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The Ressurectionist #1
Selene Shade: Resurrectionist for Hire
In the first installment of Victoria Dalpe’s new dark fantasy series, we meet Selene Shade, a resurrectionist for hire who might just have taken on the wrong case.
With the ability to restore life to the dead, “Zombie Queen” Selene Shade has earned quite a reputation. Not that it helps her get dates. Her bed may be empty but business is booming. That is until her life is thrown into disarray when a brutal killer comes to town and all signs point to her being the next victim.
Enlisted by the police department due to her unique craft, she must make new alliances, deal with old rivals, and maybe even save the world—whether she wants to or not—all the while avoiding the gruesome allure of dark magic and the sacrificial ritual of a mad cultist.
In Resurrectionist For Hire, Dalpe weaves a dire tale of magic, murder, and romance. To survive, Selene will have to harness her power of the dead and overcome her struggle to connect with the living.
With the ability to restore life to the dead, “Zombie Queen” Selene Shade has earned quite a reputation. Not that it helps her get dates. Her bed may be empty but business is booming. That is until her life is thrown into disarray when a brutal killer comes to town and all signs point to her being the next victim.
Enlisted by the police department due to her unique craft, she must make new alliances, deal with old rivals, and maybe even save the world—whether she wants to or not—all the while avoiding the gruesome allure of dark magic and the sacrificial ritual of a mad cultist.
In Resurrectionist For Hire, Dalpe weaves a dire tale of magic, murder, and romance. To survive, Selene will have to harness her power of the dead and overcome her struggle to connect with the living.
278 pages, Paperback
Published September 10, 2024
15 people are currently reading
3829 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Dalpe
33 books83 followersVictoria Dalpe is a writer and visual artist based out of Providence, RI where she lives with her husband, writer and film maker, Philip Gelatt and their son. From the attic window they can see the spot where HP Lovecraft's ancestral home once stood... alas, it's now a Starbucks. Victoria loves horror movies, reads too much, and has a soft spot for painting animal skulls.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
February 13, 2025
3.5/5
Selene Shade is a resurrectionist for hire. She can bring people back from the dead if they agreed to it before dying and if the price is right. It’s a rare skill, and while it doesn’t make her popular, it makes her useful. When a serial killer starts operating in the town, the police come knocking, hoping she can raise a victim for answers. Selene takes the job. Not her wisest decision.
I enjoyed the world; it has resurrectionists, vampires, witches, and more, all trying to coexist. The murder mystery is solid, and Selene is likable. But the pacing stumbles. Some parts fly by, while others drag. The romance is there, but feels unconvincing. In short, it’s not perfect, but intriguing enough to keep an eye on the sequel.
Selene Shade is a resurrectionist for hire. She can bring people back from the dead if they agreed to it before dying and if the price is right. It’s a rare skill, and while it doesn’t make her popular, it makes her useful. When a serial killer starts operating in the town, the police come knocking, hoping she can raise a victim for answers. Selene takes the job. Not her wisest decision.
I enjoyed the world; it has resurrectionists, vampires, witches, and more, all trying to coexist. The murder mystery is solid, and Selene is likable. But the pacing stumbles. Some parts fly by, while others drag. The romance is there, but feels unconvincing. In short, it’s not perfect, but intriguing enough to keep an eye on the sequel.
February 6, 2025
Wow! I am obsessed with this book! It brought me in right from the beginning I wanted to stay up late and devour its contents. It was such an interesting subject I haven’t read a book like it before. The main characters are interesting and you want to know more about them. The story is like a supernatural save the world who done it all in one. I am so excited that a local author wrote this and cannot wait for book 2 to come out! Highly recommend this book!
June 6, 2024
This was such a great book and an excellent way to start a series. In this book Selene Shade has the power to resurrect the dead which isn’t a power I’ve read much about. This was a very original story and I loved how it incorporated vampires, witches, zombies, and necromancers. This book combined the genres of fantasy, horror, and mystery with a little bit of romance and I did not want to put this one down. I loved the unique cast of characters and thoroughly enjoyed the story.
Read this if you like:
📖 Horror & fantasy
📖 Paranormal reads
📖 Unique characters
📖 Books with dark magic & rituals
📖 Books about serial murders
I definitely recommend adding this one to your September tbr!
Thank you to the Victoria Dalpe & Clash Books for the gifted arc.
Read this if you like:
📖 Horror & fantasy
📖 Paranormal reads
📖 Unique characters
📖 Books with dark magic & rituals
📖 Books about serial murders
I definitely recommend adding this one to your September tbr!
Thank you to the Victoria Dalpe & Clash Books for the gifted arc.
January 17, 2025
This book has so many things going on & nothing all at the same time? A vampire, witches, sex rituals/murder mystery, necromancy & resurrectionists & I was expecting so much more from this. It's less than 300 pages & somehow felt like I was reading an 800 page novel. I like the concept of a " portal/door " to another world being opened & creepy half dead creatures come through to take over our world but IT TOOK FORVER TO GET THERE & once we did the book was basically done.
I'm sorry but I don't need 80-100 pages of tracking down possible next victims once we figure out who's being targeted. We could have condensed that into 50 pages & gotten into more of the chaos that happens at the end of the book.
I'm sorry but I don't need 80-100 pages of tracking down possible next victims once we figure out who's being targeted. We could have condensed that into 50 pages & gotten into more of the chaos that happens at the end of the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2024
Hoo boy, what a story!
***Small but necessary disclaimer***
I read the book as an early copy, which I HOPE means it will go through another round of edits. I say this because the punctuation in particular needs work. That, combined with some typos, made the reading so hard for me I considered dropping the book. Which would have been a pity because I would have missed out on something good! So, I cross all my fingers these issues will be fixed in the final version 🤞🤞🤞
***End of disclaimer***
How to classify this book? Many different genres combine in it, and that's what made it special to me (that, and the use of both 1st and 3rd person POV, which took some getting used to). Murder mystery + paranormal romance with a dash of horror... But also slice-of-life moments (among my favourites!) and discussions about the meaning of being alive and human.
The book's first half is a perfect blend of all these in my opinion, while from the second half onward the action takes over most of the narration. Which kept me glued to the book! But I did miss the cute moments, I swear I re-read them a million times.
I grew attached to Selene though my real love was Marlow, I fell for him since he first appeared on page. Gentlemanly, sweet and a little old fashioned 😍
To be honest, I liked most characters, even those who appeared shortly. With some notable exceptions: Peter, whom I cannot stand, .
The ending was a bit... Unexpected for me? I think it's not because of the book itself, but more on me, I was hoping for something more uplifting and hopeful. Maybe I was the only one who perceived a tone shift at the end, and was affected by it. Will it keep me reading? Oh hell yeah, absolutely.
With an ending like this, it's impossible to walk away and forget about it! So, looking forward to book 2 👀
***Small but necessary disclaimer***
I read the book as an early copy, which I HOPE means it will go through another round of edits. I say this because the punctuation in particular needs work. That, combined with some typos, made the reading so hard for me I considered dropping the book. Which would have been a pity because I would have missed out on something good! So, I cross all my fingers these issues will be fixed in the final version 🤞🤞🤞
***End of disclaimer***
How to classify this book? Many different genres combine in it, and that's what made it special to me (that, and the use of both 1st and 3rd person POV, which took some getting used to). Murder mystery + paranormal romance with a dash of horror... But also slice-of-life moments (among my favourites!) and discussions about the meaning of being alive and human.
The book's first half is a perfect blend of all these in my opinion, while from the second half onward the action takes over most of the narration. Which kept me glued to the book! But I did miss the cute moments, I swear I re-read them a million times.
I grew attached to Selene though my real love was Marlow, I fell for him since he first appeared on page. Gentlemanly, sweet and a little old fashioned 😍
To be honest, I liked most characters, even those who appeared shortly. With some notable exceptions: Peter, whom I cannot stand, .
The ending was a bit... Unexpected for me? I think it's not because of the book itself, but more on me, I was hoping for something more uplifting and hopeful. Maybe I was the only one who perceived a tone shift at the end, and was affected by it. Will it keep me reading? Oh hell yeah, absolutely.
With an ending like this, it's impossible to walk away and forget about it! So, looking forward to book 2 👀
September 1, 2024
Selene Shade is a fascinating character and she perfectly lends herself to a book series.
The time period is a near future when people with magical abilities and the dark arts are newly prominent and accepted in society. Witches, vampires, elementals, necromancers and resurrectionists ply their trades and work for the government.
But there is a serial killer on the loose in the city of Goat Hill. And it is obvious to those in the magical community that there is something dark and dangerous happening.
Part murder mystery, part romantasy, with real horror scenes of terror and gore, this read was FUN. Selene and Marlowe are not typical MCs in a love story because no one really finds them attractive besides each other, which is a wonderful departure from typical romantasy tropes. They speak to each other in refreshingly mature ways.
And I just love Selene and all her seriousness, her thoughtfulness, her flaws and her strengths. She is an MC I look forward to meeting again. A solidly entertaining novel.
The time period is a near future when people with magical abilities and the dark arts are newly prominent and accepted in society. Witches, vampires, elementals, necromancers and resurrectionists ply their trades and work for the government.
But there is a serial killer on the loose in the city of Goat Hill. And it is obvious to those in the magical community that there is something dark and dangerous happening.
Part murder mystery, part romantasy, with real horror scenes of terror and gore, this read was FUN. Selene and Marlowe are not typical MCs in a love story because no one really finds them attractive besides each other, which is a wonderful departure from typical romantasy tropes. They speak to each other in refreshingly mature ways.
And I just love Selene and all her seriousness, her thoughtfulness, her flaws and her strengths. She is an MC I look forward to meeting again. A solidly entertaining novel.
September 9, 2024
Victoria Dalpe’s
Selene Shade: Resurrectionist for Hire
immediately grabbed and pulled me into its dark, fantastical world and never let go. This book is a unique blend of quirkiness, darkness, and humor, meshed together in a beautifully distinct writing style and a plot thick with magic, murder, and intricate relationships that kept me hooked and wanting more. Dalpe’s world-building is extraordinary, bringing to life a realm populated by vampires, necromancers, witches, humans, and some truly dark creatures, which are almost a sin to speak of. The depth of this world added so much richness to the story that I became invested as early as mid-chapter one.
Selene Shade, the protagonist, stands out with her rare ability to resurrect the dead, earning her the moniker “Zombie Queen.” Despite her thriving business, her personal life feels quite lonely, which is oh-so relatable, in my opinion. Things take a turn for the worse when a brutal killer arrives in town, thrusting Selene into a dangerous investigation alongside the police.
As she juggles new alliances, old rivalries, and a potential world-saving mission, Selene’s struggle to reconcile her dark powers with her desire for human connection is compelling. Again, Dalpe’s vivid writing creates a suspenseful, tension-filled plot that kept me eagerly turning the pages and mentally screaming for the second installment.
I usually avoid reading series due to disappointing experiences in the past, but this one is something I can really get into and stick with until the very end. Selene Shade: Resurrectionist for Hire isn’t just a dark fantasy, it’s a rich tale of redemption, connection, and the battle between light and shadow. This debut installment sets a high bar for the series, and I’m eagerly anticipating the next book. If you’re into dark fantasies featuring badass heroines, labyrinthine plots, and worlds crafted from our deepest, darkest fears, this book's definitely worth a read, and perfect for spooky season!
(Thank you, Clash Books, for entrusting me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review!)
Selene Shade, the protagonist, stands out with her rare ability to resurrect the dead, earning her the moniker “Zombie Queen.” Despite her thriving business, her personal life feels quite lonely, which is oh-so relatable, in my opinion. Things take a turn for the worse when a brutal killer arrives in town, thrusting Selene into a dangerous investigation alongside the police.
As she juggles new alliances, old rivalries, and a potential world-saving mission, Selene’s struggle to reconcile her dark powers with her desire for human connection is compelling. Again, Dalpe’s vivid writing creates a suspenseful, tension-filled plot that kept me eagerly turning the pages and mentally screaming for the second installment.
I usually avoid reading series due to disappointing experiences in the past, but this one is something I can really get into and stick with until the very end. Selene Shade: Resurrectionist for Hire isn’t just a dark fantasy, it’s a rich tale of redemption, connection, and the battle between light and shadow. This debut installment sets a high bar for the series, and I’m eagerly anticipating the next book. If you’re into dark fantasies featuring badass heroines, labyrinthine plots, and worlds crafted from our deepest, darkest fears, this book's definitely worth a read, and perfect for spooky season!
(Thank you, Clash Books, for entrusting me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review!)
June 3, 2024
Omg you need to add this to your TBR! I could not put it down. Finished in one sitting, and fell in love with the characters. I had no clue what I was getting into. I figured someone who brings the dead back to life would be interesting to read about. Omg this book is so much more than that!!!
Witches, vampires, zombies, and necromancers? Hell yeah! But the best part is, they’re not tacky, old school stereotypical supernatural figures. They are in a society that is starting to accept them as an equal, despite their differences. Pretty relatable to our world? Yup, in so many ways. Without sending out a bright beacon with her message, Dalpe managed to make it clear and with heart. You can’t help but sympathize with all the characters.
There are serial murders, and they’re gruesome. When you find out the motive behind them, the rituals involved, and the ancient folklore, the story really becomes an exploration in dark magical beliefs. I loved this!
Selene Shade is everything. I don’t know how many books there are in this series but I need more Selene! I’ve not met such an anti likeable yet loveable main character.
The ending leaves you hanging. Things are about to happen, but we need the next book to give us more. Usually this aggravates me, but it’s written so well, that I’m cool with waiting…hopefully not too long tho..
Witches, vampires, zombies, and necromancers? Hell yeah! But the best part is, they’re not tacky, old school stereotypical supernatural figures. They are in a society that is starting to accept them as an equal, despite their differences. Pretty relatable to our world? Yup, in so many ways. Without sending out a bright beacon with her message, Dalpe managed to make it clear and with heart. You can’t help but sympathize with all the characters.
There are serial murders, and they’re gruesome. When you find out the motive behind them, the rituals involved, and the ancient folklore, the story really becomes an exploration in dark magical beliefs. I loved this!
Selene Shade is everything. I don’t know how many books there are in this series but I need more Selene! I’ve not met such an anti likeable yet loveable main character.
The ending leaves you hanging. Things are about to happen, but we need the next book to give us more. Usually this aggravates me, but it’s written so well, that I’m cool with waiting…hopefully not too long tho..
September 16, 2024
This one is a spooky TBR must!
Selene is a resurrectionist and made a business of bringing dead people back to life. Set in modern-day America where witches, vampires, necromancers, and resurrectionists have only been “accepted” for about thirty years, the story tackles some interesting debates about morals concerning those practices. Until Selene gets involved in a murder investigation and has to stop a ritual that otherwise would end their world as they know it.
The book follows a wide set of characters, keeping me engaged and creating a fast-paced story. I thought the romance subplot was wholesome! It made the characters feel so human, even though they’re technically not.
It was scary on multiple occasions. The entire time i was reading, I felt a sense of doom looming, creating a really good atmosphere when reading during fall!
Not many big plot twists, but the story did not need those. It captured my attention from beginning to end and, even though I saw where the story was going, it still gave me anxiety as to whether or not they would succeed. I am so beyond excited to read the sequel, cuz it promises to be a hell of a ride!
Selene is a resurrectionist and made a business of bringing dead people back to life. Set in modern-day America where witches, vampires, necromancers, and resurrectionists have only been “accepted” for about thirty years, the story tackles some interesting debates about morals concerning those practices. Until Selene gets involved in a murder investigation and has to stop a ritual that otherwise would end their world as they know it.
The book follows a wide set of characters, keeping me engaged and creating a fast-paced story. I thought the romance subplot was wholesome! It made the characters feel so human, even though they’re technically not.
It was scary on multiple occasions. The entire time i was reading, I felt a sense of doom looming, creating a really good atmosphere when reading during fall!
Not many big plot twists, but the story did not need those. It captured my attention from beginning to end and, even though I saw where the story was going, it still gave me anxiety as to whether or not they would succeed. I am so beyond excited to read the sequel, cuz it promises to be a hell of a ride!
August 29, 2024
*Was given an ARC by netgalley*
Okay, so I LOVED this book. I thought it was such a refreshing take on the "zombie" horror trope. It felt rich and while the world building wasn't intense, I felt like I understood the magic system really well.
I loved how you were made to feel for Selene, her being the outcast and lonely. I loved her relationship with Marlowe.
My only caveat was that once a certain aspect of the mystery had been revealed, the rest kind of felt predictable. That being said, I was not disappointed with that and there were parts that kept me guessing along the way.
I will be recommending this book to my library for purchase as well as to my friends and colleagues to read once it's published. I think it's a great way to enjoy a horror/urban fantasy without a ton of gore or unnecessary violence.
Okay, so I LOVED this book. I thought it was such a refreshing take on the "zombie" horror trope. It felt rich and while the world building wasn't intense, I felt like I understood the magic system really well.
I loved how you were made to feel for Selene, her being the outcast and lonely. I loved her relationship with Marlowe.
My only caveat was that once a certain aspect of the mystery had been revealed, the rest kind of felt predictable. That being said, I was not disappointed with that and there were parts that kept me guessing along the way.
I will be recommending this book to my library for purchase as well as to my friends and colleagues to read once it's published. I think it's a great way to enjoy a horror/urban fantasy without a ton of gore or unnecessary violence.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2024
Super fun start to a new series! I’ve loved Dalpe’s horror work in the past, and this shows she’s just as good at dark fantasy. Definitely read when it comes out in the fall.
Thanks to CLASH for the review copy!
Thanks to CLASH for the review copy!
September 7, 2024
Love this book!! The concept is so much fun and so thought provoking. Dalpe does a great job building a world with fantastical elements that still feels grounded in reality. I can not wait for book 2!!
February 4, 2025
This was a really interesting read, with engaging characters and a story that keeps you turning pages to see what happens next. Dark magic, cults, murder - Selene Shade ticks a lot of boxes. I really enjoyed it.
October 29, 2024
Selene Shade: Resurrectionist for Hire es una joya para los amantes del género oscuro y la fantasía urbana. La autora ha creado un mundo fascinante donde la magia y la muerte conviven en un equilibrio precario. Marlow, el enigmático vampiro, y Selene, la resucitadora pragmática, forman una pareja inolvidable que te mantendrá enganchado desde el principio hasta el final.
Lo que más me ha gustado es la complejidad de los personajes. Selene es una protagonista fuerte e independiente, pero también vulnerable y llena de dudas. Su relación con Marlow es una de las mejores partes del libro, ya que ambos se complementan a la perfección. La evolución de su vínculo es creíble y conmovedora.
El final del libro es agridulce, dejando al lector con una sensación de incertidumbre y ansiando la siguiente entrega. Sin embargo, creo que es un final apropiado para esta historia, ya que nos muestra que en este mundo nada es lo que parece y que siempre hay más misterios por descubrir.
En resumen, Selene Shade es una novela que te hará reflexionar sobre la vida, la muerte y la naturaleza del bien y el mal. Si te gustan las historias oscuras y los personajes complejos, no te arrepentirás de leer este libro.
______________________
Selene Shade: Resurrectionist for Hire is a gem for lovers of the dark genre and urban fantasy. The author has created a fascinating world where magic and death coexist in a precarious balance. Marlow, the enigmatic vampire, and Selene, the pragmatic resurrector, form an unforgettable couple that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.
What I found most compelling was the depth of the characters. Selene, a resilient and self-reliant protagonist, is also riddled with vulnerabilities and uncertainties. Her relationship with Marlow is a highlight of the book, as their perfect complementarity is both believable and heartwarming. The evolution of their bond is not just convincing, but also deeply moving.
The book's ending is bittersweet, leaving the reader uncertain and longing for the next instalment. However, I think it is an appropriate ending for this story, as it shows us that in this world, nothing is as it seems and that there are always more mysteries to discover.
In essence, Selene Shade is a novel that will prompt you to ponder on life, death, and the essence of good and evil. If you're drawn to dark narratives and intricate characters, this book is a must-read that will leave a lasting impression.
Lo que más me ha gustado es la complejidad de los personajes. Selene es una protagonista fuerte e independiente, pero también vulnerable y llena de dudas. Su relación con Marlow es una de las mejores partes del libro, ya que ambos se complementan a la perfección. La evolución de su vínculo es creíble y conmovedora.
El final del libro es agridulce, dejando al lector con una sensación de incertidumbre y ansiando la siguiente entrega. Sin embargo, creo que es un final apropiado para esta historia, ya que nos muestra que en este mundo nada es lo que parece y que siempre hay más misterios por descubrir.
En resumen, Selene Shade es una novela que te hará reflexionar sobre la vida, la muerte y la naturaleza del bien y el mal. Si te gustan las historias oscuras y los personajes complejos, no te arrepentirás de leer este libro.
______________________
Selene Shade: Resurrectionist for Hire is a gem for lovers of the dark genre and urban fantasy. The author has created a fascinating world where magic and death coexist in a precarious balance. Marlow, the enigmatic vampire, and Selene, the pragmatic resurrector, form an unforgettable couple that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.
What I found most compelling was the depth of the characters. Selene, a resilient and self-reliant protagonist, is also riddled with vulnerabilities and uncertainties. Her relationship with Marlow is a highlight of the book, as their perfect complementarity is both believable and heartwarming. The evolution of their bond is not just convincing, but also deeply moving.
The book's ending is bittersweet, leaving the reader uncertain and longing for the next instalment. However, I think it is an appropriate ending for this story, as it shows us that in this world, nothing is as it seems and that there are always more mysteries to discover.
In essence, Selene Shade is a novel that will prompt you to ponder on life, death, and the essence of good and evil. If you're drawn to dark narratives and intricate characters, this book is a must-read that will leave a lasting impression.
January 13, 2025
I’m literally obsessed with this book! Got this book as a blind date with a book from my local bookstore and I absolutely ate it up. I can’t wait for the second book to be released. I’m baffled that it hasn’t blown up more. Going to recommend to all my book pals.
October 14, 2024
So... I picked this book up because it had a beautiful cover. I do this... probably too often. Sometimes a cover just really grabs my attention and I make impulse buys. Sure I read the synopsis for this one but honestly I thought, well... I'll try it but I'm not expecting much.
I was so pleasantly wrong. This book was great. The characters are fantastic, the world is developed so well. The various different occult societies and how they have imbeded and fused with the "normal" people. The way that the author makes these flawed people still likeable and relatable. It's exceptional.
The story itself was also captivating. I found myself not wanting to put this book down. The pacing was excellent and the length of the book was perfect. At no point did I feel like the story was dragging it's heels or plodding. It was a thrilling ride from start to finish and I'm so glad I got to enjoy it.
It's really nice when things work out this way. I've recently been reading a lot of extremely highly rated books that I've gotten through and thought that I must have read a totally different book than what everyone else seems to be raving about because they did not live up to the hype at all. So it's nice when my most basic lizard brain just saw a pretty book, picked it up and it turned out to be one of my favorite books this year. This is one book that you absolutely can judge by it's cover. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
I was so pleasantly wrong. This book was great. The characters are fantastic, the world is developed so well. The various different occult societies and how they have imbeded and fused with the "normal" people. The way that the author makes these flawed people still likeable and relatable. It's exceptional.
The story itself was also captivating. I found myself not wanting to put this book down. The pacing was excellent and the length of the book was perfect. At no point did I feel like the story was dragging it's heels or plodding. It was a thrilling ride from start to finish and I'm so glad I got to enjoy it.
It's really nice when things work out this way. I've recently been reading a lot of extremely highly rated books that I've gotten through and thought that I must have read a totally different book than what everyone else seems to be raving about because they did not live up to the hype at all. So it's nice when my most basic lizard brain just saw a pretty book, picked it up and it turned out to be one of my favorite books this year. This is one book that you absolutely can judge by it's cover. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
October 25, 2024
Selene Shade has the lonely job of bringing other people back to life for a price - and if they consent to it before dying. Her business partner and only friend recently died, and explicitly did not want to be resurrected. One day, Detective Marlow walks in, begging for her to resurrect a murder victim so that they can get information on the killer. Thus begins her helping the police with the investigation, and a blooming romance with Marlow, who is secretly a vampire. She finds a replacement for her old friend's job - another young resurrectionist who may also be in danger from the killer.
I really like the characters in this book - Selene and Marlow are perfectly developed and perfect for each other. They both prefer seclusion and quiet, and don't like to share their identities with others. Peter is an almost-client who is also a reporter, and despite his flaws does his best to aid in the investigation. Germaine is Selene's apprentice, who is secretly seeing a man who may or may not be the killer. I really wish that the societal acceptance of other beings was explored more, and I hope it's brought into the next book when it comes out. My only complaint was that Germaine's romance wasn't really developed enough to understand why she does the things she does for him.
I really like the characters in this book - Selene and Marlow are perfectly developed and perfect for each other. They both prefer seclusion and quiet, and don't like to share their identities with others. Peter is an almost-client who is also a reporter, and despite his flaws does his best to aid in the investigation. Germaine is Selene's apprentice, who is secretly seeing a man who may or may not be the killer. I really wish that the societal acceptance of other beings was explored more, and I hope it's brought into the next book when it comes out. My only complaint was that Germaine's romance wasn't really developed enough to understand why she does the things she does for him.
June 3, 2025
Are you even a reader if you haven’t bought a book purely for the cover at least once? In my defense I did read the back and was intrigued but to be honest, this baby was mine the moment I saw it. Fortunately, the inside matches the outside.
This was incredibly unique. There is a large cast of characters but it mostly focuses on Selene, a resurrectionst. Selene’s world is incredibly small. Her long time and only friend has just died. Being a resurrectionist, she is barely tolerated by society, seen as a novelty, or worse, as something to be feared. It explores navigating relationships, both personal and within a world that views you as other.
The serial killer murder mystery at the center of the plot kept me engaged. Definitely some surprises along the way. This is one where a lot of things connect at the end that I didn’t expect.
The romance isn’t the main focus but I liked it. Marlow and Selene’s relationship felt believable. They both had hidden themselves away for a long time. They felt like a team.
