The Vampire Curse

Shadow World: The Vampire Debt #2

by Ali Winters

Some things are worth risking your life for.

When visitors arrive, Clara Valmont must make an entirely new agreement with the Vampire she is indebted to in order to stay alive.
But even her brief reprieve might not be enough when something far more dangerous than a vampire comes to call.
Things between Clara and Alaric are not what they appear to be, and if anyone learns the truth, then it could spell death, for both of them.

Genres: Vampires, Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Romance, Adult, Young Adult, Paranormal

332 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2020

About the author

Born and raised in the PNW, Ali Winters is a USA Today bestselling and the award-winning author of The Vampire Debt series and The Hunted series.


She’s been mesmerized by the extraordinary worlds within books for as long as she can remember. One evening an idea for a book formed and refused to leave until she wrote it. She jumped headfirst into the career that has called to her since she opened her first book. And there hasn’t been a single moment without a story begging to be told since.


Follow Ali on these platforms:

www.aliwinters.com

www.facebook.com/authoraliwinters
www.instagram.com/authoraliwinters
www.twitter.com/aliwinters_
www.bookbub.com/authors/ali-winters


Ali's Books

The Hunted series (complete)
The Reapers
The Exodus
The Moirai
The Fallen
Flirting with Death

The Hunted omnibus (complete series set)

In The End (complete)
Sound of Silence
Light in Darkness

In The End omnibus (May 2021)

Shadow World
www.thevampiredebt.com

The Vampire Debt
The Vampire Curse
The Vampire Court
The Vampire Oath
The Vampire Crown (March. 2022)
The Vampire Betrayal (A prequel/origin bonus story. Release date: TBD)

Reviews

[Lucie V.]

✅ Romance
✅ Easy and quick read
✅🆗 Action
✅🆗 Plot
✅🆗 Characters
🆗 World-building

3.5 stars

The Vampire Curse picks up exactly where The Vampire Debt ends. Clara needs to figure out what her feelings towards Alaric are and where she really belongs. This series is weirdly addictive, even though it's nothing extraordinary and the concept is nothing new. It is an easy and quick read, and I enjoy it more than I thought I would. It's entertaining and easy to get lost in this book and finish it in one day.

It is so dull here without a regular attempt on my life.

Clara and Alaric's relationship is put to the test, yet it becomes stronger at the same time. They are sweet in their own way. I liked that the idea of Clara going back to her old life was quickly solved and dismissed, so we didn't have that dragging on until the end. It was clear to me that her family would not accept her back as if nothing happened, and that her once lover would not have waited for her, so I was not surprised when it happened, but it still added some drama to the story.

I would like to know more about the werewolves in the next book, and also have them more involved and maybe even as an option for Clara to escape from the vampires. I get that she likes Alaric, but the rest of the vampires are mostly jerks, she should have another option is all I'm saying.

I am eager to see how things will continue to develop in the third book. There will be a new setting and new characters for the new book and hopefully, it will keep this series interesting.


1. The Vampire Debt ⭐⭐⭐⭐


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[Bookishgames]

Wow, this book was everything I needed. I love Clara and Alaric so damn much. Plus, we finally had THE steamy scene we were all waiting for, and my god, Ali Winters, you did not disappoint me.

Can't wait for the third book ! ❤

[Harper]

The Vampire Curse is book 2 in the Shadow World/Vampire Debt Series, and in this one, Alaric and Clara's budding relationship is challenged even more by their unwelcomed vampire guests and some devilish plot the vampire Queen Elizabeth has constructed against them. Having Alaric's mark is the only thing that could keep Clara safe from the other hungry vamps, but she refuses it at first. That is, until she realizes she no longer fits in her old life and can only trust the very vampire she had been determined to kill. But receiving the three bites of the mark only amplifies the attraction between them, and both are afraid of what that might mean.

This book was a bit slow to start for me, but once it got going, it REALLY got going. I loved the twist with Kitty, and how Clara is coming into her own, now that her old life is in the rearview mirror. The tension between Clara and Alaric is what I LIVE for. Even though they take their relationship to the next step in this book, there is still so much uncertainty and resistance (I love me a love/hate trope).

I seriously can't wait for the next book. I am locked into this series for the long haul. 5 stars.

[DeAnna]

This book was so so good. I esentially read it in one sitting, that's how good it was. This sequel picks up where the first leaves off. The stakes-haha get it- are much higher in this book and we learn more about the vampires and what they are and how they function. I still have a ton of questions but it makes me excited to learn more in the other books. I loved Clara's development in this and where her character is currently. It's like a blank slate to find who she really is. Her relationship with Alaric was very nice and i enjoyed the slow burn. I do wish Alaric had opened up more but Im excited to learn more about him as the story continues. The writing is great and i love the world building. Lots of action and plot developments. Idk how im supposed to wait til the end of October to read the next one.

[Jennifer Zamboni]

Beauty is the Beast meets Pride & Prejudice meets vampires and a is a thing unto itself!

Book 2 picks up immediately where book 1 leaves off. With unwanted visitors stalking the halls of Alaric’s home and Clara discovering what, exactly, is her role to play.

We get family, deception, and hearts that don’t know which way is up. Add demons and fights to the death and I’m all about it!

Both Alaric and Clara continue to evolve as characters as they discover exactly who the other is.

I’m super excited to meet the original vampire and see what twists she throws at the main characters!

[Joy Whiteside]

This book, wow. From the moment that I started reading this book I was transported to another world. One of mystery and intrique. This book moves along at a great pace, has amazing and interesting characters and a story that will not let you down. This book has to be read, you will not be sorry that you did.

[Case]

I unfortunately needed to see where the story went…

[Steffi De Ceuster ♥]

I actually really liked the push and pull between Alaric and Clara.
But at times she felt really naive.
Truth be told, this books could've been a bit shorter instead of an entire series..
I do enjoy it, but this feels like dragging at times.

[Wendy Reads 📖]

I liked this one a little better, still it’s not the best writing but I liked it anyway. There is some plot and a tiny bit of spice. I no it’s not all about the spice but come on.. vampires… It could have a little bit more spice to it.

4 ⭐️
1,5 🌶️

[Boo Vickery]

The Vampire Curse is book two in the Vampire Debt series and this one holds so much! Romance, mystery, Fantasy and magic.

I think one of my favorite parts of this series is the Vampires "mark" which holds a big part of book two and probably beyond. I was very excited to see what would happen next as I happily flipped each page.
Clara and Alaric are one of my FAVORITE romantic couples, I seriously read faster to see what next happens between them ;)

After reading book one I was very determined picking up book two, and it didn't disappoint at ALL.
I really wanted to see more of Kitty after what happened in Book one, and you got to see more in book two. Her future wasn't one I had thought would happen but I'm wondering if there will be more of her in future stories.
Book two ended right before Alaric and Clara go to see the queen and I cannot wait for more! This series quickly became a big favorite. I can't wait to see what next adventures Clara and Alaric will go on next! (Will Clara get her other mark? How will the queen take seeing Clara. And, strangely, I'm curious to read more of Cherno! Who doesn't love talking bats!?)

Big congratulations to Mrs Winters. These books are a big hit!

[Shayay]

Another entertaining story! This one picks up where the first one ends, so you’ll want to read that one for the whole story. Vampire Alaric and human Clara still have that tension between them, but their connection won’t be denied; some good passion there. These two just have so much to deal with; they were adversaries in the first book, but now must work as a team to remain safe. They need to deal with some very unwanted house guests; the arrogance and viciousness is high with these jerk vampires, and so is the danger. Clara is constantly in a precarious position while dealing with these vampires; I’m already annoyed and dreading anything to do with vamp leader Elizabeth. Clara is finally seeing some clarity about her situation and the people in her life; she’s still back and forth on what she wants and feels though, so that can be a bit annoying. She still has a lot of growing to do, but she is fierce. Love that there’s dual POV in this book. I like Alaric; I wish he’d stand up more to the other vamps, but I appreciate his protective nature towards Clara. The story is moving a little slowly for me; I wish the overall story was further along, but it’s all still interesting to read. I love the sort of gothic feel to the story. Looking forward to reading the next one!

[Jessica Traver cashen]

Another riveting story by Ali Winters! This book picks up immediately where book 1 left off. Unwanted vampire guests arrive at Alaric's home. They are sent by the Vampire Queen Elizabeth to throw a wrench into things going on between Alaric and Clara! Alaric marking Clara is the only thing going to keep her safe but, she refuses at first. Clara refuses the mark until she realises she doesn't belong in her old life anymore and can only trust the Vampire she had wanted to kill. They both are still trying to fight what is between them but, Clara has accepted 2 of the 3 marks making the lust they have for each other more intense. She will not be protected though until she accepts the last mark. Alaric and Clara are heading to a ball being held by the Queen Vampire without the final mark......will they be able to fool everyone that she is fully marked? Fast paced, bewitching, page turner! I can't wait to read book 3 to find out!

[Carol Harris]

Sexy, supernaturals and vengeful humans

Amazing supernatural rom ance and mystery .I enjoyed this book very much..I do his recommend this book to everyone who loves supernatural adventures who are human emotionally. This is a book in a series but also stands alone if you can't read the whole series

[Morgan Davis]

I would like all the books now, please

The only problem with this book is that it ended. I'm not a fan of that. I need more Alaric and Clara, especially the BA she's turning into. I got fully sucked into this world and never want to leave

[Kimmy]

I am a big fan of this book and I am looking forward to seeing what happenes in the next instalment.

This series is like Pride & Prejudice, Beauty and the Beast and ACOTAR were all mixed up and this great tale game out.

Alaric & Clara need to never be apart.

[Linda Boyer]

I LOVED THIS BOOK

The story grabs you and won't let go! I really like the characters they have an interesting relationship. A love, hate between them and it is intriguing seeing how they interact. I would recommend these books to any of my friends.

[Leah Reise]

I just finished The Vampire Curse, and bought the next one. Editing greatly improved in this second book. The writing draws beautiful descriptions in places and the story still is so intriguing and has me wanting more.

[Jen]

Even better than the first! I can't wait for book 3!

[Brandi]

My first book to read this year couldn’t have been better. I simply love the characters (esp. Alaric) and the story. It ended all too quickly for me. I can’t wait to see what comes next.

[Rebecca Naval]

3.5 stars..... The book needs editing. I found a handful of spelling errors or typos throughout the story.

The story overall was good, and I look forward to reading the next book.

[Harlequin Madness]

If you hate slow-burn, you will hate this series

I'm pretty indifferent to the slow-burn sub-genre, but this is really slow, even for me. Honestly, the only thing keeping me interested in the series is our MMC, Alaric. He is so sexy, and very gentle with Clara - even when she doesn't deserve it. He's in love with her, but hasn't admitted it to himself. He's still struggling with his feelings towards her. His demon Cherno (a bat - similar to a witch's familiar) knows what's up and is sort of guiding him to understand his feelings better.

As for our FMC, Clara - I still don't really connect with her. OK, if this were real life, honestly I'd probably react very similarly to her. However, as a reader, I find her inner dialog tedious and confusing. I don't know how or why Alaric wants her. One minute she's yelling at him, telling him she's leaving, and the next minute telling him she'll stay. She wants his claiming mark, but not the final one that seals it. He's explained to her over and over and over why she needs his claiming mark (which is completed in 3 bites) as it will protect her from other vampires, but she keeps denying him. Honestly, this woman has absolutely no sense of self-preservation and it's kind of maddening.

Although I will give the author credit, because she has peaked my interest enough that I do want to continue the series. But then I think more of the "meat" of the series plot is coming in the next book. I just hate waiting 3 books in to really get invested.

[Joi Worwood]

Disappointed

So I feel like I'm not even reading the same characters....

Clara really bothered me in this book. Where she use to be spunky, strong and feisty,
I now find her whiney, fickle and moody.

We'll have pages of her being frustrated at Alaric for ABC, ready to give him a piece of her mind, and confront him about it, then as soon as she is with him, and he asks her what's wrong, she's now too angry and hurt she can't even be around him, she can't have this conversation now.....it just reminded me of a middle school girl angry at her crush.

