NetGalley ARC Educator 550974

Continuation of the Jade Murphy diaries. This can be read as a standalone. Jade's a vampire, atypical one whose trying to help her friend. You'll wish it were longer.

4.00 Stars. This was the second novella in the The Jade Murphy Diaries, and it was even better than the first. I don’t get to read much urban fantasy anymore, so this series about a socially awkward vampire, who just wants to focus on dating her new crush Beth, but something evil is usually in the way, definitely has my attention. One of my biggest complaints about the first book was that Jade didn’t feel quite badass enough for a vampire. While I still think she could be a little more badass, she felt more vamp-like to me, and I thought overall this was a better story than the first novella Racing the Dawn. You can read this without reading book one, or read them in order, it is up to you.

I don’t know if Barret has anymore of these in the pipeline, but I hope so. You just don’t see vamp books, especially queer ones, much anymore so I’m all for keeping the fun ones around. I also like that this is a series of novellas. They are entertaining and fast reads but still feel complete.

Blood memory

Arc

Bold strokes

NetGalley




I have to say vampire stories always get me. I did enjoy this story. It was a quick read. Both main characters kept the story interesting. For me it was a page turner. This is book one of the series and my first time reading the author and I am looking forward to the next book. The book does give you some  variety . Paranormal books are always fun to read and Jade added intrigue to the book and I’m excited about the next installment.





I would like to thank Bold Strokes and NetGalley for the arc 4 stars.

A vampire story with a difference
I picked this vampire story up because I was thoroughly impressed by Barret’s Terran-Novan scifi series. With Blood Memory Barret shows again that she really can write and write well - this is an action-packed vampire romp with a lot of creep and a total villain. I love that Murphy, the vampire, is different, shy, socially awkward, with issues - so not your usual arrogant, aloft vampire. And there is more than a pinch of inclusiveness here which is very well folded into the story.

**mild spoiler **
What didn‘t work well for me was the blood bond. Why, when, when not - I was at times confused and couldn‘t follow.

Thanks for the ARC via netgalley and Bold Strokes Books. The review is left voluntarily.

This was a very enjoyable easy, fast paced read that captivates you from the beginning to the end. I definitely recommend. 4. stars.

Thank you, Bold Strokes Books, and NetGalley for this ARC.

Enjoyed it. It’s short tho, but a good vampire story. Creepy in parts, but that’s what ‘grabs’ hold of you to continue reading. Didn’t know this was the sequel, so added the first book to my ‘to read’ shelf, so I’m looking forward to this one. And to any further books by Sandra Barrett.

3.9 out of 5

A Quick and easy paranormal read that i read in one sitting and had me on the edge of my seat, This book has some really atmospheric and creepy moments that I loved. REally enjoyable

Good short paranormal story. The main character Jade who's a vampire was well written. Her girlfriend Beth is a firefighter who might have some magical powers as well was written not as thoroughly as Jade , but I get the since that there's another story in the making there. The villain was really creepy and the paranormal action had me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what would happen next. This is the first book I have read from this author, but it won't be my last time. I will definitely read more of this authors books and I will definitely recommend this book to my friends and family.

Jade Murphy is a vampire with anger issues. She is also smitten with Beth, the fire fighter whom she met after saving a litter of kittens from a fire. Even though Jade is not a people person, there is something about Beth which keeps drawing her closer to them.
Keri, Jade’s friend and her supplier of pints of blood is being followed and is terrified. Both Jade and Beth step in to find out who is Keri’s stalker and to try to keep her safe.

Jade’s character is a refreshing change from the majority of vampire stories I have read. She is not all powerful and surrounded by centuries of accumulated wealth. She works the nightshift in a warehouse to keep a roof over her head. And she has issues. Human issues.

Barret knows how to tell an interesting story. Her writing is very solid. Jade is a character who is far from perfect yet likeable and you end up rooting for her.

Blood Memory is an enjoyable read which I recommend to all the vampire lovers out there.

I received a free advance review copy from Bold Strokes Books through NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Jade is a modern day vampire who is currently dating Beth, a firefighter. Jade fears that her girlfriend puts herself in danger with her job and frequently followers on her shift without her knowing.
But Jade isn't the only one. Now Jade must work double time to keep her heart safe.

Vampire stories are always intriguing but to really enjoy this you'll first need to read Sandra Barrett's book 1 The Jade Murphy Diaries to fully appreciate who Jade Murphy is.

Thank you #NetGalley #BoldStrokesBooks for this ARC

I went and bought the previous installment, to make sure I was ready for this one - and I've found a really unique, fun, enchanting story and set of characters I hope to follow in more adventures!

A more action-packed sequel novella to Racing the Dawn.

Vampire Jade is slowly allowing Firefighter Beth into her life, in her own awkward ways. I love that Beth is so supportive and accepting of Jade, in turn. But she still doesn't know the whole truth.

Beth goes by they/them pronouns. I also appreciate that Jade is biracial, and her friend Keri is trans. Those subtle additions just work to make a wonderfully inclusive setting. There's also mention of an autistic brother for Beth, and how her handling of Jade and Jade's own actions/attitudes may cross-over. Which as someone also on the spectrum, I couldn't help but also feel.

Jade is socially awkward and yet is trying hard for Beth, and with the help from Keri - her bloodbanker so to speak. But when Keri is being stalked - danger looms far too close for comfort!

It was thrilling and heart-clenching to follow the action, while the mental strain and physical elements manifested for Jade, throughout. You really felt for all the characters, and wanted the best for them all.

These are fast-paced, quick reads that I would recommend to lovers of paranormal / vampire stories, but with a lot of modern inclusivity thrown in.

I really look forward to more installments soon!