With the mysterious vampire slayer tracking him down, one vampire must choose between doing what’s right and what’s right for himself.
Weary of his immortality, vampire Aland van Deest wishes to die. Sure, life is good as an Elvis and Tom Jones impersonator aboard the Shangri-La, where he has more than his share of women to satiate his appetite for blood and pleasure. And things have been pretty exciting lately now that his friend, the elderly Dr. Felix “Doc” Willoughby has been helping him out of many a sticky situation, such as the tragedy that occurred while aboard the Mandalay. But the never-ending monotony of his life is depressing, and when Doc admits that he might be able to find a cure for his immortality, Aland jumps at the chance. But when he discovers that a cold-blooded killer known as the vampire slayer is after him, more than just Aland’s life will be a stake.
A cruise ship might seem like a strange setting for a vampire novel, but it works, and the lush, exotic setting is one of the novel’s strengths. The characters are quirky, lively, and fully-fleshed. Even minor characters like Mr. Rose and Mr. Stern, who are the first characters the reader is introduced to, are well-rounded and distinct. But Aland van Deest is the true star of this tale. Despite his egotistical personality, Aland is an honorable vampire. He is careful not to kill his victims, and, though he’d never admit it, cares about the humans that surround him.
Bond’s writing style is humorous and rich with vivid, even gritty descriptions. Though the book could have benefited from a final proofread prior to its publication, Bond’s prose is otherwise clear and easy to follow. The only thing that felt lacking in THE VAMPIRE OF SHANGRI-LA was more information about the vampires and other creatures that inhabit the novel, such as the halflings.
THE VAMPIRE OF SHANGRI-LA is an exciting, fast-paced read full of unpredictable plot twists and turns.
~IndieReader