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Empire of Blood #1
Shining in Crimson
Set in a dystopian, religiously-demented American Empire, the city of Las Vegas is no longer a city of sin. Now called Necropolis, it is a city that eats sin. The vampires of Necropolis wait patiently for the Empire's weekly drop off of guilty Penitents; sinners and criminals full of fresh blood.
Hank Evans is one of those Penitents and he would gladly let the vampires take every drop of his blood if it weren’t for one detail: Toby. Toby is Hank’s only son. Now, Hank must do whatever it takes to escape the city of the dead and save his son from an Empire as bloodthirsty as the vampires it uses to keep its people in line.
Hank Evans is one of those Penitents and he would gladly let the vampires take every drop of his blood if it weren’t for one detail: Toby. Toby is Hank’s only son. Now, Hank must do whatever it takes to escape the city of the dead and save his son from an Empire as bloodthirsty as the vampires it uses to keep its people in line.
234 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
43 people are currently reading
2226 people want to read
About the author
Robert S. Wilson
45 books167 followersRobert S. Wilson was an author once. Now he spends every day trying to swim out of an unending slush pile and back into the dark moneyless void of being a writer. He continues to fail. He’s also the editor of Nox Pareidolia and Ashes and Entropy.
Robert's short fiction has appeared in numerous publications including Vastarien: A Literary Journal, Nature Futures, Daily Science Fiction, Factor Four Magazine, Dark Moon Digest, Test Patterns: Creature Features, 32 White Horses on a Vermillion Hill: Volume One, Cosmic Scream, Darkfuse Magazine, Gothic Lovecraft, and more.
Robert's short fiction has appeared in numerous publications including Vastarien: A Literary Journal, Nature Futures, Daily Science Fiction, Factor Four Magazine, Dark Moon Digest, Test Patterns: Creature Features, 32 White Horses on a Vermillion Hill: Volume One, Cosmic Scream, Darkfuse Magazine, Gothic Lovecraft, and more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
September 18, 2011
So, I've been an "aficionado" of vampires for almost as long as I've been reading novels. From Stoker's Dracula to this latest, by Robert S. Wilson, Shining In Crimson.
I have to say: I'm really impressed.
Wilson's dystopian Empire (formerly the good old U.S. of A.) is well-thought out and carries a weight and depth to it unlike many others I've read about. The vampires of his world are both tribal and democratic, as well as useful tools of the Empire itself.
The characters each have a richness to them that leads you to worry for them, hate them, admire them and/or loathe them. Hank, in particular, is a man with a fully developed back story that plays its part in defining who he is and how he handles the tragic circumstances in which he finds himself.
Although Toby could have used just a little more fleshing out, near the end of the novel we see some further depth to the boy that I hope promises some interesting turns of event in future volumes. And, let me say that I do fully expect there to be future volumes!
Such incredible conflict of character is displayed in wonderful relief with the person of Simon. His storyline is such that I would have never guessed from his entry onto the scene near the beginning of the book. Wilson has done a fantastic job in truly doing something different with the "whole vampire thing."
The only reason that this novel did not get five stars from me is the partial cliffhanger of an ending... but that is to be expected as this is to be the first in a trilogy of novels. All well and good. Now, where the hell is the next one?? :o)
I have to say: I'm really impressed.
Wilson's dystopian Empire (formerly the good old U.S. of A.) is well-thought out and carries a weight and depth to it unlike many others I've read about. The vampires of his world are both tribal and democratic, as well as useful tools of the Empire itself.
The characters each have a richness to them that leads you to worry for them, hate them, admire them and/or loathe them. Hank, in particular, is a man with a fully developed back story that plays its part in defining who he is and how he handles the tragic circumstances in which he finds himself.
Although Toby could have used just a little more fleshing out, near the end of the novel we see some further depth to the boy that I hope promises some interesting turns of event in future volumes. And, let me say that I do fully expect there to be future volumes!
Such incredible conflict of character is displayed in wonderful relief with the person of Simon. His storyline is such that I would have never guessed from his entry onto the scene near the beginning of the book. Wilson has done a fantastic job in truly doing something different with the "whole vampire thing."
The only reason that this novel did not get five stars from me is the partial cliffhanger of an ending... but that is to be expected as this is to be the first in a trilogy of novels. All well and good. Now, where the hell is the next one?? :o)
January 1, 2015
In Wilson's dystopian world, the United States is no more and its place the American Empire rules the people. It is a theocracy ruled over by an emperor. The people are forced to live under strict morality laws and those who refuse to conform are sent to Necropolis the former Las Vegas and now home to a population of vampires. Hank Evan is sent to Necropolis as punishment for procuring a prostitute and he is determined to survive somehow because he is all that his son Toby has yet. What Hank does not realise is that surviving this night will cost him so much more than he ever imagined.
As an introduction to a trilogy, Shining in Crimson was not bad. Wilson gave us a sense of the dystopian world and its divisions. I would have liked to know more about how the American Empire came to be and more specifically how the truce with the vampires came into existence. We start the novel learning that the war has now been over for 20 years and that the government uses religious propaganda to prop up its rules, along with a fear that the alternative is to become prey to the sinning vampires.
The POV constantly changes throughout the book and though I normally find this irritating, it helped to bring the different elements of the story together. I found it interesting to see vampires who based on their long lives understand better than the humans, exactly what the American Empire is all about. For safety, the humans have traded their liberty. Hank has vague memories of a time when the world was different and a father who fought and died for the United States. He is tormented by the horrible bargain he is forced to make. Then we have Simon a devout member of the Empire, to the point that he even thinks of his own mother as a whore, finally coming to grips with the fact that he has been sold a book of lies and finally, Ishan who is determined to hold his vampire council together and bring down the empire.
The majority of the characters in this book are male. The only three female characters of note are Simon's mother, who viscously slut shamed. When she is raped by Peter, Simon is horrified and yet when Peter says that you cannot rape the willing, Simon is quick to agree. It is because of her dress and the fact that she didn't physically fight back and instead begged for her son's safety that Simon refuses to see her as the victim that she is. It is only after gaining empathy from Ishan, that Peter begins to understand he may have potentially wronged his mother. The second female character is the human vampire Rachel. As with Simon's mother, she is also a rape victim. Each day she is subject to rape and beatings by her father and her brothers, which she endures until Peter kills them. In turn, after being judged worthy, Rachel becomes a vampire, only to rape Hank in a bid to help Peter become the leader of the vampires. There is also Grace, the dead wife of Hank. Years later he is still mourning her loss. Grace is really little more than a footnote in this story. Finally, we have the Queen of the Ancients, the only ancient vampire to be sentient. We don't really learn much about her beyond this.
As you can see, we have one female character who is promoted to obscurity and two others who largely exist as victims of sexual violence and Grace whose death provides angst for the male characters. These characters are never really developed beyond their victimhood. Turning Rachel from victim to predator given that Simon's first reaction to Rachel is to shame her for his sexual attraction to her does not develop her whatsoever and instead is more to position Simon's frame of reference. Shining in Crimson doesn't so much have female characters, as it does cardboard cut outs who are either fridged for male angst or victims for male judgment.
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As an introduction to a trilogy, Shining in Crimson was not bad. Wilson gave us a sense of the dystopian world and its divisions. I would have liked to know more about how the American Empire came to be and more specifically how the truce with the vampires came into existence. We start the novel learning that the war has now been over for 20 years and that the government uses religious propaganda to prop up its rules, along with a fear that the alternative is to become prey to the sinning vampires.
The POV constantly changes throughout the book and though I normally find this irritating, it helped to bring the different elements of the story together. I found it interesting to see vampires who based on their long lives understand better than the humans, exactly what the American Empire is all about. For safety, the humans have traded their liberty. Hank has vague memories of a time when the world was different and a father who fought and died for the United States. He is tormented by the horrible bargain he is forced to make. Then we have Simon a devout member of the Empire, to the point that he even thinks of his own mother as a whore, finally coming to grips with the fact that he has been sold a book of lies and finally, Ishan who is determined to hold his vampire council together and bring down the empire.
The majority of the characters in this book are male. The only three female characters of note are Simon's mother, who viscously slut shamed. When she is raped by Peter, Simon is horrified and yet when Peter says that you cannot rape the willing, Simon is quick to agree. It is because of her dress and the fact that she didn't physically fight back and instead begged for her son's safety that Simon refuses to see her as the victim that she is. It is only after gaining empathy from Ishan, that Peter begins to understand he may have potentially wronged his mother. The second female character is the human vampire Rachel. As with Simon's mother, she is also a rape victim. Each day she is subject to rape and beatings by her father and her brothers, which she endures until Peter kills them. In turn, after being judged worthy, Rachel becomes a vampire, only to rape Hank in a bid to help Peter become the leader of the vampires. There is also Grace, the dead wife of Hank. Years later he is still mourning her loss. Grace is really little more than a footnote in this story. Finally, we have the Queen of the Ancients, the only ancient vampire to be sentient. We don't really learn much about her beyond this.
As you can see, we have one female character who is promoted to obscurity and two others who largely exist as victims of sexual violence and Grace whose death provides angst for the male characters. These characters are never really developed beyond their victimhood. Turning Rachel from victim to predator given that Simon's first reaction to Rachel is to shame her for his sexual attraction to her does not develop her whatsoever and instead is more to position Simon's frame of reference. Shining in Crimson doesn't so much have female characters, as it does cardboard cut outs who are either fridged for male angst or victims for male judgment.
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November 21, 2011
http://ismellsheep.blogspot.com/2011/...
Looking for a vampire story without romance? Yes, it does exist . Wilson has put a new spin on the vampire theme in this well crafted story with characters that will intrigue and move you.
Twenty years ago there was a civil war in America and a twisted extremist religious group took power and set up an Empire. During this bloody war a new threat appeared, vampires. The Emperor created a fragile truce between the humans and the vampires with the following conditions: the vampires would stay within the city limits of Las Vegas, now called Necropolis, and the Empire would regularly send them humans to feed upon. Anyone deemed a criminal or sinner by the church was sent to die as vampire chow. Most people living in this new world don’t remember much of life before the Empire. Anyone who disagrees or remembers too much of the old days are sent to their death in Necropolis.
But things are changing. The vampires are no longer happy with the arrangement and want to take down the Empire, but they are divided on how to do this. The Empire, and especially the Emperor himself, have some skeletons in their closet and they're willing to do anything to make sure those skeletons stay there. Caught in the middle of the brewing storm is single father Hank and his son Toby. Hank has unwittingly discovered something that can change everything for all political players.
This is a story of survival, betrayal, political corruption and love. Wilson does an excellent job of moving the story forward while also giving us strong character development. There is plenty of butt-kicking, blood-spilling action, but also lots of beautifully written and touching moments sprinkled in just the right places as all the characters fight for survival.
The story ends with enough resolution you won’t think of it as a cliff-hanger. However, things have been set into motion and the characters must now face the consequences of their actions. I am looking forward to the next book.
4 Sheep!
Looking for a vampire story without romance? Yes, it does exist . Wilson has put a new spin on the vampire theme in this well crafted story with characters that will intrigue and move you.
