Immortal Dark: By Tigest Girma (Book Review)

Tigest Girma’s Immortal Dark breathes new life into the vampire genre with a unique perspective that places vampiric origins in Africa. This debut novel offers a fresh take on the well-worn vampire lore, presenting a dark academia world rich with themes of power, inheritance, and revenge. The protagonist, Kidan Adane, embarks on a dangerous quest to uncover the truth about her sister’s disappearance while navigating the complex and often sinister world of Uxlay University, a place where humans and vampires coexist under fragile arrangements.

Plot and Themes

The plot centers around Kidan, an orphaned heiress, who must infiltrate Uxlay University, an elite institution where legacies of human-vampire partnerships are preserved. Her mission is clear: find her sister June and uncover the secrets that lie at the heart of her family’s bloodline. The tension between Kidan and the vampire Susenyos Sagad, who is bound to her family, drives much of the conflict. The narrative deftly balances themes of vengeance, love, and power, with Kidan’s journey forcing her to confront the darker aspects of her own nature.

The book touches on classism and secret societies, adding layers of intrigue to the story. The university setting, steeped in dark academia, pulls back the curtain on how these hidden structures influence the characters’ lives, with inheritance and power dynamics being a constant burden on their shoulders.

Morally Gray Characters and Complex Relationships

One of the standout features of Immortal Dark is its morally gray characters. Kidan’s motivations are not always pure, and her relationship with Susenyos often blurs the lines between hatred and fascination. While their dynamic can feel like a “cat and mouse” chase, it adds depth to both characters, making their interactions captivating. However, not all readers may appreciate the romance between Kidan and Susenyos, as it leans heavily into the enemies-to-lovers trope, which some may find less compelling in its execution.

The characters’ morally ambiguous actions are portrayed in a way that humanizes them, showcasing the lengths people go to achieve their desires. Their flaws and personal struggles make them relatable, despite the fantastical setting.

Pacing and Structure

While Immortal Dark successfully creates an engaging and immersive world, the pacing is somewhat uneven. The first half of the book is slow as it establishes the complex world and its rules. However, once the story reaches its midpoint, the action picks up, and the plot gains momentum, keeping readers engaged through the second half of the novel. This slow build-up may deter some readers initially, but those who stick with it will find the payoff rewarding.

The Setting: A Perfect Dark Academia Backdrop

The dark academia setting of Uxlay University adds an atmospheric layer to the story, with the institution’s hidden agendas and secret societies playing a significant role. This backdrop gives the book an eerie, gothic feel, reminiscent of classics within the dark academia subgenre. The interplay between human and vampire politics adds depth to the narrative, creating a world where power struggles and legacies are tightly interwoven.

The secretive nature of the university, combined with the elite families’ control over vampires, creates a power structure that is difficult to overthrow. This system of control is challenged by Kidan’s presence, as she seeks to disrupt the status quo in her quest for justice.

Exploration of African Mythology

Girma’s choice to root the origins of vampirism in African mythology brings a fresh and culturally rich perspective to the genre. This shift from the traditionally European-focused vampire lore opens the door for a more diverse and thought-provoking narrative. The exploration of silenced or forgotten histories is a powerful theme that resonates throughout the book, giving it a distinct edge in the crowded vampire fiction landscape.

Conclusion

Immortal Dark by Tigest Girma is a compelling debut that offers a fresh take on vampire lore with strong dark academia themes and morally complex characters. While the pacing may feel slow in the beginning, the world-building and intricate character dynamics make it a rewarding read for those who appreciate dark, atmospheric stories. Fans of vampire fiction looking for something new, especially with a diverse perspective, will find Immortal Dark an intriguing addition to the genre.

Also Read: Here One Moment: By Liane Moriarty (Book Review)