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Mass Marketing THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES…

Posted on Monday, June 25th, 2018

The mass market paperback edition of Freda Warrington‘s fourth Blood Wine novel is out tomorrow in the US! THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES, the third novel in the critically-acclaimed vampire horror/romance series, is published by Titan Books. Here’s the synopsis…

The ballerina Violette Lenoir has fallen victim to the bite of the vampire Charlotte. Her fire and energy have fuelled a terrifying change and a dreadful realisation; that Violette has become Lilith, the demon mother of all vampires. Haunted both by what she has done and by Violette’s dark sensuality, Charlotte and her immortal lover Karl are drawn towards the dancer and the terrible destiny that has fallen on her shoulders. But other, far more dangerous shadows are gathering around Violette. To the vampire Sebastian and to the dark heirs of Kristian, she threatens to wreak havoc with their plans to bring all of mankind under their dark wings. Innocently embroiled in the endgame, courtesan extraordinaire Robyn Stafford finally meets her match as she is torn between the two ultimate lovers: Sebastian, and Violette…

Titan has published all four of the books in the series, in both the US and UK: A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE and A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET are also available in MMPB; the final volume in the series, THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD, is available in trade paperback.

Here are just a few of the great review the series has received…

‘The third book in Freda Warrington’s brilliantly evocative Blood Wine Sequence, and for me at least, possibly one of the best… I’ve yet to end any review of one of Freda’s books without referring to the impressive style of her writing — it’s smart, compelling, and simply fabulous… So easy to recommend this, and any of the others in the Blood Wine Sequence.’ — British Fantasy Society on THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES

‘The series is among the best of those spawned by the wave of fashionability which has caught up ‘revisionist’ vampire fiction in the last twenty years. All three volumes have been written with an emotional fervour and vividly Decadent style which are perfectly suited to the subject-matter and all three have maintained a sense of philosophical enquiry which patiently, perceptively and politely raises questions about the reasons for our fascination with the vampire and related mythological figures… The series so far adds up to one of the most striking and most intriguing exercises in modern fantasy fiction; it may yet be further augmented.’ — Vector on THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES

‘A great novel, which is entertainingly frightening, splendidly romantic and erotic, and darkly suspenseful. The true Queen of the vampire novel.’ — Black Tears Magazine on THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES

‘Areally, really splendid read… It’s a story that plays out over cups of tea and glasses of brandy in the drawing rooms of chic London townhouses and glittering stately homes, and here again Warrington shows her writer’s chops, layering in exquisite period detail. Sometimes the effect is playfully satirical… but more often it’s lusciously picturesque; and, with the characters barrelling around in Hispano-Suizas and the like, it’s all attractively reminiscent of the lux, country house horror of Hammer’s The Devil Rides Out. On this evidence, Freda Warrington is like a cross between Anne Rice and Kim Newman – she has the sweep of one, the cleverness of the other. Titan will be reissuing the other titles in the series throughout the year, and they’re not to be missed.’ — Starburst on A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE

‘Channeling the tone of a Gothic romance, Warrington presents a 1920s version of Bram Stoker’s Dracula that focuses on the vampires rather than their stalkers… The first of Warrington’s Blood Wine series will sate those hungry for classically melodramatic vampire sagas.’ — Booklist on A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE

‘Afull-blooded gothique that rips more than bodices… Warrington’s vampire dynasty has the grandeur of a cobwebbed cathedral, and her plot is forged in operatic passions. Treating her subjects with theatrical intensity, she creates lush images, awash in colour and shadow, and the ideal gothic mood is preserved; a dark romance to lose yourself in.’ — Time Out on A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET

‘Sexy, brooding and epic in scope, once you have encountered Warrington’s undead, others will pale by comparison.’ — British Fantasy Society on A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET

‘In the style of authors such as Anne Rice, Warrington has made a tale that beats convention and shows readers what is more likely to happen to vampires than in many other novels. It is great to see that what were once 90’s novels have been re published for a fresh audience who have already indulged in the Twilight novels. The cover art for this one and the other three is striking and beautiful in a gothic way and tells a lot about the kind of novels they are. This is for those who want to curl up with a good book…’ — Fantasy Book Review on THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD

‘I can’t praise this series enough, the author’s writing is poetic, enduring, and consumes you hook, line, and sinker. A superb ending to a marvellous series, and highly recommended.’ — British Fantasy Society on THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD

The first three novels in the series are also available via Audible.

A DANCE IN paperback…

Posted on Tuesday, June 27th, 2017

Freda Warrington‘s A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET is out today in mass market paperback in the US! Published by Titan Books, here’s the synopsis…

For the love of her vampire suitor, Karl, Charlotte has forsaken her human life. Now her only contact with people is when she hunts them down to feed. Her thirst for blood repulses her but its fulfilment brings ecstasy.

The one light in the shadows is the passion that burns between her and Karl. A love that it seems will last for eternity — until Karl’s former lover, the seductively beautiful Katerina, is rescued from the Crystal Ring. For nearly fifty years she has lain, as dead, in the icy depths of the Weisskalt. Now she wants to reclaim her life… and Karl. In despair, Charlotte turns to the prima ballerina Violette Lenoir, an ice maiden who only thaws when she dances. Charlotte is fascinated as she has been by no other human, longing to bring joy to the dancer. But her obsession opens the flood-gates to a far darker threat than the vampires could ever have imagined. For Violette is more than human and if she succumbs to the vampire’s kiss it could unleash a new terror…

Titan Books has published all four novels in the critically-acclaimed Blood Wine series, in the UK and US. The series has also been published in audiobooks, be Audible. Here are just a few reviews the series has received…

‘This is an extremely well plotted tale of complex, believable characters. Yes, they are vampires and they are often vicious and terrifyingly deadly. But rather than being portrayed as cruel, motiveless monsters, or moping, emo sops, they are essentially human, albeit with pointy teeth and an appetite for haemoglobin. They fight, they love, they are adults and all that that implies. Freda Warrington’s prose is simply stunning, sumptuous and graceful and as seductive as the vampires she portrays. She also has an imaginatively nifty creation theory on how vampires came into existence. Charlotte, especially, will strike a chord with many readers. Here is a real woman dealing with a myriad of dangers and extraordinary events all for love. She is both feminine and tough, a proto Buffy if you will. So if you like the densely plotted, character-driven works of Anne Rice, minus her often irritating purple prose, and you want something very definitely adult (and we don’t mean that in the top shelf of a newsagents way), then this could just be what you’ve been looking for.’ — Starburst on A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET

‘The story neatly and scrupulously takes up the most important loose ends left dangling by the earlier volume, and moves with measured vigour towards a hectically extended climax, building a remarkable crescendo of action and emotion… amply fulfils the promise of its predecessor, and there is no doubt that the series will become one of the literary monuments of the nascent genre to which it belongs.’ — Interzone on A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET

‘A tale which throbs with lush romanticism.’ — The Times on A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE

‘A really, really splendid read… It’s a story that plays out over cups of tea and glasses of brandy in the drawing rooms of chic London townhouses and glittering stately homes, and here again Warrington shows her writer’s chops, layering in exquisite period detail. Sometimes the effect is playfully satirical… but more often it’s lusciously picturesque; and, with the characters barrelling around in Hispano-Suizas and the like, it’s all attractively reminiscent of the lux, country house horror of Hammer’s The Devil Rides Out. On this evidence, Freda Warrington is like a cross between Anne Rice and Kim Newman – she has the sweep of one, the cleverness of the other. Titan will be reissuing the other titles in the series throughout the year, and they’re not to be missed.’ — Starburst on A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE

‘The third book in Freda Warrington’s brilliantly evocative Blood Wine Sequence, and for me at least, possibly one of the best… I’ve yet to end any review of one of Freda’s books without referring to the impressive style of her writing — it’s smart, compelling, and simply fabulous… So easy to recommend this, and any of the others in the Blood Wine Sequence.’ — British Fantasy Society on THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES

‘In the style of authors such as Anne Rice, Warrington has made a tale that beats convention and shows readers what is more likely to happen to vampires than in many other novels. It is great to see that what were once 90’s novels have been re published for a fresh audience who have already indulged in the Twilight novels. The cover art for this one and the other three is striking and beautiful in a gothic way and tells a lot about the kind of novels they are. This is for those who want to curl up with a good book…’ — Fantasy Book Review on THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD

‘I can’t praise this series enough, the author’s writing is poetic, enduring, and consumes you hook, line, and sinker. A superb ending to a marvellous series, and highly recommended.’ — British Fantasy Society on THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD

Hear THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD!

Posted on Monday, May 29th, 2017

Freda Warrington‘s THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD is available in audio! Published by Audible, it is the fourth novel in the author’s beloved Blood Wine series. Here’s the synopsis…

In 1920s Switzerland, vampire lovers Charlotte and Karl are drawn into turmoil as Godric Reiniger, a local filmmaker and activist with sinister ambitions, begins his rise to power. Meanwhile, fiery dancer Emil achieves his dream to partner the legendary ballerina and vampire Violette Lenoir until his forbidden desire for her becomes an obsession. Rejected, spiralling towards madness, he seeks solace with a mysterious beauty, Fadiya. But she, too, is a vampire, with a hidden agenda. When Karl and Charlotte undertake the perilous journey to rescue Emil, they unearth secrets that threaten the very existence of vampire-kind.

All four novels in the series are published in audio by Audible, and in print by Titan Books (in the UK and US): A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE, A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET, and THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES. Audible has published many of Freda’s extensive backlist of fantasy and horror novels.

Here are just a few of the great reviews the series has received…

‘Dark and sensual and atmospheric, this stunning book continues the story of Karl, Charlotte and their friends, deftly expanding the mythos of vampires and introducing new characters that are sure to become favourites.’ — Aliette de Bodard on THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD

‘Freda Warrington’s vampire novels make for lush, intense dramas involving angst-haunted, fierce undead–lovers, enemies, family members, friends, despots, sometimes religious fanatics or raving lunatics… I remain very impressed by this author and the vampire saga she has crafted.’ — Vampires.com on THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD

‘In the style of authors such as Anne Rice, Warrington has made a tale that beats convention and shows readers what is more likely to happen to vampires than in many other novels. It is great to see that what were once 90’s novels have been re published for a fresh audience who have already indulged in the Twilight novels. The cover art for this one and the other three is striking and beautiful in a gothic way and tells a lot about the kind of novels they are. This is for those who want to curl up with a good book…’ — Fantasy Book Review on THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD

‘I can’t praise this series enough, the author’s writing is poetic, enduring, and consumes you hook, line, and sinker. A superb ending to a marvellous series, and highly recommended.’ — British Fantasy Society on THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD

‘Not merely one of the finest fantasy novels of recent years, but one of the finest ever. Should not be missed.’ — Interzone on A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE

‘… a tale which throbs with lush romanticism.’ — The Times on A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE

‘… a full-blooded gothique that rips more than bodices… Warrington’s vampire dynasty has the grandeur of a cobwebbed cathedral, and her plot is forged in operatic passions. Treating her subjects with theatrical intensity, she creates lush images, awash in colour and shadow, and the ideal gothic mood is preserved; a dark romance to lose yourself in.’ — Time Out on A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET

‘The third book in Freda Warrington’s brilliantly evocative Blood Wine Sequence, and for me at least, possibly one of the best… I’ve yet to end any review of one of Freda’s books without referring to the impressive style of her writing — it’s smart, compelling, and simply fabulous… So easy to recommend this, and any of the others in the Blood Wine Sequence.’ — British Fantasy Society on THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD

Freda Warrington’s A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE Now in MMPB

Posted on Tuesday, June 28th, 2016

The first novel in Freda Warrington‘s Blood Wine series, A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE, is out today in mass market paperback in the US. Published by Titan Books, here’s the synopsis…

1918. A First World War battlefield becomes the cosmic battleground for two vampires, as Karl von Wultendorf struggles to free himself from his domineering maker, Kristian.

1923. Charlotte Neville watches as her father, a Cambridge professor, fills Parkland Hall with guests for her sister Madeleine’s 18th birthday party. Among them is his handsome new research assistant Karl — the man Madeleine has instantly decided will be her husband. Charlotte, shy and retiring, is happy to devote her life to her father and her dull fiance Henry — until she sees Karl…

For Charlotte, it is the beginning of a deadly obsession that sunders her from her sisters, her father and even her dearest friend. As their feverish passion grows, Karl faces the dilemma he fears the most. Only by deserting Charlotte can his passion for her blood be conquered. Only by betraying her can he protect her from the terrifying attentions of Kristian — for Kristian has decided to teach Karl a lesson in power, by devouring Charlotte.

Titan Books has also published the other three novels in the series, in both the UK and US: A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET, THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES and THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD.

Here’s just a selection of the great reviews the series has received…

‘A tale which throbs with lush romanticism.’ — The Times on A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE

‘A really, really splendid read… exquisite period detail. Sometimes the effect is playfully satirical… but more often it’s lusciously picturesque… attractively reminiscent of the lux, country house horror of Hammer’s The Devil Rides Out… Freda Warrington is like a cross between Anne Rice and Kim Newman – she has the sweep of one, the cleverness of the other… not to be missed.’ — Starburst on A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE

‘This delicious tale of love, lust and a passionate affair that stretches beyond the grave, is truly delightful. Step forward Charlotte and Karl, a magnificent pairing, and a timeless couple that deserve a place up there with the very best of genre lovers… There’s so much here to love… To be honest, there’s very little herein that I didn’t love… the writing is gorgeous, by turns haunting, lucid, and all-round beautiful… This first instalment is eminently readable, absorbing, and all-round brilliant, a lovely piece of work, and definitely a must-have whether or not you’re a fan of vampires. It’s a book for fiction-lovers and anyone that claims to appreciate the written word…’ — British Fantasy Society

‘The story neatly and scrupulously takes up the most important loose ends left dangling by the earlier volume, and moves with measured vigour towards a hectically extended climax, building a remarkable crescendo of action and emotion… amply fulfils the promise of its predecessor, and there is no doubt that the series will become one of the literary monuments of the nascent genre to which it belongs.’ — Interzone on A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET

‘The third book in Freda Warrington’s brilliantly evocative Blood Wine Sequence, and for me at least, possibly one of the best… I’ve yet to end any review of one of Freda’s books without referring to the impressive style of her writing — it’s smart, compelling, and simply fabulous… So easy to recommend this, and any of the others in the Blood Wine Sequence.’ — British Fantasy Society on THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES

‘Dark and sensual and atmospheric, this stunning book continues the story of Karl, Charlotte and their friends, deftly expanding the mythos of vampires and introducing new characters that are sure to become favourites.’ — Aliette de Bodard on THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD

Short Fiction Watch: Edward Cox and Freda Warrington among LEGENDS…

Posted on Thursday, July 23rd, 2015

Zeno clients Freda Warrington and Edward Cox have stories included in the upcoming LEGENDS II anthology, honouring the legacy of David Gemmell. Published by Newcon Press on August 3rd, 2015, and edited by Ian Whates, it is a collection of stories featuring ‘Determined warriors, hideous creatures, wicked sorceries, tricksy villains and cunning lovers… as fantasy’s finest imaginations do their best and their worst…‘

Edward Cox’s story is THE LOWEST PLACE, and Freda Warrington has contributed AN OWL IN MOONLIGHT.

Edward Cox is the author of THE RELIC GUILD and upcoming sequel THE CATHEDRAL OF KNOWN THINGS. Both are published by Gollancz in the UK.

Freda Warrington is the author of, most recently, the Blood Wine series, published in the UK and US by Titan Books: A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE, A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET, THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES, THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD.

THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD out now in the US!

Posted on Tuesday, July 21st, 2015

The highly-anticipated fourth novel in Freda Warrington‘s Blood Wine series, THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD, is out today in the US! Published by Titan Books in both the US and UK, here’s the synopsis…

1927: In the turmoil and glamour of 1920s Europe, vampires Karl, Charlotte and Violette face threats to their very existence. Fiery, handsome dancer Emil achieves his dream to partner the legendary ballerina Violette Lenoir – until his forbidden desire for her becomes an obsession. Rejected, spiralling towards madness, he seeks solace with a mysterious beauty, Leyla. But she too is a vampire, with a hidden agenda…

Is Leyla more dangerous than the sinister activist, Goderich Mann? When Karl and Charlotte undertake an exotic, perilous journey to rescue Emil, they unearth secrets that threaten disaster for vampire-kind.

You can read an excerpt from the novel here; and also an exclusive short story set in the same reality, here.

Here are just a sample of the reviews the long-awaited novel has received…

‘Dark and sensual and atmospheric, this stunning book continues the story of Karl, Charlotte and their friends, deftly expanding the mythos of vampires and introducing new characters that are sure to become favourites.’ — Aliette de Bodard

‘Freda Warrington’s vampire novels make for lush, intense dramas involving angst-haunted, fierce undead–lovers, enemies, family members, friends, despots, sometimes religious fanatics or raving lunatics… I remain very impressed by this author and the vampire saga she has crafted.’ — Vampires.com

The other three novels in the series are also published on both sides of the Atlantic by Titan Books: A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE, A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET, THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES. The first three novels are also available as audiobooks through Audible.

Out tomorrow: THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD by Freda Warrington

Posted on Thursday, May 28th, 2015

Freda Warrington‘s long-awaited and highly-anticipated fourth Blood Wine novel, THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD, is published tomorrow in the UK! The novel is published by Titan Books. Here’s the synopsis…

1927: In the turmoil and glamour of 1920s Europe, vampires Karl, Charlotte and Violette face threats to their very existence. Fiery, handsome dancer Emil achieves his dream to partner the legendary ballerina Violette Lenoir – until his forbidden desire for her becomes an obsession. Rejected, spiralling towards madness, he seeks solace with a mysterious beauty, Leyla. But she too is a vampire, with a hidden agenda…

Is Leyla more dangerous than the sinister activist, Goderich Mann? When Karl and Charlotte undertake an exotic, perilous journey to rescue Emil, they unearth secrets that threaten disaster for vampire-kind.

The novel follows A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE, A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET and THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES — all of which are also published by Titan Books. You can read an extract from a rare short story set in the Blood Wine universe, AND THEIR BLOOD WILL BE PRESCIENT TO FIRE, here.

Here’s just a small selection of reviews Warrington’s novels have received so far…

‘A tale which throbs with lush romanticism.’ — The Times on A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE

‘A really, really splendid read… Warrington shows her writer’s chops, layering in exquisite period detail. Sometimes the effect is playfully satirical… but more often it’s lusciously picturesque… Freda Warrington is like a cross between Anne Rice and Kim Newman – she has the sweep of one, the cleverness of the other… not to be missed.’ — Starburst on A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE

‘I would like to reaffirm what I said before about the writing: it’s splendid, and by that I mean the style is genuinely drop-dead beautiful with a compelling elegance and subtly romantic bent — in a word, it’s seductive. In three words: charming, graceful and all-round lush.’ — British Fantasy Society on A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET

‘A full-blooded gothique that rips more than bodices… Warrington’s vampire dynasty has the grandeur of a cobwebbed cathedral, and her plot is forged in operatic passions. Treating her subjects with theatrical intensity, she creates lush images, awash in colour and shadow, and the ideal gothic mood is preserved; a dark romance to lose yourself in.’ — Time Out on A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET

‘A great novel, which is entertainingly frightening, splendidly romantic and erotic, and darkly suspenseful. The true Queen of the vampire novel.’ — Black Tears Magazine on THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES

‘The third book in Freda Warrington’s brilliantly evocative Blood Wine Sequence, and for me at least, possibly one of the best… I’ve yet to end any review of one of Freda’s books without referring to the impressive style of her writing — it’s smart, compelling, and simply fabulous… So easy to recommend this…’ — British Fantasy Society on THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES

Free on iTunes: A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE by Freda Warrington

Posted on Monday, March 23rd, 2015

The first book in Freda Warrington‘s critically-acclaimed Blood Wine series is currently free on iTunes in the UK! Published by Titan Books in the UK (and US), A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE is a classic of the modern vampire genre. Here’s the synopsis…

1918. A First World War battlefield becomes the cosmic battleground for two vampires, as Karl von Wultendorf struggles to free himself from his domineering maker, Kristian.

1923. Charlotte Neville watches as her father, a Cambridge professor, fills Parkland Hall with guests for her sister Madeleine’s 18th birthday party. Among them is his handsome new research assistant Karl – the man Madeleine has instantly decided will be her husband. Charlotte, shy and retiring, is happy to devote her life to her father and her dull fiance Henry – until she sees Karl …

For Charlotte, it is the beginning of a deadly obsession that sunders her from her sisters, her father and even her dearest friend. As their feverish passion grows, Karl faces the dilemma he fears the most. Only by deserting Charlotte can his passion for her blood be conquered. Only by betraying her can he protect her from the terrifying attentions of Kristian – for Kristian has decided to teach Karl a lesson in power, by devouring Charlotte.

The promotion will last until April 1st, 2015. Here’s just a sample of the great reviews A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE has received…

‘A really, really splendid read… not to be missed.’ — Starburst

‘Not merely one of the finest fantasy novels of recent years, but one of the finest ever. Should not be missed.’ — Interzone

‘… this delicious tale of love, lust and a passionate affair that stretches beyond the grave, is truly delightful… There’s so much here to love… the writing is gorgeous, by turns haunting, lucid, and all-round beautiful… This first instalment is eminently readable, absorbing, and all-round brilliant, a lovely piece of work, and definitely a must-have whether or not you’re a fan of vampires. It’s a book for fiction-lovers and anyone that claims to appreciate the written word, I think. And I for one am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.’ — British Fantasy Society

‘A tale which throbs with lush romanticism.’ — The Times

The fourth novel in the series, THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD, is due to be published by Titan Books on May 29th, 2015 in the UK and US.

Cover Reveal: Freda Warrington’s THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD

Posted on Thursday, October 30th, 2014

We can now share with you the cover for the fourth novel in Freda Warrington‘s critically-acclaimed Blood Wine series, THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD. Due to be published by Titan Books, it follows the reissued editions of the first three novels in the series.

The novel is due to be published in May 2015. Here’s an early synopsis…

In the turmoil and glamour of 1920s Europe, vampires Karl, Charlotte and Violette face threats to their very existence. Fiery, handsome dancer Emil achieves his dream to partner the legendary ballerina Violette Lenoir until his forbidden desire for her becomes an obsession. Rejected, spiralling towards madness, he seeks solace with a mysterious beauty, a vampire with a hidden agenda.

The Blood Wine series also includes A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE, A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET and THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES. All three are published in the UK and US by Titan Books.

Here’s just a small selection of the praise the series has received thus far…

‘A tale which throbs with lush romanticism.’ — The Times on A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE

‘… a really, really splendid read… It’s a story that plays out over cups of tea and glasses of brandy in the drawing rooms of chic London townhouses and glittering stately homes, and here again Warrington shows her writer’s chops, layering in exquisite period detail. Sometimes the effect is playfully satirical… lusciously picturesque… like a cross between Anne Rice and Kim Newman… not to be missed.’ — Starburst on A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE

‘The story neatly and scrupulously takes up the most important loose ends left dangling by the earlier volume, and moves with measured vigour towards a hectically extended climax, building a remarkable crescendo of action and emotion… amply fulfils the promise of its predecessor, and there is no doubt that the series will become one of the literary monuments of the nascent genre to which it belongs.’ — Interzone on A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET

‘A gorgeous grave-throbber.’ — Time Out on THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES

Freda Warrington’s THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES Out Now in the US!

Posted on Tuesday, October 14th, 2014

We’re delighted to announce that the wait is over! Readers in the US can now pick up the third novel in Freda Warrington‘s critically-acclaimed Blood Wine series, THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES! The series is published by Titan Books. Here’s the synopsis…

The ballerina Violette Lenoir has fallen victim to the bite of the vampire Charlotte. Her fire and energy have fuelled a terrifying change and a dreadful realisation; that Violette has become Lilith, the demon mother of all vampires. Haunted both by what she has done and by Violette’s dark sensuality, Charlotte and her immortal lover Karl are drawn towards the dancer and the terrible destiny that has fallen on her shoulders. But other, far more dangerous shadows are gathering around Violette. To the vampire Sebastian and to the dark heirs of Kristian, she threatens to wreak havoc with their plans to bring all of mankind under their dark wings. Innocently embroiled in the endgame, courtesan extraordinaire Robyn Stafford finally meets her match as she is torn between the two ultimate lovers: Sebastian, and Violette…

The fourth, never-before-released fourth novel in the series, THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD, is due out in the UK in May 2015 – it will follow shortly afterwards in the US. Check back soon for an official cover reveal. The first three novels – A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE and A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET – are also available in audio, too, from Audible.

Freda Warrington’s THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES Out Now in the UK!

Posted on Thursday, May 8th, 2014

As part of their ongoing re-issue program, Titan Books have just published the third of Freda Warrington‘s Blood Wine novels, THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES. Previously published in 1996, but long out-of-print, we’re delighted readers will be able to (re-)discover this series anew!

THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES follows A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE and A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET – the latter of which is released this month in the US, too.

Here’s the synopsis…

The ballerina Violette Lenoir has fallen victim to the bite of the vampire Charlotte. Her fire and energy have fuelled a terrifying change and a dreadful realisation; that Violette has become Lilith, the demon mother of all vampires. Haunted by Violette’s dark sensuality, Charlotte and her immortal lover Karl are drawn towards the dancer and the terrible destiny that has fallen on her shoulders.

THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES will be published in the US in October 2014. Also in October, Titan are due to publish in the UK a new, never-before-published fourth novel in the series: THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD.

Here’s some recent praise for the series…

‘… a really, really splendid read… Warrington shows her writer’s chops, layering in exquisite period detail. Sometimes the effect is playfully satirical… but more often it’s lusciously picturesque… Freda Warrington is like a cross between Anne Rice and Kim Newman – she has the sweep of one, the cleverness of the other… they’re not to be missed.’ — Starburst on A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE

‘… a tale of lust and passion that survives beyond the grave… More an erotic Wuthering Heights than Interview with a Vampire… a beautifully written tale… It is very impressive… if you like your romance novels with a bit of bite you will love this book.’ — Follow the Nerd on A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET

‘A gorgeous grave-throbber.’ — Time Out on THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES

‘A great novel, which is entertainingly frightening, splendidly romantic and erotic, and darkly suspenseful. The true Queen of the vampire novel.’ — Black Tears Magazine on THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES

If you’d like to learn more about this third Blood Wine novel, be sure to check out this interview Freda did with Female First.

And, one other piece of Freda-related news: the cover for GRAIL OF THE SUMMER STARS, the third novel in the Aetherial Tales series, has been nominated in the Annual Cover Contest, in the Avant Garde category. The novel is published in the US by Tor Books.

Happy (US) Release day – Freda Warrington’s A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE

Posted on Tuesday, October 8th, 2013

The wait is over! Freda Warrington‘s A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE is now available in the United States. The first instalment of her Blood Wine series, the novel has been re-issued by Titan Books.

Here’s the synopsis…

1918. A First World War battlefield becomes the cosmic battleground for two vampires, as Karl von Wultendorf struggles to free himself from his domineering maker, Kristian.

1923. Charlotte Neville watches as her father, a Cambridge professor, fills Parkland Hall with guests for her sister Madeleine’s 18th birthday party. Among them is his handsome new research assistant Karl – the man Madeleine has instantly decided will be her husband. Charlotte, shy and retiring, is happy to devote her life to her father and her dull fiance Henry – until she sees Karl…

For Charlotte, it is the beginning of a deadly obsession that sunders her from her sisters, her father and even her dearest friend. As their feverish passion grows, Karl faces the dilemma he fears the most. Only by deserting Charlotte can his passion for her blood be conquered. Only by betraying her can he protect her from the terrifying attentions of Kristian – for Kristian has decided to teach Karl a lesson in power, by devouring Charlotte.

Titan Books will be re-releasing the first three novels in the series over the course of 2013-14: A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET and THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES. Titan is also due to publish a brand new, fourth book – THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD – in October 2014.

Cover Reveal: Freda Warrington’s THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES

Posted on Monday, September 23rd, 2013

Today, we unveil the eye-catching, new cover for Freda Warrington‘s THE DARK BLOOD OF POPPIES. The novel is the third in the author’s Blood Wine series, which are being re-issued by Titan Books in 2013-14.

Here’s the novel’s synopsis…

The ballerina Violette Lenoir has fallen victim to the bite of the vampire Charlotte. Her fire and energy have fuelled a terrifying change and a dreadful realisation; that Violette has become Lilith, the demon mother of all vampires.

Haunted both by what she has done and by Violette’s dark sensuality, Charlotte and her immortal lover Karl are drawn towards the dancer and the terrible destiny that has fallen on her shoulders.

But other, far more dangerous shadows are gathering around Violette. To the vampire Sebastian and to the dark heirs of Kristian, she threatens to wreak havoc with their plans to bring all of mankind under their dark wings.

Innocently embroiled in the endgame, courtesan extraordinaire Robyn Stafford finally meets her match as she is torn between the two ultimate lovers: Sebastian, and Violette …

As we have mentioned elsewhere on the website, Titan Books are also due to publish a brand new, never-before-published fourth novel in the series, THE DARK ARTS OF BLOOD, in October 2014. A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE is available now, and A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET is due to hit shelves in October 2013.

Cover Reveal: Freda Warrington’s A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET…

Posted on Thursday, April 25th, 2013

We are delighted to share with you the gorgeous new cover for Freda Warrington‘s A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET…

The novel is the second in Freda’s brilliant, atmospheric Blood Wine series, which is being re-issued by Titan Books. A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET is due to be published on October 25th 2013 in the UK. Titan Books will also be publishing the series in the United States, starting in October 2013 with A TASTE OF BLOOD WINE, with A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET due to follow in April 2014.

Here’s the synopsis of A DANCE IN BLOOD VELVET …

For the love of her vampire suitor, Karl, Charlotte has forsaken her human life. Now her only contact with people is when she hunts them down to feed. Her thirst for blood repulses her but its fulfilment brings ecstasy.

The one light in the shadows is the passion that burns between her and Karl. A love that it seems will last for eternity – until Karl’s former lover, the seductively beautiful Katerina, is rescued from the Crystal Ring. For nearly fifty years she has lain, as dead, in the icy depths of the Weisskalt. Now she wants to reclaim her life… and Karl.

In despair, Charlotte turns to the prima ballerina Violette Lenoir, an ice maiden who only thaws when she dances. Charlotte is fascinated as she has been by no other human, longing to bring joy to the dancer. But her obsession opens the floodgates to a far darker threat than the vampires could ever have imagined. For Violette is more than human and if she succumbs to the vampire’s kiss it could unleash a new terror…

And you can see plenty more Zeno book covers over at our Pinterest Zeno Cover Art Gallery.