Soulless

So far as I have been participating in WoGF reading challenge 'Soulless' seemingly was one of the most read and reviewed books. I am very curious to read all the reviews after finishing this one to avoid any repetitive notions.

First of all, I have selected this book because I am particularly into everything concerning vampires and other supernatural beings. There are plenty of such stories these days, especially after the boom of mass production of pathetic daytime vampires (even the promising first season of True Blood was ruined afterwards by a never-ending love triangles and the hilarious acting of the main character). Unfortunately, strong heroines are lacking in the mentioned stories, as usually women tend to hurt themselves when walking in the woods (yes, walking), and the whole horde of vampires and werewolves has to coop in order to save our helpless 'heroine'. And they say Barbie ruined the lives of hundreds of teenagers. But let's not get into details.

'Soulless' is the first book of 'The Parasol Protectorate' saga. That does not surprise me, as writers are unable to tell their story in one book anymore. I was really intrigued by its description as 'witty story about vampires'. Wow – never read such a book before! To be honest with you, I did not laugh even once when reading it and you have the full right to blame me for being Humourless.

The main character Alexia Tarabotti is quite a likeable person: she is well educated (that is quite outstanding for her social status and sex), stubborn, strong and able to stand for herself, and not afraid to express her opinion (which she does all the time). Miss Tarabotti is not a typical woman of her epoch, quite the opposite to her stepsisters and mother who are only interested in their social status, fashionable clothes and marriage. Alexia lives with her family: a bossy and very single-minded mother, a stepfather who, sadly, never contradicts his wife, and two quite dull stepsisters. From her Italian father Alexia inherited his wild character, access to his huge library which has given Alexia a particularly deep insight and knowledge about life, and a tone of skin which horrifies the high society.

After an incident with an outlaw vampire, Alexia gets to meet Lord Maccon, a detective conducting the investigation who also happens to be the Alpha werewolf of London's pack, and quite a desirable groom. They start an easily predictable hate-and-love relationship in which each pretends not to understand their real feelings. When they finally do, the kissing scenes seem to go on forever...

Lonely vampires and werewolves start disappearing in London and other close-by cities, Alexia has got a white-faced stalker nobody else has seen, and also the poor Lord Maccon has to understand how to treat this Alpha female in his pack.

Supernatural beings such as vampires and werewolves exist openly in this Victorian society. However, the existence of preternaturals or beings who are immune and can neutralize the powers of mentioned creatures is rare and known by few. What a coincidence that Miss Tarabotti is a preternatural, or soulless. The super powers are said to be somehow related to the possession of a soul. Because of this reason as well as her temper, she always seems to get into the middle of all the mysteries, and stretches the nerves of Lord Maccon who is struggling to protect her (what a surprise, a heroine needs saving again). The events turn from improbable to unbelievable when this exotic couple finds the source of all the mystery.

It's an easy and uncompromising love story which includes supernatural and preternatural beings, as well as a strong heroine. Recommended as a holiday novel, otherwise, WoGF is full of great stories and amazing writers.