Saturday, October 15, 2011

October Fandom of the Month - Vampire Academy

For those members that are not familiar with Vampire Academy there are two types of vampires. The Moroi, the ‘living’ vampires, which are usually blessed with magic; and the Strigoi, which are evil creatures who kill without thought and have no remorse.

The story follows Rose, a Dhampir girl (half vampire, half human), who is training to protect the Vampire species, or more specifically her best friend, Lissa. She falls in love with her teacher, an older man out of her reach, or is he? Love doesn’t make her soft, in fact the bond between the young Dhampir and her teacher seems to make her stronger.

But like all fictional love, it wouldn’t be real love unless they threw someone in the middle to test them. In comes Adrian, the playboy party animal with a soft spot for Rose. But with all good triangles you will end up with people on both sides of the coin. Whether you are Rose X Dimitri shippers or Rose X Adrian shippers, there is something for everyone.

The book series is seven books and definitely worth the read. Just to give you a taste, here’s an excerpt from the first book.

Icy fear raced through me, almost—but not quite—eradicating the lovely bliss of Lissa’s bite. Backing up from the window, I jerked on a pair of jeans that I found on the floor, nearly falling over in the process. Once they were on, I grabbed my coat and Lissa’s, along with our wallets. Shoving my feet into the first shoes I saw, I headed out the door.

Downstairs, I found her in the cramped kitchen, rummaging through the refrigerator. One of our housemates, Jeremy, sat at the table, hand on his forehead as he stared sadly at a calculus book. Lissa regarded me with surprise.

“You shouldn’t be up.”

“We have to go. Now.”

Her eyes widened, and then a moment later, understanding clicked in. “Are you…really? Are you sure?”

I nodded. I couldn’t explain how I knew for sure. I just did.

When asked what they love best about the series, our members answered:

I love the fact that it's a love story, with a truckload of action. I love the fact that once Rose falls in love with Dimitri, and he with her, they don't fall into a soppy pile of goo. They stay badass, but try to be together without putting anyone at risk. I love that Lissa and Christian get their happy ending, and that Christian is finally free from his family's shadow. I love that Dimitri and Rose's love never truly wavers. I love the fact that true love prevails in the end! :) xx – Denicia Byer

I have to agree with Denicia in that although it’s a love story, it’s not soppy and unbelievable. The characters don’t meet each other and then instantly turn into something or someone else. They are always true to their character and, at times, this can be frustrating for the reader. I was on the edge of my seat a lot of the time, just hoping that this is it…the moment he declares his undying love….but it doesn’t really happen until much later than we anticipate. I also love that Rose, our heroine, is beautiful, strong and loyal. She’s a great role model. I highly recommend the series for anyone that is looking for a great read. – General Chaz

Check out some of the stories from our member, Nicia, who’s an avid fan of the series, as you saw above. She also has a great list of favourite authors that write VA. Make sure you head to the group and rec your faves if you read Vampire Academy FF!

http://www.fanfiction.net/u/2388854/Nicia