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The Dhampyr Series #1
Hunted
Tasi, an eighteen-year-old, head-strong, blood-drinking, dhampyr, has been hidden away in a small town in Maine since the death of her parents. Though she had trained to fight and kill vampires, she never believed those skills would be useful in her mundane life. That’s where she’s wrong.
In one moment, her life changes forever, and her aunt’s final words ring in her head.
They want your blood.
Now orphaned and charged with protecting her sister, Emily—a sister who doesn’t know what they are or that she’s about to endure a life-threatening change—Tasi has no other choice but to follow directions left for her. She is to find an ally who lives in New York City. This is the only way Tasi will figure out why she and Emily are being hunted before they end up drained of their blood.
In one moment, her life changes forever, and her aunt’s final words ring in her head.
They want your blood.
Now orphaned and charged with protecting her sister, Emily—a sister who doesn’t know what they are or that she’s about to endure a life-threatening change—Tasi has no other choice but to follow directions left for her. She is to find an ally who lives in New York City. This is the only way Tasi will figure out why she and Emily are being hunted before they end up drained of their blood.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 26, 2022
78 people are currently reading
3002 people want to read
About the author
V.M. Nelson
5 books47 followersVirginia is a writer and author of The Dhampyr Series. She was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and now lives in Minnesota.
She has always had an obsession with myths, legends, and fairytales. If asked, she would prefer to live in an alternate universe with vampires and fairies.
When not writing you can find her spending time with her family or playing fantasy-based video games.
She has always had an obsession with myths, legends, and fairytales. If asked, she would prefer to live in an alternate universe with vampires and fairies.
When not writing you can find her spending time with her family or playing fantasy-based video games.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
September 16, 2022
Thank you NetGalley for the chance to read Hunted by V. M. Nelson before publishing.
All thoughts spoken are my own.
GR rating: 4 ⭐'s
My rating: 3.5 ⭐'s
Hunted is the first in a series about two orphaned dhamphyr sisters, Tasia and Emily. As the title suggests, the girls are being hunted and are on the run to survive. After the death of their aunt Eva, they are left with the parting words to seek solace in New York with Sonya, someone whom they have never met before. Unable to know who to trust, the girls venture into the world to follow through with their aunts wishes, meeting a range of side characters who impact their journey in some way.
Hunted reminded me of a toss up of Vampire Academy and House of Night. I loved the witty banter between the sisters and side characters, but felt like the added romance/love triangle fell a bit short for me, and seemed rushed and awkward at times. I would have loved to see some more character and world building done to flesh things out a little more. It does read a little younger than I thought, but it was easy to look past.
Overall, I did enjoy the read (and the twists!!), and will read the next installments to know what happens next. It was a good, easy read that I did enjoy!
Released October 25th 2022
*review posted to Goodreads. Will also be posted to my instagram upon release day.
All thoughts spoken are my own.
GR rating: 4 ⭐'s
My rating: 3.5 ⭐'s
Hunted is the first in a series about two orphaned dhamphyr sisters, Tasia and Emily. As the title suggests, the girls are being hunted and are on the run to survive. After the death of their aunt Eva, they are left with the parting words to seek solace in New York with Sonya, someone whom they have never met before. Unable to know who to trust, the girls venture into the world to follow through with their aunts wishes, meeting a range of side characters who impact their journey in some way.
Hunted reminded me of a toss up of Vampire Academy and House of Night. I loved the witty banter between the sisters and side characters, but felt like the added romance/love triangle fell a bit short for me, and seemed rushed and awkward at times. I would have loved to see some more character and world building done to flesh things out a little more. It does read a little younger than I thought, but it was easy to look past.
Overall, I did enjoy the read (and the twists!!), and will read the next installments to know what happens next. It was a good, easy read that I did enjoy!
Released October 25th 2022
*review posted to Goodreads. Will also be posted to my instagram upon release day.
September 12, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for an early copy of Hunted. When I read the blurb for Hunted by V.M. Nelson, I knew I was going to enjoy it. The bond between Tsai and Emily was incredibly sweet. Tsai would do anything to protect her sister. If you like Vampire academy, you will enjoy this book. It’s face paced, without feeling like the author is info dumping on you. It’s an easy, enjoyable read that had me swooning over the guys. I’m eagerly waiting to see where the next book will take Tsai.
July 8, 2022
This book was honestly amazing. I read it in one sitting. I fell in love with the strong female characters and I was swooning about the males. In the beginning you are eased in a world where vampires are hunting the main character. I honestly was quite scared that there would be to much information too fast, but this wasn’t the case. As you learn more the story picks up and it is a story you want to keep reading. It is fast paced and filled with humor, excitement and thrill. I would recommend this book to everybody!
Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC!
Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC!
July 21, 2022
Are you a fan of The Vampire Academy or House of Night then this book is for you. Vampires, Dhampyrs and humans co exsisting and fighting, sibling protection and a few tests and turns.
The characters are loveable, believable and a joy to read.
I'm looking forward to the next book and more as I can a few things need to be answered.
A very enjoyable coming of age Monster tale.
The characters are loveable, believable and a joy to read.
I'm looking forward to the next book and more as I can a few things need to be answered.
A very enjoyable coming of age Monster tale.
August 6, 2022
This book... how do I even... firstly I could NOT put it down! I had to know what happened next... I still want to know what happens next!!!
I love the family dynamics between Tasi and her little sister Emily. This story is all about trust. And just absolutley AMAZING!!!
#HuntedTDS #NetGalley
I love the family dynamics between Tasi and her little sister Emily. This story is all about trust. And just absolutley AMAZING!!!
#HuntedTDS #NetGalley
October 20, 2022
3.5 stars— HUNTED is the first instalment in VM Nelson’s contemporary, young adult DHAMPYR paranormal series focusing on eighteen year Dhampyr Anastasia ‘Tasi’ Vasile.
Told from first person perspective (Tasi) HUNTED follows eighteen year old Tasi and her thirteen year old sister Emily Vasile, as they navigate a world in which vampires are hunting the duo for their blood. Tasi and Emily are hybrid-part human, part vampire- known as Dhampyrs. Dhampyrs are stronger, faster and more powerful than most vampires something that threatens the vampire population. On the run in the wake of their parents’ murder, Tasi and Emily go to New York in search of a woman called Sonya, a woman whose secrets run dangerous and deep but Tasi and Emily will find themselves in the company of vampires, vampires who will become both friend and foe, leaving the sisters with no one to trust. As Tasi trains with the resident vampires to fight the enemy coming for their blood, she finds herself falling in love with a young man she is unable to trust. Emily will undergo the change, a change very few Dhampyrs ever survive; the sisters are about to face an uncertain future when betrayal comes at the cost of friendships and trust.
We are introduced to several vampires: Ethan, Austin, Cas, Lizzie, and their mentor/master Sonya, as well as the resident librarian/researcher Jelena.
HUNTED is a slow building story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, family and friendships, secrets and lies. Like all young adult story lines, there is the requisite love triangle, the mean girl and jealousy, the secrets, and the questionable adult care…but HUNTED is also a very familiar story line akin to The Shadowhunters Series, with a little side serving of Vampire Academy, and The House of Night series. The similar overtones are many and recognizable. The premise is entertaining and interesting; the characters are familiar but energetic and young (even though many are decades old ;) ). HUNTED ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-you have been warned.
Www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from first person perspective (Tasi) HUNTED follows eighteen year old Tasi and her thirteen year old sister Emily Vasile, as they navigate a world in which vampires are hunting the duo for their blood. Tasi and Emily are hybrid-part human, part vampire- known as Dhampyrs. Dhampyrs are stronger, faster and more powerful than most vampires something that threatens the vampire population. On the run in the wake of their parents’ murder, Tasi and Emily go to New York in search of a woman called Sonya, a woman whose secrets run dangerous and deep but Tasi and Emily will find themselves in the company of vampires, vampires who will become both friend and foe, leaving the sisters with no one to trust. As Tasi trains with the resident vampires to fight the enemy coming for their blood, she finds herself falling in love with a young man she is unable to trust. Emily will undergo the change, a change very few Dhampyrs ever survive; the sisters are about to face an uncertain future when betrayal comes at the cost of friendships and trust.
We are introduced to several vampires: Ethan, Austin, Cas, Lizzie, and their mentor/master Sonya, as well as the resident librarian/researcher Jelena.
HUNTED is a slow building story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, family and friendships, secrets and lies. Like all young adult story lines, there is the requisite love triangle, the mean girl and jealousy, the secrets, and the questionable adult care…but HUNTED is also a very familiar story line akin to The Shadowhunters Series, with a little side serving of Vampire Academy, and The House of Night series. The similar overtones are many and recognizable. The premise is entertaining and interesting; the characters are familiar but energetic and young (even though many are decades old ;) ). HUNTED ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-you have been warned.
Www.thereadingcafe.com
September 11, 2022
I wouldn't lie. Reading "dhampyr" phrase immediately brought me back to Vampire Academy. This book has similar vibes to it, although different definition of dhampyr, so if you enjoyed VA, I think you will enjoy Hunted as well.
It has pretty solid story plot, about Tasi and Emily figuring how to be dhampyr safely in a world of vampires and humans and intrigues. I love the transition phases mentioned and how they incorporated in the story. My slight problem is Tasi and Ethan were giving me headache in the first half of the book because gaaaahhhhh they were so childish. Glad the second half made up for it! My favorite character is Lizzie and somehow Austin haha I just love his cheeky vibes, despite that revelations in later chapter (no spoiler!)
Writing style could use a little more work, because sometimes it was hard to see the background of scenes happening, as in the time and place. Also transitions between scenes/chapters because sometimes it felt like we were jumping so suddenly that I went "what what" and have to reread several sentences.
Overall, it was a pretty neat book 1 of a series!
It has pretty solid story plot, about Tasi and Emily figuring how to be dhampyr safely in a world of vampires and humans and intrigues. I love the transition phases mentioned and how they incorporated in the story. My slight problem is Tasi and Ethan were giving me headache in the first half of the book because gaaaahhhhh they were so childish. Glad the second half made up for it! My favorite character is Lizzie and somehow Austin haha I just love his cheeky vibes, despite that revelations in later chapter (no spoiler!)
Writing style could use a little more work, because sometimes it was hard to see the background of scenes happening, as in the time and place. Also transitions between scenes/chapters because sometimes it felt like we were jumping so suddenly that I went "what what" and have to reread several sentences.
Overall, it was a pretty neat book 1 of a series!
August 28, 2022
What a brilliant and touching work of art! Hunted is a stunning and evocative twist on vampire lore that will leave you breathless and energized. The wonderful characters you find within these pages will delight and entertain you every step of the way. Nothing can stop the intense and unexpectedly wicked twists and delicious turns along the way that will shred and lighten your heart before you know what's happening. Bottom line, this book is a marvelous journey that showcases humanity in all it's vulnerability and might. Being human doesn't leave us weak. Instead, it leaves us with the power to remake, redesign, and enhance our world.
Tasi has one goal in life, and that is to protect her sister at all costs. It doesn't matter what she has to endure, experience, or fight, she will become the protector she was always meant to be. When Fate throws her world into disarray, she attempts to make the best of it, but even her best intentions can sometimes backfire on her. When a mysterious woman and her hidden refuge becomes a new home for Tasi and her sister, can they afford to give their trust, or will they find that only betrayal lies in wait with a dark and painful plan to remake their world I to an abomination?
I truly enjoyed getting to know Tasi, her, sister, and their new ragtag group of allies. The extraordinary cast of fun, crazy, and zany characters gave the story it's beautiful depth and richess that left me hungry for more. The compelling and intense story was taken up a couple of notches with the powedul character development that happened for each breathtaking soul like Lizzie and Ethan. They will continue to haunt me as I wait for their stories to continue.
VM Nelson is such a marvelous storyteller who has created a tale that is sure to delight and mystify every reader who picks up this book. Honestly, I am a big fan of this extraordinary piece of brilliance. I am looking forward to the new adventures that await in the next book in this amazing series. There is so much wonderful potential to this wild and intriguing storyline that I am anxious for more.
Tasi has one goal in life, and that is to protect her sister at all costs. It doesn't matter what she has to endure, experience, or fight, she will become the protector she was always meant to be. When Fate throws her world into disarray, she attempts to make the best of it, but even her best intentions can sometimes backfire on her. When a mysterious woman and her hidden refuge becomes a new home for Tasi and her sister, can they afford to give their trust, or will they find that only betrayal lies in wait with a dark and painful plan to remake their world I to an abomination?
I truly enjoyed getting to know Tasi, her, sister, and their new ragtag group of allies. The extraordinary cast of fun, crazy, and zany characters gave the story it's beautiful depth and richess that left me hungry for more. The compelling and intense story was taken up a couple of notches with the powedul character development that happened for each breathtaking soul like Lizzie and Ethan. They will continue to haunt me as I wait for their stories to continue.
VM Nelson is such a marvelous storyteller who has created a tale that is sure to delight and mystify every reader who picks up this book. Honestly, I am a big fan of this extraordinary piece of brilliance. I am looking forward to the new adventures that await in the next book in this amazing series. There is so much wonderful potential to this wild and intriguing storyline that I am anxious for more.
September 17, 2022
This book is a refreshing tale of the dhampyr world where a teenage half-vampire is thrust into the unknown vampire vs human world. Tasi, armed with only the knowledge her aunt gave her and the responsibility of keeping her innocent sister safe, has to venture out of the only town she’s known and into a world where she and her sister have to survive. All she knows are vampires are bad and will hunt them down. She has to kill them before they hurt them. So what happens when the creatures you have grown to fear want to become your allies? And why is the human world that they trusted out to get them? What is the true story behind their family? This book has a witty banter between sisters, distrustful edginess between new acquaintances and a yearning for answers. I applaud the author for taking on a fresh approach into a world of half-vampires and vampires.
Thanks for allowing me to read this arc of Hunted. These opinions and thoughts are all my own.
Thanks for allowing me to read this arc of Hunted. These opinions and thoughts are all my own.
July 18, 2022
Tasia and Emily are two dhampyr sisters who just lost their parents. Their aunt sends them off to New York to seek out a mystery lady named Sonya. Tasia, who was been trained to kill vampires, suddenly find herself and her sister living with a school of vampires. They need to quickly figure out who are trustworthy and who are not.
This is an incredibly fast paced story full of action. It is also a story about teenage romance, love triangles, and friendship. Tasia and Emily come to learn about vampires, loyalty, betrayal, and learn about themselves in the process.
I would have liked less love triangles and teenage romance but I enjoyed the character development. I enjoyed the friendships that were created. I also enjoyed the twisty plot because you didn't know who was to be trusted. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Hunted reminded me The Shadowhunters Series or The Vampire Academy. If you like these type of teenage vampire stories, you'll love Hunted.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy. The opinions are my own.
This is an incredibly fast paced story full of action. It is also a story about teenage romance, love triangles, and friendship. Tasia and Emily come to learn about vampires, loyalty, betrayal, and learn about themselves in the process.
I would have liked less love triangles and teenage romance but I enjoyed the character development. I enjoyed the friendships that were created. I also enjoyed the twisty plot because you didn't know who was to be trusted. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Hunted reminded me The Shadowhunters Series or The Vampire Academy. If you like these type of teenage vampire stories, you'll love Hunted.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy. The opinions are my own.
July 21, 2022
Review:
“Hunted” by V. M. Nelson
GR rating: 4 ⭐️’s
My rating: 3.5 ⭐️’s
This book is the first in a series which follows Tasi and Emily, 2 orphaned sisters who are dhamphyrs. Due to dhamphyr blood being extremely rare, the girls are hunted down. Not knowing who to trust they remember the final words their aunts spoke - to seek out help from an unluckily saviour. Who can the girls trust with their secret?
Thoughts:
This book was a new take on Vampire Academy. We had our vampires, humans and dhamphyrs (half human, half vampire) thrown into a secret compound with enough sexual tension to set it off. I really enjoyed the relationship between the sisters and the witty banter the side characters added. I loved the idea of this story but found the communication between characters to be quite stilted and awkward at times.
The plot twist in this book is one I did not see coming! You think you know all until right up till the last page when another twist is revealed!
Released: October 25th 2022
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC.
“Hunted” by V. M. Nelson
GR rating: 4 ⭐️’s
My rating: 3.5 ⭐️’s
This book is the first in a series which follows Tasi and Emily, 2 orphaned sisters who are dhamphyrs. Due to dhamphyr blood being extremely rare, the girls are hunted down. Not knowing who to trust they remember the final words their aunts spoke - to seek out help from an unluckily saviour. Who can the girls trust with their secret?
Thoughts:
This book was a new take on Vampire Academy. We had our vampires, humans and dhamphyrs (half human, half vampire) thrown into a secret compound with enough sexual tension to set it off. I really enjoyed the relationship between the sisters and the witty banter the side characters added. I loved the idea of this story but found the communication between characters to be quite stilted and awkward at times.
The plot twist in this book is one I did not see coming! You think you know all until right up till the last page when another twist is revealed!
Released: October 25th 2022
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC.
September 13, 2022
Thankyou NetGalley for giving me a chance to read this book before publishing it.
When i read the description the author had me on the word dhampyr.I being a huge Vampire Academy series fan, just had to read it. Its a fast paced story about two dhampyr sisters who’s parents have died and they have to go live with someone named Sonia. They dont know who they can trust and who they cant as they have always been told not to trust vampires. It has alot of action and romance as well. Its a good book for teens or anyone who liked Vampire Academy. Plot twist at the end was very suprising, I would definitely read the second book.
When i read the description the author had me on the word dhampyr.I being a huge Vampire Academy series fan, just had to read it. Its a fast paced story about two dhampyr sisters who’s parents have died and they have to go live with someone named Sonia. They dont know who they can trust and who they cant as they have always been told not to trust vampires. It has alot of action and romance as well. Its a good book for teens or anyone who liked Vampire Academy. Plot twist at the end was very suprising, I would definitely read the second book.
July 25, 2022
Thank you NetGalley for the chance to read before publishing.
This book was just not it for me. I absolutely loved the banter between the two sisters but that’s where it ends for me. I felt like this story was super dry, super long and just boring. I struggled to get through it and I felt like the ending just fell shorts. I also felt like it was super repetitive, very confusing in places, and didn’t need to be as long as it was. Overall this gets a 2/5 stars just for the fact that the sisters were hilarious at times and that’s it. Really really wanted to like and enjoy this book but I just couldn’t.
This book was just not it for me. I absolutely loved the banter between the two sisters but that’s where it ends for me. I felt like this story was super dry, super long and just boring. I struggled to get through it and I felt like the ending just fell shorts. I also felt like it was super repetitive, very confusing in places, and didn’t need to be as long as it was. Overall this gets a 2/5 stars just for the fact that the sisters were hilarious at times and that’s it. Really really wanted to like and enjoy this book but I just couldn’t.
October 26, 2022
Hunted is about two orphaned sisters, Tasia and Emily who are dhamphyrs half vampire and half human because of this they are hunted. After the death of their parents they go to live with their aunt Eva, only to lose her too. The only clue is her parting words to go to New York to find a woman named Sonya, Not knowing who to trust, the girls must find a way to survive.
If you liked Vampire Academy or House of Night you will like this book too. It’s the first book in a series. The Sisters have a great relationship but their interactions with the other characters are awkward at times. Tasia seemed immature for her age but for the most part I liked the book.
If you liked Vampire Academy or House of Night you will like this book too. It’s the first book in a series. The Sisters have a great relationship but their interactions with the other characters are awkward at times. Tasia seemed immature for her age but for the most part I liked the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2022
They want your blood….
Tasi is 18, on the run with her little sister Emily, and trying to escape vampires obsessed with draining their blood. Tasi is a dhampyr- half human and half vampire- trained by her parents to hunt and kill vampires. When her aunt and parents are killed, Tasi and Emily are made orphans, and must flee from their small town in Maine to find an ally in New York City.
As the first book in a series, Hunted has a lot of promising elements that made it an enjoyable read. It’s got the vampire lore, interesting and feisty characters, love triangles, found family & enemies to lovers tropes and much more, creating an intriguing story for fans of vampire fiction.
I loved the two sisters Tasi and Emily; their personalities are so opposite to one another but their bond is so strong. Tasi is determined to do whatever it takes to protect her little sister and help her through the transition to become a dhampyr like her.
Full of witty banter and sass courtesy of the teen protagonists, Hunted also has plenty of twists to keep you glued to the book! I really enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the rest of the series. This is a story about coming of age, family, trust, loyalty and betrayal.
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers for the arc. Hunted is out tomorrow!
Tasi is 18, on the run with her little sister Emily, and trying to escape vampires obsessed with draining their blood. Tasi is a dhampyr- half human and half vampire- trained by her parents to hunt and kill vampires. When her aunt and parents are killed, Tasi and Emily are made orphans, and must flee from their small town in Maine to find an ally in New York City.
As the first book in a series, Hunted has a lot of promising elements that made it an enjoyable read. It’s got the vampire lore, interesting and feisty characters, love triangles, found family & enemies to lovers tropes and much more, creating an intriguing story for fans of vampire fiction.
I loved the two sisters Tasi and Emily; their personalities are so opposite to one another but their bond is so strong. Tasi is determined to do whatever it takes to protect her little sister and help her through the transition to become a dhampyr like her.
Full of witty banter and sass courtesy of the teen protagonists, Hunted also has plenty of twists to keep you glued to the book! I really enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the rest of the series. This is a story about coming of age, family, trust, loyalty and betrayal.
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers for the arc. Hunted is out tomorrow!
September 17, 2022
Thank you Netgalley and Virginia Mezzatesta for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review!
I was tempted to give a one-star, but I bumped it up by one due to the fact that this is clearly meant for a fairly young audience which will likely be more forgiving.
It started off decent, if a little cheesy at times, but after around 30% it just fell apart. The dialogue is extremely cringy almost 100% of the time. The protagonist immediately yells and starts beef with every single character the moment she meets them. The romance scenes are soo much worse, extremely hard to read and take seriously. If I was just reading for my own pleasure I would have dnf'd, but I wanted to hold up my end of the bargain and be able to leave an informed review.
Again, a much younger reader may overlook some of these faults, but I can't see anyone older than 14 enjoying this book
I was tempted to give a one-star, but I bumped it up by one due to the fact that this is clearly meant for a fairly young audience which will likely be more forgiving.
It started off decent, if a little cheesy at times, but after around 30% it just fell apart. The dialogue is extremely cringy almost 100% of the time. The protagonist immediately yells and starts beef with every single character the moment she meets them. The romance scenes are soo much worse, extremely hard to read and take seriously. If I was just reading for my own pleasure I would have dnf'd, but I wanted to hold up my end of the bargain and be able to leave an informed review.
Again, a much younger reader may overlook some of these faults, but I can't see anyone older than 14 enjoying this book
October 25, 2022
This book was amazing. I loved the banter between characters. It's set in modern time and follows 2 sisters and their development is truly great. The plot twist I didn't see coming at all! Think soft twilight without the cringe and an actual kick ass main character.
October 21, 2022
This book really reminded me of Vampire Academy to some degree, so if you liked that you will enjoy this book. I loved the banter between the characters and had some nice twists that I didn't see coming. I wish there was a little more world building and that certain things were explained better. However, with this book being the first in a series, those explanations may be included or planned to be involved in the later books.
I would like to thank Netgalley for access to this book as a e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I would like to thank Netgalley for access to this book as a e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2022
Thank you for allowing me to read the ARC of this book.
First time reading this author. I thought the dhampyr transitions were interesting and a new take on half vampires. The book was fast paced and an enjoyable read. Super interested to see what happens next.
First time reading this author. I thought the dhampyr transitions were interesting and a new take on half vampires. The book was fast paced and an enjoyable read. Super interested to see what happens next.
September 22, 2023
Hunted by V.M. Nelson follows Tasi, a dhampyr (half human, half vampire) girl, as she’s thrown into a dangerous world of rogue vampires and questionable cults that put her and her younger sister, Emily, at risk. She is tasked with finding the mysterious Sonya in New York City—a woman whom Tasi’s Aunt urged her to find to ensure her and Emily’s safety; on this journey, Tasi must confront newfound knowledge about her parents’ deaths, the world of vampires, and her precarious life as a dhampyr—in terms of both internal and external forces—while guiding and protecting Emily through the same cycle of dhampyrism. Action-packed, Tasi and Emily must fight to survive amidst the emergence of unexpected friendships, a love triangle romance, betrayals, and a plethora of secrets. Who can Tasi truly trust, and will she be able to protect Emily through it all?
I enjoyed this book! It was an exciting rollercoaster ride; the start will immediately pull you in. Tasi and Emily’s interactions were heartfelt, reminding me of my own position as oldest sibling. I also thought Sonya was both complex and interesting—the mystery and intrigue behind her brought further intensity to the plot. Nonetheless, the book read more like a framework. I would’ve loved to see depth from the other characters and a more unexpected and complex love triangle (tying back to character dimensionality).
***Spoilers Ahead***
I really wanted to love this book. It has such a great framework—the action, character potential, romance, and twists. I love Tasi’s character; her and Emily’s dynamic reads as raw and authentic. Sonya is also an incredibly interesting and complex character—thoroughly enjoyable. Moreover, I was pleasantly surprised by some of the twists (to be brief, with Sonya, Kaz, and Yelena).
However, the love triangle wasn’t much of one since the start—the plot in that regard seemed very obvious and forced. Austin and Tasi’s interactions were mostly told rather than shown (I wanted more of the painting scene!), and Ethan and Tasi were even more unrealistic, mainly surrounding Tasi’s having the constant hots for his looks.
One character was so obviously an antagonist, but not by action—merely by continuous disapproval of his character (though we rarely see this conflict acted out). I would have loved to see this tension and suspicion play out; but instead, he was just “good” until he was “bad.” He was also one of the oldest vampires! I would’ve loved to see more characterization around this.
And this gets to my main issue with the story—in focusing on Tasi alone, other characters are left out of this framework; who are they? What are their motivations? Backgrounds? Individuality? Everything we see is relative to Tasi—their behavior, actions, and character revolve around Tasi, as they fall inevitably into one-dimensionality as result. I wanted more of Lizzy, Ethan, and Austin. What motivates them? What makes them.. them? We only see snippets—and only in moments strictly relevant to Tasi’s growth. The only character that doesn’t do this is Sonya—she has her own motivations and life beyond Tasi’s which builds upon her complexities and depth.
Kaz’s twist seemed a little strange. If he was a rogue vampire, how did he restrain himself for that long? I would’ve liked another explanation for his actions, especially since we see slight depth into his backstory. Also, why did Yelena leave when Tasi was tied up… amongst a few measly humans? Come on, she’s smarter than that!
