Thirsty

Book Title:  Thirsty
Author:  Tracey Bateman
Published by Waterbrook Press
ISBN:  978-0-307-45715-8





First of all, I am reviewing this book on my own.  I have not received payment to review this book, nor have I received a free copy to review.  I borrowed this book from our local library.

Thirsty grabbed me by the throat from the beginning chapter.  (Pardon the pun!)  I would have passed on reading this book, since it has a vampiric theme, but I have enjoyed Tracey Bateman's other works, and trusted I would not be disappointed.  And I am not. 

Thirsty tells the story of Nina Hunter, a recovering alcoholic who moves back to her hometown after running away seventeen years earlier.  Due to years of living in the throes of alcoholism, she is left to start over without her marriage, custody of her children, and her veterinary practice.  She returns to Abbey Hill, Missouri to wait tables at the local cafe and live with her sister, Jill, the local sheriff after a stint in rehab.  Nina brings her angry and conflicted teenage daughter, Meg, with her to spend a week with her, hoping for reconciliation.  Upon their arrival, they learn of a murder that is similar to a rash of ritualistic killings of animals in the area.  The small town is left to wonder what is really going on...are these killings the work of satanists, witches, or...some other supernatural beings?

I appreciated the fluctuation between explaining Nina's childhood, right up to her leaving town, the present, Hunt's point of view, Meg's point of view, and lastly, Jill's mysterious and handsome neighbor, Marcus.  Who and/or what is he?  I found the story line fascinating!  Having experience dealing with and loving someone with an addictive personality, this book gave me a new understanding of what my loved one experiences.  I loved the way the author, Tracey, paralleled alcohol addiction with a vampire's bloodlust.  Interesting.

There were many twists and turns to this plot that I will not address due to my current fatigue,  but are well done. 

I WILL recommend Thirsty to anyone who asks.  Well done.  Not many books keep me awake all night!  I think a nap is in order this morning!!!!