A review by xan_van_rooyen
House of Sand and Secrets by Cat Hellisen
5.0
I didn't think it was possible to read a vampire book and find it fresh or original any more and yet here it is - a unique take on vampires that is both disturbing and entrancing. Love it!
While I seriously couldn't stand the narrator, Felicita, for a good portion of this novel, she did eventually show some back bone and had a great character arc.
My favourite character is of course the vampire Jannik. I could read an entire series just about him (hint hint Cat!) Even though Felicita hogs the narrative, it is Jannik who is at the heart of the story as the plot is solidly woven around vampire affairs.
The writing in book 2 is as lovely and enthralling as it was in book 1. Being South African and knowing the author is South African, I picked up on many subtle references to the country such as the afternoon thunder showers and the collapsing mine tunnels - allusions perhaps only other SA readers might catch. I loved this extra layer of familiarity in the fantasy world and it makes me want to dive right into book 3!
I strongly recommend this book to anyone looking for a fresh take on fantasy that is equal parts Victorian, urban, and paranormal. The genre mashing-up is seamlessly done here and makes for an intriguing read.
While I seriously couldn't stand the narrator, Felicita, for a good portion of this novel, she did eventually show some back bone and had a great character arc.
My favourite character is of course the vampire Jannik. I could read an entire series just about him (hint hint Cat!) Even though Felicita hogs the narrative, it is Jannik who is at the heart of the story as the plot is solidly woven around vampire affairs.
The writing in book 2 is as lovely and enthralling as it was in book 1. Being South African and knowing the author is South African, I picked up on many subtle references to the country such as the afternoon thunder showers and the collapsing mine tunnels - allusions perhaps only other SA readers might catch. I loved this extra layer of familiarity in the fantasy world and it makes me want to dive right into book 3!
I strongly recommend this book to anyone looking for a fresh take on fantasy that is equal parts Victorian, urban, and paranormal. The genre mashing-up is seamlessly done here and makes for an intriguing read.