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The Melderblood Chronicles #1
Melderblood
Princess Aviama’s world has been steeped in chaos ever since long-dormant magic returned – and came alive in her blood.
Enemies to the north have summoned her to compete for the hand of their prince, an invitation she cannot refuse. Despite unstable powers, she is sent to keep the peace, gain the prince's trust, and discover the hostile kingdom's sinister plans.
As rumors about the prince's hatred for magic melders spread, Aviama is forced to conceal her abilities while battling to defend her kingdom—amidst whispers of a murderous secret society.
With threats on the rise, Aviama starts to wonder if she’ll ever earn the prince’s trust. But will she live long enough to find out?
Shadow and Bone meets The Selection in this addictive, fast-paced YA fantasy adventure series.
Enemies to the north have summoned her to compete for the hand of their prince, an invitation she cannot refuse. Despite unstable powers, she is sent to keep the peace, gain the prince's trust, and discover the hostile kingdom's sinister plans.
As rumors about the prince's hatred for magic melders spread, Aviama is forced to conceal her abilities while battling to defend her kingdom—amidst whispers of a murderous secret society.
With threats on the rise, Aviama starts to wonder if she’ll ever earn the prince’s trust. But will she live long enough to find out?
Shadow and Bone meets The Selection in this addictive, fast-paced YA fantasy adventure series.
384 pages, Paperback
Published December 12, 2023
201 people are currently reading
1685 people want to read
About the author
E.A. Winters
16 books745 followersAuthor of The Blood and Flame Saga and The Melderblood Chronicles, E.A. Winters writes fast-paced, high stakes fantasy stories that keep you turning pages long into the night. She writes with a chai tea close at hand, and when she's not writing, she enjoys family time with her boys and husband in Virginia. Come along to narrowly escape death, ride dragons, and befriend assassins.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
December 9, 2023
Biscuits! If only I could read the next book in the series already!
This is the first book I’ve read from this author. I have to admit, in the beginning I was confused. I’m assuming that may be due to not having read her other series first. I eventually caught on and as the book unfolded I was completely enthralled. I’ve utterly fallen in love with the world and political intrigue, a mix of curious mythical creatures, elemental magic, clean romance, and royal games of life or death. Aviama is such a relatable, fun, and clever character to follow and I can’t wait to see what she does next. In the meantime, I may read the authors first series as my curiosity is thoroughly piqued!
This is the first book I’ve read from this author. I have to admit, in the beginning I was confused. I’m assuming that may be due to not having read her other series first. I eventually caught on and as the book unfolded I was completely enthralled. I’ve utterly fallen in love with the world and political intrigue, a mix of curious mythical creatures, elemental magic, clean romance, and royal games of life or death. Aviama is such a relatable, fun, and clever character to follow and I can’t wait to see what she does next. In the meantime, I may read the authors first series as my curiosity is thoroughly piqued!
November 6, 2025
4.25 stars
Wow!! I what a ride!! I really enjoyed this and the plot twist. I did tell her not to trust someone but then realized he shouldn't have trusted the other guy..... The King and Queen absolutely suck :) I obviously liked it I just don't think it's 5 stars because I feel like I'm not super close to any characters also if I had a penny for everytime the book said "her mouth went dry" I could have like 50 pennies so yeah. Obviously I'm reading the next one and I can't wait!! I hope Enzo and Murin are ok :(
Wow!! I what a ride!! I really enjoyed this and the plot twist. I did tell her not to trust someone but then realized he shouldn't have trusted the other guy..... The King and Queen absolutely suck :) I obviously liked it I just don't think it's 5 stars because I feel like I'm not super close to any characters also if I had a penny for everytime the book said "her mouth went dry" I could have like 50 pennies so yeah. Obviously I'm reading the next one and I can't wait!! I hope Enzo and Murin are ok :(
January 11, 2025
5 Stars
Kindle Unlimited
Wow! This was so good! It had a lot of familiar elements, but they were done in a different way (if that makes any sense!) I can't wait to continue reading this series and see where it goes.
Kindle Unlimited
Wow! This was so good! It had a lot of familiar elements, but they were done in a different way (if that makes any sense!) I can't wait to continue reading this series and see where it goes.
October 13, 2025
love Aviama
Ever since Semra pulled Aurin’s spear out, magic has returned to the world which means melders, wielders of elemental magic, are now appearing all over. Princess Aviama’s world has been steeped in chaos since magic came alive in her own blood.
Enemies from the north have summoned her to compete for the hand of their prince. As part of her duties, she is sent to keep the peace, gain the prince’s trust and discover any hostile plans.
As rumors of the royal family’s hatred for melders spreads, Aviana is forced to conceal her abilities while battling the defend her kingdom in secret. With threats on the rise, Aviana starts to wonder if she’ll ever earn the prince’s trust and if she’ll even live long enough to find out.
I really enjoyed this story from Aviama’s POV . A very different sort of character but just as strong when it matters. Very sucked in to the story and diving into the next one right now!
Favourite quotes include:
Love deserved to be protected. Life. Freedom.
I’m still in the game. Let the contestants play.
Ever since Semra pulled Aurin’s spear out, magic has returned to the world which means melders, wielders of elemental magic, are now appearing all over. Princess Aviama’s world has been steeped in chaos since magic came alive in her own blood.
Enemies from the north have summoned her to compete for the hand of their prince. As part of her duties, she is sent to keep the peace, gain the prince’s trust and discover any hostile plans.
As rumors of the royal family’s hatred for melders spreads, Aviana is forced to conceal her abilities while battling the defend her kingdom in secret. With threats on the rise, Aviana starts to wonder if she’ll ever earn the prince’s trust and if she’ll even live long enough to find out.
I really enjoyed this story from Aviama’s POV . A very different sort of character but just as strong when it matters. Very sucked in to the story and diving into the next one right now!
Favourite quotes include:
Love deserved to be protected. Life. Freedom.
I’m still in the game. Let the contestants play.
February 6, 2024
The last 30% of this book is intense! Holey smokes! I definitely recommend Melderblood, and I can’t wait to read the next one.
I wasn’t too sure what I felt about Aviama in the beginning of the book. She startled so easily at everything, that it got to be a bit annoying, but then it became kinda endearing, lol. The more you got to see her personality, the more she grew on you, and by the end I was totally invested.
I loved Chenzira’s and Aviama’s back and forth. Chenzira is brutally honest. I am hoping there’s more of him in book two!
Very interesting worldbuilding, and the plot has me hooked. I am not sure how Aviama is going to get out of the situation she’s in.
Only complaint would be the cover. I am hoping that putting people on the cover fad will end soon so we can get back to the pretty covers that look nice on my bookshelf 🤣
Content: no swearing, some violence but nothing overly descriptive, no spice, a couple kisses
I wasn’t too sure what I felt about Aviama in the beginning of the book. She startled so easily at everything, that it got to be a bit annoying, but then it became kinda endearing, lol. The more you got to see her personality, the more she grew on you, and by the end I was totally invested.
I loved Chenzira’s and Aviama’s back and forth. Chenzira is brutally honest. I am hoping there’s more of him in book two!
Very interesting worldbuilding, and the plot has me hooked. I am not sure how Aviama is going to get out of the situation she’s in.
Only complaint would be the cover. I am hoping that putting people on the cover fad will end soon so we can get back to the pretty covers that look nice on my bookshelf 🤣
Content: no swearing, some violence but nothing overly descriptive, no spice, a couple kisses
December 27, 2024
Fantastic read! I was captivated from the start and I know I’ll read straight through the other three books in the series as fast as I can so that I can find out what happens. If I’ve learned anything about E.A. Winters and her books, the wild ride from book one is not over by a long shot and I’m here for every second of it!
The imagery of the castle and the different mythical creatures was extremely well done. My favorite was the mermaid. I hope somehow she has a part in the next one.
I’m not sure where the story is going because the first series had so many twists, so I’m wondering about this one. A guy I thought might be good, turns out he’s not. Yet, will he be redeemed somehow? Or will he show he’s exactly what he appears to be?
No smut and no language! I love that so much!
The imagery of the castle and the different mythical creatures was extremely well done. My favorite was the mermaid. I hope somehow she has a part in the next one.
I’m not sure where the story is going because the first series had so many twists, so I’m wondering about this one. A guy I thought might be good, turns out he’s not. Yet, will he be redeemed somehow? Or will he show he’s exactly what he appears to be?
No smut and no language! I love that so much!
March 23, 2025
4 stars
Magic, espionage and a Princess trying to find her place, what an exciting read. Jumping into a story for Princess Aviama was so exciting! She was an interesting character in the Blood and Flame Saga but now we get to see her on her own journey, excitement, challenges and grow more. Can't wait for the next one!
