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Bloody Fool for Love: A Spike Novel
A verified villain. A slayer killer. A god among vampires. And most of all? A hopeless romantic...
Spike just wants to enjoy the spoils of his new badass reputation. He’s now a legendary slayer killer, and he’s returning to London―the greatest city in the world. Unfortunately, his new abode is far from ideal (a dank basement), and the rest of his strange little “family” is reeling from the fact that their patriarch, Angellus, abandoned them. Spike’s love, Drusilla, seems especially heartbroken and spends her time lost in her tarot cards and planning their next gruesome family dinner when they all can be reunited.
Desperate to break Dru out of her melancholy, Spike vows to steal a powerful relic that will help her focus on their dark future together. It’s the perfect plan―that is until a monster named Gunnar, leader of the demon underworld of London, steals the relic first. Forced to form his own ragtag group of underworld denizens, Spike plans an epic heist against a ruthless gang of undead criminals. As he navigates paranormal plots, royal black ops, and breaks for teatime (they may be abominations, but they’re British abominations, thank you very much), Spike soon realizes that his homecoming is about to get bloody.
Spike just wants to enjoy the spoils of his new badass reputation. He’s now a legendary slayer killer, and he’s returning to London―the greatest city in the world. Unfortunately, his new abode is far from ideal (a dank basement), and the rest of his strange little “family” is reeling from the fact that their patriarch, Angellus, abandoned them. Spike’s love, Drusilla, seems especially heartbroken and spends her time lost in her tarot cards and planning their next gruesome family dinner when they all can be reunited.
Desperate to break Dru out of her melancholy, Spike vows to steal a powerful relic that will help her focus on their dark future together. It’s the perfect plan―that is until a monster named Gunnar, leader of the demon underworld of London, steals the relic first. Forced to form his own ragtag group of underworld denizens, Spike plans an epic heist against a ruthless gang of undead criminals. As he navigates paranormal plots, royal black ops, and breaks for teatime (they may be abominations, but they’re British abominations, thank you very much), Spike soon realizes that his homecoming is about to get bloody.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published August 2, 2022
55 people are currently reading
1760 people want to read
About the author
William Ritter
15 books1,863 followersWILLIAM RITTER is an Oregon educator and author of the New York Times bestselling Jackaby series. He is the proud father of the two bravest boys in the Wild Wood, and husband to the indomitable Queen of the Deep Dark.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 177 reviews
May 14, 2024
This book is part of the Buffyverse. It is a prequel book for the character Spike. Darla and Drusilla are here also. This takes place right in London as the gang travels there from China after the Boxer Rebellion where Spike killed his first slayer. He is feeling his oats and agrees to participate in a heist to steal from a powerful leader of demons.
There has been many recent releases of novels that take place in this universe and I for one am happy. This was a decent addition to this universe. I liked the idea of spending time with these characters in this time setting. The problem was the author did not totally nail the portrayal of the characters. There was a definitely a semblance for them but it wasn't dead on. I could say that about all three of them especially the main character of Spike. This was suppose to be a time when Spike was a Big Bad and he came off a little too light and not dark enough. I believe that was what was missing from this book. It needed to be a little darker. This is a YA novel so maybe that was the reason for it. As for the time setting the author nailed that. I had no problem visualizing London during this time. And I did like the heist idea of this book and how Spike handles himself during the planning and execution of the heist. I bought into this being Spike.
This was a quick read as it was less than two hundred fifty pages. It only took me several days to read. It does fit in with the Buffyverse. I do think it could have been a tad better. Spike needed to be a little more bad, Drusilla needed to be a little more crazy, and Darla needed to be more villainous. It was a decent read and it is worth the read just to find out about the originations of Miss Edith. I loved this and it was a nice nod to the show. Not the best addition to the Buffyverse but not the worst either. I believe readers will like it.
There has been many recent releases of novels that take place in this universe and I for one am happy. This was a decent addition to this universe. I liked the idea of spending time with these characters in this time setting. The problem was the author did not totally nail the portrayal of the characters. There was a definitely a semblance for them but it wasn't dead on. I could say that about all three of them especially the main character of Spike. This was suppose to be a time when Spike was a Big Bad and he came off a little too light and not dark enough. I believe that was what was missing from this book. It needed to be a little darker. This is a YA novel so maybe that was the reason for it. As for the time setting the author nailed that. I had no problem visualizing London during this time. And I did like the heist idea of this book and how Spike handles himself during the planning and execution of the heist. I bought into this being Spike.
This was a quick read as it was less than two hundred fifty pages. It only took me several days to read. It does fit in with the Buffyverse. I do think it could have been a tad better. Spike needed to be a little more bad, Drusilla needed to be a little more crazy, and Darla needed to be more villainous. It was a decent read and it is worth the read just to find out about the originations of Miss Edith. I loved this and it was a nice nod to the show. Not the best addition to the Buffyverse but not the worst either. I believe readers will like it.
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July 8, 2024❧ audiobook review
Trembling Watchers would whisper his name to slayers-in-training for generations to come—and Drusilla would be happy. Things were going to be better. Just wait.
This was absolutely fantastic!
I love Darla basically being their mum and trying to protect Drusilla and Spike in spite of themselves. The dynamic of the three of them working to keep their family together after Angel left them in China was just such a great one. I really loved their dark little family.
In addition to the friendships between the trio, the romance was spot on and really stayed in character well. Spike being utterly determined to make Drusilla happy was so endearing and adorable. He decides that a magic finger is the way to go in true Spike fashion. Honestly, for all its fault and craziness - and loving Spike with Buffy most - I do adore Spike’s relationship to Drusilla so much and seeing it get front and centre treatment was awesome!
The humour in this was also top notch. So darkly wicked! I loved how well Bloody Fool For Love fit right into the show canon. It felt like another episode and I loved that!
For one glorious night, Spike had been everything that she needed, and for a fleeting moment, all had been right with the wicked world. And then the moment was over. Drusilla’s eyes remained glazed, locked on the dim horizon as the carriage bounced along, and Spike was left with a familiar ache. Even at his best, he would never be enough.
The YEARNING Spike had to be Drusilla’s number one and out do Angelus was actually so heartbreaking and very much in line with what we saw in their dynamic in season two. This book did such a good job of portraying them and keeping everyone in character. I honestly felt so bad for Spike in places despite all the shit he was getting up. He truly just wanted to be loved by her as much as he loved her. Ritter also does a good job portraying how contradictory and complex Drusilla's personality was as a result of Angelus’ torture.
The other Buffy gems made me smile. Like, I enjoyed the plotline of the Master trying to bring Darla back into the fold, and Spike’s dislike of Dracula, and Spike bonding with a writer because he can relate as a poet.
This is probably my favourite of the Buffyverse novels so far! Wholly recommend!
Other Buffyverse Reviews:
My review of In Every Generation by Kendare Blake is here.
My review of Pretty Maids All in a Row Christopher Golden is here.
My review of The Bewitching Hour by Ashley Poston is here.
My review of Slayer by Kiersten White is here.
My review of Big Bad by Lily Anderson is here.
☆ Book Reviews | Bluesky | Twitter | Threads ☆
Trembling Watchers would whisper his name to slayers-in-training for generations to come—and Drusilla would be happy. Things were going to be better. Just wait.
This was absolutely fantastic!
I love Darla basically being their mum and trying to protect Drusilla and Spike in spite of themselves. The dynamic of the three of them working to keep their family together after Angel left them in China was just such a great one. I really loved their dark little family.
In addition to the friendships between the trio, the romance was spot on and really stayed in character well. Spike being utterly determined to make Drusilla happy was so endearing and adorable. He decides that a magic finger is the way to go in true Spike fashion. Honestly, for all its fault and craziness - and loving Spike with Buffy most - I do adore Spike’s relationship to Drusilla so much and seeing it get front and centre treatment was awesome!
The humour in this was also top notch. So darkly wicked! I loved how well Bloody Fool For Love fit right into the show canon. It felt like another episode and I loved that!
For one glorious night, Spike had been everything that she needed, and for a fleeting moment, all had been right with the wicked world. And then the moment was over. Drusilla’s eyes remained glazed, locked on the dim horizon as the carriage bounced along, and Spike was left with a familiar ache. Even at his best, he would never be enough.
The YEARNING Spike had to be Drusilla’s number one and out do Angelus was actually so heartbreaking and very much in line with what we saw in their dynamic in season two. This book did such a good job of portraying them and keeping everyone in character. I honestly felt so bad for Spike in places despite all the shit he was getting up. He truly just wanted to be loved by her as much as he loved her. Ritter also does a good job portraying how contradictory and complex Drusilla's personality was as a result of Angelus’ torture.
The other Buffy gems made me smile. Like, I enjoyed the plotline of the Master trying to bring Darla back into the fold, and Spike’s dislike of Dracula, and Spike bonding with a writer because he can relate as a poet.
This is probably my favourite of the Buffyverse novels so far! Wholly recommend!
Other Buffyverse Reviews:
My review of In Every Generation by Kendare Blake is here.
My review of Pretty Maids All in a Row Christopher Golden is here.
My review of The Bewitching Hour by Ashley Poston is here.
My review of Slayer by Kiersten White is here.
My review of Big Bad by Lily Anderson is here.
☆ Book Reviews | Bluesky | Twitter | Threads ☆
February 20, 2022
Buffy fans will have a fun time with this one. Ritter definitely has Spike's voice down; witty, charming, and funny. The easter eggs are cute and there were some references to things from the show that I wasn't expecting, some background information that wasn't needed but was fun. The Darla subplot was interesting as well. And as a big fan of the comics, I was stoked to see some of the mythology established in Season 10 referenced here. My main critique is that I don't think this should have been a YA book. There was a lot of the reader being told how evil Spike is, but he never actually does anything too evil on page. Also, he's not a teen. I think the YA rating held this one back, but it was still a good time. I'd love to see Ritter try his hands at another prequel novel. Maybe Giles or Faith? I know their stories have been explored in other novels and comics already, but I think they could make for a good new read if executed with care. And after reading this one, my main takeaway is that Ritter cares for this universe and the characters; you can tell he respects all that has come before, and he's having a blast adding to this world. 4/5 stars.
