Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

Written by American Richelle Mead this vampire novel is in the process of being made into a film (by Preger Entertainment) and is about the only thing that can knock Twilight off it pedestal.

Based on folk lore the beginning of this six part series introduces the reader to two types of vampire: the Moroi and the Strigoi. Contrived from eastern European / Russian folk lore these versions of the ever captivating creature have been brought to life by Richelle in this all encompassing novel.

Strigoi are the evil un-dead vampires who are created not born, unlike their Moroi cousins. They have lost all sense of who they once were when they were awakened and crave now only the taste of Moroi blood to quench their hunger.

Moroi are mortal vampires who wield magic in one of the four elements, making them pretty awesome weapons in the battle against the Strigoi. Unfortunately they have been socialised into hiding away and only using their magic for defence not offence. That is where the dhapmirs come in.

Dhampirs are half human half Moroi getting the best of both races traits – sturdy and strong like humans and can handle sunlight, but with Moroi senses and reflexes they are the ideal weapons for the peace loving Moroi. Dhampirs are employed as bodyguards but as they are in short supply only the royals and very important people get them, leaving the common Moroi defenceless. The problem is most female dhampirs would rather stay at home and raise their kids than throw themselves into harms way.

This is where the main character and heroine Rose Hathaway, makes her bold entrance. She is one of the few female dhampirs destined to become a guardian. A long time ago she was pegged to be the guardian of the last in a royal line – Vasilisa Dragomir. Better known to Rose as Lissa. They have been best friends since kindergarten and it was Lissa’s dad’s last dying wish that Rose protects her.

Thinking she only has to protect Lissa from Strigoi, Rose accepts the challenge but her dream job is turned upside down when one of their own turns against them. Lissa has a strange, ancient, long forgotten magic that most think is extinct but when one person threatens Lissa Rose learns that she now has to protect Lissa from Strigoi and Moroi.

Dragged back to St. Vladimir’s Academy after a two year illicit escape Rose and Lissa have to re-integrate themselves into the often brutal high school social scene which is obsessed with politics and ‘getting in good with the royals’. Rose kicking into guardian mode protects her as best as she can from those who would wish her harm whilst trying to not fall for her hot Russian mentor.

Leaving the academy put Rose two years behind in training and if she wants to graduate in the spring she has to put in extra time to make up the years she missed. Hence the sexy Russian badass.

This is more than just a typical teen age vampire romance, and one that will appeal to all ages even though it has been targeted initially for the teenage girl. The story sees the two characters go through ups and downs, forbidden romances, betrayals. A story of loyalty and friendship that will keep you captivated, this book is honestly one of the most captivating stand alone stories that I’ve read. Ever.

From quite literally the first page I was hooked and didn’t want to put it down and became totally absorbed in Rose and Lissa’s story. Beautifully crafted the characters leap off the page and whether you fall in love with them or hate ‘em you’ll be remembering them for a long time after you’ve finished this first novel.

Incorporating humour through Rose’s first person narration the plot moves swiftly forward and is kept light for the most part but equal amounts of seriousness are installed when things get tough for our young, outspoken heroine.

Filled with subplots and back stories Vampire Academy is a story of people, not events, making you laugh and bringing a tear to your eye. Whilst some of the subject matter is serious and can be hard hitting it is an easy, swift read perfect for curling up with a blanket and a hot chocolate when the snow hits or basking in the sun if the weather is good enough.

Wowed and awed by Richelle’s masterpiece I’d recommend this to anyone and defy all Twilight fans to not be impressed by this work of art.

If you're thirsty for more after this check out the next installment of Rose's story: Frostbite.