Dec 11, 2010

Greyfriar: Vampire Empire - Book Review

The Greyfriar (Vampire Empire, Book 1)
by Clay & Susan Griffith
Pyr (November 18, 2010)

What a fantastic adventure! Princess Adele, heiress to the throne of Equatoria, whose capital sits in Alexandria, has been sent northward on a mission to visit areas close to the European mainland now ruled by the vampire clans since the Great Killing of 1870.

The year is now 2020. Those humans who survived the vampire uprising and subsequent massacre fled to the warmer regions near the equator bringing with them whatever technology was available, steam being the main source of power. Her Highness Princess Adele travels with her retinue in airships. There is danger in getting too far from the warm areas of Earth where vampires feel great discomfort, but the Emperor believes it necessary for all human inhabitants to sense the might and power of the Equatorian Empire.

Not much is known about vampires except that they are vicious, merciless killers, and that they are nor resurrected humans but are a separate species categorized as Homo nosferati. Those humans left behind in Europe serve their masters as Bloodmen/slaves or exist like cattle as food.

One man works to save humans trapped in the north. He is called Greyfriar and many believe he is only a myth. Princess Adele finds out the truth about this man who  attempts her rescues when her ship is attacked by vampires. It is obvious that she is the prize target. The vampire fighters are strong and swift and Adele becomes the captive of Prince Cesare - known even among vampires for his cruelty. Against terrible odds Greyfriar frees her from her prison.

A war between the two species is imminent, and Adele has unrevealed powers which hold the key in this struggle. Throughout her horrific journey in the North, Greyfriar and his doppelganger find ways to keep her safe even in the most wretched situations.

This is Book 1 of 3 so it is not surprising that many issues remain unresolved. Readers hooked on this tremendous story of adventure must wait with baited breath for the next installment.

I thoroughly enjoyed this gripping tale with its well wrought characters and exciting, believable plot.

4 comments:

Tanya1224 said...

I loved this book!! The next one is due out sometime the middle of next year. I can't wait. The ending was fantastic (kitty cat) sigh...truly romantic. It definitely left me eager for the next book =)

Patricia Altner said...

Hi Tanya

It's always great to find such an enjoyable book. Glad you liked it too!

Lisa Richards/alterlisa said...

When I first saw this cover I immediately wondered if it was Steampunk fiction but it sounds like so much more. Can't wait to read it.

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Patricia Altner said...

Hi Lisa

I hope you do have a chance to read it. Let me know what you think.