Written in Red by Anne Bishop

Written in Red by Anne Bishop

Publisher: Roc

Publication date: March 5^th

Source: Publisher – Thank you!

Rating: I loved it

As a cassandra sangue, or blood prophet, Meg Corbyn can see the future when her skin is cut—a gift that feels more like a curse. Meg’s Controller keeps her enslaved so he can have full access to her visions. But when she escapes, the only safe place Meg can hide is at the Lakeside Courtyard—a business district operated by the Others. Shape-shifter Simon Wolfgard is reluctant to hire the stranger who inquires about the Human Liaison job. First, he senses she’s keeping a secret, and second, she doesn’t smell like human prey. Yet a stronger instinct propels him to give Meg the job. And when he learns the truth about Meg and that she’s wanted by the government, he’ll have to decide if she’s worth the fight between humans and the Others that will surely follow.

The Skinny: I am in love with this book

I received Written in Red a couple of months ago, and I have already read it twice. I am unable to get this story out of my head! I find myself picking up the book and flipping to my favorite parts just to relive the story. Written in Red is the best book that I have read all year. I love it.

Anne Bishop’s Black Jewels trilogy was recommended to me a few years ago, but I never got around to reading it. When I received Written in Red, I recognized the author and was excited about the new series. This book is incredible. The story is so unique that I am still trying to absorb it. The idea of a colony of shape-shifters is not the most original concept, but Anne takes a generic premise and elevates it to a level that is creative, imaginative, and addictive.

I have been searching for a heroine like Meg for years. She is courageous, loyal, and intelligent. Her thoughts and behavior inspire sympathy and admiration, and I really wish that she were real so that we could be best friends. Simon is the leader of the shape-shifter district, and his ferociousness is well-balanced with his love for his nephew Sam. If one character stole the entire story, it is Sam. That little wolf puppy is super cute, and I hope that we get to see more of him in the next book.

While romance is not the highlight of Written in Red, it is slowly simmering, and I am looking forward to reading how Simon and Meg develop their feelings for each other. The subtle eroticism of the story is alluring, and I swear, Anne Bishop has created literary cocaine – I WANT MORE.

The writing is terrific. Descriptions are vivid and suck readers into the pages. The bloody violence is coupled with sweet moments, and I was left with an enthralling story that makes me beg for more. I recently read that the second book will be published next year and my excitement cannot be contained. I want this story to continue forever.

If you are interested in urban fantasy, you must read Written in Red.