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Title: The Dangerous Ones |
Author: Lauren Blackwood |
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Series: |
Genre: Fantasy, Historical, Romance |
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Publisher: Wednesday Books |
Page Count: 368 |
Content Warnings:
- Graphic: blood, racism, slavery, torture, violence
- Moderate: gore, racial slurs, war
- Minor: death of parent, grief, rape, sexual content
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A romantic historical fantasy from New York Times bestselling author Lauren Blackwood, set in the American Civil War with vampires and people with demigod-like abilities. 1863, Pennsylvania War doesn’t scare Jerusalem—she’s a Saint. Thanks to powerful demigod-style reflexes, endurance, and strength, she’s fearless. And ever since the Confederates declared civil war, partnering with the vampires who benefitted off slavery, she and her battalion of Saints are essential to the Union army. Jerusalem herself had been enslaved by a vampire, escaping North only after her family was murdered. She knows the enemy better, hates the enemy more than anyone in her battalion, and has been using it to her advantage since she joined the war a year ago. More than anything she wants revenge, but if she can help Black people gain freedom and equality without having to steal it for themselves like she had to, then all the better. But she never expects to have to team up with a vampire to do it. Alexei is one of those handsome, arrogant Ancient Vampires. But he’s on the Union’s side, and in the year they've known each other, has never done anything but prove he’s on hers. Together, they set out to change the course of the war and take down the vampire who destroyed everyone Jerusalem loved. But for her, it’s about more than justice. It's about killing a god. |
From the moment I picked up the book, I was immediately drawn in by the sizzling chemistry between the two main characters, Alexei and Jerusalem. Their dynamic was both complex and compelling, adding a rich layer to the narrative. However, I must caution potential readers that this is not a story that gently tiptoes around difficult themes. There were moments, most notably when Jerusalem was subjected to "discipline," that were quite challenging to read. I commend the author, though, for not shying away from depicting the cruel torments that people can inflict upon one another.
The story itself is a myriad of contrasting elements that somehow blend together to create a truly amazing narrative. It is, at its core, an intriguing and clever reinterpretation of traditional vampire lore. Yet, it is also a journey that navigates through dark, difficult terrains, and yet manages to find beauty in the bleakest corners. This tale is an emotional powerhouse, challenging readers to confront the horrors of the past while also inspiring them with its central characters' resilience and strength.
One of the aspects that particularly stood out to me was the author's vivid depiction of a specific period in America's history. The story provides a heartrending and horrifying glimpse into the experiences of those who lived during this time. It's a stark reminder of the injustices that were perpetrated and the struggles that people endured.
Having completed this book, I find myself eagerly anticipating the opportunity to explore more of this author's works. Her writing style has a certain allure that I found difficult to resist. The way she developed the relationship between Jerusalem and Alexei was particularly noteworthy. Their connection was not just a superficial attraction, but rather a deep bond forged through shared trials and tribulations. The emotional depth of their characters was palpable, often tugging at my heartstrings as they grappled with their traumatic pasts and strove to overcome their vulnerabilities.
This book is more than just a vampire tale set against a historical backdrop. It is a testament to the human capacity for endurance, the power of love, and the indomitable spirit that allows us to rise above our circumstances. Reading this book has been an emotional rollercoaster, but it is one that I would readily embark on again.
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