than a couple years back but like... well I was still taken aback by how blase this was about consorting with Nazis in whatever form.
Also like, the blurb is like "Mal can never know what happened in London," but it kind of seems like they wasted no time delving right into it? It either gets a bit fuzzy who is saying what when, or I started tuning out lol
(after a brief moment of thought I'm putting this behind a spoiler but it's really patently ridiculous and like........Does The Author Know. Because like.....what)
Anyway this story does kind of seem like it might have potential but it also feels like five concepts in a trenchcoat
February 5, 2018
this is 1 of those books you start and can't put down. I loved the characters and their interaction and OMG the sexy parts are HOT!!
I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book. This is book 1 of the Dead Camp series by the author.
I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book. This is book 1 of the Dead Camp series by the author.
October 9, 2016
Book – Dead Camp #1
Author – Sean Kerr
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages – 238
Cover – Nice!
POV – 1st person (with multi-POV)
Would I read it again – Yes
Genre – LGBT, Paranormal, Historical, Religion, Nazi, Angel-Demon
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK, BY eXSTASY BOOKS, IN RETURN FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
WARNINGS: a little bit of gore, on page; implied rape; heartbreak; cheating; historical events that may be upsetting for some readers: Holocaust.
I am stunned. This is the author's DEBUT work and it was enchanting. From the entertainment factor of Mal and Eli bickering like an old married couple, the intensity of the mystery surrounding Eli's past as well as Ethan's father, and the incredible historical detail, there wasn't anything I didn't love about this book.
Oh, and editing? Normally, if a book has less than five notes from me about editing issues, I don't mention them unless they hugely impact my reading. This book had ONE. One tiny little slip of a comma (which are the bane of my existence, so I get it!) and that was it. I never saw anything that could count as a spelling, grammar, editing or plot mistake, slip up or accident. In a debut novel.
When it comes to POV, 1st person has never been a friend of mine. There are few books that actually write it the way that I can read it – which is falling into the story and never having a million unanswered questions about who “I” as the character am supposed to be. Because, the trap with 1st is that it's written where you're supposed to know who you are already, so there's no real introduction.
There was no need for an introduction here. Eli is perfectly clear and brilliant as a main character. Sarcastic, but deeply troubled, he's the quintessential tortured soul, with a difference. He feels sorry for himself, but only rarely; he tries not to let his failings, past or fears distract him and tries not to let anyone else see them, either. His ego is incredible; he's the kind of man who loves himself deeply and isn't ashamed of his vanity. But, at the same time, he uses it as a shield to prevent anyone from seeing the dark side of him. He's far from your typical hero. But, then, maybe he's not a hero? Maybe he's just a regular guy (vampire) who has a job to do?
Similarly, I love Malachi. He's a ghost, but he's hilarious, camp and all the other things Eli claims he is. Utilizing some seriously eloquent snark and unabashed campness, the pair together are a riot, but Malachi himself is just so adorable. I spent half the book shipping Maleli and the other half shipping Elian. Now I can't decide what I want or if I really want Gideli back. (Not that I ever saw the together, to begin with, but you know what I mean.)
The way the POV was used – primarily in Eli's 1st person, but also with extracts of Ethan, Daniyyel's POV and diary entries for Isaiah, Ethan's day – meant that we got to find out all the important things, as and when we needed to know them. Eli wasn't there for the big events, but through the eyes of other people's memories and accounts – told in 1st person, which is much less draining and less complicated than having a long explanation from them during a conversation – we get to experience them with all our senses, to make sure we don't miss the important details.
Ethan is an enigma. I know there's a big secret in his past – as there is for all the main characters, Malachi and Eli alike – but I can't wait to see how it will be discovered. Knowing that all three have huge secrets, but that Ethan is the only one opening up about his past so far, would normally have me desperate for information. But, I'm enjoying the journey and the way that the secrets are revealed too much to demand that they're spilled in a quick, unsatisfactory manner. I want to juice, the detail, the gore and the excitement. So I'll patiently wait.
For me, the genius of this book is in it's detail. From characterisation – slowly explored, with hints and suggestions or more, as well as all the characters being nicely transparent or confusing as hell – to the detail of the locations, the historical facts, the emotions and the way that the characters all interact with each other. Not only is there a lot in this book, but it all comes together seamlessly, because of the detail binding it all together in a believable way. Characters like Eddie, Vicky and Adi were an interesting twist, allowing us readers to ponder and wonder, only for the big secret to be revealed when it was all beginning to come together.
The story covers a lot of historical incidents – Queen Victoria, her grandson Prince Albert Victor, Jack the Ripper, Nazis, Jeiwsh Concentration Camps, Adolf Hitler – but it never once feels disjointed, ridiculous or fanciful. The way the events are linked, how and the way they're interlinked is the interesting part. And the bit that is so clever.
And let's not forget the most important player of all – The Devil, AKA Melek.
~
For me, there was so much depth to this story that I can't believe it was contained within less than 250 pages.
It tackles some seriously hardcore issues – there is nothing light and fluffy about it. With a strong theme of the Nazis and Hitler's prejudice against the Jewish people, told through Ethan's story, and historical events that Eli has personal experience of – Jack the Ripper and Queen Victoria's reign – intense, upsetting historical crimes are explored in a way that is readable, but has the emotional impact of reverence towards the subject. Adding in Eli and Mal's naturally humour natures, these events offer a darker side to their lives and shows the horrors they've endured or are yet to endure.
Beneath the intensity, is a beautifully explored journey of self-discovery, themes of resilience and love in the face of adversity and the overwhelming need to see these characters rise from the ashes that other people have made of their lives. Somewhere along the way, I know hearts are going to be broken, but then again, this isn't the type of book (series) where everyone will get their happily ever after. It's more realistic than that.
