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Dark World: The Vampire Wish #0.5
The Vampire Rules
Before he was a vampire prince, he was just Jacen.
As one of the most promising athletes in the country, Jacen has his life all mapped out for himself. Train hard, win worldwide swimming championships, and go for the gold in the next Olympics.
But while celebrating a successful swim meet at his hotel bar, he meets a mysterious woman named Laila. Not only is Laila beautiful, but she’s smart, witty, and charming. So when she brazenly invites herself up to his room, he jumps at the opportunity to spend the night with her.
He gets far more than he bargained for when she bites his neck and abducts him to the hidden vampire kingdom of the Vale, changing his life forever.
If he can even call it a life anymore…
Discover how Jacen became a vampire prince in this exclusive prequel novella to the Dark World: The Vampire Wish series by USA Today bestselling author Michelle Madow!
As one of the most promising athletes in the country, Jacen has his life all mapped out for himself. Train hard, win worldwide swimming championships, and go for the gold in the next Olympics.
But while celebrating a successful swim meet at his hotel bar, he meets a mysterious woman named Laila. Not only is Laila beautiful, but she’s smart, witty, and charming. So when she brazenly invites herself up to his room, he jumps at the opportunity to spend the night with her.
He gets far more than he bargained for when she bites his neck and abducts him to the hidden vampire kingdom of the Vale, changing his life forever.
If he can even call it a life anymore…
Discover how Jacen became a vampire prince in this exclusive prequel novella to the Dark World: The Vampire Wish series by USA Today bestselling author Michelle Madow!
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First published January 2, 2018
244 people are currently reading
715 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Madow
96 books3,380 followersMichelle Madow is a USA Today bestselling author of fantasy romance novels filled with forbidden love, elemental magic, and epic twists that readers never see coming. With over three million books sold and translations in multiple languages, her addictive stories have captured hearts around the world.
She wrote her first novel in college and never looked back. Now, with 50 books published (and counting), she spends her time dreaming up magical realms and devastating romances that keep readers hooked from page one.
Originally from Maryland, she spent nearly two decades in Florida before a brief chapter in NYC—and now she’s back in the Sunshine State, where golden days fuel her creativity and moonlight sparks her imagination.
When she’s not writing, she’s likely getting lost in the magical world of reading, plotting her next big twist, or reminiscing about her travels to all seven continents.
She wrote her first novel in college and never looked back. Now, with 50 books published (and counting), she spends her time dreaming up magical realms and devastating romances that keep readers hooked from page one.
Originally from Maryland, she spent nearly two decades in Florida before a brief chapter in NYC—and now she’s back in the Sunshine State, where golden days fuel her creativity and moonlight sparks her imagination.
When she’s not writing, she’s likely getting lost in the magical world of reading, plotting her next big twist, or reminiscing about her travels to all seven continents.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
March 9, 2018
The Vampire Rules by Michelle Madow is a prequel novella to the Dark World: The Vampire Wish series. The series is a young adult paranormal fantasy that features vampires, witches, and werewolves.
During the full series readers met Jacen who had been turned into a vampire prince against his will. After being turned Jacen had gone on a blood lust rampage killing many humans and had hated what he had become. Readers learned a bit about him but this novella goes back and gives his full story.
As always this addition to the series was a fact paced and fun glimpse into the world in which Michelle Madow created in the Dark World series. The story let’s readers know exactly what had happened to Jacen with many more details than were learned from the series. The deeper look into the events that led him to where he was in the full series made his actions understandable.
Having read the full series previously I already knew I would enjoy this extra read and I’d still recommend checking out the entire set of books. There is also a spin off series coming soon that I’m excited to read that will surely add more into the already exciting world.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
During the full series readers met Jacen who had been turned into a vampire prince against his will. After being turned Jacen had gone on a blood lust rampage killing many humans and had hated what he had become. Readers learned a bit about him but this novella goes back and gives his full story.
As always this addition to the series was a fact paced and fun glimpse into the world in which Michelle Madow created in the Dark World series. The story let’s readers know exactly what had happened to Jacen with many more details than were learned from the series. The deeper look into the events that led him to where he was in the full series made his actions understandable.
Having read the full series previously I already knew I would enjoy this extra read and I’d still recommend checking out the entire set of books. There is also a spin off series coming soon that I’m excited to read that will surely add more into the already exciting world.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
January 9, 2018
kort maar krachtig een super top verhaal om de serie in te leiden.
January 10, 2018
The Vampire Rules is a novella written by Michelle Madow. The plot of this novella is pretty straight forward covering the boy meets vampire queen who converts him into a vampire. I can't really say that there are a lot of surprises in this novella nor are there any huge twists in the story. It is an ok story, no editorial errors. The pace is on the faster side since it is a novella.
Jacen is an average character, one who initially comes of with strong morals but who quickly realizes he has no idea what he got trapped in and it is not as easy as he may think to stick to what he believes may be right.
I can't really recommend paying over $3 for a shorter read like this one since in my eyes it is just ok, nothing spectacular. There is really nothing that makes this book stand out, good or bad really.
Voluntary review of Advance Reader Copy. I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher.
Jacen is an average character, one who initially comes of with strong morals but who quickly realizes he has no idea what he got trapped in and it is not as easy as he may think to stick to what he believes may be right.
I can't really recommend paying over $3 for a shorter read like this one since in my eyes it is just ok, nothing spectacular. There is really nothing that makes this book stand out, good or bad really.
Voluntary review of Advance Reader Copy. I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher.
April 9, 2018
In this prequel to The Vampire Wish, we meet Jacen and learn his backstory. This standalone novel can be read in any order - all its events happen before The Vampire Wish, and nothing in the book will spoil any of the plot points in the series. It also isn't necessary in order to understand what is going on in The Vampire Wish, so you can read it before, after, or during the other novels. We do gain more insight into Jacen's personality and his relationship with Laila, which make his actions and motivations more believable throughout his adventures.
This story begins when Jacen is human, an olympic hopeful out celebrating with the rest of his team. He meets a mysterious woman who will forever change his destiny and take him unwillingly on a journey that introduces him to a supernatural world hidden from mundane society. As he struggles to understand why his dreams have been ripped away, he must cope with his new reality and the hunger that brands him a monster in his own eyes. Though the tale is short, the consequenses are momentous.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this novella.
This story begins when Jacen is human, an olympic hopeful out celebrating with the rest of his team. He meets a mysterious woman who will forever change his destiny and take him unwillingly on a journey that introduces him to a supernatural world hidden from mundane society. As he struggles to understand why his dreams have been ripped away, he must cope with his new reality and the hunger that brands him a monster in his own eyes. Though the tale is short, the consequenses are momentous.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this novella.
July 10, 2025
The Vampire Rules: Dark World: The Vampire Wish Prequel Novella ~ The Perfect Bite-Sized Start to a Darkly Magical World!
I picked up The Vampire Rules as a quick prequel after diving into Michelle Madow’s Vampire Wish series, and I was instantly hooked. This novella delivers a fast-paced, gripping introduction to the Dark World, where vampires reign and humans are nothing more than prey. The atmosphere is dark and enchanting, with a gothic elegance that pulls you in from the first page. The mysterious vampire featured on the cover (who I suspect plays a major role in the main series) was both commanding and intriguing. Madow’s writing is clean and vivid, giving just enough detail to paint the world without overwhelming the reader. As a prequel, it hits every mark—it sets the tone, teases the central conflict, and introduces just enough mystery to make you need to keep reading. If you enjoy dangerous vampires, secretive societies, and dark fantasy worlds, this novella is the perfect starting point. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to dive into the first full-length book in the series again!!
I picked up The Vampire Rules as a quick prequel after diving into Michelle Madow’s Vampire Wish series, and I was instantly hooked. This novella delivers a fast-paced, gripping introduction to the Dark World, where vampires reign and humans are nothing more than prey. The atmosphere is dark and enchanting, with a gothic elegance that pulls you in from the first page. The mysterious vampire featured on the cover (who I suspect plays a major role in the main series) was both commanding and intriguing. Madow’s writing is clean and vivid, giving just enough detail to paint the world without overwhelming the reader. As a prequel, it hits every mark—it sets the tone, teases the central conflict, and introduces just enough mystery to make you need to keep reading. If you enjoy dangerous vampires, secretive societies, and dark fantasy worlds, this novella is the perfect starting point. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to dive into the first full-length book in the series again!!
March 15, 2018
I read this novella after I had finished the Dark World Series...I don’t think it matters really when you read this, as this is about the beginning of how the main character, of the series, became a vampire. It dosnt give any spoilers to the rest of the books, I enjoyed this novella because during all the series there was references to his trauma, but you never find out the full story... Now you can...Michelle Madow starts this story in the real world, so to speak, and it gives you everything you need to know and understand about Jacens feelings and compliance’s as he joins the Dark World Series...A great little read. Full of the authors creativity... definitely recommend reading this as an addition to the “Dark World” series which is outstanding, then after that series comes “The Angel Trials” this in itself carries references to the Dark World Series but it is a totally different story, there is only book 1 out at the moment, and it looks like it’s going to be just as good and enthralling, as all the other Michelle Madows
Books.
Books.
July 15, 2019
As a brand new blood slave, Annika must survive her dangerous new circumstances—or face death from the wolves prowling the Vale’s enchanted walls. But sparks fly when she meets the vampire prince Jacen. She hates the idea of falling for the enemy, but her connection with the mysterious prince could be the key to her freedom.
The stories are very predictable, and over the top unbelievable...even for paranormal. It is appropriate for YA readers. There was only one curse word in the entire series ,there were two sex scenes (fairly clean, no intimate details other than a mention of the man entering the woman)
The characters were not relatable especially Karina. There were no big reveals and even the main characters lacked passion and depth. I was hoping for a big fight scene at the end but there was none. Camilla was the most interesting character in this story as she plotted and back stabbed her way through the series.
The stories are very predictable, and over the top unbelievable...even for paranormal. It is appropriate for YA readers. There was only one curse word in the entire series ,there were two sex scenes (fairly clean, no intimate details other than a mention of the man entering the woman)
The characters were not relatable especially Karina. There were no big reveals and even the main characters lacked passion and depth. I was hoping for a big fight scene at the end but there was none. Camilla was the most interesting character in this story as she plotted and back stabbed her way through the series.
December 18, 2021
Honestly, after reading this short introduction to Jacen, I can say that it's unnecessary to read this book since we'd already learned the truth from the main story. But those who adore him can give it a go as this book is free on Kindle 😊.
I learned something new from this short story that the main book lacked.
I learned something new from this short story that the main book lacked.
January 7, 2018
This book is a novella that accompanies the Dark World: The Vampire Wish series, and tells the story of Jacen's conversion from human champion swimmer to vampire Prince thanks to Queen Laila, and what happens when he's trying to control his bloodlust (unsuccessfully). These are the events that happen in the run-up to book one of the Vampire Wish series, and really give the reader more of an insight into Jacen's character and mindset. If you like the Vampire Wish series, or are considering reading it, I'd definitely recommend reading this book!
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
January 10, 2018
Very quick read. This novel is the perfect introduction to Michelle's Dark World Series. This novel is also amazing for anyone that is caught up with this series. See Jacen and how he becomes a prince of the Vale is intense!
I love Michelle's writing and this shows just how fast life can change. I enjoy that Jacen is abducted in Toronto which is fairly close to where I reside in Ontario Canada. The Vampire Rules is another great installment into my favourite series that Michelle has written to date.
This entire series is beyond enthralling, it's exciting and fast paced. I can't wait to see what else happens in the world. Pick up this series you will not be disappointed!
I love Michelle's writing and this shows just how fast life can change. I enjoy that Jacen is abducted in Toronto which is fairly close to where I reside in Ontario Canada. The Vampire Rules is another great installment into my favourite series that Michelle has written to date.
This entire series is beyond enthralling, it's exciting and fast paced. I can't wait to see what else happens in the world. Pick up this series you will not be disappointed!
October 31, 2018
I didn’t like the 15 short chapters in the book but each chapter did give you something different. The Vampire Rules by Michelle Madow is a great book to read and was given to me to read for free by Michelle. I was surprised to find out the complete series is free with Kindle Unlimited . So now I get to read The Vampire Wish: The Complete Series (Dark World) for as well. I would never recommend someone paying for a fast paced introduction to a short story no matter how good the book is or was. I like her writing style and looking forward to reading more of her books and not just The Dark World Series
September 30, 2024
This short novella, The Vampire Rules, is the prequel to The Vampire Wish Series.
It’s a super quick read about how Jacen is turned into a vampire (Prince!) against his will and learns how to control his bl00dlust all the while plotting his revenge against his maker.
So I’m pretty sure I’ve already read The Vampire Wish series because the world building sounds very familiar. Having said that, this book was such a quick and easy read, it’s great to find out how Jacen comes to where he is in the series. I love Michelle Madow’s writing style and so I’ll have to read the series again to have it fresh in my mind!
It’s a super quick read about how Jacen is turned into a vampire (Prince!) against his will and learns how to control his bl00dlust all the while plotting his revenge against his maker.
So I’m pretty sure I’ve already read The Vampire Wish series because the world building sounds very familiar. Having said that, this book was such a quick and easy read, it’s great to find out how Jacen comes to where he is in the series. I love Michelle Madow’s writing style and so I’ll have to read the series again to have it fresh in my mind!
November 22, 2021
Jacen gets turned
This novella gives you a glimpse of Jacen as he deals with being a newly turned vampire and the events that led up to Annika's family being killed. Jacen is tricked by Laila, turned, his friends killed, and then taken to the Vale. His bloodlust is strong and it takes an escape and mass deaths for Laila to figure that out. But he vows to end her when he gets the chance.
Seeing Jacen before he was prince of the Vale is so cool. Hes just as lost as anyone else would be.
This novella gives you a glimpse of Jacen as he deals with being a newly turned vampire and the events that led up to Annika's family being killed. Jacen is tricked by Laila, turned, his friends killed, and then taken to the Vale. His bloodlust is strong and it takes an escape and mass deaths for Laila to figure that out. But he vows to end her when he gets the chance.
Seeing Jacen before he was prince of the Vale is so cool. Hes just as lost as anyone else would be.
December 28, 2019
This is a short story which tells the story of how Jacen became a vampire and the details surrounding it.
I enjoyed this quick read which gave me an insight into the characters of Jacen and Laila both of whom will feature in the actaul series The Vampire Wish.
This short story can be read before or after the main series, but I'm glad that I read it first, as now when I start the main series, I feel like I already know two of the characters.
So book one here I come.
I enjoyed this quick read which gave me an insight into the characters of Jacen and Laila both of whom will feature in the actaul series The Vampire Wish.
This short story can be read before or after the main series, but I'm glad that I read it first, as now when I start the main series, I feel like I already know two of the characters.
So book one here I come.
August 14, 2022
This prequel to the series is not the run of the mill vampire novel.
Jacen and his friends from the swimming team are celebrating at their hotel when he meets Talia. She isn't who she appears to be. Jacen takes her to his room where he is horrified by her behaviour. What happens next is upsetting.
Jacen is a nice enough chap, but Talia turns out to be horrible. It's a good indication of her vampire world.
Jacen and his friends from the swimming team are celebrating at their hotel when he meets Talia. She isn't who she appears to be. Jacen takes her to his room where he is horrified by her behaviour. What happens next is upsetting.
Jacen is a nice enough chap, but Talia turns out to be horrible. It's a good indication of her vampire world.
January 14, 2025
It's a very good beginning to the series. This book gives great information about how Queen Laila got to Jacen and why she chose him to be a Prince of the vail. It also explains some of the rules they have to live by. My only issue was this book was very short and I still have questions about what happened between the end of this book (like a week maybe two after Jacen was turned) and when the first book of the series starts. Overall good book.
January 7, 2018
This is The Vampire Rules written by Michelle Madow. It’s a good quick read. We meet Jason and see how his life spirals out of control in the blink of an eye. It’s not his fault, just a case of wrong place at the wrong time. It’s the beginning of a sure-to-be exciting new series! I received a readers copy and chose voluntarily to leave this review.
August 13, 2018
I'm glad to find out that the Dark World: Vampire Wish series is connected to the Dark World: Angel Trials series. I enjoyed The Vampire Rules and since I just finished the Angel Trials books, I look forward to reading the Vampire Wish series.
The Vampire Rules was a nice introduction to some of the charcters I've heard about.
The Vampire Rules was a nice introduction to some of the charcters I've heard about.
February 18, 2018
This is a fantastic prequel to the series! I am definitely going to read the next book to see what happens next. I am not overly impressed with the cover but the storyline makes up for it!
I was gifted an ARC in return of an honest review.
I was gifted an ARC in return of an honest review.
February 27, 2018
A short prequel to the Dark World series. It was interesting to hear Jacen's story from his POV. A bit violent for me, but I did know what I was getting myself into. Besides violence there is a little swearing, a bar scene with drinking and a passionate kiss.
April 22, 2018
An intense introduction to Jacen: former human athlete, Prince of the Vale. I hope to read more about Jacen in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and voluntarily posted an honest review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and voluntarily posted an honest review.
March 28, 2019
Not a bad read. Very short. Took about an hour to read. I started with this book and I am currently half way through the official first of the series and I can already see that this book fleshes out the past of one of the MC's. Looking forward to the series.
September 21, 2019
Very action packed start to the series. Jacen spends the story figuring out and learning about his new life and those around him. He struggles to come to grips with his new life and actions. Interested to see what he does next.
Read
August 26, 2022This short story does well to show all that happened. It does well to show how Jacen became a vampire and how Queen Leila drove such hated into his heart. I liked how this showed just how evil and manipulative she was. It was short but it was to the point.
June 24, 2025
Interesting
What happens when Olympic bound Haven talks to a girl in a bar? He gets into trouble as she is not what she seems. An interesting start and I will be reading the series.
What happens when Olympic bound Haven talks to a girl in a bar? He gets into trouble as she is not what she seems. An interesting start and I will be reading the series.
January 5, 2018
Intriguing, if a bit short (although it's a prequel) and sort of eh.
January 9, 2018
Quick read - just a novella -but fills in Jacen's beginnings in the vampire world. Fits seamlessly with the rest of the series.
January 12, 2018
A very short and quick read that has a smidge of a hook for the series it serves as a prequel too.
January 21, 2018
It was nice to see this side of Jacen after completing the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews