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Nathaniel Cade #1
Blood Oath
Unabridged CDs, 9 CDs, 11 hours
Read by TBA
Incredibly clever and compulsively readable, Blood Oath is a debut political thriller packed with enough action to out-Bourne Jason Bourne and out-Bauer Jack Bauer.
Read by TBA
Incredibly clever and compulsively readable, Blood Oath is a debut political thriller packed with enough action to out-Bourne Jason Bourne and out-Bauer Jack Bauer.
Audio CD
First published May 18, 2010
About the author
Christopher Farnsworth
24 books1,195 followersChristopher Farnsworth is the author of FLASHMOB (one of Publishers Weekly's Best Books of 2017), KILLFILE, THE ETERNAL WORLD, and the PRESIDENT'S VAMPIRE series. A screenwriter and journalist, he lives in Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,167 reviews
June 5, 2020
Whitehouse Shocker: Vampire Agent Takes Out The Garbage!: "We'll the cleaners are all unionized and won't touch the supernatural stuff."
Reading this particular book helped inspire me to write my own books.
I love the well hidden conspiracy of the president of the US having a dedicated vampire super-agent to handle the 'War on Horror.'
This book will suit those who enjoy a rock-solid conspiracy, laced with supernatural elements, and a blood-bucket load of thriller and suspense style action.
Strongly Recommended. 5 'The Conspiracy Never Dies,' stars.
Reading this particular book helped inspire me to write my own books.
I love the well hidden conspiracy of the president of the US having a dedicated vampire super-agent to handle the 'War on Horror.'
This book will suit those who enjoy a rock-solid conspiracy, laced with supernatural elements, and a blood-bucket load of thriller and suspense style action.
Strongly Recommended. 5 'The Conspiracy Never Dies,' stars.
May 3, 2013
After avoiding the vampire genre for so long (thanks to Stephenie Meyer turning it into one giant suckfest of romantic longing), I've lately been wallowing in it. Between watching seasons 1 and 2 of SyFy's Being Human, reading DC's excellent The New 52 I, Vampire, as well as Scott Snyder's American Vampire, my faith in the genre has been restored. Bring on the bloodsucking fiends! So I was more than ready to tackle Blood Oath, which, based upon several excellent reviews, I thought would also put the bite back into the genre. And my final verdict is . . . eh, not so much.
The premise is promising: when a sailor is found aboard a whaling ship, surrounded by the ex-sanguinated corpses of his mates, President Andrew Johnson brings Marie Laveau in to bind the vampire to the office of the President for as long as he walks the earth. As a result, Nathaniel Cade has been our country's best kept secret weapon for 140 years, protecting our country against threats foreign, domestic, and supernatural. He lives in an off-limits wing of the Smithsonian Institute and uses his prowess as a hunter to serve our country. The latest threat? Dr. Johann Konrad may be helping Islamic jihadists create zombie soldiers from the parts of fallen U. S. servicemen. His credentials for doing so? He was in charge of Hitler's attempts to create Unmenschsoldaten, soldiers raised from the dead to fight without feeling pain, empathy, or hunger. Oh, and did I mention that waaaaayyyyy back in the day Johann lived in Castle . . . Frankenstein?
I could hardly wait to wrap my peepers around the words that held so much promise for giddy, ridiculous, blood-drenched fun! Alas, the more promise offered, the greater the potential for disappointment. The book reads more like a movie script than a novel and all of the characters are flat and one-dimensional. The dialogue is groan-worthy; the attempts at humor are weak and obvious; the descriptions are virtually non-existent.
Now, don't get me wrong, I like a good, light read, but I also expect it to be done with a certain flair and panache that keeps me entertained. If the banter had been witty instead of predictable, if the absolute absurdity of it all could have been embraced without always bringing it back to the seriousness of politics and patriotism, and, most importantly, if there had been a vampire that was interesting, this book would have lived up to my expectations.
The greatest weakness of all was the one thing that, if approached differently, could have saved it. Nathaniel Cade is perhaps the most boring, tedious vampire you will ever meet in literature. He shows no emotion, he refuses to drink human blood, he's a tortured soul because of the sins he's committed, he admonishes people for taking the Lord's name in vain, he wears a cross that causes him pain to constantly remind him of his sins. Put a sweater vest on him and he could be a Republican candidate for president. Hell, Bunnicula has more of a personality than Cade. To be of interest, Cade needs a few more quirks and more menace; he needs a dash of the devil in him (like Anne Rice's Lestat). The one bit that held promise--Cade attends AA meetings to help him deal with his "thirst"--is only briefly touched upon and a brilliant opportunity for hilarity to ensue is wasted. I wanted Cade to want to raise hell and put a brick under it. Instead, he's just being compelled by the spell of a voodoo queen and a need to right his wrongs. One gets the sense that, if let off his chain he would promptly waste himself by walking into the sunlight or driving a stake through his own heart. By the end of the novel, I kind of wish he had.
Cross posted at This Insignificant Cinder and at Shelf Inflicted
The premise is promising: when a sailor is found aboard a whaling ship, surrounded by the ex-sanguinated corpses of his mates, President Andrew Johnson brings Marie Laveau in to bind the vampire to the office of the President for as long as he walks the earth. As a result, Nathaniel Cade has been our country's best kept secret weapon for 140 years, protecting our country against threats foreign, domestic, and supernatural. He lives in an off-limits wing of the Smithsonian Institute and uses his prowess as a hunter to serve our country. The latest threat? Dr. Johann Konrad may be helping Islamic jihadists create zombie soldiers from the parts of fallen U. S. servicemen. His credentials for doing so? He was in charge of Hitler's attempts to create Unmenschsoldaten, soldiers raised from the dead to fight without feeling pain, empathy, or hunger. Oh, and did I mention that waaaaayyyyy back in the day Johann lived in Castle . . . Frankenstein?
I could hardly wait to wrap my peepers around the words that held so much promise for giddy, ridiculous, blood-drenched fun! Alas, the more promise offered, the greater the potential for disappointment. The book reads more like a movie script than a novel and all of the characters are flat and one-dimensional. The dialogue is groan-worthy; the attempts at humor are weak and obvious; the descriptions are virtually non-existent.
Now, don't get me wrong, I like a good, light read, but I also expect it to be done with a certain flair and panache that keeps me entertained. If the banter had been witty instead of predictable, if the absolute absurdity of it all could have been embraced without always bringing it back to the seriousness of politics and patriotism, and, most importantly, if there had been a vampire that was interesting, this book would have lived up to my expectations.
The greatest weakness of all was the one thing that, if approached differently, could have saved it. Nathaniel Cade is perhaps the most boring, tedious vampire you will ever meet in literature. He shows no emotion, he refuses to drink human blood, he's a tortured soul because of the sins he's committed, he admonishes people for taking the Lord's name in vain, he wears a cross that causes him pain to constantly remind him of his sins. Put a sweater vest on him and he could be a Republican candidate for president. Hell, Bunnicula has more of a personality than Cade. To be of interest, Cade needs a few more quirks and more menace; he needs a dash of the devil in him (like Anne Rice's Lestat). The one bit that held promise--Cade attends AA meetings to help him deal with his "thirst"--is only briefly touched upon and a brilliant opportunity for hilarity to ensue is wasted. I wanted Cade to want to raise hell and put a brick under it. Instead, he's just being compelled by the spell of a voodoo queen and a need to right his wrongs. One gets the sense that, if let off his chain he would promptly waste himself by walking into the sunlight or driving a stake through his own heart. By the end of the novel, I kind of wish he had.
Cross posted at This Insignificant Cinder and at Shelf Inflicted
May 16, 2010
Blood Oath is the best vampire book I have ever read. It is a thrilling paranormal adventure, oozing with action and intrigue.
Nathaniel Cade is cursed, or to be more precise, is committed with a blood oath to serve and protect the president and defend the United States. Cade's past cases are the stuff of legends. Literally. Conspiracy theories barely scratch the surface of what he's faced.
Zach, Cade's new liaison to the president, is completely authentic. His words and actions completely match what I believe I would say and do in the same situations.The president is, well, presidential and the vice president is skin-crawlingly obnoxious. Griff, Zach's mentor and Cade's previous liaison is surprisingly lovable.
Blood Oath is a wild, fast paced ride. It's intense, funny, gripping and emotional. I couldn't ask for anything more. I desperately hope there is a sequel. Or a movie. Or a TV show. Or a comic book. Anything to get more of Christopher Farnsworth's amazing novel. This is history and politics like you've never experienced them before I cannot express my love for this book strongly enough. This is THE book of 2010, an absolute must read.
Nathaniel Cade is cursed, or to be more precise, is committed with a blood oath to serve and protect the president and defend the United States. Cade's past cases are the stuff of legends. Literally. Conspiracy theories barely scratch the surface of what he's faced.
Zach, Cade's new liaison to the president, is completely authentic. His words and actions completely match what I believe I would say and do in the same situations.The president is, well, presidential and the vice president is skin-crawlingly obnoxious. Griff, Zach's mentor and Cade's previous liaison is surprisingly lovable.
Blood Oath is a wild, fast paced ride. It's intense, funny, gripping and emotional. I couldn't ask for anything more. I desperately hope there is a sequel. Or a movie. Or a TV show. Or a comic book. Anything to get more of Christopher Farnsworth's amazing novel. This is history and politics like you've never experienced them before I cannot express my love for this book strongly enough. This is THE book of 2010, an absolute must read.
May 15, 2020
rounded up from 3.5
Nathaniel Cade is a vampire that took a blood oath to protect and obey the president of the United States until he dies. He must follow the orders he is given, regardless of what they are or how he feels about them. He is the president's secret weapon. Let that sink in for a second, really think about it.
This was an interesting one. The author has peppered tidbits of conspiracy theories, cryptids, Lovecraft mythos stuff, all kinds of fun stuff through out the story and I loved, that was great! I wanted to like it more than I did, though. I had trouble liking Zach, he's an ass and almost gets Cade killed. By the end of the book, he (Zach) was ok but I still don't care what happens to him. Actually, I never really connected to any of the characters to care about their outcome. The story isn't bad, it just didn't wow me enough to continue the series.
Nathaniel Cade is a vampire that took a blood oath to protect and obey the president of the United States until he dies. He must follow the orders he is given, regardless of what they are or how he feels about them. He is the president's secret weapon. Let that sink in for a second, really think about it.
This was an interesting one. The author has peppered tidbits of conspiracy theories, cryptids, Lovecraft mythos stuff, all kinds of fun stuff through out the story and I loved, that was great! I wanted to like it more than I did, though. I had trouble liking Zach, he's an ass and almost gets Cade killed. By the end of the book, he (Zach) was ok but I still don't care what happens to him. Actually, I never really connected to any of the characters to care about their outcome. The story isn't bad, it just didn't wow me enough to continue the series.
August 30, 2022
Vampires, evil scientists, zombies, oh my!
Bizarre premise, but the author kept me enthralled from page one to the very end. Zach Barrows has his life all planned out, in the fast track of the world of politics in Washington. Until he's summoned by the President and given a new job- the right-hand man to the President's vampire, Nathaniel Cade.
Plenty of action, blood-letting and believe it or not, humor! Fans of the Agent Pendergast series by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child would enjoy this. Sequel: The President's vampire (c2011).
--Kris
Are you tired of the usual vampire sagas? Give this book a try for something truly unique!
Cade, is indeed in the service of the President of the United States and his adventures are fascinating!
-- Louisa A. --
Bizarre premise, but the author kept me enthralled from page one to the very end. Zach Barrows has his life all planned out, in the fast track of the world of politics in Washington. Until he's summoned by the President and given a new job- the right-hand man to the President's vampire, Nathaniel Cade.
Plenty of action, blood-letting and believe it or not, humor! Fans of the Agent Pendergast series by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child would enjoy this. Sequel: The President's vampire (c2011).
--Kris
Are you tired of the usual vampire sagas? Give this book a try for something truly unique!
Cade, is indeed in the service of the President of the United States and his adventures are fascinating!
-- Louisa A. --
July 25, 2014
Put aside the notions of vampires, Indiana Jones adventure tales, and Dan Brown style conspiracy thrillers. No matter that Blood Oath stirs up all three in a satisfying summer read. This is a moral tale whose moral should be taken very seriously by all aspiring political types.
The Moral?
Never sleep with the president's daughter in the Lincoln Bedroom. It's a bad career move.
You just might get saddled with a 160+ year old vampire who lives in the White House's basement and takes on all the real threats to truth, justice, and the American way. Of course, ignore the fact that he is bound to do so by a voodoo blood oath and would probably rip out your throat if he could. He's really a nice guy even if he has no sense of humor and doesn't smile much.
That's the basis for Christopher Farnsworth's debut novel and the first of a series. Even if it is a little silly in plot, it is quite imaginative and has plenty of twists and turns along the way. The author does try to put a bit too much in his first novel (Actually, I was futilely hoping for a climatic massacre of Goldman & Sacks executives. Maybe in the next book...). Only serious problem is that, while the author has a Dan Brown-like gift for plot structure and storytelling, he also has the same author's weakness for one-dimensional characterizations. However it is a nice little roller coaster ride. Overall, a good debut with hopefully more development of its protagonists to come in the rest of the series. The second book, The President's Vampire, is already out and I hope to read it soon.
The Moral?
Never sleep with the president's daughter in the Lincoln Bedroom. It's a bad career move.
You just might get saddled with a 160+ year old vampire who lives in the White House's basement and takes on all the real threats to truth, justice, and the American way. Of course, ignore the fact that he is bound to do so by a voodoo blood oath and would probably rip out your throat if he could. He's really a nice guy even if he has no sense of humor and doesn't smile much.
That's the basis for Christopher Farnsworth's debut novel and the first of a series. Even if it is a little silly in plot, it is quite imaginative and has plenty of twists and turns along the way. The author does try to put a bit too much in his first novel (Actually, I was futilely hoping for a climatic massacre of Goldman & Sacks executives. Maybe in the next book...). Only serious problem is that, while the author has a Dan Brown-like gift for plot structure and storytelling, he also has the same author's weakness for one-dimensional characterizations. However it is a nice little roller coaster ride. Overall, a good debut with hopefully more development of its protagonists to come in the rest of the series. The second book, The President's Vampire, is already out and I hope to read it soon.
July 5, 2017
Excellent debut novel! Even though it was about vampires, like so many other current books, I found this story to be original & fresh. It was well written & interesting. Cade was an awesome vamp! At first I didn't like Zach. He was a whiny, pompous, spoiled brat. Experience & circumstance made him grow up & become a stand up guy in a hurry! Bring on The President's Vampire #2!
August 1, 2011
It was only a matter of time, given the current vampire craze, that someone attempted to fuse political intrigue with everyone's favorite blood-suckers. Unfortunately Blood Oath by Christopher Farnsworth seems to be made up of clichés rather than anything of substance.
Nathanial Cade is a vampire who serves at the leisure of the President of the United States. Agreeing to be bound by a blood oath cast by a voodoo priestess, Cade has served since the presidency of Andrew Jackson and has protected every president since that time. Cade lives surrounded by relics of supernatural threats he has defeated but remains haunted by the real-life Dr. Frankenstein, known as Johann Konrad, who still lives and continues to perform experiments in hopes of creating the living dead.
Zach Barrows is a kind of political golden-boy. At least he was until he was caught in a compromising position with the President's daughter. He's been hand-picked by the President to replace Cade's current handler who is dying of cancer and soon realizes that there's a big, supernatural world that he never knew existed. And before Zach even has a chance to settle into his new position, he and Cade are called to a crime scene that involves a lot of severed body parts-- indicating that Konrad might be further along in his efforts to create a zombie super soldier than Cade realized.
"Blood Oath" is one of those books that are basically fun but really, really shallow. Farnsworth is a scriptwriter and it shows in the basic lack of character development and credibility. Just by reading the back cover of the book you know there's a good chance the story can go from zero to absurd in no time flat if it isn't written with a certain finesse, and I'm afraid it isn't.
What bothers me the most about "Blood Oath" are the clichés. You can literally check them off on your fingers:
The pairing of the experienced, cynical partner and the smart-mouthed protege-- check;
Ambivalent hero-- check;
Psychotic, CIA black-op villains--check;
Long-standing grudge-match with evil nemesis-- check;
Gratuitous sex scene--check;
Explosions and gun fights--check;
Kidnap and torture of newbie partner-- check...
I could go on like this for awhile. I mean, the whole book is like this.
But you know what? I take it back. There is something that bothers me more than the clichés.
Have you ever had one of those moments when you wanted to chuck a book across the room because a scene was too ridiculous? "Blood Oath" has a few of those. The one that really stands out is a scene in which one set of villains (in this case they are Muslim extremists) are carrying a severed head, intended to be part of the resurrected super-soldiers our other evil-villain has created, through the airport. When stopped by security they claim, in a very smirky fashion, that they are using the head for a "brain transplant" and are let through. Do I even have to explain why this scene is wrong on so many levels? And believe me, there is a lot of story construction here of this caliber.
Additionally the characters are not credible at all, with the villains being the worst. As I mentioned before, one group of bad-guys happens to be a group of CIA black-ops agents. These people are recruited specifically because they lack anything resembling morals and are prone to committing all kinds of murder and mayhem. And I couldn't help wonder what made Farnsworth decide that if the CIA were to put together a group of agents with the license to operate outside the law, why would they pick the most unreliable, corrupt people they could find? None of the characters have much in the way of personality, but the traits they do have seem to consist of either fleeing the scene at the first sign of danger or killing the first co-worker that becomes inconvenient.
And, unfortunately, the heroes don't fare any better. For a novel that's intended to be a new take on the vampire myth, there is nothing new here. Cade is like all the other tortured, reluctant vampires who choose not to feed on human blood. I mean, that's it. The only original take on the story are the bits inserted to show the results of the tests the government has run to see the extent of Cade's abilities. And the partnership of Cade and Burrows doesn't make a whole lot of sense. Burrows is supposed to be the best-and-brightest type: an Ivy Leaguer with a quick wit. The only problem is that there are no demonstrations of logic or smarts that make us believe that Burrows is particularly bright, and his wit consists of dialog along the lines of "Dude, your girlfriend is weird."
Normally I don't out of my way to bash a novel. But I kind of want to at least ensure that one voice out there offers an honest review of "Blood Oath." If you go to the Amazon page for this book, you'll see a slew of 4 and 5 star reviews and the only conclusion I can come to is that Farnsworth has a lot of friends willing to review the book. I can see a smattering of readers saying the book is fun, but all the claims that this is the best vampire book ever! really leaves me suspicious that the reviews are not what I would consider honest assessments.
**Addendum-- This review was written when the book first came out and the *only* reviews up were of the generic "best book ever" 5-star variety. I'm sure that the reviews up now are far more balanced than what I observed early on.**
Nathanial Cade is a vampire who serves at the leisure of the President of the United States. Agreeing to be bound by a blood oath cast by a voodoo priestess, Cade has served since the presidency of Andrew Jackson and has protected every president since that time. Cade lives surrounded by relics of supernatural threats he has defeated but remains haunted by the real-life Dr. Frankenstein, known as Johann Konrad, who still lives and continues to perform experiments in hopes of creating the living dead.
Zach Barrows is a kind of political golden-boy. At least he was until he was caught in a compromising position with the President's daughter. He's been hand-picked by the President to replace Cade's current handler who is dying of cancer and soon realizes that there's a big, supernatural world that he never knew existed. And before Zach even has a chance to settle into his new position, he and Cade are called to a crime scene that involves a lot of severed body parts-- indicating that Konrad might be further along in his efforts to create a zombie super soldier than Cade realized.
"Blood Oath" is one of those books that are basically fun but really, really shallow. Farnsworth is a scriptwriter and it shows in the basic lack of character development and credibility. Just by reading the back cover of the book you know there's a good chance the story can go from zero to absurd in no time flat if it isn't written with a certain finesse, and I'm afraid it isn't.
What bothers me the most about "Blood Oath" are the clichés. You can literally check them off on your fingers:
The pairing of the experienced, cynical partner and the smart-mouthed protege-- check;
Ambivalent hero-- check;
Psychotic, CIA black-op villains--check;
Long-standing grudge-match with evil nemesis-- check;
Gratuitous sex scene--check;
Explosions and gun fights--check;
Kidnap and torture of newbie partner-- check...
I could go on like this for awhile. I mean, the whole book is like this.
But you know what? I take it back. There is something that bothers me more than the clichés.
Have you ever had one of those moments when you wanted to chuck a book across the room because a scene was too ridiculous? "Blood Oath" has a few of those. The one that really stands out is a scene in which one set of villains (in this case they are Muslim extremists) are carrying a severed head, intended to be part of the resurrected super-soldiers our other evil-villain has created, through the airport. When stopped by security they claim, in a very smirky fashion, that they are using the head for a "brain transplant" and are let through. Do I even have to explain why this scene is wrong on so many levels? And believe me, there is a lot of story construction here of this caliber.
Additionally the characters are not credible at all, with the villains being the worst. As I mentioned before, one group of bad-guys happens to be a group of CIA black-ops agents. These people are recruited specifically because they lack anything resembling morals and are prone to committing all kinds of murder and mayhem. And I couldn't help wonder what made Farnsworth decide that if the CIA were to put together a group of agents with the license to operate outside the law, why would they pick the most unreliable, corrupt people they could find? None of the characters have much in the way of personality, but the traits they do have seem to consist of either fleeing the scene at the first sign of danger or killing the first co-worker that becomes inconvenient.
And, unfortunately, the heroes don't fare any better. For a novel that's intended to be a new take on the vampire myth, there is nothing new here. Cade is like all the other tortured, reluctant vampires who choose not to feed on human blood. I mean, that's it. The only original take on the story are the bits inserted to show the results of the tests the government has run to see the extent of Cade's abilities. And the partnership of Cade and Burrows doesn't make a whole lot of sense. Burrows is supposed to be the best-and-brightest type: an Ivy Leaguer with a quick wit. The only problem is that there are no demonstrations of logic or smarts that make us believe that Burrows is particularly bright, and his wit consists of dialog along the lines of "Dude, your girlfriend is weird."
Normally I don't out of my way to bash a novel. But I kind of want to at least ensure that one voice out there offers an honest review of "Blood Oath." If you go to the Amazon page for this book, you'll see a slew of 4 and 5 star reviews and the only conclusion I can come to is that Farnsworth has a lot of friends willing to review the book. I can see a smattering of readers saying the book is fun, but all the claims that this is the best vampire book ever! really leaves me suspicious that the reviews are not what I would consider honest assessments.
**Addendum-- This review was written when the book first came out and the *only* reviews up were of the generic "best book ever" 5-star variety. I'm sure that the reviews up now are far more balanced than what I observed early on.**
February 19, 2020
The President’s Vampire #1
“Forget the War on Terror, Zach. This is the War on Horror. And you’ve just been drafted.”
…”What if I don’t want the job?”
“Not an option, I’m afraid. There’s no quitting, no transfer. You will do this until you retire. Or you get killed. Whichever comes first.”
Nathaniel Cade is a vampire “blood oath bound” to whomever is President of the United States. It has been that way for about a century and a half. This book starts with some orientation including the “handoff” of “vampire handler duties” from Agent Griffin to Zach Barrows.
We follow Zach and Griff and Cade as Zach has to quickly come up to speed on his duties and responsibilities as the USA faces another threat from the “demi-world.” Since I don’t want to mitigate any of the pleasure you can have in the plot, I will only say that this is a slightly modified world where its inhabitants range from the standard fantasy denizens (Frankenstein monsters, werewolves, and vampires) to anything that was in the “Men in Black” catalog.
The bad humans are unbelievably bad. Their veniality is palpable. The action is continual. The characters interesting and the world-building more than adequate. 3.5*
“Forget the War on Terror, Zach. This is the War on Horror. And you’ve just been drafted.”
…”What if I don’t want the job?”
“Not an option, I’m afraid. There’s no quitting, no transfer. You will do this until you retire. Or you get killed. Whichever comes first.”
Nathaniel Cade is a vampire “blood oath bound” to whomever is President of the United States. It has been that way for about a century and a half. This book starts with some orientation including the “handoff” of “vampire handler duties” from Agent Griffin to Zach Barrows.
We follow Zach and Griff and Cade as Zach has to quickly come up to speed on his duties and responsibilities as the USA faces another threat from the “demi-world.” Since I don’t want to mitigate any of the pleasure you can have in the plot, I will only say that this is a slightly modified world where its inhabitants range from the standard fantasy denizens (Frankenstein monsters, werewolves, and vampires) to anything that was in the “Men in Black” catalog.
The bad humans are unbelievably bad. Their veniality is palpable. The action is continual. The characters interesting and the world-building more than adequate. 3.5*
August 4, 2014
Having accidentally read book 3 first, and having just finished this book (book 1) all I can think of is...why isn't this series a movie franchise? Nathaniel Cade should totally be the next action, adventure star. From the first pages of this book the action, suspense, and intrigue rolled through my mind like a filmstrip.
Nathaniel Cade is a vampire bound by oath to serve the Office of the President of the United States. He has his own moralistic code but he is, nevertheless, a predator. And a pretty awesome one at that. The action is non-stop and only picks up speed as the various plots woven by the bad guys - and they are BAD - start to come together with the force of a runaway train. The only thing standing in the way of that train is Cade and his newbie handler, Zach Barrows.
The story is told in third person from multiple POVs, allowing the reader to spend as much time with the villains as it does with the heroes. The villains were so horrible, so evil, that I was often gnashing my teeth waiting for them to get their comeuppance. Sadly, they don't all get it but hopefully the day will come when those who slipped the noose in this book get their asses handed back to them on a platter. A platter served by one Mr. Nathaniel Cade. Yes, I eagerly await that day.
On to book 2!
Nathaniel Cade is a vampire bound by oath to serve the Office of the President of the United States. He has his own moralistic code but he is, nevertheless, a predator. And a pretty awesome one at that. The action is non-stop and only picks up speed as the various plots woven by the bad guys - and they are BAD - start to come together with the force of a runaway train. The only thing standing in the way of that train is Cade and his newbie handler, Zach Barrows.
The story is told in third person from multiple POVs, allowing the reader to spend as much time with the villains as it does with the heroes. The villains were so horrible, so evil, that I was often gnashing my teeth waiting for them to get their comeuppance. Sadly, they don't all get it but hopefully the day will come when those who slipped the noose in this book get their asses handed back to them on a platter. A platter served by one Mr. Nathaniel Cade. Yes, I eagerly await that day.
On to book 2!
June 5, 2010
Blood Oath by Christopher Farnsworth.
I had reservations when I got this book. Another vampire story just seems to be over the top. Imagine my surprise when I discovered it was a fast moving, captivating story. A vampire serving as a secret agent for generations of American presidents was a storyline that worked out surprisingly well.
Nathaniel Cade has served his nation for 140 years. Protecting an unsuspecting population from a veritable Ripley’s Believe it or Not cast of villains. A vampire with morals, ethics and regrets was a nice change of pace in the plethora of vampire stories. Zach’s growth as the vampire sidekick was surprisingly well done. Don’t hesitate to try this book, even if you aren’t fond of vampires. It has plenty of action and very little of the cheesy scenes we have experiences with some of the other vampire books.
I recommend the book.
I had reservations when I got this book. Another vampire story just seems to be over the top. Imagine my surprise when I discovered it was a fast moving, captivating story. A vampire serving as a secret agent for generations of American presidents was a storyline that worked out surprisingly well.
Nathaniel Cade has served his nation for 140 years. Protecting an unsuspecting population from a veritable Ripley’s Believe it or Not cast of villains. A vampire with morals, ethics and regrets was a nice change of pace in the plethora of vampire stories. Zach’s growth as the vampire sidekick was surprisingly well done. Don’t hesitate to try this book, even if you aren’t fond of vampires. It has plenty of action and very little of the cheesy scenes we have experiences with some of the other vampire books.
I recommend the book.
May 3, 2010
I am very particular about the books I read. When I initially received this book, I thought I would not like it. I thought it was some political thriller and not up my alley. Boy was I wrong. Scanning the first few pages turned into reading 50 pages straight while trying to get ready for work. The book just “sucks” (yes, the main character is a vampire so “sucks” is appropriate) you right in.
The main character “Cade” is a vampire. He is working for the President via a “blood oath” that began long before the current administration. The author brilliantly weaves actual events with make believe events and eventually, the author was so convincing, I started to wonder what was real and what was make believe (example “Cade” was stuck into the wall on 9/11 by a magic sword while the planes crashed into the Twin Towers, that was why he was unable to stop it). Cade, along with his older handler “Griff” and his new handler “Zach” protects the citizens and the President from evil forces.
There are some interesting evil forces; the “zombies” that remind me of my Barbie dolls that I used to break the heads, legs, and arms off and try to put back together, and the werewolves that can scent a sniper miles away, are just a few.
The story in the book is good and since the other reviews already delved into the story, I will not do it again. I cannot really say anything I did not like. It was such an easy read not because it was simplistic but because the book was like watching a movie. In fact, I would not be surprised if one day this book becomes a movie.
The main character “Cade” is a vampire. He is working for the President via a “blood oath” that began long before the current administration. The author brilliantly weaves actual events with make believe events and eventually, the author was so convincing, I started to wonder what was real and what was make believe (example “Cade” was stuck into the wall on 9/11 by a magic sword while the planes crashed into the Twin Towers, that was why he was unable to stop it). Cade, along with his older handler “Griff” and his new handler “Zach” protects the citizens and the President from evil forces.
There are some interesting evil forces; the “zombies” that remind me of my Barbie dolls that I used to break the heads, legs, and arms off and try to put back together, and the werewolves that can scent a sniper miles away, are just a few.
The story in the book is good and since the other reviews already delved into the story, I will not do it again. I cannot really say anything I did not like. It was such an easy read not because it was simplistic but because the book was like watching a movie. In fact, I would not be surprised if one day this book becomes a movie.
June 13, 2017
First things first--the cover of the book that was letting me know it was an advance copy said (and I'm guessing here because I gave the book to Robin to read) "The perfect secret. The perfect agent. The President's vampire." And I have to say, as much as I like the title, I still think The President's Vampire would've been a cooler title. But that aside, this was a great book. Plus, once you get to the point in the book where the title is explained, it makes sense and is pretty cool.
Zach Barrows is a young staffer at the White House who knows that he's going places. Fast. Then he gets assigned to a position he can't really resign from or turn down. He is now partnered with Nathaniel Cade, who is, yes, the President's vampire. Cade's job is to protect the country from other supernatural/paranormal entities. In Blood Oath, someone in the country is making warriors. Using the body parts of dead United States soldiers. Cade is sure that Konrad, a man he has met on a couple of occasions, is involved somehow. Cade and Zach go to Los Angeles to question the man. While in LA, there are two attempts on their lives. Is Konrad (or as he's known in pop culture, Dr. Frankenstein, yes, THE Dr. Frankenstein) involved? Will Cade and Zach be able to protect the President? Can they save the day?
Zach Barrows is a young staffer at the White House who knows that he's going places. Fast. Then he gets assigned to a position he can't really resign from or turn down. He is now partnered with Nathaniel Cade, who is, yes, the President's vampire. Cade's job is to protect the country from other supernatural/paranormal entities. In Blood Oath, someone in the country is making warriors. Using the body parts of dead United States soldiers. Cade is sure that Konrad, a man he has met on a couple of occasions, is involved somehow. Cade and Zach go to Los Angeles to question the man. While in LA, there are two attempts on their lives. Is Konrad (or as he's known in pop culture, Dr. Frankenstein, yes, THE Dr. Frankenstein) involved? Will Cade and Zach be able to protect the President? Can they save the day?
May 18, 2010
Adding to my previous review: BUY THIS BOOK!!! It is available in bookstores Tuesday, May 18 and worth every penny! Such a good read! If you can't buy it, request it from your local library!
Super-fun, super-fast story of a vampire who swore a blood oath to the office of the President of the United States in the 1860's and has been investigating paranormal occurrences since.
It's smart, funny and perfectly paced. And I love that the author gave his own book 5 stars on goodreads! I totally agree.
Super-fun, super-fast story of a vampire who swore a blood oath to the office of the President of the United States in the 1860's and has been investigating paranormal occurrences since.
It's smart, funny and perfectly paced. And I love that the author gave his own book 5 stars on goodreads! I totally agree.
April 12, 2010
Okay, I have to say that the tag lines on the cover did not impress me and I thought it was on the edge of rediculous, but I decided to open the book anyway (Blood Oath is a far better title). To my surprise I haven't been able to put it down!! It's well written and the action starts right away. Of course there is some gore (always good), but what I like the best is that the characters are very believable. I'm only about 100 pages in, but so far I'm impressed. I am reminded once again to not "judge a book by it's cover" Oh, and I agree with a lot of the other reviews that it's entertaining and fun.
I finished it and I'm looking forward to the next one. A really fun read.
I finished it and I'm looking forward to the next one. A really fun read.
February 5, 2013
This is an excellent and well thought plot, resulting in an exciting read. 9 of 10 stars
March 17, 2022
Rating : 3.5 stars
Zach Barrows, ambitious White House staffer, made the mistake of sleeping with the President's daughter and now he's been reassigned as partner and handler of secret agent Nathaniel Cade. Cade's mission, given to him by President Andrew Johnson as part of a pardon for vampirism, is to protect the Union from supernatural horrors that the daylight world, and Zach, are not prepared to cope with.
Blood Oath is the first in the Nathaniel Cade series by Christopher Famsworth. Nathaniel Cade is the vampire version of Jack Reacher with a little bit of The West Wing thrown in. In this mission someone has been shipping dismembered American soldiers back to the States with the intention of reassembling them in a kind of frankensoldier based on old Nazi experiments.
Cade is more of what I'd consider a "classic" vampire. Ultra strong and fast, drinking blood helps him regenerate from wounds, severe sunlight allergy. He has a strong moral compass for a vampire that could make for some interesting situations in the future. Basically everything but the supernatural seduction because:
Did I mention there's some humor too? On the flip side, Zach Barrows starts off highly unlikable and obnoxious. I believe this is by design so we can see his character grow as he adjusts to the full reality of his new job situation. I ended up with how well Zach handles himself by the end of the book.
I listened to the audio book narrated by Bronson Pinchot. It took me a bit to get used to the narration as he was more monotone than I prefer. It made more sense as the story went along and more characters were added which upped the variety of voices.
Famsworth had fun drawing inspiration from popular horror legends and weaving them together into an entertaining horror/thriller. Fair warning, there are a couple gory parts and one in particular that made me cringe. That said, I enjoyed the set up and I'm looking forward to continuing the series.
-----
Initial thoughts: A more classical take on vampires. Very interesting set up for a series. I really did not like Konrad getting away, though he didn't exactly end up in a good spot either. Very impressed with how Zach handled his first week on the job. Cade's morals seem like they could put him into some unfortunate situations.
It took me a bit to get used to the narrator. He was more monotone than I'm used to. It made more sense as the story went along and more characters were added.
Zach Barrows, ambitious White House staffer, made the mistake of sleeping with the President's daughter and now he's been reassigned as partner and handler of secret agent Nathaniel Cade. Cade's mission, given to him by President Andrew Johnson as part of a pardon for vampirism, is to protect the Union from supernatural horrors that the daylight world, and Zach, are not prepared to cope with.
Blood Oath is the first in the Nathaniel Cade series by Christopher Famsworth. Nathaniel Cade is the vampire version of Jack Reacher with a little bit of The West Wing thrown in. In this mission someone has been shipping dismembered American soldiers back to the States with the intention of reassembling them in a kind of frankensoldier based on old Nazi experiments.
Cade is more of what I'd consider a "classic" vampire. Ultra strong and fast, drinking blood helps him regenerate from wounds, severe sunlight allergy. He has a strong moral compass for a vampire that could make for some interesting situations in the future. Basically everything but the supernatural seduction because:
"Humans are our food. Do you want to have sex with a cow?”
Did I mention there's some humor too? On the flip side, Zach Barrows starts off highly unlikable and obnoxious. I believe this is by design so we can see his character grow as he adjusts to the full reality of his new job situation. I ended up with how well Zach handles himself by the end of the book.
I listened to the audio book narrated by Bronson Pinchot. It took me a bit to get used to the narration as he was more monotone than I prefer. It made more sense as the story went along and more characters were added which upped the variety of voices.
Famsworth had fun drawing inspiration from popular horror legends and weaving them together into an entertaining horror/thriller. Fair warning, there are a couple gory parts and one in particular that made me cringe. That said, I enjoyed the set up and I'm looking forward to continuing the series.
-----
Initial thoughts: A more classical take on vampires. Very interesting set up for a series. I really did not like Konrad getting away, though he didn't exactly end up in a good spot either. Very impressed with how Zach handled his first week on the job. Cade's morals seem like they could put him into some unfortunate situations.
It took me a bit to get used to the narrator. He was more monotone than I'm used to. It made more sense as the story went along and more characters were added.
July 28, 2012
I lucked out and found this at my local library. I read the first page and was hooked. It took me two days to read it and everytime I had to put it down ( work, family obligations) all I would think about how soon I could get back to it. I hope Mr. Farnsworth is a fast writer because I can't wait for the next book.
The story is original with intriguing characters and a captivating cadence that makes you reluctant to put the book down. There are clever historical references and journal entries that make the outrageous plot seem plausible. The perspective into the White House and various government agencies rang with truth. But for me the protagonist is the best element of the story. He is honest, ethical,and disciplined but still considers himself a monster. He struggles to retain his humanity while defending mankind from evil. Yet the reality is that the villians he encounters are the true abominations of mankind. Great book and a delight after fighting my way through The Passage.
I listened to Blood Oath to prep for the new release of Red, White, and Blood May 2012 and enjoyed it immensly. Bronson Pinchot won an "Audies" award for his narration. Blood Oath is a terrific book and the listen created a different, yet equally entertaining perspective of the book. I plan on reading all of Christopher Farnsworth's work and then keep on listening if Bronson continues to narrate.
The story is original with intriguing characters and a captivating cadence that makes you reluctant to put the book down. There are clever historical references and journal entries that make the outrageous plot seem plausible. The perspective into the White House and various government agencies rang with truth. But for me the protagonist is the best element of the story. He is honest, ethical,and disciplined but still considers himself a monster. He struggles to retain his humanity while defending mankind from evil. Yet the reality is that the villians he encounters are the true abominations of mankind. Great book and a delight after fighting my way through The Passage.
I listened to Blood Oath to prep for the new release of Red, White, and Blood May 2012 and enjoyed it immensly. Bronson Pinchot won an "Audies" award for his narration. Blood Oath is a terrific book and the listen created a different, yet equally entertaining perspective of the book. I plan on reading all of Christopher Farnsworth's work and then keep on listening if Bronson continues to narrate.
June 3, 2010
It isn’t often when a book leaves me at a loss for words and far less often that a debut novel leaves me physically longing for the next installment. As bewitching as early Anne Rice, Christopher Farnsworth has done just that with the introduction of “Blood Oath” and the President’s Vampire, Nathanial Cade.
Only a select few over more than a century have been privy to the true secret of success behind the oval office. The weapon that stalks the night—compelled to follow presidential order—effectively keeps us safe from the nightmare beings that slither in the shadows.
Nathaniel Cade, the President’s Vampire, is a thinly leashed monster and has been for so long that only a sliver of his previous humanity still lingers. Some would argue—even Cade himself—that all traces of humankind left his body the day he became a monster.
Tasked with solving or stopping a number of atrocities over the years, Cade’s newest assignment is no different. However, he doesn’t realize until much too late that not all the monsters working to prevent his success are on the outside.
Racing against the clock, Farnsworth blends the perfect amount of humor and horror with awe-inspiring timing to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
www.suspensemagazine.com
Only a select few over more than a century have been privy to the true secret of success behind the oval office. The weapon that stalks the night—compelled to follow presidential order—effectively keeps us safe from the nightmare beings that slither in the shadows.
Nathaniel Cade, the President’s Vampire, is a thinly leashed monster and has been for so long that only a sliver of his previous humanity still lingers. Some would argue—even Cade himself—that all traces of humankind left his body the day he became a monster.
Tasked with solving or stopping a number of atrocities over the years, Cade’s newest assignment is no different. However, he doesn’t realize until much too late that not all the monsters working to prevent his success are on the outside.
Racing against the clock, Farnsworth blends the perfect amount of humor and horror with awe-inspiring timing to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
www.suspensemagazine.com
July 20, 2010
Blood Oath is not your typical, light vampire novel. Farnsworth's writing could easily stand beside all of today's best thriller and suspense authors. Cade is a vampire who has sworn a blood oath to protect the president and his team. But not just one president - every president for the rest of Cade's existence. His job is to seek and destroy those things that live in the shadows and that the average person never knows about.
Each character is unique, the dialogue is perfection, and the plot keeps you turning pages. A truly brilliant creation.
Each character is unique, the dialogue is perfection, and the plot keeps you turning pages. A truly brilliant creation.
November 17, 2022
Blood Oath ⭐️
I love Nathaniel Cade. I have read this multiple times and each time I continue to love it.
Cade is a vampire that works for the president and has worked for the president for the past 150 years.
Zach burrows is newly appointed and trying to figure out how to work with a vampire.
Love the characters, even if you think its just another vampire book, no its not its wonderful and not a romance so pick it up and fall in love with Cade and Griff and Burrows.
I love Nathaniel Cade. I have read this multiple times and each time I continue to love it.
Cade is a vampire that works for the president and has worked for the president for the past 150 years.
Zach burrows is newly appointed and trying to figure out how to work with a vampire.
Love the characters, even if you think its just another vampire book, no its not its wonderful and not a romance so pick it up and fall in love with Cade and Griff and Burrows.
June 30, 2010
My local public library got this in, and guess who was first on the request list to read it? w00t! :)
I really didn't know anything about this book until stumbling across it in a First Reads giveaway. I read just about everything vampire-related (even those that sparkle, just for the sake of completion :)), so I definitely had to add this to my list.
In a nutshell, the introduction of Nathaniel Cade as a character was a major success. I love the way his history is lined out, the way he is today, including many strengths and weaknesses, and the way he's setup for future books in the series.
And hey, a secret protector of the President? Reminds of Warren Murphy and Richard Sapir's "The Destroyer", Remo Williams, except with fangs. :)
Check this out as soon as you can. Easily one of the best books I've read in a long time.
I really didn't know anything about this book until stumbling across it in a First Reads giveaway. I read just about everything vampire-related (even those that sparkle, just for the sake of completion :)), so I definitely had to add this to my list.
In a nutshell, the introduction of Nathaniel Cade as a character was a major success. I love the way his history is lined out, the way he is today, including many strengths and weaknesses, and the way he's setup for future books in the series.
And hey, a secret protector of the President? Reminds of Warren Murphy and Richard Sapir's "The Destroyer", Remo Williams, except with fangs. :)
Check this out as soon as you can. Easily one of the best books I've read in a long time.
January 7, 2010
So far, this is my favorite debut novel of 2010 (even though it hasn't come out yet). I had as much fun reading Blood Oath and discovering Christopher Farnsworth as I did with Beat the Reaper by Josh Bazell last year.
Blood Oath follows the story of Nathaniel Cade, a vampire sworn to protect the President of the United States. The novel reads like a Vince Flynn political thriller mixed with Hellboy and the Universal Monsters. If you ask me, those three traits are the equation for a great book.
This is the beginning of a great series. I can't wait to see what Farnsworth does with the characters next.
Blood Oath follows the story of Nathaniel Cade, a vampire sworn to protect the President of the United States. The novel reads like a Vince Flynn political thriller mixed with Hellboy and the Universal Monsters. If you ask me, those three traits are the equation for a great book.
This is the beginning of a great series. I can't wait to see what Farnsworth does with the characters next.
February 15, 2011
It sounds like a completely silly book and I began it expecting a total giggle or at worst wasting my time for a chapter or two. Instead I'm looking forward to the next in the series! It is fun, but it's also a good horror thriller. Lots of gore so not for sensitive flowers.
March 10, 2024
Πολύ καλή ιστορία. Σε κρατάει με το ίδιο ενδιαφέρον σε όλη τη διάρκεια. Διαβάζεται εύκολα αν και η συγκεκριμένη έκδοση έχει πολλά λάθη στην επιμέλεια. Αξίζει να τα προσπεράσετε για χάρη της ιστορίας ωστόσο!
April 30, 2010
At this moment, there are eight separate conspiracy groups plotting to destroy the U.S. government. And Nathaniel Cade, the President’s Vampire, is working against the non-humans who would bring us down.
This book was awesome! From the very first page, when Zach Barrows, a self-titled “young Karl Rove,” is reassigned as the presidential liaison to the President’s Vampire, I read with accelerated heartbeat and eager anticipation. His new job: “Forget the War on Terror, Zach. This is the War on Horror. And you’ve just been drafted.” Cheese ball line, I know, but it totally works.
Cade is a newly-formed vampire about to be executed when President Andrew Johnson pardons him. Johnson hired voodoo priestess Marie Laveau (yes, that Marie Laveau) to bind Cade to protect and serve whomever is the President of the United States. What a premise, and one that leaves me begging for the next in what I hope is a long series of books about the President’s Vampire.
I love political thrillers and this has black ops, treason, betrayal and vampires. Books written by journalists always tend to be better written, because they know how to tell a story efficiently without falling in love with their own words. There is just enough plausibility about real threats that you almost wonder… “Could there really be…? Nah! Right? No!… But maybe…”
The back of the book reads: Enough action to out-Bourne Jason Bourne and out-Bauer Jack Bauer. I loved most of the Jason Bourne books, and the movies as well. Never quite got into “24” but I know that Jack Bauer does torture. So I chuckled when Cade says with no irony, “The United States doesn’t torture.”
There are some other bits of humor scattered throughout this action-packed political thriller. Certain lines will have you racing to Google and then laughing once you realize what it really means.
If you like any David Baldacci, any Brad Meltzer, any Dan Brown, any Tom Clancy, any James Rollins, you will devour this book. (Sorry, couldn’t resist a little vampire humor.)
My major criticism:
During a hot sex scene between the two vampires, the author uses the word “cunt” to describe the vagina. Sorry, “cunt” is just not a sexy word. Since this is an “uncorrected proof” I hope that one word gets changed. Yeah, they’re supposed to be having rough, tough kinky vampire sex, but cunt? C’mon.
My minor criticism:
As the monsters rampage through the White House, “Bits of human flesh and blood spread out over the wallpaper selected by Jackie Kennedy.” Poor Mrs. Kennedy. Don’t we have enough visions of her covered in the bits of human flesh and blood belonging to her husband? It was a gruesome reference that wouldn’t have been so distracting had it been any other first lady (with the exception of Mary Todd Lincoln, of course).
I could also see almost every scene in my head as I read along, so clear and descriptive was the writing. We could spend hours discussing the casting for when this is made into a movie – and I do hope it is made into a movie. Once you read it yourself, I hope you’ll chime in with your casting suggestions.
Casting thoughts:
Someone suggested Guy Pierce, the actor from “Memento” and “LA Confidential.” Pierce has the haunted angst for the character, but is much too old, as Nathaniel Cade is 20 years old when he is turned.
Other options – Ian Somerhalter, who’s currently in the Vampire Diaries. Cliché, but he could do it.
Chris Hemsworth, who’s starring in the remake of “Red Dawn.”
Ben Foster, from “The Messenger”
Sam Worthington, another cliché.
I know it’s a reach, but I’d love to see Daniel Radcliffe as Cade.
Emile Hirsch also does angst well.
For Zach Barrows, I totally see Ed Westwick. He plays the smug know-it-all well. You wouldn’t want someone as comical as Seth Green, (plus he’s too old), but someone Alex P. Keaton-ish.
I could also see Mark Salling – Puck from “Glee” as Zach. I could also see Shia LeBeouf, even though I can’t stand him.
Evan Rachel Wood has to be Tania.
Bottom line: Sink your teeth into this one, with relish!
This book was awesome! From the very first page, when Zach Barrows, a self-titled “young Karl Rove,” is reassigned as the presidential liaison to the President’s Vampire, I read with accelerated heartbeat and eager anticipation. His new job: “Forget the War on Terror, Zach. This is the War on Horror. And you’ve just been drafted.” Cheese ball line, I know, but it totally works.
Cade is a newly-formed vampire about to be executed when President Andrew Johnson pardons him. Johnson hired voodoo priestess Marie Laveau (yes, that Marie Laveau) to bind Cade to protect and serve whomever is the President of the United States. What a premise, and one that leaves me begging for the next in what I hope is a long series of books about the President’s Vampire.
I love political thrillers and this has black ops, treason, betrayal and vampires. Books written by journalists always tend to be better written, because they know how to tell a story efficiently without falling in love with their own words. There is just enough plausibility about real threats that you almost wonder… “Could there really be…? Nah! Right? No!… But maybe…”
The back of the book reads: Enough action to out-Bourne Jason Bourne and out-Bauer Jack Bauer. I loved most of the Jason Bourne books, and the movies as well. Never quite got into “24” but I know that Jack Bauer does torture. So I chuckled when Cade says with no irony, “The United States doesn’t torture.”
There are some other bits of humor scattered throughout this action-packed political thriller. Certain lines will have you racing to Google and then laughing once you realize what it really means.
If you like any David Baldacci, any Brad Meltzer, any Dan Brown, any Tom Clancy, any James Rollins, you will devour this book. (Sorry, couldn’t resist a little vampire humor.)
My major criticism:
During a hot sex scene between the two vampires, the author uses the word “cunt” to describe the vagina. Sorry, “cunt” is just not a sexy word. Since this is an “uncorrected proof” I hope that one word gets changed. Yeah, they’re supposed to be having rough, tough kinky vampire sex, but cunt? C’mon.
My minor criticism:
As the monsters rampage through the White House, “Bits of human flesh and blood spread out over the wallpaper selected by Jackie Kennedy.” Poor Mrs. Kennedy. Don’t we have enough visions of her covered in the bits of human flesh and blood belonging to her husband? It was a gruesome reference that wouldn’t have been so distracting had it been any other first lady (with the exception of Mary Todd Lincoln, of course).
I could also see almost every scene in my head as I read along, so clear and descriptive was the writing. We could spend hours discussing the casting for when this is made into a movie – and I do hope it is made into a movie. Once you read it yourself, I hope you’ll chime in with your casting suggestions.
Casting thoughts:
Someone suggested Guy Pierce, the actor from “Memento” and “LA Confidential.” Pierce has the haunted angst for the character, but is much too old, as Nathaniel Cade is 20 years old when he is turned.
Other options – Ian Somerhalter, who’s currently in the Vampire Diaries. Cliché, but he could do it.
Chris Hemsworth, who’s starring in the remake of “Red Dawn.”
Ben Foster, from “The Messenger”
Sam Worthington, another cliché.
I know it’s a reach, but I’d love to see Daniel Radcliffe as Cade.
Emile Hirsch also does angst well.
For Zach Barrows, I totally see Ed Westwick. He plays the smug know-it-all well. You wouldn’t want someone as comical as Seth Green, (plus he’s too old), but someone Alex P. Keaton-ish.
I could also see Mark Salling – Puck from “Glee” as Zach. I could also see Shia LeBeouf, even though I can’t stand him.
Evan Rachel Wood has to be Tania.
Bottom line: Sink your teeth into this one, with relish!
July 25, 2010
Blood Oath is a book that combines vampirism and politics. According to history, there was a person that was pardoned for being a bloodsucker by President Andrew Jackson. The vampire in this story, Nathaniel Cade's assignment is to protect the president at all costs and he has been sworn not to hurt either the president or any of the agents working with him. Cade actually refuses to drink human blood at all and exists by drinking animal blood. Into the picture comes Zach Barrows, who is assigned to be Cade's handler. Needless to say Zach is very ambitious and is not too happy with this career choice that is virtually forced on him. He reluctantly resigns himself to the fact that he has to do this. This assignment also means that he will not advance any further in his career. Reason? Zach has top clearance and he is not to let anyone know what he is doing. At first Zach is frightened in regards to Cade and grudgingly comes to respect the vampire for what he is able to do. He comes to find out that there are conspiricies to take over the U.S. Government. What ensues is a sometimes gory race to stop these conspiracies and find out who is behind them. There are people who have assembled zombies from body parts stolen ,or obtained illegally, and their only reason for existing is to kill all who get in the way of their goal. This goal is to kill the president and his family and the evil people can take over the government. As Zach and Nate get to know each other they become a formidable team..
Other characters in this story are Konrad, an evil German scientist who is the person who put these zombies together,a modern day Dr. Frankenstein, Tania, a female vampire enamoured with Cade. There is Agent Griff, who has been working with Cade for the last 40 years and Griff becomes a mentor of sorts for Zach. The characterizations are very realistic and the story line is very plausible. I enjoyed this book and look forward to the rest of the series. Would make a great tv show!!!
Other characters in this story are Konrad, an evil German scientist who is the person who put these zombies together,a modern day Dr. Frankenstein, Tania, a female vampire enamoured with Cade. There is Agent Griff, who has been working with Cade for the last 40 years and Griff becomes a mentor of sorts for Zach. The characterizations are very realistic and the story line is very plausible. I enjoyed this book and look forward to the rest of the series. Would make a great tv show!!!
February 5, 2011
Thought I would try this because I rather like a good Vampire story as long as it's not too vapid and well, nobody...sparkles. I also am a fan of Robert Ludlum's books, and this rather reminded me of them in some spots with the action sequences.
My favorite approach to the Vampire mythos--well any fantasy/science fiction really--is when an author has a very logical world set up, definite rules for how the Vampire or fantastic creature must live and act, and a good back story for how they got that way. I have a medical background so I guess that's why I like to have things explained to me logically--almost like I'd be making a diagnosis. I really enjoyed the "reports" and "data" that was offered in each chapter regarding the "subject", Nathaniel Cain. I do wish we got to know him better, but that only made me want the next book more to be honest. I guess that's part of the old maxim of always leave'em wanting more.
The story of the President binding the Vampire to him through Voodoo was very affecting once they got to the point where Nathaniel tells it. I've always been an X-files fan so, why not have a Vampire who works for the President seeking out that sort of thing? A very good use for one if you can find one. The relationships between the FBI handler and Cain was really handled well. Actually the characters were all very realistic. I enjoyed the smart alec, politically savvy young whipper snapper who is suddenly saddled with being Cain's handler. He was a wonderful contrast to the previous handler.
And I just started to type spoilers so I'll wrap it up. This is a really well written book that I enjoyed greatly. Then, I read it out loud to my daughter and she also enjoyed it. (She's 9 so there was some mild censorship as I read. lol) She also enjoyed the action and the drama. Thank goodness she wasn't as aware as I was of how close to the headlines the book felt at times with our history of terrorist attacks--which made the threat in the book seem only more real.
Highly recommended.
My favorite approach to the Vampire mythos--well any fantasy/science fiction really--is when an author has a very logical world set up, definite rules for how the Vampire or fantastic creature must live and act, and a good back story for how they got that way. I have a medical background so I guess that's why I like to have things explained to me logically--almost like I'd be making a diagnosis. I really enjoyed the "reports" and "data" that was offered in each chapter regarding the "subject", Nathaniel Cain. I do wish we got to know him better, but that only made me want the next book more to be honest. I guess that's part of the old maxim of always leave'em wanting more.
The story of the President binding the Vampire to him through Voodoo was very affecting once they got to the point where Nathaniel tells it. I've always been an X-files fan so, why not have a Vampire who works for the President seeking out that sort of thing? A very good use for one if you can find one. The relationships between the FBI handler and Cain was really handled well. Actually the characters were all very realistic. I enjoyed the smart alec, politically savvy young whipper snapper who is suddenly saddled with being Cain's handler. He was a wonderful contrast to the previous handler.
And I just started to type spoilers so I'll wrap it up. This is a really well written book that I enjoyed greatly. Then, I read it out loud to my daughter and she also enjoyed it. (She's 9 so there was some mild censorship as I read. lol) She also enjoyed the action and the drama. Thank goodness she wasn't as aware as I was of how close to the headlines the book felt at times with our history of terrorist attacks--which made the threat in the book seem only more real.
Highly recommended.
June 6, 2012
Blood Oath by Christopher Farnsworth is a thriller with real bite. The first book in a three book series of supernatural thrillers that make you afraid of the dark once again.
Nathanial Cade is a vampire who has sworn a blood oath to protect the President from otherworldly monsters who threaten the United States. He takes his oath very seriously and tries not to drink human blood, the natural food for this apex predator. He is stronger than man, faster than man, and your natural instinct is to run from his otherworldly scariness. His liaison with the Office of the President is Agent Griffen, who has terminal cancer. Enter Zach Barrows, a political operative, who is tasked by the President to be the new liaison with Cade.
Immediately there is a threat to the United States from an unknown Arab group that appears to want to create undead Frankenstein monsters out of the parts of dead US servicemen. Cade suspects that the group needs Konrad, a diabolical scientist, who has worked for the Nazis and others, on human experimentation and worse atrocities. Konrad has the secret of re-animating the dead and turning them into mindless killing machines. It appears that Konrad, however, is being protected by both the CIA and another shadow organization in the US government that wants to control the country and will stop at nothing to achieve its ends. Konrad is more of a monster than Cade and Farnsworth is adept at showing the monsterous evils that man can achieve.
Farnsworth skillfully interweaves into the current story flashbacks to past instances where Cade's unique skill set has been called on to protect the country and also to highlight his back story.
Meanwhile the action in the present in this supernatural thriller is kept at a taut unrelenting pace. Doublecrossing politicians, secret CIA and FBI agents, murderous traitors to the United States, a lunatic fringe of Arabic killers, and Cade's vampire girlfriend Tania all face off in this breakneck thriller.
It will keep you up all night. A bright lamp might be a good buy.
Nathanial Cade is a vampire who has sworn a blood oath to protect the President from otherworldly monsters who threaten the United States. He takes his oath very seriously and tries not to drink human blood, the natural food for this apex predator. He is stronger than man, faster than man, and your natural instinct is to run from his otherworldly scariness. His liaison with the Office of the President is Agent Griffen, who has terminal cancer. Enter Zach Barrows, a political operative, who is tasked by the President to be the new liaison with Cade.
Immediately there is a threat to the United States from an unknown Arab group that appears to want to create undead Frankenstein monsters out of the parts of dead US servicemen. Cade suspects that the group needs Konrad, a diabolical scientist, who has worked for the Nazis and others, on human experimentation and worse atrocities. Konrad has the secret of re-animating the dead and turning them into mindless killing machines. It appears that Konrad, however, is being protected by both the CIA and another shadow organization in the US government that wants to control the country and will stop at nothing to achieve its ends. Konrad is more of a monster than Cade and Farnsworth is adept at showing the monsterous evils that man can achieve.
Farnsworth skillfully interweaves into the current story flashbacks to past instances where Cade's unique skill set has been called on to protect the country and also to highlight his back story.
Meanwhile the action in the present in this supernatural thriller is kept at a taut unrelenting pace. Doublecrossing politicians, secret CIA and FBI agents, murderous traitors to the United States, a lunatic fringe of Arabic killers, and Cade's vampire girlfriend Tania all face off in this breakneck thriller.
It will keep you up all night. A bright lamp might be a good buy.
April 24, 2013
Read and reviewed in 2010 from copy provided by Amazon Vine in exchange for an honest review.
Once I started reading this book, I did not want to put it down - it is fabulous! It could be described as sort of a vampire meets James Bond meets Charles Stross' Laundry (On Her Majesty's Occult Service), but with a few twists all of its own - such as the fact that the author uses actual events from the history of the US as a base for the book! (See The President's Vampire: Strange-but-True Tales of the United States of America and Oval Office Occult: True Stories of White House Weirdness for just two of the books he references).
Zach Burrows has been working hard in the White House - he is ambitious and has plans to go places and be someone. Then, to his surprise and chagrin, he finds himself relegated to a top secret position as the partner to the president's secret weapon - a vampire named Nathaniel Cade, who was pardoned from a death sentence 140 years ago contingent on taking a blood oath to protect the President (then Andrew Jackson) and those under the President's orders. Cade and Burrows are there to tackle the sorts of problems that most people don't even know exist - and probably wouldn't believe exist if they were to find out.
Keeping in mind that what I was reading was a bound galley, I also have to comment that this is the cleanest text I have seen since ... I can't remember when. I didn't notice any typos, grammatical issues or continuity errors (that's not to say there weren't any, just that they weren't obvious enough to catch my eye), and this on only the galley - I'm impressed. If only more books were this clean when they were published in the FINAL form!
That said - this is the first book in a promised series, and I for one can NOT wait to see where it goes. I'm hooked already - write fast, Mr. Farnsworth - write like the wind. You have one die-hard fan here already!
Once I started reading this book, I did not want to put it down - it is fabulous! It could be described as sort of a vampire meets James Bond meets Charles Stross' Laundry (On Her Majesty's Occult Service), but with a few twists all of its own - such as the fact that the author uses actual events from the history of the US as a base for the book! (See The President's Vampire: Strange-but-True Tales of the United States of America and Oval Office Occult: True Stories of White House Weirdness for just two of the books he references).
Zach Burrows has been working hard in the White House - he is ambitious and has plans to go places and be someone. Then, to his surprise and chagrin, he finds himself relegated to a top secret position as the partner to the president's secret weapon - a vampire named Nathaniel Cade, who was pardoned from a death sentence 140 years ago contingent on taking a blood oath to protect the President (then Andrew Jackson) and those under the President's orders. Cade and Burrows are there to tackle the sorts of problems that most people don't even know exist - and probably wouldn't believe exist if they were to find out.
Keeping in mind that what I was reading was a bound galley, I also have to comment that this is the cleanest text I have seen since ... I can't remember when. I didn't notice any typos, grammatical issues or continuity errors (that's not to say there weren't any, just that they weren't obvious enough to catch my eye), and this on only the galley - I'm impressed. If only more books were this clean when they were published in the FINAL form!
That said - this is the first book in a promised series, and I for one can NOT wait to see where it goes. I'm hooked already - write fast, Mr. Farnsworth - write like the wind. You have one die-hard fan here already!
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