As Red as Blood

So let's call Lumikki Andersson what she rightfully is, shall we? She's a bad-ass. Seriously. When I read the synopsis for this book I was definitely hoping for an action packed story. For something raw and intriguing. While I didn't exactly get everything that I was waiting for, I did fall unexpectedly in love with Lumikki's character. This isn't a girl who lets others take advantage of her. Oh, no. She's quick-thinking, cunning and all around interesting. If there's one thing I can take away from this book, it's that I'd follow Lumikki into danger any day.

Her fellow characters, on the other hand, I think I could have done without. I actually did a dual-read of this book. Half the time I was listening to it on audio, and the other half of the time I was reading the ebook. Sometimes an audio is a saving grace for me when I'm not exactly in love with a story. The narrator has the opportunity to make or break things for me. In this case, both felt about the same. Lumikki's so called “friends” were exactly what you'd expected the rich to be. Bratty, self-involved, and really tough to like. I never felt a true connection between them and Lumikki, and so I couldn't really invest myself in her willingness to put everything on the line for them.

Which brings me to the story itself. As Red As Blood fell in middle ground territory for me. While there were definitely parts I enjoyed, it never took me over the top. When things were moving quickly, I'd find myself start to ease into the story. The entire time that Lumikki was in the heart of the action, I was absolutely ready for more. Then things would pan to the other characters, or a flash back would sneak its way in, and I was once again just waiting for more action. The fast paced portions felt the most vivid, the most well fleshed out, and I craved more.

It's a definite possibility that the next book in this series will have more of the forward movement I wanted. Truth be told, I liked Lumikki enough that I'd be willing to give the sequel a chance. Although this wasn't my favorite read of the year, there's quite a bit in As Red As Blood that holds promise. I'd say giving it a shot if it's on your TBR.