Take a photo of a barcode or cover
kikiwest 's review for:
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
When I first started this book, I was a bit worried about the format. Many people LOVE the epistolary format, but it’s not my favorite. In addition, I’m not a huge historical fiction fan and feel a little lost or disconnected the further back things go. However, very quickly that worry was dissolved. The format is done well, with some pictures thrown in and a very clear break between entry within one writer and between the writers themselves.
One of my favorite aspects of this book is how grim it is. I’ve read a few ‘dark’ books or creature books that shy from being too gory, but this is vampires - you have to give us the harsh reality. There’s also a vast variety of stories, both in time and location. My favorites were Saint Orianne, A Drink of Death, No Mirrors (Angel of Death), All the Devils at Once, and Party Time at 413 Dallyn Road (I was SO glad we got to see someone through the change from human to vampire). The last entry set in the year 2025 was also a favorite, bringing the collection all the way to present day.
Thank you to NetGalley and Speculation Publications for the advance review copy.