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The Vampire Defense Agency #1
Blood Lust
A vampire warrior. A shrink. Too many complications.
Kyr, leader of the Vampire Defense Agency’s elite ground team, doesn’t have a choice in the matter. Either he participates in this bullshit psych eval, or his team gets suspended.
But this isn’t about Kyr’s mental health. This is an investigation. Because the director wants to know why the Hush hasn’t been joining the company singalong lately. The reason? A traitor at the VDA is betraying vampire females into the hands of a demon lord.
Kyr doesn’t trust anyone, not even—especially not—the gorgeous agent assigned to evaluate him. The only thing more difficult than dodging her questions?
Denying the intense (and inconvenient) attraction between them…
Previously released as Passion Awakened.
Kyr, leader of the Vampire Defense Agency’s elite ground team, doesn’t have a choice in the matter. Either he participates in this bullshit psych eval, or his team gets suspended.
But this isn’t about Kyr’s mental health. This is an investigation. Because the director wants to know why the Hush hasn’t been joining the company singalong lately. The reason? A traitor at the VDA is betraying vampire females into the hands of a demon lord.
Kyr doesn’t trust anyone, not even—especially not—the gorgeous agent assigned to evaluate him. The only thing more difficult than dodging her questions?
Denying the intense (and inconvenient) attraction between them…
Previously released as Passion Awakened.
355 pages, ebook
First published May 5, 2020
423 people are currently reading
950 people want to read
About the author
Katherine Buel
10 books197 followersKatherine Buel is a fantasy novelist and avid horsewoman. She has an MFA from Northern Michigan University and has lived in eight different states.
She formerly wrote as Katherine Hurley.
She formerly wrote as Katherine Hurley.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
May 11, 2020
This is an ARC review - release date is 30 Apr 20
There is a successful formula for writing a good paranormal romance which the author has definitely followed. The main characters Mira and Kyr are forced to behold and a couple worth rooting for. This story is not for the faint of heart, as there are some disturbing factors that may be triggers for some folks but overall this is a great first novel in a series. The author definitely leaves you wanting more. I look forward to reading the next book In the Hush series.
There is a successful formula for writing a good paranormal romance which the author has definitely followed. The main characters Mira and Kyr are forced to behold and a couple worth rooting for. This story is not for the faint of heart, as there are some disturbing factors that may be triggers for some folks but overall this is a great first novel in a series. The author definitely leaves you wanting more. I look forward to reading the next book In the Hush series.
October 29, 2020
3.5 stars
January 4, 2024
This was actually really good! I'm always skeptical when a new book or series states that 'if you're a fan of J.R. Wards' BDB series, you'll love this!' The last book i read was most definitely not similar, but this definitely had similar qualities and i am not complaining about that! What was nice was that i never once felt any moments of immature dialogue or cheesiness. It was a good, well written PNR with sexy vampire warriors...close friends with good banter, good romance with really satisfying sexy times and some good action. I will most definitely be moving on to the next book!! Highly recommended to lovers of PNR...and if you're a Kindle Unlimited member, the entire series is included (i believe the final book is scheduled to come out later this month)!!
April 11, 2020
TRIGGER WARNING FOR THE BOOK: Kidnapping, killing, guns, mention of rape, suicide, non-con, stabbing
I got this book from the publisher through Netgalley to read for free for reviewing purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is a debut novel by Katherine Diane.
Passion Awakened: A Vampire Romance is about the vampire brotherhood the Hush. The main character Kyr, is the leader of the Vampire Defense Agency’s(VDA) elite ground team, he and his team has to undergo a psych evaluation, but it's not really about their mental health. Jodari Os the director of the VDA is concerned with the Hush, he knows that they are hiding something, just not what it is. Meanwhile the Hush are carrying a secret investigation, because someone has betrayed the vampires to their enemies, the demons, and the traitor is among the VDA. Female vampires are being kidnapped, and the Hush don't know who they can or cannot trust.
I will start by saying that this review seems to be very negative and pessimistic. But I tend to only focus on bad things in general. This is a fairly short book, with about 280 or less pages. The first 100 pages where pretty bland and boring to me, but it sets the groundwork a little about who the characters are, and a little about the work place, hunting demons and such. There is not much background story to be found, but I'm sure that will come up later as this series progresses.
I will just say it everything in this book is predictable, the moment we met one character I instantly knew that person was the traitor.
That instant attraction both leads have towards each other and their possible secrets that keeps them away from each other. Though that does get resolved fairly quickly, even though they still have some things to fight through to get their HEA. But I'm also a sucker for insta love and anything remotely "romantic", what can I say, I grew up reading twilight, and I loved it.
So predictable, but I still ate it all up. Really I was squealing, at the smallest interactions between Kyr and Mira. All in all I'm a hopeless romantic, and it wasn't even romantic.
Diane also has a way of writing about genitals. Diane just refers to genitals as sex, and that got really tiring to read really fast. Just I don't know maybe use some other terms instead of only sex. We did get the word c*ck a few times, so that's nice., next step is writing p*ssy or v*gina or whatever, just please stop with the sex.
And the barking, really? Why does he bark when she touches his d*ck? Are they dogs?
I mean I get the growling, not really, but many authors uses the word growling, which I applauded Diane not for doing, until I stumbled upon that word too...
We also get a few graphic sex scenes, so if you are squirmish, don't read this book, or skip the chapters, up to you.
My checklist for what pretty much all male leads in these kind of books have in common.
Insta attraction /love check
Cold and mysterious check
Tall, muscular and handsome check
Dark hair and blue eyes check
Bronze skin check
Only soft and warm with female lead check
Dominant alpha male check
Overprotective male check
Growling check
Big c*ck check
I just wish we could change that recipe up a little bit, but with them being vampires I do understand them being handsome and all that comes with it. But it's just boring. It just make them all look the same.
The names of some of the characters reminded me of Sarah J Mass characters, and some of the dynamics remind me of J.R Ward, The Black Daggerhood series, and seeing which kinds of books Diane has read on her goodreads and the ratings, I completely understand why, but I'm not a person that should judge, since I have also read and enjoyed those books, at least to some degree.
My rant on the names, and I do apologies in advance.
Can we start with the name Kyr? just why? why do they always have names that I can't pronounce.. I thought that Kyr was a bad name, but when I found out that it was short for Kyrdavian, I really lost it. Who comes up with names like that? After 60 pages I just ended up calling him Kyle whenever I had to read that name. I'm sorry, but I really couldn't wrap my head around how to pronounce it, but I did feel bad and at least tried a few more times throughout reading this book to pronounce the name Kyr.
I don't mind the name Mira but is it pronounced with me or my?
Syren is fine but, Syrenaria...
And Jodari really? Jonus?? Megaru?
I can get by the name Rhys, byt Rhysorvian Ilys?? Ilys? Very close to illyrian, or maybe I'm just overthinking. Rhysorvian kind of sounds like Rhysand when I think about it. And this Rhys is actually similar to ACOTAR Rhys, with the whole being able to hide what he is thinking, and good at acting. Like being really angry and furious, but fake it and act all happy without anybody realising.
Amarada, more like Amarantha. The evil queen. Not quite creative here are we.
Ronan sounds like Rowan, but I'm grasping at straws here.
I just really can't with these names, and I apologies if it's your name or you know someone with that name. This is supposed to be urban fantasy if I'm right, so why are all those names so weird and ugly? I mean you can make up names that sound nice but these? Really Katherine Diane?? At times it seems like Diane just took "normal" names and just changed them up for the worse.
My question is whyyyy??
I actually liked this book even though I pointed out a lot of the things that I didn't like in this review. So I'm giving this 2,5 stars, because it's not bad for a debut, and I'll be looking forward to reading more books in this series.
I got this book from the publisher through Netgalley to read for free for reviewing purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is a debut novel by Katherine Diane.
Passion Awakened: A Vampire Romance is about the vampire brotherhood the Hush. The main character Kyr, is the leader of the Vampire Defense Agency’s(VDA) elite ground team, he and his team has to undergo a psych evaluation, but it's not really about their mental health. Jodari Os the director of the VDA is concerned with the Hush, he knows that they are hiding something, just not what it is. Meanwhile the Hush are carrying a secret investigation, because someone has betrayed the vampires to their enemies, the demons, and the traitor is among the VDA. Female vampires are being kidnapped, and the Hush don't know who they can or cannot trust.
I will start by saying that this review seems to be very negative and pessimistic. But I tend to only focus on bad things in general. This is a fairly short book, with about 280 or less pages. The first 100 pages where pretty bland and boring to me, but it sets the groundwork a little about who the characters are, and a little about the work place, hunting demons and such. There is not much background story to be found, but I'm sure that will come up later as this series progresses.
I will just say it everything in this book is predictable, the moment we met one character I instantly knew that person was the traitor.
That instant attraction both leads have towards each other and their possible secrets that keeps them away from each other. Though that does get resolved fairly quickly, even though they still have some things to fight through to get their HEA. But I'm also a sucker for insta love and anything remotely "romantic", what can I say, I grew up reading twilight, and I loved it.
So predictable, but I still ate it all up. Really I was squealing, at the smallest interactions between Kyr and Mira. All in all I'm a hopeless romantic, and it wasn't even romantic.
Diane also has a way of writing about genitals. Diane just refers to genitals as sex, and that got really tiring to read really fast. Just I don't know maybe use some other terms instead of only sex. We did get the word c*ck a few times, so that's nice., next step is writing p*ssy or v*gina or whatever, just please stop with the sex.
And the barking, really? Why does he bark when she touches his d*ck? Are they dogs?
I mean I get the growling, not really, but many authors uses the word growling, which I applauded Diane not for doing, until I stumbled upon that word too...
We also get a few graphic sex scenes, so if you are squirmish, don't read this book, or skip the chapters, up to you.
My checklist for what pretty much all male leads in these kind of books have in common.
Insta attraction /love check
Cold and mysterious check
Tall, muscular and handsome check
Dark hair and blue eyes check
Bronze skin check
Only soft and warm with female lead check
Dominant alpha male check
Overprotective male check
Growling check
Big c*ck check
I just wish we could change that recipe up a little bit, but with them being vampires I do understand them being handsome and all that comes with it. But it's just boring. It just make them all look the same.
The names of some of the characters reminded me of Sarah J Mass characters, and some of the dynamics remind me of J.R Ward, The Black Daggerhood series, and seeing which kinds of books Diane has read on her goodreads and the ratings, I completely understand why, but I'm not a person that should judge, since I have also read and enjoyed those books, at least to some degree.
My rant on the names, and I do apologies in advance.
Can we start with the name Kyr? just why? why do they always have names that I can't pronounce.. I thought that Kyr was a bad name, but when I found out that it was short for Kyrdavian, I really lost it. Who comes up with names like that? After 60 pages I just ended up calling him Kyle whenever I had to read that name. I'm sorry, but I really couldn't wrap my head around how to pronounce it, but I did feel bad and at least tried a few more times throughout reading this book to pronounce the name Kyr.
I don't mind the name Mira but is it pronounced with me or my?
Syren is fine but, Syrenaria...
And Jodari really? Jonus?? Megaru?
I can get by the name Rhys, byt Rhysorvian Ilys?? Ilys? Very close to illyrian, or maybe I'm just overthinking. Rhysorvian kind of sounds like Rhysand when I think about it. And this Rhys is actually similar to ACOTAR Rhys, with the whole being able to hide what he is thinking, and good at acting. Like being really angry and furious, but fake it and act all happy without anybody realising.
Amarada, more like Amarantha. The evil queen. Not quite creative here are we.
Ronan sounds like Rowan, but I'm grasping at straws here.
I just really can't with these names, and I apologies if it's your name or you know someone with that name. This is supposed to be urban fantasy if I'm right, so why are all those names so weird and ugly? I mean you can make up names that sound nice but these? Really Katherine Diane?? At times it seems like Diane just took "normal" names and just changed them up for the worse.
My question is whyyyy??
I actually liked this book even though I pointed out a lot of the things that I didn't like in this review. So I'm giving this 2,5 stars, because it's not bad for a debut, and I'll be looking forward to reading more books in this series.
Want to read
October 7, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBooks today (10/7/2021)!🎁
💝 ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 💝
💝 ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 💝
January 15, 2022
This reads like Black Dagger Brotherhood-universe fanfiction.
April 24, 2020
Passion Awakened is the first in a new series and I have to say that it's a strong start. The book tells the story of Kyr, who leads a group of vampires who defend their kind against demons. Known for his strength, both of character and physically, he hasn't thought to look for a mate. From the moment that he meets Mira, it's clear that there is something between them. Mira is a psychologist, tasked with breaking past the walls that Kyr and the other members of The Hush have put up. But she finds that she can't resist Kyr either.
I enjoyed the world-building in this story and the growth of the relationship between Kyr and Mira. They work well as a couple and although their relationship moves fairly fast, it didn't feel forced as often happens in this type of story.
The only thing that slightly annoyed me was the constant use of the word 'male' I realise that it was used rather than 'man' as these are vampires that we are talking about so not human, but at points, it was really overdone. So much so that had it been 'man' that had been written, even that would have been too much. I did worry that it was going to spoil my enjoyment, but once I got into the story, I was able to let that go, even though it was used an awful lot.
I enjoyed Passion Awakened and would be really keen to find out what next for the members of The Hush. I'll be looking out for the second book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I enjoyed the world-building in this story and the growth of the relationship between Kyr and Mira. They work well as a couple and although their relationship moves fairly fast, it didn't feel forced as often happens in this type of story.
The only thing that slightly annoyed me was the constant use of the word 'male' I realise that it was used rather than 'man' as these are vampires that we are talking about so not human, but at points, it was really overdone. So much so that had it been 'man' that had been written, even that would have been too much. I did worry that it was going to spoil my enjoyment, but once I got into the story, I was able to let that go, even though it was used an awful lot.
I enjoyed Passion Awakened and would be really keen to find out what next for the members of The Hush. I'll be looking out for the second book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 3, 2020
★ A complex and enticing new vampire world ★
—>>> The Hush is a group made of up five vampire warriors dedicated to eradicating the world of demon kind. Their leader is Kyr, the one with utter control, the utmost concentration, dedicated to leading this unique team of alpha males. Working with the Vampire Defense Agency (VDA) gave them the support and resources this elite ground team required, but lately, the Hush has not been upfront with their reports, if any, and female vampires have been disappearing, pointing to a powerful demon lord’s involvement. Called in for a particular task for her close friend Jodari, the leader of the VDA, Agent Mira Jensen, finds herself caught between the enigmatic Kyr and trying to dig into the Hush’s activities and the requests Jodari makes of her. Kyr’s family history is an ever-present complication, but he strives to protect his sister at all costs. The latest hit on Kyr’s legendary control on the Hush’s dealings is in the form of the attraction he feels for Mira, and it is not until Mira is allowed more insight that she knows how to help in any way she can, as well as to give this attraction between them a chance to develop, no matter what has happened in their pasts to shape them the way they are now. A complex and enticing new vampire world I look forward to exploring more!
—>>> The Hush is a group made of up five vampire warriors dedicated to eradicating the world of demon kind. Their leader is Kyr, the one with utter control, the utmost concentration, dedicated to leading this unique team of alpha males. Working with the Vampire Defense Agency (VDA) gave them the support and resources this elite ground team required, but lately, the Hush has not been upfront with their reports, if any, and female vampires have been disappearing, pointing to a powerful demon lord’s involvement. Called in for a particular task for her close friend Jodari, the leader of the VDA, Agent Mira Jensen, finds herself caught between the enigmatic Kyr and trying to dig into the Hush’s activities and the requests Jodari makes of her. Kyr’s family history is an ever-present complication, but he strives to protect his sister at all costs. The latest hit on Kyr’s legendary control on the Hush’s dealings is in the form of the attraction he feels for Mira, and it is not until Mira is allowed more insight that she knows how to help in any way she can, as well as to give this attraction between them a chance to develop, no matter what has happened in their pasts to shape them the way they are now. A complex and enticing new vampire world I look forward to exploring more!
April 11, 2020
What can I say about this book apart for WOW, this was one of the best books I have read in a long time and has really got me back into reading. I read this in a day because its just so good, I adore fantasy and vampires and this was an amazing combination which tugged at my emotions as I cried, felt excited and nervous. The story itself is perfect and I loved how other characters got their own chapters which added to the personal touch of the story. the love between Mira and Kyr follows a logical story and pulls at your heartstrings, you feel a lot of different emotions to different characters as I love Rhys and Nox. I love Katherine's writing style overall development of the characters and I cannot wait for the next book of this series, I am so excited to hear the next sorry which I presume is about Nox and Clair.
May 6, 2020
I love paranormal romance, especially vampire stories and Katherine Diane has managed to pleasantly surprise me with this debut novel. I loved how Mira and Kyr's relationship developed. Even though I found her a tad over analytic (but as a shrink, I guess it's a necessary trait) and that can become tiresome, the two of them were perfect together. Kyr's was this tall, dark, and extremely handsome alpha male that you wouldn't dare defy, but when he was near Mira he showed his softer side and that was heartwarming. I loved the mystery behind the kidnappings and the suspenseful plotline. The world-building was interesting and all the characters were well presented. I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
*ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley.
*ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley.
May 15, 2020
Passion Awakened is the first book in Katherine Diane’s The Hush series, and successfully blends a mesmerising paranormal romance, with suspense, mystery and danger. The storyline grabs the reader from the very beginning and maintains its grip through the roller-coaster ride of emotional and awe-inspiring events. Mira and Kyr are remarkable characters complemented by interesting world building and an explosive plot. Overall, this is a fabulous start to the series and I’ll definitely be waiting anxiously for the next exciting instalment.
Warning: There are elements of this story that may be triggers for some readers, such as kidnapping, reference to rape, suicide, and general violence.
Warning: There are elements of this story that may be triggers for some readers, such as kidnapping, reference to rape, suicide, and general violence.
April 24, 2020
Katherine Diane is a new author to me. I'm grateful for finding her since I've been in a book slump for months.
A interesting new twist on vampires. I definitely like that both the H and h are vampires. No human/vampire drama for this couple...they do that on their own.
Mira and Kyr are actually a perfect couple, they're both incredibly stubborn and strong and determined to do the right thing. Too bad the right thing isn't telling the entire story first.
I'll happily give Passion Awakened five stars and wait happily for book 2.
A interesting new twist on vampires. I definitely like that both the H and h are vampires. No human/vampire drama for this couple...they do that on their own.
Mira and Kyr are actually a perfect couple, they're both incredibly stubborn and strong and determined to do the right thing. Too bad the right thing isn't telling the entire story first.
I'll happily give Passion Awakened five stars and wait happily for book 2.
May 12, 2020
interesting romantic descriptions
I loved the descriptions of first persons and switching from multiple characters not just the main two and the action style was very fun to read. The descriptions of things in intimate settings were a bit overdone descriptive but overall the wording in the whole book was easy to read and so finished in 3 nights. I would read the others as I would want to follow the storyline for other characters.
I loved the descriptions of first persons and switching from multiple characters not just the main two and the action style was very fun to read. The descriptions of things in intimate settings were a bit overdone descriptive but overall the wording in the whole book was easy to read and so finished in 3 nights. I would read the others as I would want to follow the storyline for other characters.
April 13, 2020
Kyr is a bossy one, “sit your *** down,” Kyr growled, heading to the fridge." I loved Kyr's sister, girl had no filter, “cuz you look awful. I mean, you looked awful last night but now… you look really bad.” I liked this book, I loved Kyr and I can't wait to see what goes on next in this series.
May 3, 2020
The story line was different to other vampire romance novels I have read in the past. The author - Katherine Diane not only dives straight into a vampire fantasy, but also included multiple points of view. Normally an author may focus on 2 characters views at most, Katherine on the other hand dived into at least 4, each from different sides of the story. I was able to immerse myself in the heroic world of vampires as well as some dark, skin tingling moments. Katherine left no details un-turned, there definitely was some references to rape, human trafficking and general physical violence.
The novel focuses primarily on two characters, Kyr and Mira. Both from very different backgrounds, royalty, death, normality, adoption, However they both share a dark past which they use to push them forward to better themselves.
The main plot focuses on Kyr trying to hunt down the company informant, who's giving up details of not only vulnerable women but also men. Little do they know there is a huge human trafficking demon boss closer to home than they realised.
Instead of diving straight into too much straight away, there was a gradual build and flow between each chapter, leaving me with plenty of questions to be answered.
The sexual tension between characters flowed so well, leading to explosive steamy chapters (VERY HOT). Katherine was very descriptive and wrote this novel well, I am excited to read the second instalment.
The ending definitely leaves you on a cliffhanger - the story is far from over, and will definitely be from newer perspectives.
I will definitely be following Katherine for further books.
The novel focuses primarily on two characters, Kyr and Mira. Both from very different backgrounds, royalty, death, normality, adoption, However they both share a dark past which they use to push them forward to better themselves.
The main plot focuses on Kyr trying to hunt down the company informant, who's giving up details of not only vulnerable women but also men. Little do they know there is a huge human trafficking demon boss closer to home than they realised.
Instead of diving straight into too much straight away, there was a gradual build and flow between each chapter, leaving me with plenty of questions to be answered.
The sexual tension between characters flowed so well, leading to explosive steamy chapters (VERY HOT). Katherine was very descriptive and wrote this novel well, I am excited to read the second instalment.
The ending definitely leaves you on a cliffhanger - the story is far from over, and will definitely be from newer perspectives.
I will definitely be following Katherine for further books.
May 11, 2020
Excited for the new series and author!!
I really like both characters both are strong and brave and made such interesting leads. Looking forward 2 the second book and finding out about the rest of the team. Hope we get stories for Ann, Syren, Wes and Jadori
I really like both characters both are strong and brave and made such interesting leads. Looking forward 2 the second book and finding out about the rest of the team. Hope we get stories for Ann, Syren, Wes and Jadori
August 7, 2020
The few members of Hush were also members of the VDA but were more covert and to themselves. Kyr was the undisputed leader and bastard prince of vampires. Mira was brought in to evaluate the teammates of Hush. As this interesting and exciting adventure unfolds the love story of Kyr and Mira cannot be denied while demons are stealing and killing vampires the team desperately searches for a mole while dealing with personal issues. Good read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 29, 2020
This is another book that has left me conflicted. There were parts that I really, really liked. But there were also parts that annoyed me...sometimes a lot. Most of the time those parts were because of Mira. And because she's a main character, that means a good majority of the book I was aggravated.
What I liked? The fact that these vampires mated with other vampires. While not the first time I've read something with this, it does make it interesting in the way that they treat the humans. It was also neat that when a half human baby is born that whatever it is that makes them vampire is actually dormant within them. They could go their whole life thinking they're human. It's not unless they end up spending a lot of time around other vampires that they "awaken" and change.
What I loved? Kyr and his group, The Hush. I am such a sucker for over strong, violent alpha males in my books. So that makes me love the leader even more because there's a reason he can control a bunch of other guys like him. And Kyr was no exception. I really liked the guy. What stops me short of saying I loved him is his obsession with Mira. I didn't get it.
What I didn't like? Mira. As I said. I just couldn't stand her. She makes stupid decisions thinking that that makes her strong, when it most certainly does not. But what irritated me the most was that she had to be a shrink (and if you read the book you'll know I'm using this word on purpose) all the goddamn time. Hearing a story about someone? We have to dissect that experience. Watching something that happened in the past? We have to freak out about how emotional needs were not met after. Just talking with someone? We have to analyze every word and eye twitch. It really really annoyed me. She couldn't even attempt to be in a relationship with Kyr without trying to get him to open up and spill all his feelings. Gag me. How could she not realize that that is not how men like him work?
The meat of the story was actually really good. Kyr and his misfit group of vicious men are more or less part of an agency that polices vampires and hunts demons. The whole thing between the vampires and demons is a little sketchy though. It's not really explained well enough what happened between them and why the vampires fled to Earth besides the demons destroying their home. Anyway, I say more or less because they started out working alone and only joined the agency for their resources. But currently, they cannot trust anyone else there and have not been reporting as required. So the guy in charge orders them all to have psych evaluation in hopes of having the shrink basically spy on them and find out what's going on.
Kyr isn't fooled and he knows the traitor could be anyone. Before things really go anywhere with that though, Kyr has other, more pressing issues to deal with. His step mother is the vampire queen and a royal bitch who is making his sister's life a living hell. Female vampires are disappearing, and one now happens to be her best friend. Finding the traitor and finding the girl end up being linked and it turns into a bloody affair. In the middle of all this is Kyr and Mira forming their relationship. But maybe I should rephrase that. Kyr is bonding to Mira (or whatever they called it here) making him practically obsessed with her. Apparently though, the female doesn't feel it the same way and Mira acts like a petulant child a lot when she doesn't get what she wants. Their "relationship" was ridiculous.
In the end, they find the traitor and the find the girl. Unfortunately they miss another captive that was taken not too long before they got there. Which leads into the next book with the next member of The Hush. I'd be willing to check out the next book because I really want to learn more about the rest of the guys, and I don't think the female lead can be as bad as Mira. Right?
ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley.
What I liked? The fact that these vampires mated with other vampires. While not the first time I've read something with this, it does make it interesting in the way that they treat the humans. It was also neat that when a half human baby is born that whatever it is that makes them vampire is actually dormant within them. They could go their whole life thinking they're human. It's not unless they end up spending a lot of time around other vampires that they "awaken" and change.
What I loved? Kyr and his group, The Hush. I am such a sucker for over strong, violent alpha males in my books. So that makes me love the leader even more because there's a reason he can control a bunch of other guys like him. And Kyr was no exception. I really liked the guy. What stops me short of saying I loved him is his obsession with Mira. I didn't get it.
What I didn't like? Mira. As I said. I just couldn't stand her. She makes stupid decisions thinking that that makes her strong, when it most certainly does not. But what irritated me the most was that she had to be a shrink (and if you read the book you'll know I'm using this word on purpose) all the goddamn time. Hearing a story about someone? We have to dissect that experience. Watching something that happened in the past? We have to freak out about how emotional needs were not met after. Just talking with someone? We have to analyze every word and eye twitch. It really really annoyed me. She couldn't even attempt to be in a relationship with Kyr without trying to get him to open up and spill all his feelings. Gag me. How could she not realize that that is not how men like him work?
The meat of the story was actually really good. Kyr and his misfit group of vicious men are more or less part of an agency that polices vampires and hunts demons. The whole thing between the vampires and demons is a little sketchy though. It's not really explained well enough what happened between them and why the vampires fled to Earth besides the demons destroying their home. Anyway, I say more or less because they started out working alone and only joined the agency for their resources. But currently, they cannot trust anyone else there and have not been reporting as required. So the guy in charge orders them all to have psych evaluation in hopes of having the shrink basically spy on them and find out what's going on.
Kyr isn't fooled and he knows the traitor could be anyone. Before things really go anywhere with that though, Kyr has other, more pressing issues to deal with. His step mother is the vampire queen and a royal bitch who is making his sister's life a living hell. Female vampires are disappearing, and one now happens to be her best friend. Finding the traitor and finding the girl end up being linked and it turns into a bloody affair. In the middle of all this is Kyr and Mira forming their relationship. But maybe I should rephrase that. Kyr is bonding to Mira (or whatever they called it here) making him practically obsessed with her. Apparently though, the female doesn't feel it the same way and Mira acts like a petulant child a lot when she doesn't get what she wants. Their "relationship" was ridiculous.
In the end, they find the traitor and the find the girl. Unfortunately they miss another captive that was taken not too long before they got there. Which leads into the next book with the next member of The Hush. I'd be willing to check out the next book because I really want to learn more about the rest of the guys, and I don't think the female lead can be as bad as Mira. Right?
ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley.
May 31, 2020
I really quite enjoyed this. I love discovering new authors and being able to read new books with generally low amounts of reviews/feedback. You never know when you might stumble across the next greatest thing. Passion Awakened: A Vampire Romance did not disappoint.
The world-building was unique and generally well thought out. I liked the characters and quite frankly had to force myself to put it down so I could grab some sleep but mostly because I was nearing the time my husband wakes up and would get a ration of crap for still being up reading and would I put the damn light out, Blah,blah,blah...
This is a debut novel by the author and I must say, well done. I am constantly in awe as to how these stories and universes come out of someone's imaginings and are then actualized and translated onto the page. You could tell the author had more back story behind the scenes and characters but was able to only tease at them instead of totally spilling the beans and ruin the mystery. She definitely set things up well for further installments because I am totally hooked for more.
I would have liked to know more about the meanings and origins of the Hush and how these badasses came to work together. I would have liked more background on the matriarchal society and how the consort ended up having a side piece(?), previous lover(?) and then said consort and (?)'s child then recognized as someone significant in the matriarchial society (?!?). I also would have loved if Mira were allowed more access to the rest of the team. They all seem to be... pretty on edge? having their own coping mechanism flags flying bright and clear?
I am looking forward to more in the series and more from this author! I definitely recommend for those into paranormal/vampire romances. Absolutely a series with much potential.
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
The world-building was unique and generally well thought out. I liked the characters and quite frankly had to force myself to put it down so I could grab some sleep but mostly because I was nearing the time my husband wakes up and would get a ration of crap for still being up reading and would I put the damn light out, Blah,blah,blah...
This is a debut novel by the author and I must say, well done. I am constantly in awe as to how these stories and universes come out of someone's imaginings and are then actualized and translated onto the page. You could tell the author had more back story behind the scenes and characters but was able to only tease at them instead of totally spilling the beans and ruin the mystery. She definitely set things up well for further installments because I am totally hooked for more.
I would have liked to know more about the meanings and origins of the Hush and how these badasses came to work together. I would have liked more background on the matriarchal society and how the consort ended up having a side piece(?), previous lover(?) and then said consort and (?)'s child then recognized as someone significant in the matriarchial society (?!?). I also would have loved if Mira were allowed more access to the rest of the team. They all seem to be... pretty on edge? having their own coping mechanism flags flying bright and clear?
I am looking forward to more in the series and more from this author! I definitely recommend for those into paranormal/vampire romances. Absolutely a series with much potential.
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
January 31, 2023
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
Kyr, leader of the Hush, races a psych test, along with the others in his group. Their supervisor thinks they are hiding something. He was, but not quite what the boss thought. Mira is Awakened, a half breed vampire and trained psychotherapist. She is tasked with assessing The Hush members. All the while, those members are trying to find the missing vampire females who keep disappearing.
While not a particularly original theme, I really REALLY enjoyed this!
The vampires are fighting demons. The vampires are alien to earth. they are big, bulky guys that are drop dead gorgeous. But still!
There is enough variation to the theme to make it sufficently interesting, and engaging. Its dark and deadly in places, and sweet and sexy in others.
Both Mira and Kyr have a say, but also a good deal of the other characters do too, and I loved that we get more from them. The bad guy too! I LOVE when the bad guy gets a say!
There is a MUCH bigger picture going on, which I assume will unfold as future books come out, but I'm not getting a clue as to what that is yet. So that will keep me engaged for the next book at least!
The author has published under another name, Kyla D Knight, but this work doesn't really show the work under that name, if you see what I mean? Very different.
A thoroughly enjoyable 4 star read.
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
Kyr, leader of the Hush, races a psych test, along with the others in his group. Their supervisor thinks they are hiding something. He was, but not quite what the boss thought. Mira is Awakened, a half breed vampire and trained psychotherapist. She is tasked with assessing The Hush members. All the while, those members are trying to find the missing vampire females who keep disappearing.
While not a particularly original theme, I really REALLY enjoyed this!
The vampires are fighting demons. The vampires are alien to earth. they are big, bulky guys that are drop dead gorgeous. But still!
There is enough variation to the theme to make it sufficently interesting, and engaging. Its dark and deadly in places, and sweet and sexy in others.
Both Mira and Kyr have a say, but also a good deal of the other characters do too, and I loved that we get more from them. The bad guy too! I LOVE when the bad guy gets a say!
There is a MUCH bigger picture going on, which I assume will unfold as future books come out, but I'm not getting a clue as to what that is yet. So that will keep me engaged for the next book at least!
The author has published under another name, Kyla D Knight, but this work doesn't really show the work under that name, if you see what I mean? Very different.
A thoroughly enjoyable 4 star read.
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
December 2, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. I was feeling in a bit of a reading slump lately and this book pulled me right out of it. It was the first book I have picked up in a while that I didn't want to put right back down, it was the opposite, I finished it in a day. I liked all of the characters. You get into the heads of several of them and it made you that much more invested in them. I enjoyed watching Kyr and Mira's relationship grow. Towards the end I was ready for Mira to change her inner dialog, that was the reason for the lost star in the rating, her dislike of being a vampire was feeling drawn out. This book was really suspenseful. It was almost too hard to read the scenes that involved the bad guys at some points, they were kind of terrifying. I love that the author was sure enough of her work not to end the book on a cliff hanger. It had a great ending. It did set up the next book, but she finished up Kyr and Mira's story line. I can say she is a good enough writer to make you want to read the next book in the series without having to resort to a cliff hanger. I will be counting down until the next book comes out. I would definitely recommend this new author to anyone who likes paranormal romance.
May 27, 2023
New Vampire Series - Quality Read
You might wonder why I would use the word the word "quality" in the headline. There are so many vampire books out there and I often find myself in a position to stop mid-book (which I hate doing) or slugging through to the end of something that could have been good but just wasn't.
I love vampire themed series and this one is a gem. It's in Kindle Unlimited, written in 3rd person POV, by an author with relatively few works out there. There is promise in this one and I can't wait to see what she brings to the table next.
Why do I prefer 3rd person POV? Because it takes talent for an author to set the scene, tease the reader, and allow your mind to vividly move through the words and put you in the middle of it rather than just verbally vomit words out of a character's mouth to tell you everything the character is thinking.
If you like J. R. Ward, D. B. Reynolds, Dianne Duvall, Lexi C Foss, and K. F. Breene, you will enjoy this Novel of the Hush by Katherine Diane.
You might wonder why I would use the word the word "quality" in the headline. There are so many vampire books out there and I often find myself in a position to stop mid-book (which I hate doing) or slugging through to the end of something that could have been good but just wasn't.
I love vampire themed series and this one is a gem. It's in Kindle Unlimited, written in 3rd person POV, by an author with relatively few works out there. There is promise in this one and I can't wait to see what she brings to the table next.
Why do I prefer 3rd person POV? Because it takes talent for an author to set the scene, tease the reader, and allow your mind to vividly move through the words and put you in the middle of it rather than just verbally vomit words out of a character's mouth to tell you everything the character is thinking.
If you like J. R. Ward, D. B. Reynolds, Dianne Duvall, Lexi C Foss, and K. F. Breene, you will enjoy this Novel of the Hush by Katherine Diane.
August 7, 2020
This was the first Book of a new series about a group of vampire warriors that are fighting against evil demons .KYR vampire warrior is sent along with his hush to get a psych exam by their boss where he meets MIRA . Attraction is instant and together they try to solve the mystery of who is betraying them and getting the female vampires kidnapped. short story ,fast moving, good first start of a series looking forward to see where the series goes
October 1, 2025
Blood Lust
Mira became the cliche annoying whiny female. She’s a therapist and would not reveal her work, yet is a huge hypocrite when Kyr wouldn’t disclose his investigation with her? And for her to whine about him not being open and communicative with her, WHEN THEY’VE ONLY BEEN IN AN INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP FOR A FEW DAYS!!! A. FEW. DAYS!!! A man she absolutely knew had NEVER been in a relationship, hell, he didn’t even like to be touched much before her!! It absolutely brought the story down at that point, and I was enjoying it so much until then. At least this was at more than 80% of the book. If that crap had started earlier in the book, I would not have finished it. She acted like Kyr hasn’t opened up about anything and like an entitled fool that she is entitled to know everything about him when they’ve only known each other a week. He goes out to save others and she leaves him. Jodari SHOULD have told her that SHE needs to go grovel to be taken back, but noooo. Then has nerve to insist on going to a summons with him when he seeks Mira out. Mira was unreasonable yet it’s Kyr who had to go crawling. I liked Mira until this. Lost a star in rating for me. Her coming to realize her ignorant self didn’t appease, it was too late. She only realized how stupid, how ridiculous she was being when Kyr’s possible death was all the way in her face, as if that wasn’t real possibility when he went out on the mission he did when she left him.
The world building I found to be a bit lacking, but the concept was different with the vampires being from and different world. Not so sure about demons making sense with them being on their world and then now on Earth as well, didn’t really come together for me. And there needed to be better tie in Mira’s history to current times and her relationship with Jodari.
Mira became the cliche annoying whiny female. She’s a therapist and would not reveal her work, yet is a huge hypocrite when Kyr wouldn’t disclose his investigation with her? And for her to whine about him not being open and communicative with her, WHEN THEY’VE ONLY BEEN IN AN INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP FOR A FEW DAYS!!! A. FEW. DAYS!!! A man she absolutely knew had NEVER been in a relationship, hell, he didn’t even like to be touched much before her!! It absolutely brought the story down at that point, and I was enjoying it so much until then. At least this was at more than 80% of the book. If that crap had started earlier in the book, I would not have finished it. She acted like Kyr hasn’t opened up about anything and like an entitled fool that she is entitled to know everything about him when they’ve only known each other a week. He goes out to save others and she leaves him. Jodari SHOULD have told her that SHE needs to go grovel to be taken back, but noooo. Then has nerve to insist on going to a summons with him when he seeks Mira out. Mira was unreasonable yet it’s Kyr who had to go crawling. I liked Mira until this. Lost a star in rating for me. Her coming to realize her ignorant self didn’t appease, it was too late. She only realized how stupid, how ridiculous she was being when Kyr’s possible death was all the way in her face, as if that wasn’t real possibility when he went out on the mission he did when she left him.
The world building I found to be a bit lacking, but the concept was different with the vampires being from and different world. Not so sure about demons making sense with them being on their world and then now on Earth as well, didn’t really come together for me. And there needed to be better tie in Mira’s history to current times and her relationship with Jodari.
December 10, 2023
An Interesting, Steamy Read.👹🗡😍🔥❤️
Blood Lust: The Vampire Defence Agency, Book 1
This is a new to me author. I was intrigued by the premise of the storyline, so I thought I'd try it. I'm glad I did.
Vampires were chased from their home world by demons and portaled to earth to escape inhalation. They've lived amongst us for centuries. If a vampire and human have a child, it will be a 'sleeper'. Sleeper can live and die as humans, but they come into contact with vampires for prolonged periods it will trigger their dormant dna, and they 'awaken'.
The VDA is an organisation that collects information on demons, as well as bad vampires and humans. It polices them. Their elite team is the 'Hush', they eliminate demons, rescuing anyone they can from them. Their leader is Kyr, and his father was the vampire queens mate. His little sister is Heir to the Throne.
Kyr loves his little sister and his team. Then he meets Mira, an awakened vampire who's disgusted by their species.🙈
Thoroughly enjoyable!
Debbie, 1970, UK
Blood Lust: The Vampire Defence Agency, Book 1
This is a new to me author. I was intrigued by the premise of the storyline, so I thought I'd try it. I'm glad I did.
Vampires were chased from their home world by demons and portaled to earth to escape inhalation. They've lived amongst us for centuries. If a vampire and human have a child, it will be a 'sleeper'. Sleeper can live and die as humans, but they come into contact with vampires for prolonged periods it will trigger their dormant dna, and they 'awaken'.
The VDA is an organisation that collects information on demons, as well as bad vampires and humans. It polices them. Their elite team is the 'Hush', they eliminate demons, rescuing anyone they can from them. Their leader is Kyr, and his father was the vampire queens mate. His little sister is Heir to the Throne.
Kyr loves his little sister and his team. Then he meets Mira, an awakened vampire who's disgusted by their species.🙈
Thoroughly enjoyable!
Debbie, 1970, UK
June 24, 2023
Good First in Series
Blood Lust, written by Katherine Diane, is the first book in The Vampire Defense Agency series. This is the first book I have read by this author, but it won't be the last. From the world building to the intriguing characters, this story held me captive from the first page to the very last. This book is well written with intelligent and strong male and female characters, an interesting world with vampires, demons and humans, danger, violence, intrigue, deception, mystery, betrayal, friendships, family, and love. The story was fast paced and set a good base as the first book in this series by introducing multiple characters and solving some riddles but creating other questions which would be interesting to have answered. I am looking forward to reading the second book in this series.
Blood Lust, written by Katherine Diane, is the first book in The Vampire Defense Agency series. This is the first book I have read by this author, but it won't be the last. From the world building to the intriguing characters, this story held me captive from the first page to the very last. This book is well written with intelligent and strong male and female characters, an interesting world with vampires, demons and humans, danger, violence, intrigue, deception, mystery, betrayal, friendships, family, and love. The story was fast paced and set a good base as the first book in this series by introducing multiple characters and solving some riddles but creating other questions which would be interesting to have answered. I am looking forward to reading the second book in this series.
March 25, 2023
Excellent
I loved this book! We have an elite group of alpha male vampires, that’s written similarly like a group of former special forces military men. You’ve got a mystery with a whole lot of suspense when female vampires start going missing. And you’ve got bonding and mating in the mix. This was definitely one of the best vampire books I’ve read in a while! I’m looking forward to reading book 2!
I loved this book! We have an elite group of alpha male vampires, that’s written similarly like a group of former special forces military men. You’ve got a mystery with a whole lot of suspense when female vampires start going missing. And you’ve got bonding and mating in the mix. This was definitely one of the best vampire books I’ve read in a while! I’m looking forward to reading book 2!
April 13, 2023
surprisingly good
My first book by this Author, and I was blown away by how much I enjoyed the world building and character development, this is not one of those Vampire stories that revolves around sex, don’t get me wrong there’s a beautiful love story included with lots of steam, but the action and mystery surrounding the Hero and Heroine is what really makes this whole story, moving on to the next book in the series 😅
My first book by this Author, and I was blown away by how much I enjoyed the world building and character development, this is not one of those Vampire stories that revolves around sex, don’t get me wrong there’s a beautiful love story included with lots of steam, but the action and mystery surrounding the Hero and Heroine is what really makes this whole story, moving on to the next book in the series 😅
April 20, 2024
First book read by this author and I enjoyed! really a fun, passionate, full of action and intrigue and Kyr and Mira were fantastic. I love how not everything is wrapped up in a neat bow and everyone leaves happily ever after. There are flaws and is ok because with love and time is possible.
Can't wait to see what all the other characters have to offer and really hope this author continues to wire and evolve and entertain with all these wonderful stories.
Can't wait to see what all the other characters have to offer and really hope this author continues to wire and evolve and entertain with all these wonderful stories.
August 20, 2020
This is the first book in the series. I thought this was a great start with an interesting storyline. I felt it had a great flow with well developed characters. I’m ready for book 2 and would recommend reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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