I’m slightly ashamed to say I think I like Peter, the opportunistic reporter, who is a bit of a bigot but also seems to have his heart in the right place, mostly.
So glad I picked this up. Sometimes being shallow works out.
This was incredibly unique. There is a large cast of characters but it mostly focuses on Selene, a resurrectionst. Selene’s world is incredibly small. Her long time and only friend has just died. Being a resurrectionist, she is barely tolerated by society, seen as a novelty, or worse, as something to be feared. It explores navigating relationships, both personal and within a world that views you as other.
The serial killer murder mystery at the center of the plot kept me engaged. Definitely some surprises along the way. This is one where a lot of things connect at the end that I didn’t expect.
The romance isn’t the main focus but I liked it. Marlow and Selene’s relationship felt believable. They both had hidden themselves away for a long time. They felt like a team.
I’m slightly ashamed to say I think I like Peter, the opportunistic reporter, who is a bit of a bigot but also seems to have his heart in the right place, mostly.
So glad I picked this up. Sometimes being shallow works out.
July 4, 2024
I thought this would definitely be right at the center of one of my two favorite genres, and I was so right. Selene is pretty isolated from people since she can make a half life, which many think is unnatural and that she’s unnatural. But a series of murders bring her front and center, not only with her power, but to many of her “enemies” and other powers. I just love how Selene starts to open up to people, sometimes the wrong people, but sometimes the right ones. This is definitely a little dark, but it also holds a little hope too. I thought this was well-written, compelling, and interesting, even when at times I was a little confused about tiny details. I’ll absolutely read the next one; I find this universe interesting, especially how things shake out at the end. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
September 1, 2024
Tis is such a thrilling ride filled with dark humor and intriguing supernatural elements. I loved Selene as a protagonist - her sharp wit and cleverness made her incredibly relatable and entertaining. The worldbuilding is immersive, blending the ordinary with the fantastical in a way that keeps you hooked.
However, there were moments where the plot felt a bit predictable, and I wished for more twists to keep the suspense alive.
Despite that, the unique premise and engaging writing style made for a fun read that I found hard to put down!
However, there were moments where the plot felt a bit predictable, and I wished for more twists to keep the suspense alive.
Despite that, the unique premise and engaging writing style made for a fun read that I found hard to put down!
October 14, 2024
I loved this book! The author has crafted a universe that feels real and alive (or un-alive, haha), pulling you in right from the start. I binged it like a TV show—I could easily see it being adapted into one! I was completely engrossed and couldn’t put it down. I adore Selene and Marlow. I’m eagerly awaiting Book 2. Highly recommend!
July 21, 2024
As in"human" as some of the characters are, they're as human as you can get. The author does a brilliant job at conveying real interactions in a positively hilarious way. Making even mundane conversation feel key to each character's development.
October 10, 2024
The storyline was excellent. A deep dive into a unique world of magic and otherworldly spectacle. I found myself drawn into the detailed personal lives of the characters and how they each have their own approach to the world around them. Highly recommend read
September 22, 2024
Amazing! So many interesting twists and turns. So many creatures and fighting and weirdness. Absolutely loved it and am eagerly awaiting the next in the series.
October 24, 2025
I need the next book yesterday, I just finished this one and I am HOOKED! 🔥🔥🔥
TLDR is at the bottom of my review!
💬 “They chanted over and over. He ripped me apart. I screamed and screamed but no one came. I was bleeding, I knew I was bleeding to death. No one came. I died. I’m dead. Oh god, oh god. NO ONE CAME.” 💬
⚠️ TW/CW:
Rape, brief mention of suicide, death/undead, general spookiness (Nigrum Porta def giving sleep paralysis demon vibes)
📝 Description:
Selene Shade is a resurrectionist, and one who is left reeling after the death of her mentor, especially considering she inherits her mentor’s business in the wake of the tragedy. Now, Selene is swamped in grief and resurrections-for-a-price as she finds herself encapsulated in an ongoing investigation of ritualistic murders around the city. As Selene continues to make stranger and stranger acquaintances, the sinister plot rooted within Goat Hill only grows deeper and darker.
In Selene Shade: Resurrectionist for Hire, Dalpe poses questions on the morality of death, the beyond, and challenges what it means to be truly human.
✅ What I liked:
With such an interesting concept in resurrectionists, good pacing, and a new take on the supernatural, I was so wrapped up in this book! I enjoyed the setting and loved the detail that the magical world was only recently revealed to the public. Witches, zombies, necromancers, and vampires are all found within the book, and do not vie for attention; they all find their harmony together.
I liked most of the characters. Marlow, however, was my favorite, but I also really liked Regine by the end of the book. While I did not like characters like Peter or Iris, it wasn’t because they were poorly written, but quite the opposite. The characters in this book felt real, as in I know people like them. The decisions they made make sense when you understand their point of view. I found each character to be compelling in their own way.
Throughout the novel, I found myself asking if I’d want to be resurrected given the stipulations mentioned (eating live animals, not feeling as many emotions, and potentially becoming a puppet to a Zombie Queen). Immediately, my answer was “no, thank you” when I started the book. But as I carried on, the argument for resurrecting was making more sense. You can handle any unfinished business, can find dignity in death, or just continue with your life. I personally am no stranger to death, and some of my family members were not allotted dignity in their deaths. I found myself wishing to be in this world so they had that opportunity, and could see myself under the right circumstances opting for this as well. This novel felt so deeply and darkly poignant.
❌ What I didn’t:
I did occasionally have a hard time telling characters apart when they were having conversations amongst themselves. I think that this was an issue that could be resolved in one of two ways: by having characters have more of their own voice (using different vernacular or more of a preference towards using slang), or by making it more apparent who was speaking. Again, this is only a minor note, and an issue I personally struggle with in many books before.
Now this next one is really such a minor thing, it feels almost stupid to put here. In chapter sixteen, once we switch to Selene’s POV and arrive at Persimmon’s, there is a line regarding covens needing an avatar of each element that bugs me. The line is, “Covens needed an avatar for each element: earth, air, wind, water, fire, and one for spirit…” Why are air and wind two separate elements? The only thing I could think of is that air could represent stillness, whereas wind could represent movement, but then why not make “change” the element? I was hoping that this would be explained, but found myself a little disappointed that it wasn’t. Hopefully, in one of the next books planned, we will get more of an understanding of the witch’s magic!
📚 TLDR:
Such a fun read, perfect for spooky season! Not too scary, but it is deliciously creepy at times. Perfect if you are looking for some refreshing takes on magic and the supernatural. Compelling and fun characters! There are only some VERY minor notes I have about the book that aren’t even worth putting here because you should absolutely just snatch this book up and read it immediately.
👀 Keep or Donate:
KEEP 👹👹
🎯 Recommendations:
• Read at night in bed with a good book light (and hope you don’t see a shadowy figure in the corner)
• Read if you are trying to get into the horror genre, but aren’t quite ready to fully take the plunge
• If you like this book, you should pickup:
- Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldree (IDK why cause these books are so dissimilar. But I think you’ll like this book)
- The Silvered by Tanya Huff (This book is more high fantasy, but I felt kinda a similar vibe between the two.)
TLDR is at the bottom of my review!
💬 “They chanted over and over. He ripped me apart. I screamed and screamed but no one came. I was bleeding, I knew I was bleeding to death. No one came. I died. I’m dead. Oh god, oh god. NO ONE CAME.” 💬
⚠️ TW/CW:
Rape, brief mention of suicide, death/undead, general spookiness (Nigrum Porta def giving sleep paralysis demon vibes)
📝 Description:
Selene Shade is a resurrectionist, and one who is left reeling after the death of her mentor, especially considering she inherits her mentor’s business in the wake of the tragedy. Now, Selene is swamped in grief and resurrections-for-a-price as she finds herself encapsulated in an ongoing investigation of ritualistic murders around the city. As Selene continues to make stranger and stranger acquaintances, the sinister plot rooted within Goat Hill only grows deeper and darker.
In Selene Shade: Resurrectionist for Hire, Dalpe poses questions on the morality of death, the beyond, and challenges what it means to be truly human.
✅ What I liked:
With such an interesting concept in resurrectionists, good pacing, and a new take on the supernatural, I was so wrapped up in this book! I enjoyed the setting and loved the detail that the magical world was only recently revealed to the public. Witches, zombies, necromancers, and vampires are all found within the book, and do not vie for attention; they all find their harmony together.
I liked most of the characters. Marlow, however, was my favorite, but I also really liked Regine by the end of the book. While I did not like characters like Peter or Iris, it wasn’t because they were poorly written, but quite the opposite. The characters in this book felt real, as in I know people like them. The decisions they made make sense when you understand their point of view. I found each character to be compelling in their own way.
Throughout the novel, I found myself asking if I’d want to be resurrected given the stipulations mentioned (eating live animals, not feeling as many emotions, and potentially becoming a puppet to a Zombie Queen). Immediately, my answer was “no, thank you” when I started the book. But as I carried on, the argument for resurrecting was making more sense. You can handle any unfinished business, can find dignity in death, or just continue with your life. I personally am no stranger to death, and some of my family members were not allotted dignity in their deaths. I found myself wishing to be in this world so they had that opportunity, and could see myself under the right circumstances opting for this as well. This novel felt so deeply and darkly poignant.
❌ What I didn’t:
I did occasionally have a hard time telling characters apart when they were having conversations amongst themselves. I think that this was an issue that could be resolved in one of two ways: by having characters have more of their own voice (using different vernacular or more of a preference towards using slang), or by making it more apparent who was speaking. Again, this is only a minor note, and an issue I personally struggle with in many books before.
Now this next one is really such a minor thing, it feels almost stupid to put here. In chapter sixteen, once we switch to Selene’s POV and arrive at Persimmon’s, there is a line regarding covens needing an avatar of each element that bugs me. The line is, “Covens needed an avatar for each element: earth, air, wind, water, fire, and one for spirit…” Why are air and wind two separate elements? The only thing I could think of is that air could represent stillness, whereas wind could represent movement, but then why not make “change” the element? I was hoping that this would be explained, but found myself a little disappointed that it wasn’t. Hopefully, in one of the next books planned, we will get more of an understanding of the witch’s magic!
📚 TLDR:
Such a fun read, perfect for spooky season! Not too scary, but it is deliciously creepy at times. Perfect if you are looking for some refreshing takes on magic and the supernatural. Compelling and fun characters! There are only some VERY minor notes I have about the book that aren’t even worth putting here because you should absolutely just snatch this book up and read it immediately.
