Melvin Burgess' chilling tale, much like his Carnegie Medal-winning Junk, delves into the darker side of human nature, exploring themes of addiction, violence, and the blurred lines between good and evil. The duology follows a group of teenagers who become entangled in a world of ancient myth and dark magic.

Bloodtide plunges readers into a future London, eerily reminiscent of a Norse mythological realm. Despite the futuristic backdrop, the story's core is rooted in timeless themes of power, corruption, and the destructive nature of unchecked ambition. The characters, while flawed and often driven by self-interest, possess a depth and complexity that draws the reader in.

Bloodsong, the second part of the duology, transports readers to the breathtaking landscapes of Wales. This installment introduces a new cast of characters, each grappling with their own personal demons and societal pressures. A mythical dragon adds a touch of fantastical wonder to the story, while the underlying themes of identity, belonging, and the consequences of our actions remain firmly grounded in reality.

Burgess's signature style is evident throughout the series. His prose is gritty and unflinching, painting a vivid picture of a world ravaged by addiction and despair. The characters are complex and morally ambiguous, forcing readers to question the nature of good and evil.

Masterful storytelling, combined with Burgess' ability to craft richly detailed worlds, makes this duology a must-read for fans of dark fantasy. Whether you're captivated by the gritty urban setting of Bloodtide or the mystical allure of Bloodsong, this collection offers a brilliant reading experience.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my review copy, all opinions are my own.

I have loved many of Melvin Burgess’s work in the past and this one was no exception. It was cleverly plotted and the world building really dragged me into the story. The Norse mythology was done so well and you could tell the author had done their research. Brilliant from start to finish.

Melvin Burgess is such a git with my students and to have this collection now available is just a perfect addition to our Library.

Big fan of Burgess and glad to see this collected. This was amazing and a breath of fresh air. Nobody can match Burgess in writing.