What do you think?
Rate this book
A Scarlet Fever
It was supposed to be one night to blow off steam. But one thing led to another. One look across the dance floor. One sexy stranger invited home. One playful bite too many.
One night that changed Mina Sun's life. She wakes up to find she's a reluctant vampire caught in the middle of an ancient battle between opposing forces that both want a piece of her.
As she struggles to adapt to life as one of the undead, and come to terms with her unnatural thirst and unexpected hungers, a new threat arises – part terrifying myth, part half-forgotten legend.
This threat jeopardizes the precarious ceasefire between warring vampire factions, and puts everything she loves – her city, her family, her friends – in danger. Can Mina protect them from the darkness that's descending, and can she save herself?
One night that changed Mina Sun's life. She wakes up to find she's a reluctant vampire caught in the middle of an ancient battle between opposing forces that both want a piece of her.
As she struggles to adapt to life as one of the undead, and come to terms with her unnatural thirst and unexpected hungers, a new threat arises – part terrifying myth, part half-forgotten legend.
This threat jeopardizes the precarious ceasefire between warring vampire factions, and puts everything she loves – her city, her family, her friends – in danger. Can Mina protect them from the darkness that's descending, and can she save herself?
317 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 8, 2017
68 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
February 20, 2020
This is a 3.5 star read.
September 13, 2019
3.5 stars
September 7, 2018
I read this as an ARC book. The storyline was a new twist that I enjoyed. Not the same old vampire story and then throw in the gargoyle aspect it made it ver interesting. I look forward to the next book in the series.
May 30, 2025
2.5
Would have benefited from a couple more rounds of editing (primary issues: too many minor characters; frequent punctuation errors), but a fun read overall. I'd like to read the rest of the trilogy.
Would have benefited from a couple more rounds of editing (primary issues: too many minor characters; frequent punctuation errors), but a fun read overall. I'd like to read the rest of the trilogy.
January 22, 2022
Not a bad start to a series.
Got this book on a whim, knowing this was probably another
' lame chick gets bit then suddenly becomes BADASS'. Color me surprised that the MC actually has feelings other than 'poor Me'.
It was an easy read, didn't take a lot of brain cells to follow along or even imagination to know what comes next. But the Gargoyles took me by surprise. Never read this 'beginning' of them before.
I'd like to see the MC grow, to become more, but I think we all know she will. Its sort of predictable, right?
Would I recommend this to a friend? Yes, if she was desperate for a book- and free on Kindle unlimited. And will I cave and read book 2?? Maybe yes, if its also free on kindle unlimited, mainly because I doubt I'd want to reread it again.
Got this book on a whim, knowing this was probably another
' lame chick gets bit then suddenly becomes BADASS'. Color me surprised that the MC actually has feelings other than 'poor Me'.
It was an easy read, didn't take a lot of brain cells to follow along or even imagination to know what comes next. But the Gargoyles took me by surprise. Never read this 'beginning' of them before.
I'd like to see the MC grow, to become more, but I think we all know she will. Its sort of predictable, right?
Would I recommend this to a friend? Yes, if she was desperate for a book- and free on Kindle unlimited. And will I cave and read book 2?? Maybe yes, if its also free on kindle unlimited, mainly because I doubt I'd want to reread it again.
July 14, 2024
From the First Bite Anthology:
Mina Sun, a Korean daughter, a girl going to college, a girl much to her family’s chagrin, does not follow a traditional Korean student lifestyle. She has more than one tattoo and is not taking a respected course, doctor, lawyer, or anything similar at her college. She also has a roommate, a fellow college student who leads her astray when she knows she should buckle down and study. A roommate who led her astray last night, and now she vaguely remembers letting go of her clothes last night with some man she had just met. In fact, with a hangover from hell, she looked around her room at the proof. Her day went to hell from there. She felt sick all day, and the doctor agreed with her and thought she had the flu, which meant fluids and rest. Rest she got, but not even water would stay down, so that evening, she went to the emergency room, but the press of humanity drove her from there. She felt better when she got outside and left that place behind. On her way home, the crowds had her looking for a place to breathe. She first tried a temple, but the incense was too strong for her. Then she went to a church and found the peace and quiet she was looking for, but it did not last long. A man led her from the church, and they ran into another man and woman. Then they fought over her and who she would go with and who would tell her what was in store for her.
This story contains different rules for vampires to abide by, but it is an interesting twist. The character’s interaction feels real. The character’s history is part of the story. The physical world-building is fuzzy around the edges in some parts and is described very well using words that are not in the everyday lexicon in other parts. There are also misused words, like the English language may not be the author’s or editor’s first language. The ethereal world-building is mostly personal.
This read is like a coming-of-age story, except a human has been turned into a vampire. I give this tale three stars out of five stars.
Mina Sun, a Korean daughter, a girl going to college, a girl much to her family’s chagrin, does not follow a traditional Korean student lifestyle. She has more than one tattoo and is not taking a respected course, doctor, lawyer, or anything similar at her college. She also has a roommate, a fellow college student who leads her astray when she knows she should buckle down and study. A roommate who led her astray last night, and now she vaguely remembers letting go of her clothes last night with some man she had just met. In fact, with a hangover from hell, she looked around her room at the proof. Her day went to hell from there. She felt sick all day, and the doctor agreed with her and thought she had the flu, which meant fluids and rest. Rest she got, but not even water would stay down, so that evening, she went to the emergency room, but the press of humanity drove her from there. She felt better when she got outside and left that place behind. On her way home, the crowds had her looking for a place to breathe. She first tried a temple, but the incense was too strong for her. Then she went to a church and found the peace and quiet she was looking for, but it did not last long. A man led her from the church, and they ran into another man and woman. Then they fought over her and who she would go with and who would tell her what was in store for her.
This story contains different rules for vampires to abide by, but it is an interesting twist. The character’s interaction feels real. The character’s history is part of the story. The physical world-building is fuzzy around the edges in some parts and is described very well using words that are not in the everyday lexicon in other parts. There are also misused words, like the English language may not be the author’s or editor’s first language. The ethereal world-building is mostly personal.
This read is like a coming-of-age story, except a human has been turned into a vampire. I give this tale three stars out of five stars.
September 7, 2018
Bloodsuckers👹 of the Bad Nasty Kind.....
Mina, Mina, Mina, You Naughty Naaasssty Girl💃💋!
Sometimes she feels,like a motherless child... Actually Mine's mother died recently and she's a college student all alone in the world, except for her brother.
She and her friend go to a club to get free drinks, and maybe pick up a man. Mina's type is tall, dark, handsome and intense. Right away She spots one, a man named Luca👹. She doesn't realize another tall dark, handsome and intense guy is watching her, and Luca👹. Luca is a Prince, a Vampire Prince👹.
It's Jack👹, another vampire, he's watching Mina💃💋, and she is his prey! OH NO! OH YEAH! Jack👹 and Luca👹 are both bloodsuckers!
Mina💃💋 takes Luca👹 home and he thinks he kills her, but she is still alive! He sends a cleanup crew to take her body away, and she is gone! Mina💃💋 gets up and feels like crap, and she notices her silver necklace bothers her skin, plus she has a huge bruise on her neck, but she goes to her classes anyway.
Mina💃💋 isn't dead, she's been turned into a new vampire!
ARC Received from HG
The book was $2.99 at the time of this review
Mina, Mina, Mina, You Naughty Naaasssty Girl💃💋!
Sometimes she feels,like a motherless child... Actually Mine's mother died recently and she's a college student all alone in the world, except for her brother.
She and her friend go to a club to get free drinks, and maybe pick up a man. Mina's type is tall, dark, handsome and intense. Right away She spots one, a man named Luca👹. She doesn't realize another tall dark, handsome and intense guy is watching her, and Luca👹. Luca is a Prince, a Vampire Prince👹.
It's Jack👹, another vampire, he's watching Mina💃💋, and she is his prey! OH NO! OH YEAH! Jack👹 and Luca👹 are both bloodsuckers!
Mina💃💋 takes Luca👹 home and he thinks he kills her, but she is still alive! He sends a cleanup crew to take her body away, and she is gone! Mina💃💋 gets up and feels like crap, and she notices her silver necklace bothers her skin, plus she has a huge bruise on her neck, but she goes to her classes anyway.
Mina💃💋 isn't dead, she's been turned into a new vampire!
ARC Received from HG
The book was $2.99 at the time of this review
September 12, 2018
This book by C Rene Astle about the beginning, understanding, and acceptance of vampirism was very educational about the vampire hierarchy, as she sees it. It was also a book about a society's trials and tribulations, not unlike our own society of today. The reader can't help but feel emotionally involved with the main character and her struggles throughout the story, all of which leads to the inevitable cliff-hanger of an ending, with many important aspects of the story left unresolved. I can't wait to read the next book in the series. This is a voluntary review of an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from Hidden Gems Books.
