Review: Queen of Shadows by Dianne Sylvan

Released: August 31, 2010
Publisher: Ace
Rated: Adult
Series: The Shadow World Series, Book 1
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Spread throughout the dark corners of our world lies the Shadow World, a society of vampires that feeds off the living. In Austin, Texas, one woman’s madness will drive her into a world that few people ever see – or even know exists…

Shortly after she picked up a guitar, Miranda Grey conquered the Austin music scene with a newfound ability to psychically manipulate her audience’s emotions. But as her powers outgrow her control, her mind is increasingly invaded by haunting secrets and overwhelming sadness. Unable to look anyone in the eye, Miranda is fast approaching the edge of insanity – with no one to catch her fall…

When he outlawed killing humans, David Solomon ignited a civil war among Austin’s vampires. As Prime of the South, his sympathy for mortals angered the old guard who refuse to control their violent urges. David has his hands full with the growing insurgency, but he takes in a broken-down woman, a musician in need of supernatural guidance. Little does he know that Miranda Grey has the power to change his world as well…

What I thought:

Queen of Shadows was a fun vampire book to read. I didn't feel enthralled by the story or the characters, but I did enjoy it to the point I read it in one sitting. It takes on a twist in the vampire structure. I liked the twist, it definitely made for some very interesting scenes.

Miranda is suffering from a gift (or curse, whichever you decide to look at it) without training or even knowing she has it. I actually thought she was a drug addict at first, but I was wrong and once I started to put pieces together, I thought it was an interesting path for Dianne Sylvan to take with her character.

Miranda was a good character to read about. I can't say this enough, I like strong characters with a vulnerable side. Miranda is no warrior princess, but she won't go down without a fight and that's what makes her admirable.

This seems like an interesting series. While I wasn't blown away with the first book, I do plan on checking out the second book.

My Rating:

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