Vampyre 2000: Life to the Lifeless

by Christopher F. Benson

Cornelius was able to roam freely among the streets of the city undetected for one simple reason. If that man next to you on the train or that woman at the theatre told you that he or she was a vampire, would you believe them? After being turned into a vampire during transport to America to become a slave, he was thrown overboard and drifted ashore on the New England coastline in 1804. Now, hardened from a lifetime of death and solitude, he sensed a void within that left him feeling so very alone. In search of something or someone to give his life some meaning, Cornelius had walked the earth for centuries. Finally, he found what he had been endlessly waiting for, her name was Rita. But Cornelius had many secrets, most importantly, a frightening reminder of his past that had plagued him for over one hundred years. Inescapably, that past could no longer be ignored and would prove to be an obstacle that would prevent Cornelius and Rita from ever being together. If neglected further, it also threatened to end both of their lives, a life Cornelius saw as a new beginning. Even if he chose to confront his demons to find some closure and stop running, was he powerful enough to accomplish it? Staring deeply into the face of such an overwhelming situation, were they foolish to believe that they could be together?

192 pages, Paperback

First published July 9, 2010

Reviews

[Beverly · Rating 3 out of 5]

My thoughts:

It took me awhile to get into the story. It is nicely written and interesting. I love the issues that run through the book and that the author was so insightful to offer such ideas in a vampire story, very original. This is the first vampire book I have read that brings racism into the plot, that and revenge drive Gregory to hunt Cornelius. To balance out the monster that is Gregory, the autor brings the reader love as the driving force for Cornelius and Rita.

At the very start of the book, I wasn't sure if I truly loved Cornelius as a character. I had a hard time with the fact that he had to kill to feed - just because it's different from most vampire stories. But, as I read the story I found myself completely investing in Cornelius. He is a carefully, thoughtfully created character who spans centuries with his ideas, ideals, and theories. He is noble, compassionate and kind. In contrast, Gregory is the very ipitmy of a heartless, thoughtless, vicious monster. I love the twist with Gregory at the end.

I liked Rita's character from the start, but wonder at how rapidly she falls for Cornelius considering how much he warns her against it. Her dedication to Cornelius and her desire to protect and be with him are heartwarming.

The book ends with an creative twist and I can't wait to start the next book in the series, Vampyre 2000: Ill of the Dead.

[Ken Stephens · Rating 2 out of 5]

This guy actually rides my bus to work, so that's what prompted me to pick it up. It's not a bad read. It's more of a love story than anything else, so not much action. The plus side is that, even though it is a love story, the vampires are treated like actual vampires. The action, when there is any, is good. I think dialogue was a little hard to read, sounded kind a cheesy at points. Overall not a bad read. It's short, so it won't take much of your time if you do decide to pick it up.

[Amy · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was written my one of my husband's co-workers, so he bought the book to support him. It is his first published book.... and it shows through. Very simple storyline.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story isn't bad but the version I read needed some serious help in the edited department. If you're able to get past that its a decent read.