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Forever 51
Veronica is eternally fifty-one years old with a proclivity for problematic drinking. Like most hormonally challenged women negotiating the change of life, she is a hot mess. To retain her sanity, she attends weekly AA meetings and adheres to a strict diet of organic, locally-sourced, (mostly) cruelty-free human blood from the hospice facility where she works. Her life stopped being fun about a hundred years ago, right about the time her teenage daughter stole her soul and took off for California with a hot, older guy. These days, Veronica’s existence is just that – an existence, as flat and empty as her own non-reflection in the bathroom mirror.
When her estranged daughter contacts her via Facebook, Veronica learns that she has one chance to escape her eternal personal summer: she must find and apologize to every one of the people she’s turned into vampires in the last century. That is, if they’re still out there. With raging hormones and a ticking clock, Veronica embarks on a last-ditch road trip to regain her mortality, reclaim her humanity, and ultimately, die on her own terms.
When her estranged daughter contacts her via Facebook, Veronica learns that she has one chance to escape her eternal personal summer: she must find and apologize to every one of the people she’s turned into vampires in the last century. That is, if they’re still out there. With raging hormones and a ticking clock, Veronica embarks on a last-ditch road trip to regain her mortality, reclaim her humanity, and ultimately, die on her own terms.
332 pages, Paperback
Published November 5, 2020
14 people are currently reading
1621 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Skjolsvik
2 books93 followersHello! My name is Pamela Skjolsvik. I see your face already scrunching up in confusion. Let's get this over with before we move forward. My last name is pronounced like Dr. Scholls with a "vik" on the end.
You've probably never heard of me, but that's okay. I've been published in literary journals like Ten Spurs, Creative Nonfiction and Witness. I've won, placed and been honorably mentioned in a few writing contests...Creative Nonfiction, Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference and Writer's Digest. The biggest win, however, was getting to appear on NPR's Think with Krys Boyd. Writer dream come true!
My published work is mostly about prison, death and menopausal vampires. I'm weird, socially anxious and I use humor to make difficult subjects a bit more palatable.
You've probably never heard of me, but that's okay. I've been published in literary journals like Ten Spurs, Creative Nonfiction and Witness. I've won, placed and been honorably mentioned in a few writing contests...Creative Nonfiction, Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference and Writer's Digest. The biggest win, however, was getting to appear on NPR's Think with Krys Boyd. Writer dream come true!
My published work is mostly about prison, death and menopausal vampires. I'm weird, socially anxious and I use humor to make difficult subjects a bit more palatable.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
November 25, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
I love bacon. I used to be a vegetarian, but I couldn’t give up the bacon. It’s like the gateway meat to a carnivorous lifestyle…
These photos are horrible. You need to work on that resting bitch face if you’re going to start posting selfies.
If there was ever a myth about vampires that truly bothered her, it was that they were dramatic, evil, universally untidy creatures. She prided herself in the clean and clinical nature with which she could suck a person dry without spilling a drop… The last thing she wanted was to splatter someone’s blood on her eighty-five-dollar yoga pants or even on her hospital scrubs. It was difficult to get out in the wash.
You’re young, but I’d like to let you in on a little secret. What gives life meaning is that one day it will be over. Which is exactly what makes being a vampire suck. It’s like that movie Groundhog Day, except there’s no Bill Murray and it never ends. Ever.
I knew I was different. I think my parents suspected as much and sent me off to one of those crazy camps where you are supposed to pray away the gay. At camp, two things happened. One, I met my first girlfriend, which was awesome, but I don’t think we prayed hard enough or something because we made out every chance we got.
My Review:
I rarely read paranormal tales as I am far too lazy for all that complicated world-building, but I’d read them on the regular if I could find crisply written and snappy ones like this. Forever 51 was a pure delight and full of sharp wit and clever snark from a fifty-one-year-old vampire trapped in perpetual menopause. The plot was unmatched in originality with curiously compelling storylines that amused and entertained while sucking me into a mysterious subculture that began to feel surprisingly real given the weirdness of the world we’ve been inhabiting during the last four years and especially the unholy, calamitous, and disastrous year of 2020. I will be ever so grateful to crack the spine on next year’s calendar.
I was unfailingly engaged and fascinated by the uncanny and keenly honed characters who were often dumpster fires and beyond peculiar yet were also intensely intriguing. I adored every well-chosen word of this oddly captivating, surreal, and dynamic missive. Pamela Skjolsvik is the bomb-diggity. I think I just might be besotted with her mad skills and covet her delectable and snarkalicious word voodoo.
