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Hibernian Hollows
Hibernian Blood
An action-packed urban fantasy adventure with bite!
James Halmorris has a cursed name. He doesn't believe the rumours until he travels to Ireland to find his roots, finding a whole new world of witches and vampires instead. He has entered the Hibernian Hollows.
He arrives right at the point where five vampire families are readying to fight a war for the vampire thrones of the Emerald Isle. James is forced to cast off his doubt and fear and step into the bloody ring. He's supposed to be the peace-keeper, but if he can't stop the battle, he'll have to join the war.
James Halmorris has a cursed name. He doesn't believe the rumours until he travels to Ireland to find his roots, finding a whole new world of witches and vampires instead. He has entered the Hibernian Hollows.
He arrives right at the point where five vampire families are readying to fight a war for the vampire thrones of the Emerald Isle. James is forced to cast off his doubt and fear and step into the bloody ring. He's supposed to be the peace-keeper, but if he can't stop the battle, he'll have to join the war.
214 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 31, 2017
24 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Dean F. Wilson
31 books2,098 followersUSA Today & Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author
Dean F. Wilson was born in Dublin, Ireland in 1987. He started writing at age 11.
He is the author of the Children of Telm epic fantasy trilogy, the Great Iron War steampunk series, the Coilhunter Chronicles science-fiction western series, the Hibernian Hollows urban fantasy series, and the Infinite Stars space opera series.
Dean previously worked as a journalist, primarily in the field of technology. He has written for TechEye, Thinq, V3, VR-Zone, ITProPortal, TechRadar Pro, and The Inquirer.
Dean F. Wilson was born in Dublin, Ireland in 1987. He started writing at age 11.
He is the author of the Children of Telm epic fantasy trilogy, the Great Iron War steampunk series, the Coilhunter Chronicles science-fiction western series, the Hibernian Hollows urban fantasy series, and the Infinite Stars space opera series.
Dean previously worked as a journalist, primarily in the field of technology. He has written for TechEye, Thinq, V3, VR-Zone, ITProPortal, TechRadar Pro, and The Inquirer.
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September 5, 2017
I originally picked up HIBERNIAN BLOOD by Dean F. Wilson as a part of a box set this was featured in. Therefore, I am also posting the review here as I've been a fan of Dean's work since the Children of Telm series and the Great Iron War.
The story follows James Halmorris, an American who comes to Ireland to find his roots. Instead, he finds so much more . . .
Expect vampires, vampire hunters, and much more, all taking place near where I grew up in Dublin (yippee!) As always, Dean creates fascinating characters and an intriguing plot which keeps you turning page after page until the end.
A quick read, but well worth sinking your teeth into.
The story follows James Halmorris, an American who comes to Ireland to find his roots. Instead, he finds so much more . . .
Expect vampires, vampire hunters, and much more, all taking place near where I grew up in Dublin (yippee!) As always, Dean creates fascinating characters and an intriguing plot which keeps you turning page after page until the end.
A quick read, but well worth sinking your teeth into.
September 1, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. This was an awesome romantic fantasy. I loved the story so much, I couldn't put it down. I loved the main two characters and their story. A must read.
September 14, 2017
I found this to be kind of an uneven book. Some of the sequences of scenes were very good. But somehow the book as a whole didn’t seem to me to hang together particularly well. This would be of most interest to people who like paranormal books and vampires.
James Halmorris comes to Ireland, ostensibly to research his ancestors. But when he gets there, strange things begin to happen. He can’t get a cab from the airport. When he finally reaches his hotel, thanks to a friend who picks him up, they seem to have lost his reservation somehow. He is directed to another hotel an hour’s walk (through wind and rain) away. A mysterious black vehicle that has been following him since he arrived finally picks him up and takes him to what looks more like an old cathedral or castle than a hotel. And once he is in this supposed hotel, his night is worse than any old fashioned horror movie.
Eventually, after a day or two, it becomes clear that he has landed in the middle of a group of vampires. The vampires are about to go to war with each other. And they seem to think he is something they call a Blood Warden – a human with the ability to make or keep the peace between warring Vampire clans. James has not known anything about Vampires or Blood Wardens until he was dragged into this, and he doesn’t know anything he could do that would make peace among this bunch – or even anything that would keep them from eating him on the spot.
The war does break out in spite of everything, and there are a lot of battles between the various individual factions. Rua, the Vampire Queen, and her people take James to discover his powers, which he eventually does.
After much violence and bloodshed, the war is eventually settled – sort of, for the time being. But I am not sure I understand exactly how. Also, I don’t understand exactly how or why James and Rua end up getting hooked up. Despite the fact that she is fascinating in typically vampire fashion, he seems to be more afraid of her than in love with her up until the end.
James Halmorris comes to Ireland, ostensibly to research his ancestors. But when he gets there, strange things begin to happen. He can’t get a cab from the airport. When he finally reaches his hotel, thanks to a friend who picks him up, they seem to have lost his reservation somehow. He is directed to another hotel an hour’s walk (through wind and rain) away. A mysterious black vehicle that has been following him since he arrived finally picks him up and takes him to what looks more like an old cathedral or castle than a hotel. And once he is in this supposed hotel, his night is worse than any old fashioned horror movie.
Eventually, after a day or two, it becomes clear that he has landed in the middle of a group of vampires. The vampires are about to go to war with each other. And they seem to think he is something they call a Blood Warden – a human with the ability to make or keep the peace between warring Vampire clans. James has not known anything about Vampires or Blood Wardens until he was dragged into this, and he doesn’t know anything he could do that would make peace among this bunch – or even anything that would keep them from eating him on the spot.
The war does break out in spite of everything, and there are a lot of battles between the various individual factions. Rua, the Vampire Queen, and her people take James to discover his powers, which he eventually does.
After much violence and bloodshed, the war is eventually settled – sort of, for the time being. But I am not sure I understand exactly how. Also, I don’t understand exactly how or why James and Rua end up getting hooked up. Despite the fact that she is fascinating in typically vampire fashion, he seems to be more afraid of her than in love with her up until the end.
September 16, 2017
I received a free copy of this book from the author for my honest review.
James Halmorris’s problems began immediately upon his arrival in Dublin, Ireland. First, the plane’s landing was rough, then the police officer or Garda, told him his name was cursed. Then his bus was late, eventually breaking down, and his reservation at the hotel had not been recorded, and of course, the hotel was full, and so on it went. Eventually he wound up at a very scary inn where he was awoken in the night to scratching on the door and strange lights frightening him to inaction.
I would have gotten out of there first thing in the morning. But James stayed.
He stayed long enough to discover he was an integral part of an impending war to control the vampire throne of Ireland. He had much to learn about his part in the coming battle and was given help and advice by the occupants of this old scary inn, who just happened to be vampires themselves.
Dean Wilson has the gift of making the improbable seem real, and the impossible possible. His writing is clear and brings us into the story even as we wish to get out of it. Prepare for a suspenseful, frightening and exciting journey through their world.
James Halmorris’s problems began immediately upon his arrival in Dublin, Ireland. First, the plane’s landing was rough, then the police officer or Garda, told him his name was cursed. Then his bus was late, eventually breaking down, and his reservation at the hotel had not been recorded, and of course, the hotel was full, and so on it went. Eventually he wound up at a very scary inn where he was awoken in the night to scratching on the door and strange lights frightening him to inaction.
I would have gotten out of there first thing in the morning. But James stayed.
He stayed long enough to discover he was an integral part of an impending war to control the vampire throne of Ireland. He had much to learn about his part in the coming battle and was given help and advice by the occupants of this old scary inn, who just happened to be vampires themselves.
Dean Wilson has the gift of making the improbable seem real, and the impossible possible. His writing is clear and brings us into the story even as we wish to get out of it. Prepare for a suspenseful, frightening and exciting journey through their world.
August 31, 2017
James Halmorris, seeking his Irish roots, arrives in Ireland to discover a world filled with witches and vampires—something he had always considered myth. But faced with creatures he can't deny, he finds it difficult to deny their presence, and his fate as a peacekeeper.
I always find witches and vampires—especially thrown together—interesting. Overall, I enjoyed this book, even with a few moments where the pace seemed to slow a bit. The characters were fascinating, and that's what drove the story for me.
James, the main character, was pretty well fleshed out. I found Ruagruaim (Rua), the vampire queen, and Lorcan, the vampire king, of House Caomhanach, very intriguing. Their history, as well as that of the other vampire families, helps shape this story into the fascinating tale that Wilson brings us.
I enjoyed reading Hibernian Blood, and I look forward to reading Hibernian Charm, Book 2 in the Hibernian Hollows series.
Read this book if:
• You want a fairly quick, fun read.
• Dark fantasy is your thing.
• You enjoy witches, vampires, and humans comingling.
As a member of Dean F. Wilson's review team, I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I always find witches and vampires—especially thrown together—interesting. Overall, I enjoyed this book, even with a few moments where the pace seemed to slow a bit. The characters were fascinating, and that's what drove the story for me.
James, the main character, was pretty well fleshed out. I found Ruagruaim (Rua), the vampire queen, and Lorcan, the vampire king, of House Caomhanach, very intriguing. Their history, as well as that of the other vampire families, helps shape this story into the fascinating tale that Wilson brings us.
I enjoyed reading Hibernian Blood, and I look forward to reading Hibernian Charm, Book 2 in the Hibernian Hollows series.
Read this book if:
• You want a fairly quick, fun read.
• Dark fantasy is your thing.
• You enjoy witches, vampires, and humans comingling.
As a member of Dean F. Wilson's review team, I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
August 30, 2017
rcvd an advanced reader copy from the author for giving my two cents. I wasn't too sure what to make of this book at the beginning. it was a bit slow and took me a while b4 getting into it but once I did I wanted to know what happened next. we meet James who is in Ireland to search for his roots and maybe find out why is last name is cursed. he isn't having a good start to his trip...hotel loses his reservation, it's pouring outside and it's night time. he then is stopped by a gentleman who takes him to a hotel up the road. a strange and frightening hotel with only candles to light the way James is scared at the scary sounds at night outside his door. a venture to the library has him getting an invite at dusk where he will learn the truth. once there is learns his family is a protector of sorts and war is coming. James feels like he is in a loony bin until he comes face to face with a beast. he wakes up to be surrounded by vampire clans and told that he comes from a long line of blood wardens, aka the peacekeepers. James doesn't know what to think. war has already begun but will James fulfill his destiny or will be cower away.
July 18, 2018
This book had a very sophomoric feel to the writing style. The beginning was too melodramatic, the trials for James to come into his powers were too inconsequential to merit the gains that he received, and characters were randomly inserted, or removed with little to no clarity as to how that helps the story. And it was distracting that James, an American, thought in Britishisms that just wouldn't happen, while the Irish actually seemed to use more American usage - no American would think of a sedan as a saloon, or use the phrase "settle up" to mean settling a bill.
Why wouldn't Mr. Constant have participated in the war to save the world? Where did the Silent Sister come from and why wasn't any hint of her foreshadowed if she was that dangerous a foe? What actually is the purpose of a Blood Warden? Did the English vampires actually serve any purpose to either the war, or to the plot? I got absolutely no sense that James was interested in Rua, and certainly no feeling of chemistry between them, so the "solution" at the end made no sense, and felt like it came out of nowhere.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Why wouldn't Mr. Constant have participated in the war to save the world? Where did the Silent Sister come from and why wasn't any hint of her foreshadowed if she was that dangerous a foe? What actually is the purpose of a Blood Warden? Did the English vampires actually serve any purpose to either the war, or to the plot? I got absolutely no sense that James was interested in Rua, and certainly no feeling of chemistry between them, so the "solution" at the end made no sense, and felt like it came out of nowhere.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
January 4, 2019
I received an ARC of this story through Hidden Gems and this is my honest and voluntary review.
I went into this book assuming it would be similar in content to the many other vampire stories I devour on a regular basis. Love a good vampire story. This was not what I expected. It was a decent story with some interesting concepts as far as James being a blood warden and all that goes with it. Of course where there's vampires there must also be other supernaturals; James' friend Lilly being a witch seemed a little forced though... A lot in this book felt a little forced actually, it seemed like the author didn't take the time to really build the story and flesh out the characters to explain the background and what was currently going on. This book mostly felt like a bunch of great action scenes with everything else rushed through and thrown together just to get from one action scene to the next. Not the worst story I've ever read but not sure I would continue with the series.
I went into this book assuming it would be similar in content to the many other vampire stories I devour on a regular basis. Love a good vampire story. This was not what I expected. It was a decent story with some interesting concepts as far as James being a blood warden and all that goes with it. Of course where there's vampires there must also be other supernaturals; James' friend Lilly being a witch seemed a little forced though... A lot in this book felt a little forced actually, it seemed like the author didn't take the time to really build the story and flesh out the characters to explain the background and what was currently going on. This book mostly felt like a bunch of great action scenes with everything else rushed through and thrown together just to get from one action scene to the next. Not the worst story I've ever read but not sure I would continue with the series.
August 31, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a quick and short read. While that is beneficial for time purposes, it did detract from the book in a way because the story could use more development. We never really get to know any of the characters well enough to form a connection to them or care about their motivations. Fortunately, the action scenes are well-written. It was easy to keep track of what was happening at any point in time. Also, the main story was unique enough to hold your interest throughout. As for the setting, I really liked Dublin as a location. Although I am not well-versed in vampire stories, I do think Ireland makes this story a little more unique than most. The castle/hotel in which a majority of the action takes place was also well-written as a creepy locale.
Overall, this is a fairly good vampire story that will likely please urban fantasy fans. With just 50 more pages, however, this book could be outstanding!
This was a quick and short read. While that is beneficial for time purposes, it did detract from the book in a way because the story could use more development. We never really get to know any of the characters well enough to form a connection to them or care about their motivations. Fortunately, the action scenes are well-written. It was easy to keep track of what was happening at any point in time. Also, the main story was unique enough to hold your interest throughout. As for the setting, I really liked Dublin as a location. Although I am not well-versed in vampire stories, I do think Ireland makes this story a little more unique than most. The castle/hotel in which a majority of the action takes place was also well-written as a creepy locale.
Overall, this is a fairly good vampire story that will likely please urban fantasy fans. With just 50 more pages, however, this book could be outstanding!
August 21, 2020
I've been a fan of Dean's work ever since I stumbled across his Coilhunters series. This book is the start of another great series that I can't wait to see progress forward (in audiobook format, since that is the way I enjoy my books).
You could say I am a fan of stories involving vampires and vampire lore, so this one naturally fits that bill. I loved the scene-setting at the beginning of the story with the descriptions of the walk into and out of town after a string of bad luck. From there, it was fun to watch James progress toward his destiny of becoming a Blood Warden.
This is another solid 5/5 work from Dean. The narrator was a great addition to the story and I loved his vocalization of some of the more esoteric creatures.
You could say I am a fan of stories involving vampires and vampire lore, so this one naturally fits that bill. I loved the scene-setting at the beginning of the story with the descriptions of the walk into and out of town after a string of bad luck. From there, it was fun to watch James progress toward his destiny of becoming a Blood Warden.
This is another solid 5/5 work from Dean. The narrator was a great addition to the story and I loved his vocalization of some of the more esoteric creatures.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2017
I thought the story was good. It had a nice pace and stuff going on to keep my interest. To get off a plane and for strange things to start happening around James, made me have goose bumps. The stuff don’t stop there, the action and other things make you want to run for your life. I thought it was very well written. I was hooked till the end.
The word saloon used for a vehicle confused me at first, since I know the word is used for a type of bar. I looked it up and ta da, I learned something new. Hope to read more from the author for they sure can tell a story. Very good, I liked it.
Got from Hidden Gems ARC Club for an honest review.
Thank you for sharing your book with me.
The word saloon used for a vehicle confused me at first, since I know the word is used for a type of bar. I looked it up and ta da, I learned something new. Hope to read more from the author for they sure can tell a story. Very good, I liked it.
Got from Hidden Gems ARC Club for an honest review.
Thank you for sharing your book with me.
September 23, 2017
All James Halmorris wants to do on his long-awaited trip to Ireland is trace his roots, but he ends up with way more than he bargained for. Not only does he possess a cursed name, but he is also the Bloodwarden, the unwitting and unwilling referee in the wars between vampire families, and the arbiter of how their squabbles impact on humankind. The first book is very well written, but seems a little rushed. However, the cliffhanger at the end promises that this is going to be yet another great series by a promising author. Can't wait for more!
August 31, 2017
Hibernian Blood is the first book in the Hibernian Hollows eries. The book can be read as a standalone. There is a lot of violence and adult themes so definitely 18+.
The book blurb adequately describes the storyline so I'm not going to repeat all of that info here. This is not your typical story of exploring your family roots and history. I received a copy of this book from the author and chose to leave a review for other readers.
The book blurb adequately describes the storyline so I'm not going to repeat all of that info here. This is not your typical story of exploring your family roots and history. I received a copy of this book from the author and chose to leave a review for other readers.
September 1, 2017
Interesting take on Irish folklore. Our hero is raised American and has gone to Ireland to find his roots but as soon as he gets off the plane strange things start happening to him. He finds himself the last known blood warden, a peacekeeper of sorts. He has no time to learn his gifts as he's thrown straight into a war between the Vampire clans.
I received an ARC of this story and have voluntarily chosen to review it here
I received an ARC of this story and have voluntarily chosen to review it here
September 28, 2017
I would recommend this to anyone wanting a short, well written, enjoyable book to pass the time.
This story about vampires in Dublin contained a good amount of action, suspense and violence. The characters and plot were believable, as long as you remember you are reading an urban fantasy with vampires.
As the first book in an ongoing series the story line was wrapped up but not necessarily in a HEA. A hook at the end will tempt most to continue on to book 2.
This story about vampires in Dublin contained a good amount of action, suspense and violence. The characters and plot were believable, as long as you remember you are reading an urban fantasy with vampires.
As the first book in an ongoing series the story line was wrapped up but not necessarily in a HEA. A hook at the end will tempt most to continue on to book 2.
August 31, 2017
I really had to push myself to finish this book. I didn't like it at all, the writing was really messy and all over the place. I had a very tough time believing in the story, despite the fact that I'm really good at suspending disbelief. None of it made sense to me, and I just can't see things happening the way they did.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
October 19, 2017
If u like van helsing
It is very angry full of angry vampires all with a millennia of grudges . You will love this and subsequent stories . A great story filled with revenge and hate and the dark side of a true vampire. No glitter or peacefulness or the getting on with humans.
It is very angry full of angry vampires all with a millennia of grudges . You will love this and subsequent stories . A great story filled with revenge and hate and the dark side of a true vampire. No glitter or peacefulness or the getting on with humans.
August 31, 2017
Good vampire urban fantasy. Vampires, witches, friendships, love and war. This story have slow start. If you like fantasy book this is for you. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
September 3, 2017
The book was slow to start and some pacing issues throughout but overall I liked it. The characters and world building were in depth. It did leave me wanting to know more so I am anxious for book 2. I look forward to reading more in this series and from this Author.
October 18, 2017
not for me
well written, but I couldn't get my head into the game that was going on..
Ireland, lost heritage, destined.fire greatness. War and battles for control, romance and love.. Who will be #1
well written, but I couldn't get my head into the game that was going on..
Ireland, lost heritage, destined.fire greatness. War and battles for control, romance and love.. Who will be #1
October 23, 2017
Hibernian Blood
Lots of action and folklore with strong characters
"I Voluntary state that this is my honest review of a gifted book"
Lots of action and folklore with strong characters
"I Voluntary state that this is my honest review of a gifted book"
December 9, 2017
How much power is in a name? Apparently a lot! A magical story of vampire clans and those who seek to end their time on earth. Action, adventure and a list of characters to die for!
March 16, 2018
I'm a fan of Dean F. Wilson so I was thrilled to read a copy of this book for an honest review...
"In ancient times, the Romans called Ireland Hibernia. Much of the magic and mystery of the Emerald Isle has been lost over the years, but those with a second sight can see the secret life, the hidden world, where the line between myth and reality blurs. If you can see that, you've entered the Hibernian Hollows. Getting out is not so easy."
The main character travels to Ireland to discover his roots and the curse of his family name. Once there, he begins to experience way more than he bargained for and becomes an imporant part of a brewing vampire war.
"In ancient times, the Romans called Ireland Hibernia. Much of the magic and mystery of the Emerald Isle has been lost over the years, but those with a second sight can see the secret life, the hidden world, where the line between myth and reality blurs. If you can see that, you've entered the Hibernian Hollows. Getting out is not so easy."
The main character travels to Ireland to discover his roots and the curse of his family name. Once there, he begins to experience way more than he bargained for and becomes an imporant part of a brewing vampire war.
August 31, 2017
This is another one of my must read authors, & he didn't disappoint. Demons, vampires & monsters. Right up my street. If you like that sort of thing then it's a must read. Keeps the interest right through to the end. I couldn't put it down. Highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews