Okay, so my next post was supposed to be about lycans…but this is too exciting not to share!!
On a day that started like any other Wednesday – me bleary eyed and gulping down coffee whilst stumbling around getting myself ready for school – I was greeted by a fabulous email from my publisher…Blood Shadows is back at the top!
In the Summer, I was bouncing off the walls with excitement when Blood Shadows hit the No. 1 spot in the U.S. Amazon Gothic Romance chart. Not convinced I’d ever get that close again, I made the most of the moment. But now today, Blood Shadows is back – and at No.2! 😀
Not just that but No. 6 in the Vampire Romance Chart on Amazon.com… 😀
My home country is being equally as supportive, with BOTH Blood Shadows and Blood Roses in the Top 4 in the Gothic Romance Chart on Amazon UK! 😀
Convincing readers to try your books is tough, really tough – especially when they have no idea who you are. Sometimes comparisons help. I get compared to J.R. Ward more than any other author. Some readers are in agreement, some are not. I’ve only read one of Ms Ward’s books so I’m nowhere in a position to comment, but I do know what an incredible author she is. So when I stumbled on this comment yesterday, I was beyond flattered – even more so because it was posted by the awesome Ilsa Madden-Mills, author of the Amazon bestseller Very Bad Things:
“…holy hell, I stumbled across a vampire book by a British author Lindsay J. Pryor. It’s layered and deep and riveting and sexy all rolled into one. It reminded me a little of the Ward books, although…and this is hard for me…I think they are better. Yes, I said it. Don’t get me wrong, Ward is my all-time fav paranormal romance writer, but Lindsay managed to combine the dark with MORE sexy…”
So, as I’m sure this recent chart peak is no fluke, I want to say a MASSIVE thank you to Ilsa Madden-Mills for her public declaration of fandom for Blood Shadows and to the equally fantastic Maryse of Maryse’s Book Blog for posting Ilsa’s comment on her blog. Ladies, you’re wonderful!
And, of course, to everyone who has recently bought a copy of Blood Shadows (and Blood Roses), I want to say HUGE thanks to you too – this doesn’t happen without you. Welcome to Blackthorn!
A little while ago, Blackthorn devotee, Amity Grays mentioned the prospect of a survival guide to Blackthorn in one of her blog posts. The idea quickly caught on. The problem is, Blackthorn is a complex place with a culture all of its own. More to the point, I’m still keeping some of it hidden from you at the moment – so knowing where to begin wasn’t easy.
But some readers want to delve a little deeper into Blackthorn regardless of a guide. The last intrepid bloggers to venture into the district were DaVinciKittie and Molly over on GraveTells, who dared to enter the Dehain brothers’ club. And let’s not forget brave Aimee Duffy who was the first to ever try to interview Kane Malloy (apparently she’s still in recovery). And now, Tracey Rogers, another Blackthorn devotee, decided it was time she ventured into Blackthorn – only she took me with her for an on-the-spot interview! (I’m obviously back, I’m only hoping she is!)
For everyone else, I’ve broken you in gently so far – keeping you more or less in the confines of Kane’s place (Blood Shadows) or Caleb’s (Blood Roses). But I can’t hold back any longer. With Blood Torn, you’re not just heading into the lycan compound, but into some of the murkier depths of Blackthorn. And it doesn’t get much better from there, at least for a while. So I resolved it was time I pulled together a few pointers for the next stage of our journey.
First, let’s have a quick recap on a couple of demographic basics (remember you can refer to my Beneath Blackthorn posts here on my blog if you want to understand more about the make-up of the world):
Each locale is made up of four bordered districts. Blackthorn district is the core of one locale. It’s where the third species reside, consisting mainly of vampires and lycans. But there are humans (and a few others!) too.
Within Blackthorn itself, East is Kane’s territory, West is Caleb’s and North is Jask’s. The hub of the district is set in the west, which is the centre of nightlife activity.
The hub is exactly where you’re most likely heading if you’ve planned a night out in Blackthorn. Let’s assume you’re maybe from Midtown or Summerton and that you’ve never been to Blackthorn before. What advice would I give?
Here’s an essential 15-point guide to make your night out in Blackthorn as enjoyable and safe as possible:
Be prepared
Dress appropriately. If you’re heading to the hub of Blackthorn, you’re entering the party capital. Dress to blend in. Look like a newbie and you may as well stamp victim on your forehead. Trust me, residents will know!
Don’t go in alone. Groups are better.
Don’t go kitted up like some member of a 80s or 90s vampire-killing film. The third species aren’t inherently evil, they aren’t the undead – they’re just a different species. You’ll either die from humiliation or an unappreciative resident.
Mind your language!
Don’t mention ‘fangs’ to vampires, unless you plan on it being an insult. Blackthorn vampires have an extra set of lateral incisors, not fangs. Lycans use cuspids (canines). Referring to fangs is a prime way to show that not only are you a newbie, but that you actually believe the old stereotypes – never a good icebreaker in Blackthorn.
Don’t mention you’re from Midtown or Summerton. Remember, your privileged lifestyle will be a sore point. You’re from across the border in Lowtown, if anyone asks.
Watch your behaviour
Keep your eyes up and ahead. Don’t avoid eye contact, but keep it fleeting and never take a second glance.
Basically, don’t stare. Prolonged eye contact with another means either you’re interested in them or you’re looking for trouble. Staring at ‘events’ means you’re willing and able to join in whatever is going on.
Don’t ask for directions. Ever.
What to avoid
Watch out for vampires who roam alone, and watch out for humans who roam in groups away from the crowds.
Avoid anyone with numbers tattooed on their inner arms. That’s all I’ll say for now!
Stick to the main streets, no matter how busy. Quieter most certainly does not mean safer.
Don’t ever go to The Circus – it really isn’t what you think.
Avoid the old cinema. It’s been transferred to live performances you don’t want to witness.
Public feedings are illegal.
If you’re asked if you’re interested in being a feeder, say no. And avoid being bitten at all costs. You’re going to have to get through a lot of red tape to return to Midtown or Summerton if you don’t!
I’ve been busy on Pinterest lately. I find it insanely addictive – especially as I await my Blood Torn edits and in-between writing book four. I keep finding so many terrific images that I’ve even started to expand my boards. But that’s the easy part.
It’s never been so straight forward finding images to match my characters. It’s fine if you see an actor or actress, decide they’ll be your character and away you go. I’m working backwards. Because I’ve lived with the Blackthorn bunch a long time, I have a really clear vision for each of them.
So, when I was published with Bookouture, the biggest challenge I faced was finding pictures to share with the cover designer. Each of the models were to be hand picked and photographed, so it was really important to get it right. The last thing you want as an author is to look at the front cover of your book and not recognise the face staring back at you. Fortunately that hasn’t happened yet.
Over the past few months, I’ve had boards for Kane & Caitlin and Caleb & Leila. In preparation for Blood Torn’s pending release, I now have one for Jask and Phia. But, as you’ve yet to meet the rest of the characters, I thought it was about time you did!
I’m not going to make it that easy though. Click here to see my vision for the cast of Blackthorn…but there’s a catch! I’ve named my three heroes and heroines (that’s too easy!), but I’ve yet to label the rest. Instead, I thought I’d let you have a look first to see if you can work out who’s who. All the characters are mentioned in either of the first two books or from chapter one of Blood Torn. If you think you know who they are, feel free to comment on each pin via Pinterest. I’ll reveal who they are in a couple of days so you can see if you’re right. Happy spotting!
*WARNING: CONTAINS HUGE SPOILERS FOR BLOOD SHADOWS AND BLOOD ROSES*
It’s the final Kane Vs Caleb post. Over the past few days, we’ve looked at their profiles, how they were introduced into the romance world, delved into their dark pasts and have compared their current power and status in Blackthorn. So let’s end with a recap – this time the predicament they were left in.
KANE
Instead of killing Caitlin Parish, Kane let her live. Lycan leader Jask Tao, who made a deal with Kane, really isn’t too happy about it. Vampire versus lycan potentially?
Kane found out that the Higher Order vampires, namely Feinith, have been leaking guarded information about the vampire prophecies to members of the Third Species Control Division. In particular, he now knows the secret is out that a serryn is needed to activate the vampire prophecies. Oops.
When Xavier Carter revealed that he knows vampire secrets, Kane resolved to keep him alive rather than setting the soul ripper on him. Why?
Confessions from Xavier, Max and Rob of their involvement in the murder of Arana Dehain evoked uproar amongst the third species and irreparably tarnished the reputation of the Third Species Control Division. Caitlin’s very much in the firing line amongst her colleagues. Under these circumstances, can Kane really handle caring about Caitlin after what happened to Arana?
Kane discovered that The Higher Order are embroiled with the TSCD in trying to get their hands on him. Feinith has since put out a summons which Kane, up to now, has ignored. But not for much longer.
Kane and Caitlin disappeared for a short while – but they’re coming back.
CALEB
Instead of killing Leila McKay and claiming his Tryan status, Caleb let her live. He also let her go on the proviso she find the alternative to the prophecies. An act of love and trust on his part? Or one laced with strategy?
Caleb had Jake sully Alisha’s blood so the serryn line wouldn’t jump to her – a sign devotion to his brother for sure. But also one to Leila? Will that devotion remain if she fails? Will time apart change everything?
He has angered Feinith by rejecting her and, as such, no longer has anyone on the Higher Order looking out for him. Feinith is already planning some alpha-baiting and Kane features strongly in her plans.
Caleb has had nightmare visions of what’s to come with the prophecies, but he’s yet to reveal what he saw.
And what is this darker, harder and more terrifying alternative Leila, unbeknownst to Caleb, was thinking of? Does he already know about it? Have they both messed up hugely by falling for each other?
Sophia, middle sister to Leila and Alisha, is out there somewhere in Blackthorn. And, with the serryn line having jumped to her, Caleb will be pursuing her in seven days if Leila doesn’t find the alternative she promised. But a lot can happen in seven days in Blackthorn – not least as Sophia has already landed in Jask Tao’s lap.
That’s it, everyone! For now. 😉 I hope you’ve enjoyed your recap of the notorious pair – and the few hints of what’s to come.
Huge thanks to every single person who has been sharing and retweeting these posts and not to least to South West Artists Daily who published links to both my posts this week.
*WARNING: CONTAINS SPOILERS FOR BLOOD SHADOWS AND BLOOD ROSES*
BLACKTHORN MINDSET
Kane and Caleb live in a dark, dangerous and violent place. Blackthorn isn’t just a third species territory (which you’ll see more of in Blood Torn) – not anymore. Instead of keeping Blackthorn exclusive, the Global Council decided it would be acceptable to use the district as an overflow system for the humans they couldn’t control in their penitentiaries – convicts of the most despicable crimes. As such, territoriality is rife in Blackthorn. Reputation to retain and maintain that territory is everything. As Caleb put it:
‘It was about survival and survival was about reputation… It meant no mercy and no second chances. Any sign of pity could be fatal.’
When it comes to reputation, Kane and Caleb’s notorious pasts have secured their places as top of the Blackthorn underworld. So far, they’ve wisely kept a distance from each other, their paths not needing to cross. Kane stays to the East and Caleb stays to the West. But who’s got the greatest advantage should we see these vampires clash?
HERITAGE
There are three types of vampires that I have mentioned in Blackthorn so far: master vampires, Higher Order vampires (vampire royalty) and ‘lesser’ vampires. The Higher Order have secured their place to reside in Midtown under the proviso they work as advocates between the humans and vampires (and one or two other things that will be revealed in Blood Torn). The Higher Order are allowed to rule over lesser vampires in the locale. They’re forbidden from interfering in TSCD policies, but they can take matters into their own hands where allowed. In these cases, they are the judge, jury and executioner.
Kane – master vampire: Master vampires don’t come under Higher Order rule. A master vampire is purer in strength and ability than Higher Order vampires. They are also the only type of vampire than can feed on other vampires if they so choose. One on one, technically Kane should be able to beat Caleb but…
Caleb – Higher Order vampire/destined Tryan: Caleb is first introduced as a lesser vampire until his Higher Order heritage is revealed. But even his true heritage makes him no competition for Kane. But, of course, Caleb’s not just any Higher Order vampire – he’s the destined Tryan. He’s not completed the process yet, but his very choosing could set him a notch above his Higher Order counterparts. A worthy opponent for Kane after all, maybe?
TERRITORY AND FINANCES
The amount of territory both vampires own equates.Kane owns the East, Caleb owns the West and both own parts of the South. Caleb appears the most lucrative, with thriving businesses throughout the West, not least owning the most successful club in Blackthorn. Kane however was landowner before relocating to Blackthorn. His home where he took Caitlin at the end of Blood Shadows, hints at a wealthy past. He certainly doesn’t seem to find it too difficult to get his hands on ‘resources’ when he needs them.
ALLIANCES & ALLEGIANCES
Kane: Being a master vampire brings automatic respect amongst the third species (even the lycans – Jask aside for the moment, that is). As such, Kane appears to have few enemies. More so, as links with characters such as Alexander and Tamara in Blood Shadows show, his acquaintances are only too willing to help him. Alexander, in particular, equally turned to Kane for support, indicating Kane not only has respect but clout too. The TSCD’s failure to detain Kane after several decades speaks of a community that remains loyal and protective of him. Or is that too scared to cross him? With no indication of confidants, Kane appears to be an otherwise solitary character.
Caleb: Caleb’s reputation as the Higher Order’s most intrepid serryn hunter proceeds him. Anyone who can take on serryns and survive is heralded a hero in the vampire community. But far from sitting on his laurels, Caleb is also a well-connected and respected business owner. His employees, not least Hade, seem only too willing to do his bidding. The fact that word leaked out about Tay’s involvement in trying to double-cross Caleb, speaks of a community fiercely loyal to him. He also has the firm support of his younger brother and confidant, Jake.
ENEMIES
Kane: The TSCD appear to be Kane’s only enemy, having hunted him for decades. However, it is revealed at the end of Blood Shadows and Blood Roses, that the Higher Order also appear to have a vested interest in Kane. Everyone seems to want Kane alive. That’s not a bad position to be in in Blackthorn. Unless, of course, The Alliance set their sights on Kane like they did with Caleb…
Caleb: Caleb’s enemies have been those who have envied his success. But Caleb dealing stringently and mercilessly with opposition has made these occurrences rare. He also used to have links with the Higher Order through Feinith, but that turned sour at the end of Blood Roses. I’m not sure she’s ready to forgive him for his rejection just yet. And now it seems Caleb also has The Alliance to contend with.
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER
Kane: Kane disclosed to Caitlin that, as a master vampire, he has access to a wealth of knowledge about vampiric heritage and, as it appears by the end of Blood Shadows, the prophecies themselves. He was very guarded letting Caitlin read him, telling her of the risks of seeing his inner darkness would pose to her. Is that true, or was there something she was never meant to see?
Caleb: So far Caleb’s remained very quiet about the nightmares and visions he was experiencing in the lead up to getting the Armun tattooed on his back. He hasn’t even confided in Jake. Did what he see have a part to play in his decision to let Leila try to find an alternative? Has his exclusive insight into what’s to come put him in an advantageous position, or everyone else in jeopardy?
ATTITUDE
Both Kane and Caleb are old-fashioned warriors at heart, born leaders fearless of opposition and both loyal to their own kind. Both have served in the battlefield. Both are fiercely territorial. Methodical thinkers, astute, perceptive, strategic and manipulative in getting what they want, they are also laced with a lethal dose of charm, intelligence and charisma. Emotional disconnection is an art form they have perfected, a cocoon they have wrapped themselves in – that was until their heroines came along.
Conclusion: it’s still anyone’s game at the moment. But are their heroines a newfound strength or destined to be their downfall?
The last Kane Vs Caleb post will be up on Friday where I’ll be looking at where we left them – all ready to pave the way for Blood Torn. 🙂
Yesterday, I delved into the dark past of the notorious Kane Malloy. Today, it’s Caleb Dehain’s turn. Dark vampire with a deeply buried heart, or simply too twisted to ever undo? Let’s have a look…
Has claimed:‘Eventually the hand that nature has dealt you will make you become what you were meant to be. You have no control over it.’
ABANDONED…
Caleb is one of three brothers, the eldest being Seth, Jake being the youngest. They were brought up by their mother – a Higher Order vampire who denounced her heritage. Concealing her true identity, she fell in love with a Higher Order vampire nonetheless and her three sons were born in secret. But then their father abandoned her, ironically, to marry one of ‘his own’.
The secret of their heritage remained as such.
TORTURED…
The three brothers were close, with Seth the father figure. He was Caleb’s salvation in more ways than one when, as nothing more than a teenager, Caleb was preyed upon by a serryn.
‘Three weeks she’d chosen to keep him alive. The taunting. The torture. The degrading and debasing acts she had performed on him, to him, and forced him to participate in. The things she made him watch and experience… seeing the little ones sob and being able to do nothing to help them, their pain intensifying if he didn’t watch… the helplessness he had felt bound and manacled knowing if he had been free, he could have overpowered her, stopped it…’
Caleb was found and saved by a group of vampires, Seth amongst them. He may have been one of the rare vampires to escape a serryn with his life, but Caleb never recovered.
‘…the unspoken trauma had changed something inside him – something that wouldn’t heal.’
Despite having seen firsthand what atrocities serryns were capable of, Caleb’s reaction was one of vengeance not fear. Seth, however, kept him from the destructive route, predicting it would be a slippery slope to Caleb’s downfall.
