Content levels
Positive tags
Hero archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Tropes
Themes
Synopsis
What might the ethical Governor David Gedden give up for one man's exquisite beauty? It's terrifying to consider when the man is a destructive blood prostitute and David is responsible for the state's peaceful vampire community. Blood sales in Boston are up, blood taxes support a thriving new nightlife, neighborhoods have been refurbished, and deaths by vampires have plummeted. David is assured reelection. However, the blood addict Stephen Salando has returned from exile with one unalterable plan: to turn the good governor into a vampire. Stephen is an immortal dhampir, whose beauty obliterates reason, who rouses in David a fierce desire he's ignored his whole life. For David to have Stephen, he must ally with the community's archrival. To have him, he must become a potential killer himself.
Beside the Darker Shore: content & age rating
Intended for adult readers (18+).
This dark fantasy contains adult themes including blood addiction, vampirism, political manipulation, and a sexually charged same-sex relationship with dubious consent elements and power imbalances. Violence and morally complex choices are central to the plot.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, steamy sexual content, and moderate language. Content notes include addiction, dubious consent, and death (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Adult readers who enjoy morally gray characters and dark vampire romance with political intrigue will be drawn to this story of forbidden desire.