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Blood & Ancient Scrolls #1
Blood Ex Libris
Blood and books and swords and flamethrowers. And one librarian, in over her head.
How did I get here: covered in blood and holding a sword I can’t use?
It all started when the dark and mysterious stranger (he wasn’t that tall) showed up at my children’s reading hour. Of course I noticed him. I’d been single (and bored) for longer than I care to admit. Me, I’m Anushka (Noosh) Rosetti, head librarian.
He turned out to be a vampire. And not just any vampire: Vlad Dracula. Although he goes by another name, these days, and he says he’s changed his violent ways. He definitely seemed more of a lover than a fighter. At first.
In a whirlwind of passion, I made a crucial but impulsive decision: share blood with him a third time, and give up normal human society forever, making my life among the “am’r”—that’s what the vampires call themselves.
The whirlwind just keeps spinning faster. Before I know it, I’m at an am’r summit meeting—and then, abducted by Vlad’s oldest enemy, who’s hoping to use me to undo all of my new family’s plans to save am’r society from tearing itself apart.
I thought I was just going to archive some ancient books, but now somehow I have to keep myself from being used as a pawn by the craziest bad guy ever, escape back to the good guys (and I’m not sure how “good” they really are) across a desert (I don’t even know what country I’m in!) and not be killed in the process. I don’t know how I will survive the next five minutes, never mind save my beloved’s life, too…
How did I get here: covered in blood and holding a sword I can’t use?
It all started when the dark and mysterious stranger (he wasn’t that tall) showed up at my children’s reading hour. Of course I noticed him. I’d been single (and bored) for longer than I care to admit. Me, I’m Anushka (Noosh) Rosetti, head librarian.
He turned out to be a vampire. And not just any vampire: Vlad Dracula. Although he goes by another name, these days, and he says he’s changed his violent ways. He definitely seemed more of a lover than a fighter. At first.
In a whirlwind of passion, I made a crucial but impulsive decision: share blood with him a third time, and give up normal human society forever, making my life among the “am’r”—that’s what the vampires call themselves.
The whirlwind just keeps spinning faster. Before I know it, I’m at an am’r summit meeting—and then, abducted by Vlad’s oldest enemy, who’s hoping to use me to undo all of my new family’s plans to save am’r society from tearing itself apart.
I thought I was just going to archive some ancient books, but now somehow I have to keep myself from being used as a pawn by the craziest bad guy ever, escape back to the good guys (and I’m not sure how “good” they really are) across a desert (I don’t even know what country I’m in!) and not be killed in the process. I don’t know how I will survive the next five minutes, never mind save my beloved’s life, too…
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 22, 2020
131 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
Raven Belasco
11 books30 followersRaven Belasco wanted to be an author since she was a little eight year old bookworm. When she turned seventeen she became chronically ill, and reading and writing “saved” her. After college, she worked as an editor and a myriad of her articles and short stories were published. But she wanted more, and in 2019 her first novel, Blood Ex Libris, was finally published after years of rejection letter after rejection letter.
Belasco’s writing style has been described as both “darkly lyrical” and at the same time “an easy, breezy writing style; a more colloquial and relaxed John Scalzi.” Her influences from a degree in Comparative literature and a lifetime devotion to genre fiction fused this unique style: constructed with the same dedication as literary fiction, yet easily accessible for any reader.
Belasco writes about the complexities of being human as viewed through a dark mirror. She is known for a dedication in keeping the monstrous aspects in vampire fiction, for exploring themes of love and resilience, immersive world-building, nuanced character dynamics, and diverse perspectives.
Raven Belasco is also known for a deep connection with her readers through a very personal newsletter, regularly asking for their input on which characters they want her to write about next. Her Blood & Ancient Scrolls Series has a deeply loyal fan base who are equally enthusiastic about both the characters and their author.
Belasco’s writing style has been described as both “darkly lyrical” and at the same time “an easy, breezy writing style; a more colloquial and relaxed John Scalzi.” Her influences from a degree in Comparative literature and a lifetime devotion to genre fiction fused this unique style: constructed with the same dedication as literary fiction, yet easily accessible for any reader.
Belasco writes about the complexities of being human as viewed through a dark mirror. She is known for a dedication in keeping the monstrous aspects in vampire fiction, for exploring themes of love and resilience, immersive world-building, nuanced character dynamics, and diverse perspectives.
Raven Belasco is also known for a deep connection with her readers through a very personal newsletter, regularly asking for their input on which characters they want her to write about next. Her Blood & Ancient Scrolls Series has a deeply loyal fan base who are equally enthusiastic about both the characters and their author.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
November 21, 2020
Actual Rating: 1.5 stars.
DNF at 75%.
I couldn’t make myself finish this book for several reasons:
1 - After the first 30% or so, the book became out of this world boring. The story changed directions and suddenly stalled. There were long tedios bits of repeatedly meeting people with excessive amounts of unnecessary information given each time. Imposible to remember or care about. I can’t believe it wasn’t edited down. I lost interest.
2 - The female protagonist is insane. There is not an ounce of rational thinking or self-preservation in her choice making.
3 - There is way too much use of foreign language. Am I supposed to remember what everything means? Are you kidding me? No way. A little can be exotic and make things more interesting — when used well. This much however, was simply annoying.
On a more positive note, the cover is very interesting, I like it. I admit, it was what mainly attracted me to this book.
DNF at 75%.
I couldn’t make myself finish this book for several reasons:
1 - After the first 30% or so, the book became out of this world boring. The story changed directions and suddenly stalled. There were long tedios bits of repeatedly meeting people with excessive amounts of unnecessary information given each time. Imposible to remember or care about. I can’t believe it wasn’t edited down. I lost interest.
2 - The female protagonist is insane. There is not an ounce of rational thinking or self-preservation in her choice making.
3 - There is way too much use of foreign language. Am I supposed to remember what everything means? Are you kidding me? No way. A little can be exotic and make things more interesting — when used well. This much however, was simply annoying.
On a more positive note, the cover is very interesting, I like it. I admit, it was what mainly attracted me to this book.
August 14, 2020
Vlad Dracula former "Impaler" of enemies impales "Superhero" librarian!
This read is, to me, "off the charts" amazing. It is an outstanding debut effort by Raven Belasco in a sub genre of romance novels that I have been gorging on during the better part of 2020, the dark erotic vampire trope. Allow me to elaborate:
I, like many across the world, have been overwhelmed with a deep life-pervading sorrow over the tragedies and misfortunes befallen so many souls during the COVID-19 pandemic. My sadness has interfered with my reading and writing goals, however, this is nothing in comparison to the hardship and suffering of those who lost loved ones, jobs, homes, the list is unending.
Aside from helping in ways that I am able just as I find so many others do, it seems we all look to the creative people in our society to provide us with distractions in film, books, tv, art, music or, we have busied ourselves with new and old information pursuits.
I have personally retreated to the worlds of sexy, hot, irresistible vampires. I began with reading J. R. Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood series for the first time. I read all 23+ books back-to-back and then went on to read through the Midnight Breed Series of Lara Adrian. As anyone who loves romance, paranormal romance, gorgeous, conflicted, over-heated Alpha males or vampires know, these authors have taken readers into whole new worlds and rewritten the entire lore and lure of the vampire. Now here comes Ms. Belasco and she combines the uber-romantic, beautifully dangerous mysterious Alpha male vampire theme with the legend and history of Vlad Dracula from Romania.
Our heroine who narrates her story, her amazing adventure really, is masterfully relatable, truly funny, and the perfect librarian "geek" girl. Through her perspective we as humans are experiencing this other being and their world. While the plot holds your interest for its basic intrigue and action elements, the character development of our heroine is central.
This author sets the mood by careful description of the scenes from around the world, often using the witticisms of the heroine. For example, one underground meeting place is referred to by our heroine as the "Rave" cave. With the modern freshness of American colloquialisms and some Library Science techno-speak, we also are treated to characters uttering phrases in Romanian, Arabic, even French. I loved the occasional obscure book or document reference. These details support the believability of the important geeky element in our heroine's character. No small feat for the author.
All of these elements described combine in a fluid, highly readable engaging writing style that flows. IOW You don't need to worry about getting every obscure reference but when you recognize a few it's a pleasurable bonus!
My only slightly negative, if not neutral, observation is that I thought the Epilogue was superfluous to the ending.
This truly is a lush, sexy vampire story. It is well written and infinitely satisfying. Any lover of the vampire Alpha male lover will want more as I am eager to read the next book in what I believe will be a trilogy!
Congratultions, Raven Belasco! Brava!
Favorite Quote:
This read is, to me, "off the charts" amazing. It is an outstanding debut effort by Raven Belasco in a sub genre of romance novels that I have been gorging on during the better part of 2020, the dark erotic vampire trope. Allow me to elaborate:
I, like many across the world, have been overwhelmed with a deep life-pervading sorrow over the tragedies and misfortunes befallen so many souls during the COVID-19 pandemic. My sadness has interfered with my reading and writing goals, however, this is nothing in comparison to the hardship and suffering of those who lost loved ones, jobs, homes, the list is unending.
Aside from helping in ways that I am able just as I find so many others do, it seems we all look to the creative people in our society to provide us with distractions in film, books, tv, art, music or, we have busied ourselves with new and old information pursuits.
I have personally retreated to the worlds of sexy, hot, irresistible vampires. I began with reading J. R. Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood series for the first time. I read all 23+ books back-to-back and then went on to read through the Midnight Breed Series of Lara Adrian. As anyone who loves romance, paranormal romance, gorgeous, conflicted, over-heated Alpha males or vampires know, these authors have taken readers into whole new worlds and rewritten the entire lore and lure of the vampire. Now here comes Ms. Belasco and she combines the uber-romantic, beautifully dangerous mysterious Alpha male vampire theme with the legend and history of Vlad Dracula from Romania.
Our heroine who narrates her story, her amazing adventure really, is masterfully relatable, truly funny, and the perfect librarian "geek" girl. Through her perspective we as humans are experiencing this other being and their world. While the plot holds your interest for its basic intrigue and action elements, the character development of our heroine is central.
This author sets the mood by careful description of the scenes from around the world, often using the witticisms of the heroine. For example, one underground meeting place is referred to by our heroine as the "Rave" cave. With the modern freshness of American colloquialisms and some Library Science techno-speak, we also are treated to characters uttering phrases in Romanian, Arabic, even French. I loved the occasional obscure book or document reference. These details support the believability of the important geeky element in our heroine's character. No small feat for the author.
All of these elements described combine in a fluid, highly readable engaging writing style that flows. IOW You don't need to worry about getting every obscure reference but when you recognize a few it's a pleasurable bonus!
My only slightly negative, if not neutral, observation is that I thought the Epilogue was superfluous to the ending.
This truly is a lush, sexy vampire story. It is well written and infinitely satisfying. Any lover of the vampire Alpha male lover will want more as I am eager to read the next book in what I believe will be a trilogy!
Congratultions, Raven Belasco! Brava!
Favorite Quote:
"Indeed, part of our job, part of our very selves, is our thankless toil, quietly saving culture and society from the barbarians at our doors. Although nowadays, “barbarians” are lowest-common-denominator shows and social media influencers, a society in which educating kids comes dead last in priorities and science is seen as the enemy, and whacked-out ideologists and fanatics want to ban knowledge and burn books. We are the invisible organizers who quietly save the stacks of human knowledge while the past, present, and future Romes burn. We do not get capes or costumes of spandex. We do not find ourselves starring in the sorts of novels we usually shelve in the romantic fiction section."
August 2, 2020
This sounded like a book that was right in my lane, and I really hoped to like it. Unfortunately the writing style just was not for me and I couldn't read this.
When every scene of the book has the protagonist having an internal conversation with herself while having a conversation with the other people she's talking to, and that internal conversation mostly comprises her telling herself what an idiot she sounds like, it becomes distracting and tedious very quickly. It also takes a reader - this reader at least - out of the experience, and away from the plot.
Some people may enjoy the internal dialogue Noosh carrys on with herself while experiencing the real world, but it just didn't work for me at all. When you are getting irritated at page 25 of a nearly 350 page book, it is a bad sign. For me it was a sign that this is not the book for me, and I am going to call this a wrong choice, and move on.
When every scene of the book has the protagonist having an internal conversation with herself while having a conversation with the other people she's talking to, and that internal conversation mostly comprises her telling herself what an idiot she sounds like, it becomes distracting and tedious very quickly. It also takes a reader - this reader at least - out of the experience, and away from the plot.
Some people may enjoy the internal dialogue Noosh carrys on with herself while experiencing the real world, but it just didn't work for me at all. When you are getting irritated at page 25 of a nearly 350 page book, it is a bad sign. For me it was a sign that this is not the book for me, and I am going to call this a wrong choice, and move on.
May 25, 2020
Meticulously researched, with amazing amounts of details and wonderful world-building. The author was conscientious about language and descriptions, and offers reasonable explanations for modern vampire mythology. An absorbing read.
May 1, 2020
Quick rating
Great job, first time author and I could not tell. This story was littered with literary references and it was fantastic. I absolutely loved the use of other languages. Fantastic book, I am ready for the next.
Great job, first time author and I could not tell. This story was littered with literary references and it was fantastic. I absolutely loved the use of other languages. Fantastic book, I am ready for the next.
May 14, 2020
Thrilling and captivating read – make time for this book!
I don’t have a lot of time to write reviews of books, I barely have time to even read them right now!
But I had to stop and take a moment to review this book.
It might look like a typical “paranormal romance” book. And it has lots of romance (and some very steamy intimacy as well) and the building romance between Noosh and Sandu is an integral part of the story. So if you want that, well, this *is* a really well-written romance novel.
But it’s also a lot more. If you like action-adventure novels, the action in this is really well-crafted and fun to live through vicariously.
If you like history, this book is well-researched and has a really fascinating take on how someone from the 1400s would adapt to living today. (Not to give spoilers, but “not easily” is just part of the answer, which adds some real drama to the story….)
Also unexpected: the use of languages to give the book more depth and realness. (And there is an index of translations in the end matter for the book, and some of those swear phrases are just incredible!) That took my appreciation of this book up another notch.
The cover is fun, and the book is fun, too. But it’s more than just “fun.” It’s thought-provoking and the writing is just perfect to pull you into the story and keep you hooked.
I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series – I have no idea what kind of adventure could possibly follow up this crazy one, but I know it will be unexpected and fascinating.
This book transcends labels. If you like that, you’ll have a blast reading this.
I don’t have a lot of time to write reviews of books, I barely have time to even read them right now!
But I had to stop and take a moment to review this book.
It might look like a typical “paranormal romance” book. And it has lots of romance (and some very steamy intimacy as well) and the building romance between Noosh and Sandu is an integral part of the story. So if you want that, well, this *is* a really well-written romance novel.
But it’s also a lot more. If you like action-adventure novels, the action in this is really well-crafted and fun to live through vicariously.
If you like history, this book is well-researched and has a really fascinating take on how someone from the 1400s would adapt to living today. (Not to give spoilers, but “not easily” is just part of the answer, which adds some real drama to the story….)
Also unexpected: the use of languages to give the book more depth and realness. (And there is an index of translations in the end matter for the book, and some of those swear phrases are just incredible!) That took my appreciation of this book up another notch.
The cover is fun, and the book is fun, too. But it’s more than just “fun.” It’s thought-provoking and the writing is just perfect to pull you into the story and keep you hooked.
I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series – I have no idea what kind of adventure could possibly follow up this crazy one, but I know it will be unexpected and fascinating.
This book transcends labels. If you like that, you’ll have a blast reading this.
March 9, 2021
I’m a sucker for vampire stories (see what I did there?), always have been, always will be. Erotica, however, has never really been my cup of tea. But coming across Raven Belasco’s Blood Ex Libris as “Vampire” Erotica certainly piqued my interest.
I had no idea what to expect, but I was not disappointed. Well I expected vampires & sex of course, but naturally that couldn’t be the entire story. What Ms. Belasco has put together is utterly delightful. I’ve had so much fun on this journey of our heroine librarian, whose world is turned upside down. What starts off as your typical story of “Girl meets boy. Girl falls for boy. Boy turns out to be a vampire.” becomes a pretty epic journey of love, history, politics, and humor. I did not expect to literally laugh out loud as often as I did, but our heroine librarian narrator has a wicked sense of humor that keeps us grounded in the reality of the fantasy. Also, the erotica is pretty hott! One time I was reading on my device while at the barbershop. It’s a very interesting experience to be getting a haircut while reading about the steamy exploits of a librarian and a vampire.
In addition to being a well developed & entertaining story, I feel like Ms. Belasco also examines the question “How do we honor the past while preparing for the future?". I highly recommend Blood Ex Libris and look forward to diving into the rest of the trilogy…because, well, the goth kids were right all along.
I had no idea what to expect, but I was not disappointed. Well I expected vampires & sex of course, but naturally that couldn’t be the entire story. What Ms. Belasco has put together is utterly delightful. I’ve had so much fun on this journey of our heroine librarian, whose world is turned upside down. What starts off as your typical story of “Girl meets boy. Girl falls for boy. Boy turns out to be a vampire.” becomes a pretty epic journey of love, history, politics, and humor. I did not expect to literally laugh out loud as often as I did, but our heroine librarian narrator has a wicked sense of humor that keeps us grounded in the reality of the fantasy. Also, the erotica is pretty hott! One time I was reading on my device while at the barbershop. It’s a very interesting experience to be getting a haircut while reading about the steamy exploits of a librarian and a vampire.
In addition to being a well developed & entertaining story, I feel like Ms. Belasco also examines the question “How do we honor the past while preparing for the future?". I highly recommend Blood Ex Libris and look forward to diving into the rest of the trilogy…because, well, the goth kids were right all along.
August 17, 2020
The librarian and the vampire would have been a good title too. This book has it all for me. I love libraries and books about vampires so combine the two and you have a winner. This is not a typical vampire story though. It has Vlad, Count Dracula and from some other things I've read on Dracula, the author did a thorough job with her research. It is also a very romantic love story but not sappy. Some explicit sex but nothing too bad if you are over 18 and I certainly am. It takes our librarian a while to figure out her lover is a vampire when she first meets him. Really, who thinks they are real. Although she should have caught on when she only saw him at night. Then just as they were getting to know each other. He is off on a trip and doesn't come back in a few days as he promised. After months go by, she gives up on him but is still feeling a draw to him. When he returns, everything happens fast and I couldn't put it down until I finished it. I think this is a very good first book for this author.
February 26, 2021
An exciting read! I went in mostly blind. I knew it was about vampires but other than that, I had no idea what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised to find that although a fantasy, it was pretty believable. There were no ridiculous powers and instead of using the same lore that every other vampire novel uses, it had been created from scratch. At the beginning there were quite a few erotic scenes. Although well written, I was concerned the entire book would be nothing but this. However I was wrong. The real adventure soon began. I don’t want to spoil anything, but there were plenty of twists and turns, many which completely caught me off guard. It started getting pretty exciting towards the end. It’s been a while since a book had my heart racing with anticipation.
You can tell the author has done their research. There were a lot of little details I enjoyed, many of which will be missed by the causal reader.
I found the main character to be pretty relatable, being a bit of a nerd myself. Her bright, innocent personality contrasts well with the darkness of the vampires. I’m interested to see how much she’ll change after spending time with the undead.
I was surprised to find this was the authors first book. I found it to be pretty well written. She seems to have a slightly unique style that I quite enjoyed once I got used to it.
I can’t wait to see where the adventure goes next.
[This review was written from an ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.]
You can tell the author has done their research. There were a lot of little details I enjoyed, many of which will be missed by the causal reader.
I found the main character to be pretty relatable, being a bit of a nerd myself. Her bright, innocent personality contrasts well with the darkness of the vampires. I’m interested to see how much she’ll change after spending time with the undead.
I was surprised to find this was the authors first book. I found it to be pretty well written. She seems to have a slightly unique style that I quite enjoyed once I got used to it.
I can’t wait to see where the adventure goes next.
[This review was written from an ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.]
August 17, 2020
WOWZA!
I Am always a bit leery when reading a new author. I don’t mean new-to-writing author. I mean a new-to-me author. Will I like them? Will they keep me interested? What’s this story about?
Now, reading an author who has just broken into the profession (I can’t say “new” because we know writing is a passion and authors have been writing most of their life, whether published or not) makes me flat out nervous. I have read too many cheap, vapid books as well as deep, soulful stories to be easily impressed. I want to feel.
I received this book as a gift. HOLY SHITBALLS! I was in love in no time. Noosh is funny, witty, reckless and young. She helps the reader understand her rash, immature decisions in a way that makes you root for and want to play with her.
I am not a supernatural or sci-if groupie. In fact, I often avoid them because they are not realistic. I can be imaginative with the best if them, but I do expect realism. When I had my doubts, Noosh did too. Her self-talk and sarcasm helped me understand and cheer her on.
This book is off the charts great!
This book is a success because I give a shit about the characters. I WANT to find out what happens. I WANT to see how this is resolved. I WANT to sit around and have game night with Noosh because she is funny as hell. If an another makes me feel, that is a win. I laughed, I stressed, I rolled my eyes, I totally despised bat-bitch (who is so aptly named!).
I cannot wait to read more! Thank you!
I Am always a bit leery when reading a new author. I don’t mean new-to-writing author. I mean a new-to-me author. Will I like them? Will they keep me interested? What’s this story about?
Now, reading an author who has just broken into the profession (I can’t say “new” because we know writing is a passion and authors have been writing most of their life, whether published or not) makes me flat out nervous. I have read too many cheap, vapid books as well as deep, soulful stories to be easily impressed. I want to feel.
I received this book as a gift. HOLY SHITBALLS! I was in love in no time. Noosh is funny, witty, reckless and young. She helps the reader understand her rash, immature decisions in a way that makes you root for and want to play with her.
I am not a supernatural or sci-if groupie. In fact, I often avoid them because they are not realistic. I can be imaginative with the best if them, but I do expect realism. When I had my doubts, Noosh did too. Her self-talk and sarcasm helped me understand and cheer her on.
This book is off the charts great!
This book is a success because I give a shit about the characters. I WANT to find out what happens. I WANT to see how this is resolved. I WANT to sit around and have game night with Noosh because she is funny as hell. If an another makes me feel, that is a win. I laughed, I stressed, I rolled my eyes, I totally despised bat-bitch (who is so aptly named!).
I cannot wait to read more! Thank you!
June 19, 2025
Raven Belasco’s Blood Ex Libris plunges readers into a darkly atmospheric world where ancient lore meets modern academia, and vampires are anything but sparkly. This isn’t your typical paranormal romance—it’s raw, intelligent, and dripping with secrets.
The first half delivers a bold, erotic twist on the human-vampire dynamic. Think seduction with teeth—sensual, yes, but with an undercurrent of danger and dominance that feels refreshingly adult. Make no mistake: this isn’t Twilight, and that’s very much the point.
As the story unfolds, the tone shifts from intimate to expansive. The protagonist, once a curious outsider, is pulled deep into the intricacies of vampire society—a culture built on centuries of hidden history and ritual. Belasco doesn’t just play with vampire tropes; she excavates them. The depth of research into original vampire myths across cultures adds authenticity and weight, grounding the supernatural in something that feels hauntingly real.
If you’re craving a vampire story with bite—equal parts sensual and scholarly—Blood Ex Libris is the book to sink your teeth into.
The first half delivers a bold, erotic twist on the human-vampire dynamic. Think seduction with teeth—sensual, yes, but with an undercurrent of danger and dominance that feels refreshingly adult. Make no mistake: this isn’t Twilight, and that’s very much the point.
As the story unfolds, the tone shifts from intimate to expansive. The protagonist, once a curious outsider, is pulled deep into the intricacies of vampire society—a culture built on centuries of hidden history and ritual. Belasco doesn’t just play with vampire tropes; she excavates them. The depth of research into original vampire myths across cultures adds authenticity and weight, grounding the supernatural in something that feels hauntingly real.
If you’re craving a vampire story with bite—equal parts sensual and scholarly—Blood Ex Libris is the book to sink your teeth into.
July 20, 2020
This was a very good read.
I've been every kind of librarian one can be without a library science degree (corporate, public, academic, rare books). But... I haven't been *this* kind of librarian. I haven't been a librarian FOR VAMPIRES.
There were so many aspects of the novel I enjoyed. The strong sense of character for the narrator and her vampire lover. The breadth of backstory here for both the lead, Noosh (Anushka), and the various vampires, which indicated a great deal of historical and linguistic research. How funny it was. The steamy erotica. And finally, the fearless dive into gore. That research had been done, as well.
I especially appreciate the Noosh's librarian compulsion to catalogue, organize, and read all available printed material, regardless if it belongs to vampire or human (but let's face it - a vampire who has been around for hundreds of years *would* likely have a jawdropping collection of primary sources), and her palpable delight in savoring all such materials.
I really enjoyed this book. And I am already looking forward to the sequel!
I've been every kind of librarian one can be without a library science degree (corporate, public, academic, rare books). But... I haven't been *this* kind of librarian. I haven't been a librarian FOR VAMPIRES.
There were so many aspects of the novel I enjoyed. The strong sense of character for the narrator and her vampire lover. The breadth of backstory here for both the lead, Noosh (Anushka), and the various vampires, which indicated a great deal of historical and linguistic research. How funny it was. The steamy erotica. And finally, the fearless dive into gore. That research had been done, as well.
I especially appreciate the Noosh's librarian compulsion to catalogue, organize, and read all available printed material, regardless if it belongs to vampire or human (but let's face it - a vampire who has been around for hundreds of years *would* likely have a jawdropping collection of primary sources), and her palpable delight in savoring all such materials.
I really enjoyed this book. And I am already looking forward to the sequel!
January 29, 2025
Blood Ex Libris is a saucy vampire romance featuring Dracula himself. The spicy scenes in this book rank pretty high on the Scoville scale. I am no prude and even I had to occasionally pick my jaw up off of the floor. I listened to the audiobook (highly recommended) and found myself blushing on my commute to work a few times.
Like our librarian heroine, Noosh, Belasco is clearly well-read. This book is packed with more references than I could even catch. A ton of research went into writing this.
I thoroughly enjoyed Amber Benson's voiceover. There were times when I forgot I was only listening to one person as she so effortlessly slips into the different character voices.
The book's intensity is balanced with a refreshing sense of humor and wit, striking a nice overall tone.
If you love vampires, adventure, nerdy librarians, and smut - you are in for a treat! This book definitely has teeth
Like our librarian heroine, Noosh, Belasco is clearly well-read. This book is packed with more references than I could even catch. A ton of research went into writing this.
I thoroughly enjoyed Amber Benson's voiceover. There were times when I forgot I was only listening to one person as she so effortlessly slips into the different character voices.
The book's intensity is balanced with a refreshing sense of humor and wit, striking a nice overall tone.
If you love vampires, adventure, nerdy librarians, and smut - you are in for a treat! This book definitely has teeth
January 19, 2025
While I will admit that this is a little bloodier than my tastes usually run-- I mean, it's a vampire book so I knew what I was getting myself into, haha-- this book was so much fun and SO worth it.
The main character, Noosh, had such sass and personality that her narration had me laughing out loud more often than I could count. Also, letting yourself be seduced by a sexy vampire in part because of his awesome book collection? #relatable
I see you, Noosh. ;)
And if that wasn't enough, I was swept away by the author's artfully beautiful descriptions and inventive vampire logistics. The world building and vampire science conjured a great balance of awe and moments of thought-provoking contemplation.
If you like spicy vampire open door sex scenes, sassy main characters who make questionable life decisions first and ask questions later, and super punchable bad guys who make you cheer when they get what's coming to them, this book is for you.
Also, bonus points for the Queen and Bowie references. Can't wait to start book 2!
The main character, Noosh, had such sass and personality that her narration had me laughing out loud more often than I could count. Also, letting yourself be seduced by a sexy vampire in part because of his awesome book collection? #relatable
I see you, Noosh. ;)
And if that wasn't enough, I was swept away by the author's artfully beautiful descriptions and inventive vampire logistics. The world building and vampire science conjured a great balance of awe and moments of thought-provoking contemplation.
If you like spicy vampire open door sex scenes, sassy main characters who make questionable life decisions first and ask questions later, and super punchable bad guys who make you cheer when they get what's coming to them, this book is for you.
Also, bonus points for the Queen and Bowie references. Can't wait to start book 2!
December 3, 2020
Didn't finish
It was too much work for me.
The language, trying to decipher it wasn't much of a problem, it mostly seemed like adjectives and pet names. But having to read it and figure out how to say it in my head hurt my brain.
The whole thing seemed weepy to me. Just morose and slow moving.
At some point I skipped ahead unintentionally (stupid kindle with its power scroll!!!), It took a second to figure out what was going on, but I really didn't miss how the complete change of scenery and additional characters came to be.
I have read plenty of vampire books and even a few librarian books, just couldn't get into this one.
It was too much work for me.
The language, trying to decipher it wasn't much of a problem, it mostly seemed like adjectives and pet names. But having to read it and figure out how to say it in my head hurt my brain.
The whole thing seemed weepy to me. Just morose and slow moving.
At some point I skipped ahead unintentionally (stupid kindle with its power scroll!!!), It took a second to figure out what was going on, but I really didn't miss how the complete change of scenery and additional characters came to be.
I have read plenty of vampire books and even a few librarian books, just couldn't get into this one.
November 9, 2025
I loved Amber Benson on Buffy. I loved her Deaths Daughter series (also narrated by her) and again her narration is top notch. This is the first of a trilogy about a librarian that gets swept into the world of the amir. The amir are Ms. Belasco's take on vampires. Noosh (the FMC) is deliciously snarky and also quite bright.She is just what the formal slightly stuffy amir needs to spice things up. There is also world traveling, plenty of action, romance and some of the amir are historical figures. There truly is something for everyone!
January 6, 2022
The start to this is a little slow but picks up pace midway.
I would like to have had a little more teasing of the blending of worlds from the beginning which would have made the transition to the world of vampires a smoother cross over rather than the slam dunk Noosh (and the reader) are met with.
For a first novel the world and characters are unique and intriguing.
And who doesn’t want to wield a flamethrower at least once in their life!!!
I would like to have had a little more teasing of the blending of worlds from the beginning which would have made the transition to the world of vampires a smoother cross over rather than the slam dunk Noosh (and the reader) are met with.
For a first novel the world and characters are unique and intriguing.
And who doesn’t want to wield a flamethrower at least once in their life!!!
