Review Detail

Dragoslava is cursed. Years ago, they got on the wrong side of a witch, and now they have to do everything the witch demands. Drago just wants to be a typical vampire kid and hang out with their friends, Eztli and Quintus, but when the witch sends them on a mission to retrieve her stolen book, they have no choice. However, the people who took the book aren't what Drago expected. Sara is a fellow vampire, and Ayesha is a witch. As kind as they seem, Drago isn't sure they can be trusted. Drago will have to decide if they will betray their new friends or face the consequences of breaking the curse.

THE ACCURSED VAMPIRE is an absolutely adorable graphic novel with themes of friendship, bravery, and trust. Drago and their friends are a found family, and it's heartwarming to see Drago learn to accept love from others. I love the adventures they all get into, as well as their growing relationships with Sara and Ayesha. The general gloomy disposition of Sara and the lively, warm one from Ayesha make them a fun and often funny couple.

The illustrations are pitch perfect. They have just the right amount of humor, and the facial expressions are particularly on point. Though Drago is a vampire and their friends also enjoy a sip or two of blood, there isn't really any gore that could scare away readers uncomfortable with that.

Fans of Séance Tea Party and Beetle & the Hollowbones will love this story with similar themes about choosing your path, even when it looks scary and could have serious consequences, and learning to trust those around you.