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Blackthorn Saga #1
Mark of the Vasirian
What if there was truth to the vampire myth? And what if your fate was bound to that truth? Desperate to escape her abusive stepbrother, Blaire accepts a scholarship to the exclusive private university Blackthorn Academy. Surrounded by Vasirian—the root of vampire myth—Blaire fears she has traded one cage for another. She is marked as a Korrena, the fated mate of a Vasirian. While she is attracted to the mysterious Lukas, whose gruff exterior hides a lonely heart, the expected ritual for the bond repels her. No one can guarantee her safety; a match between a Vasirian and a human is unprecedented. If she leaves Blackthorn, she could be killed, yet if she stays, Lukas could unintentionally drain her of life.
Facing danger by stepping into a den of monsters may be the only way for her to truly be free.
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
We've been completely wrong about vampires.
Dracula? Lestat? Edward Cullen?
Storytellers have gotten it wrong for ages.
But the truth found me.
He found me.
I wasn't prepared for the truth when I enrolled in Blackthorn Academy.
And now I have to choose between fighting for my life outside the academy gates, or accepting the mate bond of a Vasirian, and discovering who I really am.
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Mark of the Vasirian is the debut full-length (nearly 120k words) new adult paranormal romance by author Stephanie Denne. First in a series filled with mystery, magic, and love that stands against everything the supernatural world can throw at it. No cliffhanger, but you'll be left wondering what happens next! And of course, this dark fantasy romance series has a HEA, with spin-off series to come.
The dark and mysterious world of the Blackthorn Saga is a new take on vampire romance in an academy setting complete with a king and his court, fated mates, magic, and more! This series is for you if you enjoy a paranormal romance with a human female lead that overcomes her past to find where she truly belongs in a fantasy world filled with supernatural creatures.
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Author's 18+ This series contains content that may be unsuitable for certain readers. To learn more about content warnings in the author's work, please visit her website.
Facing danger by stepping into a den of monsters may be the only way for her to truly be free.
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
We've been completely wrong about vampires.
Dracula? Lestat? Edward Cullen?
Storytellers have gotten it wrong for ages.
But the truth found me.
He found me.
I wasn't prepared for the truth when I enrolled in Blackthorn Academy.
And now I have to choose between fighting for my life outside the academy gates, or accepting the mate bond of a Vasirian, and discovering who I really am.
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Mark of the Vasirian is the debut full-length (nearly 120k words) new adult paranormal romance by author Stephanie Denne. First in a series filled with mystery, magic, and love that stands against everything the supernatural world can throw at it. No cliffhanger, but you'll be left wondering what happens next! And of course, this dark fantasy romance series has a HEA, with spin-off series to come.
The dark and mysterious world of the Blackthorn Saga is a new take on vampire romance in an academy setting complete with a king and his court, fated mates, magic, and more! This series is for you if you enjoy a paranormal romance with a human female lead that overcomes her past to find where she truly belongs in a fantasy world filled with supernatural creatures.
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Author's 18+ This series contains content that may be unsuitable for certain readers. To learn more about content warnings in the author's work, please visit her website.
494 pages, Paperback
First published January 31, 2023
1193 people are currently reading
4897 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Denne
5 books82 followersStephanie Denne is a #1 international bestselling author of paranormal romance with a focus on mental health and trauma healing ranging from light to dark. Born in the United States, Stephanie now calls Ontario, Canada her home. When not writing, she can be found reading her favorite stories, playing video games with her husband, painting and drawing, or cuddling her Golden Retrievers. But not the cat—the cat has her own agenda.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 273 reviews
March 1, 2024
* This review is ranty. This may read more like a dissertation about why I disliked this book so much. May contain some spoilers because I simply could not be bothered to care. That's how angry I am with this book.
This book started off so well! It had a map and featured one of my favorite singers on the book playlist (Beth Crowley). So I was sure I would adore this book. I loved the initial story and how dire the heroine's (Blarie's) situation was so definitely promised a good story. I also enjoyed how this book had everything set up for it to be a cliché insta-love but it wasn't! I saw a lot of myself in the hero (oh you know, emotionally unavailable, doesn't know how to talk to someone when there's actual interest present, says the worst thing at the wrong time, the usual 😭). Specifically in the very beginning, it was actually like looking in a mirror and I didn't like how it felt in all honesty.
Lukas, especially in the beginning, was just a grumpy, snippy, asshole. He was the one that put in motion all these events and he's annoyed at it for some reason. Later on he does change his tune, but for whatever reason his inner monologue does not always go with what comes out of his mouth. It was rather annoying. I just wish this story wasn't made up of 95% miscommunication trope because there were solid situations where Lukas could have connected with Blaire in a very respectful and mundane manner and yet decided not to.
Blaire overall was one big naive dense annoyance. I liked that she stood up for herself when she felt it necessary but that's about it. Everything about her was one big woe-is-me party. All she served to do was stop the plot from moving forward. All she knew how to do was despise Lukas, her circumstances, and how she (at times) would have preferred to stay in her abusive stepbrother/step-family situation than give Lukas a chance and understand where he was coming from. That last one put such a bad taste in my mouth. Lukas defends her she get's pissed. He tries to make conversation with her she gets pissed. He ignores her she get pissed. I don't know what she wanted at this point. Let me also mention that she had as much personality as a wall. Frankly, everyone in this series had the personality of a wall. There was also a point where she got it in her head to compare Lukas (her bond mate) to Caleb (the abusive stepbrother who had actually hurt her physically). *Face Palm*
Reily, the "BFF", was horrible. Blaire entrusted her very real and very messed up life details and her intimacy details to this girl who then, at the first opportunity, blabs about all of it to Lukas and Aiden (Lukas's BFF). She then much later on, proceeds to tell the whole friend group. Blaire has no reaction to it. It's insane. How do you not cut off someone after that? It got to the point where Lukas had to tell her to stop it or it was going to happen yet again. This girl is an open tomb but her guilt trips aimed at Blaire were fantastic ♡
The only adult in this story (Professor what's her face) was also actually pretty weird. Lukas would speak to her about his and Blaire's intimacy (of lack thereof). There was a point where she point blank told Blaire that Blaire had to get with Lukas and complete the bond or else *The Order* would likely remove her from the academy and she would have to go back to her abusive step-family. Why TF would a professor say that?! Also, the professor was a Riely 2.0 since she also blabbed about Lukas's personal family trauma to Blaire when he and Blaire were barely on speaking terms.
The issues started to make themselves known by around 40%. Up until then, I could understand how Blaire was acting, her distrust of Lukas, her not wanting to be around vampires, etc. Everything past that just became extremely frustrating and got on my nerves. It's been quite a while since I read a book that got on my nerves this badly.
The writing style also didn't mesh with me. It was repetitive and long-winded. Which could be overlooked but when I get to hear about the same situation from 3 different perspectives at 3 different times one after the other I would say my aggravation is valid. This book would have really benefited from another round or two of editing to make things more concise and less repetitive overall. There were muiltple parts of the story when characters would go on this big monologue about specific things in the vampire world that was basic information to them that was clearly only for the reader's benefit and then it would cut to e.g. Lukas having this big revelation based on that information even though it should have been something that he'd already known because it was specified early that it was basic information for their world. Another detail that bothered me was how much everyone would run their hands through their hair to show they were frustrated or angry. There were also some scenes when a character would have a shirt on and then 2 sentences later the shirt would be gone without any mention of them having removed it.
I will be the first to admit that I should have stopped reading this book after I started to get annoyed with it. I think I just figured that it would get better because it started out so promising. Unfortunately, it just got progressively worse. It lowkey feels like I didn't read the same book as some people based on the reviews I've read after I finished this.
The BEST line of the entire book as said by Mera about Blaire "To her credit she had been malnourished. She likely has brain fog."
This book started off so well! It had a map and featured one of my favorite singers on the book playlist (Beth Crowley). So I was sure I would adore this book. I loved the initial story and how dire the heroine's (Blarie's) situation was so definitely promised a good story. I also enjoyed how this book had everything set up for it to be a cliché insta-love but it wasn't! I saw a lot of myself in the hero (oh you know, emotionally unavailable, doesn't know how to talk to someone when there's actual interest present, says the worst thing at the wrong time, the usual 😭). Specifically in the very beginning, it was actually like looking in a mirror and I didn't like how it felt in all honesty.
