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Black Dagger Legacy #3
Blood Fury
A vampire aristocrat, Peyton is well aware of his duty to his bloodline: mate with an appropriate female of his class and carry on his family’s traditions. And he thought he’d found his perfect match—until she fell in love with someone else. Yet when his split-second decision in a battle with the enemy endangers the life of another trainee, Peyton has to face the idea that his future, and his heart, actually lie with another.
Novo, as a female in the Black Dagger Brotherhood’s training program, feels like she has to prove herself to everybody—and she has no interest in being distracted by falling in love. But when Peyton proves to be so much more than a rich playboy, she is forced to confront the tragedy that has broken her soul and closed her off from love.
As the two grapple with Novo’s past and Peyton’s present, another couple must contend with an erotic connection that is unparalleled—and potentially scandalous.
Saxton, who has had his heart broken, discovers in himself a deep-seated attraction to Ruhn, a new member of the household. But will the other male explore the connection? Or will he close his mind and his heart to what could be true love . . . and cost Saxton everything?
Novo, as a female in the Black Dagger Brotherhood’s training program, feels like she has to prove herself to everybody—and she has no interest in being distracted by falling in love. But when Peyton proves to be so much more than a rich playboy, she is forced to confront the tragedy that has broken her soul and closed her off from love.
As the two grapple with Novo’s past and Peyton’s present, another couple must contend with an erotic connection that is unparalleled—and potentially scandalous.
Saxton, who has had his heart broken, discovers in himself a deep-seated attraction to Ruhn, a new member of the household. But will the other male explore the connection? Or will he close his mind and his heart to what could be true love . . . and cost Saxton everything?
411 pages, Hardcover
First published January 9, 2018
About the author
J.R. Ward
173 books48.2k followersJ.R. Ward is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of numerous novels, including the Black Dagger Brotherhood series. She lives in the South her family.
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January 15, 2018
“You know, love is the greatest gift the Scribe Virgin bestowed on her species. I’m happy to see it in this house again.”
*****Many Spoilers*****
Everything in this book is about romance and sappy love. Fast, foolish, strong and breathless, unconditional and unquestionable love.
Of course there are some bad guys around (lessers and humans) and some bad things happen to good vampires. But all these unfortunate situations are used only to emphasize the romance. To emphasize the ways that Ruhn and Saxton as well as Peyton and Novo fall in love.
I was wondering why Ward has decided to blend these two love stories together. Obviously she knows what she is doing, because actually these two love stories have many things in common.
1. Both Saxton and Peyton are aristocrats
2. Both Ruhn and Novo come from a less fortunate family. Ruhn’s family is a bit poorer than Novo’s. Both of their families are problematic for different reasons.
3. Both Saxton and Peyton were trapped in unrequited love. They wanted people that they were in love with someone else.
4. Both Saxton and Peyton see almost everyday the people that they used to love.
5. Both Blay and Paradise are happily mated with Qhuinn and Craeg respectively. They don’t really think of their ex boyfriend/friend and their happiness breaks Saxton’s and Peyton’s heart nonstop.
6. Both Saxton and Peyton have horrible inconsiderate fathers.
7. Both Saxton and Novo are trapped in their past. Both need to let it go with some kind of ritual ().
Are Saxton, Peyton, Ruhn and Novo as I remember them from the previous books?
NO, THEY ARE NOT!
-Saxton is more lethal and less slutty.
-Peyton is less cold fish and more fun to be with.
-Ruhn is less plain and more problem solver ()
-Novo is less badass and more sensitive and sweet ()
Do I care that Saxton, Peyton, Ruhn and Novo are not as I remember them from the previous books?
NOT AT ALL!
Let’s just say that the differences are the results of the characters’ personal growth or something like that. And let’s leave it at that.
Novo and Peyton falling in love:
His smile went straight into the center of her chest, sure as that dagger had: slow, confident, sexy. “I love a challenge.”
“I’m not a challenge, though.”
“You are as far from easy as anyone I’ve ever met.”
“You can never win me. That’s why I’m not.”
“Isn’t that the very definition of a challenge?”
“No, it’s called a brick wall. You’re welcome to try me, though.”
“Somehow, someday,” he held his forefinger aloft, “I’m going to get through to you.”
“Ask yourself why you’re bothering to try. You’ll get far more out of that endeavor, I assure you—”
“She’s soooooooooooooo hiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiigh, hiiigh above me—”
Novo recoiled and had to talk over all the off-key. “Why are you singing?”
“—she’s soooo looooovely—”
Novo had to laugh. “You are a total freak, you know that—”
“—liiiiiike Cleeeopatraaaa, Joooooooannn of Arrrrccc—”
“Oh, my God, you are tone deaf.”
As she covered her ears, he really turned up the volume. “—or Apppphroooodiiiiteeee—”
His arms wrapped around her and he kissed her and kissed her again. But it wasn’t about sex. He seemed to like the fact that she was laughing, and the mouth-to-mouth was his way of telling her that.
Saxton and Ruhn falling in love:
Ruhn touched over his heart. “One thing that I have learned after all these years working for the glymera is that the poor have only their dignity and pride to offer the world. My father taught me that. And I cannot have my dignity if I lie to someone I’m falling in love with.”
Saxton’s breath caught in his chest.
But before he could respond, Ruhn shook his head and turned away. “You know, I actually think it’s best that someone else make that trip into town. I’ve got to go.”
“Ruhn—”
The male stopped, and did not look back. “Please, just let me go. Just…let me leave.”
Every instinct in Saxton’s body told him to stop Ruhn from going.
But it wasn’t up to him.
P.S. Wrath I love you!
Favorite Wrath’s quote:
“No, fuck that shit. That pair of assholes can fuck right off.”
Hahaha. Awesome! You will understand when you get at this point in the book.
This was supposed to be a review. Sorry, I just could not write anything more coherent.
Oh well…Enjoy the book! It deserves it!
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BEFORE PUBLICATION:
January 27, 2018
4 Falling Fast and Hard Stars
“Now, Novo, if you don’t play nice, I’m going to take my vodka and my dick elsewhere.”“You’re right. If we keep talking, this is not going to happen.”-Peyton and Novo
Blood fury, which is the 3rd book in the spin off series of BDB, called Black Dagger Legacy was a great read. Of course we are talking about J.R. Ward here and she is an amazing writer so no surprise that I loved it. Like all Mrs. Wards' books there is more than one story line going on. You got Petyon and Novo, trainees in the Black Dagger Brotherhood’s training program and you got Saxton and Ruhn. Since there are two love stories I will touch a little on each couple.
“Don’t do me any favors.” “Fine. I want you to take from me. I want your mouth on me anywhere I can get it. And I know better than to think you’ll let me fuck you, but just so we’re clear, the entire time, I’ll be back between your legs in my mind. That honest enough for you? Still want me to come…to you?-Novo and Peyton
Peyton and Novo:
Staring at her in his arms, he knew that he would lay his life down for hers without regret. He would slay dragons and move mountains for her. He would conquer whole worlds at her command and starve to skin and bones just to ensure she had food. She was not his sun or moon, but his galaxy. “I love you, too,” he said by her ear. “Forever and always.”-Peyton
I loved Novo. She was kick ass, but had a sweet side. I didn't like Peyton as much. There was something about him that just rubbed me the wrong way. So when it came to Peyton and Novo's relationship I enjoyed it but not as much because I didn't care for Peyton. I also felt their connection wasn't as strong as some of the other couples the Warden as written. They did have a cute relationship but it didn't feel as deep.
“ I’ve had this…fury in my blood that I haven’t been able to handle. And I’m so sorry. You told me last night you hoped I’d figure it out for myself and I’m trying, I really am. I just…I love you. Even though I’m broken, I love you. And not like I did Oskar. I was with him because he was the first male who paid any attention to me and I was too fucking stupid to know the difference between hope and reality. But you…you were the only person I wanted to see when it was time to tell my truth. You were the only place I wanted to go. And that’s because this,” she pointed to her heart, “knows more than this.”-Novo
Saxton and Ruhn:
“I am attracted to you and I don’t know what to do about it.” Saxton’s eyes grew wide, his shock altering everything about him. “I mean no offense.” Ruhn bowed low. “I do not expect you to be complimented by that, nor do you have to worry I will embarrass you. I just did not expect to find a male attractive, and…” He looked away. “The only reason I tell you this is because I cannot abide you thinking that I would shame you or anybody else in that manner. So I’m sorry.”-Ruhn
I fucking loved Saxton and Ruhn. They made the book for me. I have loved and felt bad for Saxton every since Blay left him. Ruhn was sexy and strong and Saxton sweet and brave. I loved how Saxton showed his strong side when he went all bonded male of the SOBs that hurt his mate! Ruhn and Saxton's relationship felt beautiful, sexy and I was totally invested in them. They were perfect! Just sayin'!
“You don’t have to.” Ruhn touched over his heart. “One thing that I have learned after all these years working for the glymera is that the poor have only their dignity and pride to offer the world. My father taught me that. And I cannot have my dignity if I lie to someone I’m falling in love with.”-Ruhn
Overall this book was a great read and I can't wait to read J.R. Ward's next book!
“This is for my love,” Saxton growled. “This is for my mate. This…” On each sentence, he pressed the tip in further and further and further still, until the geyser was struck. “This is for that which was mine. This is for what you tried to take from me.”-Saxton
“Now, Novo, if you don’t play nice, I’m going to take my vodka and my dick elsewhere.”“You’re right. If we keep talking, this is not going to happen.”-Peyton and Novo
Blood fury, which is the 3rd book in the spin off series of BDB, called Black Dagger Legacy was a great read. Of course we are talking about J.R. Ward here and she is an amazing writer so no surprise that I loved it. Like all Mrs. Wards' books there is more than one story line going on. You got Petyon and Novo, trainees in the Black Dagger Brotherhood’s training program and you got Saxton and Ruhn. Since there are two love stories I will touch a little on each couple.
“Don’t do me any favors.” “Fine. I want you to take from me. I want your mouth on me anywhere I can get it. And I know better than to think you’ll let me fuck you, but just so we’re clear, the entire time, I’ll be back between your legs in my mind. That honest enough for you? Still want me to come…to you?-Novo and Peyton
Peyton and Novo:
Staring at her in his arms, he knew that he would lay his life down for hers without regret. He would slay dragons and move mountains for her. He would conquer whole worlds at her command and starve to skin and bones just to ensure she had food. She was not his sun or moon, but his galaxy. “I love you, too,” he said by her ear. “Forever and always.”-Peyton
I loved Novo. She was kick ass, but had a sweet side. I didn't like Peyton as much. There was something about him that just rubbed me the wrong way. So when it came to Peyton and Novo's relationship I enjoyed it but not as much because I didn't care for Peyton. I also felt their connection wasn't as strong as some of the other couples the Warden as written. They did have a cute relationship but it didn't feel as deep.
