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Bitten #0.5

Destined by Blood: Bitten Origins

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For fans of C.C. Wood's Bitten series, discover how it all began...

In a mythical land not of this time or place, two lovers are drawn together. Alaunus and Aveta. Their destinies flow through their veins, borne in their very blood.

Lost in the discovery of newfound passion, neither of them sees the evil that stalks their every move...until it's too late.

As Alaunus lies upon his deathbed, Aveta seeks help from the god and goddess, willing to conjure a dangerous power to save his life. Through love and desperation, she creates a new magic that will affect the future of her world ¬— and ours.

Unknown Binding

Published October 1, 2016

5 people are currently reading
316 people want to read

About the author

C.C. Wood

47 books1,420 followers
Born and raised in Texas, C.C. Wood writes saucy paranormal and contemporary romances featuring strong, sassy women and the men that love them. If you ever meet C.C. in person, keep in mind that many of her characters are based on people she knows, so anything you say or do is likely to end up in a book one day.

A self-professed hermit, C.C. loves to stay home, where she reads, writes, cooks, and watches TV. She can usually be found drinking coffee or wine as she spends time with her hubby, daughter, and two beagles.


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5 stars
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36 (32%)
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14 (12%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Lady Heather .
1,312 reviews774 followers
October 26, 2016

Title: Destined by Blood
Series: Bitten Origins #1
Author: CC Wood | @cc_wood
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Release Date: October 17
Add to your TBR: http://bit.ly/2dPpBL0



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Synopsis

For fans of C.C. Wood's Bitten series, discover how it all began...
In a mythical land not of this time or place, two lovers are drawn together. Alaunus and Aveta.
Their destinies flow through their veins, borne in their very blood.

Lost in the discovery of newfound passion, neither of them sees the evil that stalks their every move...until it's too late.

As Alaunus lies upon his deathbed, Aveta seeks help from the god and goddess, willing to conjure a dangerous power to save his life. Through love and desperation, she creates a new magic that will affect the future of her world, and ours.


My thoughts:

5 "Now and Always Stars!

Damn C.C., this is one of the best Origins stories I've ever read!

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LOVED Alaunus and Aveta's story!
Their love was beautiful to read. I loved Alaunus strength, certainty and how he re-assured Aveta that he would never leave her or forsake her.

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The characters were amazing, the storyline engaging, and the potential for these two characters

(as well as Rhiannon)

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is unfathomable.

I can't wait to see what you do with these characters!

I loved how you introduced Alaunus and Aveta's characters by using Kerry and Finn (who happen to be two of my favorite characters).

Great story, and wonderful addition to the "Bitten" series!

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I want the next book NOW!!




"A copy of this book has been provided by the author in exchange for an honest review"
Profile Image for Raine.
2,463 reviews52 followers
October 25, 2018
Interesting origin story!

This was a very interesting origin story. I really liked this series and it seems with this story there will either be a continuation of the series or a new spin-off. I can't wait!!!
815 reviews
October 15, 2016
I received a copy of this book for an honest review.

This is my first CC Wood book. This is the story of how it all began. How vampires of the Bitten series came to be. I was drawn in from the start it was a quick read and I didn’t want to put it down. The love Aveta and Alaunus have for one another was amazing. They truly balanced one another out.

Aveta was the town outcast. Alaunus was being groomed to take over. Aveta and Alaunus were in love but his father promised his hand to another. Aveta saves Alaunus life after he is cursed but he is not the same when he returns. Even though things are looking up for them until an evil witch gets involved and they are torn apart again.

I enjoyed getting a glimpse at a few of CC Woods Bitten series characters. The ending had me sitting with my mouth hanging open and my heart breaking in two. I really want to know more about these two and this series.
Profile Image for Erin Hurst.
210 reviews
November 17, 2016
This is a fast enjoyable read about how the very first vampire was created. Aveta looks for help from the goddess and god to give her the strength to safe her love on his deal bed due to dark magic. Fantastic story of what then becomes of him.


