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madelineb's review against another edition
4.0
A fantastic vampire novel with interesting non-European lore to spice things up though I didn't connect with the characters as much (probably because I read most of it while waiting during jury duty 🙃)
nadiakhansa's review against another edition
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
readsknitsrepeats's review
4.75
Vampires! This is a unique blend of vampire lore, incorporating everything from cultural myths to references from books/movies. It is set in an alternative Mexico City, which feels both familiar and otherworldly, providing an intriguing backdrop for the vampire factions and lore. What truly stands out is the morally gray nature of all the characters; each one is flawed and complex. I really enjoyed the story, though I did scream a bit towards the end. The Encyclopaedia Vampirica was fascinating. I would love to read more books set in this world!
sabrams_010's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.75
stevo1977's review
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
3.0
I enjoyed the setting and the writing was good. The vampire lore felt deep and lived-in, but the plot never came together in a satisfying way (lots of hollow violence and death (including central characters)). Also, I wanted more from the characters, more depth or something.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence
Moderate: Gun violence
atlantisfrost's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I enjoyed this unique spin on vampires. The historical/folklore details of Aztec, Mexican, and European vampires weaved through the story made it really immersive. Fight scenes were well written. However, the ending felt a bit rushed and unsatisfying. I also wish there was a bit more "neon" in the "neon-noir" - there were some elements that seemed almost cyberpunk (like Cualli), but it wasn't really explored. Overall, I find Moreno-Garcia's writing style accessible and elegant.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body horror, Death, Gore, Gun violence, Violence, Blood, Murder, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Confinement, Cursing, Drug use, Misogyny, Death of parent, Alcohol, and Classism
Minor: Animal death and Torture
onetrooluff's review
4.0
3.5 stars, rounded to 4. I liked this better than Mexican Gothic - I can't even remember the names of the characters in that book - and it kept my interest. It was definitely gory, but stayed just on the side where it wasn't as revoltingly gross as certain scenes in MG. I cared a lot more for the characters and while the ending wasn't 100% satisfying, I do think it was the right one. I could definitely see this translating well to the big or small screen. And I enjoyed the worldbuilding with all the different types of vampires.