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A Cruel Thirst
A fledgling vampire and a headstrong vampire huntress must work together--against their better judgment—to rid the world of monsters in this irresistible romantic fantasy.
Carolina Fuentes has always wanted to join her family in hunting down the bloodthirsty monsters that plague her pueblo. But these days, her father wants her out of town with a husband of his choosing. That’s not happening. Carolina plans to show everyone that she’d make a better vampire slayer than wife. But when she runs into a sediento that is not only handsome but kind, she questions everything.
Lalo Villalobos doesn’t act on impulses. As the eldest of two, his duties were to carry on the family business, marry, and have children. But then he is turned into a sediento and must flee the city, taking lives as he goes north, where he believes the first vampire was made. Surely, the pueblo there will have the answers to reverse this curse or end sedientos altogether. Another unexpected turn? Lalo runs right into a beautiful young woman who’d gladly stake him.
Fortunately, mostly for him, they share a common enemy. They can stop these evil beasts. Together. And if along the way, Lalo and Fernanda discover what it is to truly live and love, then they’ll have won anyway.
Carolina Fuentes has always wanted to join her family in hunting down the bloodthirsty monsters that plague her pueblo. But these days, her father wants her out of town with a husband of his choosing. That’s not happening. Carolina plans to show everyone that she’d make a better vampire slayer than wife. But when she runs into a sediento that is not only handsome but kind, she questions everything.
Lalo Villalobos doesn’t act on impulses. As the eldest of two, his duties were to carry on the family business, marry, and have children. But then he is turned into a sediento and must flee the city, taking lives as he goes north, where he believes the first vampire was made. Surely, the pueblo there will have the answers to reverse this curse or end sedientos altogether. Another unexpected turn? Lalo runs right into a beautiful young woman who’d gladly stake him.
Fortunately, mostly for him, they share a common enemy. They can stop these evil beasts. Together. And if along the way, Lalo and Fernanda discover what it is to truly live and love, then they’ll have won anyway.
432 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication December 17, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 11, 2024
vampire x vampire hunter is an elite pairing
thank you to the publisher for providing this arc
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thank you to the publisher for providing this arc
Follow me on Instagram
Shelved as 'remind-me-next-year'
June 14, 2024GUYS WHAT IS THIS COVER???? NO WORDS
Want to read
April 11, 2024People who say don't judge a book by its cover, don't understand the power of a beautiful cover. I was just scrolling down my feed when I saw one of my mutuals added this to their TBR and I immediately clicked on it based solely on the cover.
The synopsis also seems like my cup of tea, so hopefully it delivers. Finger crossed.
The synopsis also seems like my cup of tea, so hopefully it delivers. Finger crossed.
May 5, 2024
The book cover is what got my attention and plot sounded interesting. The beginning was good, but it lost steam in the middle. Still romance, even though it didn't have much of tension, was cute, just like characters.
ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 26, 2024
— 4.5
smiling so big right now because i just finished this book and Lina & Lalo have my heartttt 💞 its always wonderful when an anticipated release holds up!
can i just say that you need to add this to your tbr’s NOW ?!?!
my shy boy vampire and very stabby vampire huntress were so precious 🥹 we’ve already established that the reluctant allies trope slaps but reluctant allies that have to pretend to be ENGAGED??? yeah a SERVEEE
deadass just sat through and binged the second half of this book in 2 hours because i couldn’t put it down and can i just say that Angela Montoya is so talented because this book was absolutely sending meeeee.
the writing was so so good and compelling. i loved the the unique take on the concept vampirism and the lore the author managed to build around it.
god i loved the characters and their chemistry and how they complemented each other so well. they’re both characters that craved acceptance in their own way and found it in the last person they’d expected it to be with.
overall, it was such a moving story about love, loss and acceptance and i can’t wait for everyone to read this! i will definitely be reading more of this author’s work 🫶🏽
thank you to random house for the arc!
smiling so big right now because i just finished this book and Lina & Lalo have my heartttt 💞 its always wonderful when an anticipated release holds up!
can i just say that you need to add this to your tbr’s NOW ?!?!
my shy boy vampire and very stabby vampire huntress were so precious 🥹 we’ve already established that the reluctant allies trope slaps but reluctant allies that have to pretend to be ENGAGED??? yeah a SERVEEE
deadass just sat through and binged the second half of this book in 2 hours because i couldn’t put it down and can i just say that Angela Montoya is so talented because this book was absolutely sending meeeee.
the writing was so so good and compelling. i loved the the unique take on the concept vampirism and the lore the author managed to build around it.
god i loved the characters and their chemistry and how they complemented each other so well. they’re both characters that craved acceptance in their own way and found it in the last person they’d expected it to be with.
overall, it was such a moving story about love, loss and acceptance and i can’t wait for everyone to read this! i will definitely be reading more of this author’s work 🫶🏽
thank you to random house for the arc!