AlaricAlso is a little fickle in this book. Where I loved the banter and his sexy confidence in the first book, we don't get any of that here. I wouldn't say he's unlikeable, but he's now all flowers and roses, and in love with Clara (kind of) which isn't bad, it's sweet, but he feels like a completely different character all together and it hurts my head a little lol.
He's supposed to be like a Mr Darcy, and this book is where you find he's actually a very kind hearted Vampire, but even Mr. Darcy stayed bold and composed.
Alaric seems to have lost his confident swagger and sexy flare.

I'll most likely finish reading the series eventually, it's definitely worth reading the first one.

[hollie]

I don’t really know what it is about these books but they are highly addicting, easy reading and honestly just what I’m in the mood for right now. I bloody love the characters and the story is moving forward now which I’m glad about.

- I want to know more about our side characters, particularly Lawrence as he intrigues me. I find his character refreshing and I want to learn more!
- I think the development in this book can be seen not only with the characters, but the story. I still stand by my judgement the first time around and think these books are cut short when they could be combined to make a stronger novel but I can see the appeal the author is using to want you to get the next book. I mean I have already downloaded book three!
- This is definitely an interesting take on a classic fairytale book and now I’m excited for them to finally move to court and occur the issues they have there.

[heidi]

so far im loving this series,

more times then not i was biting my nails in suspense
that Victor gave me the heebeejeebees from the start and was surprised to read i was right about him.
hes a creep for sure and a mean one to boot i glad he got what he got comming to him

clare chancing her mind had me surprised didnt see that comming
heck even her realising her old life was "lost" or gone to her came as a little surprise
but i was kinda exspecting her to realise that tho.

what i liked was how alaric & clara are growing closer to each other
would not surprise me one bit if they are slowly falling in love and in book 3 they will confirm it hehe

gave it 4* i liked it alot but didnt love it
maybe book 3 will make me love it.

[booksheread]

We ride or die for Alaric 🫡🫡 this is such a great storyline loving the character growth of Alaric and Clara and seeing their connection continue to build and change. And the way Alaric made sure Kitty was safe and married into a good family big respect for Clara not going off at her when she confessed her secret. ALSO THE FIGHT BETWEEN CLARA AND VICTOR 😵

The author could have definitely made the Vampire Debt and The Vampire Curse combined even though I like the quick reads i think it would feel better as one book.

I’m so excited to read what happens… if the whole series is like this then it may become my favourite.

[Isabella]

I'm not sure how I feel about anything right now, like I still liked the characters, and I'm glad Clara finally realized some things I'm sure most of us readers realized in book one, but I felt like nothing really happened? Like I really wanted more story, but I feel like we just tied up loose ends from the first book and now we can finally move on to the real shit. But then again two months ago I thought this would be the real story, so I'm clearly not good at prediction 😂

[Gracie]

I finished this and started on the next book before thinking of leaving a review. This book focuses more on the emotional and subtle points of the plot, rather than fight scenes and action. That's not to say there's no action.
I like that the characters aren't going from enemies to lovers immediately. I enjoyed seeing them work through their preconceived notions of who and what the other is to find the truth.
When Clara deals with her past the outcome is predictable but necessary. I felt it allowed the story to move on without unnecessary questions hovering by never addressing it again.

[bookishpadawan]

dear Clara...
in this book, you had a chance to run away from it forever, go to another country, hunt vampires or stage a war somewhere else or whatever, but you chose to come back just because you want to demand answers from Alaric?? Have you forgotten how it was when you almost got killed while trying to run away from his manor?

and you came back just because that stupid question??

this sequel book is really really getting on my nerve

yet I still finished it and looking forward for the next book. what have you done, book? hooow?

[iread]

Okay wait? That was a little more spice and tension than earlier. The story is really building, but I feel like the books are kinda melting together. I can’t really see the barrier between the two. The story is just very awesome. We like to go overboard and have scary things. I love vampire books. The only downside about this one is that it is kinda short. Though the first one was also pretty short.

[Josi Revels]

Actual rating — 3.5🌟 again for this second book in the series! I loved to see more development between the relationship between these characters + the other vampires in the house. Very entertaining and the last half of the book especially kept me on my toes. Fast paced and keeps you wanting more!

Note - there was a lot less (practically none) ~smoky~ scenes between them two but there was a spice scene🌶️