This is a semi-rollercoaster of emotions within a vampire competition. I was a bit hesitant to read this at first, but it completely went beyond my expectations. I really enjoyed the banter between Raihn and Oraya - watching them become true allies in a competition designed for death was heartwarming. I would like to have seen more behind the lore of the world - I really enjoyed the interludes as they provided perspective into Vincent's decisions and Oraya's life in the Night Palace. This is gory and bloody at all the right times - just hold on to your hat for some unexpected twists! I'll definitely be picking up book 2 and any others within the universe.