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Chicagoland Vampires #13
Blade Bound
The thrilling final installment of Chloe Neill’s New York Times bestselling urban fantasy series sees a sinister sorcery advancing across Chicago, and it may usher in the fall of Cadogan House…
Since the night of her brutal attack and unwilling transformation to vampire, Merit’s stood as Sentinel and protector of Chicago’s Cadogan House. She's saved the Windy City from the forces of darkness time and again with her liege and lover, Ethan Sullivan, by her side.
When the House is infiltrated and Merit is attacked by a vampire seemingly under the sway of dark magic, Merit and Ethan realize the danger is closer than they could have ever imagined. As a malign sorcery spreads throughout the city, Merit must go to war against supernatural powers beyond her comprehension. It’s her last chance to save everything—and everyone—she loves.
Since the night of her brutal attack and unwilling transformation to vampire, Merit’s stood as Sentinel and protector of Chicago’s Cadogan House. She's saved the Windy City from the forces of darkness time and again with her liege and lover, Ethan Sullivan, by her side.
When the House is infiltrated and Merit is attacked by a vampire seemingly under the sway of dark magic, Merit and Ethan realize the danger is closer than they could have ever imagined. As a malign sorcery spreads throughout the city, Merit must go to war against supernatural powers beyond her comprehension. It’s her last chance to save everything—and everyone—she loves.
384 pages, ebook
First published April 25, 2017
500 people are currently reading
6362 people want to read
About the author
Chloe Neill
65 books10.1k followersChloe Neill is the New York Times bestselling author of the Heirs of Chicagoland, Chicagoland Vampires Novels, Devil's Isle Novels, and Dark Elite novels. Chloe was born and raised in the South, but now makes her home in the Midwest. When she's not writing, she bakes, works, and scours the Internet for good recipes and great graphic design. Chloe also maintains her sanity by spending time with her boys--her husband and their dogs, Baxter and Scout.
Connect with Chloe at www.chloeneill.com.
Connect with Chloe at www.chloeneill.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 711 reviews
October 7, 2017
For the first time, Ethan graces the cover of a CV novel. I'm gonna dieeeee.
IT'S THE LAST BOOK.
IT'S THE LAST BOOK.
May 6, 2017
Boring.
There's not much point even mentioning the plot, it was the same rehashed cheesy-supernatural-villain-with-no-personality-does-evil-things-so-Merit-and-the-gang-save-the-day-and-nobody-but-the-bad-guys-die rubbish.
Merit was the biggest snowflake ever, example:
Merit was bland, overly self-assured, up herself, judgemental, holier than thou, a know it all, acted like she was bookish but never actually read any books, and always thought she was right and didn't stop simpering about Ethan. All those irritating aspects may sound like she had a some kind of personality, but somehow they just made her flat personality even flatter.
It's not believable that Merit who has only been a vampire for about a year is able to fight better, think faster, know more about magical/supernatural things, and have more power and connections than other centuries old vampires.
What happened to Ethan? I never liked him from the start but at least he used to be somewhat entertaining, but since about book 3 or 4 he hasn't been the same. He's so dull. The author tries to portray him as charismatic and inspirational, but it doesn't work, he has about as much charm as a wet rag.
Why were Merit and her people the only ones allowed to be remotely smart and effective whilst everyone else was thick and arrogant? The whole city seemed to be stupid and couldn't do anything right, only Merit and her friends were able to get things done right and be heroes.
Why have most of the very powerful female characters been evil and/or stupid or self-centred or immoral or desperate? Whereas most of the powerful male characters have been grounded, reasonable, smart and good. Ugh.
All in all, glad the series is over.
There's not much point even mentioning the plot, it was the same rehashed cheesy-supernatural-villain-with-no-personality-does-evil-things-so-Merit-and-the-gang-save-the-day-and-nobody-but-the-bad-guys-die rubbish.
Merit was the biggest snowflake ever, example:
Merit was bland, overly self-assured, up herself, judgemental, holier than thou, a know it all, acted like she was bookish but never actually read any books, and always thought she was right and didn't stop simpering about Ethan. All those irritating aspects may sound like she had a some kind of personality, but somehow they just made her flat personality even flatter.
It's not believable that Merit who has only been a vampire for about a year is able to fight better, think faster, know more about magical/supernatural things, and have more power and connections than other centuries old vampires.
What happened to Ethan? I never liked him from the start but at least he used to be somewhat entertaining, but since about book 3 or 4 he hasn't been the same. He's so dull. The author tries to portray him as charismatic and inspirational, but it doesn't work, he has about as much charm as a wet rag.
Why were Merit and her people the only ones allowed to be remotely smart and effective whilst everyone else was thick and arrogant? The whole city seemed to be stupid and couldn't do anything right, only Merit and her friends were able to get things done right and be heroes.
Why have most of the very powerful female characters been evil and/or stupid or self-centred or immoral or desperate? Whereas most of the powerful male characters have been grounded, reasonable, smart and good. Ugh.
All in all, glad the series is over.
April 19, 2017
Merit and Ethan have had their ups and downs and have always come out on top but now they are up against some ancient magics that might just do them in for good.
Vampires, werewolves, sorcery oh my! What more could a girl ask for?
It is undeniable that Ethan’s and Merit’s love is a love that will survive the test of time...making it even harder to say goodbye to Merit, Ethan and crew. Neill has created a bunch of characters, primary as well as secondary characters, that have bloomed into life through her talented imaginings. Even though Blade Bound provides the perfect closure, this is going to be difficult to any Chicagoland Vampires’ fan.
Blade Bound is a meaty and addicting conclusion to the Chicagoland Vampires series. I abso-freaking-lutly, loved it.
I’m hopeful that even though Ethan’s and Merit’s story has ended that Neill will revisit this world with a spin off series.
I received this ARC copy of Blade Bound from Berkley Publishing Group. This is my honest and voluntary review. This book is set for publication April 25, 2017.
My Rating: 5 stars
Written by: Chloe Neill
Series: Chicagoland Vampires
Sequence in Series: Book 13
Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Berkley
Publication Date: April 25, 2017
ISBN-10: 0451472349
ISBN-13: 978-0451472342
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/blad...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Blade-Bound-Ch...
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/blade...
For Reviews :
http://tometender.blogspot.com
Vampires, werewolves, sorcery oh my! What more could a girl ask for?
It is undeniable that Ethan’s and Merit’s love is a love that will survive the test of time...making it even harder to say goodbye to Merit, Ethan and crew. Neill has created a bunch of characters, primary as well as secondary characters, that have bloomed into life through her talented imaginings. Even though Blade Bound provides the perfect closure, this is going to be difficult to any Chicagoland Vampires’ fan.
Blade Bound is a meaty and addicting conclusion to the Chicagoland Vampires series. I abso-freaking-lutly, loved it.
I’m hopeful that even though Ethan’s and Merit’s story has ended that Neill will revisit this world with a spin off series.
I received this ARC copy of Blade Bound from Berkley Publishing Group. This is my honest and voluntary review. This book is set for publication April 25, 2017.
My Rating: 5 stars
Written by: Chloe Neill
Series: Chicagoland Vampires
Sequence in Series: Book 13
Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Berkley
Publication Date: April 25, 2017
ISBN-10: 0451472349
ISBN-13: 978-0451472342
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/blad...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Blade-Bound-Ch...