September 20, 2018
First let me state, I received an Advance Reader Copy, (ARC), but this in no way influences my review. I always leave an honest review. Also this author is new to me.
Wow!!! This book was awesome. It's different than what I usually read, as there is no romance, (or I should say sex). This is so what I grew up believing what vampires were like. Mina doesn't want to be forced into staying in sanctuary just because she was accidentally turned. But she's one tough cookie. I love the way the vampires are broken down to three different categories. I so can't wait to read the next story. I recommend this read. 5 Thumbs up
Wow!!! This book was awesome. It's different than what I usually read, as there is no romance, (or I should say sex). This is so what I grew up believing what vampires were like. Mina doesn't want to be forced into staying in sanctuary just because she was accidentally turned. But she's one tough cookie. I love the way the vampires are broken down to three different categories. I so can't wait to read the next story. I recommend this read. 5 Thumbs up
June 13, 2019
Interesting take on the vampire mythos. Admittedly, it took me awhile to get into this book, but overall, I enjoyed it. I felt sad for Mina as she struggled with her new reality and way of life. What was supposed to be a simple night out with a friend, turned out to be a massive life altering event. I empathized with Mina's reluctance to take Jack's advice and allow her loved ones to believe she died; thus giving up the life that she once knew, college, art, her job... I found myself wanting to know more of Darius, Jack, and Rhys' backstories. Especially how the friendship between Dar and Rhys began. Perhaps these things will be touched upon in the next book?
July 4, 2021
What a thrill. This novel was very different then most other Vampire Novels I have read to date. I was prepared to force my way through overruling and outlandish gore as well opposing sides eating up each other. The author spent a great deal of time and effort into developing her characters. They were drawn with complexity and a moral compass that she is finding realigned day by day as she grows accustomed to her new body and its needs. From the beginning to the last word of the last page the author has twisted and turned the dynamics of the storyline always remembering to include the authors.
March 28, 2022
One night, and then the world is changed forever
Why did she listen to her friend Cam, and go out that night......fate, boredom, idiocy??? Whatever it was, the after effects were soo much more than being sick, late for class, & calling in sick the next day. After weeks of starving, illness, training, half lies, semi-transparent excuses, and physically pushing herself to the limit. Mina can finally clearly see the path from where she is now, where she's heading, and the one that could lead her to the things she needs to know, and maybe the one where she'll figure out what she is becoming now.
Why did she listen to her friend Cam, and go out that night......fate, boredom, idiocy??? Whatever it was, the after effects were soo much more than being sick, late for class, & calling in sick the next day. After weeks of starving, illness, training, half lies, semi-transparent excuses, and physically pushing herself to the limit. Mina can finally clearly see the path from where she is now, where she's heading, and the one that could lead her to the things she needs to know, and maybe the one where she'll figure out what she is becoming now.
December 30, 2017
I don’t often read vampire books, but I read this one because I know the author. I was very impressed. The story was engaging, the characters had depth, the action was fast paced, and the writing was very good. Two groups of vampires. One takes as its mission guarding humans from things that go bump in the night and it turns out there are a lot of things that prey on both humans and vampires. Warning: this is a dark fantasy and may not be the best choice for someone looking for a squeaky clean read.
September 4, 2018
I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Usually one of the worst things you will get from a casual hook-up is a STD. This girl woke up dead and a vampire. Now the good guys want her, the bad guys want her, and some new evil want to kill everyone!
Scarlet Fever will keep you on the edge of your seat, and eager to find out what will happen next. I am eager for the next book in this series, I have a feeling that there is more to this new vampire than everyone knows.
Usually one of the worst things you will get from a casual hook-up is a STD. This girl woke up dead and a vampire. Now the good guys want her, the bad guys want her, and some new evil want to kill everyone!
Scarlet Fever will keep you on the edge of your seat, and eager to find out what will happen next. I am eager for the next book in this series, I have a feeling that there is more to this new vampire than everyone knows.
May 10, 2021
Ok first the good: I loved this book. Great twist on vampires with an interesting main character. Secondary characters that were well developed and interesting as well. I didn’t even mind that nothing was resolved at the end of this book. It was a total cliffhanger.
The bad: some of the words used were ridiculous. Like big words that average people don’t even use.
The ugly: spelling and grammar errors. An unfortunate occurrence considering the use of master’s degree vocabulary!
