Quarter Finalist
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: Merrill has crafted a complex and nuanced plot that surprises and entertains. In the author's capable hands, the story's dark themes are never overwhelming or pervasive, and the end result is evenly paced, with a satisfying climax.
Prose: Merrill is a skillful and capable writer, accomplished at applying narration, description, and dialogue. The story flows smoothly and capably balances suspense with romance.
Originality: Sundowners features distinctive characters and a compelling premise—the novel excels at building character tension coupled with meaningful interactions.
Character Development/Execution: The dual first-person narrative here is very valuable, as readers seek to understand Creed and his version of vampire ethics, resulting in a very likable and believable character. Insight into Roman and what makes him tick is also helpful, as he comes across as caustic at times, but his love for and devotion to his grandmother is a primary redeeming quality that will ultimately win readers over.
Date Submitted: August 21, 2022
Readers will be invested in Creed’s efforts to settle, and jolted when Santa Cruz is rocked with strange crimes and reports of victims being bitten by human attackers. While he’s wondering about the coincidences, he crosses paths with Roman—a psychology doctoral candidate recently returned to the city after his grandmother is placed in the very same assisted living facility where Creed works. Sparks fly between the two, and before long their whirlwind attraction morphs into something much bigger, leaving Creed to brood on how he’ll break the news of his true identity to Roman. But more than romance is on the horizon for Creed and Roman, as they’re caught up in a supernatural fight for power that threatens their love—and the world.
Paranormal romance lovers will relish Merrill’s blend of steamy action, while the undercurrent of good versus evil—and probing the true parameters of that concept—gives the novel welcome depth. Some dialogue suffers from the narrative’s brisk pace, but the appealing characters and steady energy more than make up for any hiccups. Readers will be disappointed when the ride is over and eager for the reunion.
Takeaway: An action-packed paranormal romance with welcome depth—and real bite.
Great for fans of: Joe Satoria’s Vampire Kisses, Ariana Nash’s Violent Desire.
Production grades
Cover: B
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A
