A review by blueskyvibes1point0
Even Vampires Get the Blues by Katie MacAlister

adventurous funny mysterious fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

In "Even Vampires Get the Blues," Paen Scott, a soulless dark one, faces a dire situation. His mother's soul is at stake, and he must find the Jilin God relic in 5 days to repay a debt to a demon. Enter Samantha Cosse, a skilled half-elf investigator recently expelled from the Order of Diviners. As Sam’s client, their connection goes beyond the professional, with Sam convinced she's Paen's Beloved whether he wants one or not.

1. **Plot and Storytelling:** 3/5, this Dark Ones novel didn't top my favorites list. While the story offered entertainment and minor twists, the ending lacked coherence without the necessary epilogue. I wished for heightened tension and more utilization of side characters to enhance the overall narrative.

2. **Characterization:** 3/5, the characters were generally well-crafted, but side characters needed more development. Paen's redemption lacked the dramatic flair I anticipated, although I appreciated Sam's authentic attributes—her strength, flaws, and genuine portrayal.

3. **Writing Style:** 4/5, MacAlister demonstrated a commendable writing style that maintained a smooth flow. The book's length was just right, and overall, I found the writing enjoyable.

4. **Originality:** 4/5, the story's uniqueness kept me guessing. However, it didn't captivate me as intensely as some of MacAlister's other works, leaving room for improvement in the enthrallment factor.

5. **Emotional Impact and Resolution:** 3.5/5, being the fourth in the Dark One series, this book adhered to the series' basic premise. However, it lacked the emotional resonance and tension present in MacAlister's other works. The dependence on an epilogue for a meaningful ending deducted points, as a book should ideally feel complete without additional chapters.

6. **Smut:** 4/5, the spice in romantic scenes was enjoyable, with telepathic elements adding an entertaining twist. It left me intrigued, pondering how such elements would translate into my own reality.

1. **Audiobook** 5/5, I enjoyed this narrator. I felt she conveyed the characters as well and told a great story.

Overall score: 3.78/7 (or about 3/5)

If you enjoyed "Even Vampires Get the Blues" by Katie MacAlister, you might also like Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse series) by Charlaine Harris or A Discovery of Witches (All Souls Trilogy) by Deborah Harkness. These recommendations offer a mix of paranormal romance, supernatural elements, and strong character dynamics, similar to the themes found in "Even Vampires Get the Blues."