The fallout from a life-changing diagnosis left Libby with only her best friend, her cat, and a suitcase of insecurities. On a rare night out she meets Jo, the hottest butch she's ever seen. Despite Jo's actions, Libby believes that her intense attraction couldn't be reciprocated. To her astonishment, filthy-rich Jo pursues her. For a while, everything feels wonderful as new love and hot passion bloom. Libby denies her own instincts even as danger from Jo's world threatens. That is, until a freak accident forces Jo into a shocking revelation. Reeling with disillusionment and betrayal, Libby must decide if she can trust the half-vampire again. If she can take another chance on love. And despite Jo's vow to protect her, Libby will need to reach deep inside to find her own strength if she is to survive.
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: The Warrior Within is a fast-paced, interesting novel with fantastic disability, lesbian, and curvy-girl representation. Libby's journey of self-discovery is candid and relatable, as are the interactions portrayed between her and Jo.
Prose: The prose effectively moves the plot forward, though there are moments when Libby's speech patterns seem overly innocent or naïve, especially in comparison to Jo's dialogue.
Originality: The Warrior Within offers interesting twists on the typical vampire romance tropes, and readers will especially enjoy the diverse cast of characters.
Character/Execution: Most of the characters are very compelling, though the romance between Libby and Jo takes off a little too quickly. Libby is a compelling protagonist who often gets in her own way with negative self-talk, and Jo plays a solid counterpart to those struggles. As their relationship matures, it's portrayed in a more believable light—and the author interjects plenty of challenges for the couple to overcome along the way.
Blurb: A chance encounter kickstarts a roller coaster infatuation teeming with mystery, danger, and romance.
Date Submitted: August 23, 2023