I love bacon. I used to be a vegetarian, but I couldn’t give up the bacon. It’s like the gateway meat to a carnivorous lifestyle…
These photos are horrible. You need to work on that resting bitch face if you’re going to start posting selfies.
If there was ever a myth about vampires that truly bothered her, it was that they were dramatic, evil, universally untidy creatures. She prided herself in the clean and clinical nature with which she could suck a person dry without spilling a drop… The last thing she wanted was to splatter someone’s blood on her eighty-five-dollar yoga pants or even on her hospital scrubs. It was difficult to get out in the wash.
You’re young, but I’d like to let you in on a little secret. What gives life meaning is that one day it will be over. Which is exactly what makes being a vampire suck. It’s like that movie Groundhog Day, except there’s no Bill Murray and it never ends. Ever.
I knew I was different. I think my parents suspected as much and sent me off to one of those crazy camps where you are supposed to pray away the gay. At camp, two things happened. One, I met my first girlfriend, which was awesome, but I don’t think we prayed hard enough or something because we made out every chance we got.
My Review:
I rarely read paranormal tales as I am far too lazy for all that complicated world-building, but I’d read them on the regular if I could find crisply written and snappy ones like this. Forever 51 was a pure delight and full of sharp wit and clever snark from a fifty-one-year-old vampire trapped in perpetual menopause. The plot was unmatched in originality with curiously compelling storylines that amused and entertained while sucking me into a mysterious subculture that began to feel surprisingly real given the weirdness of the world we’ve been inhabiting during the last four years and especially the unholy, calamitous, and disastrous year of 2020. I will be ever so grateful to crack the spine on next year’s calendar.
I was unfailingly engaged and fascinated by the uncanny and keenly honed characters who were often dumpster fires and beyond peculiar yet were also intensely intriguing. I adored every well-chosen word of this oddly captivating, surreal, and dynamic missive. Pamela Skjolsvik is the bomb-diggity. I think I just might be besotted with her mad skills and covet her delectable and snarkalicious word voodoo.
June 25, 2020
I received an advance copy of this book and I'm delighted to report that it was a blast. The story was unexpected and pulled me right into the strange funny world of mother/daughter vampires, the hormonal mash-up of teenage girls and menopausal mothers, and the inevitable midlife quest for self satisfaction. Think Pulp Fiction with bad teeth. Pamela Skjolsvik brings together a riotous ensemble cast around themes of addiction, ethical sourcing, menopause and the need for forgiveness. The way she connects those realms is the twist that makes this book very cool and wholly original. Can't wait for the movie!
June 22, 2020
A completely different take on a vampire story -- so original and fun! I laughed so so much and was completely invested in the character.
March 13, 2020
I read an unedited manuscript given to me by the author. I've read a lot of vampire books so I can say this one is pretty freaking awesome, I've never read one quite like it and it was breath of fresh air.
November 15, 2020
I received an advance reading copy of this book from the author.
What a fun book this was! The characters are interesting, well developed, and unique. The story was fast paced and well plotted. The concept is hilarious and interesting. I loved it and I can’t wait to buy it for my library to share it with my patrons!
I found out tonight that the author is working on a second book in this series and that makes me very happy!
ETA: I finished this for my second time tonight and I loved it even more this time. I can’t wait for book two!
What a fun book this was! The characters are interesting, well developed, and unique. The story was fast paced and well plotted. The concept is hilarious and interesting. I loved it and I can’t wait to buy it for my library to share it with my patrons!
I found out tonight that the author is working on a second book in this series and that makes me very happy!
ETA: I finished this for my second time tonight and I loved it even more this time. I can’t wait for book two!
July 19, 2024
As the author of this book, I have to give myself 5 stars because, well, why not?
I hope you enjoy the story and that it makes you laugh.
Pamela
I hope you enjoy the story and that it makes you laugh.
Pamela
August 28, 2020
This is such a wonderful story with a refreshingly candid, snarky lead who's (gasp?) of menopausal age. Why aren't there more heroines like her? I yearn for more bad-ass, murky, complex heroines like Ronnie, with real insecurities and complexes. I loved Ronnie. I need more of Ronnie!
[I received an ARC but this is an unbiased review]
[I received an ARC but this is an unbiased review]
June 13, 2020
Well-crafted! I was lucky enough to get an early peek and devoured it. No pun intended. Great vampire story.
July 24, 2020
First and foremost, I was given a digital ARC copy of this novel from the author in exchange for a honest review.
