A review by bisexualbookshelf
Allure by CEON

adventurous emotional reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

Thank you so much to the author for the gifted copy!

Allure by CEON is a riveting and provocative queer vampire tale that intertwines themes of autonomy, self-discovery, and boundaries within the context of polyamory. From the very first page, readers are drawn into the tumultuous world of Hannah, a bi-disaster protagonist navigating her open relationship with Dominic and her unexpected transformation into a vampire.

The story begins with Hannah's encounter with Morana, whose brief yet alluring bio on a dating app leads to a brutal and life-altering meeting. Morana, a vampire, turns Hannah into one of her own, setting off a chain of events that forces Hannah to confront her deepest desires and fears. Hannah's struggle to resist the newfound urge to kill, particularly targeting Dominic under Morana's sinister influence, adds a thrilling and suspenseful edge to the narrative.

CEON masterfully balances the plot's dark and sensual elements, ensuring the reader is hooked without giving too much away. The introduction of Araceli, a "micro" vampire who teaches Hannah to control her bloodlust by microdosing on human blood, provides a compelling counterpoint to Morana's more hedonistic and dangerous approach. This dynamic creates an intense and captivating conflict for Hannah, torn between two paths and two lovers.

One of the standout elements of Allure is its exploration of autonomy and self-acceptance. Morana's unconditional acceptance of Hannah, regardless of her choices, contrasts sharply with Araceli's conditional love, contingent on Hannah adhering to the micro lifestyle. This dichotomy forces Hannah to make a crucial decision about who she wants to be and who she wants to be with, reflecting broader themes of identity and personal freedom.

The book excels in its representation of queer relationships and the complexities of polyamory. Hannah's relationships with Dominic, Araceli, and Morana are nuanced and vividly portrayed, highlighting the importance of communication, consent, and mutual respect. The sapphic representation is particularly noteworthy, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.

However, the writing style, particularly the use of run-on sentences, can be a bit jarring at times and might detract from the overall reading experience for some. Additionally, the ending leaves certain elements unresolved, which may leave readers wanting more closure.

Despite these minor critiques, Allure is an enjoyable and thought-provoking read that will appeal to fans of queer literature and vampire fiction alike. CEON's ability to blend liberatory themes with a gripping plot and well-developed characters makes this book a standout in its genre. Readers looking for a quick yet impactful read will find Allure a satisfying choice.

📖 Recommended For: Fans of queer vampire tales and supernatural fiction, readers who enjoy complex character dynamics and polyamorous relationships, those interested in themes of autonomy and self-acceptance.

🔑 Key Themes: Autonomy and Self-Discovery, Polyamory and Open Relationships, Moral and Ethical Dilemmas, Conflict Between Conditional and Unconditional Love, Personal Freedom and Identity.

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