Yes it is

The Hunt grabbed my attention instantly. It's based on an interesting premise: humans, called 'hepers', are an almost extinct species, and those remaining hide in plain site of the normal 'people' - a vampire-like species (the word vampire is not used once in the novel) who cannot control their bloodlust for heper flesh and would devour any heper they sniffed out within seconds.

What could potentially become a laughable vampires-as-people concept was handled well - it seemed odd at times, but to me was never so unbelievable that it became implausible. What did become implausible was how it was possible for the main character, Gene, to hide among these creatures and suppress his most basic of human instincts like tears, laughter, sweat and shivers. The world was also a little difficult for me to grasp. It lacked the overwhelming info-dump of some novels, but could have done with a little more explanation. Some details could go a few chapters before I really understood what they meant.

Before I had reached the end of the book, I made the decision to not read on in the series. There was nothing I actively disliked about the book, the writing simply lacked subtle refinement that would have improved the story's credibility and clarity. Towards the end the action and pace picked up but then the book just ended. This book does not have a resolution. Not even a lull in the action. It's clear the next book will pick up exactly where this one finished. So I'll continue reading, but if the second book doesn't improve I probably won't read on further.

This book has been included in many underrated book lists, and although I didn't greatly enjoy the story, it's definitely still worth a read. It's a unique concept, and unlike longer dystopian stories it doesn't centre around changing the world. It's a story of survival and instinct and what it really means to be human in a world that isn't.

My advice for anyone wanting to read this book is have the next book "The Prey" ready because once you've got to the end of this tale you'll want to keep reading. It's refreshing to find an original take on the Vampire genre. I've been reading vampire (Fang) novels for years & this stacks up well. It is wayyyy better than Twilight (gag!) It'll keep you guessing & your heart rate racing.