This book is a ride from start to finish. The pacing was fast, especially towards the end but it didn't bother me. It didn't get boggled down in over explaining anything. Usually flash back scenes occurring more than once or twice throughout a novel drive me crazy but I loved seeing the shit Veronica had gotten herself into.
The story is so unique. Even though vampires have been used a lot for stories, it still felt like a one of a kind story.
Veronica was hilarious to follow. It never felt like a character was thrown in just for the hell of it. Everyone had a purpose to pull the novel forward and was written to have their own personality. I couldn't get enough of this cast of characters.
I haven't written a review in a while so this one might be a little all over the place but I'll sum up my review:
I absolutely loved this novel and look forward to future reads from Pamela.
This book is a ride from start to finish. The pacing was fast, especially towards the end but it didn't bother me. It didn't get boggled down in over explaining anything. Usually flash back scenes occurring more than once or twice throughout a novel drive me crazy but I loved seeing the shit Veronica had gotten herself into.
The story is so unique. Even though vampires have been used a lot for stories, it still felt like a one of a kind story.
Veronica was hilarious to follow. It never felt like a character was thrown in just for the hell of it. Everyone had a purpose to pull the novel forward and was written to have their own personality. I couldn't get enough of this cast of characters.
I haven't written a review in a while so this one might be a little all over the place but I'll sum up my review:
I absolutely loved this novel and look forward to future reads from Pamela.
August 2, 2020
*I received an advanced copy of this book through Booksprout, in exchange for an honest review.*
What a fun read! The only thing I knew going in was the phrase "menopausal vampire," but I couldn't have predicted any of the wild twists and turns this story took. At its heart, I'd call it a road trip story, but it's blended with action, recovery, redemption, rocky friendships, and a totally new take on vampires. Vampires are such a popular monster that they can sometimes read a little cookie cutter to me, but Veronica and all of her blood sucking acquaintances felt like unique individuals, each with their own experiences, outlooks, and coping mechanisms. I also loved the exploration of addiction and recovery, it gave a depth to the characters' struggles that struck a chord with me. I like stories about characters who don't have everything figured out yet, and that definitely applies to Veronica and Jenny. I loved watching the two of them navigate a new friendship, rife with their own personal problems, as well as the crazy curveballs the world kept throwing at them. I was enthralled and rooting for them the whole time. I didn't expect the ending AT ALL (major cliff hanger!), and now all I can do is wait for a sequel please!
What a fun read! The only thing I knew going in was the phrase "menopausal vampire," but I couldn't have predicted any of the wild twists and turns this story took. At its heart, I'd call it a road trip story, but it's blended with action, recovery, redemption, rocky friendships, and a totally new take on vampires. Vampires are such a popular monster that they can sometimes read a little cookie cutter to me, but Veronica and all of her blood sucking acquaintances felt like unique individuals, each with their own experiences, outlooks, and coping mechanisms. I also loved the exploration of addiction and recovery, it gave a depth to the characters' struggles that struck a chord with me. I like stories about characters who don't have everything figured out yet, and that definitely applies to Veronica and Jenny. I loved watching the two of them navigate a new friendship, rife with their own personal problems, as well as the crazy curveballs the world kept throwing at them. I was enthralled and rooting for them the whole time. I didn't expect the ending AT ALL (major cliff hanger!), and now all I can do is wait for a sequel please!
October 8, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this book, which is the story of a vampire who was turned years ago, and so remained a menopausal 51 year old. She has made a life for herself, with several husbands and children, moving on whenever people began to question why she never aged. She works as a nurse, with the terminally ill, some of whom she feeds from, some of whom she helps over the threshold to death. Then she meets a young girl on a plane, and her life will change forever.
The book does not take itself too seriously, but at the same time maintains a credibility. I enjoyed the writing style and loved the way the story developed.
Well worth a read, even if you are not generally a vampire fan! Pure escapism at its best.
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The book does not take itself too seriously, but at the same time maintains a credibility. I enjoyed the writing style and loved the way the story developed.
Well worth a read, even if you are not generally a vampire fan! Pure escapism at its best.
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 19, 2020
Original, thought-provoking, and full of wit, Forever 51 is an outstanding debut. Veronica is a great character, flawed and complex with plenty to root for. The banter and snarky humor were effortless and had me chuckling throughout. I loved the interactions among Veronica and the secondary characters and all of the situations they got themselves into during the story. By using vampirism as a metaphor for aging, addiction, and more, the author breaks new ground and tells an interesting story. Highly recommended for fans of quirky, unique takes on favorite tropes.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2020
I enjoyed reading Forever 51 by Pamela Skjolsvik. This is the story of a motley crew of characters lead by a menopausal vampire who go on this strange but adventurous road trip hoping to find redemption and forgiveness. It is entertaining with laugh out loud moments and will keep you on the edge of your seat! I loved it!!
November 13, 2020
I was given an advanced copy in exchange for a review. I just want to say that I was delighted by the uniqueness of this story! I can guarantee you've never read a book like this before. I really loved that the vamp life wasn't romanticized. The book also had great characters and great laughs.
November 19, 2020
When I first heard about this book, and that the lead character was a vampire who’d been turned in middle age and was eternally menopausal, I laughed out loud, because as someone who just turned fifty in August, I could totally relate. Then I leapt into reading it.
Wow! What a refreshing take on the vampire trope! Veronica Bouchard is middle-aged, crotchety, confident about everything except her body, tand addicted to the red stuff -blood. So much so, that she attends AA meetings in order to help keep herself from killing people for food, and works as a night nurse in a hospice where the deaths she must cause are largely merciful.
When her biological daughter, forever fifteen, and estranged from her since the 1930s, contacts Veronica (via Facebook – how else?) and informs her that she can become mortal again, hijinks ensue, involving a young junkie, and a lot of practice of the ninth step of the Twelve Step program: Make direct amends to [people they have wronged] wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
Through Veronica’s Great Apology Road Trip, we meet the men and women who most impacted her (un)life, and learn her history with each of them. We also see some popular vampire myths completely debunked (garlic, crosses, sunlight, invitations to enter) which causes Veronica to be annoyed, frustrated, amused, and even a little smug when she realizes how much information isn’t shared among her kind.
What I loved about this novel was that the central figure could, except for the specifics of her “addiction,” be any woman entering or experience menopause. The hot flashes, the mood shifts, the dissatisfaction with what she sees (or doesn’t see) in the mirror are all universal, and, to be honest, we all have addictions of some kind or another, though not all require meetings and intervention.
While Veronica is the most vividly drawn figure, her daughter Ingrid, her (current) husband Frank, and her adopted tag-a-long happy meal with legs, Jenny the junkie, are all equally dimensional, and the characters we encounter are all well crafted, too. I’m not sure if my favorite was Desmond, Ingrid’s maker (and also a waiter and a morgue attendant) or Knud, one of Veronica’s first post-death partners, who reminded me of a deeper, more in-touch version of Olaf the Viking from Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
At turns funny, sad, frustrating, and poignant, Forever 51 is a fast-paced adventure of personal transformation and discovery, and one that you can really (forgive the obvious pun) sink your teeth into.
Goes well with a bacon cheeseburger, garlic fries, and a Bloody Mary, naturally.
Wow! What a refreshing take on the vampire trope! Veronica Bouchard is middle-aged, crotchety, confident about everything except her body, tand addicted to the red stuff -blood. So much so, that she attends AA meetings in order to help keep herself from killing people for food, and works as a night nurse in a hospice where the deaths she must cause are largely merciful.
When her biological daughter, forever fifteen, and estranged from her since the 1930s, contacts Veronica (via Facebook – how else?) and informs her that she can become mortal again, hijinks ensue, involving a young junkie, and a lot of practice of the ninth step of the Twelve Step program: Make direct amends to [people they have wronged] wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
Through Veronica’s Great Apology Road Trip, we meet the men and women who most impacted her (un)life, and learn her history with each of them. We also see some popular vampire myths completely debunked (garlic, crosses, sunlight, invitations to enter) which causes Veronica to be annoyed, frustrated, amused, and even a little smug when she realizes how much information isn’t shared among her kind.
What I loved about this novel was that the central figure could, except for the specifics of her “addiction,” be any woman entering or experience menopause. The hot flashes, the mood shifts, the dissatisfaction with what she sees (or doesn’t see) in the mirror are all universal, and, to be honest, we all have addictions of some kind or another, though not all require meetings and intervention.
While Veronica is the most vividly drawn figure, her daughter Ingrid, her (current) husband Frank, and her adopted tag-a-long happy meal with legs, Jenny the junkie, are all equally dimensional, and the characters we encounter are all well crafted, too. I’m not sure if my favorite was Desmond, Ingrid’s maker (and also a waiter and a morgue attendant) or Knud, one of Veronica’s first post-death partners, who reminded me of a deeper, more in-touch version of Olaf the Viking from Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
At turns funny, sad, frustrating, and poignant, Forever 51 is a fast-paced adventure of personal transformation and discovery, and one that you can really (forgive the obvious pun) sink your teeth into.
