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Immolation: Volume I
It’s another blustery summer in Windermere.
Remote, fanatical, and superstitious, the holy city is held tight in the vice-like grip of a centuries-long vampire panic. The local Archbishop, Cyril, has devoted his life to snuffing out this sacrilegious source of Windermere’s woes.
Not content with spitting in the face of death, the vampires too bewitch the living. Blood that is euphoric and addictive in equal measure flows like liquor down the throats of the bold and the foolish. With every addict, the vampires’ hold over the city tightens.
Beset by doubt from both within and without the cathedral walls, Cyril must struggle to retain his political influence over a fractured city, religious control over his suspicious faithful, and spiritual control over his own – supposedly unbending – faith.
And as the church’s well-kept secrets threaten to crawl into the light, Cyril must either find answers, or write them himself.
Remote, fanatical, and superstitious, the holy city is held tight in the vice-like grip of a centuries-long vampire panic. The local Archbishop, Cyril, has devoted his life to snuffing out this sacrilegious source of Windermere’s woes.
Not content with spitting in the face of death, the vampires too bewitch the living. Blood that is euphoric and addictive in equal measure flows like liquor down the throats of the bold and the foolish. With every addict, the vampires’ hold over the city tightens.
Beset by doubt from both within and without the cathedral walls, Cyril must struggle to retain his political influence over a fractured city, religious control over his suspicious faithful, and spiritual control over his own – supposedly unbending – faith.
And as the church’s well-kept secrets threaten to crawl into the light, Cyril must either find answers, or write them himself.
551 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 18, 2024
9 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
S.D. Diastrefo
1 book9 followersS.D. Diastrefo is an artist and author working out of a little office with more plants than places to put them. When he is not writing, he enjoys good coffee, good company, and making poor financial decisions in antique shops.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
October 14, 2024
Days have passed since I finished reading Immolation, Volume 1 by S. D. Diastrefo, and my mind is still buzzing with the intensity and intricacy of this story. I can't remember the last time I felt so intrigued by the concepts of a fantasy story, the roots Diastrefo has built it, and the ideas and plot lines weaved in. I still don't know if I can find the right words to describe how this book has grabbed me and hasn't let me go, how it has captured me with the opening line, and my amazement hasn't died down until the last line. Immolation is more than a book—it is a true experience you must process by yourself.
Diastrefo's writing style is exceptional; it is so beautifully curated, so poetic at times without feeling overwhelming. It is your best guide through the grappling plot and intricate and exceptionally crafted characters. It builds the concepts of the church, devotion, hunger for power, rage, and revenge so devastatingly beautiful.
And the plot...Oh, the plot. Diastrefo took their time with it and perfected a story full of characters with so many different faces, different motives, and different needs. Nobody is exempt, and everybody can do good and make mistakes. Who are the real sinners, and who are the real saviours? Do they even exist as such, or are they only images of perfection we have created? Diastrefo toys with all this like a true puppet master, and you are left wanting more; more pages of this dark, devious, holy & unholy utter perfection.
You will question everyone's motives, everyone's morals, and everyone's ideals. You will question who the real villains are—the church, the army, or those cursed with blood-thirst. Is it Cyril, the Archbishop, the mysterious leader of the church? Is it the Captain trying to change things in a city full of devotees? Is it the vampires or those infected by the blood lust? Who is to blame? And should we blame?
No matter the answer, you will devour Immolation; you will never forget a story so powerful and so deep. Immolation is set to be released on October 18th; mark this day in your calendars and prepare to step into Windemere, where nothing is as it seems.
I was honoured to be one of Diastrefo's ARC readers, and I feel like I am on a mission to spread the (un)holy word of this story.
Diastrefo's writing style is exceptional; it is so beautifully curated, so poetic at times without feeling overwhelming. It is your best guide through the grappling plot and intricate and exceptionally crafted characters. It builds the concepts of the church, devotion, hunger for power, rage, and revenge so devastatingly beautiful.
And the plot...Oh, the plot. Diastrefo took their time with it and perfected a story full of characters with so many different faces, different motives, and different needs. Nobody is exempt, and everybody can do good and make mistakes. Who are the real sinners, and who are the real saviours? Do they even exist as such, or are they only images of perfection we have created? Diastrefo toys with all this like a true puppet master, and you are left wanting more; more pages of this dark, devious, holy & unholy utter perfection.
You will question everyone's motives, everyone's morals, and everyone's ideals. You will question who the real villains are—the church, the army, or those cursed with blood-thirst. Is it Cyril, the Archbishop, the mysterious leader of the church? Is it the Captain trying to change things in a city full of devotees? Is it the vampires or those infected by the blood lust? Who is to blame? And should we blame?
No matter the answer, you will devour Immolation; you will never forget a story so powerful and so deep. Immolation is set to be released on October 18th; mark this day in your calendars and prepare to step into Windemere, where nothing is as it seems.
I was honoured to be one of Diastrefo's ARC readers, and I feel like I am on a mission to spread the (un)holy word of this story.
July 22, 2025
"Such is the Path to the firmament.
Such is my Path to the firmament"
Such is my Path to the firmament"
October 20, 2024
It took a while to get in the book since it was brutal world building.
Once it got me I couldn’t let it down. One of the best reads this year.
Gothic vampire masterpiece.
Once it got me I couldn’t let it down. One of the best reads this year.
Gothic vampire masterpiece.
October 21, 2024
S.D. Diastrefo delivers an intricate and dark fantasy experience in Immolation, the first book in what feels like an epic saga. Set in the haunting city of Windermere, where religious fanaticism collides with a growing vampire panic, this book takes you on a journey through faith, power struggles, and deep moral conflict.
What I Loved:
Immersive World-Building: Diastrefo does an incredible job crafting a unique and atmospheric world. Windermere feels alive, with its superstitious citizens and eerie setting steeped in history and religious tension. The details, from the city’s architecture to the political undertones, create a vivid backdrop.
Compelling Characters: Cyril, the Archbishop, is a fascinating lead—his conflict between his unwavering faith and the moral dilemmas he faces drew me in. Brontë, the vampire, is equally intriguing. As someone who shouldn’t exist, her presence alone brings chaos to Cyril’s life, and watching their dynamic unfold was one of my favorite parts of the book.
Poetic Prose: The writing is gorgeous! Diastrefo has a way of weaving beautiful, almost lyrical descriptions into the narrative without it feeling overdone. It added to the eerie, almost gothic atmosphere of the story.
What I Didn't Love:
Pacing Issues: The first half of the book was gripping, but the middle felt a little bogged down by political maneuvering and exposition. While I enjoyed the world-building, it did slow the plot down at times, making it feel a bit dense.
Complexity Overload: There are a lot of layers in this world—sometimes too many for my liking. While I appreciated the depth, I found myself occasionally overwhelmed by all the new terms, concepts, and characters introduced. For a first book, it felt like a lot to take in.
Final Thoughts: Overall, Immolation is a dark and ambitious fantasy that will appeal to readers who love intricate world-building and morally complex characters. It’s a slow burn, but if you’re patient, the payoff is worth it. Diastrefo’s writing is beautifully crafted, and I can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
Rating: 4/5
What I Loved:
Immersive World-Building: Diastrefo does an incredible job crafting a unique and atmospheric world. Windermere feels alive, with its superstitious citizens and eerie setting steeped in history and religious tension. The details, from the city’s architecture to the political undertones, create a vivid backdrop.
Compelling Characters: Cyril, the Archbishop, is a fascinating lead—his conflict between his unwavering faith and the moral dilemmas he faces drew me in. Brontë, the vampire, is equally intriguing. As someone who shouldn’t exist, her presence alone brings chaos to Cyril’s life, and watching their dynamic unfold was one of my favorite parts of the book.
Poetic Prose: The writing is gorgeous! Diastrefo has a way of weaving beautiful, almost lyrical descriptions into the narrative without it feeling overdone. It added to the eerie, almost gothic atmosphere of the story.
What I Didn't Love:
Pacing Issues: The first half of the book was gripping, but the middle felt a little bogged down by political maneuvering and exposition. While I enjoyed the world-building, it did slow the plot down at times, making it feel a bit dense.
Complexity Overload: There are a lot of layers in this world—sometimes too many for my liking. While I appreciated the depth, I found myself occasionally overwhelmed by all the new terms, concepts, and characters introduced. For a first book, it felt like a lot to take in.
Final Thoughts: Overall, Immolation is a dark and ambitious fantasy that will appeal to readers who love intricate world-building and morally complex characters. It’s a slow burn, but if you’re patient, the payoff is worth it. Diastrefo’s writing is beautifully crafted, and I can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
Rating: 4/5
October 31, 2024
I am still in absolute awe how beautiful of a experience Immolation Volume I has been for me.
