So Thirsty by Rachel Harrison
Paranormal/Horror
September 10, 2024- Berkley

Review by Angela

Rachel Harrison is a new to me author and I’ve circled around her books for a while now. I will admit that a story about best friends turned bloodthirsty vampires appealed to me, which is why I finally hit that request button when it came up for review.

This is the story of two best friends, complete opposites in every way, who get caught up in a terrifying situation. Sloane Parker is a woman who lives a mundane life, settled into her comfortable domestic existence, turning a blind eye to her husband’s affairs, and worried about her aging body. Her best friend Naomi is wild and untamed, working for her rockstar boyfriend’s band, she travels the world and lives free and unencumbered.

For her upcoming birthday Sloane’s husband gifts her a long weekend away with her BFF at a resort out of town. Sloane can’t decide whether this is a ruse to get her out of the house or a genuine gift. But she’ll take the time away with Naomi. The resort is nice, and they reconnect immediately. Then at a bar on a night out Naomi meets an intriguing man who invites them to a party the very next evening, and despite Sloane’s misgivings, they go. That’s when everything goes to hell.

First let me say, I read this book cover to cover in a little over five hours. I literally could not put it down. This is a book about friendship, loyalty, letting go of the past and accepting your future. Think Thelma and Louise but make it vampires. There is a hint of romance, lots and lots of blood and gore, and two friends who love each other, but are having a hard time adjusting to their new normal. And their new dietary needs.

I really enjoyed Sloane and Naomi’s friendship, which never wavers despite the circumstances. The story is faced paced, full of terrifying, yet exciting moments and a cast of characters that spice up the pages. Even the ending appealed to me. I kind of expected something drearier, so I was happily surprised at how it all wrapped up.

Overall, So Thirsty was a bloody, gory, yet fun read. As soon as I finished, I immediately decided to dive into this author’s backlist. I would recommend for fans of the genre or someone looking for something different for Halloween.

Final grade- B+