Goes well with a bacon cheeseburger, garlic fries, and a Bloody Mary, naturally.
August 14, 2020
I've been dying (no pun intended) to read this book since it was in the concept stages. Literal years, guys. I can now tell you without any hesitation that it not only met but exceeded my expectations. It's clever, unique, and heartfelt. The humor and intelligence I certainly expected after Death Becomes Us, but I had no idea that I would have so many feelings about this crazy ride of a story. You think you have an idea of what might happen after reading the premise, but you don't. Not really. There's so much MORE in the best of all possible ways. If you're ready for a vampire novel with a truly unique perspective, you've found it. Brilliant!
September 17, 2020
Forever 51 is one of the most original debut books I've read this year.
Women of a certain age. Most people don't even know what that means.
Mothers, daughters, menopause (yes, Pamela Skjolsvik writes about menopause!) and vampires). What could go wrong?
What did I love about this book? Everything! It's snarky, fast-paced, and the characters are so well-formed they practically crawl off the pages. I found myself cheering them on and I'm definitely looking forward to the next in the series. This is a sequel, right? Another book? I certainly hope so!
Women of a certain age. Most people don't even know what that means.
Mothers, daughters, menopause (yes, Pamela Skjolsvik writes about menopause!) and vampires). What could go wrong?
What did I love about this book? Everything! It's snarky, fast-paced, and the characters are so well-formed they practically crawl off the pages. I found myself cheering them on and I'm definitely looking forward to the next in the series. This is a sequel, right? Another book? I certainly hope so!
November 10, 2020
Veronica Bouchard has been stuck as a menopausal 51 year old woman for the last 200 years or so, ever since her daughter turned her into whatever vampiric thing she is now and ran off with her piano teacher. Now, Veronica sustains herself as a hospice nurse on the night shift, humanly taking blood from the dead and nearly dying. She has been on a cruelty free diet thanks to AA until a slip-up at a disastrous spray tanning appointment. After that, and an out of the blue Facebook message from her daughter, Ingrid, Veronica decides to skip town. When Veronica finally confronts Ingrid, Ingrid apologizes for turning her and something strange happens to both Veronica and Ingrid. Veronica learns that she can be mortal once again, but she must sincerely apologize to everyone she has ever turned. Setting off on a road trip to regain her humanity, Veronica discovers that the task may be more difficult for some of the people she has turned.
Forever 51 is a unique and comical tale about one woman's quest for redemption. The vampire aspects of the story pulled me in and the well-rounded characters and interesting plot kept me hooked. I loved Veronica's outlook and her way of dealing with the absolutely awful reality of being stuck at 51 forever. Jenny's character was a great contrast to Veronica, seemingly her opposite, but with many similar issues as Veronica. I was impressed with the many vampire origin stories and enjoyed reading about the people Veronica turned as well as how Vampires are tracked in the world and what uses they have. Forever 51 offers more than a comedic vampire romp. Through Veronica's journey important elements of humanity, forgiveness, friendship, family and addiction are explored as well as finding your place in life.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
Forever 51 is a unique and comical tale about one woman's quest for redemption. The vampire aspects of the story pulled me in and the well-rounded characters and interesting plot kept me hooked. I loved Veronica's outlook and her way of dealing with the absolutely awful reality of being stuck at 51 forever. Jenny's character was a great contrast to Veronica, seemingly her opposite, but with many similar issues as Veronica. I was impressed with the many vampire origin stories and enjoyed reading about the people Veronica turned as well as how Vampires are tracked in the world and what uses they have. Forever 51 offers more than a comedic vampire romp. Through Veronica's journey important elements of humanity, forgiveness, friendship, family and addiction are explored as well as finding your place in life.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
December 26, 2020
I had a terrible week, but reading about a menopausal vampire made it better and gave me the first laughs I’ve had in days. This is a quick, clever read, and I recommend it if you’re feeling down.
November 6, 2020
BLOOD, SOULS AND...BACON?
There is always room for another vampire book on my shelf...and Pamela Skjolsvik's "Forever 51" did not disappoint! Her creatures are, dare I say, full of heart? Veronica, the fanged 51-year-old protagonist, is badass, wry and surprisingly relatable, and the journey we take with her toward redemption definitely has some twists. Skjolsvik strikes the perfect balance between humor and horror, and I look forward to what she has brewing for a follow-up!
I received an advance reading copy of this novel from the author in exchange for a honest review.
There is always room for another vampire book on my shelf...and Pamela Skjolsvik's "Forever 51" did not disappoint! Her creatures are, dare I say, full of heart? Veronica, the fanged 51-year-old protagonist, is badass, wry and surprisingly relatable, and the journey we take with her toward redemption definitely has some twists. Skjolsvik strikes the perfect balance between humor and horror, and I look forward to what she has brewing for a follow-up!
I received an advance reading copy of this novel from the author in exchange for a honest review.
October 28, 2020
If you enjoy fun, snarky books, then FOREVER 51 is a witty, laugh out loud vampire novel that you’ll appreciate. Thoroughly recommended for Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett fans - or anyone who needs a fun break from reality.
Veronica is menopausal; she’s sweating under her boobs, has hot flashes, gets irritable, and the problem is she will not age past it. She’s been this way since the 1800s when she was turned into a vampire - at 51 years old, mid-menopause.
But now, after reuniting with her vampire daughter, she has a chance of becoming mortal. Which would mean finally being able to eat a real cheeseburger, instead of the nursing home or hospital jobs she finds to keep her blood addiction in check. Because she’s mostly an ethical vampire after all - except for the few moments where she isn’t!
Her quest takes her across the country in the company of a fellow addict, although not of blood -Jenny is a mouthy teen with hemochromatosis and a meth problem.
The tag line on the cover captures the book’s the tone well “Immortality’s a bitch”. Among other discoveries, Veronica learns that some vampire mythology —which has constrained her for over a hundred years— is an outright lie. Mirrors? Garlic? Holy water? Sunlight? Turning into a bat? This book has lots of fun putting all the ‘vampire rules’ in question - much to Veronica’s dismay. But you'll need to read it to find out which remain true and which myths are busted.
Veronica is menopausal; she’s sweating under her boobs, has hot flashes, gets irritable, and the problem is she will not age past it. She’s been this way since the 1800s when she was turned into a vampire - at 51 years old, mid-menopause.
But now, after reuniting with her vampire daughter, she has a chance of becoming mortal. Which would mean finally being able to eat a real cheeseburger, instead of the nursing home or hospital jobs she finds to keep her blood addiction in check. Because she’s mostly an ethical vampire after all - except for the few moments where she isn’t!
Her quest takes her across the country in the company of a fellow addict, although not of blood -Jenny is a mouthy teen with hemochromatosis and a meth problem.
The tag line on the cover captures the book’s the tone well “Immortality’s a bitch”. Among other discoveries, Veronica learns that some vampire mythology —which has constrained her for over a hundred years— is an outright lie. Mirrors? Garlic? Holy water? Sunlight? Turning into a bat? This book has lots of fun putting all the ‘vampire rules’ in question - much to Veronica’s dismay. But you'll need to read it to find out which remain true and which myths are busted.
September 23, 2020
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a review.
This is unlike any vampire book I have ever read. It presents a fresh and unique perspective on vampire characteristics, hierarchy, and "rules." The characters are funny, outrageous and quirky. It was also interesting to see how a twelve step program like AA can be utlized by almost anyone for any addiction. This book was a wild ride and I can't wait to see what happens in the next book. I definitely recommend checking this one out. =)
This is unlike any vampire book I have ever read. It presents a fresh and unique perspective on vampire characteristics, hierarchy, and "rules." The characters are funny, outrageous and quirky. It was also interesting to see how a twelve step program like AA can be utlized by almost anyone for any addiction. This book was a wild ride and I can't wait to see what happens in the next book. I definitely recommend checking this one out. =)
August 4, 2020
Thank you to Pamela Skjolsvik for an advance copy of Forever 51.
What great fun this book was! Veronica doesn't seem to feel very comfortable in her own skin, and it's no wonder since she's a menopausal vampire who is struggling against her addiction to that troublesome beverage. She embarks on a journey - both literally and figuratively - and along on the ride is a teenager named Jenny who also does not feel too comfortable in her own skin. Jenny's issue is that she is a meth addict trying to get clean. Her family would prefer she get sober without causing anyone to notice, since it'd be a little bit of an embarrassment for her conservative father who aspires to become the next POTUS.
Along with both characters feeling out of sorts - but trying their darnedest to make amends - there is a both a hilarity and a bit of sleaze. I do appreciate just the right amount of sleaze in a story, and this one gets it right on target. The following is an example of what I mean by that funny-sleazy combo, and it also is an example of how Skjolsvik is a terrific writer:
"On a typical night, the Emergency Room at St. John's was understaffed and out of control. Tonight was no different. Veronica disliked the hectic pace, but with it came easy access to the bleeding - a lick here, a sip there, and it would sustain her until she could find a suitable meal. The full moon promised and usually delivered a nonstop night of chaos, which was both bad and good for the citizens of Detroit. Its luminous presence taunted her from the front window of the packed emergency room. There were no bleeders yet, only flu-ridden feverish folks, bruised and battered slip-and-falls and the drunken men who'd lost their midnight brawl."
This book is 5 stars easy for me!
What great fun this book was! Veronica doesn't seem to feel very comfortable in her own skin, and it's no wonder since she's a menopausal vampire who is struggling against her addiction to that troublesome beverage. She embarks on a journey - both literally and figuratively - and along on the ride is a teenager named Jenny who also does not feel too comfortable in her own skin. Jenny's issue is that she is a meth addict trying to get clean. Her family would prefer she get sober without causing anyone to notice, since it'd be a little bit of an embarrassment for her conservative father who aspires to become the next POTUS.
Along with both characters feeling out of sorts - but trying their darnedest to make amends - there is a both a hilarity and a bit of sleaze. I do appreciate just the right amount of sleaze in a story, and this one gets it right on target. The following is an example of what I mean by that funny-sleazy combo, and it also is an example of how Skjolsvik is a terrific writer:
"On a typical night, the Emergency Room at St. John's was understaffed and out of control. Tonight was no different. Veronica disliked the hectic pace, but with it came easy access to the bleeding - a lick here, a sip there, and it would sustain her until she could find a suitable meal. The full moon promised and usually delivered a nonstop night of chaos, which was both bad and good for the citizens of Detroit. Its luminous presence taunted her from the front window of the packed emergency room. There were no bleeders yet, only flu-ridden feverish folks, bruised and battered slip-and-falls and the drunken men who'd lost their midnight brawl."
This book is 5 stars easy for me!
October 28, 2020
A creative, entertaining read, and one wild road trip
Having read Pamela Skjolsvik’s first book, Death Becomes Us, which I thoroughly enjoyed, I eagerly looked forward to reading her novel, Forever 51, about a menopausal vampire. It exceeded my expectations.
It’s a delightful, sometimes gory story about a group of (mostly) well-intentioned, bumbling misfits who are trying to make sense of their lot in life, some of whose lives are immortal because, well, they’re vampires; they drink blood and live forever!
Veronica was turned into a vampire, 100 years ago, when she was a 51-year-old, menopausal woman. And so begins a problematic immortality: where to obtain blood—ethically—to drink, how to find meaning in a life that never ends, and where to find all the people she “turned” into vampires in the last 100 years so she can make amends to them and become human again.
I laughed and “Ewwwed,” throughout the book and then, toward the end, “Oh, no!” and finally exhaled, “Ahhh.”
Forever 51 is a clever, creative story, and a very engaging, entertaining read.
Kathleen L. Hawkins
Author of The Mortician’s Child
Having read Pamela Skjolsvik’s first book, Death Becomes Us, which I thoroughly enjoyed, I eagerly looked forward to reading her novel, Forever 51, about a menopausal vampire. It exceeded my expectations.
It’s a delightful, sometimes gory story about a group of (mostly) well-intentioned, bumbling misfits who are trying to make sense of their lot in life, some of whose lives are immortal because, well, they’re vampires; they drink blood and live forever!
Veronica was turned into a vampire, 100 years ago, when she was a 51-year-old, menopausal woman. And so begins a problematic immortality: where to obtain blood—ethically—to drink, how to find meaning in a life that never ends, and where to find all the people she “turned” into vampires in the last 100 years so she can make amends to them and become human again.
I laughed and “Ewwwed,” throughout the book and then, toward the end, “Oh, no!” and finally exhaled, “Ahhh.”
Forever 51 is a clever, creative story, and a very engaging, entertaining read.
Kathleen L. Hawkins
Author of The Mortician’s Child
October 31, 2020
This book has the most unique take on vampires that I have ever read and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Forever 51 had me hooked from the very beginning, and didn't let me go until it was over.. When I wasn't reading it, I was thinking about it and what was going to happen next.. It was funny and had me laughing out loud, and was full of snark, sass, and some dark humor. It had some twists and turns that I didn't see coming especially at the end. and I can't wait to read more by this author..
Veronica is a 51 year old menopausal vammpire who is just trying to lead a normal life.. Well as normal as possible, working as a hospice nurse and getting spray tanned for a friends wedding.. She is married to husband number 5, and this one really gets her.. When she gets a facebook message from her daughter at the perfect moment she decides to head out for a visit..
