This is my first book from Angela Montoya and it was great reading experience.

I loved vampire lore in this story. I was initially gravitated towards Lalo and him trying to avenge his family but then ends up being turned to the one thing he hates. Then comes Carolina- who comes from family of vampire hunters- eventually they team up. The banter and chemistry between Lalo and Carolina made me enjoy this story.

I'd recommend this book- it was face paced and kept me entertained and wanting to know more.

I rate this book a 4.00

“…you will learn with age that some evil cannot be destroyed. Not without destroying some of the good we’ve built, too.”

This book started off so strong! The cover is absolutely gorgeous and the plot seemed so interesting! I mean, a fledgling vampire and a vampire huntress having to work together? I was super excited. But unfortunately this didn’t hit for me. I didn’t love it the way I thought I would. While I enjoyed Lalo’s character, his and Carolina’s first meeting just felt a little too insta-love for me? And that’s not something I normally mind, but there was something about this romance that didn’t work for me. And if the romance doesn’t work, it removes me from the story. I wish there was more chemistry and build up for these characters. And some parts felt a little corny and cliche. I don’t think this book was bad and am sure many would enjoy it, it was just okay for me.

A Cruel Thirst by Angela Montoya is a dark and captivating fantasy novel that immerses readers in a world filled with blood, power, and intrigue. With a strong emphasis on vengeance, moral dilemmas, and complex relationships, the story is both intense and emotional, offering a thrilling ride for fans of dark fantasy.

The novel follows a fierce and determined protagonist who is thrust into a world where survival is uncertain, and power plays are ruthless. The central conflict revolves around her quest for justice and revenge, which ultimately leads her to confront not only external enemies but also her own deepest fears and desires. The stakes are high, and the protagonist’s journey is fraught with moral complexities, making it more than just a typical revenge tale.

Montoya’s writing is both gripping and atmospheric, with lush descriptions that bring the world to life. The world-building is rich and intricate, offering a unique and immersive setting that feels both dangerous and exhilarating. From the politics to the magic system, everything in the novel is crafted with attention to detail, drawing readers into a dark and gritty universe where nothing is quite what it seems.

The characters in A Cruel Thirst are multi-dimensional and compelling. The protagonist is strong-willed but also deeply flawed, which makes her both relatable and fascinating. Her internal struggle, as she navigates the moral consequences of her actions, adds emotional depth to the story. The relationships she forms—whether alliances or antagonisms—are complex and often filled with tension, which makes every interaction feel charged and significant.

The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with moments of heart-pounding action interspersed with quieter, more introspective scenes that allow the characters’ emotional arcs to develop. There are plenty of twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats, and Montoya does an excellent job of maintaining suspense and intrigue throughout the narrative.

A Cruel Thirst also explores themes of power, sacrifice, and the cost of seeking revenge. The protagonist’s journey is one of self-discovery as much as it is about fighting external forces. The moral ambiguity of the characters’ actions adds a layer of depth to the story, making it more than just a simple tale of good versus evil.

A Cruel Thirst is a dark and engrossing fantasy novel that will appeal to readers who enjoy complex characters, morally grey storylines, and intense, high-stakes adventure. Angela Montoya has created a compelling world full of danger and intrigue, making this a must-read for fans of dark fantasy and epic quests.

This book was quick, fun, and a cute ya vampire romance. I enjoyed the world, the setting, and the lore of the vampires. Lina and Lalo were a fun and dynamic pair to follow through the book and I was content with the ending! I think it could have been a bit longer and it was definitely a closed door romance, but it was a good story for a quick read with fun vampire lore. I would recommend it to anyone wanting a quick standalone vampire read that is well written and engages its readers.

Thank you to the publisher and the author for providing me with an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review! ❤️

A camp vampire romance that knows exactly what it is. While not amazing, I don't think there is anything to complain about with this book either. Just enough for you to swoon at the romance!

This was more of a 2.5 star read for me, but rounded up to a 3. I honestly had to push myself to finish this one, only because I wanted to know how it ended and didn’t want to DNF. I realize now that I could’ve skipped to the ending and I wouldn’t have lost anything in the story.

I didn’t absolutely hate it though, there were some interesting parts and some cute corny moments. But I feel like the writing was just not for me…

Thank you to Random House Children’s for providing me with an eARC for review. All thoughts are my own.

4/5

This book was exactly what I needed and expected. It was fun, fast-paced, and a good read. The vampire origins were well explained and reasonable, even if predictable. I was hoping it would be a quick read and that I would be invested in the love story and I definitely was! I went into it hoping for a campy vampire YA and got what I wanted.

Definitely recommend for anyone hoping to get out of their reading slump or just have a good time with a fun (and clean) vampire romance.

I’m going to keep this short and sweet. :) Do yourself a favor and read this book! It was so much fun and such a rollercoaster. I had the best time reading this book. Lina and Lalo have my whole heart. He’s a vampire and she’s a vampire slayer in the making. What more do you need to know? It was fun, sexy, emotional, thrilling, suspenseful, and so swoony! All the stars ⭐️ Angela I’m going to need your next book asap.

Carolina has always wanted to join her family of vampire hunters if only her father would see her, really see her. She has all the skill and talent, except she is a girl. Lalo is normally very level headed. Whatever made him go after the vampire that murdered his parents, no one will ever know. Now he himself is changing and will do everything he can to stop it. Carolina and Lalo have what is now one of my favorite meet cutes! What if she does try to kill him?! The banter between the two throughout the book is so fun. I adore our side charters, Fernanda and This is a vampire and vampire hunter love story, but it was so different than any I have read. The vampires were different. I loved their story. I was immersed in this story from start to finish. Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children's | Joy Revolution for the arc in exchange for my honest review.

Overall rating: 2.75

Unfortunately, this book didn’t fully do it for me.

I have to give this book its flowers. It has great cultural representation, which I rarely see in fantasy or vampire books. It’s clear Montoya did her research, and it paid off wonderfully.

Loved Lalo’s character (and his sister!). Seeing his internal and external struggles felt raw. Instead of seeing him as a villain, I adored his individuality and emotional complexity.

Despite the positives of the novel, I couldn’t completely get invested. It felt very juvenile, and despite being 400 pages, it felt rushed…and slow? At many points, it felt like the romance became the main plot, while vampirism was pushed towards the back burner. It also felt a bit insta-lovey. I’m still not fully sure how Carolina went from hating vampires to immediately being attracted to and developing feelings for Lalo. Lina also embodies the very popular (and quite annoying) personality of “I’m not like other girls because I’m not girly.” The characters definitely did not act their age (early 20s).

With that being said, however, it is a good novel, just not for me personally. It’s not too graphic or violent, so it could fit into a young audience.

* I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book cemented that vampire media just doesn’t do it for me. I thought the plot was pretty interesting - definitely very creative, the characters were easy to root for, and the setting was very lovely, but I still just feel kind of meh towards this book. I also think the ending was a little too perfect for my tastes. Spoiler alert: not only does everyone live, but all the villains turn out to just be misguided people who are actually virtuous at heart.

What a wild adventure. I loved every second of this book and the journey our couple takes through the book. Loved the inclusion the authors culture while also adding g her own twist. I even got to meet the author during her book tour. Can’t wait to read her back list and all her upcoming books.

Super fast paced and entertaining- I love vampires and their fight to humanity. I do wish this was paced differently though/ big lead up for a few pages of action at the end and I just felt a little disappointed. Even their love story was too sudden for me.

Absolutely loved this book! It took me forever to read this simply because I did not want it to end! I enjoyed the world building, representation, and especially the romance. Such beautiful writing. Easily one of my favorite reads this year.

I unfortunately could not get into this book. I did try several times but I think the story just couldn't grasp or hold my attention.
I don't feel confident giving it a true rating as it was 100% my fault for not being able to get into the story. The writing is great and the concept is usually something that I would love. I'm hoping to give it a better shot down the line and for that I have kept it on my kindle. Once I am back in the mood for this type of story, I will leave a better review on Goodreads and Amazon.

Thank you, NetGalley for providing me a copy of this book, I have just been very picky with the books that have captivated my attention or/and in the mood for.

Right out the gate, A Cruel Thirst drew me in with the intense and action packed beginning. The author knew how to get heart jumping and blood pumping with that opening. I'm a sucker for vampire stories (Buffy fan, yes) so getting another Latinx take on the myth was amazing. Lalo and Carolina, my heart broke for the tragedy they each endured because of the Vampiros. It was definitely seat gripping, nail biting when they first met considering the circumstances. I did laugh out loud quite a bit. The author's ability to write scenes and descriptions so effortlessly flowing kept my attention and I didn't want to stop reading. I needed to know what happened next and how things would wrap up. I was not let down at all. I may have shed a tear or two as well. I don't want to give away spoilers cause this book was a joy to read, but Nena and Fernanda were my favorite characters. The sass and just how the author brought them to life were so believable and hilarious. This book was everything a book should be.

First, thank you to Random House Children's and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review! All opinions are my own.

I am absolutely captivated! This is the first book I've read by Angela Montoya, and I immediately will be getting Sinner's Isle (her debut) asap! This story revolves around Lalo, a quiet, sheltered scholar, and Carolina, a headstrong woman who's determined to prove she is just as capable as any man. After Lalo witnesses the death of his parents at the hands of vampiros, he is determined to track down the monster and prove that this evil exists. However, he himself is turned and not only does he have to grapple with the challenges of being a vampire but also navigate his own feelings about the very evil he despises. On the other hand, Carolina, is adventurous, spirited, and wants nothing more than to get revenge for her grandfather but also wants to show her father that she is a great vampiro hunter and more than capable of protecting their family. The contrasting personalities of the characters created a dynamic that kept me hooked.

The character growth is incredibly fulfilling. Lalo and Carolina both learn to confront their insecurities and desires, allowing them to mature individually and as a pair. Their journey is filled with touching moments and personal discoveries that made me root for them even more. The snippets of poetry throughout added a lovely layer, emphasizing their shared passion and emotional connection.

"and what is a few moments when our souls have loved each other since the beginning of time?"

What I loved most was the sweet, evolving romance between Lalo and Carolina. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the witty banter adds a playful touch to their interactions. It is a quick transition from enemies-to-lovers, but the whole time Lina was trying to kill Lalo, I was chanting KISS, KISS, KISS in my head. If I had barbie dolls of these characters, they'd have been mashed together.

Montoya expertly blends magic and family drama with this heartfelt romance, creating a rich tapestry of emotions. There are genuine struggles and vulnerabilities that make the characters feel all the more real, and I appreciated the depth she gave to them.

"A Cruel Thirst" is a beautifully crafted tale that combines heart and adventure, perfect for anyone who loves romance with depth. FIVE STARS!

This book has to be one of my all time faves!! ❣️ I love vampire romances- especially ones with strong FMC's- and this one hit the jackpot.

Things the author did amazingly 😍;
Characters 🎀
Her characters were well-fleshed out, and I felt like they were real people! It was a Jane Austen-esque drama with a diverse setting, and well done standings. The parents came off as likeable while still being strict with their daughter, the author perfectly pulling off that crazy hard balance between an overprotective parent and a hateable one. The MMC made me wanna hug him real tight and not let go. He was adorkable; basically, he was a book loving nerd who got turned into a vampire, and now has literally zero bloodthirst or even one hateful bone in his body, and is trying to figure out how to fix this so he can help his sister THIS IS WHY I READ FICTION PEOPLE. Also, the sister being lesbian was such a power move, love her for that. She took what she wanted, and didn't let anything stand in her way. I'm so glad there wasn't an exaggerated thing about it, you know, making it seem like being lesbian is so crazy and stuff, like, no it's not, can we return to the plot pls.
Setting 💗
I loved the setting. In a more Latin backdrop, I learned new things and got my societal view (I'm a regency girly), checking off all my boxes. The way it was described was just beautiful, and I felt like I could feel the forest, see the grand casa, and taste the clear water and see the brooks.
Writing 💞
Perfection. This author's writing was amazing, with perfect pacing, so we could expand on the story without it getting boring, and also giving us a detailed view on the characters minds. This was important to me, because a common mistake is when authors try and focus too much on plot, and they sideline the characters actual descriptions, and they end up sounding the exact same. Like, can we not? They're not all adorable sarcastic assholes, nor are they all broody quiet Azriels. So that's just another thing on the long list I could say the author did right, but I'm gonna stop here

This book was absolutely amazing, loved it, and I cannot WAIT for another book from this author. Thank you, NetGalley, and the publishers for giving me an eARC!

This was such an interesting take on vampirism! I really enjoyed the cultural representation as well.

However, the writing left something the be desired. I have noticed a reoccurring issue with YA (and even some adult) books where violent and dark content are written so juvenile-y. I did not think some of the content needed to be treated so lightly.

However, I still had a lot of fun with this one and would recommend to vampire lovers!

I absolutely love vampire tales, even though I’ve read very few books in this genre. This one stood out with its incredibly unique plot. Lalo, the protagonist, is turned into a vampire but is desperately struggling against fully transforming into one.

Unlike many movies and series where vampires are romanticized or have redeeming qualities, in this book, vampires are portrayed as monsters, staying true to their terrifying nature.

Rose, the female protagonist, is a vampire hunter, driven by her mission to eliminate the vampire race. Lalo and Rose are forced to work together, despite their differences, to destroy the vampire race.

The characters were well-written. I loved the emotional layers throughout the story. The backstory was rich and engaging, with a twist that took me completely by surprise and added even more depth to the plot.

This book is a great read in the fantasy and paranormal genre. It’s packed with action, emotion, and a touch of romance, making it an great read. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys vampire tales with a fresh perspective.