Fat Vampire

Very entertaining, especially for a free download. Nice to see a twist in the genre. Fat vampires don't get super strength, better hope that you're a smart fat vampire! I'm going to get the full series.

I love the idea that when you are turned to a vampire, you are stuck with whatever body you have. The biology behind this makes so much sense, and it's great to see an explanation behind vampire physiology. I haven't seen too much of that (some, but nothing as detailed as this.) The story kept me turning the pages, and I'll definitely keep reading this series.

This is the first story book I've read in a decade. I was always moreso into reading for educational purposes, yet this book took me away into a different world. I was glued since page 1 and now I'm thirsting like Reginold. Going to buy the whole shebang.

Absolutely loved this book! It flowed well, easily read, and quick (which is helpful to a full time student lol)! I remember listening to the podcast when the concept began, and loved to see it represented so well and creatively in print. I've told just about everyone I know about this book, definitely trying to get the word out! Can't wait for Fat Vampire 2!

While you have to appreciate anyone who could create a obese vampire protagonist with insecurity issues instead of the runway gorgeous vampires who have incredible sex while sparkling, the plotting was not cohesive or tightly crafted. It seemed that the book was written to showcase the tribulations of a fat vampire without any real change in Reginald's emotional intelligence. No character changes at all in this book.

I would be so forward as to say that this was the author's successful attempt at making money by doing exactly the opposite of the current trend, without putting a huge amount of time into characterization or plotting.

The twist at the end rests solely on a fact that the author pulls out of thin air, making things extra convenient for our heroes to get the desired results.

This money making scheme clearly worked because there are six books of fat vampire stories and they all have lots of 5 star gushing reviews.

Bottom Line: If you want a well written story with three dimensional characters and tight plotting - go elsewhere. If you have some time to waste and want to wallow with a fat vampire, go ahead, this book is for you.

I wasn't sure about this title at first but then BANG! Went the dynamite! Johnny B. Truant has a writing style that is both smooth and intelligent, articulating the language well without having to skip the big words. Fat Vampire is a perfect example of this. I have to admit that after reading another title co-written with another author, I wasn't expecting a whole lot from Mr. Truant's solo project. As a matter of fact, I almost walked away and moved on. I'm so glad i didn't, Fat Vampire is reminiscent of Cirque Du Freak by Darren Shan in the most complimentary of ways. An outsider main character meets an ancient vampire, becomes one himself, and is pulled headlong into the intrigue and violence that is vampire politics. Throw in a potential love interest, and what's not to love? As a matter of fact, I loved it enough to buy the next in the series. I am seriously looking forward to reading more Fat Vampire, and I think I may even give another of the collaborative titles a shot. Nice work, Mr. Truant!

I honestly have to say that the thing I most enjoyed was the fact that the formatting, spelling and grammar weren't so bad that I wanted to gauge my eyes out. The fact that the story was in-and-of itself a pleasure to read was even better. The price was even better. If there were a reverse metaphor to the three-strikes-you're-out metaphor available, that's one I would use.

I can't wait to read Reginald's next adventures!

This book was recommended to me as a comedy with a fun twist on a vampire story. I found it good enough to keep my interest, to look over the various typos, and to keep hoping that our main character would learn to skillfully use his new found abilities, but I was not amused by the author's attempt at humor at the character's and the author's friend's expense. I dislike people bullying others. The author explained why he came to write this twist on a vampire story, so I feel like I understood his intention of the story, but I felt let down at the end of this very short book. There were a few nice scenes in this book, and he gave himself many opportunities to have created something wonderful. I feel that the author let us down, and it is unfortunate that I do not feel inclined to force myself to read more of his writings.

No offense to the author but I thought this book was pretty much crap. I didn't find it funny, which the title seems to suggest and I didn't like the ...well, I didn't like anything about it. If you like this author's style, you would probably enjoy it. I loved the title and expect something different. I can't recommend it.

A fresh perspective on classic vampire society. The characters are well done, the story is great, and the ending came out of nowhere.

It is a bit short for my liking. Yet, I am snagging the sequel, so it's got me hooked.

A delightful change to the ever growing yet never changing world of vampires. Full of laughs and a few surprises. Fat vampire was a pleasant read and a nice change of pace for all of the Twilight deadheads.

I originally bought this book while it was free, and I didn't read it till much later. Worth a read. It was fast-paced -- perhaps a bit too much so for my taste -- but funny and you can relate to Reginald.

I got this book about a year ago when it was free through the store. I read it all in one sitting as the concept of how a "fat vampire" survives goes much further beyond just being fat or a vampire. This really is a remarkable piece of work; it is easy to read, very well put together, and whoa, entertaining. The author does a fantastic job of developing the characters, but not burdening the reader with every little detail of their lives. Its not a difficult read and there are quite a few humorous moments if you like sarcastic or dry humor. I don't want to spoil the plot, but the basic elements of this story is a guy who is fat gets turned into a vampire by his coworker and has to learn how to deal with that, on top of not having a lot of connections with others due to his weight even though he's rather intelligent and witty.

I just recently reread this and going to order the sequels now. Normally I wouldn't, as I see the whole free books thing on the store is usually just a shill for you to "continue" reading the story. Luckily, this book could stand on its own and there's no cliffhanger at this end. But as someone who enjoyed it, I still want to know more.

This was a fun, quick read. The slight changes to the typical vampire lore made for a nice change from the common vampire predictably, and how could one not fall in love with Reginald. Anyone who enjoys reading about vampires will enjoy this book.

A delightful change to the ever growing yet never changing world of vampires. Full of laughs and a few surprises. Fat vampire was a pleasant read and a nice change of pace for all of the Twilight deadheads.

I originally bought this book while it was free, and I didn't read it till much later. Worth a read. It was fast-paced -- perhaps a bit too much so for my taste -- but funny and you can relate to Reginald.

I got this book about a year ago when it was free through the store. I read it all in one sitting as the concept of how a "fat vampire" survives goes much further beyond just being fat or a vampire. This really is a remarkable piece of work; it is easy to read, very well put together, and whoa, entertaining. The author does a fantastic job of developing the characters, but not burdening the reader with every little detail of their lives. Its not a difficult read and there are quite a few humorous moments if you like sarcastic or dry humor. I don't want to spoil the plot, but the basic elements of this story is a guy who is fat gets turned into a vampire by his coworker and has to learn how to deal with that, on top of not having a lot of connections with others due to his weight even though he's rather intelligent and witty.

I just recently reread this and going to order the sequels now. Normally I wouldn't, as I see the whole free books thing on the store is usually just a shill for you to "continue" reading the story. Luckily, this book could stand on its own and there's no cliffhanger at this end. But as someone who enjoyed it, I still want to know more.

This was a fun, quick read. The slight changes to the typical vampire lore made for a nice change from the common vampire predictably, and how could one not fall in love with Reginald. Anyone who enjoys reading about vampires will enjoy this book.

This was an awesome read. From the beginning it was very difficult to put down. The writer did an awesome job of entertaining and painting the story for you. I am looking forward to reading the sequel!

I couldn't stop laughing... What a great way to be entertained! The premise of this read is that "there are no fat vampires"? Now I see why. Just hilarious and yes mildly absurd! But, you'll get the point.

Really enjoyed this overall, well told story with very likable characters. First vampire story that really felt different to me in a while. Found the characters to be believable and the premise interesting. My only critique for it was that I felt Maurice was a little flat or just not as well written as the other characters and this was a minor thing at best. Read this so fast I was surprised when it was over! Great ending too. :) Looking forward to when I can get the next one!

This is an amusing story which makes fun of all the teenage vampire stereotypes of gorgeous men and women who sparkle. We have a fat vampire. This enraged all the beautiful vamps and they want him dead. They forget that he has a lot of other vampire traits including a high level of intelligence. The others are in deep trouble. I immediately bought the next story.

I couldn't stop laughing... What a great way to be entertained! The premise of this read is that "there are no fat vampires"? Now I see why. Just hilarious and yes mildly absurd! But, you'll get the point.

Really enjoyed this overall, well told story with very likable characters. First vampire story that really felt different to me in a while. Found the characters to be believable and the premise interesting. My only critique for it was that I felt Maurice was a little flat or just not as well written as the other characters and this was a minor thing at best. Read this so fast I was surprised when it was over! Great ending too. :) Looking forward to when I can get the next one!

This is an amusing story which makes fun of all the teenage vampire stereotypes of gorgeous men and women who sparkle. We have a fat vampire. This enraged all the beautiful vamps and they want him dead. They forget that he has a lot of other vampire traits including a high level of intelligence. The others are in deep trouble. I immediately bought the next story.

I've read all of these books and it's awesome for two reasons 1) it's a far vampire, and Johnny thinks of about every problem you could imagine with being both a vampire and fat. Hilarious. 2) the writing and story telling morphs as the series goes along. Book 1 is good, but it just gets better and better as you go along. Well done.