When I read this part of the author's biography, I just knew that it was perfect. Basically, this one sentence can describe me to a tee. “My fascination with History, Religion and Conspiracy theories have, in this instance, gone hand-in-hand with my love of all things vampire, fantasy, sci-fi and horror.” Me too, Sean. Your books and I are going to be spending a lot of time together in the future.
All I can say is bravo. Bravo, Sean. You're onto a winner and I can't wait to see what else you write. Whatever it is, I'll be waiting with impatient grabby hands to get my copy.
~
Favourite Quote
“I was Atlas, carrying the agonies of the world.”
“I had an angel in my dining room and a German soldier in my dungeon, and to top things off, I lived with a ghost.”
“I went back to that forest to find some books, but he would have me leave a freedom fighter.”
Author – Sean Kerr
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages – 238
Cover – Nice!
POV – 1st person (with multi-POV)
Would I read it again – Yes
Genre – LGBT, Paranormal, Historical, Religion, Nazi, Angel-Demon
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK, BY eXSTASY BOOKS, IN RETURN FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
WARNINGS: a little bit of gore, on page; implied rape; heartbreak; cheating; historical events that may be upsetting for some readers: Holocaust.
I am stunned. This is the author's DEBUT work and it was enchanting. From the entertainment factor of Mal and Eli bickering like an old married couple, the intensity of the mystery surrounding Eli's past as well as Ethan's father, and the incredible historical detail, there wasn't anything I didn't love about this book.
Oh, and editing? Normally, if a book has less than five notes from me about editing issues, I don't mention them unless they hugely impact my reading. This book had ONE. One tiny little slip of a comma (which are the bane of my existence, so I get it!) and that was it. I never saw anything that could count as a spelling, grammar, editing or plot mistake, slip up or accident. In a debut novel.
When it comes to POV, 1st person has never been a friend of mine. There are few books that actually write it the way that I can read it – which is falling into the story and never having a million unanswered questions about who “I” as the character am supposed to be. Because, the trap with 1st is that it's written where you're supposed to know who you are already, so there's no real introduction.
There was no need for an introduction here. Eli is perfectly clear and brilliant as a main character. Sarcastic, but deeply troubled, he's the quintessential tortured soul, with a difference. He feels sorry for himself, but only rarely; he tries not to let his failings, past or fears distract him and tries not to let anyone else see them, either. His ego is incredible; he's the kind of man who loves himself deeply and isn't ashamed of his vanity. But, at the same time, he uses it as a shield to prevent anyone from seeing the dark side of him. He's far from your typical hero. But, then, maybe he's not a hero? Maybe he's just a regular guy (vampire) who has a job to do?
Similarly, I love Malachi. He's a ghost, but he's hilarious, camp and all the other things Eli claims he is. Utilizing some seriously eloquent snark and unabashed campness, the pair together are a riot, but Malachi himself is just so adorable. I spent half the book shipping Maleli and the other half shipping Elian. Now I can't decide what I want or if I really want Gideli back. (Not that I ever saw the together, to begin with, but you know what I mean.)
The way the POV was used – primarily in Eli's 1st person, but also with extracts of Ethan, Daniyyel's POV and diary entries for Isaiah, Ethan's day – meant that we got to find out all the important things, as and when we needed to know them. Eli wasn't there for the big events, but through the eyes of other people's memories and accounts – told in 1st person, which is much less draining and less complicated than having a long explanation from them during a conversation – we get to experience them with all our senses, to make sure we don't miss the important details.
Ethan is an enigma. I know there's a big secret in his past – as there is for all the main characters, Malachi and Eli alike – but I can't wait to see how it will be discovered. Knowing that all three have huge secrets, but that Ethan is the only one opening up about his past so far, would normally have me desperate for information. But, I'm enjoying the journey and the way that the secrets are revealed too much to demand that they're spilled in a quick, unsatisfactory manner. I want to juice, the detail, the gore and the excitement. So I'll patiently wait.
For me, the genius of this book is in it's detail. From characterisation – slowly explored, with hints and suggestions or more, as well as all the characters being nicely transparent or confusing as hell – to the detail of the locations, the historical facts, the emotions and the way that the characters all interact with each other. Not only is there a lot in this book, but it all comes together seamlessly, because of the detail binding it all together in a believable way. Characters like Eddie, Vicky and Adi were an interesting twist, allowing us readers to ponder and wonder, only for the big secret to be revealed when it was all beginning to come together.
The story covers a lot of historical incidents – Queen Victoria, her grandson Prince Albert Victor, Jack the Ripper, Nazis, Jeiwsh Concentration Camps, Adolf Hitler – but it never once feels disjointed, ridiculous or fanciful. The way the events are linked, how and the way they're interlinked is the interesting part. And the bit that is so clever.
And let's not forget the most important player of all – The Devil, AKA Melek.
~
For me, there was so much depth to this story that I can't believe it was contained within less than 250 pages.
It tackles some seriously hardcore issues – there is nothing light and fluffy about it. With a strong theme of the Nazis and Hitler's prejudice against the Jewish people, told through Ethan's story, and historical events that Eli has personal experience of – Jack the Ripper and Queen Victoria's reign – intense, upsetting historical crimes are explored in a way that is readable, but has the emotional impact of reverence towards the subject. Adding in Eli and Mal's naturally humour natures, these events offer a darker side to their lives and shows the horrors they've endured or are yet to endure.
Beneath the intensity, is a beautifully explored journey of self-discovery, themes of resilience and love in the face of adversity and the overwhelming need to see these characters rise from the ashes that other people have made of their lives. Somewhere along the way, I know hearts are going to be broken, but then again, this isn't the type of book (series) where everyone will get their happily ever after. It's more realistic than that.
