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Darling Girls
Fang Meets FangThe vampires of Candle Bay and Crimson Cove come together for the Biting Man Festival in Eternity, California, to celebrate a centuries-old tradition that quickly turns murderous as they’re faced with old enemies, uncontrolled bloodlust, and the unpredictable antics of a self-proclaimed vampire slayer who is hellbent on destroying them all.
- GenresEbooks
524 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 16, 2018
15 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
Tamara Thorne
75 books291 followersTamara Thorne has collected ghost stories, true and fictional, since she saw her first Twilight Zone as a tot, and continues to this day. In addition to writing novels and stories of the paranormal, she also writes non-fiction and is an active ghost hunter. She makes her home in southern California with her husband and their feline family and when she’s not writing, can be found haunting ghost towns, phantom-filled hotel rooms, and other spooky places. Tamara loves to hear from her readers. Whether you have questions or comments or would like to share your own ghostly experience,come visit her at her website www.tamarathorne.com.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
May 19, 2025
What Happens at the Biting Man Festival?
Small backstory:
The Biting Man Festival is coming to Eternity, California and the vampires are coming out in full swing to attend. Vampires from Candle Bay and Crimson Cove are planning on having some fun at the festival but someone is planning on thwarting their plans - a vampire hunter is going to attend as well causing some chaos in the process!
That is about all I can hand out with a small backstory without giving away spoilers as there is so much that happens within this story that I cannot divulge anything else so if you are intrigued then go read this book!
Thoughts:
This book is sort of a companion book to the book Candle Bay by Tamara Thorne and Crimson Cove by Alistair Cross and it sort of fits in between both books as it brings together vampires from both series into this book so to understand background on the vampires within this story it might be best to read those other two books first to understand what takes place in this book.
There is quite a bit of vampire action that lies within this book along with some suspense and intrigue. Both authors come together and bring these characters to life within these pages. Lots of edge of the seat tension when everything picks up speed the story barrels along quickly. This book is a hefty one though but the story pulled me back into the lives of some of the vampire characters from the other books I have read by these authors! Looking forward to reading the rest of the books that these authors wrote that are weaved around the vampires! Giving this book five "Bloody Fangs" stars!
Small backstory:
The Biting Man Festival is coming to Eternity, California and the vampires are coming out in full swing to attend. Vampires from Candle Bay and Crimson Cove are planning on having some fun at the festival but someone is planning on thwarting their plans - a vampire hunter is going to attend as well causing some chaos in the process!
That is about all I can hand out with a small backstory without giving away spoilers as there is so much that happens within this story that I cannot divulge anything else so if you are intrigued then go read this book!
Thoughts:
This book is sort of a companion book to the book Candle Bay by Tamara Thorne and Crimson Cove by Alistair Cross and it sort of fits in between both books as it brings together vampires from both series into this book so to understand background on the vampires within this story it might be best to read those other two books first to understand what takes place in this book.
There is quite a bit of vampire action that lies within this book along with some suspense and intrigue. Both authors come together and bring these characters to life within these pages. Lots of edge of the seat tension when everything picks up speed the story barrels along quickly. This book is a hefty one though but the story pulled me back into the lives of some of the vampire characters from the other books I have read by these authors! Looking forward to reading the rest of the books that these authors wrote that are weaved around the vampires! Giving this book five "Bloody Fangs" stars!
April 30, 2018
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April 30, 2018
Darling girls isn’t my usual kind of novel, but I do like vampire books and tropes. The setting and feel of Darling girls is more like Pretty Little Liars meets Vampires than it is Underworld. I’m more an Underworld kind of guy (so take my review with a grain of salt.) I also love White Wolf/WoD stuff and this book really has a World of Darkness kind of feel, but more with battles of intrigue than straight up adrenaline fueled slugfests.
That’s not to say that there is not blood and action. There certainly is, but the book also has plenty of plots and scheming and some elements of mystery. Thorne and Cross’s narrative shines particularly well in dialogue. During some of the action the text begins to wax passive, but that may be my editor brain frowning at verbiage choices (I especially noticed it in passages later in the book, so it may have been an issue of editing—the first 60% always gets more revisions than later sections—there were a few other minor things, but nothing that really took away from the narrative.)
I really did love this cover, too. It helped set the tone of the book.
I got a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review on my blog.
That’s not to say that there is not blood and action. There certainly is, but the book also has plenty of plots and scheming and some elements of mystery. Thorne and Cross’s narrative shines particularly well in dialogue. During some of the action the text begins to wax passive, but that may be my editor brain frowning at verbiage choices (I especially noticed it in passages later in the book, so it may have been an issue of editing—the first 60% always gets more revisions than later sections—there were a few other minor things, but nothing that really took away from the narrative.)
I really did love this cover, too. It helped set the tone of the book.
I got a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review on my blog.
January 8, 2021
The Review
While I am fairly new to the vampire worlds created by the authors, the novel felt fresh and easily followed for newcomers to the franchises. The in-depth analysis of the lore and mythology these two authors have crafted both separately and together were entertaining to see unfold, and the adult-driven character development brought a sense of both realism and fantasy as the human cast of characters met the vampires.
The way the authors were able to create so many intricate plot points throughout this novel and seamlessly weave them together so that each character’s arc felt both unique and cohesive with the overall story was a true masterpiece in storytelling. Combined with the incredible imagery used throughout the narrative that brought the settings to life, including the area known as Eternity, made this one novel that was easy to devour.
The Verdict
A brilliant and expertly crafted supernatural drama, authors Tamara Thorne and Alistair Cross have breathed new life into the vampire sub-genre with the novel “Darling Girls”. Fans of both authors and their individual vampire series will love both the cast of characters they know and love and the ease with which these two series blend together, making this a must-read for vampire fiction lovers everywhere. Be sure to grab your copy today!
While I am fairly new to the vampire worlds created by the authors, the novel felt fresh and easily followed for newcomers to the franchises. The in-depth analysis of the lore and mythology these two authors have crafted both separately and together were entertaining to see unfold, and the adult-driven character development brought a sense of both realism and fantasy as the human cast of characters met the vampires.
The way the authors were able to create so many intricate plot points throughout this novel and seamlessly weave them together so that each character’s arc felt both unique and cohesive with the overall story was a true masterpiece in storytelling. Combined with the incredible imagery used throughout the narrative that brought the settings to life, including the area known as Eternity, made this one novel that was easy to devour.
The Verdict
A brilliant and expertly crafted supernatural drama, authors Tamara Thorne and Alistair Cross have breathed new life into the vampire sub-genre with the novel “Darling Girls”. Fans of both authors and their individual vampire series will love both the cast of characters they know and love and the ease with which these two series blend together, making this a must-read for vampire fiction lovers everywhere. Be sure to grab your copy today!
October 18, 2018
This book was kind of hard for me to get through. It wasn't the type of book I usually choose to read, and it was very long. It wasn't scary or creepy, just gross- lots of violence and flagrant sex. There was humor, but it was not the type of humor that is funny to me.
The characters in the book were developed and interesting. The book was organized, easy to follow, and easy to understand. The plot was one that has been done over and over, but the characters did add to it, making the story more interesting.
If you like stories about vampires that are a bit humorous and don't mind disgusting scenes, try this book. The two authors have separate vampire series and this book combines the two. For a book that combines two series, the authors did a fabulous job bringing two worlds together. If .you are like me and like more creepy vampire stories, this is not for you.
The characters in the book were developed and interesting. The book was organized, easy to follow, and easy to understand. The plot was one that has been done over and over, but the characters did add to it, making the story more interesting.
If you like stories about vampires that are a bit humorous and don't mind disgusting scenes, try this book. The two authors have separate vampire series and this book combines the two. For a book that combines two series, the authors did a fabulous job bringing two worlds together. If .you are like me and like more creepy vampire stories, this is not for you.
May 8, 2018
Brilliant carnage at its best
Thorne and Cross have come together again to create this magnificent and brilliant horrifying tales of vampires. It seems the two have united their vampires from previous stories to make this one intense and murderous story. Filled with vampires and bloodlust, this story unites the two authors, and is written wonderfully. The best part of a duo of authors is when you can't distinguish that there were two authors. Each author has a unique style, but these authors mesh their stories so well. It is more than just two writers, they are bringing their characters to meet in a unique way. The depth of the darkness and brutality, along with the interaction of the "vampire slayer", the story is well balanced, and not just all dark.
Thorne and Cross have come together again to create this magnificent and brilliant horrifying tales of vampires. It seems the two have united their vampires from previous stories to make this one intense and murderous story. Filled with vampires and bloodlust, this story unites the two authors, and is written wonderfully. The best part of a duo of authors is when you can't distinguish that there were two authors. Each author has a unique style, but these authors mesh their stories so well. It is more than just two writers, they are bringing their characters to meet in a unique way. The depth of the darkness and brutality, along with the interaction of the "vampire slayer", the story is well balanced, and not just all dark.
April 21, 2018
The vampires from both Candle Bay and Crimson Cove join together to celebrate the centuries old Biting Man Festival which is held in Eternity, CA. However this year the festival is disrupted by a heady combination of enemies, bloodlust and a vampire slayer.
I found this story a little tedious at the start but it soon got going as it wove various story-line strands together in the buildup to the festival and the eventual climax which was definitely a bloody affair. The writing was ok and I could clearly understand the story. I found the build up a little slow in places which was a shame but in the end I was definitely able to empathise with the various characters involved.
I found this story a little tedious at the start but it soon got going as it wove various story-line strands together in the buildup to the festival and the eventual climax which was definitely a bloody affair. The writing was ok and I could clearly understand the story. I found the build up a little slow in places which was a shame but in the end I was definitely able to empathise with the various characters involved.
December 30, 2024
A Must Read
"Darling Girls" is an excellent novel - I would easily classify this as a must read. This is yet a further example of why Tamara Thorne and Alistair Cross are two of my favorite authors.
Their characters leap off the page, taking on life of their own. One character in particular in this book - Neil Trinsky - may well be the single most vile fictional character that I have ever encountered. Trinsky had me thoroughly disgusted in every possible way by the end of the book. It's the mark of great writers that can create a character that can actually physically churn my stomach!
Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of "Darling Girls"!
"Darling Girls" is an excellent novel - I would easily classify this as a must read. This is yet a further example of why Tamara Thorne and Alistair Cross are two of my favorite authors.
Their characters leap off the page, taking on life of their own. One character in particular in this book - Neil Trinsky - may well be the single most vile fictional character that I have ever encountered. Trinsky had me thoroughly disgusted in every possible way by the end of the book. It's the mark of great writers that can create a character that can actually physically churn my stomach!
Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of "Darling Girls"!
July 29, 2019
Book one in the series, vampires galore
This was my first introduction to the vampires of Candle Bay and Crimson Cove. A Thorne and Cross collaboration. Seamlessly written, it was packed with dynamic characters, Neil and Amanda being two of my favourites aka Neil, and his descent into murder and insanity, was brilliant, and who could forget power hungry Amanda. Highly recommended for vampire fans and horror buffs.
This was my first introduction to the vampires of Candle Bay and Crimson Cove. A Thorne and Cross collaboration. Seamlessly written, it was packed with dynamic characters, Neil and Amanda being two of my favourites aka Neil, and his descent into murder and insanity, was brilliant, and who could forget power hungry Amanda. Highly recommended for vampire fans and horror buffs.
June 26, 2021
Another fab read by the talented duo of cross and Thorne.
Loved every bit of it . It's a very clever read bringing the vampire clans invented by the authors together and works brilliant. Fab characters as usual 👌 bring this masterpiece together. Big round of applause and looking forward to reading something else by these amazing authors.
Highly recommended and guaranteed you won't be disappointed.
Loved every bit of it . It's a very clever read bringing the vampire clans invented by the authors together and works brilliant. Fab characters as usual 👌 bring this masterpiece together. Big round of applause and looking forward to reading something else by these amazing authors.
Highly recommended and guaranteed you won't be disappointed.
October 25, 2023
Great Crossover.
I honestly have never read anything by Tamara Thorne. I have read and follow Alistair Cross’s Crimson Cove. I enjoyed the plot of this combined works; especially the introduction of Candle Bay’s vampires. Their introduction expanded the characters in the vampire world; which was a treat. While I liked the scene settings, I
Always wish for more.