This book could have gotten more stars. I am definitely interested in the next book in the series.
The bad: some of the words used were ridiculous. Like big words that average people don’t even use.
The ugly: spelling and grammar errors. An unfortunate occurrence considering the use of master’s degree vocabulary!
This book could have gotten more stars. I am definitely interested in the next book in the series.
September 3, 2018
This was a great DARK paranormal story that pulled me in from the beginning! I enjoyed that there was some buildup while she transformed before she realized that she was a vampire. I found the different levels of the vampires an interesting twist in the story. There were so many things going on that there were times it took me a page to realize what I was reading. This is definitely a series I can see myself continuing on with.
I was gifted an ARC in return of an honest review.
I was gifted an ARC in return of an honest review.
March 23, 2022
This is a decent start to a new series.
There were parts that I struggled with a bit though. I felt like the different levels of vampire was a bit strange and it was difficult to see a difference between how they behaved so the explanation didn't make sense. There were a few other minor inconsistencies that were more annoying than anything, but were there all the same. That being said, I do plan to continue reading to see where things go for Mins and the rest if her group.
There were parts that I struggled with a bit though. I felt like the different levels of vampire was a bit strange and it was difficult to see a difference between how they behaved so the explanation didn't make sense. There were a few other minor inconsistencies that were more annoying than anything, but were there all the same. That being said, I do plan to continue reading to see where things go for Mins and the rest if her group.
July 12, 2022
An interesting supernatural read
Mina just needs to pull it together she has enough on her plate. She goes out with her roommate and everything changes. She is no longer human & she needs help. She is taken in by a group of vampires that show her how to survive. But the vampire that turned her needs her but she isn't giving up without a fight. Will she be able to live another day?
An interesting read.
Mina just needs to pull it together she has enough on her plate. She goes out with her roommate and everything changes. She is no longer human & she needs help. She is taken in by a group of vampires that show her how to survive. But the vampire that turned her needs her but she isn't giving up without a fight. Will she be able to live another day?
An interesting read.
May 31, 2023
Was a pretty good first book to set up the series! I'm into the story, the backstory was set up well and characters are charming and relatable. I loved Mina and found her to be very grounded and I loved the intrigue of the plot, mystery and myth coming together.
I devoured the book in a few days so I definitely think this is a good read!
I devoured the book in a few days so I definitely think this is a good read!
October 4, 2018
Although I am not an insta-love fan, this is a good 1st in series laying the groundwork and introducing the reader to the world and characters. I do think there needs to be more backstory and explanation but hopefully that comes in book 2
April 7, 2021
Enthralling
This was very well written with interesting characters. The sex stuff could have been dropped, it didn’t enhance the plot..
This was very well written with interesting characters. The sex stuff could have been dropped, it didn’t enhance the plot..
July 14, 2021
Loved it
O really enjoyed this book and didn't want it to end. The writing is wonderfully well above standard and reels you in and captivates you. I can't wait to read more
O really enjoyed this book and didn't want it to end. The writing is wonderfully well above standard and reels you in and captivates you. I can't wait to read more
November 6, 2021
Good ideas and Imagery
Too short stretch the scenes a bit it is good to just felt slightly incomplete will be waiting for the next release
Too short stretch the scenes a bit it is good to just felt slightly incomplete will be waiting for the next release
February 16, 2022
Vampire Mina Sun soon enough learn about them Vampire.great action pack story of asain woman kickbutt as she learns to control her vampire skills. Stronger character enjoy fast pace read.
June 25, 2023
I’m not a fan of vampire books but this one I loved! Mina is such a badass!
March 14, 2025
2.5 but not so bad to give it 2☆.
April 28, 2018
I sympathized with Mina as she transformed into a vampire and discovered the complex new world that awaited her. The different vampire factions are at war right in the heart of the city Mina loves. There are unexpected twists on the vampire genre I found intriguing.
A Scarlet Fever drew me in from the start, reminding me of Interview with the Vampire.
I'm looking forward to the next one in the series.
A Scarlet Fever drew me in from the start, reminding me of Interview with the Vampire.
I'm looking forward to the next one in the series.
December 30, 2022
I love this & I can't wait for more.
I will be also leaving a review on Goodreads @ Amazon.
And letting everyone know about it.
So i gave it a 5 Stars.
I will be also leaving a review on Goodreads @ Amazon.
And letting everyone know about it.
So i gave it a 5 Stars.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews