Vampire-ish

A Hypochondriac's Tale

By: Candace J. Thomas

Narrated by: Ryan Jeanmaire

Oliver Brixby believed, without a doubt, he was having an allergic reaction to new medication: sensitivity to the sun, loss of appetite, pale skin. It turned out worse than he could ever imagine -- he was now a vampire. Oliver's quiet, bookish existence takes a flip when introduced to the vibrant social scene of a New York City Vampire. His adjustment will not be easy, since he's squeamish at the sight of blood.

©2016 Candace Thomas (P)2017 Candace Thomas

Beginners Guide to Vampirism

Oliver, Candie Thomas's milquetoast vampire takes us places other vampire books don't go; self loathing, squeamishness, and fear of the outside world. The book takes an interesting turn as a cure is proposed for his 'condition' and our hero is torn between the human and vampire worlds and the two girls who represent either side. Oliver not only has to come to terms with his vampire nature, but also his own lack of will. Clever and fun all the way through with memorable characters you'd like to see in future releases. One of the more memorable vampire books out there. Loved it!

A delightful spin on vampire romance.

Wonderful to listen to, this tale is fun and witty with enjoyable characters. Would recommend.

Fun and entertaining! Great narrator

The main character, Oliver Brixby, has a lot of allergies and a lot of insecurities alike. The young college student studies philosophy in New York, and he worries constantly about health, precaution, and graduating. On a morning jog, a girl in the park attacks him—bites him—and turns him into a vampire. This throws his hypochondriac world upside down as he adjusts to his new lifestyle both physiologically, socially, and intellectually. He also experiences a few quirks that other vampires don't have to deal with, such as being allergic to human blood.

The story is such a unique take on vampires. It is an upbeat romantic comedy that is delightful in its character and relationship development, with an enjoyable premise and a very entertaining plot. I love so much that Oliver's adventures in vampirism lead him to see both familiar and new people he meets in a different light. I also like that he doesn't have to kill anyone—or actually suck anyone's blood due to ravening uncontrollable hunger pains—for the vampire component of the story to still play a central role in complicating the character's life and choices.

The vampiric aspect of the story was very interesting. It is centered more on the curiosity of fictional New York vampire culture, and all the complications this new community brings to Oliver's otherwise reserved and quiet lifestyle. I also love some of the in-depth medical jargon that bubbles up here and there, shining through from Candice's real-life medical background. I think this is a story my medical lab technologist mother would love too...I'll have to convince her to read it!

The story has heart as well as humor. I enjoyed watching this character mature in his inner strength, confidence, and his understanding of relationships over the course of his adventures. It was truly a delightful read.

I listened to the audiobook version of this story, and Ryan Jeanmaire does a fantastic job narrating. Great voice for Oliver's point-of-view, and very entertaining.

Realistic take on being a Vampire

What does Ryan Jeanmaire bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

I felt like I was listening to a real person talk about his life's challenges.

Any additional comments?

I liked this book, it kept my interest. I wanted to know what happened to this character. I would have liked other descriptions for "replied". Overall a very good listen!