Even though this is S.D. Diastrefo's first book you can clearly tell there has been a lot of love and care devoted into it, the cover alone is stunningly designed, use of color, symbols and font all compliments each other perfectly and is pleasing to the eyes, the story itself is written in third person POV which i love very much.
The world of Immolation gives a unique historical yet dark fantasy world build experience and magic systems, bringing the rich landscape of Windermere and intricate lore to life.
The character development is a absolute standing out element, each character facing their own struggles and emotions, The pacing between characters was very well done, with a nice balance of action packed fights and chase scenes to more restful moments where the characters personality really came forward.
Now the wide range of emotions the story itself gave me was a absolute roller coaster, from laughing out loudly to trying to read between my tears and back again has been a amazing, loving and gut wrenching experience that makes you question even your own morals, i have yeeted the book across the room at least once. (im sorry XD)
I am already on my second read and surprised at the little hints and signs i missed before, so i implore you to definitely re-read it at least once more!
Side note, personally i prefer audio books because reading to long normally give me a headache but reading through this book has been a breath of fresh air to me, i can not stress enough how smoothly it has been written, not once have i experienced discomfort reading it, i thank you for that.
Overall Immolation Volume I is a wonderful start to a series that i know i’ll be exciting about for a long time, if you’re a dark fantasy fan looking for an exciting adventure with depth, this book is a absolute must read.
I’m already counting down the days until the next volume!
Even though this is S.D. Diastrefo's first book you can clearly tell there has been a lot of love and care devoted into it, the cover alone is stunningly designed, use of color, symbols and font all compliments each other perfectly and is pleasing to the eyes, the story itself is written in third person POV which i love very much.
The world of Immolation gives a unique historical yet dark fantasy world build experience and magic systems, bringing the rich landscape of Windermere and intricate lore to life.
The character development is a absolute standing out element, each character facing their own struggles and emotions, The pacing between characters was very well done, with a nice balance of action packed fights and chase scenes to more restful moments where the characters personality really came forward.
Now the wide range of emotions the story itself gave me was a absolute roller coaster, from laughing out loudly to trying to read between my tears and back again has been a amazing, loving and gut wrenching experience that makes you question even your own morals, i have yeeted the book across the room at least once. (im sorry XD)
I am already on my second read and surprised at the little hints and signs i missed before, so i implore you to definitely re-read it at least once more!
Side note, personally i prefer audio books because reading to long normally give me a headache but reading through this book has been a breath of fresh air to me, i can not stress enough how smoothly it has been written, not once have i experienced discomfort reading it, i thank you for that.
Overall Immolation Volume I is a wonderful start to a series that i know i’ll be exciting about for a long time, if you’re a dark fantasy fan looking for an exciting adventure with depth, this book is a absolute must read.
I’m already counting down the days until the next volume!
October 11, 2024
This book is so beautifully written, so impeccable curated and so phenomenally intentional that I am having a hard time processing its entirety to leave an accurate review. This is going to be a work that I think about for a long time to grapple with my own understanding of the plot and the characters and how it all came together.
The fantasy concepts are timeless yet orchestrated in way that feels fresh and encompasses the gothic storytelling that vividly paints the vampires verse hunters and huntress. This is further embodied by the mafia-like organisation the vampires run to gain power, coin and influence within the Holy city.
The beginning is quite heavy on world building. We learn the intricacies of the church and state, the quirks of the characters, the questionable decisions and morals of the population and are shown one side of the coin regarding the world in which this fantasy novel inhabits.
The later half of the novel is emotional and driven. The characters are thrust into situations that make them question their morals, their sanity and their unyielding belief systems. Reflecting the often unseen opposite side of the same coin that people try to hide within the shadows.
Of course in the end, only the good die young.
I have many questions left after reading, more so regarding the morality of the characters and whether they acted within the constraints of their station or whether it was a means of survival and the singular grasp to remain in power.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The fantasy concepts are timeless yet orchestrated in way that feels fresh and encompasses the gothic storytelling that vividly paints the vampires verse hunters and huntress. This is further embodied by the mafia-like organisation the vampires run to gain power, coin and influence within the Holy city.
The beginning is quite heavy on world building. We learn the intricacies of the church and state, the quirks of the characters, the questionable decisions and morals of the population and are shown one side of the coin regarding the world in which this fantasy novel inhabits.
The later half of the novel is emotional and driven. The characters are thrust into situations that make them question their morals, their sanity and their unyielding belief systems. Reflecting the often unseen opposite side of the same coin that people try to hide within the shadows.
Of course in the end, only the good die young.
I have many questions left after reading, more so regarding the morality of the characters and whether they acted within the constraints of their station or whether it was a means of survival and the singular grasp to remain in power.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 1, 2024
Immolation: Volume I is a tour de force, blending a rich, full world, strong characters with secrets, and an overarching theme of good (but how good? 😉) versus evil.
The world is rich and descriptive. Almost every chapter starts with an atmospheric intro, drawing the reader’s attention to the beautiful cathedral and cobblestone streets, the sky and twinkling stars, or the wind sweeping through the grain fields. I was immersed in the details, so I felt like I was right there with the characters.
I think the characters were most surprising part for me. Though the supernatural plays a big role in Immolation, the characters themselves were relatable, fallible, human (for the most part!). Brontë was my favorite, partly because she shares her name with one of my favorite authors, but also because she loves to read and doubts herself a lot.
Though most of the chapters are short, I felt like the story meandered a touch and it slowed the pace. I was eager to find out what Father Cyril wanted, or to discover Brontë’s backstory, or figure out why exactly the vampires were after the specific vials/types of blood. I know this is the first in a series, so I didn’t get all the answers to my questions, but the ending was still quite satisfying.
Overall, Immolation: Volume I was an immersive experience, perfect for readers who enjoy Dracula, historical fiction, and vampires in a world where good and evil isn’t clearly delineated. I was given a free advance review copy of this book by S. D. Diastrefo. My opinions are honest and given freely.
The world is rich and descriptive. Almost every chapter starts with an atmospheric intro, drawing the reader’s attention to the beautiful cathedral and cobblestone streets, the sky and twinkling stars, or the wind sweeping through the grain fields. I was immersed in the details, so I felt like I was right there with the characters.
I think the characters were most surprising part for me. Though the supernatural plays a big role in Immolation, the characters themselves were relatable, fallible, human (for the most part!). Brontë was my favorite, partly because she shares her name with one of my favorite authors, but also because she loves to read and doubts herself a lot.
Though most of the chapters are short, I felt like the story meandered a touch and it slowed the pace. I was eager to find out what Father Cyril wanted, or to discover Brontë’s backstory, or figure out why exactly the vampires were after the specific vials/types of blood. I know this is the first in a series, so I didn’t get all the answers to my questions, but the ending was still quite satisfying.
Overall, Immolation: Volume I was an immersive experience, perfect for readers who enjoy Dracula, historical fiction, and vampires in a world where good and evil isn’t clearly delineated. I was given a free advance review copy of this book by S. D. Diastrefo. My opinions are honest and given freely.
August 9, 2025
This is a (very late) ARC review. I apologize for my tardiness but my life was upheaved. But here we are so, I guess, you can forgive me, Father.
-
Onto the review:
HERE YE HERE YE
All aboard the "I hate Father Cyril" steamboat, because when I tell you knew what was coming but not to that extent, I will also then shout it from the roof tops that I am the leader of this fan group. I started it, I am the founder, and I will die on this hill. Father Cyril is a terrible man and a wonderfully written character. There are also not enough stars to give this book to mend my broken heart. I hate him, and you should too.
This book was excellent. Beautiful world building, lush descriptions, excellent pacing and well written, deep characters. I was so enthralled by the magic system and the inner hierarchy of the (very well developed) church of Our Lady, the practices, and also the tight nit relationships between the pages of this novel. I love reading books with good plot, and good friend/family dynamics, and this had both. I fell in love with it all, some characters more than others.
The literal gut punch ending was more than what was needed to get me to add this to my favourites shelf. Cause honesty? Excellent. I haven't cried like that in a while. I even had to snap at my roommates to turn down the TV cause I was so glued to my phone on those last ~50 pages and couldn't budge from my chair I was so engrossed. I'm sure I'll be ranting about this book over the next few weeks.
This book will stay with you, in a haunting way, and leave you empty and gutted. You'll also enjoy it at every turn.
-
Onto the review:
HERE YE HERE YE
All aboard the "I hate Father Cyril" steamboat, because when I tell you knew what was coming but not to that extent, I will also then shout it from the roof tops that I am the leader of this fan group. I started it, I am the founder, and I will die on this hill. Father Cyril is a terrible man and a wonderfully written character. There are also not enough stars to give this book to mend my broken heart. I hate him, and you should too.
This book was excellent. Beautiful world building, lush descriptions, excellent pacing and well written, deep characters. I was so enthralled by the magic system and the inner hierarchy of the (very well developed) church of Our Lady, the practices, and also the tight nit relationships between the pages of this novel. I love reading books with good plot, and good friend/family dynamics, and this had both. I fell in love with it all, some characters more than others.
The literal gut punch ending was more than what was needed to get me to add this to my favourites shelf. Cause honesty? Excellent. I haven't cried like that in a while. I even had to snap at my roommates to turn down the TV cause I was so glued to my phone on those last ~50 pages and couldn't budge from my chair I was so engrossed. I'm sure I'll be ranting about this book over the next few weeks.
This book will stay with you, in a haunting way, and leave you empty and gutted. You'll also enjoy it at every turn.
April 3, 2025
Complex, emotional and passionate.
It's really quite well-written!
I’m mostly reading books because I’m interested in certain characters and this one delivered everything I wanted! The wheels are turning, I’m in my questioning state, lots of intrigue and things to keep in mind.
I’m really fond of most of the characters, they feel real, fleshed out. Their actions and motives make sense, and they stay true to themselves until the end of the book. I require a strong emotional core in my books, it’s precious when a character or a detail resonates with me. I definitely connected with the characters as I read Immolation.
A handful of yearning is also highly appreciated! Desire and angst in their purest form.
It was very easy to visualise the scenes. The descriptions were very detailed without being overbearing. Fight scenes are one of my favourite parts!
There's just really a lot of sadness and not much hope 🥲 But we love melancholy, so it's acceptable.
I would describe it as a highly intense read, but it is addictive, so beware!
I really enjoyed the longer chapters. Immolation is divided into 3 parts, I've read the third one the fastest, too much suspense!
The ending is really something. I went through a rollercoaster of emotions: half an hour of weeping, anger, two hours of staring blankly at the wall, reminiscing about every detail.
Now I totally understand why this is only Volume I, the fun is just beginning. And from now on, it's actually terrifying.
It's really quite well-written!
I’m mostly reading books because I’m interested in certain characters and this one delivered everything I wanted! The wheels are turning, I’m in my questioning state, lots of intrigue and things to keep in mind.
I’m really fond of most of the characters, they feel real, fleshed out. Their actions and motives make sense, and they stay true to themselves until the end of the book. I require a strong emotional core in my books, it’s precious when a character or a detail resonates with me. I definitely connected with the characters as I read Immolation.
A handful of yearning is also highly appreciated! Desire and angst in their purest form.
It was very easy to visualise the scenes. The descriptions were very detailed without being overbearing. Fight scenes are one of my favourite parts!
There's just really a lot of sadness and not much hope 🥲 But we love melancholy, so it's acceptable.
I would describe it as a highly intense read, but it is addictive, so beware!
I really enjoyed the longer chapters. Immolation is divided into 3 parts, I've read the third one the fastest, too much suspense!
The ending is really something. I went through a rollercoaster of emotions: half an hour of weeping, anger, two hours of staring blankly at the wall, reminiscing about every detail.
Now I totally understand why this is only Volume I, the fun is just beginning. And from now on, it's actually terrifying.
November 5, 2024
I've followed the author's work for awhile, seeing little glimpses here and there, so to finally see it come to light and be able to read / watch it unfold has been a really cool experience.
Rating 4/5.
Diastrefo's writing is amazing and compelling that, for the majority of the time, kept me on my toes dying to read more. The prose was amazing but not overwhelming that I've felt the need to put it down because it was hard to follow along.
But what puts it at a 4 for me was a lot of complexity during the world building that I felt a little lost along the way. However, when you're creating your own world, there's a lot to give the audience, and I understand that. I personally wish there was a glossary instead for me to fall back to. But that's a personal preference and nothing against the author. They have so much to share, and I love that they're willing to give that to us.
To end on a good note: I love it when an author genuinely gives a morally gray / evil type of character. I think a lot of creators either dont quite know or are afraid to give us that. And here we have an author that makes you question everyone. The characters themselves are 5/5 and certainly worth the read.
All in all, it has been an amazing read. One that I highly recommend. I certainly can't wait for the rest!!
Rating 4/5.
Diastrefo's writing is amazing and compelling that, for the majority of the time, kept me on my toes dying to read more. The prose was amazing but not overwhelming that I've felt the need to put it down because it was hard to follow along.