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/blade...
For Reviews :
http://tometender.blogspot.com
April 27, 2017
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads.
For me to feel completely satisfied with the CHICAGOLAND VAMPIRES' conclusion, Chloe Neill needed to do three things: 1. Give Merit & Ethan their HEA. 2. Wrap-up the final arc. 3. Go out in style. Did BLADE BOUND pull it off? Yes, yes, and YES!
I liked that the author wasted no time in getting with the weddingpocalypse, and that it wasn't rushed for pacing reasons or ruined by sorcery. I'd expected the book to end on this note, so it was a nice surprise that readers didn't have to wait one second longer than the opening pages for something that's been thirteen volumes in the making. I was also thankful that the ceremony wasn't a cog in the wheel of plot development, and that the protagonists actually got to enjoy their special day.
This novel followed the same pattern as all of the others that came before it which was another plus because it felt like a Merit & Ethan story. Neill stuck with the familiar instead of trying too hard in an attempt to make history with an unforgettable climax that winds up being somewhat disjointed from the rest of the volumes. There's a Big Bad, the team does a bit of recon, and then the katanas come out. There were still a few bombshells that kept things interesting.
This series' quirkiness was out in full force from the literature themed wedding, to Darth Sullivan's pet name for Merit, and the jokes that ensue when Gabriel's prophesy takes flight. We also got plenty of moments with the treasured secondary characters, and the epilogue jumps forward by twenty-one months to ensure that no stone is left unturned. I hate goodbyes however, it's hard to argue with this one when the writing was just so darned good. Chloe Neill, you slay me!
BLADE BOUND closed the door on the CHICAGOLAND VAMPIRES, but another one will soon open on a spin-off! ~4.5 Stars
For me to feel completely satisfied with the CHICAGOLAND VAMPIRES' conclusion, Chloe Neill needed to do three things: 1. Give Merit & Ethan their HEA. 2. Wrap-up the final arc. 3. Go out in style. Did BLADE BOUND pull it off? Yes, yes, and YES!
I liked that the author wasted no time in getting with the weddingpocalypse, and that it wasn't rushed for pacing reasons or ruined by sorcery. I'd expected the book to end on this note, so it was a nice surprise that readers didn't have to wait one second longer than the opening pages for something that's been thirteen volumes in the making. I was also thankful that the ceremony wasn't a cog in the wheel of plot development, and that the protagonists actually got to enjoy their special day.
This novel followed the same pattern as all of the others that came before it which was another plus because it felt like a Merit & Ethan story. Neill stuck with the familiar instead of trying too hard in an attempt to make history with an unforgettable climax that winds up being somewhat disjointed from the rest of the volumes. There's a Big Bad, the team does a bit of recon, and then the katanas come out. There were still a few bombshells that kept things interesting.
This series' quirkiness was out in full force from the literature themed wedding, to Darth Sullivan's pet name for Merit, and the jokes that ensue when Gabriel's prophesy takes flight. We also got plenty of moments with the treasured secondary characters, and the epilogue jumps forward by twenty-one months to ensure that no stone is left unturned. I hate goodbyes however, it's hard to argue with this one when the writing was just so darned good. Chloe Neill, you slay me!
BLADE BOUND closed the door on the CHICAGOLAND VAMPIRES, but another one will soon open on a spin-off! ~4.5 Stars
May 10, 2017
3.5 - 4 ★'s
~Sigh~ so this is basically the last book for Ethan and Merit...at least for their story arc and I really hate to say that I was disappointed but I was. It's just the same ol' same ol' went on too long.
But kudos to Chloe Neill for ending the series especially when sooo many authors just go on and on. However, the Chicagoland Vampires will be continuing in a spin off series. If you don't want to be spoiled, *DO NOT READ THE BLURB*, it will definitely ruin things for you.
So...about the story - Ethan and Merit are getting married - YES! I was really excited for that but I just knew that at any moment, disaster would strike. But again, kudos to Chloe Neill for at least giving us what she did.
The bad news is an old enemy is back. Ugh...I really didn't care for any of it. I could hardly wait for it to be over although I did enjoy the one bit of karma.
The good news is that the ending plays a part in the prophecy...I was wondering how that was going to come about. And the ending is really exciting with how it sets up the spin off.
So, not totally a good bye and it will be interesting to see how everyone is when the spin off comes out. And of course, I can hardly wait for the H/h...it's going to be sooo good!
(The spin off is....remember to not look unless you want to be spoiled! )
(Prior to review...)
will this really be it? No more Ethan???????? :(
~Sigh~ so this is basically the last book for Ethan and Merit...at least for their story arc and I really hate to say that I was disappointed but I was. It's just the same ol' same ol' went on too long.
But kudos to Chloe Neill for ending the series especially when sooo many authors just go on and on. However, the Chicagoland Vampires will be continuing in a spin off series. If you don't want to be spoiled, *DO NOT READ THE BLURB*, it will definitely ruin things for you.
So...about the story - Ethan and Merit are getting married - YES! I was really excited for that but I just knew that at any moment, disaster would strike. But again, kudos to Chloe Neill for at least giving us what she did.
The bad news is an old enemy is back. Ugh...I really didn't care for any of it. I could hardly wait for it to be over although I did enjoy the one bit of karma.
The good news is that the ending plays a part in the prophecy...I was wondering how that was going to come about. And the ending is really exciting with how it sets up the spin off.
So, not totally a good bye and it will be interesting to see how everyone is when the spin off comes out. And of course, I can hardly wait for the H/h...it's going to be sooo good!
(The spin off is....remember to not look unless you want to be spoiled! )
(Prior to review...)
will this really be it? No more Ethan???????? :(
August 14, 2018
A fantastic ending to a long and worthy series. Lots of humor and action, with passionate characters working together to protect the city they love. We’ve got a wedding here, and of course a villain to fight, and even a . I’ve had fun but I’m ready to say goodbye. It’s time. However, I am very much looking forward to the spinoff! Love this author!
My favorite quote:
“Love doesn’t guarantee happiness or wealth or success. But if you’re willing to commit to it, to work at it, it guarantees partnership. So that no matter the trials or tribulations, no matter the joy or loss, you are not alone.”
My favorite quote:
“Love doesn’t guarantee happiness or wealth or success. But if you’re willing to commit to it, to work at it, it guarantees partnership. So that no matter the trials or tribulations, no matter the joy or loss, you are not alone.”
Want to read
December 23, 2014I will not stick around this long. I'm on book 7 and I just want some fucking closure!
May 4, 2017
Loved it Loved it Loved it
There is never a dull moment in a life of Chicagoland vampire. There were so many battles, so many enemies, so much destruction. What could we possibly expect from the final installment? How about...
Yep. I'm not even joking. But let's leave that for a dessert, shall we?
It all began with a wedding I've been so waiting for. Oh, and for my future maid of honor's future reference, take notes from Mallory on organising my bachelorette party, ok? I do want a gorgeous shirtless man with a sexy voice to recite Byron to me instead of a boring striptease. And chocolate. Lots and lots of chocolate. On everything.
Moving on.
The wedding was great and beautiful and everything it was supposed to be, except I was on the edge of my seat, waiting for some kind of disaster to occur and ruin that happy moment. Merit walking down the aisle - nothing. Going through vows - nothing. You may kiss the vampire - still nothing.
At least they had their happy day mostly over with, yeah? Mass hysteria, winter in the middle of summer and other fun stuff were reserved for the honeymoon. Who wants to go to Paris anyway? I heard it's boring.
A kind of wedding present from Sorcha, the Bitch Witch. Didn't she know to get a kitchen appliance like everyone else? Geez, woman. Overkill much?
But as you probably agree with me, Sorcha wasn't nearly badass enough of a villain for the final book. Ergo dragon. Dragons make everything better in my opinion. Like chocolate. Merit and I take our chocolate very seriously.
What can I say, saving the day every day requires a lot of calories. It helps when everyone pitches in. Vamps, sorcerers, shifters, Red Guard (better late than never), even humans (not as much help as nuisance, but still). With dragon, it takes a village.
It all works out in the end. And the cherry on top? We find out Ethan's nickname for Merit. Finally! Oh, and if you wondered about that little premonition Gabe had some time ago - it gets some attention here too. Being as it is the final book and all.
All in all, it was a very satisfying ending for me and I will definitely read the spin-off series author is cooking up, because those two at the end were just the cutest thing ever.
Over and out.
There is never a dull moment in a life of Chicagoland vampire. There were so many battles, so many enemies, so much destruction. What could we possibly expect from the final installment? How about...
Yep. I'm not even joking. But let's leave that for a dessert, shall we?
It all began with a wedding I've been so waiting for. Oh, and for my future maid of honor's future reference, take notes from Mallory on organising my bachelorette party, ok? I do want a gorgeous shirtless man with a sexy voice to recite Byron to me instead of a boring striptease. And chocolate. Lots and lots of chocolate. On everything.
Moving on.
The wedding was great and beautiful and everything it was supposed to be, except I was on the edge of my seat, waiting for some kind of disaster to occur and ruin that happy moment. Merit walking down the aisle - nothing. Going through vows - nothing. You may kiss the vampire - still nothing.
"We've made it through the wedding and reception without supernatural drama."
"If you just jinxed us I'm going to be so pissed."
At least they had their happy day mostly over with, yeah? Mass hysteria, winter in the middle of summer and other fun stuff were reserved for the honeymoon. Who wants to go to Paris anyway? I heard it's boring.
A kind of wedding present from Sorcha, the Bitch Witch. Didn't she know to get a kitchen appliance like everyone else? Geez, woman. Overkill much?
But as you probably agree with me, Sorcha wasn't nearly badass enough of a villain for the final book. Ergo dragon. Dragons make everything better in my opinion. Like chocolate. Merit and I take our chocolate very seriously.
"I recommend the chocolate shakes. We make the best in town."
My gaze narrowed, and Ethan just chuckled, pulled bills from his pocket, and offered them to the vendor. "You may have started a conversation you don't have time to finish."
"How chocolate is chocolate?" I asked.
But the man was prepared, and his expression was utterly serious. "Our chocolate base includes a syrup made from small-batch beans from a roaster in California, flakes of eighty-five percent dark, and cocoa powder from France."
"Your terms are acceptable," I said with equal gravity.
What can I say, saving the day every day requires a lot of calories. It helps when everyone pitches in. Vamps, sorcerers, shifters, Red Guard (better late than never), even humans (not as much help as nuisance, but still). With dragon, it takes a village.
It all works out in the end. And the cherry on top? We find out Ethan's nickname for Merit. Finally! Oh, and if you wondered about that little premonition Gabe had some time ago - it gets some attention here too. Being as it is the final book and all.
All in all, it was a very satisfying ending for me and I will definitely read the spin-off series author is cooking up, because those two at the end were just the cutest thing ever.
Over and out.
February 7, 2018
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*The End*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
I had expected a more different ending; the end of a thirteen length series. I had expected more of a closure and I would've like to see , but we only got more of the same. I do believe though, that the spinoff might be interesting to read. Though it wasn't all that surprising; quite predictable.
The characters:
— Caroline ‘Merit’ ‘Mer’ Evelyn Merit (becomes vampire at 27, but is 29 in years), Sentinel of the Cadogan House.
— Ethan ‘Liege’ ‘Darth Sullivan’ Sullivan (394? 395?, though became a vampire at 30), master of the Cadogan House —> dead, but is back from the dead.
— Mallory ‘Mal’ Delancey Carmichael Bell (28), Merit's bestfriend and a fourth-class sorcerer, a master of the First Key; power. Married to Catcher.
— Charles ‘Chuck’ Merit (in his sixties/seventies?), Merit's grandfather is the Ombudsman; a ‘liaison’ between the regulars and the sups.
— Chuck's team:
↳ ∘ his secretary, Marjorie (50),
↳ ∘ the computer prodigy and a shape-shifter, Jeffrey ‘Jeff’ Christopher (21),
↳ ∘ a fourth-class sorcerer and a master of the Second Key; weapons, Catcher Eustice Bell (29), married to Mallory.
↳ ∘ and there's also a Housed vampire who works for him that not even his colleagues knows about.
— Joshua Merit, Merit's dad sucky dad.
— guard of the Cadogan House, Lindsey (115) and who is also a psychic, and a good friend to Merit. Also dating Lucas.
— Lucas ‘Luc’,
— Malik Washington,
— Morgan Greer, Master of Navarre House, (72, though looks 28) Merit's sorta ex and a weak man.
— Gabriel ‘Gabe’ Keene, Apex of the Central North American, Jeff's pack leader (love him).
— Darius West, head of the Greenwich Presidium and a total dick.
— Seth Tate (36), former mayor of Chicago and a fucker. A part of him, that is; His twin brother Dominic was evil and lived inside of him. Seth is technically good. He's .
— Scott Grey, Master of Grey House.
— Noah Beck, the leader of Chicago’s independent vampires and a Red Guard ‘RG’ (a vampire Secret Service, of sorts).
— Jonah, the Guard Captain, Grey House and a Red Guard, has a crush on Merit.
— Franklin Theodore Cabot, was the appointed receiver of Cadogan House (Darius West, head of the GP, had decided he didn’t like the way the House was run, “Frank” had been sent to Chicago to inspect and evaluate the House). He sucked big time.
— Berna, shifter, and ended bar and worked the kitchens at Little Red (the Ukrainian Village watering hole where the Pack hung out in Chicago).
— Diane Kowalcyzk, Chicago’s new mayor.
— ‘John Q.’ McKetrick, a former military type with a raging hatred of vampires. He now the head of the Office of Human Liaisons, or OHL.
— Michael Donovan, was the House Cadogan's security auditor (in book #7). A Rough, who turned out to be evil.
— Damien Garza, a member of the Pack.
— Celina Desaulniers was the former Navarre Master; she’d been forced out of the position after an attack on Ethan. Killed by Merit's hand after Celina killed Ethan.
— Adrien Reed, a powerful and dangerous business man who is cunning and sadistic. An enemy of the supernatural. Dead.
— Sorcha Reed, killed Adrien in previous book. Is a witch and evil.
— Amit Patel, the most powerful vampire in the world—and Ethan’s best man.
“And he is at his best when he is with you. That, I think, is the best kind of love. Love doesn’t guarantee happiness or wealth or success. But if you’re willing to commit to it, to work at it, it guarantees partnership. So that no matter the trials or tribulations, no matter the joy or loss, you are not alone.”
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy.
Series: - Series, Book Thirteen.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Ethan ‘Liege’ ‘Darth Sullivan’ Sullivan.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Sure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Umm, sure?
Will I read this again in the future? - Probably not.
Rating - 2.5/3 stars.
April 27, 2017
BLADE BOUND marks the end of the Chicagoland Vampires series. What a wild ride it’s been and while I know I will dearly miss these characters, Chloe Neill has done a wonderful job of wrapping up this series.
As one would expect, this book differs from all the other books in the series because it has a bittersweet feel to it. Merit and Ethan are looking to tie the knot and as the big day approaches, so does other trouble.
I didn’t believe for one second that Neill would make this book an easy read. So of course there’s going to be an epic plot and intense mystery in this book as well. I feel like so many other authors would have taken the short cut and just focus on wrapping up the series, but actually, I think this book is even better because of the fact that it stays true to the rest of the series. Merit will find herself in trouble, but of course, her and her friends will prevail.
I really enjoyed this book and definitely felt the warm and fuzzies when finishing it. It’s sad to say goodbye to these characters but I do believe that Neill has done a wonderful job with this series.
May 16, 2017
Its always a sad thing when a series you love comes to an end so Blade Bound is one of those bittersweet books that you almost don't want to read because once its over it's really OVER. I've been a fan of the Chicagoland Vampires for so many years now and I've loved every minute of it. Merit is such a brilliant character and I love her relationship with Ethan. They've learnt a lot both as individuals and as a couple and they've faced all kinds of dangers along the way. I guess it's probably about time that they got to actually enjoy their happily ever after but I still wasn't ready to say goodbye to them.
If you have to leave a series behind you it's definitely best to go out when it's still on a high note though and Chloe Neill has achieved that here. I don't want to say too much about the plot but I'll give you a little hint - there might be a wedding (but only if they survive the hen and bachelor nights first!). Of course bad guys don't take time off for festivities so Merit and Ethan are still up against the clock trying to bring down the mastermind who has been the cause of so many problems over the last few books.
Blade Bound is full of action, there's plenty of the witty banter and humour that I've come to expect from this series and we get to catch up with all of our favourite characters. I'm sad that it's over but what a ride it's been & I know this is a series I'll be rereading in the future. Even better is the fact that Chloe Neill has announced a spin off series! I'm not going to say who the main characters are in this review because it would be a spoiler for anyone who hasn't read Blade Bound so you'll have to investigate yourselves for more information but I'm very excited by the direction things seem to be going. The first book in the spin off is called Wild Hunger and I believe it will be out sometime next year - it's definitely going straight to the top of my wish list the minute I find an official release date!
If you have to leave a series behind you it's definitely best to go out when it's still on a high note though and Chloe Neill has achieved that here. I don't want to say too much about the plot but I'll give you a little hint - there might be a wedding (but only if they survive the hen and bachelor nights first!). Of course bad guys don't take time off for festivities so Merit and Ethan are still up against the clock trying to bring down the mastermind who has been the cause of so many problems over the last few books.
Blade Bound is full of action, there's plenty of the witty banter and humour that I've come to expect from this series and we get to catch up with all of our favourite characters. I'm sad that it's over but what a ride it's been & I know this is a series I'll be rereading in the future. Even better is the fact that Chloe Neill has announced a spin off series! I'm not going to say who the main characters are in this review because it would be a spoiler for anyone who hasn't read Blade Bound so you'll have to investigate yourselves for more information but I'm very excited by the direction things seem to be going. The first book in the spin off is called Wild Hunger and I believe it will be out sometime next year - it's definitely going straight to the top of my wish list the minute I find an official release date!
August 28, 2024
Blade Bound is the final book in the Chicagoland Vampires series by Chloe Neill.
Ms. Neill did a wonderful job wrapping up this series. It was nice to finally see Ethan and Merit tie the not, but with the big day coming closer, so does trouble. Their was mystery as well as action. I enjoyed seeing the gang; all the previous characters come together to help Merit.
I adored the wedding preparations, bridle shower, reception and the whole thing. It was done beautiful, but of course it don’t take long; before chaos breaks out and our gang is together trying to figure it all out and keep Chicago safe.
Blade Bound was an enjoyable read and I’m satisfied with the conclusion. I had a delightful time getting to know Merit, Ethan, and friends throughout the series. It was an engaging series to read, but not one I will be revisiting. I might be checking out the spin-off series;
Rate: 4 Stars
Ms. Neill did a wonderful job wrapping up this series. It was nice to finally see Ethan and Merit tie the not, but with the big day coming closer, so does trouble. Their was mystery as well as action. I enjoyed seeing the gang; all the previous characters come together to help Merit.
I adored the wedding preparations, bridle shower, reception and the whole thing. It was done beautiful, but of course it don’t take long; before chaos breaks out and our gang is together trying to figure it all out and keep Chicago safe.
Blade Bound was an enjoyable read and I’m satisfied with the conclusion. I had a delightful time getting to know Merit, Ethan, and friends throughout the series. It was an engaging series to read, but not one I will be revisiting. I might be checking out the spin-off series;
Rate: 4 Stars
July 15, 2017
I have to wait an entire year?!
Fucking blasphemy.
Edit:
Guys. Guys! Look at that cover. ETHAN is gracing the cover of the final **tear** installment of the Chicagoland Vampires. My prayers have been answered...
After Reading
It felt a little rushed, but it was good. I can't offer much more than just "good" right now. Maybe my expectations were too high? But the plot seemed kind of out there, and I didn't get as much time with the wedding and as I wanted.
Fucking blasphemy.
Edit:
Guys. Guys! Look at that cover. ETHAN is gracing the cover of the final **tear** installment of the Chicagoland Vampires. My prayers have been answered...
After Reading
It felt a little rushed, but it was good. I can't offer much more than just "good" right now. Maybe my expectations were too high? But the plot seemed kind of out there, and I didn't get as much time with the wedding and as I wanted.
April 18, 2017
Le plus mauvais de la série, et c'est triste que ça tombe sur le dernier tome.
J'ai eu beaucoup de mal à le finir, tellement l'histoire est ennuyeuse, sans relief, jusqu'au bout. La fameuse prophétie dont j'attendais beaucoup est expédiée. Il n'y a que le début qui est mignon. Le reste ne sert à rien.
Très déçue qu'une de mes sagas préférées finisse aussi bas.
J'ai eu beaucoup de mal à le finir, tellement l'histoire est ennuyeuse, sans relief, jusqu'au bout. La fameuse prophétie dont j'attendais beaucoup est expédiée. Il n'y a que le début qui est mignon. Le reste ne sert à rien.
Très déçue qu'une de mes sagas préférées finisse aussi bas.
December 17, 2019
The best thing about this book? The epilogue at the end and the future books it will be leading up to. Overall I have enjoyed this series and this was THE book that I wanted to read because of the whole pregnancy thing.