‘They had both idolised their older brother – but for Caleb, Seth had been the father figure they’d never known. Seth had been the only one capable of tempering Caleb.’
BETRAYED…
But Caleb’s temperance was even harder to maintain when his brother suffered injustice at the hands of the Higher Order. Seth worked as a bodyguard protecting Higher Order vampire, Jarin (now Feinith’s betrothed). When Jarin broke the rules and ventured out alone to feed one night, the incident turned almost fatal for him. But despite Seth saving his life, Jarin lied about the events to protect his own back and blamed Seth for cowardice at fleeing the scene. He was subsequently dismissed with dishonour.
Unfortunately, Seth’s trial had also put Caleb on Feinith’s radar. Her fascination with the sullen, bad-tempered vampire who openly defied the Higher Order was evoked.
GRIEF STRICKEN…
But Seth’s dismissal led to a worse string of events. One night, when he would have otherwise been on duty, he way preyed upon by a serryn. Tortured and left for dead, it was Caleb who found him.
‘Caleb had slipped into an even darker place after that – immersed in resentment, restrained from enacting revenge only by knowing the repercussions for Jake and anyone else he had left to care about.’
MANIPULATED…
Now Caleb not only wanted vengeance on serryns but also the Higher Order – not least Jarin – for the injustice that led to the incident.
‘Then along came Feinith – the beautiful, sensual Higher Order vampire with an offer Caleb couldn’t refuse: a chance to appease some of that pent-up frustration and turmoil by hunting serryns. But it had done the opposite.’
Feinith persuaded Caleb to overcome his resentment of the Higher Order by working for them for his own ends. They needed serryn hunters and she believed Caleb perfect for the job – not least it giving them an opportunity to spend time together. Caleb, having struggled to form relationships since his trauma, not least any bond of trust with a female, was gradually enamoured by the Higher Order vampire who fulfilled his needs.
OVERCOME BY DARKNESS…
Feinith not only justified Caleb’s need for vengeance, but actively fuelled it. Subsequently, the slippery slope Seth predicted ensued. Caleb, immersed in the liberation of being able to sate his own needs, became addicted to the power and control. More and more encounters with serryns exacerbated his hatred until even Jake came to fear what his brother had become.
‘Seventy years of hunting serryns had turned him into something almost unrecognisable from the brother he had grown up with.’
His reputation became renowned. He became the Higher Order’s most successful and intrepid serryn hunter – and he wasn’t going to stop until he’d destroyed them all.
TAINTED…
Over the decades, Caleb’s obsessive love for Feinith became as dark as his deeds, their warped and power-driven relationship becoming as intrepid as Caleb’s hunting.
‘Feinith had fulfilled so many of those darker needs, so much so that she’d become an addiction he couldn’t be without. He had adored her. Thrived on the way they sparked. Before she’d torn him apart as she toyed with his feelings – feelings he’d believed were love.’
And then along came Leila. Leila who saw through the darkness and challenged the very nature of what he had become.
‘What did she do to you, Caleb? What did she do that was so bad that you think all of this is acceptable? The way you’ve treated me. What did she do to warp your mind and perceptions so badly? Because this is just as much about her, isn’t it? Killing me isn’t just about the prophecies – it’s about redemption for you, for whatever she did to you.’
Leila, who despite discovering Caleb was her destined nemesis – the fated leader of the vampire uprising she had been brought up to prevent – decided to fight for his salvation her way.
But will Caleb see his Tryan status through? Can he really choose Leila over his own? And what if she fails on what she promised she could do? Will the dark side out again? And can he really, truly trust her or is he just too broken?
On Tuesday, I’ll be looking at Kane and Caleb’s position and status in Blackthorn – who exactly is the most powerful out of the two?
One of the most enjoyable things in writing Blackthorn is laying clues throughout the story of what could be to come. There’s no greater way to do this than through back-stories.
Both Kane and Caleb have an alleged history of manipulation, slaughter, mind games, sexual domination, let alone a need for control and power, both of them driven by hatred, revenge and self-satiation. Hardly heroic traits. But is it really that simple? And, more to the point, is it all true?
One common thread between Kane and Caleb that is true is that they have both suffered traumas in their life – the most significant of those being a terrifying loss of control. This, amongst other things they have faced, and how they handled themselves, provides huge clues of how they might act in the future.
So let’s delve into a few key incidents in their pasts, starting again with Kane…
Has claimed: ‘I don’t harm anyone who doesn’t deserve it.’
DESTROYED…
Kane lost his parents at the hands of human vigilantes after their home was raided when he was a child. The vigilantes’ reason was simple – turf war. They wanted to use the slaughter of the Dehains, a master vampire family, as a warning to other vampires wanting to share their territory.
Determined to save their children, Kane’s parents insisted he escape through the underground tunnel with his little sister, Arana. He either complied, or they all died.
PROVOKED…
But far from running straight away, Kane waited hidden under the floorboards as he watched his parents being murdered. He wanted to see the faces of as many of his parents’ killers as he could with one simple intention – revenge.
‘How old were you?’
‘Old enough to know who I was and that I’d make them pay.’
Kane escaped with Arana, leaving their burning home behind them. For a while, they disappeared.
AVENGED…
What followed was a tirade that earned Kane his notorious reputation. Re-emerging some years later, he succeeded in picking off each of the vigilantes, all thirty of them, one by one and, if the rumours are true, everyone they knew. Even those that ran and hid, he found. But it wasn’t just that which earned him his reputation, it was the fact he took his time whilst each knew he was coming for them.
‘I’ve done a lot of bad things for a lot of bad reasons, most of the time to bad people but not all. Some things I regret, some things I don’t. But I can’ t change any of it.’
Once he’d succeeded, he regained his family land as well as his family’s status and dignity.
No one dared cross him again.
HUNTED…
Three centuries later, the regulations came into being and another turf war was instigated – this time globally. Kane moved from northern territories of the country to find his home in Blackthorn. For decades since the regulations, he remained elusive to the TSCD but is alleged to have confirmed his reputation enough to justify topping the most wanted list.
‘Like I keep saying – I haven’t done a third of what Carter claims I have.’
During this time, Kane’s bond with Arana was infallible. He loved her deeply, bringing her up and remaining her protector. Unfortunately, she was also his only weakness as far as the TSCD were concerned. The TSCD, more specifically Xavier Carter, wanted Kane and he knew just how to get him – he’d set him up to fall.
‘Xavier wanted Kane and he wanted Kane bad. What better way to send the most controlled vampire off on a self-destruct vengeance mission than to have his sister slaughtered and debased by a pair of out-of-control lycans?’
Kane failed to save his parents then he failed to save his sister – both times at the hands of humans who wanted their own way. Finding his sister slain in the cruelest of ways opened old wounds – ones he had no intention of letting heal.
‘Arana was the only goodness left in me…maybe it exposed who I really was when I didn’t need to love or think of anyone else.’
CORNERED…
But the TSCD made a big mistake when they underestimated not only Kane, but Jask Tao – the lycan leader. Far from behaving as they predicted – as they provoked him to behave – Kane went back underground and plotted a very different revenge to the rampage they had tried to instigate. Kane found out that under Xavier Carter’s direction, Rick, Rob, and Max all set up Arana’s murder and stood by as she was brutally slaughtered. The common thread to them all – Caitlin.
‘Kane’s got a temper but it never outweighs his need for justice. When he wants that, he’s meticulous and calculated and logical.’
Once Kane worked out that Rick had died at the hands of a soul ripper, he waited seven years to get it confirmed. Once he did, he knew exactly how to make Caitlin the integral pawn in his game.
‘Kane is going to make them pay. He’s going to make all of you pay. Slowly and painfully. He’s waited a long time for this…’
STILL WANTED…
Of course, his feelings for Caitlin got in the way. But their story is far from over – not least because at the end of Blood Shadows, Kane found out that Xavier is embroiled with Higher Order vampire, Feinith. More to the point, she has been exposing vampire secrets about the prophecies. Kane may have planned to let Caitlin live, but not Xavier. Now he’s got that extra curveball to contend with…
So, why is he angry that the Higher Order are sharing secrets about the prophecies? What exactly does he know? Why is Feinith so keen to get her hands on Kane? Is he still intent on destruction? And are he and Caitlin strong enough to stay loyal to each other whatever is revealed?
What’s a girl to do? In the black corner we have Kane Malloy and in the red corner we have Caleb Dehain. How could anyone choose between them?
I’ve been asked about my personal preferences on more than one occasion – and so far I’ve got away with remaining elusive. 😉 So I don’t mind admitting I heaved a sigh of relief when along came Amity Grays, a die-hard Team Blackthorn member (she’s been supporting me since 2010 – an AWESOME lady), who decided it was about time some of Team Blackthorn were put in the hotseat instead of me (love it!). If you’d like to see what the fabulous Tracey Rogers, Jane Hunt and Fiona Wilson had to say in response to Ms Grays’ fun, quirky and light-hearted post, you can head over to Amity’s blog now. Thanks SO much, Amity – and for putting yourself through your own questions! And huge thanks too to the wonderful ladies who gave up their time to be grilled. (Do feel free to share whether you agree with their choices or not – the more the merrier!)
But for now, back to today’s post and my overview of the two notorious vampires who are clogging up my blog for this week and next…
Kane – Anti-hero of Blood Shadows
Full name: Kane James Malloy
Age: Approx 400
Species: Third (vampire)
Special attributes: Master vampire (dual feeder)
Love interest: Caitlin Parish
Renowned character traits: Manipulative. Merciless. Vengeful. And with a whole LOT of sex appeal.
Physical position in Blackthorn: Controls the East side and part of the South, though has several dens elsewhere including one in lycan territory.
Occupation: Nobody really knows what he does or why he’s in Blackthorn. He once governed his own territory. Current workload: Remains a mystery so far. What are you up to, Mr Malloy?
Looking back at how I introduced Kane…
Kane first made his appearance into the romance world stood outside a club in Blackthorn on a dark, cold and rainy night. Despite being fully aware he was surrounded by the Third Species Control Division, he had only one thing on his mind – playing a game of kiss-chase with Caitlin Parish, and with every intention of winning.
It wasn’t by accident that after months of pursuing Kane, Caitlin finally caught up with him only days before the soul-ripper was due. It was, of course, all part of Kane’s perfectly timed plan. Caitlin may have been tracking the master vampire for years, but the dangerously meticulous plotter had had his sights set on Caitlin for much longer.
Their first moment together wasn’t just an instant power struggle laced with an already-established attraction, it was also the perfect opportunity to reveal more about Kane. He instantly gained the upper hand by coming at her from behind in a typically predatory act. What followed not only revealed his manipulative streak, but just how closely he’d been watching Caitlin as he purposefully echoed the chauvinistic banter she has faced all her career.
A sexual and sensual tease, Kane’s games didn’t stop there. Using her own gun to caress her as opposed to skin on skin, created a distance between them that exacerbated a tension all of its own – a taunt that only enhanced the intimacy when he did finally touch her. Even then it was a gentle caress – purposefully contradicting her assumptions in further mind games. And all the time he absorbed her every reaction, attentively gauging the boundaries and working her out. After all, ultimately he needed to seduce her to get what he wanted.
Despite their powerful attraction, Kane showed self-control both sexually and emotionally. Pinning her against the wall, unfastening of her belt, the goading whispers in her ear all revealed a darkly playful character whose ‘I can, but I won’t, but I could’ approach is only enhanced by Caitlin’s awareness of his uncorroborated reputation. And let’s not forget that, emotionally, all Caitlin represents to him at this stage is a means for revenge against those who instigated the despicable, cruel slaughter of his sister. What matters to Kane is seeing his plan through – whatever it takes.
Needless to say, with all this going on whilst being only too aware that Caitlin’s team were moments away, I think it’s safe to conclude that lethally calm, collected and in control doesn’t even begin to describe Kane Malloy.
Caleb – Anti-hero of Blood Roses
Full name: Caleb Dehain
Age: Approx 180
Species: Third (vampire)
Love interest: Leila McKay.
Physical position in Blackthorn: Owns and runs the West side and part of the South.
Renowned character traits: Ruthless. Calculated. Ever-so-slightly unhinged. So close to the dark side, he may as well pitch up a tent.
Occupation: Ex serryn hunter. Now owns the biggest and most successful club in Blackthorn. Oh, and he’s the destined leader of the prophesised vampiric uprising. Current workload: Extremely busy.
Looking back at how I introduced Caleb…
Knowing the significance of what Caleb was – his destiny as the prophesised vampiric leader – it was essential to symbolise this in his introduction. Leila is summoned from the safety of Summerton, to be escorted through the streets of Blackthorn to meet Caleb in his fortress, more specifically, in his tower. His club is his castle and the West side of Blackthorn is very much his dark domain.
Just like with Kane, Caleb first appears behind his heroine – a stealthily quiet and effective predator. When their eyes first met, I infused more symbolism of what was to come – dark surroundings, the breeze a reminder of the relevance of the outside world, the moonlight echoing the supernatural elements at play.
Caleb’s curt, ‘do as you’re told’ attitude was instant. A professional and astute businessman, his sullen intensity is unavoidable. Unlike Kane’s banter, Caleb is terse and direct – even in his commands to Hade, his trusted employee and friend. He’s used to doing things his way – and those around him doing what they’re told. Not only do you see a fiercely independent character who resents needing anyone’s help, but one who needs to be in control.
Unlike Kane’s darkly sensual play, there’s something inherently sexually domineering about Caleb’s approach. He took no shame in taking the physically dominant position with Leila – not least by grabbing her arm let alone backing her against the sofa. This is remembering that any close proximity with a serryn, something he already suspects she is, is treacherous for a vampire. But then again, he was the Higher Order’s most proficient hunter.
But despite the harsh exterior, what you also see is Caleb the protector – who loves his brother deeply. His concern for Jake, for the survival of both of them in Blackthorn, is always forefront of his mind. To balance the darkness, I also wanted to hint at the vulnerabilities Caleb effectively keeps hidden from the outside world. Complex is the best way to sum up Caleb Dehain.
If you’d like to share you first impressions of Kane and/or Caleb, please do! Alternatively, feel free to chunter away to yourself – no one will ever know. 😉 I’ll be back with the next installment on Saturday when I’ll be delving into their dark pasts.
It’s got to happen – Kane and Caleb in the same story on the same page. How could it not? In my interview with Bookouture back in April, I mentioned that I’ve already written some of their scenes together. What I’m not going to reveal though is how they come together, whether it’ll be on good or bad terms, whether they’ll join forces or go head to head or, as I’ve been asked many times, who would win if they did??
When I first wrote Kane and Caleb, I didn’t expect them to have the impact they have had. Reading the feedback on what readers think of these two characters has been the most rewarding thing about being published so far (yes, even the couple of severe and, let’s be honest, rather nasty wrist slaps for daring to make my vampires so bad). I’m not going to use the ‘love them or hate them’ cliché, but as the books get out there more and more, it seems to be going that way. But that’s okay. They’re evoking a reaction and what author doesn’t want that?
Let’s be honest, unless you’ve got nerves of steel, are adept at reading between the lines or dark and dangerous ticks all the right boxes for you, both Kane and Caleb could leave a lot to be desired from their initial introductions into the romance world. Unrepentant, lethal and badly-behaved vampires who ooze threat and are so overtly alpha they’re verging on arrogant, how could they not deserve to be locked away and the key buried under thirty feet of concrete?
Caleb has definitely been the most controversial. Everyone thought Kane was the ultimate bad boy until Caleb appeared (I did warn you). He’s had some interesting reactions from readers and I’ve been fascinated by the questions I’ve been asked in the background about him. I don’t mind admitting that I was exceptionally nervous about letting him loose. After the incredible response to Kane and Blood Shadows, knowing I was skirting even closer to the edge with Blood Roses and doing so in a much more intense, insular and claustrophobic way, made me anxious that some readers would shy away from the series from there on. But Blackthorn fans have stayed loyal and that means more to me than anything else. Thank you!
What I continue to enjoy most with writing Kane and Caleb, is the slow revelations of the characters beneath the surface. All world building aside, and as much fun as it is, the characters are the heart of any story and I like nothing more than creating those that feel as real to readers as they do to me. And whether reactions to them are good or bad, the fact someone has felt the need to share their feelings towards characters that have clearly leapt off the page at them tells me I’ve done my job properly.
So, as I’ve written a series of posts on creating the world of Blackthorn but have yet to go into any depth about its notorious inhabitants, I decided it was about time I did just that. But there’s no way I can do it in one post. So for the next two weeks, I’m dedicating my posts to my two favourite vampires.
Let the battle commence…
WARNING! These posts will contain spoilers for Blood Shadows and Blood Roses – and a couple of hints of what’s to come in Blood Torn.
I hope to see you Wednesday when it all kicks off!
When I announced on Facebook yesterday that the Blackthorn book trailer has now reached over 1,000 views on You Tube, I had quite a few people comment that they hadn’t seen it before.
So for those who are new to Blackthorn, this was the awesome trailer created by Bookouture that helped launch the series last November. The focus at the end is on Blood Shadows (book 1), but the trailer itself incorporates lots of Blackthorn elements to give readers a taste of the world they are entering. The soundtrack is ‘Superhero’ by Tim McMorris.
It’s permanently featured here on my blog in the slider above (there’s all sorts lurking around this website, so always feel free to take a wander. It’s not unlike Blackthorn itself at times. ;-)), but I thought I’d repost it again in all it’s glory for anyone who missed it the first time around.
I do hope you enjoy it – for the first time or the second. And if you do, and you have a You Tube account, please ‘like’ it.
