Evolution

Title: Evolution

Author: Sam Kadence

Publisher: Harmony Ink Press

Publishers URL: http://harmonyinkpress.com

ISBN/BIN: 978-1-62380-411-4

Genre: {M/M}, Paranormal, Young Adult

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Gene just wants to sing.  When his band has a shot at the big time, Gene can’t decide if he’s excited or regretting everything already.  To make things even more confusing, Gene accidentally runs into Kerstrande, who just happens to be a member of rock royalty and Gene’s secret crush.

Evolution is my first book by this author and after reading this one, I am curious to see what the author has planned next.  Evolution is the kind of story that covers several sub-genres and can therefore be enjoyed by many readers.  There is the rock star aspect of the book, with both main characters in the music industry.  The difference is that while Gene is just starting out, Kerstrande has faded into the background.  The music sub-plot plays heavily in Evolution, and readers may be surprised by the way this part of the story plays out. 

Then there is the paranormal aspect.  This one can get a little confusing at times, as there are a variety of paranormal beings in the story and it is not always clear as to who is what.  The paranormals in Evolution are not always likeable either and are a little on the dark side, which I was surprised by.  It is clear early on that Kerstrande is a vampire, but the author keeps you guessing when it comes to Gene.  Another thing is that in the world the author has built, paranormal beings are known about but must be registered.  The consequences for those who do not follow this law are extreme, which shows why Kerstrande has kept hidden. 

Although it does not always appear so, Evolution is also a young adult story.  Gene is not quite legal but has been on his own for a while.  When he meets Kerstrande, he does not expect the changes that his life takes.  There is a strong connection between the two men and it is easy to understand why, at times, Gene is not sure where he stands with the vampire.  While Kerstrande is the older of the two, at times Gene comes across as the more mature one.  I was surprised by some of Kerstrande’s actions but liked the way he finally steps up at the end.

Evolution was a very interesting story and one I will be reading again.  However, there are some loose ends and I hope the author plans on a sequel soon.