In the Roses of Pieria

Blood Files, Book 1

By: Anna Burke

Narrated by: Savannah Rivers

Award-winning author Anna Burke delivers the shivers in this daring queer dark fantasy romance that is teeming with sensuous vampires, dark academia, plant horrors, and terrifying fungal fae.

When Clara Eden is offered a job as an archivist working for eccentric estate owner Agatha Montague, she thinks her prayers have been answered. Soon, she finds herself sucked into the world of her research, captivated by a romantic correspondence thousands of years old. But as her feelings for her employer's assistant, Fiadh, deepen, so too does her suspicion that something about Agatha Montague isn't quite right. Unfortunately for Clara, by the time her suspicions are confirmed, it is far too late to run.

Contains mature themes.

©2023 Anna Burke (P)2024 Tantor

Engaging Story and Great Audiobook Performance

Ive listened to most of Anna Burke's on Audible and this has to be one of the best performed ones! I greatly enjoy Burke as a writer and she spins a compelling world in I'm the Roses of Pieria, tangled with history and what ifs. Really hoping a second book will be forthcoming as I want to see more of this world and it's people.

The nerdiest thing I've read in ages.

Best line in the book, "I have health insurance!"
You'll have to listen for context, but I about died.
This is a great story, great character development, good pacing, a few places I got a bit annoyed with the main character, but I think even the things that annoyed me about her worked really well for her character. Getting to know characters through different contexts was really interesting.
Single POV, satisfying ending, and solid lead in for book two which I'm going to download asap.
If you have no tolerance for extreme nerdery, this might not be for you. but you are of the fellowship of nerds, this will be in your top fav vampire books.

A riveting dark fantasy novel with equally captivating narration

The storytelling and narration were sublime. Been looking for a sapphic fantasy novel for a while and was so thrilled to stumble upon this book where Anna Burke had beautifully crafted a compelling tale blending dark academia and supernatural worlds with a parallel love story as endearing and heartfelt. In The Roses Of Pieria is both enchanting and haunting and has definitely set the pace to be one of the most unforgettable dark fantasy novel series I’ve read.

Great Audio Adventure!

In the Roses of Pieria by Anna Burke was a delightful surprise from start to finish. The story follows Clara Eden, an academic whose career has centered around the ancient city of Nektopolis and the enigmatic figure of Nektaria. When Clara is offered a job as an archivist by the eccentric estate owner Agatha Montague, she jumps at the chance, only to find herself immersed in a world of Greek mythology, vampires, and sapphic romance.

The narration in the audiobook is excellent, bringing the letters that span hundreds of years to life with vivid and engaging delivery. Listening to these letters added a rich, historical layer to the story, enhancing the overall experience.

One of the standout aspects of this book is its seamless blend of genres. The transition from Greek mythology to vampire lore is handled masterfully, creating a unique and enchanting narrative. The single POV of Clara keeps the story focused and allows readers to deeply connect with her journey and discoveries.

Clara's job opportunity offers her access to invaluable knowledge about Nektopolis, but it comes with the catch of not being able to publish her findings. This twist adds intrigue and tension, especially as Clara's feelings for Fiadh, her employer's assistant, deepen. The growing suspicion about Agatha Montague adds a layer of suspense that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Anna Burke's writing is captivating and immersive, drawing readers into a world filled with diverse and well-developed characters. The plot is engaging, and I was thoroughly invested in Clara's adventure. My one suggestion is to take the time to read the footnotes throughout the story—they add valuable context and enhance the reading experience.

In the Roses of Pieria is a highly recommended read for anyone who loves fantasy, mythology, and romance. I can't wait for the sequel!

Wow

One of the best wlw fantasy books I’ve read! So obsessed and ready for the next one!