Rome in Victorian Times

Lady Victoria Gardella Grantworth de Lacy is still reeling from the death of her beloved Great-aunt Eustacia, along with her own new role as the lead Venator, or vampire-huntress. Grief has stifled her, but the loss of her vis bulla, the charm that imbues Venators with additional strength and power to fight foes with supernatural strengths, also haunts her. But the monsters don’t rest just because Victoria is tired. Headless animals, followed by headless humans point to something foul. But is it vampires, or something worse?

THE BLEEDING DUSK starts soon after Eustacia Gardella’s death. After killing Eustacia to solidify his cover with the murderous Tutela, Max is devastated by her loss, but resigned to doing what he must in his quest to kill vampires. Victoria, who by rights should be glorying in her debutante season, is instead a widow and has picked up a mantle she feels unprepared for and that has taken loved ones from her. Bringing a bit of lightness to the story are Victoria’s mother, Lady Melly, and her two friends, Lady Nilly and Duchess Winnie. Three more vacuously enchanting matrons could not be found anywhere as they work to get Victoria married off again even as she tries to slip away to hunt vampires.

Amidst the madness that is Carnivale in Rome, a bit of humor, a lot of hand-to-hand combat, and a touch of romance come together in this dark paranormal tale. Will Victoria prevail in unraveling the mystery surrounding the headless bodies before something worse than vampires emerges to plague the night? Pick up THE BLEEDING DUSK and find out for yourself.

Kathy Samuels