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Blood Trilogy #2
Scars
"The fabric covering my body makes my skin crawl, smothers me, adheres to both seen and unseen scars, ripping off scabs just barely healing, making me bleed once again; not only from the wounds, the cuts I inflict upon myself every night on stage; from my heart, my soul. The fabric that covers me is a mask I have no use for, and serves only to comply myself to what others want from me. And yet, the crowd roaring tells me they have come for more, they have come for something else, not for this, certainly not for something as wishy-washy and bland as this."
"SCARS", the second novella on the BLOOD Trilogy, takes off two years after the events of "BLOOD". Caius Nilsson is back to being a rock star, the search for his father forgotten now he is reunited with his twin brother. But a darkness lurks inside him, and threatens his life. Now the brothers must take up the search for Titus McFee again, to understand the disease taking over Cai and a find a way to save him. But how far is Marcus willing to go only to assure his brother is safe?
"SCARS", the second novella on the BLOOD Trilogy, takes off two years after the events of "BLOOD". Caius Nilsson is back to being a rock star, the search for his father forgotten now he is reunited with his twin brother. But a darkness lurks inside him, and threatens his life. Now the brothers must take up the search for Titus McFee again, to understand the disease taking over Cai and a find a way to save him. But how far is Marcus willing to go only to assure his brother is safe?
- GenresFiction
172 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2023
14 people want to read
About the author
Ruth Miranda
34 books80 followers"As soon as I learned my ABC I was writing stories."
Ruth Miranda is a Portugal born and raised author who feels more comfortable around words than people, especially if those words happen to be in English, a language she once taught for a living - amongst other varied jobs. She started making up stories in her head as a child, to put herself to sleep, but the stories kept growing with her, so eventually, they needed to be put to paper. Her published work includes The Preternatural Series and Blood Trilogy, as well as the romance novel Danseur and the Byanamese Romance series. You can find her being social on Instagram under the handle @ruth__miranda, where she shares snippets of upcoming and published work, and on her Patreon, where she posts thoughts on writing, deleted scenes, and an online novel. Find it here https://www.patreon.com/RuthMiranda
Ruth Miranda is a Portugal born and raised author who feels more comfortable around words than people, especially if those words happen to be in English, a language she once taught for a living - amongst other varied jobs. She started making up stories in her head as a child, to put herself to sleep, but the stories kept growing with her, so eventually, they needed to be put to paper. Her published work includes The Preternatural Series and Blood Trilogy, as well as the romance novel Danseur and the Byanamese Romance series. You can find her being social on Instagram under the handle @ruth__miranda, where she shares snippets of upcoming and published work, and on her Patreon, where she posts thoughts on writing, deleted scenes, and an online novel. Find it here https://www.patreon.com/RuthMiranda
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
June 22, 2018
There is a BIG time jump (and by big, I mean two years) in this novel. There is a slight summary of the first book in this series, which is helpful, but if you haven't read the first novel in a LONG time, maybe read a quick summary or a few reviews to get yourself caught up!
Scars follows Marcus and Cai as they search for their Father (Titus). Life is getting trickier with their abilities, but they are determined to track him down no matter the consequences. Has their Father taken on a new name? Will some ghosts from their past come back to haunt them? And will their new friends betray them? These are all worthy questions to ponder as you make your way through this book.
I have to say, I liked this better than the first one! I think this sequel ups the thrills and fun, especially with Marcus and Cai interacting. It is a bit darker than it's predecessor, but I thought it was a great addition to this series! Although, the worst part of the book is the cliffhanger. Ruth likes to leave you hanging and desperate for the next novella! So, we'll all have to wait and see what happens to our boys and their new friends and family in the final book of the trilogy.
The book is a fantasy novel, full of vampires, fey and witches. It's not horror, but does have one sexy scene that makes it closer to R than you'd expect. There are dark tones and themes, but nothing that will scare you or disturb you too much.
It's also rather fast paced. I felt myself easily reading this book and suddenly it was over! But it was a delightful read. So as short and quick as it was, the book turned out excellent! Some of the scenes are quite shocking, and I didn't see them coming. Ruth has a real talent at throwing those twists and turns at you, throwing you off guard for the next scene.
On a side note, I love that the titles of these books actually play into the stories! Blood was a big scene stealer in the first novella, while scars are often discussed in this one. I always love seeing the titles having some relation to the book, but this one really worked well!
Overall, this book was a real gem! I'm definitely getting more into this series and I want to read more by Ruth Miranda! Her books are truly excellent!
Five out of five stars!
I received a free copy of this book from the author Ruth Miranda in exchange for an honest review.
October 16, 2018
The contrast between the health of the brothers is vividly described, Caius is fading away before Marcus’ eyes and despite their bonds Marcus has no clue as to what’s wrong or how to help him. When the rock-star is overwhelmed on stage and collapses, there’s no hiding his illness and although there is an obvious way to save him, there’s also an alternative; they have to resume the search for their father.
Griping and tense I really did enjoy every energy and blood-sucking minute. The use of italics is clever but sometimes a little confusing as to who is speaking, but I settled into the style of writing and welcomed the more dramatic voice used. I have a confession though, despite the story being far from predictable, I guessed the ending. Damn, it’s an author’s curse that I can’t just read and enjoy, I have to speculate where I would take the story; and now I’ve got to carry on reading to find out if it goes in the direction I suspect. I’m not really expecting it to though because Miranda is quite the master of surprises. The covers are pretty eye-catching and have horror vibe but they're a bit misleading and it just isn't present in these first two books. I'm not going to knock the rating because of my thirst for a little more gore though. Maybe it'll all be let loose in book three.
Griping and tense I really did enjoy every energy and blood-sucking minute. The use of italics is clever but sometimes a little confusing as to who is speaking, but I settled into the style of writing and welcomed the more dramatic voice used. I have a confession though, despite the story being far from predictable, I guessed the ending. Damn, it’s an author’s curse that I can’t just read and enjoy, I have to speculate where I would take the story; and now I’ve got to carry on reading to find out if it goes in the direction I suspect. I’m not really expecting it to though because Miranda is quite the master of surprises. The covers are pretty eye-catching and have horror vibe but they're a bit misleading and it just isn't present in these first two books. I'm not going to knock the rating because of my thirst for a little more gore though. Maybe it'll all be let loose in book three.
December 16, 2019
Possibly controversial, but brave choice of cover for this amazing adult fantasy. Following on from Blood, Scars continues the story of twins, Caius and Marcus, both vampires of a sort, but very different characters. I loved Blood and Miranda has produced the perfect sequel. The first half concentrates on the formerly estranged brothers' relationship with beautiful lyricism, whilst the latter part's search for their father takes the plot on a thrilling change of location and narrative that ties into the author's new book, Avalon Hall. Poignant, sexy, engaging and intriguing, with a fabulous twist ending. Five star pageturner.
June 14, 2018
Having recently read Blood and really enjoying it, despite it ending on a cliffhanger which I usually dislike intensely. I was delighted to find that book two in the trilogy, Scars, was already available.
This author has a very unique way of writing that reaches deep down inside and yanks on your heart and your gut in a primal and even savage manner. She almost holds a mirror up and shows us our flawed and darkest innards, those thoughts and emotions we keep tightly under control, never even admitting to ourselves we are capable of such feelings.
Don't be put off by the cover of Scars or its predecessor, Blood, they are not horror books or even particularly gory - if they were, I wouldn't have read or enjoyed them. Instead, they are more along the lines of supernatural suspense. But, what I think they are perhaps most about is Love. Love of all kinds - unrequited love, lost love, damaged love, unwanted love, misplaced love and most of all, sibling love. In the two years that have elapsed since the ending of Blood, the love between the brothers Marcus and Caius has deepened, their twin bond strengthening, until they almost think with one mind, feel with one heart. This connection is at the very heart of the novella and is its strongest point. And you feel with them, as each worries about the other, and each is prepared to do anything to save their brother.
