Book Review: Sucks to Be Me: First Fangs Club by Kristen Painter
When I first stumbled upon Kristen Painter’s Sucks to Be Me: First Fangs Club, I was immediately intrigued by the novel’s premise: a middle-aged woman, just freed from a mafia marriage, suddenly thrust into a world of supernatural chaos. As someone who often craves fresh perspectives in literature, particularly those that resonate with real-life complexities, this book promised a unique blend of humor and drama that I was itching to explore.
From the very first page, I found myself rooting for Belladonna Barrone, our fiercely relatable protagonist. At 49, Donna embodies a refreshing maturity—she’s not the typical young adult hero; instead, she’s a woman with grown children and a fierce determination to reclaim her independence. Painter skillfully intertwines the themes of empowerment, resilience, and self-discovery throughout the narrative. This is a story about starting over, and the cocktail of chaos and humor involved makes it all the more engaging.
One of the most striking aspects of Painter’s writing is her ability to create relatable characters that are refreshingly authentic. Donna’s transformation into a vampire isn’t merely a plot device but serves as a backdrop for exploring her journey through life’s messy complexities. She grapples with the remnants of her mafia ties, learning to navigate a world where vampires and werewolves are more than just folklore—each new encounter feels like another layer peeling back on her old life, revealing surprising friendships and alliances.
The pacing of the novel, while occasionally slow at the beginning, picks up speed as we dig deeper into the supernatural underbelly of Donna’s new reality. It’s here that we meet a colorful cast of characters, from eccentric vampires to charming werewolves, all of whom add vibrant depth to the story. Highlights include scenes that balance humor with heartfelt moments, such as Donna’s fierce retort to a snobby character: “There is no fiercer, tougher, stronger creature on this earth than a mother.” This quote resonated with me, echoing the novel’s core theme of maternal strength and resilience.
Among the enchanting humor and drama, the book deftly avoids being overly "spicy," making it a delightful read for those who appreciate witty banter without the heavy romantic undertones often found in the genre. Tell me, who doesn’t enjoy a good supernatural shopping spree with a splash of self-discovery?
For readers who appreciate a heroine who embodies the trials and triumphs of midlife with humor and heart, Sucks to Be Me: First Fangs Club is a gem worth exploring. Whether you’re a seasoned paranormal fiction fan or just looking for an engaging plot to sink your teeth into (pun intended!), this book creates a vibrant world that’s as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.
In summary, Painter has crafted a tale that extends beyond the typical boundaries of supernatural fiction, infusing it with a dose of reality that many of us can relate to. I’m certainly looking forward to what’s next in this spirited series and can’t help but feel a bit like Donna myself—ready for new adventures, no matter how bizarre they may seem.
You can find Sucks to Be Me: First Fangs Club here >>