But what puts it at a 4 for me was a lot of complexity during the world building that I felt a little lost along the way. However, when you're creating your own world, there's a lot to give the audience, and I understand that. I personally wish there was a glossary instead for me to fall back to. But that's a personal preference and nothing against the author. They have so much to share, and I love that they're willing to give that to us.
To end on a good note: I love it when an author genuinely gives a morally gray / evil type of character. I think a lot of creators either dont quite know or are afraid to give us that. And here we have an author that makes you question everyone. The characters themselves are 5/5 and certainly worth the read.
All in all, it has been an amazing read. One that I highly recommend. I certainly can't wait for the rest!!
October 26, 2024
ARC Reader Review
I finished Immolation a few days ago, and I wanted to think more about what I read before writing anything down in terms of a review.
Immolation: Volume 1 is a wonderfully crafted fantasy. The characters are all have their own voice and presence, carrying story threads with unique motivations, beliefs and perspectives that weave into the tapestry that is Windermere. Those threads often tangle in ways you would not expect, and not all knots come undone. There are layers upon layers of intrigue, religious fanaticism and superstition in the holy city. And, despite what may be believed by some, there is a very real vampire problem.
I love love love books with intricate world building like this where everything is vividly described. It's so immersive that it really lets you dig in and really feel a part of it. Our Lady is a place I wish I could walk around in real life just to see, it sounds so beautiful. Not knowing it's secrets I might be safe? Maybe? (One can perhaps foolishly hope.)
I'm very much looking forward to volume two and beyond.
I finished Immolation a few days ago, and I wanted to think more about what I read before writing anything down in terms of a review.
Immolation: Volume 1 is a wonderfully crafted fantasy. The characters are all have their own voice and presence, carrying story threads with unique motivations, beliefs and perspectives that weave into the tapestry that is Windermere. Those threads often tangle in ways you would not expect, and not all knots come undone. There are layers upon layers of intrigue, religious fanaticism and superstition in the holy city. And, despite what may be believed by some, there is a very real vampire problem.
I love love love books with intricate world building like this where everything is vividly described. It's so immersive that it really lets you dig in and really feel a part of it. Our Lady is a place I wish I could walk around in real life just to see, it sounds so beautiful. Not knowing it's secrets I might be safe? Maybe? (One can perhaps foolishly hope.)
I'm very much looking forward to volume two and beyond.
October 31, 2024
Wow. Where to begin?
Immolation is an atmospheric, yet gritty fantasy with a large cast of characters. The world building is extensive, and at first, the book feels slower paced---but it is because you must sit with the characters. This is a very character-driven story and I kept wanting to read on to see what they would do next. Every time I set it down, I was thinking about it, waiting to pick it up again.
The chapters are short and sweet, making it easy to breeze through this book. I can see why the author will need to split this near-epic into multiple parts lol. It took me until about 15% to really get into the book, so that is why I'm bumping it to four stars, mostly because of this slow start, but once I got into the book, and the conflict/plot became apparent, I was hooked and it didn't take me long to finish!
I love this take on vampires and this city where religion and blood-thirst clash. Writing this, I am still thinking about Cyril and Brontë and others and want to jump back into this world!
Immolation is an atmospheric, yet gritty fantasy with a large cast of characters. The world building is extensive, and at first, the book feels slower paced---but it is because you must sit with the characters. This is a very character-driven story and I kept wanting to read on to see what they would do next. Every time I set it down, I was thinking about it, waiting to pick it up again.
The chapters are short and sweet, making it easy to breeze through this book. I can see why the author will need to split this near-epic into multiple parts lol. It took me until about 15% to really get into the book, so that is why I'm bumping it to four stars, mostly because of this slow start, but once I got into the book, and the conflict/plot became apparent, I was hooked and it didn't take me long to finish!
I love this take on vampires and this city where religion and blood-thirst clash. Writing this, I am still thinking about Cyril and Brontë and others and want to jump back into this world!
November 8, 2024
This is not an easy read. It’s long and deep, with all kinds of interwoven storylines and characters. The Characters (most of them) are inhuman, paranormal tour de forces , yet they are empathetic, intriguing and every page of this 500 plus page novel is immersive. I did have to go back a few times and look back on somethings. This is only volume 1 so wow…just wow…what can we look forward into in next installment?
