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Terran
, June 05, 2023
Fin is a fierce, strong-willed protagonist who gripped me immediately. Also queer (perhaps demigirl is a fitting description?); the author lets this unfold without being heavy-handed, ultimately giving me a character I strongly resonated with. Fin’s mindset is unapologetically sharp, direct, without frills; this is reflected in the way the character’s image develops while learning specific vampire skills like “masking” and “shadowstepping.” There is a description of Fin’s attire in a closing scene that is so *gender* that I shouted for joy— definitely a fully-realized version of this character I’ve grown to love.
The male lead, Gavron, was an impressive surprise. Based on his role in the world (not to mention the taunts of his friend/one-time lover, Kashire), admittedly I expected a standoffish, aloof, brooding type of man. Instead, I found myself delighted many times by Gavron’s warmth, sincerity, glimmers of caring, all despite circumstances that make him reluctant to be involved. It’s that warmer side that made me want to root for him, and for *them.*
All the main cast are compelling with much to recommend them, but I have to call out Kashire as a definite favorite: a delightfully catty rogue, a real sadistic piece of work (I’m grinning ear-to-ear as a type this), and a surprisingly reliable friend.
Strickland's writing unflinchingly dark but never grim. More like the emblematic fillet knife Fin wields, unafraid of exposing fat and bone. It leaves a lasting impression.
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