Blesssings of the Damned

 Blessings of the Damned is a short story following Diego, a Catholic priest and exorcist in the mid 1800s. The book falls into a few genres, like western, fantasy, and horror.

The story has an intriguing opening, starting with Diego’s hanging. Diego stands accused of killing the town’s priest and his wife. When the spirit of the deceased wife saves him and murders the onlookers. 

The story revolves around learning what actually happened to the priest and helping the spirit of the wife come to terms with her death. This exploration of the past is intermingled with combat between Diego and werewolves, vampires, and other creatures of the night.

Beyond the actual plot itself, I think the book is very well written. The narration of the book really sounds like an Italian exorcist. It is hard to articulate why the writing is enjoyable; it just is, and it propelled me to read more. The book also has some witty lines in it, like when Diego asks for his last rites to be read to him. The deputies say, “We would’ve if you hadn’t killed our priest.”

One very minor complaint: I think Diego has a beard, which, to my knowledge, isn’t permissible as a catholic priest. This isn’t a major plot point, but it was a little confusing. Other seeming contradictions, like the fact that the priest killed at the start of the novel, Giorgio, is married, are explained.

At times, the book does come across as a little over the top. As an example, Diego has a discussion with Giorgio about vampires taking over America: 

The vampires are creating an empire to destroy the Americans and reclaiming land. Lincoln has informed us the Union is weak and it would be difficult to counter such a foe.

I think this is a rare example of the book overexplaining. Most of the time, I think Diego’s dialogue is more concise and natural. The book also often features rather epic battles and encounters between Diego and his foes.

The book overall is a fast and enjoyable read. I think it is something like John Wick, but a western with vampires. If you enjoy westerns or horror and combat-heavy narratives, this is the book for you.

Perspective: 1st person

Tense: past

Length: 154 pages 

Kindle Unlimited: Yes

https://www.amazon.com/Blessings-Damned-S-C-Vincent/dp/B0F5BQRK5V