I must confess that I'm fashionably late to this party, as it turns out "The Scarlet Veil" is a spin-off from another series by this author. Now, I'm left wondering where I've been hiding all this time. In my defense, it's been a while since I've come across a good vampire book. However, let me regale you with the tale of this unexpected 5-star gem that I didn't even know I was searching for.

First and foremost, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Netgalley and HarperTeen for providing me with the opportunity to dive into this E-Arc. I'll admit, I approached "The Scarlet Veil" with minimal expectations, particularly because I tend to be quite the book snob when it comes to vampire stories. You see, the only ones that have genuinely captivated me in the past have been the Anita Blake series, up until now. But oh, my goodness, this book was an extraordinary revelation—everything I never knew I needed.

Shelby's writing flows effortlessly, as if I were spending time with a close friend. I adore her style, and this book, in particular, showcases her storytelling prowess beautifully. Right from the outset, I found it utterly impossible to tear myself away.

Enter Célie, a character archetype that often lurks in the shadows of YA literature. We're accustomed to protagonists like Lou or Coco (both of whom I adore), but characters like Célie usually play supporting roles. This book's message, I believe, lies in the fact that characters like Célie can indeed take center stage. Even though they lack physical strength, earth-shaking powers, or reckless bravery, they can achieve remarkable feats.

Célie is a gentle soul navigating the world, striving to make a difference. Yes, she sheds tears frequently, finds herself in avoidable predicaments, and occasionally requires rescue. Yet, Célie embarks on an internal journey throughout the narrative that is nothing short of mesmerizing, and I cherished every step of her transformation.

Now, let's talk about Michal. I'll admit, I was initially suspicious of him, but around the 60% mark, I found myself warming up to his character more and more. His relationship with Célie resonates with the timeless "Beauty and the Beast" motif, and witnessing its evolution was truly enchanting. As a devoted fan of all things "Beauty & the Beast," I couldn't have been more delighted.

I regret not being able to read this before its publication day, but let me assure you that I devoured this book in a single day, in one epic reading marathon, and I would gladly do it all over again. Furthermore, I am now eager to delve into the trilogy that gave birth to this captivating world. I adored "The Scarlet Veil" wholeheartedly, and I implore you to follow the link below and embark on this enchanting journey. ( )

I am excited that this is book #1, not sure if it will be a series or a duology but I will read whatever comes next. This story was multi-faceted and I definitely had to pay attention when I was listening to this synthesized voicegalley. I love Célie's journey as she figures out what she wants from life. ( )

Beyond excited rn! Thank you HarperCollins for the ARC!

Let's make one thing clear. I did not read The Scarlet Veil by Shelby Mahurin for Célie Tremblay. She is my least favorite character from the Serpent & Dove series. There is one reason, and one reason only, that I read The Scarlet Veil. That reason is vampires.

Ms. Mahurin does not disappoint when it comes to her vampires. They are as dangerous, wealthy, mysterious, and seductive as they should be. But, much like she did with the Serpent & Dove series, there is more to the bloodsuckers than meets the eye. They are not the vicious killers the huntsmen believe them to be.

Instead, through Célie, we see them less as monsters and more as misunderstood. Sure, they do not hesitate to kill humans and feed on blood. They are clannish, hierarchical, and reserved. They believe in their superiority wholeheartedly and have no doubts that they are the apex predators in any room. But they don't attack without provocation, keep each other in check through a strict rule system, and remove themselves from society by choice to keep the peace.

Sure, it may be a cliche to present vampires as misunderstood creatures, but Ms. Mahurin makes it work. I loved every scene with the vampires and want more of them. I could have done with less of Célie though. She remains the indecisive and relatively weak spoiled brat who wants everything but isn't willing to work for anything. However, I have high hopes that the action at the end of The Scarlet Veil means something better for Célie's character in the next novel.

While some authors will revisit the worlds of previous series but create a separate story, this is not the case with The Scarlet Veil. If you read it without finishing the Serpent & Dove series, you will read spoilers for that first series. It picks up several months after the last book in that series. Even though the focus is Célie, we still see enough of what the other characters have been doing to consider The Scarlet Veil a continuation of their stories too.

The Scarlet Veil is the best type of escapist literature. It is a bit silly but harmless, sensual without being spicy, luxurious in a way that can only be fictional, and with a tendency for everything to work out for the better for the heroes. Célie isn't the best heroine, as she tends to hurt more than help anyone, but the vampires more than make up for her weaknesses. I can't wait to see what they do next! ( )