Blood Queen is the first book in Caitlin Denman’s new dark fantasy series, and you are not going to want to miss out on this book!
Blood Queen tells the story of young Layla. After the murder of her parents she accidentally earned the nickname of “Blood Queen.” It stuck. Of course, over the years she’s fostered the nickname given her by her people. Unfortunately, while it has earned her the people’s fear, for some their respect, it has also become something that the people hate about her. When a body turns up, the “Blood Queen” is the one who is blamed. Rumors abound about her proclivities for using the blood of those she kills. But everything is about to change when her betrothed is due to come into town. Apparently, the time for another to move out of the shadows is now, and her life will hang in the balance.
Blood Queen is one of those novels that will engage you from the very beginning. You will feel for Layla as she struggles with the sudden and tragic death of her parents. She wants revenge and so that becomes her quest. In her single-mindedness she makes the dire decision to neglect her people. While it may not look like it, it’s a hard truth. Also, it’s something that she admits to frequently. Not out loud mind you, but in her head.
As the story progresses there is quite a bit of push and pull between Layla and Rune. The author delights in dropping jaw-dropping revelations scattered throughout this book. There are absolutely sparks flying between Layla and Rune from the minute that they meet. But then, there is that ill-intent that springs up and seeks to put a wedge between them. Yeah, because we can’t possibly have things go “too perfectly” between them now can we?
No. There is a “snake” in their midst, and while all the arrows point to one person...what fun would it be if Layla simply believed the truth that is literally in front of her face? Well, then the story would probably be a lot shorter and less dramatic.
While this is a good thing it creates a love-hate relationship towards Layla. Layla is a smart character. She’s beautiful, smart, and ruthless when she needs to be. Unfortunately, she’s blind to the truth around her. She blindly follows what her advisor tells her. Okay, it’s understandable as to why she’d never question his directions, but wouldn’t it be...somewhat smart to get more information before just blindly following what she’s told? Of course, when same said “advisor” begins to plant doubts in her head she’s quick to place belief and trust in him.
It is pretty suspicious that the minute her betrothed shows up in town that things begin to slide downhill, but in the process her eyes are being opened. It’s a gradual process, because it just feels like she lives in “denial-ville.” There is a lot of back and forth with Layla concerning who she should trust other than her soul shard, Keir.
Yes, soul shard! How cool is that?! Yes, there are elements of magic in this book. The magic doesn’t truly take center stage though. But you get frequent reminders that there is magic. As Layla is the “queen”/royal, she is one of the few who can control/manipulate magic. She also has a companion that is her soul shard. One fantastic thing about the soul shards is that they are different for each magic wielder! It’s absolutely awesome! Plus, they can communicate via a mind link. It’s a whole bunch of awesome to be honest. LOL!
Craving some steamy moments? Trust me, they are there! Grab a fan, or just something cold to drink to help you cool off. The author wastes no time giving us a deliciously steamy situation not long into the story. You’re going to love it. Of course, that first is part of the catalyst that cues up all the drama between the two main characters. LOL! While the characters may have a love/hate thing going on there is nothing but fire when they get between the sheets.
Hate cliffhangers? Well, unfortunately...no, seriously the author is throwing a wild one at readers. What is going to happen next?! Who knows!! We’ll just have to wait and see, but the truth comes out to the fullest extent. All the cards are laid out on the table. So, where does this lead things moving forward? You’re going to be begging the author to know. Feel free to join me in the corner while we wait for book two. Crossing fingers that we don’t have to wait too long. LOL!
This is a truly engaging dark fantasy romance novel. It’s a great start to the series, and we’re eager to see where the author takes these characters.
4.5 out of 5 stars
No comments:
Post a Comment