Madame Vampire

Robin Burks provided an ecopy of Madame Vampire for review.

Although this review and the three to follow are vampire stories, such are not a part of my usual reading. The only other vampire book I have read is Bram Stoker's Dracula. 

This caveat aside, I found Madame Vampire quite interesting. The main character's vampirism comes from a different origin than I am familiar with. But that might be considered a spoiler, so you'll have to read the book for that info. Jeanne “Reinette” Antoinette Poisson,Madame de Pompadour, is a fairly sympathetic character (for a vampire). To her credit she only feeds on people who "deserve it". Not sure if that is really acceptable, but does make her actions a tad more palatable. 

The best part of this story is how the life of Madame de Pompadour is entwined with French history. She freely moves among the royals of the time while her background should ban her from such associations. Other less savory vampire characters come and go (and come again). 

Madame Vampire does not rely on graphic depictions of vampiristic feedings to maintain the readers interest. They are there of course, but not as a main theme. The author promised a different kind of vampire tale when requesting a review and I believe she delivered. 

Lots of history, mildly graphic sex, vampirism. Well developed characters, good writing. All in all a good story. Enjoy!

Mike