“ I’ve had this…fury in my blood that I haven’t been able to handle. And I’m so sorry. You told me last night you hoped I’d figure it out for myself and I’m trying, I really am. I just…I love you. Even though I’m broken, I love you. And not like I did Oskar. I was with him because he was the first male who paid any attention to me and I was too fucking stupid to know the difference between hope and reality. But you…you were the only person I wanted to see when it was time to tell my truth. You were the only place I wanted to go. And that’s because this,” she pointed to her heart, “knows more than this.”-Novo
Saxton and Ruhn:
“I am attracted to you and I don’t know what to do about it.” Saxton’s eyes grew wide, his shock altering everything about him. “I mean no offense.” Ruhn bowed low. “I do not expect you to be complimented by that, nor do you have to worry I will embarrass you. I just did not expect to find a male attractive, and…” He looked away. “The only reason I tell you this is because I cannot abide you thinking that I would shame you or anybody else in that manner. So I’m sorry.”-Ruhn
I fucking loved Saxton and Ruhn. They made the book for me. I have loved and felt bad for Saxton every since Blay left him. Ruhn was sexy and strong and Saxton sweet and brave. I loved how Saxton showed his strong side when he went all bonded male of the SOBs that hurt his mate! Ruhn and Saxton's relationship felt beautiful, sexy and I was totally invested in them. They were perfect! Just sayin'!
“You don’t have to.” Ruhn touched over his heart. “One thing that I have learned after all these years working for the glymera is that the poor have only their dignity and pride to offer the world. My father taught me that. And I cannot have my dignity if I lie to someone I’m falling in love with.”-Ruhn
Overall this book was a great read and I can't wait to read J.R. Ward's next book!
“This is for my love,” Saxton growled. “This is for my mate. This…” On each sentence, he pressed the tip in further and further and further still, until the geyser was struck. “This is for that which was mine. This is for what you tried to take from me.”-Saxton
March 4, 2023
1.) Blood Kiss ★★★★
2.) Blood Vow ★★★★
major trigger/content warnings for miscarrying, talk of abortion, death of a child, and thoughts of suicide. The BDB world always has erotic sex scenes, violence, gore, abuse, killing, and war themes in general, but this book put a heavy emphasis on every mother’s worst fear: losing a child. I have never been pregnant, and it was still very hard for me to read.
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Buddy Read with Paloma ❤
2.) Blood Vow ★★★★
major trigger/content warnings for miscarrying, talk of abortion, death of a child, and thoughts of suicide. The BDB world always has erotic sex scenes, violence, gore, abuse, killing, and war themes in general, but this book put a heavy emphasis on every mother’s worst fear: losing a child. I have never been pregnant, and it was still very hard for me to read.
Blog | Twitter | Tumblr | Instagram | Youtube | Twitch
Buddy Read with Paloma ❤
May 5, 2018
Blood fury was everything I hoped for and more!!! Damned if JR Wards world of the black dagger brotherhood didn't take me on one hell ride once again.you can't read one of her books without having it touch you somewhere deep inside,between all her strong and loveable characters to her trade mark snarky humor she brings out so many emotions that by the time the book's finished you feel like you just went through hell and back!! I have loved Saxon from the beginning and I was so glad JR gave him such a worthy mate,Ruhn is perfect !! He's a strong male and I couldn't wait to see their relationship grow. And then theirs Peyton and novo, this couple is probably one of my favorite couples of the bdb series.two such different people,but both needed to heal and grow together. I have enjoyed this spin off series from the bdb so much!!! Can't wait for the next one!!
January 20, 2018
I've really like this spin-off of the BDB series. It still has our old favorites in it, but focuses on the younger recruits, and it has been very PNR with less appearances by the bad guys. Which, I like. Admittedly, there were a few times in the original series where the bad guys were so gross and creepy that I was thoroughly squicked out by them. I felt like I needed a major palate cleanser for my brain after some of those things.
Aww, perfect!
So, I'm happy that we are having some simple PNR here.
In this book, we have two different love stories going on in alternating chapters. First is Nova and Peyton, who are recruits. Peyton has been a bit of a kicked puppy in recent books because the girl he loved had him thoroughly in the friend-zone and she is now mated to some other guy. A bigger guy. Probably in all ways. Just sayin'.... size is a proportional thing usually.
Usually, but not always.
Peyton is butt-hurt, but he's also a party boy and finds the next hottest girl in class (ie. The Only Other Girl in Class) to hit on. And, Novo is hard as nails, but willing to do the hook-up thing with Peyton. As long as they don't talk. Talking equals fighting for these two.
"Now, Novo, if you don't play nice, I'm going to take my vodka and my dick elsewhere."
"You're right. If we keep talking, this is not going to happen."
Ahh, vodka. Is there any problem you cannot solve? Besides alcoholism, I mean.
While Novo and Peyton are doing their thing, we also have a romance between Saxon and Ruhn. Saxon was also a loser in a relationship. He was with Blay, from the original series, before Blay became Qhuay. Like Peyton, Saxon has also been broken-hearted. Luckily, he meets Ruhn who turns out to be a "gay for you" guy, so everything works out great. Personally, there isn't a woman alive who could make me gay for her, but if I was a guy I would be gay for all of them. Well, some of them.
So, we watch Saxon and Ruhn fall in love as we watch Novo and Peyton fall in love. It is pretty straightforward romance without much in the way of other things. I am looking forward to finding out what happens with the becoming part of the BDB and some of the other things that happened in The Chosen - even though that romance sucked so hard that it blew, but this was a nice diversion in the meantime.
Aww, perfect!
So, I'm happy that we are having some simple PNR here.
In this book, we have two different love stories going on in alternating chapters. First is Nova and Peyton, who are recruits. Peyton has been a bit of a kicked puppy in recent books because the girl he loved had him thoroughly in the friend-zone and she is now mated to some other guy. A bigger guy. Probably in all ways. Just sayin'.... size is a proportional thing usually.
Usually, but not always.
Peyton is butt-hurt, but he's also a party boy and finds the next hottest girl in class (ie. The Only Other Girl in Class) to hit on. And, Novo is hard as nails, but willing to do the hook-up thing with Peyton. As long as they don't talk. Talking equals fighting for these two.
"Now, Novo, if you don't play nice, I'm going to take my vodka and my dick elsewhere."
"You're right. If we keep talking, this is not going to happen."
Ahh, vodka. Is there any problem you cannot solve? Besides alcoholism, I mean.
While Novo and Peyton are doing their thing, we also have a romance between Saxon and Ruhn. Saxon was also a loser in a relationship. He was with Blay, from the original series, before Blay became Qhuay. Like Peyton, Saxon has also been broken-hearted. Luckily, he meets Ruhn who turns out to be a "gay for you" guy, so everything works out great. Personally, there isn't a woman alive who could make me gay for her, but if I was a guy I would be gay for all of them. Well, some of them.
So, we watch Saxon and Ruhn fall in love as we watch Novo and Peyton fall in love. It is pretty straightforward romance without much in the way of other things. I am looking forward to finding out what happens with the becoming part of the BDB and some of the other things that happened in The Chosen - even though that romance sucked so hard that it blew, but this was a nice diversion in the meantime.
Want to read
July 27, 2017Let's get real...the main reason to be here is for Saxton and Ruhn. Am I right?
Shelved as 'anxiously-waiting'
November 17, 2017*Update from the author*
Saxton will get his HEA with *um* Ruhn (I guess Bitty’s uncle?) Omg !!!! I’m freakin out right now.
The cover is stunning !
Saxton will get his HEA with *um* Ruhn (I guess Bitty’s uncle?) Omg !!!! I’m freakin out right now.
The cover is stunning !
January 31, 2018
I love the BDB’s, so naturally a spin-off series which includes the original brothers going about their lives; I’m going to devour!!! This instalment gives a spotlight to two couples!!! My favourite was Saxton and Ruhn! ( if you are not a fan of M/M romance, then this book won’t be to your liking!) Saxton finally gets his very own love interest! Let me tell you... these two sizzled, and they also had the ability to melt my heart!
Then there was Peyton and Novo. I didn’t feel their romance as much, and a big part of that is probably because Peyton has never been a favourite of mine. I will say that he does redeem himself eventually! Novo, has some pretty heavy issues but when she finally knocks her walls down; she shines!
This series has made me hunger for the next instalment of BDB’s! JR Ward has managed to breathe life into a series I was starting to worry about! Now I’m just eager to get more!!!
Then there was Peyton and Novo. I didn’t feel their romance as much, and a big part of that is probably because Peyton has never been a favourite of mine. I will say that he does redeem himself eventually! Novo, has some pretty heavy issues but when she finally knocks her walls down; she shines!
This series has made me hunger for the next instalment of BDB’s! JR Ward has managed to breathe life into a series I was starting to worry about! Now I’m just eager to get more!!!
May 11, 2022
I really enjoyed this edition to the Legacy series of the BDB, which featured two couples, trainees Peyton and Novo, and from the main series, Saxton, the King’s attorney and jilted lover of Blay who still isn’t over his heartbreak, and Ruhn, uncle of Bitty. It was pretty pitiful to see how sad Sax still is after all this time, and I was so pleased to see the joy he was able to find with Ruhn. It was interesting to have two main romances going on in the same book, and while Sax/Ruhn was definitely the one I found myself more engaged in, there were moments with Peyton and Novo where I found them to be a likeable couple as well. There were some interesting side plots going on in this one… families and humans trying to force their will on loved ones without their permission, and some really obnoxious secondary characters! I found myself cheering for everyone’s happy ending and liked the way this one turned out.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
July 27, 2019
Hot Damn!! Saxon finally finds Love!!! I was hoping he would get his own story...but I'll take it how ever I can get it!!
Saxton
Ruhn
***Saxton and Ruhn***
I just finished reading a BDB book, The Thief, and in it, Saxton was mated to Ruhn. Needless to say I was upset that I had somehow missed his love story. I've been waiting for what seems like forever for the sweet guy to find love! And Ruhn is perfection!!!
Ruhn was proving to be the kind of lover Saxton had been looking for all his life. There was great hunger and rough dominance, but all of that was mediated by a wellspring of consideration and caring. It was the yin and the yang of sex, the grabbing and the caressing, the biting and the kissing, the pushing down and the cradling.
Ruhn *sighs* is sweet, kind, skilled, powerful, honest, sexy, and pretty much my idea of the perfect male. Ruhn has never been in a relationship with a male before, and thought of women as his only option...until meeting Saxton. The attraction was so strong he couldn't deny it and was compelled to pursue it.
I especially loved that Ruhn was the one pursing the relationship with Saxton, and he wasn't afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve. He was exactly what Saxton needed.
***Peyton and Novo***
Peyton turned out to be a pleasant surprise. He was always a douche in previous books. I actually loved hit personality and his brutal honesty.
Novo has some serious baggage! Her boyfriend left her for her sister while she was pregnant with his child. Talk about douche bag
What an amazing series. I have been enjoying these more than the actual BDB books because they are focusing on just 2 couples or storylines, where the BDB often had 4 or 5 storylines going on which is just too much.
Saxton
He knew all too well what unrequited love felt like. This stuff with Ruhn? It had an even greater potential for destruction.
Ruhn
***Saxton and Ruhn***
I just finished reading a BDB book, The Thief, and in it, Saxton was mated to Ruhn. Needless to say I was upset that I had somehow missed his love story. I've been waiting for what seems like forever for the sweet guy to find love! And Ruhn is perfection!!!