July 31, 2022
A fun romp with the good ol’ days of Spike just making a name for himself and his family after Angel leaves them.
September 29, 2022
Buffy the Vampire Slayer is probably my favorite TV show of all time. I love the characters so much. While I love getting more content in that world (whether it’s books or comics) there’s always the question of whether it will accurately capture the tone and the voices of the characters.
I think that William Ritter did an excellent job writing from Spike’s POV. I could hear James Marsters in my head reading the dialogue as Spike. Of course it’s not always perfect, but there were more moments that felt completely spot on rather than wildly out of character.
The time that the story was set was also a lot of fun. It follows Spike, Drusilla, and Darla after the Boxer Rebellion and after Angel has left them. There’s a lot of great, atmospheric moments due to the early 1900s London setting.
The book was mostly told in Spike’s POV, but occasionally it would switch away from him and be in Darla and a new character’s perspective. I think those parts were interesting, but it was definitely the strongest when it was coming directly from Spike.
If you’re a massive Buffy fan you should definitely give this book a shot. But I’m not sure just how accessible or enjoyable it would be for people who don’t already know and love these characters.
I think that William Ritter did an excellent job writing from Spike’s POV. I could hear James Marsters in my head reading the dialogue as Spike. Of course it’s not always perfect, but there were more moments that felt completely spot on rather than wildly out of character.
The time that the story was set was also a lot of fun. It follows Spike, Drusilla, and Darla after the Boxer Rebellion and after Angel has left them. There’s a lot of great, atmospheric moments due to the early 1900s London setting.
The book was mostly told in Spike’s POV, but occasionally it would switch away from him and be in Darla and a new character’s perspective. I think those parts were interesting, but it was definitely the strongest when it was coming directly from Spike.
If you’re a massive Buffy fan you should definitely give this book a shot. But I’m not sure just how accessible or enjoyable it would be for people who don’t already know and love these characters.
November 18, 2022
This was pure fun for me and I loved every second of it. I'm hoping for a sequel somehow but not holding my breath. This review will not be helpful to anyone, because I have no critical insight to give and will not be attempting to. It made me feel like a teenager again, pining for a man who loves foolishly and fully. It was nice to fangirl over something again, and to remember what I loved most about Spike.
This... might end up being a comfort listen for me.
This... might end up being a comfort listen for me.
March 29, 2024
This felt like a true tale for Spike. The dialogue of characters felt authentic to the point that I could hear the original actors in my head saying the lines. I loved the origin story of Ms. Edith (IYKYK), because her background was something I completely did not anticipate. From Angel and Buffy, I knew how Darla split away from Spike and Dru after the Boxer Rebellion, and the capers here provide a good foundation for details of that parting. I do wish they had different voice actors for at least the core 3 characters and them maybe one central narrator for the rest, because that would have felt more like the show. Spike needed to speak more "bloody hell"s and "sod off"s or even more cuss words in general to be more aligned with his attitude, but I guess that's the price of this prequel being written for teens. Fingers crossed we get a prequel later of Spike and Drusilla's time in Prague, because I'd really like to hear how "you nearly DIED in Prague." Speaking of Drusilla, Ritter even managed to capture her craziness and her visions as they were portrayed in the TV show. LOVE and appreciate that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2024
4 ⭐ CW: violence, blood, death
"We're not the good guys. Do we look like good guys? We're the worse guys--the thoroughly awful guys who are so bad we make other bad guys look...stupid. And also bad women."
Bloody Fool for Love by William Ritter is a Spike prequel to Buffy the Vampire Slayer. This was such a fun read! I have always loved BTVS and Spike, so it was wonderful to read more about him. This was a short and easy read that I definitely recommend to any Buffy fans.
We follow Spike, Drusilla, and Darla in London in 1901 after Angel has gotten his soul and abandoned them. Spike has just killed a Slayer and is feeling on top of the world until they get back to London and are pretty bored. Spike wants to give Dru everything he can to make her forget about Angel and focus more on him, so he plans a ridiculously stupid caper to steal a relic of finger that is supposed to help focus Dru's premonitions. As you would imagine, it all goes to hell (pun intended) when a demon syndicate interrupts and takes it for their boss, a Hastam demon.
We get a vampire/demon heist! As strange as it is to say about murderous vamps and demons, this was a lighthearted romp. Spike is impulsive and simpering for Dru, makes bad decisions and biting comments (pun intended again). I wouldn't say there is much substance, but we do get some nice full circle moments, and his relationship with Dru is quite sweet if a little sadistic. We even get to see a badass female werewolf and various interesting demons.
I may not love Spike's relationship with Buffy in the show, but he is an entertaining character and much better with Drusilla. Bring on more Buffy (Spike) stories!
"We're not the good guys. Do we look like good guys? We're the worse guys--the thoroughly awful guys who are so bad we make other bad guys look...stupid. And also bad women."
Bloody Fool for Love by William Ritter is a Spike prequel to Buffy the Vampire Slayer. This was such a fun read! I have always loved BTVS and Spike, so it was wonderful to read more about him. This was a short and easy read that I definitely recommend to any Buffy fans.
We follow Spike, Drusilla, and Darla in London in 1901 after Angel has gotten his soul and abandoned them. Spike has just killed a Slayer and is feeling on top of the world until they get back to London and are pretty bored. Spike wants to give Dru everything he can to make her forget about Angel and focus more on him, so he plans a ridiculously stupid caper to steal a relic of finger that is supposed to help focus Dru's premonitions. As you would imagine, it all goes to hell (pun intended) when a demon syndicate interrupts and takes it for their boss, a Hastam demon.
We get a vampire/demon heist! As strange as it is to say about murderous vamps and demons, this was a lighthearted romp. Spike is impulsive and simpering for Dru, makes bad decisions and biting comments (pun intended again). I wouldn't say there is much substance, but we do get some nice full circle moments, and his relationship with Dru is quite sweet if a little sadistic. We even get to see a badass female werewolf and various interesting demons.
I may not love Spike's relationship with Buffy in the show, but he is an entertaining character and much better with Drusilla. Bring on more Buffy (Spike) stories!
February 21, 2024
This review and many more can be found on my blog: Feed Your Fiction Addiction
Bloody Fool for Love is a historical fantasy prequel to Buffy the Vampire Slayer that focuses on Spike, the vampire we all know and love! Spike has always been my favorite character from the Buffy franchise, so I’m pretty much automatically interested in any story that involves him. This was no exception. The aptly named novel focuses on Spike’s escapades in the early 1900s in London, just after he killed his first Slayer during the Chinese Boxer Rebellion. He’s on a bit of an ego high after his victory, but he still can’t seem to capture Drusilla’s full attention. He’s worried she’s too focused on getting Angel to come back to them. In order to prove his love, he faces down a demon gangster and rocks the balance of supernatural power in London. (There’s also a bit of a sub-plot involving Darla wanting to make sure Spike and Drusilla will be taken care of if she leaves them.)
Fans of Buffy will appreciate all the nods to the original series, but I have no doubt the book would be enjoyable for people who don’t know anything about Buffy at all. The book is full of heists, devious demons and vampires, and plans gone ridiculously awry. William Ritter was a perfect fit to pen this book, as he’s already a master of the historical fantasy genre after his Jackaby series. Best of all, Ritter captures Spike’s voice, style and humor perfectly. As always, Spike is a perfect blend of villain, hero, and bumbling idiot. It makes for great reading!
They say this series will explore our favorite characters from the Buffyverse, so I can’t wait to see who’s featured next!
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley so I could provide an honest review. No compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
Bloody Fool for Love is a historical fantasy prequel to Buffy the Vampire Slayer that focuses on Spike, the vampire we all know and love! Spike has always been my favorite character from the Buffy franchise, so I’m pretty much automatically interested in any story that involves him. This was no exception. The aptly named novel focuses on Spike’s escapades in the early 1900s in London, just after he killed his first Slayer during the Chinese Boxer Rebellion. He’s on a bit of an ego high after his victory, but he still can’t seem to capture Drusilla’s full attention. He’s worried she’s too focused on getting Angel to come back to them. In order to prove his love, he faces down a demon gangster and rocks the balance of supernatural power in London. (There’s also a bit of a sub-plot involving Darla wanting to make sure Spike and Drusilla will be taken care of if she leaves them.)
Fans of Buffy will appreciate all the nods to the original series, but I have no doubt the book would be enjoyable for people who don’t know anything about Buffy at all. The book is full of heists, devious demons and vampires, and plans gone ridiculously awry. William Ritter was a perfect fit to pen this book, as he’s already a master of the historical fantasy genre after his Jackaby series. Best of all, Ritter captures Spike’s voice, style and humor perfectly. As always, Spike is a perfect blend of villain, hero, and bumbling idiot. It makes for great reading!
They say this series will explore our favorite characters from the Buffyverse, so I can’t wait to see who’s featured next!
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley so I could provide an honest review. No compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
August 6, 2022
I was so excited for this one that I kept reaching out on Twitter to try to get an ARC until the author saw my posts and sent me one! And this book took me back to the fun that was Spike on one of my all time favorite tv shows, Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
We got to visit a time that we didn’t really have much info about from the show or other books. This began right after Spike killed his first slayer in the Chinese Boxer Rebellion. Angelus has recently left the group so that now it’s just Darla, Drusilla, and Spike. They’ve gone back to England where it seems a demon has kind of taken over and they are having to deal with him. Darla is thinking of leaving Spike and Dru to go back to the Master. But she doesn’t want to just leave them. Obviously Dru has her own issues, and while Spike may be able to take care of her, Darla wants to make sure the rest of London’s vampires will not be a problem for them.
Spike is feeling jealousy over Drusilla’s constant looking or or talking about Angel. So he decides he must come up with a way to get her to only think and rely on him. I loved spending time with this strange couple. Even if I am a Spuffy fan, it was Spike’s dedication to his true love that definitely made him what he became.
We had a lot of fun characters, some that we might see in the tv show or other books, as well as some that we won’t see again because they don’t make it past the end of the book. We even get an insight into Drusilla’s doll Ms. Edith. I loved that little tidbit! This look into years of Spike’s life that were kind of blurry was such a fun romp that I can only hope we maybe get more and can see how he spent those years before he ended up in my favorite little town above a Hellmouth.
We got to visit a time that we didn’t really have much info about from the show or other books. This began right after Spike killed his first slayer in the Chinese Boxer Rebellion. Angelus has recently left the group so that now it’s just Darla, Drusilla, and Spike. They’ve gone back to England where it seems a demon has kind of taken over and they are having to deal with him. Darla is thinking of leaving Spike and Dru to go back to the Master. But she doesn’t want to just leave them. Obviously Dru has her own issues, and while Spike may be able to take care of her, Darla wants to make sure the rest of London’s vampires will not be a problem for them.
Spike is feeling jealousy over Drusilla’s constant looking or or talking about Angel. So he decides he must come up with a way to get her to only think and rely on him. I loved spending time with this strange couple. Even if I am a Spuffy fan, it was Spike’s dedication to his true love that definitely made him what he became.
We had a lot of fun characters, some that we might see in the tv show or other books, as well as some that we won’t see again because they don’t make it past the end of the book. We even get an insight into Drusilla’s doll Ms. Edith. I loved that little tidbit! This look into years of Spike’s life that were kind of blurry was such a fun romp that I can only hope we maybe get more and can see how he spent those years before he ended up in my favorite little town above a Hellmouth.
August 10, 2022
Book review: Bloody Fool For Love: A Spike Prequel by William Ritter
Bloody Fool For Love is a young adult paranormal fantasy based of the character of Spike from the Buffy the Vampire television series. It takes place in Edwardian London and has heist storyline.
Bloody Fool For Love takes place almost a century prior to the Buffy the Vampire Slayer storyline. Spike has returned to London and is fresh off killing his first Slayer and living with his lady love (and sire) Drusilla and the vampire she calls “grandmother”, Darla. Drusilla’s mental health is very fragile and desperate to make her happy Spike decides to steal a religious relic that will amplify her visions. But a new demon has taken over London (Gunnar) and it is impossible to pull of a heist without him and his goons finding out. Together with another group of paranormals Spike and Drusilla devise a plan to go straight into the belly of the beast and steal the relic and rescue a hostage trapped inside.
This has all the funny Spike quips and strange (but accurate) utterances by Drusilla that a Buffy fan would expect. I was sort of side eyeing the word choices and the overall language for London at the turn of the century when the author found a clever way to include his feelings about using lingo accurate to the era, touché.
Overall, this was a fun addition to the Buffy the Vampire Universe and I enjoyed seeing these characters on the page again. It doesn’t have the most serious or memorable plot but for Buffy fans and readers looking for a paranormal vampire fantasy without a lot of scares, gore or heavy romantic content it will be a great fit.
3.75 rounded to 4
Bloody Fool For Love is a young adult paranormal fantasy based of the character of Spike from the Buffy the Vampire television series. It takes place in Edwardian London and has heist storyline.
Bloody Fool For Love takes place almost a century prior to the Buffy the Vampire Slayer storyline. Spike has returned to London and is fresh off killing his first Slayer and living with his lady love (and sire) Drusilla and the vampire she calls “grandmother”, Darla. Drusilla’s mental health is very fragile and desperate to make her happy Spike decides to steal a religious relic that will amplify her visions. But a new demon has taken over London (Gunnar) and it is impossible to pull of a heist without him and his goons finding out. Together with another group of paranormals Spike and Drusilla devise a plan to go straight into the belly of the beast and steal the relic and rescue a hostage trapped inside.
This has all the funny Spike quips and strange (but accurate) utterances by Drusilla that a Buffy fan would expect. I was sort of side eyeing the word choices and the overall language for London at the turn of the century when the author found a clever way to include his feelings about using lingo accurate to the era, touché.
Overall, this was a fun addition to the Buffy the Vampire Universe and I enjoyed seeing these characters on the page again. It doesn’t have the most serious or memorable plot but for Buffy fans and readers looking for a paranormal vampire fantasy without a lot of scares, gore or heavy romantic content it will be a great fit.
3.75 rounded to 4
May 4, 2022
Drusilla considered. "Do you know that feeling you get," she asked, "when you're killing somebody, and they haven't quite given up? That fleeting moment when you know they're already dead, but they still haven't figured it out yet?"
"We were talking about where we'd like to live," said Spike.
"Yes," said Drusilla. "That's where."
Unholy hell this was SO GOOD! Ritter was the right man for the job with his quippy writing and willingness to write truly silly, borderline-campy scenes. Also, it was a heist novel all along, which I love—especially when you throw some supernatural fiends in there.
Something that always irked me about BtVS was that its big hyped-up villains almost always ended up looking weak and unbelievable at best, stupid and cartoonish at worst (mix of having to wrap their stories up quick, poor special effects, and all the snark?). Spike still strikes me as a victim of that. So it’s great to see him here—believably the vampire who killed two slayers, but still love-sick, chaotic, careless, and clever.
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December 26, 2021I think I'm doomed to forever enjoy media tie-in fiction even if it is just an attempt to stoke the embers of fannish interest for profit. A satisfying, straightforward heist for Spike girls & women who were begging for Darla backstory. Surprisingly not too reliant on imitating Wh*donesque quips (thank god) but with the just the right anachronistic tone & dialogue that a book named after "Fool for Love" (the episode) demands. I also loved that it was bookended by scenes of compassion for a fellow writer and woman of empathy. Very interesting 👀
also I think I literally have to send this review to Disney. lmao thank you Edelweiss.
also I think I literally have to send this review to Disney. lmao thank you Edelweiss.
January 20, 2022
Thank you, Disney Publishing Worldwide, for allowing me to read Bloody Fool for Love early!
Okay, I'm a huge Buffy fan and basically a Spike stan, so while honest this review may be a bit biased. So, I loved it and I loved being reunited with Spike and his absurd shenanigans after so many years. I liked the plot, especially the fact that I would have never imagined Spike going on a heist, so the originality of that event particularly intrigued me! Spike was as charming as ever and I would love to read again about him, perhaps about his overpowering of the Slayer Xin Rong!
Okay, I'm a huge Buffy fan and basically a Spike stan, so while honest this review may be a bit biased. So, I loved it and I loved being reunited with Spike and his absurd shenanigans after so many years. I liked the plot, especially the fact that I would have never imagined Spike going on a heist, so the originality of that event particularly intrigued me! Spike was as charming as ever and I would love to read again about him, perhaps about his overpowering of the Slayer Xin Rong!
December 9, 2021
**Edelweiss ARC**
I was BEYOND happy when I got the ARC of this book! I've loved Spike forever and Ritter did such a great job with this prequel story. He nailed the humor and the characteristics of Drusilla, Darla and Spike to make it truly read like a real episode of the show. You can see Ritter's passion for the show in the story and it was very enjoyable and fun! It's not out until next August but rejoice Spike fans! Pick this up when it comes out next August!
I was BEYOND happy when I got the ARC of this book! I've loved Spike forever and Ritter did such a great job with this prequel story. He nailed the humor and the characteristics of Drusilla, Darla and Spike to make it truly read like a real episode of the show. You can see Ritter's passion for the show in the story and it was very enjoyable and fun! It's not out until next August but rejoice Spike fans! Pick this up when it comes out next August!
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September 24, 2021SHUT THE FRONT DOOR. YAAAAAS. THANK YOU EDELWEISS.
August 2, 2022
**Many thanks to Edelweiss and Disney Publishing Group for providing me with an Advanced Reader's Copy (ARC) of this story.**
I've loved both Buffy and Angel for years, and I'm a sucker for any way to play in their sandbox universe. I read the novels, the comic books, rewatched the shows multiple times. And my favorite character of all? Spike. I love me some William the Bloody, and this is the Spike story that I never knew I needed. I was highly entertained!
First, Mr. Ritter nails (stakes?) Spike's voice to the wall. The nuances and patterns of Spike's thinking and diction made me feel as if I was listening to Mr. Marsters in my mind (and often did). Ritter's mastery of Drusilla and Darla's characters were also very well done, especially Dru; her cuckoo bird kind of crazy is spot on, in every wondrous way. There were several instances where I laughed at her insane yet genius observations.
I loved how Spike, Dru and Darla's relationship was fleshed out a bit more here, in Spike's early days as a vampire. If I recall correctly, apart from flashbacks, all three were very rarely together for a long period of time. Seeing them interact (especially with Darla playing "mom") was so much fun to read/watch.
The plot of this story is one of my favorite kinds: the heist with a whole lot of ragtag players in the mix. Half-baked, prone to high-failure and all around fun, I wasn't bored for a minute. Without going into too much detail, there's a bit of predictability on where things go, and when the heist occurs towards the middle to end, it is short and sweet. If you're looking for some elaborate Italian Job type plan, this is not that. If you're looking for a literary-groundbreaking novel, this is not that either. However, if you're looking for an episode of Buffy in written form, that's a heck of a fun ride? Definitely read this. I would rate this as high, or higher than "Spike and Dru: Pretty Maids All in a Row", which is my favorite Spike/Dru story.
I've loved both Buffy and Angel for years, and I'm a sucker for any way to play in their sandbox universe. I read the novels, the comic books, rewatched the shows multiple times. And my favorite character of all? Spike. I love me some William the Bloody, and this is the Spike story that I never knew I needed. I was highly entertained!
First, Mr. Ritter nails (stakes?) Spike's voice to the wall. The nuances and patterns of Spike's thinking and diction made me feel as if I was listening to Mr. Marsters in my mind (and often did). Ritter's mastery of Drusilla and Darla's characters were also very well done, especially Dru; her cuckoo bird kind of crazy is spot on, in every wondrous way. There were several instances where I laughed at her insane yet genius observations.
I loved how Spike, Dru and Darla's relationship was fleshed out a bit more here, in Spike's early days as a vampire. If I recall correctly, apart from flashbacks, all three were very rarely together for a long period of time. Seeing them interact (especially with Darla playing "mom") was so much fun to read/watch.
The plot of this story is one of my favorite kinds: the heist with a whole lot of ragtag players in the mix. Half-baked, prone to high-failure and all around fun, I wasn't bored for a minute. Without going into too much detail, there's a bit of predictability on where things go, and when the heist occurs towards the middle to end, it is short and sweet. If you're looking for some elaborate Italian Job type plan, this is not that. If you're looking for a literary-groundbreaking novel, this is not that either. However, if you're looking for an episode of Buffy in written form, that's a heck of a fun ride? Definitely read this. I would rate this as high, or higher than "Spike and Dru: Pretty Maids All in a Row", which is my favorite Spike/Dru story.
September 13, 2022
This was so so much fun! Big thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ALC.
In Bloody Fool for Love, you get to see infamous Buffy bad boy, Spike, long before he ever meets the slayer. He's just slayed a different slayer and returns to London with the love of his life, Drusilla and her grandmother, Darla. In the hope of finding a better place for them to live (only the best for his Dru), Spike takes on the worst of the worst, a demon called Gunnar.
This audiobook had me captivated from the first second. Christian Coulson is one of the best narrators I have ever had the pleasure of listening to and he narrates an action-packed romp like no other. The voice that he brings to Spike - sarcastic, snarky, and strong - is perfect. I will be highly recommending this audiobook.
Bloody Fool for Love is all go from the start. Spike is always finding trouble. Lurking down every dingy London alleyway, round every street corner, a slayer, an angry vamp, or a demon is waiting. I absolutely loved all the action. The fight scenes were great and the lead-up puts your right on the edge of the seat, so you're properly knocked back when the action starts. This isn't to say that there aren't lulls. There are sweet scenes with Spike and Drusilla. Scenes with Spike and a minor character he meets along the way, an aspiring writer. These tender, slow scenes were some of my favorite in the entire book. Ritter managed to capture every good thing about Spike, everything that made him such an unforgettable character while leaving anything less desirable behind.
I absolutely loved this and would definitely recommend it to anyone who is fan of Buffy or even someone who isn't. It stands on its own merit. It's a great read.
In Bloody Fool for Love, you get to see infamous Buffy bad boy, Spike, long before he ever meets the slayer. He's just slayed a different slayer and returns to London with the love of his life, Drusilla and her grandmother, Darla. In the hope of finding a better place for them to live (only the best for his Dru), Spike takes on the worst of the worst, a demon called Gunnar.
This audiobook had me captivated from the first second. Christian Coulson is one of the best narrators I have ever had the pleasure of listening to and he narrates an action-packed romp like no other. The voice that he brings to Spike - sarcastic, snarky, and strong - is perfect. I will be highly recommending this audiobook.
Bloody Fool for Love is all go from the start. Spike is always finding trouble. Lurking down every dingy London alleyway, round every street corner, a slayer, an angry vamp, or a demon is waiting. I absolutely loved all the action. The fight scenes were great and the lead-up puts your right on the edge of the seat, so you're properly knocked back when the action starts. This isn't to say that there aren't lulls. There are sweet scenes with Spike and Drusilla. Scenes with Spike and a minor character he meets along the way, an aspiring writer. These tender, slow scenes were some of my favorite in the entire book. Ritter managed to capture every good thing about Spike, everything that made him such an unforgettable character while leaving anything less desirable behind.
I absolutely loved this and would definitely recommend it to anyone who is fan of Buffy or even someone who isn't. It stands on its own merit. It's a great read.
April 28, 2023
3 stars ~ [5.51/10]
I'm always a bit reluctant to jump into BtVS tie-in novels, especially when they're written by people who had nothing to do with the writing on the show but, having read William Ritter's Jackaby series previously, I was actually quite excited about this one. I think the fact that this series of books will all be prequels kind of takes the pressure off of impacting existing canon.
I think Ritter did a great job of capturing the voice of a newly turned Spike - it was authentic and fitting with who we know this character to be. I also really liked the way he wrote the dynamic between Spike, Drusilla and Darla - Drusilla was a little silly at times but I think it's probably quite hard to capture her wackiness in print when it was truly Juliet Landau's performance that sold the character on screen.
There was a really healthy use of easter eggs in here too, which makes it really fun to read for people who have an in-depth knowledge of the Buffyverse. I liked how these easter eggs featured in different ways too, sometimes it was an off-hand comment and sometimes they were woven into the overall plot.
