You shouldnt go into this novel expecting something similar to A Song of Ice and Fire, since it has way more of a Interview with the Vampire vibe. I would say it's a more traditional and less complex story than Martin's best known work, but that doesnt make it less compelling or interesting. I like the kind of vampires this portrays with Martin playing with some of the lore and having a more sympathetic view on them, but keeping the mysterious aura and the general threat and horror of them. 19th century Louisiana is a fitting and well utilized setting and making steamboats a central element was an interesting and unique choice that I really enjoyed. Joshua's and Abner's dynamic worked really well and Julian and Billy were a good set of villians and contrast to them. It's a book were, from the discription, you'll pretty much know what to get from it, and it totally delivers.