Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite

The Amaranthine by Murees Dupé is a unique take on an urban fantasy tale, mixing the few common ideas of Vampires and Werewolves with Dupé’s take on Immortals called the Amaranthine. Claire is on her way home from work when she’s attacked by two beings called Skinners, creatures whose existence she'd only heard of through tales. When she’s saved by a handsome, selfish, and arrogant stranger, her life changes for better and for worse. She encounters a rude awakening when she learns her savior is actually her soulmate, and he’s anything but keen on the idea. His father, who happens to be royalty, puts him in charge of protecting her and turning her into an Immortal. Trips to various supernatural clubs give Claire a harsh look at the reality of each option.

Murees Dupé creates a world that stays true to the morals and flaws of humanity. Where the Immortals are otherworldly and beautiful, Claire is a normal woman who wants to be able to control something in her life. She’s easy to relate to. She has a job she hates, a below average apartment, and her clothes are basic, but she works hard for what she has. Claire isn’t immune to making mistakes, but she owns up to them. The characters are far from perfect, but Dupé realistically shows their strengths, weaknesses, flaws, and heart. It’s a fantasy world called Thelum, but it mirrors Earth right down to the apartments and coffee. The world is flawed, yet as charming as the characters. The Amaranthine is funny and realistic, serious and romantic, full of magic and charm.