Review: Another Great Novella in the Series
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 05 13, 2013
A cursed witch, Harriet McKay wants to save the world, but she would settle for saving the man she loves in Christine Rains' 1305 & 1306 - The Oracle and the Vampire.The fifth novella in the 13th Floor series, Christine Rains has done it once again in creating a unique and original story featuring a vampire who happens to be an addict and a witch who can't remove a curse upon herself. Harriet McKay is sweet, caring, smart, and a daydreamer. A banshee and crone by night, she transforms into her beautiful witch and nurse self during the day. Kiral craves redemption, despite being a self-loathing addict and vampire. I loved the contrasts and similarities between the two characters and how their journey together. Once again, Vetis, the villain from The Marquis, is back and more diabolical--and a tad crazier--than ever. For me, Harriet's cat familiars Ellie and Kerr hold a special place in my heart as they grow to respect their witch. And watch out for Harriet's clients, especially spunky Catherine Miller. They are an awesome addition to the cast.Unlike the other 13th Floor novellas, readers get a chance to see both points of view between Harriet and Kiral. The alternating chapters worked brilliantly, and I loved getting a deeper sense of the main characters and seeing both their struggles. In a way, both Kiral and Harriet need saving, and it's through each other it can happen--if Harriet's vision of Kiral's death doesn't come true. The Oracle and the Vampire is a fast-paced and intense story filled with horrific events as well as touching moments.Once again, Rains also continues to build the wonderful world she created. I love how Rains integrates her stories within a similar timeframe, so we readers can see the crossover between events and characters. Her hints of things to come always excite me from book to book as one seemingly insignificant mention in one book can become key in the other. It shows how well-thought out the series is and makes it an enjoyable experience.The Oracle and the Vampire by Christine Rains may be a quick read, but this novella--and series--sticks with a reader. So if you're looking for original paranormal romance, then look no further than Rains' 13th Floor series.