Review of Dead & Breakfast by Kat Hillis and Rosiee Thor
Sometimes, you find a book that resonates so deeply with your current mood that it feels less like a mere escape and more like a warm embrace. For me, Dead & Breakfast, penned by the talented duo Kat Hillis and Rosiee Thor, was exactly that. In a world swirling with narrative chaos and darkness, I felt my soul thirsting for something lighter, something gentle but still rich with meaning. As a horror enthusiast, I often gravitate toward the macabre, but even the most dedicated horror lover needs a breather now and then. This book came just in time.
The heart of Dead & Breakfast lies in its endearing characters—Arthur and Sal, a married vampire couple who run a bed and breakfast in a quirky town that isn’t exactly the epitome of open arms. These two are not your typical vampires; they’re relatable and refreshingly mundane in their undead way. Imagine them slathering on sunscreen—yes, even immortals need to care for their skin—while making the bold choice to indulge in garlic. The humor is present in every detail, including their delightful chats with raccoons raiding their trash! Rarely do I come across characters who manage to strike such a balance between the supernatural and the comfortably normal.
The plot kicks off when the mayor is discovered dead in their begonias, sporting two suspicious puncture wounds in his neck. Enter a motley crew of supernatural allies: a werewolf barista, an elven coroner, and a human city manager. The ensemble is rich with humor, personality, and heart. What I loved most was the full spectrum of paranormal beings, each crafted with care and depth. They serve as reflections of our real-world communities—holding up mirrors to LGBTQ+ individuals, artists, and dreamers often scorned for their differences.
Hillis and Thor weave this vibrant tapestry of characters against the backdrop of a murder mystery while simultaneously tackling societal themes of acceptance and belonging. It’s a delicate dance of genre blending, with humor and compassion intertwined. I found myself chuckling and reflecting in equal measure, often laughing out loud at the wonderfully corny puns sprinkled throughout. The authors use these so-called “monsters” as a lens through which we can examine our own humanity—and that’s where the real magic lies.
From a narrative perspective, the pacing of Dead & Breakfast was spot-on, an engaging rhythm that kept my interest piqued. The writing captures both the cozy, whimsical essence of the setting and the deeper, thought-provoking themes bubbling beneath the surface. One cannot help but feel joy while reflecting on the poignant messages about acceptance and the beauty of being different.
In conclusion, Dead & Breakfast deserves every bit of the five-star acclaim I’m giving it. It’s a cozy mystery wrapped in a heartfelt narrative, making it perfect for readers looking to curl up with something that comforts while also encouraging contemplation. If you seek a story that celebrates individuality with a side of paranormal charm, this book is for you. It reminded me, and surely many others, that even when surrounded by thorns, it’s okay to reach for something soft and healing. Thank you, Berkley, for gifting me a copy of this delightful read; it was just what my spirit needed!