Assessment:

Plot/Idea: McPherson delivers a wild ride of supernatural lore and gore, as vampire Hunter Reeves discovers a new, dangerous power lurking in his veins—he’s a cambion, the offspring of a human and a demon, with eerie telepathic abilities. The novel is brisk and packed with dark fantasy elements, with a sprinkling of sci fi throughout.

Prose: Vigorous prose mixed with dialogue that leans toward the fanciful in places lends West of Nowhere an otherworldly feel. McPherson’s style awakens old world vampire stories and entwines them with mystery/thriller overtones, making the resultant narrative decidedly unique.

Originality: Bloodbound: West of Nowhere weaves a wealth of supernatural fantasy components together, interlacing them with themes of belonging and regret into one intense, fast-moving story.

Character/Execution: McPherson’s characters are deeply developed, with gripping backstories that paint them as troubled, multilayered protagonists. The romance between Hunter and Kai Taylor—a fellow vampire and leader in The Order—is gentle but passionate, and Kai’s dark history makes him an arresting lead. Thrown into the mix is Gibson, a puzzling cambion who possesses a magnetic draw for Hunter and adds an unexpected energy to the plot.

Date Submitted: May 23, 2024