Magic, espionage and a Princess trying to find her place, what an exciting read. Jumping into a story for Princess Aviama was so exciting! She was an interesting character in the Blood and Flame Saga but now we get to see her on her own journey, excitement, challenges and grow more. Can't wait for the next one!
January 5, 2025
Cute story! To me, this was as if the Selection series was a crossover with Avatar: The Last Airbender and Hunger Games.
December 4, 2023
Melderblood hits it out of the park!
Princess Aviama, previously a fun side character from EA Winter’s Blood & Flame saga, can’t seem to catch a break in this addictively perilous world of fantasy. Forced to hide her magic while seeking diplomatic information by hiding in plain sight as a potential bride to the crown prince of a powerful neighboring kingdom, you might think that the plot would be rather predictable. It isn’t.
High stakes, no spice, all the “just one more chapter” edge of your seat action and intrigue you care to read~
EA Winters second series improved on the delightful first series and I’m thrilled to be along for the ride!
Princess Aviama, previously a fun side character from EA Winter’s Blood & Flame saga, can’t seem to catch a break in this addictively perilous world of fantasy. Forced to hide her magic while seeking diplomatic information by hiding in plain sight as a potential bride to the crown prince of a powerful neighboring kingdom, you might think that the plot would be rather predictable. It isn’t.
High stakes, no spice, all the “just one more chapter” edge of your seat action and intrigue you care to read~
EA Winters second series improved on the delightful first series and I’m thrilled to be along for the ride!
December 12, 2023
Wow! This book takes you by the hand, and says run! And you run, through the beautiful story telling, the intrigue, the many twists and turns, and heart stopping action. I did not expect the book to go this way. I love how Winters can still surprise me. I'm looking forward to reading the second book Shadow Caste.
I am an ARC reader.
I am an ARC reader.
December 26, 2025
An Explosive Start to a New Favorite
I very much enjoyed that same fast-paced, high-stakes, clean fantasy style that’s quickly becoming the signature of this author—but Melderblood brings something even more fun to the table. This time around, I found myself clapping more, laughing out loud, and doing that sharp inhale during the many mic-drop moments that hit like precision strikes.
What I especially loved was the spunk of the main character. She’s fiery, clever, and full of attitude in the best possible way—and it makes the story come alive with grit and energy. The dialogue is perfection, sharp and natural but full of weight when it matters. And the worldbuilding somehow got even deeper and more refined. This new saga can be read separately, yes—but I highly recommend reading the Blood & Flesh Saga first. The added context, history, character layers, and intersecting events make the reading experience far richer. There are names and moments that hit differently when you know what came before.
And of course, I once again found myself fearing for my favorite characters. No one feels truly safe in this world—and that tension, that vulnerability, is what makes the story so gripping.
This review isn’t final—I already know I’ll be back to add more after I finish the entire series. But for now: what an incredible start. Fast, sharp, clever, and full of that signature heart I’ve come to love. Let’s go!
I very much enjoyed that same fast-paced, high-stakes, clean fantasy style that’s quickly becoming the signature of this author—but Melderblood brings something even more fun to the table. This time around, I found myself clapping more, laughing out loud, and doing that sharp inhale during the many mic-drop moments that hit like precision strikes.
What I especially loved was the spunk of the main character. She’s fiery, clever, and full of attitude in the best possible way—and it makes the story come alive with grit and energy. The dialogue is perfection, sharp and natural but full of weight when it matters. And the worldbuilding somehow got even deeper and more refined. This new saga can be read separately, yes—but I highly recommend reading the Blood & Flesh Saga first. The added context, history, character layers, and intersecting events make the reading experience far richer. There are names and moments that hit differently when you know what came before.
And of course, I once again found myself fearing for my favorite characters. No one feels truly safe in this world—and that tension, that vulnerability, is what makes the story so gripping.
This review isn’t final—I already know I’ll be back to add more after I finish the entire series. But for now: what an incredible start. Fast, sharp, clever, and full of that signature heart I’ve come to love. Let’s go!
December 13, 2023
WOW! Talk about a page turner! Every chapter of Princess Aviama’s story is truly thrilling! I had to read in small chunks because my nerves could only take so much! Haha! I read a lot so sometimes stories can become a bit predictable, however, I can honestly say that throughout this book I never knew what was going to happen next!
As Aviama navigates life in a foreign country she is simultaneously learning how to operate independently for the first time. If you read the Dragon’s Kiss series you know that Aviama has always greatly relied on her family and friends for direction, protection, and leadership. In this story we get to watch her as she begins to learn to trust her own instincts. I loved watching her slowly learn to trust herself. I also really appreciate Aviama’s kind heart and sense of humor.
If I were to compare this book to other books to help give someone an idea about what it’s like I’d say this book is sort of a mix of The Selection series, with a hint of Hunger Games vibes. Royal intrigue, a prince looking for a bride amongst a few royal hopefuls, concluding in what is ultimately a life threatening showdown! You won’t be able to put this one down! This book gets 5 stars from me! I can’t wait to get into book number two! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
As Aviama navigates life in a foreign country she is simultaneously learning how to operate independently for the first time. If you read the Dragon’s Kiss series you know that Aviama has always greatly relied on her family and friends for direction, protection, and leadership. In this story we get to watch her as she begins to learn to trust her own instincts. I loved watching her slowly learn to trust herself. I also really appreciate Aviama’s kind heart and sense of humor.
If I were to compare this book to other books to help give someone an idea about what it’s like I’d say this book is sort of a mix of The Selection series, with a hint of Hunger Games vibes. Royal intrigue, a prince looking for a bride amongst a few royal hopefuls, concluding in what is ultimately a life threatening showdown! You won’t be able to put this one down! This book gets 5 stars from me! I can’t wait to get into book number two! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 7, 2024
This is a great start to this series! There wasn't a 'dull' moment in this book because every moment flowed into the next smoothly. It's a clean romance read but as a spice reader I didn't feel like I missed it cause the storyline was very intriguing but there's still some angst among the MCs. I love how even though the Melderblood Chronicles is its own series I really enjoyed still getting updates on the characters from the Blood and Flame saga. I really enjoy Winter's writing style and the worlds she creates. The character depths in which she creates makes them so easy to cling to their journey. I'm dying to know what happens next in Shadow Caste!!
Aviama is so pure and innocent but I am glad she gets to take this journey on her own. After everything her and her family has been through she deserves her own time in the spotlight instead of constantly being tucked away to safety. Although as the book went on I wonder if she's bit off more than she can chew with this task to gather information. The Royal family is cruel altogether especially with the 'obstacle test' she's forced to endure. Prince Shiva is a jerk...there I said it. My favorite male character would definitely be Chenzira. I love the banter between him and Aviama.
Aviama is so pure and innocent but I am glad she gets to take this journey on her own. After everything her and her family has been through she deserves her own time in the spotlight instead of constantly being tucked away to safety. Although as the book went on I wonder if she's bit off more than she can chew with this task to gather information. The Royal family is cruel altogether especially with the 'obstacle test' she's forced to endure. Prince Shiva is a jerk...there I said it. My favorite male character would definitely be Chenzira. I love the banter between him and Aviama.
May 10, 2025
OH MY GOSH!!!! im in love. i absolutely loved reading this book and CANNOT wait for the next one. at first I was like, "oh this is going to be the typical story, princess falls in love with prince, they have something to keep each other apart then kiss by the end of the book yay..." At first definitely kind of like Shiva, but when Aviama caught him kissing Marija, I realized the absolute beauty of Chenzira and had the sudden urge to yell at Aviama that she needs to GET AWAY FROM HIS HIGHNESS. anyway she fell for his trap and betrayed her family... blah blah blah... HELLO??? GETS PUT IN A ARENA TO DIE??? okay so it does scream hunger games a bit, but she put a good spin on it and made it original. I did predict that she would end of marrying shiva but still im so ready to read the next. i really really really want her to fall in love with Chenzira so I HAVE to read the next. even if that means buying it from amazon rather than borrowing it from the library. Definitely under rated series and I wish it was more popular so I didnt have to buy it at the library. Overall tho, 100 percent recommend. She did a fantastic job making the book original and new but still good. Also the only reason i didn't put 5 stars is that i have to get the next one and it isn't just one big book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2023
Holy smokes! I feel like I’ve been taken on an actual rollercoaster, and not just the ones that go up and down - loops, turns, and twists are all in this promising first of E.A. Winters’ new series!
Melderblood follows Princess Aviama, who long time fans might recognize from The Blood and Flame saga. Picking up three years after the events of Crimson Queen, Aviama takes center stage in a quest of espionage, where death threatens her at every turn, and she must cling to hope in order to survive. She is definitely not the same girl we met back in Dragon’s Kiss, having been hardened through the tragedies she suffered throughout Blood and Flame and more tragedy in the three years after.
While I would personally recommend starting with the Blood and Flame Saga because it will make you better appreciate the situation Aviama is in, this book can be read independently and will keep you in the loop about the preceding events.
If you like Avatar: The Last Airbender with political intrigue and a salt shake of The Bachelor, you will ZOOM through Melderblood and demand more afterwards.
Melderblood follows Princess Aviama, who long time fans might recognize from The Blood and Flame saga. Picking up three years after the events of Crimson Queen, Aviama takes center stage in a quest of espionage, where death threatens her at every turn, and she must cling to hope in order to survive. She is definitely not the same girl we met back in Dragon’s Kiss, having been hardened through the tragedies she suffered throughout Blood and Flame and more tragedy in the three years after.
While I would personally recommend starting with the Blood and Flame Saga because it will make you better appreciate the situation Aviama is in, this book can be read independently and will keep you in the loop about the preceding events.
If you like Avatar: The Last Airbender with political intrigue and a salt shake of The Bachelor, you will ZOOM through Melderblood and demand more afterwards.
December 28, 2023
ARC Review
I've been reading EA Winters books since she first published The Forgotten Stone, and to say she's grown as an author would be an understatement. I loved The Forgotten Stone, devoured the Blood and Flame Saga, and enjoyed every page of this first book of the break-off series about our dear Aviama.
We joked with Winters on Tiktok that she better not do anything to sweet, caring, tender, brave Aviama, but holy crap - I swear her life is in some sort of peril every other page! I do love that in this book, our FMC is brave, daring, and smart, but also scared, tender, jumpy, and retains her gentle femininity. The complicated spy job, avoiding the cruel, murderous queen, and the confusing flirtationship with the prince will keep you on edge. Then you add on the fantastical creatures and newly restored magic in the kingdom, and you have the perfect recipe for a kick-butt story.
As with her other books, there is no cursing (except Aviama's "buscuits!" Haha) no sexy stuff, and just good ol' crazy adventure and danger.
Good for readers 13+, but also really fun for adults.
I've been reading EA Winters books since she first published The Forgotten Stone, and to say she's grown as an author would be an understatement. I loved The Forgotten Stone, devoured the Blood and Flame Saga, and enjoyed every page of this first book of the break-off series about our dear Aviama.
We joked with Winters on Tiktok that she better not do anything to sweet, caring, tender, brave Aviama, but holy crap - I swear her life is in some sort of peril every other page! I do love that in this book, our FMC is brave, daring, and smart, but also scared, tender, jumpy, and retains her gentle femininity. The complicated spy job, avoiding the cruel, murderous queen, and the confusing flirtationship with the prince will keep you on edge. Then you add on the fantastical creatures and newly restored magic in the kingdom, and you have the perfect recipe for a kick-butt story.
As with her other books, there is no cursing (except Aviama's "buscuits!" Haha) no sexy stuff, and just good ol' crazy adventure and danger.
Good for readers 13+, but also really fun for adults.
January 14, 2024
I loved this book the most out of all the ones I have read so far.
Melderblood is the next series after the Dragon’s Kiss series. In my opinion, it is best to read the Dragon’s Kiss series to understand the politics in Melderblood.
Princess Aviama has been cordially invited to the best navel kingdom to participate in a contest for Prince Shiva’s hand in marriage. (Yes like the Batchelor) However, Prince Shiva’s kingdom despises Melderbloods. The king even has his own arena with exotic animals to get rid of the pests as his entertainment. What does this mean for Princess Aviama? Well you guessed it, she is Melderblood!
The world building is just getting bigger and bigger with this series. Even the smallest characters play an important role. Super excited for the new series to come out! This book pulled me out of a reading slump and made my child heart jump on the bed when she is not supposed to.
I apologize and would like the thank the author for the arc copy.
Melderblood is the next series after the Dragon’s Kiss series. In my opinion, it is best to read the Dragon’s Kiss series to understand the politics in Melderblood.
Princess Aviama has been cordially invited to the best navel kingdom to participate in a contest for Prince Shiva’s hand in marriage. (Yes like the Batchelor) However, Prince Shiva’s kingdom despises Melderbloods. The king even has his own arena with exotic animals to get rid of the pests as his entertainment. What does this mean for Princess Aviama? Well you guessed it, she is Melderblood!
The world building is just getting bigger and bigger with this series. Even the smallest characters play an important role. Super excited for the new series to come out! This book pulled me out of a reading slump and made my child heart jump on the bed when she is not supposed to.
I apologize and would like the thank the author for the arc copy.
December 1, 2024
First read by EA. And I have to say, this book upended my TBR! It was so good, I'll be continuing the series immediately.
What a story! The characters were impressive in their own right! I earn to learn of the going ons in Aviama's family before this story.
Aviama is a princess whose kingdom just reintroduced magic into the world. She's been sent to Radha to spy (yeah, good luck with that!) and learn about the intentions the kingdom has towards Melderbloods, aka people with magic.
Shiva is the crown price hosting the princess tourney (for lack of a better name). He's confusing. I mean, I figured him out right away only because I've dealt with abuse IRL. So, his twist didn't surprise me.
What did surprise me was Chenzira! I might have a new book boyfriend if he continues the way he's going!
Disclaimer: clean, steamy kissed, forced kisses, blackmail, death threats, gore, magic, mermaids, trials, and fights to the death!
Great book! Looking forward to book 2!
What a story! The characters were impressive in their own right! I earn to learn of the going ons in Aviama's family before this story.
Aviama is a princess whose kingdom just reintroduced magic into the world. She's been sent to Radha to spy (yeah, good luck with that!) and learn about the intentions the kingdom has towards Melderbloods, aka people with magic.
Shiva is the crown price hosting the princess tourney (for lack of a better name). He's confusing. I mean, I figured him out right away only because I've dealt with abuse IRL. So, his twist didn't surprise me.
What did surprise me was Chenzira! I might have a new book boyfriend if he continues the way he's going!
Disclaimer: clean, steamy kissed, forced kisses, blackmail, death threats, gore, magic, mermaids, trials, and fights to the death!
Great book! Looking forward to book 2!
December 8, 2023
What a fun book. It started out with the FMC, Princess Aviama being a little bit goofy. I wasn’t sure what I was reading, but then she totally grew on me. And the book started getting a little more serious, though Aviama still had her moments.
What followed was a well written, action packed, filled with political intrigue story which really captures your attention. You don’t really know way certain characters are leaning until the author lets you, you’re just guessing and hoping until then. And of course, once it ends, you’re left wanting more. Can’t wait until book two comes out!
If you’re looking for a fun, easy to read, exciting fantasy book, I highly recommend.
I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What followed was a well written, action packed, filled with political intrigue story which really captures your attention. You don’t really know way certain characters are leaning until the author lets you, you’re just guessing and hoping until then. And of course, once it ends, you’re left wanting more. Can’t wait until book two comes out!
If you’re looking for a fun, easy to read, exciting fantasy book, I highly recommend.
I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 17, 2024
I thought this was a great kickoff to this new series. Semra’s series was a little slow to start with—especially with the magic, which wasn’t even really mentioned until book two—so it was fun to have such a fast-paced beginning here. I liked Aviama in the original series, and she was a good main POV here. Chenzira is intriguing, and I think Shiva will make a good villain. He was giving the-evil-guy-from-Red-Queen vibes, with the charm juxtaposed with his smarminess and threats. At least, I think that’s the villain I was thinking of. And since I really dislike love triangles, I’m so grateful we know pretty much from the beginning that Prince Shiva is a nonstarter. No questioning his desirability at all.
June 17, 2025
Intrigue. Contests. Balls. Beautiful dresses. Exotic fantastical creatures. Secret magic. All of these are between the covers of Melderblood. From the moment she steps foot on the shores of Radha, Aviama is on her guard. Everywhere she turns she finds intrigue and scheming. E A Winters delivers an exciting, page turning adventure through the halls of the Radha palace. I couldn't pull myself away from the last several chapters. You have everything you could ask for in a fantasy escape. She even has the attention of two handsome men. But you'll have to read for yourself which one, if either, she chooses. I would absolutely read this one again and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
November 22, 2023
Fast-paced and full of surprises, Melderblood is a thrilling start to a new series that promises to be exciting. The book follows Aviama, a likable princess summoned to court a prince in a foreign land, along with three other international princesses. Asked to spy out information about that country’s true intentions and forced to hide her magical abilities, Aviama faces danger right from the start of her journey. Full of romance, intrigue, and surprising twists, Melderblood is a satisfying opening to what is sure to be an interesting adventure. If you enjoyed Red Queen, you should read this book.
December 30, 2023
Ok, I didn't think that E.A. Winters could write something I'd love more than her assassin series. I thought I was going to be reading something with some fun tropes I enjoy, with nice characters and great themes. OH BOY was I wrong, this was so much more! This book took me on a journey I was not ready for. This is the greatest thing she has written so far by a landslide. I don't know how she did it. I was with the character every step of the way, I was shocked and scared and I loved and hated and found courage by her side on every page, the action had me on the edge of my seat, the romance had me swooning, the plot is INCREDIBLE. READ IT NOW!!
May 27, 2025
This was a good continuation of her last series. It had been a while since I had read the other one, but it came back slowly as I got through this first book. I am not sure why, but I found this series to be not quite as good as the first. That being said. I still enjoyed it and likes where she took the characters. I have always enjoyed books where you can quite tell if some of the characters are good or evil, or somewhere in between. I likes all the different types of characters she brought into this one. Its not just dragons anymore!
Rating 14+
no sex (there is romance within the complete series), no language, some violence
Rating 14+
no sex (there is romance within the complete series), no language, some violence
October 2, 2025
I found E.A. Winters through a Facebook Reel advertising that her books were clean (no cursing, no smut) and was like maybe I'll like her books. I had been struggling with the romantasy/fantasy genre because of these things. I enjoyed this book very much. Finished it in one day. My main complaint is not knowing if I am pronouncing the characters names correctly in my head (and the creature species).
Overall, this was a great book for me to try a new genre. If you are looking for something a teen or even adult who doesn't want to read smut scenes all the time but enjoys a little fantasy in their books, this is a wonderful option.
Overall, this was a great book for me to try a new genre. If you are looking for something a teen or even adult who doesn't want to read smut scenes all the time but enjoys a little fantasy in their books, this is a wonderful option.
November 26, 2023
I had so much fun reading this. Melderblood is set in the world of the blood and flame saga. Taking place 3 years after that series concludes. A great thing about this series starter is that you don't need to have read the previous series. (But really, you should!)
This series focuses on Aviama, she is entering a new country for a competition for the hand of the crown prince. But that's not her only goal.
This book mixes romance, political intrigue, espionage, and forbidden magics.
Great development pace, and exciting ending. I can't wait for the rest of this series!
This series focuses on Aviama, she is entering a new country for a competition for the hand of the crown prince. But that's not her only goal.
This book mixes romance, political intrigue, espionage, and forbidden magics.
Great development pace, and exciting ending. I can't wait for the rest of this series!
December 15, 2023
I could not put this one down. I had no self control. There was no listening to my "just one more chapter", nope. I had to keep going. Winters did an excellent job with the last sentence of each chapter leaving you just a little bit hanging and definitely hungry for more. Aviama was such a fun perspective to read. She's not quite the typical strong FMC type, but she's also not at all a damsel in destress. There was plenty of action, political intrigue and of course magic. The only bummer about this book is now I have to wait to read the sequel! Biscuits!
November 22, 2023
Fast-paced and trope subverting! I haven't read a fantasy in a long time so this book was my reintroduction to the genre. I'm a huge fan of a strong female lead, and Aviama is just that! She has realistic flaws and weaknesses but incredible wit and curiosity! Once I finished the book I was sad that the series wasn't already done so I could just jump to the next book. I'll be reading more of Winters' books in anticipation of the sequels.
December 8, 2023
This was a spin off of the Blood and Flame series, and I really enjoyed it! Aviama is very relatable, and the plot keeps things interesting. There's espionage, hidden magic, unreliable characters, characters that make you feel things (one way or another), as well as mentions to the original series. I'm very curious to see what happens in the next book, given what happened at the end!
Also I can't get over this cover! And the color is mentioned in the story multiple times.
Also I can't get over this cover! And the color is mentioned in the story multiple times.
December 12, 2023
This is a spin-off of the Blood and Flame series. Honestly, it took me a couple chapters to get into, but by chapter 3 I was hooked and didn't want to put it down. It is fast paced while holding your attention through many twists and turns. I never fully knew what to expect throughout the book.
E.A. Winters thank you for giving me the opportunity to be an ARC reader and for writing an amazing book!
E.A. Winters thank you for giving me the opportunity to be an ARC reader and for writing an amazing book!
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