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From the Dark We Came
Belar has made lying into an art form. His neighbors know him as a mild mannered music teacher, but to his fellow monster hunters he’s a senior agent with one of the best track records in the organization. Werewolves, malignant spirits, and other oddities—you name it, he can track it. And kill it if necessary.But when a vampire shows up in Belar’s parlor, his two worlds crash into each other. The vampire is named Cassian, and if he had any sense of decency he would be dead since Belar has already tried to kill him. Twice. Luckily, Cassian isn’t interested in holding a grudge. He wants to hire the hunter. Someone in vampire society wants Cassian dead and they’ve been using Belar to do their dirty work. Finding the culprit will save them both.Their search for answers takes them through a nighttime world of ancient vampires, demon tailors, and monsters of pure shadow. But Belar hasn’t been the only one lying, and enemies and allies are harder to tell apart in the dark.
227 pages, Paperback
First published March 16, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
November 8, 2020
If "vampire + monster hunter enemies to lovers romance" and "demisexual protagonist" sound good to you, definitely check this out!
Disclosure: I beta read it and I'm friendly with the author. However I do not rec books on here that I don't like. :)
Disclosure: I beta read it and I'm friendly with the author. However I do not rec books on here that I don't like. :)
March 18, 2020
3.5 Stars!
I'm a sucker for these supernatural books.
I enjoyed this one and really liked both MC's . They had great chemistry and I liked their interactions with each other. Cassian's cousins were colorful characters as well. I would like to have learned more about them.
I think that was what was missing for me in this book. I needed more information about this world the author created. I'm not even sure which decade we were in. It read like an historical book with the way they spoke. But the author never let us know which time we were reading in. It was a bit confusing sometimes.
I did find the the description of the human world versus the vampire world to be really interesting and definitely original from what I've read before. That's what really pulled me into this story. The way the author made to vampire/supernatural world her own. But I just felt I needed more.
Definitely pick this one up if you are looking for a fast enjoyable paranormal read.
Happy reading dolls! xx
Arc provided by IndiGo in exchange for an honest review.
I'm a sucker for these supernatural books.
I enjoyed this one and really liked both MC's . They had great chemistry and I liked their interactions with each other. Cassian's cousins were colorful characters as well. I would like to have learned more about them.
I think that was what was missing for me in this book. I needed more information about this world the author created. I'm not even sure which decade we were in. It read like an historical book with the way they spoke. But the author never let us know which time we were reading in. It was a bit confusing sometimes.
I did find the the description of the human world versus the vampire world to be really interesting and definitely original from what I've read before. That's what really pulled me into this story. The way the author made to vampire/supernatural world her own. But I just felt I needed more.
Definitely pick this one up if you are looking for a fast enjoyable paranormal read.
Happy reading dolls! xx
Arc provided by IndiGo in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2020
4.25 stars
Well, that was unexpectedly wonderful. What it lacked in world building, it made up for in finely drawn main characters, tantalizing atmosphere, lovely prose, excellent editing, and a captivating story. Emery is a truly talented author. Hoping for more stories in this universe, perhaps a bit longer.
Well, that was unexpectedly wonderful. What it lacked in world building, it made up for in finely drawn main characters, tantalizing atmosphere, lovely prose, excellent editing, and a captivating story. Emery is a truly talented author. Hoping for more stories in this universe, perhaps a bit longer.
October 21, 2020
2.5 stars
The writing is strong, and I liked it well enough that I'll be trying more from the author, but the most successful part -- the chemistry between the MCs -- got the least play, while the bulk of the book focuses on the least successful storyline, which was the action plot.
I liked the world-building, but there's a missing link between all the buildup and the big climax. It's fine to go vague on the details of your magic system IF you don't rely on it for the climax the whole book revolves around. Let the inner workings of the vampire society build your tension instead. But that part of the buildup didn't go anywhere either. In fact, all the best details from Cassian's history are introduced as teasers and then never mentioned again. So this ends up being a strong foundation for something that didn't have any real payoff in either direction (except the UST).
Basically, the book thinks it's plot-driven and it's just not. It would have been much stronger if the author had leaned into the interesting relationship dynamics they created with these great characters instead. The clean writing saves it from the usual pitfalls this can breed, but the mismatch does make it a little draggy in places. I'm still looking forward to trying the more character-driven offerings from this author.
**This book was provided for free by the publisher in exchange for an honest review via NetGalley**
The writing is strong, and I liked it well enough that I'll be trying more from the author, but the most successful part -- the chemistry between the MCs -- got the least play, while the bulk of the book focuses on the least successful storyline, which was the action plot.
I liked the world-building, but there's a missing link between all the buildup and the big climax. It's fine to go vague on the details of your magic system IF you don't rely on it for the climax the whole book revolves around. Let the inner workings of the vampire society build your tension instead. But that part of the buildup didn't go anywhere either. In fact, all the best details from Cassian's history are introduced as teasers and then never mentioned again. So this ends up being a strong foundation for something that didn't have any real payoff in either direction (except the UST).
Basically, the book thinks it's plot-driven and it's just not. It would have been much stronger if the author had leaned into the interesting relationship dynamics they created with these great characters instead. The clean writing saves it from the usual pitfalls this can breed, but the mismatch does make it a little draggy in places. I'm still looking forward to trying the more character-driven offerings from this author.
**This book was provided for free by the publisher in exchange for an honest review via NetGalley**
March 13, 2020
I loved this book. Not only it offers a different take on vampire lore but also an interesting and original paranormal world, full of magic, shadows and color.
The story is told from both Cassian and Belar's POVs, with a lightly humorous style. It was awesome, because it made me smile even when they were immersed in the gloom of the world around them or when they found themselves in life threatening situations.
What absolutely delighted me was the development of the relationship between the hunter and the vampire. Belar was full of snark and snappy retorts, while Cassian responses were almost every time calm and gentle. I appreciated the lack of instant attraction...when they stopped trying to kill each other, that is. As a matter of fact, Belar was reluctant to admit even to himself the warmth Cassian's presence caused in his chest, a warmth that eventually turned into an inferno of need spread to his blood and under his skin. Cassian's mannerisms were swoon worthy, and I just about melted every time he'd kiss Belar's hands or tenderly caress his face. Those were sweet, short moments of affection, stolen amidst the hunt for clues trying to discover who wanted them dead.
I thought it was exciting how Cassian and Belar were at the same time both the hunters and the hunted. It was all a thrilling chase for getting the upper hand in a fast moving game of survival. So fast moving and engaging, in fact, that I reached the end of the book without realizing it. I definitely don't want this to be the last I read about this world and these characters, and I hope the author considers writing more about them.
*ARC provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing&Design in exchange for an honest review
The story is told from both Cassian and Belar's POVs, with a lightly humorous style. It was awesome, because it made me smile even when they were immersed in the gloom of the world around them or when they found themselves in life threatening situations.
What absolutely delighted me was the development of the relationship between the hunter and the vampire. Belar was full of snark and snappy retorts, while Cassian responses were almost every time calm and gentle. I appreciated the lack of instant attraction...when they stopped trying to kill each other, that is. As a matter of fact, Belar was reluctant to admit even to himself the warmth Cassian's presence caused in his chest, a warmth that eventually turned into an inferno of need spread to his blood and under his skin. Cassian's mannerisms were swoon worthy, and I just about melted every time he'd kiss Belar's hands or tenderly caress his face. Those were sweet, short moments of affection, stolen amidst the hunt for clues trying to discover who wanted them dead.
I thought it was exciting how Cassian and Belar were at the same time both the hunters and the hunted. It was all a thrilling chase for getting the upper hand in a fast moving game of survival. So fast moving and engaging, in fact, that I reached the end of the book without realizing it. I definitely don't want this to be the last I read about this world and these characters, and I hope the author considers writing more about them.
*ARC provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing&Design in exchange for an honest review
July 30, 2021
A huge thanks to Netgalley and the author.
I should have read this book last year, but you know... *pandemic*.
Not going to lie, I felt a little underwhelmed. The premise was interesting, and the characters weren't that bad, but I felt like there was something missing. I wanted to know much more about the vampire world, and the fae. I think everything happened too fast and there was no time for real character development. What I did like was that Belar was explicitly demisexual. We need more books with characters that are able to express freely who and what they are.
I should have read this book last year, but you know... *pandemic*.
Not going to lie, I felt a little underwhelmed. The premise was interesting, and the characters weren't that bad, but I felt like there was something missing. I wanted to know much more about the vampire world, and the fae. I think everything happened too fast and there was no time for real character development. What I did like was that Belar was explicitly demisexual. We need more books with characters that are able to express freely who and what they are.
March 27, 2020
I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley
Really enjoyed this one! Both the main characters were great and it was a nice quick read. I would have maybe liked a little bit more world-building - although the bits we did get were very interesting - and I think the final battle was over maybe a bit too quickly, but overall I really enjoyed it so I can look past those minor details. Definitely a more character driven story but that's nice sometimes.
Really enjoyed this one! Both the main characters were great and it was a nice quick read. I would have maybe liked a little bit more world-building - although the bits we did get were very interesting - and I think the final battle was over maybe a bit too quickly, but overall I really enjoyed it so I can look past those minor details. Definitely a more character driven story but that's nice sometimes.
March 25, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
I will not be spoiling the plot of this story for you because you deserve the fun of reading this book for yourself. The author doesn’t spoon feed you the plot. Instead, Emery parcels it out, crumb by crumb, making you wait for each new revelation. I will say that for all that the plot is revealed slowly, bit by bit as Cassian reveals his past and his past connections, there is nothing unfair here. Everything works within the world the author has created.
Likewise, the relationship between Belar and Cassian feels real. Cassian is interested, at first, because of Belar’s unusual blood, and Belar is interested in the handsome man in front of him. Neither are looking for more than the other one has to offer, but as the story grows and as the world gains complexity and layers, so too does their relationship. The world building is wonderful. As with the plot, we’re teased with a glimpse here, a color there, but when you step back to think about it, it all comes together beautifully.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
I will not be spoiling the plot of this story for you because you deserve the fun of reading this book for yourself. The author doesn’t spoon feed you the plot. Instead, Emery parcels it out, crumb by crumb, making you wait for each new revelation. I will say that for all that the plot is revealed slowly, bit by bit as Cassian reveals his past and his past connections, there is nothing unfair here. Everything works within the world the author has created.
Likewise, the relationship between Belar and Cassian feels real. Cassian is interested, at first, because of Belar’s unusual blood, and Belar is interested in the handsome man in front of him. Neither are looking for more than the other one has to offer, but as the story grows and as the world gains complexity and layers, so too does their relationship. The world building is wonderful. As with the plot, we’re teased with a glimpse here, a color there, but when you step back to think about it, it all comes together beautifully.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
May 16, 2020
This was a nice surprise! I love when I discover a new author. I really enjoyed the way they wrote the vampires, there were little to no cliches like you find in so many other vampire stories. This one stood out and that is so refreshing.
Belar is a hunter who has a perfect track record except for one vampire he wasn’t able to kill. That vampire shows up at his house one night to make a deal with him. Together Belar and the vampire, Cassian, join forces to fight what is coming after them.
There is not much romance here but you see Belar & Cassian’s attraction to each other. I would love more with them working together but also being together. They were like 2 sides of a coin. Belar also has a backstory that is very interesting but we don’t get any of it. I think there’s so much potential if the author decides to make this into a series or even write a second book.
I received an ARC received through NetGalley for review
Belar is a hunter who has a perfect track record except for one vampire he wasn’t able to kill. That vampire shows up at his house one night to make a deal with him. Together Belar and the vampire, Cassian, join forces to fight what is coming after them.
There is not much romance here but you see Belar & Cassian’s attraction to each other. I would love more with them working together but also being together. They were like 2 sides of a coin. Belar also has a backstory that is very interesting but we don’t get any of it. I think there’s so much potential if the author decides to make this into a series or even write a second book.
I received an ARC received through NetGalley for review
June 11, 2020
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
From the Dark We Came by J. Emery is a good, short LGBT+ paranormal romance that very much made me think of K.J. Charles's A Charm of Magpies series. I enjoyed getting to know the characters (a vampire and a hunter) very much, but I was underwhelmed by the author's world-building. I would have liked to have known a lot more about the paranormal fantasy world they inhabit. I'm also pretty sure this is the first time that I've met a demisexual character in fiction, and I wouldn't have minded if the story were longer for the characters to get to know each other more and build up their emotional connection to each other over a longer span of time. Overall, though this story is a good introduction to Emery and I think I'll have to give more of their work a try in the future.
From the Dark We Came by J. Emery is a good, short LGBT+ paranormal romance that very much made me think of K.J. Charles's A Charm of Magpies series. I enjoyed getting to know the characters (a vampire and a hunter) very much, but I was underwhelmed by the author's world-building. I would have liked to have known a lot more about the paranormal fantasy world they inhabit. I'm also pretty sure this is the first time that I've met a demisexual character in fiction, and I wouldn't have minded if the story were longer for the characters to get to know each other more and build up their emotional connection to each other over a longer span of time. Overall, though this story is a good introduction to Emery and I think I'll have to give more of their work a try in the future.
July 20, 2020
ARC provided by NineStar Press and J. Emery via NetGalley. All opinions are mine and freely given.
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07-20: At first glance, 'From the Dark We Came' by J. Emery, had a fascinating premise for me.. and right up front I'll tell you.. there's nothing wrong with the story. The writing and story are fine, the characters sparked my interest right away, and the paranormal topic is generally something I enjoy.
Belar is a monster hunter who seems to do especially well at executing vampires, of course.. he has some tricks up his sleeves that his fellow agents don't. He has one of the best kill records in the organization.. in fact.. only one monster has ever escaped him.
He's a skilled agent who hides by day as a mild-mannered music teacher, often starting rumors about himself just so others don't get curious about his long disappearances and stir worse ones on their own. He purposely lives on the outskirts of the town to limit the visibility of his comings and goings.
One night, late returning from a city gathering.. having learned socializing with the townsfolk wherever he sets up helps him stay under their radar, he finds the monster that got away inside his home. Having already tried to kill Cassian twice, he discovers the vampire wants to hire him. Apparently, one of his own kind wants him dead and they've been using the hunter to do the job.
For me, there are components here of a great story. I love the way they begin at odds with one another, though Belar harbors prejudices regarding the vampire's kind, Cassian seems to shrug much of it off with the kind of amusement only the truly hard to kill creatures can. They both have secrets that impact the way they deal with others, things that spurred them to make the choices that put them on a trajectory toward one another.
In part because of the secrets between them, Belar struggles to tell who in his sphere is friend and who is foe and there's a chance there to really exploit that, but Emery just doesn't.
As I said before, the book was fine. It was a quick read with likeable characters. I didn't find the story particularly moving because there just isn't a lot of development done with Cassian or Belar. We're sort of tossed the bare bones of their pasts, then it's not extrapolated on.
There's even a discussion of a situation from Cassian's history that is directly tied to the reason they've both been targeted in the way they have, but the only thing really focused on is the finality of that situation. If you give it a try, you'll see it. An heirloom is brought up as a way of identifying a connection between those involved. There's a known betrayal mentioned.. and even a trial.. but none of that is followed up anywhere later in the novel.
Both Cassian and Belar have so much potential. In an almost.. crib notes explanation.. their paths have forged these magnetic characters, but the range of experience and emotion is just never shared.
If you want a quick easy read, it's still worth a look. The author could definitely grow from here and do much more with their skill. I know I'm hoping they do.
PURCHASE LINKS: AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSAMILLION | INDIGO | KOBO | NINESTAR PRESS | WATERSTONES
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07-11: Quick read.. hm.. review to come.. :)
07-10: Starting this today!
August 3, 2021
As a lifelong f/sf reader, I always appreciate authors who don't feel the need to detail much about their world that isn't directly through their characters.
This romance is revealed, and resisted, from the hunter Belar's point of view. His life is a weird, intriguing blend of settled and dangerously messy. He's failed to kill a vampire--and keeps not killing him, until they come to an agreement... Progress is slow for several reasons, not least of which is Belar's alarmed confusion to feel any attraction to an enemy.
This isn't the most compelling romance I've read, but I enjoyed it quite a lot, and will be investigating the author's other work if there is any.
This romance is revealed, and resisted, from the hunter Belar's point of view. His life is a weird, intriguing blend of settled and dangerously messy. He's failed to kill a vampire--and keeps not killing him, until they come to an agreement... Progress is slow for several reasons, not least of which is Belar's alarmed confusion to feel any attraction to an enemy.
This isn't the most compelling romance I've read, but I enjoyed it quite a lot, and will be investigating the author's other work if there is any.
March 15, 2020
This was great, and even great enough that I powered through it in one day despite my vision issues + migraines doing their very best to keep me away from any reading.
I think Cassian and Belar are some of my favourite characters from this author so far! They were amazing and their dynamic was fun and exciting to read about. It's a vampire/vampire hunter romance but it definitely doesn't fall in the usual tropes/storylines associated with that and that was nice too.
It was fun to spot the Castlevania inspiration throughout the book, it was definitely there in the general atmosphere of the world and sometimes in the characters too. Gave my little gay heart the super gay Castlevania-ish content I kind of already knew I needed.
I don't read a whole lot of mysteries/cozy mysteries so I don't feel like judging how well-executed it was, I was mostly here for the queer romance and because I know I'll enjoy the author's work by now. I liked it, though! Wasn't the part I was the most interested in or anything but it gave a really good background for the worldbuilding and for the development of the relationship.
I also loved loved loved the side characters, and I'd be super happy to read more about them, especially Arakiel and/or the non-binary hedgewitch (Percy??? do I remember that right??)
It's a four stars because I had a few minor issues, like how some things I would have liked to know more about weren't expanded on (especially Belar's Fae side, but I guess it makes sense with how it's presented in the worldbuilding, and maybe we'll learn more in potential sequels?? but still, it was a bit frustrating to me) and that by the end I was like "I wish there was more" and not in an entirely perfect way (though that's a REALLY minor problem really) but more like "damn this could have used a few more pages here and there".
Overall though, perfectly enjoyable, even with blurred, messed up vision and a migraine, so pretty amazing.
I think Cassian and Belar are some of my favourite characters from this author so far! They were amazing and their dynamic was fun and exciting to read about. It's a vampire/vampire hunter romance but it definitely doesn't fall in the usual tropes/storylines associated with that and that was nice too.
It was fun to spot the Castlevania inspiration throughout the book, it was definitely there in the general atmosphere of the world and sometimes in the characters too. Gave my little gay heart the super gay Castlevania-ish content I kind of already knew I needed.
I don't read a whole lot of mysteries/cozy mysteries so I don't feel like judging how well-executed it was, I was mostly here for the queer romance and because I know I'll enjoy the author's work by now. I liked it, though! Wasn't the part I was the most interested in or anything but it gave a really good background for the worldbuilding and for the development of the relationship.
I also loved loved loved the side characters, and I'd be super happy to read more about them, especially Arakiel and/or the non-binary hedgewitch (Percy??? do I remember that right??)
It's a four stars because I had a few minor issues, like how some things I would have liked to know more about weren't expanded on (especially Belar's Fae side, but I guess it makes sense with how it's presented in the worldbuilding, and maybe we'll learn more in potential sequels?? but still, it was a bit frustrating to me) and that by the end I was like "I wish there was more" and not in an entirely perfect way (though that's a REALLY minor problem really) but more like "damn this could have used a few more pages here and there".
Overall though, perfectly enjoyable, even with blurred, messed up vision and a migraine, so pretty amazing.
March 24, 2020
This sweet, charming meetcute packed a lot into a neat little package. I have no ability to write concise or short stories, so I loved how tight this book was. Not a single wasted scene.
When reading short romances, a problem I often encounter is not believing the characters could fall in love so fast and get so loyally attached. Sure, sometimes it happens! That doesn't mean everyone writes it well. What I loved about the romance between Cassian and Belar is that it doesn't go immediately from Meeting -> Friendly -> LOVE. They have a push-and-pull dynamic that I found quite well-played considering the length, and their development from enemies to lovers was compelling and sexy in a believable way.
I love in particular that Cassian communicates his feelings and desires upfront. I am weak for any romance that involves COMMUNICATION. So many problems in stories could have been solved by the lovers communicating even a little bit. Where Belar and Cassian end up with their relationship at the end of the story is believable and didn't leave me wanting.
Onto the lovers: Belar was incredible. I adored all of his scenes and his mental narration, struggles, and development. I liked how realistic his pain/injuries were. As someone with chronic pain, it was relatable. Belar surprised me several times -- in a good way -- because there are some areas in which he differs from many protags within his archetype. Cassian was just very pleasant to read, sexy in-your-face vampire who is powerful and upfront without getting into bad-consent territory.
The plot was tidy and carried itself well. I liked some of the variants on vampire mythos and enjoyed the side characters; they felt like people playing roles, not just plot devices.
There was nothing in this story that bothered me or gave me pause. I enjoyed it thoroughly.
When reading short romances, a problem I often encounter is not believing the characters could fall in love so fast and get so loyally attached. Sure, sometimes it happens! That doesn't mean everyone writes it well. What I loved about the romance between Cassian and Belar is that it doesn't go immediately from Meeting -> Friendly -> LOVE. They have a push-and-pull dynamic that I found quite well-played considering the length, and their development from enemies to lovers was compelling and sexy in a believable way.
I love in particular that Cassian communicates his feelings and desires upfront. I am weak for any romance that involves COMMUNICATION. So many problems in stories could have been solved by the lovers communicating even a little bit. Where Belar and Cassian end up with their relationship at the end of the story is believable and didn't leave me wanting.
Onto the lovers: Belar was incredible. I adored all of his scenes and his mental narration, struggles, and development. I liked how realistic his pain/injuries were. As someone with chronic pain, it was relatable. Belar surprised me several times -- in a good way -- because there are some areas in which he differs from many protags within his archetype. Cassian was just very pleasant to read, sexy in-your-face vampire who is powerful and upfront without getting into bad-consent territory.
The plot was tidy and carried itself well. I liked some of the variants on vampire mythos and enjoyed the side characters; they felt like people playing roles, not just plot devices.
There was nothing in this story that bothered me or gave me pause. I enjoyed it thoroughly.
March 17, 2020
Absolutely delightful. This author writes beautifully and I quickly became fond of the lead character. The world building was smoothly done and there was a passage, describing how different the vampires own dark universe was from the human world, that was so beautifully explained that I gasped.
A sweet story with just a few scary bits, and beings of all genders, as well as all ages. (This is not YA nor new adult, yay!)
A sweet story with just a few scary bits, and beings of all genders, as well as all ages. (This is not YA nor new adult, yay!)
September 18, 2020
A short but oh so good introductory read for this author - caught my attention from the very start and kept it entirely 'til the last page, whereupon I was soooo glad this appears to be book 1 of a series. I hope the next one comes out real soon.
April 19, 2022
THIS IS AMAZING RTC
March 31, 2020
3 stars
I really enjoyed both Belar and Cassian as characters. They had good chemistry and I enjoyed them as well as Arakiel and Erathel. However, the predominant thought as I read was that it seemed like I was missing something. It felt like I had been dropped into a book mid-story and I spent the entire time piecing together what had happened before. One such example is Cassian's past. Considering its significance with regards to the story, I would have preferred that it be explained more thoroughly. Along the same lines, the story seemed to be missing a lot of context too. I didn't really understand vampire society at all. Cassian discusses it, but in the most minimal sense, and I had many more questions after his brief explanation. Also, I didn't understand how the monster world and the human world mixed. Did humans know about vampires? Were there tensions or fear between the two species? The world, as intriguing as it seemed, did not feel properly constructed. In a great book, I almost feel like I was put into the book's world, but I never got that feeling.
Overall, the book and the world had a lot of potential. The writing itself was really nice and flowed smoothly, but a lot felt like it was missing in the book.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed both Belar and Cassian as characters. They had good chemistry and I enjoyed them as well as Arakiel and Erathel. However, the predominant thought as I read was that it seemed like I was missing something. It felt like I had been dropped into a book mid-story and I spent the entire time piecing together what had happened before. One such example is Cassian's past. Considering its significance with regards to the story, I would have preferred that it be explained more thoroughly. Along the same lines, the story seemed to be missing a lot of context too. I didn't really understand vampire society at all. Cassian discusses it, but in the most minimal sense, and I had many more questions after his brief explanation. Also, I didn't understand how the monster world and the human world mixed. Did humans know about vampires? Were there tensions or fear between the two species? The world, as intriguing as it seemed, did not feel properly constructed. In a great book, I almost feel like I was put into the book's world, but I never got that feeling.
Overall, the book and the world had a lot of potential. The writing itself was really nice and flowed smoothly, but a lot felt like it was missing in the book.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 16, 2020
Entertaining vampire & vampire hunter mystery romance!
I'm told this was inspired by Castevanian, and that you can tell if you know it, but since I don't I cannot judge that.
I liked the worldbuilding in regards to the vampires. It played on some of the well-known tropes around them while also being completely different (from what I'm used to) in others. The rest of the setting wasn't that deeply established, but enough was there to never get lost as a reader, and to continuously tease me and make me want to know more about the other magical creatures and hunter organisation.
Belar being a music teacher as well as a hunter was a great touch!
It was quick and easy to read and I liked both Cassian and Belar and their dynamic, though it didn't play out quite as I thought it would. Belar's demisexuality was integrated in a wonderfully natural way into the story and the developing relationship with Cassian.
I particularly liked the side characters, especially Arakiel and Erathel, and the glimpses of Percy we got towards the end.
I received an ARC and reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I'm told this was inspired by Castevanian, and that you can tell if you know it, but since I don't I cannot judge that.
I liked the worldbuilding in regards to the vampires. It played on some of the well-known tropes around them while also being completely different (from what I'm used to) in others. The rest of the setting wasn't that deeply established, but enough was there to never get lost as a reader, and to continuously tease me and make me want to know more about the other magical creatures and hunter organisation.
Belar being a music teacher as well as a hunter was a great touch!
It was quick and easy to read and I liked both Cassian and Belar and their dynamic, though it didn't play out quite as I thought it would. Belar's demisexuality was integrated in a wonderfully natural way into the story and the developing relationship with Cassian.
I particularly liked the side characters, especially Arakiel and Erathel, and the glimpses of Percy we got towards the end.
I received an ARC and reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
March 30, 2020
Although the idea seemed promising and I liked a couple of scenes, the writing style took me out of the book several times. It bothered me that both "vampire" and "hunter" were so repetitive, but it wasn't just that, but the general tone and style. it also seemed unrealistic to me that a demisexual would fall in love in just a matter of days when he said it took him months or years before feeling real attraction, and in this case it happens with no real explanation. However, I liked the characters and parts of the story.
March 5, 2021
This is an entertaining story but it is a bit short and superficial for my taste. There is a lot of plot but we only breached most parts shortly.
The main characters are enjoyable but I would have loved to learn more about the vampire cousins and Percy. There is a lot of potential and I hope that there will be more books about Belar and Cassian.
The main characters are enjoyable but I would have loved to learn more about the vampire cousins and Percy. There is a lot of potential and I hope that there will be more books about Belar and Cassian.
August 7, 2021
Loved this. The aging and aching monster hunter with a gentle heart, a cottage with a beautiful garden he likes to tend, a library full of fairy tales, a deadpan sense of humor and a fondness for beautiful patterns and fabrics, and a deep-seated assumption that he'll never find someone to share it all with... it was just the right vibe for me. Well written, humorous, moving.. A+
September 6, 2020
This was a an easy book to get through with two likeable characters, an engaging plot. I would have liked a bit more world building and hope to read some more in this world. Would have liked if it had been a bit longer! Great demi rep!
Read
October 31, 2020DNF @ 18% — just not feeling it. Characters have made no impressions on me yet and the writing is kind of bland. I don't think sinking more time into reading it will be rewarding for me, which is a shame, because the premise is great.
Read
May 2, 2020DNF pretty quickly, and sent back for refund. Basically I did not like the characters enough to be interested in what was going on.
July 7, 2020
Received a free copy through NetGalley UK in exchange for an honest review.
I'm in two minds about this book. There are good points and bad points, but I think the good does win out far more come the end, so rather than giving it three stars, I'm going for four. I think it's worth it.
On the surface, it's an intriguing and gripping tale of a monster hunter and a vampire who find their paths crossing until their way forward becomes one and the same in a world that piques the interest. But there's a lot left lacking, and elements of the writing style really doesn't help, either.
First and foremost, it's never mentioned once, or even hinted at, as to when or where this story takes place. It's never once made clear as to whether it's set in our world or an alternative universe, and the timeline is never expressed, either, though the apparent lack of electricity alludes to it being set during times of old, it could just as easily be of another world entirely from our own or set sometime in the future - there's no part of the story that brings into it anything beyond the characters, no hints as to what lies in the world around them, no household objects interacted with that answers any questions, nothing to suggest one way or the other. It's simply never made clear, and because of this it's often left confusing with certain descriptions.
The narrative is more or less consistent with the 'voice' it carries, at least until the very end, and then suddenly it alters, the narrative voice sounding less otherworldly yet proper and becomes more common modern world-ish - the descriptions of the sexual encounter, for example, switched the whole 'voice' of it entirely and it made it seem as if it just didn't fit. There's also a problem with the narrative in general, reading as though it's third-person limited to start, switching between Belar and Cassian, but the whole time it's never written too personally, rarely using pronouns of any kind concerning the character who's POV it's in at the time, the over-use of names - it makes it read as if it should have been third-person omniscient and yet it isn't. There's also long rambles of text, starting out with one thing and running off in tangents that add to the moments of confusion. Between the issues of narrative, it does throw off the flow of the whole thing at times, giving moments where it's easy to space in and out.
However, I have to stress that, overall, despite narrative writing issues and lack of details, this book is a fairly quick read, perhaps shorter than it ought to be with so much left out that could have enriched it further, the characters are well-written and three-dimensional, layers there that we barely get to scratch the surface of, and their separate journeys that lead them onto a mission to find whoever it is that seems to have linked them together and tries to get them both killed on several occasions until they join forces and get to the bottom of it. There's a whole world there, though lacking with details to fill in some of the questions of intrigue around it all, that makes the story gripping, makes it easy to sit down and get into, and keep reading. The world where hunting monsters, however secret it appears to be kept, seems to offer job positions with ranks to climb and pay cheques to cash in for their efforts, and a whole building where research is done to plan out hunts before they happen and to write reports on once they're over - it's all so intriguing.
This book isn't perfect, but I never once felt the urge to put it down and never pick it back up again, and although it left me with a lot of questions about the world around the main characters that were never answered, the story did feel whole, complete, come the end, and most things were wrapped up nicely. It would actually be lovely to re-visit them in a sequel, perhaps where more could be explained, especially as a lot of the lingering questions about the world impact on the characters themselves and how things end. With the two of them finding their way together, how does that go about working? Everything about vampires is more or less vague, left a mystery, even to the characters themselves, and then there's the fact that Belar is part Fae - does that alter anything about him in comparison to humans? Do the Fae have extended life-expectancies? Could the two of them spend decades together? Or will a time come when Belar will perish and leave Cassian to carry on without him? What about the princess Cassian served, and how he's known to break away from her and always return - does that mean once Belar's out of the picture, he'll return to her in the end? What will become of them? There's not an awful lot throughout the story to leave us to imagine how their journey will continue on long after the story is over.
Gripping. But lacking. Yet still whole and complete. I loved reading this book, I enjoyed every moment of it regardless of its flaws, and it's easy to overlook wasted potential to appreciate the story for what it is. The only true thing that I raise an eyebrow at is the fact that this book is advertised to have this sexuality and that gender, but the only real character who openly labels themselves is Belar as demisexual, and I think the sex scene at the end ruins that a little, as the one thing we are told about him is that he's spent months, even years, with people and never managed to reach a point where he's felt physical attraction towards them enough to act upon it, reaching a time when both parties grow bored and move on - this notion takes away from the fact that people can be in romantic relationships without physical attraction and be satisfied with that, and it also undermines the fact we're told this simply doesn't happen for him until Cassian comes along and suddenly his whole sense of sexuality alters in an instant. Demisexuality happens over time, and I think this would have been much more satisfying come the end if the sex scene had been replaced with a moment of romantic closeness instead, perhaps them curled up together or something, much more fitting to Belar's character and the story itself, and to show that, although it will probably happen because Cassian holds a stronger bond with Belar than anyone else ever has to the extent that he feels things he never really has before, wants to do things he's never been interested in with anyone else, that it doesn't switch on and off instantly, it happens gradually, and the two of them haven't known each other for very long, nor do they know much of each other, much like the reader. Personally, and through my own experiences and those of others I've spoken to, I do think this could have been much more satisfying an ending without it, their romantic relationship beautiful enough to witness the beginnings of alone.
I do have to admit that I missed the fact that Belar is a sufferer of chronic pain until I read the author's notes on this at the end. I felt that his pain was portrayed as being the result of lots of injuries over time on hunting missions, especially those alluded to in recent times he's still healing from, combined with natural aches and pains that come with ageing. As a sufferer of chronic pain, I feel I should have realised this is something that was going on with the character, but it was never explained, simply alluded to and portrayed in the wrong light, considering that he's a chronic pain sufferer who also happens to have lead a life of strenuous physical activity and who's ageing. The lack of detail around the world in which the characters live in general made it truly difficult to tell much beyond the action we see as we see it on the page - there's no real background information on either character or their world, no small moment to pause and make it clear he's a chronic pain sufferer or how it came about. It would be nice to see it made more clear if ever there's a future instalment or another book by the author in a similar world with similar characters.
I'm not disappointed with this book, though, however much I wish there were more details involved, the world painted more clearly rather than either no hint at things or only vague notions about them, the book is still easy to get lost in, the characters are likeable with flaws that make them come across as realistic, the lives they lead are intriguing and full of action and excitement with the boring mundane aspects of every day life between as well, which again makes them more three-dimensional and realistic. It's a complete story that offers action, danger, drama, romance, intrigue, and excitement, and without the occasional interruptions to the narrative, the pacing is good, keeping the story moving onwards, and it's a satisfying read to have finished.
I'm not sorry I requested this book, I am glad I read it, I may possibly read it again in future, and I will be keeping an eye out for future releases from the author, because for all the issues in this book, the potential for amazing things with enough time and experience is right there. I recommend this book to anyone who's into the supernatural, who generally leans towards urban fantasy stories with elements of action and mystery, containing characters who are of the LGBTQ+ community, and don't mind a bit of romance in and around the main plot, which is solid and doesn't get abandoned for the romance. It was short and sweet, full of danger and excitement, and I couldn't read it fast enough to discover who it was who was creating so much trouble for the main characters and how they came to take care of it all.
I'm in two minds about this book. There are good points and bad points, but I think the good does win out far more come the end, so rather than giving it three stars, I'm going for four. I think it's worth it.
On the surface, it's an intriguing and gripping tale of a monster hunter and a vampire who find their paths crossing until their way forward becomes one and the same in a world that piques the interest. But there's a lot left lacking, and elements of the writing style really doesn't help, either.
First and foremost, it's never mentioned once, or even hinted at, as to when or where this story takes place. It's never once made clear as to whether it's set in our world or an alternative universe, and the timeline is never expressed, either, though the apparent lack of electricity alludes to it being set during times of old, it could just as easily be of another world entirely from our own or set sometime in the future - there's no part of the story that brings into it anything beyond the characters, no hints as to what lies in the world around them, no household objects interacted with that answers any questions, nothing to suggest one way or the other. It's simply never made clear, and because of this it's often left confusing with certain descriptions.
The narrative is more or less consistent with the 'voice' it carries, at least until the very end, and then suddenly it alters, the narrative voice sounding less otherworldly yet proper and becomes more common modern world-ish - the descriptions of the sexual encounter, for example, switched the whole 'voice' of it entirely and it made it seem as if it just didn't fit. There's also a problem with the narrative in general, reading as though it's third-person limited to start, switching between Belar and Cassian, but the whole time it's never written too personally, rarely using pronouns of any kind concerning the character who's POV it's in at the time, the over-use of names - it makes it read as if it should have been third-person omniscient and yet it isn't. There's also long rambles of text, starting out with one thing and running off in tangents that add to the moments of confusion. Between the issues of narrative, it does throw off the flow of the whole thing at times, giving moments where it's easy to space in and out.
However, I have to stress that, overall, despite narrative writing issues and lack of details, this book is a fairly quick read, perhaps shorter than it ought to be with so much left out that could have enriched it further, the characters are well-written and three-dimensional, layers there that we barely get to scratch the surface of, and their separate journeys that lead them onto a mission to find whoever it is that seems to have linked them together and tries to get them both killed on several occasions until they join forces and get to the bottom of it. There's a whole world there, though lacking with details to fill in some of the questions of intrigue around it all, that makes the story gripping, makes it easy to sit down and get into, and keep reading. The world where hunting monsters, however secret it appears to be kept, seems to offer job positions with ranks to climb and pay cheques to cash in for their efforts, and a whole building where research is done to plan out hunts before they happen and to write reports on once they're over - it's all so intriguing.
This book isn't perfect, but I never once felt the urge to put it down and never pick it back up again, and although it left me with a lot of questions about the world around the main characters that were never answered, the story did feel whole, complete, come the end, and most things were wrapped up nicely. It would actually be lovely to re-visit them in a sequel, perhaps where more could be explained, especially as a lot of the lingering questions about the world impact on the characters themselves and how things end. With the two of them finding their way together, how does that go about working? Everything about vampires is more or less vague, left a mystery, even to the characters themselves, and then there's the fact that Belar is part Fae - does that alter anything about him in comparison to humans? Do the Fae have extended life-expectancies? Could the two of them spend decades together? Or will a time come when Belar will perish and leave Cassian to carry on without him? What about the princess Cassian served, and how he's known to break away from her and always return - does that mean once Belar's out of the picture, he'll return to her in the end? What will become of them? There's not an awful lot throughout the story to leave us to imagine how their journey will continue on long after the story is over.
Gripping. But lacking. Yet still whole and complete. I loved reading this book, I enjoyed every moment of it regardless of its flaws, and it's easy to overlook wasted potential to appreciate the story for what it is. The only true thing that I raise an eyebrow at is the fact that this book is advertised to have this sexuality and that gender, but the only real character who openly labels themselves is Belar as demisexual, and I think the sex scene at the end ruins that a little, as the one thing we are told about him is that he's spent months, even years, with people and never managed to reach a point where he's felt physical attraction towards them enough to act upon it, reaching a time when both parties grow bored and move on - this notion takes away from the fact that people can be in romantic relationships without physical attraction and be satisfied with that, and it also undermines the fact we're told this simply doesn't happen for him until Cassian comes along and suddenly his whole sense of sexuality alters in an instant. Demisexuality happens over time, and I think this would have been much more satisfying come the end if the sex scene had been replaced with a moment of romantic closeness instead, perhaps them curled up together or something, much more fitting to Belar's character and the story itself, and to show that, although it will probably happen because Cassian holds a stronger bond with Belar than anyone else ever has to the extent that he feels things he never really has before, wants to do things he's never been interested in with anyone else, that it doesn't switch on and off instantly, it happens gradually, and the two of them haven't known each other for very long, nor do they know much of each other, much like the reader. Personally, and through my own experiences and those of others I've spoken to, I do think this could have been much more satisfying an ending without it, their romantic relationship beautiful enough to witness the beginnings of alone.
I do have to admit that I missed the fact that Belar is a sufferer of chronic pain until I read the author's notes on this at the end. I felt that his pain was portrayed as being the result of lots of injuries over time on hunting missions, especially those alluded to in recent times he's still healing from, combined with natural aches and pains that come with ageing. As a sufferer of chronic pain, I feel I should have realised this is something that was going on with the character, but it was never explained, simply alluded to and portrayed in the wrong light, considering that he's a chronic pain sufferer who also happens to have lead a life of strenuous physical activity and who's ageing. The lack of detail around the world in which the characters live in general made it truly difficult to tell much beyond the action we see as we see it on the page - there's no real background information on either character or their world, no small moment to pause and make it clear he's a chronic pain sufferer or how it came about. It would be nice to see it made more clear if ever there's a future instalment or another book by the author in a similar world with similar characters.
I'm not disappointed with this book, though, however much I wish there were more details involved, the world painted more clearly rather than either no hint at things or only vague notions about them, the book is still easy to get lost in, the characters are likeable with flaws that make them come across as realistic, the lives they lead are intriguing and full of action and excitement with the boring mundane aspects of every day life between as well, which again makes them more three-dimensional and realistic. It's a complete story that offers action, danger, drama, romance, intrigue, and excitement, and without the occasional interruptions to the narrative, the pacing is good, keeping the story moving onwards, and it's a satisfying read to have finished.
I'm not sorry I requested this book, I am glad I read it, I may possibly read it again in future, and I will be keeping an eye out for future releases from the author, because for all the issues in this book, the potential for amazing things with enough time and experience is right there. I recommend this book to anyone who's into the supernatural, who generally leans towards urban fantasy stories with elements of action and mystery, containing characters who are of the LGBTQ+ community, and don't mind a bit of romance in and around the main plot, which is solid and doesn't get abandoned for the romance. It was short and sweet, full of danger and excitement, and I couldn't read it fast enough to discover who it was who was creating so much trouble for the main characters and how they came to take care of it all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2020
sadly I think my expectations were too high for this. it felt extremely rushed but at the same time drawn out due to both mc's not getting romantically involved til the end, literally. I think I would've liked it better if it was a duology or even trilogy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2020
This book was very entertaining! I really enjoyed the characters and I loved the premise. Now, I do love a good vampire story so there's that...but this is a really well-written and enjoyable novel!