When I read this part of the author's biography, I just knew that it was perfect. Basically, this one sentence can describe me to a tee. “My fascination with History, Religion and Conspiracy theories have, in this instance, gone hand-in-hand with my love of all things vampire, fantasy, sci-fi and horror.” Me too, Sean. Your books and I are going to be spending a lot of time together in the future.
All I can say is bravo. Bravo, Sean. You're onto a winner and I can't wait to see what else you write. Whatever it is, I'll be waiting with impatient grabby hands to get my copy.
~
Favourite Quote
“I was Atlas, carrying the agonies of the world.”
“I had an angel in my dining room and a German soldier in my dungeon, and to top things off, I lived with a ghost.”
“I went back to that forest to find some books, but he would have me leave a freedom fighter.”
March 30, 2017
Let me start by saying this author has a brilliant mind. His imagination took me on such a journey and had me captivated for the entire book. I can’t even begin to imagine the research he had to do for this first installment. The way this author engaged all my emotions is mind blowing. I could be laughing one minute and crying the next and then scared the very next.
This story is set in the WW2 era within Germany during Hitler and the Holocaust. There are many creatures in this story anywhere from good to evil. We have Eli the vampire that’s locked himself off from the real world in his castle. He lives with the funny and campy ghost, Malachi. These reminded me of an old married couple with their bickering but in a good funny way. Then the angel, Daniyyel shows up and changes things up.
Then there’s the gorgeous soldier, Ethan that Eli rescues and brings him back to the castle. It’s there that we learn of Isaiah’s books, Ethan’s father. I learned of Isaiah’s demise with demons and the loss of Eva, his wife. Eli feels a deep lust and connection with Ethan, and this drives Malachi crazy. Malachi has been in love with Eli for a very long time.
Eli is damaged and broken hearted. He uses sarcasm to keep from feeling real feelings and has an ego that gets him in trouble. Gideon was his true love and is the reason for his broken heart. Eli is lovable also with a high sex drive, but not many see this side of him.
There are so many characters, I can’t even tell you about them all. What I can tell you is that these characters are interconnected, and the flow this author has throughout this book is amazing. There are twist and turns, good vs. evil and jaw-dropping scenery.
This author has won me over as a fan for life. I found this story riveting, mouth-watering, terrifying and had my full attention from beginning to end.
I would recommend this to book to the not so weary. This book contains historical events, horror, gore, passion, rollercoaster of emotions and, of course, hot MM sex scenes and some MF sex scenes.
This story is set in the WW2 era within Germany during Hitler and the Holocaust. There are many creatures in this story anywhere from good to evil. We have Eli the vampire that’s locked himself off from the real world in his castle. He lives with the funny and campy ghost, Malachi. These reminded me of an old married couple with their bickering but in a good funny way. Then the angel, Daniyyel shows up and changes things up.
Then there’s the gorgeous soldier, Ethan that Eli rescues and brings him back to the castle. It’s there that we learn of Isaiah’s books, Ethan’s father. I learned of Isaiah’s demise with demons and the loss of Eva, his wife. Eli feels a deep lust and connection with Ethan, and this drives Malachi crazy. Malachi has been in love with Eli for a very long time.
Eli is damaged and broken hearted. He uses sarcasm to keep from feeling real feelings and has an ego that gets him in trouble. Gideon was his true love and is the reason for his broken heart. Eli is lovable also with a high sex drive, but not many see this side of him.
There are so many characters, I can’t even tell you about them all. What I can tell you is that these characters are interconnected, and the flow this author has throughout this book is amazing. There are twist and turns, good vs. evil and jaw-dropping scenery.
This author has won me over as a fan for life. I found this story riveting, mouth-watering, terrifying and had my full attention from beginning to end.
I would recommend this to book to the not so weary. This book contains historical events, horror, gore, passion, rollercoaster of emotions and, of course, hot MM sex scenes and some MF sex scenes.
July 1, 2016
Very rarely does a book come along that floors me, a book that takes me to a place that the author creates, and I stay there until the last letter of the last sentence. Luckily, Dead Camp is one of those books!
You will fall in love with these guys and their story just like I did! First we meet Eli, Eli is a very old Vampire who has very deep dark secrets. These secrets about his past eat at him night and day, and they cause him to remain in the shadows, not even his best friend, Malachi, a ghost, knows the whole story. Eli prefers to live with his guilt and punish himself for his past.
Eli's life changes when two things happen, first Daniyyel, an Angel visits and forces Eli to face his past, no spoilers here guys so you will have to wait to find out what happens :P! Also Eli meets Ethan, whom he swears he knows from somewhere, and whom he is so deeply drawn to he may even confront his past to be near him.
There is so much I can't tell you, so much more to this book! I will tell you that the plot in this book is amazing, there is no shortage of sexy interludes, and you will be on your toes and riveted from cover to cover! I know I can't wait to dive into book 2! Thank you Sean, for a book that is so expertly written it takes us to another place, a place I can't wait to revisit!
You will fall in love with these guys and their story just like I did! First we meet Eli, Eli is a very old Vampire who has very deep dark secrets. These secrets about his past eat at him night and day, and they cause him to remain in the shadows, not even his best friend, Malachi, a ghost, knows the whole story. Eli prefers to live with his guilt and punish himself for his past.
Eli's life changes when two things happen, first Daniyyel, an Angel visits and forces Eli to face his past, no spoilers here guys so you will have to wait to find out what happens :P! Also Eli meets Ethan, whom he swears he knows from somewhere, and whom he is so deeply drawn to he may even confront his past to be near him.
There is so much I can't tell you, so much more to this book! I will tell you that the plot in this book is amazing, there is no shortage of sexy interludes, and you will be on your toes and riveted from cover to cover! I know I can't wait to dive into book 2! Thank you Sean, for a book that is so expertly written it takes us to another place, a place I can't wait to revisit!
