Both Ways (The S.P.E.A.R. Mission Files #1) by Ileandra Young
- Publisher: Bold Strokes Books, 2018
- Genre: Fantasy, Romance, LGBTQ+
- Format: Ebook
- Page Count: 301 pages
- My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
CW: speciesism from Danika, homophobia, violence, pregnancy, blood, one-time unintentional misgendering from Rayne, one-time nonconsensual m/f kissing
This book was nothing like I imagined and completely outdid my expectations.
Danika Karson is a SPEAR agent with the highest vampire killing rate. But all hell breaks loose when Mayor Mikkleson hires her to track down his missing son. Danika finds herself facing a gorgeous vampire Rayne who threatens her beliefs of the species. As the pair work together to unravel the plans of the vampire queen, can Danika really trust Rayne?
Danika is definitely not a loveable character. But this story? Totally loveable. Told in her first-person narrative, we see firsthand how she takes the news of a hidden vampire community and begins to see vampires as people and not creatures. While her speciesism against non-humans and dismissive attitude towards non-blood related family are jarring to read, I think she is slowly unlearning and relearning. She is also very hot-headed and chaotic, but undoubtedly skilled at combat.
I love how both subtle and strong emotions are laced within the narrative. Young’s delivery perfectly reflects the buzz under crazed anger, jitters from too much coffee, and Danika’s own surprising yet irresistible feelings for Rayne. Danika’s anger, confusion, and connection with Rayne were all apparent. My heart raced, ached, and softened with Danika’s, and though the thrilling plot was somewhat predictable, Young’s execution still threw me off balance.
At times, I just wanted to whack Danika back to her senses, but then remembered that I wouldn’t even stand a chance against her superb fighting skills. I guess that is why no one but Rayne could sway her stubbornness.
“Family is sharing. Listening. Loving. Family is putting up with crazy phone calls at two in the morning to talk about the latest martial arts movie. It’s supporting, even when you don’t understand why. Family is standing up for your sister. Family is believing your daughter when she says, This is me.” – Danika
The theme of the story is fighting against government power, the status quo, and ignorance. I love all the plot twists and their grandeur. Without any intimate scenes beyond passionate kissing, the romance between Danika and Rayne is beautiful, their chemistry palpable, and I totally feel the yearning they have for each other. The chittarik Danika keeps at home is a nice addition to the story as well.
Do you like vampire stories with f/f romance? A top-notch agent who is impulsive, keeps getting into trouble and falls for the very person belonging to the species she swears she hate? Both Ways is a wonderful read that spikes your heart rate and possibly makes your eyes well up. It is exciting and I cannot wait to see what the future entails for the characters. [2 Aug 2020]
