Jesi Reviews Scent and Shadow by Mercy Loomis

Good morning! We have another great review from Jesi today, I hope you enjoy it!

“For college student Amanda Bairns, nothing is more important than finally taking control of her life. But when the sexy, sociopathic vampire Gabriel Chapel forces her to drink his blood, Amanda has four weeks to discover which means more: her freedom and her humanity, or the power Gabriel offers.” – Smashwords description

Just in time for Halloween, Mercy Loomis releases this little gem of a vampire novel.  As most of you know, I have never met a vampire that I didn’t like.  That being said, Gabriel has to be one of my favorites so far.  He is everything that a vampire should be—cold, sexy, dangerous, animalistic…not in the least bit human.  I dig a good vampire romance as much as anyone, but this time of year, I’m looking for less romance and more horror.  Scent and Shadow delivers.  There are some hot, steamy scenes, but don’t go into this book looking for a happy little ending, tied up with a neat little bow. 

Amanda is also a very interesting character.  She’s not your typical college student.  Amanda has some serious control issues.  When Gabriel forces his way in and begins to take over her life, she finds herself in a battle for her humanity.  The only problem is that the battle lines get blurred and it becomes hard for her to remember what it is she is fighting for. 

The world of the Aether Vitalis is a fully developed web of paranormal creatures, ranging from vamps and shifters to mages and fairies.  It’s a world both fascinating and terrifying at the same time.  I can’t wait to read more from Mercy Loomis!

Overall, I give Scent and Shadow…

Plot – 5 bookmarks

Character development – 5 bookmarks

World building – 4 ½ bookmarks

Dream cast (otherwise known as who I pictured while reading) – Aidan Turner (Gabriel), Kat Dennings (Amanda)