May 25, 2016
This was VERY different to what i was expecting.
I've rad m/m vamp books before but NONE were like this. While it was funny a lot of the time, in places it did take on a more serious undertone,and the fact that historical events were intertwined was a great concept. The story flowed well but at times i did get a tad confused over who's pov i was reading from.
The characters were well thought out and i particularly liked Mal, he made me laugh the most. Overall this was a really good read from an author i've never read before.
I've rad m/m vamp books before but NONE were like this. While it was funny a lot of the time, in places it did take on a more serious undertone,and the fact that historical events were intertwined was a great concept. The story flowed well but at times i did get a tad confused over who's pov i was reading from.
The characters were well thought out and i particularly liked Mal, he made me laugh the most. Overall this was a really good read from an author i've never read before.
April 23, 2016
You have to read this!!!
Omg I loved this book..From the start I was hooked vampire's, demon's, Angeles and a ghost I mean come on what more could you ask for.Eli is a damaged soul with a sassy attitude you can't help but love.This book had me excited from start to finish..I'm now in need of book 2
Omg I loved this book..From the start I was hooked vampire's, demon's, Angeles and a ghost I mean come on what more could you ask for.Eli is a damaged soul with a sassy attitude you can't help but love.This book had me excited from start to finish..I'm now in need of book 2
December 28, 2019
Darker than I expected.
I don’t know why I expected more of an Urban Fantasy. Maybe the cover..
Eli got on my nerves. Overly dramatic and extensively descriptive.
I saw the twists coming so there were no Aha moments for me.
Three stars because it is imaginative & well written but I doubt I’ll continue the series.
I don’t know why I expected more of an Urban Fantasy. Maybe the cover..
Eli got on my nerves. Overly dramatic and extensively descriptive.
I saw the twists coming so there were no Aha moments for me.
Three stars because it is imaginative & well written but I doubt I’ll continue the series.
February 21, 2018
I absolute love and am horrified by the twists. Wow! Add in Ethan, the ghost with a butt like a trampoline and the complicated angel, you have yourself a solid four star read.
FULL REVIEW - http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
FULL REVIEW - http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
January 27, 2019
This turned into a great read. I loved the strong characters and the pace of the story. Further to that, I enjoyed the cheeky way Sean Kerr played with history and used it to weave a rich plot. I'll look forward to reading Death Camp Two
March 10, 2018
1 really. But I feel guilty giving anything a 1. Terrible writing full of purple prose. Dnf at chapter 2.
October 22, 2018
Dead Camp by Sean Kerr, where to begin with the start of this self-named series… historical, conspiracy theory, religious undertones, fantasy, paranormal, vampires – all packed into two hundred and sixty pages. I am typically not a fan of historical fiction, of any kind, but I have to make an exception here. I was intrigued from the first page to the last. What will happen next? What twist will be thrown in? How is this ever going to come together?
Eli is a vampire with an ego, an insatiable sex drive, a sarcastic nature – oh and egotistical to boot, but with a heart. How can a vampire, the undead, have a heart you ask? Well, Eli is a special kind of vampire who longs to be human. Having a heart and experiencing feelings are very mortal traits he desires.
Eli has exiled himself to Castle Alte. His existence is shared with Malachi (a ghost), Daniyyel (an angel), Melek (the fallen angel), and Ethan (the wounded soldier). Eli’s story unfolds across the globe and throughout time. Historical events are interwoven with a fictional spin, presenting question upon question.
Beginning with the prologue I wondered “what have I gotten myself into?” Yet as I continued reading, I was drawn into a world of three-dimensional characters and detailed events. Actual historical figures are given a spin, and one in particular is portrayed as a demon. Set in Nazi Germany, use your imagination; come on, who is the demon?
The plot ranges from outright aggressiveness, to subtle undertones of much more, but not once does one get lost on the journey. We endure the gamut of emotions: love, hate, humor, sadness, joy; and maybe even cringe multiple times before we’re through. All is flawlessly woven together to create a fantasy world that is dark, yet bright at the same time.
The characters share friendship, love, hatred, and companionship, all shoving Eli’s dark past, and once lonely existence, into a plethora of fury and stimuli. A fresh outlook sprinkled with humor sets Eli on a path that both frightens and excites him.
Left in awe of this author’s imagination and talent, we wonder what Sean Kerr will entertain us with in the next installment of this Dead Camp serial drama. One expects to hear more from sarcastic Eli, broken Ethan, flighty Malachi, uptight, even devious Daniyyel. And Melek most definitely has more up his sleeves.
Eli is a vampire with an ego, an insatiable sex drive, a sarcastic nature – oh and egotistical to boot, but with a heart. How can a vampire, the undead, have a heart you ask? Well, Eli is a special kind of vampire who longs to be human. Having a heart and experiencing feelings are very mortal traits he desires.
Eli has exiled himself to Castle Alte. His existence is shared with Malachi (a ghost), Daniyyel (an angel), Melek (the fallen angel), and Ethan (the wounded soldier). Eli’s story unfolds across the globe and throughout time. Historical events are interwoven with a fictional spin, presenting question upon question.
Beginning with the prologue I wondered “what have I gotten myself into?” Yet as I continued reading, I was drawn into a world of three-dimensional characters and detailed events. Actual historical figures are given a spin, and one in particular is portrayed as a demon. Set in Nazi Germany, use your imagination; come on, who is the demon?
The plot ranges from outright aggressiveness, to subtle undertones of much more, but not once does one get lost on the journey. We endure the gamut of emotions: love, hate, humor, sadness, joy; and maybe even cringe multiple times before we’re through. All is flawlessly woven together to create a fantasy world that is dark, yet bright at the same time.
