Vampire Books Fans, Fangs and Writers discussion

Hi everyone, I'm new here and am hoping I could get some feedback on a title. I'm aiming to publish the first of a trilogy in July/August, and feedback from beta readers about the title of Book One has me wondering if I should change it.
The trilogy is called 'Blood Tears' and Book One is called 'The Unforgiveness of Blood'. One reader thought the title was too masculine and more readers are women, therefore might not be attracted; another reader found the word Unforgiveness a bit clumsy.
I'd really appreciate any contribution as I'm going back and forwards on this - I still love my original title although it is a bit long, and tricky to fit on the cover!
Thank you!! :))

Hi Teagan,

I suppose the first question is whether it's vampire horror or vampire romance (or both). Your titles suggest horror rather than romance. Whether that is what is meant by "masculine" I don't know.

My instinct is to ask why "Blood Tears" rather than "Tears of Blood" or "Crying Blood" perhaps.

I would agree that "Unforgiveness" is odd, but would work if you wanted to suggest a more philosophical or literary nature to the novel. It makes me think of Milan Kundera.

But why mention blood at all - it is, after all, in the series title. Why not just have "Unforgiving" or maybe "Merciless"?

Frank

Thanks, Francis, for your comments - great food for thought.

I think your first point hits the nail on the head (which explains why the reader felt the title was off somehow) as the book is more romance than horror, but possibly more thriller/adventure than romance although it's definitely one of the themes that drives the action.

I chose 'Blood Tears' rather than 'Tears of Blood' - because putting blood first emphasizes the genre, whereas the longer title also adds (though this is my subjective opinion) more sadness.

I really take on board your last point, which resonates with a comment from the reader - have a one word title. I've considered 'Unforgiving' but without the 'blood' in there, it doesn't reflect the story so well. I'm moving towards something like 'Unforgotten' although I find that clumsy!

Thanks, again, Francis. Your input has been invaluable in clarifying my thoughts. Some incubation next!

unforgiving blood perhaps? the title is odd and clunky keep at it you will know when you have the right one it will just feel right I am also writing a book series i have so many ideas bouncing around in my head I don't know where to start lol good luck with your writing :-)

Thanks for your comment - much appreciated.
Actually someone else suggested the same title in another forum where I asked for help - and it's definitely in the running - if not for Book One, then for one of the others.
I know what you mean about ideas bouncing around - I keep flashing on ideas for the second in my trilogy. It's great!
Good luck with your writing too. :)