I bought this book because the store review said that fans of the Fred The Vampire Accountant series by Drew Hayes would enjoy it. They were wrong. The attempts at humor generally failed and the main character didn't become likeable until around chapter 20. It is a book I will probably only read once, and I won't be buying any of the sequels.

This was really an out of the ordinary vampire read. You feel sorry for the guy but then you feel great for him when he finds his strength, his strength through his soul and not at being a vampire. The story had a lot of comical moments that had me going. If you expect a serious read, this is not the book for you. If you expect to laugh yourself silly, this is the book for you. This book wraps itself pretty good. It does, however, leave you wanting to read the next one.

Took awhile for this story to take off, but even then it was just okay. Very repetitive and too much taken from other vampire novels. Glamouring, wood stakes, sunlight, vampire council; like we haven't heard that. The original spin was suppose to be fail to catch human cause I'm a fat vampire, but those scenarios just weren't funny enough to validate

In fat vampire we learn that no matter what you look like or how awful you feel about yourself there is a great quality hiding within yourself that you just need to the motivation to find. This book is funny and light hearted making it a fast lite read. The story is good but because it is kind of childish I rated it lower.

When I got this book I did get it for free, and now I can see why. It is not well written and the story line is actually very dull. I don't mind reading books that are dull but at least don't keep the same boring stuff all the time. It was realistic in anyway and I know that vamps aren't anyway but this one just was very childish. Sorry but not a favorite and I don't really recommend it unless you have a few hours that you don't care to waste.

Similar thread to Bill the Vampire series- vampire comedy, which, as the series progresses, becomes less humourous and more serious, as he becomes embroiled in a world ending prophesy/scheme.

This first book is excellent. I was 65% through it and it was enough to make me download the rest of the series (luckily I have kindle unlimited). I found I enjoyed this first one immensely, but slowly as the series progressed, it was less and less enjoyable. The original circumstances in the first book become lost, and it grows to become , to me, a slightly above average end of the world storyline.

Fat Vampire Book 1 -> 5 stars.
Fat Vampire 6 book series-> 3.5 stars.

People who read a lot might also be aware of the Bill the Vampire series. It is also similar to this series- loser male becomes vampire, gains a special power, becomes embroiled is a huge plot, loses some of it's humour as they encounter serious action and consequences. But to me, the Bill the Vampire series is a bit better.

This is the story of an obese vampire who spends his new life feeling sorry for himself. He is the classical nerd who lets himself be bullied by his co-workers and is turned as a good deed by another vampire. The other vampire should have just let him die.

Reginald Baskin has been overweight and made fun of his whole life and to make matters worse he works in the fitness industry with mostly perfect co-workers that make fun of him. When Reginald tries to befriend one of the only other outcasts at work he gets a bit more than he bargained for. Maurice is actually a vampire and when Reginald’s life is at stake Maurice turns him to save him. Unfortunately for Reginald that means he will forever be 350 pounds and out of shape.

Most of the vampire portions of this book follow the general ideas of vampires… sun will burn them, killed by a stake to the heart, feed on blood etc. The idea however of an out of shape vampire was a new concept and did lead to a few funny parts although not quite as many as I had hoped. Also, it touched on the idea of why vampires are so in shape, they train as humans before being turned thought that was a good add.

Liked Reginald overall and enjoyed the relationship development with Nikki and Claire. Also, the ending was a bit of a surprise there, wasn’t expecting Reginald’s plan and had a bit of an eeww gross moment which was a great add to the horror portion of the book.

Overall, quick read with a few laughs and a bit of horror mixed in.

I really enjoyed this series. Its the 'loser makes good' done so well and in such a different way that one always doubts that he will emerge from whichever crisis he is in. Also, the ways in which 'Fat Vampire' can in fact be heroic, are truly astounding and make the entire series well worth while reading. On top of that, the story itself is good, with many twists and turns that kept me engrossed the entire time.
Notwithstanding a caveat I want to share in general that often Truant heroes/characters have elements that are deeply annoying to me:- they are average people often thrown into the deep end, and they don't always cope so well. I keep wondering that if I, as an average and flawed person was thrown into such a situation, would I also collapse and fail like the Trump characters? and so, sometimes, when reading their books (I have read many of their books) instead of feeling uplifted as to 'how wonderful the human spirit is', and, 'anything is possible' I sometimes emerge feeling depressed and inadequate. so... some of their series I did not finish. However. Having said that, and having, as it were, got it all off my chest, I have to say that Fat Vampire was one of the BEST series I have read from the Truant stable and I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND it. BUY NOW is my recommendation.

This book was entertaining, funny, and it was also sort of sad in a way. One of the things that I enjoyed about this book is that many of the things I found myself scoffing about when I read books with vampires was surprisingly addressed in this book. I am one of those weird ones that skeptically wondered if the hot guy or hot girl would still be with the main character if they didn't automatically turn to "smoking hot" when they turn into a vampire. I've also began to view turning into a vampire as an equivalent to a literary version of extreme makeover for the H/h. What happened to Reginald, where he became just a slightly better version of himself (more endurance but is still slow compared to others who were physically fit), make way more sense to me.

It's definitely not a typical vampire story, and thank God for that! If you're wanting something different, or something funny and entertaining to read, do yourself a favor and pick this book up!

I've read this book a while ago, and had told everyone I knew to get a copy and they all loved it. Thanks for the entertaining read author, and I can't believe it was free!

I gave this series 4 stars, but I wish that I had the option to give it 4.5. The synopsis here on the store is detailed enough to make it unnecessary to summarize the story, so I can just stick to my response to it. The only real problem was that it seemed to start off a little slowly, and it took awhile to really get into the story. But to the extent that the slow beginning is a valid criticism, I can see why Truant might have thought it was needed to properly set up the story. Maybe he was right, and to be fair, a slow start that lasts only about a third of the way through the first book in a six-book series is not that big a deal. And once you get past that first bit - hang on, because the story moves quickly, with a nice balance of action, narrative, and dialogue. Truant is a talented writer who does a great job of keeping the story moving, but even in the midst of the action, he skillfully uses both dialogue and internal monologue to introduce, develop, fine-tune, and bring to life all of the major characters; he even manages to flesh out the secondary figures in the story, and the story never bogs down with interminable speeches, or insufferably chatty groups of allied characters. One of the most irritating things a writer can do in an action story or action sequence is to have two or more characters sit (or stand) around talking instead of taking care of business; Truant never commits that sin.

One of the best things about the books is that the story line and major characters are nothing like any vampire yarn I have ever read - start to finish, the books are by turns offbeat, funny, sad, infuriating, suspenseful etc., etc. - in other words, they have all the elements you hope to find in a story like this. It is easy to keep turning the pages, and easy to stay up way too late, reluctant to stop reading for the night and get some sleep. There is even an unlikely - but very entertaining - love story, that includes some incredibly vigorous and athletic - but non-explicit, and non-raunchy - sexual romps. Probably not suitable for a 10-year-old, but there's nothing hardcore, and I wouldn't give the books anything worse than a PG rating. There is some graphic violence, but nothing horrible, and it is very germane to the plot - nothing gratuitous, and no indication that Truant was going for the gross-out.

All in all, a fun, compelling (in the non-vampiric sense, of course!)) set of books by an author who has some first-rate storytelling skills. My recommendation is to get the entire set and prepare for at least a few days of great entertainment.

What a silly premise. But it does have a logic and stays consistent to that logic. You see, being turned to a vampire conveys all sorts of physical and sometimes mental gifts but not usually both. The physical gifts simply enhance what you already were. If you weighed 350 lbs. and were in miserable shape, well, you're kinda screwed. You now have eternity to be the fat guy that everyone abuses. On the positive side, it seems that when your physical enhancements are all that great that there is a corresponding mental enhancement... So Reginald, our hero, ends up quite a bit more talented than before he was turned. This is a cute story about misfit vampires and how they turn things to their advantage. Looking forward to the next book in the series.

Reginald is fat, bored and being bullied at work. When he finally makes friends with the goth kid on night shift Maurice, hope springs. Until vampires attack Reginald and Maurice breaks the rules by turning him. Now Reginald has to deal with being a slow and fat vampire instead.

So when Maurice is approached on a bowling night out with Reginald by a group of vampires he knows, Reginald becomes the meal and Maurice has to turn him to stop him from dying. Reginald's hopes of being a cool vampire fade instantly when he realises that he will be forever fat and unfit, with little in the way of physical powers. It becomes a huge problem when he tries to hunt his food. Outrun by female joggers and cane wielding pensioners("What's wrong with you, you sicko?"), Reginald then fails miserably when hunting a teenage boy.

"I own the night!"
"Dude, you don't own s***. You should own a treadmill."

Having a ten year old True Blood fan called Claire feel sorry for him and Todd being there for part of the night shift is the final straw. Reginald feels as if he is the worst vampire ever, and their ruling body agrees with him, summoning him and Maurice to a 'meeting' which is really a trial. Should Reginald fail to impress, he will be given to sunlight, along with everyone he knows and cares about being killed, putting Claire and new friend Nikki in danger too. Can Reginald win over his doubters?

I really enjoyed this book and it was great to see an overweight character as the hero for a change. Reginald's life is pretty dull and being picked on my the perfect looking idiots that work with him at the fitness company is something that many people can relate to. The snide comments, the practical jokes, the sniggers. He's a likeable guy and I just wanted to see him get his own back on Todd and his cronies.

The side characters in this book were really good. Maurice dresses like a goth so he can target goth kids as easy meals, and only bites men or he'd feel as if he was cheating on his wife. Claire is a lonely child with only the dvd player for company while her mother lies in bed drunk when not working. Nikki is a wannabe vampire who tries to show Reginald that he is worth saving. This book has real emotional depth dealing with the tough parts of our characters lives, as well as plenty of great humour. The story flows nicely and I liked the whole plot, making me want to read the rest of the series.

Favourite scenes? Loved the attempts at feeding off people at the river. I enjoyed the action at the trial and I especially loved the ending!

Recommended to vampire fans, fans of underdog stories and those who want a funny paranormal read.

I stumbled across this book when I released my own book Language in the Blood and wanted to see what else there was out there in funny vampire books. I liked the idea that not all vampires are slender and beautiful. This is the first in a series currently counting six books.
The story follows Reginald Baskin, an overweight young man who after suffering at the hands of bullies in high school now works at a fitness company. He finds that things are much the same since high school and he is still being tormented by the physically fit.
Things change when Maurice, a young shy Goth starts work. It is he who 'saves' Reginald after he is devoured by vampires. Maurice turns him into a vampire like himself.
Even though Reginald never felt so good, his physical shape hasn't changed. He might feel he is running at great speeds, but most prey could outrun him. I enjoyed the way the author described Reginald’s slow acceptance of his new live and the humorous consequences of being a overweight vampire with low self esteem, but the author is also sticking very closely to most vampire myths. I'm looking forwards to reading more in the series and hope the author starts pushing the boundaries of vampire myths a bit more.

In fact, I wanted more so much I turned around and bought the 4 Pack of the story as soon as I finished Fat Vampire. That's my biggest complaint about this story. I feel should have been warned up front that this was book 1 and that I'd need the next book to get more of the story. Then again, had I known that, I might not have "purchased" the book when it was being offered for free. I hope the next three stories live up to the standard set by the first.

But I'll get to that later, after I've read them. Let's review Fat Vampire first.

If you've read any of my other reviews, you know I like to start with the 1 and 2 star reviews first when deciding if I want to read a book. I find them to be more "real" than the 4 and 5 star reviews. Most of those felt that Reggie was unlikeable and unbelievable. Oddly, while they could buy into the premise of a vampire, they couldn't buy into the idea that he'd be 350 pounds. In my opinion, this is what makes Reggie likeable. He's not perfect. His skin doesn't glitter like diamonds. He doesn't have tons of money to buy whatever he wants. He's socially awkward, overweight, and physically inept. I like him.

My only other complaint is the behavior of Reggie's co-workers and moreso the company that allows it. It would appear based upon the description that this is a large enough employer to have an HR department, and as such, would have anti-bullying policies. I have yet to work for a company, large or small, that would tolerate such antics. It does make me wonder if vampirism would qualify as needing accomodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The book is a quick read. The editing seemed to be well done. Nothing jumped out at me. I didn't see the end coming, which I loved. I'm so seldom surprised. I'm very much looking forward to diving into the next book, which sadly I can't do until I read the book for my book club meeting.

I read this book and the rest of the series as an ebook on IOS. (Disclosure: this title was free online, I bought the full box set when I had finished the first book) From the description, this was not a genre that I would normally read (although I am into some SciFi) , but I was persuaded by the authors to try it. I thought it was a great read! the plot was well-developed and the story was well-written, if at times a bit far-fetched. These guys (the authors) have produced some very interesting stuff before. I don't know how they get so many books written, but they clearly have a system and it works. Like good scifi stories, it takes a basically normal world and adds several unusual twists. These twists are continuously developed during the 6 books in the series. there is great continuity and a good mesh with what we, as readers, 'know' or have assumed about the vampire world. I imagine the writers have done a lot of research but it's not presented like the military technobabble in, say a Tom Clancy franchise novel.
I'm not sure the books would stand alone, apart from the first one, so I would recommend reading them as a whole. You really should check out this series, and if it still doesn't appeal, there is a shed load of other content from these craftsmen authors and you are sure to find something you like.

"Fat Vampire" is a quick read, but has excellent potential as a series. It's highly entertaining, fun and funny. Truant is really building a world here, with his own interesting take on vampire lore. The characters are well-written and true to life (well, as much as they can be), the story is solid, the plot has a great pace, and it kept me turning pages throughout.

Also, as an additional note: I'm highly sensitive, but there wasn't anything to even make me mildly uncomfortable here, so I can wholeheartedly recommend it - and I do.

My only complaint is how short it is - the ending felt a bit abrupt. But I'm hoping for a sequel (or several!).

I say "surprisingly" on purpose, because I was expecting a fun-and-forgettable comedy novella about a fat vampire.
But I got much more :

The characters are awesome, the writing is hilarious and the pacing's pretty swell.
And most importantly, it makes you somehow care about the character - the emotional bridge
between me and the story strengthened pretty quickly, something that doesn't happen in normal "escapism", at least not to me.

What I liked about it :

Language.
Accessible, yet ripe with wonderful flow and tongue-in-cheek wordplay.

Humor. Lots of fat-related jokes, but not condescending. You laugh with Reginald, rather than laughing just about him.
characters. You can't help but sympathize with Reginald who makes the best out of his
"limited" Vampire abilities.

I also like how the author tackles the over-popularity of Vampirism in the modern world. Instead of boring your with
details you are well aware off (the moment a character realizes Vampires exist, the moment you turn etc.), he makes
fun of them in an original way.

It's of course a novella, so you burn through the story rather quickly.
I wish he'd turn this into full-sized normal, with a clear ending in sight.
But we'll see what happens in the future ;)

This book came to me highly recommended from several other authors, so I finally found time to check it out - and it was well worth my time. My first thought on finishing it was to buy the entire series. Yes, that good.

It started off slow and Reginald seemed too wishy-washy and pathetic to win any sympathy from me. A man who sets himself up as such a hopeless victim without doing anything about it just doesn't gel with me.

Fortunately, the story gets better. He finds some guts under all the fat. There's also a girl...no, not under the fat. Another person who makes Reginald's vampire life more interesting. Add the Vampire Council and...ah, sorry, I don't do spoilers.

The ending felt a little rushed - I admit I would have preferred the detail to be fleshed out a little more there. Or I could have just read it too fast, eager to read more of Reginald's story...

Of course, it's only the first of a series, but a brilliant introduction that concludes well, yet leaves me yearning for more. More that I'll get, as soon as I buy and read the rest...

I read all six of the books. They are a fun, fast, read. I laughed out loud, woke up wondering what would happen next, and in general, came to care for the main characters. The world building and good vs evil were well done. Nice, slightly different spin on the usual super-sexed vampire with gore theme. Hope to read more by this author. Thanks, Johnny B. Truant for finishing the series too. Can't stand it when they go forever.

The Fat Vampire series will go down in (my) history as the first ebook series that I paid actual money to read the entire thing.

At the time I picked up the first book (in a promotion, I believe), I was reading a lot of vampire fiction, and truthfully was becoming a bit jaded with the same old, same old. Fat Vampire popped up in my recommended reads one day, and woah, did that algorithm do it's job that well on that day- it was EXACTLY what I was looking for.
I devoured that first book, as quickly as I imagine Reginald Baskin (the eponymous vampire) would devour a great, juicy burger, side order of mega fries and super sized milkshake- that is, very quickly, with lots of sauce smeared up his face, and not caring what he looked like, ordering a second helping.
I immediately ordered the other books in the series, craving more of the delicious humour, scrumptious story, and frankly, palette refreshing prose of the author.

Once I'd finished, I read them to my husband, who (being a 'larger' gentleman) saw something of himself in the story, a thing which does not happen very often, as I'm sure you'll have noticed- "A fat protagonist who is actually the hero?" you might say. And to that I answer, "Yes. Resoundingly, yes."

I want everyone on the planet to read this story.

This is the "wallflower" version of a vampire story - highly relatable to anyone who has felt like a social outcast (and isn't that just about everyone?). I wasn't sure I was going to like this story at first because it sounded as if it would make fun of the main character for being a fat vampire, but in reality the story is compassionately told and is a great social commentary on how we treat people who don't look or act like everyone else.

But don't worry that it's too serious - there are a lot of funny moments and it is a fast-paced read.

As a vampire/urban fiction lover, I did like the story. But I think even if vampires aren't your thing you'll like the story of a wallflower coming into bloom when he realizes his own unique gifts.

If Eric Northman ever gets staked, Reginald Baskin will be my new favorite vampire.

So a fun book, what does it feel like to be pitiful,? Well this book shows us.

The beautiful girl who falls for the music playing far vampire, and the 10 year old girl whom walks home by herself at night were a bit hard to believe, in, though his chasing the little girl was hilarious.

Loved this first book in the the six book series. Lots of laugh out loud moments. I really like the characters. Reginald's inner thoughts were a hoot. Maurice delivers some of the best one liners. I mean a 2000 year old vampire that looks like a 19 year old goth because "goths jump at the chance to be fed on." His friendship and encouragement with Reginald impressed me. Nikki and Claire are impressive side characters. I would recommend buying the box set of all six books for the best price.
There is a small amount of swearing for those of you who are sensitive about it.
All read

Everything in the book was great. It just felt rushed. Perhaps I'm just more accustomed to more exposition in books, but it seemed like there were a number of places that a bit more could have been put in, which would have added quality to the experience. All that said, it's still a 5 star book, I wanted to buy the audible, but it's too short to pay that much for.

I found a couple bits in the book to be funny but I was skeptical of the fact that the main character is always harping about being an outcast and yet has incredible self-insight and can predict how other people will act. Anyone who has that kind of insight into other people is going to be popular no matter what their weight. Most of the book is the main characters overly-sophisticated thoughts about his situation. Also, I just don't find fat men rolling around the ground when they try to run to be that funny. I don't think being morbidly obese is quite as bad as the author sometimes makes it out to be.

By now everyone knows the standard rules of the vampire tale. And yet some have stuck so strictly to those rules, its hard to move the genre into a new direction. Then I stumbled upon Fat Vampire. What an exciting change of pace. Not only is Reginald, the hapless blue collar worker, sympathtic but when he turns, he realizes that being a vampire is harder when you have extra meat on your bones. The challenges that he faces are intersting and even funny at times. I escpecially like the ending becuase it leaves room for a sequel. No, I have not read the Adam Rex novel of the same name but I was drawn to this one by the cover alone. Its a quick read amd the first that Ive read of Johnny Truants work. Man, if only John Belushi were alive today, I'd want to see him in the movie version of this book!

I wanted to like this, I really did. But having read the Bill the Vampire series I felt this paled in comparison. Fat man turned vampire, has to figure out how to survive. I may try book 2, but doubt it. If you've never read BTV please do. You'll thank me.

If you're looking for a pleasant way to pass an evening, this book's got you covered. It's fun and very funny. Not so original that it ignores the tropes of the genre, but an interesting new way of looking at the classic monster. One wonders why there hasn't been a fat vampire before now. It's an interesting situation that practically writes itself A great start to what looks to be a very promising series. I don't know that you should read this book aloud to an infant, but I, um, did. And he also seemed to enjoy it:) I was a bit concerned when Reginald was hunting Claire, but have no fear. Truant makes it work and you'll be downloading part two at once.

I stumbled across the first book in this series quite by accident, while I was searching for a different series. The title made me giggle. The synopsis lead me to think perhaps it would be an entertaining read. I had not read any of the authors other series, and didn't have time to scan the sample, so it was definitely an impulse buy. The day I started the first book I was hooked. I purchased and downloaded the box set immediately.

The story line was fun, chalked full of sarcasm, irreverence, and endearing (if a little foolhardy) characters. As the books progress they introduce concepts like predetermination vs free will and genocide, and still manages to be a fun read(I did laugh out loud, more than once).

I am not a fan of vampire books, or urban fantasy but this series is far to entertaining to dismiss on genre alone. I recommend it.

This was a lot better than the Bill series that it was compared to by others. That series just got annoying. This was a much better story and far better written. Though it seemed really short, I enjoyed it and look forward to reading the next book.

This is one of those little niche books that surpass the best sellers in quality while far surpassing them in creativity. It feels like a fun, light read but it has the substance to make it satisfying. And it's funny, too. It takes tremendous talent to write like this.

What a fun series! Upon completion, I immediately downloaded the next and I am currently reading #5. I have no idea how this series is going to end as the author has taken it farther than I expected, turning the world upside down and shaking really really hard. There are plenty of laughs, loads of carnage, and a solid story arc.

Got the book and just before bed decided this was my choice for the night. Next thing I knew it was the wee hours of the night and I felt like I had been 'glamored' by Johnnys vampire world. It was impossible to put down. I laughed out loud, felt empathy for a chubby un-dead vampire, and was exhilarated by the little (big) guy exacting sweet revenge on a tyrannistic vampire society.

Other than my sleep deprived day the next day this was one of the best books I have read in a long time. It reminds me of one of my favorite TV shows Dead Like Me: The Complete Collection from the past. I cannot wait until the next instalment.

Make sure to start the book at a reasonable hour, its a page turner and I'll bet you can't put it down until you have read it right through.

I am sure Johnny does not want you to have a vampire hangover like I did :)

Thanks Johnny!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Reading about the trials and tribulations of newly turned overweight vampire Reginald Baskin was a wonderful treat. I only wished the book was a little longer. The relationship between Reginald and Maurice reminded me of the “Odd Couple” Oscar Madison and Felix Unger. Without spoiling too much, I loved the part where he tried to drink an elderly man’s blood and was rewarded with a crack in his ribs with a cane. Can’t wait to read the rest of the books in this series!

This is the first series I read by these authors. Since then, I've purchased nearly everything out there by them on Kindle. Entertaining series. A little different from the usual vampire stories where the undead are all young and beautiful. Poor Reginald will remain obese for eternity or at least as long as his undead body isn't permanently dead. He won't be fast, agile or particularly attractive, but for a blood-sucking vampire, he's the good guy. I liked this series!

Though this book may not be to every reader’s taste, I LOVED IT!!! Totally NOT what I was expecting. Reginald has just become my new favorite unconventional leading man ... can hardly wait to see what adventures he and his crew go on in the rest of the series.

I listened to this book on aha radio. I was really enjoyed the characters and the plot. Definitely not your usual vampire story, it has a twist. This book got me hooked and had to get audible to listen to the other series.

Fat Vampire is a great read by itself, but you'll be excited to learn there are more in the series! I read them all with gusto. I love SciFi, and this was the funniest and yet compelling vampire story I've read.
An overweight guy becomes a vampire and is aggravated to realize for eternity he will be still overweight.
You will delve into a world of vampires. Wars, relationships, humor and intrigue.
A great read and characters you want to keep learning about.

I have found a new hero and his name is Reginald. I am ok when it comes to Vampires, but I now found that I want to be a "Fat Vampire". Great read, funny and wildly entertaining. Can wait to start the next in the series.

One of the funniest books I have read in a while, in which a regular vampire book is distorted by stupidity, and yet its so outside the box it actually works. The book still has the mystery you get with the classic vampire stories, but its been brought into the 21st century and the added bonus of an unwanted hero just makes this a brilliant story. The unwanted hero is a hopeless nerd, but the more you get to know him, the more you realise he is the 'fat' or eccentric or plain bonkers friend you know and would never stop hanging out with because of the fun they bring to your life.

After reading this, I had to buy all 5 of the series, I could not put them down.

I loved this book. The characters and storyline are truly different than the rest of the vampire themed books out there. Please read Fat Vampire. You won't regret it. I found myself laughing out loud and couldn't put it down until the end. Then, I read the rest of the Fat Vampire books.

What a nightmare you get the gift of everlasting life but remain in the body you've always had! What happened to becoming something beautiful and irresistible...I guess all the stories were lies.

This is a great twist on the vampire genre, no sparklies here!!! Very humorous and an extremely enjoyable read. The only problem: NOT ENOUGH! Need more please!

This is a brilliant novella! I love this authors sense of humour!
No real gore, splatter horror, unless you are a fatophob!
An unfortunate accident ensures that Reginald stays the 350lb slob that he was as a human, now for eternity as a vampire!
He mentor maybe old but not really much help!
Having befriended his first intended meal, little Claire now helps him feed with defrosted steaks!
The ending was explosive, well timed and brilliant!
Really looking forward to the next few installments!

This is one of my favorite novels. If you like vampire stories you'll like this book. It takes an old idea and puts a new spin on it. All the characters funny and the story is fast paced. This is my favorite of Johnny's novels. The relationships between the characters are particularly touching.