Book Review - Dissension

I was recently honored with an ARC. For those who have never heard of an ARC, it is an Advance Reading Copy of a book that is scheduled to be published in the near future. In this case, my ARC came from Adrienne Monson, winner of the 2009 Oquirrh's Writer's Contest and the Utah RWA's Great Beginnings. Adrienne has immersed herself in different kinds of fiction since she was a wee lass, but she has always found herself to have a voracious appetite for vampire novels.


Now, before you turn your head with Twilight disgust, let me clarify. Adrienne's book, Dissension, is an AWESOME vampire novel, one which takes us back to the origins of vampire stories (before they started sparkling 'n' stuff). Not only is her story fantastic, but Adrienne's writing skills are phenomenal. Her honed craft grabs you by the shirt collar and drags you through the pages. You can't stop reading, no matter how hard you try. Yes, it's that good. If you don't believe me, take a look at this book trailer:



Now, on to my own personal review of Dissension. When you pick this book up and start reading it (yes, you WILL read it *waves hand across your face*), don't be fooled by the first chapter. It initially appears to be a very erotic novel, and you might even start asking yourself why a half-naked man didn't fill the front cover, but worry not. The sleazy rapist gets his comeuppance. In Adrienne's novel, vampires don't eat animals. They feed on worthless rapists and murderers. At least that's the case with the protagonist, Leisha.

If you've never read a REAL non-Twilightish vampire book before, you might find yourself distressed in Dissension's complexities, but don't become discouraged. Don't stop reading. By the time you get to chapter 8, everything comes together. The author will enthrall you through simultaneous fulfillment and anticipation.

I loved Monson's unique descriptions of vampires and immortals, as well as the conflict and tension between them. To make a non-spoiler point, I especially enjoyed the relationship between Samantha and her father. Hands down, I would give this book a solid five stars. I'll be waiting anxiously for the rest of the Blood Inheritance series to come out.

I know you're asking yourself, "Where can I get this amazing book?! I can't wait any longer!" Well, the good news is, you don't have to. It was released the end of last month, both in hard copy and e-book formats (CLICK HERE to see purchase links). However, if you can make it, I recommend that you attend Adrienne's official book launch party tomorrow. It sounds like it's going to be quite the event, something you don't want to miss. I certainly plan to be there. Here are the details:

Dissension Book Launch Party!
Thursday, March 7, 2013
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Barnes & Noble Booksellers
330 E University Pkwy, Orem, Utah 84058

"We want you all to dress like vampires so you can be in the first ever Vampire Themed Harlem Shake video. This party is to launch Dissension, book 1 in the Blood Inheritance Trilogy; now available! Please join us for a big celebration! Feel free to dress as a vampire and Adrienne will be signing as many books as possible that night."

Make sure to check out Adrienne's website (CLICK HERE). If you scroll to the bottom of her web page, you will see all of Adrienne's contact info, including facebook, twitter, and blog.