In Jessie Thomas's Once Upon a Dark October: A Sapphic Vampire Romantasy, a cursed, down-on-her-luck charwoman named Elspeth finds her life irrevocably altered when she's bitten by a rogue vampire in the fog-shrouded town of Dreadmist Harbor. Seeking refuge with a reclusive vampire coven, she becomes entangled with the powerful Morrigan, whose coven is fractured by ancient rivalries. Elspeth's transformation unleashes an ancient power, drawing her and Morrigan into a world of bloodlust, sorcery, and dark dealings. This sapphic reimagining of Cinderella, infused with vampire lore and classic fairytale tropes, explores themes of betrayal, forbidden love, and the high cost of power. Prepare for a thrilling blend of romance, suspense, and magic.
Review Once Upon a Dark October
Oh my goodness, let me tell you about Once Upon a Dark October! This book completely swept me away. From the very first page, I was captivated by the richly atmospheric world Jessie Thomas created. Dreadmist Harbor, with its perpetual fog and blend of mortals and vampires, felt so incredibly real, so vivid, I could practically smell the salty air and damp earth. The author’s descriptive language is simply stunning; it's gothic, dark, and utterly enchanting, painting pictures in your mind with every sentence. You get a real sense of place, and it enhances the whole spooky, autumnal feel perfectly.
The story itself is a deliciously dark reimagining of Cinderella, but with vampires and a whole lot of sapphic spice! Elspeth, our Cinderella-esque protagonist, isn't your typical damsel; she's resourceful and resilient, even when facing a truly terrifying antagonist. And Morrigan, the reclusive vampire coven leader, is a fantastic character – strong, complex, and utterly captivating. Their relationship is the heart of the story, and watching their connection blossom amidst the chaos and danger is absolutely thrilling. It's a slow burn in some ways, a careful dance around simmering attraction and shared trauma, but the payoff is intensely satisfying. It's not just physical; there's a genuine emotional connection that feels authentic and deeply affecting.
Beyond the central romance, the plot is cleverly woven. There's a satisfying sense of mystery and suspense, keeping you guessing until the very end. The conflict with the villain, Sonia – oh my, she's truly terrifying and utterly evil – is chilling and well-executed. The stakes feel high, and the danger is palpable throughout. The author does an amazing job of building tension and delivering satisfying payoffs. The pacing is excellent; it keeps you hooked from start to finish. The world-building is extensive enough to feel rich and immersive, yet never overwhelming.
While some readers might find certain aspects, like the descriptions of architecture and clothing, a little lengthy, I personally found them to be integral to the atmosphere and the overall experience. They contribute to that captivating gothic ambiance. It's a book that deserves to be savored, allowing yourself to get lost in the details. The inclusion of magical elements further enhances the story, adding another layer of intrigue and complexity. I really appreciated the subtle hints of fairytale tropes woven throughout, giving the story a familiar yet unique feel. It's clever and effective.
Honestly, I can't recommend Once Upon a Dark October highly enough. It's a perfect blend of romance, gothic horror, fantasy, and sapphic representation, making it a truly unique and unforgettable read. If you enjoy atmospheric dark fantasy with strong female characters, steamy romance, and a captivating plot, this is a must-read. I’ve already added other books by this author to my TBR pile!
Information
- Dimensions: 5.25 x 1.12 x 8 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 448
- Publication date: 2024
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