The world is divided between a decimated human race and roving bands of vampires in Alpha, the first book of the Hierarchy series by author I. Ogunbase.
In this hellscape of a near future, there are different breeds of vampires with different hungers and abilities – the Stalkers, the Mirrors, and the Ferals – immediately adding more complexity and originality to this crowded genre. As the seemingly mindless monsters grow more organized, representing a new challenge for walled-off defenders around the world, a key to humanity’s success is kidnapped, driving a crossbow-toting guard from the once-great city of London on a harrowing rescue mission.
There are many aspects that set the book above other offerings in the genre: the end-of-the-world premise is unique, the character development on both the “good” and “evil” sides is compelling, there is deeply woven symbolism with the “us vs them” theme, along with clever medieval solutions in a post-tech world. Ogunbase also leans into the monstrous side of these legendary blood-suckers with decadent descriptions and visceral passages of gore and horror.
The unpredictability of the plot and Ogunbase’s flexibility with language combine to make this a savagely fun read. That being said, a basic editing and proofreading sweep is much needed, as there are countless small errors, grammatical mistakes, examples of repetitive word usage, and unclear physical narration. More attention to such detail will help the next book, but regardless, this is an impressive opening to the Hierarchy series, and will be a dark treat for old-school horror fans.
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