First off though I would like to say that this series could have easily been four/five books shorter as a lot of the plots were reused. Too many books with Celina, and one too many books with Sorcha here.
The vampires of the house were more of a side thought then anything else and it was odd when they were thrown in there. The good thing about the book was that although I skipped books ten to twelve it was like I missed virtually nothing.
Ethan seems to have turned into a decent vampire so there is hope for him yet. Merit well she could have done a lot better, she could have had Jonah. Oh well who am I to complain?
All in all I like the author's style and there is talent but don't over milk the cow.
First off though I would like to say that this series could have easily been four/five books shorter as a lot of the plots were reused. Too many books with Celina, and one too many books with Sorcha here.
The vampires of the house were more of a side thought then anything else and it was odd when they were thrown in there. The good thing about the book was that although I skipped books ten to twelve it was like I missed virtually nothing.
Ethan seems to have turned into a decent vampire so there is hope for him yet. Merit well she could have done a lot better, she could have had Jonah. Oh well who am I to complain?
All in all I like the author's style and there is talent but don't over milk the cow.
July 12, 2018
The final book has METHAN on the cover, how fitting :)
*Counts towards the Cliterary Genius 2018 Reading Challenge - July - (7) Listen to an Audible book.
*Counts towards the Cliterary Genius 2018 Reading Challenge - July - (7) Listen to an Audible book.
February 10, 2017
If Nancy Drew was a vampire, this would be her series...
And so we limp to the bittersweet end of a long running series. The story takes on the familiar formula of all the more recent books; yet another mad, magical entity is once again threatening Chicago (twisted sorceress Sorcha Reed in a repeat performance). You've read various takes on this theme the last five or six books. At least Neill finally stopped calling Ethan 'boy'.
An expected event at the very beginning and the very end to tie up plot threads, a routine storyline, the most unsatisfying epilogue ever...annnd that's all folks. I haven't been this underwhelmed with a series ending since Sookie Stackhouse creaked off into the sunset. Sunrise?
And so we limp to the bittersweet end of a long running series. The story takes on the familiar formula of all the more recent books; yet another mad, magical entity is once again threatening Chicago (twisted sorceress Sorcha Reed in a repeat performance). You've read various takes on this theme the last five or six books. At least Neill finally stopped calling Ethan 'boy'.
An expected event at the very beginning and the very end to tie up plot threads, a routine storyline, the most unsatisfying epilogue ever...annnd that's all folks. I haven't been this underwhelmed with a series ending since Sookie Stackhouse creaked off into the sunset. Sunrise?
October 2, 2018
Ethan and Merits romance finally leads them down the alter. The whole time I’m reading the wedding scene I’m biting my nails. I know something will happen. But what? Arg!
Excellent story to end an amazing series. Now on to the next generation. Yay!!
Excellent story to end an amazing series. Now on to the next generation. Yay!!
May 9, 2017
ALL THE STARS. Blade Bound gets all. The. Stars.
I read Some Girls Bite (Chicagoland Vampires #1) a bunch of years ago when I was looking for something to fill the Sookie Stackhouse-sized hole left in my vampire book loving heart. I fell in love with the strong, plucky, bacon-loving Merit and her sire, the enigmatic Ethan Sullivan. Over the years they have been through more than any one couple should ever have to go through. No really. It's been RIDIC. But here we are, at the final Chicagoland Vampires book, and it seems that their future might be happy, full, and pretty damn perfect after all.
This last book is absolutely everything you could want or need in a series ender. With thirteen books under her belt, Chloe Neill has brought back nearly all of the side characters that made the Chicagoland world so full and rich, for at least a little glimpse. There are at least a few mentions of the other Chicago vampire masters, Scott and Morgan as well as Merit's Red Guard partner Jonah. We get to see Gabriel, the Apex of the North American Central Pack call Merit "Kitten" one last time. The Ombuddies - Jeff, Catcher, Mallory and Merit's grandfather - are on hand to solve one last Chicago plight. And the Cadogan vampires who we've come to expect to have Merit and Ethan's back - Malik, Luc and Lindsey - are kicking ass and taking names.
Every one of the loose threads are tied up. Even threads I didn't realize were loose were tightened to an incredibly satisfying degree. Weeks after I finished reading Blade Bound, I thought back on the events that unfolded during the course of the book, and I realized how masterfully Chloe Neill wove those finalities into the story. I didn't even realize they were happening until later when I was thinking about all the characters I had grown to love and how they had all found this amazing life alongside Merit and Ethan.
And, of course, Merit and Ethan are going to have an amazing life. We get to see them fight side-by-side, and puzzle out a new problem, and argue and make up and GET MARRIED. And yes - the big question that we've all had for years now about the prophecy that Gabriel made is answered. And I promise, it's a satisfying resolution to a story line that's kept us hanging for a long time now.
I realize I'm being rather vague with my review, but the events that unfold in Blade Bound are a continuation from the events in Midnight Marked (Chicagoland Vampires #12). So, I can't go into specifics without giving away some pretty big spoilers. Suffice it to say that Blade Bound has tons of action, danger and humor. And the romance pegs the swoon meter. Merit and Ethan have found this incredible love and respect for one another that can only be borne from all that they have encountered and survived together, and that shows in their words and their actions.
Thankfully, Chloe Neill seems as reluctant to leave the Chicagoland Vampire world as we are, and she announced at the end of Blade Bound that there will be a spin-off featuring certain characters from the series. If you want to know who they are, well... you'll have to read the book. :)
I read Some Girls Bite (Chicagoland Vampires #1) a bunch of years ago when I was looking for something to fill the Sookie Stackhouse-sized hole left in my vampire book loving heart. I fell in love with the strong, plucky, bacon-loving Merit and her sire, the enigmatic Ethan Sullivan. Over the years they have been through more than any one couple should ever have to go through. No really. It's been RIDIC. But here we are, at the final Chicagoland Vampires book, and it seems that their future might be happy, full, and pretty damn perfect after all.
This last book is absolutely everything you could want or need in a series ender. With thirteen books under her belt, Chloe Neill has brought back nearly all of the side characters that made the Chicagoland world so full and rich, for at least a little glimpse. There are at least a few mentions of the other Chicago vampire masters, Scott and Morgan as well as Merit's Red Guard partner Jonah. We get to see Gabriel, the Apex of the North American Central Pack call Merit "Kitten" one last time. The Ombuddies - Jeff, Catcher, Mallory and Merit's grandfather - are on hand to solve one last Chicago plight. And the Cadogan vampires who we've come to expect to have Merit and Ethan's back - Malik, Luc and Lindsey - are kicking ass and taking names.
Every one of the loose threads are tied up. Even threads I didn't realize were loose were tightened to an incredibly satisfying degree. Weeks after I finished reading Blade Bound, I thought back on the events that unfolded during the course of the book, and I realized how masterfully Chloe Neill wove those finalities into the story. I didn't even realize they were happening until later when I was thinking about all the characters I had grown to love and how they had all found this amazing life alongside Merit and Ethan.
And, of course, Merit and Ethan are going to have an amazing life. We get to see them fight side-by-side, and puzzle out a new problem, and argue and make up and GET MARRIED. And yes - the big question that we've all had for years now about the prophecy that Gabriel made is answered. And I promise, it's a satisfying resolution to a story line that's kept us hanging for a long time now.
I realize I'm being rather vague with my review, but the events that unfold in Blade Bound are a continuation from the events in Midnight Marked (Chicagoland Vampires #12). So, I can't go into specifics without giving away some pretty big spoilers. Suffice it to say that Blade Bound has tons of action, danger and humor. And the romance pegs the swoon meter. Merit and Ethan have found this incredible love and respect for one another that can only be borne from all that they have encountered and survived together, and that shows in their words and their actions.
Thankfully, Chloe Neill seems as reluctant to leave the Chicagoland Vampire world as we are, and she announced at the end of Blade Bound that there will be a spin-off featuring certain characters from the series. If you want to know who they are, well... you'll have to read the book. :)
April 26, 2017
This review was originally posted on Cocktails and Books
This is a review I've been dreading for a long time. Not because the book is bad or something horrible happens to a beloved character. Nope. I've dreaded this because one of my all-time favorite series is coming to an end.
I wondered how Merit and Ethan's story was going to come to an end. Would their wedding go off without a hitch? Was Gabriel's prediction, from many books ago, going to come true? If it was, how was that possible? And more importantly were the vampires of Cadogen House ever going to catch a break and not have to fend off bad guys.
Chloe Neill does a great job of tying up the series. Merit and Ethan get their happily ever after, but more than that they understand exactly how much they mean to each other. They are true partners. Both in leading and protecting the vampires of their house as well as in their relationship with each other. It was nice to see exactly how much this couple has grown since the first book in the series.
The only loose end, at least for me, was Merit's family. The tension between Merit, her brother, and her father was at an all time high. Yet that wasn't resolved by the time we got to the epilogue. Merit and her mother seemed to have a better relationship and her sister-in-law was supportive, yet it seemed weird that we didn't get a final bit of clarity when it came to the Merit family drama.
If you want to jump into a series vampire series that has a lot of action and a cast of characters you can really get behind, this is definitely one you'll want to pick up. It's a perfect time to get up to speed since the spin-off series will be coming next year.
This is a review I've been dreading for a long time. Not because the book is bad or something horrible happens to a beloved character. Nope. I've dreaded this because one of my all-time favorite series is coming to an end.
I wondered how Merit and Ethan's story was going to come to an end. Would their wedding go off without a hitch? Was Gabriel's prediction, from many books ago, going to come true? If it was, how was that possible? And more importantly were the vampires of Cadogen House ever going to catch a break and not have to fend off bad guys.
Chloe Neill does a great job of tying up the series. Merit and Ethan get their happily ever after, but more than that they understand exactly how much they mean to each other. They are true partners. Both in leading and protecting the vampires of their house as well as in their relationship with each other. It was nice to see exactly how much this couple has grown since the first book in the series.
The only loose end, at least for me, was Merit's family. The tension between Merit, her brother, and her father was at an all time high. Yet that wasn't resolved by the time we got to the epilogue. Merit and her mother seemed to have a better relationship and her sister-in-law was supportive, yet it seemed weird that we didn't get a final bit of clarity when it came to the Merit family drama.
If you want to jump into a series vampire series that has a lot of action and a cast of characters you can really get behind, this is definitely one you'll want to pick up. It's a perfect time to get up to speed since the spin-off series will be coming next year.
April 26, 2017
BLADE BOUND marks the end of the Chicagoland Vampires series. What a wild ride it’s been and while I know I will dearly miss these characters, Chloe Neill has done a wonderful job of wrapping up this series.As one would expect, this book differs from all the other books in the series because it has a bittersweet feel to it. Merit and Ethan are looking to tie the knot and as the big day approaches, so does other trouble.
I didn’t believe for one second that Neill would make this book an easy read. So of course there’s going to be an epic plot and intense mystery in this book as well. I feel like so many other authors would have taken the short cut and just focus on wrapping up the series, but actually, I think this book is even better because of the fact that it stays true to the rest of the series. Merit will find herself in trouble, but of course, her and her friends will prevail.
I really enjoyed this book and definitely felt the warm and fuzzies when finishing it. It’s sad to say goodbye to these characters but I do believe that Neill has done a wonderful job with this series.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Annie ❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
June 4, 2017
He smiled, touched his forehead to mine. "I love you beyond reason."
That quite sum the last installment of this series. Merit and Ethan finally have their wedding and yes I'm quite impressed with bachelor party.... Is 80% contains of chocolate （＾Ｏ＾）
And love the ending! When I thought : this is it the last pages, I need to say goodbye.... Voila, there's a sequel for this series. I just can't wait to read it.
Chloe Neil one of my favorite author. Her writing style, her plot and storyline capture my heart. And on top of that there's a lot action in her books. Like slash that, slash this, totally love it!
That quite sum the last installment of this series. Merit and Ethan finally have their wedding and yes I'm quite impressed with bachelor party.... Is 80% contains of chocolate （＾Ｏ＾）
And love the ending! When I thought : this is it the last pages, I need to say goodbye.... Voila, there's a sequel for this series. I just can't wait to read it.
Chloe Neil one of my favorite author. Her writing style, her plot and storyline capture my heart. And on top of that there's a lot action in her books. Like slash that, slash this, totally love it!
May 22, 2017
I was so looking forward to completing the last book in this series and then being able to put it to bed, so to speak....and you could after this one if you wanted. Merit and company did not disappoint in this one, with love, friendship, quick and unexpected plot twists, and as always a great adventure, but That ending, and the premise for the new spin off series, I'm completely onboard now to follow through with the next great adventure for Chicago!
April 28, 2017
Originally posted at SmexyBooks-http://smexybooks.com/2017/04/review-...
Favorite Quote:
“Why do I feel like laughing?”
“Because this is horrible and uncomfortable and the best dark comedy ever written.”
Merit is back for her last showdown in the 13th and final installment of Chloe Neill’s best-selling urban fantasy series-Chicagoland Vampires. Neill takes us out in a style worthy of our favorite Sentinel with some laughter, sacrifice, sweet swordplay, plenty of magic, and lots of love. The whole gang is here-vampires, shifters, sorcerers, and humans-having gathered together to celebrate Merit and Ethan finally tying the knot. When strange events begin to occur around Chicago and they discover sorcerer Sorcha Reed is back and up to her old tricks, Merit and Ethan forgo their honeymoon and prepare for the battle of their lifetime.
Blade Bound starts out footloose and fancy-free as Merit and Ethan begin to prepare for their wedding. Neill salts the storyline with some small and seemingly unrelated clues of what’s to come as we nonchalantly watch the festivities take place.The pacing and energy build together, keeping the story moving along as we learn who and what Merit, Ethan, and the rest of Chicago will soon be facing. The world building remains intact and stationary though Neill pulls in some additional characters (new and old faces) whose actions allow for some interesting scenes.
