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By Blood
For 17-year-old Emma Wong, spending a summer in England should be a dream come true. Gorgeous scenery? Check. Lots of hot guys with accents? Yes, please.
Throw in an estranged mom, annoying new stepdad, and drooling baby half-brother, and it's a disaster even her favorite cherry red leather jacket can't fix. Even worse, there's (hot) live-in research assistant Josh to contend with. The only thing more embarrassing than drunk-kissing him hours after they meet? Knowing he'll be witness to her family's dysfunction all. summer. long.
But when Emma meets a mysterious girl who happens to be a Druid, her vacation suddenly promises to be far more intriguing than she anticipated. Powerful rituals, new friends, an intoxicating sense of freedom...and Simon, the sexy foreign stranger she was hoping for. It's all a perfect distraction from dirty diapers and awkward family dinners.
Trouble is, intriguing doesn't often mean simple. And Emma is about to discover just how not simple her life really is.
By Blood is a novel about the ways that blood can bind us to others - or tear us apart.
Throw in an estranged mom, annoying new stepdad, and drooling baby half-brother, and it's a disaster even her favorite cherry red leather jacket can't fix. Even worse, there's (hot) live-in research assistant Josh to contend with. The only thing more embarrassing than drunk-kissing him hours after they meet? Knowing he'll be witness to her family's dysfunction all. summer. long.
But when Emma meets a mysterious girl who happens to be a Druid, her vacation suddenly promises to be far more intriguing than she anticipated. Powerful rituals, new friends, an intoxicating sense of freedom...and Simon, the sexy foreign stranger she was hoping for. It's all a perfect distraction from dirty diapers and awkward family dinners.
Trouble is, intriguing doesn't often mean simple. And Emma is about to discover just how not simple her life really is.
By Blood is a novel about the ways that blood can bind us to others - or tear us apart.
369 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 18, 2013
3 people are currently reading
1202 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Banghart
13 books946 followersTracy Banghart grew up in rural Maryland and spent her summers on a remote island in northern Ontario. All of that isolation and lovely scenery gave her the time to read voraciously and the inspiration to write her own stories. Always a bit of a nomad, Tracy now travels the world Army-wife style with her husband, kids, and pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
July 25, 2014
I guess it's, like, a thing for authors to rate their own books? So...sure! Why not. :-)
I loved writing BY BLOOD...Emma is the kick-ass, fashionable girl I wish I'd been in high school...with two sexy boys I'd have loved to have fighting over me. She's flawed, full of "piss and vinegar" as my grandfather might have said, and she finds it all too easy to get into trouble, a talent I definitely had at her age.
The setting - Oxford, England - is also dear to my heart. I spent a year there attending graduate school and absolutely fell in love with its architecture, sense of history, and numerous pubs! Not to mention the largest bookstore in the world (supposedly). Oh, and that cookie Emma enjoys with Josh from the covered market? It's gooey deliciousness comes from a real place, Ben's Cookies, and I highly recommend the dark chocolate and ginger if you ever find yourself in town.
I hope you enjoy reading BY BLOOD as much as I enjoyed writing it! If you have any questions, please leave me a comment!
I loved writing BY BLOOD...Emma is the kick-ass, fashionable girl I wish I'd been in high school...with two sexy boys I'd have loved to have fighting over me. She's flawed, full of "piss and vinegar" as my grandfather might have said, and she finds it all too easy to get into trouble, a talent I definitely had at her age.
The setting - Oxford, England - is also dear to my heart. I spent a year there attending graduate school and absolutely fell in love with its architecture, sense of history, and numerous pubs! Not to mention the largest bookstore in the world (supposedly). Oh, and that cookie Emma enjoys with Josh from the covered market? It's gooey deliciousness comes from a real place, Ben's Cookies, and I highly recommend the dark chocolate and ginger if you ever find yourself in town.
I hope you enjoy reading BY BLOOD as much as I enjoyed writing it! If you have any questions, please leave me a comment!
February 26, 2017
This review was first posted on Northern Plunder, if you want to see more reviews please click here.
I was fortunate enough to receive a copy of By Blood for part of a book tour hosted by Xpresso Book Tours, this will in no way effect my opinion on the book!
By Blood follows Emma Wong on her summer vacation in London, with the half of her family she isn't too fond of lately - her Mum, Vermin (baby half-brother) and Dr Mike (the new fella). Don't broken families suck? Luckily, my parents split when I was very young so whilst it probably effected me at the time, I didn't harbour any negative feelings towards either of them. Unluckily for Emma, she was old enough to witness her family get torn apart as her Mum left her and her Dad for this new man, and also to see how badly it effected her Dad too.
I feel that was worth mentioning because I remember reading the start of the book and feeling all this anger that Emma felt towards her Mum (especially when she got the cupboard room - boo hiss that sucks) and I highly doubt I would have felt that if the writing hadn't been as great as it, it has a lovely flow to it.
As mentioned in the blurb there is also another tenant in her family house - Josh. Not only is he hot, him and Emma click from day one, whether she wants to admit that to herself is a completely different story though and whilst I would like to say its frustrating when people don't recognise their own feelings, in this case it didn't bother me.
It still didn't bother me even when another guy was introduced on the scene - Simon - even if it did mean it now had one of those YA Love Triangles going on. This one I was happy to read about.
We're introduced to Simon after Emma meets a strange girl called Ash, who is part of a Grove that practise and follows Druid beliefs, interesting huh? Yes very.
I was thrilled to read about the Druid rituals (have you read the House of Night series and they perform the ritual asking and thanking the elements for strength and such? Yeah its similar to that but it adapts over time), how they effected Emma and the others, emotionally and physically, and how they adapted over time. It was really interesting and I'm afraid I can't really expand more than that because of spoilers. You have no idea how I wish I could.
Instead, lets focus on the boys. I really enjoyed the development of friend/relationships between Emma/Simon and Emma/Josh. First up Simon, *squeals*. So ahem whilst he might be drop dead gorgeous and British (represent~) is he all that he lives up to be? Is there more to his history with one of the other Grove girls? hehe. Oh yes Simon is pleasantly surprising. I can say that much. To me however, Josh is perfect. From day one. He does what he sees as the right things to do to help Emma out with her tense family situations and isn't the geeky assistant that Emma expected him to be.
As the story comes to a close, Emma learns a lot about herself, her family and the boys. It sucks that I can't really delve into these things too much for fear of giving them away, but her vacation in London is certainly an eye-opener for many parts of her life and its great to see just how much she evolves, and learns about herself from this trip.
I was fortunate enough to receive a copy of By Blood for part of a book tour hosted by Xpresso Book Tours, this will in no way effect my opinion on the book!
By Blood follows Emma Wong on her summer vacation in London, with the half of her family she isn't too fond of lately - her Mum, Vermin (baby half-brother) and Dr Mike (the new fella). Don't broken families suck? Luckily, my parents split when I was very young so whilst it probably effected me at the time, I didn't harbour any negative feelings towards either of them. Unluckily for Emma, she was old enough to witness her family get torn apart as her Mum left her and her Dad for this new man, and also to see how badly it effected her Dad too.
I feel that was worth mentioning because I remember reading the start of the book and feeling all this anger that Emma felt towards her Mum (especially when she got the cupboard room - boo hiss that sucks) and I highly doubt I would have felt that if the writing hadn't been as great as it, it has a lovely flow to it.
As mentioned in the blurb there is also another tenant in her family house - Josh. Not only is he hot, him and Emma click from day one, whether she wants to admit that to herself is a completely different story though and whilst I would like to say its frustrating when people don't recognise their own feelings, in this case it didn't bother me.
It still didn't bother me even when another guy was introduced on the scene - Simon - even if it did mean it now had one of those YA Love Triangles going on. This one I was happy to read about.
We're introduced to Simon after Emma meets a strange girl called Ash, who is part of a Grove that practise and follows Druid beliefs, interesting huh? Yes very.
I was thrilled to read about the Druid rituals (have you read the House of Night series and they perform the ritual asking and thanking the elements for strength and such? Yeah its similar to that but it adapts over time), how they effected Emma and the others, emotionally and physically, and how they adapted over time. It was really interesting and I'm afraid I can't really expand more than that because of spoilers. You have no idea how I wish I could.
Instead, lets focus on the boys. I really enjoyed the development of friend/relationships between Emma/Simon and Emma/Josh. First up Simon, *squeals*. So ahem whilst he might be drop dead gorgeous and British (represent~) is he all that he lives up to be? Is there more to his history with one of the other Grove girls? hehe. Oh yes Simon is pleasantly surprising. I can say that much. To me however, Josh is perfect. From day one. He does what he sees as the right things to do to help Emma out with her tense family situations and isn't the geeky assistant that Emma expected him to be.
As the story comes to a close, Emma learns a lot about herself, her family and the boys. It sucks that I can't really delve into these things too much for fear of giving them away, but her vacation in London is certainly an eye-opener for many parts of her life and its great to see just how much she evolves, and learns about herself from this trip.
September 10, 2013
Druids..... Druids.... Calling all Druid Lovers..........................
Oh man I loved this book so much! Holy Druids I love stories with druids history in it. I love England and hope to one day go there for a few weeks. this book caught me by surprise because it had so many elements to it but they flowed flawlessly that the story flowed so smoothly I was at the end of the book and wanting no needing more because I did not want it to end. Then I remembered I would not have to wait long because I am on the tour and decided to read both books. So I loaded up my kindle and started on the second book straight away.
But I am getting ahead of myself and I need to review book one first. So here it goes......
17 Year old Emma Wong is going to be spending the summer with her mother and step father and baby brother. Her mother is a professor and she has little time for Emma because she has her classes and her baby to deal with so Emma is by herself. But Emma has plans and she plans on enjoying the sights and sounds and life of Oxford. She is also going to enjoy the hot accented guys that are around her.She has one in mind her mother's research assistant Josh. They drunkenly kiss and man oh man is he hot as hell.
While hanging out Emma soon becomes friends with a mysterious girl who is a Druid and introduces Emma to the Druid rituals. Soon Emma is involved with powerful rituals, new friends that she is enjoying, and freedom. She has also met another hot guy Simon and soon she is torn between who she wants. Will it Josh or will it be Simon?
Oh man I loved this book so much! Holy Druids I love stories with druids history in it. I love England and hope to one day go there for a few weeks. this book caught me by surprise because it had so many elements to it but they flowed flawlessly that the story flowed so smoothly I was at the end of the book and wanting no needing more because I did not want it to end. Then I remembered I would not have to wait long because I am on the tour and decided to read both books. So I loaded up my kindle and started on the second book straight away.
But I am getting ahead of myself and I need to review book one first. So here it goes......
17 Year old Emma Wong is going to be spending the summer with her mother and step father and baby brother. Her mother is a professor and she has little time for Emma because she has her classes and her baby to deal with so Emma is by herself. But Emma has plans and she plans on enjoying the sights and sounds and life of Oxford. She is also going to enjoy the hot accented guys that are around her.She has one in mind her mother's research assistant Josh. They drunkenly kiss and man oh man is he hot as hell.
While hanging out Emma soon becomes friends with a mysterious girl who is a Druid and introduces Emma to the Druid rituals. Soon Emma is involved with powerful rituals, new friends that she is enjoying, and freedom. She has also met another hot guy Simon and soon she is torn between who she wants. Will it Josh or will it be Simon?
October 3, 2013
For this review and more, visit Such A Novel Idea.
This was my first book about Druids. In fact, I had to do a Google Search when I first came across the book just to find out what they were. If you don't know, here's a quick blub:
Rating: 4/5
This was my first book about Druids. In fact, I had to do a Google Search when I first came across the book just to find out what they were. If you don't know, here's a quick blub:
The Druids were priests who carried out religious rituals in Iron Age Britain and France. The Romans, who visited and later conquered France and Britain, met Druids and wrote about their beliefs and rites. Although these writings may not always have been completely truthful, it is clear that the Druids were an important group of people in many Iron Age societies. A little is also known about the Druid's beliefs and rituals, including the importance of mistletoe. Archaeologists rarely find direct evidence for priests in the Iron Age. But they often find evidence for religious rites and sacrifices and many of these were probably carried out by Druids.
There are no pictures of Druids - what did they look like? Did they wear special clothes or were they dressed the same as other Iron Age people? Some archaeologists have argued that special headdresses or crowns such as that found on the head of the Deal Warrior may have been worn by some priests or Druids.
Modern Druids have no direct connection to the Druids of the Iron Age. Many of our popular ideas about the Druids are based on the misunderstandings and misconceptions of scholars 200 years ago. These ideas have been superceded by later study and discoveries. In particular, there is no link between the Iron Age Druids and the people who built and worshipped at Stonehenge, Wiltshire. This ancient monument was part of a religion that ended before the Iron Age began. - British Museum Website
One of the theories about Stonehenge is that it was the work of the Druids. So, if anywhere, that is probably where you've heard of them. As you can tell, my academia is showing. *Back to regularly scheduled reviewing*
So, going in I was really excited/interested to see how this book would go. From the beginning we get a real good sense of who our main character, Emma, is. We get a great opportunity to get inside her head -- and it's a mess. She has lots of family issues (mom left dad after cheating, had a baby, hasn't seen her in years, and now has to spend all summer with her. In a foreign country). There are a lot of the details about Emma's life that speak right to your heart. Emotionally, she had me in her world, and near tears a couple of times. This dynamic was one powerful story line within the book, as she found out more about the family secrets and her parents. If this would have been the only thread of the story, without the Druids, I still probably would have read (and enjoyed it!)
Next there are the loooooove interests. Emma has two guys (of course). However, the love triangle was warranted in this situation. We needed that tension. Plus, one of the boys LIVES with her family, so obviously it is something the two want to avoid, for the sake of awkwardness. I really like how this part of the story played out. Both boys were unique and had a personality that drew me in. The other members of the Druids were interesting -- it was great to hear the slang of England (and try to figure out was it meant!) Although the parts described of Oxford brought up great imagery, I wanted MORE. Here we are in this beautiful country and I'm not getting a great sense about what it looks like. And the characters seem to take up more of the attention than the scenery.
Then there is the Druids. I loved how open the members of the Grove were about who they were and what they did. It was interesting to see why each member was drawn to the group. I also loved how something so innocent could be quickly turned into something sinister. And just as in the real world, once that innocent facade is stripped away, you are suddenly in something too deep to get out of. I felt like that is how the characters felt as the rituals progressed into something more sinister. After doing some research (yes, I'm a nerd), I found out that modern Druids still practice, and are not sinister, but focus on the commune with the earth and its elements. Interestingly enough, they also state in there "About" information that they are not a cult. This is a big part of the book, so it was cool to see how all that played into the story and how the book divulges from reality. (If YOU want to know more, visit the Druid Grove, Order of the Bards Ovates and Druids website.
There were definitely some twists and turns I saw coming, but I wasn't expecting everything to happen the way it did. The Druids parts were facinating and when they started losing memory the book started to feel a little like a psychological thriller. Overall, Tracy has some strong characters, emotions, and story lines happening in this book. You most definitely will NOT be bored. If you like paranormal or even contemporary, you will love this book!
Rating: 4/5
October 11, 2022
I received an e-copy of this book for a book tour in exchange for an honest review.
This was one of the first book tours I joined when I first started blogging. The premise was intriguing and unique. I had never read anything that referenced Druid practices nor had I read anything that had an air of psychological studies that completely enthralled me as a Psychology major.
Emma is being shipped off for the summer away from her friends and the father she is extremely close to in favor of spending time with her mother who left her father for another man and had saw fit to create a whole new family without her. The animosity Emma carries from the airplane to the quaint home she will now share with her absent mother, her mother's new family, and an attractive research assistant to her new stepfather, is incredibly thick and suffocating.
Needing an escape, Emma starts exploring her new surroundings in fantastic England. Along the way she meets an odd but sweet girl, named Ash, who introduces Emma to a new world of Druid rituals and a togetherness she never imagined possible. Among Ash's friends is the dark and mysterious, Simon, who Emma feels inexplicably drawn to from the very start.
As Emma dives further into the depths of her Druid family, she starts to wonder if Simon truly is as wonderful as he seems, or if the love of her life may just be spending the summer under the same roof as her. Josh or Simon? Welcome to the wonderful world of love triangles!
I didn't know what to expect when I started reading By Blood. I thought there would be more mystical magic as is usual in paranormal reads, but what I got was more of a mystery. What is real? What is only in Emma and her friends' minds? It was surprising how much psychology was found in the book instead of the paranormal being the main focal point. I was pleasantly surprised.
What I had issue with was Emma's boy hopping. She ultimately danced between Josh and Simon as is usual in a love triangle. But there were also other points in which she flirted and delighted in the company of others. I understand that she was struggling with her family dysfunction and was looking for some sort of comfort in any arms she could find, but that left me feeling like any sort of connection she feels with the two main male characters was false. When something went wrong with Josh, Simon was the one she was fawning over and vice versa. I have never liked girls that used men in that manner. My feelings for Emma were lacking, but my love for preppy and studious Josh made up for it a bit.
By Blood is the perfect mesh of ancient history and modern psychology. It causes it's reader to question the reality of the paranormal as well as embracing the importance of family and having a strong support system. Sometimes the people one thinks care the least are actually the people who care the most.
March 16, 2013
By Blood is the story of a Pennsylvania girl spending her summer in Oxford England. The problem is, she's there for all of the wrong reasons and with all of the wrong people.
Emma Wong would love to be living in England with her best friends Diana and Helen, or even her small-town sheriff father, but she is stuck with her mom - who left the family for another man; Dr. Mike - the mom-stealing man; and their love child - disgusting. To make matters worse, Josh is living in the house. He is just too hot and too sweet to be true, but hands off because he's Dr. Mike's assistant. Gross.
She's hating life, mostly because she's hating her mom, her lack of friends, her ruined plans, and her role as the live-in babysitter. A chance meeting with a sweet, free thinking girl names Ash gives her a reason to like England, especially when she brings Simon; dark, sexy and mysterious, into the picture. In order to spend more time with both Ash and Simon, and to get away from cheating moms and dirty diapers, Emma agrees to join The Grove, a modern day Druid group headed by Simon.
The Druid Rituals bring more companions into Emma's world, not to mention some great make-out sesions with Simon, and everything in the world seems right. But that feeling is short lived when Dr. Mike reveals a devestating family secret. Then, The Grove seems to be pulling real power from Mother Earth causing some members to try calling on more powerful forces during the rituals.
Emma spends a great deal of time trying to sort through her world, wondering if The Grove is more than she thought, if Josh was less hand-off than she realized, and if Simon is really more sinister than sexy after all.
The narrative to Emma's crazy summer is full of emotion and pulled together so neatly that the story moves fast, and you're always wanting to know what comes next. Emma is one of the best characters I've met in YA fiction because she is so animated, self-assured, and strong willed - she's just the kind of character you want to invest in. I'd love a follow up novel! What adventures await her?
From an adult stand-point - this book made me revisit some of my own moments from those dreaded teenage years...and boy were they fun! It's good to have those reminders. :)
Overall, I highly recommend this book!
Emma Wong would love to be living in England with her best friends Diana and Helen, or even her small-town sheriff father, but she is stuck with her mom - who left the family for another man; Dr. Mike - the mom-stealing man; and their love child - disgusting. To make matters worse, Josh is living in the house. He is just too hot and too sweet to be true, but hands off because he's Dr. Mike's assistant. Gross.
She's hating life, mostly because she's hating her mom, her lack of friends, her ruined plans, and her role as the live-in babysitter. A chance meeting with a sweet, free thinking girl names Ash gives her a reason to like England, especially when she brings Simon; dark, sexy and mysterious, into the picture. In order to spend more time with both Ash and Simon, and to get away from cheating moms and dirty diapers, Emma agrees to join The Grove, a modern day Druid group headed by Simon.
The Druid Rituals bring more companions into Emma's world, not to mention some great make-out sesions with Simon, and everything in the world seems right. But that feeling is short lived when Dr. Mike reveals a devestating family secret. Then, The Grove seems to be pulling real power from Mother Earth causing some members to try calling on more powerful forces during the rituals.
Emma spends a great deal of time trying to sort through her world, wondering if The Grove is more than she thought, if Josh was less hand-off than she realized, and if Simon is really more sinister than sexy after all.
The narrative to Emma's crazy summer is full of emotion and pulled together so neatly that the story moves fast, and you're always wanting to know what comes next. Emma is one of the best characters I've met in YA fiction because she is so animated, self-assured, and strong willed - she's just the kind of character you want to invest in. I'd love a follow up novel! What adventures await her?
From an adult stand-point - this book made me revisit some of my own moments from those dreaded teenage years...and boy were they fun! It's good to have those reminders. :)
Overall, I highly recommend this book!
September 14, 2013
By Blood by Tracy E. Banghart was an extremely entertaining read, and I would definitely recommend the book to fans of Young Adult Paranormal. The story is one you will read in one sitting, and I will definitely get my hand on the sequel, Moon Child, sometime soon.
The main character, Emma, was fun to read about. She felt real, vivid, and she is in no way a wishy-washy character. Another one of my favorite characters was Josh, who I found sweet, and Emma's new friend, Ash. However, I did not like Simon, who I kind of hated from the start. I kind of wished Emma had the same feelings as me about him.
I also liked the family drama aspect in the novel. It is very relatable, and, as the author states in the interview below, both of the parents are alive. *Whew* Also, I found it more amusing than I should have that Emma called her brother Fermin "Vermin". I liked the way things turned out in the end.
Now, may I mention the setting? Oxford, England was an amazing place to set By Blood! I have always wanted to go to England... and it is England! Who couldn't love a book set there? I also feel that the author is passionate about the setting, which brings much more life to the story and writing.
The only problem I had with this book is that sometimes Emma seemed a little too naive, especially about Simon. However, I know this was just a way to show she was flawed. That doesn't mean I didn't want to shake some reality into her sometimes. Fortunately for her, she continued to redeem herself with her bright personality.
The pacing was perfect, and kept me on my seat. The writing is mysterious, funny, scary, and an array of other type of tones. So, really, you will enjoy this book no matter what mood you are in. I would also call this s "quick and addicting read" so don't be afraid to pick it up! You will have it finished in no time. There are literally no boring parts.
Overall, I really enjoyed By Blood and would award it a shining 3.8 stars! It is an amazing read, and highly recommended by me. There is a great heroine, an adorable love interest, and great mystery/paranormal aspects. Also, I loved the dialogue and the way it flowed realistically and didn't seem forced. Go pick up this book!
-----3.8/5 Stars----
The main character, Emma, was fun to read about. She felt real, vivid, and she is in no way a wishy-washy character. Another one of my favorite characters was Josh, who I found sweet, and Emma's new friend, Ash. However, I did not like Simon, who I kind of hated from the start. I kind of wished Emma had the same feelings as me about him.
I also liked the family drama aspect in the novel. It is very relatable, and, as the author states in the interview below, both of the parents are alive. *Whew* Also, I found it more amusing than I should have that Emma called her brother Fermin "Vermin". I liked the way things turned out in the end.
Now, may I mention the setting? Oxford, England was an amazing place to set By Blood! I have always wanted to go to England... and it is England! Who couldn't love a book set there? I also feel that the author is passionate about the setting, which brings much more life to the story and writing.
The only problem I had with this book is that sometimes Emma seemed a little too naive, especially about Simon. However, I know this was just a way to show she was flawed. That doesn't mean I didn't want to shake some reality into her sometimes. Fortunately for her, she continued to redeem herself with her bright personality.
The pacing was perfect, and kept me on my seat. The writing is mysterious, funny, scary, and an array of other type of tones. So, really, you will enjoy this book no matter what mood you are in. I would also call this s "quick and addicting read" so don't be afraid to pick it up! You will have it finished in no time. There are literally no boring parts.
Overall, I really enjoyed By Blood and would award it a shining 3.8 stars! It is an amazing read, and highly recommended by me. There is a great heroine, an adorable love interest, and great mystery/paranormal aspects. Also, I loved the dialogue and the way it flowed realistically and didn't seem forced. Go pick up this book!
-----3.8/5 Stars----
May 29, 2013
Tracy Banghart’s novel, By Blood, is an expertly crafted YA contemporary that delivers on multiple levels. Fully drawn characters, vivid descriptions, sharp dialogue, skillful plotting, pacing and tension are among just a few of this novel’s attributes. At the center of the story is seventeen-year-old Emma Wong, herself a study in contrast and conflict, an American high school student forced to spend the summer in Oxford, England, alongside her mother—a seemingly aloof academic, who both had an affair on Emma’s father (a man Emma loves dearly) and then left him to remarry—her mother’s oblivious new husband and this couple’s new baby (who Emma’s mother appears to regard as her only child). Suddenly, Emma finds herself stranded in a foreign country with no room to breathe in the house they’re all sharing and half the time burdened with taking care of a baby she openly detests. Looking for escape, Emma embraces a circle of new friends, a group more than willing to take in a stray, only to find they are dabbling with ancient rituals that, at first, appear to evoke something magical but later start to draw the group into a potentially sinister cult-like dynamic. Add to this mix, Emma’s dilemma as she tries to determine whether to return the affections of one, both or neither of two young men vying for her attention, and you find yourself immersed in Emma’s world as she tries to navigate her way through late adolescence in a time and place where nothing is familiar or reliable. Told in a voice reflecting Emma’s constantly shifting inner feelings—at times angry, at times hilarious, and at others lost—By Blood makes for a fully-engaging and wonderfully unique YA novel the reader won’t soon forget.
September 11, 2013
After her mother left her father for another man Emma just couldn't forgive her mother. Now she's being forced to go spend the summer with her mother, stepfather and stepbrother Vermin in England. Emma is less then thrilled but has no other choice to go. When she meets the very strange and interesting Ash, Ash invites her to join her with a group ceremony involving druids. It was innocent enough at first, but as time goes one things start to happen and the little cult doesn't seem as innocent as she was led to believe.
"Since I was a child I'd always wished my imagination had gotten it right, that the world wasn't as boring and sad and broken as it seemed. That's why I'd gone with Ash, why I'd joined the Grove."
The covers to both the book was enough to interest me to check out the books but when I read the description of the book it sealed the deal for me and I just had to check out this book. I loved that this book had lots of drama, mystery, twists and turns that kept me guessing. I thought this book was well written and I just couldn't stop reading once I've started. I really liked that Emma wasn't so stubborn as to keep her mother out of her life even if she was stuck in a place she didn't want to be. I liked that eventually she trusted her mother to open up. I liked all the characters and look forward to seeing more about the characters in the next book Moon Child. I really liked that the main character, Emma, how real she felt. She acted like most teens her age, she was somewhat mature but still whiney. This is the first time I come across a book with druids in it, and found myself enjoying it.
Overall I enjoyed this book and believe you lovely readers will too. Highly Recommend. 4.5 Stars.
"Since I was a child I'd always wished my imagination had gotten it right, that the world wasn't as boring and sad and broken as it seemed. That's why I'd gone with Ash, why I'd joined the Grove."
The covers to both the book was enough to interest me to check out the books but when I read the description of the book it sealed the deal for me and I just had to check out this book. I loved that this book had lots of drama, mystery, twists and turns that kept me guessing. I thought this book was well written and I just couldn't stop reading once I've started. I really liked that Emma wasn't so stubborn as to keep her mother out of her life even if she was stuck in a place she didn't want to be. I liked that eventually she trusted her mother to open up. I liked all the characters and look forward to seeing more about the characters in the next book Moon Child. I really liked that the main character, Emma, how real she felt. She acted like most teens her age, she was somewhat mature but still whiney. This is the first time I come across a book with druids in it, and found myself enjoying it.
Overall I enjoyed this book and believe you lovely readers will too. Highly Recommend. 4.5 Stars.
September 8, 2013
Wow! This book is absolutely an amazing good time! Emma is such an interesting and easy to relate to character, struggling with her new family after her mother leaves her father and creates a new family with her new husband. As a child of divorce, this was really easy for me to get into. I could feel Emma's pain as she dealt with "Vermin" (Fermin, her new half brother).
I can't imagine how awkward it would be to not only try to get used to your new family, but to get used to your new family in a new country? None of the comforts of your old family around, just new places, new people and new family. Emma's inner strength was amazing, but she still fell victim to a very interesting "cult".
Now, quite honestly, I figured out the twist fairly quickly into the book, but part of me really didn't think that was the way it was going to end. I was really hoping the "bad guy" had some sense of ethics and that I was worrying over nothing, but WOW! Talk about a psychological thrill!
This book is a perfect example of what can happen when someone with too much knowledge uses it in unethical and downright evil ways. Book two? Here I come!
Note: I received a free copy of this book for honest review.
I can't imagine how awkward it would be to not only try to get used to your new family, but to get used to your new family in a new country? None of the comforts of your old family around, just new places, new people and new family. Emma's inner strength was amazing, but she still fell victim to a very interesting "cult".
Now, quite honestly, I figured out the twist fairly quickly into the book, but part of me really didn't think that was the way it was going to end. I was really hoping the "bad guy" had some sense of ethics and that I was worrying over nothing, but WOW! Talk about a psychological thrill!
This book is a perfect example of what can happen when someone with too much knowledge uses it in unethical and downright evil ways. Book two? Here I come!
Note: I received a free copy of this book for honest review.
July 16, 2017
I got a copy in exchange for an honest review , so here it goes .
This book I would give a 3.5 stars . Only because the beginning was quite long and boring . Didn't grab my attention. Although I was pleasantly surprised on many details that made me enjoy the book. It had an interesting plot twist and plot in general that I really liked . The characters were developed very precisely and I fell in love with them . I felt connected in the story and it almost felt real . Nothing seemed forced , except for the beginning ( whiny girl at dinner ) . I have to say if there was a sequel I would be all up in that book and the companion novel I'm excited to read . With sweet surprises around the corner , tempting offers of love and friendship , you can't go wrong but u will be surprised .
This book I would give a 3.5 stars . Only because the beginning was quite long and boring . Didn't grab my attention. Although I was pleasantly surprised on many details that made me enjoy the book. It had an interesting plot twist and plot in general that I really liked . The characters were developed very precisely and I fell in love with them . I felt connected in the story and it almost felt real . Nothing seemed forced , except for the beginning ( whiny girl at dinner ) . I have to say if there was a sequel I would be all up in that book and the companion novel I'm excited to read . With sweet surprises around the corner , tempting offers of love and friendship , you can't go wrong but u will be surprised .
November 26, 2025
Emma quickly discovers that her life is not as it appears. To find happiness, Emma must choose to accept life changes, and for a 17-year-old this comes with lots of anxiet,y which makes for a very entertaining plot.
By Blood is a family drama with a side of paranormal. I found this story quite enjoyable. It precariously balances on the line of maybe its paranormal...but will keep you guessing well after it ends. The family situation is surprising and not quite what you expected. There is a fun romantic triangle that offers a temptation of complicated love... Making By Blood a completely enjoyable story.
I received this ARC copy of By Blood from Tracy E. Banghart in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication February 17, 2014.
By Blood is a family drama with a side of paranormal. I found this story quite enjoyable. It precariously balances on the line of maybe its paranormal...but will keep you guessing well after it ends. The family situation is surprising and not quite what you expected. There is a fun romantic triangle that offers a temptation of complicated love... Making By Blood a completely enjoyable story.
I received this ARC copy of By Blood from Tracy E. Banghart in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication February 17, 2014.
February 22, 2013
This book was awesome!!
When Emma is forced to spend the summer helping her mom she's not all that excited about it. But she is in Oxford after all. And I have to say I loved spending time with Emma in Oxford. And once she meets Ash there wasn't a moment I could put this book down. This is an exciting debut for Tracy Banghart. Between the romance, mystery and adventure I read this book in one sitting. Can't wait to read her next book!
When Emma is forced to spend the summer helping her mom she's not all that excited about it. But she is in Oxford after all. And I have to say I loved spending time with Emma in Oxford. And once she meets Ash there wasn't a moment I could put this book down. This is an exciting debut for Tracy Banghart. Between the romance, mystery and adventure I read this book in one sitting. Can't wait to read her next book!
February 22, 2013
Loved this book!
A fun, fresh contemp with an amazing main character, cute love interests and wonderful setting. Summer abroad, what could be better! Such a fun book and some really cool imagry and mystery to keep you turning the pages. I didn't know exactly where this book was going, but I couldn't stop reading until I found out. Great read!
A fun, fresh contemp with an amazing main character, cute love interests and wonderful setting. Summer abroad, what could be better! Such a fun book and some really cool imagry and mystery to keep you turning the pages. I didn't know exactly where this book was going, but I couldn't stop reading until I found out. Great read!
March 2, 2013
Review to come! I LOVED this book!
August 14, 2013
I got a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book get's a solid 4 stars, maybe even a 4.5 stars. I really enjoyed this book, it has the perfect combination of drama, fantasy and mystery and sometimes even a little bit scary. I really enjoyed it! The story is really consistent in it's enjoyabilty and pacing.
When I started this book I had forgotten most of the blurb already, I only remembered the main character was visiting England and that was explained pretty soon in the book too. Emma has to spend the summer with her mom, her mom's new boyfriend and their baby. And she is not exactly looking forward to it. Emma could be a bit annoying at the beginning, but I could understand why she was acting like that. Instead of enjoying her summer she is stuck in another country, with people she hardly knows or is holding a bit of a grudge against.
I really liked the story and how it progressed and because I had forgotten the blurb I was really surprised when the druids where introduced. The story has some predictable moments, but it really surprised me too. There are some twists and turns I really didn't see coming and one twist I did see coming, but the main character didn't. The pacing was really consistent trough the whole book and there where no boring parts. I basically read this book in two sittings, because as soon as I picked this book up I couldn't stop reading. This book has a perfect combination of drama and mystery.
We mainly get to know Emma in this book, because the focus is on her. Also some of her new friends and a bit about her family. I really liked Emma as a characters, she did make some dumb descisions and acted a bit nasty towards her mom in the beginning, but I could understand why she acted the way she did. I liked how her relationship with her mom progressed. I also liked Ash and Josh and would've liked getting to know them better.
There is also a sort of love triangle in this book. I wasn't really a fan of the love triangle, but I liked how it turned out in the end. Also while there is some romance in this book, it's only part of the story. Other parts of the story are Emma's relationship with her family, her new friends, exploring Oxford and everythign surrounding the druids.
There is not a whole lot of world building in this book, but I really liked the way the magic/fantasy element was handled. It felt real, like this really could be happening. There wasn't a whole new world, just some magic that might or might not be real. And at the end I am still wodnering what exactly happened. There is no clear explanation, but the whole druid thing is handled so well. I really liked the fantasy/magic aspect and the idea of druids was fairly original.
To conclude: I really liked this book, the pacing and ejoyability was really conistent and there where no dull moments. I got sucked into the story and read it basically in two sittings. I did like Emma, but would've liked getting to know the side characters a bit better. I wasn't a fan of the love triangle, but I did like the end. I also really liked how the druid thing was handled in this book, a lot of mystery and not a lot of world building, but it worked so well. I am looking forward to reading more from this author!
This book get's a solid 4 stars, maybe even a 4.5 stars. I really enjoyed this book, it has the perfect combination of drama, fantasy and mystery and sometimes even a little bit scary. I really enjoyed it! The story is really consistent in it's enjoyabilty and pacing.
When I started this book I had forgotten most of the blurb already, I only remembered the main character was visiting England and that was explained pretty soon in the book too. Emma has to spend the summer with her mom, her mom's new boyfriend and their baby. And she is not exactly looking forward to it. Emma could be a bit annoying at the beginning, but I could understand why she was acting like that. Instead of enjoying her summer she is stuck in another country, with people she hardly knows or is holding a bit of a grudge against.
I really liked the story and how it progressed and because I had forgotten the blurb I was really surprised when the druids where introduced. The story has some predictable moments, but it really surprised me too. There are some twists and turns I really didn't see coming and one twist I did see coming, but the main character didn't. The pacing was really consistent trough the whole book and there where no boring parts. I basically read this book in two sittings, because as soon as I picked this book up I couldn't stop reading. This book has a perfect combination of drama and mystery.
We mainly get to know Emma in this book, because the focus is on her. Also some of her new friends and a bit about her family. I really liked Emma as a characters, she did make some dumb descisions and acted a bit nasty towards her mom in the beginning, but I could understand why she acted the way she did. I liked how her relationship with her mom progressed. I also liked Ash and Josh and would've liked getting to know them better.
There is also a sort of love triangle in this book. I wasn't really a fan of the love triangle, but I liked how it turned out in the end. Also while there is some romance in this book, it's only part of the story. Other parts of the story are Emma's relationship with her family, her new friends, exploring Oxford and everythign surrounding the druids.
There is not a whole lot of world building in this book, but I really liked the way the magic/fantasy element was handled. It felt real, like this really could be happening. There wasn't a whole new world, just some magic that might or might not be real. And at the end I am still wodnering what exactly happened. There is no clear explanation, but the whole druid thing is handled so well. I really liked the fantasy/magic aspect and the idea of druids was fairly original.
To conclude: I really liked this book, the pacing and ejoyability was really conistent and there where no dull moments. I got sucked into the story and read it basically in two sittings. I did like Emma, but would've liked getting to know the side characters a bit better. I wasn't a fan of the love triangle, but I did like the end. I also really liked how the druid thing was handled in this book, a lot of mystery and not a lot of world building, but it worked so well. I am looking forward to reading more from this author!
March 8, 2013
Rating: 4.2
'Most of the other passengers were turned away now, sleeping while the baby was quiet. The cabin lights were dimmed and the flight attendants had disappeared. I wondered if Vermin and I were the only ones who’d never flown across an ocean before. I wondered if anyone else was wishing they were heading in the opposite direction.'
Diapers, accents and blooming powers - the things that summer vacations are made of.
At least, they are for 17-year-old Emma Wong. Emma's mother wants them to 'bond' over in England, where she, 'Dr Mike' (a.k.a The Stepdad), Emma and babyFermin Vermin will get in some family time.
Travel?
Emma likes.
Cute British guys?
She likes even more.
Shopping opportunities?
No girl could refuse.
Puking infants, awkward 'family dinners, babysitting and your friends on the other side of the world?
No thanks.
But Emma takes the new challenge with a grain of salt, finding an ally in Dr Mike's cute research assistant Josh and a friend in the elfish wisp of a girl Ash Gardner - between them providing enough sight-seeing, laughs and good times to counteract her family's dysfunctional antics.
Do you believe in magic?
A group of New Age Druids - teenagers with a penchant for late night rituals, giddy dancing and downing mystical drink - crosses Emma's path. Drawn to the sense of freedom they seem to bring with them, Emma beings her descent into the 'rabbit hole' of Druid doings, Celtic lunacy and beautiful boys named Simon whose very presence is bewitching.
But it's all for fun...isn't it?
Get ready to be in way over your head.
A summer vacation with a sinister twist, with undertones of paranormal energy, By Blood is a story of how the irresistible nature of power and freedom can intoxicate even the most strong-willed of human heads - and how magic is never truly dormant...
...And awakening it could be a messier ordeal than a family dinner!
Emma's sarcastic, biting narrative and the lure of Celtic myth and magic constructs a brilliant book to cosy up with...if you dare!
'Most of the other passengers were turned away now, sleeping while the baby was quiet. The cabin lights were dimmed and the flight attendants had disappeared. I wondered if Vermin and I were the only ones who’d never flown across an ocean before. I wondered if anyone else was wishing they were heading in the opposite direction.'
Diapers, accents and blooming powers - the things that summer vacations are made of.
At least, they are for 17-year-old Emma Wong. Emma's mother wants them to 'bond' over in England, where she, 'Dr Mike' (a.k.a The Stepdad), Emma and baby
Travel?
Emma likes.
Cute British guys?
She likes even more.
Shopping opportunities?
No girl could refuse.
Puking infants, awkward 'family dinners, babysitting and your friends on the other side of the world?
No thanks.
But Emma takes the new challenge with a grain of salt, finding an ally in Dr Mike's cute research assistant Josh and a friend in the elfish wisp of a girl Ash Gardner - between them providing enough sight-seeing, laughs and good times to counteract her family's dysfunctional antics.
Do you believe in magic?
A group of New Age Druids - teenagers with a penchant for late night rituals, giddy dancing and downing mystical drink - crosses Emma's path. Drawn to the sense of freedom they seem to bring with them, Emma beings her descent into the 'rabbit hole' of Druid doings, Celtic lunacy and beautiful boys named Simon whose very presence is bewitching.
But it's all for fun...isn't it?
Get ready to be in way over your head.
A summer vacation with a sinister twist, with undertones of paranormal energy, By Blood is a story of how the irresistible nature of power and freedom can intoxicate even the most strong-willed of human heads - and how magic is never truly dormant...
...And awakening it could be a messier ordeal than a family dinner!
Emma's sarcastic, biting narrative and the lure of Celtic myth and magic constructs a brilliant book to cosy up with...if you dare!
December 10, 2013
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Wow – this was a really fantastic read! The writing was excellent, the characters were well thought out and engaging, and the story had me on the edge of my seat the entire time! This was YA goodness at its best!
The main character is Emma, a teenager being raised by her father in the US. Her mother, in an attempt to spend some quality time, invites her to spend the summer in England with her, her new husband, and their infant. Despite her begging and pleading, Emma still ends up on the long plane ride overseas. While moping and fighting every step of the way, she discovers that she’s not the only houseguest. Josh, her stepfather’s research assistant, has been chosen to stay with them for the summer as well. The hot, young American is a great distraction from Emma’s plan to be miserable. I really loved the relationship and banter between the two of them. Something about their interactions just seemed really genuine. A simple love story is never as entertaining as a complicated one, though, so Emma had to find a way to mess up this good thing with Josh. It came in the form of a group of “druids”, led by the mysterious and sexy Simon.
I was firmly on team Josh, but I have to say that Simon was awfully tempting. He’s a complete mystery for most of the book and really had me guessing at his motivations. I’m still not quite sure what really drove him throughout the book. Of course Emma was caught in this horrible love triangle and it was a little frustrating to watch. Josh was clearly the good guy while Simon was the sexy bad boy. I guess I can’t blame her for wanting a little bit of both on her seemingly horrible summer abroad.
This was a truly amazing read that I couldn’t put down. The story and writing had me flipping pages quickly and eagerly. The ultimate payoff was a great wrap-up that made this book stand alone as a winner for me. If you’re interested in a YA paranormal romance, you won’t be disappointed by this one.
Wow – this was a really fantastic read! The writing was excellent, the characters were well thought out and engaging, and the story had me on the edge of my seat the entire time! This was YA goodness at its best!
The main character is Emma, a teenager being raised by her father in the US. Her mother, in an attempt to spend some quality time, invites her to spend the summer in England with her, her new husband, and their infant. Despite her begging and pleading, Emma still ends up on the long plane ride overseas. While moping and fighting every step of the way, she discovers that she’s not the only houseguest. Josh, her stepfather’s research assistant, has been chosen to stay with them for the summer as well. The hot, young American is a great distraction from Emma’s plan to be miserable. I really loved the relationship and banter between the two of them. Something about their interactions just seemed really genuine. A simple love story is never as entertaining as a complicated one, though, so Emma had to find a way to mess up this good thing with Josh. It came in the form of a group of “druids”, led by the mysterious and sexy Simon.
I was firmly on team Josh, but I have to say that Simon was awfully tempting. He’s a complete mystery for most of the book and really had me guessing at his motivations. I’m still not quite sure what really drove him throughout the book. Of course Emma was caught in this horrible love triangle and it was a little frustrating to watch. Josh was clearly the good guy while Simon was the sexy bad boy. I guess I can’t blame her for wanting a little bit of both on her seemingly horrible summer abroad.
This was a truly amazing read that I couldn’t put down. The story and writing had me flipping pages quickly and eagerly. The ultimate payoff was a great wrap-up that made this book stand alone as a winner for me. If you’re interested in a YA paranormal romance, you won’t be disappointed by this one.
September 16, 2013
See the book tour at my blog, for a giveaway. Just click the banner below.
I really enjoyed reading By Blood. It focused on Emma in this story, and the druids, which is very exciting. I loved how this book had some mystery and twist and turns that kept me guessing, as well as the paranormal element as well. Which I just have to have. The covers are amazing, and are what originally drew me to the books (By Blood and the 2nd one Moon Child) , covers are very important to me, and are what I first will look at.
I won’t write any spoilers for this, as I want you all to enjoy the story as much as I did. I will say that its written very well, and there was not a boring moment at all.
I loved how it was set in England, at Oxford, that made it really interesting, as I am from the USA, so other countries are interesting to me. I highly recommend this book to anyone like me who like the paranormal and some mystery too.
I give this book 4 ½ stars out of 5. I really liked it.
I received this book from the author for my honest review.
I really enjoyed reading By Blood. It focused on Emma in this story, and the druids, which is very exciting. I loved how this book had some mystery and twist and turns that kept me guessing, as well as the paranormal element as well. Which I just have to have. The covers are amazing, and are what originally drew me to the books (By Blood and the 2nd one Moon Child) , covers are very important to me, and are what I first will look at.
I won’t write any spoilers for this, as I want you all to enjoy the story as much as I did. I will say that its written very well, and there was not a boring moment at all.
I loved how it was set in England, at Oxford, that made it really interesting, as I am from the USA, so other countries are interesting to me. I highly recommend this book to anyone like me who like the paranormal and some mystery too.
I give this book 4 ½ stars out of 5. I really liked it.
I received this book from the author for my honest review.
November 16, 2013
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review).
(This review may contain spoilers).
So... I spent a lot of this book not entirely sure what to root for. That actually wasn't a bad thing, in this case - I felt able to identify with Emma's uncertainty throughout the book.
Emma was a really interesting character. I was able to identify with her pretty quickly - and I could relate to some of the things she was going through. Unfortunately, she did have her shallow moments (I eventually got sick of the constant mentioning of her appearance), but I still quite liked her. I'm just not sure she's the sort of person I'd want to be friends with in reality.
I didn't mind the love triangle in this book so much. Simon wasn't a particularly likable person, but I felt sucked into Emma's emotions when she was around him. Bryna really irritated me - and I adored Ash.
Josh was definitely my preferred character. I loved the way he was protective without it coming across as being stifling.
I really liked the Druid aspect to the book, but I have to say, I didn't see the twist coming at all. I did think it made sense, though, and worked really well in the storyline.
I liked Emma's relationship with her family. There were the ups and downs, but also the general sense that they were still trying to be a family. I thought that her interactions with her little brother were really cute.
On the whole, the book was quite well written - with the exception of 'Oh god' used instead of 'Oh God.' Again... name = capital letter at the start. When I see it written like that, I just think it looks sloppy. Sorry.
I have Moon Child by this author which I have started reading, but I'd definitely be interested in reading more books by this author. This one was really good with interesting, diverse characters. I'm glad I was able to give it a shot.
(This review may contain spoilers).
So... I spent a lot of this book not entirely sure what to root for. That actually wasn't a bad thing, in this case - I felt able to identify with Emma's uncertainty throughout the book.
Emma was a really interesting character. I was able to identify with her pretty quickly - and I could relate to some of the things she was going through. Unfortunately, she did have her shallow moments (I eventually got sick of the constant mentioning of her appearance), but I still quite liked her. I'm just not sure she's the sort of person I'd want to be friends with in reality.
I didn't mind the love triangle in this book so much. Simon wasn't a particularly likable person, but I felt sucked into Emma's emotions when she was around him. Bryna really irritated me - and I adored Ash.
Josh was definitely my preferred character. I loved the way he was protective without it coming across as being stifling.
I really liked the Druid aspect to the book, but I have to say, I didn't see the twist coming at all. I did think it made sense, though, and worked really well in the storyline.
I liked Emma's relationship with her family. There were the ups and downs, but also the general sense that they were still trying to be a family. I thought that her interactions with her little brother were really cute.
On the whole, the book was quite well written - with the exception of 'Oh god' used instead of 'Oh God.' Again... name = capital letter at the start. When I see it written like that, I just think it looks sloppy. Sorry.
I have Moon Child by this author which I have started reading, but I'd definitely be interested in reading more books by this author. This one was really good with interesting, diverse characters. I'm glad I was able to give it a shot.
December 4, 2013
Surprising! Nice at first, I found myself turning the pages, a knot in my stomach, after being severely hooked by the final plot...
I really like this feeling of being played by the author!
Everything starts with a angered teenager and a lot of family drama taking place from US to UK.
Emma is mad at her mother to have cheat on her father. Now she has a step father and a half brother. Worse, Emma will have to play the au pair in England and babysit her brother during the summer vacation. Not so bad...But Emma only sees the negative points.
In short, too many family dramas ... I felt like falling into a broth of anger and wounded hearts. Then, it gets more complicated with incredible revelations that are made to Emma about her origins. WTF ???
Personally, so far, the story was complicated. But my curiosity had not been piqued...
Emma's encounters with Josh and Simon smell the love triangle... More shit hits the fan as Emma wants to forget her problems in the arms of a sexy bad boy.
However, it is the encounter with Ash, the magical rituals and druid's stories that interested me the most. From the synopsis, I was eager to find out. Druid vs witch was the point that had sharpened my curiosity.
First, magical incantation without gravity. All the members seems to be like some kind old hippies. Rituals are only games and a way to have fun with friends. Then, things intensified ... Blood is shed.
The plot is not bad and some characters are endearing but the end made me react. I knew what to expect ... It was predictable ... And yet, the final spin of the author kept me hooked.
As I am a reader who likes to be grabbed by a story, the final plot made me forget the start with too many doors slamming!
Entertaining and absorbing!
Lucie
http://newbooksonmyselves.blogspot.fr...
I really like this feeling of being played by the author!
Everything starts with a angered teenager and a lot of family drama taking place from US to UK.
Emma is mad at her mother to have cheat on her father. Now she has a step father and a half brother. Worse, Emma will have to play the au pair in England and babysit her brother during the summer vacation. Not so bad...But Emma only sees the negative points.
In short, too many family dramas ... I felt like falling into a broth of anger and wounded hearts. Then, it gets more complicated with incredible revelations that are made to Emma about her origins. WTF ???
Personally, so far, the story was complicated. But my curiosity had not been piqued...
Emma's encounters with Josh and Simon smell the love triangle... More shit hits the fan as Emma wants to forget her problems in the arms of a sexy bad boy.
However, it is the encounter with Ash, the magical rituals and druid's stories that interested me the most. From the synopsis, I was eager to find out. Druid vs witch was the point that had sharpened my curiosity.
First, magical incantation without gravity. All the members seems to be like some kind old hippies. Rituals are only games and a way to have fun with friends. Then, things intensified ... Blood is shed.
The plot is not bad and some characters are endearing but the end made me react. I knew what to expect ... It was predictable ... And yet, the final spin of the author kept me hooked.
As I am a reader who likes to be grabbed by a story, the final plot made me forget the start with too many doors slamming!
Entertaining and absorbing!
Lucie
http://newbooksonmyselves.blogspot.fr...
March 19, 2013
To be honest, I've not read any young adult titles since Harry Potter—though that's more fantasy wrapped around a young adult core in my view. I've been sticking mostly to fantasy and sic fi, and this was a definite and refreshing change of pace for me.
What I appreciate the most about this book is that first and foremost, it is about the characters. At the head of that cast is Emma, the definitive teenager on a European Vacation.
No, not National Lampoon. Stay with me here…
Emma faces having to be in a country she doesn't want to go to, with a family she doesn't consider family, in a living situation she doesn't want to be in. But piece by piece, you begin to understand where she comes from mentally and emotionally. You are drawn in by her and her book-and-street smarts way of thinking. What's surprising is that this isn't an adult trapped in a kid's body. She's smarter than your average teenager, and she is believable, but still a teenager. Can't have a summer without that crush. Can't be around adults with whom you have nothing in common with without wising to be somewhere else. Can't go abroad and NOT shop, after all.
Emma's friends and family round out her world and keeps you interested, written with the same amount of believability and care as Emma herself. Nothing is over-the-top or heavy-handed. Nothing is melodramatic , thankfully! This was a wonderful slice-of-summer teenage story without being cliché or self-aware. I would very much like to hear the further adventures of Emma Wong someday!
And then there's the whole Druid mysticism…
…sorry, you're going to have to read the book to find out about that!
What I appreciate the most about this book is that first and foremost, it is about the characters. At the head of that cast is Emma, the definitive teenager on a European Vacation.
No, not National Lampoon. Stay with me here…
Emma faces having to be in a country she doesn't want to go to, with a family she doesn't consider family, in a living situation she doesn't want to be in. But piece by piece, you begin to understand where she comes from mentally and emotionally. You are drawn in by her and her book-and-street smarts way of thinking. What's surprising is that this isn't an adult trapped in a kid's body. She's smarter than your average teenager, and she is believable, but still a teenager. Can't have a summer without that crush. Can't be around adults with whom you have nothing in common with without wising to be somewhere else. Can't go abroad and NOT shop, after all.
Emma's friends and family round out her world and keeps you interested, written with the same amount of believability and care as Emma herself. Nothing is over-the-top or heavy-handed. Nothing is melodramatic , thankfully! This was a wonderful slice-of-summer teenage story without being cliché or self-aware. I would very much like to hear the further adventures of Emma Wong someday!
And then there's the whole Druid mysticism…
…sorry, you're going to have to read the book to find out about that!
September 2, 2013
I really enjoyed BY BLOOD because it walked the line in several unique and wonderful ways. So many books tend to sit in a predictable pocket, but this one did several things I really, really enjoyed.
*My favorite thing about BY BLOOD was that Banghart wrote an ethnic MC that was subtle and natural. We often talk about not just raising kids who are accepting of differences, but rather raising kids who are color blind because they look deeper into a person to discover who they are. In my opinion, Emma Wong was written from that beautiful color blind perspective. Banghart created a feisty, fun and flawed character that carried me through the whole story because she was simply a great character.
*Another thing I really enjoyed about BY BLOOD, was how it was a contemporary novel with a paranormal feel. I think it was very innovative for Banghart to have the depth of an emotionally darker contemporary, the heat of a steamy romance, and the magic, intrigue and mystery of a paranormal through the exploration of the druids. I would consider this a great hybrid read.
*Lastly, the setting was fabulous. You can’t read BY BLOOD and not want to go to England immediately. I wanted to visit pubs, eat the food, see the art and just walk the cobblestone streets.
Can’t wait for MOON CHILD (By Blood 2)
*My favorite thing about BY BLOOD was that Banghart wrote an ethnic MC that was subtle and natural. We often talk about not just raising kids who are accepting of differences, but rather raising kids who are color blind because they look deeper into a person to discover who they are. In my opinion, Emma Wong was written from that beautiful color blind perspective. Banghart created a feisty, fun and flawed character that carried me through the whole story because she was simply a great character.
*Another thing I really enjoyed about BY BLOOD, was how it was a contemporary novel with a paranormal feel. I think it was very innovative for Banghart to have the depth of an emotionally darker contemporary, the heat of a steamy romance, and the magic, intrigue and mystery of a paranormal through the exploration of the druids. I would consider this a great hybrid read.
*Lastly, the setting was fabulous. You can’t read BY BLOOD and not want to go to England immediately. I wanted to visit pubs, eat the food, see the art and just walk the cobblestone streets.
Can’t wait for MOON CHILD (By Blood 2)
September 23, 2013
Emma Wong is quite the character and she isn't afraid to let it show - primarily in her clothing from the sounds of it. I loved her vibrant personality and outgoing outlook (most of the time). She gets a bit down when she is told she will be staying with her estranged mother, her new step dad, and their new baby in England for the summer. But there's a hot research assistant staying with them as well that she quickly develops a crush on.
During one of Emma's explorations she meets Ash - a young woman claiming to be a druid - part of a group of people trying to figure out how the old religion really worked - and it does seem to work. After taking part in a couple rituals Emma is ready to jump on board and become a believer, but even this outrageous trip won't end up being that simple and easy.
Things aren't what they seem and she quickly finds herself in way over her head. The suspense in this one built all the way up until the end and still left you wondering just a little bit. The downside was that the Emma wasn't my favorite character - I fell in love with Ash about two sentences after she appeared and wish she had more scenes in the story. With lots of twists this one was hard to put to put down at times.
- See more at: http://hotofftheshelves.blogspot.com/...
During one of Emma's explorations she meets Ash - a young woman claiming to be a druid - part of a group of people trying to figure out how the old religion really worked - and it does seem to work. After taking part in a couple rituals Emma is ready to jump on board and become a believer, but even this outrageous trip won't end up being that simple and easy.
Things aren't what they seem and she quickly finds herself in way over her head. The suspense in this one built all the way up until the end and still left you wondering just a little bit. The downside was that the Emma wasn't my favorite character - I fell in love with Ash about two sentences after she appeared and wish she had more scenes in the story. With lots of twists this one was hard to put to put down at times.
- See more at: http://hotofftheshelves.blogspot.com/...
April 7, 2013
I was given this book from the author for a review.
Best part of book: I liked this book. 1) it was a different story 2) it was in England 3) it had hot guys and 4) I thought Emma was a great character.
I really enjoyed this book. Emma is staying with her mom, step-dad, her new half-brother and Josh (her step-dad's assistant) in England. The problem is Emma does not want to go. She would rather stay with her dad and friends in the states.
Nonetheless, she goes. While there she and Josh become friends and hang out. While she was out one day she needed meeting more people, including Simon. Now, I did not like Simon from the start. There was something that was "off" about him. I think Tracy did an amazing job writing him! I loved how Simon worked his way into Emma's life.
Emma is a great character. She is strong but rebellious toward her mother. Tracy wrote a GREAT TWIST into the story...LOVE IT!
I also really enjoyed the history and twist of being a Druid. Tracy does a great job weaving it through the book.
LOVE IT!
Not so great about the book: There was nothing that I did not enjoy about this book. It was a good book and a fast read.
I will definitely be looking for more of Tracy's work in the future.
Best part of book: I liked this book. 1) it was a different story 2) it was in England 3) it had hot guys and 4) I thought Emma was a great character.
I really enjoyed this book. Emma is staying with her mom, step-dad, her new half-brother and Josh (her step-dad's assistant) in England. The problem is Emma does not want to go. She would rather stay with her dad and friends in the states.
Nonetheless, she goes. While there she and Josh become friends and hang out. While she was out one day she needed meeting more people, including Simon. Now, I did not like Simon from the start. There was something that was "off" about him. I think Tracy did an amazing job writing him! I loved how Simon worked his way into Emma's life.
Emma is a great character. She is strong but rebellious toward her mother. Tracy wrote a GREAT TWIST into the story...LOVE IT!
I also really enjoyed the history and twist of being a Druid. Tracy does a great job weaving it through the book.
LOVE IT!
Not so great about the book: There was nothing that I did not enjoy about this book. It was a good book and a fast read.
I will definitely be looking for more of Tracy's work in the future.
August 16, 2013
After her mother ruined her dreams of a family and started her new one - Emma Wong has hated her, so imagine Emma's disgust when her mum invites her to come to England and stay with her new husband and son Fermin who by the way is still a baby for the whole Summer break . Emma reluctantly goes along , all so while digging her heels in along the way. When Emma arrives, she meets the first handsome guy - her stepfather Mike's TA -Josh who shows her the ropes of England. While out babysitting her half-brother , Emma meets Ash who belongs to a group called "The Grove" - they believe in the powers of the ancient Druids. Soon Ash invites Emma along and strange things start occurring and soon it gets to the point of danger and insanity. Can Emma escape before it's too late and someone she hates to love will get hurt ? What will happen when Emma discovers that her whole life has been a lie ? Will she see her new friends as an escape from her current life situation?
Find out in Book#1 - By Blood by Tracy Banghart.
Find out in Book#1 - By Blood by Tracy Banghart.
May 2, 2013
This is one of those books I accepted for review solely on the basis of the girl spending her summer at Oxford. Yep, you got me.
There were parts of this book I didn't care for, but it was VERY well done. (Which is probably why I didn't like those parts, if that makes sense.) The family drama got a bit old, but three characters totally made up for that. The first, of course, was Emma. I loved her, she was really fun and different from most of the characters I've read in a long time. Then there was Josh. He was such a sweetheart. :) Then there's Ash. She's fantastic. I'll leave it at that.
I had a few issues with Simon right off, and yes, I was right to be wary. Without going into things that will ruin the book for other readers, let's just say the word that comes to mind for him is "slimy."
Good story, great pacing, little tidbits that make it real (hello, calling the baby "Vermin" instead of Fermin? Perfect).
There were parts of this book I didn't care for, but it was VERY well done. (Which is probably why I didn't like those parts, if that makes sense.) The family drama got a bit old, but three characters totally made up for that. The first, of course, was Emma. I loved her, she was really fun and different from most of the characters I've read in a long time. Then there was Josh. He was such a sweetheart. :) Then there's Ash. She's fantastic. I'll leave it at that.
I had a few issues with Simon right off, and yes, I was right to be wary. Without going into things that will ruin the book for other readers, let's just say the word that comes to mind for him is "slimy."
Good story, great pacing, little tidbits that make it real (hello, calling the baby "Vermin" instead of Fermin? Perfect).
September 4, 2013
This is a very easy read - i read it all in one sitting.
I think aimed at the YA audience, but still a good read for older readers. Little bad language and theres only a couple of steamy kisses but thats it.
The story revolves around Emma, who normally lives with her dad, is off to England with her mum and her new husband and baby. Shes NOT looking forward to it to say the least!
The house she got the smallest bedroom which started off the holiday not very well!
Her mums new husband who is a professor has a "helper" who is also living in the house for the summer. Confusing relationship for these two throughout the book.
Emma meets Ash, an English girl who introduces her to Simon and the main theme of the story - "The Grove" - a group of people following the Druid way of life.
Ensue ups and downs, likes, hates and lusts.
A good story that doesn't take a lot of thinking and fun to read!
Read on behalf of Xpresso Tours for an honest review
I think aimed at the YA audience, but still a good read for older readers. Little bad language and theres only a couple of steamy kisses but thats it.
The story revolves around Emma, who normally lives with her dad, is off to England with her mum and her new husband and baby. Shes NOT looking forward to it to say the least!
The house she got the smallest bedroom which started off the holiday not very well!
Her mums new husband who is a professor has a "helper" who is also living in the house for the summer. Confusing relationship for these two throughout the book.
Emma meets Ash, an English girl who introduces her to Simon and the main theme of the story - "The Grove" - a group of people following the Druid way of life.
Ensue ups and downs, likes, hates and lusts.
A good story that doesn't take a lot of thinking and fun to read!
Read on behalf of Xpresso Tours for an honest review
April 24, 2013
I read this story to entertain myself during my commute to and from work and found myself WWR (Walking While Reading) from the subway station to work or home - I literally couldn't put it down!
By Blood is an artfully crafted story, the imagery of which propels the reader into the English setting and complex perspective of young Emma Wong. You will be transported to a place and feeling that, for me, really got to the heart of that wanting-to-experience-the-world-and-know-myself phenomenon that accompanies late-adolescence. This book is like an old friend you're seeing after a long separation, in that the setting and characters have been beautifully written so real that they feel familiar. It's also like a new exciting relationship, in that the relationships and experiences give you a feeling of tingly anticipation and you can't wait to see what happens next. You won't be disappointed.
By Blood is an artfully crafted story, the imagery of which propels the reader into the English setting and complex perspective of young Emma Wong. You will be transported to a place and feeling that, for me, really got to the heart of that wanting-to-experience-the-world-and-know-myself phenomenon that accompanies late-adolescence. This book is like an old friend you're seeing after a long separation, in that the setting and characters have been beautifully written so real that they feel familiar. It's also like a new exciting relationship, in that the relationships and experiences give you a feeling of tingly anticipation and you can't wait to see what happens next. You won't be disappointed.
May 22, 2014
What a great read! This book had everything - a young girl struggling with the problems of her parents, a trip to a foreign country with people she would be happy never seeing again, the mysterious man who is gorgeous and sexy and secretive, a walk on the wild side. It has all the things a book lover looks for,
The story grabs you right away and the characters are well-defined and have merit. You care about them and what happens in their relationships with each other. Then there is the mystery and intrigue that takes you to places you didn't see coming right away.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait to read "Moon Child". I am adding this author to my list of favorites for sure!
The story grabs you right away and the characters are well-defined and have merit. You care about them and what happens in their relationships with each other. Then there is the mystery and intrigue that takes you to places you didn't see coming right away.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait to read "Moon Child". I am adding this author to my list of favorites for sure!
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