Profile Image for Michelle.
348 reviews3 followers
April 11, 2017
Re-read

I love to get lost in the world of magic and C.C. does it do well. I

Can't wait for the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Siobhain .
117 reviews12 followers
October 18, 2016
C.C. Wood had us under her book spell. Destined by Blood was the first book we have read of hers and were blown away. The story of Aveta and Alaunus was bewitching. We were right there with Finn and Kerry and their journey to witnessing the creation of the first vampire. Aveta and Alaunus’ love story was so amazing to read about. They were one in mind, body, and soul. Aveta was a widow, outcast, and a witch. She had been shunned by everyone in her village, except by Alaunus. He was son of the chieftain and was favored to be the leader of the villagers. His father had always planned to have him marry an “innocent” woman named Rhiannon, but Aveta had his heart. Alaunus and Aveta loved each other to the end of the world and back, and would do anything for each other. They would be tested day after day to see how strong their love truly was. How far would they go to make sure their love lasted? Could they continue to love each other no matter what? This book was one of the most captivating books we have read. Destined by Blood was tempting, unique,full of interference, and enchanting. We read the book in less than 3 hours. Yes, it is just that charming. We are going to have to read every book in the Bitten Origins series. Destined by Blood was the best paranormal romance we have read this year.
Profile Image for Red Cheeks Reads.
2,292 reviews373 followers
October 17, 2016
Destined By Blood is an addicting look as to how the entire Bitten storyline began and as a reader who has read and loved each of the stories in the series I was engrossed with this first look into where it all started. However if you are new to the series this is also a great place to start and can be read easily as a standalone as well.

"The goddess created you for me and me for you. Whatever you feel for me, I feel you as well."

Aveta and Alaunus's story is equal parts sweet, sext and a touch of tragic. She is a window who has been out casted and he is of royal blood and promised to another. Their love is undeniable but with so many forces against them it is almost impossible to make anything work. Mix in a bit of magic and mayhem and you have a story that hooks you right from the start.

"I love you, Aveta. As long as I have you, I have no regrets."

I love C.C. Wood's paranormal books. They are complex and fun at the same time. Wars are fought, love is found and everyone's fate is in the air. The whole series is one I would recommend to any paranormal lover.

~miranda
Profile Image for Terrie's Just Another Book B*tch.
161 reviews160 followers
October 17, 2016
Back to the beginning.. See how it all started in this quick easy read that you won't be able to put down.

This is the first time c.c wood has written anything in this era. I am in awe and can't understand why she hasn't done this before. I loved this book. While it is a "historical" per say... There isn't a lot time spent on era descriptions (that I sometimes find SO ANNOYING and over done because in my opinion it takes away from the story) C.C sweeps us away into the past to where it all began....You are consumed with the character and the story right off the bat. I am in LOVE with this book and I really can't wait to see where it's going to take us.

Well written & Hooked on yet another series by CC Wood

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Profile Image for Elizabeth Lynx.
Author 51 books976 followers
October 24, 2016
This is really hard for me to write. What I mean by that is, even though Destined by Blood is a short story, I have so much to say about it.
Let’s get the first thing out of the way: I LOVED IT!
This is not the first CC Wood book I have read but I am starting to think it might be one of my favorites. Which is weird because it’s so short.
That brings me to my second thing: There is so much in this little book. A love that is so deep it is in their blood…check. Magic so powerful only a goddess can help (or can she?)…check. Finally, a story that affects lives that have yet to be born.
I will admit, paranormal romance is not my go to genre when picking out books. But, anytime I hear CC Wood is coming out with something I have to get it. I think she could publish a napkin with a grocery list and I would pick it up.
Aveta and Alaunus's tale is so good I sighed after I read the last page. I am thinking of rereading the entire Bitten series now that I know how it all begins. Do yourself a favor, pick up this little treat of a story. You won’t regret it.
Profile Image for Marie Vasquez.
1,598 reviews78 followers
October 24, 2016
C.C. Wood delivered an elaborate story that encompasses so much. Beautiful imagery, characters I instantly loved, intrigue and passion as well as a story line that delivers the hows and whys of where the Vampires came from and that connection to her characters in the Bitten series.

It was a story that could be read as an intro to the series or after you've already fell in love with it. Either way the experience is just as enjoyable.

For a story so involved and detailed this was a quick read that is perfect for satisfying fix for any reader's addiction.
Profile Image for Phe.
922 reviews15 followers
March 17, 2019
4 Stars - Destined by Blood is an adult paranormal romance novella by C.C. Wood.