The Chicagoland Vampire series has always been a whirlwind adventure of magic, chaos, romance, and humor. Confession time…I didn’t actually jump on the band wagon till a little later in the series. Friends raved …I caved…no regrets. Some Girls Bite made me an instant fangirl. The appeal of this series for me has been two-fold. Neill not only writes strong female protagonists but also emotionally complex relationships that stand the test of time. While Merit’s relationship with Ethan has been a focal point of the series, watching her deal with her impotence over her turning and adjusting to being a vampire was the core. Turned into a vampire without her consent, we followed her year-long path as she went from anger, to grief, to acceptance and found a family, friends, and a lover who accept her for who and what she is. Some of my most favorite scenes in each book were of Merit and Mallory. They have one of the best fictional friendships I’ve had the pleasure of reading. No matter what Neill threw at these two, and she threw quite a bit, these two besties always had each other’s backs.
“Your mind is a weird little labyrinth,” I said.
She grinned. “Sometimes the randomness comes in handy. Not always, but sometimes.”
I like that Neill gave Merit relationships that weren’t dependent on Ethan, her vampirism, or Cadogan House. It gave Merit a sense of independence and purpose beyond the storyline.
Overall I was pleased with the balance of this installment. The investigative and action packed main conflict is offset perfectly by the softer feeling of new beginnings as Merit and Ethan walk towards their final path to a new life. Neill highlights how Merit and Ethan have come full circle from their first meeting. Through love, loss, pain, redemption, and acceptance, this couple has triumphed over the odds and the occasional self-erected roadblock to become Mr. and Mrs. Darth Sullivan. While I definitely enjoyed seeing Ethan become even more possessive… Don’t call her Kitten… I also enjoyed seeing a more introspective Merit. Marrying Ethan brings out a sense of caution in Merit that’s both surprising and intriguing.
“This is why you take chances, with love, with life…with children. Because sometimes you lose them…and sometimes you don’t.”
The mystery surrounding Sorcha’s return and her vendetta was as always packed with action, humor, suspense, and a book related solution. Neil adds a few eyebrow-raising elements though the feeling of deja vu was strong and that was disappointing. We’ve been here before with this villain. The magical confusion, the resulting governmental accusations, and the need for the supernaturals to once again throw themselves in front of the speeding train to save humanity. It’s a recycled plotline that received a bit of a facelift.
The ending wraps up this storyline and the arc with the usual drama and mayhem. Neil makes sure we spend plenty of time with all our old friends and get a small peek at where they may go from here. The sense of family and love in this installment is strong and that is a perfect feeling on which to end this series. Mallory and Catcher are strong as ever. Gabriel and the pack are large and in charge. Perhaps Neill will spin off this series with one that focuses on the pack. Luc and Lindsey, Jeff and Fallon, Merit’s grandfather, Malik, along with some others, broadcast a strong presence throughout the story. We are left with a fun and informative epilogue that addresses one final aspect of the series that I know many a fan has waited to get an answer to. Neill leaves some room for future visits though for all intents and purposes this story is done.
While I’m sad to see this series end, it’s been a wild and bumpy ride that entertained and delighted this fan for years. Hopefully, Neill will revisit in the future. As far as Urban Fantasy goes, you can’t go wrong with Chloe Neill’s Chicagoland Vampires.
Grade: B-
Favorite Quote:
“Why do I feel like laughing?”
“Because this is horrible and uncomfortable and the best dark comedy ever written.”
Merit is back for her last showdown in the 13th and final installment of Chloe Neill’s best-selling urban fantasy series-Chicagoland Vampires. Neill takes us out in a style worthy of our favorite Sentinel with some laughter, sacrifice, sweet swordplay, plenty of magic, and lots of love. The whole gang is here-vampires, shifters, sorcerers, and humans-having gathered together to celebrate Merit and Ethan finally tying the knot. When strange events begin to occur around Chicago and they discover sorcerer Sorcha Reed is back and up to her old tricks, Merit and Ethan forgo their honeymoon and prepare for the battle of their lifetime.
Blade Bound starts out footloose and fancy-free as Merit and Ethan begin to prepare for their wedding. Neill salts the storyline with some small and seemingly unrelated clues of what’s to come as we nonchalantly watch the festivities take place.The pacing and energy build together, keeping the story moving along as we learn who and what Merit, Ethan, and the rest of Chicago will soon be facing. The world building remains intact and stationary though Neill pulls in some additional characters (new and old faces) whose actions allow for some interesting scenes.
The Chicagoland Vampire series has always been a whirlwind adventure of magic, chaos, romance, and humor. Confession time…I didn’t actually jump on the band wagon till a little later in the series. Friends raved …I caved…no regrets. Some Girls Bite made me an instant fangirl. The appeal of this series for me has been two-fold. Neill not only writes strong female protagonists but also emotionally complex relationships that stand the test of time. While Merit’s relationship with Ethan has been a focal point of the series, watching her deal with her impotence over her turning and adjusting to being a vampire was the core. Turned into a vampire without her consent, we followed her year-long path as she went from anger, to grief, to acceptance and found a family, friends, and a lover who accept her for who and what she is. Some of my most favorite scenes in each book were of Merit and Mallory. They have one of the best fictional friendships I’ve had the pleasure of reading. No matter what Neill threw at these two, and she threw quite a bit, these two besties always had each other’s backs.
“Your mind is a weird little labyrinth,” I said.
She grinned. “Sometimes the randomness comes in handy. Not always, but sometimes.”
I like that Neill gave Merit relationships that weren’t dependent on Ethan, her vampirism, or Cadogan House. It gave Merit a sense of independence and purpose beyond the storyline.
Overall I was pleased with the balance of this installment. The investigative and action packed main conflict is offset perfectly by the softer feeling of new beginnings as Merit and Ethan walk towards their final path to a new life. Neill highlights how Merit and Ethan have come full circle from their first meeting. Through love, loss, pain, redemption, and acceptance, this couple has triumphed over the odds and the occasional self-erected roadblock to become Mr. and Mrs. Darth Sullivan. While I definitely enjoyed seeing Ethan become even more possessive… Don’t call her Kitten… I also enjoyed seeing a more introspective Merit. Marrying Ethan brings out a sense of caution in Merit that’s both surprising and intriguing.
“This is why you take chances, with love, with life…with children. Because sometimes you lose them…and sometimes you don’t.”
The mystery surrounding Sorcha’s return and her vendetta was as always packed with action, humor, suspense, and a book related solution. Neil adds a few eyebrow-raising elements though the feeling of deja vu was strong and that was disappointing. We’ve been here before with this villain. The magical confusion, the resulting governmental accusations, and the need for the supernaturals to once again throw themselves in front of the speeding train to save humanity. It’s a recycled plotline that received a bit of a facelift.
The ending wraps up this storyline and the arc with the usual drama and mayhem. Neil makes sure we spend plenty of time with all our old friends and get a small peek at where they may go from here. The sense of family and love in this installment is strong and that is a perfect feeling on which to end this series. Mallory and Catcher are strong as ever. Gabriel and the pack are large and in charge. Perhaps Neill will spin off this series with one that focuses on the pack. Luc and Lindsey, Jeff and Fallon, Merit’s grandfather, Malik, along with some others, broadcast a strong presence throughout the story. We are left with a fun and informative epilogue that addresses one final aspect of the series that I know many a fan has waited to get an answer to. Neill leaves some room for future visits though for all intents and purposes this story is done.
While I’m sad to see this series end, it’s been a wild and bumpy ride that entertained and delighted this fan for years. Hopefully, Neill will revisit in the future. As far as Urban Fantasy goes, you can’t go wrong with Chloe Neill’s Chicagoland Vampires.
Grade: B-
April 17, 2017
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 4.5
*My Thoughts*
Blade Bound is the Thirteenth and final installment in Chloe Neill's Chicagoland Vampires series. It is a series that began in 2009, and got better and better as time flew by. Some Girls Bite was the book which kicked off my blogging career. It would take a few more years until Gizmos Reviews really came to life, but in the meantime, it was Chicagoland Vampires that had me looking forward to the next book in the series, and the next, and the next one after that. It was this series that brought my love of the library back to life after I suddenly lost my job and found myself on disability.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews 04/17/2017
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 4.5
*My Thoughts*
Blade Bound is the Thirteenth and final installment in Chloe Neill's Chicagoland Vampires series. It is a series that began in 2009, and got better and better as time flew by. Some Girls Bite was the book which kicked off my blogging career. It would take a few more years until Gizmos Reviews really came to life, but in the meantime, it was Chicagoland Vampires that had me looking forward to the next book in the series, and the next, and the next one after that. It was this series that brought my love of the library back to life after I suddenly lost my job and found myself on disability.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews 04/17/2017
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
June 1, 2018
On the eve of Merit and Ethan's wedding, strange things are happening in Chicago. Some humans and vampires are hearing voices which are making them violent. Fights are breaking out throughout the city. On a warm August night, snow begins to fly. These are signs that the evil sorceress Sorcha has come back to wreak her vengeance against the vampires at Cadogan House. Ethan, Merit, and company must lead the fight to save Chicago.
This is the last book in the Chicagoland Vampires series. Some parts of it I liked, but others just fell flat for me. I liked that Ethan and Merit finally made it to the altar. And I liked that most of the characters in the series took part in this book. I didn't care for the villain. I was hoping we were rid of Sorcha after the last book. But she did conjure up a great monster for our heroes to fight against. My rating: 3.5 Stars.
This is the last book in the Chicagoland Vampires series. Some parts of it I liked, but others just fell flat for me. I liked that Ethan and Merit finally made it to the altar. And I liked that most of the characters in the series took part in this book. I didn't care for the villain. I was hoping we were rid of Sorcha after the last book. But she did conjure up a great monster for our heroes to fight against. My rating: 3.5 Stars.
September 11, 2020
I am sad that the series is over!
This was a great way to end it though, with hope of a spin off and now that I know there is one I am all over that.
The wedding was everything I am so glad it was included.
Ethan and Merit and Mallory and Catcher save Chicago from a giant lizard that was made from magic. I have to say Gabriel is never wrong never bet against prophecy.
My favorite part was the bridge and the trust Mallory has in Merit well it was heartwarming you can see their friendship wasn’t damage from the past.
I do wish we got like a whole chapter of Ethan as a father that would have been so interesting.
This was a great way to end it though, with hope of a spin off and now that I know there is one I am all over that.
The wedding was everything I am so glad it was included.
Ethan and Merit and Mallory and Catcher save Chicago from a giant lizard that was made from magic. I have to say Gabriel is never wrong never bet against prophecy.
My favorite part was the bridge and the trust Mallory has in Merit well it was heartwarming you can see their friendship wasn’t damage from the past.
I do wish we got like a whole chapter of Ethan as a father that would have been so interesting.
April 27, 2017
A decent--and overdue--end to the series.
After the whole Ethan episode and the Mallory debacle, I lost much of my enthusiasm for the series. This final story gives us another peek at many of the major players, shows us some quality Ethan and Merit time, and wraps things up in a satisfactory manner.
The main plot, though? Kinda dull. The bad guys for the most part were polite enough to wreak havoc mostly while the vamps were awake, the conflicts were not that compelling, and there were some TSTL moments sprinkled in.
While the action was less than enthralling, the personal aspects of the story, Merit and Ethan, Mallory and Catcher, and some other bonus stuff made it an enjoyable way to conclude the series. We also have an indication of what Neill will write next at the end. I wonder if it will include the New York vamps and the FBI agent mentioned briefly in this story...
After the whole Ethan episode and the Mallory debacle, I lost much of my enthusiasm for the series. This final story gives us another peek at many of the major players, shows us some quality Ethan and Merit time, and wraps things up in a satisfactory manner.
The main plot, though? Kinda dull. The bad guys for the most part were polite enough to wreak havoc mostly while the vamps were awake, the conflicts were not that compelling, and there were some TSTL moments sprinkled in.
While the action was less than enthralling, the personal aspects of the story, Merit and Ethan, Mallory and Catcher, and some other bonus stuff made it an enjoyable way to conclude the series. We also have an indication of what Neill will write next at the end. I wonder if it will include the New York vamps and the FBI agent mentioned briefly in this story...
June 6, 2017
4.5 stars
And another series that comes to an end. I'm sad about it, but at the same time I'm happy because it was time to finish it and it had a happy ending.
'Blade Bound' was good. Not exceptional, but good.
We have more magic, more evil plans and more action. That was one of the things that I enjoyed most about this book, the fact that after almost 15% it was mostly action. We jump from one thing to another and I wasn't bored. I admit that the beginning of the book kind of drags along.
What the book missed was that feeling of suspense. I wanted to be kept on the edge of my seat and to ask myself how the book will end. But I kind of knew how it was going to end. I still loved it, though.
The author tried to put in this book most of the important characters and she succeeded in reminding me why I fell in love with this series in the first place:
The characters, the author's obvious love for Chicago, her notable attention to details and mythology (especially regarding magic), the love and friendship between characters, Malory's humor and Merit's love for bacon and chocolate.
The 'Chicagoland Vampires' Series wasn't perfect and it certainly wasn't extraordinary.
But it was amazing for me. I liked escaping into Merit's world and I'm glad I had the opportunity.
I'm happy with the ending and I can't wait to read the spin-off. If it's even half as good as this series, I'm sure I'll enjoy it.
And another series that comes to an end. I'm sad about it, but at the same time I'm happy because it was time to finish it and it had a happy ending.
'Blade Bound' was good. Not exceptional, but good.
We have more magic, more evil plans and more action. That was one of the things that I enjoyed most about this book, the fact that after almost 15% it was mostly action. We jump from one thing to another and I wasn't bored. I admit that the beginning of the book kind of drags along.
What the book missed was that feeling of suspense. I wanted to be kept on the edge of my seat and to ask myself how the book will end. But I kind of knew how it was going to end. I still loved it, though.
The author tried to put in this book most of the important characters and she succeeded in reminding me why I fell in love with this series in the first place:
The characters, the author's obvious love for Chicago, her notable attention to details and mythology (especially regarding magic), the love and friendship between characters, Malory's humor and Merit's love for bacon and chocolate.
The 'Chicagoland Vampires' Series wasn't perfect and it certainly wasn't extraordinary.
But it was amazing for me. I liked escaping into Merit's world and I'm glad I had the opportunity.
I'm happy with the ending and I can't wait to read the spin-off. If it's even half as good as this series, I'm sure I'll enjoy it.
June 1, 2017
Good read, but rather unfulfilling as the last book in the series.
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