Bloodlaced

I went into Bloodlaced blind, not knowing what to expect. At first unsure whether it was my ‘cup of tea’, but then quickly developing a hunger to turn page after page. The story tells the tale of Asagi, a non-binary slave in 19th Century Japan, and her relationships with several different characters that she meets throughout her journey to freedom. I found myself engulfed in her journey, not wanting to put the book down until I knew what happened next.

The book intertwines events of reality with those of fiction, and the vampirism aspect adds an unexpected twist to the progression of Asagi’s story. But the book isn’t all about their growth and their wins heading towards freedom, it covers love, heartbreak and loss. Pain, suffering and perseverance. At times, it was a difficult read. Bloodlaced encompasses rape, slavery, self-harm, violence and other hard topics. But the book is written so beautifully well and captures the thoughts and feelings of the main character perfectly, without overpowering the reader.

The Japanese setting allows for the expansion of cultural knowledge. The book contains a glossary at its back with several words never before encompassed, and opens a reader’s eyes to the culture of 19th Century Japan.

Bloodlaced demonstrates how, even in the darkest of times, a slight feeling of love and hope can pull you through. A powerful, heart-wrenching read.