Twenty years ago there was a civil war in America and a twisted extremist religious group took power and set up an Empire. During this bloody war a new threat appeared, vampires. The Emperor created a fragile truce between the humans and the vampires with the following conditions: the vampires would stay within the city limits of Las Vegas, now called Necropolis, and the Empire would regularly send them humans to feed upon. Anyone deemed a criminal or sinner by the church was sent to die as vampire chow. Most people living in this new world don’t remember much of life before the Empire. Anyone who disagrees or remembers too much of the old days are sent to their death in Necropolis.
But things are changing. The vampires are no longer happy with the arrangement and want to take down the Empire, but they are divided on how to do this. The Empire, and especially the Emperor himself, have some skeletons in their closet and they're willing to do anything to make sure those skeletons stay there. Caught in the middle of the brewing storm is single father Hank and his son Toby. Hank has unwittingly discovered something that can change everything for all political players.
This is a story of survival, betrayal, political corruption and love. Wilson does an excellent job of moving the story forward while also giving us strong character development. There is plenty of butt-kicking, blood-spilling action, but also lots of beautifully written and touching moments sprinkled in just the right places as all the characters fight for survival.
The story ends with enough resolution you won’t think of it as a cliff-hanger. However, things have been set into motion and the characters must now face the consequences of their actions. I am looking forward to the next book.
4 Sheep!
March 13, 2012
Great book. I have a "thing" where I am sick of the "same old same old" vampire stories.. This book was nowhere close.
I hate giving 5 star reviews.. I always feel like there HAS to be something wrong. In this story, I know what I had a problem with but it wasn't enough to take a star away.
Negative: I felt there were certain aspects of the story that were not well explained.. particularly a) wassup when Hank was in the desert, b) and the effect the ancestor's *** has on him (I try not to spoil). However, I realize that the author has left many things to be revealed in the forthcoming books, so I cannot penalize him for those.
Positives: let me try to be brief :-)
Well developed characters. The motivation of a man so far gone he is willing to give up his life many times over, yet keeps coming back from the edge because of the son he's left behind.
The blood sucking "monster", who's lived so long he's seen it all and is not as monstrous as is believed. The zealot who is allowed an Epiphany. Even the minor characters who live only to die a page later, are allowed their moment to touch the reader.
There is a whole lot of "stuff" going on here. Everyone has a hidden agenda, a subplot that entwines into this great mystery, yet the author never loses the reader. We are never so confused that we're flipping backwards wondering "who did what to who? and who's that one again?"
There is also a bit of social and political commentary (when isn't there?) but it's not used to bludgeon the reader. There is enough to set up and move the story along, but not enough to make me wanna take up a collection for the Pastor.
One of my favorite things about this story is the same with every book I LOVE. The author's ability to make me invest emotion in all his characters. For example: we were well primed to hate Simon. I laughed when he screamed in his sanctimonious rage "I Quit", because I knew what was coming. I continued to hate him as he went through the book and I kept "screaming at the screen" for Ishan to rip his throat out and reclaim what was his. When the author placed him in so unique a situation as to endear him to me.. I couldn't help but say "Well done" Mr. Wilson.
So with all five stars intact.. Well Done, Mr. Wilson.
I hate giving 5 star reviews.. I always feel like there HAS to be something wrong. In this story, I know what I had a problem with but it wasn't enough to take a star away.
Negative: I felt there were certain aspects of the story that were not well explained.. particularly a) wassup when Hank was in the desert, b) and the effect the ancestor's *** has on him (I try not to spoil). However, I realize that the author has left many things to be revealed in the forthcoming books, so I cannot penalize him for those.
Positives: let me try to be brief :-)
Well developed characters. The motivation of a man so far gone he is willing to give up his life many times over, yet keeps coming back from the edge because of the son he's left behind.
The blood sucking "monster", who's lived so long he's seen it all and is not as monstrous as is believed. The zealot who is allowed an Epiphany. Even the minor characters who live only to die a page later, are allowed their moment to touch the reader.
There is a whole lot of "stuff" going on here. Everyone has a hidden agenda, a subplot that entwines into this great mystery, yet the author never loses the reader. We are never so confused that we're flipping backwards wondering "who did what to who? and who's that one again?"
There is also a bit of social and political commentary (when isn't there?) but it's not used to bludgeon the reader. There is enough to set up and move the story along, but not enough to make me wanna take up a collection for the Pastor.
One of my favorite things about this story is the same with every book I LOVE. The author's ability to make me invest emotion in all his characters. For example: we were well primed to hate Simon. I laughed when he screamed in his sanctimonious rage "I Quit", because I knew what was coming. I continued to hate him as he went through the book and I kept "screaming at the screen" for Ishan to rip his throat out and reclaim what was his. When the author placed him in so unique a situation as to endear him to me.. I couldn't help but say "Well done" Mr. Wilson.
So with all five stars intact.. Well Done, Mr. Wilson.
January 8, 2012
So my first book of 2012, and it's a great start for the year.
Hank seems to have been handed a shit deal for "breaking the law" and sent to Necropolis to face his death. Hank has other ideas that the Empire wasn't made aware of. Toby (Hanks son) is the driving force for Hank to survive and to find a way of out Necropolis (which noone has ever done).
Most of the book is reading about Hank and his struggle to get out of Necroplois, along with what is going on while Hank is getting out. There is alot of action going on which was easy to follow, no need for a map to keep up.
There was one character in this that made me smile I think more than anyone else and that was Simon and the changes he deals with in the book.
Best way I can describe this book is "karma".
Looking foward to book #2 already, plan on adding that to my list as soon as possible.
Hank seems to have been handed a shit deal for "breaking the law" and sent to Necropolis to face his death. Hank has other ideas that the Empire wasn't made aware of. Toby (Hanks son) is the driving force for Hank to survive and to find a way of out Necropolis (which noone has ever done).
Most of the book is reading about Hank and his struggle to get out of Necroplois, along with what is going on while Hank is getting out. There is alot of action going on which was easy to follow, no need for a map to keep up.
There was one character in this that made me smile I think more than anyone else and that was Simon and the changes he deals with in the book.
Best way I can describe this book is "karma".
Looking foward to book #2 already, plan on adding that to my list as soon as possible.
November 7, 2011
Slow to start for me, but it did pick up. So far its pretty damn good. I especially love how the vampires take over Vegas. The twist between good and evil with the vampires was very interesting and I cant wait to read the second part to figure it out. I'm not a big fan of the empire though, I hope our world doesn't come even close to it. All in all, it was a good read and I can't wait for the second book so I can find out what happens to hank and the good vampires.
August 28, 2012
I normally don't like vampire books, but I decided to give it a try because of the mention of a dystopian future. I'm so glad I did, because this is far more than just another vampire book. I love the mix of reality and fantasy--it feels like something that really could happen, rather than requiring you to suspend your disbelief indefinitely. It also kept my attention and was tough to put down.
September 13, 2011
Amazingly brilliant first novel. Absolutely loved it. The only suckage is having to wait for book two
February 27, 2012
To see this review and more like it please check out my site www.ufreviews.com
My first introduction to urban fantasy was through vampires. Vampires opened the door for me into a world of books I could not have even fathomed on my own. They are responsible for bring to light the world of werewolves, the fae, and all things magic through this fantastic genre I love more than any other. I have been waiting for a really good vampire novel for some time now, and this was a pretty good book for me.
I have to admit I haven't read a lot of dystopian books, I have read books that take place in the future, but in a world very similar to the world we have today. And for me lately I have been enjoying reading books I haven't read a lot of, you stepping out of my comfort zone. I think I could really get behind this whole dystopian thing, it really forced the reader to imagine a world where things have changed dramatically. Not only that but it forces the reader to really think about what they would do in a time and place where the world has changed. And I love anything that makes me question things, or what I would do in the characters positions. It's books like this one where you want to think about it after you are done reading.
I really like the world that was created in the book, it was innovative and unique. It's a really interesting way to put together the whole vampire genre, and their place in this new world is truly original. I really like the characters generally speaking. The author does a great job at making it clear how the reader should feel about the characters, which I consider a good thing because it shows that the author has thought the character through and that they have many different dimensions.
One thing I really enjoyed about the book is that even though the Empire has changed the form of government, if you will, you still see the same themes as you do in just about every government. You can find corruption and politics just about everywhere you look these days, in the past, and of course you would find it in the future dystopian vampire populated world.
My one big complaint about the book was there were some moments within the book that I felt a bit confused, I had a hard time keeping track of who was talking. I really don't like books where I have to go back a couple of pages and re-read in order to fully grasp what is going on. But in spite of me having to do this a couple of times, the story line was good enough for it not be a huge disappointment or not like me enjoy the book overall.
Overall, the book was pretty good, the confusion thing is the only reason why I gave the book a "Good" rating and not a "Great" rating. I will say that people who are really into having a lot of romance in their books, this is most likely not the book for you. But if you want a book that is going to make you think, or if you like dystopian books then I think you would enjoy this book without a doubt. I think urban fantasy readers would really enjoy it as well. I have to say I love a vampire book that makes me think.
My first introduction to urban fantasy was through vampires. Vampires opened the door for me into a world of books I could not have even fathomed on my own. They are responsible for bring to light the world of werewolves, the fae, and all things magic through this fantastic genre I love more than any other. I have been waiting for a really good vampire novel for some time now, and this was a pretty good book for me.
I have to admit I haven't read a lot of dystopian books, I have read books that take place in the future, but in a world very similar to the world we have today. And for me lately I have been enjoying reading books I haven't read a lot of, you stepping out of my comfort zone. I think I could really get behind this whole dystopian thing, it really forced the reader to imagine a world where things have changed dramatically. Not only that but it forces the reader to really think about what they would do in a time and place where the world has changed. And I love anything that makes me question things, or what I would do in the characters positions. It's books like this one where you want to think about it after you are done reading.
I really like the world that was created in the book, it was innovative and unique. It's a really interesting way to put together the whole vampire genre, and their place in this new world is truly original. I really like the characters generally speaking. The author does a great job at making it clear how the reader should feel about the characters, which I consider a good thing because it shows that the author has thought the character through and that they have many different dimensions.
One thing I really enjoyed about the book is that even though the Empire has changed the form of government, if you will, you still see the same themes as you do in just about every government. You can find corruption and politics just about everywhere you look these days, in the past, and of course you would find it in the future dystopian vampire populated world.
My one big complaint about the book was there were some moments within the book that I felt a bit confused, I had a hard time keeping track of who was talking. I really don't like books where I have to go back a couple of pages and re-read in order to fully grasp what is going on. But in spite of me having to do this a couple of times, the story line was good enough for it not be a huge disappointment or not like me enjoy the book overall.
Overall, the book was pretty good, the confusion thing is the only reason why I gave the book a "Good" rating and not a "Great" rating. I will say that people who are really into having a lot of romance in their books, this is most likely not the book for you. But if you want a book that is going to make you think, or if you like dystopian books then I think you would enjoy this book without a doubt. I think urban fantasy readers would really enjoy it as well. I have to say I love a vampire book that makes me think.
January 14, 2012
In this dark dystopian horror, the United States has become the Empire, a theocracy that offers no tolerance for any offense from crimes of morality to murder. Those found guilty are sent to Necropolis, the rotting remains of Las Vegas, to be devoured by its undead inhabitants. Hank, among the most recent group of convicts sent to die, is desperate to find his way out and to his son, Toby. Hank’s offense: following an ex-hooker-turned-undercover morality agent in a frantic attempt simply to talk to her, as she holds an uncanny resemblance to his deceased wife. In his scramble to survive the night, he falls into a scandal that sheds new light on Necropolis, its inhabitants, the Empire, and its very unholy leader.
This is one of the best horror stories I’ve read in some time. The mesh of religious symbolism and political commentary tucked neatly between pure horror and suspense is superb. The characters are intriguing, the pace nearly perfect, and the story practically flawless. There was a short lag in the middle of the book, and with that a couple of character motivations that left me puzzled. I couldn’t understand why the leader of the living vampires would choose exile over death for his adversary when there was no question the backlash would be dire, then go on to put full trust in those who would obviously turn on him at the first chance. The erotic scene between Hank and Rachel felt terribly out of place, given his intense suffering at the time. These issues are minor, however, compared to the brilliance of the rest of the story. I rate SHINING IN CRIMSON a very enthusiastic 4.5 stars. I highly recommend!
This is one of the best horror stories I’ve read in some time. The mesh of religious symbolism and political commentary tucked neatly between pure horror and suspense is superb. The characters are intriguing, the pace nearly perfect, and the story practically flawless. There was a short lag in the middle of the book, and with that a couple of character motivations that left me puzzled. I couldn’t understand why the leader of the living vampires would choose exile over death for his adversary when there was no question the backlash would be dire, then go on to put full trust in those who would obviously turn on him at the first chance. The erotic scene between Hank and Rachel felt terribly out of place, given his intense suffering at the time. These issues are minor, however, compared to the brilliance of the rest of the story. I rate SHINING IN CRIMSON a very enthusiastic 4.5 stars. I highly recommend!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2011
Full review: http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/1/post/2...
This was a book with so much potential and a real chance to attempt something different with the whole Vampire genre but instead the author retreads old ideas and seemingly forgets about the aspects of this book that so attracted me in the first place. The whole idea of Las Vegas as Necropolis goes largely unaddressed other than as a basic premise and there is little reference as to how The Imperial Empire managed to seize control of the good ol' USA in the first place which, to me, would have been an excellent angle to explore! I know that this is the first part in a series and these things may be gone into further in subsequent volumes but for me, the author lost a real chance and opportunity to hook me in and keep me interested beyond about the halfway mark!
Overall, that which was mentioned above ruins any chance Shining In Crimson had of being outstanding by not living up to the potential it promises from its initial premise. I really wanted to like this. It is a bad sign of a novel when you no longer find yourself caring about the characters and, with a hundred pages to go, I began seriously wondering whether I cared enough to go on. The answer to that question was yes but it was a very close thing.
Would I read any more in this series? Probably not. Life is too short to waste on books that don't live up to potential.
This was a book with so much potential and a real chance to attempt something different with the whole Vampire genre but instead the author retreads old ideas and seemingly forgets about the aspects of this book that so attracted me in the first place. The whole idea of Las Vegas as Necropolis goes largely unaddressed other than as a basic premise and there is little reference as to how The Imperial Empire managed to seize control of the good ol' USA in the first place which, to me, would have been an excellent angle to explore! I know that this is the first part in a series and these things may be gone into further in subsequent volumes but for me, the author lost a real chance and opportunity to hook me in and keep me interested beyond about the halfway mark!
Overall, that which was mentioned above ruins any chance Shining In Crimson had of being outstanding by not living up to the potential it promises from its initial premise. I really wanted to like this. It is a bad sign of a novel when you no longer find yourself caring about the characters and, with a hundred pages to go, I began seriously wondering whether I cared enough to go on. The answer to that question was yes but it was a very close thing.
Would I read any more in this series? Probably not. Life is too short to waste on books that don't live up to potential.
February 19, 2012
There's a lot going on in this book. While I love a good roller coaster ride of action and horror - and that's here, too - there's actually a lot going on under the hood in Shining in Crimson as well. I like books that try to go beyond just blood and guts, and works on different levels. Political and religious subtext is in this novel, giving it a nice extra layer many might miss. Thankfully, it's written in a way that doesn't beat you over the head. That makes this book easy to enjoy no matter if you're looking for a great thrill ride or a more ponderous read.
The premise is excellent, and draws from too many different influences to name (or at least I noticed a lot of them, could just be me). Dystopian Sci-Fi is here, obviously, and the vampires are put back to how they belong - scary and vicious. It's good to see new things being tried in horror and in the vampire genre specifically, and this book fits the bill.
My only complaint, and the reason it's given 4 stars instead of 5, is the same as some other reviewers have noted - there's a lot of 'telling' going on here and not enough 'showing'. While normally that kills a book for me, the plot, premise, and strong characters in Shining in Crimson helped me look beyond it.
I really look forward to seeing what Robert S. Wilson has up his sleeves next.
The premise is excellent, and draws from too many different influences to name (or at least I noticed a lot of them, could just be me). Dystopian Sci-Fi is here, obviously, and the vampires are put back to how they belong - scary and vicious. It's good to see new things being tried in horror and in the vampire genre specifically, and this book fits the bill.
My only complaint, and the reason it's given 4 stars instead of 5, is the same as some other reviewers have noted - there's a lot of 'telling' going on here and not enough 'showing'. While normally that kills a book for me, the plot, premise, and strong characters in Shining in Crimson helped me look beyond it.
I really look forward to seeing what Robert S. Wilson has up his sleeves next.
July 26, 2012
I'm re-reading this book as I need a pick-me-up. I was bored one day searching the Amazon lists of books, and came across the novella "What Happens in Vegas" for free and thought to myself, "Eh... What the hell. It's free and it might be good." As a Vegas fan I'll read just about anything with Vegas in it. I was hooked from the start. When I finished speeding through the pages I re-read them to make sure I wasn't sugar coating this. I had to be sure this wasn't too good to be true before I bought "Shining in Crimson." I was sure. When I purchased the book I wasted no time becoming a part of the book. It took me in. The only time I put this book down was when I went to work and even THEN I was still making food and thinking, "I'd rather be reading..." I was a bit thrown off at the abrupt ending and slightly disappointed to see I'd have to wait. Until the next book is out, however, I'll just have to keep reading it to keep it fresh in my memories like a beloved friend. Thank you, Robert S. Wilson, for giving me hope in reading vampire books again. I'd lost hope after the regurgitated styles and the attempts to make something different that just flopped. Your storytelling with a new look at these creatures we've come to see as vampires is a new dawn. The world needs to know!
September 7, 2012
SHINING IN CRIMSON is a nice departure from the usual vampire books. This one has a unique storyline, one that I enjoyed. The story revolves around Hank Evans who is sentenced to death. Death under the New Empire rules is to be sentenced to Necropolis, the former Las Vegas, now inhabited by vampires. The vampires take care of the criminals and the Empire doesn't waste money on prisons.
Hank doesn't want to die; he has a son who depends on him. Through an unusual event Hank manages to survive those first crucial hours and all he can think about is getting back to Toby, but the very fact that he has survived has now put him in the sight line of both the Emperor and the ruling vampires.
This is an inventive story with characters who are well-fleshed out and will make you care about them - both human and vampire alike. It's a fast read that will keep you guessing as to what happens next. My only criticism is that none of the story lines are wrapped up at the end of the book. It is definitely a cliff hanger. If you're looking for a engrossing post-apocalyptic tale, you'll not go wrong picking up this one.
Hank doesn't want to die; he has a son who depends on him. Through an unusual event Hank manages to survive those first crucial hours and all he can think about is getting back to Toby, but the very fact that he has survived has now put him in the sight line of both the Emperor and the ruling vampires.
This is an inventive story with characters who are well-fleshed out and will make you care about them - both human and vampire alike. It's a fast read that will keep you guessing as to what happens next. My only criticism is that none of the story lines are wrapped up at the end of the book. It is definitely a cliff hanger. If you're looking for a engrossing post-apocalyptic tale, you'll not go wrong picking up this one.
August 23, 2013
I loved this. I enjoyed the vampires and humans alike, both showed equal potential for light and dark, and even those who I hated to begin with - Simon - evolved positively. There was a lot of history delivered almost seamlessly through the use of shared-experiences upon consumption of blood, which I loved. There was also a moral message, and a religious and political one, all without preaching or grandstanding. It allowed us enter into the hearts and minds of all, from the persecuted child to the evil monstrous ancestor vampires.
The only nit-picks were that it did get a little confusing during the, his mind/her mind/my mind/your mind subconscious/reality/dreaming/history/present, swapping about, at times.
However, like I said, I loved it. It's WELL worth reading. I will definitely be reading the rest of the series, this ends somewhat abruptly so if you don't enjoy reading series, don't bother starting!
Well done My Wilson! The writing in this book was superb with plenty of drama, action, multi-layered characters and a drag-me-in-by-my-throat setting.
The only nit-picks were that it did get a little confusing during the, his mind/her mind/my mind/your mind subconscious/reality/dreaming/history/present, swapping about, at times.
However, like I said, I loved it. It's WELL worth reading. I will definitely be reading the rest of the series, this ends somewhat abruptly so if you don't enjoy reading series, don't bother starting!
Well done My Wilson! The writing in this book was superb with plenty of drama, action, multi-layered characters and a drag-me-in-by-my-throat setting.
September 2, 2014
I have to be fair. I read this book when it was still being developed and crafted. It was near completion but it was still a draft copy.
Thank being said I am really eager to read the completed work. The draft was of such amazing quality and work.
Let's put it this way. I don't much care for Vampire stories, but this story is so much more then blood sucking pretty boys that all the tweens swoon over. These are characters are real people, the vampires have a story to tell, and there are great intertwining plots in this story. I have already pre-ordered my copy of this book.
If am person who doesn't much care for vampire books can enjoy this, I am certain diehard fans of the genre will enjoy this as well. It is my opinion that you pre-order this one as well. When it arrives you will love it.
http://shiningincrimson.blogspot.com/ to order!
Thank being said I am really eager to read the completed work. The draft was of such amazing quality and work.
Let's put it this way. I don't much care for Vampire stories, but this story is so much more then blood sucking pretty boys that all the tweens swoon over. These are characters are real people, the vampires have a story to tell, and there are great intertwining plots in this story. I have already pre-ordered my copy of this book.
If am person who doesn't much care for vampire books can enjoy this, I am certain diehard fans of the genre will enjoy this as well. It is my opinion that you pre-order this one as well. When it arrives you will love it.
http://shiningincrimson.blogspot.com/ to order!
December 3, 2011
Full review on my blog: http://theaussiezombie.blogspot.com/
Shining in Crimson has two kinds of vampires – the natural vampires (the ancients) who are just what vampires were meant to be – lean, mean, blood-sucking machines ��� and human vampires, who are the members of the Vampire Federation, trying to preserve their little corner of the former USA in agreement with the Empire.
The way this story is told is interesting – the history of the vampires and the humans is told via a series of flashbacks during the book which gives a feeling of history and provides the backgrounds of the characters gradually. Flashbacks can be difficult to write and meld into a story, but in Shining in Crimson it is done seamlessly and doesn’t detract from the current day story.
Shining in Crimson has two kinds of vampires – the natural vampires (the ancients) who are just what vampires were meant to be – lean, mean, blood-sucking machines ��� and human vampires, who are the members of the Vampire Federation, trying to preserve their little corner of the former USA in agreement with the Empire.
The way this story is told is interesting – the history of the vampires and the humans is told via a series of flashbacks during the book which gives a feeling of history and provides the backgrounds of the characters gradually. Flashbacks can be difficult to write and meld into a story, but in Shining in Crimson it is done seamlessly and doesn’t detract from the current day story.
August 16, 2017
More than just a vampire story!
A wonderful vampire tale that was scary and bone-chilling yet had a slight touch of compassion. Mr. Wilson created such complex characters that you can't help but form some sort of emotional attachment to them.
The story is not the typical vampire story where vamps go hunting for innocent victims and they are definitely not sparkly.
This is also a story about survival (not only for the humans but for the vamps too), discovering your strengths and weaknesses and coming to face with the things you have to do in order to survive. Survival from not only the vamps but from the very empire/country you love.
I would recommend this book to anyone. I can't wait for the second installment.
A wonderful vampire tale that was scary and bone-chilling yet had a slight touch of compassion. Mr. Wilson created such complex characters that you can't help but form some sort of emotional attachment to them.
The story is not the typical vampire story where vamps go hunting for innocent victims and they are definitely not sparkly.
This is also a story about survival (not only for the humans but for the vamps too), discovering your strengths and weaknesses and coming to face with the things you have to do in order to survive. Survival from not only the vamps but from the very empire/country you love.
I would recommend this book to anyone. I can't wait for the second installment.
February 14, 2012
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. I described it to a friend as "freaky good!". For me there is nothing better than an author who can take the usual "supe community" and stir up the "norms". Robert S. Wilson takes the vampire world and gives us a fresh look at the hierarchy and characteristics we've come to know. He also shakes up the mortal USA political/religious norms. Always something to think about.
While at times the plot is a little violent, it lends to creating a story that is action packed, frightening and suspense. The action and character relationships/development keep the reader hooked. I loved the changing character perspectives...always leaving me with a mini cliffhanger. I wanted to read on to find out what happened. Great book!! Looking forward to the future.
While at times the plot is a little violent, it lends to creating a story that is action packed, frightening and suspense. The action and character relationships/development keep the reader hooked. I loved the changing character perspectives...always leaving me with a mini cliffhanger. I wanted to read on to find out what happened. Great book!! Looking forward to the future.
May 20, 2012
1984 meets The Strain. It's not just another vampire story; rather, it's a warning of what happens when a pliable sheep-like society is frightened into submitting to evil leadership disguised as a good shepard. This story draws you in by blurring the lines between good and bad. Nothing is black and white and the time it takes to clear up who the good guys really are brings you so far into the development of these characters that you will be more than dissapointed when the story ends. I'll be eagerly awaiting the next installment.
August 27, 2012
I don't get much time to read anymore..so I get mad when I end up with a scrappy book...which was NOT the case here. Great original vampire story set post apocalyptic Las Vegas and surrounding areas. I flew through the pages when I had a chance and was actually upset to put it down! Now I'm just really upset book two isn't out yet! Although there is a short story tie in to the series its not nearly enough to quench my thirst!
May 4, 2013
At first glance i thought this book to be the usual cliche vampire book, but i have to say it was quite different than i expected. It had an excellent story and the vamps were downright bloody, they were truly what i would expect a vampire to be like. It's written in a seamless fashion, weaving through memories and time.I would highly recommend this book to anyone who might like something unexpected and refreshing.
February 8, 2012
Really enjoyed this first installment in the Empire Of Blood series. A bit of a different take on vampires, it has plenty of action and horror. The story moves along quickly as it's told from several different characters POV's and I liked his method of including the flashbacks to flesh out the history of these characters. Well worth a read and I'll definitely be buying the next part.
June 2, 2013
The authors dystopian empire is well thought out.
This story is a nice departure from the usual vampire story. It centers around Hank who has been sentenced to death. In this world rule breakers are dropped off in Vegas which is now ruled by vampires.
I really loved this book and am off to download the sequel.
This story is a nice departure from the usual vampire story. It centers around Hank who has been sentenced to death. In this world rule breakers are dropped off in Vegas which is now ruled by vampires.
I really loved this book and am off to download the sequel.
February 20, 2016
This looks like a promising series entry. The beginning was reminiscent of something inspired by McCarthy's The Road, or Matheson's I Am Legend. Quite compelling to say the least. Wilson's characters are fleshed out well, and the plot is engaging, albeit slightly convoluted. The book ended in true cliff hanger fashion. It will be interesting to see where Wilson takes the series next.
October 8, 2011
Shining in Crimson is truly a refreshing change in the vampire genre. Robert has created an entire NEW Vampire genre, in my opinion.
March 16, 2021
Mixed feelings, it is very competently written and the concept is very interesting, in the beginning of the book I found the resourcefulness of Hank very endearing but from the middle to the end he became simply a wreck and he seemed to just be swept by the events around him; I would say he has potential to be a good protagonist, the best character by far gotta be Ishan he seems very fatherly and wise and I personally really like characters like that. NOW for the worse character Toby, Hank's son, I really was expecting him to die mostly because it would give the same purpose to Hank and it would free the reader from having to read through his perspective, you see when it goes to his POV the writing style seems to change, it becomes more convoluted(?), I just found to be very unappealing.
This series has potential though I won't be finishing it.
This series has potential though I won't be finishing it.
June 27, 2014
Set in an undated near future, this novel successfully merges a political thriller with classic horror tropes. Wilson’s vampires and his dystopian United States of America are each more than sufficient to sustain a plot, making the combination of the two a treat for fans of multi-layered plots.
Following a revolution, the United States is ruled by a radical Christian sect, lead by an Emperor who claims to be the Messiah. Only one city is free of his rule: Necropolis, city of vampires. Cited in the ruins of Las Vegas the former city of sin is now the place sinners are sent to die for their crimes. When Hank Evans is sentenced to be a vampire’s meal, he resolves not only to escape Necropolis, but to reclaim his son from the fanatics who stole him. But in a new world where only monsters prosper, the only way to survive might be to become one.
Wilson’s portrayal of an America where fundamentalists have taken power and entered into a deal with the undead is assured: despite the apparent vast differences between his world and this one, he avoids the need for long sections of exposition.
Beginning with the very personal experience of Hank being thrown into a city of vampires as night falls, and only after pulling back into more political scenes, Wilson captures the reader’s empathy before they have cause to question the larger picture.
When the larger picture does come, it is similarly well paced. Escalating threats are balanced with increased access to the actions of major players, taking the reader from the average citizen’s understanding that the country is run for God and there is a deal with vampires to a more nuanced vision of why the world is as it is.
Wilson’s conception of vampires as forming two strata of physically superlative but simple creatures and weaker but more complex post-humans provides an interesting take on vampire legends: both in terms of reconciling some varied myths and as a theocracy to rival the US Empire.
The writing style was invasive in places: Wilson often uses an informal American English dialect (for example “drug” rather than “dragged”) which might be distracting to some readers. However, this is a relatively minor issue.
The characterisation is, unsurprisingly, also solid. Hank’s initial advantages are counterbalanced by realistic flaws, and his victories are balanced by real sacrifices. While his actions and endurance are extreme, they are eminently reasonable in the context of a person attempting to rescue their child.
The supporting characters are varied. There are conflicting groups within both the vampires and the Empire, making each side not monsters but complex individuals surviving or exploiting the struggle.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel. I recommend it to readers seeking a solid twist on the vampire myth.
Following a revolution, the United States is ruled by a radical Christian sect, lead by an Emperor who claims to be the Messiah. Only one city is free of his rule: Necropolis, city of vampires. Cited in the ruins of Las Vegas the former city of sin is now the place sinners are sent to die for their crimes. When Hank Evans is sentenced to be a vampire’s meal, he resolves not only to escape Necropolis, but to reclaim his son from the fanatics who stole him. But in a new world where only monsters prosper, the only way to survive might be to become one.
Wilson’s portrayal of an America where fundamentalists have taken power and entered into a deal with the undead is assured: despite the apparent vast differences between his world and this one, he avoids the need for long sections of exposition.
Beginning with the very personal experience of Hank being thrown into a city of vampires as night falls, and only after pulling back into more political scenes, Wilson captures the reader’s empathy before they have cause to question the larger picture.
When the larger picture does come, it is similarly well paced. Escalating threats are balanced with increased access to the actions of major players, taking the reader from the average citizen’s understanding that the country is run for God and there is a deal with vampires to a more nuanced vision of why the world is as it is.
Wilson’s conception of vampires as forming two strata of physically superlative but simple creatures and weaker but more complex post-humans provides an interesting take on vampire legends: both in terms of reconciling some varied myths and as a theocracy to rival the US Empire.
The writing style was invasive in places: Wilson often uses an informal American English dialect (for example “drug” rather than “dragged”) which might be distracting to some readers. However, this is a relatively minor issue.
The characterisation is, unsurprisingly, also solid. Hank’s initial advantages are counterbalanced by realistic flaws, and his victories are balanced by real sacrifices. While his actions and endurance are extreme, they are eminently reasonable in the context of a person attempting to rescue their child.
The supporting characters are varied. There are conflicting groups within both the vampires and the Empire, making each side not monsters but complex individuals surviving or exploiting the struggle.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel. I recommend it to readers seeking a solid twist on the vampire myth.
May 27, 2013
This was a nice departure from the usual vampire books out there in the market. The author did an excellent job of crafting a story filled with horror, betrayal, corruption, dystopia and love. The love did not come in the form of an insta-love/lust connection or triangle as is too often the case, but rather in the form of a father's unshakeable love for his son and his willingness to do anything to save his child. There was little to no romance in the book, which was fine with me. All too often, love and sex overshadow the paranormal or fantasy aspects of these kinds of books. So, it was refreshing to not have to deal with that in this one.
There were some rather lengthy exposition passages that "told" a lot of the story, but they were so well done that my interest remained piqued. The characters were well-fleshed out and likeable, even the ones who were monsters and should have been repulsive! :)
The dystopian society of the Empire and the vampire-filled city of Necropolis were described very well, eliciting disturbing visions of a world that would be terrible to live in.
The ending was somewhat abrupt, leaving a lot of questions hanging in the air. But, hopefully, the next book in the series will answer them. And, I definitely will be reading the next book to find out! :)
There were some rather lengthy exposition passages that "told" a lot of the story, but they were so well done that my interest remained piqued. The characters were well-fleshed out and likeable, even the ones who were monsters and should have been repulsive! :)
The dystopian society of the Empire and the vampire-filled city of Necropolis were described very well, eliciting disturbing visions of a world that would be terrible to live in.
The ending was somewhat abrupt, leaving a lot of questions hanging in the air. But, hopefully, the next book in the series will answer them. And, I definitely will be reading the next book to find out! :)
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