Set in an alternate version of Los Angeles, “City of Shadows Book 1 Two cases. One vampire. No problem.” introduces readers to a thrilling world where supernatural beings and humans coexist. Written by Harry Turtledove, Twice as Dead is a captivating blend of mystery, suspense, and fantasy that will keep you hooked until the very end.
The novel follows the story of a private detective, Jonathan Rees, who specializes in cases involving the supernatural. He is tasked with solving two seemingly unrelated cases – the first one involving a series of mysterious murders of young women, and the second one involving a missing vampire. As he delves deeper into the investigations, Jonathan discovers that the two cases are more connected than he initially thought, and he must race against time to prevent a dark force from wreaking havoc in the city.
One of the strengths of Twice as Dead is its well-developed characters. Jonathan Rees is a complex and relatable protagonist, with a sharp wit and a strong moral compass. As a reader, I found myself rooting for him and invested in his journey. Turtledove also does an excellent job of portraying the secondary characters, making them integral to the plot and adding depth to the story.
The world-building in the novel is also commendable. Turtledove paints a vivid picture of a city where vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural creatures live among humans. He seamlessly weaves in these fantastical elements into the story, making it feel believable and intriguing.
But what sets Twice as Dead apart from other urban fantasy novels is its impeccable writing. Turtledove’s prose is smooth and engaging, and he has a knack for creating suspenseful scenes that keep the reader on the edge of their seat. The plot is well-crafted, with plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. And when the two cases finally converge, the result is a thrilling and satisfying conclusion that will leave readers wanting more.
As a fan of the urban fantasy genre, I can confidently say that Twice as Dead is a must-read for its fans. It has all the elements that make a good urban fantasy novel – a well-developed world, compelling characters, and an exciting plot. But what makes it stand out is its unique take on the genre and Turtledove’s masterful storytelling. It is a perfect blend of mystery, suspense, and fantasy that will keep readers entertained from beginning to end.
In conclusion, Twice as Dead by Harry Turtledove is a fantastic start to the City of Shadows series. With its well-crafted plot, intriguing characters, and masterful writing, it is a novel that is sure to capture the hearts of readers. So if you’re a fan of urban fantasy or just looking for a captivating read, I highly recommend picking up this book. I, for one, cannot wait to dive into the next installment of the series and see where this thrilling journey takes us.