The Blood Crown

by Kate Cunningham

In the gripping sequel to The Blood Kingdom, Aurelia and Ven’s story continues as the threat to their world looms on the horizon.

They have left the human realm only to find that the path to Ravenstone is much more dangerous than they expected.
With the King of the Void and his demons tracking Aurelia’s every movement, their fate remains uncertain.

Old enemies come back to the surface as new and unexpected allies emerge.

Will they make it back to the Blood Kingdom? And if they do, what kind of monsters will they bring with them?

450 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 30, 2025

Reviews

[BONNIE SMITH · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever read a series that makes you want to build a blanket fort, drag all the best pillows and snacks in the house under it and forget you have: a family, a job, hygienic needs, etc?

If this sounds like you....Let me introduce you to the Blood Folk Series.

The first, THE BLOOD KINGDOM- a five star read, it's out, and you should treat yourself to it immediately.

This, the second in the series, is, well, the perfect continuation to Aurelia and Ven's story.
It's the PERFECT follow up, some questions are answered, but in great sequel fashion, new plots thicken.
The romance- chef's kiss,
The action- had me up late last night full of tension. The tension in the last 90 pages or so is SO visceral that the hubby woke up around 2am asking if I was ok because he could feel me squirming while reading.

I recommend this series to all romantasy lovers, it's so unique. If you love morally grey MMC, vampires, found family and ancient world building- this is a MUST.

P.S. Thank you to Kate Cunningham who sent over this ARC and made my week. I'm sorry I literally read it in two days, I could not pace myself.
P.P.S. The next one, are you working on it- because this will HAUNT me until I know what happens, but hey- isn't that the best feeling??

[Aimee · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review
I was fortunate enough to read The Blood Kingdom as an ARC a year ago and have been blessed once again with the second installment of The Blood Folk Series. The ending of The Blood Kingdom left me craving more, and The Blood Crown certainly delivered.

I think Kate wrote a fantastic fantasy novel, and it undoubtedly gives off those dark academia vibes. I definitely recommend this series to anyone who loves those dark gothic vibes with a slow burn with strong and resilient characters.

Thank you for this eARC copy in exchange for my honest review.

Fantasy | Gothic | Vampires
Kindle Unlimited (AU): 🚫
Rating: 4.25 ★

🩸🏰🐦‍⬛🗡️✨

𝘙𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘤𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘩 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴, 𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴. 𝘈𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘱𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘭-𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨!

[Stephanie B. •literaryland_livin• · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Blood Crown is the sequel to Kate Cunningham’s debut novel The Blood Kingdom and when I tell you I flew thru this book it’s not an exaggeration. I ran immediately after finishing book 1 to start this even though I hadn’t originally planned to read it until next month and I easily finished it in one sitting because I was just that captivated. The world building really takes off in this sequel and I couldn’t get enough of it all. The lore we were getting served was immaculate and the epic battle scenes were amazing and highlighted what a true force of nature our FMC has grown into. The characters and found family vibes carry over into this book as well and I just can’t help but love each of them for their own individuality and heart that they bring to this vampire tale. Oh and don’t even get me started on the slow burn because it finally caught fire and I was screaming with joy over it all. Aurelia and Ven are just perfect, just give me their banter pumped into an IV and call it a day. The ending absolutely has me spiraling tho and I’m left anxiously waiting for book 3. Again if you are a fan of vampires, enemies to lovers, slow burn romance, banter filled flirty training scenes(because flirting is so much more delicious when there are daggers involved), shadow daddies, “fang”tastic world building, found family, and I’ll forsake the world for you vibes then you need to check out this book series.

[Keisha Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first ARC read.

First, start with The Blood Kingdom! First , go read book 1!!

This book is the second in a series (impatiently waiting for 3)

I absolutely enjoyed this book!!!

I will fully recommend this series to anyone who enjoys Romantasy with world building, action and spice. You will get to know the characters more in this one and see how they grow!

[Courtney Browne · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Blood Kingdom was a 5 star read for me earlier this year and I could not wait to see where the story went. I was lucky enough to be on the ARC team for The Blood Crown and OMG it did not disappoint! Kate Cunningham has done it again. The continuation of this story was full of action, romance and had an ending I did not see coming! I know this book is not even out yet but I’m gonna need the next one immediately. I absolutely love the world and found family that Kate has created. A must read series for sure!

[Care · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Copy

Straight up, I loved this book.

My heart was pumping from the get go in this book and very rarely did I have time to catch my breath. The moments when I did are so full of love and camaraderie that you can’t help but smile. Some mysteries are solved and others result in even more questions that I can’t wait to get to the bottom of. Also you know what they say about the last 100 pages y’all 👀👀 I was stressed! No pressure but I already need the next book please and thank you. I love this world that Kate has created and learning about the different kingdoms, their ancient history and the secrets they hold.

🤍 Vampires
🤍 Found Family
🤍 Fate
🤍 Demons
🤍 War

Ps I love the expansion of the map! I’m a big map girlie so thanks for that :)

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review:

I’m so honored that Kate shared her book early with me to review beforehand. I absolutely loved book one (𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙆𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙙𝙤𝙢) and 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝘾𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙣 has exceeded ALL of my expectations!

I need y’all to drop what you’re doing and read 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙁𝙤𝙡𝙠 series. I loved the first book but this one has stolen my heart.

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝘾𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙣 is the sequel to 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙆𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙙𝙤𝙢, and my goodness it is a sequel that DELIVERS. Kate Cunningham has me eating out of her palm with this one. Her writing style is easy to comprehend yet so beautifully descriptive. From the world building to the tropes within, I loved every aspect. Aurelia has grown so much in this book, from someone thrust into a world she never knew was real to leading armies at her back with the most incredible of found families.

I am in complete disarray with the cliffhanger we’re left with… book 3 will probably upend my life 🤣

I am absolutely obsessed with the world and the characters and alllll of the relationships between, whether friend, foe or romantic. They’re all incredible and I love to hate the villains, which for some reason I feel like in book 3 we might be forced to feel sympathy because WE DONT ACTUALLY KNOW THEIR STORY!! 😂

Anyway, here’s some more key points I need to point out 🤭:

• shadow daddiess (yes multiple)
• moody & gloomy vibes
• magical war w/ magical beings and creatures
• VAMPIRES
• deliciously nutritious spiceeee
• badass fmc that will literally rip your throat out for coming for her man (idk maybe, read the book for that one🤭)
• what im basically saying is “touch him and 💀”

And my favorite quote:
“It was as much a choice for her to find her way back to him as it was a choice for dawn to chase the deepest night.”

I hope this review convinces you to read this series or continue it 🥰 I’m being 100% honest here! I do this out passion and true adoration for the book ❤️

[Emily | emilyisoverbooked · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Kate Cunningham for the gifted book!

THE BLOOD CROWN is the second book in The Blood Folk Series, and after the ending of book 1, I was anxiously awaiting this sequel!

Following book one, THE BLOOD CROWN goes back and forth between realms, has lots of action, and the best found family. But we also see into the backstory of some characters, get a little more political intrigue and world building, and sooo much more romance! Ven and Aurelia's relationship is pure gold in THE BLOOD CROWN and I love that instead of just having a possessive MMC ("My Queen" / "you bow to no one"), Aurelia is also a little on the possessive side, too. The battles were great, I'm more in love with Karro, we have another cliffhanger (KATE!!!!), and I'm ready for book three.

[Emily | booksandbedtime · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short Synopsis:
Aurelia and Ven are back. This book starts right where THE BLOOD KINGDOM left off. Book two synopsis are hard without giving away book one - but it’s a swoony romantasy series about vampires. Please go read it.

My Thoughts:
I was lucky to read THE BLOOD KINGDOM (book one) as an ARC and have been waiting a year for its continuation. THE BLOOD CROWN picks up right where we left off in book one. Ven and Aurelia are sooooo good in this one. I can’t handle the amount of swoony moments. They both were 🔥. Aurelia really grew in this one as she accepted where she belongs and where she wants to be. And Ven. Oh Ven. I’m here for a “I’d burn the world for you” tortured MMC.

There was a certain side relationship that I was giggling and kicking my feet for too. 👀

What You’ll Find:
🔥Slow burn
🩸Vampires
💗Found family
🪄Magic
🗺️Epic adventures
👑“My Queen”
🖤Tortured MMC

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️ARC REVIEW❤️




I’ve been eagerly awaiting Blood Crown ever since I finished book 1✨
You pick up immediately where blood Kingdom left off, Blood Crown grabs your attention at page one and doesnt let you go until the last page❤️
With every page the plot grew thicker, the romance burned, & the characters were pushed to their limits✨
Im going to be a bit vague in the next slides just so that there’s no spoilers for book one🫶🏻


Ari in this book really shows how much she’s grown. Her confidence in herself and her abilities is so much stronger this time around, I loved seeing Ari this way🥹
The Wraiths showcases the perfect found family, they all have their differences and flaws but they hold onto one another when their world seems to be crumbling in on itself🥹
The romance had me MELTING the entire time, the slow burn of Ven & Ari in book one only grows in Blood Crown✨
This book was the perfect mix of fantasy, found family, and romance✨ the ending was one of the biggest cliffhangers I’ve ever read and I’ll be anxiously waiting the third book😭
I’d like to thank Kate for letting me ARC read again this time around🫶🏻 Your characters & world have become some of my favorites & I cannot wait for everyone else to read this next installment❤️✨

[Katherine Violet · Rating 5 out of 5]

A welcome return to Ravenstone and the lives of our beloved main characters!

The heat rises and soars for Aurelia and Ven but so do the dangers that they face. When Kate warns her ARC’s that she is holding space for us when we get to the ending of book 2, do not take that warning lightly.

I am devastated and already craving the next in the series and just more books in general from Kate!

P.s. I think we need a full length book on Cog and the Ravens.

[Karen Bauer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg the ending 🤯🤯🤯 The way I SCREAMED, I would bet my neighbors heard me. Another exciting book, and we finally get the spice! It's gonna be SO hard to wait for the next one!

[sajb · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 ⭐️ | 🩸🧛‍♀️ 🏰

I am not sure how I got lucky enough to come across this series early, but I want its popularly to skyrocket so that I can talk to other people about it!

The Blood Crown was the perfect follow up to The Blood Kingdom. My questions from book one were answered, I have new questions keeping me engaged and ready for book three, the ending left me staring at the wall with tears in my eyes, and the plot moves quickly AND builds beautifully and logically.

You should read this if you like: incredible world building, found family, plot twists and turns, political intrigue, touch her and die, magic training

[Amber | Mermaid_mama_reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Completely captivating, beautiful, and action packed, this second installment in The Blood Folk series by Kate Cunningham was everything I wanted it to be and more. I found myself torn between wanting to devour it and wanting to savor it, which to me, is a great feeling.

There are twists and turns I did not see coming, scenes where I found myself holding my breath in anticipation, and plenty of tension-filled slow burn romance with delicious pay off.

Sometimes I struggle to visualize fighting scenes when reading, but Kate’s descriptions were beautifully crafted and it was playing out in my mind like a movie, which was awesome!

The side characters are just as great and interesting as the main characters. I couldn’t help but feel for them and, after the end of this book, my heart is hurting for many of them 😭. What. An. Ending. 🫠

I highly recommend this series if you like:
🩸vampires, demons, & other creatures
🩸slow burn romance w/ spice 🌶️
🩸found family
🩸flirty training scenes
🩸touch them and ☠️
🩸world building

✨I received an advanced review copy in exchange for a honest review. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own and given voluntarily. ✨

[Kaitlyn Laurinaitis · Rating 5 out of 5]

♾ 🌟
that ending?! how can I possible go on. how can I just live my regular life not knowing what happens next ?! 😭😭

[Alex Kant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate truly outdid herself with The Blood Crown. I thought things couldn’t get better after reading, and loving, the first installment of this series. Boy was I wrong. What Kate set the stage for in The Blood Kingdom was beautiful expanded on and wickedly fired up in this sequel.

From the world building, to the lore, we get more and in such an action packed and enticing way. I was theorizing left and right trying to find the threads Kate had woven throughout! We get to go to new places and delve into court intrigue, bringing depth to both plot and characters. Speaking of characters, the development is this book is phenomenal, and the relationships really had their time to shine!

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention Kate’s writing. It was evocative, descriptive, and expertly set the tone to capture scenes from heart pounding fighting to tender moments between lovers. The chapters were also perfectly paced, which I loved! The tension and atmosphere is done so well, which culminates in a gut wrenching cliffhanger that I’m still recovering from!

Overall, I was blown away by this book. The highlights were the characters/relationships, the eerie antagonists, and world expansion! I’m forever grateful to Kate for a physical ARC of this beautiful book and I cannot wait to see where the next one goes! This is a top tier series for me!

What to expect:
- Court Intrigue
- Demons/Vampires
- “Mine”
- Tension
- Banter

[EBONMOONS ⏾ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I kind of struggled with what to rate this. I did think this was better than the first book. It started off with a ton of action and was really engaging.

But then… we’re introduced to a side character. Here are some quotes leading up to that:

“And she couldn't have said why it mattered—why she cared about the stranger…”

“Aurelia turned abruptly at the contact, like a bolt of lightning through her heart at the life still glimmering there.”

“But what kind of existence was she damning her to if she left her here…”

Aurelia runs into a prisoner while trapped in the Nostari kingdom. Multiple times it was brought up how she had some sort of pull to this character, at least that’s how my brain interpreted these quotes. I’m thinking “oh cool, a new side character who sounds like they’ll be an important piece to the story!” Well as they escape she rescues her and we find out her name is Tanis. They continue on their journey and then this interaction happens:

“Tanis turned toward her. ‘Why did you help me?’ she pushed, the golden brown of her skin glowing softly in the fading sunlight, her hazel eyes direct and unflinching.
The question caught her off guard.
Something about the fire in the Tanis' eyes, her spirit, had made it impossible for her to leave the human behind.”

Then shortly after she is killed off during the fight with the demon prince brothers.

What bothers me the most about this is that there was a strong emphasis on reminding the reader that Tanis is black. But then if we look at most of the other characters the only ones that I recall being described as black were our villains, the demon princes.

Why put so much emphasis on the only Black side character, that wasn’t a villain, to just kill them off. The only real reason we get as to why she saved her was because “she reminded her of a past self,” or something along those lines. Was she just there to show that Ari still had an attachment to her humanity and that Valea cared about the human children? Idk I just could not stop thinking about Tanis the rest of the book and as a Black reader, it just stung to get excited about the only female Black character only to have her killed off a couple chapters after formerly introducing her.

But anyway, I did enjoy seeing the overall character growth. Part of it felt a bit repetitive with the training scenes and I was kind of zoning out around those parts. I wish some of that was left out and more was put into the ending battle because it did feel a tad bit rushed. It was still good though, don’t get me wrong.

This was still an enjoyable book and I really am interested in continuing this series. But like…

JUSTICE FOR TANIS! 😤✊🏾

[Cassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨The Blood Crown: Book Review✨

𝐎𝐥𝐝 𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐞.

Just when I thought Kate couldn’t make a better book than The Blood Kingdom (which, was an absolute 5⭐♾️ book for me AND my favorite new book of 2024) she goes and writes The Blood Kingdom and blows her first book out of the water.

𝘐 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 - 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘦'𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶...

I can’t even begin to write a review because I don’t want to spoil a single thing about this book. I was waiting for this one for a year and I was not disappointed. 100/10 perfection. No notes. I will continue to talk about this book and this series until everyone I know reads it.

There is so much amazingness in this book. I hate comparing authors to other authors, but I also want to convey my feelings and vibes. You have the political drama of The Cruel Prince. You have the yearning and longing of A Court of Mist and Fury (CHAPTER 35 makes me feel MORE than Chapter 54 did). You have the trust issues of Shatter Me. You have a badass FMC that rivals Aelin (Shhhh! I actually like her more than Aelin. Don’t tell).

𝘏𝘦𝘳𝘴. 𝘏𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦. 𝘍𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘱 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘨𝘰𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮.

This book is everything. From Ari to Ven. From Karro to Nira and Embra. Every single character is perfection.

𝐀 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫, 𝐕𝐞𝐧'𝐬 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧, 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬. "𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐛𝐨𝐰 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐧𝐨 𝐨𝐧𝐞," 𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐮𝐫𝐦𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐝.

Perfect for people who love
⚔️Magic
⚔️Found family
⚔️Vampires
⚔️Mine
⚔️Touch her and die
⚔️Slow burn
⚔️Mates
⚔️Vampires

Seriously, pick this book up. I am obsessed and need to talk to someone about it immediately. I’ll buy it for you! I’ll send you my signed copy! Whatever it takes! Just read it!

[catiesbooksandthings · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing from start to finish! I read this over the Christmas holiday and all I wanted to do was forget all my responsibilities so that I could continue in the world of The Blood Folk.

This is the second book in this series (The Blood Kingdom is book 1 and if you haven't read it yet, what are you waiting for?) and it was an easy 5 star read for me. I loved being back in Ravenstone with Aurelia and Ven and all the side characters!

The romance between Ari and Ven grew and the spice was chef's kiss! I devoured all the action that came with the story and the tension throughout the last 100 pages or so had my heart racing and my anxiety rolling! I audibly gasped at the twist at the end and cannot believe that Kate left us on that huge cliffhanger! While questions from the first book were answered, a lot more where created with that ending!

This book is so unique and I highly recommend to anyone who loves romantasy! I cannot wait for book 3, the final book in this series (which by the way makes me so sad that it will be over).

Read if you enjoy:
-Romantasy
-Vampires
-Ancient world building
-ACOTAR series
-Plot twists
-Cliffhangers
-Morally grey MMC
-Found family

Thank you Kate Cunningham for allowing me to be apart of your Street Team and for the #gifted copy of this amazing book! Now if I could get my hands on book 3 ASAP that would be great!!! Please and Thank you!

[C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for allowing me to be an ARC reader for the second book in The Blood Folk series!

I was feral for more Aurelia and Ven after reading The Blood Kingdom, book 1 in The Blood Folk series so now I can feel the same for the next book because I simply don’t think Kate could ever overfeed me their story.

I was initially blown away by the world-building and consistent characterization in The Blood Kingdom. I had never read anything exactly like it, which is rare for me with fantasy due to so many overlapping traits and tropes authors write within the genre. To find a fresh perspective telling a story with elements found in so many books is special so these books will hold a place in my heart and soup forever.

I loved getting to experience growth in both Aurelia and Ven - individually and in connection with each other.

There were some twists I didn’t see coming, which is also uncommon for books I devour because I tend to catch the foreshadowing or at least have the outcome as a theory. Not this time! I was genuinely surprised in the best way.

I won��t give any more away, just wanted to say this is yet another beautifully written addition to the series with action-packed pacing sprinkled with moments of reprieve. I will continue to shout about these books from the roof tops!

[Marie Girulat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to @authorkatecunningham and for the #gifted book.

Oh my gosh! Why did this book have to end?

If you’re wondering whether to pick it up, let me assure you: this sequel to The Blood Kingdom is nothing short of phenomenal!

Aurelia and Ven's journey back to the Blood Kingdom is a heart-pounding adventure as they face the terrifying King of the Void and his eerie demons. Aurelia must tap into her powers with the support of Ven and her loyal friends.

The writing is exquisite, with vivid descriptions that enhance the story. This installment deepens your understanding of the various kingdoms and the intricate magic at play. The character development, especially Aurelia's growth, is beautifully portrayed. Plus, the romance between Ari and Ven evolves tenderly, adding another layer to the narrative. The supporting characters are brilliantly crafted, and you will find yourself loving them even more. The theme of found family is perfectly woven throughout the story.

The thrilling tension in the final 100 pages will leave you breathless, and the shocking twist at the end will have you shouting in disbelief! The conclusion sets the stage for the final book in the series while leaving you with numerous burning questions.

This book is truly one-of-a-kind, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who adores romantasy!

[Maria InkSorceress · Rating 5 out of 5]

What to expect:
-magical kingdoms
-vampires
-demons & other monsters
-found family
-touch him/her and d!e
-slow-burn
-fates mates
-a lot of action
-FMC who is growing & training but isn’t a helpless damsel in distress

I was absolutely blown away by book 1 and this sequel doesn’t disappoint in the least. The stakes are HIGH. The Blood Crown starts us off in the midst of a battle scene and things are not looking great. If I’m honest, our main characters are going to be struggling throughout the entire book. They are constantly facing a new challenge and each situation feels more dire than the last, so be prepared to be on the edge of your seat. I finished this book in under 24 hours. I couldn’t sleep and I certainly couldn’t stop reading. The romantic chemistry and tension were so good in this book. We learn a lot more about Ven (MMC) and his chosen family in this book and it made me love them all so much more. The ending was so good (obviously it ends on a cliffhanger because this isn’t the final book) and I am desperate to see where this story will go next.

This is a must read for fantasy & romantasy book lovers.

Fans of FBAA, ACOTAR, and Serpent & the wings of night will love this series.

[Courtney | labtestedreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

“There is not a single lifetime or a thousand where I would not find you—where my soul would not recognize yours.”

While I knew going in that this was going to end on a cliffhanger, I still wasn’t prepared. Thank you to the author for my gifted copies of this book. All opinions are my own.

Y’all. If you haven’t read The Blood Kingdom yet and you like Romantasy. Go pick it up👏🏻 And then read this one. I have no words for how much I love this series.

This one made me feel ALL the things. I really felt for the characters. But honestly I’m obsessed with them. Aurelia and Ven are just so swoony. I love their relationship. Aurelia really came into her own in this one, even as she was grieving things from the past. And Ven. Ugh. Such a tortured MMC who honestly is just obsessed with Aurelia. And you can tell just how much he wants the world for her.

But we can’t have a review without talking about the side characters here. I loved them in the first book and I think you just grow to love them more here. The found family aspect of this one is perfect. I will revolt if anyone dies!

The Blood Crown is out January 30th and I cannot wait for everyone to devour this one! Now when can we expect book 3?🤣🤣

[anarel_dreaming · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you for advanced readers copy.
First half of the book was amazing, just exquisite. Action-packed, full of intense emotions. I loved the desperation pouring out of the our characters. Their situation was dire and with no obvious resolution. The ambient of the place where this despair took place was matching perfectly. The plot hold together really smoothly.
An then they're back at Ravenstone, to the soap opera called Aurelia and Ven's relationship. Some of the dialogues were so highfaluting they gave me a headache. Maybe Aurelia is not my type of person, because she never asked the most important questions such as who are my parents, where are they from, what the heck am I? Ven looses a lot of his character when interacting with her.
Their status change felt unnatural. It just doesn't make any sense at all as Ven always said he doesn't want any position.

However I fell in love with Valea, she's distant, she's different, she's not going around trying everyone to like her. Valea and Karro are going to be my favorite people I assume, if the author ever persue this pair for writing.

I enjoyed the final battle and the ending was really interesting, I hope to get more of this dark side of the book in th future.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

She was a summer storm. She was rolling clouds and rumbles of thunder. She was light and heat and vast, endless power that charged the night sky.

Let’s talk about The Blood Crown by Kate Cunningham. I truly believe everyone needs to read this series. It’s addictive and is one of those books that truly keeps you on your toes. I truly love the main characters — Ven and Aurelia — and all of the found family that comes with them.

But what I loved about this story most of all was the growth of the MC’s individually but also apart. Aurelia really grows into her own in this story, exploring who she is and establishing herself in a new place after leaving her old life behind. And VEN. This frustrating man. I can’t say too much because spoilers. But we also see so much growth for him…including him stepping into the role he was meant for.

There is not a single lifetime or a thousand where I would not find you — where my soul would not recognize yours.

But what had me obsessed (other than the battles) was the love STORIES that were weaved into the book. I cannot wait to see where the story goes.

FIVE STARS.

[Hailey Brzoska · Rating 4 out of 5]

🪙🪙🪙🪙/5

Back with our favorite characters and I am happy! This book was just as action packed as the first in the series. Unfolding new secrets and new villains.

I was often torn between wanting to savor the story and read slow, and read really fast and devour the story. Which is say is a win! There were a few times I felt like I was holding my breath, times where I gasped aloud in shock, and times I squealed over utter cuteness between Ven and Ari.

KC writes scenes so detailed and convincingly that it’s hard to imagine this story being fake. The locations, the feelings of the characters, and the movements were so vivid. And I loved the fight scenes, even though sometimes I have a hard time visualizing those in my head.

I adore all the side characters, even more than I did in the first book. And some of them make me ache with angst. Others make me smile. But that ending?!?! I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENED TO THEM ALL!

Read if you like: vampires, bounded mates, political schemes, war, magic systems, slow burn romance, spice, training and fighting scenes, found family, world building, my wife, touch her and ☠️

[Eleyna · Rating 5 out of 5]

“𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐥 𝐝𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝, 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐜𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐢𝐭.”

I was so excited to receive an ARC of this book, and it absolutely did not disappoint. The Blood Kingdom was such an amazing book, and this sequel was even better! It absolutely blew me away.

The first book ended with some serious stuff going down, and this book picked up right where it left off. There was so much action from start to finish, and the stakes were so high the entire time. I was either giggling, kicking my feet, or on the edge of a nervous breakdown throughout the entirety of this book. I adore each and every character and I’m so invested in their stories! The end of this book has left me severely unwell, I’m going to be thinking about it until answers are available.

I’m not going to say much since this book won’t be released until Jan 30th, but PLEASE add this series to your TBR. The Blood Crown is definitely making it to my top 10 books of this year; the writing is so amazing and the plot is PLOTTING. I HIGHLY recommend this series!

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am absolutely obsessed with this series. It's the type of story that sucks you in and you lose track of time and don't want to put it down. Kate is an absolutely fantastic writer and weaves a story with so much detail you can see it play out in your head as you read.

I already loved book 1 and book 2 just made me love this world and the characters even more. The slow burnS (yes multiple) have me absolutely living for all of these characters. But that cliffhanger Kate 😭 I need more immediately.

"There is not a single lifetime or a thousand where I would not find you-where my soul would not recognize yours."
Ugh obsessed

If you're a romantasy lover you will love this series.
Think- Blood and Ash meets Acotar. 🤌🏼 SO GOOD
You get -
* Vampires
* Slow burn
* Found family
* Touch her and die
* Mates
* Magic
* World Building

Thank you again Kate Cunningham for letting me be a part of your ARC team!

[Grace Horman · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75⭐️

The sequel to The Blood Kingdom delivered everything I could have possibly asked for. Ari and Ven must use their wits and strength to get back home to Ravenstone and determine their next moves. The Demon King is out for her, and there are hints why in this book!

Kate is such a talented writer and writes in a way that is so descriptive and pulls you into the story. I’m consistently unable to put the book down and always wanting to know what happens next!

I love the continued world building in this book and I LOVE all these characters! Ven is an ultimate book boyfriend and I was so happy Karri got himself a love interest (she’s perfect for him). Ari really comes to her own in this book and I’m so proud of her.

The cliffhanger is wild and I cannot believe Kate is making me wait for the next book. 😂

This is my honest review in exchange for an ARC.

[rachelscourtofbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

6 STARS!!!!!!

Let's talk about this MASTERPIECE!!!!!!!!! I am in AWE Kate Cunningham !!! Also, after that train wreck of an ending I need book 3, very soon please!!!

The way we find out more about both Ven's and Aurelia's heritage is astounding and also chilling!! So many things are revealed in this book and every time I managed a glimpse, I was absolutely at the edge of my seat. I was hooked from start to finish and am now an addict!! The withdrawal symptoms have already kicked in and I don't think I can ever appreciate another book the same!! just beautiful!!

Yes this book might have gotten me ages to get through, but some stuff came in the way!!! Also, does anyone know how difficult it is to write a review to the second book in a series, without spoiling any of the plot?? After the ending of the Blood Kingdom, I'm guessing a lot of you are scrolling through Goodreads to look for spoilers! Well this ain't it. But one thing I can tell you, is that you will cry big fat happy tears at a few points in this book!!

Thank you soo much Kate Cunningham for gifting me an ARC!! I am in love with the book and it containing my Goodreads review on the back???? Absolutely amazing!! I feel very special now and will boast to anyone who will listen!