Lukas, especially in the beginning, was just a grumpy, snippy, asshole. He was the one that put in motion all these events and he's annoyed at it for some reason. Later on he does change his tune, but for whatever reason his inner monologue does not always go with what comes out of his mouth. It was rather annoying. I just wish this story wasn't made up of 95% miscommunication trope because there were solid situations where Lukas could have connected with Blaire in a very respectful and mundane manner and yet decided not to.
Blaire overall was one big naive dense annoyance. I liked that she stood up for herself when she felt it necessary but that's about it. Everything about her was one big woe-is-me party. All she served to do was stop the plot from moving forward. All she knew how to do was despise Lukas, her circumstances, and how she (at times) would have preferred to stay in her abusive stepbrother/step-family situation than give Lukas a chance and understand where he was coming from. That last one put such a bad taste in my mouth. Lukas defends her she get's pissed. He tries to make conversation with her she gets pissed. He ignores her she get pissed. I don't know what she wanted at this point. Let me also mention that she had as much personality as a wall. Frankly, everyone in this series had the personality of a wall. There was also a point where she got it in her head to compare Lukas (her bond mate) to Caleb (the abusive stepbrother who had actually hurt her physically). *Face Palm*
Reily, the "BFF", was horrible. Blaire entrusted her very real and very messed up life details and her intimacy details to this girl who then, at the first opportunity, blabs about all of it to Lukas and Aiden (Lukas's BFF). She then much later on, proceeds to tell the whole friend group. Blaire has no reaction to it. It's insane. How do you not cut off someone after that? It got to the point where Lukas had to tell her to stop it or it was going to happen yet again. This girl is an open tomb but her guilt trips aimed at Blaire were fantastic ♡
The only adult in this story (Professor what's her face) was also actually pretty weird. Lukas would speak to her about his and Blaire's intimacy (of lack thereof). There was a point where she point blank told Blaire that Blaire had to get with Lukas and complete the bond or else *The Order* would likely remove her from the academy and she would have to go back to her abusive step-family. Why TF would a professor say that?! Also, the professor was a Riely 2.0 since she also blabbed about Lukas's personal family trauma to Blaire when he and Blaire were barely on speaking terms.
The issues started to make themselves known by around 40%. Up until then, I could understand how Blaire was acting, her distrust of Lukas, her not wanting to be around vampires, etc. Everything past that just became extremely frustrating and got on my nerves. It's been quite a while since I read a book that got on my nerves this badly.
The writing style also didn't mesh with me. It was repetitive and long-winded. Which could be overlooked but when I get to hear about the same situation from 3 different perspectives at 3 different times one after the other I would say my aggravation is valid. This book would have really benefited from another round or two of editing to make things more concise and less repetitive overall. There were muiltple parts of the story when characters would go on this big monologue about specific things in the vampire world that was basic information to them that was clearly only for the reader's benefit and then it would cut to e.g. Lukas having this big revelation based on that information even though it should have been something that he'd already known because it was specified early that it was basic information for their world. Another detail that bothered me was how much everyone would run their hands through their hair to show they were frustrated or angry. There were also some scenes when a character would have a shirt on and then 2 sentences later the shirt would be gone without any mention of them having removed it.
I will be the first to admit that I should have stopped reading this book after I started to get annoyed with it. I think I just figured that it would get better because it started out so promising. Unfortunately, it just got progressively worse. It lowkey feels like I didn't read the same book as some people based on the reviews I've read after I finished this.
The BEST line of the entire book as said by Mera about Blaire "To her credit she had been malnourished. She likely has brain fog."
Want to read
February 4, 2023bringing back the sexy vampires like it's 2005
April 29, 2023
I can't do this anymore, lmao. Idk how I got to 70% of this mess, but good on me for not continuing.
March 27, 2023
I loved this so much, from the first page I was hooked, I wanted to know about Blaire, I loved her instantly, wanted to know she’d be safe and then I was desperate to see what would happen between her and Lukas. I love a slow burn so this was perfect for me, the tension, drama, just everything, I can’t wait for more from the author and this world, so looking forward to it. A great YA return to vampires on a fresh take, fun and also sensitively handled. (Trigger warning of abuse)
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 23, 2025
finishing this book was an act of self flagellation
November 15, 2023
hard read. debating dnf’ing at 50%. Whats with all the miscommunication over nothing? half of the stuff I just read makes no sense in terms of the way they express their feelings towards each other vs others. whats up with aiden too?? blegh.
May 28, 2024
OBSESSEDDDDD
January 18, 2023
So I’ve had the pleasure of reading this book twice now!!! Thank you Stephanie for the ARC it’s been wonderful.
The first chapter does a great job setting the story up and highlights some of the things to come. You have a pretty good idea of what’s to come and there weren’t many moments that had me shocked or surprised and that’s okay, it’s so well written that I enjoyed knowing what was coming next anyway -something I normally hate- because of the writhing.
Now this is a romance book all the way, with a little supernatural to get the scene as whole set up for the future.
The love interest shows up early and begins a whirlwind of things to come.
I personally would have liked more mysteries, thrills and shrills, along with exploring more about how a human is a Korrena. Hopefully more of them to come.
This isn’t your typical girl meets boy, boy is ass, girl falls madly in love and just accepts everything. Nope she has a backbone and makes him work for it. I LOVE IT!!!
Not once was I rolling my eyes and thinking you’re an idiot girl.
As for the Vasirian…..There have been many takes on the Vampire myth, but I haven’t seen one quite like this before. Most of the time we see how scary they are and not how kind or caring a Vampire or Vasirian can be.
It’s easy to feel and understand how things differ and why there is such a thing as “think before you speak”.
Blaire is smart, strong, independent and very well thought out character.
She’s willing to show her weakness and find her strength in doing so. I love that she thinks with her head, not only her heart.
Lukas…. While normally I’m so not a fan of duel perspective, without it here I would most likely not have come to like him as much as I have. He just as lost as Blaire is and finding his way to being his best self with her was challenging at first, he did it with respect, honesty, kindness and some moments of jerkiness.
It’s easy to find yourself apart of their story, growing and feeling all the feels with them.
The writing just pulls you in with no way to avoid being part of it, the imagery is entrancing, the banter so funny at times, the connections built worth every moment it took to think them up and put into words for the readers and THATS WHAT MAKES A GREAT BOOK!!!!
It’s been a joy to read thisfirst book to a larger story being told and much more to come, which has me very excited to read book 2.
The first chapter does a great job setting the story up and highlights some of the things to come. You have a pretty good idea of what’s to come and there weren’t many moments that had me shocked or surprised and that’s okay, it’s so well written that I enjoyed knowing what was coming next anyway -something I normally hate- because of the writhing.
Now this is a romance book all the way, with a little supernatural to get the scene as whole set up for the future.
The love interest shows up early and begins a whirlwind of things to come.
I personally would have liked more mysteries, thrills and shrills, along with exploring more about how a human is a Korrena. Hopefully more of them to come.
This isn’t your typical girl meets boy, boy is ass, girl falls madly in love and just accepts everything. Nope she has a backbone and makes him work for it. I LOVE IT!!!
Not once was I rolling my eyes and thinking you’re an idiot girl.
As for the Vasirian…..There have been many takes on the Vampire myth, but I haven’t seen one quite like this before. Most of the time we see how scary they are and not how kind or caring a Vampire or Vasirian can be.
It’s easy to feel and understand how things differ and why there is such a thing as “think before you speak”.
Blaire is smart, strong, independent and very well thought out character.
She’s willing to show her weakness and find her strength in doing so. I love that she thinks with her head, not only her heart.
Lukas…. While normally I’m so not a fan of duel perspective, without it here I would most likely not have come to like him as much as I have. He just as lost as Blaire is and finding his way to being his best self with her was challenging at first, he did it with respect, honesty, kindness and some moments of jerkiness.
