Risen

I was lucky to get the chance to read Risen by Cole Gibsen thanks to #NetGalley. Look for the book to come out March 27, 2018. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

When I first looked at this book I was oh yay a book that is about vampires. If you haven't read my previous reviews you should know I love Twilight. After finishing my favorite vampire series on wattpad by Shelby Painter, I have been looking for another vampire book I can sink my teeth into.

The beginning of the book is full of action from Charlie's aunt being kidnapped by these "monster" to finding out that vampires actually exist and she may be one of them. Charlie becomes very close to Sebastian a vampire who was supposed to kill her but couldn't after realizing she could be the key to unlocking his past.

Together they go to a different clan of vampires looking for help and answers. The king of that clan might just be Charlie's father.

I love the relationship between Charlie and Sebastian, even though he's one of them she see's past that and believes he's not part of the evil clan of Mentis, a clan that believes that they must rule over humans and their diet includes only blood from humans willing or not.

The violence in this book is expected when reading an action vampire novel but nothing too dramatic.

I love Charlie as a character she's so strong and she always follows her heart even when it leads her to dangerous situations. She makes me want to be kidnapped by vampires but only if it's Sebastian or Edward.

Another thing I love about this book is how each of the three clans have different appearances and abilities adding a fantasy element to it.

The only thing I didn't like was the ending. I understand that this book may be part of a series but where the author ends the book it feels wrong. It wasn't a good stopping point in my opinion. Never less this book is great and I can't wait to see what happens in future books.

I finished this book in two hours so I give it five stars. This book is for anyone who loves vampires, magic, and fantasy.

17 year old Charlie lives in a remote one bedroom cabin with her Aunt Rachel and German Sheppard Jax. Nothing seems to change in Charlie's life and it doesn't help that her Aunt is overly protective. Yearning for adventure, or at least normalcy, she plans to get out of town and go to college as soon as possible. When a group of Vampires bust down the cabin door and take her Aunt, Charlie finds herself thrust into a world where monsters exist and three vampire clans prepare to go to war. Charlie's life is left in the hands of Sebastian, a vampire unlike the others of his clan, who has orders to dispose of her. When Charlie accidentally unlocks Sebastian's pre-vampire memories with a touch, he agrees to get her to safety so they can help Rachel and find out who or what Charlie really is.

Risen, is the first book in the Blood Eternal series in which three clans of vampires (Mentis, Anima, and Corpus) are on the brink of war. I don't want to give too much away but Vampires aren't the only preternatural creatures in the series. I have a feeling that the author might introduce them as the series continues. This was definitely a "one more chapter" read for me as I found myself half way through the book on the first night and finishing it the next day. I enjoyed the chemistry between the characters and the romantic elements were kept to a level that would be appropriate for even the younger YA audience. There is some violence because it's about vampires so you’re going to have your staking and blood and everything that comes with it. I really enjoyed the different abilities of the vampire clans and their different appearances/abilities which I thought added a unique element to the story.

*I voluntarily received a copy of Risen from the publisher via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own*
For as long as she could remember, Charlie has lived in a cabin in the woods with her aunt Rachel. When Charlie thinks she won't be able to have an exciting future, three vampires show up at her door. Suddenly, Charlie's life changes overnight. Her aunt is kidnapped by a vampire clan who wishes to use her as a pawn to rage war. The only way to save her aunt is by teaming up with Sebastian, a vampire with his own agenda. Charlie isn't sure she can fully trust Sebastian, but he's her only hope.
This was a complete surprise. As much as I tend to love vampire novels, they usually get repetitive after a while. Risen defied my expectations and kept me on my toes. The moment I thought I had Charlie's past figured out, the novel went in a completely different direction. There are also three different types of vampires in the novel: the Anima, the Mentis, and the Corpus. There are good-looking (but deadly) vampires, affable (but still deadly) vampires, and zombie-like vampires.
As the main character, I was really surprised by how strong of a character Charlie is. Even though Charlie is not a vampire, this doesn't stop her from attempting to save others (and herself). After reading so many vampire novels where the female lead was little more than a doormat, Charlie is a breath of fresh air.
Although romance isn't the main focus of the novel, I really enjoyed the tension build between Charlie and Sebastian. I really can't wait to see how their relationship will develop during the rest of the series.
The only thing I really did not like about this novel was the ending. Risen ended abruptly and unexpectedly. As much as I enjoy a good cliff-hanger now and again, the ending felt a little too rushed and awkward. With that said, I cannot wait for the sequel. There are so many unanswered questions I absolutely need answers to!

Risen is a fresh addition to the world of vampire fiction. With its unique plot and captivating characters I was hooked from the first paragraph. This was a truly memorable read and one I would recoment to any fans of fantasy and paranormal fiction.

I get super excited every time I find a book about vampires! I couldn’t wait to read this book. And the cover is gorgeous!
The book was well written, I really enjoyed the characters. It was so easy to get wrapped up in all the drama and romance.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own

The Quick Cut: A girl finds herself in the middle of a vampire war when her Aunt Rachel is taken.

A Real Review:
Vampires are a very commonly used mythical creature in fiction, so it can be difficult to do something unique with it without going too far. It's a very delicate balance that's not easily walked and here, that balance is done quite well.

Charlie lives with her Aunt Rachel I'm almost complete seclusion and desperate to escape it. The continuous monitoring and repetition isn't what she ever wanted for her life. Right when she moves to change that, her Aunt Rachel is taken by vampires.

In this universe, there are 3 different clans: Mentis, Corpus, and Anima. Mentis are beautiful and use that to lure their prey for blood. They only drink human blood and have longer, sharper fangs. Corpus are described as foul, disgusting creatures willing to eat anything and everything, even their own kind. Finally, the Anima are the vampires that pass for humans the closest with their small fangs and emerald green eyes. Anima only drink the blood of animals and humans.

It's Mentis vampires that take Aunt Rachel and with their powers, compel her to go. In the process, Charlie ends up teamed with Sebastian - a vampire who cannot remember his past. These two together not only work to try to save Rachel, but in many ways to save each other. The dynamic between our two heroes is fun and at times slightly flirty. It makes for an enjoyable and a combo you want to root for.

My only real issue with this book is the ending. It's really unexpected where it stops and honestly feels a bit short from where it should have been. I would have loved a couple more chapters (although that final scene was adorable).

A quick, fun read with it's own take on the vampire mythology - this is a great start to what could be an exciting series.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

"I Surrender to the music. I become the notes drifting from my fingers, filling the cabin and spilling out into the night. It's only in this moment, alone in the darkness inside my head, that I finally feel safe. "

"The answers we seek might be the only things that can save us now."

Risen follows the story of Charlie and Sebastian. Charlie has always wanted more out of her life. She is bored with the status quo and wants nothing more than to venture out into the world. That is until one day, Charlie's whole world is turned upside down. Charlie is suddenly thrown into a world that she never knew existed. Sebastian promises to give Charlie answers, but Charlie isn't too sure if Sebastian can be trusted. You see, Sebastian is a vampire and only time will tell if he is on the right side of the vampire war...

Risen was a quick and easy read for me. The story hit the ground running and captivated me from the very first page. I thought the story-line was fresh and intriguing. I wanted to know more and needed answers to all my burning questions. I liked learning about the different vampire clans and what started the war. I thought this book had a lot of action and it kept me on my toes. And while there was some romance, it was definitely the slow burn kind and not the main focus of the story. My only issue with the book was the ending. I felt like it ended rather abruptly and left a lot of issues unresolved. It wasn't your typical cliffhanger ending.

Overall, I thought this book was a fun read. It was a different take on vampires with a slow burning romance. I still have a lot of questions that will hopefully be answered when the next book comes out. This is my first novel by Cole Gibson and I look forward to checking out more of her work in the future.

This is an interesting YA vampire romance with a difference. And with so many vampire reads out there now it’s difficult sometimes to find one that stands out.

The main difference here is we have three different types/clans of vampires. The Mentis clan are what most of us would relate to as vampires. They are gorgeous, rich and feed from humans, they also possess the power of persuasion. They have a farm where humans are harvested for their blood and then disposed of.

The second is the Corpus vampire these are foul-smelling, living corpses. They eat anything and everything; animals, humans, other vampires, even their own kin. Their gift is the ability to pass almost undetected in shadows.

The third clan, the Anima clan look the most human. Their fangs are small and they feed from animals and willing humans. They can also transform into birds.

War between the vampire clans is looming as Seraphina the queen of the Mentis clan wants to rule supreme.
Sebastian is a Mentis vampire but unlike other vampires he has no memories of before.

Charlie is nearly 18 years old and she lives in a one bedroomed cottage with her aunt Rachel. While she’s not supposed to have any connection to the outside world Charlie is a teenager and so she bought a prepaid smartphone from a gas station (not sure where she got the money since they live a simple life making and selling soaps).

Charlie lives a boring isolated life and so when vampires turn up and kidnap her aunt she’s thrown for a loop. Who knew vampires were real?

Sebastian is left to search the cottage and dispose of Charlie but there’s something about her. Through her he gets a glimpse of his life before and he wants more.

I enjoyed this book, it’s interesting and moves along well in fact I only had two issues.

I know this is a YA book and I’m certainly not in that age group so maybe younger readers don’t have the same issues.

1. When Sebastian and Patrick are in a standoff some of the lines seemed a bit cheesy. But like I say it could be me.
2. The book ends at 86% and I wasn’t expecting it to end there then there’s bonus content. This is the first scenes from the book with Sebastian’s POV. Now I love dual POV books I think it gives us a much better picture but apart from the first couple of pages it’s all the same. There’s not enough differences to make this worth while, so after feeling good about the book the bonus content took the shine off a little bit.

I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by NetGalley and Entangled Publishing LLC.

I don’t know where to start with this book. Every aspect is outstanding! A true work of art.
My favourite character was Sebastian. I loved his twisted sense of humour and how he could be mysterious and honest at the same time. This is not to say I didn’t adore Opal and Charlie too. Both girls were amazing in every way,especially Charlie. I loved how strong and witty she was and how she would always stuck to her gut.
And, I have to admit,I quite liked Seraphina. I loved the whole ‘classy but deadly’ thing she had going on.
My only complaint is there is no sequel to dive into. I loved the world that this author created and I really want to adventure back. Thank you to Netgalley for allowing me to read this fantastic book.

Risen by Cole Gibsen was such a refreshing change! First, the cover .... oh that beautiful, shiny, cover! It just screams dark goodness, and the cover did not mislead or disappoint. What's in between was just as dark and delicious.

I loved this YA take on vampires. I loved all the characters ... Charlie, Sebastian, Opal, all three different clans were fleshed out so well. It's a nice spin on an old world. I'm so glad Risen raised vampires from the dead. I love vampires and it never gets old so long as it's written well, and Cole Gibsen delivers.

I loved, loved, loved the take on the three clans, their rise to power, the Fae .... oh this is a world I want and need more of. I want to know more of the origins.

Charlie and Sebastian were written so well and I appreciated the bonus material at the end from Sebastian's POV. I can't wait to see who these characters are ... there is so much more to find out. I want the next book ... BADLY!!!!!

If you love vampires, Risen does not disappoint. I'm looking forward to more of this world!

I was pleasantly surprised by Risen. It's a vampire book, but there were some elements that were different from other ones I've read before.

Charlie is living in a cabin in Marion, IL with her aunt Rachel and their dog. Charlie is unhappy and wants to go away to school, but Rachel warns her of dangers without ever going into detail. One day, 3 vampires show up and everything changes. Two of them take Rachel away and the last one, Sebastian, stays with Charlie to find evidence that Rachel's son is really dead. Sebastian is supposed to kill Charlie when he's done. However, Charlie is not quite normal. A song she hums brings back an old memory for Sebastian and he's desparate to know more from his human life. In the woods, Charlie touches him and there are flashes of memories. Sebastian also finds a photo which makes him believe that the Amina King Matteo will keep Charlie safe.

On the trip there, Charlie and Sebastian are taken by vampire hunters. They end up being even more horrific than some of the vampires. There is an attack and Opal, a young hunter, leaves with Charlie and Sebastian. They make it to the Amina compound and things start to go well there. Matteo wants to protect Charlie and rescue Rachel. But his sister, Queen of the Mentis, has other plans. She wants to start a war, retrieve three artifacts (each sibling has one), and eliminate the other clans.

There are three types of vampires in Risen.

-Corpus are the scariest. They look like rotting flesh and hide in the shadows. They eat everything, including each other.

-Mentis are the most attractive. They consume blood from humans kept on their farm. They have longer, sharper fangs and bluish-silver eyes. They can also compel people.

-Amina have small fangs and dark emerald green eyes. They eat from animals and only willing humans. They can also transform and are often in crow form.


Charlie is spunky, defient, and sarcastic. I liked her immediately. She's also pretty fiece at times. Sebastian grew on me quickly and I liked his growing relationship with Charlie. Opal ended up being a favorite though. She was funny, loyal, and a great friend.

The book took off right from the beginning and the pacing was great. It made it an easy read and tough to put down. I'm really looking forward to book two.

I gave this one 4 1/2 stars (rounded up to 5 on goodreads).

Received this ARC from Netgalley for my honest opinion.


Charlie lives an isolated life with her Aunt Rachel. They share a small cabin in the woods. Charlie hasn't strayed from the cabin area much in 10 years and is eager to go to college far away from her boring life. Until one day everything changes and suddenly her life is anything but ordinary. She realizes that vampires are a thing and that somehow her life is entwined with that of one handsome Vampire named Sebastian. Charlie learns a lot about herself and her Aunt along the way.

The book is well paced and the character development is perfect! There is a sneak peek of book two in the back that has me itching for the year to be over so I can get my hands on it! I enjoyed the book and I will definitely be checking out more of what the author has to offer. I strongly recommend this book because it's a fun read and a unique-ish twist on vampire/supernatural books that we see today.


Here is a review by Tashy: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2302895497