Rite of Blood and Secrets

House of Blood and Roses #1

by Laura Greenwood

A deal with a vampire changes Beatrice's life forever.

Beatrice always thought she'd have a simple life, and definitely not one run by court intrigue and factions battling for power. But when her twin brother reveals a family secret, all of that changes.

The decadent world they find themselves glitters from the outside, but beneath the surface lies something sinister, and Beatrice is determined to do everything she can to survive and not draw the attention of the wrong person.

With no idea who to trust, Beatrice has to keep her wits about her, even if they're almost stolen when she encounters a handsome stranger.

There's only one thing for certain, Beatrice's life is never going to be the same again.

-

Rite Of Blood And Secrets is book one of House Of Blood And Roses. It is a romantasy series full of vampires, court intrigue, and a slow burn hidden identity arranged marriage m/f romance.

Genres: Romantasy, Vampires, Fiction, Fantasy

156 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 29, 2024

About the author

Laura is a USA Today Bestselling Author of paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and fantasy romance. When she's not writing, she drinks a lot of tea, tries to resist French macarons, and works towards a diploma in Egyptology. She lives in the UK, where most of her books are set. Laura specialises in quick reads, with healthy relationships and consent-positive moments regardless of if she's writing light-hearted romance, mythology-heavy urban fantasy, or anything in between.

Discover one of Laura Greenwood's most popular series:

- The Apprentice of Anubis (mythology inspired urban fantasy)

- Forgotten Gods (mythology inspired fantasy romance)

- Jinx Paranormal Dating Agency (mythology inspired paranormal rom-com)

- House of Blood and Roses (vampire fantasy romance)

- Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries (urban fantasy murder mystery)

- Scales of Justice (mythology inspired urban fantasy)

- Purple Oak Oasis (cozy fantasy romance)

- Falhaven Castle (cozy fantasy romance)

You can check out Laura's Website here:
www.authorlauragreenwood.co.uk

Join her mailing list here:
www.authorlauragreenwood.co.uk/p/mail...

Or join her Facebook Reader Group:
www.facebook.com/groups/theparanormal...

For a full book list, please see here:
https://www.authorlauragreenwood.co.u...


Happy Reading!

Reviews

[Amena · Rating 4 out of 5]

an interesting story

This story of vampires has an interesting premise, revolving around a cutthroat society, and the foreshadowing for future developments is well done.

[Susie · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Bit of a Miss

I always write reviews from a personal space, which means that it’s to do with how I feel, and not a blight on the author in any way. Because, the truth is, not every book gels with everyone, and we all come away with our own unique impressions.

So, these are mine and, as you may have realised by now, they weren’t entirely good. But that’s not to say that they were entirely bad, either.

The problem for me personally was that it felt hollow. It’s understandable how Beatrice is being pulled around like a marionette, especially in the vampire stages of the book. It’s understandable how Beatrice's relationship with her brother changes after he’s brought her into something she wants no part of. Her relationship with Lord Fallmartin, a complete stranger who now has such control over her life, is to be expected, too. But why do I feel like there’s something missing as I move through the pages?

The story, at a base level, is brilliant; I love the ideas, the interplay. It sounds like there is much political intrigue to come. Beatrice makes a couple of friends along the way, too, although we only really get to hear about one of them. Yet, still, for all that brilliance, I couldn’t bring myself to love this. Very good books keep me reading far beyond bedtime. With this, I just couldn’t connect to it!

My favourite part, mind, has to be vampire pets! Having lost two of my beloved cats, being able to keep them around forever is always a pet lover’s wish. The only true perk of being a vampire.

Yes, somewhat of a disappointment, because I couldn’t make that full connection, but it still has so much potential.

Final rating: ★★★☆☆ – Sort of liked/OK

[Lola · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy from the author through Booksprout and voluntarily reviewed it.

Rite of Blood and Secrets is the first book in a new vampire romantasy series by Laura Greenwood. I am a big fan of Laura Greenwood's books, so I was excited for this new series. While I usually go for her more light and cozy series, I still had a great time with this one. It had a slightly darker tone as some of her other books. Beatrice finds out she's a vampire and has to do what the leader of her House tells her to do.

I liked reading about Beatrice and felt bad for her when she suddenly finds out she was a dhampir and now vampire. I thought her reaction felt very realistic and she has to adapt to her new reality quickly. She basically stays living, but loses almost all of her freedom. I was happy she had her dog with her and could get some comfort that way. I liked the way she focused on learning as much as she could about vampires.

I was glad I read the prequel first and already knew a bit more about the vampire world, but it's also totally possible to skip that and start here. This book has a bit of an introductory feel with introducing Beatrice, seeing her become a vampire and her having her first meeting with what I think is the love interest. It's clearly a slow burn romance and I look forward to reading more about them.

To summarize: This was a solid start to this new series, it has a bit of an introductory feel as this book introduces the main character and her situation. I liked reading about Beatrice and her reaction to becoming a vampire felt realistic. I look forward to seeing where the romance goes and I like the way they interacted so far.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rites of Blood and Secrets is the first book in Laura Greenwood's latest high fantasy. This book is filled with the dark and deadly type of vampires and poor Beatrice got thrown into the deep end and is barely treading water. However, Beatrice is a fighter, I like that she's not easily giving up on her current situation.


I read the prequel so I was happy to see Marcus and Linc in this one. As a matter of fact, there was a vampiric version of a meet cute that wasn't so cute but Bea and Linc seem to share a connection, nothing intense but something is there.


Vampire politics suck, especially if you're a girl. This book was a little intense the chance of death is probable, marriages are traded like money, and it's a cold and intricate place. I was nervous for Bea the entire time. I would have killed her brother, Bastian. I don't trust him.


The fun is only just beginning, Rites of Blood and Secrets is just the start, and who knows what's gonna happen next in this series.

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the author, but this review is my own.
This is the first book in a new series and it's one I couldn't put down, I finished it in a day, we meet Beatrice a young lady who does what she can to give her and her brother a reasonably good life, when one night chances everything she's ever known, she needs to do all she can to survive and make sure she doesn't bring attention to herself, with only herself and her trusty dog to trust she starts making plans that require time and patience. There is a prequel that's available that helps flesh out the world, but it is not necessary to enjoy this book. Now, I'm trying to patiently wait for book 2 to see how Beatrice is getting on.

[L & J Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enthralling start of a new series

Bea and Bastien have grown to adulthood unaware that they are dhampirs. Their mother has died while they are children and after the death of the man they believed was their father, Bea’s brother Bastian arranges for them to attend a Golden Moon Ball. There, Bea learns of her heritage. This is a great start to a new series!

[DeeDeeWReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read. Solid 4.5 out of 5. The storyline is interesting and seems like it will be a fun experience as we follow Beatrice through her new life. Where will it take her? Will her brother keep her safe? Who is her mystery man and where does he fall in everything?

Vampires are real, secrets are revealed, and a sweet pup to boot. Faster read, a nice afternoon with some coffee or tea, on a beautiful fall curled up.

[Beba Andric · Rating 5 out of 5]

Does one really know ones sibling? That's the question Beatrice is asking herself. She and her twin brother Bastian are barely making ends meet since their father passed, until, he announces they're going to attend the Golden Moon festivities at the castle, an ominous looking castle and one they're been warned off attending. But Bastian has other plans, he's tired of scraping a living and by spending their last money on decent attire, Beatrice doesn't really have a choice, but it feels wrong. Everything about the castle feels wrong. How wrong is a mind spin for her!

Discovering that had she not come to the Golden Moon, not come to the castle, she would have been dead the following morning. And the fact that she's a half vampire, and the fact that she has been kept in the dark, yeah, BIG mind spin! I like Bea very very much, she's compassionate, hells, just the idea of what's happening makes her want to puke. I love her affection for her dog and how protective Bea is. I'm not too sure on Bastian, the verdict is still out on him. On one hand he seems to be a caring brother safeguarding his sister, on the other, a ruthless individual. I'm intrigued which way the cookie will crumble...

I always enjoy any Laura reads, she has me riveted from the start, she adds a realism to her plot and characters, really highlighting and casting a light on each character so it's easy to get a sense of who and what they are. Like Marcus, and Linc, both genuine, both helpful, both sweet, even if they ARE vampires. And the enigma's, Bella, lord Fallmartin, their true nature appears, well, not so kosher, except I know I can't jump to conclusions in a Laura read. She's an author who's writing seems so effortlessly yet all the mechanisms are in place, all the storytelling is well thought out, all the plots are engaging, intriguing and simply a fabulous read. Like this one, I'm looking forward to see how this develops

[Nathalie Bookwurm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Rite of Blood and Secrets by Laura Greenwood

Rite of Blood and Secrets is a captivating and fast-paced tale filled with intrigue, romance, and supernatural twists. Laura Greenwood creates a vivid world where secrets are hidden in the shadows, and the truth can change everything.

