This is a tough review to write for a couple of reasons. 1) I had a very difficult time simply rating the book. 2) There were parts I liked, and parts I didn't. The parts that were good, were very good; and the parts that weren't so good...well, they weren't terrible, but they weren't great either. This novel has a unique concept, and an interesting way of looking at vampires. The world and mythology of Black City and the Darklings is amazing, and original. However, I didn't like many of the aspects of the society. To me, there were obvious parallels to past events in history, such as the Berlin Wall, segregation, and the use of crucifixion. I don't know...there was just something that bothered me about Ms. Richards' use of these ideas. I do understand though that the author was trying to say that Black City was, in essence, going backwards in society, but I kind of thought she could have gone about it in a different way. 
 The characters were interesting as well. This novel does have alternating POV's, which sort of worked and sort of didn't. It worked in the way that it was interesting to see the two different types of living (1 Darkling (Ash), and 1 of privilege (Natalie) ). The reader is able to understand the world that little bit more, and it is highly needed (I'll get to that later). However, the problem was that both POV's sounded almost exactly the same. Obviously, the characters are going to sound a bit similar because they are written by the same author, but this was just too similar for my taste. The minor characters were very interesting, but I also felt that there wasn't enough development with them in certain ways. Nevertheless, the characters were one of the redeeming qualities of this book. 
 The one thing I had a major problem with was the lack of background info. The reader is thrust into this dystopian world, and faced with terms that are completely unknown to them. As the book progresses, you learn bits and pieces here and there, and are able to construct what this new world is. However, I would have rather found out most of the background info in the beginning of the novel, so that I wouldn't have been confused at times. 
 The romance was another thing that bothered me. Again, as with so many novels, Ash and Natalie's romance is insta-love. I am so tired of this...I mean is it too much to ask for a relationship to develop at a normal pace? Conversely, Ash and Natalie's romance was well written, and their are certain scenes that shine, especially the climax of the story. 
 The novel is somewhat fast-paced, but there were times that the story dragged a bit. The climax of the story was the best part of the novel, and in a way, it is worth it to read this book just for that part. This is why I had a hard time rating and reviewing this. There are parts of this book that are brilliant, and Ms. Richards' writing ability is showcased in all its splendor. But then there are parts that showcase a first-time author. 
 While this isn't the next "big thing" in my opinion, it would still be worth picking up if you want something to read. Don't expect to be blown away, but Ms. Richards shows promise, and depending on what the next book is about, I might pick it up. However, I won't be heartbroken if I don't get an opportunity to read the next in the series.