Blood Ties

Last Life #3

by Alexey Osadchuk

Heinrich de Gramont’s petition to the king to release Max Renard from his duty to serve at Westerly Fort has been signed. Max’s debt to the crown has been paid. And now his “doting” uncle expects his wayward and petulant nephew to come to the capital at once so he can be wed to Viscountess Aurélie de Marbot.

Max knows there’s no getting out of a trip to the capital this time. Also, beyond personal affairs, he has a lot of questions both for his father’s brother and a number of maternal relatives. And so, Max decides to make for Herouxville to see with his own eyes just how far blood ties can take him.

Genres: Fantasy, Magic, Audiobook, Fiction, Action, Epic Fantasy

586 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 14, 2023

About the author

Alexey Osadchuk was born in 1979 in the Ukraine. In the late 1990s his family moved to the south of Spain where they still live today.

Alexey was an avid reader from an early age, devouring adventure novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs, Jack London and Arthur Conan Doyle. In 2010 he wrote his first fantasy novel which was immediately accepted for publication.

He also used to be a passionate online gamer which prompted him to write the story of a man who joins an MMORPG game hoping to raise money for his daughter’s heart surgery. The first book of Mirror World was published In 2013. The English translation of the series is now available on Amazon in its entirety, prompting a reviewer to call Alexey “one of the best LitRPG authors to date”.

Reviews

[Steve Naylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating 4.0 stars

I don't really like political intrigue but somehow I am really liking this series. It is all plots and behind the scenes maneuvering. Not a lot of action or a lot of powers which is usually my favorite part. I guess there's just something about the MC. Maybe it is that he comes across that he knows so much more than the people around him. He has this secret info so I am excited to see what he does next. He is powerful but there are many more people more powerful than him. I guess the most interesting part is what people expect from him and what he can really do. How long will people treat him the way he used to be versus how he is now? I am looking forward to the next one.

[Russell Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy this series. While its pacing is more methodical than I usually prefer, and the focus is more political than martial, I'm heavily invested in the story.

It reminds me of The King's Dark Tidings, though without many of the annoyances. I also enjoy that the MC isn't collecting a harem or nonsensically pursuing romance over higher priorities.

The prose is verbose, but it seems fitting for the story since it navigates social circles of nobility with all the extra pomp and circumstance. I can see how some readers might not quite like this, but we're in Book 3 at this point so everyone should know what they're into by now.

I can't wait for the next book and I might end up trying one of the author's earlier series in the meantime.

[Tony Hinde · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's fun watching an uber-competent protagonist with hidden powers overturning all the plans of the selfish and powerful. The author creates tension at every turn, drawing the reader ever forward.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Blood Ties" is the 3rd installment of Alexey Osadchuk’s Last Life series, published in 2023 and masterfully narrated by Ryan Burke. This progression fantasy audiobook immerses listeners in a richly woven tale of political intrigue, familial ties, and personal discovery. Osadchuk’s knack for blending virtual reality-inspired elements with traditional fantasy shines through once again, while Burke’s narration elevates the experience to new heights.

The story follows Max Renard, a protagonist whose journey takes a pivotal turn as he’s released from his duty at Westerly Fort, thanks to a petition from Heinrich de Gramont. With his debt to the crown settled, Max faces pressure from his "doting" uncle to journey to the capital, Herouxville, for an arranged marriage to Viscountess Aurelie de Marbot. Yet, Max’s motivations extend beyond obligation - he’s driven by unanswered questions about his paternal and maternal relatives, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of identity and loyalty. This premise hooks you early, promising a blend of courtly drama and personal stakes that Osadchuk delivers with finesse.

One of the standout highlights is the intricate world-building. Osadchuk paints Herouxville as a bustling, treacherous hub of power plays, where every conversation drips with subtext. The interplay between Max’s modern sensibilities - hinted at from his past life - and the medieval fantasy setting creates a fascinating tension. The audiobook thrives on its political intrigue, with alliances and betrayals unfolding in a way that keeps you guessing. Unlike some fantasy tales that lean heavily on action, "Blood Ties" revels in dialogue and strategy, offering a slower burn that rewards attentive listeners.

Ryan Burke’s narration is a triumph. His versatility brings each character to life - Max’s wry determination, the uncle’s oily charm, and the sharp-edged nobility of the supporting cast all feel distinct yet cohesive. Burke’s pacing matches the story’s deliberate rhythm, allowing the weight of every revelation to sink in. His subtle shifts in tone amplify the emotional undercurrents, particularly in scenes where Max grapples with his heritage, making the audiobook a truly immersive experience.

That said, Blood Ties isn’t without flaws. The translation from its original language occasionally stumbles, with odd phrasings - like “came” instead of “said” - jarring the flow. Additionally, the dense cast of characters and their overlapping names can challenge even the most focused listener, especially in audio form where flipping back isn’t an option. Yet, these hiccups barely detract from the overall enjoyment.

The audiobook shines brightest in its character development. Max evolves from a reluctant pawn into a figure navigating a dangerous game, his growth underscored by moments of vulnerability and cunning. The supporting cast, from scheming relatives to enigmatic allies, adds layers to the narrative, hinting at larger mysteries yet to unravel.

"Blood Ties" is a testament to compelling storytelling and stellar narration. It’s a must-listen for fans of progression fantasy who crave depth over flash, leaving you eager for the next chapter in Max’s saga

[Akshay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blood Ties continues the Last Life saga with a sharp focus on courtly maneuverings, family politics, and introspective character growth. Osadchuk’s prose—at times ornate—captures the weight of noble society and the tensions of clashing bloodlines.

Protagonist Depth: Max Renard remains exceptionally compelling: shrewd, resourceful, and quietly formidable. His intelligence and magical progression feel earned and grounded, avoiding typical LitRPG clichés like over‑bragging or unrealistic power scaling.
Political Intrigue: Nearly every chapter resonates with shifting alliances, ancestral expectations, and veiled threats. The tension stems less from battlefield heroics and more from whispered deals in high society chambers.
Pacing & Structure: The narrative is deliberate, with much of the action centered on dialogue and court events. Some readers may find the slower pacing and multitude of character names overwhelming, especially during the early chapters.
Emotional & Stylistic Resonance: Who you are today may determine the strength of your familial bonds. Osadchuk leans into this theme masterfully—questions of loyalty, identity, and lineage boil beneath the surface. While his prose can sometimes feel verbose, the tone is fitting for a world rooted in nobility.
Scope & Setup: While the installment offers limited large‑scale action, it does significantly expand the world framework, setting up future implications and power dynamics that promise bigger payoffs later.

Overall, Blood Ties offers contemplative world‑building and intricate political theater. Fans of strategy, subtle power plays, and character nuance will find much to appreciate.

Plot Summary

With Heinrich de Gramont’s petition approved by the king, Max Renard is officially released from his service at Westerly Fort—his debt to the crown paid in full.
Max’s uncle demands his presence in the capital, proposing a marriage to Viscountess Aurélie de Marbot. The arrangement is non‑negotiable, tied to family honor and political leverage.
Rather than travel alone, Max chooses to journey to Herouxville, seeking answers about his paternal and maternal relatives—curiosity driving him as much as obligation.
Once arrived, Max navigates the capital’s labyrinth of noble circles: tangled alliances, concealed motives, and ceremonial expectations. Ballroom dances and reputation management become arenas of their own.
Through political maneuvering and discreet investigations, Max begins to untangle how much true loyalty can be derived from blood alone—and how he is perceived within his family’s web. Many secrets emerge, and not all favor him. (No major battles here—yet.)
By the end, Max’s intentions—to assert personal autonomy and reshape his place among relatives—are firmly set, paving the way for more overt power plays and magical escalation in future books.

Strengths:

Intricate court politics and layered strategy;
A compelling, sharp protagonist whose decisions feel real and earned;
Rich atmosphere of nobility and family legacy.

Drawbacks:

Pacing can lag due to heavy dialogue and exposition;
Cast of characters is large, sometimes confusing;
Limited action; focus is on atmosphere over spectacle.

Star Rating

✨✨✨✨★ 4.0 out of 5 glowing stars

Max’s journey into the capital hints at deeper magical legacies tied to his bloodline—secrets that may transform both his power and identity in future volumes.

[Levitate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those series I simply drop everything to binge through as it's always just such a treat.

I'm a bit of a sucker for courtly intrigue and I think the author did a nice job of developing out more of the machinations and relationships between Max and other members of high society in the capital. This focus may not be as enticing for certain readers craving adventure but I found it a pleasant change of pace.

Minor critiques:

* some of the descriptors of Max by other observers became a little over the top. You can only describe him as lithe and animalistic so many times... before it becomes a bit overindulgent.

* I was rather excited for the meeting between Viscountess Aurélie de Marbot and Max as it had been built up quite early on in the story and was also referenced in the description for this release only for it to feel rather short and somewhat underwhelming. Hopefully this character gets more runtime/development in future installations as it seems like they have some potential.

* My last critique is that it is starting to become a little much to recall every piece at play between releases. I wonder if a glossary of families/names or a short recap at the start or just a bit more of a description for each might prove helpful for the reader in this regard. Not a big deal but it would be appreciated.

Overall this was another stellar installment in the series and as always I look forward to the next release.

Other similar reads might include The Seventh Princess, Jackal Among Snakes and Memoirs of Your Local Small-time Villainess.

[Liviu · Rating 5 out of 5]

The third Max Renard installment is excellent and the best of the series to date - very fast moving and with not a moment in which something does not happen, but the matter-of-fact tone of the narrator keeps it grounded and the interludes from various other POV's are always excellent.

Max returns to the capital of Vestonia obeying the wishes of his uncle, though of course in his own inimitable way. Things get tricky quite soon as Max starts truly understanding that the capital is a hotbed of intrigue with many powerful players, while his uncle is not really in control of even his family line as the true power is Max's aunt, a widowed duchess without living children and who wants to advance the house Grammont at any cost - unfortunately for Heinrich, his sons and current heirs are dolts as Max proves from the beggining.

The house in which Max grew up and whose recovery is the first order of business since he seems to have a strange affinity for it, is full of secrets and is tied with the powerful family that actually convinced the king to spare Max after the treason of his father, various characters from the previous books appear too in the capital with their own agendas and masters, not to speak that Max following the family line and tying his fortune to the youngest prince, makes powerful enemies tied to the ambitious middle prince. And in his spare time, what better things for Max to do than saving incognito Princess Adele, granddaughter and apple in the eye of the king from a dastardly assassination attempt or helping head in the clouds Prince Louis make a good impression despite himself...

This leads to complications as the Prince has to go to the freezing and savage North to woo the daughter of one of the local kings there, wooing that in Northmen style has to be done with swords and great feats of strength and courage - of course nerdy Louis is not supposed to do it himself but have a powerful champion to do it...

And so it goes, with lots of action, twists and all around great fun.

[Steven Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

A slower read but still interesting series with flaws.

I've been burning through series in audible and have been glancing through Kindle at the series. While the audible narrator is great, there is some flaws in the series that can't be overcome. That said, it is still an interesting series with action, intruge, and some emotion. There is a semblance of a magic system and more behind it. The author shows you just enough of the iceburg to open the world up.

The series is translated from a different language. It became noticeable in this third book, where instead of saying someone "said" it would say someone "came" it has to be a mistranslation, but it's all throughout this third book. And it's very distracting, even in audible. The author or translator also have some ticks, such a saying 'as an aside'. It wasn't something I really noticed until I read another review. And it does show app 42 different times by searching Kindle. truth be told, I can't really say much as a hobby. Writer, I do also have ticks that tend to show up once i go back and reread what I've written.

Honestly, as a series, it's not a bad read, and it's well worth for kindle unlimited. There is a lot of good detail and a historical field to the series. This third book low is heavy in the politics of this world and that is boring. The main protagonist of the series is written in such a way that he is smarter than anyone in the room and has already figured out how to get out of most stuff. There was never a point that I felt in this book that the character was in any real danger. There is some interesting plots and some plots that the author has laid out. I look forward to getting through the series.

I don't remember any foul language outside of the constant use of bastard. It seems appropriate for young adults and above.

[Gareth Otton · Rating 3 out of 5]

Blood Ties was considerably better than the last book. It stuck closer to the story set up in the first novel, and it was a far more enjoyable sequel as a result. That being said, I can't ignore the problems in this novel and the series as a whole.

The main problem is one of brevity. These novels are far too short for the story trying to be told. A good analogy would be to imagine this story as a snowball rolling down a hill.

We aim to roll a snowball the size of our fist down a hill and for it to grow as big as it can by the time it reaches the bottom. Roll it too slow, and the snowball stops rolling, meaning we must manually get it moving again. Roll it too fast, and the snowball won't pick up snow. It will bounce down the hill with all extra mass falling off before it can gain size. It might reach the finish line, but it's not the magnificent snowball it could have been if the important snow hadn't fallen away.

This story is desperately trying to get from point A to point B so fast that all of the world-building, character-building, and storytelling done along the way is getting pushed aside. It leaves the novel underdeveloped in parts, overwhelming in others, and lacking the emotional impact it should have had if this story had more room to breathe.

After finishing the last book, I was tempted to leave the series but decided it deserved another shot. I'm in the same boat at the end of this book. There is an interesting story here that I would like to do well. I just wish the author could give his ideas the room they need to thrive. His snowball is a tiny battered lump of ice right now, but it could become something much grander with a little extra care.

[Zuzana Hartmanová · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5 *

Třetí díl série navazuje přesně tam, kde skončil díl předchozí – mezi oběma svazky uběhlo sotva několik dní a Alexej Osadčuk už zase spěchá navalit na svého hrdinu nové zkoušky. V knize se čtenáři mohou setkat s postavami, které potkali už dříve, a některé věci do sebe začnou zajímavě zapadat. To je důkazem toho, že ačkoliv mají jednotlivé svazky série Poslední život převážně epizodní strukturu, na jejich pozadí se táhne příběhová linka, která je spojuje a dá se předpokládat, že do budoucna bude mít větší vliv.

Alexej Osadčuk postavil základ pravidlům světa a už čtenářům věci zdaleka nevysvětluje tolik jako dříve. O slovo se tentokrát hlásí politické intriky a s tím spojené exkurze do historie. Ty jsou sice podávány poněkud suchopárnější cestou, ale dynamiku vyprávění příliš nenarušují. Autor na šachovnici staví nové figurky a očekávám, že v dalších dobrodružstvích sehrají své nemalé role. Také se příběhem začínají proplétat nitky doposud neobjasněných tajemství, která mohou přidat do budoucna vyprávění další vrstvu, pokud je Osadčuk dobře uchopí.
Ačkoliv jsou Pokrevní pouta víc o intrikaření a hrozbě války visící nad královstvím, pořád je kniha poměrně přímočará, bez zbytečných odboček a záludností. Tudíž stále spadá do kategorie odpočinkovější četby. Přestože je román nekomplikovaný, baví a s každým dalším dílem je znát čím dál větší lehkost, s níž autor příběh vypráví. Staví Maxe do situací, které se zdají složité, ale zároveň je dokáže vyřešit jednoduchým a elegantním způsobem. Tento postup by se mohl po čase zajídat, ale na to je každý svazek příliš útlý, takže podobný přístup pořád působí dobře a čtenáře nerozčiluje.

[Andrew · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book 3 is slow to start and far less action filled than the previous entries in the series. Not much that matters is completed here; the pacing slows to a crawl and the focus goes to politics and conversations. Be ready to (attempt to) recollect names and families at a frequency that surpasses even Book 1. It’s worse when they are not consistent in address — one moment it’s by their first name, then their title, then their family name, then their relationship to another character who can also be named in a variety of ways... it can be frustrating. In my review of Book 1 I mentioned the number of names makes this book hard to pick up after a break — this trend persists in Book 3 and includes new additions.

Previously the story had a mixture of some of the qualities of Trash of the Count’s family along with those typically found in some other webnovels/LitRPG in the genre. Here though, it’s Russian origins outshine all else as we find ourselves in the midst of a political battle that is so favored in the literature there. I typically like that a lot and would’ve liked it more here if the pacing was improved.

There was a notable uptick in quality around the ballroom scene. That, and the subsequent developments, have me still sticking around.

[Travis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Help me read more books

I received a review copy of this book.
For the most part, this book simply continues the adventures of the main character. Unfortunately, it gets very heavily into the political realm of the world. Typically, this kind of thing thrills some readers, and bores others. Unfortunately, I'm in the second group.
I'm not a fan of reading about political alliances, backstabbing, maneuvering for advantage, and all that entails. I'd much rather read a story that is fun, interesting, and descriptive. I suppose the argument could be made that political entrigues could be descriptive to the extreme, but that's not my cup of tea. Just give me an old fashioned space opera any day.
For what it's worth though, this book does do some serious setup for future books in the series, so hopefully we'll have less political intrigue, and more Max being just max in future volumes.

[Alex · Rating 4 out of 5]

The writer keeps me curious what is next going to happen.

Expected plot shifts happen, but some unexpected as well. The following is one that got stuck in my head, and the whole book I expected a change to this, but it didn't. For some reason it fucked me up as it concerned a little girl.


I had a hard time digesting the fact that he let a small witch girl get ripped to pieces by a blood maddened crowd, and that there was no way out. Felt like he became much colder / less interested in saving people. I did not expect this at all. All the rest of the book I kept expecting her to suddenly pop. up in one way or another, but it did not happen. I felt this could have been written better, to better accept that reality. Plus it started me wondering if he will do this again, putting us on the wrong track...

[Levia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A bit of high society nonsense

I have thought a few times, as an adult, that I'm glad I wasn't born into specific tiers. I just don't have any patience, and I'm too hot headed. Max is definitely different. He thrives in scheming, which is accurate in how a fox related individual might be thought of. I expected him to interact more with Emile, there are so many uppity women who had me wanting to smack them, and some very interesting discoveries are made at home. Max doesn't seem to be able to put down roots, because he's always beholden to go where his "betters" dictate. I really want a super powerful sneaky and vicious outcome to this series, but I'll love it no matter where the story goes.

[Garrett Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

AS AN ASIDE

The phrase “as an aside” has been used so often in the past three novels that it physically pains me every time I read it. It never ceases to pull me from the immersion of the story. As an aside, I really have enjoyed the development of the newest installment in the series. Though it is lacking in action, I haven’t felt like it was a filler novel. We were able to explore the intrigue of the Capital and learn more of Max’s familial history and relationships. And we even got some treasure! I just hope Book 4 can take some notes and not include the phrase “as an aside” in every important dialogue between characters. :)

[Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some "lost in translation"

Love Alexey Osadchuk. One of the best litrpg/isekai fantasy. His MC are always fun to follow and the story always grips you to the end...wanting more and waiting for the next book.

This series, I'm guessing due to the intricate plot of court/political intrigue, and because it is translated, have a few areas that are confusing to read. You eventually get the idea but it does take you out of the story when you're trying to figure out just what the author is trying to say. It doesn't help when the author uses the same names on different characters.

Still very enjoyable read. Can't wait for the next one.

[Victor Sanchez · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is what Melody of Mana wanted to be. This is unsalted popcorn isekai. Its easily digestible, barely surprising and yet surprisingly fulfilling and enjoyable. Nothing, absolutely NOTHING on this story is original or that well executed in the slightest, 90% is copy-paste from other isekai series and has as much cultivation as Against the Gods and the MC is the most edgy protagonist "I'm a realist" motherfucker you can find in a 10,000 mile radius.

But there is so much joy in the setting. There is complete commitment to the bit. It knows what it is and embrace it wholeheartedly because it wants to be it. And my god it is so hard.

This is A+ grade trash xianxia and I'm loving it.

[Eric Allain · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fan with some complaints

I'm always eager to read Alexey's work. They're fun and descriptive, with twists and foreshadowing. Very well done.
That being said, if you removed every insurance of the phrase "as an aside", the book would be 20 pages shorter. This doesn't even count his liberal usage of "by the way" or "ahem". These are sometimes paired with better transitional phrases, or stand in for something more fitting to his writing style.
I've read all his works published on Amazon. I'd happily edit for him for free, just to clear up this one frustration.

[Shonari · Rating 3 out of 5]

Blood Ties keeps the momentum going and might be the most engaging entry in the Last Life series so far. The action flows well, and the character progression feels earned rather than rushed. There’s more depth this time, too, and not just in the protagonist’s growth, but in the relationships and conflicts around him.

The gritty, survivalist tone remains, but it’s clear the world is expanding and the stakes are rising. Still not a flawless series, but definitely finding its stride. I’m in for the next one.

[Frank Bertino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Read

This is one of my favorite series. I pre ordered the book which appeared on my Fire tablet last night and I finished it today. My problem is that I want to read the next book now, but it isn't available yet. Max the Bastard has improved himself and his social position. He is a very dangerous man who can fatal to underestimate. I like the action, humor, Max's quick wit and sardonic repartee. I look forward to the next book.

[Murphies_law · Rating 5 out of 5]

Too short but great!

I really liked the book despite it´s rather antiquated and flowery style of writing (a la Dumas) and the protagonist constantly being OP and rather full of himself. The various intrigues within the book are interesting. However, i found the motivation of the murderous aunt seriously lacking, making her seem paranoid and hysterical...

My main point of critique is that the english translation is almost 60 pages shorter than stated on Amazon!

[Nick A · Rating 3 out of 5]

Don’t spend your time with this

It does not get better 3 books in. If anything, the work needs editing more than ever. If I hear that a character “shudders in anger/guilt/embarrassment/envy/sadness one more time, I’m going to scream. Why the other uses this one descriptive word for every character and emotion is beyond me.

Pre-amateur writing with a lack of editing that takes wild directional turns without reason at every chapter. Don’t recommend.

[Abby · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good!

You will not be disappointed by this third installment! I couldn't put it down! I was really looking forward to Max sticking it to his "family" and I thoroughly enjoyed how he did it. I like that he isn't a show off but he doesn't back down from a challenge either. Can't wait for the next one!

[Claudio Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing series love it!!!

I really enjoy ready this series a anti hero that as brains and magic is truly a blessing.
Love the growth of the characters and the new blocks coming is way. Will keep reading this series until the end that it may be book 500. Congrats to Alexey on this engagy writing style. 5 Stars 🌟

[Mike Goodman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome Story

This story of a gypsy witches adopted assassin son taking over the body of a bastard of a high Nobel and Uber rich merchant was fantastic. This book leaves off right as the MC sees his soulmate was also reborn to this world.
I hope the Ukrainian Author and his are well in that horrible situation in his homeland.

[Kiro · Rating 3 out of 5]

As an aside…

Over 40 instances of this phrase, which unfortunately detracted from the narrative, though I would chalk that up to translation issues. Certain parts of the novel also read differently, and I mean this positively, as they had been written by different authors (or translators). Nonetheless, the book is rather interesting.

[Clint Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

KU Review

Compelling read as we get deeper into the politics of kingdoms. I’m guessing things will get more exciting moving forward as events seem to be colliding.

General disclaimer: I want to be clear in that I do not factor cost into any review and as such, this is simply a reflection of my enjoyment of the book and in no way reflects cost to value analysis.

[Devan · Rating 3 out of 5]

bleh politics

So this book sucked IMO. Got 75% of the way through the book before I got to see any action. Politics, politics, and more politics. Not my cup of tea.

No character development either. MC’s growth completely stagnated in this book. May give the next book a try. Probably not though. Disappointing.

[A M Steinbeck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting

Enjoyed series. Looking forward to audio version as the first two audios good narrator. To bad have to wait for book five and audio four and five so long. Will book five be the final book. I dislike waiting for next book in series. Still this is only for good books as it easy to stop reading books I do not like.

[David Eustace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant

This has become one of my favourite series. Courtly intrigue, covert and overt back stabbery and the occasional duel keep things interesting. Whilst underneath it all the MC pulls the strings forwarding his interest and upsetting the schemes of his enemies.