Beatrice, the protagonist, is a dhampir unaware of her true nature, thanks to her brother's secrecy. Her journey begins at a feast where her life takes a shocking turn—she is turned into a vampire and claimed by House Rothorne. The transformation not only changes her identity but also pulls her into a world of politics, danger, and unexpected connections.

The dynamics of House Rothorne are fascinating, but it's Beatrice’s encounters with two compelling male characters that steal the show. Marcus, a royal vampire, exudes charisma and strength, adding a regal element to the narrative. Then there's the mysterious and enigmatic Linc, who she first meets on a balcony and later reconnects with in the library. His intrigue and depth create an irresistible tension, leaving readers eager to uncover his role in Beatrice's story.

Greenwood weaves a story rich in gothic atmosphere, simmering romance, and courtly intrigue. Beatrice's evolution as she grapples with her new reality, uncovers the truth, and navigates the complexities of vampire society is utterly engaging. The book keeps you hooked from the first page to the last with its twists and revelations.

I give Rite of Blood and Secrets a full 5 stars for its immersive world-building, strong character development, and an enthralling blend of romance and mystery. If you enjoy stories with supernatural allure and plenty of secrets, this book is a must-read!

[Ketty · Rating 5 out of 5]

- Vampire
- Slowburn
- Arranged marriage
- Court intrigue
- Cliffhanger

Beatrice was just a normal girl trying to survive with her twin brother and her dog Pip when the night of the Golden Moon came. The castle om the hill was always an imposing figure, but no one ever talked about it or who lived there. It wasn't until her brother spent all the money they had left and took her there did Beatrice learn the truth...vampires are real and she is one.

I have read a lot of Laura's books this year (this book makes 36 I believe) and with it a lot of her vampires. I am not sure if she keeps all the same "rules" for her vampires, even if they are in different universes, so it will be really fun and interesting to dive in and see all the differences.

I purposely skipped the blurb at the beginning, deciding it would be more fun to just got in blind as I always do. This poor girl is so unwillingly plucked from her simple life, where every day is the same vegetable soup, and thrown into the vampire pit with no warning. She watches her brother turn into something she doesn't recognize, realizes she is losing her freedom even though they gained the stability of being part of a noble house.

It is a different setting than things I have reas so far and I really enjoyed it. I am looking forward to this series and being able to read it as it comes out.

[Manuela Molteni · Rating 5 out of 5]

After devouring the prequel, diving straight into "Rite of Blood and Secrets" was a total no-brainer! Laura Greenwood knows how to pull you into her vamp-tastic world, and book #1 in the “House of Blood and Roses” series does not disappoint. As the title suggests, we’re talking blood, secrets, and a whole lot of drama.

We follow Beatrice and her twin brother Bastian as they get introduced to a world they were born into—one Beatrice had no clue about. During their transition ceremony, Beatrice’s life gets flipped upside down, especially when she crosses paths with Marcus and Linc (yes, the same ones from the prequel we’ve been thirsting for). Watching Beatrice grapple with this new reality and the two men swirling around her is like watching a magical, sexy train wreck you can’t tear your eyes from.

The book is short but packs a punch, leaving me craving more. Seriously, I’m impatiently tapping my fingers waiting for the next installment. So, if you’re into fast-paced stories full of mystery, power, and some undeniable chemistry, then you better get on board with this one!

Bring on book #2, Laura—I'm ready for it!

[Victoria Golby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Learning the politics of the vampire court

This is a great book 1 of this new series by Laura Greenwood; introducing us to a new realm of characters with vampires, court politics, and a touch of humor.

We follow Beatrice who has been living poorly but happily with her brother since their dad died, but she worries when she realises all their money has gone. When her brother gets home he reveals that he's made arrangements for them to go to the Golden Moon ball, and that they won't be returning home again she worries but goes with him; though she refuses to leave her dog behind.

When she discovers the truth, that she's now a vampire, she struggles with what she sees at the ball; and she doesn't know who she can talk to about it as she's advised by one handsome stranger that she shouldn't trust anyone.

But as she starts to make a friend and retake control of her life she learns others are planning her future for her.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

A simple quiet life for Beatrice and her twin is upended one night when he announces they’re going to the Golden Moon Ball. In that night Beatrice learns everything’s she thought about her life was not quite true and now she’s living in a dangerous plays where she doesn’t know the rules or who to trust. A chance meeting with a kindred soul perhaps is the bright spot in a rather confusing series of events. Now Beatrice must learn quickly in order to survive.
An intense read. Poor Beatrice her life may not have been perfect but she did her best and her brother is rather a boor. I’m not sure I would forgive so easily. I loved the library and the meeting with Linc. While intense I was drawn in and couldn’t put the book down until I finished. Very much looking forward to what’s next for Beatrice in her brand new world.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[TaniaRina Valdespino · Rating 4 out of 5]

Our new life under the Golden Moon
To gain security, what are you willing to give up and how much damage are you willing to cause others? It’s one thing to claim ignorance is a way to protect someone, but it’s another to keep loved ones completely in the dark. If I were to visit a castle or even a manor house, somebody’d better tell me beforehand which fork gets used when and for what. And I’d also wanna pick out the frock myself…
Don’t upend my life without at least some semblance of a parachute!


A quick read and all my faves are about books (shock!):
‘There's a lot to be learned from the past.’
Libraries are the best place to “get into trouble”.
‘Learning what people believe is just as powerful as knowing what the truth is.’


Let’s give Beatrice until after the beginning of October to settle in and complete some research, then we can check in with how she’s doing in ‘Rite Of Blood And Bonds’.

[Frank · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's an enjoyable book in its own right and a great start to the series.

Basically, Bea is caught up in a previously unsuspected world of the supernatural and desperately trying to find her feet amidst the intrigue & danger.

Starts off simply with Beatrice ("Bea") and Pip (her dog), with general background to set you in the village, family (her brother Bastian), and a lurking sense that the older folk know a less than pleasant secret that they choose not to share with the innocent, kind-hearted lass.

Supporting characters (e.g., Marcus, Eliza, Bella, Lincoln) are introduced then gradually build up with more being carefully revealed to both explain some things yet raise far more questions in turn.

It kept me reading straight through to the end ... and reminded me why I usually try to read a complete series rather than - like now - having to count down the days until the next book is released!

[Linda (ellsky) Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful start to another series by Laura Greenwood. My only issue is that I wanted more when it was done. I enjoyed reading about Beatrice and her discovery of the world of dhampirs and vampires. It was a harsh transition for her. From the prequel novella, I know some more about Linc as well, and I'm intrigued to see how Beatrice finds out his secrets. Very compelling world-building in this book, as we are transported back to a medieval-ball-gown-inspired world of fancy dinners and castles... and vampire family politics. I can't wait for the next one. This series is definitely a must-read. (Note: This series is novella-length serialized story-telling, of which the author excels at, and this installment ends on a cliffhanger.).

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Laura Moylan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beatrice and her twin brother, Bastien, are barely scraping by. With the Golden Moon in the coming month, one of the nice older ladies, Mrs. Potsworth tells Bea to stay away from the Golden Moon Ball. Bea returns home with her meager shopping and plays with her pup, Pip. Once home she begins cooking and finds a big surprise from her brother, one he didn’t discuss with her beforehand. Bastien drags her to the Ball and things go crazy after that. Lord Fallmartin is expecting the twins and they are treated with all honors by the staff. Pip, of course, accompanies them. My heart broke for Bea for what happens next. Too many reveals and revelations occur in this book and I don’t want to give out spoilers but OMG OMG> I found myself giggling, punching my pillow, chewing on my nails, muttering under my breath and literally seeing red during some of the sections. I like Eliza, am meh regarding Bella and there are two gentlemen that Bea meets that I like- Marcus and Linc. Dhampirs, mayhem, politics and betrothals, o my! I can’t wait to see what happens next.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brenda Chavers-martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twins Rebecca and Bastian have lost both parents. The are barely surviving. The village is poor and help when they can. A five year ritual is coming up where town’s people will volunteer to go to the castle for a price. She has been warned not to go. Her brother surprises her by telling her that they both will be going. She has no idea how her life is about to change or the danger they could be in. Family secrets are revealed, deals were made, but at what cost. Vampires and Dhampires are not the fairytales but real. What is she and what price will she have to pay. This first in series gets you hooked and wanting to continue. I will be following this intriguing story line.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Marjorie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into this book blindly - much like Beatrice and wow! what a ride. I don't want to say much because it is a short book and I think a huge part of this book's impact is discovering it along the way with Beatrice. Is it a fairy tale? a betrayal? something in between? An absolute upheaval of her entire life for sure. Sweet moments - shocking moments - life changing moments. This book tells the story of a night that will forever divide Beatrice's life into before and after.

If you liked City of Blood and A Bite of the Past I think you would like this series. It is a vampire series and a little bit darker with less romance (in this book anyhow, looks to be a slow burn teaser in there) than some of her other series.

[Geff Ratcheson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Start of a new series. Ms Greenwood is only the 2nd author that I've seen use the concept of "Dhampir"; a half human, half vampire.

That seems to be the focus of this new series, Vampires forcibly adopting & turning them into a full vampire or alternatively, killing Dhampirs.

This hooked my interest for the next book. I think more than most of Ms Greenwood's books, the next couple will be easier to form an opinion about, as this is really a prequel.

Check it out, Ms Greenwood is amongst the best of the modern indie authors.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes simple things prove to be very complex - and occasionally lethally dangerous.

Some fates are far worse than simple death, yet could also prove to be far more interesting and complicated.

As a young woman discovers along with her twin brother a heritage that is not as simple as they once thought and expected, a universe of possibilities opens to them.

Some of those possibilities are likely fatal, yet other possibilities.....

Fun and intrigue filled reading promises to be ahead in this series - even if our heroine does not survive.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Heather Dudley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rite of Blood and Secrets is the first story of House of Blood and Roses. I absolutely enjoyed reading this vampire story. I couldn’t set this book down for very long before I picked it right back up to continue where I left off. The storyline is absolutely brilliant and is phenomenally executed. The storyline is quite captivating and it kept my attention from the beginning all the way through to the end. I’m definitely going to read the next book of this series to see what happens next to the main characters. I would encourage anyone to give this book a read.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Beatrice’s brother forces her to attend the Golden Moon ball at the castle she has no idea that everything in her world will be turned upside down. This is a very short story but the author crammed in a lot of information. I like that Beatrice was able to quickly adapt to her changing world and not end up being too stupid to live. This book has a cliffhanger ending. I think most if not all of the characters are in place for the next installment. This is a vampire short story set in a world where vampires and humans live side by side. I will definitely read more from this author in the future.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A New Series

Beatrice’s life was about to change, drawn into a new life she never wanted, she was shocked at some of the new things in her life!

Finding out she wasn’t who she thought she was hard to accept and it seemed that everyone had an hidden agenda even her brother.

Just when she finds someone interesting, her whole world is turned around with the events about to happen in her life.

An interesting start to the series which ends on a cliffhanger!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kkhmonrai · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this compelling story that provides an intriguing and different take on how (some) vampires are made. Bea's story, with it's apprehension and uncertainty was very engaging, and I want to know what happens next and how her story progresses. This is a 'clean' story with some physical attraction, but nothing acted on. However, it does have vampires, so there is the expected blood-drinking and some killing of humans.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading Rite of Blood and Secrets. Beatrice is a very relatable character as she tries to navigate and understand this new world she finds herself in. The world-building is smooth and interesting, and detailed without being overwhelming. The story is intriguing so far, and there's a ton of potential here. I can't wait to see what develops between Beatrice and Linc. I definitely recommend this book for fans of vampires, fantasy, and slow burn romance.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Bookaddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new series from Laura (a new vampire series, because she has other ones), that can’t wait to see where will lead us.
An intriguing vampire society, a new vision about vampires and their existence.
I like both Beatrice and Linc, and other characters (Marcus and Eliza), and at the same time, are other characters that made me dislike them.
Laura creates here a good story, with complex characters and an intriguing universe.
I need the rest of the series soon, please!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[chesirern · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rite Of Blood And Secrets (Book 1 of House Of Blood And Roses) by Laura Greenwood is a paranormal romance novel. This is a fantastic new series. It is dealing with secrets, intrigue, and the essence of life. The world building, plot and characters as always are great.

Bastian and his gorgeous twin sister Beatrice are introduce into this world even though they were born into it. Beatrice was clueless. Marcus and Linc are both very interested in her and during her transition ceremony that becomes very obvious.

I can not wait for the next book!

[Mystyc Metrik · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story felt a little short, but it sets up an intriguing universe in which dhampirs become vampires upon their 18th birthday. Bastian has negotiated a deal for himself and his twin sister Beatrice, in which he will become the heir to a vampire lord in exchange for a rescue from poverty. Beatrice was not consulted on this agreement, and finds herself in a mysterious court where she doesn't know who she can trust. There wasn't a ton of action in this story, but that will likely come in future installments.

[Kira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great addition to the House Of Blood and Roses series, Rite Of Blood and Secrets gives us more insight into the intriguing world of these vampires. Focusing on Beatrice and her pup Pip, we see her trying to navigate this intense world she finds herself and her twin brother becoming apart of. Things of course go wrong, and danger seems to be around every corner. Feeling like she no longer has any control over her life, what is a half vampire to do. I really enjoyed the start to this new series, and I cannot wait for book 2!