This story is Wood’s telling of where the vampires in her books come from, how they were created and why. It bridges the gap between her Bitten series and her spin-off series Blood & Bone . The story begins with Kerry and Finn—Bewitched, Bothered & Bitten—and a message Kerry receives from her mother. Something she wants her to see—a vision spell. But vision spells are tricky things, bringing the witch who invokes them into another time and place. Once inside the spell the witch will be unable to do anything to stop the vision until it plays out.

Invoke the words and see.
The story of the First,
A love that created eternity.
Heed the warning within,
For the one who seeks power still lives.


Together Kerry and Finn speak the invocation and are thrown into another time and place. A place from where mythology, gods and goddesses were born. And a place from where the tragic, heart-breaking story of Aveta and Alaunus is told…

I also recommend:
Bite Me (Bitten, #1) by C.C. Wood Once Bitten, Twice Shy (Bitten, #2) by C.C. Wood Bewitched, Bothered, and Bitten (Bitten, #3) by C.C. Wood Love Bites (Bitten, #4) by C.C. Wood Bite the Bullet (Bitten, #5) by C.C. Wood
Profile Image for Edna Staples.
102 reviews3 followers
May 29, 2017
First and Foremost this Author is brand new to me as I have never read nothing from her until know. C.C.Wood has for sure made a fan in me as I love this book a lot. Her writing style is just perfect and easy to read and she knows how to pull the reader right into her story. I will for sure keep my eye on her. know my honest and open review....

When you first open the book you will see the author's introduction page and there is a good question that her husband had ask her... Where did the vampires in your books come from? and quite honestly before I read this book I started to wonder the same thing so I jumped right into the book and I read and read more. Each chapter is labeled after a tarot card and there is many types of tarots cards but the ones that she used is very closely resembles the Waite deck.

This book is fast pace but steady pace when you start to read this book you need to keep your mind open and be able to understand where the author is coming from. Once you have started reading this book you will meet many characters but honestly it would be hard to choose just one character. The two main characters are Aveta and Alaumus, and honestly what I can say about these two, Alaumus I believe has fallen for Aveta just because of the way he treats her.
Profile Image for Ginger Snaps.
437 reviews19 followers
October 29, 2016
Destined by Blood by author C.C. Wood is a spin-off of her Bitten series and will include one of the couples you know from her series. As Kerry finds a book that was spelled by her deceased mother, she and Finn read the story of Alaunus and Aveta and a very powerful witch Rhiannon. But they're not just reading a feel-good story. In fact the story hasn't quite ended and instead warns Kerry of the next foe they will be fighting, as well as possible ties from Finn to Alaunus. C.C. Wood does it again, with a story that sucked me in from the very beginning. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series!

I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Mandy (MP Book Reviews).
5,080 reviews46 followers
January 16, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed this copy and I have not been compensated in any way.

How C.C. Wood's Bitten series began .......

Alaunus and Aveta are drawn together and are so focused on their shared passion that they miss the darkness stalking them.

Alaunus is poisoned and as he lies on his deathbed Aveta goes to the god and goddess looking for their help to save him. After receiving help she creates new magic to save him however this new magic will not be good for future of the world.

This helped to set the scene and was a lovely story of love and evil and their unfortunate effects. It was well written and enjoyable.
Profile Image for Carla.
989 reviews3 followers
March 10, 2018
Carla's Five Star Review

I just love the Bitten series, so I was super excited to find out how it all began! This is the story of Alaunus and Aveta, and it is amazing! The love that these two share is that one in a million love that binds them mind, body, and soul. If you are just now discovering this series, you are in for a real treat! A must read series!!
Profile Image for Nicole Johnson.
866 reviews31 followers
March 8, 2018
I love this origin story of how Ava and Macgrath began centuries ago. This book is incredibly insightful and fills my head with new questions which I can't wait to see be answered in the next book. It's a short, intriguing read. I absolutely loved it.
Profile Image for Fantasy Girl.
104 reviews
September 13, 2018
Can someone tell me where I can find this book? It's not on any ebook site I know. I've tried finding it online or in pdf/epub but seriously it fricking disappeared and it says it's highly recommanded to read this before forevermore
Profile Image for Katy Birch.
471 reviews4 followers
March 23, 2017
An informative read. After reading the full series, it was lovely to read this. It goes into full detail about Aveta, a witch who was blessed by both the god and goddess. She tries in vain to save her lover and mate Alaunus, ir order to do so, she creates the 1st vampire. After being torn apart, its clear to see they both could still be alive and hiding centuries later.

