Death is for the Living by JC Steel

Death is for the Living is a unique take on the vampire story, focusing less on the vampires themselves and more on the people that hunt them. Though vampire society predominantly hovers in the periphery for much of the early book, Steel never let that danger be forgotten or dismissed. It was easy to envision the threat just out of view.

The main duo of Cristina and Jean are solid characters with pasts and presence. And seeing the different facets of them–the reality and their personas–gave them added depth. I really liked the reveal of Cristina’s history later in the book. However, on more than one occasion, I found myself wanting more context on the rest of the yacht’s crew–especially once I found myself looking briefly through their POV–and on some of the lore we’re exposed to.

It was clear that Steel knew her stuff when it came to the sailing aspects, but for someone who doesn’t know all the terminology, it might be hard to follow.

Overall, I found Death is for the Living to be a unique tale of intrigue and adventure that blends the reality we all recognize with a fantasy element that we can picture hiding in the shadows. It’s a great read.

I received an ARC copy of this book, which in no way affects my review. This review is voluntary. ∞

Nite Fire: Flash Point by C.L. Schneider

Where to start? Hmm. I loved the characters in this book. Not only were they believable (and for a half dragon shapeshifter from another world, that’s always a good thing), but they were fun. The dynamic being developed between the “superhero and her sidekick” shows a lot of promise, and it’s fun to see Dahlia get pulled in directions she is convinced she shouldn’t go. I like the non-traditional heroine, and I’m intrigued to see how the series and Dahlia’s new life unfolds from here. Though a part of me wonders just how much of Dahlia’s pseudo-fond memories of Drimera are real and how much is rose-colored glasses.

I did feel that perhaps it was a little heavy on the sheer number of species and new terminology, but I can understand it–we are talking about alternative worlds after all. But if that’s the biggest criticism I have, that says a lot.

I’m definitely looking forward to the next one! ∞