Ruhn was proving to be the kind of lover Saxton had been looking for all his life. There was great hunger and rough dominance, but all of that was mediated by a wellspring of consideration and caring. It was the yin and the yang of sex, the grabbing and the caressing, the biting and the kissing, the pushing down and the cradling.
Ruhn *sighs* is sweet, kind, skilled, powerful, honest, sexy, and pretty much my idea of the perfect male. Ruhn has never been in a relationship with a male before, and thought of women as his only option...until meeting Saxton. The attraction was so strong he couldn't deny it and was compelled to pursue it.
I especially loved that Ruhn was the one pursing the relationship with Saxton, and he wasn't afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve. He was exactly what Saxton needed.
***Peyton and Novo***
Peyton turned out to be a pleasant surprise. He was always a douche in previous books. I actually loved hit personality and his brutal honesty.
"I can do anything the fuck I want, sweetheart. And what I am not going to do is play windup toy for you as you ignore the poor SOB you're mating and disrespect your sister. I'd say it was a pleasure to meet you, but I gave up lying a couple of nights ago, so that's a no-go."
Novo has some serious baggage! Her boyfriend left her for her sister while she was pregnant with his child. Talk about douche bag
"You were right. I've been punishing you and everyone around me for what Soppy did to me and what Oskar wasn't strong enough to fight against...I've had this...fury in my blood that I haven't been able to handle. And I'm so sorry. You told me last night you hoped I'd figure it out for myself and I'm really trying, I really am."
What an amazing series. I have been enjoying these more than the actual BDB books because they are focusing on just 2 couples or storylines, where the BDB often had 4 or 5 storylines going on which is just too much.
May 7, 2018
I’m almost to the point where I can just say point blank that I like these Black Dagger Legacy books more than current incarnation of the core series. Why? More focus on the romance. The main BDB books jump all over the place, from character to character, scene to scene. There have always been parts I’ve wanted to skim to get back to the romance, but with the spinoff books, it’s all romance; there’s nothing to skim.
That’s not to say there’s no jumping around here… there is. It just happens between the two romances which equally carry the book. The blurb may be all about Peyton and Novo, but this is every bit as much about Saxton and Rhun, and frankly, it’s all the better for it. The secondary romance (and I hesitate to call it that because it had equal page time) was even better for me than the headlining love story.
You probably remember Peyton as the rich, party-boy BFF to Paradise, the heroine in Blood Kiss. He wasn’t very happy about his friend’s HEA with Craeg because he thought he was in love with her. In fact, he nearly bungles their friendship beyond repair when he confesses his feelings here and borks up a field exercise trying to play her knight in shining armor. Still, there is something about Novo that draws him. She is tough as nails–reminds me of Xhex in a lot of ways–and she gives as good as she gets.
Of course, there is more to Novo than meets the eye. We learn all about the backstory that forced her to harden her heart, and everything about Peyton reminds her things left best forgotten. They both think they can just indulge in something physical, but as each works through their individual and deep-rooted family issues, they realize they can finally have something more with each other.
I liked their romance well enough. I still didn’t love Peyton, despite the progress he makes in his journey. But there are some super-hot moments between them and neither character dies, so that’s always a plus in a Ward book.
I had way more investment in Saxton’s story. The poor dude was crushed when Blay dumped him and he’s still nursing a broken heart made worse by the fact that he has to see his ex living the good life, in love, every day. This is a gentlemale of the highest order. He is crazy smart, loyal, and super-classy. He’s just so sad.
Then along comes Rhun. Admittedly, I forgot who he was for a moment, but ultimately got the reminder that he’s Bitty’s uncle who has come to live at the mansion since Rhage and Mary adopted the girl. Rhun is in many ways the opposite of Saxton: big, quiet, illiterate. But he has a lovely gentle heart. He’s never been attracted to a guy before, so his growing feelings for Saxton are confusing. But together, these two are just so sweet! They hit my happy buttons. My only complaint is that they didn’t have their own book.
There are glimpses and shout-outs to most of the main characters in the BDB world, but it doesn’t really move any major arc. But that was ok, because it gave us more time for the loving. The pace was fast, the sex was hot, and the ending satisfied.
Mhore please.
Rating: B+/A-
*ARC provided by publisher
That’s not to say there’s no jumping around here… there is. It just happens between the two romances which equally carry the book. The blurb may be all about Peyton and Novo, but this is every bit as much about Saxton and Rhun, and frankly, it’s all the better for it. The secondary romance (and I hesitate to call it that because it had equal page time) was even better for me than the headlining love story.
You probably remember Peyton as the rich, party-boy BFF to Paradise, the heroine in Blood Kiss. He wasn’t very happy about his friend’s HEA with Craeg because he thought he was in love with her. In fact, he nearly bungles their friendship beyond repair when he confesses his feelings here and borks up a field exercise trying to play her knight in shining armor. Still, there is something about Novo that draws him. She is tough as nails–reminds me of Xhex in a lot of ways–and she gives as good as she gets.
Of course, there is more to Novo than meets the eye. We learn all about the backstory that forced her to harden her heart, and everything about Peyton reminds her things left best forgotten. They both think they can just indulge in something physical, but as each works through their individual and deep-rooted family issues, they realize they can finally have something more with each other.
I liked their romance well enough. I still didn’t love Peyton, despite the progress he makes in his journey. But there are some super-hot moments between them and neither character dies, so that’s always a plus in a Ward book.
I had way more investment in Saxton’s story. The poor dude was crushed when Blay dumped him and he’s still nursing a broken heart made worse by the fact that he has to see his ex living the good life, in love, every day. This is a gentlemale of the highest order. He is crazy smart, loyal, and super-classy. He’s just so sad.
Then along comes Rhun. Admittedly, I forgot who he was for a moment, but ultimately got the reminder that he’s Bitty’s uncle who has come to live at the mansion since Rhage and Mary adopted the girl. Rhun is in many ways the opposite of Saxton: big, quiet, illiterate. But he has a lovely gentle heart. He’s never been attracted to a guy before, so his growing feelings for Saxton are confusing. But together, these two are just so sweet! They hit my happy buttons. My only complaint is that they didn’t have their own book.
There are glimpses and shout-outs to most of the main characters in the BDB world, but it doesn’t really move any major arc. But that was ok, because it gave us more time for the loving. The pace was fast, the sex was hot, and the ending satisfied.
Mhore please.
Rating: B+/A-
*ARC provided by publisher
June 3, 2018
I wasn't too sure about this one when I first started it, the first two books haven't been anywhere near the calibre of the BDB books but still, I get to see peeks of my boys so it tides me over. A girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do! I'm glad I read it, both couples grew on me and am glad S&R got their happy.
What totally made the book for me was Manny and Wrath - LOVE those two blokes so damn hard.
Was it worth the original £10? Not a cat in hell's chance, so I'm glad I waited till the price dropped.
3.5 stars
What totally made the book for me was Manny and Wrath - LOVE those two blokes so damn hard.
Was it worth the original £10? Not a cat in hell's chance, so I'm glad I waited till the price dropped.
3.5 stars
Shelved as 'own-need-to-read'
May 5, 2018Love this cover! Not sure about the release date though.
Kerri just commented this: "At her recent Q & A she said it was being released in November 2017"
Thanks, Kerri!
Kerri just commented this: "At her recent Q & A she said it was being released in November 2017"
Thanks, Kerri!
January 9, 2018
This spin-off series of the Black Dagger Brotherhood, is still BDB....just with a new crew of warriors. But the veterans are still roaming the halls, and making appearances.
Blood Fury gives us two romances - Peyton and Novo, two trainees in the brotherhood fighting program, who start off the book more as enemies, and it takes a bit for them to move past hate sex to --oh wait, I love you. Peyton had very intense, romantic feelings towards another trainee, Paradise, but if you have read this series, you know she got a HEA with another male. Peyton is still in love with her and has a hard time working with her on a daily basis. Novo is trying to prove herself as a fighter in this male dominated field, and when she gets injured, she feels like she has to prove herself even more. Peyton is always lurking in the background, and they start this hate/sex/lustful thing until their feelings turn much more romantic.
The other couple, and the reason I really anticipated this book, is Saxton and Ruhn. Saxton is Wrath's solicitor, once lover of Blay, and has had a hard time moving past that break-up. Ruhn is Bitty's uncle. Readers of this series will remember Bitty, who is Rhage and Mary's adopted daughter. Ruhn moved into the brotherhood compound with Bitty, and has stayed around. He feels like he isn't doing enough to earn his keep (although the brotherhood expects nothing from him, and considers him family).
When there is a land dispute, Saxton has to make a lot of trips out to a house to try to get some paperwork in order, and Wrath sends Ruhn as Saxton's bodyguard in case danger breaks out. As these two spend time together, they realize they have feelings for each other, something that really surprises Ruhn, as he has only had feelings for women in the past. Ruhn has a dark, tortuous past, and that angsty torture still looms around him. He is super quiet and always down on himself. I really enjoyed his pairing with Saxton.
In lieu of a reply, Ruhn walked forward...and it was about when he was halfway across the distance that separated them that Saxton realized...
The male was aroused.
Ruhn had not come here for a never-again, but rather for some more.
Saxton's body responded instantly, his blood rushing, his cock hardening, his annoyance, frustration, and exhaustion instantly evaporating.
As the other male came to a halt with mere inches between their faces, Saxton had to smile a little."I guess I read this wrong, huh."
"Yes," came the growl. "You did."
Holy from-out-of-nowhere.
Ruhn took hold of Saxton by either side of the throat and yanked him forward, the male's kiss nothing tentative or shy, nothing experimental.
Ward splits page time pretty evenly for these two couples, and best of all, there are no other storylines to take away from these romances. While Sax and Ruhn are fighting a land dispute, and Peyton and Novo are dealing with an injury, most of the page time is devoted to building up their romance and relationship. V, Rhage and Wrath all make brief appearances (yay!) but no other distractions take away from the two HEAs.
This is just a really fun addition to the series. Super sexy, a few laughs and two couples that I really enjoyed. We even heard the distant screams of Assail down the corridor a few times. A sure sign that he is still suffering until his book comes out this spring.
Grade: B+
Blood Fury gives us two romances - Peyton and Novo, two trainees in the brotherhood fighting program, who start off the book more as enemies, and it takes a bit for them to move past hate sex to --oh wait, I love you. Peyton had very intense, romantic feelings towards another trainee, Paradise, but if you have read this series, you know she got a HEA with another male. Peyton is still in love with her and has a hard time working with her on a daily basis. Novo is trying to prove herself as a fighter in this male dominated field, and when she gets injured, she feels like she has to prove herself even more. Peyton is always lurking in the background, and they start this hate/sex/lustful thing until their feelings turn much more romantic.
The other couple, and the reason I really anticipated this book, is Saxton and Ruhn. Saxton is Wrath's solicitor, once lover of Blay, and has had a hard time moving past that break-up. Ruhn is Bitty's uncle. Readers of this series will remember Bitty, who is Rhage and Mary's adopted daughter. Ruhn moved into the brotherhood compound with Bitty, and has stayed around. He feels like he isn't doing enough to earn his keep (although the brotherhood expects nothing from him, and considers him family).