She learns a few things on the way, like not all the myths about vampires are true, and that she can become human again.. All she has to do is go on a roadrip with her side-kick Jenny, and talk to all the people she had previously turned in to vampires.. I mean that should be easy right?
Forever 51 had me hooked from the very beginning, and didn't let me go until it was over.. When I wasn't reading it, I was thinking about it and what was going to happen next.. It was funny and had me laughing out loud, and was full of snark, sass, and some dark humor. It had some twists and turns that I didn't see coming especially at the end. and I can't wait to read more by this author..
Veronica is a 51 year old menopausal vammpire who is just trying to lead a normal life.. Well as normal as possible, working as a hospice nurse and getting spray tanned for a friends wedding.. She is married to husband number 5, and this one really gets her.. When she gets a facebook message from her daughter at the perfect moment she decides to head out for a visit..
She learns a few things on the way, like not all the myths about vampires are true, and that she can become human again.. All she has to do is go on a roadrip with her side-kick Jenny, and talk to all the people she had previously turned in to vampires.. I mean that should be easy right?
October 1, 2020
Right about now we need humor more than ever. I enjoyed this read so much. It’s about a vampire who is a menopausal woman stuck at 51 for eternity. I’m not going to give anything away, but it’s hilarious, suspenseful, and unexpected. The characters were great, so quirky and flawed but still lovable or, sometimes, loathsome. Maybe I liked this so much because I’m 52 and can relate, but my husband cracked up at the bits I read to him. Of course, he’s married to a menopausal woman so…
April 24, 2021
Let me start this review by saying, I'm a huge fan of vampire lore. So when I heard about this book I was equal parts curious and skeptical. The vamp junkie in me thought: a book about a menopausal vampire, but vamp lore is all about youth and vigor, so how's that going to work? Meanwhile, the 40-something me who's starting my own perimenopausal journey thought: hell yes, this sounds fantastic! Forty-something me was right (she always is), it's fantastic.
When Veronica, the forever fifty-one vampire, learns that there is a way to reclaim her mortality and end the infinite torment of hot flashes, she sets out on a Thelma & Louise style roadtrip alongside a cantankerous teenager with delicious blood who's run away from rehab.
It's an interesting story with a welcome undercurrent of the empowerment and strength that comes with self-actualization. I love the way the author equates vampirism with addiction and works the twelve-step program into the narrative. The characters are hilarious and very real as they crisscross the country in their bizarre odyssey. It's a fresh take on vampire lore with a moody middle-aged heroine, and I am here for it.
When Veronica, the forever fifty-one vampire, learns that there is a way to reclaim her mortality and end the infinite torment of hot flashes, she sets out on a Thelma & Louise style roadtrip alongside a cantankerous teenager with delicious blood who's run away from rehab.
It's an interesting story with a welcome undercurrent of the empowerment and strength that comes with self-actualization. I love the way the author equates vampirism with addiction and works the twelve-step program into the narrative. The characters are hilarious and very real as they crisscross the country in their bizarre odyssey. It's a fresh take on vampire lore with a moody middle-aged heroine, and I am here for it.
August 25, 2020
Come for the vampires…stay for the humanity! I thoroughly enjoyed this story of an unlikely pair on a fast-paced adventure of personal growth, making amends, and dealing with all the hormones a menopausal vampire brings after over a hundred years. Addiction is featured prominently and the immersion in twelve step program wisdom is a new take on what it means to be a vampire. Forever 51 brings biting humor and a thoughtful look into just how long is too long to be immortal. This book felt complete while still leaving me wanting to know more about the characters, their relationships, and how they will handle the changes they experienced. Can't wait for the next book in the series! Thanks to Pamela Skjolsvik and the publisher for an advance copy of the book and I’m happy to provide this honest review. A really fun read!
July 28, 2020
Between fits of laughter at the wisecracks (Tannish Inquisition, Texas Toast, etc., at a tanning salon), I started taking notes of highlights but soon gave up because the note-taking was slowing me down. Soon I began to notice the beauty of the language between the laughs. Example: “...the constant hum of the dehumidifier kept the gray cinder block walls from crying.” The ending is not only satisfying but also left me hoping for a sequel.
Received free pre-pub copy, but I''m tellin' it like it is.
Received free pre-pub copy, but I''m tellin' it like it is.
August 2, 2020
This book made me laugh a lot. The main character, Veronica, suffers from menopausal symptoms and vampirism. The author turns some of our notions of vampirism upside down in a way that will make you gasp with laughter and glee. The author delightfully details Veronica’s odyssey to make amends with all those she turns.
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