Review - Heart of Stone by Johannes T. Evans

Vampire Henry is several hundred years old. Over the centuries, he has turned his hand to many things. Now, in the mid-eighteenth century, he is in publishing, but he needs a new personal secretary. His mind wanders too much to keep track of everything that needs to be done. Theophilus comes highly recommended, and Henry is instantly taken with the handsome yet reserved young man. Theophilus doesn’t know his employer is a vampire. He doesn’t even know they exist. The two men are almost polar opposites. Henry’s vivaciousness is countered by Theophilus’ stoicism. Yet the two are intensely attracted to one another. Unfortunately, in that time, and with their employer-employee relationship, neither believes they can act on their desires.

“Heart of Stone” takes place in the U.K. in the years shortly before the American War of Independence. It’s a time when homosexual acts are illegal and the punishments are very severe. Vampires, were they to become known, would suffer an even worse fate. Henry has to re-invent himself every 30 or 40 years to avoid the rumors that would arise from the fact he doesn’t age like other men.

This is a slow-burn romance that moves at a positively glacial pace. The author’s notes at the start indicate Henry has what today is called ADHD. This is most evident in the rapid changes of direction in his conversations with Theophilus. In other ways, he seems to be able to focus on things, especially the young man that fascinates him. Henry’s reasons for holding back with Theophilus make sense, even if they’re really just excuses. The story invokes one of the classic romance clichés where all the people close to the two men can see how they feel about each other, while Henry and Theophilus remain oblivious.

The author’s notes also say Theophilus is autistic, and it feels like this is much more richly portrayed. The young man is very good at “masking” — hiding his inability to be sure of someone’s intent with a diffident outward appearance that can make him seem cold. It’s very understandable that Theophilus doesn’t pick up on Henry’s feelings for him. His brain isn’t wired to read the clues Henry may be giving, and Henry has gone out of his way not to communicate directly with Theophilus about his feelings.

“Heart of Stone” is available from Smashwords or see BookBub for other online sites where you can get your copy.