In order to defeat a monster, one must become a monster.
Vampires live amongst us, feeding off the innocent and succumbing to the demons controlling their desires.
I tried to pretend they didn’t exist—until the government kidnapped my brother because he holds the genetic making for the cure to eradicate the vampire disease from the world.
Or so they claim.
I know their true motives, and there’s no way I’m going to let them keep him without a fight. Unfortunately, there’s only one way I can become strong enough to go up against them.
Become a vampire myself.
Except, I never expected to come across a ghost from my past who happens to hunt vampires. Now, infiltrating the hunter world, I’m surrounded by those who want to kill me and only a few who want to save me.
But I’ll do whatever it takes to save my little brother. Even become the monster I vowed to kill.
This author has been on my radar for a couple years, and I jumped at the chance to try her when it was offered. I am so glad I did. This book was interesting, well-written, and I liked the characters. I generally am shying away from younger characters like this protagonist who is only 17, but Kali didn’t really act like she was 17, more of a younger 20s, so I didn’t mind it. I was actually surprised when it was mentioned in the book that she was only 17. I was also surprised when I couldn’t decide which love interest I liked better; they both are interesting. Although, I admit to maybe liking one better than the other. I do wish more of the book was focused on Kali rescuing Mason and less on her arguing with her other brother Finn; it got to the point I was ready to strangle them both. However, I did really enjoy the book, and I can’t wait to see what happens next as I’m excited to learn more about everyone. I do recommend this book! I was provided the e-book which I voluntarily reviewed.
Kali is reckless, selfish, and impulsive. She's already lost most of her family so when the faction took her 15-year-old brother, Mason away to 'test' for a cure for vampirism, she did the unthinkable. She plans to walk the fine line between vampirism and humanity by drinking just enough human blood to gain demon-vampire abilities without developing bloodlust. What she doesn't expect is t be taken in by vampire hunters who save her instead of killing her outright. She also doesn't expect to come face to face with her lost past. Once in the world of vampire hunters, Kali still isn't safe. Only a few believe she should be kept alive. Others fear that she is a demon and should be destroyed. Kali understands their fears but she won't let them stop her from rescuing her brother. And when she joins their fight, it becomes clear just who Kali is and how important she can be to the world.
Shadow Realms drops you right into the world of the urban vampire. The world-building, the prophecy, the Vampire Hunters are all well-conceived and described. That characters are all full-bodied. The relationships, whether they are between siblings, potential romantic partners, new friends or angry enemies all ring true. There's plenty of suspense, action, and a touch of possible romance. Book two should be a good one.
To say that this book was fucking amazing would be an understatement. It put a new spin on vampires that I had never seen done before. This novel was action packed, full of bravery, and put a real emphasis on the things we would do to protect our family. I love books that contain hunters, slayers, and demons so this book was right up my alley, and it did not disappoint. I can't wait to see what happens next in this trilogy!
“There is a legend of a demon huntress who banished the demons into the shadow realm, freeing our world of their reign. Furthermore, there’s a prophecy that she will return in a descendent, if the need arises, and help rid the world of the demons once and for all.” - Lana
Seventeen year old Kali has grown up in a world where vampires are possessed by demons and while the government pretends to search for a cure that will eradicate them, many suspect that they are secretly in league with them. When Kali’s younger brother Mason, tests positive for the mandatory urine sample that those who are coming of age must provide, he is taken by the faction. Kali’s older brother, Finn, disappeared five years before, and is presumed dead. Refusing to lose Mason too, Kali realises that her only chance of rescuing him is to walk the thin line between humanity and vampirism whereby she has their abilities without the accompanying bloodlust.
When vampire hunters interrupt a blood sacrifice, Finn is appalled when he recognises one of the vampire fledglings as his baby sister. Kali is shocked to learn that Finn is alive and learns that he was rescued by hunters and has spent the last five years, training to become one while watching his siblings from the shadows.
Kali is quarantined for her part in the blood sacrifice which almost turned her into a vampire. The decision not to kill her outright causes discontent amongst the hunters, particularly Max, who was a blood sacrifice himself and who despises the choice she made. When she fails to show signs of vampirism, Kali is released from quarantine and irritated at Finn’s overprotectiveness, resolves to train as a huntress and have a part in rescuing Mason. Lana, a huntress high up in the hierarchy, sees potential in Kali and helps her to train. Kali learns of a prophecy foretelling the eradication of the vampires at the hands of a demon huntress.
News of Mason’s whereabouts, however, instigates Kali to make a reckless decision that not only endangers her own life, but that of the very man who despises her. Will Kali redeem herself?
Shadow Realms is the first instalment of the Shadow Realm series and was my first introduction to the author. I was impressed by her unique concept of vampires in that they are being controlled by demons. The idea that by tasting the blood of a human, one opened a part of their soul up to the demon world which gave one abilities but cursed them with bloodlust was intriguing.
The characters were relatable, flawed and realistic. Kali is impulsive, reckless, stubborn yet brave. Her love for her brother being her only driving force since the loss of her mother. Finn was annoying at times due to his overbearing protectiveness towards Kali. Despite Ioving Kaden, it was Max who turned out to be a surprise.
All in all, Shadow Realms is a unique, fast paced, action packed book with enough twists and turns to ensnare the reader into picking up the next instalment. The strength of the book definitely lies in the intriguing world building that the author has gone at great lengths to portray. I highly recommend it to fans of vampires, demons, hunters and urban fantasy.
When Kali's brother Mason is taken by the demons, she has no choice but to turn into the very monster she hates in order to find him. As she's about to take blood from a sacrifice to fully turn into a vampire, the group is attacked. Kali tries to get away, but is caught and pinned to the ground by blue eyed Kade. Next, she notices a face she never thought she'd see again: her brother Finn.
Finn had been missing for years and Kali assumed the worst. Now that she's reunited and learns of his vampire hunting ways, she can't help but be angry at him for leaving their family. Now, she has learned a better way to find Mason and won't leave until they give her a chance. The only problem is Max. He's scarred and has it out for Kali for what she's done.
Kali is reckless, stubborn, will do anything for her family, and confrontational and I love everything about her. I love both Kade and Max but for different reasons. Finn is understandably overbearing because he fears for the well-being of his sister. He doesn't want her to be a part of the vampire hunter life, but doesn't want to lose her all over again either.
SHADOW REALMS is a fast-paced, unique vampire story that I couldn't put down. I devoured it in one sitting and couldn't wait to start the second. Kelly Carrero does a great job at getting you invested in the characters and keeps you curious about all of the secrets.
Final Verdict: I would recommend this to fans of vampires, vampire hunters, demons, and paranormal romance. It's a book that will make you immediately want to start the second and it'll stay with you even after you've finished.
I read this book a while ago and I absolutely loved it! I'm currently reading the second one and I can't get enough.
In the first quarter of the book, I though that it was going to be about something else. There were things I didn't expect, but really liked! In the middle of the book, it became predictable but it didn't bother me. The way the book ended got me WANTING more! ♥
Details...(might contain SPOILERS) After the first book (as I got addicted to it, which happens to me a lot) I had to take a day or two off the book, to gather my thoughts and everything. For me, I kinda hate triangle love and knowing that Kali liked both Max and Kade made me slowly hate it...but as I took the off time and came back, I didn't mind. I actually started to like Max too and am currently waiting how it'll end. In some parts I was waiting for some steam (love scene or so), but the book is written for mostly teenagers and I get it can't be everywhere. After all, I didn't really need it...I got fight scenes instead, which I love.
I like the way Kali's character is written and developed. She's herself, ambitious, stubborn, does things her way (which is mostly the problem for Finn and the "society") and she is selfish. I honestly really like her character, as I would probably act the same way if someone "kidnapped" my brother.
Shadow Realms is a book for vampire fans mixed with love and reckless actions. It is a book that will suck you in in a few pages and you'll love it. The book is well written, meaning someone with less knowledge of english is able to read it.
I didn’t exactly know what to expect but the title and cover intrigued me as did the blurb. But I didn’t expect to be so hooked!! Right from the start, the writing style and content engulfs you completely (or rather, in engulfed me completely) and it seemed like I flew through this fast paced read. One minor thing was the love interest having a surprising detail at one point that I did not like but it didn’t mess up the story or my love for the characters, it kinda suited the storyline and that’s what matters. It’s a paranormal story for sure but it doesn’t revolve around romance (which is perfect for this storyline tbh).
I was so into this story that the noises of our tv didn’t bother me, I ignored my cats and husband up to a point and immediatly enrolled myself to the author’s newsletter just so I won’t miss out on anything regarding this series! Recommend to anyone who wants a book where vampires are the bad guys in a fast paced read with a little bit of snarky comments and a little bit flirtation but not the romance itself.
As a referrence, think about the tv series Van Helsing, being a vampire in this world is not appealing at all and romance, well, who has time for that in a world like this one! I’d rather never end up in a world like this one but reading about it has been fun so I’m off to book 2!
*I have received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
What a great start to the first book an a great series! I was hooked onto the first page.
First off, Kali is an extremely reltable heroine. I loved her thought process and her actions. She is quiet mature for her age especially when she turns into a vampire. I liked how she has spunk and wants to fight for what she believes. Instead of waiting on someone to do the saving, Kali saves the day and does so with training and fighting.
The world building is my favorite part of the novel. I liked how vampires are somewhat evil in this novel. I liked that they aren't the pretty sparkly things usually seen in most novels. There is a gray line here. The vampires are not perfect and in fact some of them are pretty despicable. I liked how they are good and complex characters.
The fight scenes is another favorite part of the novel. I liked how there were so many twists and turns. The hunting and killing scenes were my favorite. I sometimes wished I could stab and wound vampires and look cool in them, but back to the main point.
Overall, this is a really nice first start to a great series. I can't wait to read more novels in this series and see what the author has in store.
After reading this book, I wanted to write and post this review to share my honest experiences toward the story.
This is the first installment in the Shadow Realms series, a paranormal fantasy featuring vampires. Not the vampires they show in traditional romance novels – think Dracula, but multiple – an infestation of them, hunting and harming humans. The government has been kidnapping children because they believe that he has the genetic making for the cure to eradicate the vampire disease. When Kali’s brother, Mason, is taken, she isn’t just going to stand there and make things easy for them. But to do that, in order to get the strength to go up against them, she needs to become a vampire herself. A very fast-paced action packed read with great characters and an intriguing storyline that kept me reading. I loved the refreshing view of vampires, instead of them being teenage heartthrobs, as the vicious, horrifying creatures they really are. There were a few moments of comic relief, with a budding romantic subplot, however, all romantic interaction is clean. Definitely a yay on my list and looking forward to seeing how the rest of the series develops.
Honestly, when I first dived into the story, I was a bit confused. This new world created by the author is chaotic without a proper introduction. The explanation is a bit slow, and reaching the end of the book, I still do not understand the hierarchy of the hunter. What's Osmond and their legacy entails?
It takes time to get to know the characters, especially the main heroine, Kali. I didn't like her at first but gradually accepting her. But, I'm not too fond of the way this story is heading regarding her love life.
Nevertheless, I'm still looking forward to reading the next book and finding the answer to the unanswered question. Be warned tho, for those who are yet to read this book, this series comes with a different concept of Vampires, and if you love reading a love story involving humans and vampires, this is not for you. But if you want badass vampire slayers, don't hesitate to read this series.
Wow what a story I absolutely loved it. Vampires were not the nice romantic ones like in the romance books these vampires would rip your throat out wether you were a man, woman, child or even a baby, they were vicious and all they cared about was getting their next feed. Kali’s brother Mason has been taken once he tested positive for the cure against the vampires but Kali didn’t believe any of it that’s why she was out there looking for him. Kali has already lost one brother Finn over 5 years ago and she can’t lose another so she will do what it takes to find Mason. This is an amazing story and I can’t wait for the next book to come out, a fantastic story a 5 plus ⭐️ read and I highly recommend this book it’s definitely well worth the read.
I read this book set (1&2) in a day, it kept you wanting to know what was going to happen next. We have some twist and turns that are unexpected. The government takes children with certain genetics. Kali has lost her mom, older brother, dad has turned to alcohol and now they toke her younger brother. Can she do what she has to do to save her brother? Will she turn if she just taste the blood of a human? She does not want to be a vampire, but she wants to save her brother. Now she is hit with an arrow from the hunters? Who are they? Will they kill her since she was with the fledglings? What is this world coming to? Why is this happening to her?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In order to defeat a monster, one must become a monster...
Major book hangover alert!!! Geez, did not stop reading until 1 am when I finished it. That's how glorious and devouring this book is.
I already know this is a precious book and that I will be re-reading this book numerous times because this author definitely knows how to write a magnificent story with a hooking storyline. She really knows how to reel you in and trust me you do not want to pass on this read. Highly recommended!
Full of monsters, vampires, demons, blood, vampire hunters, huntress and secrets.
Perfect for readers of paranormal romances/fantasy.
This book is amazing. The author's world and character building put me right in the middle of the action. At first I thought the heroine was a little irritating and impulsive and she is described as such, but she grew on me and grew up a bit. She still has a lot to work out and she is very young. I was very intrigued by Max and how his and Kali's relationship might develop. I also wonder more about the dynamic between Finn and Kade. The imagery created was such that I could picture everything clearly and I look forward to more. Great book! So glad I was given the opportunity to read this! Happily anticipating the second book.
I am totally floored! This storyline is action packed and gripping! Our young and naive main character, kali, played her role beautifully and the author held me captive while we discovered the fate of these characters! A very huge and powerful force is slowly revealed to us readers which leaves us scrambling to find our where it all leads. From Finn, to Kale, to Max then Lana, each character plays vital parts in this ever growing epic tale, and each would easily capture wonderful spinoff tales! Happily recommend this to any and all YA readers! All my reviews are always voluntarily written.
"I'm a freaking hash using, self-centered, party-loving girl who... who... needs to rescue her baby brother." - Kali
Kali is consumed with guilt; the vampires have taken her turd of a baby brother, Mason. As annoying as he is, he's all she has left. Mom dead, Dad's a drunk, and older brother Finn taken over by the vampires, Mason is all Kali has left, and Kali is determined to save him, no matter what....
A fascinating alternate reality of magic, demons and prophecy. Action packed, well developed characters and a plot that twists and twines like a sidewinder. Can hardly wait to see what happens next!
I picked up this book knowing that I wasn’t really a big fan of vampire stories but the blurb sounded interesting and the story itself appealed to me. From the moment I read the first page, I was hooked. I needed to know what was going to happen to Kali, to her brother, to everyone involved. I adored the twists and turns, loved the characterisation of all of the characters, and the way this wasn’t the usual paranormal book with vampires that I was used to. It had more dystopian vibes for me, but in a world where vampires are the problem. Very much looking forward to diving into the second book and one that I very much recommend!
Shadow Realms (Shadow Realms Book 1): A vampire Hunter Novel by Kelly Carrero is a wonderful story to read. This is a brand new author for me plus it is a wonderful start to a brand new series as this is book number one in the series that I love. I highly recommend this story to anyone who loves reading vampires stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really enjoyed reading this story so far. It's so interesting how the main character Kali is willing to do anything and everything in her power to find/save her younger brother. And as a result of her actions leads her to finding someone from her past which she thought to be long gone... So good! I need to know what happens next! I definitely recommend this story, as the first book in this series, it's really good so far!
I really enjoyed this book it was excellent. The book was well written and the characters and story were both well developed. I loved the characters individual personalities and the changing character dynamics. The story was action packed and full of twists and turns. It had suspense, intrigue, emotion and hot chemistry. I can’t wait for the next book in this series! I’d highly recommend this book!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
She may need to become something she hates to save her brother. He was taken because he may have the gene to destroy vampires for good or so they say. She ends up in a hunter group with most wanting to kill her while others want to help. Will she become a vampire to.safe her brother? Is she does damage stay alive long enough to get to him and save him
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was such an easy read it took me less than a day to get through the whole thing. I found the writing simple and sometimes redundant but the originality of the story made me devour it.
It seems to be a bit of a slow burn romance and book 1 was setting it up so I am definitely excited for the next book in the series.
It was a Good beginning of The New Series. I liked characters, plot was intriguing, There was A twist at some point. Characters were developed imo. They had few layers and were likeable. Especialy Kali - I felt connection with Her. Plot was developing in Good pace. New things adding one after another to create finally a bigger image.
This is the first book that I have read by this author although I own quite a few of her books. Can we say not enough hours in the day for all the great books in the world? This is the first book in the series and is a great beginning. The characters, world building and plot are great and the action keeps you on your toes. I can not wait to see what is in store for the next book in this series.
Wow! This was amazing! From the very first page you are sucked into a wild ride of vampires, demons and hunters. This is a brilliant start to a series and I can not wait to read more. It is engaging, captivating and exciting. If you are a fan of YA Paranormal stories this is a book for you. Yes it has an open ending allowing for more books that left me wanting to read more.
Although Kali was self absorbed most of the time I have to say I loved her spunk. I loved the way she stood up to her brother and at least faced Max head on. So funny that the tables turned on him by the way. Such a fun twist that the ultimate hunter would crave the blood of the vampires. Can't wait to see where that goes. Fun and gripping from the start. Can't wait to read on!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
As an advanced reader of this new and upcoming book I am leaving an honest review.
I couldn’t put this book down. The author did an amazing job of creating a new story and characters that were so easy to fall in love with. Watching the main character fight to save her family even if it was from herself was inspiring. I can’t wait to read the continuation of the story.
This is a great first book in this series! Well written the main character is a kick ass female who is also impulsive and selfish and will do anything to save her brother! The world building is excellent, the storyline fantastic , the fight scenes incredible and the twists and turns addictive. Looking forward to reading book 2!
What would you do to get your brother back from Vampires? Kali lost one brother and she is determined not to loose another. She thinks that she can do just enough to get some of their powers with out turning into a monster to rescue her brother. This book is action packed with twists and turns you won’t see coming.