I'm looking forward to checking out The Bewitching Hour when it is released later this year :)
I'm always a bit reluctant to jump into BtVS tie-in novels, especially when they're written by people who had nothing to do with the writing on the show but, having read William Ritter's Jackaby series previously, I was actually quite excited about this one. I think the fact that this series of books will all be prequels kind of takes the pressure off of impacting existing canon.
I think Ritter did a great job of capturing the voice of a newly turned Spike - it was authentic and fitting with who we know this character to be. I also really liked the way he wrote the dynamic between Spike, Drusilla and Darla - Drusilla was a little silly at times but I think it's probably quite hard to capture her wackiness in print when it was truly Juliet Landau's performance that sold the character on screen.
There was a really healthy use of easter eggs in here too, which makes it really fun to read for people who have an in-depth knowledge of the Buffyverse. I liked how these easter eggs featured in different ways too, sometimes it was an off-hand comment and sometimes they were woven into the overall plot.
I'm looking forward to checking out The Bewitching Hour when it is released later this year :)
August 21, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley and Disney Publishing for a review copy of this book.
I’ve always been a Spike fan (team Spuffy!). This was a great prequel to get to know him before he meets our favorite Slayer. Plus seeing more of Drusilla is always great and seeing their relationship and care that Spike has for her.
You’ll recognize some other familiar names too which makes this a fun read!
I’ve always been a Spike fan (team Spuffy!). This was a great prequel to get to know him before he meets our favorite Slayer. Plus seeing more of Drusilla is always great and seeing their relationship and care that Spike has for her.
You’ll recognize some other familiar names too which makes this a fun read!
March 5, 2023
Five by five bloody stars. A heist novel, set in the Buffyverse, with Spike as the main character? Sign me up. Add in a band of merry thieves, the absence of Angel, and the introduction of Miss Edith, and we have a winner, folks. The big bad is truly back in town.
September 10, 2022
i had fun!! i laughed so many times and had a great time. the characterisation was truly great, better than i expected. overall, a really fun read. cannot wait to see what’s next
February 27, 2025
I have to confess I liked it better than I thought I would. Fun plot, nicely written, lots of action, and I’m still a sucker 🙃 for all things Victorian Britain. It also helped that I started reading right after watching the “Darla” episode of “Angel”, meaning exactly where the story in the book started.
The only thing that kept intruding into my mind: Spike does sound here more like the 4th-5th “Buffy” season version of himself rather than the Victorian “super-evil” version. So I kept imagining the bleached hair and the black duster and not the Victorian clothes 😆
The only thing that kept intruding into my mind: Spike does sound here more like the 4th-5th “Buffy” season version of himself rather than the Victorian “super-evil” version. So I kept imagining the bleached hair and the black duster and not the Victorian clothes 😆
September 2, 2022
This book really captured Spike's voice, and they picked the perfect time in Spike's life to set it right in the middle of a lot of changes and turmoil. I may have read the whole book in the actor's voices! It was light-hearted and fun. It also had good character development. I really hope there's a sequel!
April 26, 2025
4.5 rounded up.
“While the myriad of aches across Spike’s body did not fade away as he embraced her, they did sharpen into something truly exquisite.”
A super fun read if you enjoy the Buffy monsterverse and/or Spike and Drusilla. I found the book only dragged when we were focused on Darla since her personality was never really fleshed out in the show or here — but it was an interesting romp nonetheless for a fan of the show.
“While the myriad of aches across Spike’s body did not fade away as he embraced her, they did sharpen into something truly exquisite.”
A super fun read if you enjoy the Buffy monsterverse and/or Spike and Drusilla. I found the book only dragged when we were focused on Darla since her personality was never really fleshed out in the show or here — but it was an interesting romp nonetheless for a fan of the show.
July 17, 2022
I like this Spike prequel.
I liked the dynamics between Drucilla, Spike and Darla.
Spike was still the cheeky buggar from the Buffy series in this book which I really liked. It gave us comedic moments.
I liked the dynamics between Drucilla, Spike and Darla.
Spike was still the cheeky buggar from the Buffy series in this book which I really liked. It gave us comedic moments.
March 11, 2023
This prequel describes what became of Spike, Drusilla and Darla after Angel had his soul restored and left the group in London. Ritter does a nice job capturing Spike and Drusilla's personalities and their relationship. A whole host of demons interact with them in London.
January 9, 2024
2.5 stars. Not a bad caper/heist novel and there were some fun little references to BtVS (Miss Edith's origin story!), but overall, it didn't quite feel like Ritter captured the voices of Spike, Drusilla, and Darla well enough.
December 16, 2025
I've read a few Buffy novels and they've all lacked the voice of the TV show. The humor in this book captures TV show Spike's humor well. The hijinks felt a lot like a Cassandra Clare novel (which makes sense considering how much she is influenced by Buffy).
October 5, 2022
I really enjoyed this little piece of Buffy (or rather Spike). The author has the characters' voices down. Spike was exactly Spike, Dru was perfect and Darla was pretty cool. It felt like it could have been an episode (or a flashback) and I particularly enjoyed the Miss Edith doll's backstory.
A really nice addition to the franchise!
A really nice addition to the franchise!
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