Vampire Born

by Violet Howe

Born of an ancient, cursed bloodline, Nick has always loathed the monster inside him, but he was never so determined to be human as when he met his true love, Aria. A deal with darkness granted Nick what he longed for most—a life as a mortal husband and father.

Aria worked hard to trust herself and others after escaping an abusive relationship. When she met Nick, his steadfast love and patience slowly convinced her that she and her young daughter could finally have their happily ever after.

Together, Nick and Aria have found peace and become their best version of themselves. But when an early morning tragedy returns Nick to his vampiric state, the future of their family is in jeopardy.

As they struggle to find a path forward and come to terms with the past, neither of them realize much darker forces are at play. Can their love withstand the trials they face? Or is their relationship doomed to end in heartache?

Genres: Paranormal, Romance, Vampires

582 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 4, 2023

About the author

Violet Howe enjoys writing romance with humor. She lives in Florida with her husband (her knight in shining armor!) and their adorable but spoiled dogs. When she’s not writing, Violet is usually watching movies, reading, or planning her next travel adventure. To learn more about Violet or her books, visit www.violethowe.com.

Reviews

[Madison Warner Fairbanks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vampire Born by Violet Howe.
Fallen Bloodlines #1. Paranormal Vampire romance. Alternating POV between Nick and Aria. Cliffhanger.
Nick was living as a human family man when there is an accident and he reverts back to vampire. His memory of the accident is gone. Nick finds out his father died the same day of his accident. His transition to vampire is apparent to Nick’s wife, but the two love each other and they move forward with life and deal with conflicts together.

Self love message. Tolerance. Diversity.
I liked Aria’s strength of character and her willingness to listen, consider, and learn. Plus her staunch support of her husband is admirable.
The family is facing multiple problematic issues and they work through them. And not all those problems have arrived yet.
Dense writing style and word count.

This is the first book in the series and there are several pending unanswered questions. Huge cliffhanger. Scheduled next in series book release is June 9, 2023.
4.5

[Violet Howe]

Vampire Born releases 1/4/22. Pre-order your copy now at https://books2read.com/vampire-born.

From the prologue:
"I should have told my wife the truth from the start. Instead, my past has lurked in our background like a viper hidden in the shadows waiting to strike, tainting what is otherwise pure and unmarred.

The weight of that secret, the awareness of the damage it would do, has been a cancer to my sanity. I can't help but know I'm unworthy of her love.

So many times, I've wanted to tell her. I've longed to bare my soul and wipe the slate clean so that nothing stood between us. But somehow, the timing never seemed right to reveal my darkness to the woman I love more than life itself.

My omission is a form of deceit, but deceiving her has never been my intent. I’ve never outright lied to Aria, and I never will. I would never betray her, never forsake her, and never waver in my loyalty to her. My love for her is absolute and without measure.

For her, I surrendered my destiny. For her, I sentenced myself to death. For her, I willingly traded away every trait that set me apart from the mortals and embraced their frailty as my own.

And I would do it all over again. Without question or qualm."

[Dolorianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read about half of Violet Howe's books so far and have enjoyed them all. She has a talent for rooting around in human emotions to get to the heart of why and how people respond to life the way they do. I expected that to be the case here too, even with the vampire title, and was not disappointed.

I've talked with several people about this book and I've said the same thing ... It reminds me a lot of Twilight. Vampires, sure ... but that is where the plot and circumstances begin and end between the two. What I mean are the feelings and the overall vibe in how the story is written/told ... the sense that this is something new in the Vampire lore landscape. Where Edward and Bella (Twilight series) were just starting out, Nick and Aria (Vampire Born) are already married and head-over-heels for each other ... but this huge thing rocks their world and seeing them work their way back to each other is a beautiful thing. The time covered in the book is just a couple weeks, but the pacing allows for them to dig deep ... into their marriage, into the outside forces now working against them, into their new realities and the decisions moving forward.

I appreciated that Aria's discovery of the supernatural wasn't a smooth ride. I've liked books that go that route, but having Aria struggle to make sense of things brought a unique and relatable angle to the reveal. Nick's side of the story had me from the get-go, and my opinion of him grew as he was there for her every step of the way, allowing her to set the pace.

Also, her friends were a treat! She had a mother-figure and two best friends who were not shy in their differing opinions, often delivered in funny ways. I think many readers will find themselves in at least one of these 3 women as they read this book, possibly all 3 before the end.

As for all Nick and Aria have to deal with ... so much happens. While Nick and Aria are getting their house in order, the hits from all sides keep coming. This first book does a lot to introduce this world, it's human and supernatural dynamics, and establish Nick and Aria as a power couple. It also sets up several subplots that will likely develop over the span of the series. There is mystery, suspense, romance, family, surprises, and more. I'm so excited to see what happens next.

[Claudia Reed · Rating 4 out of 5]

Violet Howe is such an accomplished writer, bringing the story and her cast of characters to life. Her imagination is top notch and keeps the story interesting. Although this tale is about the supernatural, it kept me turning pages. Ms Howe presented interaction between the supernatural and human worlds. The book read as fact rather than imagination. There was lots of action, family situations, a love story, and a mystery to solve.
Aria and Nick were the perfect couple, in love and raising a daughter they were both crazy about. Things began to happen, threatening to derail their family life and their safety.


I read this book as an ARC and wish to thank Violet Howe and the publishers. The ideas contained in this review are strictly my own.

[Beth Martens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vampire Born is the new masterpiece by Violet Howe that asks an intense question, can you forgive a life changing secret? I really loved how the vivid characters of Nick and Aria come alive and go from ordinary soccer parents to extraordinary under fire parents in a short time, with their lives changing around them. This is an interesting twist on a vampire romance and I can’t wait to see how this series unfolds. Definitely, this is Violet’s best book to date.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure how I would feel about a book based on a vampire, but I loved it! It is full of mystery, suspense, and romance. The characters are well-developed and Violet's writing makes you root for the characters, as well as feel what they are going through.

I highly recommend!

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vampire Born (Book 1 in the Fallen Bloodlines series) was phenomenal, I was hooked from page one. I have read all of the books Violet has written, and they are all outstanding. When I heard it was a Vampire story I was skeptical as I am not a true fan of paranormal, I have read a few but not my go to. But this was more than a vampire story, to me it was a story of family and choices. I am not sure if I could make those choices. I loved the book, and cannot wait for the next in the series, when I wasn’t reading Vampire Born I was thinking about the characters wondering what would be happening next! As I told one of my friends.. it’s a vampire story but not a vampire story. Give it a try I think you will enjoy it! Hopefully as much as I did.

[KS · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars - jaw dropping ending!

This is a new series by Violet Howe and boy does it pack a punch!

It took me a bit to get into it, but once Nick embraced his return to vampiredom - things really got going.

This is an interesting take on the vampire bloodlines and all paranormal bloodlines. Nick was born not turned, so that makes him quite unique. Aria has a troubled past and she is not quick to trust or trust again. It took longer to warm up to her as I felt she kept things from Nick and then berated him for his secrets (although his were MUCH bigger and life changing...pun intended!).

Once these two fight through their differences and fight for their love - this book really took off. Sage was a delight throughout and her relationship with Nick was extra special.

That ending though...you will be clamoring for Book 2 and see what dark forces these two are fighting against.

I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.

[MK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book. The first in a new series, however with a ending that will leaving you asking many questions. And left thinking so many things..I know were going to be in for a great surprise whatever Ms. Howe has in store for us...

Nick was born as he puts it a monster, but Aria comes to know that’s not true. He’s her husband, and father to there daughter. Even though what he is trying to tell her can’t be true he assures her it is.
He tries to show her, but that drives her away.
Preordered now....
It’s a must read. I can’t wait for book 2 for answer’s to my questions.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you want a story that grabs you and makes you want to keep reading...this is the book/series for you. I have to admit, for the first half of the book I wanted to beat the main character Nick bloody for being spoiled, self indulgent and overly angsty, but it all makes sense considering his back story. He develops with the story in a way that makes sense. His wife Aria is a genuine catalyst for him and is her own extremely well developed character. She's probably the first character I've ever read that responded to 'your husband is a vampire' in a realistic manner. The world building is unique and fascinating and makes me want the next book now. My suggestion is to grab this book and start a trip on what is guaranteed to be a wild ride.

[Amber Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this unique take on vampires! It was familiar, yet totally different from other vampire stories I've read. I also greatly enjoyed the romantic aspects of Vampire Born. Having the main couple in an established relationship already was also unique to me. Nick and Aria were an amazing couple and I related to them both so much! Nick may be my new favorite romantic hero!

[Jaime Andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read several books by this author and this one is 110% my favorite! I couldn't put it down and threatened to put my kids up for adoption when they insisted on being fed. I mean come, on! 🤣
The characters, storyline, heartbreak, humor, humanity and supernatural elements in this book: top notch. I cried, I laughed, I giggled, I yelled at imaginary characters and I'm not even sorry.

The growth of the female MC is remarkable. I went from wanting to smack her to wanting to be her and honestly, it was perfect.

And Nicklaas. Dude.
I pictured Eric from True Blood with a bit of Klaus from Originals all wrapped up with the sweet lovey dovey loyalty of Angel from Buffy. Awwww, perfection!

Yes, I have issues.
I probably need therapy.
I definitely need book 2.

[Robin Groth]

If you love secrets, mystery, family, the supernatural, and a love story then Vampire Born is for you. Violet Howe is at her absolute best with this fast paced vampire story. I loved the characters of Nick and Aria and the mystery of not knowing where their story will go. I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the next one.

[Vickie Freeman · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG! What a way to start a new series! If you like a vampire story with a twist, this one is definitely for you. Nick is a “reformed” vampire who found his soul mate in Aria. There’s just one little secret. She doesn’t know he’s a vampire! And if that’s not enough, Aria brings her own issues. Add in Nick’s family, and it’s truly a disaster waiting to happen! Will love conquer all? Will family get in the way? Can anything stop true love?

We are left with a huge cliffhanger waiting anxiously for the next in series! This is one of Violet’s best yet! I am definitely looking forward to more of Nick and Aria’s journey.

[Joy Rosales · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. I received a copy of this ebook in a Goodreads giveaway.
I really enjoyed this story and the relationship between Nick and Aria, my main complaint is that it could have been 200-300 pages shorter, not because I didn’t want to read a longer book, but because the story felt like it didn’t need so many pages to be effectively told. Everything just felt really overwritten to the point of redundancy. Don’t get me wrong, I really enjoyed this book, I just wish it had been a little tighter.

[Twins Reading Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

VAMPIRE BORN by Violet Howe is an astonishing meticulous and addicting adventure exploring a world where supernatural stakes get featured with danger, love, and loyalty! I was very intrigued by the conflict between Nick's vampire inclinations and his human needs, which develops a setting for an unforgettable and riveting story! The vibrant proportions of Nick and Aria's domestic bliss is abruptly upended, regardless the fact that they are already married and much in love, their handling of this upheaval is brilliantly  and lyrically written! The suspense and psychological effects are exacerbated by the Author Violet Howe's alternating point of view between Nick and Aria, that enables to completely embody both perspectives, Nick's struggle with his dual nature imparts a dimension of visceral intensity that feels honest while Aria's vulnerability, formed by her background, is sophisticated and compelling and unfolds in such astonishing construction!
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The plot has a gripping structure and it's well-packed with twists and turns and suspense which build inevitably until the very end.Although the novel explores harsher emotions like betrayal, fear, and sadness, it does so in moderation by interspersing them with sensitive, loving, and courageous moments. I truly loved the action and the more delicate, proprioceptive moments where characters think, feel, and develop because the pacing is sophisticated. The stakes for Nick, Aria, and their daughter Sage are momentous and significant, and the world Violet Howe crafts feels real and alive although having paranormal elements.
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A remarkable beginning to the Fallen Bloodlines series, VAMPIRE BORN features family drama, nuances of romance, and paranormal intrigue. This book has such a mind-blowing setting because of its cliffhanger ending, which left me gasping for the next installment. The entire book is addictive and gripping due to Violet Howe's brilliance at developing whole, diverse characters, and her novel interpretation of vampire mythology! Beyond the romantic and supernatural branches, themes of self-love, tolerance, and resiliency deliver dimension and poignancy in implicit yet dynamic ways. You can't help but want more by the end of the book because you feel the weight of Nick and Aria's love and the forces working against them. This was a MASTERPIECE paranormal romantasy, one of the best I've read this Year!

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vampire Born is Book 1 in Violet Howe’s new series Fallen Bloodlines. I have read many of Ms. Howe’s books and loved them all, but this one is my new all-time favorite of hers! It is a new genre for Ms. Howe and WOW has she started out with a bang!

You will fall in love with Nick and Aria and their young daughter Sage as Nick and Aria navigate through the trials of a human and vampire relationship. Although they have been married for years, being a vampire is a new twist to their marriage, that Nick thought he had put behind him, and Aria was never aware of! Aria’s reaction to this new, or rather omitted tidbit of information is spot on with the way I would have felt in her situation. Feeling betrayed by the deceit, and of course totally freaked out by the revelation that her husband is a real-life vampire, is a lot for her to swallow.

As with all her books, Ms. Howe builds strong characters for you to love and root for, or to hate and root against. I loved the length of this book too because it gave Ms. Howe plenty of time to include current and back story of the characters and their friends and family, as well as in-depth descriptions of the surroundings enabling me as the reader to become so engrossed in the story that I lost all track of time.

Can their love conquer Aria’s feelings of betrayal and Nick’s rather lengthy past and the influence (or interference) of the family Aria never knew he had? Only time will tell, and since I’m not one to re-tell the story, or give spoilers, I will leave it there. The ending was a total shocker and left me anxious for book two to come out!

[Andi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found the beginning of the story to be a bit slow, but overall, I liked the book. I enjoyed some of the changes to typical vampire mythology: Nick was born a vampire, not bitten to become one. Through use of dark magic, he was able to become a human, but an accident changes him back. His relationships with Aria and her daughter are extremely important to him, so he struggles with what to do now that he is a vampire again. Aria's story as a woman who escaped an abusive relationship is compelling, and her physical and mental strength as a survivor makes her a likable character. I very much look forward to the next book in the series, since this book ended with an interesting cliffhanger. Give me more vampires and supernaturals, please! Thank you to the author for an Advanced Review Copy. All opinions are my own.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what an awesome start to a new series! Vampire Born (Fallen Bloodlines Book 1) by Violet Howe was not what I expected. There are quite a few twists and turns that left me turning the page to see what happens next. Aria and Nick go through some tumultuous emotions but you can feel the love between them throughout the book. I can’t wait for the next book to see what happens with Aria and Nick!

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like this story because it is different than other vampire stories. It seems plausible, up to date with our current technologies, in a sense. I like the characters, I like that they support each other and that they love each other despite their flaws.

I can't wait for the next book, because what just happened?!

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all I need to start by saying I’m a huge fan of Violet’s, her books and her writing style! This book by far blew me away. I do love a good vampire story, but this was so much more than just that. It’s a story about life, love, forgiveness and the strength you have to work through all of that together. The book follows Nick & Aria as they maneuver through what they thought was a “normal” life, but will they make it past the huge secret that was kept? The cliff hanger at the end already has me ready to place my order for the next book in the Bloodline Series. Who doesn’t live a good cliffhanger when you know there is more to come?!?

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow

Wow this had me on the edge of my seat. Vampire turned human turned back to vampire Nick is trying to turn back to human so he doesn't lose his wife and daughter. Aria doesn't know if she can trust Nick again for keeping the fact that he is a Vampires from her. But there are people that don't want Nick and Aria together or for Nick to take over the company. This is a great book .

[tina maisonette · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good — the kind of read that grabs you by the collar and refuses to let go! From the very first chapter, I was completely wrapped up in the world Violet Howe created. Every page pulled me deeper in — the danger, the tension, the slow-burn allure of vampires that feel both haunting and magnetic.

Howe’s writing flows so effortlessly that I found myself saying “just one more chapter” until suddenly… it was 2 a.m. 😅 The characters are vivid, the twists hit hard, and the emotional pull? Chef’s kiss.

If you love stories that mix supernatural mystery with heart-pounding intensity and a touch of dark romance, this one’s a total must-read. 🖤📖

[Danielle Million · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! All I can say is, wow! Violet Howe has done it again, and this time, she’s diving into the world of the fantasy/supernatural in a way that not many would expect. The blend of the supernatural and the natural is beautifully done, and the plot makes you, the reader, feel like it’s happening in front of you. The series of events don’t feel out of the scope of reality, but you still get the feel of the fantasy elements in the events. The characters in this book are so well developed that even in the beginning they feel like old friends. The plot has so many twists and turns, that you feel on the edge of your seat the entire time! The story also sets itself up nicely for the sequel, which I will be eagerly awaiting. Great job, Mrs Howe! This book is amazing!

[Kendal Jasper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Love Love!

This book was everything I wanted and more! Great spin on vampirism and humanity! The writing was so good, characters so realistic, and so much drama so I was never bored! Will be reading more Violet Howe books FOR SURE!!!!!

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

First in a new series
Paranormal Vampire Romance
I have read and loved other Violet Howe books and this one did not disappoint.
Loved the characters.
Full of mystery, suspense, and romance this story was told in alternating POV's.
Can't wait to see what happens in the next book

[Sandra Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok Violet Howe. How dare you leave that as a cliffhanger!! The next book can't come fast enough!! This was such an epic beginning to the series and I'm soo ready to see what hapoens next with Nick and Aria.

This book had so many twists and turns. So many different events happening at once that it made me want to keep reading!! I love how Nick was conflicted on what secrets to tell Aria and how he overcame his fears. It makes me want a vampire for myself! Plus, how Aria was able to help Nick see who he was and that he should accept it and not change. You can feel the love they have for each other and how they both love Sage.

This book made me feel all the feels. First, astonished at the accident in the beginning. Then, worried about their marriage. How Nick loved Aria and Sage was so sweet. It made me fall in love with Nick with all he had to go through. Wanting to be human and not accepting his vampire side, then Aria changing his mind and telling him the postives about himself. It was romantic.

So if you love Violet's other books, then this is a must read! Yes, it ends on a cliffhanger but it makes you wanting to read more!!

[Denise Kania · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it. Loved the characters. Can't wait to see what develops between Nick and Aria in the next book.

[Allison Dogaer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Violet has done it again. All of her other books are great and this one follows suit. I love the spins on the vampire life we thought we all knew.

The romance between Aria and Nick is real, frustrating at times, super romantic and somewhat normal. Kind of like real life.

The vampire aspect is not too much so if you aren't sure of the genre it is tame, similar to Twilight but with adults.

I thoroughly enjoyed this until I got to the cliffhanger ending. The next book cannot come to soon!

[Cindy Stamm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am truly amazed by the variety of genres that Violet Howe has been able to master. In this book, she successfully blends elements from multiple styles into one incredible story. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.