It’s easy to find yourself apart of their story, growing and feeling all the feels with them.
The writing just pulls you in with no way to avoid being part of it, the imagery is entrancing, the banter so funny at times, the connections built worth every moment it took to think them up and put into words for the readers and THATS WHAT MAKES A GREAT BOOK!!!!
It’s been a joy to read thisfirst book to a larger story being told and much more to come, which has me very excited to read book 2.
March 7, 2023
Thank you for the ARC copy and note this review is left voluntarily!
Pitiful shackled by circumstances Blaire is struggling to go day by day while being under a measly job and a step brother’s tyranny until one day she offers a full funded scholarship, an opportunity to study at Blackthorn Academy only to be hurtled into a life of being the only human Korenna, a Vasirian mate, while navigating every aspect changes that she accepted her fate to.
Now, this book, literally I write this at 10am after binge reading it straight for 4 hours(i did had to take an hour break in between so technically 5). That just shows how good the book was. Vampires, romance, “you’re the only one that can kill me”(mentally ofc), it tick marked all my favourite tropes of vampire romances muahahah except ofc being centuries old but that’s Edward Cullen preference but love the reference in the book too.
There was a lovely flow to writing with appropriate time gaps and really appreciated for the writer to show how they learn each other. From being strangers to being Korennas in one night with only the base primal instinct pulling you closer, Stephanie really brought out the awkwardness, the moments of softening, the pining, the fear associated with losing your love, the emotions out of Lukas, and the hesitance and new exploration found within relationships slowly forming instead of going through the insta-love path. The way Blaire was suffering and Lukas could feel it but can’t do anything except be there for her 😭 This was such a good read my god. It’s not too fast or too slow with pace and has moments built up beautifully and let’s not forget the sibling duo Riley and Aiden! Amazing side characters shown properly how they bond with our girl and how they slowly come together as close friends.
I enjoyed this book to the extreme. If you love vampire romances, fated mates, slow burn, and a good kick of spices but do be aware of blood warning, READ THIS. PLEASE. I CAN’T wait for book 2 AAAAAA
Pitiful shackled by circumstances Blaire is struggling to go day by day while being under a measly job and a step brother’s tyranny until one day she offers a full funded scholarship, an opportunity to study at Blackthorn Academy only to be hurtled into a life of being the only human Korenna, a Vasirian mate, while navigating every aspect changes that she accepted her fate to.
Now, this book, literally I write this at 10am after binge reading it straight for 4 hours(i did had to take an hour break in between so technically 5). That just shows how good the book was. Vampires, romance, “you’re the only one that can kill me”(mentally ofc), it tick marked all my favourite tropes of vampire romances muahahah except ofc being centuries old but that’s Edward Cullen preference but love the reference in the book too.
There was a lovely flow to writing with appropriate time gaps and really appreciated for the writer to show how they learn each other. From being strangers to being Korennas in one night with only the base primal instinct pulling you closer, Stephanie really brought out the awkwardness, the moments of softening, the pining, the fear associated with losing your love, the emotions out of Lukas, and the hesitance and new exploration found within relationships slowly forming instead of going through the insta-love path. The way Blaire was suffering and Lukas could feel it but can’t do anything except be there for her 😭 This was such a good read my god. It’s not too fast or too slow with pace and has moments built up beautifully and let’s not forget the sibling duo Riley and Aiden! Amazing side characters shown properly how they bond with our girl and how they slowly come together as close friends.
I enjoyed this book to the extreme. If you love vampire romances, fated mates, slow burn, and a good kick of spices but do be aware of blood warning, READ THIS. PLEASE. I CAN’T wait for book 2 AAAAAA
May 28, 2024
I'm obsessed
I read this in just over 24hrs. I couldn't put it down. The chemistry. The slow burn. IT IS EVERYTHING!!!
The characters are lovable while flawed the characters development is superb 👌. I will write a more detailed review once I've sat with it for a while.
Update:
I don’t even know where to start. I loved everything about this book and can’t wait to continue the series. The characters are relatable and Stephanie took such care when addressing the characters trauma and the character development working through those issues.
Mark of the Vasirian immediately drew me in. The fmc is strong and determined despite everything she has endured.
The slow burn romance was absolutely hot. If you’re looking for plain smut you won’t find it here, but all the main characters interactions are dripping with sexual tension.
I could not put this down, the introduction to this mysterious supernatural world sucks you in. I was on the edge of my seat, one more chapter turned into reading the entire book in a little over 24hrs.
This is definitely one of those stories for me where, this world is my personality now and I will encourage everyone to start this series.
I will be starting book two immediately!
I read this in just over 24hrs. I couldn't put it down. The chemistry. The slow burn. IT IS EVERYTHING!!!
The characters are lovable while flawed the characters development is superb 👌. I will write a more detailed review once I've sat with it for a while.
Update:
I don’t even know where to start. I loved everything about this book and can’t wait to continue the series. The characters are relatable and Stephanie took such care when addressing the characters trauma and the character development working through those issues.
Mark of the Vasirian immediately drew me in. The fmc is strong and determined despite everything she has endured.
The slow burn romance was absolutely hot. If you’re looking for plain smut you won’t find it here, but all the main characters interactions are dripping with sexual tension.
I could not put this down, the introduction to this mysterious supernatural world sucks you in. I was on the edge of my seat, one more chapter turned into reading the entire book in a little over 24hrs.
This is definitely one of those stories for me where, this world is my personality now and I will encourage everyone to start this series.
I will be starting book two immediately!
September 20, 2024
if you’re the author reading this: i am so sorry and i say this with love 🫶🏼
this book was so dissapointing :((( it has been on my TBR for YEARS and i’m so sad that it did not live up to what i was expecting. so many times i was contemplating DNF but pushed through because i had hoped it would get better. the concept of the book had so much potential but i felt like the style of writing just took me back to 2011 wattpad days and i just could not get past it. 1.5⭐️
this book was so dissapointing :((( it has been on my TBR for YEARS and i’m so sad that it did not live up to what i was expecting. so many times i was contemplating DNF but pushed through because i had hoped it would get better. the concept of the book had so much potential but i felt like the style of writing just took me back to 2011 wattpad days and i just could not get past it. 1.5⭐️
January 23, 2023
Honestly this was a great read and putting it down so I could be a responsible adult was difficult sometimes. The author's voice is strong, and you can tell she has a passion for writing. Vampires are fun but can get repetitive if the author isn't careful. I have never read a take on this world like the one our authoress has given us. I loved it. The characters have flaws, and for the most part believable ones. I have both positive notes and some suggestions for how it could be even better. I don't believe in writing a review without both. No Spoilers, I promise!
The first section of the book before she arrives at the school is well done. Her emotions feel real, and the author gives you enough insight into her world that you understand her choices and you root for her. Her best friend, Charlotte, is a gem. Love her. Love the addition that is her parentage as well. I wish she was in the book more, but hopefully I will get my fix as the series progresses so that is not a negative!
Now we transition to the school, and all the newness that is this world. It's a huge change so there is exposition here, and honestly, I wanted a tad more. It's hard to say what I mean specifically without giving details about the book (and I am very anti-spoiler) but there were some things that left me wanting. I shall try.
Positives:
1: Our author clearly loves this world. It comes across and makes the reader love it too.
2: The characters are well done, and I wanted to know more about all of them.
3: There's a map! Care was taken to build this world that we travel to between these pages. I get the feeling it is only going to get bigger as the series progresses.
4: The book made me hypothesize. Her father and his side of the family intrigue me. As well as how much her mother may have known about the two separate families she married into. Other aspects of the book added to my thoughts, and I found myself contemplating the book even when I was not reading. Good. Pull me in, get me a little lost. It's what I'm looking for.
Downsides:
1: Is our Miss Wilcox a naturally curious person? I was expecting more curiosity from her. Maybe because I myself wanted to know more about the author's take on a world that so many have written about. She asks surface questions, and I love the humor. I feel a tad more exposition here would have avoided the random feeling exposition later in the book. (Oracle for example)
2: The physical expression of their love. (Thank you, amazon, had to get poetic for that one) This is both a plus and minus as it is very well written. It's perfectly spicy without being crass. However, I honestly think if they had done the deed without the bonding at least once it would have been very good for her character development. I'm coming at that more from my own experience rather than just a reader who wanted more spice. Taking it slow and showing her talking about it with one or two of her different people. She did so much growing in this book after going through so much trauma, but I felt like it was off screen so to speak.
3: Her fear of the act of completing the bond. Now, amazon will require me to get creative with words here. Our Miss Wilcox is TERRIFIED of the actual act of completing her bond with Lucas. The sharing of red life liquid that is required has her so scared out of her mind it makes her careless with Lucas' feelings on occasion. She thinks about it so often, and is so against even discussing it, that I started to get quite annoyed with her. This is my biggest issue. It bordered on ignorance and that just bothered me to no end. It did not hurt the story so much that I couldn't read it. The writing was still very well done, and I was attached to the characters despite my annoyance.
4: This is so small I thought about leaving it out. The school is a college but has the feel of a high school. I wanted more aspects of college life. What are her aspirations? What about Lucas? This is touched on ever so briefly, but like a lot of things is quickly overtaken by Miss Wilcox's fear and she puts it out of her mind.
5: Lucas runs his hand through his hair. 764 times. No, I didn't count. And it didn't bother me as much after Blaire finally took note of this nervous habit.
6: Caleb. He is the big bad of this first installment I believe. He makes his appearances, but I craved more. The real big bad of the book really felt like her fear of exchanging red life liquid.
To wrap it up, I really enjoyed this book. There are things that could be worked on, but at the end of the day it was a book I had a very hard time putting down so it was a success for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The first section of the book before she arrives at the school is well done. Her emotions feel real, and the author gives you enough insight into her world that you understand her choices and you root for her. Her best friend, Charlotte, is a gem. Love her. Love the addition that is her parentage as well. I wish she was in the book more, but hopefully I will get my fix as the series progresses so that is not a negative!
Now we transition to the school, and all the newness that is this world. It's a huge change so there is exposition here, and honestly, I wanted a tad more. It's hard to say what I mean specifically without giving details about the book (and I am very anti-spoiler) but there were some things that left me wanting. I shall try.
Positives:
1: Our author clearly loves this world. It comes across and makes the reader love it too.
2: The characters are well done, and I wanted to know more about all of them.
3: There's a map! Care was taken to build this world that we travel to between these pages. I get the feeling it is only going to get bigger as the series progresses.
4: The book made me hypothesize. Her father and his side of the family intrigue me. As well as how much her mother may have known about the two separate families she married into. Other aspects of the book added to my thoughts, and I found myself contemplating the book even when I was not reading. Good. Pull me in, get me a little lost. It's what I'm looking for.
Downsides:
1: Is our Miss Wilcox a naturally curious person? I was expecting more curiosity from her. Maybe because I myself wanted to know more about the author's take on a world that so many have written about. She asks surface questions, and I love the humor. I feel a tad more exposition here would have avoided the random feeling exposition later in the book. (Oracle for example)
2: The physical expression of their love. (Thank you, amazon, had to get poetic for that one) This is both a plus and minus as it is very well written. It's perfectly spicy without being crass. However, I honestly think if they had done the deed without the bonding at least once it would have been very good for her character development. I'm coming at that more from my own experience rather than just a reader who wanted more spice. Taking it slow and showing her talking about it with one or two of her different people. She did so much growing in this book after going through so much trauma, but I felt like it was off screen so to speak.
3: Her fear of the act of completing the bond. Now, amazon will require me to get creative with words here. Our Miss Wilcox is TERRIFIED of the actual act of completing her bond with Lucas. The sharing of red life liquid that is required has her so scared out of her mind it makes her careless with Lucas' feelings on occasion. She thinks about it so often, and is so against even discussing it, that I started to get quite annoyed with her. This is my biggest issue. It bordered on ignorance and that just bothered me to no end. It did not hurt the story so much that I couldn't read it. The writing was still very well done, and I was attached to the characters despite my annoyance.
4: This is so small I thought about leaving it out. The school is a college but has the feel of a high school. I wanted more aspects of college life. What are her aspirations? What about Lucas? This is touched on ever so briefly, but like a lot of things is quickly overtaken by Miss Wilcox's fear and she puts it out of her mind.
5: Lucas runs his hand through his hair. 764 times. No, I didn't count. And it didn't bother me as much after Blaire finally took note of this nervous habit.
6: Caleb. He is the big bad of this first installment I believe. He makes his appearances, but I craved more. The real big bad of the book really felt like her fear of exchanging red life liquid.
To wrap it up, I really enjoyed this book. There are things that could be worked on, but at the end of the day it was a book I had a very hard time putting down so it was a success for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 19, 2025
I wish I kept the reel that recommended this just to go back and warn people.
One word: frustrating
The prompt that lured me in was so promising but at around 40% of the book, I began losing brain cells.
Why?
- repeating narrative (but like, the same story repeated word for word 3-4 times)
- characters with zero personal growth
- whiny and confusing MC who bites her lip too much
- he cannot smell her blood........ insta prompt lied to me 😤😭😭😭
I've never written a review this long so... you get the point.
One word: frustrating
The prompt that lured me in was so promising but at around 40% of the book, I began losing brain cells.
Why?
- repeating narrative (but like, the same story repeated word for word 3-4 times)
- characters with zero personal growth
- whiny and confusing MC who bites her lip too much
- he cannot smell her blood........ insta prompt lied to me 😤😭😭😭
I've never written a review this long so... you get the point.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2023
they’re meant to be but don’t want to be. what could go wrong? ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!!!!
i will admit the first couple of chapters were a little hard for me to get into but once i hit chapter 4 i couldn’t put this down. i read it in less than a day. i am now completely enamored with this world and author stephanie denne. i have been marked!
i will admit the first couple of chapters were a little hard for me to get into but once i hit chapter 4 i couldn’t put this down. i read it in less than a day. i am now completely enamored with this world and author stephanie denne. i have been marked!
May 31, 2025
this book was fine until about 30-40%. then it just drug on and on and on and on. nothing interesting. nothing compelling. Just the same thing repeated until the end.
genuinely, was this even edited?
the leads were annoying as shit. I think the author wanted to write some sort of dynamic push pull whatever with them, but it just ended up being extremely annoying.
there was absolutely no character development. none.
plot? what plot? there somehow wasn't a single bit of plot.
the friends? all one note and also very annoying.
FMC trauma? I thought it was okay in the beginning, and then I found it annoying because thats all she was. she had nothing else to her. and her trauma dumping on these people she barely knows and being surprised when they dont keep a secret. idiot.
why did we even bother with the one scene of kinda therapy? and then it's never scene again other than a pass comment.
you could tell the author was so millennial, it was disturbing. whenever clothing was described, I was brought straight back to 2014. do you think we could have had some updated clothing???? the writing style also reads early 2010s and it suffers for it. please enter the 2020s, signed an elder Gen Z.
oh and she's definitely not like other girl. big time. especially in the beginning
the writing was pretty bad. juvenile and repetitive. why did they constantly run their hands through their hair? all of them? and why was everything overdescribed? and nothing was cohesive. they would flip a scene and I had to stop and assess how that happened. it was just a jumbled mess.
the world building was info dumping. and uninspired.
this book is just discounted Crave, and people who think this is good need to retake high school English
genuinely, was this even edited?
the leads were annoying as shit. I think the author wanted to write some sort of dynamic push pull whatever with them, but it just ended up being extremely annoying.
there was absolutely no character development. none.
plot? what plot? there somehow wasn't a single bit of plot.
the friends? all one note and also very annoying.