I honestly have never read anything by Tamara Thorne. I have read and follow Alistair Cross’s Crimson Cove. I enjoyed the plot of this combined works; especially the introduction of Candle Bay’s vampires. Their introduction expanded the characters in the vampire world; which was a treat. While I liked the scene settings, I
Always wish for more.
December 1, 2020
Action, humor and someone you'll love to hate!
I love the world created by Thorne and Cross and how characters cross over and worlds collide. I can't wait to read more about Eternity and all my favorite Vampires too!
I love the world created by Thorne and Cross and how characters cross over and worlds collide. I can't wait to read more about Eternity and all my favorite Vampires too!
December 27, 2023
I absolutely adored this book, it was my first introduction to candle bay and crimson cove vampires, I'm now going to read all related books.
April 27, 2018
How is it possible for 2 authors to write so many books that have never let me down? I may call them mean names sometimes, but their writing always surprises me and leaves me wanting more, but not in a bad way.
Darling Girls is no different. It takes place in Eternity during a Vampire festival that formerly sweet Amanda is trying to crash and force a wedding. She is a horrible person and vampire. She was so nice in the first book, but something went terribly wrong with her in the time since then.
We get a nice in-depth, barf worthy glimpse into the pig that is better known by his human name, Neil. Neil is a self-proclaimed vampire hunter with an enormous unwarranted ego. He is the epitome of disgusting. Every time I read anything about him it made me cringe. In fact, my notes actually say, “disgusting, immature, lazy, self-absorbed douche” in one place and “his mother should have swallowed” in another! He uses the phrases “little slut” and “little bitch” that lead me to believe he has “little” issues down below if you know what I mean. I feel so bad for his mom.
As usual, I love the chapter names throughout the book such as “So Long, and Thanks for All the Blood” (similar to Hitchiker’s Guide to the Galaxy) and “Are you there God? It’s me, Neil.” They also refer to someone as “The Mad Shitter” and that had me laughing so hard I may or may not have fallen off the couch.
The Darling twins, “Juicy” Lucy and “Poison” Ivy were a different sort of character that at times left me somewhat grossed out but also somewhat curious. I will say I didn’t love the ending, but not because it wasn’t awesome and well written, but because I’m just mad that I didn’t like what happened.
I recommend Darling Girls to anyone who likes dark vampire books that aren’t all lovey dovey but not aren’t cold either. Try to check out the other books about the Candle Bay and Crimson cove vampires before you read Darling Girls if you can. They aren’t completely necessary to read first but will give you a better understanding of the dynamics of the story.
Darling Girls is no different. It takes place in Eternity during a Vampire festival that formerly sweet Amanda is trying to crash and force a wedding. She is a horrible person and vampire. She was so nice in the first book, but something went terribly wrong with her in the time since then.
We get a nice in-depth, barf worthy glimpse into the pig that is better known by his human name, Neil. Neil is a self-proclaimed vampire hunter with an enormous unwarranted ego. He is the epitome of disgusting. Every time I read anything about him it made me cringe. In fact, my notes actually say, “disgusting, immature, lazy, self-absorbed douche” in one place and “his mother should have swallowed” in another! He uses the phrases “little slut” and “little bitch” that lead me to believe he has “little” issues down below if you know what I mean. I feel so bad for his mom.
As usual, I love the chapter names throughout the book such as “So Long, and Thanks for All the Blood” (similar to Hitchiker’s Guide to the Galaxy) and “Are you there God? It’s me, Neil.” They also refer to someone as “The Mad Shitter” and that had me laughing so hard I may or may not have fallen off the couch.
The Darling twins, “Juicy” Lucy and “Poison” Ivy were a different sort of character that at times left me somewhat grossed out but also somewhat curious. I will say I didn’t love the ending, but not because it wasn’t awesome and well written, but because I’m just mad that I didn’t like what happened.
I recommend Darling Girls to anyone who likes dark vampire books that aren’t all lovey dovey but not aren’t cold either. Try to check out the other books about the Candle Bay and Crimson cove vampires before you read Darling Girls if you can. They aren’t completely necessary to read first but will give you a better understanding of the dynamics of the story.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews