Anita Blake Vampire Hunter: The First Death

Anita Blake Vampire Hunter: The First Death by Laurell K. Hamilton (2008)

Pages: 128

ISBN: 9780785129417

Description: For the first time ever and exclusive to comics, Hamilton pens a tale set before the first Anita Blake novel, Guilty Pleasures, to reveal how Anita's career began. In a story co-written by husband Johnathon Green, illustrated by Wellinton Alves, and with covers by fan favorite Brett Booth, fans can finally read about the first meeting between Anita and the sensuous vampire Jean-Claude, the serial-killer case that began her involvement with the police, and how she became allies with the sinister hitman of all things supernatural, Edward! Whether you are a longtime fan of Anita Blake, or have only just discovered her, join us for the prequel fans have been waiting for, as we pull back the veils on the mysteries of Anita's origins!

Review: We join Anita at the start of her involvement with the police as a consultant. The first case is not easy for her and emotions run high. There is a serial killer on the loose and all the evidence points to a vampire. The evidence leads the police and Anita to Guilty Pleasures, a vampire strip club. We witness the first meeting between Jean-Claude and Anita. Jean-Claude is intrigued by Anita, but she is less than thrilled. The investigation leads to more danger that marks Anita for life.

The story was good, but it felt sort of rushed. I think I would have enjoyed it more if there was more to the story. It was interesting to see the origins and first meetings of the main characters of this series. I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had already read the series by Hamilton. I did like the artwork. The characters are brought to vivid life on the pages. I especially like the cover art that includes the characters from the Marvel Zombies series. The second part of the book is a huge guide to Guilty Pleasures. I found the guide to be more interesting than the story itself. On the whole, this prequel is geared more for the fans of the series and not really a must read for the casual reader.

Score: 3.5 out of 5

Hellsing Volume 5

Hellsing Volume 5 by Kohta Hirano (2004)

Description: Intense and full of psychotic action, Hellsing continues its fevered pitch into a dark chaos that defies human logic. Human? Well, there are only a few left in the story line, as the emerging Millennium Project, an army of Nazi undead, is unleashed upon the world. What will surely ensue is a war of blood and nostalgia, with a coolly Gothic style and increasingly frenetic pace. Envision the Hindenburg, old sharpshooter rifles, and throwback uniforms, mixed with new jet technology and incredibly bold vampires. Hellsing is piled to the sky with radical mysticism and scary apocalypse... and it's fun as Hell!

Review: Another interesting installment to the Hellsing tale. The story gets more bizarre as time goes on. I am intrigued to see where the rest of the story will go. The artwork is interesting, but sometimes difficult to follow. All in all, a most different tale that you should read.

Score: 3 out of 5

Anita Blacke, Vampire Hunter: Guilty Pleasures

Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter: Guilty Pleasures Volume 1 by Laurell K. Hamilton (2007)

Description: Fusing mythology, werewolves and vampires with a story loaded with mystery, action and romance, the Anita Blake novels take place in a world were vampires, werewolves and other creatures of nightmare have been declared legal citizens of the United States. Anita Blake is an "animator" - a profession that involves raising the dead for a living. But Anita is also known as a fearsome hunter of criminal vampires, and she moonlights by investigating cases that are far too much for conventional police. And as Anita gains that attention of the vampire masters in her hometown of St. Louis, she also risks revealing an intriguing secret about herself - the source of her unusual strength and power.

Review: I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book and it was well worth the wait. I thought the story was fantastic. I have not read the actual book series, but now I really want to. This was really a great story. The artwork was just fabulous. I have been pleased with the literary fusing with Marvel as of late. Everything they have been producing has been outstanding. This story was really interesting and I can't wait to read more!

Score: 4 out of 5

Masquerade

Masquerade: A Blue Bloods Novel by Melissa De La Cruz (2007)

Description: Schuyler Van Alen wants an explanation for the mysterious deaths of young vampires. With her best friend, Oliver, Schuyler ravels to Italy in the hope of finding the one man who can help-her grandfather. Meanwhile, back in New York, preparations are feverishly under way for the Four Hundred Ball, an exclusive gala hosted by the city's wealthy, powerful and unhuman - a true Blue Blood affair

But it's at the after-party, a masquerade ball thrown by the cunning Mimi Force, that the real danger lurks. Hidden behind the masks is a revelation that will forever change the course of a young vampire's destiny.