FMC trauma? I thought it was okay in the beginning, and then I found it annoying because thats all she was. she had nothing else to her. and her trauma dumping on these people she barely knows and being surprised when they dont keep a secret. idiot.
why did we even bother with the one scene of kinda therapy? and then it's never scene again other than a pass comment.
you could tell the author was so millennial, it was disturbing. whenever clothing was described, I was brought straight back to 2014. do you think we could have had some updated clothing???? the writing style also reads early 2010s and it suffers for it. please enter the 2020s, signed an elder Gen Z.
oh and she's definitely not like other girl. big time. especially in the beginning
the writing was pretty bad. juvenile and repetitive. why did they constantly run their hands through their hair? all of them? and why was everything overdescribed? and nothing was cohesive. they would flip a scene and I had to stop and assess how that happened. it was just a jumbled mess.
the world building was info dumping. and uninspired.
this book is just discounted Crave, and people who think this is good need to retake high school English
![Profile Image for Lulu [at] Reckless Reading.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1758243005i%2F1062818._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
October 7, 2025
I think this was another tiktok influence because I cannot remember how I found Mark of the Vasirian by Stephanie Denne. I can say, however, that I was a little disappointed. Technically, it was well-written but I think I might not have been the audience for this book in particular. It reads so incredibly high school and YA instead of New Adult. Blaire is wildly unrelateable. Like, she has the hots for Lukas, is free from her twisted family, but she still holds him at arm's length because he drinks blood? Because she doesn't know if she wants to become a vampire - sorry, vasirian. Like, first, I haven't seen anything that really makes the vasirian different enough to warrant a new word for vampires. It isn't like IV Ophelia's vipera that have some delicious anatomical and general differences. Next, people in the real, normal, regular world consume blood. IDK why she's so absolutely disgusted by the idea? It's a thing, not even just in kink, but like blood pudding? Her life before Lukas and the world of vasirians was pretty crappy. So what is the big fuss over keeping to it? She's on to better and bigger things, but refuses them. Even knowing that her life is at risk, Blaire resists accepting what her life could be. I just could not understand it. To me, she was insufferable.
All that out of the way, I don't know if I'll pick up the second book in this series. While I'd love to know more and uncover what is going on, I don't want to deal with more of Blaire whining and crying over the gifts she's been given.
first reviewed at
All that out of the way, I don't know if I'll pick up the second book in this series. While I'd love to know more and uncover what is going on, I don't want to deal with more of Blaire whining and crying over the gifts she's been given.
first reviewed at
January 19, 2023
OMG absolutely amazing!! Blaire and LUKAS!!!!!!!!!! Mates from the start! I love everything about this book. Slow burn for spice but it's totally not about that! It's about two souls finding one another and showing that in the end love will always win. Can't wait for book two in the saga! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily!!
February 7, 2023
Wonderfully developed characters. A slow burn book with the perfect amount of tension between the characters. One is human one is supernatural, but fated mates. The background characters helped round out this story and give it depth. They were part of the story, not dangling in the wind. Can't wait to see what happens in the next book.
November 6, 2023
A fresh take on the "vampire"/human love story I fell in love with reading twilight.
Blaire has seen some shit but keeps her head up. Lukas is a cinnamon roll dressed in black clothing.
I can't wait to see where their story goes
Blaire has seen some shit but keeps her head up. Lukas is a cinnamon roll dressed in black clothing.
I can't wait to see where their story goes
February 1, 2024
This was delicious
January 29, 2023
As always, thank you so much BookSirens for an ARC of this beautiful story in exchange for a honest review 📖✨️
Let's get it
We've got:
•Fated mates ❤️ (Korrena)
•Vampires 🩸 (Vasirian, technically not vampires but close)
•Characters with PERSONALITY (not something I should have to beg for, yet I do, but not with this one) 🤩
•College vibes 📚
•World building 🌍
•Slow burn 🔥
•Spice 🌶 (I'm not saying it's abundant, it's not, but when it's there you FEEL it)
•Dual POV ✌️ (yep, and now you've gotta have it)
•This. Is. So. Well. Written. 👏
Check it out
Blaire is our FMC and everything you want out of one at that. She's strong, she's independent, she's fierce, and of course, since we're reading fantasy, she's traumatized from her rough past.
We find out early on that she's fated to be mates, or Korrena, with a broody *sshole type who's only got a soft spot for her and his close group of friends. Lukas brings on the slow burn, sexy vibes you're looking for.
Is their story easy? Uh, no. But d*mn is it COMPELLING.
The story is mostly a romance but it has a lot of structure behind it that scratches the fantasy or paranormal itch. From strong world building to even stronger overall conflict, this story has you covered. By covered I mean hooked, by the time you see that you won't be able to put this thing down.
This is a fairly short read, sitting at over 400 pages and it's fast paced.
Unfortunately, I did have to dock a star for a couple of reasons.
•While our characters here have clear personality and I love their banter and how they all click, they all seem pretty surface scraping to me. Aside from a few minor moments there didn't seem to be a whole lot of connection with the characters.
•Lukas' initial leaning towards not necessarily violence but definitely aggression with Blaire was unnerving to say the least. I know it was meant to be the bond but I think there are much better ways to create tension.
•Blaire's hesitancy with a certain thing (no spoilers here!) towards the end of the book ? Her initial thought process on it made sense but it quickly got repetitive and annoying. Especially considering once she was educated on it more and had open communication she basically felt better about it. I just know she's smarter than all of that mess, ya know?
Overall, this is great read. I absolutely recommend this book to others and can't wait for more to come out, both of this series and from the same author. 👍
BTW, little PS here,
THIS IS A DEBUT AUTHOR AND BOOK?! Coulda had me fooled! I absolutely hope this reaches the author when I say WOW. You did wonderful on your first book, I seriously can't wait to keep up with you and your work. What an inspiration 👏 ❤️
Let's get it
We've got:
•Fated mates ❤️ (Korrena)
•Vampires 🩸 (Vasirian, technically not vampires but close)
•Characters with PERSONALITY (not something I should have to beg for, yet I do, but not with this one) 🤩
•College vibes 📚
•World building 🌍
•Slow burn 🔥
•Spice 🌶 (I'm not saying it's abundant, it's not, but when it's there you FEEL it)
•Dual POV ✌️ (yep, and now you've gotta have it)
•This. Is. So. Well. Written. 👏
Check it out
Blaire is our FMC and everything you want out of one at that. She's strong, she's independent, she's fierce, and of course, since we're reading fantasy, she's traumatized from her rough past.
We find out early on that she's fated to be mates, or Korrena, with a broody *sshole type who's only got a soft spot for her and his close group of friends. Lukas brings on the slow burn, sexy vibes you're looking for.
Is their story easy? Uh, no. But d*mn is it COMPELLING.
The story is mostly a romance but it has a lot of structure behind it that scratches the fantasy or paranormal itch. From strong world building to even stronger overall conflict, this story has you covered. By covered I mean hooked, by the time you see that you won't be able to put this thing down.
This is a fairly short read, sitting at over 400 pages and it's fast paced.
Unfortunately, I did have to dock a star for a couple of reasons.
•While our characters here have clear personality and I love their banter and how they all click, they all seem pretty surface scraping to me. Aside from a few minor moments there didn't seem to be a whole lot of connection with the characters.
•Lukas' initial leaning towards not necessarily violence but definitely aggression with Blaire was unnerving to say the least. I know it was meant to be the bond but I think there are much better ways to create tension.
•Blaire's hesitancy with a certain thing (no spoilers here!) towards the end of the book ? Her initial thought process on it made sense but it quickly got repetitive and annoying. Especially considering once she was educated on it more and had open communication she basically felt better about it. I just know she's smarter than all of that mess, ya know?
Overall, this is great read. I absolutely recommend this book to others and can't wait for more to come out, both of this series and from the same author. 👍
BTW, little PS here,
THIS IS A DEBUT AUTHOR AND BOOK?! Coulda had me fooled! I absolutely hope this reaches the author when I say WOW. You did wonderful on your first book, I seriously can't wait to keep up with you and your work. What an inspiration 👏 ❤️
August 29, 2025
Updated Review:
Audiobook complete! Bumping to 5 Stars. This was an excellent listen. I truly enjoy reliving a story through audio performances and Jacci Prior and Brandon Francis 100% delivered. This is an emotional narrative with some very heavy topics. I think reading new adult novels can be difficult if you are no longer a new adult. Characters can seem annoying when they are, in fact, 18. This is angsty and there's drama (and they have to go to class), but there's also a very strong undercurrent of mental health and trauma recovery. One of the best parts of this book is a huge emphasis on consent in all forms. The narration undoubtedly helps the reader get into that new, sometimes uncomfortable headspace of falling in love for the first time and taking a risk with your heart and body. Being able to actually hear Blaire's hesitance and Lukas's frustration gives a more realistic representation to a paranormal fated mates romance. This is a mildly spicy, slow burn that is certainly worth the wait.
Original review:
This was my first book by the author and I’m hooked! I especially appreciated how well Blaire’s trauma and her trauma responses were handled. It makes complete sense that she would feel trapped in this new world to a non-vampire guy after literally being trapped by her step brother for so long. Reading Lukas’s inner turmoil helps us understand his seemly erratic behavior. I enjoyed the world building, the friend group, and shifting threats. I cannot wait to hear this in audio!
Audiobook complete! Bumping to 5 Stars. This was an excellent listen. I truly enjoy reliving a story through audio performances and Jacci Prior and Brandon Francis 100% delivered. This is an emotional narrative with some very heavy topics. I think reading new adult novels can be difficult if you are no longer a new adult. Characters can seem annoying when they are, in fact, 18. This is angsty and there's drama (and they have to go to class), but there's also a very strong undercurrent of mental health and trauma recovery. One of the best parts of this book is a huge emphasis on consent in all forms. The narration undoubtedly helps the reader get into that new, sometimes uncomfortable headspace of falling in love for the first time and taking a risk with your heart and body. Being able to actually hear Blaire's hesitance and Lukas's frustration gives a more realistic representation to a paranormal fated mates romance. This is a mildly spicy, slow burn that is certainly worth the wait.
Original review:
This was my first book by the author and I’m hooked! I especially appreciated how well Blaire’s trauma and her trauma responses were handled. It makes complete sense that she would feel trapped in this new world to a non-vampire guy after literally being trapped by her step brother for so long. Reading Lukas’s inner turmoil helps us understand his seemly erratic behavior. I enjoyed the world building, the friend group, and shifting threats. I cannot wait to hear this in audio!
July 29, 2023
I have so many bad things to say.
*Slight Spoilers*
I’m not saying Lukas was perfect, he was a jerk sometimes. I also get Blaire had a ton of trauma to work through, but she is by far the most insufferable character ever. If she had stopped for just one second to think about someone other than herself she would have realized how hard this was for Lukas too. Like the poor guy had no clue what he was doing either. If he had done something so terrible and he needed to grovel I get it. I love a good grovel but I just felt bad for him because this was all new to him too. Plus she said some terrible things to and about him as well so she wasn’t innocent. She kept saying he was giving her whiplash but she was doing the SAME THING! She wanted him and then she was scared of him over and over again. It took everything in me to finish this book and I heavily skimmed the last 10%.
*Slight Spoilers*
I’m not saying Lukas was perfect, he was a jerk sometimes. I also get Blaire had a ton of trauma to work through, but she is by far the most insufferable character ever. If she had stopped for just one second to think about someone other than herself she would have realized how hard this was for Lukas too. Like the poor guy had no clue what he was doing either. If he had done something so terrible and he needed to grovel I get it. I love a good grovel but I just felt bad for him because this was all new to him too. Plus she said some terrible things to and about him as well so she wasn’t innocent. She kept saying he was giving her whiplash but she was doing the SAME THING! She wanted him and then she was scared of him over and over again. It took everything in me to finish this book and I heavily skimmed the last 10%.
June 4, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This scratched an itch I didn’t even know I had?? It has all the good stuff: vampires, dark academia vibes, forced proximity, fated mates, etc.
Stand-outs:
•Relatable FMC
•Flawed but lovable MMC
•Characters that grow together, over reasonable amount of time. No overnight magic solutions here!
•Super fun world and atmosphere
A definitely must-read! I’m gonna go read #2 now byeeeeee 🖤🖤🖤
This scratched an itch I didn’t even know I had?? It has all the good stuff: vampires, dark academia vibes, forced proximity, fated mates, etc.
Stand-outs:
•Relatable FMC
•Flawed but lovable MMC
•Characters that grow together, over reasonable amount of time. No overnight magic solutions here!
•Super fun world and atmosphere
A definitely must-read! I’m gonna go read #2 now byeeeeee 🖤🖤🖤
November 4, 2025
Wow
It's such a great debut book. The story had a great pace and was well written with a unique plot and, best of all, no cliff hangers. It looks like there could be more in the series, but it can be read as stand-alone.
It's such a great debut book. The story had a great pace and was well written with a unique plot and, best of all, no cliff hangers. It looks like there could be more in the series, but it can be read as stand-alone.
March 20, 2023
GIVE. ME. MORE. PLEASE!
June 12, 2023
Couldn't get past the amateur writing
January 23, 2024
never trusting the reviews again
October 3, 2023
Overall, poorly written.
The plot... what plot?
Character development leaves A LOT to be desired.
Too much DiD, very redundant, MC is irritating.
Took some real willpower to struggle through this thing.
3. An Offer She Can’t Refuse
Note - Page 38 · Location 453
This is very poorly written… detail and emotion would have done a lot to make this scene captivating for readers.
29. Breakdown
Highlight (yellow) - Page 316 · Location 4177
That explained a lot about why he couldn’t get control of his emotions tonight .
Note - Page 316 · Location 4178
Sooo then how did he not know she was being hurt?
30. The Order
Highlight (yellow) - Page 324 · Location 4278
“ I wanted to wait until she left , as I don’t know who on staff we can trust with this next bit of information I wish to share with you all . ” Professor Velastra crossed the room back to Blaire’s bedside . “ I believe the Order may be behind this heinous act . ”
Note - Page 324 · Location 4280
Because trusting a bunch of 18-19 year olds who MC has known for a month is real smart.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 326 · Location 4302
“ I suspect they wish to conduct experiments , considering this is the first time in known history that a human has manifested a Korrena mark . ”
Note - Page 326 · Location 4303
Literally nothing foreshadowing this... This is feels like a leap.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 330 · Location 4363
But I will say this much … considering how botched this job looks , they may come for her blood again . ”
Note - Page 330 · Location 4364
Why wouldn't The Order have just asked? Breaking into a student's room not knowing if her Vasirian mate was also in the room with her being considered the "best option" is inconceivable.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 331 · Location 4366
The idea this could happen again , even though she couldn’t remember what happened , sent her mind into a panic .
Note - Page 331 · Location 4367
We are pushing Damsel in Distress HARD. Too hard. Good grief
Highlight (yellow) - Page 331 · Location 4371
they took it by force . ”
Note - Page 331 · Location 4371
With somebody who wasn't trained to do it?
Highlight (yellow) - Page 331 · Location 4372
Even the Oracle hasn’t provided any insight as to what could be happening here . ”
Note - Page 331 · Location 4373
Just throwing another piece in without foreshadowing or any lead up.... Did this with the "clan" information too. Info dumping
Highlight (yellow) - Page 333 · Location 4401
“ I can’t do this . I told you I just can’t accept someone drinking my blood like it’s not a big deal . ”
Note - Page 333 · Location 4402
She'd rather die? Girl is STUPID.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 333 · Location 4407
drinks me like I’m a Slurpee ?
Note - Page 333 · Location 4407
..... like I'm a Slurpee? She's spent every waking moment with the Vasirian and she still talks about drinking blood like this?
Highlight (yellow) - Page 334 · Location 4409
it . Not only did she not want to die ,
Note - Page 334 · Location 4409
Literally just told The Order is going to kill her if she doesn't bond.
31. Let’s Go Party
Highlight (yellow) - Page 340 · Location 4487
at the weird analysis of herself .
Note - Page 340 · Location 4487
Nope... this is something girls do all the time. I don't even know what Blaire looks like so a brief description of her appearance was welcome
Highlight (yellow) - Page 342 · Location 4519
surprised her holes hadn’t closed .
Note - Page 342 · Location 4519
Lobe piercings don't close. This is stupid.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 344 · Location 4549
Suits who ?
Note - Page 344 · Location 4549
Girl is an idiot.
32. Haven
Note - Page 348 · Location 4597
Do we even have a plot at this point? We've spent 348 pages of them doing normal shit and waiting for Blaire to be ready to bond.... The "growing connection" between MCs is superficial, at best.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 349 · Location 4609
but she didn’t want to look silly .
Note - Page 349 · Location 4609
*eye roll*
Highlight (yellow) - Page 349 · Location 4614
sighed . “ There’s no reason for everyone to worry . ”
Note - Page 349 · Location 4614
Literally nobody has expressed worry.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 349 · Location 4615
It remained an angry reminder of that horrible Monday night that forced her to miss two weeks of classes .
Note - Page 350 · Location 4616
This literally just happened. Readers are WELL aware of why the bandage is there.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 350 · Location 4626
“ That girl is fucking insatiable ! ”
Note - Page 350 · Location 4626
I have no idea what this is referring to.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 353 · Location 4670
Her worst nightmare was coming true . He was going to take her back , and this time she’d never escape . It was all over .
Note - Page 353 · Location 4671
Literally couldn't have given up quicker.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 354 · Location 4675
but Blaire was too caught up in her fear to care who was there .
Note - Page 354 · Location 4676
ShE wAs ToO CaUgHt Up... I think my eyes are rolled so far into my head they won't come out again.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 354 · Location 4684
“ What the fuck is your problem ? ” Caleb shouted as he jerked against Lukas .
Note - Page 354 · Location 4685
Insert Eye Roll
Highlight (yellow) - Page 356 · Location 4702
He sounded as if he’d swallowed glass .
Note - Page 356 · Location 4702
Completely unnecessary.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 356 · Location 4714
Cresbel Asylum . ”
Note - Page 356 · Location 4714
And again we just throw random vocab in.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 360 · Location 4765
“ What’s wrong , man ? ”
Note - Page 360 · Location 4765
What do you mean?
Highlight (yellow) - Page 360 · Location 4770
room . “ Show the same fucking backbone you did with Lukas when you got here . ”
Note - Page 360 · Location 4770
no fucking kidding
Highlight (yellow) - Page 361 · Location 4775
Blaire dropped her head and began to sob uncontrollably .
Note - Page 361 · Location 4775
It's giving Elena from TVD about 40 cries into an episode
Highlight (yellow) - Page 362 · Location 4793
but something was wrong with her .
Note - Page 362 · Location 4793
eye roll
Highlight (yellow) - Page 363 · Location 4801
side , softly crying in Riley’s lap
Note - Page 363 · Location 4801
stooooppppppp
Highlight (yellow) - Page 364 · Location 4820
Lukas lifted her into his arms as she fell limply against him and slipped one of his t - shirts over her head .
Note - Page 364 · Location 4821
She isn't drunk/medicated but she is sleeping through her clothes being changed for her? Okay.
33. Attack
Highlight (yellow) - Page 365 · Location 4827
Moonlight from the window illuminated the two figures over Blaire , holding her down . They were cloaked , obviously minions of the Order , as they would never do their own dirty work .
Note - Page 365 · Location 4829
Are you kidding? This is too much.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 366 · Location 4846
“ Yeah … I need to take care of Blaire . ”
Note - Page 366 · Location 4846
The DiD trope is going way too hard.
34. Fears
Highlight (yellow) - Page 374 · Location 4950
Claiming involved him taking her blood . While she let him clean her arm , she wasn’t ready for more . Wasn’t ready to be bitten . The panic building inside her made her freeze and look away .
Note - Page 374 · Location 4952
This is SOOOO old.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 375 · Location 4961
He must have put it on for her when he brought her back to the dorm .
Note - Page 375 · Location 4961
And it doesn't bother you that you slept through that?
Highlight (yellow) - Page 377 · Location 4998
Blaire gasped and rounded on Lukas ,
Note - Page 377 · Location 4998
This has been established at least twice prior to this. Why are we acting shocked?
Highlight (yellow) - Page 378 · Location 5003
“ I don’t know if I can do that . ”
Note - Page 378 · Location 5003
Because dying is a better option.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 379 · Location 5022
helpless to prevent that .
Note - Page 379 · Location 5022
Because the girl acts like she cannot help herself, at all, in any situation, ever. Absolute victim 100% of the time and it's so old.
35. Vasirian Business
Highlight (yellow) - Page 383 · Location 5062
Again , they were talking about her like she wasn’t sitting right there . Talking about her death . Was she going to die ? Was this really how it would happen when she had tried so hard for years to live ? To escape and be free . Blaire shut her eyes to fight back the tears that threatened to fall .
Note - Page 383 · Location 5064
But none of this matters when it comes to deciding if she can or can't drink Lucas's blood.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 383 · Location 5069
Y’all keep doing it ! ”
Note - Page 383 · Location 5069
I hate this "slipping into a southern accent" thing.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 385 · Location 5087
“ I can’t believe you’re serious about entertaining the idea , because it is not going to happen ! ”
Note - Page 385 · Location 5088
Has no information about the process, is 100% against it... makes sense
Highlight (yellow) - Page 387 · Location 5121
“ You may need to convince her , as it may be her only fighting chance at survival . ”
Note - Page 387 · Location 5122
MC is overreacting.... however. this is stupid. Leave.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 391 · Location 5181
Blaire didn’t know if what she dealt with living with Caleb would be better than this . She should have just stayed . Served apple pie for the rest of her life in a greasy diner . Caleb might have been abusive , and she might have had to endure marrying him and being the mother
Note - Page 391 · Location 5183
WORM.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 393 · Location 5202
“ I’m just so tired , Lukas … I hate that everyone is getting dragged into this mess because of me . ”
Note - Page 393 · Location 5203
And I'm willing to do absolutely nothing to help myself or you guys
The plot... what plot?
Character development leaves A LOT to be desired.
Too much DiD, very redundant, MC is irritating.
Took some real willpower to struggle through this thing.
3. An Offer She Can’t Refuse
Note - Page 38 · Location 453
This is very poorly written… detail and emotion would have done a lot to make this scene captivating for readers.
29. Breakdown
Highlight (yellow) - Page 316 · Location 4177
That explained a lot about why he couldn’t get control of his emotions tonight .
Note - Page 316 · Location 4178
Sooo then how did he not know she was being hurt?
30. The Order
Highlight (yellow) - Page 324 · Location 4278
“ I wanted to wait until she left , as I don’t know who on staff we can trust with this next bit of information I wish to share with you all . ” Professor Velastra crossed the room back to Blaire’s bedside . “ I believe the Order may be behind this heinous act . ”
Note - Page 324 · Location 4280
Because trusting a bunch of 18-19 year olds who MC has known for a month is real smart.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 326 · Location 4302
“ I suspect they wish to conduct experiments , considering this is the first time in known history that a human has manifested a Korrena mark . ”
Note - Page 326 · Location 4303
Literally nothing foreshadowing this... This is feels like a leap.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 330 · Location 4363
But I will say this much … considering how botched this job looks , they may come for her blood again . ”
Note - Page 330 · Location 4364
Why wouldn't The Order have just asked? Breaking into a student's room not knowing if her Vasirian mate was also in the room with her being considered the "best option" is inconceivable.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 331 · Location 4366
The idea this could happen again , even though she couldn’t remember what happened , sent her mind into a panic .
Note - Page 331 · Location 4367
We are pushing Damsel in Distress HARD. Too hard. Good grief
Highlight (yellow) - Page 331 · Location 4371
they took it by force . ”
Note - Page 331 · Location 4371
With somebody who wasn't trained to do it?
Highlight (yellow) - Page 331 · Location 4372
Even the Oracle hasn’t provided any insight as to what could be happening here . ”
Note - Page 331 · Location 4373
Just throwing another piece in without foreshadowing or any lead up.... Did this with the "clan" information too. Info dumping
Highlight (yellow) - Page 333 · Location 4401
“ I can’t do this . I told you I just can’t accept someone drinking my blood like it’s not a big deal . ”
Note - Page 333 · Location 4402
She'd rather die? Girl is STUPID.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 333 · Location 4407
drinks me like I’m a Slurpee ?
Note - Page 333 · Location 4407
..... like I'm a Slurpee? She's spent every waking moment with the Vasirian and she still talks about drinking blood like this?
Highlight (yellow) - Page 334 · Location 4409
it . Not only did she not want to die ,
Note - Page 334 · Location 4409
Literally just told The Order is going to kill her if she doesn't bond.
31. Let’s Go Party
Highlight (yellow) - Page 340 · Location 4487
at the weird analysis of herself .
Note - Page 340 · Location 4487
Nope... this is something girls do all the time. I don't even know what Blaire looks like so a brief description of her appearance was welcome
Highlight (yellow) - Page 342 · Location 4519
surprised her holes hadn’t closed .
Note - Page 342 · Location 4519
Lobe piercings don't close. This is stupid.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 344 · Location 4549
Suits who ?
Note - Page 344 · Location 4549
Girl is an idiot.
32. Haven
Note - Page 348 · Location 4597
Do we even have a plot at this point? We've spent 348 pages of them doing normal shit and waiting for Blaire to be ready to bond.... The "growing connection" between MCs is superficial, at best.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 349 · Location 4609
but she didn’t want to look silly .
Note - Page 349 · Location 4609
*eye roll*
Highlight (yellow) - Page 349 · Location 4614
sighed . “ There’s no reason for everyone to worry . ”
Note - Page 349 · Location 4614
Literally nobody has expressed worry.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 349 · Location 4615
It remained an angry reminder of that horrible Monday night that forced her to miss two weeks of classes .
Note - Page 350 · Location 4616
This literally just happened. Readers are WELL aware of why the bandage is there.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 350 · Location 4626
“ That girl is fucking insatiable ! ”
Note - Page 350 · Location 4626
I have no idea what this is referring to.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 353 · Location 4670
Her worst nightmare was coming true . He was going to take her back , and this time she’d never escape . It was all over .
Note - Page 353 · Location 4671
Literally couldn't have given up quicker.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 354 · Location 4675
but Blaire was too caught up in her fear to care who was there .
Note - Page 354 · Location 4676
ShE wAs ToO CaUgHt Up... I think my eyes are rolled so far into my head they won't come out again.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 354 · Location 4684
“ What the fuck is your problem ? ” Caleb shouted as he jerked against Lukas .
Note - Page 354 · Location 4685
Insert Eye Roll
Highlight (yellow) - Page 356 · Location 4702
He sounded as if he’d swallowed glass .
Note - Page 356 · Location 4702
Completely unnecessary.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 356 · Location 4714
Cresbel Asylum . ”
Note - Page 356 · Location 4714
And again we just throw random vocab in.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 360 · Location 4765
“ What’s wrong , man ? ”
Note - Page 360 · Location 4765
What do you mean?
Highlight (yellow) - Page 360 · Location 4770
room . “ Show the same fucking backbone you did with Lukas when you got here . ”
Note - Page 360 · Location 4770
no fucking kidding
Highlight (yellow) - Page 361 · Location 4775
Blaire dropped her head and began to sob uncontrollably .
Note - Page 361 · Location 4775
It's giving Elena from TVD about 40 cries into an episode
Highlight (yellow) - Page 362 · Location 4793
but something was wrong with her .
Note - Page 362 · Location 4793
eye roll
Highlight (yellow) - Page 363 · Location 4801
side , softly crying in Riley’s lap
Note - Page 363 · Location 4801
stooooppppppp
Highlight (yellow) - Page 364 · Location 4820
Lukas lifted her into his arms as she fell limply against him and slipped one of his t - shirts over her head .
Note - Page 364 · Location 4821
She isn't drunk/medicated but she is sleeping through her clothes being changed for her? Okay.
33. Attack
Highlight (yellow) - Page 365 · Location 4827
Moonlight from the window illuminated the two figures over Blaire , holding her down . They were cloaked , obviously minions of the Order , as they would never do their own dirty work .
Note - Page 365 · Location 4829
Are you kidding? This is too much.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 366 · Location 4846
“ Yeah … I need to take care of Blaire . ”
Note - Page 366 · Location 4846
The DiD trope is going way too hard.
34. Fears
Highlight (yellow) - Page 374 · Location 4950
Claiming involved him taking her blood . While she let him clean her arm , she wasn’t ready for more . Wasn’t ready to be bitten . The panic building inside her made her freeze and look away .
Note - Page 374 · Location 4952
This is SOOOO old.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 375 · Location 4961
He must have put it on for her when he brought her back to the dorm .
Note - Page 375 · Location 4961
And it doesn't bother you that you slept through that?
Highlight (yellow) - Page 377 · Location 4998
Blaire gasped and rounded on Lukas ,
Note - Page 377 · Location 4998
This has been established at least twice prior to this. Why are we acting shocked?
Highlight (yellow) - Page 378 · Location 5003
“ I don’t know if I can do that . ”
Note - Page 378 · Location 5003
Because dying is a better option.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 379 · Location 5022
helpless to prevent that .
Note - Page 379 · Location 5022
Because the girl acts like she cannot help herself, at all, in any situation, ever. Absolute victim 100% of the time and it's so old.
35. Vasirian Business
Highlight (yellow) - Page 383 · Location 5062
Again , they were talking about her like she wasn’t sitting right there . Talking about her death . Was she going to die ? Was this really how it would happen when she had tried so hard for years to live ? To escape and be free . Blaire shut her eyes to fight back the tears that threatened to fall .
Note - Page 383 · Location 5064
But none of this matters when it comes to deciding if she can or can't drink Lucas's blood.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 383 · Location 5069
Y’all keep doing it ! ”
Note - Page 383 · Location 5069
I hate this "slipping into a southern accent" thing.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 385 · Location 5087
“ I can’t believe you’re serious about entertaining the idea , because it is not going to happen ! ”
Note - Page 385 · Location 5088
Has no information about the process, is 100% against it... makes sense
Highlight (yellow) - Page 387 · Location 5121
“ You may need to convince her , as it may be her only fighting chance at survival . ”
Note - Page 387 · Location 5122
MC is overreacting.... however. this is stupid. Leave.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 391 · Location 5181
Blaire didn’t know if what she dealt with living with Caleb would be better than this . She should have just stayed . Served apple pie for the rest of her life in a greasy diner . Caleb might have been abusive , and she might have had to endure marrying him and being the mother
Note - Page 391 · Location 5183
WORM.
Highlight (yellow) - Page 393 · Location 5202
“ I’m just so tired , Lukas … I hate that everyone is getting dragged into this mess because of me . ”
Note - Page 393 · Location 5203
And I'm willing to do absolutely nothing to help myself or you guys
February 3, 2023
I can’t wait to see more from Denne!
This was such a fun read! I’m a slow burn loving girlie, probably because I’m a sucker for tension, and I thoroughly enjoyed the push and pull dynamic between the MCs.
Blaire and Lukas are fated mates but while Blaire is a human who knows nothing of the supernatural world, Lukas grew up wanting nothing more than to find his soulmate.
This book does not leave off on a cliffhanger so finishing it didn’t hurt like most PNR that I’ve read. It does however, leave me wanting more of both the relationship between Lukas and Blaire and the vasirian culture.
Overall, the slow burn did not disappoint and leaves you satisfied with the ending. The side characters are amazing and supportive and I’m excited to see more of Aiden!
What an amazing debut, Denne! I can’t wait to read more!
This was such a fun read! I’m a slow burn loving girlie, probably because I’m a sucker for tension, and I thoroughly enjoyed the push and pull dynamic between the MCs.
Blaire and Lukas are fated mates but while Blaire is a human who knows nothing of the supernatural world, Lukas grew up wanting nothing more than to find his soulmate.
This book does not leave off on a cliffhanger so finishing it didn’t hurt like most PNR that I’ve read. It does however, leave me wanting more of both the relationship between Lukas and Blaire and the vasirian culture.
Overall, the slow burn did not disappoint and leaves you satisfied with the ending. The side characters are amazing and supportive and I’m excited to see more of Aiden!
What an amazing debut, Denne! I can’t wait to read more!
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