Princess Satori’s life would be easier if fate was real and lovers were destined for each other. But fate is a myth, and love is an elusive concept. Instead of a destiny, Satori has a list of suitors, each one worse than the last.
When a chance encounter with a handsome soldier leaves her questioning everything, she’s forced to reexamine what she thought she knew about love, fate, and her own sound mind.
Kais had never met the princess before, and now he can’t get her out of his head. Seeking answers, he consults a local Seer and is confronted with an unsettling prophecy that leaves him with more questions than answers.
When a kidnapping forces Satori and Kais together, they’re left not only fighting for their lives but their hearts and destinies as well.
Together they’re faced with the fact that perhaps some myths hold truth, and maybe fate does exist after all.
I honestly walked into this wondering if I'd like it at all. And admittedly, it's a little trope-y for my personal taste. I don't usually go for the whole life mates thing. But it fit the world building here so I don't mind it so much.
That said, what I REALLY loved about this book was the sincerity of it. It deals with a LOT of heavy topics, and none of them are shied away from. There are emotions and traumas that are fully explored. And while we have a powerful female character she both stands on her own and isn't afraid to ask for help and learn from others, both male and female.
I appreciated so much the honesty of this story, as well as the strategic development of the emotional and physical arcs of the stories and relationships. That's probably the bit that blew me away the most. So often I read stories like this that just turn into bad insta-love stories and where people just accept things or forgive things because the plot calls for it. And that didn't happen in this story. The things that were happening and the emotional arcs being reached felt earned, which made the story feel so much richer.
I also loved a lot of the relationships outside the main romance. There are a lot of good and bad angles for friendships and relationships for the FMC and MMC. The friendship between the MMC and Teague might be one of my favorite male friendships I've read in ages. Such dedication. <3
And I'll be honest with you--this book had a villain of whom I was truly terrified. He reminded me both of real people I have known and experienced in life and brought an incredibly rich angle to the story both for the FMC's emotional arc and the fate of the kingdom. And the climax where we finally get rid of him was both terrifying and incredible. I was cheering for the FMC the whole time.
There were a few plot strands or realizations about characters that were a little rushed for my taste, and as I said, there are places that come off rather trope-y. But honestly, this is a book that I would come back to and read again. I would have read it faster, probably within two sittings tops, if adulting were not the insanity that it is. So while, I think this book would sit at a 4.5 for me, I'll round it up to a five just this one. (I'm hoping for brownie points so I can try to coerce the author into a Teague related sequel *side eyes*)
Thanks to Vanna for this recommendation and to the author for allowing me the chance to read her wonderful book.
(NOTE: If you're sensitive to emotional abuse or sex-related traumas, this isn't the book for you.)
As one of the main editors for this book, I can’t leave a star review, BUT I will leave a written review because wow, Antonia Kane does it again! If you enjoy twist after twist, fated mates, enemies to lovers, and side characters that capture your heart, you will absolutely love this book! I enjoyed every minute of reading it and look forward to Kane’s future books. ❤️ (And I’m still holding out hope we’ll get a book from a certain side character’s point of view 😇)
As a beta reader, I am so excited for this book to be released to the public.
The author does a good job of creating twists and turns within the story. Because this was a beta read, I am sure some parts of the story will change but all in all, this is going to be a great book!
If you enjoy stories of fate and destined mates I can highly recommend this book to you as it is well written with excellent character development (I so hated the villain) and scenery, as well as the timeline had excellent flow. I love that the point of view goes between the two main characters-something about getting a feel of what is going on in each others minds is so satisfying to me as a reader. Satori has a sense of duty to her country and people and her father’s wishes. She also has a secret she wants to stay hidden out of shame. Her fate feels out of her hands as she is expected to wed out of duty. However, meeting Kais may change her fate. She cannot deny something is there that connects them.
Princess Satori have several marriage proposals to consider, one worse than the other. But for her father and her country she's willing to do what is needed. Then she meets Kais, a soldier from an enemy country, and she starts to question everything.
This is an easy read fantasy, well suited for those who don't usually read this genre. There's no complex world building or magical system, focus is on the characters. We get both Satori's and Kais's POV so we get to know them very well. I often prefer to read about a female character that's strong, physically or mentally, someone who can take care of herself. Satori is neither. She's never been taught how to defend herself (why would she need to when she's always surrounded by gards?) and she hates feeling weak (especially in front of one person). This is why I had some difficulties with her actions in the beginning. But she grows, asks for help and is interested in learning. Kais is a respected leader for his men. He considers their opinions, but takes the hard decisions when it's needed. His relationship with his second in command, Teague, is just wonderful and I loved reading about their interactions.
Some scenes were not easy to read. There's a really disgusting character in this story, and the things he puts Satori through... I felt emotionally ill at times and the only reason I could stand it was in the hopes of him suffering at least as much in the end! The author truly made the characters feel real and when I closed the book (if you can do that with a digital book?) it was with a satisfied sigh.
* I received an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review. *
This is my first Antonia Kane read, but I’m sure it won’t be my last!
Perfect for fans of From Blood and Ash, readers will love Kais and Satori’s story. It’s a tale of fated mates, with slow burn enemies to lovers romance, and one of the most despicable villains I’ve read.
I really enjoyed the dual POV. It’s one of my favorite ways to read romance!
There is some SA mentioned so sensitive readers will want to take note of that.
I received a complimentary advanced digital copy of the book from the author. A positive review was not required. All views and opinions are my own.
Blood and Fate was a pleasant mix of things I could see coming and things I did not, which I liked. If you like tropes including fated mates, enemies to lovers, and royalty then this is for you! I will say some of the writing was slightly too literal and some extra details were added I didn't think were necessary, but I got an ARC of this so some of this might be cleaned up in the final edition. Teague is a favorite character, and I hope if another book is written in this world that he gets to have his own book!
The evening that Princess Satori’s father invite their enemies to merge into an alliance, Satori feels something when her eyes meet one of the men that come from the enemy’s land. She’s not sure what it is, but makes a point to avoid him. General Kais feels the same pull that Satori does and wonders if they’re blood mates, something that many consider a myth. When Satori gets kidnapped and then rescued by Kais, she starts to learn that maybe there’s more to this general than meets the eye.
This was such an enjoyable read! Sometimes I just need that fantasy that really focuses on the romance, and this book did that for me!
It is very intense though. There are some subjects in here that many may find triggering and so check any trigger warnings first 🥰
Satori really goes through some growth in this book. She learns more about what’s going on outside of the castle, and she learns there maybe more to her enemies, maybe they’re not the true enemy she should be watching 🤔
I really liked Kais. He was very sweet and very caring and was always making sure Satori was comfortable, even if she was rather rude about it for awhile there 😅 such a patient man!
I loved how the romance developed in the end and it was just lovely ending to their story 🥰
Now, for me personally, this really needed world building. I didn’t understand why Kais and his people were the enemies. I mean, the focus of this book was clearly about the trauma that Satori went through and how she was able to conquer it and the romance, but I really wanted to understand the world. There’s no history explained about the world, I felt like I should already know the world’s history, but I didn’t and I just felt lost about that especially when names and titles would suddenly pop up and I’m not sure who they were and why they were making sudden appearances. This is just a me thing though, I like world building along with the romance and character building. I just like to understand the world I am in 😊
Aside from that, the story and romance itself, although deep and intense, was lovely and I really enjoyed how the romance played out, especially for Satori.
I highly recommend this if you need a fantasy romance, and don’t mind the darker elements! I received a free digital copy to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Blood and Fate is a New Adult Romantasy that you won’t want to put down. Antonia Kane crafted characters who you can’t help but root for. Princess Satori, a princess dealing with horrors from her past and present, and Kais, a general from an enemy kingdom, find themselves feeling a strange connection when they meet. A connection that no matter how much they try to deny, will change the course of their lives.
This book has so many of my favorite tropes: enemies to lovers, slow burn, and fated mates. There is some on-page tasteful spice, which was just right for the story. You will be swooning throughout this book binge!
Tension in several scenes had my head spinning (in a good way!), and I was rooting for the main characters to get together instantly. I don’t usually go for books with strong abuse storylines of a certain nature, but I hung in there because I’ve been reading this author since she first started, and I will say — I almost cheered out loud when the victim eventually found her backbone and did a thing to her abuser. I wish the male main character had a scar to overcome, too, but the female’s wound was intense, so maybe it was good that only one of them came with baggage. This book reminded me of old school Johanna Lindsey and Julie Garland romances, and was complete with a happily ever after!
I had high hopes for Blood and Fate, drawn in by the intriguing concept of the blood mate bond. It’s a unique idea that had the potential to set this story apart. However, I ultimately did not finish this book, stopping at 28%.
While I appreciated the premise and even skimmed to the ending out of curiosity, I struggled to connect with the protagonist, Satori. Her fragility and weakness made it hard for me to connect with her.
Overall, while there are glimpses of an interesting world and a compelling idea, the execution fell flat for me. It just didn’t hold my attention the way I’d hoped. That said, it might resonate more with readers who enjoy slower-paced, character-driven stories.
✅he falls first and harder ✅fated mates ✅princess and enemy country's captain of army ✅slow burn ✅dual pov ✅some spice ✅touch her and die
Kaisssssss😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍 I mean!! This dealt with SA so be wary of triggers. She was really annoying me for most of book not trusting him which kind of made sense bc of her trauma but at same time he never did anything untoward to her and she was completely fine with Teague and other dudes of the camp so it was frustrating. Way too much of that monster in this book too ugh. I absolutely loved Teague and would love him to have his own book!!
Am I surprised? No. Blood and Fate is a well written romantasy that in my opinion gives Adult Tangled vibes.
I normally don’t read adult fantasy simply because I don’t like the smut authors usually add into their books. And while yes Antonia did add more spice than I’ve read before, it was still classy. A lot of spicy scenes are so nasty it’s not written well and reads like a wattpad story, but I didn’t mind this one.
Now to break down the review…. Characters Plot World
Characters: 5⭐️
Satori: The Main Gal I like how realistic this character is. Usually the main females are either whiny and frustrating, or overpowered and annoying. But although Satori is very much a princess who has never left her castle grounds, she’s still very capable. She’s not only smart, but also fiery and still kind. A rare find. And even though she’s Brave and fierce and stubborn…she can also be very afraid. Her reactions to things are pretty realistic considering it’s a fantasy haha. As her character develops we see her shine, take action, and really grow into her role.
Kais: The Main Guy Kais is an interesting character that kinda gives tired dad vibes. He’s a general of an army and is trying to figure how to help his kingdom (and others). The man is stressed. And then Satori comes along and we start to see his personality more. He’s very caring, kinda snarky, a great leader, and also a great listener. I like that he never pushes Satori in any way, even when asking her questions he’s a very thoughtful man. Love that about him. His flaw is avoiding his duty, but his development is that he stands tall in the end and faces his responsibilities. Very well written because it’s not incredibly obvious, but if you pay attention you see it.
Teague: The Main Man’s Bestie (and my man) Teague is the guy you call for anything and yes he’ll make a snarky comment, or tease you, but he helps you no matter what. I’m in love with him. It’s that simple. This man is dang near perfect. He doesn’t need to be told what to do, he sees a need and fills it. He’s also incredibly respectful and kind, especially to his bestie and his girl. He has a firey side that I LOVE, it doesn’t come out much but when it does it is the best. Now I could go on and on but I will just let you read the book haha. My favorite part of his development is his relationship development with Satori, very Lucien and Feyre vibes. Just that friendship that really warms your heart.
Tessa: Main Girls’s Bestie We actually don’t get to see much of her, but I adore what I did see! She’s Satori’s handmaiden, but is also basically a sister. You can really see how much they care for each other. Tessa would do absolutely anything for her, and I love seeing that female friendship in a book. Tessa’s character is the romantic type, that can daydream but is also very good at her job. She’s responsible, caring, quick on her feet, and also feistyyyy!!! Love when we got to see those moments pop out, she’s awesome. As far as development goes, I can’t say much since we didn’t see her much. I think her development isn’t so much a character thing but a plot moment. She realizes a character is not what she thought and immediately takes action. My favorite thing is that she never questions Satori, no matter what she says. Love that about her.
Last and certainly least….
Henrik: The Bad Guy I like that his character goes to show that just because he looks good and seems like a great guy, he is actuall a devil on the inside. And I mean it y’all. He’s not some morally grey guy. He’s a slimy advisor who does horrendous things with his hands and they should honestly be cut off. I hate this man so freaking much. Which means she wrote him well haha. That’s all I can say without spoilers. As far as development goes, we see him gain more power and get more confident which is when his true villain self comes out.
Plot: 4.5 ⭐️ Honestly because it’s a standalone it’s pretty simple. Princess and the enemy general that have a strange connection have to go on this journey together. Bad guy is taking over the kingdom and is forcing everyone to do his bidding (including Satori). There’s obviously more to it but I’d spoil things if I said more. So for a simple plot I’d say it was written very well because I wasn’t sure what was going to happen by the end, and I was pleased with every part. I also don’t do great with plot heavy books, so this was PERFECT!
World: 4 ⭐️ The world is good. I think because it’s not a huge part of the story Antonia Kane doesn’t focus on it much. You know the main Kingdoms and some terrain but you don’t have to memorize a whole map to know where the characters are. It’s pretty nice actually! I personally like more world building, but that’s more a me thing because the writing was great. There’s not too many details on what things look like so the reader can kind of picture it. Which is great because she doesn’t bore you with details.
And that’s it! Overall 5⭐️ because I LOVED IT! I read it five times already but I will probably read it again. (That’s not an exaggeration haha I’m dyslexic so I read things a few times to make sure I didn’t miss anything).
WARNING: Please read the trigger warning. This book contains some intense topics and things some readers may not be comfortable with. That being said this is an Adult book and I recommend it for ages 18+
This was the perfect antidote to what I had just finished reading - absorbing, distracting and so well written I just kept turning pages. I loved it and the ending left me smiling. Perfect.
Kais is dreamy. Satori is strong. There's humor, action, steam, and really cool magic—everything I love in a fantasy romance!
The romance is slow-burn (my fave), with steam and a strong consent message (ALSO my fave). There's a good amount of action throughout. Antonia Kane has created a well-built world, full of legends, magic, and history.
This is a romantic, magical tale for those who love Sarah J. Maas's books and Danielle Jensen's The Bridge Kingdom.