Review by SarahGyanSeeraj2015 -- The Hand Bringer

[SarahGyanSeeraj2015]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Hand Bringer" by Christopher J. Penington.]

---

4 out of 4 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Reading The Hand-Bringerby Christopher Penington was like observing a marriage between the movies, Interview with a Vampire and Resident Evil. There was non-stop action and intricate details from start to end.

Peter Hadrian, the protagonist, is a police officer who has faced tragedy as his wife died and his son went missing. One eventful day, he goes to assist his colleague in a battle which results in him being bitten by a vampire. Instead of being taken to a hospital, he is transported to an organization called the Apocalypse Suppression Agency (ASA) in which he becomes the subject of study and experiments. He, along with his friend Luke meets interesting people, including DR. Chester Kolemis who experiments on him. The doctor explains that ‘Vampirism’ has two strains: the first strain is notably the rarer strain as the subject gains greater powers and exhibits control over feeding as opposed to the second strain. The virus in question that causes this ‘sickness’ is called the ‘seenjite.’ Fortunately, Peter has the first strain and proves himself to be an exceptional study. He is put on a mission to return to the 15th century to destroy Vlad Dracula who allows Vampirism to spread. In return, his reward is to be reunited with his son.

As Peter returns to the 15th century, with some associates, he does not immediately accomplish his mission. Instead, he decides to befriend Dracula and goes in search of Deycheaba, the mother of the ‘strigoi.’ Peter ends up in unexpected situations which constitute the plot. He has no choice but to fulfill Dracula’s demands in fighting against the Turks. However, he plans all his steps before executing them. Along the way, he meets Boriana, who captures his heart as well as the priest Ioan who explains his importance of being ‘The Hand-Bringer.’ Will he be reunited with his son? Will this book have a fairy-tale ending?

I have no complaints about this book as it is well-written. The themes are far and wide, encompassing love, war, history, the supernatural and suspense. There is a great deal of reflection of the historical events in Romania, delving into Vlad Dracula’s impalement of people and wars against the Moldavians and Ottoman Empire. Furthermore, the writer delves into scientific investigations and anomalies which further heighten the reader’s interest.

Notwithstanding, the development of Peter’s character is exceptional as he is seen as cynical and smart, yet charming and romantic. I also love Boriana’s character. She is illustrated as being mysterious, brave and charismatic. At first, little is known about her, but as the plot unfolds we are drawn to her. In light of this, I would give this book a 4 out of 4 rating, and recommend it to young adults as there are some expletives and few erotic scenes.

******
The Hand Bringer
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[NatRose]

Wow, your summary of this book intrigued me. I'm glad the writing and characters hold up well to the interesting plot. I might have to add this book to my TBR list.