Deadtown Review

Deadtown (Deadtown 1)

-       Nancy Holzner

Publisher: Ace Fantasy

They call it Deadtown: the city's quarantined section for its inhuman and undead residents. Most humans stay far from its borders - but Victory Vaughn, Boston's only professional demon slayer, isn't exactly human.

Sometimes when you pick up a book and read the first few pages you just know you are going to love the characters, the style of writing and the adventure ahead. I knew after I had finished the first paragraph that I was going to have a blast with Victory ‘Vicki’. Vicki is the only active shapeshifter in Boston – a town filled with previously deceased and paranormal Americans (or zombies, vampires and werewolves to most of us). And now a demon from her past as returned to destroy the city - and Vicki is the only demon slayer in town.

So many people had recommended this series to me and I now confess this is one of the best Urban Fantasy books I’ve read this year. Vicki is courageous, smart and already has a wide association of paranormal friends: teenaged zombie apprentice, werewolf lawyer boyfriend (sort-of), vampire roommate and non-identified non-human bartender. Each one felt like a developed character – even given limited page time. Kane, her sort-of boyfriend is a paranormal American right activist which adds some nice tension to their relationship – more so than the fact he is a werewolf! Vicki’s sister and her children add a layer of humanity to the proceedings – and some very sweet moments.

The action is fast paced, furious and exciting. The Hellion terrorising Boston has a personal history with Vicki which makes it a personal mission. I gobbled up the pages and read the whole thing in two days – even staying up to 1am to finish it last night: something I haven’t done in a long time! The writing just draws you in and immerses you in the world. The world was so well thought out I felt like I was reading a middle book in a series, rather than the first one.

If you like fast paced adventure, some romantic tension, smart heroine, unusual take on zombies and having fun while reading, this is definitely the book to read! One of my favourite reads of the year without a doubt and a great reminder why I adore this genre. J

Recommended for fans of Ilona Andrews and Karen Chance. 9 out of 10