When there is a land dispute, Saxton has to make a lot of trips out to a house to try to get some paperwork in order, and Wrath sends Ruhn as Saxton's bodyguard in case danger breaks out. As these two spend time together, they realize they have feelings for each other, something that really surprises Ruhn, as he has only had feelings for women in the past. Ruhn has a dark, tortuous past, and that angsty torture still looms around him. He is super quiet and always down on himself. I really enjoyed his pairing with Saxton.
In lieu of a reply, Ruhn walked forward...and it was about when he was halfway across the distance that separated them that Saxton realized...
The male was aroused.
Ruhn had not come here for a never-again, but rather for some more.
Saxton's body responded instantly, his blood rushing, his cock hardening, his annoyance, frustration, and exhaustion instantly evaporating.
As the other male came to a halt with mere inches between their faces, Saxton had to smile a little."I guess I read this wrong, huh."
"Yes," came the growl. "You did."
Holy from-out-of-nowhere.
Ruhn took hold of Saxton by either side of the throat and yanked him forward, the male's kiss nothing tentative or shy, nothing experimental.
Ward splits page time pretty evenly for these two couples, and best of all, there are no other storylines to take away from these romances. While Sax and Ruhn are fighting a land dispute, and Peyton and Novo are dealing with an injury, most of the page time is devoted to building up their romance and relationship. V, Rhage and Wrath all make brief appearances (yay!) but no other distractions take away from the two HEAs.
This is just a really fun addition to the series. Super sexy, a few laughs and two couples that I really enjoyed. We even heard the distant screams of Assail down the corridor a few times. A sure sign that he is still suffering until his book comes out this spring.
Grade: B+
January 10, 2018
Rant incoming. I am so frustrated right now.
I love this universe and I love Ward's characters, blablabla yadayadayada.
But this series feels like reading the same male and female character over and over again.
Peyton's family situation is the same as so many others, boring. Drugs, booze, women, asshole of a father, blablabla. Novo's reaction to hearing of Peyton's mating and their reconciliation is almost the exact same as Elise/Axe from ONE book ago. Like, are you serious?
My biggest gripe however is with Saxton and Ruhn. I LOVE Saxton, and I actually like Ruhn and him together. However, why does Ward make a big deal of Ruhn feeling out of place, awkward, afraid of being thrown out of the house if he as much as breathes wrong, and then not resolve it? Why does nobody notice, other than Saxton, in passing, a few times? Why doesn't Sax ask him? Why not make it a part of them getting to know each other? Ruhn has already got impeccable manners, why not teach him about when to use which fork so the guy can feel comfortable at the table? Why is no one asking him what he would like to do for a living and then help the guy? With his art fx instead of fixating on being a 'handymale'? And teach him to read! These things drives me NUTS. Why couldn't Ruhn have been learning these things during the book or even having begun before we're told the love story?
Also, Saxton was the one breaking it off with Blay and Ward makes it sound like it was the other way around, which is annoying as fuck. I really would have preferred for Saxton/Ruhn to have marinated a bit more before their story was told. It wouldn't seem as rushed. Also they shouldn't share a book, they needed a whole one.
I'm glad we saw Luhcas again. And I'm glad Qhuinn was kept to a minimum as I feel like he was ruined in The Chosen, which is not his fault, but still.
Wrath reads like a caricature of himself. And he is so fucking rude and full of shit all the time, these last few books especially.
I liked that Manny took a front seat instead of Jane, for once. But he does not, at all, read like that in his own book. Which is a VERY big problem as I said in the beginning of this rant. All the characters have the same vernacular and the same kind of inner dialogue, especially the guys. Except Saxton. He still reads as original and the same, thank god.
But its as if Ward has given up on really exploring characters and their development, which is a shame. Because she's good at it when she wants to be. Now most of her writing is melodramatic and sappy and reads like recipe, and I can't contain my eyeroll's.
I love this universe and I love Ward's characters, blablabla yadayadayada.
But this series feels like reading the same male and female character over and over again.
Peyton's family situation is the same as so many others, boring. Drugs, booze, women, asshole of a father, blablabla. Novo's reaction to hearing of Peyton's mating and their reconciliation is almost the exact same as Elise/Axe from ONE book ago. Like, are you serious?
My biggest gripe however is with Saxton and Ruhn. I LOVE Saxton, and I actually like Ruhn and him together. However, why does Ward make a big deal of Ruhn feeling out of place, awkward, afraid of being thrown out of the house if he as much as breathes wrong, and then not resolve it? Why does nobody notice, other than Saxton, in passing, a few times? Why doesn't Sax ask him? Why not make it a part of them getting to know each other? Ruhn has already got impeccable manners, why not teach him about when to use which fork so the guy can feel comfortable at the table? Why is no one asking him what he would like to do for a living and then help the guy? With his art fx instead of fixating on being a 'handymale'? And teach him to read! These things drives me NUTS. Why couldn't Ruhn have been learning these things during the book or even having begun before we're told the love story?
Also, Saxton was the one breaking it off with Blay and Ward makes it sound like it was the other way around, which is annoying as fuck. I really would have preferred for Saxton/Ruhn to have marinated a bit more before their story was told. It wouldn't seem as rushed. Also they shouldn't share a book, they needed a whole one.
I'm glad we saw Luhcas again. And I'm glad Qhuinn was kept to a minimum as I feel like he was ruined in The Chosen, which is not his fault, but still.
Wrath reads like a caricature of himself. And he is so fucking rude and full of shit all the time, these last few books especially.
I liked that Manny took a front seat instead of Jane, for once. But he does not, at all, read like that in his own book. Which is a VERY big problem as I said in the beginning of this rant. All the characters have the same vernacular and the same kind of inner dialogue, especially the guys. Except Saxton. He still reads as original and the same, thank god.
But its as if Ward has given up on really exploring characters and their development, which is a shame. Because she's good at it when she wants to be. Now most of her writing is melodramatic and sappy and reads like recipe, and I can't contain my eyeroll's.
Read
February 18, 2018Initial impressions:
Maybe 3.5 stars?
A bland HEA for Saxton - but he did get to wield a dagger and work through his feelings for Blay. I've been waiting for Saxton's story for so long. We really didn't learn a lot about him here. As much as Ruhn, having grown up lower class, doesn't really understand same sex relationships, he falls into his relationship with Saxton very easily. I liked Ruhn's back story and it made for a nice opposites attract pairing, but the whole storyline felt rushed and predictable. In fact both storylines rely on near death scenarios to jumpstart actions - something that's getting really old now.
I ended up liking Peyton. We knew from the start he was more than his rich, party-boy image. His storyline parallels Saxton's a bit as both have daddy issues. Peyton's father is awful and there is a storyline there that was left hanging.
More watered down trainees (Novo gets the same treatment Axe did in Blood Vow). Novo is a bad ass, has been since day one, but of course she has a deep dark secret. She also has no back bone when it comes to her awful sister and mother. I really didn't get why she allowed the sister to steamroll her.
Peyton and Novo together? They would make good BFFs or even, if they get their act together, good partners in the field. As far as their romance - not feeling it. Overall, the couples lack chemistry in this spin-off series and I'm not sure why.
Predictable, low on action, crappy editing, seems to be par for the course with the series. But hey, thanks to the two main men being part of the glymera we were spared a lot of the ridiculous bro talk that peppers most of the BDB stories so #props though there still were enough bad pop culture references.
Cameos from Manny, Luchas and Assail's screams. Bitty, Rhage and Mary are there too, and of course Wrath, but the book kept a tight focus on the two main storylines.
Only one more storyline in this world now that will have me coming back for more and that's Lassiter. I know Ward is intending to cross-over characters from her other series (which I don't read) and I have feeling that would be the final death knell for me as the BDB world already has so many branches and characters who are mentioned as important and never seen again (Muhrder anyone?)
Full review to come... maybe.
*****
I'm only in it for Saxton's story. Please don't let it suck.
Maybe 3.5 stars?
A bland HEA for Saxton - but he did get to wield a dagger and work through his feelings for Blay. I've been waiting for Saxton's story for so long. We really didn't learn a lot about him here. As much as Ruhn, having grown up lower class, doesn't really understand same sex relationships, he falls into his relationship with Saxton very easily. I liked Ruhn's back story and it made for a nice opposites attract pairing, but the whole storyline felt rushed and predictable. In fact both storylines rely on near death scenarios to jumpstart actions - something that's getting really old now.
I ended up liking Peyton. We knew from the start he was more than his rich, party-boy image. His storyline parallels Saxton's a bit as both have daddy issues. Peyton's father is awful and there is a storyline there that was left hanging.
More watered down trainees (Novo gets the same treatment Axe did in Blood Vow). Novo is a bad ass, has been since day one, but of course she has a deep dark secret. She also has no back bone when it comes to her awful sister and mother. I really didn't get why she allowed the sister to steamroll her.
Peyton and Novo together? They would make good BFFs or even, if they get their act together, good partners in the field. As far as their romance - not feeling it. Overall, the couples lack chemistry in this spin-off series and I'm not sure why.
Predictable, low on action, crappy editing, seems to be par for the course with the series. But hey, thanks to the two main men being part of the glymera we were spared a lot of the ridiculous bro talk that peppers most of the BDB stories so #props though there still were enough bad pop culture references.
Cameos from Manny, Luchas and Assail's screams. Bitty, Rhage and Mary are there too, and of course Wrath, but the book kept a tight focus on the two main storylines.
Only one more storyline in this world now that will have me coming back for more and that's Lassiter. I know Ward is intending to cross-over characters from her other series (which I don't read) and I have feeling that would be the final death knell for me as the BDB world already has so many branches and characters who are mentioned as important and never seen again (Muhrder anyone?)
Full review to come... maybe.
*****
I'm only in it for Saxton's story. Please don't let it suck.
May 11, 2021
3.5 stars
Since this book is split between 2 couples, who are both new to this series and not a revisit/continuation storyline from the BDB books, I’m going to rate it and review it as such.
Peyton & Novo: 2.75 Stars
These two didn't work for me. They were ok. Not bad. But just...ok. I struggled to see romantic chemistry between them. Rivals? Sure. Sparring partners with snarky comebacks? You bet. But Omg I want you so much, where have you been all my life?......Meeeh. Eh. I kept waiting to see it and feel it and I didn’t.
I went into this with an open mind and zero expectations for this couple because I didn’t have any particular feelings for them one way or the other. I was hoping they would drag me in and make me fall for them like the previous 2 couples. But unfortunately that wasn’t the case here. The main issue for me was I felt nothing was done to show me why these 2 belonged together. No new path was turned, no new insight was given, no new layer was shown or explored. Together as a couple and apart as individual characters. For Novo in particular. I didn't find her very layered. She's still a blank canvas to me. She's a replica of Xhex in my eyes, except the emotional depth and weight wasn't there. What makes her different? Why makes her unique outside of her personal tragedy? I felt her whole persona was built around the burden she carried around like a shroud and nothing else was given or explored. Yeah she's a badass. Awesome! But what makes her vulnerable? Outside of her past trauma. What makes her tick? Besides enjoying rough sex and loving to fight. See where I'm going here?
