A review by zhanae_j
The Dangerous Ones by Lauren Blackwood

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny hopeful sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.75

I didn't realize how badly I needed to rewatch Interview with a Vampire until I read this book. I might  even follow it up with Castlevania: Nocturne as a chaser because The Dangerous Ones definitely gives a little bit of both. I'm not the biggest fan of vampires but I'm starting to notice I have a habit of consuming vampire media when there's an exploration of racial injustice, class inequality, and revolution mixed in to season the pot. Two of the harshest criticisms I've seen against this book is the historical inaccuracy, the anachronisms, and Jerusalem's harsh attitude toward Alexei, especially in the beginning.

It would be a lie to say some of these instances didn't take me out of the story--Jerusalem getting physical with Alexei and modern turns of phrase showing up for example (using internet slang like "butthurt" is wild lol). In the end, I didn't end up minding some of the language. Jerusalem and Alexei, became more vulnerable and trusting of one another. I enjoyed them as a team. I loved all their contradictions and devotion.

I especially loved the conclusion of this story it was so satisfying.
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