July 14, 2024
I listen to this as an audiobook narrated by Amber Benson! She did such a wonderful job!! I really enjoyed listening to this book! The storyline was very interesting. The world building was easy to follow. It had just enough action to keep you interested, enough banter to keep you chuckling, and enough romance to keep you swooning. I’m excited to read the rest of the series!! I can’t wait to read there next adventure!
Thank you Raven for bringing us this world of vampires!!
Thank you Raven for bringing us this world of vampires!!
September 11, 2020
Intriguing
I wavered back and forth on this book but I finally landed on a positive vibe. I didn't like the overabundance on the touchy feel you stuff but what can you expect of a PNR? Other thing that was shocking was the frequent mentions of bowel movements. Finally since I learned the word avuncularly, I decided that I liked it overall.
I wavered back and forth on this book but I finally landed on a positive vibe. I didn't like the overabundance on the touchy feel you stuff but what can you expect of a PNR? Other thing that was shocking was the frequent mentions of bowel movements. Finally since I learned the word avuncularly, I decided that I liked it overall.
June 19, 2021
A bit confusing...
I got reading whiplash cause she couldn't decide if she was wanting to be self absorbed or wanted to trust him.
She was so immature and she never took into account
how he was attempting to bridge a species together and she was a big part of it...
I got reading whiplash cause she couldn't decide if she was wanting to be self absorbed or wanted to trust him.
She was so immature and she never took into account
how he was attempting to bridge a species together and she was a big part of it...
May 18, 2020
Draculas' Romantic History
The story was excellent. This enchanting historical account of Dracula was enjoyable. I would recommend to all readers of vampire sagas.
The story was excellent. This enchanting historical account of Dracula was enjoyable. I would recommend to all readers of vampire sagas.
May 29, 2021
DNF at 42%
August 17, 2021
Vampire action romance with a librarian.
Librarian, library, and vampires. I had to read it. I loved it. Throw in some steamy scenes and action and you've got some fun reading.
Librarian, library, and vampires. I had to read it. I loved it. Throw in some steamy scenes and action and you've got some fun reading.
November 16, 2021
This book was so intriguing to me! I love a sarcastic need so I was drawn in right away.
Definitely worth the read
Definitely worth the read
December 4, 2024
Great tale of love, sex, and vampires. Beautifully written with a world and characters you want to sink your teeth into with one of the most memorable female protagonists in literature.
October 8, 2024
What more could a librarian want than to be asked to preserve and archive a collection of rare first edition books? When Anushka, Noosh, meets an intriguing stranger she is immediately smitten, when she finds out he's a vampire it's like her bookish dreams have become a reality. Turns out being an archivist for a vampire isn't quite what she expected.
This book was fast paced which kept me turning the pages and/or listening. There are a lot of words and phrases from other languages both real and Am'r which is the language of vampires/what vampires are called in this universe. A handy dictionary is in the back of the book but explanations and translations that are relevant to the character are explained and if you don't flip back and forth to the dictionary you can be on the same road of discovery as Noosh. There was some serious spice in this book, sometimes a bit much for my taste but it is relevant to the character development and isn't overly gratuitous in description or trite. There is definitely lots of plot and story which is great.
I read this book and listened to the audiobook when I wasn't able to read it. I definitely had to turn the volume down in my car during some of the scenes. Amber Benson is an AMAZING audiobook narrator. She reads each character with different accents and truly her narration kept my attention that I didn't drift off and have to rewind while driving.
I bought the series at the Hellmouth Convention in Torrance, CA and received a digital copy of the audiobook of the first book for free as a convention exclusive. Totally worth buying the series based on talking with the gals at the table and the lure of the audiobook alone.
This book was fast paced which kept me turning the pages and/or listening. There are a lot of words and phrases from other languages both real and Am'r which is the language of vampires/what vampires are called in this universe. A handy dictionary is in the back of the book but explanations and translations that are relevant to the character are explained and if you don't flip back and forth to the dictionary you can be on the same road of discovery as Noosh. There was some serious spice in this book, sometimes a bit much for my taste but it is relevant to the character development and isn't overly gratuitous in description or trite. There is definitely lots of plot and story which is great.
I read this book and listened to the audiobook when I wasn't able to read it. I definitely had to turn the volume down in my car during some of the scenes. Amber Benson is an AMAZING audiobook narrator. She reads each character with different accents and truly her narration kept my attention that I didn't drift off and have to rewind while driving.
I bought the series at the Hellmouth Convention in Torrance, CA and received a digital copy of the audiobook of the first book for free as a convention exclusive. Totally worth buying the series based on talking with the gals at the table and the lure of the audiobook alone.
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