I enjoyed this book! It was an exciting rollercoaster ride; the start will immediately pull you in. Tasi and Emily’s interactions were heartfelt, reminding me of my own position as oldest sibling. I also thought Sonya was both complex and interesting—the mystery and intrigue behind her brought further intensity to the plot. Nonetheless, the book read more like a framework. I would’ve loved to see depth from the other characters and a more unexpected and complex love triangle (tying back to character dimensionality).
***Spoilers Ahead***
I really wanted to love this book. It has such a great framework—the action, character potential, romance, and twists. I love Tasi’s character; her and Emily’s dynamic reads as raw and authentic. Sonya is also an incredibly interesting and complex character—thoroughly enjoyable. Moreover, I was pleasantly surprised by some of the twists (to be brief, with Sonya, Kaz, and Yelena).
However, the love triangle wasn’t much of one since the start—the plot in that regard seemed very obvious and forced. Austin and Tasi’s interactions were mostly told rather than shown (I wanted more of the painting scene!), and Ethan and Tasi were even more unrealistic, mainly surrounding Tasi’s having the constant hots for his looks.
One character was so obviously an antagonist, but not by action—merely by continuous disapproval of his character (though we rarely see this conflict acted out). I would have loved to see this tension and suspicion play out; but instead, he was just “good” until he was “bad.” He was also one of the oldest vampires! I would’ve loved to see more characterization around this.
And this gets to my main issue with the story—in focusing on Tasi alone, other characters are left out of this framework; who are they? What are their motivations? Backgrounds? Individuality? Everything we see is relative to Tasi—their behavior, actions, and character revolve around Tasi, as they fall inevitably into one-dimensionality as result. I wanted more of Lizzy, Ethan, and Austin. What motivates them? What makes them.. them? We only see snippets—and only in moments strictly relevant to Tasi’s growth. The only character that doesn’t do this is Sonya—she has her own motivations and life beyond Tasi’s which builds upon her complexities and depth.
Kaz’s twist seemed a little strange. If he was a rogue vampire, how did he restrain himself for that long? I would’ve liked another explanation for his actions, especially since we see slight depth into his backstory. Also, why did Yelena leave when Tasi was tied up… amongst a few measly humans? Come on, she’s smarter than that!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2022
3.5/5
I was lucky enough to win an autographed copy of Hunted in a Goodreads giveaway, and the presentation was just immaculate. The package was addressed by hand, the book was nicely wrapped, and it came with a thank you note and adorable stickers! The fact that it was delivered within a week of the giveaway ending didn’t hurt either! All this immediately endeared me to Ms. Nelson and made me want to love her book.
Look, I loved the vampire trend in the late 2000s, and I'm thrilled there's been such a renaissance lately. I just reread the Vampire Academy series this year, so when I had the opportunity to read another author’s take on dhampyrs, I was immediately sold. It must be said that V. M. Nelson wears her influences on her sleeve. Especially in the early chapters, the similarities to earlier young adult novels--most notably Vampire Academy--are evident. We have two young women on the run, dead parents, characters with x tattoos on their necks, and similar names (Sonya, Vasile). I even felt like I could tell who each character was based on. She introduces Clover, and it’s like, “Okay, so that’s Mia.” These parallels are probably due to a combination of popular YA tropes, Nelson's influences, and common names in Russian culture, and once I got into the story, I was less bothered by it.
The strongest aspects of this story were the dhampyr lore and the relationship between Tasi and Emily. I’m not overly familiar with Slavic folklore, but Nelson’s take on dhampyr creation and evolution was very creative. I almost wish those sections had been more extensive and we could have experienced the transformation from Tasi’s perspective. I imagine there will be more of that in future installments. I thought Tasi and Emily had a very cute, quippy sibling dynamic and I had a smile on my face throughout their interactions.
Honestly, I think the biggest downfall of this book is the romance. Neither Ethan nor Austin were remotely appealing to me. Ethan was just a bit of a jerk! Their early interactions were so childish and frustrating, and even in the intimate moments where he was supposedly acting genuine, I didn’t feel drawn towards him. As for Austin, nothing about his manner was charming. His whole demeanor screamed “player who’s accustomed to women falling at his feet.” I just didn’t feel either boy was right for Tasi and wished she would focus on training and getting to safety. I recognize that the characters are being ~hunted~, so they’re trapped in one place in the first installment, and therefore, romantic tension is more likely than traditional action, but I just had no investment in those bits. I wish Nelson hadn’t trapped her characters in a situation where it felt like they were waiting for the plot to happen to them and could only make out in the meantime.
Anyway, I am glad this genre is coming back, and I think Nelson has some fresh ideas to offer. I would have eaten this up as a teen, and as a quick glance at my profile will show, I still indulge in this kind of thing now. Here’s to the return of vampires in the literary scene!
Thank you to V.M. Nelson and Goodreads for providing a free copy for review!
I was lucky enough to win an autographed copy of Hunted in a Goodreads giveaway, and the presentation was just immaculate. The package was addressed by hand, the book was nicely wrapped, and it came with a thank you note and adorable stickers! The fact that it was delivered within a week of the giveaway ending didn’t hurt either! All this immediately endeared me to Ms. Nelson and made me want to love her book.
Look, I loved the vampire trend in the late 2000s, and I'm thrilled there's been such a renaissance lately. I just reread the Vampire Academy series this year, so when I had the opportunity to read another author’s take on dhampyrs, I was immediately sold. It must be said that V. M. Nelson wears her influences on her sleeve. Especially in the early chapters, the similarities to earlier young adult novels--most notably Vampire Academy--are evident. We have two young women on the run, dead parents, characters with x tattoos on their necks, and similar names (Sonya, Vasile). I even felt like I could tell who each character was based on. She introduces Clover, and it’s like, “Okay, so that’s Mia.” These parallels are probably due to a combination of popular YA tropes, Nelson's influences, and common names in Russian culture, and once I got into the story, I was less bothered by it.
The strongest aspects of this story were the dhampyr lore and the relationship between Tasi and Emily. I’m not overly familiar with Slavic folklore, but Nelson’s take on dhampyr creation and evolution was very creative. I almost wish those sections had been more extensive and we could have experienced the transformation from Tasi’s perspective. I imagine there will be more of that in future installments. I thought Tasi and Emily had a very cute, quippy sibling dynamic and I had a smile on my face throughout their interactions.
Honestly, I think the biggest downfall of this book is the romance. Neither Ethan nor Austin were remotely appealing to me. Ethan was just a bit of a jerk! Their early interactions were so childish and frustrating, and even in the intimate moments where he was supposedly acting genuine, I didn’t feel drawn towards him. As for Austin, nothing about his manner was charming. His whole demeanor screamed “player who’s accustomed to women falling at his feet.” I just didn’t feel either boy was right for Tasi and wished she would focus on training and getting to safety. I recognize that the characters are being ~hunted~, so they’re trapped in one place in the first installment, and therefore, romantic tension is more likely than traditional action, but I just had no investment in those bits. I wish Nelson hadn’t trapped her characters in a situation where it felt like they were waiting for the plot to happen to them and could only make out in the meantime.
Anyway, I am glad this genre is coming back, and I think Nelson has some fresh ideas to offer. I would have eaten this up as a teen, and as a quick glance at my profile will show, I still indulge in this kind of thing now. Here’s to the return of vampires in the literary scene!
Thank you to V.M. Nelson and Goodreads for providing a free copy for review!
October 25, 2022
Thank you for the ARC, NetGalley.
The description drew me in. Plus vampires? I was so ready to get sucked into that world. But this fell short for me from the very beginning.
The two sisters, Tasi and Emily, are both rare half-human, half-vampire and are being hunted for their blood. Orphaned, Tasi will do anything for her younger sister. That relationship was the best one of the entire book and possibly the only good thing here.
There's not really a good plot, world building, lore, or characters. No one is really fleshed out and basically no one changes. And it seems 90% of the conversation in the book is just Tasi being rude to people, loving one boy, but being with another, and constantly being told to be patient and getting angry and storming off. Also most of the story is predictable in what will happen, so it was a bummer when those things actually happen because I was hoping the author would have done better.
I would have DNF, but wanted to finish for the required review. While the ending - literally the last page of the book - was an interesting twist, it's not enough for me to want to read more.
The description drew me in. Plus vampires? I was so ready to get sucked into that world. But this fell short for me from the very beginning.
The two sisters, Tasi and Emily, are both rare half-human, half-vampire and are being hunted for their blood. Orphaned, Tasi will do anything for her younger sister. That relationship was the best one of the entire book and possibly the only good thing here.
There's not really a good plot, world building, lore, or characters. No one is really fleshed out and basically no one changes. And it seems 90% of the conversation in the book is just Tasi being rude to people, loving one boy, but being with another, and constantly being told to be patient and getting angry and storming off. Also most of the story is predictable in what will happen, so it was a bummer when those things actually happen because I was hoping the author would have done better.
I would have DNF, but wanted to finish for the required review. While the ending - literally the last page of the book - was an interesting twist, it's not enough for me to want to read more.
September 27, 2022
* I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
****spoilers below ****
As soon as I read the description and saw that gorgeous, gorgeous cover, I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that I had to get my hands on this. I am a sucker (haha pun Intended) for anything Paranormal Romance. Bonus points if it includes vampires.
Unfortunately, this YA nugget wasn’t juicy enough to really sink my teeth into. Although it brought in a fresh element by introducing Dhampyrs, it ultimately rehashed an already crammed YA PNR genre with very little originality.
The characters felt stilted and spoke unnaturally for their age, excused cheating with the ol’ “he’s actually a villain twist so it’s okay”, and gave us a bland love interest with all of the brooding and none of the personality.
Maybe if I was newer to the genre I would have enjoyed this more.
I’d recommend to anyone newer to the genre, who aren’t as familiar with its tropes.
****spoilers below ****
As soon as I read the description and saw that gorgeous, gorgeous cover, I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that I had to get my hands on this. I am a sucker (haha pun Intended) for anything Paranormal Romance. Bonus points if it includes vampires.
Unfortunately, this YA nugget wasn’t juicy enough to really sink my teeth into. Although it brought in a fresh element by introducing Dhampyrs, it ultimately rehashed an already crammed YA PNR genre with very little originality.
The characters felt stilted and spoke unnaturally for their age, excused cheating with the ol’ “he’s actually a villain twist so it’s okay”, and gave us a bland love interest with all of the brooding and none of the personality.
Maybe if I was newer to the genre I would have enjoyed this more.
I’d recommend to anyone newer to the genre, who aren’t as familiar with its tropes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2022
I'd like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC.
This book was so much fun. It made me feel like I was in highschool again when I was in my Twilight and Vampire Diaries era.
Two hot vampires pinning for the same girl? Sign me up, please!
This book has all the best parts about a ya book:
Training sessions ✅
A group of teens hiding from the world ✅
Love triangle ✅
Action ✅
Romance ✅
Banter between the girl and the 2 boys ✅
The relationship between Tasi and her sister, Emily was my favorite part (apart from the 2 hot vampire boys).
If you're looking for a fun, good old vampire themed ya book with a love triangle between a half-human girl and 2 vampire boys, then this is your book. Have I mentioned that there are 2 hot vampire boys smirking at the girl?
This book was so much fun. It made me feel like I was in highschool again when I was in my Twilight and Vampire Diaries era.
Two hot vampires pinning for the same girl? Sign me up, please!
This book has all the best parts about a ya book:
Training sessions ✅
A group of teens hiding from the world ✅
Love triangle ✅
Action ✅
Romance ✅
Banter between the girl and the 2 boys ✅
The relationship between Tasi and her sister, Emily was my favorite part (apart from the 2 hot vampire boys).
If you're looking for a fun, good old vampire themed ya book with a love triangle between a half-human girl and 2 vampire boys, then this is your book. Have I mentioned that there are 2 hot vampire boys smirking at the girl?
May 15, 2023
First off let me say if you grew up reading the Vampire Academy and House of night then you will ultimately enjoy book 1 of this series like I did. We have two orphaned sisters Tasia and Emily, they are being hunted and are on the run. After their Aunts death they go off to seek Solace with Sonya that they’ve never met. The sisters venture into the world to find this stranger but not knowing who to trust along the way.
I enjoyed the sarcastic witty banter between the sisters and the romance. I’m hoping as the books continue to see more world building and the characters' growth development. Overall, I did enjoy it and highly recommend it to other readers. This was in my opinion more on the YA side of Fantasy and a great palette cleanser!
I enjoyed the sarcastic witty banter between the sisters and the romance. I’m hoping as the books continue to see more world building and the characters' growth development. Overall, I did enjoy it and highly recommend it to other readers. This was in my opinion more on the YA side of Fantasy and a great palette cleanser!
October 29, 2022
Hunted by V.M. Nelson 3/5
Hunted is the first in the series following the Dhampyr sisters.
Two orphaned sisters who are half human and half vampire, Dhampyr, are being hunted. This gives off Vamire Academy vibes. I love reading and following the sisters and how their characters rely on each other. Their relationship comes off as easy and fun but when the other characters are brought in the flow doesn't seem to be the same between them. I enjoyed the story but the plot and world building didn't hit the mark for me. This being the first installment gives me hope that the world and story will build.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
Hunted is the first in the series following the Dhampyr sisters.
Two orphaned sisters who are half human and half vampire, Dhampyr, are being hunted. This gives off Vamire Academy vibes. I love reading and following the sisters and how their characters rely on each other. Their relationship comes off as easy and fun but when the other characters are brought in the flow doesn't seem to be the same between them. I enjoyed the story but the plot and world building didn't hit the mark for me. This being the first installment gives me hope that the world and story will build.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
May 21, 2023
Oh the nostalgia! This YA Paranormal story was really cute and gave me a familiar taste that Vampire Academy/Twilight used to leave. I am very thankful that I was given the opportunity to read this and this review is 100% my own thoughts and feelings.
Stories like this one used to be my bread and butter, so to jump back and get to relive some of that has been a wonderful journey.
I enjoyed the tenacity of the FMC, the banter between the characters, and the twists that unraveled throughout the story. Nothing like vampires, a love triangle and betrayal.
I recommend this to anyone looking to dive back into an easy read, vampire novel that invokes sweet, sweet nostalgia.
Stories like this one used to be my bread and butter, so to jump back and get to relive some of that has been a wonderful journey.
I enjoyed the tenacity of the FMC, the banter between the characters, and the twists that unraveled throughout the story. Nothing like vampires, a love triangle and betrayal.
I recommend this to anyone looking to dive back into an easy read, vampire novel that invokes sweet, sweet nostalgia.
June 15, 2023
Wow. What a great story. Vampires, dhampyrs, and crazy humans. In this book, you follow two sisters who are trying to survive against everyone. They are the only two of their kind and have lost so much. On the run to their last hope at safety, the problems and dangers seem to pop up out of nowhere. You read along on their journey through so much. Learning to trust again, fearing the unknown, protecting each other and just hoping against all odds that they'll find home again. You are left wanting more and shocked by all the unexpected moments that happen. Easy to read and devour!! So glad to have gotten to read this book!!
October 21, 2023
Vampires & Dhampyrs & Humans, Oh My!
This book pulled me in from page one and more so with the first fight in the next couple pages. It's a multilayered plot with all kinds of twists and turns. There's great people I'd love to fight alongside if I had to defend myself.
It's not all fights. There's humor and snarky dialogue, friendship, loyalty, betrayal, and even some kissing. It is not and easy to know who wants to coexist peacefully and who wants to destroy others, yet by the end, we do know who to trust.
This is on my re-read list and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Enjoy!
This book pulled me in from page one and more so with the first fight in the next couple pages. It's a multilayered plot with all kinds of twists and turns. There's great people I'd love to fight alongside if I had to defend myself.
It's not all fights. There's humor and snarky dialogue, friendship, loyalty, betrayal, and even some kissing. It is not and easy to know who wants to coexist peacefully and who wants to destroy others, yet by the end, we do know who to trust.
This is on my re-read list and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Enjoy!
November 23, 2022
I always enjoy a good vampire book and this one was no exception. It’s a great introduction or someone wanting that YA like The Vampire Academy and House of Night. The characters are very grounded and approachable. It’s a slow building story which is to be expected for the first in the series. This book has everything you want for a YA novel I can’t wait to see what else is in store for the series.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
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