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Heir of Blood and Fire #1
Of the Blood
One malicious prince. Two rival kingdoms. And an innocent girl caught in the crossfire.
Raised in a war-ravaged continent, temptation comes to Calla Caldwell in the form of a charming and mysterious stranger. Giving in to his intimate seduction, her world is forever changed by a single bite.
Calla quickly learns the handsome stranger is vampire prince, Trystan Vladu. His bite was an attempt to claim and save her from a plot of vengeance generations in the making. However, the claws of that ancient vendetta are scraping ever closer.
Thrust into a new nightmare by the Prince of the corrupt kingdom of Morbeth, Calla is captured, tortured, and starved in the dank confines of his dungeon. While in captivity, she takes part in a séance with a witch of light where she contacts a departed relative—a Princess of Incendia—who bequeaths a gift to Calla that will tip the scales of good and evil . . . if she can learn to harness it.
With a dark tapestry of secrets, lies, and murder unraveling around her, Calla must learn to embrace the power roiling through her veins, or be snuffed out by the strangling fist of a malevolent darkness.
Raised in a war-ravaged continent, temptation comes to Calla Caldwell in the form of a charming and mysterious stranger. Giving in to his intimate seduction, her world is forever changed by a single bite.
Calla quickly learns the handsome stranger is vampire prince, Trystan Vladu. His bite was an attempt to claim and save her from a plot of vengeance generations in the making. However, the claws of that ancient vendetta are scraping ever closer.
Thrust into a new nightmare by the Prince of the corrupt kingdom of Morbeth, Calla is captured, tortured, and starved in the dank confines of his dungeon. While in captivity, she takes part in a séance with a witch of light where she contacts a departed relative—a Princess of Incendia—who bequeaths a gift to Calla that will tip the scales of good and evil . . . if she can learn to harness it.
With a dark tapestry of secrets, lies, and murder unraveling around her, Calla must learn to embrace the power roiling through her veins, or be snuffed out by the strangling fist of a malevolent darkness.
432 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 10, 2020
About the author
Cameo Renae
51 books1,638 followersI was born in San Francisco, raised in Maui, Hawaii, and now reside with my husband in Las Vegas. I am a dreamer and caffeine addict who loves to laugh and loves to read to escape reality.
One of my greatest satisfactions is creating fantasy worlds filled with adventure and romance. It is the love and incredible support of my family and fans that keeps me going. One day I hope to uncover my magic wardrobe and ride away on a unicorn. Until then . . . I'll keep writing!
One of my greatest satisfactions is creating fantasy worlds filled with adventure and romance. It is the love and incredible support of my family and fans that keeps me going. One day I hope to uncover my magic wardrobe and ride away on a unicorn. Until then . . . I'll keep writing!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 261 reviews
January 15, 2023
”Tell me to leave. I will willingly do either. The choice is yours.”.”
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for allowing me to read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Vampires books are usually a hit or miss with me with nothing in between but this one was a bit of both.
I loved how fast paced this book was in the beginning and I appreciated that. Usually in the first book of a series we don’t get a pacing pickup until a few chapters in, luckily this one didn’t suffer from that. It did get a bit slow toward the middle and I was tempted to skim pages, but I refrained.
The characters were likable and I found myself caring about each of them, although the MC seemed to be a little boy crazy, which made me sigh after awhile.
The twists and intensity of some of the scenes had me anxiously flipping to the next page and I loved that!
This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I plan to look into more of her books. I’d recommend everyone give this book a shot when it’s released.
3.5/5 🌟’s
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for allowing me to read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Vampires books are usually a hit or miss with me with nothing in between but this one was a bit of both.
I loved how fast paced this book was in the beginning and I appreciated that. Usually in the first book of a series we don’t get a pacing pickup until a few chapters in, luckily this one didn’t suffer from that. It did get a bit slow toward the middle and I was tempted to skim pages, but I refrained.
The characters were likable and I found myself caring about each of them, although the MC seemed to be a little boy crazy, which made me sigh after awhile.
The twists and intensity of some of the scenes had me anxiously flipping to the next page and I loved that!
This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I plan to look into more of her books. I’d recommend everyone give this book a shot when it’s released.
3.5/5 🌟’s
Read
May 31, 2020Geezus on a cracker, wtf am I reading?
"Who are you?" I breathed. This was something I needed to know before things went any further.
"A dark knight come to protect you. A knight who can pleasure you beyond anything you've ever imagined."
...
...........
................
...are you fcking kidding me?
I got to 10%, and how that even happened, I'm not sure.
This book is...odd.
It's set up like a historical fantasy where there is a port town, surrounding islands, carriages, etc. I immediately think of girls in corsets who feign propriety and men who court them. Big ships of traders and pirates, with extravagant balls being thrown and masquerades.
Like maybe it's a fancy Tortuga where things are more wealthy and less...scummy.
But how this book really reads is like a teenage YA Vampire story set in present times, with a female lead as dull as a plank of wood. The girl is boring, boy-crazy and doesn't seem to really have a personality. She make decisions, but the decisions don't feel like the actual choices she would make. She doesn't feel developed at all, and more of just a puppet being told what to say and do.
The romance happens in less than 10% of the book and it is beyond awkward, weird and uncomfortable. I kept thinking to myself 'Am I supposed to be enjoying this? Like, who TF is this guy? Am I supposed to be rooting for him?' Because the way this quick as hell make-out session between Calla and mysterious-brooding-typical-fantasy-dream-guy comes together, literally just falls out of the sky and into a bedroom and I'm just over here like
Oh, and when our girl finds out she's a vampire now, her first reaction goes from "OMG I HAVE FANGS" to "At least I look okay" in .25 seconds.
#priorities
I just didn't like this at all, so I DNF'd. My intention wasn't even to be this brutal, but come on...how am I one of the only people feeling this way? I just don't get it.
"Who are you?" I breathed. This was something I needed to know before things went any further.
"A dark knight come to protect you. A knight who can pleasure you beyond anything you've ever imagined."
...
...........
................
...are you fcking kidding me?
I got to 10%, and how that even happened, I'm not sure.
This book is...odd.
It's set up like a historical fantasy where there is a port town, surrounding islands, carriages, etc. I immediately think of girls in corsets who feign propriety and men who court them. Big ships of traders and pirates, with extravagant balls being thrown and masquerades.
Like maybe it's a fancy Tortuga where things are more wealthy and less...scummy.
But how this book really reads is like a teenage YA Vampire story set in present times, with a female lead as dull as a plank of wood. The girl is boring, boy-crazy and doesn't seem to really have a personality. She make decisions, but the decisions don't feel like the actual choices she would make. She doesn't feel developed at all, and more of just a puppet being told what to say and do.
The romance happens in less than 10% of the book and it is beyond awkward, weird and uncomfortable. I kept thinking to myself 'Am I supposed to be enjoying this? Like, who TF is this guy? Am I supposed to be rooting for him?' Because the way this quick as hell make-out session between Calla and mysterious-brooding-typical-fantasy-dream-guy comes together, literally just falls out of the sky and into a bedroom and I'm just over here like
Oh, and when our girl finds out she's a vampire now, her first reaction goes from "OMG I HAVE FANGS" to "At least I look okay" in .25 seconds.
#priorities
I just didn't like this at all, so I DNF'd. My intention wasn't even to be this brutal, but come on...how am I one of the only people feeling this way? I just don't get it.
May 10, 2020
AHHH! That book was an ice-cold glass of lemonade on a scorching hot day. The 3 books I read before this were just so-so for me. I was craving a fantasy that wasn’t too dark and had some romance. (Not asking a lot right?!?) Of The Blood hit all of my fantasy needs.
Vampires, CHECK!
Steamy romance, CHECK!
The strong female lead, CHECK!
Sexy dude? MANY OF THEM!
Worldbuilding, CHECK!
Writing, CHECK!
Fast-paced and action-packed, CHECK!
I was hooked from page 1 and read this whole book in less than 24 hours.
Now for my two critiques.
#1 In the beginning of the book Calla is described as a mousy, loner virgin. She even wears a purity ring. This aspect of her seems very out of character with her in the rest of the book. I realize Tristian uses his vampire powers of seduction on her and that’s why she is willing to jump in bed with someone she met literary two minutes earlier. But she seems to have minimal reservations and even after she just seems a little too sexually minded for a timid virgin. Although I admit I don’t read many vampire books. Maybe that is part of the change.
On a related note when things get super steamy with Tristian and Cala at the beginning of the book I’m not sure why seeing Calla’s purity ring and realizing she’s a virgin stop Tristian from ravaging her like he was obviously planning to. But maybe that will be explained later.
That brings me to #2. I NEEDED MORE TRISTIAN!
I really wanted to learn more about him and I was really rooting for them to get together but he so was absent most of the book. A tease if you will. He’s this smoking hot vampire come as a knight in shining armor to save the girls. He then turns her into a vampire, leaves her a note explaining why...Then he just leaves. Hum… no wonder she didn’t want to bond with him. LOL
What we do learn about him seems genuine and good (For a vampire.) I just wish Tristian and Calla had more of a chance to connect. We learn he’s honestly attracted to Calla and is trying to save her but we learn little else of his motives or interests in bonding with a girl he’s never met aside from feeing a connecting at just the sight of her name on paper.
Aside from those small things I can’t wait for the next part of the series! That’s the curse of burning through a book so quickly. You get deeply invested then have to wait a whole hear to find out what happens next.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Vampires, CHECK!
Steamy romance, CHECK!
The strong female lead, CHECK!
Sexy dude? MANY OF THEM!
Worldbuilding, CHECK!
Writing, CHECK!
Fast-paced and action-packed, CHECK!
I was hooked from page 1 and read this whole book in less than 24 hours.
Now for my two critiques.
#1 In the beginning of the book Calla is described as a mousy, loner virgin. She even wears a purity ring. This aspect of her seems very out of character with her in the rest of the book. I realize Tristian uses his vampire powers of seduction on her and that’s why she is willing to jump in bed with someone she met literary two minutes earlier. But she seems to have minimal reservations and even after she just seems a little too sexually minded for a timid virgin. Although I admit I don’t read many vampire books. Maybe that is part of the change.
On a related note when things get super steamy with Tristian and Cala at the beginning of the book I’m not sure why seeing Calla’s purity ring and realizing she’s a virgin stop Tristian from ravaging her like he was obviously planning to. But maybe that will be explained later.
That brings me to #2. I NEEDED MORE TRISTIAN!
I really wanted to learn more about him and I was really rooting for them to get together but he so was absent most of the book. A tease if you will. He’s this smoking hot vampire come as a knight in shining armor to save the girls. He then turns her into a vampire, leaves her a note explaining why...Then he just leaves. Hum… no wonder she didn’t want to bond with him. LOL
What we do learn about him seems genuine and good (For a vampire.) I just wish Tristian and Calla had more of a chance to connect. We learn he’s honestly attracted to Calla and is trying to save her but we learn little else of his motives or interests in bonding with a girl he’s never met aside from feeing a connecting at just the sight of her name on paper.
Aside from those small things I can’t wait for the next part of the series! That’s the curse of burning through a book so quickly. You get deeply invested then have to wait a whole hear to find out what happens next.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 17, 2020
I was in the mood for a vampire story so i decided to request an ARC for this on Netgalley.
Overall, it was fine but it kinda read like it was written by a first-time writer which wasn't the case.
I enjoyed the storyline: a human girl gets bitten by a vampire at the beginning and now she suddenly finds herself becoming a vampire, even though she had no clue they even existed. Also, a vampire prince wants her and her family dead as a revenge for a murder that was done by one of her relatives.
The main character was likable which is saying much bc i find alot of YA MCs annoying. I also enjoyed a few side characters, especially the Cadre who were giving the task of protecting MC
The romance was a bit weird. So the guy that bit her is the love interest (i think) and he did it as a way to save her. Their attraction was instant because there is some type of pull between them which i think is like a mating situation (SJM style). Although they were only technically in the same place at the beginning of the book. I don't know how to feel about that. Its kinda insta-love especially from the guy. but at the same time, everyone knew the attraction was weird and was wondering why it was happening. so hopefully, it is explained in the next books.
Something i didn't like was the level of 'chosen one' trope the MC had. it seemed too much and perfect. Also, everyone that meets the MC (and isn't evil) likes her instantly, and has some sort of loyalty towards her. It kinda felt like insta-friendship and it seemed unnatural sometimes.
Overall, this was okay but not something memorable or unique.
Overall, it was fine but it kinda read like it was written by a first-time writer which wasn't the case.
I enjoyed the storyline: a human girl gets bitten by a vampire at the beginning and now she suddenly finds herself becoming a vampire, even though she had no clue they even existed. Also, a vampire prince wants her and her family dead as a revenge for a murder that was done by one of her relatives.
The main character was likable which is saying much bc i find alot of YA MCs annoying. I also enjoyed a few side characters, especially the Cadre who were giving the task of protecting MC
The romance was a bit weird. So the guy that bit her is the love interest (i think) and he did it as a way to save her. Their attraction was instant because there is some type of pull between them which i think is like a mating situation (SJM style). Although they were only technically in the same place at the beginning of the book. I don't know how to feel about that. Its kinda insta-love especially from the guy. but at the same time, everyone knew the attraction was weird and was wondering why it was happening. so hopefully, it is explained in the next books.
Something i didn't like was the level of 'chosen one' trope the MC had. it seemed too much and perfect. Also, everyone that meets the MC (and isn't evil) likes her instantly, and has some sort of loyalty towards her. It kinda felt like insta-friendship and it seemed unnatural sometimes.
Overall, this was okay but not something memorable or unique.
May 12, 2020
The ARC of this book was sent to me yesterday by NetGalley.
Warning! There will be some spoilers which I will mention but will add a tag!
It is a difficult review to write when it is not one of praises and little criticisms.
Reading the summary of the book, Of the Blood draws you in. A dark fantasy comprised of vampires and kingdoms ready to go to war with each other. But digging deeper into the story, I found that little held up the great premise of the story. I will go over the cons of this book before the pros as they undoubtedly outweighed everything else--much to my disappointment.
The story starts off with nice hook, the first sentence saying, "I pleaded for death." You're given one paragraph filled with the despairing agony of the main character Calla. It draws you in, wondering, "well, what the heck is going on?!" Only after that paragraph, the story is thrown back a handful of hours earlier as Calla is getting ready for her birthday party hosted by her best friend Bryanna. Which is unfortunate, because the beginning hooks you in only to stop short and deliver a boring start to the book. And a terribly lazy attempt at letting the readers know Calla's full name is said in such an forced name. I never understood why some authors would throw information in there--letting a friend of the main character randomly say his or her full name like it comes out natural. (It never does!)
Through out reading Of the Blood, I hoped and wished it would get better. There have been some cases where a story is just dragging for the first hundred or so pages before turning into something you can't seem to put down. This was not the case for me. I found myself dreading the next page as I forced myself to continue. The time at the bottom of the page that mentioned how long it would take for me to finish the entire book couldn't have come soon enough.
I had a big issue with the prose. It lacked imaginary detail as the story was mostly written by telling instead of showing--especially when it came to characters and how they felt/their actions. This is the biggest issue for me and most readers. A story needs to show! Readers are great at piecing together information from clues/foreshadowing. No one appreciates a story that has to tell the reader everything: it makes for such a boring story. Part of the fun with reading is using our perception--that is what makes good twists so shocking.
A lot of the wording felt wrongly used and/or the character(s) didn't act correctly to a situation. For example, in chapter two, Bryanna is dropping Calla off at home and Bryanna mentions visiting one of her recent lovers. Instead of asking her best friend in a normal way like, "Be safe, won't you?" or something of the sort, it is written:
"I growled at her. 'Please, be safe.'"
Another was when Calla was trying to escape from Trystan. It is written:
"I couldn't breathe. I couldn't think. And I was losing consciousness. 'Go away!' I wailed again as darkness embraced me."
Tell me, how does one wail when he or she can't breathe? There were a good portion of awkward word uses throughout the story that made me confused with the characters, especially Calla.
There was even a saying in the book that was written wrong and had me laughing (the only laughter I got from the book), "A flip of the wrist."
Coming to Calla, this poor now-of-age woman finds nearly every male character she comes across as handsome. I highlighted it every time in my notes to see how she would describe the male characters she'd come across. All were "handsome" and at least six-feet tall--lest not forget "muscular." And almost all of them wanted to get in her pants, flirted so much with her that when another male came into the scene, I was wondering what type of cringe-inducing saying the man would throw her way.
When Calla wasn't succumbing to darkness in every other chapter, she was oozing over each new male character brought into the story. She has no personality besides her observations of everyone's looks. Calla is a hypocrite from the first chapter, which everyone in real life is, but the reasons why are eye-rolling. And if not that, she was constantly whining like a child. The other odd part was that, for a girl on the run for her life, she easily trusted nearly everyone she came across, blurting her whole story. I felt more connected to the side characters but still not enough to care about any of the characters. I wouldn't have felt a thing if anyone, even Calla or Trystan, had died.
In regards to Trystan and the romance, the beginning of the book starts off fast. There is not an once of slow-burn romance or a real romance at all. Characters touch and kiss each other, but there was no connection nor emotion added. Calla seemingly falls for every guy that has good looks. She lets attraction/lust decide everything for her. The whole story is based off of her "can-and-should-be mate." I say it like this because, the first chapter she runs upstairs to suck face with a random stranger who crashed her party. And then, the rest of the story is her going from one male character's arms to another--good or bad--and her not making much of a peep about it. The worst had to be her interaction with Sebastian. Or
The plot holes in the story nearly drove me mad, and the magic in the story had a great chance to show depths but fell short and hard. Magic was simplistic for the witches, with a wand and some short waving, they could remove blood bonds and such without breaking a sweat. If it was that simple and easy, anyone could do it and why wouldn't they since pure-bloods were all so powerful? The little lore in the story is overwhelmed by most characters needlessly throwing in their life story which is not important to the overall plot.
I want to end with the pros, because I feel like it would leave me feeling less bitter on reading this book. The premise is there! The skeleton structure of the plot is a wonderful one blooming with such potential. And while I was constantly rewriting the book in my head as I read it, most of the scenes were great ideas--fitting to the story and having great potential to add meaning to the plot if it were written better. The twists, albeit poorly foreshadowed and obvious, became more intriguing as the story went on. It was the only thing that kept me reading until the last page.
All in all, I am saddened to say I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone. Even those who want an instant romance or a fantasy story to pass their time. None of it is there--the plot was like a battlefield. I couldn't call this a dark fantasy either--only fantasy--which was another disappointment. Even with the book hanging on a large cliffhanger (also, what the heck was that ending?!) I won't be continuing the series.
Warning! There will be some spoilers which I will mention but will add a tag!
It is a difficult review to write when it is not one of praises and little criticisms.
Reading the summary of the book, Of the Blood draws you in. A dark fantasy comprised of vampires and kingdoms ready to go to war with each other. But digging deeper into the story, I found that little held up the great premise of the story. I will go over the cons of this book before the pros as they undoubtedly outweighed everything else--much to my disappointment.
The story starts off with nice hook, the first sentence saying, "I pleaded for death." You're given one paragraph filled with the despairing agony of the main character Calla. It draws you in, wondering, "well, what the heck is going on?!" Only after that paragraph, the story is thrown back a handful of hours earlier as Calla is getting ready for her birthday party hosted by her best friend Bryanna. Which is unfortunate, because the beginning hooks you in only to stop short and deliver a boring start to the book. And a terribly lazy attempt at letting the readers know Calla's full name is said in such an forced name. I never understood why some authors would throw information in there--letting a friend of the main character randomly say his or her full name like it comes out natural. (It never does!)
Through out reading Of the Blood, I hoped and wished it would get better. There have been some cases where a story is just dragging for the first hundred or so pages before turning into something you can't seem to put down. This was not the case for me. I found myself dreading the next page as I forced myself to continue. The time at the bottom of the page that mentioned how long it would take for me to finish the entire book couldn't have come soon enough.
I had a big issue with the prose. It lacked imaginary detail as the story was mostly written by telling instead of showing--especially when it came to characters and how they felt/their actions. This is the biggest issue for me and most readers. A story needs to show! Readers are great at piecing together information from clues/foreshadowing. No one appreciates a story that has to tell the reader everything: it makes for such a boring story. Part of the fun with reading is using our perception--that is what makes good twists so shocking.
A lot of the wording felt wrongly used and/or the character(s) didn't act correctly to a situation. For example, in chapter two, Bryanna is dropping Calla off at home and Bryanna mentions visiting one of her recent lovers. Instead of asking her best friend in a normal way like, "Be safe, won't you?" or something of the sort, it is written:
"I growled at her. 'Please, be safe.'"
Another was when Calla was trying to escape from Trystan. It is written:
"I couldn't breathe. I couldn't think. And I was losing consciousness. 'Go away!' I wailed again as darkness embraced me."
Tell me, how does one wail when he or she can't breathe? There were a good portion of awkward word uses throughout the story that made me confused with the characters, especially Calla.
There was even a saying in the book that was written wrong and had me laughing (the only laughter I got from the book), "A flip of the wrist."
Coming to Calla, this poor now-of-age woman finds nearly every male character she comes across as handsome. I highlighted it every time in my notes to see how she would describe the male characters she'd come across. All were "handsome" and at least six-feet tall--lest not forget "muscular." And almost all of them wanted to get in her pants, flirted so much with her that when another male came into the scene, I was wondering what type of cringe-inducing saying the man would throw her way.
When Calla wasn't succumbing to darkness in every other chapter, she was oozing over each new male character brought into the story. She has no personality besides her observations of everyone's looks. Calla is a hypocrite from the first chapter, which everyone in real life is, but the reasons why are eye-rolling. And if not that, she was constantly whining like a child. The other odd part was that, for a girl on the run for her life, she easily trusted nearly everyone she came across, blurting her whole story. I felt more connected to the side characters but still not enough to care about any of the characters. I wouldn't have felt a thing if anyone, even Calla or Trystan, had died.
In regards to Trystan and the romance, the beginning of the book starts off fast. There is not an once of slow-burn romance or a real romance at all. Characters touch and kiss each other, but there was no connection nor emotion added. Calla seemingly falls for every guy that has good looks. She lets attraction/lust decide everything for her. The whole story is based off of her "can-and-should-be mate." I say it like this because, the first chapter she runs upstairs to suck face with a random stranger who crashed her party. And then, the rest of the story is her going from one male character's arms to another--good or bad--and her not making much of a peep about it. The worst had to be her interaction with Sebastian. Or
The plot holes in the story nearly drove me mad, and the magic in the story had a great chance to show depths but fell short and hard. Magic was simplistic for the witches, with a wand and some short waving, they could remove blood bonds and such without breaking a sweat. If it was that simple and easy, anyone could do it and why wouldn't they since pure-bloods were all so powerful? The little lore in the story is overwhelmed by most characters needlessly throwing in their life story which is not important to the overall plot.
I want to end with the pros, because I feel like it would leave me feeling less bitter on reading this book. The premise is there! The skeleton structure of the plot is a wonderful one blooming with such potential. And while I was constantly rewriting the book in my head as I read it, most of the scenes were great ideas--fitting to the story and having great potential to add meaning to the plot if it were written better. The twists, albeit poorly foreshadowed and obvious, became more intriguing as the story went on. It was the only thing that kept me reading until the last page.
All in all, I am saddened to say I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone. Even those who want an instant romance or a fantasy story to pass their time. None of it is there--the plot was like a battlefield. I couldn't call this a dark fantasy either--only fantasy--which was another disappointment. Even with the book hanging on a large cliffhanger (also, what the heck was that ending?!) I won't be continuing the series.
May 12, 2020
Good Gods, how exciting this book was!
Absolutely magical. What started of as romantic, a bit dark and suspenceful, soon blossomed into a world full of adventures, vampires, lies, murder, magic and power!
With a character as Calla, Cameo couldn't go wong. She's a bit reserved, but firce and determined. She's holding back in the beginning, but soon she finds out the truth and she doesn't relent! The rest of the 'crew' isn't far behind, they are all so special and unique.
Truly spellbinding, with a rebellious bite!
Absolutely magical. What started of as romantic, a bit dark and suspenceful, soon blossomed into a world full of adventures, vampires, lies, murder, magic and power!
With a character as Calla, Cameo couldn't go wong. She's a bit reserved, but firce and determined. She's holding back in the beginning, but soon she finds out the truth and she doesn't relent! The rest of the 'crew' isn't far behind, they are all so special and unique.
Truly spellbinding, with a rebellious bite!
May 8, 2020
Epic! Exquisite! Unforgettable! Of the Blood has left me with a huge smile, a joyous heart, and a humongous book hangover!! This extraordinary story has wrecked me from the inside out. It has lead me on a perilous journey fraught with untold horror and the threat of the death of any kind of hope only to swing the pendulum in the opposite direction and prove to us that no matter what others think each of us can slowly rise to fill the role we were born to take over. We each are so much more then we ever dreamed possible. All we need is someone to truly believe in us and give us an honest chance.
Calla is a simple girl who just wants to celebrate her birthday in peace with her best friend. She doesn't crave adventure or romance as others her age do. Her heart just wants to savor and enjoy life one day at a time. Her birthday brings more then she ever expected in the form of a mesmerizing vision of a man named Trystan. He alights her senses and sets her blood ablaze with fire and passion. Will she shrink from this unwanted invasion, or will she allow this reckless passion into her quiet world just once?
I was left in awe of this incredible world and its delightfully enthralling characters. All of the wicked twists and turns left me on pins and needles to see what would happen next. There was never a dull moment, and I devoured every beautiful word and each amazing emotion. The precious words set lovingly on these pages called to my heart and every part of my soul. I was lost to the spectacular wonder and the unquenchable fire that imprinted their secrets on my soul. This is one series that will leave an indelible mark on my heart for all time.
Cameo Renae was one of the first authors I discovered and savored when I wandered into the romance world years ago, and I have finally made my way back to her stunning worlds of love, friendship and strength. I invite you all to enter her realm of mystery and surprise as you journey through her latest masterpiece. You will never be disappointed, and what you find is guaranteed to rock your world. I implore you not to miss out on this once in a lifetime creative genius!!
Calla is a simple girl who just wants to celebrate her birthday in peace with her best friend. She doesn't crave adventure or romance as others her age do. Her heart just wants to savor and enjoy life one day at a time. Her birthday brings more then she ever expected in the form of a mesmerizing vision of a man named Trystan. He alights her senses and sets her blood ablaze with fire and passion. Will she shrink from this unwanted invasion, or will she allow this reckless passion into her quiet world just once?
I was left in awe of this incredible world and its delightfully enthralling characters. All of the wicked twists and turns left me on pins and needles to see what would happen next. There was never a dull moment, and I devoured every beautiful word and each amazing emotion. The precious words set lovingly on these pages called to my heart and every part of my soul. I was lost to the spectacular wonder and the unquenchable fire that imprinted their secrets on my soul. This is one series that will leave an indelible mark on my heart for all time.
Cameo Renae was one of the first authors I discovered and savored when I wandered into the romance world years ago, and I have finally made my way back to her stunning worlds of love, friendship and strength. I invite you all to enter her realm of mystery and surprise as you journey through her latest masterpiece. You will never be disappointed, and what you find is guaranteed to rock your world. I implore you not to miss out on this once in a lifetime creative genius!!
May 6, 2020
Guess what I'm reading? I'm honored to have been asked and given an ARC of Cameo Renae's upcoming book. If you love fantasy, this is for YOU. "A dark tantalizing fantasy with unforgettable characters and captivating plot, Cameo will have you on the edge of your seat and enthralled from start to finish."
Want to read
August 6, 2020$.99 on Kindle US today 7/6/2020
March 11, 2021
Honestly, it started off a bit generic but it took a turn for the better.
Here we have a tale of a young, clueless girl. At a birthday party for her, organized by her best friend, she sneaks out into the night to be alone. Only to come face to face with Trystan Vladu, handsome stranger, and unbeknownst to her, vampire prince.
Everything goes nuts from there and follows along the line of the synopsis.
What I enjoyed was that despite the close connection Calla she feels with Trystan. This is truly Calla's journey.
Though there are plenty of hints of romance, the story focuses almost entirely on Calla's search to find out who she is in relation to the family she never knew she had. She is not tied down to any one person. Calla makes new friends wherever she goes and experiences life freely. The quote on quote hero is more there for background and support. He tries to save her from the evil prince but when she decides she must do things her way and on her own, Trystan does not interfere. He respects her decision and I respect that. I do think, in the end, she will return to him. That he will ultimately be where she makes her home, but I suppose only time will tell.
There is still a lot to unpack in this world and a lot of adventure to be had, so I am looking forward to where this journey takes her.
I received a free ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Here we have a tale of a young, clueless girl. At a birthday party for her, organized by her best friend, she sneaks out into the night to be alone. Only to come face to face with Trystan Vladu, handsome stranger, and unbeknownst to her, vampire prince.
Everything goes nuts from there and follows along the line of the synopsis.
What I enjoyed was that despite the close connection Calla she feels with Trystan. This is truly Calla's journey.
Though there are plenty of hints of romance, the story focuses almost entirely on Calla's search to find out who she is in relation to the family she never knew she had. She is not tied down to any one person. Calla makes new friends wherever she goes and experiences life freely. The quote on quote hero is more there for background and support. He tries to save her from the evil prince but when she decides she must do things her way and on her own, Trystan does not interfere. He respects her decision and I respect that. I do think, in the end, she will return to him. That he will ultimately be where she makes her home, but I suppose only time will tell.
There is still a lot to unpack in this world and a lot of adventure to be had, so I am looking forward to where this journey takes her.
I received a free ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 6, 2020
This was a fantastic start to a series that I look forward to continuing. Readers that love paranormal reads will not be disappointed by this story. I absolutely loved and devoured it within a few hours. The characters, the storyline, the writing style and the plot was fantastic. I felt as if I was on the journey with these characters, This story had mystery, suspense, it was funny, sweet, a little twisted, and so much more. It's hard to explain without giving anything away. Calla life changes drastically on her eighteenth birthday. It takes her on a journey she's not prepared for but one she must make. Along the way family secrets are slowly revealed changing everything she has ever believed. I loved that this story kept me on the edge of my seat and I can't wait for the next book in this series. The ending made me love Kai. I already love Calla, Trystan, Kylan, Brone, Feng, Andres, Melaina, Sabine, Sebastian and the rest of the gang, and I can't wait to get more of them. This author did not disappoint and I will definitely be recommending this series to my family, friends and book groups.
May 10, 2020
All I can say is WOW to the start of this new series from the mind of Cameo Renae. From the moment she turned 18, Calla's life has been wrought with revelations and danger. if you are a fan of high fantasy then I wholeheartedly recommend this this story. The story is intricate and dark with turns around every page as we journey with Calla to find answers. As Calla adapts to her new life, she has no shortage of "hot" royalty all wanting to "help". I absorbed this story pretty much in one sitting and could not turn the pages fast enough to read more. I am captivated and need more in this series.
May 12, 2020
Trying out book one of a series can be scary, you never know what you are getting into. However, after reading Cameo Renae’s newest book, Of the Blood, I am excited to say that I have found a new series to anxiously await the release of book two!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Of the Blood has all the makings of a tremendous fantasy series. Vampires - Check. Murder - check. Mystery - check. Romance - check, Magic - check - check - check! Renae’s newest release leads the reader on a fast paced and thrilling adventure to solve a centuries old mystery, littered with betrayal, secrets, lies, and broken hearts.
On the night of her eighteenth birthday party, Calla Caldwell is inadvertently thrust into an intriguing and dangerous world full of magic and mystery when she is bitten, against her will, and changed into a newborn vampire by a devastatingly handsome vampire prince. The groundwork for this change was laid centuries prior and fate is afoot.
I love the fact that even terrified and afraid, Calla finds absolutely no reason to give up her sense of self and become bound to one of the many vampire princes she encounter on her adventure. She explores her ever changing circumstances and her growing power in a way that fully embraces the situations she finds herself in along this epic adventure of good versus evil. Time after time, Calla comes to startling realizations that help her move forward. “I possessed a light inside that could cut through this endless darkness.”
Over time, Calla makes invaluable friends like Sabine and Markus. The three of them become their own little family of sorts. We could all use the reminder to think like Calla and everyone needs a friend like Sabine to remind us that, “pursuing a dream is far greater than living a life without one.”
I can’t wait for book two in this series!! Excuse me while I go search out a few more books by @cameorenae . You can get your hands on a copy of this book on Friday May 15, 2020.
I was given an ARC copy of Of the Blood in exchange for my honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Of the Blood has all the makings of a tremendous fantasy series. Vampires - Check. Murder - check. Mystery - check. Romance - check, Magic - check - check - check! Renae’s newest release leads the reader on a fast paced and thrilling adventure to solve a centuries old mystery, littered with betrayal, secrets, lies, and broken hearts.
On the night of her eighteenth birthday party, Calla Caldwell is inadvertently thrust into an intriguing and dangerous world full of magic and mystery when she is bitten, against her will, and changed into a newborn vampire by a devastatingly handsome vampire prince. The groundwork for this change was laid centuries prior and fate is afoot.
I love the fact that even terrified and afraid, Calla finds absolutely no reason to give up her sense of self and become bound to one of the many vampire princes she encounter on her adventure. She explores her ever changing circumstances and her growing power in a way that fully embraces the situations she finds herself in along this epic adventure of good versus evil. Time after time, Calla comes to startling realizations that help her move forward. “I possessed a light inside that could cut through this endless darkness.”
Over time, Calla makes invaluable friends like Sabine and Markus. The three of them become their own little family of sorts. We could all use the reminder to think like Calla and everyone needs a friend like Sabine to remind us that, “pursuing a dream is far greater than living a life without one.”
I can’t wait for book two in this series!! Excuse me while I go search out a few more books by @cameorenae . You can get your hands on a copy of this book on Friday May 15, 2020.
I was given an ARC copy of Of the Blood in exchange for my honest review.
May 5, 2020
Cameo just has this way about her. Reading one of her books is easy, like breathing.
I've watched her grow over the years, starting with Hidden Wings, and now to this new venture, and she's never disappointed me. She's one of the few authors that I have on one-click, and if you give her a chance, you'll understand why.
Now to this book and review.
I'm not one to give away anything when I review books. I feel it's unfair to those who want to experience a story for themselves. Giving away key elements of a book is like standing in a theater and shouting out the ending to the people in line.
I rarely review, mostly because I can't on Amazon due to the nature of my job in publishing. But Cameo reached out to me, as I have to her in the past, and asked if I'd like to read this for her prior to publication. It was an honor to be included, but it doesn't make my review bias in any way.
Anyone who knows me clearly understands that I'm brutally honest because I have to be when mentoring writers. If I don't enjoy a book then I don't review it. It's just my personal policy.
So, this is how I truly feel about Of the Blood.
This a beautifully written tale set against a rich tapestry of mystery and intrigue where battles are fought and won not only with the sword but the heart and mind. Excellent world-building, intriguing characters, smoldering romance, and a solid plot all make this one of my favorite books of the year.
Not to mention the cover, which is outstanding.
Happy reading.
I've watched her grow over the years, starting with Hidden Wings, and now to this new venture, and she's never disappointed me. She's one of the few authors that I have on one-click, and if you give her a chance, you'll understand why.
Now to this book and review.
I'm not one to give away anything when I review books. I feel it's unfair to those who want to experience a story for themselves. Giving away key elements of a book is like standing in a theater and shouting out the ending to the people in line.
I rarely review, mostly because I can't on Amazon due to the nature of my job in publishing. But Cameo reached out to me, as I have to her in the past, and asked if I'd like to read this for her prior to publication. It was an honor to be included, but it doesn't make my review bias in any way.
Anyone who knows me clearly understands that I'm brutally honest because I have to be when mentoring writers. If I don't enjoy a book then I don't review it. It's just my personal policy.
So, this is how I truly feel about Of the Blood.
This a beautifully written tale set against a rich tapestry of mystery and intrigue where battles are fought and won not only with the sword but the heart and mind. Excellent world-building, intriguing characters, smoldering romance, and a solid plot all make this one of my favorite books of the year.
Not to mention the cover, which is outstanding.
Happy reading.
May 14, 2020
I am utterly speechless. This is my go to genre so its so hard to articulate into words the beauty I just read. Seriously. It was like magic bound into a book.
.
This is not the first book I have read from Cameo Renae BUT I was eagar to get my hands specifically on this one. Reviewing YA Fantasy is like reviewing roller coaster rides. You have to talk about all aspects of the ride even if you felt an an uneasy roll in your stomach. The book is just like the best and scariest roller coaster in that it gives you every feeling your body can muster.
.
Cameo Renae wrote from the gut and even transformed the vampire a lore in a way that gives their "victims" more say in their choice. Calla is written as a strong character who is thrust into unspeakable trials and tribulation through the books. While learning to balance her new powers she continues to build on her friendship with Sabine and Markus. Two of the most notable characters for me.
.
I enjoyed reading of the blood and patiently (maybe) the next book in the series!! 5 stars and a tip of my Nerd Girl hat.
.
*This review was done in conjunction with Nerd Girl official.
.
This is not the first book I have read from Cameo Renae BUT I was eagar to get my hands specifically on this one. Reviewing YA Fantasy is like reviewing roller coaster rides. You have to talk about all aspects of the ride even if you felt an an uneasy roll in your stomach. The book is just like the best and scariest roller coaster in that it gives you every feeling your body can muster.
.
Cameo Renae wrote from the gut and even transformed the vampire a lore in a way that gives their "victims" more say in their choice. Calla is written as a strong character who is thrust into unspeakable trials and tribulation through the books. While learning to balance her new powers she continues to build on her friendship with Sabine and Markus. Two of the most notable characters for me.
.
I enjoyed reading of the blood and patiently (maybe) the next book in the series!! 5 stars and a tip of my Nerd Girl hat.
.
*This review was done in conjunction with Nerd Girl official.
February 8, 2022
From the very beginning I found myself immersed in this new, young adult vampire fantasy series by Cameo Renae. A seasoned author I've followed since her early Hidden Wings Series, I looked forward to reading this novel and I was not disappointed. It begins with Calla turning eighteen, and with parents who are away often, her close friend Brynna gives her a party. It's at this party that Calla's life changes forever and the story takes off on a roller coaster ride of events that bring Calla and those she loves, and those protecting her, and friends she makes on her journey, into darkness and danger. There are many twists and surprises along the way, with excellent world building. I never give anything important away in my reviews. What I will say is, if you are looking for a thrilling page-turning fantasy series, Book No 1 of Heir of Blood and Fire, is for you.
I am very much looking forward to the next book in this series. Well done Cameo Renae!
I am very much looking forward to the next book in this series. Well done Cameo Renae!
May 10, 2020
All I can say is WOW to the start of this new series from the mind of Cameo Renae. From the moment she turned 18, Calla's life has been wrought with revelations and danger. if you are a fan of high fantasy then I wholeheartedly recommend this this story. The story is intricate and dark with turns around every page as we journey with Calla to find answers. As Calla adapts to her new life, she has no shortage of "hot" royalty all wanting to "help". I absorbed this story pretty much in one sitting and could not turn the pages fast enough to read more. I am captivated and need more in this series.
May 14, 2020
This book was amazing! I have read some of her other books and I have come to find that you can always expect nothing but the best from her. Cameo Renae is such an awesome story-teller. I absolutely loved this book.
May 11, 2020
Wow! What a great story. I cannot wait until the next one comes out. It’s refreshing to read a vampire novel with a different twist than your standard plots.
Poor Calla, so much destruction in so little time. But, she makes friends wherever she goes. With so many handsome men around, how could she just choose one?!
I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommend.
Poor Calla, so much destruction in so little time. But, she makes friends wherever she goes. With so many handsome men around, how could she just choose one?!
I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommend.
September 29, 2020
Well, I think I would have really liked this book if I was reading it as a tween.
But alas, as an adult-I did enjoy moments here and there but overall I was left with a lot of questions. Also there were copious amounts of plot-holes, weak/dramatic/over-the-top characters, tropes galore, and even more questions.
So we've got:
*super speshul h with mysterious family background and one of a kind secret powers
*powerful men fighting over the h- all of whom are gorgeous and most importantly over 6ft
*Everyone and their mother trying to convince Calla how she should be honored that Trystan tried to claim her, and so many women would die for him to look their way...
*info-dumps
Also, I took sooo many notes on how Trystan claimed he had "no time but simply had to turn her"- except didn't he have the 3 days it took her to die...so...yeah no time right?
I mean, he could have taken her back with him w/o turning her, or told her the truth w/o compelling and biting her without her consent. Just because he didn't force the bond as well doesn't make him a good guy...
Also, I kind of disliked the fact the bc a bigger bad comes into the equation now Calla is all on team Trystan and in a way forgives him. *whispers* He's still a creep to me...
----------------------------------
Spoilery questions:
Also little things like--how did Trystan get to his homeland in a day, but it will take Calla and the cadre weeks to get there? (Can all purebloods teleport? If so why not just teleport with her and save them all the trouble- or get the witch to do it like with Breyana?)
Why did no one questions the Kings failing health--he's immortal people!
Or why Trystan's team is only going after Nicolae then instead of the 57 days before when Cala was in the cell- why wait?
Or how can vampires have children? When do they stop aging? If the King will never die why even make succession such a big deal?
Or why is no one was blinking an eye that Calla's grand uncle is trying to mate her?
Who is the girl with the two colored eyes?
I mean questions people!!
But alas, as an adult-I did enjoy moments here and there but overall I was left with a lot of questions. Also there were copious amounts of plot-holes, weak/dramatic/over-the-top characters, tropes galore, and even more questions.
So we've got:
*super speshul h with mysterious family background and one of a kind secret powers
*powerful men fighting over the h- all of whom are gorgeous and most importantly over 6ft
*Everyone and their mother trying to convince Calla how she should be honored that Trystan tried to claim her, and so many women would die for him to look their way...
*info-dumps
Also, I took sooo many notes on how Trystan claimed he had "no time but simply had to turn her"- except didn't he have the 3 days it took her to die...so...yeah no time right?
I mean, he could have taken her back with him w/o turning her, or told her the truth w/o compelling and biting her without her consent. Just because he didn't force the bond as well doesn't make him a good guy...
"Trystan claimed he was giving me an option, but he lied. When he’d bit me, he sealed my fate, transforming me into something else. Something non-human. Something nightmarish. Something that craved blood."
Also, I kind of disliked the fact the bc a bigger bad comes into the equation now Calla is all on team Trystan and in a way forgives him. *whispers* He's still a creep to me...
----------------------------------
Spoilery questions:
Also little things like--how did Trystan get to his homeland in a day, but it will take Calla and the cadre weeks to get there? (Can all purebloods teleport? If so why not just teleport with her and save them all the trouble- or get the witch to do it like with Breyana?)
Why did no one questions the Kings failing health--he's immortal people!
Or why Trystan's team is only going after Nicolae then instead of the 57 days before when Cala was in the cell- why wait?
Or how can vampires have children? When do they stop aging? If the King will never die why even make succession such a big deal?
Or why is no one was blinking an eye that Calla's grand uncle is trying to mate her?
Who is the girl with the two colored eyes?
I mean questions people!!
May 7, 2020
Thanks to Victory Editing for providing me with a digital ARC of Of the Blood via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This feels like a Wattpad book. That's not an insult. I'm not saying the writing's amateur or that it doesn't feel like a published book, because this is definitely a fully formed, professional story, but there's something so distinctive about the pacing and storytelling this story utilizes that I'd normally associate with Wattpad or other serially published stories.
Of the Blood gets you quickly into the plot without needing a bunch of lead in while still feeling complete. The pace isn't typical of most novels, but also isn't flawed. It'd be a really cool book to read if you want something that can be quickly consumed and I genuinely think there's a massive audience for it, unfortunately I'm just not part of that audience.
This feels like a Wattpad book. That's not an insult. I'm not saying the writing's amateur or that it doesn't feel like a published book, because this is definitely a fully formed, professional story, but there's something so distinctive about the pacing and storytelling this story utilizes that I'd normally associate with Wattpad or other serially published stories.
Of the Blood gets you quickly into the plot without needing a bunch of lead in while still feeling complete. The pace isn't typical of most novels, but also isn't flawed. It'd be a really cool book to read if you want something that can be quickly consumed and I genuinely think there's a massive audience for it, unfortunately I'm just not part of that audience.
May 15, 2020
First of all, thanks to The next step PR and to Cameo Renae to allow me to review this book.
Once again, what an amazing story by Cameo Renae. This story caught me right at the beginning and it was hard to put it down but I had to work, that’s life ;-). Cameo is a brilliant author that always gives us amazing characters that we either love or hate with passion and this one is no exception.
If you like vampires, witches, monsters, bad boys, princes, handsome guys, romance, solid friendship, pirates, name it, this one has it all.
Calla is a young ordinary woman whom at her eighteen birthday met the intriguing and handsome Trystan who will change her life forever. She will soon discover that what she thought were just bedtime stories and fairytales are in fact true and she will learn it the hard way.
This is breathtaking story full of surprises, you must read it.
Once again, what an amazing story by Cameo Renae. This story caught me right at the beginning and it was hard to put it down but I had to work, that’s life ;-). Cameo is a brilliant author that always gives us amazing characters that we either love or hate with passion and this one is no exception.
If you like vampires, witches, monsters, bad boys, princes, handsome guys, romance, solid friendship, pirates, name it, this one has it all.
Calla is a young ordinary woman whom at her eighteen birthday met the intriguing and handsome Trystan who will change her life forever. She will soon discover that what she thought were just bedtime stories and fairytales are in fact true and she will learn it the hard way.
This is breathtaking story full of surprises, you must read it.
May 12, 2020
Holy hannah this is going to be an amazing Y.A. fantasy series!
Calla goes on an incredible journey, filled with lust, thirst, pain, suffering, joy, friendship, wit and magic. Calla makes alies and foes, friends and family.
She learns so much about herself and yet has so many unanswered questions.
For being such a naive girl, Calla learns alot in such a short time, and handles it like the boss women shes turning into!
Cameo gave wrote just the right amounts of trusts and turns to keep me on the edge of my seat! Never a dull moment!
Crazily awaiting the next installment!!!
Calla goes on an incredible journey, filled with lust, thirst, pain, suffering, joy, friendship, wit and magic. Calla makes alies and foes, friends and family.
She learns so much about herself and yet has so many unanswered questions.
For being such a naive girl, Calla learns alot in such a short time, and handles it like the boss women shes turning into!
Cameo gave wrote just the right amounts of trusts and turns to keep me on the edge of my seat! Never a dull moment!
Crazily awaiting the next installment!!!
May 14, 2020
ONE ACTION PACKED HARD HITTER!!!
Ah hell! Cameo brought it with this sensationally composed delight, presenting one killer storyline and gripping plot wrapping this baby up sleek shiny and tight. One action packed, hard hitting, pulse racing, nailbiting, heart pounding, adrenaline pumping, page flipping bombshell, propelling this gem to a whole new level. Vexing mishaps and unsettling circumstances, thrusts those churning emotions into play, rocking this baby from start to finish. Skating with horrendous trials and arduous tribulations, exposing the shocking twists and wicked turns, putting our characters through their paces. Sparks fly as perilous drama, mystifying intrigue, chilling danger and electrifying suspense along with nerve racking situations and a boatload of evil while dodging sinister intentions, you have one block busting masterpiece. Anarchy, escapades and havoc run amuck, kicking this bad boy into a raging tempest, blasting it into a hissy with a life-changing culmination. The characters, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow, transforming into genuinely approachable personalities. The scenes are written with such realism, impressive talent and unique insight, blasts this sparkling jewel to life, making the storyline pop. Awesome job Cameo, thanks for sharing this little treasure with us.
Ah hell! Cameo brought it with this sensationally composed delight, presenting one killer storyline and gripping plot wrapping this baby up sleek shiny and tight. One action packed, hard hitting, pulse racing, nailbiting, heart pounding, adrenaline pumping, page flipping bombshell, propelling this gem to a whole new level. Vexing mishaps and unsettling circumstances, thrusts those churning emotions into play, rocking this baby from start to finish. Skating with horrendous trials and arduous tribulations, exposing the shocking twists and wicked turns, putting our characters through their paces. Sparks fly as perilous drama, mystifying intrigue, chilling danger and electrifying suspense along with nerve racking situations and a boatload of evil while dodging sinister intentions, you have one block busting masterpiece. Anarchy, escapades and havoc run amuck, kicking this bad boy into a raging tempest, blasting it into a hissy with a life-changing culmination. The characters, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow, transforming into genuinely approachable personalities. The scenes are written with such realism, impressive talent and unique insight, blasts this sparkling jewel to life, making the storyline pop. Awesome job Cameo, thanks for sharing this little treasure with us.
May 14, 2020
From the first few pages I was captivated, mesmerized., a pull to continue on.
Who needs sleep when mysterious characters enthrall you from the moment they step onto the page?
Dark and haunting. Sexy as all hell. Funny and charming.
Man oh man talk about a rollercoaster of emotions.
I was on the edge of my seat all along this book.
This is Twilight upgraded to Anne Rice’s darkness sprinkled with some Underworld vibes.
If you have a penchant weak spot for vampires, magic and darkness you have to pick this book up.
Calla is a fierce strong resilient woman and I cherished her journey, it also helps that at every turn I was quickly becoming infatuated with the men she encountered. I don’t think I have had so many crushes in one book.
I would’ve liked it to be a little longer to allow for some more developed scenes and character growth.
A lot happens quite quickly that could have used the extra breathing room for some of the book. Hopefully we get that opportunity for the rest of the series.
I highly anticipate the continuation of this series and reading more about Kai 😉
Who needs sleep when mysterious characters enthrall you from the moment they step onto the page?
Dark and haunting. Sexy as all hell. Funny and charming.
Man oh man talk about a rollercoaster of emotions.
I was on the edge of my seat all along this book.
This is Twilight upgraded to Anne Rice’s darkness sprinkled with some Underworld vibes.
If you have a penchant weak spot for vampires, magic and darkness you have to pick this book up.
Calla is a fierce strong resilient woman and I cherished her journey, it also helps that at every turn I was quickly becoming infatuated with the men she encountered. I don’t think I have had so many crushes in one book.
I would’ve liked it to be a little longer to allow for some more developed scenes and character growth.
A lot happens quite quickly that could have used the extra breathing room for some of the book. Hopefully we get that opportunity for the rest of the series.
I highly anticipate the continuation of this series and reading more about Kai 😉
May 13, 2020
3.5 stars
This is a fun, fast-paced story. When Calla is claimed by Prince Tristan and transformed into a vampire, she's thrust into conflict between two rival kingdoms. I was a little concerned when reading the first few chapters that this was going to be an insta-love story, but it quickly got more interesting. Calla really showed her independence and strength. In addition to vampires, this story also has magic, pirates, and mermen. The plot isn't overly complicated. It's a pretty generic good vs evil story; however, I still found it quite enjoyable. It's a fun and easy read that I devoured in one day. I was also amused by the relationships between some of the side characters. It's a little over the top in some areas (every single guy Calla meets is gorgeous and she becomes very powerful very quickly) but all in all a fun read.
This is a fun, fast-paced story. When Calla is claimed by Prince Tristan and transformed into a vampire, she's thrust into conflict between two rival kingdoms. I was a little concerned when reading the first few chapters that this was going to be an insta-love story, but it quickly got more interesting. Calla really showed her independence and strength. In addition to vampires, this story also has magic, pirates, and mermen. The plot isn't overly complicated. It's a pretty generic good vs evil story; however, I still found it quite enjoyable. It's a fun and easy read that I devoured in one day. I was also amused by the relationships between some of the side characters. It's a little over the top in some areas (every single guy Calla meets is gorgeous and she becomes very powerful very quickly) but all in all a fun read.
May 23, 2020
I can certainly see the appeal of this title, as the world is desperately craving a vampire romance resurgence. It's easy to read, quick-paced, and chock full of action, plot development, and vampiric shenanigans. Unfortunately, it just missed the mark for me personally since it almost immediately latched onto a trope that I cannot get over - heroines being worshipped and fought over by strangers for no apparent reason other than a lackluster personality and a tropetastic hidden destiny. As a very character-based reader, I could not get immersed or interested in the story when the (literal) bond between the characters felt so contrived.
Thank you to netgalley for a digital copy in exchange for an unbiased review.
Thank you to netgalley for a digital copy in exchange for an unbiased review.
May 14, 2020
This book was an amazing read! The world building was very well written truly brings the story to life. The book grabbed me from start to finish and was a fast paced enjoyable read.
The characters were all very well developed and interesting. Calla is a very fierce MC who stayed true to her values and made good decisions which I found very refreshing.
I highly recommend this book if you enjoy paranormal/vampire books!!
I received this book from NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley co-op for an honest review.
#OftheBlood
#NetGalley
The characters were all very well developed and interesting. Calla is a very fierce MC who stayed true to her values and made good decisions which I found very refreshing.
I highly recommend this book if you enjoy paranormal/vampire books!!
I received this book from NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley co-op for an honest review.
#OftheBlood
#NetGalley
May 14, 2020
I first got hooked onto Cameo Renae's writing when I started reading the After Light Saga series. She indeed has a unique talent of drawing you into her stories immediately. As with "Of the Blood", the mystery surrounding main character, Calla is instant, as you're suddenly thrust into a world of vampires and myth.
There's no holding back to the story as we first find out that Calla is turned for a very specific reason.
In "Of the Blood", you will find dashing heroes, brave warriors, and a growing mystery that keeps you in suspense until the very end. While it is kind of a typical paranormal romance story, I was drawn into the story of Calla, her "protectors", and why she was chosen as such. There are many warring parties all wanting a part of Calla, and hey- what can you expect from a beautiful, young, and powerful woman that is just coming into adulthood and her own secret fantasies?
"Of the Blood" is filled with resplendent world building, handsome men who are all vying for Calla's attention and devotion, and crazy, funny supporting characters that help move the story along. There is Trystan, the handsome and mysterious vampire prince, Roehl, the evil, murderous villain, and five powerful warriors sworn to protect Calla at all costs. But what makes "Of the Blood" so interesting is that Calla is slowly but surely discovering who she truly is in a way that makes you feel you're discovering it along with her. The story is through Calla's tone and you can feel that while she is naive, she still has a strong sense of loyalty and purpose. That's what makes Calla such a unique and likable character.
"Of the Blood" is a paranormal/fantasy story mixed in with some romance and some interesting speculations about how vampirism and magic works. And yes, while there are slews of vampires throughout the book, there are also other magical creatures that belong in the air, the sea, and in the earth. One particular magical creature I came to adore was Nyx, the magical crow messenger that belongs to Trystan. The one drawback that could have been improved was that Calla seemed to have fallen into "lust" with almost every handsome man she met in the story. I don't know if it's because she is young and filled with raging hormones, but it can be a bit too stereotypical of young women just coming into adulthood. But Calla is sweet, kind, and brave, and you still end up rooting for her regardless.
There is a building mystery throughout the book and towards the end, the veil is revealed as to who Calla truly is. This is a rather nice touch for stories because the author isn't deliberately leading you to buy the next title just to find out the "bigger" mystery. As a reader, you find out who Calla is, why people are after her, and the ending does lead to another book, but it's only because there is a much bigger story to tell after that.
I give this book a 4.5 stars only because of Calla's constant falling for each handsome male she meets, lol.
Well done, Cameo and I'm looking forward to book 2!
*I received an ARC to review this book.
There's no holding back to the story as we first find out that Calla is turned for a very specific reason.
In "Of the Blood", you will find dashing heroes, brave warriors, and a growing mystery that keeps you in suspense until the very end. While it is kind of a typical paranormal romance story, I was drawn into the story of Calla, her "protectors", and why she was chosen as such. There are many warring parties all wanting a part of Calla, and hey- what can you expect from a beautiful, young, and powerful woman that is just coming into adulthood and her own secret fantasies?
"Of the Blood" is filled with resplendent world building, handsome men who are all vying for Calla's attention and devotion, and crazy, funny supporting characters that help move the story along. There is Trystan, the handsome and mysterious vampire prince, Roehl, the evil, murderous villain, and five powerful warriors sworn to protect Calla at all costs. But what makes "Of the Blood" so interesting is that Calla is slowly but surely discovering who she truly is in a way that makes you feel you're discovering it along with her. The story is through Calla's tone and you can feel that while she is naive, she still has a strong sense of loyalty and purpose. That's what makes Calla such a unique and likable character.
"Of the Blood" is a paranormal/fantasy story mixed in with some romance and some interesting speculations about how vampirism and magic works. And yes, while there are slews of vampires throughout the book, there are also other magical creatures that belong in the air, the sea, and in the earth. One particular magical creature I came to adore was Nyx, the magical crow messenger that belongs to Trystan. The one drawback that could have been improved was that Calla seemed to have fallen into "lust" with almost every handsome man she met in the story. I don't know if it's because she is young and filled with raging hormones, but it can be a bit too stereotypical of young women just coming into adulthood. But Calla is sweet, kind, and brave, and you still end up rooting for her regardless.
There is a building mystery throughout the book and towards the end, the veil is revealed as to who Calla truly is. This is a rather nice touch for stories because the author isn't deliberately leading you to buy the next title just to find out the "bigger" mystery. As a reader, you find out who Calla is, why people are after her, and the ending does lead to another book, but it's only because there is a much bigger story to tell after that.
I give this book a 4.5 stars only because of Calla's constant falling for each handsome male she meets, lol.
Well done, Cameo and I'm looking forward to book 2!
*I received an ARC to review this book.
May 18, 2021
A book full of sexy, charming, magical males? Sign me up.
First, I LOVE the cover!
Second, I don’t know how I feel about the fact that LITERALLY every time the MC meets a new male character, they are basically dry humping her leg. Not to mention that they are incredibly attractive, charming, funny, strong... you get the point.
Part of me is like... WHAT DO I HAVE TO DO TO SWITCH PLACES WITH THIS CHICK?!?!
And then the other part of me is eye rolling and cringing with the cliche of it.
However, The plot was great. It was fast paced with lots of action and betrayal. I was on the edge of my seat for a few scenes. That plot twist really had me surprised and I’m really looking forward to the second book.
First, I LOVE the cover!
Second, I don’t know how I feel about the fact that LITERALLY every time the MC meets a new male character, they are basically dry humping her leg. Not to mention that they are incredibly attractive, charming, funny, strong... you get the point.
Part of me is like... WHAT DO I HAVE TO DO TO SWITCH PLACES WITH THIS CHICK?!?!
And then the other part of me is eye rolling and cringing with the cliche of it.
However, The plot was great. It was fast paced with lots of action and betrayal. I was on the edge of my seat for a few scenes. That plot twist really had me surprised and I’m really looking forward to the second book.
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