I felt the author relied too heavily on Novo's past trauma to explain everything away and fill in the blanks with this character. It didn't. A past history does not make up nor equal the entirety of a character's makeup IMO. There is a distinct difference between the two. That's why I was hoping to learn more about her and see what lies underneath all that sarcasm and impenetrable exterior. But everything was shallow beats. It’s the same schtick we get with her in the last 2 books. I still know nothing new about Novo besides her not liking emotional stuff and enjoying fighting. That's it. I don’t want to say she was two-dimensional but uh....it was close enough in some areas. And it was distracting. I mean we don’t even get to see where she lives until freaking Chapter 30. That sure as hell was strange to me. Yes, there are extenuating circumstances to why that happens so late but it still felt incredibly off. I felt like I was visiting a stranger's house. That's not a great feeling when you are well passed the halfway mark. Just saying.
I felt this character and the pairing were sitting ducks through the majority of the book where nothing happens besides one incident out in the field and they either bicker and argue or have rough awkward sex. Since the heroine stubbornly insists on keeping up the emotional roadblocks this leads to a hurried deluge of poured out emotions in the very end. Which is part of the reason why I wasn't buying the endless ILY's near the end. No matter how many times it was said. Which by the way, is such a pet peeve of mine. Why do authors do this? I really wish Ward would ease up on that. The last few chapters in her books now read more like fanfic where everyone is shitting rainbows and unicorns in expressing their endless love. Like let me say "I love you so much" 10 more times in case you missed itand don't believe me the first 3 times. It's gotta stop. Please.
The humor was definitely there though. The writing was fine. I just feel this was more a personal case of “It’s not them, it’s me”. I don't know, everything about them felt very forced and cliched for me. Even the dialogue felt very deja vu. I kept fighting the urge to skim their scenes. And it really sucks when you still feel that way 70% in. 😐
Saxton & Ruhn: 4 Stars
Now THIS. This was much better. I honestly wish these 2 got their own solo book (in a perfect world) or longer scenes that were uninterrupted. This is how you give a fan fave character a long-awaited payoff. Was it perfect? No. Could they have gotten more sexy time & development on the page? Hell-to-the-yes. But did I enjoy them?
Since the Legacy books are shorter in length, we don't get as much page time or slow build up. So some things were rushed or skipped over to fit within the shorter page count. I was expecting that. I would have definitely liked more sex scenes or at least one long one. And Ruhn never having a relationship with a man before seemed to not phase him at all which I personally felt was pushing it. He seemed a little too comfortable and open about his attraction to Saxton a little quickly which was a little hard to swallow considering how he was raised in rural South with conservative civilian parents. But given what a gentle, kind, compassionate sweetheart he is I gave this a pass.
Ruhn's backstory is truly heartbreaking and it really once again highlighted how awful the Vampire race can be when it comes to vices and cruelty. And it's anther strength to the world Ward created. I felt this arc would have been more amazing to see play out in the BDB books and unfold slowly. But that's me being picky. Ruhn is so wonderful and exactly what Sax deserved. I loved this character so much that he got his own bookshelf named after him. "Gentle giant" indeed. 😊❤️ I loved the contradictions of this character. How big and strong he is in physical build but how quiet, shy and hesitant he is about himself and how to express himself. I found that so endearing and fucking adorable. I melted right along with Saxton. I loved the dynamic between these two, the vulnerability on both sides for different reasons. The reaching out and giving and taking. Their dinner dates were so cute. Like I said, I could read a whole book about them and then some. I truly hope this isn't the last we see of these two. I gobbled up all their scenes and found myself wishing for more.
Overall, not bad. Not amazing like I wanted it to be but it was decent. I still think this series is more successful where the recent BDB books are now floundering. This spin-off series is more focused, tighter, cleaner and not drowning in 10 different POVs. And the fact that this focused strictly on 2 couples and balanced fairly? Nice. I just wish Ward would stop playing it safe with the love scenes. I really hope she continues the Legacy series after the next book. I think it would be a totally missed opportunity to end it so soon IMO. And this a totally random side note, but I really love the character names. I mean, Axewell? Novillina? It’s one of the reasons why this world is so addictive. I’ve always found just the character names so different, unique and sexy for PR characters. Very original. Even the secondary characters have cool names that always give me pause. Anyways....I’m honestly curious what Ward has in store for the remaining trainee, Boone. He’s a walking enigma at this point. Like literally. I have my theory on who he may get paired up with and if that's the case, I'm very intrigued. I liked what little I learned about this new character. Just please, no more Bodyguard tropes? Please. 🙏
ETA: *sigh* I'm really upset and not happy that this series is being discontinued. 😔 If it's "too expensive" for readers how about fighting to get it printed in paperback instead? You know, how it was originally supposed to be and how it was initially marketed? And this author definitely has that kind of pull and she knows it. A small spin-off series does not need to be hardcover. Hardcovers are expensive, therefore readers can't/won't spend that kind of money. It's that simple. If it's a timing issue then just say that. Not some lame ass "this series is too expensive for readers" excuse. As if cost was ever an issue with your other hardcover series, Ward? #ImJustSaying
Since this book is split between 2 couples, who are both new to this series and not a revisit/continuation storyline from the BDB books, I’m going to rate it and review it as such.
Peyton & Novo: 2.75 Stars
These two didn't work for me. They were ok. Not bad. But just...ok. I struggled to see romantic chemistry between them. Rivals? Sure. Sparring partners with snarky comebacks? You bet. But Omg I want you so much, where have you been all my life?......Meeeh. Eh. I kept waiting to see it and feel it and I didn’t.
I went into this with an open mind and zero expectations for this couple because I didn’t have any particular feelings for them one way or the other. I was hoping they would drag me in and make me fall for them like the previous 2 couples. But unfortunately that wasn’t the case here. The main issue for me was I felt nothing was done to show me why these 2 belonged together. No new path was turned, no new insight was given, no new layer was shown or explored. Together as a couple and apart as individual characters. For Novo in particular. I didn't find her very layered. She's still a blank canvas to me. She's a replica of Xhex in my eyes, except the emotional depth and weight wasn't there. What makes her different? Why makes her unique outside of her personal tragedy? I felt her whole persona was built around the burden she carried around like a shroud and nothing else was given or explored. Yeah she's a badass. Awesome! But what makes her vulnerable? Outside of her past trauma. What makes her tick? Besides enjoying rough sex and loving to fight. See where I'm going here?
I felt the author relied too heavily on Novo's past trauma to explain everything away and fill in the blanks with this character. It didn't. A past history does not make up nor equal the entirety of a character's makeup IMO. There is a distinct difference between the two. That's why I was hoping to learn more about her and see what lies underneath all that sarcasm and impenetrable exterior. But everything was shallow beats. It’s the same schtick we get with her in the last 2 books. I still know nothing new about Novo besides her not liking emotional stuff and enjoying fighting. That's it. I don’t want to say she was two-dimensional but uh....it was close enough in some areas. And it was distracting. I mean we don’t even get to see where she lives until freaking Chapter 30. That sure as hell was strange to me. Yes, there are extenuating circumstances to why that happens so late but it still felt incredibly off. I felt like I was visiting a stranger's house. That's not a great feeling when you are well passed the halfway mark. Just saying.
I felt this character and the pairing were sitting ducks through the majority of the book where nothing happens besides one incident out in the field and they either bicker and argue or have rough awkward sex. Since the heroine stubbornly insists on keeping up the emotional roadblocks this leads to a hurried deluge of poured out emotions in the very end. Which is part of the reason why I wasn't buying the endless ILY's near the end. No matter how many times it was said. Which by the way, is such a pet peeve of mine. Why do authors do this? I really wish Ward would ease up on that. The last few chapters in her books now read more like fanfic where everyone is shitting rainbows and unicorns in expressing their endless love. Like let me say "I love you so much" 10 more times in case you missed it
The humor was definitely there though. The writing was fine. I just feel this was more a personal case of “It’s not them, it’s me”. I don't know, everything about them felt very forced and cliched for me. Even the dialogue felt very deja vu. I kept fighting the urge to skim their scenes. And it really sucks when you still feel that way 70% in. 😐
Saxton & Ruhn: 4 Stars
Now THIS. This was much better. I honestly wish these 2 got their own solo book (in a perfect world) or longer scenes that were uninterrupted. This is how you give a fan fave character a long-awaited payoff. Was it perfect? No. Could they have gotten more sexy time & development on the page? Hell-to-the-yes. But did I enjoy them?
Since the Legacy books are shorter in length, we don't get as much page time or slow build up. So some things were rushed or skipped over to fit within the shorter page count. I was expecting that. I would have definitely liked more sex scenes or at least one long one. And Ruhn never having a relationship with a man before seemed to not phase him at all which I personally felt was pushing it. He seemed a little too comfortable and open about his attraction to Saxton a little quickly which was a little hard to swallow considering how he was raised in rural South with conservative civilian parents. But given what a gentle, kind, compassionate sweetheart he is I gave this a pass.
Ruhn's backstory is truly heartbreaking and it really once again highlighted how awful the Vampire race can be when it comes to vices and cruelty. And it's anther strength to the world Ward created. I felt this arc would have been more amazing to see play out in the BDB books and unfold slowly. But that's me being picky. Ruhn is so wonderful and exactly what Sax deserved. I loved this character so much that he got his own bookshelf named after him. "Gentle giant" indeed. 😊❤️ I loved the contradictions of this character. How big and strong he is in physical build but how quiet, shy and hesitant he is about himself and how to express himself. I found that so endearing and fucking adorable. I melted right along with Saxton. I loved the dynamic between these two, the vulnerability on both sides for different reasons. The reaching out and giving and taking. Their dinner dates were so cute. Like I said, I could read a whole book about them and then some. I truly hope this isn't the last we see of these two. I gobbled up all their scenes and found myself wishing for more.
Overall, not bad. Not amazing like I wanted it to be but it was decent. I still think this series is more successful where the recent BDB books are now floundering. This spin-off series is more focused, tighter, cleaner and not drowning in 10 different POVs. And the fact that this focused strictly on 2 couples and balanced fairly? Nice. I just wish Ward would stop playing it safe with the love scenes. I really hope she continues the Legacy series after the next book. I think it would be a totally missed opportunity to end it so soon IMO. And this a totally random side note, but I really love the character names. I mean, Axewell? Novillina? It’s one of the reasons why this world is so addictive. I’ve always found just the character names so different, unique and sexy for PR characters. Very original. Even the secondary characters have cool names that always give me pause. Anyways....I’m honestly curious what Ward has in store for the remaining trainee, Boone. He’s a walking enigma at this point. Like literally. I have my theory on who he may get paired up with and if that's the case, I'm very intrigued. I liked what little I learned about this new character. Just please, no more Bodyguard tropes? Please. 🙏
ETA: *sigh* I'm really upset and not happy that this series is being discontinued. 😔 If it's "too expensive" for readers how about fighting to get it printed in paperback instead? You know, how it was originally supposed to be and how it was initially marketed? And this author definitely has that kind of pull and she knows it. A small spin-off series does not need to be hardcover. Hardcovers are expensive, therefore readers can't/won't spend that kind of money. It's that simple. If it's a timing issue then just say that. Not some lame ass "this series is too expensive for readers" excuse. As if cost was ever an issue with your other hardcover series, Ward? #ImJustSaying
January 26, 2018
As always, J. R. Ward has presented us with an another amazing book!
I've no gripes at all but sometimes I just wonder why we have this additional series when some of the side stories are our original characters from the BDB books.... I get the younger generation being that 'The Legacy' is carrying on.... but still... On the absolute plus point, it's yet another release of an amazing world, so as I said, no gripes!
Blood Fury is a rollercoaster of emotions, fun, fury, mystery, love, nail biting and so much more and it's what I love about Ms Ward's writing, she brings the lot to the table.
I loved Saxton right from the original series, the 'gentle-male' is such a beautiful soul and his story within Blood Fury is full of everything I would have expected.... and more...
Peyton and Novo's story is equally as enticing as the rest, their characters are strong, stubborn and such a wonderful 'read'.
Blood Fury for me, is part of a world that I never tire of, it's a world that I wait for in anticipation, it's a world that I lose myself in each and every time and at the end of the book? I always want more.... Bring on Dearest Ivie and The Thief!
I've no gripes at all but sometimes I just wonder why we have this additional series when some of the side stories are our original characters from the BDB books.... I get the younger generation being that 'The Legacy' is carrying on.... but still... On the absolute plus point, it's yet another release of an amazing world, so as I said, no gripes!
Blood Fury is a rollercoaster of emotions, fun, fury, mystery, love, nail biting and so much more and it's what I love about Ms Ward's writing, she brings the lot to the table.
I loved Saxton right from the original series, the 'gentle-male' is such a beautiful soul and his story within Blood Fury is full of everything I would have expected.... and more...
Peyton and Novo's story is equally as enticing as the rest, their characters are strong, stubborn and such a wonderful 'read'.
Blood Fury for me, is part of a world that I never tire of, it's a world that I wait for in anticipation, it's a world that I lose myself in each and every time and at the end of the book? I always want more.... Bring on Dearest Ivie and The Thief!
January 12, 2018
4 1/2 "Forever and Always" Stars!
Loved!! Two complete love stories in one book! Ms. Ward always had a lot going on her her books. Several threads that continues through several books. But in this book's case, there was just the two stories- Peyton/ Novo and Saxton/Ruhn. I absolutely loved both! There was just the tiniest hint at what is to come- THE THIEF. There wasn't a whole lot of action, which was fine with me. I hate the parts in this series with the Lessers. But there was a lot of getting to know you sweet and sometimes intense romance.
I was happily surprised by how much I liked both Payton and Novo. I didn't particularly like either of them in the previous books. I completely fell in love with Ruhn, and I am so happy for Saxton! This was a very satisfying read that made me happy! Can't wait for what's next. Happy reading!
Loved!! Two complete love stories in one book! Ms. Ward always had a lot going on her her books. Several threads that continues through several books. But in this book's case, there was just the two stories- Peyton/ Novo and Saxton/Ruhn. I absolutely loved both! There was just the tiniest hint at what is to come- THE THIEF. There wasn't a whole lot of action, which was fine with me. I hate the parts in this series with the Lessers. But there was a lot of getting to know you sweet and sometimes intense romance.
I was happily surprised by how much I liked both Payton and Novo. I didn't particularly like either of them in the previous books. I completely fell in love with Ruhn, and I am so happy for Saxton! This was a very satisfying read that made me happy! Can't wait for what's next. Happy reading!
April 12, 2018
I wish people would stop reviewing books that they haven't read yet!
Goodreads should delete this feature. What's the point of posting reviews about a book that will be published months from now? Oh,yes. Lip service resulting in sales.
There are group discussions for the people who want to share their thoughts and hopes and speculations.
o4/12/2018 Amendment:
After having read Blood Furry, I can say that it's great for what it is, a BDB spin-off. By far the best of the three Legacy books.
The characters developed, grew within reason and proportion. The perspective given made sense and overall it was a good read.
Goodreads should delete this feature. What's the point of posting reviews about a book that will be published months from now? Oh,yes. Lip service resulting in sales.
There are group discussions for the people who want to share their thoughts and hopes and speculations.
o4/12/2018 Amendment:
After having read Blood Furry, I can say that it's great for what it is, a BDB spin-off. By far the best of the three Legacy books.
The characters developed, grew within reason and proportion. The perspective given made sense and overall it was a good read.
November 6, 2020
4 Fighting For Love Stars!!
Novo is a commoner and one of two female trainees in the program, she’s working hard to prove herself worthy to fight with her peers and Brotherhood. Peyton is an aristocrat and trying to escape his father’s expectations as well as his unrequited love for Paradise (Blood Kiss). Novo and Peyton find themselves grudgingly attracted to one another, neither wants anything to do with romance especially with each other. I have to say when the inevitable happens it’s fun to watch them deny, fight, and finally accept that they belong together regardless of their differences. Novo has baggage and past hurts that makes her keep Peyton at arms length, but, eventually she learns that Payton is not all fluff and has actual feelings, feelings for her that she no longer has the desire to deny. It’s a lumpy bumpy road but they eventually get there!
Saxton, the Kings solicitor and Blay’s ex lover, and Ruhn, blooded Uncle to Bitty both have deep seeded issues. Saxton is attracted to Ruhn from the beginning but he’s already been hurt and isn’t ready to put himself out there again. Ruhn has a dark past and has never been with a male, and he’s confused by the feelings he’s having for Saxton....he’s very shy and doesn’t know how to deal with his emotions towards Saxton. Surprisingly he just puts it out there that he’s attracted to him, and Saxton takes it from there...I have to say I’m not a fan of M/M romance, but, I loved Saxton and Ruhn’s story.....I’ve always liked Saxton and felt for him when he (rightly so) ended things with Blay. We see a much different side to Saxton when he becomes a true bonded male and his mate is hurt...all I can say is WOW!
Novo is a commoner and one of two female trainees in the program, she’s working hard to prove herself worthy to fight with her peers and Brotherhood. Peyton is an aristocrat and trying to escape his father’s expectations as well as his unrequited love for Paradise (Blood Kiss). Novo and Peyton find themselves grudgingly attracted to one another, neither wants anything to do with romance especially with each other. I have to say when the inevitable happens it’s fun to watch them deny, fight, and finally accept that they belong together regardless of their differences. Novo has baggage and past hurts that makes her keep Peyton at arms length, but, eventually she learns that Payton is not all fluff and has actual feelings, feelings for her that she no longer has the desire to deny. It’s a lumpy bumpy road but they eventually get there!
“You can trust me, Novo. I’m not going to hurt you. I promise.”
Saxton, the Kings solicitor and Blay’s ex lover, and Ruhn, blooded Uncle to Bitty both have deep seeded issues. Saxton is attracted to Ruhn from the beginning but he’s already been hurt and isn’t ready to put himself out there again. Ruhn has a dark past and has never been with a male, and he’s confused by the feelings he’s having for Saxton....he’s very shy and doesn’t know how to deal with his emotions towards Saxton. Surprisingly he just puts it out there that he’s attracted to him, and Saxton takes it from there...I have to say I’m not a fan of M/M romance, but, I loved Saxton and Ruhn’s story.....I’ve always liked Saxton and felt for him when he (rightly so) ended things with Blay. We see a much different side to Saxton when he becomes a true bonded male and his mate is hurt...all I can say is WOW!
“What is this, Ruhn thought…especially as sexual arousal curled around his hips, sure as if hands were touching him— Saxton looked over without warning and stopped as he saw that he was in the regard of another.”
January 9, 2018
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Oh what a happy day when I get to crack open a J.R. Ward book and get lost in the world she's created. Honestly, it's a magical experience. So as you can imagine I was more than excited to start reading BLOOD FURY but at the same time, I was a bit scared because the previous Ward book (BDB not BDL) left a little sour taste in my mouth.
While I can't say that BLOOD FURY addresses any of my reservations about what happened in THE CHOSEN, it delivered a solid page-turning story that I couldn't help but be consumed by. I picked this up one morning around Christmas time and I barely wanted to move and go be social with the family. I had to read every chance I got and even when I didn't really have a chance. I gobbled this up, all starry eyed and in love.
First up we get the HEA for Novo and Peyton and this is one I've been anticipating from the very beginning of this series because they are SUCH opposites. I was dying to see them clash together and it just seemed like it would make for some sizzling chemistry. And boy, did it ever?! The development of their relationship was perfectly paced for my liking and it also felt very much in character for both of them. The great part being that they are both dealing with some immediate personal struggles and it was those struggles that I think facilitated how they came together.
Novo is the tough chick of the group, I love that about her. I was really happy that we got to see a completely different side of her in this book. She was a tender, young girl and the past slapped her around pretty bad. My heart immediately thawed to her and I really admired her strength even more than before. It gave meaning to how she conducts herself now and it made it all that sweeter when she let Peyton in.
And then of course there's Peyton. I adore him. Seriously. Maybe he may not be the most popular guy for fans of this series but ohhhh how I love him. He's done the best he can with the hand life dealt him. And he's made plenty of mistakes. But the fact he sees that and wants to make changes, that he takes criticism from his actions and turns things around... well again... it made me admire him too.
I may even go as far as saying that Novo and Peyton are my favorite couple of the Legacy series so far!
This book also has a secondary HEA. Finally, Saxton gets his man. And no, I don't mean Blay, lets not get crazy here. But Saxton finds happiness and I was beyond excited that this was happening. But I was also scared that it wouldn't be good enough for him. It would feel like a settling HEA. Rest assured, there's no settling here! Saxton and Ruhn are so perfect together! I mean, I won't go into much detail about Saxton because I've been a fan for a while so lets focus on the unexpected for me here, Ruhn.
Ruhn really stands out as the best and most unexpected part of this book. He was the one I had no clue what we were really going to get. And no clue how he was going to act around Saxton. I fell in love with him from the very first time we get his POV. There's a tenderness and innocence about him that you can't help but be drawn in by. At the same time, there's so many layers to him that you get to slowly peel back and uncover. The things that shaped him and made him who he is. The small things that he finds joy in. Gahhhh. Where the Brothers are always larger than life, Ruhn is that sweet real life man that's perfectly broken. I wasn't expecting him but he was a highlight for me.
BLOOD FURY was a perfect addition to the Legacy series and another fun, all-consuming ride through the Black Dagger Brotherhood world. I couldn't have wished for better.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
January 10, 2018
"I just have so much FURY in my BLOOD" So Tru Ward... So TRU!!!!!!!
Whats that saying about expectations lead to disappointment?????????
Is that the correct saying????
OK. So 2 fold.
I enjoyed Peyton and Novo's story.....
Peyton made me laugh, Novo made me sad, she reminded me of Xhex just a softer version. Not so hardcore.
And of course I had a theme song for them and in true Ward fashion (kinda) its hip hop you don't stop......
Saxton and Ruhn... yah no.
So happy parts were I got some Qhuinn and Blay time and they seems happy considering I DNF'd the Chosen cause I could not stand the way Ward displayed Qhuinn...
Qhuinn will always be my true love but now I just want Assail's book.
Which will disappoint me because....Sola..... bore.
Mare~Slitsread
SAXTON?!?!?!?!?!?!?!??!
DONT FUCK THIS UP WARD
Whats that saying about expectations lead to disappointment?????????
Is that the correct saying????
OK. So 2 fold.
I enjoyed Peyton and Novo's story.....
Peyton made me laugh, Novo made me sad, she reminded me of Xhex just a softer version. Not so hardcore.
And of course I had a theme song for them and in true Ward fashion (kinda) its hip hop you don't stop......
That's true, that's right
She's sipping Moet, and yeah I swear it gets her wetter
My Louboutins new, so my bottoms, they is redder
No I'm not a rat but I'm all about my cheddar
Just talked to your homie she said we should be together
Gave me brain, was so insane that I made her my header
If she ever call my phone you know I gotta dead her
But I like that girl too much, I wish I never met her
Hello I was listening to this song
It goes like
I know it hurts sometimes but you'll get over it
You'll find another life to live
I swear that you'll get over it
I know you're sad and tired
You've got nothing left to give
You'll find another life to live
I know that you'll get over it
Saxton and Ruhn... yah no.
So happy parts were I got some Qhuinn and Blay time and they seems happy considering I DNF'd the Chosen cause I could not stand the way Ward displayed Qhuinn...
Qhuinn will always be my true love but now I just want Assail's book.
Which will disappoint me because....Sola..... bore.
Mare~Slitsread
SAXTON?!?!?!?!?!?!?!??!
DONT FUCK THIS UP WARD
January 13, 2018
Blood Fury had not one, but two romances I thoroughly enjoyed. Novo and Peyton may throw verbal barbs at each other, but there’s an undercurrent of attraction brewing between them. Novo, however, writes Peyton off as a rich, shallow playboy, normal for the aristocratic glymera. Also, it seems Peyton does nothing but moon over Paradise, another member in their training team. It doesn’t matter Paradise is bonded to another male, Novo wants nothing to do with a male who just wants to get his rocks off while in love with someone else. She’s been hurt in the past and will not allow anyone close enough to damage her heart again. Yet, when Novo is injured Peyton is the one who stays by her side and for some reason she allows it, wants his presence even.
Petyon realizes whatever he felt for Paradise pales in comparison to his feeling for Novo when she’s injured. He also realizes he needs to play things just right with her as he senses her need to keep others at a distance. I loved that he took this all into consideration while being there for her exactly when she needed him. Their romance was hot and touching, and I loved every minute!
We met Ruhn in the last book; Bitty’s uncle come to reunite with her as the only family she has left, but he’s been struggling to fit into life at the mansion. Even though the Brothers and family have been nothing but welcoming, he can’t help but feel less in their presence due to his past, which come to find out is completely heartbreaking. Also, he has no job and doesn’t feel right just taking the Brother’s generosity.
Saxton, Wrath’s chief advisor and attorney has been hurting ever since Blay chose another over him. His emotions feel bleak and directionless and he’s thinking of getting out of Caldwell and away from the constant reminders of Blay. However, a situation pairs Ruhn and Saxton together, and his heart is once again awakened.
I loved Ruhn! He’s so big and intimidating to look at, but all mushy heart and feelings underneath! Saxton and Ruhn were at first tentative and unsure about each other’s feelings and it was cute seeing them fall for each other. The romance was sweet, and I’m thrilled these two connected.
I’m really loving the new generation of Black Dagger stories! J.R. Ward’s storytelling is captivating, and hot without adding a bunch of unnecessary angst. Just what I needed after reading two underwhelming stories, and it really made Ms. Ward’s talent stand out in contrast.
A copy was kindly provided by Ballantine Books in exchange for an honest review.
Petyon realizes whatever he felt for Paradise pales in comparison to his feeling for Novo when she’s injured. He also realizes he needs to play things just right with her as he senses her need to keep others at a distance. I loved that he took this all into consideration while being there for her exactly when she needed him. Their romance was hot and touching, and I loved every minute!
We met Ruhn in the last book; Bitty’s uncle come to reunite with her as the only family she has left, but he’s been struggling to fit into life at the mansion. Even though the Brothers and family have been nothing but welcoming, he can’t help but feel less in their presence due to his past, which come to find out is completely heartbreaking. Also, he has no job and doesn’t feel right just taking the Brother’s generosity.
Saxton, Wrath’s chief advisor and attorney has been hurting ever since Blay chose another over him. His emotions feel bleak and directionless and he’s thinking of getting out of Caldwell and away from the constant reminders of Blay. However, a situation pairs Ruhn and Saxton together, and his heart is once again awakened.
I loved Ruhn! He’s so big and intimidating to look at, but all mushy heart and feelings underneath! Saxton and Ruhn were at first tentative and unsure about each other’s feelings and it was cute seeing them fall for each other. The romance was sweet, and I’m thrilled these two connected.
I’m really loving the new generation of Black Dagger stories! J.R. Ward’s storytelling is captivating, and hot without adding a bunch of unnecessary angst. Just what I needed after reading two underwhelming stories, and it really made Ms. Ward’s talent stand out in contrast.
A copy was kindly provided by Ballantine Books in exchange for an honest review.
May 9, 2018
4 Estrellitas. Este libro me ha gustado mucho, pero no me ha encantado, baste decir que le tenía muchas ganas, y quizás por ser tan dispar la pareja protagonista contribuyó a crearme una idea de que podía ser más de lo que pensaba. A ver, Peyton y Novo me han gustado mucho, pero su historia me ha sabido a poco ¿Será un error que las historias de los Legacy sean más cortas que las de los Hermanos? Porque siento que me ha faltado algo más.
Volvamos al libro. Peyton y Novo. Ambos conocidos desde que Ward nos los presentó en “Blood Kiss”. Peyton era el típico chico aristocrático que tenía una vida fácil, era guapo y podía darse la vida padre a base de juerga y drogas, pero en Peyton hay algo más profundo de lo que deja ver su fachada de disipación hedonista; ha estado mucho tiempo enamorado de Paradise, y este sentimiento no correspondido lo ha estado destrozando. Por Paradise entró en el programa de entrenamiento de la Hermandad de la Daga Negra, aún cuando nadie pensaba que sería uno de los reclutas en acabar la prueba inicial.
En cuanto a Novo, tenemos en ella al gran misterio del libro, pues poco sabíamos de ella, su vida pasada y de donde venía. Su pasado me ha sorprendido bastante, la verdad porque no lo esperaba, y también porque me ha recordado al argumento de más de un libro de romántica que he leído. Novo es una vampira de clase inferior a la que pertenece Peyton, y sólo por eso no es digna del beneplácito de estar con él. La historia que oculta Novo es dura y triste, y está llena de rencor y remordimientos, y la verdad que conociéndola, entiendes perfectamente el por qué Novo es como es.
Desde los primeros libros de la serie, hemos visto a Peyton y Novo lanzándose pullas, y quizás fue eso lo que convenció de que ésta pareja tendría futuro libro. Bueno, pues el inicio de su relación no fue algo bonito, ni limpio ni romántico; pero cuando Peyton comete un error que puede ser fatal, se dará cuenta de muchas cosas, entre ellas replantearse su vida, tan manipulada por su padre, el amor que siente hacia otra mujer, y la que tiene delante, por la que está empezando a sentir más de lo que parecía. Y así poco a poco irá comenzando uno de esos romances tan bonitos que esta autora sabe crear.
Me gustaría contar mucho más sobre Peyton y Novo, pero creo que conocerles merece la pena, y prefiero no spoilear para no soltar alguna sorpresa a aquellas personas que quieren leerlo. Por desgracia ahora es cuando llego a la historia de la pareja secundaria de este libro, y aunque el nombre de uno de sus protagonistas nos es sabido por todos, sí, es Saxton, el nombre de su pareja me parece un gran spoiler si no has leído “Blood vow” o “The Chosen”, pero no concibo la crítica si no hablo de él, pues es el nuevo chico de la Hermandad, Ruhn.
Aunque el romance de Saxton y Ruhn me ha gustado más de lo que pensaba, debo ser sincera, no soy fan del romance homoerótico, eso no quiere decir que no me guste la idea en sí, si no que prefiero leer historias románticas de chico-chica. Pero también opino que debo ser sincera; desde que Saxton apareció en la Hermandad, algo me decía que no era trigo limpio, quizás mi subconsciente pensaba que sería malo y traicionaría a la Hermandad, pero Ward no ha hecho si no contrariar lo que pensaba. Llevamos viendo a Saxton sufrir libro tras libro cuando Blay lo dejó por Qhuinn, y este hecho lo afectó más de lo que parecía. Así que ¿merecía Saxton tener su felices para siempre? Según Ward sí.
Y ahora vamos con la pareja de Saxton, Ruhn. Hace no mucho que conocemos a este personaje, apenas un par de libros, y ¿Quién es Ruhn? Un vampiro civil, común y corriente, no es un guerrero, no pertenece a la Hermandad y no es un aristócrata, como sí lo es Saxton. Ruhn es el tío de Bitty, la pequeña que adoptaron Rhage y Mary, y a quienes cedió en adopción, al poder darles estos a Bitty una vida mejor de la que él podía proporcionarla. Ruhn ha sido aceptado como uno más en la mansión de la Hermandad, pero él no está satisfecho, es un hombre trabajador que se siente como un pez fuera del agua ante la vida que le presentan.
El romance de estos dos hombres empieza algo mejor que el de Peyton y Novo, pero a nivel emotivo lo he disfrutado más, aunque, admito que me ha costado mucho creérmelo, pero no por Saxton, Saxton exuda homosexualidad por todos los poros y te crees su personaje, es Ruhn a quien no he terminado de creer como gay, será por su apariencia ruda o por lo que se nos muestra de él, pero no, no me he creído a Ruhn como un personaje homosexual, de ahí que no sepa si ha sido un acierto. De todas formas he disfrutado bastante su historia, como comienza, y el nexo de unión con la anciana vampira a la que ambos ayudan, creo que ha sido muy bonito.
De modo que tenemos un libro con dos historias, dos romances. Ambos bonitos y correctos. Aunque yo dividiría el libro en dos partes muy marcadas para ambas historias. En la primera mitad los acercamientos de Saxton y Ruhn, y la fría relación que comienza entre Peyton y Novo, y la segunda mitad del libro donde se afianza la relación amorosa de todos los protagonistas, y que sí, ésta es la parte que más me ha gustado.
Así que por suerte, Ward no ha vuelto a decepcionarme, pero sí que esperaba un poco más del romance de Peyton y Novo, creo que la he faltado más profundidad o desarrollo, y al final todo me ha parecido muy rápido y precipitado, para los dos romances. Pero en general ha sido un buen libro que merece la pena leerse si eres fan de la serie; no es su mejor libro, pero lo disfrutas mientras lo lees.
Volvamos al libro. Peyton y Novo. Ambos conocidos desde que Ward nos los presentó en “Blood Kiss”. Peyton era el típico chico aristocrático que tenía una vida fácil, era guapo y podía darse la vida padre a base de juerga y drogas, pero en Peyton hay algo más profundo de lo que deja ver su fachada de disipación hedonista; ha estado mucho tiempo enamorado de Paradise, y este sentimiento no correspondido lo ha estado destrozando. Por Paradise entró en el programa de entrenamiento de la Hermandad de la Daga Negra, aún cuando nadie pensaba que sería uno de los reclutas en acabar la prueba inicial.
En cuanto a Novo, tenemos en ella al gran misterio del libro, pues poco sabíamos de ella, su vida pasada y de donde venía. Su pasado me ha sorprendido bastante, la verdad porque no lo esperaba, y también porque me ha recordado al argumento de más de un libro de romántica que he leído. Novo es una vampira de clase inferior a la que pertenece Peyton, y sólo por eso no es digna del beneplácito de estar con él. La historia que oculta Novo es dura y triste, y está llena de rencor y remordimientos, y la verdad que conociéndola, entiendes perfectamente el por qué Novo es como es.
Desde los primeros libros de la serie, hemos visto a Peyton y Novo lanzándose pullas, y quizás fue eso lo que convenció de que ésta pareja tendría futuro libro. Bueno, pues el inicio de su relación no fue algo bonito, ni limpio ni romántico; pero cuando Peyton comete un error que puede ser fatal, se dará cuenta de muchas cosas, entre ellas replantearse su vida, tan manipulada por su padre, el amor que siente hacia otra mujer, y la que tiene delante, por la que está empezando a sentir más de lo que parecía. Y así poco a poco irá comenzando uno de esos romances tan bonitos que esta autora sabe crear.
Me gustaría contar mucho más sobre Peyton y Novo, pero creo que conocerles merece la pena, y prefiero no spoilear para no soltar alguna sorpresa a aquellas personas que quieren leerlo. Por desgracia ahora es cuando llego a la historia de la pareja secundaria de este libro, y aunque el nombre de uno de sus protagonistas nos es sabido por todos, sí, es Saxton, el nombre de su pareja me parece un gran spoiler si no has leído “Blood vow” o “The Chosen”, pero no concibo la crítica si no hablo de él, pues es el nuevo chico de la Hermandad, Ruhn.
Aunque el romance de Saxton y Ruhn me ha gustado más de lo que pensaba, debo ser sincera, no soy fan del romance homoerótico, eso no quiere decir que no me guste la idea en sí, si no que prefiero leer historias románticas de chico-chica. Pero también opino que debo ser sincera; desde que Saxton apareció en la Hermandad, algo me decía que no era trigo limpio, quizás mi subconsciente pensaba que sería malo y traicionaría a la Hermandad, pero Ward no ha hecho si no contrariar lo que pensaba. Llevamos viendo a Saxton sufrir libro tras libro cuando Blay lo dejó por Qhuinn, y este hecho lo afectó más de lo que parecía. Así que ¿merecía Saxton tener su felices para siempre? Según Ward sí.
Y ahora vamos con la pareja de Saxton, Ruhn. Hace no mucho que conocemos a este personaje, apenas un par de libros, y ¿Quién es Ruhn? Un vampiro civil, común y corriente, no es un guerrero, no pertenece a la Hermandad y no es un aristócrata, como sí lo es Saxton. Ruhn es el tío de Bitty, la pequeña que adoptaron Rhage y Mary, y a quienes cedió en adopción, al poder darles estos a Bitty una vida mejor de la que él podía proporcionarla. Ruhn ha sido aceptado como uno más en la mansión de la Hermandad, pero él no está satisfecho, es un hombre trabajador que se siente como un pez fuera del agua ante la vida que le presentan.
El romance de estos dos hombres empieza algo mejor que el de Peyton y Novo, pero a nivel emotivo lo he disfrutado más, aunque, admito que me ha costado mucho creérmelo, pero no por Saxton, Saxton exuda homosexualidad por todos los poros y te crees su personaje, es Ruhn a quien no he terminado de creer como gay, será por su apariencia ruda o por lo que se nos muestra de él, pero no, no me he creído a Ruhn como un personaje homosexual, de ahí que no sepa si ha sido un acierto. De todas formas he disfrutado bastante su historia, como comienza, y el nexo de unión con la anciana vampira a la que ambos ayudan, creo que ha sido muy bonito.
De modo que tenemos un libro con dos historias, dos romances. Ambos bonitos y correctos. Aunque yo dividiría el libro en dos partes muy marcadas para ambas historias. En la primera mitad los acercamientos de Saxton y Ruhn, y la fría relación que comienza entre Peyton y Novo, y la segunda mitad del libro donde se afianza la relación amorosa de todos los protagonistas, y que sí, ésta es la parte que más me ha gustado.
Así que por suerte, Ward no ha vuelto a decepcionarme, pero sí que esperaba un poco más del romance de Peyton y Novo, creo que la he faltado más profundidad o desarrollo, y al final todo me ha parecido muy rápido y precipitado, para los dos romances. Pero en general ha sido un buen libro que merece la pena leerse si eres fan de la serie; no es su mejor libro, pero lo disfrutas mientras lo lees.
September 9, 2018
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Type: Book 3 of Blood Dagger Legacy
POV: Third Person
Rating:
Peyton son of Peythone had his heart on someone but she was never his to keep. That was until his eyes started to see Novo, his fellow trainee, as what she’s worth. However, she had her own past to deal with before she could open her heart to others.
Saxton was still mending his broken heart when Ruhn walked into his life. But as Ruhn’s life turned completely around, he had hard time accepting the changes including the one within himself.
I was excited to start this one because even though Peyton started the series as an annoying brat, I wanted to see how he would evolve, and of course Saxton needed to find his own happiness too. But I felt like their stories were not special enough.
Both of the stories in this book pretty much mirrored each other and that’s where the issue is. On the surface, the similarities might seem like what connected the stories together. Instead, it just felt repeated, only with different couple.
I like Novo’s past which added the needed heart into the story. But that was about it. What saved the book for me was Ruhn. As a newcomer to the series, his character brought a breath of fresh air especially with his humility and vulnerabilities. However his character evolution was too much too soon, and could use more angst in between.
Blood Fury is a story of unrequited love. I’m not sure if there will be more books in this spinoff series (because the one left has been completely under the radar since book 1), but if there is I hope the author will focus more on the primary couple instead of letting the secondary one overshadow the new characters.
Books in the series:
🌑 🔪 🌑 . . . (F)BR With Loyda . . . 🌑 🔪 🌑
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Type: Book 3 of Blood Dagger Legacy
POV: Third Person
Rating:
Peyton son of Peythone had his heart on someone but she was never his to keep. That was until his eyes started to see Novo, his fellow trainee, as what she’s worth. However, she had her own past to deal with before she could open her heart to others.
Saxton was still mending his broken heart when Ruhn walked into his life. But as Ruhn’s life turned completely around, he had hard time accepting the changes including the one within himself.
I was excited to start this one because even though Peyton started the series as an annoying brat, I wanted to see how he would evolve, and of course Saxton needed to find his own happiness too. But I felt like their stories were not special enough.
Novo was a bonfire he wanted to jump into. Wearing a suit of firecrackers and carrying a gas tank on his back.
Both of the stories in this book pretty much mirrored each other and that’s where the issue is. On the surface, the similarities might seem like what connected the stories together. Instead, it just felt repeated, only with different couple.
I like Novo’s past which added the needed heart into the story. But that was about it. What saved the book for me was Ruhn. As a newcomer to the series, his character brought a breath of fresh air especially with his humility and vulnerabilities. However his character evolution was too much too soon, and could use more angst in between.
In truth, the biggest problem Peyton represented wasn’t a sexual one, but something far more dangerous to her well-being. He got into her heart? He was going to do more damage than that lesser with the dagger had, for sure.
Blood Fury is a story of unrequited love. I’m not sure if there will be more books in this spinoff series (because the one left has been completely under the radar since book 1), but if there is I hope the author will focus more on the primary couple instead of letting the secondary one overshadow the new characters.
Books in the series:
🌑 🔪 🌑 . . . (F)BR With Loyda . . . 🌑 🔪 🌑
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
February 20, 2018
Nuestra reseña en A la cama con... un libro
Pudo haber sido muchísimo mejor de lo que es porque tiene, de lejos, los mejores personajes de la serie. En la reseña os cuento más
Pudo haber sido muchísimo mejor de lo que es porque tiene, de lejos, los mejores personajes de la serie. En la reseña os cuento más
February 4, 2018
I can't believe I'm still reading this series. Book # bazillion and one. Yes, I consider the Legacy books part of the ongoing BDB series.
When I start reading each new release, a coming-home feeling sets in. I know these characters so well that they might as well be my friends and family who I don't see but once or twice a year.
I enjoy each new chapter in their lives. I'm happy to be reading about these new, young additions. But only because they are part of the whole BDB life.
After all these years, JR Ward still makes me laugh and cry in turns while reading one of her new books. I'm always sad when I finish the story because I have to say goodbye to my friends for now. But also happy to be leaving with another hard won HEA.
When I start reading each new release, a coming-home feeling sets in. I know these characters so well that they might as well be my friends and family who I don't see but once or twice a year.
I enjoy each new chapter in their lives. I'm happy to be reading about these new, young additions. But only because they are part of the whole BDB life.
After all these years, JR Ward still makes me laugh and cry in turns while reading one of her new books. I'm always sad when I finish the story because I have to say goodbye to my friends for now. But also happy to be leaving with another hard won HEA.
April 20, 2018
3.5 Stars. It was okay but I didn’t feel passionate about either couple.i am glad Saxton can stop wallowing in his own misery now though
November 30, 2022
Novo was not your average Barbie doll!
Saxton! Finally!
And, Ruhn
The Sweet Gentle Giant with a BIG heart .
The book was all around great. But, Ruhn’s and Saxton’s love story was exceptional and beautifully written, a true and pure at heart romance. The other couple was okay 🤔
The actual description of Novo was fab. It was a pleasant change from the typical Barbie doll characters. He description is below....
Saxton & Ruhn, Bitty *hugs* and Blay muah! Wow, just wow. Well done WARDen, well done! That was a beautiful, and a well played outcome.
Saxton! Finally!
And, Ruhn
The Sweet Gentle Giant with a BIG heart .
The book was all around great. But, Ruhn’s and Saxton’s love story was exceptional and beautifully written, a true and pure at heart romance. The other couple was okay 🤔
The actual description of Novo was fab. It was a pleasant change from the typical Barbie doll characters. He description is below....
Novo “turned to head for the shower stalls, she caught sight of herself in a full-length mirror—a fixture she was very sure wasn’t in the males’ locker room. Which was really just so damned sexist—Her thoughts dropped the mic on that familiar rant as her reflection registered. Her eyes had become hollow pits, and her stomach, left bare between her sports bra and her leggings, was concave, and her legs were swollen with muscle except for the tight bony knots of her kneecaps. No hips, no tits, no female identifiers… even her long hair was bolted in a braid that hung as if in retreat down the powerful fans on either side of her spine. Novo nodded at herself in approval. She wouldn’t want things any other way. Paradise could keep the chick shit and all the sidelong stares in the world. Far better to be strong as opposed to sensual.”This girl reminded me of Xhex and I like her a lot. Peyton took me a minute to like. But, in the end he to had my heart.
Saxton & Ruhn, Bitty *hugs* and Blay muah! Wow, just wow. Well done WARDen, well done! That was a beautiful, and a well played outcome.
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