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A review by youraveragedave
Fevre Dream by George R.R. Martin
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
A vampire story set on the Mississippi River in the mid 1800s. I haven't read this much steamboat action since reading Mark Twain.
As with any good vampire tale, GRRM gives them a unique twist. Joshua York has developed a way to slake the "red thirst" and it's converting others to his side, with the hope of joining human society. The chapter where he recounts his history was enthralling. Damon Julian on the other hand is the classic evil vampire, but with no real motive, just having power. His Renfield is a true weasel of a man, Sour Billy, who's probably the most memorable character. The main character is a down on his luck riverboat caption Abner Marsh, who just so happens to look like GRRM.
I learned a lot about steamboats and the Mississippi River, the chase sequence on the river is great. I was surprised at the number of confrontations with the ballots though, given how strong they are compared to humans.
As with any good vampire tale, GRRM gives them a unique twist. Joshua York has developed a way to slake the "red thirst" and it's converting others to his side, with the hope of joining human society. The chapter where he recounts his history was enthralling. Damon Julian on the other hand is the classic evil vampire, but with no real motive, just having power. His Renfield is a true weasel of a man, Sour Billy, who's probably the most memorable character. The main character is a down on his luck riverboat caption Abner Marsh, who just so happens to look like GRRM.
I learned a lot about steamboats and the Mississippi River, the chase sequence on the river is great. I was surprised at the number of confrontations with the ballots though, given how strong they are compared to humans.