Review: Velvet by Temple West

Velvet

by Temple West

May 12, 2015

416 pages

Goodreads  Indigo

Goodreads Summary:

First rule of dealing with hot vampire bodyguards? Don't fall in love.

After losing both her parents before age seventeen, aspiring designer Caitlin Holte feels like her whole world has been turned upside down, and that was before the terrifying encounter with a supernatural force. Then, she learns that her hot bad-boy neighbor, Adrian—who might have just saved her life—is actually a half-demon vampire.

Suddenly Caitlin is stuck with a vampire bodyguard who feels that the best way to protect her is to become her pretend boyfriend. Trouble is, Caitlin is starting to fall in love for real, while Adrian can never love a human. Caitlin trusts Adrian to keep her safe from his demon father, but will he be able to protect her heart?

 

Review

After Twilight, Vampire Academy and various other books about this particular supernatural creature I admit, I was tempted to pass this one over. I couldn't really help but think 'vampires again?!?'. I decided to give it a go though and it turns out, I made a good choice! Velvet was somewhat predictable but thoroughly enjoyable.

 

The story had two main focal points: one being Caitlin's personal struggles and two being her and Adrian's 'relationship'. It was very romance-heavy so if that's not your thing, you more than likely will not enjoy Velvet. If it is, I found the banter, sarcasm and sweetness totally on point. Very cute and fun!

Caitlin was a giant ball of negativity. It was a tiny bit annoying but given the way she lost both her parents, I cut her some slack. It made sense for her to be coping in that way. I wouldn't necessarily say I connected with her but when she was angry, I was angry too. Her feelings were very prominent and dominated most of the story. It was honest and appropriate.

 

I loved Caitlin and Adrian's interactions. Individually they were frustrating but together, they balanced nicely. Their fake relationship had the perfect blend of bickering and affection. Things just work when they're with each other.

Even though I couldn't get enough of the story, Velvet had some cheesy and predictable moments that may have had me rolling my eyes. I also realized that the story was a little vague and bland. To me, Adrian didn't feel like a vampire, more like an alien species that drank blood. We don't get to know much about the supernatural elements which I'm hoping West will correct with the next book. I'm eager to learn more about Adrian them!

With the glimpse of power and destruction, the hints of something bigger and the introduction of new characters, it seems like the story will really take off and kick butt in the sequel. I wish I could read it now. Maybe just a sneak peek? Pretty please with chocolate blood cakes? ;)

*I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinion are my own and not affected in any way.