Vampire Kisses: The Beginning by Ellen Schreiber

Vampire Kisses: The Beginning by Ellen Schreiber
This book actually contained the first three books in the Vampire Kisses series: (1) Vampire Kisses, (2) Kissing Coffins, and (3) Vampireville

author’s website: Ellen Schreiber
release date: April 21, 2009
appeals to: Young Adult (& Vampire fans)
genre: Fantasy
length: 576 pages (3 books in 1 volume)
overall rating: 3.5 stars

*the back cover*
A new guy in town.
Rumors of vampires.
Dangerous first love.
This is where it all begins. . . .
The mansion on top of Benson Hill has stood empty for years. But one day it seems to be occupied, and its mysterious, handsome inhabitant Alexander Sterling becomes the source of much talk around town. Raven, a vampire-obsessed Goth-girl who has always considered herself an outsider in "Dullsville," is determined to uncover the truth surrounding the secretive Alexander. As she gets to know him, and their spark intensifies, Raven finds herself in some unanticipated situations. Can Alexander make her lifelong dream come true? But love always has its complications—especially when it can only be awakened at nightfall.
The first three books in Ellen Schreiber's bestselling Vampire Kisses series capture the thrill of a most unusual romance. (A short summary of each book is available here.)

*my review*
I began reading this series with no preconceptions. I saw the book, loved the cover, and thought, “Vampire book…excellent!” So far as current vampire books go, this one has the most “traditional” vampires I’ve read. They don’t go out in the sun (or sparkle, or have special rings that protect them), they prefer the night, they turn into bats, and they have fangs. I enjoyed reading about the “traditional” vampire, but I enjoyed even more the “goth” narrator. As a somewhat quirky girl myself, I totally understood Raven’s constant feeling of being on the outside, but being ok with it. She is a strong character and I liked her no-nonsense take on things, especially with her “nemesis,” Trevor.

Overall, this was a clever story and a fun series to read. I actually read all six books, so I’m hesitant to do much more reviewing for fear of being to spoilery. If you pick up the individual books, they are very quick to read. I do think that each book leaves you wanting more, so if you can get more than one at a time, I’d suggest it!

*short and snappy*
writing: down to earth – Schreiber’s writing really captures the teenage emotions, angst, dialogue, and the feelings of first love.
plot: unexpected twists in the plot and connections to prior books keep the series connected & fun to read
characters: even the minor characters are developed! Most characters reappear throughout the series, so you get to feeling like you know them
judging by the cover: the cover of this book (and the vampire genre of course) tempted me to pick it up. I love the image. HOWEVER, I think the individual covers of the first three books are all well done, too, so that is lost in the compilation.
miscellaneous: Books 4 (Dance with a Vampire), 5 (The Coffin Club), and 6 (Royal Blood) in this series are also available. The summaries are available here. And book 7 (Love Bites) is due out May 18th (2010).