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Dark Eyes #2
The Blood is Love
From the fog-shrouded bay of San Francisco to the dark cobblestone streets of Helsinki and all the hidden places in-between, The Blood is Love takes the reader on a sensual and twisted journey deep into Lenore and Solon's lush vampire world in this thrilling sequel to Black Sunshine.
When Lenore Warwick turned twenty-one, she expected lots of bar-hopping, parties with friends, and the occasional hookup. What she got was the realization that she's both a witch and a vampire, and that there are things in this world that want her dead. Thank god she has her enigmatic vampire lover, Absolon Stavig, to help show her the ropes. But while Lenore struggles to fit into her new topsy turvy world, full of blood, sex, and magic, she also has to contend with her messy and complicated love for a vampire who isn't always what he seems.
To make matters worse, her real father, Jeremias, a powerful warlock from the dark side, has professed an interest in her, while Solon's father, the depraved vampire king Skarde, is intent on destroying everything she loves. When Solon and Lenore have to travel to Finland to work alongside Solon's charming and vicious brother, Kaleid, in an attempt to defeat Skarde once and for all, the two of them enter a bloody new world that neither of them are prepared for. Even if their love survives the carnage to come, the chances of them getting out of there alive are slim.
Good thing they like to take their chances.
When Lenore Warwick turned twenty-one, she expected lots of bar-hopping, parties with friends, and the occasional hookup. What she got was the realization that she's both a witch and a vampire, and that there are things in this world that want her dead. Thank god she has her enigmatic vampire lover, Absolon Stavig, to help show her the ropes. But while Lenore struggles to fit into her new topsy turvy world, full of blood, sex, and magic, she also has to contend with her messy and complicated love for a vampire who isn't always what he seems.
To make matters worse, her real father, Jeremias, a powerful warlock from the dark side, has professed an interest in her, while Solon's father, the depraved vampire king Skarde, is intent on destroying everything she loves. When Solon and Lenore have to travel to Finland to work alongside Solon's charming and vicious brother, Kaleid, in an attempt to defeat Skarde once and for all, the two of them enter a bloody new world that neither of them are prepared for. Even if their love survives the carnage to come, the chances of them getting out of there alive are slim.
Good thing they like to take their chances.
284 pages, Hardcover
First published July 1, 2021
832 people are currently reading
6059 people want to read
About the author
Karina Halle
123 books19.7k followersKarina Halle is a screenwriter, former music & travel journalist, and the New York Times bestselling author of Grave Matter, Blood Orange, & The Royals Next Door, as well as 80 other romances across all sub-genres, ranging from spicy rom coms to gothic horror and dark fantasy. Needless to say, whatever you're into, she's probably written an HEA for it.
When she's not traveling, she, her husband, and their pup Perry, split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, and their condo in Los Angeles.
When she's not traveling, she, her husband, and their pup Perry, split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, and their condo in Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 534 reviews
May 4, 2022
I don't need trigger warnings, I'll pretty much read anything. And I'm still giving this 5 stars.....
but
that tail scene did psychological and unrepairable damage, I'm never gonna be able to get the image out of my head. So thanks for that, Karina Halle.
But no, seriously this book was amazing. Even better than the first one if possible. Engaging and action-packed from the first chapter all the way through the end. The stakes felt higher. I was so invested. I love Lenore and Solon, but this book had me way more interested in the plot than the romance. I love that Karina Halle put the same amount of depth in her plot and the world as well as the romance because I feel like most fantasy romance I read lacks in one area or another.
Some of the things the characters do/say are so ridiculous and will either make me laugh or cringe, but its all part of this series' charm. It has plenty of intense moments, but doesn't take itself too seriously either.
I'm so excited to read Wolf and Amethyst's story, and then Dracula's story. I'll read whatever books come out set in this world because I love love love it.
But no, seriously this book was amazing. Even better than the first one if possible. Engaging and action-packed from the first chapter all the way through the end. The stakes felt higher. I was so invested. I love Lenore and Solon, but this book had me way more interested in the plot than the romance. I love that Karina Halle put the same amount of depth in her plot and the world as well as the romance because I feel like most fantasy romance I read lacks in one area or another.
Some of the things the characters do/say are so ridiculous and will either make me laugh or cringe, but its all part of this series' charm. It has plenty of intense moments, but doesn't take itself too seriously either.
I'm so excited to read Wolf and Amethyst's story, and then Dracula's story. I'll read whatever books come out set in this world because I love love love it.
November 17, 2024
4.5⭐️
LOVED. THIS. STORY! ❤️
Ugh sooo good, so book 1 (black sunshine) definitely focuses more on Lenore and Solons relationship, but this book is where the plot really takes hold.
I lovedddd this world, and that it wasn’t just vampires and witches but also so many other magical elements like travelling between worlds, other dimensions etc it was so interesting. I also loved that this explored Lenore’s struggle with becoming a vampire and who she is a bit more.
The spice is this was next level 😮💨😅😅 I also loved Valtu being in this (from the Dracula duet, blood orange was a 5 star read for me)
One of the best vampire romances I’ve read that balance spice & plot & romance really well 👏🏼
LOVED. THIS. STORY! ❤️
Ugh sooo good, so book 1 (black sunshine) definitely focuses more on Lenore and Solons relationship, but this book is where the plot really takes hold.
I lovedddd this world, and that it wasn’t just vampires and witches but also so many other magical elements like travelling between worlds, other dimensions etc it was so interesting. I also loved that this explored Lenore’s struggle with becoming a vampire and who she is a bit more.
The spice is this was next level 😮💨😅😅 I also loved Valtu being in this (from the Dracula duet, blood orange was a 5 star read for me)
One of the best vampire romances I’ve read that balance spice & plot & romance really well 👏🏼
August 1, 2021
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Type: Book 2 of 2 from Dark Eyes series
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
After a whirlwind revelation of her bloodline, Lenore Warwick had a hard time embracing her new world. When someone from Absolon (Solon) Stavig’s past came with a proposal to change their world, she took the opportunity to make a difference even though she realized it might take more than what she was willing to give.
I loved this world, and this book amplified it with plenty of heart-thumping actions and paranormal elements compared to the last book. I also enjoyed meeting new characters and getting to know more about the villains.
While I loved Solon and Lenore’s connection in book 1, I felt that intensity is lacking in this one. The character development and Romance took a backseat to the actions and the broader storyline. Thankfully, a particular scene involving an appendage made it up for me.
The Blood is Love is a story of sacrifices and self-actualization. It would appeal to readers who enjoy a sexy and action-packed Paranormal Romance.
Books in the series:
🌹💀🌹. . . (F)BR WithTwinsie CC . . . 🌹💀🌹
For more reviews/interviews/promo visit:
Type: Book 2 of 2 from Dark Eyes series
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
After a whirlwind revelation of her bloodline, Lenore Warwick had a hard time embracing her new world. When someone from Absolon (Solon) Stavig’s past came with a proposal to change their world, she took the opportunity to make a difference even though she realized it might take more than what she was willing to give.
I loved this world, and this book amplified it with plenty of heart-thumping actions and paranormal elements compared to the last book. I also enjoyed meeting new characters and getting to know more about the villains.
I found love and life for the first time, only to lose them both so quickly. The tighter I held on, the more they slipped away, so soft and fragile in my hardened hands.
While I loved Solon and Lenore’s connection in book 1, I felt that intensity is lacking in this one. The character development and Romance took a backseat to the actions and the broader storyline. Thankfully, a particular scene involving an appendage made it up for me.
The Blood is Love is a story of sacrifices and self-actualization. It would appeal to readers who enjoy a sexy and action-packed Paranormal Romance.
Books in the series:
🌹💀🌹. . . (F)BR WithTwinsie CC . . . 🌹💀🌹
For more reviews/interviews/promo visit:
July 6, 2021
I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about this book. I didn't like it. I guess it shouldn't surprise me because I wasn't a huge fan of the first one, but I gave it a shot.
What ruined it for me is Lenore. If this was going to work for me, I needed her to be more of a stronger character. What got me was when Solon's beast got her and almost killed her. Don't get me wrong, it was a traumatic event. However, he told her to run and she ignored him. She stubbornly decided that she could tame the beast and she wasn't going to leave. After she is healed and comes back she needs space from him. Are you kidding me?!?!?! He even reminds her, I told you to run. And she's like, Are you blaming me?? Girl, please. From that moment, I was out. The skimming started because I couldn't care less about reading her inner dialogue. Which by the way was the majority of this book. Now did she redeem herself a little at the end, yes? But it's not enough to warrant me spending any more time on this series or any follow on books if they are written.
Solon I loved. I could read his POV all day. And I wish we would've had more of it. It probably would've changed the whole feel of the series for me.
What ruined it for me is Lenore. If this was going to work for me, I needed her to be more of a stronger character. What got me was when Solon's beast got her and almost killed her. Don't get me wrong, it was a traumatic event. However, he told her to run and she ignored him. She stubbornly decided that she could tame the beast and she wasn't going to leave. After she is healed and comes back she needs space from him. Are you kidding me?!?!?! He even reminds her, I told you to run. And she's like, Are you blaming me?? Girl, please. From that moment, I was out. The skimming started because I couldn't care less about reading her inner dialogue. Which by the way was the majority of this book. Now did she redeem herself a little at the end, yes? But it's not enough to warrant me spending any more time on this series or any follow on books if they are written.
Solon I loved. I could read his POV all day. And I wish we would've had more of it. It probably would've changed the whole feel of the series for me.
July 15, 2021
“I need to get use to this. To what I am.”
“And what you are is mine.”
Sometimes I forget entirely how much I love a good paranormal romance. It seemed like after the whole Twilight hysteria everyone was writing a vampire or werewolf story. Now, that it has been a while we are seeing more paranormal romance stories that are unlike anything most people could dream up. Black Sunshine and The Blood is Love was one of those duets that just give you all the supernatural/paranormal vibes you crave while keeping everything undeniably original.
Lenore & Solon absolutely stole my heart in book on of the Dark Eyes Duet and in this book we got to see a whole different side to them both. The Blood is Love was darker in many aspects from Black Sunshine because we weren't kept on edge with the start of their relationship. In this one we know that they love one another but the obstacles they must face are not only from outside forces but from inside themselves.
Solon has been alive for hundreds of years and he has never felt a love like he shares with Lenore but with that comes its own set of problems. Mainly keeping his beast in check and making sure his father doesn't kill her. With everything at stake (no pun intended) Lenore has to face more than she ever thought possible not just with coming to terms with a new relationship, being a half vamp half witch but also with Solon's father wanting her dead. If only he just wanted her dead though, that would be simpler.
This book was intense from start to finish and as I have read in several reviews there could be parts that might be uncomfortable for some people but to me those parts seemed almost natural for where the story was heading. Just be cautious if you have any kind of triggers.
Of course, I loved this book!! A delicious dark and brooding vampire risking it all for the woman he loves and the woman he loves risking it all for him in more ways than one. It takes a lot now for me to love a good vampire story, but I loved everything about this duet. Beyond thrilled for Amethyst and Wolf's story because that could play out a couple of different ways and I think that no matter how it plays out we have not seen the last of the bloodshed.
“And what you are is mine.”
Sometimes I forget entirely how much I love a good paranormal romance. It seemed like after the whole Twilight hysteria everyone was writing a vampire or werewolf story. Now, that it has been a while we are seeing more paranormal romance stories that are unlike anything most people could dream up. Black Sunshine and The Blood is Love was one of those duets that just give you all the supernatural/paranormal vibes you crave while keeping everything undeniably original.
Lenore & Solon absolutely stole my heart in book on of the Dark Eyes Duet and in this book we got to see a whole different side to them both. The Blood is Love was darker in many aspects from Black Sunshine because we weren't kept on edge with the start of their relationship. In this one we know that they love one another but the obstacles they must face are not only from outside forces but from inside themselves.
Solon has been alive for hundreds of years and he has never felt a love like he shares with Lenore but with that comes its own set of problems. Mainly keeping his beast in check and making sure his father doesn't kill her. With everything at stake (no pun intended) Lenore has to face more than she ever thought possible not just with coming to terms with a new relationship, being a half vamp half witch but also with Solon's father wanting her dead. If only he just wanted her dead though, that would be simpler.
This book was intense from start to finish and as I have read in several reviews there could be parts that might be uncomfortable for some people but to me those parts seemed almost natural for where the story was heading. Just be cautious if you have any kind of triggers.
Of course, I loved this book!! A delicious dark and brooding vampire risking it all for the woman he loves and the woman he loves risking it all for him in more ways than one. It takes a lot now for me to love a good vampire story, but I loved everything about this duet. Beyond thrilled for Amethyst and Wolf's story because that could play out a couple of different ways and I think that no matter how it plays out we have not seen the last of the bloodshed.
September 29, 2025
This was soooo much better than the first one! The humor was top tier. Running straight to Nightwolf….💜
May 17, 2024
Well it didn't get any better than the first. Oh well.
Would not recommend.
Would not recommend.
July 1, 2021
*Thank you to the author and her Valentine PR for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.*
Freaking WOW! I read this book so fast when it was dropped on my kindle. Black Sunshine was such a great return to vampire romances for me. Being a child of the early 2000's when they were all the rage and the Dark Eyes series by Karina Halle is the PREFECT series to relive my teen angst but it ups the ante.
The Blood is Love picks up pretty soon after Black Sunshine and we get to see what is happening at Dark Eyes with our favorite supernaturals. I loved just being back with everyone and diving back into this world. However, this book doesn't waste any time. We dive right into the issues we are going to tackle.
Solon's Beast, Solon's Father, and Lenore's Father. These are all threads that were introduced in the previous book and we have information to reveal and demons to slay. This book just didn't quite.
It was steamier, bloodier, and wilder than I was expecting. I would have read it all in one sitting if I didn't need to sleep.
I also really enjoyed watching Solon and Lenore grow closer through their struggles, there are some pretty intense scenes between the two of them and I liked how they navigated things. I was nervous for a moment that there would be some typical book 2 breakup struggles but that wasn't really a thing, you'll see what I mean. The romance really is just sooo good. *sigh*
One of the only slight misses for me was the growth of Lenore's power, I really wanted to see her experimenting and learning about herself and become an asset to the team. She does have her gifts kind of come as an epiphany in a scene in this one and I wanted her to have been training or learning and not just BAM gifted it.
Overall, I really appreciated the building of the lore some more and the introduction of Dracula! We were made promises and the author fulfilled them! With a promise of more books in this series to come! I cannot wait until October this year for more.
4.5/5 stars
Freaking WOW! I read this book so fast when it was dropped on my kindle. Black Sunshine was such a great return to vampire romances for me. Being a child of the early 2000's when they were all the rage and the Dark Eyes series by Karina Halle is the PREFECT series to relive my teen angst but it ups the ante.
The Blood is Love picks up pretty soon after Black Sunshine and we get to see what is happening at Dark Eyes with our favorite supernaturals. I loved just being back with everyone and diving back into this world. However, this book doesn't waste any time. We dive right into the issues we are going to tackle.
Solon's Beast, Solon's Father, and Lenore's Father. These are all threads that were introduced in the previous book and we have information to reveal and demons to slay. This book just didn't quite.
It was steamier, bloodier, and wilder than I was expecting. I would have read it all in one sitting if I didn't need to sleep.
I also really enjoyed watching Solon and Lenore grow closer through their struggles, there are some pretty intense scenes between the two of them and I liked how they navigated things. I was nervous for a moment that there would be some typical book 2 breakup struggles but that wasn't really a thing, you'll see what I mean. The romance really is just sooo good. *sigh*
One of the only slight misses for me was the growth of Lenore's power, I really wanted to see her experimenting and learning about herself and become an asset to the team. She does have her gifts kind of come as an epiphany in a scene in this one and I wanted her to have been training or learning and not just BAM gifted it.
Overall, I really appreciated the building of the lore some more and the introduction of Dracula! We were made promises and the author fulfilled them! With a promise of more books in this series to come! I cannot wait until October this year for more.
4.5/5 stars
September 12, 2025
So this wasn’t my favorite and I skimmed A LOT. I just didn’t like Lenore and her inner dialogue was so annoying. She’s only 21 and just turned vampire and it shows. Maybe my problem is that I don’t enjoy stories where a human is turned? I’m the odd man out here, but this just didn’t do anything for me. I’ve also come to the conclusion that I don’t like when contemporary authors (Halle & Emily Goodwin, for example) write PNR. Like you can tell the difference between the writing and it’s pretty jarring to me. There’s too much inner dialogue, regular dialogue becomes cheesy and it’s just not the same quality. I just couldn’t wait to put the book down.
July 30, 2022
meh meh meh. I should've stopped after Black Sunshine, and even that wasn't much to write home about.
July 3, 2021
BETA READING
LOVE THIS WORLD <3 AND THESE CHARACTERS
LOVE THIS WORLD <3 AND THESE CHARACTERS
July 2, 2021
the range that chapter 6 has, it’s really something else.
a comic relief? yes
intense? yes
steamy and hot? kind of, yes
soft? again, kind of, yes
p.s. thanks to Karina Halle for clarifying that Wolf and Lenore never had actual sex in the first book because you know— 🥴
a comic relief? yes
intense? yes
steamy and hot? kind of, yes
soft? again, kind of, yes
p.s. thanks to Karina Halle for clarifying that Wolf and Lenore never had actual sex in the first book because you know— 🥴
July 5, 2021
I adore Solon and Lenore. These two are fantastic characters and returning to them was a treat. This made me want to spend the month just reading vampire romances honestly because I really love what comes with the genre… maybe it’s the girl who grew up reading twilight in me :’)
This picks up not too long where black sunshine left off, and it’s mostly answering all the questions we had after the first book. I felt satisfied with how Solon and Lenore were doing after black sunshine, but there were so many loose ends. What about skarde and jermias? Can Lenore tap into her powers normally? What’s up with solons beast? All of that is answered in this book and I loved it. Also, there was some FANTASTIC steamy scenes so thank you verryyy much for that Karina. There was some relationship growing pains with Lenore and Solon that made me emo, but I’m sensitive and it was a very needed issue they needed to figure out. That’s the only negative about the book for me. Great continuation of the series! I’m so excited for wolf and amythests book
This picks up not too long where black sunshine left off, and it’s mostly answering all the questions we had after the first book. I felt satisfied with how Solon and Lenore were doing after black sunshine, but there were so many loose ends. What about skarde and jermias? Can Lenore tap into her powers normally? What’s up with solons beast? All of that is answered in this book and I loved it. Also, there was some FANTASTIC steamy scenes so thank you verryyy much for that Karina. There was some relationship growing pains with Lenore and Solon that made me emo, but I’m sensitive and it was a very needed issue they needed to figure out. That’s the only negative about the book for me. Great continuation of the series! I’m so excited for wolf and amythests book
July 12, 2021
4 ⭐'s
I really enjoyed being back in Solon and Lenore's world. They are a great couple and even though things were tough for them, I loved how much they were always there for each other.
There are some "interesting" sex scenes...one in particular. I can't say that I've never read that before but it was hard to take especially with what happens after.
There's some crazy drama with both their fathers. Of course, we all knew it was coming but I liked Karina Halle's spin on things.
I'm so excited that she is writing Wolf and Amethyst's book! Nightwolf is coming out October 31st (how apropos!) and good ol' Dracula is getting his own book as well. King of Darkness is coming out January 4, 2022. Now where in the heck is Ezra's book?
I really enjoyed being back in Solon and Lenore's world. They are a great couple and even though things were tough for them, I loved how much they were always there for each other.
There are some "interesting" sex scenes...one in particular. I can't say that I've never read that before but it was hard to take especially with what happens after.
There's some crazy drama with both their fathers. Of course, we all knew it was coming but I liked Karina Halle's spin on things.
I'm so excited that she is writing Wolf and Amethyst's book! Nightwolf is coming out October 31st (how apropos!) and good ol' Dracula is getting his own book as well. King of Darkness is coming out January 4, 2022. Now where in the heck is Ezra's book?
August 21, 2024
Honestly, I just read this because I wanted to complete the duology.
I didn’t hate it and I didn’t love it.
I read the Dracula duet by this author and I feel in love with it so hard that this duet just couldn’t compare.
I didn’t really get interested in the story and I didn’t feel connected to any of the characters. It pretty much fell right out of my head after I read it.
I’d HIGHLY recommend Blood Orange though (from the Dracula duet) it was everything I ever wanted in a steamy, gothic, vampire romance.
I didn’t hate it and I didn’t love it.
I read the Dracula duet by this author and I feel in love with it so hard that this duet just couldn’t compare.
I didn’t really get interested in the story and I didn’t feel connected to any of the characters. It pretty much fell right out of my head after I read it.
I’d HIGHLY recommend Blood Orange though (from the Dracula duet) it was everything I ever wanted in a steamy, gothic, vampire romance.
October 19, 2023
Filing this away as: I wanted to love this but I couldn't stand the FMC.
Lenore is meant to be a badass, but my goodness she grated on my every nerve. And don't get me started on the way she got herself hurt after being warned away and THEN TRIED TO FLIP THAT SHIT ON SOLON. GIRLBYE.
And then there's the issue of chemistry. Unfortunately, I still don't feel any between Lenore and Solon. The smut was steaming hot, sure, but their declarations of love and the tender moments felt empty.
BUT DID I MENTION LENORE DRINKS BLOOD FROM HIS DICK AND HE DRINKS HER BLOOD FROM HER COOCH. AND THEY SHARE THE SAME HUMAN BEFORE FUCKING IN FRONT OF SAID HUMAN. AND ALSO THERE'S MONSTER FUCKING FOR YOU MONSTER GIRLIES (cough cough tail action!!!!).
Ahem, excuse me.
I do think I enjoyed this installment more than the previous one! Especially because it taps into more of the witchy/paranormal world. I would still love more world building though. Despite my issues with this overall, I'm actually quite stoked to read Wolf and Dracula's stories!
Now to decide if I want to hang on to my special editions or not.....
Lenore is meant to be a badass, but my goodness she grated on my every nerve. And don't get me started on the way she got herself hurt after being warned away and THEN TRIED TO FLIP THAT SHIT ON SOLON. GIRLBYE.
And then there's the issue of chemistry. Unfortunately, I still don't feel any between Lenore and Solon. The smut was steaming hot, sure, but their declarations of love and the tender moments felt empty.
BUT DID I MENTION LENORE DRINKS BLOOD FROM HIS DICK AND HE DRINKS HER BLOOD FROM HER COOCH. AND THEY SHARE THE SAME HUMAN BEFORE FUCKING IN FRONT OF SAID HUMAN. AND ALSO THERE'S MONSTER FUCKING FOR YOU MONSTER GIRLIES (cough cough tail action!!!!).
Ahem, excuse me.
I do think I enjoyed this installment more than the previous one! Especially because it taps into more of the witchy/paranormal world. I would still love more world building though. Despite my issues with this overall, I'm actually quite stoked to read Wolf and Dracula's stories!
Now to decide if I want to hang on to my special editions or not.....
January 19, 2023
damn that was anticlimactic.
I blinked and then the book was over LOL. It just didn’t speak to me like I thought it would. I wasn’t really feeling the characters (except Dracula, he’s the exception, an icon, the movement, and I know it’s because I read the spin-off first, which is so much better, but he had like 5 lines and was vastly more entertaining than the main characters)
I blinked and then the book was over LOL. It just didn’t speak to me like I thought it would. I wasn’t really feeling the characters (except Dracula, he’s the exception, an icon, the movement, and I know it’s because I read the spin-off first, which is so much better, but he had like 5 lines and was vastly more entertaining than the main characters)
January 31, 2025
I enjoyed this but for me, it wasn't as good as the first book and something felt missing. Unfortunately, I just wasn't as invested in the story. However, I appreciated that this was dual POV rather than just Lenore as we got in the first book. It made it so much easier to connect to Solon and getting his perspective was a welcome addition.
Here we continue the story and this second book mainly deals with the issues of Skarde and Jeremias the two obscure father figures. There's also some friction between Lenore and Solon because of his dual nature. I personally wasn't a fan of this story direction and I didn't think it added much and wasn't needed. We also get some much-needed clarification from when Lenore was in the becoming and transactioning. So in regards to the Wolf situation. Honestly, this still didn't make it any better for me I'm still pissed and playing it down as he only did this still isn't selling it to me 😂 my previous rant still stands firm.
I also wasn't sold on the whole quest to take on Skarde it felt a tad rushed and chaotic. I did like the way this was all resolved though. I was wondering how this would all be accomplished and it managed to deliver leaving me satisfied with how it was all resolved.
In conclusion, this was an ok read. it was well written just not quite my cup of tea. I preferred book one to book two even with the whole he that shall not be named situation and this not being quite the hit I was expecting certainly won't put me off reading this author's books in the future. I do like the style of writing used and I've found the books I've read so far by them intriguing. This one just isn't my favourite to date of there's.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
October 19, 2021
Well dang!!! The spice got turned up in book two! Lenore is still trying to figure out her new life. She grew up thinking she was human when she is half witch/half vampire who also happens to have a famous evil warlock as a biological father.
It’s a lot to take in.
Her world feels out of control and she is desperately trying to get some reassurance from Solon. They both love each other but sometimes it’s hard for him to express it because he was not made for that feeling.
“Loving someone, loving you. I’m not made for it, you must believe me on that. My heart isn’t built for it. I don’t think any vampire hearts are, especially those board from such a dark place. “
Their relationship has cracks in it. Solon has a curse, and uncontrollable beast that resides in him and it comes out seemingly at the worst times. And it ended up hurting Lenore. Badly.
We are introduced to her biological father. We are introduced to Solon’s father.
And were introduced to a whole entire other realm. I love the world building that Karina Halle made up for us. I absolutely love the character Dracula.
There is a lot of juicy moments in this book. Including some voyeurism and blood play. I mean they are vampires.
And there are a ton of angst and moments where the relationship between these two seem to be falling apart. And we do have enemies. Big ones. That these characters need to somehow overcome.
It’s such an amazing book. I absolutely loved the series. Even the covers are absolutely gorgeous and caught my eye instantly.
June 21, 2024
1st read: Channeling my inner Hannah - DNF @ 23%
2nd chance: should have stayed in the dnf pile.
Equal parts juvenile and graphic. Juvenile with our characters and their super cringey dialog. Graphic with both obscene spice scenes and brutal violence.
2nd chance: should have stayed in the dnf pile.
Equal parts juvenile and graphic. Juvenile with our characters and their super cringey dialog. Graphic with both obscene spice scenes and brutal violence.
June 30, 2021
„This is love. Blood that gives, blood that saves.”
I’m completely and utterly obsessed with this world! I keep saying that paranormal romance is not my thing, but honestly I can't imagine passing on this series, because it's hands down one of my top reads. Karina Halle created a world filled with supernatural creatures, a world full of suspense, mysteries, lust and danger. Black Sunshine rocked my world, but the continuation in The Blood is Love? It completely blew my mind!
This part shows how unusual the love between Lenore and Solon is and how many issues they have to face in order to have a little 'normal'. Well, as normal as vampires can afford. Their relationship is dripping with passion and mutual care, it’s lined with concerns, fears and determination to make it work. The depth of their love is palpable and you can feel their raw need for closeness. These two brought so many emotions into this story- from sensuality and affection, through dread and heartache, to the tenacity and complete devotion. I adore their romance and all the things they needed to face, both good and bad.
The secondary characters, already familiar and the new ones, are perfectly developed. Some of them made my heart happy, some made me rage, but every single one of them was brilliantly woven into the storyline.
The Blood is Love is an epic continuation to Lenore and Absolon’s story. It perfectly shows how they growed not only as a couple, but also as individuals. It has many jaw-dropping moments, as well as swoony and sinfully carnal scenes. This paranormal romance keeps at the edge of the seat and takes on the real rollercoaster of emotions. I cannot wait to get back to this world and read the spin-off books!
I’m completely and utterly obsessed with this world! I keep saying that paranormal romance is not my thing, but honestly I can't imagine passing on this series, because it's hands down one of my top reads. Karina Halle created a world filled with supernatural creatures, a world full of suspense, mysteries, lust and danger. Black Sunshine rocked my world, but the continuation in The Blood is Love? It completely blew my mind!
This part shows how unusual the love between Lenore and Solon is and how many issues they have to face in order to have a little 'normal'. Well, as normal as vampires can afford. Their relationship is dripping with passion and mutual care, it’s lined with concerns, fears and determination to make it work. The depth of their love is palpable and you can feel their raw need for closeness. These two brought so many emotions into this story- from sensuality and affection, through dread and heartache, to the tenacity and complete devotion. I adore their romance and all the things they needed to face, both good and bad.
The secondary characters, already familiar and the new ones, are perfectly developed. Some of them made my heart happy, some made me rage, but every single one of them was brilliantly woven into the storyline.
The Blood is Love is an epic continuation to Lenore and Absolon’s story. It perfectly shows how they growed not only as a couple, but also as individuals. It has many jaw-dropping moments, as well as swoony and sinfully carnal scenes. This paranormal romance keeps at the edge of the seat and takes on the real rollercoaster of emotions. I cannot wait to get back to this world and read the spin-off books!
July 8, 2021
Well this was a delight!!!
In this stunning sequel we get all the feels but also we get yummy darkness. Karina Hale is reviving the vampire genre with this duet. Lush, emotional and steamy, this book gives us a further glimpse into Solon and Lenore's love story.
I was hooked and I couldn't stop reading.
This might be my new favorite from this author. I think this is a genre that suits her incredibly. I hope she writes more like this.
In this stunning sequel we get all the feels but also we get yummy darkness. Karina Hale is reviving the vampire genre with this duet. Lush, emotional and steamy, this book gives us a further glimpse into Solon and Lenore's love story.
I was hooked and I couldn't stop reading.
This might be my new favorite from this author. I think this is a genre that suits her incredibly. I hope she writes more like this.
June 30, 2024
Karina’s writing is just amazing. Sucks you in, fast paced, spicy, interesting characters. Love everything I have read by her.
July 2, 2021
I'm Solon's and I belong to him, body and soul and blood.
Explosive. Intense. Action Packed. And Yup, she went there! ;)
The Blood is Love is the second book in the Dark Eyes series and you MUST read Black Sunshine before jumping into this book. But trust me, even if you think paranormal isn't your thing, just try these. They are well written and the characters make it all worth it! And the covers? Beautiful perfection that totally grasps the story.
This second book was SO good. The intense love. The build up. The beast. The sex. The story and family. It played out like a movie. Like a dark and bloody movie. If you liked Black Sunshine, that was almost like the training wheels. Be prepared to take those wheels off and go full stream ahead into the Vampire and Witch world.
Black Sunshine was told totally from Lenore's POV, but it was HER story and about her becoming. I wanted to get inside Absolon's head and we finally get to in The Blood is Love. This story is in dual POV and it makes sense. It's the journey of Lenore and Solon and it continues where Black Sunshine left off. We are back at Dark Eyes for the first half of the book and we see some of our old friends. You feel the intensity of the love between Lenore and Solon and how far they would go for one another. Solon may be all alpha and out to protect Lenore at all costs, but Lenore is stubborn and her love is just as fierce. But all I gotta say is....chapter 6. That's it. Chapter 6. Chapter 6 may be intense and crazy and HOLY WOW, but it's also the turning point in these two relationship and also a glimpse into the power they have and how they have to use it.
This beast is mine as much as Solon is.
After the intensity of chapter 6, we are introduced to some major players that will have a lot to do with the last half of the book. And that last half takes us over the ocean to Finland to change the course of vampire lives. These chapters I could see and taste. They were so visual and vivid in my head. They are crazy, intense and so very bloody. Definitely not for the squeamish.
I am so glad that Ms Halle decided to continue to write more in this world. I love the setting(s). I love the characters. I love their fierce feelings for one another and I love how the books are so crazy intense and so very visual. The book plays so vividly in my mind. And boy, is it red! I only wish that we got a little bit more of the build up and the play of Lenore's power and magic. She's so new to her world.
Overall, this was an exciting read and a great follow up to Black Sunshine. Heart poundingly good. And all the mythical history we got at the beginning? Definite plus to help us understand more of the story that followed. Bravo!
4.5 stars!
"And you are mine for the ages, moonshine. I love you with all the blood in my heart. True love never dies, even if I do."
Explosive. Intense. Action Packed. And Yup, she went there! ;)
The Blood is Love is the second book in the Dark Eyes series and you MUST read Black Sunshine before jumping into this book. But trust me, even if you think paranormal isn't your thing, just try these. They are well written and the characters make it all worth it! And the covers? Beautiful perfection that totally grasps the story.
This second book was SO good. The intense love. The build up. The beast. The sex. The story and family. It played out like a movie. Like a dark and bloody movie. If you liked Black Sunshine, that was almost like the training wheels. Be prepared to take those wheels off and go full stream ahead into the Vampire and Witch world.
Black Sunshine was told totally from Lenore's POV, but it was HER story and about her becoming. I wanted to get inside Absolon's head and we finally get to in The Blood is Love. This story is in dual POV and it makes sense. It's the journey of Lenore and Solon and it continues where Black Sunshine left off. We are back at Dark Eyes for the first half of the book and we see some of our old friends. You feel the intensity of the love between Lenore and Solon and how far they would go for one another. Solon may be all alpha and out to protect Lenore at all costs, but Lenore is stubborn and her love is just as fierce. But all I gotta say is....chapter 6. That's it. Chapter 6. Chapter 6 may be intense and crazy and HOLY WOW, but it's also the turning point in these two relationship and also a glimpse into the power they have and how they have to use it.
This beast is mine as much as Solon is.
After the intensity of chapter 6, we are introduced to some major players that will have a lot to do with the last half of the book. And that last half takes us over the ocean to Finland to change the course of vampire lives. These chapters I could see and taste. They were so visual and vivid in my head. They are crazy, intense and so very bloody. Definitely not for the squeamish.
I am so glad that Ms Halle decided to continue to write more in this world. I love the setting(s). I love the characters. I love their fierce feelings for one another and I love how the books are so crazy intense and so very visual. The book plays so vividly in my mind. And boy, is it red! I only wish that we got a little bit more of the build up and the play of Lenore's power and magic. She's so new to her world.
Overall, this was an exciting read and a great follow up to Black Sunshine. Heart poundingly good. And all the mythical history we got at the beginning? Definite plus to help us understand more of the story that followed. Bravo!
4.5 stars!
"And you are mine for the ages, moonshine. I love you with all the blood in my heart. True love never dies, even if I do."
Read
October 7, 2022I was so excited when Karina said there would be a sequel to Black Sunshine, and I'm extremely happy to say she did not disappoint!! I actually loved this one even more than the first book.
The story picks up a few months later when they are back in San Francisco at Dark Eyes with the rest of the gang we have come to know and love. Although they don't play a significant role in the fight against Solon's father, Skarde. The action starts quickly in this one, and never lets up. So much so, it kept me glued to my Kindle until 3:30am, when I finally finished in one sitting.
We are introduced to new characters, that are family, friend, and foe. It's hard to know who you can really trust. The secondary characters in this story were well developed, and added significantly to the main plot. I think everyone will enjoy the introduction to Dracula!!! And I mean that in more ways than one!
I enjoyed learning more history as it pertained to Solon and Lenore's family. It's a very dark and sorted past, and I was completely intrigued by it, and the continued world building. The only thing I wanted more of was Lenore developing the use of her magic.
The relationship between Solon and Lenore definitely takes center stage. They are literally fighting for their love and commitment to one another. I absolutely LOVE Solon, and his stalkerish ways. He needs to be in control, yet he considers Lenore an equal partner in every way. She is strong, sassy, and not afraid to speak her mind. I loved watching them grow as a couple. They fed off of each other's strengths. I could literally feel their love and devotion throughout the whole book. The sex scenes were also off the charts HOT!!! I was very thankful that it was late, and I was alone when reading some of these scenes.
The Blood is Love delivers a stellar sequel and I highly recommend this duet to anyone that loves to read paranormal romances.
The story picks up a few months later when they are back in San Francisco at Dark Eyes with the rest of the gang we have come to know and love. Although they don't play a significant role in the fight against Solon's father, Skarde. The action starts quickly in this one, and never lets up. So much so, it kept me glued to my Kindle until 3:30am, when I finally finished in one sitting.
We are introduced to new characters, that are family, friend, and foe. It's hard to know who you can really trust. The secondary characters in this story were well developed, and added significantly to the main plot. I think everyone will enjoy the introduction to Dracula!!! And I mean that in more ways than one!
I enjoyed learning more history as it pertained to Solon and Lenore's family. It's a very dark and sorted past, and I was completely intrigued by it, and the continued world building. The only thing I wanted more of was Lenore developing the use of her magic.
The relationship between Solon and Lenore definitely takes center stage. They are literally fighting for their love and commitment to one another. I absolutely LOVE Solon, and his stalkerish ways. He needs to be in control, yet he considers Lenore an equal partner in every way. She is strong, sassy, and not afraid to speak her mind. I loved watching them grow as a couple. They fed off of each other's strengths. I could literally feel their love and devotion throughout the whole book. The sex scenes were also off the charts HOT!!! I was very thankful that it was late, and I was alone when reading some of these scenes.
The Blood is Love delivers a stellar sequel and I highly recommend this duet to anyone that loves to read paranormal romances.
June 29, 2023
read June 29, 2023 - June 29, 2023: 2 stars
June 30, 2021
MIND. FREAKING.BLOWN. Obsessed. Consumed. Annihilated. The Blood is Love by Karina Halle left me breathless. This volatile, dark, hypnotic and intensely passionate paranormal romance was perfection every way.
This book need to be read after Black Sunshine. Lenore has come to know that she is half vampire half witch brought up by two slayers. And Absolon Stavig is the vampire who has been by her side through the dark disturbing time. Solon is her soulmate and this possessive alpha brooding vampire will do anything for her. Solon's father Skarde is the dark king of the vampires who wants Lenore and her special power. They have to destroy Skarde and his Dark Order for once and all. But that's like facing death.
Solon. Solon. Solon. My heart just cannot contain everything I feel for Solon. He has lived a violent and corrupt and destructive life before and the beast still sleeps inside. But Lenore is his lifeline and there is no way I can express how deep his love and devotion goes. The author brought magic in each word and made me feel every single dazzling fighting swooning emotion right in my heart. How can I not get obsessed with a man who is ready to let his love go because he needs to save her? The pain and anguish and angst is unreal. Lenore isn't obviously backing down so easily. Solon is her existence and she will go to any length to save him. She is so human even with her magic and supernatural strengths. She has a bright wholesome heart that refused to bow in front of dark forces. They have a long battle ahead and it will test their love. This story is much more action packed than the first one. The author took us from San Francisco to ruggedly beautiful Finland to Arctic Ocean. She mixed vivid paranormal and fantasy scenes with real nature. It was a maze of lies, secrets, conspiracy, power plays and mind games. Dangerous. Addictive. Topsy turvy road all the way. But at the core lies forever kind of love that beats death. Also..the chemistry was insane. Like crazy intense. Some scenes will make you go "whoa what did I just read and why was it so depraved yet perfect?"
The Blood is Love by Karina Halle delivers everything at extreme. Love. Passion. Drama. Action. Suspense. And I am just so in love with this whole world.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
This book need to be read after Black Sunshine. Lenore has come to know that she is half vampire half witch brought up by two slayers. And Absolon Stavig is the vampire who has been by her side through the dark disturbing time. Solon is her soulmate and this possessive alpha brooding vampire will do anything for her. Solon's father Skarde is the dark king of the vampires who wants Lenore and her special power. They have to destroy Skarde and his Dark Order for once and all. But that's like facing death.
Solon. Solon. Solon. My heart just cannot contain everything I feel for Solon. He has lived a violent and corrupt and destructive life before and the beast still sleeps inside. But Lenore is his lifeline and there is no way I can express how deep his love and devotion goes. The author brought magic in each word and made me feel every single dazzling fighting swooning emotion right in my heart. How can I not get obsessed with a man who is ready to let his love go because he needs to save her? The pain and anguish and angst is unreal. Lenore isn't obviously backing down so easily. Solon is her existence and she will go to any length to save him. She is so human even with her magic and supernatural strengths. She has a bright wholesome heart that refused to bow in front of dark forces. They have a long battle ahead and it will test their love. This story is much more action packed than the first one. The author took us from San Francisco to ruggedly beautiful Finland to Arctic Ocean. She mixed vivid paranormal and fantasy scenes with real nature. It was a maze of lies, secrets, conspiracy, power plays and mind games. Dangerous. Addictive. Topsy turvy road all the way. But at the core lies forever kind of love that beats death. Also..the chemistry was insane. Like crazy intense. Some scenes will make you go "whoa what did I just read and why was it so depraved yet perfect?"
The Blood is Love by Karina Halle delivers everything at extreme. Love. Passion. Drama. Action. Suspense. And I am just so in love with this whole world.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
August 10, 2021
4 ★
Continuing in the timeline, Lenore Warwick now has the answers she was seeking about her heritage but she must look inside to determine just how to use that knowledge. Confronted with a possible power shift in the supernatural realm, Lenore and Absolon discover how much they are willing to sacrifice.
Told in dual POV, the narrative delves into the connection between Lenore and Solon which leads to some steamy scenes. Adding to the story were villainous secondary characters and Finnish mythology that enriched the reading experience. I liked being immersed in this paranormal world where nothing is as it seems and the action was nonstop. Lenore remained an interesting character and she ultimately showed what she can harness. As for Solon, he continued to be devastatingly sexy.
Ultimately, The Blood is Love is about embracing one’s strengths. This book would appeal to those seeking a dark romance in a paranormal setting.
*This was a (F)BR with Twinsie Hawkey*
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Continuing in the timeline, Lenore Warwick now has the answers she was seeking about her heritage but she must look inside to determine just how to use that knowledge. Confronted with a possible power shift in the supernatural realm, Lenore and Absolon discover how much they are willing to sacrifice.
“By blocking out what’s difficult, you’re refusing to face it. By refusing to face it, you can’t use it to make yourself stronger.”
Told in dual POV, the narrative delves into the connection between Lenore and Solon which leads to some steamy scenes. Adding to the story were villainous secondary characters and Finnish mythology that enriched the reading experience. I liked being immersed in this paranormal world where nothing is as it seems and the action was nonstop. Lenore remained an interesting character and she ultimately showed what she can harness. As for Solon, he continued to be devastatingly sexy.
Ultimately, The Blood is Love is about embracing one’s strengths. This book would appeal to those seeking a dark romance in a paranormal setting.
*This was a (F)BR with Twinsie Hawkey*
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
July 3, 2021
Although I would not call Black Sunshine my favourite Karina Halle read, it was certainly one that had me hooked. When everything finished, I found myself desperate for more of the characters and the story. I needed to find out more, to see how certain details came together, which ensured I was happy to dive into The Blood is Love.
From the start, The Blood is Love had me hooked. In fact, I was hooked deeper with this one than I was with the first book. I adored watching the way things developed, learning more about the world, and seeing things play out. There were a few details that felt a little too cliched for me, but it was not enough to take away my enjoyment of the story. There was plenty packed into the pages, lots of details that had me invested in everything that was playing out, and I could not put it down.
Without a doubt, fans of the first book need to give this one a read. It takes the addictive elements of the first book and makes them stronger. I cannot wait to see what happens in the spin-off books (I’m especially excited to see a certain couple come together).
From the start, The Blood is Love had me hooked. In fact, I was hooked deeper with this one than I was with the first book. I adored watching the way things developed, learning more about the world, and seeing things play out. There were a few details that felt a little too cliched for me, but it was not enough to take away my enjoyment of the story. There was plenty packed into the pages, lots of details that had me invested in everything that was playing out, and I could not put it down.
Without a doubt, fans of the first book need to give this one a read. It takes the addictive elements of the first book and makes them stronger. I cannot wait to see what happens in the spin-off books (I’m especially excited to see a certain couple come together).
October 27, 2024
Freaking loved this book! Speechless! It shattered my heart and made it whole again! I highly recommend this series and the Dracula duet! ( Blood Orange and Black Rose) I can't wait to start Nightwolf!! 🔥🔥🔥
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