The characters share friendship, love, hatred, and companionship, all shoving Eli’s dark past, and once lonely existence, into a plethora of fury and stimuli. A fresh outlook sprinkled with humor sets Eli on a path that both frightens and excites him.
Left in awe of this author’s imagination and talent, we wonder what Sean Kerr will entertain us with in the next installment of this Dead Camp serial drama. One expects to hear more from sarcastic Eli, broken Ethan, flighty Malachi, uptight, even devious Daniyyel. And Melek most definitely has more up his sleeves.
May 13, 2017
This is an extraordinary book.
When I started reading it, I honestly had no idea what I got myself into. Usually, I read a bit of the blurb to get the gist and then mostly reviews from other readers. I was a bit reluctant at first, as I am German and don't usually like reading about my people's horrendous past. At all. Also, not much of a history geek. But it made me curious.
Adding paranormal aspects to my country's history gave it a whole new meaning, and fittingly so. History and all the things that happened before and during the NS regime would totally make sense.
Now, putting the story aside for a bit, I was utterly awestruck how well-written and eloquent the book was. The prologue alone just blew me away. Also, I truly love the British English and I revelled in reading it (most books, especially m/m, do come from the US, so the colloquial stuff I know is usually American).
I absolutely loved the characters in the book. Eli is a magnificent being and I'm looking forward to watching how his character will develop. His anguish is soul-shatteringly deep and I want to see him healed - or at least to be able to cope with his past. Also, I hope we'll see him together with Ethan in the future (oh please, please, please!) and Mal the little twat (I love him so much) won't get in the way again. I'm curious of what will become of Mal.
Really intriguing is Melek and what his objectives might be. What he told Eli in their encounter gives a hint to what Eli was before he became a vampire. I've got a hunch but in the end we'll see, won't we.
Surprisingly, few of my fellow reviewers wrote much about the carnal parts of the book. It IS very sexy and the characters are really mouth-wateringly hot, the book lets me long for more though. I hope we get to see more of this in the books to come (and I hope not only the books are coming...).
Sean, thank you so much for making me aware of your books, I hope you keep up with the good work and give us more of the juicy stuff. As we connected through Nicholas Bella, you know how we like it ;)
When I started reading it, I honestly had no idea what I got myself into. Usually, I read a bit of the blurb to get the gist and then mostly reviews from other readers. I was a bit reluctant at first, as I am German and don't usually like reading about my people's horrendous past. At all. Also, not much of a history geek. But it made me curious.
Adding paranormal aspects to my country's history gave it a whole new meaning, and fittingly so. History and all the things that happened before and during the NS regime would totally make sense.
Now, putting the story aside for a bit, I was utterly awestruck how well-written and eloquent the book was. The prologue alone just blew me away. Also, I truly love the British English and I revelled in reading it (most books, especially m/m, do come from the US, so the colloquial stuff I know is usually American).
I absolutely loved the characters in the book. Eli is a magnificent being and I'm looking forward to watching how his character will develop. His anguish is soul-shatteringly deep and I want to see him healed - or at least to be able to cope with his past. Also, I hope we'll see him together with Ethan in the future (oh please, please, please!) and Mal the little twat (I love him so much) won't get in the way again. I'm curious of what will become of Mal.
Really intriguing is Melek and what his objectives might be. What he told Eli in their encounter gives a hint to what Eli was before he became a vampire. I've got a hunch but in the end we'll see, won't we.
Surprisingly, few of my fellow reviewers wrote much about the carnal parts of the book. It IS very sexy and the characters are really mouth-wateringly hot, the book lets me long for more though. I hope we get to see more of this in the books to come (and I hope not only the books are coming...).
Sean, thank you so much for making me aware of your books, I hope you keep up with the good work and give us more of the juicy stuff. As we connected through Nicholas Bella, you know how we like it ;)
August 12, 2017
(Originally reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews.)
Okay, so I’m going to be brutally honest. This book confused the hell out of me and it will probably show in this review… because I really have no idea what I’m going to say. I get that there is a lot of info being dumped in this installment that probably makes more sense down the road in the other books, but this book kept making me go back to see whose head I was in. I tend to read smaller amounts since I went back to work full time, and when I pick up a book, I like to be able to just fall back into the story. That didn’t happen here.
I really liked the story overall, and the writing style and shock value were great… but there were some strange things which made me pause on more than one occasion and say ‘HUH?’. An example would be some things that happened in London involving a famous historical woman. I’m not sure what that had to do with the overall story, but again, maybe we find out in a later book.
I did figure out who one of the characters was supposed to be before the big reveal, but it didn’t spoil the story. Some grossness with a bloody vagina almost did, but I moved past it quickly.
Again, to keep it honest, I have to tell you that at first, I didn’t like the book. It took me quite a while to get into the story, but once I did, I moved through the rest of it quickly. It left me in mid-air, and now I need to know what happens next. I will be moving on to the second book in the series… I have no choice. Where does it go from here?
I recommend this book to anyone who likes a paranormal story, with vampires, ghosts and famous people thrown in to tie it to the real world. It has some pretty dark sections, some fairly gross scenes, and lots of different characters. Beware the cliff-hanger, but know that the other books are already out and you won’t have to pause if you don’t want to!
Okay, so I’m going to be brutally honest. This book confused the hell out of me and it will probably show in this review… because I really have no idea what I’m going to say. I get that there is a lot of info being dumped in this installment that probably makes more sense down the road in the other books, but this book kept making me go back to see whose head I was in. I tend to read smaller amounts since I went back to work full time, and when I pick up a book, I like to be able to just fall back into the story. That didn’t happen here.
I really liked the story overall, and the writing style and shock value were great… but there were some strange things which made me pause on more than one occasion and say ‘HUH?’. An example would be some things that happened in London involving a famous historical woman. I’m not sure what that had to do with the overall story, but again, maybe we find out in a later book.
I did figure out who one of the characters was supposed to be before the big reveal, but it didn’t spoil the story. Some grossness with a bloody vagina almost did, but I moved past it quickly.
Again, to keep it honest, I have to tell you that at first, I didn’t like the book. It took me quite a while to get into the story, but once I did, I moved through the rest of it quickly. It left me in mid-air, and now I need to know what happens next. I will be moving on to the second book in the series… I have no choice. Where does it go from here?
I recommend this book to anyone who likes a paranormal story, with vampires, ghosts and famous people thrown in to tie it to the real world. It has some pretty dark sections, some fairly gross scenes, and lots of different characters. Beware the cliff-hanger, but know that the other books are already out and you won’t have to pause if you don’t want to!
March 7, 2018
I often stop reading the moment I get bored. There are stacks of books around my house that are half read, and I have been known to chuck a book out of my presence the moment it displeases me. . .which is why my I-Pad has a crack in it. So just imagine how delighted I was to read a book cover to cover and not once sigh with boredom, gag on a cliche, or wish I had the time back in my life that I had wasted.
I really enjoyed this book.
It was a foray into a new sub-genre of literature, so I really didn't know what I was in for, but I metaphorically buckled up and enjoyed the ride. Kerr's characters are fully fleshed out (even the ghost, Malachi) and Eli was annoying and I wanted to smack him several times, but that was the point of him, and I enjoyed watching his inner turmoil as he began to grow as a character.
I've put the next book into my reading queue.
Yes, Dead Camp is brain candy, but the very best kind. Godiva brain candy. But don't for a moment think it is not weighty, too. Kerr sneaks in existential questions, thoughts on immortality, and well-researched history lessons without the reader ever noticing. So maybe it's not candy. It's more like a really yummy, but still good for you, smoothie.
I really enjoyed this book.
It was a foray into a new sub-genre of literature, so I really didn't know what I was in for, but I metaphorically buckled up and enjoyed the ride. Kerr's characters are fully fleshed out (even the ghost, Malachi) and Eli was annoying and I wanted to smack him several times, but that was the point of him, and I enjoyed watching his inner turmoil as he began to grow as a character.
I've put the next book into my reading queue.
Yes, Dead Camp is brain candy, but the very best kind. Godiva brain candy. But don't for a moment think it is not weighty, too. Kerr sneaks in existential questions, thoughts on immortality, and well-researched history lessons without the reader ever noticing. So maybe it's not candy. It's more like a really yummy, but still good for you, smoothie.
June 1, 2019
Author: Sean Kerr
Title: Dead Camp 1
Cover: eye-catching and intriguing
Genre: LGBT, Paranormal, Historical, Religion, Angels and Demons. Vampires
Page count: 238
When I first found this book, I considered this was something unusual and I might not have enjoyed the work. But taking the gamble I have enjoyed reading this book this was actually the first LGBT genre. And now I can say that Sean Kerr is my favourite author in this field.
This features a ghost, a vampire and a demon as well as an angel all the characters are extremely well characterized within the book so makes a more powerful combination characters who are vividly brought to life.
Though saying this the main character is a vampire who is portrayed as sarcastic and yet deeply troubled he is your classic tortured soul. Malachi is a ghost who is extremly funny.
The authors intellect and imagination coupled with the fact he has gone too great detail. To research the second world war and the nazis for the story makes all the difference. This is obvious throughout. This serves to make the story even more realistic and engulfs you more in the immersive tale he weaves throughout the pages of the book. There seems to be one slight mistake in the book and that is a comma, but no spelling or grammatical errors. It is a well-paced book to help you immerse yourself in the captivating and imaginative story by Sean Kerr.
There are some dark tones to this book and sex scenes you might just shred a tear while reading it but a good read.
Title: Dead Camp 1
Cover: eye-catching and intriguing
Genre: LGBT, Paranormal, Historical, Religion, Angels and Demons. Vampires
Page count: 238
When I first found this book, I considered this was something unusual and I might not have enjoyed the work. But taking the gamble I have enjoyed reading this book this was actually the first LGBT genre. And now I can say that Sean Kerr is my favourite author in this field.
This features a ghost, a vampire and a demon as well as an angel all the characters are extremely well characterized within the book so makes a more powerful combination characters who are vividly brought to life.
Though saying this the main character is a vampire who is portrayed as sarcastic and yet deeply troubled he is your classic tortured soul. Malachi is a ghost who is extremly funny.
The authors intellect and imagination coupled with the fact he has gone too great detail. To research the second world war and the nazis for the story makes all the difference. This is obvious throughout. This serves to make the story even more realistic and engulfs you more in the immersive tale he weaves throughout the pages of the book. There seems to be one slight mistake in the book and that is a comma, but no spelling or grammatical errors. It is a well-paced book to help you immerse yourself in the captivating and imaginative story by Sean Kerr.
There are some dark tones to this book and sex scenes you might just shred a tear while reading it but a good read.
September 9, 2017
Wow! When you'd thought you'd read every take on a vampire story, this is something completely different and new. Add to the vampire a ghost, a demon and an angel of power you have one incredible mix of characters. It took me a while to start this book as I didn't think I would like the WW2 elements in the story. How wrong was I! I have never read such a descriptive book. The words just flowed giving multiple to descriptions to every item, feeling or situation. The authors way with words is like no other. The book was humorous, dark and scary at times with historical people and situation portrayed like never before. I can't wait to find out more about vampire Ely who's sexy and he knows it and his clan. I recommend this book to anyone who wants a new take on the vampire story and also enjoys a bit of history and horror mixed into one.
May 27, 2017
l truly don't know how to put into words how l am feeling.
l am actually reeling from the intensity, and sheer gruesomeness of this story.
Beautifully written , such depth to each scene , so descriptive .
For a debut novel it is absolutely amazing, so chilling, so gruesome.
l had to message the author to tell him ,that he gave me nightmares.
l am actually reeling from the intensity, and sheer gruesomeness of this story.
Beautifully written , such depth to each scene , so descriptive .
For a debut novel it is absolutely amazing, so chilling, so gruesome.
l had to message the author to tell him ,that he gave me nightmares.
July 5, 2018
Dead Camp 2
OMG, this book started out with a bang and never let up. This Author kept me glued to each page. It scared the hell out of me, everything started to feel so real. I'll start the next book tomorrow during day light, it's to dark (8:50pm) to start now, I'll never get to sleep! It's definitely a must read, many thanks, Honey Bee 🐝📚💙🎶
OMG, this book started out with a bang and never let up. This Author kept me glued to each page. It scared the hell out of me, everything started to feel so real. I'll start the next book tomorrow during day light, it's to dark (8:50pm) to start now, I'll never get to sleep! It's definitely a must read, many thanks, Honey Bee 🐝📚💙🎶
February 28, 2018
I read only 2 chapters. It’s just not my style...it feels like there is a big and nice plot hiding behind it but I don’t see it. There is sex, sex, rippled men, sex, dicks and a lot of jumps from one time frame to another, that don’t necessarily have any importance nor any thrill.
March 27, 2018
Review will follow soon
June 4, 2016
For me this was one of the harder book reviews to write. I actually tossed up whether to do it or not. I had it recommended on a fan site and heard the chatter about it from others in the group and was expecting something a little different. My feelings for this book are slightly ambiguous. I love it and I equally hate it too.
This is the first book in a series and is little more than foundation laying. It covers only a day or two in the life of Eli but the back-story covers so much more. What happened in London? Why does Eli wallow in so much self-pity that even my empathy is exhausted?
I have little affinity with the main character. I was left to meander bemused through the first half of the book, my attention caught first by one event and then another, to be offered full insight into their story but in reality was gifted nothing more than a mystery. And then to be tossed from that character to another and then another and then another, to warm to them and then to be abandoned to another tale of woe from the past. The author created intensity, I felt it deeply. But my curiosity was never really alleviated.
I only became invested upon hearing the thoughts of an angel, the struggle he had to do what was right when religion/god forbade him to interfere. His hands tied and unable to help. I felt for him, for his silence and the accusations of others which I know must have been painful. He would tell the truth if he could but he is stymied at every turn.
The book left me anxious, not alone for Eli, but for Malachi; for the danger he was putting himself in and that for a creature he loves unconditionally, but who in all likelihood was his murderer. I fear for Ethan, so human and fragile. I care about who he is and that he will survive.
Mysteries are thrown at me from every angle and nothing is resolved. Who is Ethan, what has happened to his father? Who made Eli a vampire in the first place, why does the devil want him so badly? Why the demonization of a man who was real, and evil in his own right? Was that truly necessary? Interesting though.
I love the diary section of the book, the revelations of Isaiah, the innocence, the determination to offer himself as salvation for his future wife. I loved their story, and their tragedy. That’s not saying Ethan’s mother Eva deserved to die, certainly not in the manner that it happened.
I don’t fear for Eli, although I suppose I should, after all everything revolves around him, he is the centre.
The style of the book is slow, full of wonderful descriptive phrases - luscious word pictures of misery - that tell you everything and yet still keep their secrets. What happened in London? What happened to Gideon?
I found some phrases jarring, mostly that used by Eli. This story is set in Germany during the war and the incarceration of the Jews and yet Eli comes up with gems such as “fuck”, and “bum” for bottom, and “nada, diddly squat”. These terms sound so modern, so familiar, and while they indeed might have been language used in the speech of the day, they didn’t feel quite right. The London event happened in Victorian England in the age of Jack the Ripper, days when one had their mouth washed out with the mere uttering of the word ‘damn!’ And in Hitler’s Germany I’m sure language would have hardly progressed, especially for one who had hidden away for the last sixty years.
That said, I will definitely re-read sometime in the future because all the information cannot possibly be absorbed in one sitting.
This is the first book in a series and is little more than foundation laying. It covers only a day or two in the life of Eli but the back-story covers so much more. What happened in London? Why does Eli wallow in so much self-pity that even my empathy is exhausted?
I have little affinity with the main character. I was left to meander bemused through the first half of the book, my attention caught first by one event and then another, to be offered full insight into their story but in reality was gifted nothing more than a mystery. And then to be tossed from that character to another and then another and then another, to warm to them and then to be abandoned to another tale of woe from the past. The author created intensity, I felt it deeply. But my curiosity was never really alleviated.
I only became invested upon hearing the thoughts of an angel, the struggle he had to do what was right when religion/god forbade him to interfere. His hands tied and unable to help. I felt for him, for his silence and the accusations of others which I know must have been painful. He would tell the truth if he could but he is stymied at every turn.
The book left me anxious, not alone for Eli, but for Malachi; for the danger he was putting himself in and that for a creature he loves unconditionally, but who in all likelihood was his murderer. I fear for Ethan, so human and fragile. I care about who he is and that he will survive.
Mysteries are thrown at me from every angle and nothing is resolved. Who is Ethan, what has happened to his father? Who made Eli a vampire in the first place, why does the devil want him so badly? Why the demonization of a man who was real, and evil in his own right? Was that truly necessary? Interesting though.
I love the diary section of the book, the revelations of Isaiah, the innocence, the determination to offer himself as salvation for his future wife. I loved their story, and their tragedy. That’s not saying Ethan’s mother Eva deserved to die, certainly not in the manner that it happened.
I don’t fear for Eli, although I suppose I should, after all everything revolves around him, he is the centre.
The style of the book is slow, full of wonderful descriptive phrases - luscious word pictures of misery - that tell you everything and yet still keep their secrets. What happened in London? What happened to Gideon?
I found some phrases jarring, mostly that used by Eli. This story is set in Germany during the war and the incarceration of the Jews and yet Eli comes up with gems such as “fuck”, and “bum” for bottom, and “nada, diddly squat”. These terms sound so modern, so familiar, and while they indeed might have been language used in the speech of the day, they didn’t feel quite right. The London event happened in Victorian England in the age of Jack the Ripper, days when one had their mouth washed out with the mere uttering of the word ‘damn!’ And in Hitler’s Germany I’m sure language would have hardly progressed, especially for one who had hidden away for the last sixty years.
That said, I will definitely re-read sometime in the future because all the information cannot possibly be absorbed in one sitting.
March 31, 2017
3.5 Stars.
Premise of the book is Eli is an incredibly old vampire, with origins unknown and uncommon powers and abilities. Malachi is a gay ghost who rescued Eli from the banks of a river and loves Eli unconditionally despite Eli not returning the affections. Daniyyel is an angel of God. Gideon is Eli’s past lover, a vampire of similar strengths and abilities. Ethan, a Jew saved from the Nazi’s by Eli for reasons unknown to either, only that Eli knew he must. The setting – roughly 1940’s Germany.
This is a delightfully different read from your standard vampire books (both gay and het), or perhaps more accurately, an erotic historical paranormal fantasy.
Eli, our conflicted, narcissistic vampire, has retreated to Alte, his singular castle/home in the hills of Germany. Through Eli, we learn of Gideon’s departure, Eli’s opium addiction, how he saved Britain and Queen Victoria, and that Eli loves Eli.
What remains a bit of an enigma, is Eli’s association with Daniyyel. They have a past, but we, the reader, are not yet introduced to this history. We also have Malachi’s transition to a ghost: “something” happened, nobody wants to fess up to what it was. And now, now there is the beautiful Ethan, and everything will pivot around this seemingly familiar and gorgeous man.
I truly enjoyed Eli and his constant comments along the lines of “I looked good draped across my table”. Malachi nicely complimented the quirky and narcissistic vampire as a drama-queen ghost. Bringing in the stern and thunderous right hand of God in Daniyyl balanced out what could have been quirk overload.
The overall plot moves right along – it’s engaging, it had me pulling up Google a couple of times (like I didn’t know Wizard of Oz came out in 1939), and combined with the our characters flaws, was really interesting.
Where this story bogged down for me, was where Eli, Mal, Daniyyl and Ethan started reading Ethan’s father’s diaries. It went from quirky, erotic, narcissistic vampire with emotional issues to an explanation of Adolf Hitler as paranormal entity combined with Ethan’s family background. It was like one massive info dump that had my eyes glazing over and my interest plummeting.
And just when the story gets rolling again, I realized with some small dismay, is this ends on a cliffhanger.
So I’m on the fence (and from the reviews on Goodreads I’m in the minority), about whether I wish to get the next in the series. I did enjoy the characters, but the info dump exposition left me feeling apathetic.
It’s up to you, dear reader, to now decide if this is worth a looksee.
Review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
Premise of the book is Eli is an incredibly old vampire, with origins unknown and uncommon powers and abilities. Malachi is a gay ghost who rescued Eli from the banks of a river and loves Eli unconditionally despite Eli not returning the affections. Daniyyel is an angel of God. Gideon is Eli’s past lover, a vampire of similar strengths and abilities. Ethan, a Jew saved from the Nazi’s by Eli for reasons unknown to either, only that Eli knew he must. The setting – roughly 1940’s Germany.
This is a delightfully different read from your standard vampire books (both gay and het), or perhaps more accurately, an erotic historical paranormal fantasy.
Eli, our conflicted, narcissistic vampire, has retreated to Alte, his singular castle/home in the hills of Germany. Through Eli, we learn of Gideon’s departure, Eli’s opium addiction, how he saved Britain and Queen Victoria, and that Eli loves Eli.
What remains a bit of an enigma, is Eli’s association with Daniyyel. They have a past, but we, the reader, are not yet introduced to this history. We also have Malachi’s transition to a ghost: “something” happened, nobody wants to fess up to what it was. And now, now there is the beautiful Ethan, and everything will pivot around this seemingly familiar and gorgeous man.
I truly enjoyed Eli and his constant comments along the lines of “I looked good draped across my table”. Malachi nicely complimented the quirky and narcissistic vampire as a drama-queen ghost. Bringing in the stern and thunderous right hand of God in Daniyyl balanced out what could have been quirk overload.
The overall plot moves right along – it’s engaging, it had me pulling up Google a couple of times (like I didn’t know Wizard of Oz came out in 1939), and combined with the our characters flaws, was really interesting.
Where this story bogged down for me, was where Eli, Mal, Daniyyl and Ethan started reading Ethan’s father’s diaries. It went from quirky, erotic, narcissistic vampire with emotional issues to an explanation of Adolf Hitler as paranormal entity combined with Ethan’s family background. It was like one massive info dump that had my eyes glazing over and my interest plummeting.
And just when the story gets rolling again, I realized with some small dismay, is this ends on a cliffhanger.
So I’m on the fence (and from the reviews on Goodreads I’m in the minority), about whether I wish to get the next in the series. I did enjoy the characters, but the info dump exposition left me feeling apathetic.
It’s up to you, dear reader, to now decide if this is worth a looksee.
Review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
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