I would like to read more about them after that teaser
118 reviews
June 1, 2017
As always it's a pleasure to read to book by Ms. Wood. I am so glad to be getting a bit more of the Bitten series. Yay!
Profile Image for Pegan Knight.
Author 6 books23 followers
October 20, 2016
Truly amazing story!!

I have been nagged by my bestie to read the Bitten and though I do have the first book I have not read it, after reading this I am so glad I have not yet!! I feel like I will go into the first story with a touch more info.

That being said, this is one of the most amazing stories of love and trials of evil. Curses, God's and Goddesses, true love, and monsters. Totally amazing take on the creation of vampires as well, seriously creative idea there and possible the best one I've seen aside from the Lilith theory.

It's a VERY short story, but that doesn't take away from the details and it feels very much like a full novel. Plenty of character detail and tons of story detail as well, you don't feel like it's lacking or missing anything in order to make it complete.

Aveta and Alaunus are both very magical beings that have a love to last the ages, only to have the typical jealous wanna be wife, Rhiannon, who turns out to be an extremely old witch herself who ends up cursing the lovers. Aveta with the help of the God's creates "Vampire" in order to save her love.

I love that this not only ties into the original series, as in it tells the possible creation of vampires, but is an amazing lead into her newest series, coming soon!!
Profile Image for Jenny - Book Sojourner.
1,497 reviews173 followers
October 28, 2016
I have thoroughly enjoyed the 'Bitten' series, so to get this new look at the origins of
the series and where these paranormal characters originated from is particularly exciting. Now, this little gem isn't particularly long, but don't let that fool you. Great things come in small packages.

Alaunus and Aveta's story is equally beautiful and heartbreaking. I can't believe how quickly I fell in love with this couple. But all is not rainbows and kittens. They have opposition and there is dark magic about, interfering with their chances of a future together. I both liked and cringed away from the twists and turns here. I found the magic created and world-building fascinating and enchanting. But I feared the dark forces working against them.

I truly hope that this is the start of a new series, because there is so much more I want to learn and be enveloped into. I need to see Alaunus and Aveta again, and see what is coming up next in this fascinating world.
Profile Image for Amber - TBR Book Blog.
1,240 reviews46 followers
October 17, 2016
Ok if you've read the Bitten Series (you haven't, WHY the eff not?), you might wonder how the whole vampire/witch/werewolf thing started. Well this is the answer to your questions! Although, it did make me want to read more of the Bitten Series and those couples. :)

I'm not one for paranormal (this and KA's Fantasyland Series are about all I read) but this book explains how everything got started but not in a hugely "this would NEVER happen" a total fantasy way. Which is one thing I am grateful for!! IF things like this could happen, you could totally see it in how CC lays it out. I can't wait for more!!
Profile Image for Kirha.
495 reviews11 followers
November 21, 2016
Kerry receives a message from her mother that ends up pulling her and Finn to the past. It’s there that they learn about the possible origins of the vampire race and an evil that no one saw coming.

When I heard that this author was writing a new installment to this series I jumped for joy. I loved each and every book from the series and was interested to see how the author would further the storyline.

It was nice to read about Finn and Kerry again and I am looking forward to hearing more from the couple mentioned in this story and also and update on Rhys. If you haven’t read the other books, you should definitely get to it!
Five stars!

Books2Blog Kirha
Profile Image for phoebess.
1,521 reviews99 followers
February 7, 2017
And this is how it began...
The changed narration (and how characters spoke) really gave free rein to my imagination and I felt like this long forgotten mythic land was even older than the Earth alone. I was completely enthralled in the story of Alaunus and Aveta. The love, sadness and hope seeped through the pages and I couldn't stop reading it. I can't wait to read more in Blood & Bone series.
Profile Image for Teri.
3,918 reviews38 followers
October 21, 2016
Wow this is the story of Aveta and Alaunus. The author felt it was time to give us the origin of her vamps in the series. Man oh man is this an excellent read. I have not read more in the series and although I am not a big fan of vamps this book makes me want to dive into this series and devour it. I loved the story and the passion, and all that went into it. Awesome! Awesome! Awesome!
Profile Image for Lisa Lawson.
692 reviews4 followers
January 13, 2017
I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. A novella of how the first vampire was created as seen by a spell Kerry made through the eyes of her and Finn.
Preparations need to be made because pure evil is lurking their way!
A great new outlook to the lineage of vampires!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews