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
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