👀 Keep or Donate:
KEEP 👹👹
🎯 Recommendations:
• Read at night in bed with a good book light (and hope you don’t see a shadowy figure in the corner)
• Read if you are trying to get into the horror genre, but aren’t quite ready to fully take the plunge
• If you like this book, you should pickup:
- Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldree (IDK why cause these books are so dissimilar. But I think you’ll like this book)
- The Silvered by Tanya Huff (This book is more high fantasy, but I felt kinda a similar vibe between the two.)
February 9, 2025
I know what you’re thinking—a five-star review? From the author’s littlest brother? “Well, that can’t mean much.” Well, shut up. Because it actually does. I was one of the first to read this story in its early PDF larval stages, and I loved it then, and I love it now.
This book has everything I want—an exhausted, reluctant supernatural protagonist inextricably tangled in detective sleuthing for some out-of-this-world serial murders? Yes. Fucking. Please. Hot vamps? I thought you’d never ask. A magic system that actually makes sense, doesn’t take its readers for granted, and sticks to its own rules? Thank god. Genuinely unsettling, creeping horror scenes that haunt you long after you put the book down? Oh yeah. A dry, quippish wit that lands satire without breaking the grotesque tension? Huzzah! It makes everything better, every time.
Sidebar—18 years ago, when I was but a wee twink in search of good stories, Victoria Dalpe dropped off a shopping bag full of Laurel K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake series. I ate them the f$&% up. Anita awakened a deep love for supernatural urban noir mystery thrillers with a touch of humor… (I would later in life spend many nights in bed with Harry Dresden—IYKYK). All this to say—I’m stoked that V is writing this series with her specific edge, and I believe Selene Shade will easily find her seat in the pantheon alongside Harry, Anita, Sookie Stackhouse, and Katie Daniels.
If you’re literate and like a good time—read this book.
If “zombie raising” feels a little too far-fetched for you, don’t worry. You’ll be buried in 1099s, MOUs, and graveyard event permits before you even realize you’re no longer in Kansas.
And if you only read books like these for the supernatural smut—I see you. Respect. It’s in there.
This book has everything I want—an exhausted, reluctant supernatural protagonist inextricably tangled in detective sleuthing for some out-of-this-world serial murders? Yes. Fucking. Please. Hot vamps? I thought you’d never ask. A magic system that actually makes sense, doesn’t take its readers for granted, and sticks to its own rules? Thank god. Genuinely unsettling, creeping horror scenes that haunt you long after you put the book down? Oh yeah. A dry, quippish wit that lands satire without breaking the grotesque tension? Huzzah! It makes everything better, every time.
Sidebar—18 years ago, when I was but a wee twink in search of good stories, Victoria Dalpe dropped off a shopping bag full of Laurel K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake series. I ate them the f$&% up. Anita awakened a deep love for supernatural urban noir mystery thrillers with a touch of humor… (I would later in life spend many nights in bed with Harry Dresden—IYKYK). All this to say—I’m stoked that V is writing this series with her specific edge, and I believe Selene Shade will easily find her seat in the pantheon alongside Harry, Anita, Sookie Stackhouse, and Katie Daniels.
If you’re literate and like a good time—read this book.
If “zombie raising” feels a little too far-fetched for you, don’t worry. You’ll be buried in 1099s, MOUs, and graveyard event permits before you even realize you’re no longer in Kansas.
And if you only read books like these for the supernatural smut—I see you. Respect. It’s in there.
November 1, 2025
The story, universe & world building were all super interesting. I don’t really have much criticism to say about the story itself at all.
My main gripe is with the editing. There are so, so many run-on sentences. An absolutely insane amount of run-on sentences. I expect & forgive a certain amount of grammatical & printing errors from a small publisher— and those were present too— but the run-on thing was so egregious that I was constantly pulled out of the story. I also felt like the errors got worse & more plentiful near the end of the story, as if the writing or editing was rushed near the end & more errors went unnoticed.
The story itself would have gotten four stars from me, but the writing was so distracting that it honestly took away from my enjoyment.
My main gripe is with the editing. There are so, so many run-on sentences. An absolutely insane amount of run-on sentences. I expect & forgive a certain amount of grammatical & printing errors from a small publisher— and those were present too— but the run-on thing was so egregious that I was constantly pulled out of the story. I also felt like the errors got worse & more plentiful near the end of the story, as if the writing or editing was rushed near the end & more errors went unnoticed.
The story itself would have gotten four stars from me, but the writing was so distracting that it honestly took away from my enjoyment.
March 7, 2025
Selene Shade by Victoria Dalpe is a really fun dark fantasy, mystery and thriller rolled into one novel. The characters are likeable and pretty believable. The world building isn't overly too much and easy to follow. My big gripe with any fantasy genre novel is usually with the world building. A lot of the times its overpowering or too detailed and it drags the story. The author did not do that here. I was invested in the characters and in their lives. It does read like a cozy novel. Looking forward to Book 2.
February 10, 2025
I really loved this book. It was a great take on the genre and did an excellent job of inverting certain tropes and avoiding cliched pitfalls. The elements of the weird were fun and unexpected and horror lovely and cosmic with a bit of the grotesque. The main character is self sufficient and fun and I can’t wait for her next journey.
February 6, 2025
As someone who grew up reading Buffy the Vampire Slayer books, this scratched an itch for something that harkened me back to Sunnydale and the occult. I'm new to Dalpe's work but I am very excited by the thought of more Selene Shade down the road!
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