This book came across my radar through Libro.fm's ALC offerings, so shoutout for that. As this year seems to be shaping up into primarily escapist reading, this queer historical fiction vampire story seemed like a perfect fit. And...sure 'twas.

Like for real y'all, this book has a most silly premise: a competition to win the hand of an eligible Duke, a la The Bachelor (I assume - I've never seen it myself, tbh), mixed with the historical fiction "season" setup of Bridgerton, and, finally, some old school vampire vibes that reminded me a bit of Dracula or Interview with a Vampire. Truly, ridiculous. And, so fun. I enjoyed this entire reading experience immensely. There was so much superfluous and unnecessary drama, which fit the narrative tone - that of superiority and snark - perfectly. I mean like - trying to keep it vague to avoid spoilers - the amount of turning to vampires that happens throughout, and especially at the end, is just wonderfully unhinged. I was LOL-ing at those final plot moments. I also loved the general acceptance of queerness, and how who people fell for was not at all part of the drama. It's comforting to read stories like that. 

As a slightly more serious aspect, I did appreciate the light commentary on humans' capacity to be just as monstrous as “monsters” - in particular under the heel of “mass hysteria.” It's a little too real, but was handled lightly within the story, so it didn't overwhelm in any way. Also, the way connection with others (those different from us) can help us to see them as real, to see their humanity, so that you can no longer “other” them. It would be great if that wasn't necessary for us to see others' humanity. But it's an important message for movement towards acceptance nonetheless. Relatedly, you don’t have to be/embody the cruelty that raised/formed you. Lovely message about becoming your own person there.  

My one complaint is that the tone of the storytelling and the writing by itself are off justtttt a bit. I want to love this book, because I love the story elements and the vibes it’s reaching for and etc., but it’s just not quite hitting right. I can’t quite put my finger on what the issue is. Maybe a bit too big/often with the swings between remorse/restored humanity and self-centered/high-maintenance complaining from Lucian (our vampire-turned-back-human-and-not-happy-about-it narrator). And I mean, it is the right swing for him to have, the right split loyalties for him under the circumstances, but just maybe it needed more refinement? It made me not quite buy totally into his romantic connection with Matthew either - I felt like that needed a bit more depth.

Overall, a cozy and entertaining (funny and bloody and ridiculous) vampire story, but one that remained fairly surface level, as far as development, and a smidge juvenile, as far as writing. I do recommend it if you are looking for something quick, easy, and diverting. 

“As with most occasions, if one was confident enough, it was almost the same as being seasoned. People didn’t question experience if one had enough boldness…”

“Humanity is a powerful thing. It gives you perspective."