A review by georgeeporge
Empire of the Vampire by Jay Kristoff

adventurous dark sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

I haven't read a proper fantasy for ages and this was *chefs kiss*. I devoured it — and it is by no means a small book! Gabriel is a great antihero, the world building is amazing, the horror aspects were well integrated. I also really enjoyed the interview style of the narrative, it meant we were guided through jumps around the timeline rather than thrown around in a chaotic mess. Also loved the artwork pages dotted throughout, a nod to the interviewer.

It's only not a 5* because the male gaze was a tad off putting at times, and although the author is trying to be an ally to the queer community, they fell into the same tropes often seen in male written fantasy — over sexualised and hugely stereotyped.

Luckily the storyline was too good to be put off and I am desperate to read more from this author.
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