The author has kept the pace of this short novella brisk and economic. Not a word is wasted, and that is all to the good, as it keeps the plot fresh and ever-changing. There are twists and turns galore, as we follow the brothers on their quest to find their roots and their almost mythical father. Not giving any spoilers, but there are quite a few places where my mouth gaped and I had to re-read just to make sure what I thought had just happened, actually had.
There is much to enjoy and admire in this novel, but one tiny thing detracted slightly for me. Often, we are party to the thoughts and emotions in one or other of the brothers' heads, shown in italics. Sometimes, I found it a little hard to know which brother was speaking at any given time. This is such an insignificant point, and probably has more to do with the fact I was reading late at night on an ebook reader that has no respect for formatting, than anything else. I did wonder if maybe different fonts for each brother, or even just their name at the beginning of each sequence, would have helped this poor, confused reader immensely. But, like I said, this is a minor point and in no way detracts from the very solid five stars I'm giving this novella.
This getting inside the head of each brother really works in every other respect though, seeing things from their perspective. The writing during these passages is beautiful, almost lyrical, and is what elevated this work from a four to a five star rating, in my opinion.
Again, the book ended on a precipice of a cliffhanger, and I only hope I don't have to wait too long for book three.
This author has a very unique way of writing that reaches deep down inside and yanks on your heart and your gut in a primal and even savage manner. She almost holds a mirror up and shows us our flawed and darkest innards, those thoughts and emotions we keep tightly under control, never even admitting to ourselves we are capable of such feelings.
Don't be put off by the cover of Scars or its predecessor, Blood, they are not horror books or even particularly gory - if they were, I wouldn't have read or enjoyed them. Instead, they are more along the lines of supernatural suspense. But, what I think they are perhaps most about is Love. Love of all kinds - unrequited love, lost love, damaged love, unwanted love, misplaced love and most of all, sibling love. In the two years that have elapsed since the ending of Blood, the love between the brothers Marcus and Caius has deepened, their twin bond strengthening, until they almost think with one mind, feel with one heart. This connection is at the very heart of the novella and is its strongest point. And you feel with them, as each worries about the other, and each is prepared to do anything to save their brother.
The author has kept the pace of this short novella brisk and economic. Not a word is wasted, and that is all to the good, as it keeps the plot fresh and ever-changing. There are twists and turns galore, as we follow the brothers on their quest to find their roots and their almost mythical father. Not giving any spoilers, but there are quite a few places where my mouth gaped and I had to re-read just to make sure what I thought had just happened, actually had.
There is much to enjoy and admire in this novel, but one tiny thing detracted slightly for me. Often, we are party to the thoughts and emotions in one or other of the brothers' heads, shown in italics. Sometimes, I found it a little hard to know which brother was speaking at any given time. This is such an insignificant point, and probably has more to do with the fact I was reading late at night on an ebook reader that has no respect for formatting, than anything else. I did wonder if maybe different fonts for each brother, or even just their name at the beginning of each sequence, would have helped this poor, confused reader immensely. But, like I said, this is a minor point and in no way detracts from the very solid five stars I'm giving this novella.
This getting inside the head of each brother really works in every other respect though, seeing things from their perspective. The writing during these passages is beautiful, almost lyrical, and is what elevated this work from a four to a five star rating, in my opinion.
Again, the book ended on a precipice of a cliffhanger, and I only hope I don't have to wait too long for book three.
July 31, 2018
I loved this followup in the series. Continuing to follow the brothers as they continue to seek answers into their past this book has its emotional and dark scenes that had me screaming out loud and rooting for positive outcomes.
A fast paced and quick read as it's novella size but it sure packs a punch! Has ended on a cliffhanger so I can't wait to get on to book 3!
A fast paced and quick read as it's novella size but it sure packs a punch! Has ended on a cliffhanger so I can't wait to get on to book 3!
December 9, 2018
Brilliant!
Full review to come once I've finished the trilogy!
Full review to come once I've finished the trilogy!
June 13, 2018
Fantastic!
You guys, I really loved this book. What a great sequel to Blood.
Now, these covers are pretty hard hitting. If, for that reason, you're thinking of skimming past and not reading, I urge you to think again. I think you'll be surprised by what you'll find beyond the covers, hiding within.
Exciting, steamy, suspenseful... off we go on another journey into the unknown, making new discoveries along the way. These boys are seriously troubled, their issues run deep. And I love them both.
The italicised scenes where we get inside their heads are written so beautifully, poetic and haunting, I could read them all night.
Can't wait for the next book!
You guys, I really loved this book. What a great sequel to Blood.
Now, these covers are pretty hard hitting. If, for that reason, you're thinking of skimming past and not reading, I urge you to think again. I think you'll be surprised by what you'll find beyond the covers, hiding within.
Exciting, steamy, suspenseful... off we go on another journey into the unknown, making new discoveries along the way. These boys are seriously troubled, their issues run deep. And I love them both.
The italicised scenes where we get inside their heads are written so beautifully, poetic and haunting, I could read them all night.
Can't wait for the next book!
July 22, 2018
As its title suggests, Scars takes a deep look at the Nilsson brothers and the scars that each of them bear from their troubled lives, and how the bond they’ve forged is helping them while they struggle to overcome their pasts. An intense, emotional second installment, this book is sure to leave you wrapped up in the happenings, futures, and fate of not only Caius and Marcus, but the new cast that surrounds them. Everyone around the twins - those from their past and those they meet along their journey to see to Cai’s health and uncover the secrets of their father - each has their own magnetic and mysterious aura. I can’t wait for the next installment to learn more about them all and see where the journey ends!
November 9, 2018
Scars picks up almost two years after Blood ends, with Marcus and Caius trying to go back to their normal lives. When Caius becomes sick, it is clear that he will die unless they find out where they came from and how to manage Caius's specific nature. Scars delves deeper into the relationship of the twins as they go back to their roots and face their demons once and for all.
I thoroughly enjoyed this, Miranda's work just keeps getting better. I loved the relationship between the boys, no bond is as unique as siblings who have only each other in the world. The extra dose of magic, scandal, and sex was just a bonus.
I thoroughly enjoyed this, Miranda's work just keeps getting better. I loved the relationship between the boys, no bond is as unique as siblings who have only each other in the world. The extra dose of magic, scandal, and sex was just a bonus.
November 16, 2023
What I liked the most about this second book was the focus on Marcus and Cai's sibling bond, which in my opinion was what carried the story all along. It was endearing to witness how they both tried to understand each other better, and how far they were willing to go to keep each other safe no matter what. Marcus became my favourite characer in this second installment, since we get to see a much more vulnerable side of him. I can't wait to see what's in store for the brothers in the next two books!
December 29, 2019
The Blood trilogy by Ruth Miranda
On the outside, Caius ‘Chaos’ Nilssen revels in success. He has fame, money, the girl and talent. Underneath however, he struggles with violent visions, their horror driving him to alcohol and drugs until a life changing moment urges him to face his demons.
I read Blood and its sequels, Scars and Marianne back to back because after finishing Blood, there was no way I was waiting to find out what happened next. Miranda’s three novellas form a gripping, tightly paced trilogy blending Vampires, Fey and Witches into a tale of mystery, family secrets and startling revelations. This is not a fluffy hot vampire guy tale—far from it. It’s brutal in parts with violent and dark themes that explore the fallout of two brothers separated at birth and their subsequent struggles to reunite as family.
What’s unusual about this trilogy is how Miranda occasionally retells what the reader has just read, but as seen by one of the brother’s perspectives. Reading their version adds to each character’s development as we get a more in-depth understanding of their emotions. This approach isn’t one I’d experienced as a reader before, and while I felt it was unnecessary at first, I soon realised it was adding an extra layer to the story.
Miranda writes with efficiency which moves the story along at a good clip and adds to the building tension. Each character has an intriguing backstory and although the novellas don’t allow for a lot of elaboration, the author built enough backstory to allow me use my own imagination to draw conclusions.
Speaking of conclusions, you’ll either love or hate the ending of this trilogy. No spoilers, but be prepared for a wallop of frustration at the end. I had a moment of wanting to fling my kindle across the room, but once I got over myself, appreciated Miranda’s reasoning. I can now only admire her for such a ballsy move.
In summary, this is a dark, brutal and yet somehow heart-warming trilogy. I enjoyed all the characters, good and bad, and despite the fantasy elements never felt the plot got too fantastical. There are adult themes contained within, so be warned of rape, addiction and self-harm triggers. Overall a satisfying read that absolutely left me wanting more.
On the outside, Caius ‘Chaos’ Nilssen revels in success. He has fame, money, the girl and talent. Underneath however, he struggles with violent visions, their horror driving him to alcohol and drugs until a life changing moment urges him to face his demons.
I read Blood and its sequels, Scars and Marianne back to back because after finishing Blood, there was no way I was waiting to find out what happened next. Miranda’s three novellas form a gripping, tightly paced trilogy blending Vampires, Fey and Witches into a tale of mystery, family secrets and startling revelations. This is not a fluffy hot vampire guy tale—far from it. It’s brutal in parts with violent and dark themes that explore the fallout of two brothers separated at birth and their subsequent struggles to reunite as family.
What’s unusual about this trilogy is how Miranda occasionally retells what the reader has just read, but as seen by one of the brother’s perspectives. Reading their version adds to each character’s development as we get a more in-depth understanding of their emotions. This approach isn’t one I’d experienced as a reader before, and while I felt it was unnecessary at first, I soon realised it was adding an extra layer to the story.
Miranda writes with efficiency which moves the story along at a good clip and adds to the building tension. Each character has an intriguing backstory and although the novellas don’t allow for a lot of elaboration, the author built enough backstory to allow me use my own imagination to draw conclusions.
Speaking of conclusions, you’ll either love or hate the ending of this trilogy. No spoilers, but be prepared for a wallop of frustration at the end. I had a moment of wanting to fling my kindle across the room, but once I got over myself, appreciated Miranda’s reasoning. I can now only admire her for such a ballsy move.
In summary, this is a dark, brutal and yet somehow heart-warming trilogy. I enjoyed all the characters, good and bad, and despite the fantasy elements never felt the plot got too fantastical. There are adult themes contained within, so be warned of rape, addiction and self-harm triggers. Overall a satisfying read that absolutely left me wanting more.
April 18, 2019
Delightfully absorbing, SCARS begins 2 years after BLOOD. Tidy bits of backstory fill those in while moving the current story forward in quick flashes. Then we join Cai and Marcus in their lives both on and off stage. Cai’s POV shifts a bit deeper and darker here, making his exhilaration and desperation palpable. So, too, is Marcus’s love and angst. The love and bond between the brothers make the book, and manifest how the duality of their scars, both physical and emotional, exist within both despite their drastically different childhoods. The story is entirely focused on them despite other happenings in their world. For example, there’s an organization mentioned early on that I was curious about, but we don’t learn much directly, which actually works well in the end. It looms like a shadow in the background, impressing upon the reader that it’s like a governing or policing body for the preternaturals of the world. As the story progresses and Marcus fights for Cai’s life, they never lament or question what they are, as is common in vampire fiction. They just are what they are. The other characters are what they are. It’s refreshing to accept everything as it is. Near the end, a coil of confusion winds up that’s fitting since it doesn’t seem that any one character knows exactly what is happening. What’s left lingering between the lines is for the reader to decipher going into the next book, MARIANNE. I enjoyed this!
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews