A twisty, dark, and unnerving supernatural thriller…
Costelloe draws readers into a shadowy world where the lines between predator and prey blur, and every choice comes with dangerous stakes. Set against a backdrop of eerie forests and cold hospital corridors, the story follows Jude, a partial vampire, who is seduced into darkness by Dr. De’Ath, a powerful and manipulative vampire leader. The prologue immediately sets a tense, atmospheric tone with a chilling campfire story that spirals into a real nightmare as Dr. De’Ath enters the scene. The novel is as much about inner turmoil as it is about external horror. Jude’s journey from human to vampire is fraught with internal conflict, as he navigates his transformation. The frequent shifts between moments of psychological horror and physical transformation keep the reader on edge. The narrative is rich with vivid descriptions of supernatural occurrences, including shapeshifting, blood rituals, and telepathic control.
Costelloe’s prose is sharp, creating a strong sense of tension throughout the book. The vampire lore is blended with modern elements, such as Jude’s reflections on hospital life and his strained relationship with Ong, whose fate becomes intertwined with Jude’s dark new world. The novel’s pacing is brisk, with action scenes interspersed with moments of introspection. While some readers may find the frequent transformations and the characters’ motivations slightly disorienting, the eerie, foreboding atmosphere keeps the narrative moving, building toward a satisfying, dramatic climax. Throughout it all, Costello deftly explores the interplay between power dynamics and manipulation. Contemporary concerns like environmental destruction and overpopulation are subtly layered beneath the horror, adding moral depth to the narrative.
An unsettling exploration of power, desire, and the seductive allure of eternal life, the book makes for a page-turner.
Pub date September 20, 2024
FriesenPress
ISBN 978-1038309563
Price $40.99 (USD) Hardcover, $4.99 Kindle edition