April 24, 2024
Loved. Every. Single. Second.
More thoughtful review to come soon!
4/24: okay official review here we goooo…
First of all, AAAHHHHH!!!!
I loved this book, you guys. From the very beginning, Angela Montoya captured my attention with who would turn out to be one of my absolute most beloved characters, Lalo. Poor sweet baby Lalo who must be protected at all times, accidentally becomes a vampire while avenging the deaths of his parents and boy does he HATE. IT.
We get this angsty, self-loathing vampire who goes on a mission to destroy vampires and ends up accidentally teams up with THE CAROLINA, vampire hunter, who initially tries to unalive him (seriously this kid, for someone who does a lot of research, ends up doing a lot of this on accident).
I can’t describe to you how precious Lalo and Lina are to me (and to each other 🥹). This book was bursting with longing and humor and such a fresh take on the lore of vampirism, it was unlike anything I’ve read before. It was adventurous but also somehow the coziest thing I’ve read in awhile. I devoured it.
Thank you Angela for trusting me with an early early copy of this DELIGHT. I loved it, I still think about it all the time. What a triumph!
More thoughtful review to come soon!
4/24: okay official review here we goooo…
First of all, AAAHHHHH!!!!
I loved this book, you guys. From the very beginning, Angela Montoya captured my attention with who would turn out to be one of my absolute most beloved characters, Lalo. Poor sweet baby Lalo who must be protected at all times, accidentally becomes a vampire while avenging the deaths of his parents and boy does he HATE. IT.
We get this angsty, self-loathing vampire who goes on a mission to destroy vampires and ends up accidentally teams up with THE CAROLINA, vampire hunter, who initially tries to unalive him (seriously this kid, for someone who does a lot of research, ends up doing a lot of this on accident).
I can’t describe to you how precious Lalo and Lina are to me (and to each other 🥹). This book was bursting with longing and humor and such a fresh take on the lore of vampirism, it was unlike anything I’ve read before. It was adventurous but also somehow the coziest thing I’ve read in awhile. I devoured it.
Thank you Angela for trusting me with an early early copy of this DELIGHT. I loved it, I still think about it all the time. What a triumph!
Want to read
April 11, 2024viscerally need this book omg
June 13, 2024
Thank you so so much to Joy Revolution and Netgalley for sending me an early copy of this book! All opinions are my own!
Where to start with such a masterpiece?? How does one capture such beauty?? How did Montoya deliver such perfection? From action to mystery and intrigue to romance and family and everything in between, this book truly has it all in perfect balance.
From the very start, this book is funny in a way that is so endearing and helps you really connect with the characters as they get started on their journeys. But the balance of humor with heartbreak, grief, and angst made it even more powerful. There was a lot of growth from the characters in the area of family trauma and expectations that others may place on you. This truly felt like they were coming of age and discovering themselves and their places in the world, but it felt so authentic to who they had been the whole time that every twist of the story felt inevitable.
I adored the romance and the way that these two fit together. They are made for one another, and the fact that they can't realize that for so long makes it all the better. Carolina is so strong and what my soul has always wanted to be as a fierce young woman. Lalo is so soft that he's genuinely too good for this world. The two of them learn to be soft and fierce for one another, and their love had me smiling like an absolute fool. Which is saying a lot for someone who reads with RBF!
From the all-Latine cast to the perfectly curated story of love and family, this is going to become the book of the fall, and I cannot wait to see it happen!
Where to start with such a masterpiece?? How does one capture such beauty?? How did Montoya deliver such perfection? From action to mystery and intrigue to romance and family and everything in between, this book truly has it all in perfect balance.
From the very start, this book is funny in a way that is so endearing and helps you really connect with the characters as they get started on their journeys. But the balance of humor with heartbreak, grief, and angst made it even more powerful. There was a lot of growth from the characters in the area of family trauma and expectations that others may place on you. This truly felt like they were coming of age and discovering themselves and their places in the world, but it felt so authentic to who they had been the whole time that every twist of the story felt inevitable.
I adored the romance and the way that these two fit together. They are made for one another, and the fact that they can't realize that for so long makes it all the better. Carolina is so strong and what my soul has always wanted to be as a fierce young woman. Lalo is so soft that he's genuinely too good for this world. The two of them learn to be soft and fierce for one another, and their love had me smiling like an absolute fool. Which is saying a lot for someone who reads with RBF!
From the all-Latine cast to the perfectly curated story of love and family, this is going to become the book of the fall, and I cannot wait to see it happen!
September 28, 2024
THANK YOU TO THE PUBLISHER FOR THIS ARC !!
if you see this, add this to your tbrs now! i was kicking my legs like crazy for a good majority of the book. carolina and lalo will have my heart forever.
a vampire huntress falls in love with a cute and shy newly turned vampire? hello? do i have to mention they had to fake an engagement in order to work together? the lore, the writing, and the world itself was so compelling. there's also some wlw rep in there for my gay readers 🧏🏻♀️
although the beginning of the story did take a bit to build up, i couldn't put it down for the last three and a half hours. a boy who wanted revenge for the murder of his parents ends up turning into the creature responsible and he LOATHESSS himself for it, but he'll do whatever it takes to keep his little sister safe. when looking for ways to help himself, he runs into the coolest girl, carolina, who just happens to hate the same creatures he does.
anyways, carolina and lalo >
thank you
if you see this, add this to your tbrs now! i was kicking my legs like crazy for a good majority of the book. carolina and lalo will have my heart forever.
a vampire huntress falls in love with a cute and shy newly turned vampire? hello? do i have to mention they had to fake an engagement in order to work together? the lore, the writing, and the world itself was so compelling. there's also some wlw rep in there for my gay readers 🧏🏻♀️
although the beginning of the story did take a bit to build up, i couldn't put it down for the last three and a half hours. a boy who wanted revenge for the murder of his parents ends up turning into the creature responsible and he LOATHESSS himself for it, but he'll do whatever it takes to keep his little sister safe. when looking for ways to help himself, he runs into the coolest girl, carolina, who just happens to hate the same creatures he does.
anyways, carolina and lalo >
thank you
February 12, 2024
To start off, the imagery created in this story was amazing & I absolutely loved the unique premise of a vampire who hates drinking blood. The banter between Lalo & Carolina was spot on. I so enjoyed their conversations & found myself laughing often throughout this book. I also got so attached to them both because they were written so well. I found myself in tears & genuinely rooting for them in different situations. The fact that I got so caught up in the story just shows how incredible the writing was. Both characters went through a lot of great individual character development as well as development of their bond, & I enjoyed both of those pieces tremendously. Another element I found super well done was the unique mythology used in this book to explain the existence of vampires. This is definitely a take I haven’t seen done before & it was executed so well. Lastly, I thought the intermixing of artifacts throughout the chapters that related to the history of vampires was a nice touch. It is mentioned that Lalo has been studying vampires, but this was a really fun way to see information, & also allowed for key pieces of information to be revealed at the right times. Along with the artifacts, Angela did a great job with pacing in this book. I loved how she was able to structure the story so that the length of chapters actually kind of coincided with the pacing of the plot. I could talk all day about how much I loved this. I can’t wait to scream to the internet about this more as the publish date gets closer.
February 3, 2024
A Cruel Thirst is truly CRUEL.
(In the best of ways)
A beautifully story of vampires and love. A world built with so much precision and layers of history. From the first chapter I cared so much for Carolina (mi tocaya) and poor perfect Lalo and in the end I wanted more. Their chemistry was EVERYTHING, reading them bicker was so entertaining. And their individual dilemmas were so masterfully crafted.
Angela’s version of vampires is so refreshing and original. The descriptions of thirst and humanity were some of the best I’ve read in a long time. SO PERFECT.
(In the best of ways)
A beautifully story of vampires and love. A world built with so much precision and layers of history. From the first chapter I cared so much for Carolina (mi tocaya) and poor perfect Lalo and in the end I wanted more. Their chemistry was EVERYTHING, reading them bicker was so entertaining. And their individual dilemmas were so masterfully crafted.
Angela’s version of vampires is so refreshing and original. The descriptions of thirst and humanity were some of the best I’ve read in a long time. SO PERFECT.
June 25, 2024
Vampires are so back! This was a very exciting read from beginning to end, and a huge win for any Montoya fan. I found the relationships believable and the choices dire- yet needed. The final stretch of this story really paid off for me as well! This was a real hit for Montoya's sophomore title!
April 29, 2024
My one question is: WHEN WILL THIS BE MADE INTO A MOVIE?!?!
September 18, 2024
Thank you very much Penguin Random House International for sending me an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
When I first found out about A Cruel Thirst, read that it's a love story between a vampire and vampire huntress, I immediately knew I had to read it. Vampire books are my favorite type of paranormal romance books, and I find them especially appealing during gloomy autumn days, so I was absolutely delighted when I was approved for an e-ARC. 🖤
While the book definitely delivered in some departments, other ones were unfortunately lacking and no amount of my excitement could make up for that.
To start off on a good note though - my favorite part of the book was all of the family drama, the way it connects throughout the story and how it wraps up beautifully in the end. I loved the strong family bonds that both of our main characters maintained with their kin and how they were their driving forces through all of the adventures.
The relationship between Carolina and Lalo was also so much fun to read. Their dynamic and chemistry were chef's kiss.
The vampirism part was somewhat lacking and I wish it was more prominent. It gets better by the end, but for a vampire book it didn't have what I was expecting. I do think this was a part of the bigger problem that was the worldbuilding. It was kind of all over the place. And while a lot of worldbuilding questions get answered by the end, I feel like some things had to be established way earlier.
Also, I found our main characters to be a bit annoying as well. They rushed without thinking more times than not, resulting in more completely avoidable mistakes and problems they had to resolve time and time again. To be honest, I was audibly arguing with them for almost the whole first half of the book. 😭
What probably irked me the most were the POVs. In the beginning they didn't have distinct enough voices and their chapters read the same. They do diverge about 30% into the book, but I really wish they had unique voices from the beginning.
Lalo was such an interesting character, at times a bit cringey, but most of the time actually admirable. He had a strong resolve from the beginning to not harm humans and to not indulge in his vampire needs, and he held onto that until the end.
Carolina was the more impulsive one and though I was irritated with some of her actions, I loved how determined she was to prove herself to the family full of male vampire slayers that she's a worthy fighter and vampire slayer as well.
As I said earlier, I absolutely loved the full circle moment in the end, it was so satisfying to read and I really loved how it wrapped up. I only wish the "finale" was a couple more pages longer and that the characters struggled a bit more, if that makes sense.
The writing style really wasn't for me. I wouldn't say it was bad, but it certainly was not my cup if tea. I guess I could actually say that for the most of the book, as most of my complaints in the end come down to a personal preference.
It has some pretty strong points, despite my criticism, so I definitely encourage you to give this one a go if you're looking for a short and sweet vampire romance book with a good old enemies to lovers trope. 🧛🩸✨
When I first found out about A Cruel Thirst, read that it's a love story between a vampire and vampire huntress, I immediately knew I had to read it. Vampire books are my favorite type of paranormal romance books, and I find them especially appealing during gloomy autumn days, so I was absolutely delighted when I was approved for an e-ARC. 🖤
While the book definitely delivered in some departments, other ones were unfortunately lacking and no amount of my excitement could make up for that.
To start off on a good note though - my favorite part of the book was all of the family drama, the way it connects throughout the story and how it wraps up beautifully in the end. I loved the strong family bonds that both of our main characters maintained with their kin and how they were their driving forces through all of the adventures.
The relationship between Carolina and Lalo was also so much fun to read. Their dynamic and chemistry were chef's kiss.
The vampirism part was somewhat lacking and I wish it was more prominent. It gets better by the end, but for a vampire book it didn't have what I was expecting. I do think this was a part of the bigger problem that was the worldbuilding. It was kind of all over the place. And while a lot of worldbuilding questions get answered by the end, I feel like some things had to be established way earlier.
Also, I found our main characters to be a bit annoying as well. They rushed without thinking more times than not, resulting in more completely avoidable mistakes and problems they had to resolve time and time again. To be honest, I was audibly arguing with them for almost the whole first half of the book. 😭
What probably irked me the most were the POVs. In the beginning they didn't have distinct enough voices and their chapters read the same. They do diverge about 30% into the book, but I really wish they had unique voices from the beginning.
Lalo was such an interesting character, at times a bit cringey, but most of the time actually admirable. He had a strong resolve from the beginning to not harm humans and to not indulge in his vampire needs, and he held onto that until the end.
Carolina was the more impulsive one and though I was irritated with some of her actions, I loved how determined she was to prove herself to the family full of male vampire slayers that she's a worthy fighter and vampire slayer as well.
As I said earlier, I absolutely loved the full circle moment in the end, it was so satisfying to read and I really loved how it wrapped up. I only wish the "finale" was a couple more pages longer and that the characters struggled a bit more, if that makes sense.
The writing style really wasn't for me. I wouldn't say it was bad, but it certainly was not my cup if tea. I guess I could actually say that for the most of the book, as most of my complaints in the end come down to a personal preference.
It has some pretty strong points, despite my criticism, so I definitely encourage you to give this one a go if you're looking for a short and sweet vampire romance book with a good old enemies to lovers trope. 🧛🩸✨
July 28, 2024
Carolina Fuentes wants nothing more than to take down all the bloodthirsty monsters that plague her pueblo. Too bad her family won't let her help. No matter she will take them on all on her own and prove what she is capable of.
Lalo Villalobos is a recently turned vampire. But he is not like the rest of them. He would rather die than hurt another human or let his sister come to harm. Fleeing the city to seek answers he instead finds a headstrong vampire hunter.
They must work together to take down the vampires and save everyone. Along the way they may just find something else.
This is the best story including vampires that I have read. I love how they are described, from their creation to what happens when they drink blood. It's unique and helps with understanding them. I would have liked even more interactions with them.
I like Carolina and Lalo. For a romantic male lead Lalo is quite different and not just because he's a vampire. They have many great scenes together. There is a lot of humor I wasn't expecting. I think they make a great couple and I believe in their love, but I didn't feel anything from the romance. That's probably just me and my pickiness. Perhaps if this had been a duology more time could have been spent on all the different things going on and I would feel differently.
The action is pretty much nonstop in the last 30 percent. There are some harrowing scenes where you're not sure what the outcome will be. I enjoyed the ending and think it is well done.
If you love vampire stories I definitely recommend this!
Thank you so much to the author for the digital ARC!
Lalo Villalobos is a recently turned vampire. But he is not like the rest of them. He would rather die than hurt another human or let his sister come to harm. Fleeing the city to seek answers he instead finds a headstrong vampire hunter.
They must work together to take down the vampires and save everyone. Along the way they may just find something else.
This is the best story including vampires that I have read. I love how they are described, from their creation to what happens when they drink blood. It's unique and helps with understanding them. I would have liked even more interactions with them.
I like Carolina and Lalo. For a romantic male lead Lalo is quite different and not just because he's a vampire. They have many great scenes together. There is a lot of humor I wasn't expecting. I think they make a great couple and I believe in their love, but I didn't feel anything from the romance. That's probably just me and my pickiness. Perhaps if this had been a duology more time could have been spent on all the different things going on and I would feel differently.
The action is pretty much nonstop in the last 30 percent. There are some harrowing scenes where you're not sure what the outcome will be. I enjoyed the ending and think it is well done.
If you love vampire stories I definitely recommend this!
Thank you so much to the author for the digital ARC!
February 3, 2024
A Cruel Thirst is a fresh, stunningly addictive historical fiction with a splash of fantasy and a beautiful cast of characters that had me hooked from the first line!
I read an early copy of this story, and it captured my heart. Fernanda is so funny and interesting. Carolina is one of my favorite FMCs I’ve read in a long time! I fell in love with her wit, strength, and confidence, and I need more! Lalo is such a sweet MMC that I cared for from the first page. The banter between Lalo and Carolina was terrific, and their fake engagement was so fun to read about. Nena is one of the best side characters; with her hilarious banter and stunning personality, it is hard not to love her! The setting was so fun and gorgeously written. The prose itself was strong, lyrical, and a joy to read. This story made me feel at home and will stick with me for years!
I read an early copy of this story, and it captured my heart. Fernanda is so funny and interesting. Carolina is one of my favorite FMCs I’ve read in a long time! I fell in love with her wit, strength, and confidence, and I need more! Lalo is such a sweet MMC that I cared for from the first page. The banter between Lalo and Carolina was terrific, and their fake engagement was so fun to read about. Nena is one of the best side characters; with her hilarious banter and stunning personality, it is hard not to love her! The setting was so fun and gorgeously written. The prose itself was strong, lyrical, and a joy to read. This story made me feel at home and will stick with me for years!
February 12, 2024
5⭐️ ~ Angela Montoya did it again; she made me love this story and want a sequel. Trust me when I say that she has the power to end books in such a way that you always want more.
This is a story about family, love, cruelty, desires, suffering and finding yourself. I enjoyed every page. Lalo is definitely my favorite character, but I also like Carolina's fire and passion, Nena's wit, Abuelo's determination, Papá's protection, Amá’s love, Fernanda's ease of living and enjoying the little things and even Rafael's impudence. The characters are like real people, it's easy to fall in love with them, the writing style is light and poetic.
Thank you again for the early copy of your new book, Angela, it was a perfect, cruel delight. 😉
This is a story about family, love, cruelty, desires, suffering and finding yourself. I enjoyed every page. Lalo is definitely my favorite character, but I also like Carolina's fire and passion, Nena's wit, Abuelo's determination, Papá's protection, Amá’s love, Fernanda's ease of living and enjoying the little things and even Rafael's impudence. The characters are like real people, it's easy to fall in love with them, the writing style is light and poetic.
Thank you again for the early copy of your new book, Angela, it was a perfect, cruel delight. 😉
February 2, 2024
First of all, Lalo is my favorite character. I got to read an early copy of this book and it was a ride! High stakes and vampires and fighting and lore that I couldn’t get enough of. It was a blast and I can’t wait to have this book on my shelf.
June 18, 2024
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy!!! Badass Female MC, a scholarly boy turned monster, and shameless flirting. There are a lot of romance featuring vampires, but not many trying to fight the curse.
Want to read
May 22, 2024vampires are SO BACK
Want to read
September 2, 2024this. is. stunning.
July 8, 2024
This book has it all! Action, Adventure, Romance, Comedy! Not to mention vampires and vampire hunters. I loved this book so much! The writing and the characters were amazing! I really enjoyed it and highly recommend it! Thanks so much to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the arc in return for an honest review.
August 31, 2024
This book is perfection. No notes. It’s so entertaining and witty with a cast of characters that I adore and a love story that I am obsessed with.
February 25, 2024
-- vampire historical fantasy
-- turned into vampire against his will and needs to revert into human MMC x aspiring vampire hunter FMC who get fake engaged to find the original vampire and reverse everything
-- wonderfully chaotic and wholesome family members
-- book lover / panics about crumpled and dirty clothes MMC x ferocious sword wielding FMC (it's a very Jurdan vibe okay 😭)
Angela was kind and gave me an early copy of her book to read and IT WAS SO FRICKIN GOOD AHHH
I am so excited to see the cover and character art and everything! A Cruel Thirst should be released (I think) in the latter half of this year, possibly December!
-- turned into vampire against his will and needs to revert into human MMC x aspiring vampire hunter FMC who get fake engaged to find the original vampire and reverse everything
-- wonderfully chaotic and wholesome family members
-- book lover / panics about crumpled and dirty clothes MMC x ferocious sword wielding FMC (it's a very Jurdan vibe okay 😭)
Angela was kind and gave me an early copy of her book to read and IT WAS SO FRICKIN GOOD AHHH
I am so excited to see the cover and character art and everything! A Cruel Thirst should be released (I think) in the latter half of this year, possibly December!
Want to read
July 14, 2024A fledgling vampire and a headstrong vampire huntress must work together--against their better judgment—to rid the world of monsters in this irresistible romantic fantasy.
They're gonna look hot all throughout that. Look at that cover.
They're gonna look hot all throughout that. Look at that cover.
June 8, 2024
I absolutely loved this book!!! This story transports readers to a pueblo besieged by bloodthirsty vampiros. Carolina Fuentes, a fierce and determined young woman, yearns to join her family in hunting these monsters. However, her father has other plans for her, desiring to marry her off to a man who will keep her safe from danger. Undeterred, Carolina sets out to prove her worth as a slayer. But her resolve wavers when she encounters Lalo Villalobos, a vampiro who possesses both an alluring appearance and a surprising kindness. As they team up to battle the evil that threatens their pueblo, Carolina finds herself torn between her duty and her forbidden feelings for Lalo.
Montoya deftly weaves together action, romance, and social commentary in this compelling tale. Carolina's unwavering determination to defy traditional gender roles and prove her strength is both inspiring and refreshing. Lalo's transformation from a cursed creature to a sympathetic protagonist adds depth and nuance to the narrative. The pueblo setting provides a rich cultural backdrop for the story, infusing it with both beauty and danger. The vampiros are depicted as formidable adversaries, their thirst for blood creating a constant threat to the community. Montoya's vivid descriptions bring the horrors of these creatures to life, while also exploring the complexities of their nature.
The romance between Carolina and Lalo is a slow-burning and forbidden one, filled with longing, doubt, and ultimately, a profound connection. Montoya does an exceptional job of depicting the emotional turmoil these two characters experience as they navigate their feelings for each other. This story is a must-read for fans of paranormal romance and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted tale of adventure and love.
Montoya deftly weaves together action, romance, and social commentary in this compelling tale. Carolina's unwavering determination to defy traditional gender roles and prove her strength is both inspiring and refreshing. Lalo's transformation from a cursed creature to a sympathetic protagonist adds depth and nuance to the narrative. The pueblo setting provides a rich cultural backdrop for the story, infusing it with both beauty and danger. The vampiros are depicted as formidable adversaries, their thirst for blood creating a constant threat to the community. Montoya's vivid descriptions bring the horrors of these creatures to life, while also exploring the complexities of their nature.
The romance between Carolina and Lalo is a slow-burning and forbidden one, filled with longing, doubt, and ultimately, a profound connection. Montoya does an exceptional job of depicting the emotional turmoil these two characters experience as they navigate their feelings for each other. This story is a must-read for fans of paranormal romance and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted tale of adventure and love.
July 6, 2024
Check out that release date because this is the perfect present for teen readers this holiday season! Lalo is a thoughtful, shy, bookish guy who loves his family, fashion, and his moustache. Then tragedy strikes as he witnesses his parents devoured by a vampire. When he tries to rid this city of this scourge, Lalo is turned too and takes off with his younger sister to what he believes to be the birthplace of vampirism to find a cure and make the world safe for those he loves. Almost as soon as he arrives, he meets Carolina, a kick butt vampire hunter whose family is more concerned with marrying her off than letting her protect the valley. They are enemies to the core but are also immediately drawn to each other—Lalo to her bravery and verve, and Carolina to his caring and thoughtfulness. And when Lalo shares he goal of taking down the original vampire, they team up…and pretend to be engaged. It is an absolute romp with gorgeous writing, top-tier banter that put me in mind of The Mummy, laugh-out-loud moments, and a slow-burn emotional journey to first love. One of my favorite things about this book is how the world-building and lore is woven into the story and makes the vampirism all the more emotional, rather than as a short-hand for conflict. And the banter is banter, not bickering, driven by who these characters are as well as their greatest fears. A beautiful exploration of love, grief, hope, and how a couple can elevate each other. Absolutely one of my favorite YA reads this year
ARC read - hilarious, emotional, perfection. Full review to follow
ARC read - hilarious, emotional, perfection. Full review to follow
June 3, 2024
Carolina is the child of a vampire fighting family. Lalo is an unwilling vampire doing whatever it takes to free himself from this curse, and protect his sister. Of course they run into each other and are forced into each others company constantly.
What made me want to read this book especially was at Yallwest, Angela talked about The Mask of Zoro being one of her inspirations for the novel. This book definitely has the same kind of vibes. I am such a sucker for vampire romances and this was no exception. I loved how Angela brought in so much history to the novel. So often vampires are European and this setting was so refreshing. More stories like this need to exist. I would love to see fan art for this story, it's such a magical setting.
The characters were lots of fun. Carolina is assertive and sassy. Lalo is a quiet, shy scholar. I absolutely loved their dynamic. Watching Carolina teach Lalo how to fight and dance was a delight. Their banter was also top tier. No spice, but there is a fade to black scene.
The side characters didn't get a ton of screen time, but I enjoyed them a lot. Nena and Fernanda especially were fun. I would have love to see more of them, but in the context of the story, it did make sense.
Overall, a great story. I will definitely be recommending this to all my vampire loving friends.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC. Opinions are my own.
What made me want to read this book especially was at Yallwest, Angela talked about The Mask of Zoro being one of her inspirations for the novel. This book definitely has the same kind of vibes. I am such a sucker for vampire romances and this was no exception. I loved how Angela brought in so much history to the novel. So often vampires are European and this setting was so refreshing. More stories like this need to exist. I would love to see fan art for this story, it's such a magical setting.
The characters were lots of fun. Carolina is assertive and sassy. Lalo is a quiet, shy scholar. I absolutely loved their dynamic. Watching Carolina teach Lalo how to fight and dance was a delight. Their banter was also top tier. No spice, but there is a fade to black scene.
The side characters didn't get a ton of screen time, but I enjoyed them a lot. Nena and Fernanda especially were fun. I would have love to see more of them, but in the context of the story, it did make sense.
Overall, a great story. I will definitely be recommending this to all my vampire loving friends.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC. Opinions are my own.
August 25, 2024
A Cruel Thirst is a biting, refreshing and a delicious read. The lore, the details, and the growth of Lalo and Carolina in the span of the novel was just so good.
When Lalo is turned into a vampire he searches for a cure to reverse his new monstrous state. He has an insatiable hunger but refuses to turn into a shell of himself. A scholar he’s been looking for a way to reverse his vampiric state and unexpectedly strikes an alliance with vampire hunter/slayer Carolina. The two work together to find the true cause of vampires, how to end a vampire’s line, and possibly reverse a vampire back to human.
Throw in a fake marriage situation, the stunning culture, and you have a winner. I need to give bonus points for the outstanding setup with the world’s lore.
A Cruel Thirst was fresh, and filled a void in the genre. I haven’t read a vampire book in years, and this was such a great way to be re-introduced. I wish this book was coming out in October (the vibes would’ve been insane!), but I can’t wait for everyone to devour this in December and close out the year with a strong read.
Thank you so much Penguin Canada for providing an ARC!
When Lalo is turned into a vampire he searches for a cure to reverse his new monstrous state. He has an insatiable hunger but refuses to turn into a shell of himself. A scholar he’s been looking for a way to reverse his vampiric state and unexpectedly strikes an alliance with vampire hunter/slayer Carolina. The two work together to find the true cause of vampires, how to end a vampire’s line, and possibly reverse a vampire back to human.
Throw in a fake marriage situation, the stunning culture, and you have a winner. I need to give bonus points for the outstanding setup with the world’s lore.
A Cruel Thirst was fresh, and filled a void in the genre. I haven’t read a vampire book in years, and this was such a great way to be re-introduced. I wish this book was coming out in October (the vibes would’ve been insane!), but I can’t wait for everyone to devour this in December and close out the year with a strong read.
Thank you so much Penguin Canada for providing an ARC!
July 26, 2024
Thank you Net Galley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Lalo is determined to discover the vampiro that killed his parents, but when he does, his life changes forever. Carolina plans to end every vampire that would dare to cross her path, until one shows her that they can be different.
⭐️ Dual POV
⭐️ Enemies to lovers
⭐️ Fake relationship
⭐️ Vampires
⭐️ Hispanic representation
This was a tough one for me. The summary sounded SO good. The execution though was SO hard to follow. I honestly ended up skimming parts of this. However, there were parts that I can appreciate. I really liked Lalo’s sense of morals. He maintained that he would not succumb to evil, and he managed to follow through. I always appreciate fake relationships and enemies to lovers so the follow through on that was nice. The ending was probably my favorite part. The closure of generations worth of curses was a great touch. I think this would help PERFECT for teenage girls wanting more after Twilight. 3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 0.5 🌶️
Lalo is determined to discover the vampiro that killed his parents, but when he does, his life changes forever. Carolina plans to end every vampire that would dare to cross her path, until one shows her that they can be different.
⭐️ Dual POV
⭐️ Enemies to lovers
⭐️ Fake relationship
⭐️ Vampires
⭐️ Hispanic representation
This was a tough one for me. The summary sounded SO good. The execution though was SO hard to follow. I honestly ended up skimming parts of this. However, there were parts that I can appreciate. I really liked Lalo’s sense of morals. He maintained that he would not succumb to evil, and he managed to follow through. I always appreciate fake relationships and enemies to lovers so the follow through on that was nice. The ending was probably my favorite part. The closure of generations worth of curses was a great touch. I think this would help PERFECT for teenage girls wanting more after Twilight. 3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 0.5 🌶️
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