October 14, 2024
A lush world and vivid characters brought to life in Diastrefo's masterpiece. Every bit as addicting as blood, this book both made me cry and gave me nightmares. Can't wait for the next one!
October 19, 2024
This was a good book. It was well written and omg I need more! I couldn't stop reading this great book. I was really interested reading this story and the author did great on this. 4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 31, 2025
Love the worldbuilding, love the character writing, love the plot, love the atmosphere, love the prose, love love love love love.
November 9, 2024
This is one of the most intricate and beautifully written stories I have read in a very long time. The twist of religion and vampirism is one unlike anything I have read before. When I wasn't reading, this story lived in my head rent-free.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I can't wait until Volume 2!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I can't wait until Volume 2!
October 21, 2024
Reader Review:
S.D. Diastrefo delivers an intricate and dark fantasy experience in Immolation, the first book in what feels like an epic saga. Set in the haunting city of Windermere, where religious fanaticism collides with a growing vampire panic, this book takes you on a journey through faith, power struggles, and deep moral conflict.
What I Loved:
Immersive World-Building: Diastrefo does an incredible job crafting a unique and atmospheric world. Windermere feels alive, with its superstitious citizens and eerie setting steeped in history and religious tension. The details, from the city’s architecture to the political undertones, create a vivid backdrop.
Compelling Characters: Cyril, the Archbishop, is a fascinating lead—his conflict between his unwavering faith and the moral dilemmas he faces drew me in. Brontë, the vampire, is equally intriguing. As someone who shouldn’t exist, her presence alone brings chaos to Cyril’s life, and watching their dynamic unfold was one of my favorite parts of the book.
Poetic Prose: The writing is gorgeous! Diastrefo has a way of weaving beautiful, almost lyrical descriptions into the narrative without it feeling overdone. It added to the eerie, almost gothic atmosphere of the story.
What I Didn't Love:
Pacing Issues: The first half of the book was gripping, but the middle felt a little bogged down by political maneuvering and exposition. While I enjoyed the world-building, it did slow the plot down at times, making it feel a bit dense.
Complexity Overload: There are a lot of layers in this world—sometimes too many for my liking. While I appreciated the depth, I found myself occasionally overwhelmed by all the new terms, concepts, and characters introduced. For a first book, it felt like a lot to take in.
Final Thoughts: Overall, Immolation is a dark and ambitious fantasy that will appeal to readers who love intricate world-building and morally complex characters. It’s a slow burn, but if you’re patient, the payoff is worth it. Diastrefo’s writing is beautifully crafted, and I can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
Rating: 4/5
Will continue and recommend his works.
S.D. Diastrefo delivers an intricate and dark fantasy experience in Immolation, the first book in what feels like an epic saga. Set in the haunting city of Windermere, where religious fanaticism collides with a growing vampire panic, this book takes you on a journey through faith, power struggles, and deep moral conflict.
What I Loved:
Immersive World-Building: Diastrefo does an incredible job crafting a unique and atmospheric world. Windermere feels alive, with its superstitious citizens and eerie setting steeped in history and religious tension. The details, from the city’s architecture to the political undertones, create a vivid backdrop.
Compelling Characters: Cyril, the Archbishop, is a fascinating lead—his conflict between his unwavering faith and the moral dilemmas he faces drew me in. Brontë, the vampire, is equally intriguing. As someone who shouldn’t exist, her presence alone brings chaos to Cyril’s life, and watching their dynamic unfold was one of my favorite parts of the book.
Poetic Prose: The writing is gorgeous! Diastrefo has a way of weaving beautiful, almost lyrical descriptions into the narrative without it feeling overdone. It added to the eerie, almost gothic atmosphere of the story.
What I Didn't Love:
Pacing Issues: The first half of the book was gripping, but the middle felt a little bogged down by political maneuvering and exposition. While I enjoyed the world-building, it did slow the plot down at times, making it feel a bit dense.
Complexity Overload: There are a lot of layers in this world—sometimes too many for my liking. While I appreciated the depth, I found myself occasionally overwhelmed by all the new terms, concepts, and characters introduced. For a first book, it felt like a lot to take in.
Final Thoughts: Overall, Immolation is a dark and ambitious fantasy that will appeal to readers who love intricate world-building and morally complex characters. It’s a slow burn, but if you’re patient, the payoff is worth it. Diastrefo’s writing is beautifully crafted, and I can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
Rating: 4/5
Will continue and recommend his works.
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