Belar is a hunter. He primarily kills vampires but he's been known to hunt other monsters. Then a vampire that he's attempted to kill twice shows up in his house. Cassian is the vampire's name and he wants to hire Belar to discover who is trying to kill him. It seems that there is something going on in the vampire world and Cassian suspects that someone is trying to kill them both.
So... at its heart, this book is a mystery. The vampire world in this novel is rich and interesting. Vampires are mostly ancient creatures and stay to themselves. Cassian has an interesting history and I won't spoil that for you... suffice to say that he isn't all that he appears to be!
The relationship between Belar and Cassian is lovely. At first, of course, the two are at odds. After all, Belar has attempted to kill Cassian twice! Fortunately, he failed both times, and Cassian doesn't seem intent on getting revenge. From the first moment he speaks to Belar it's clear that he's intrigued by the human.
I really enjoyed the way the two of them went from being enemies to having a fragile truce to find out what being may be trying to kill them both. They work well together. Belar is a skilled hunter and Cassian has the strength and wile of his age behind him and they are a good team.
Don't be put off by this being a short length for a novel. Emery does a great job of bringing fully realized characters to the page and writes a great romance between two intriguing characters.
Belar is a hunter. He primarily kills vampires but he's been known to hunt other monsters. Then a vampire that he's attempted to kill twice shows up in his house. Cassian is the vampire's name and he wants to hire Belar to discover who is trying to kill him. It seems that there is something going on in the vampire world and Cassian suspects that someone is trying to kill them both.
So... at its heart, this book is a mystery. The vampire world in this novel is rich and interesting. Vampires are mostly ancient creatures and stay to themselves. Cassian has an interesting history and I won't spoil that for you... suffice to say that he isn't all that he appears to be!
The relationship between Belar and Cassian is lovely. At first, of course, the two are at odds. After all, Belar has attempted to kill Cassian twice! Fortunately, he failed both times, and Cassian doesn't seem intent on getting revenge. From the first moment he speaks to Belar it's clear that he's intrigued by the human.
I really enjoyed the way the two of them went from being enemies to having a fragile truce to find out what being may be trying to kill them both. They work well together. Belar is a skilled hunter and Cassian has the strength and wile of his age behind him and they are a good team.
Don't be put off by this being a short length for a novel. Emery does a great job of bringing fully realized characters to the page and writes a great romance between two intriguing characters.
March 12, 2020
This book was interesting in the best possible sense of the word. I badly want a sequel, because the relationship between the characters is just so compelling, and the world they inhabit is both creepy and weirdly enchanting.
The author does a great job with a number of things in this book. One of the things I liked the most was the skill they have at creating atmosphere— descriptions aren’t overwhelming but they are super detailed: just enough info about light, temperature, color, texture, etc. to make the environments feel real.
The main characters play off each other really well: they’re nuanced enough to avoid the usual pitfalls of the vampire/vampire hunter trope, and well developed enough that they feel like real people, odd supernatural abilities and shadow realms aside. The supporting characters are also fascinating, particularly a pair of elder vampires (vampire elders?) that steal every scene they’re in. There’s a really neat take on vampire lore here as well, a reworking of the standard setup that I would love to see develop more in future books. It feels like there’s a lot more story to come here on a number of levels: the two heroes’ relationship and the fascinating world in which they live, and I can’t wait.
* I received and ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
The author does a great job with a number of things in this book. One of the things I liked the most was the skill they have at creating atmosphere— descriptions aren’t overwhelming but they are super detailed: just enough info about light, temperature, color, texture, etc. to make the environments feel real.
The main characters play off each other really well: they’re nuanced enough to avoid the usual pitfalls of the vampire/vampire hunter trope, and well developed enough that they feel like real people, odd supernatural abilities and shadow realms aside. The supporting characters are also fascinating, particularly a pair of elder vampires (vampire elders?) that steal every scene they’re in. There’s a really neat take on vampire lore here as well, a reworking of the standard setup that I would love to see develop more in future books. It feels like there’s a lot more story to come here on a number of levels: the two heroes’ relationship and the fascinating world in which they live, and I can’t wait.
* I received and ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
April 14, 2020
I received this book as a digital ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Well this book was such a fun read! It has a secret society of Vampires, Werewolves, Fae of all sorts, shadows with eyes and claws and hunters who try to keep humans safe at night while teaching kids music lessons at day. I am not much into vampires anymore since they all started to sparkle and be oh so nice and protective, but I am glad I put up this book. In "From The Dark We Came" they are not braindead monsters either, but they are bloodthirsty, dangerous as hell and definitely creatures of the dark. Love them!
So as I said before this story is fun but also dark with just the right amount of sexy. I would have loved to get to know the world even better, same goes for Belar and Cassian. There are some questions left like who actually is Belars father and how do real vampires come to life? Will there be a sequel someday? – I don’t know and even with this questions looming above my overly curios head I still enjoyed this book from start to end and finished it within three reading nights (I could have devoured it within a day but I tried to savor it as long as possible).
Well this book was such a fun read! It has a secret society of Vampires, Werewolves, Fae of all sorts, shadows with eyes and claws and hunters who try to keep humans safe at night while teaching kids music lessons at day. I am not much into vampires anymore since they all started to sparkle and be oh so nice and protective, but I am glad I put up this book. In "From The Dark We Came" they are not braindead monsters either, but they are bloodthirsty, dangerous as hell and definitely creatures of the dark. Love them!
So as I said before this story is fun but also dark with just the right amount of sexy. I would have loved to get to know the world even better, same goes for Belar and Cassian. There are some questions left like who actually is Belars father and how do real vampires come to life? Will there be a sequel someday? – I don’t know and even with this questions looming above my overly curios head I still enjoyed this book from start to end and finished it within three reading nights (I could have devoured it within a day but I tried to savor it as long as possible).
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