Review: I hate to say it, but this series continues to be nothing but a superficial look at the upper class that has to do with vampires. At times, it is a little creepy. The relationship between Jack and Mimi just leaves me feeling uneasy most of the time. I was interested to see where we will be lead, but at times I found the story to be tedious. We are left with a cliffhanger at the end, but if you read carefully enough, it really isn't that shocking.

Score: 2.5 out of 5

Chibi Vampire Volume 2

Chibi Vampire, Volume 2 by Yuna Kagesaki (2006)

Description: Kenta sees Karin at work and school, each day serving as a reminder that something about the girl with the oft-bloody nose just isn't right! He's suspicious... and he's not exactly subtle about it.

Fearing that he might discover her secret, Karin decides to ill this potential problem- with kindness! She goes out of her way to do all kinds of nice things for him. But when Kenta catches her "feeding" yet again, the gig may be up So what's a vampire girl to do? Why, take the boy home to met her parents, of course!

Review: Another cute installment in the Karin saga. It is obvious that there is something between Kenta and Karin, but how long will it take them to figure it out. This really is a cute and humorous little series. I highly recommend it.

Score: 4 out of 5

Chibli Vampire Volume 6

Chibli Vampire Volume 6 by Yuna Kagesaki (2007)

Description: Clueless Kenta is finally getting closer to figuring out that Karin has a secret crush on him. but everything explodes-literally! When Kenta's grandmother hires a detective to track Kenta down and bring him back to their hometown. A case of mistaken identity turns tragic when Karin's family bans her from seeing the very person she can't live without! Will Karin finally be forced to confess her love?

Review: I continue to enjoy reading this series. I wish I could have had them all in a row and finish them in one great read. I now want to really continue on with this series and even check out the anime.

Score: 4.5 out of 5

Chibi Vampire Volume 5

Chibi Vampire Volume 5 by Yuna Kagesaki (2007)

Description: Karin continues to come to terms with her feelings for Kenta, but her flirting will have to be put on hold for now. Karin's grandmothers is in town, and that's enough to put her entire family into a panic. Elda Marker is no silver-haired, cookie-baking matriarch. She's a hot and heavy vampire vixen with a taste for blood, but a distaste for everything else having to do with the human race. So how can Karin possibly tell her about her new human almost-sorta-not-quite-boyfriend? Its going to be one freaky family reunion!

Review: Once again, another great little novel in the Chibi Vampire saga. I continue to enjoy this series and really recommend it to others. A great little comedy with a little twist.

Score: 4.5 out of 5

Twilight Watch (Sumerechniy Dozor)

Twilight Watch (Sumerechniy Dozor) (2007) by Sergei Lukyanenko

Description: Living among us are the "Others," and ancient race of humans with supernatural powers who must swear allegiance to either the Dark or the Light. A thousand-year treaty has maintained the balance of power between the two sides, but when a renegade Other absconds with a fabled book of spells and appears intent on using it to alter the course of humanity, the forces of Light and Dark must cooperate to stop him.

Anton, the hero from Night Watch, is back, but when the culprit turns out to be an old friend, the race against time becomes more urgent than ever. In a world where reality and magic commingle, and where different degrees of existence are layered one atop the other, nothing is ever quite what it seems.

Review: This book continues where we left Anton and Sveta in Day Watch. They are now a family with the daughter they were destined to have. Although things can never go to easily for them. Mysteries abound and a fabled book is found once more. When their daughter is captured and her life is at stake, they bend the rules a bit, but do find an ally from an enemy. I was completely captivated by the story. I just couldn't put it down. Lukyanenko has definitely created a most intricate world with very specific rules. Sometimes I have to remember back to the other books to remember some detail. In this installment, we get some answers to questions that have been looming, but the ending is ready for another book. I think this series is great and that if you love science fiction, you really should give it a try.

Score: 4 out of 5

Blood Alone Volume 1

Blood Alone Volume 1 (2006) by Masayuki Takano

Description: Enter Misaki, perhaps the most innocent and most sincere young lady there ever was. It's almost inconceivable that she could be a vampire. And with her powers as a vampire, she could easily entice any human to do her biding... but she chooses not to. Especially when it comes to Kuroe, a young author who has a deep running past with vampires.

Review: This was a strange little book. It felt like we were dropped in the middle of a story but not really given enough information to figure out what was going on. I believe more backstory is given in the next books, but honesty it was a bit strange and I am not sure if I will continue on with it. Blood Alone is at best a bland story.

Score: 2.5 out of 5

Chibi Vampire Volume 4

Chibi Vampire Volume 4 (2007) by Yuna Kagesaki

Description: Fighting temptation for quite awhile, Karin has been able to stave off the urge to bite the handsome, if misfortunate, Kenta Usui. Instead, she tries to do nice things for him, but, alas, this is becoming more and more difficult! Deep down, is there some romance blooming between them? If the gossip floating through the school halls is any indication, Karin might as well bite the boy who's causing her so much confusion!

Review: I continue to be delighted with this series. This novel shows the budding relationship between Karin and Kenta. Although, I am getting tired of all the hinting. I just wish that it would go somewhere. I enjoy the humor and can't wait to read the rest of the series.

Score: 4 out of 5

Chibi Vampire Volume 3

Chibi Vampire Volume 3 by Yuna Kagesaki (2006)

Description: As Kenta helps Karin study for her school exam, the two start becoming closer. But when Maki catches sight of them and asks if they are going out, Karin protests! She needs time, especially when she feels like she's starting to overcome her blood issues around Kenta. But a new problem is about surface... and the odor is enough tot make a vampire run to daylight!

Review: This series continues to delight me. I am completely entertained and have a really great time while reading this book. I do feel bad for Karin though. Her family seems a bit harsh. I enjoy the relationship she has with Kenta and can't wait to see what happens there. I recommend reading this series.

Score: 4 out of 5

Chibi Vampire Volume 1

Chibi Vampire Volume 1 by Yuna Kagesaki (2006)

Description: Karin is a cute little girl who also happens to be a vampire... with a twist. Once a month, she experiences intense bleeding from her nose-we're talking gushers! In other words, she's a vamp with blood to spare, so rather than stealing blood from humans she actually gives her blood to them. If done right, this can be an extremely positive experience that benefits the "victim" as much as the vamp. The problem is that Karin never seems to do things right!

Review: I thought this was really a cute book. I had a lot of laughs with it as well. The humor is really great. The story is pretty interesting and I really can't wait to see where Karin ends up. More importantly, if she ends up with Usiu. It also was an interesting take on the whole vampire lore. Instead of doing the sucking, she actually gives people blood and also helps them with their problems. This is most definitely not your run of the mill vampire story. With great artwork, it is a great book all around. I can't wait to finish the series.

Score: 4 out of 5

Hellsing, Volume 4

Hellsing Volume 4 by Kohta Hirano (2004)

Description: What do you get when the Nazis, sequestered in South America for generations, have engineered an army of vampires, and are preparing for an all-out campaign of deathly dominance? Well, for one, you get a little unity. It seems the Protestant Hellsing Organization and the Catholic Iscariot agency might just have to think about teaming up. It's looking like the world's biggest battle of blood and fangs is soon to erupt. Read about the next, big arms build-up as the first World War of the undead is mounting. It's just heating up in Hellsing.


Review: We meet up with Alucard and Co. in South America in a battle. The battle really is starting with the bodies piling up. We learn a little more about the Nazis and their grand plan. This developing story is getting better and better. I can't wait to continue reading the rest of this series (I hope I can get them from the library). As stated before, it is not really for the weak of stomach, but the artwork continues to amaze. I find Hirano's style to be so interesting.

Hellsing, Volume 3

Hellsing, Volume 3 by Kohta Hirano (2004)

Description: Vampires! Nazis! Bloodshed! Action! Add to that a healthy helping of sleek style and an exotic locale, and you have Hellsing volume 3. Our scant troop of vampire-killing vampires and mercenaries are planning a little trip overseas..to beautiful South America, in search of th elusive Millennium Project, and old Nazi organization with very secretive origins. it's the start of a war, and only time will show how nasty this war will become. But one thing's for sure, the vampire Alucard will make sure it gets off to a fitting start.

Review: The series continues as we follow Alucard and Co. to South America where things really get bloody. This series is definitely going in a direction that I would not have thought of going myself. I find it very interesting and really can't wait to see where Hirano is taking us. These books are not for the squeamish, but I really do like Hirano's style. I continue to enjoy the story and am interested to see where it is heading. A must read for vampire and manga lovers.

Score: 4 out of 5

Hellsing, Volume 2

Hellsing Volume 2 by Kohta Hirano (2004)

Description: A world of murder and mayhem, political intrigue and religious conflict, monsters and undead heroes boils beneath the radar of regular existence. And it's bomb-grade business! There's the cute little police girl, Victoria, a recently turned vampire, who refuses to drink blood and become the real thing (but she's still a darn good fighter); this super swank super-vampire Alucard, who hasn't completely shown his abilities; and the old butler Walter, who's got some tricks under his toruses as well. This is but a taste of the characters killing and being killed in Hellsing, and the action is just beginning.

Review: In this second installment, we follow Alucard and Police Girl on their further adventures and battles against the evil Vatican. The story and artwork continue to dazzle me. I really am enjoying this series. My only gripe is that the character of Police Girl is somewhat dim. I think she could be improved upon, but we shall see as I get further on in the series. I especially love the weaponry displayed in this series. They are very creative and I can't wait to see what Hirano comes up with next.

Score: 4 out of 5

Movie Connection: As stated before, there is an anime series (by the same name) that you need to check out if you are at all enjoying this manga series.

Herushingu (2001)

Hellsing, Volume 1

Hellsing Volume 1 by Kohta Hirano (2003)

Description: There's a secret organization somewhere in England created to defend the Queen and country from monsters of all sorts. Enter Hellsing, an agency, long in tooth, with the experience, know-how, and...er...equipment to handle the problems that arise when vampires, ghouls, and the like clamber from the darkness. "What equipment?" you may say. How about another vampire, souped up by generations of study and refinement, armed with a big pistol loaded with special silver bullets? That oughta do the trick. But what really knocks 'em dead is the sharp wit, awesome artwork, and crazy, bloody action that make up the manga. Hellsing, the long-awaited gothic graphic that spawned the popular anime is finally in America, thanks to Dark Horse comics and the folks at Digital Manga, and you're gonna love it. The night is dark, but at least those creepy anti-heroes from Hellsing can make light of it.

Review: In Hellsing, we follow the story of the Hellsing organization and their battle with the Vatican. I found the concepts to be really interesting with this manga. I had fun reading it and couldn't wait for more. I enjoyed the author comments at the end of the story as well. The artwork was stylistically cool. This was a unique story and the pages just flew by. I can't wait to read the entire series.

Score: 4 out of 5

Movie Connection: Kohta Hirano's popular manga series was brought to the "little" screen in 2001. I don't believe that I have seen this anime, but will definitely put it on my list of things to watch. I really enjoyed the story, so I can't wait to see what Hirano did for the series.

Herushingu (2001)

Blue Bloods

Blue Bloods by Melissa De La Cruz (2006)

Description: Within New York City's most elite families, there lurks a secret society of celebrated Americans whose ancestors sailed on the Mayflower. Its members are the powerful and the wealthy - and, in fact, they are not human. They are the Blue Bloods, an ancient group of vampires.

Schuyler Van Alen has never fit in at Duchesne, her prestigious New York City private school. She prefers baggy, vintage clothes instead of the Prada and pearls worn by her classmates, and she lives with her reclusive grandmother in a dilapidated mansion. Schuyler is a loner... and happy that way.

But when she turns fifteen, Schuyler's life changes dramatically. She discoverers a mosaic of blue veins on her arms , and craves raw meat. The death of a popular girl from Duchesne is surrounded by a mystery that haunts her. And strangest of all, Jack Force, the most popular boy in school is showing a sudden interest in her.

Schuyler wants to find out the secrets the Blue Bloods are keeping. But is she herself in danger?

Review: This was sort of The Devil Wears Prada and Buffy's love child. As a sci-fi/fantasy fan, it was not the greatest. There are far better vampire novels out there. That said, there was something to the story that makes me want to find out more. To be honest, I was having a hard time stomaching the constant designer name drops. I get it... they are young, powerful, and dressed to kill. Do I need to know that she is wearing Chanel boots? Hell no. As for the history part, it was almost hard to take. I'll give De La Cruz some points for originality; however, to anyone who knows anything about history, its going to be difficult to read. I guess it is one way to get girls who like "chick lit" into fantasy. I really wouldn't recommend this book unless you are really a De La Cruz fan.

Score: 3 out of 5

Eclipse

Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer (2007)

Description: As Seattle is ravaged by a string of mysterious killings and a malicious vampire continues her quest for revenge, Bella once again finds herself surrounded by danger. In the midst of it all, she is forced to choose between her love for Edward and her friendship with Jacob - knowing that her decision has the potential to ignite the ageless struggle between vampire and werewolf. With her graduation quickly approaching, Bella has one more decision to make: life or death. But which is which?

Review: Another great romance from Stephenie Meyer. Like New Moon, this book takes off from the last time we were with Edward and Bella. Not only does Bella have to worry about normal everyday teen life, she also has to deal with the darker issues (i.e. vampires and werewolves). I have to say this book started to really frustrate me. I mean, Bella is supposed to be so in love with Edward but she is hesitant to marry him. Then she "discovers" that she is in love with Jacob too. Its really starting to get ridiculous. I can't wait for the fourth book to come out so that I can find out if she will really marry Edward (or disappoint me further by going down this other love road). All in all, its really a good book and definitely worth a look.

Score: 4 out of 5

New Moon

New Moon by Stephenie Meyer (2006)

Description: Recovered from the vampire attack that hospitalized her in the conclusion of Twilight, Bella celebrates her birthday with her boyfriend Edward and his family, a unique clan of vampires that has sworn off human blood. But the celebration abruptly ends when the teen accidentally cuts her arm on broken glass. The sight and smell of her blood trickling away forces the Cullen family to retreat lest they be tempted to make a meal of her. After all is mended, Edward, realizing the danger that he and his family create for Bella, sees no option for her safety but to leave. Mourning his departure, she slips into a downward spiral of depression that penetrates and lingers over her every step.

Review: Another great book from Stephenie Meyer. This was also a very fast read, but still has a lot of substance. The story continues on from when Twilight left off. Naturally, werewolves are brought into this story (although I did see that coming) as apparently we cannot have vampires without werewolves. While I enjoyed most of the book, I just didn't like the direction that it was going with Jacob Black and Bella. I do like his character, however I see where this love triangle is really being formed. I am glad with the ending though. This wasn't as good as Twilight, but still a really great book. I really recommend picking this one up.

Score: 4 out of 5

Twilight

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer (2005)

Description: Headstrong, sun-loving, 17-year-old Bella declines her mom's invitation to move to Florida, and instead reluctantly opts to move to her dad's cabin in the dreary, rainy town of Forks, WA. She becomes intrigued with Edward Cullen, a distant, stylish, and disarmingly handsome senior, who is also a vampire. When he reveals that his specific clan hunts wildlife instead of humans, Bella deduces that she is safe from his blood-sucking instincts and therefore free to fall hopelessly in love with him. The feeling is mutual, and the resulting volatile romance smolders as they attempt to hide Edward's identity from her family and the rest of the school.

Review: I really enjoyed reading this book. I knew that this was popular with the young adults from my time at Borders, and now I know why. The romance between Edward and Bella is just very well written. Meyer did a wonderful job creating her characters and making the audience really care what happens to them. As for a vampire story, it was very interesting her version of the vampire lore. The notion that it is venom that causes vampires to be made instead of just a bite is very interesting. Actually, I found most of her "rules" to be interesting. I am excited to read the next installments to see what is in store for these characters.

Score: 5 out of 5