In M.C. Ryder’s riveting novel, All I See Are Dark Clouds, readers delve deep into Cammie’s world, a once-human now-turned-vampire grappling with a traumatic past that included her transformation against her will, horrifying tortures, and the agonizing guilt of inadvertently killing her best friend, Nadine. In an endeavor to find some semblance of peace, Cammie follows a poignant personal mantra, “What Would Nadine Do?” while juggling two jobs and aiding fellow vampires as they introduce their werewolf counterparts to human life.

A striking feature of this novel is its take on werewolves. Deviating from the typical narrative of humans grappling with a beastly transformation, here we find beasts learning the art of becoming human. This nuanced role reversal facilitates intriguing scenarios where the werewolves embark on a journey of understanding and adopting human nuances.

Ryder’s portrayal of trauma, particularly as a result of the assault, is done with sensitivity and depth, illuminating the resilience of a character like Cammie, who, despite her strength, continues to grapple with her haunting past. The interweaving of the real-life horror of the COVID pandemic into a fantastical setting is both innovative and heartrending, emphasizing the powerlessness even immortals feel in the face of such widespread human suffering. Amid the tumultuous emotions and epic battles, there are moments of tenderness, such as the supernatural beings rallying to celebrate a human’s birthday and impending childbirth.

A particularly evocative touch is how the ever-changing sky and its clouds mirror the unfolding events, seamlessly binding the book’s title to its narrative. While I enjoyed the story, I felt there was an initial ambiguity regarding Cammie’s identity that might momentarily puzzle readers. Additionally, I felt the transitions between tranquillity and high drama can be pronounced at times throughout the story.

If narratives infused with the fantastical elements reminiscent of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Twilight, or The Mortal Instruments captivate you, this book is poised to be a delight. With raw depictions of trauma, innovative creature dynamics, and moments both heartwarming and heartbreaking, All I See Are Dark Clouds offers a compelling read.

Pages: 516 | ASIN : B0CD41GY5Q