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Bright A Forbidden Love Story
Akira is a beautiful, kind-hearted, and pleasant vampire princess who does not agree with her father’s ruling.This year, Akira will be sent to the Hybrid’s kingdom to retrieve five skilled fighters to serve her father.King Abel Ronin plans to destroy the hybrid faction forever, but will his pure and selfless daughter stand in his way?Akira will uncover a deep dark secret about her past, discover how powerful she is, and fall in love with the very creature her father detests.Akira must decide whether she will obey her father’s orders, follow her heart, or let the king decide for her.**Please check the trigger warnings before reading.**This book is best suited for 17 years old and older.
485 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 18, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
September 24, 2024
*This is a new edition (extended version of the first book) of the same story*
* This is now a stand-alone novel*
What's new ?
Bright is >ONE BOOK< that's right if you have already read the > first edition< of Bright (purple cover)and you want to know what's next for Akira and Troy, you're going to want to read this version. The entire story will unfold in "ONE BOOK."
If you like. . .
⭐️Young Adult Dark Fantasy
⭐️Multiple POVs
⭐️Vampires
⭐️Witches
⭐️Hybrids
⭐️Werewolves
⭐️Shapeshifters
⭐️Phoenixes
⭐️Rival Kingdoms
⭐️Forbidden Love
⭐️Betrayal
⭐️Fast-paced action
⭐️Diversity
Then this is the book for you♥️
*Please consider adding BRIGHT to your TBR list*
⚠️Please check trigger warnings before reading. They can be found at the beginning of the book, or you can use the "Look inside" feature.
Bright A Forbidden Love Story (Second edition) is available now.
☆KINDLE
☆PAPERBACK
☆HARDCOVER
☆AUDIBLE
🔗 https://a.co/d/f7mlE4T (Kindle link)
🔗 https://a.co/d/7NPJ794 (Audible link)
* This is now a stand-alone novel*
What's new ?
Bright is >ONE BOOK< that's right if you have already read the > first edition< of Bright (purple cover)and you want to know what's next for Akira and Troy, you're going to want to read this version. The entire story will unfold in "ONE BOOK."
If you like. . .
⭐️Young Adult Dark Fantasy
⭐️Multiple POVs
⭐️Vampires
⭐️Witches
⭐️Hybrids
⭐️Werewolves
⭐️Shapeshifters
⭐️Phoenixes
⭐️Rival Kingdoms
⭐️Forbidden Love
⭐️Betrayal
⭐️Fast-paced action
⭐️Diversity
Then this is the book for you♥️
*Please consider adding BRIGHT to your TBR list*
⚠️Please check trigger warnings before reading. They can be found at the beginning of the book, or you can use the "Look inside" feature.
Bright A Forbidden Love Story (Second edition) is available now.
☆KINDLE
☆PAPERBACK
☆HARDCOVER
☆AUDIBLE
🔗 https://a.co/d/f7mlE4T (Kindle link)
🔗 https://a.co/d/7NPJ794 (Audible link)
January 12, 2026
Overall this audiobook was an enjoyable listen. There is a strong story and the narration is excellent.
The book follows Akira who is a vampire princess that doesn't always agree with her father, the King, way of doing things. She is sent to ally with the hybrids and meets Troy. They quickly fall for each other and their forbidden love story begins.
Akira discovers some truths about herself that her parents have tried to keep hidden which changes the course of her life. she learns she is extremely powerful and is destined to unite their kingdoms.
Things I liked:
- I love the narration!! Dahlia has such great range when it comes to different voices. She makes the story come to life
- There's a strong story here but it isn't too overwhelming from a world building perspective making this a perfect starting point for new fantasy readers.
Not so good parts
- There's a lot of crossover with "normal" modern world such as the use of mobile phones, movies and cards against humanity. I personally don't enjoy this cross over and would prefer my fantasy reads to be separated out from our normal day to day. That being said, I think this does make it more approachable for a new fantasy reader or someone looking to give it a try. It cuts down on all the world building which I know many people new to fantasy can find intimidating and difficult to follow.
- Insta love and Ick - There is no slow burn yearning here at all. The FMC and MMC fall hard pretty much straight away. Not my personal bag. I much prefer a slow slow burn, or at least that they have to work for it at least a little bit. Their love is forbidden but that element isn't used to lengthen the longing in any way. I also personally don't like the sappy pet names "babe" etc but again probably just me 😂
In summary:
An enjoyable read/listen that’s a good introduction to fantasy with minimal world building.
The book follows Akira who is a vampire princess that doesn't always agree with her father, the King, way of doing things. She is sent to ally with the hybrids and meets Troy. They quickly fall for each other and their forbidden love story begins.
Akira discovers some truths about herself that her parents have tried to keep hidden which changes the course of her life. she learns she is extremely powerful and is destined to unite their kingdoms.
Things I liked:
- I love the narration!! Dahlia has such great range when it comes to different voices. She makes the story come to life
- There's a strong story here but it isn't too overwhelming from a world building perspective making this a perfect starting point for new fantasy readers.
Not so good parts
- There's a lot of crossover with "normal" modern world such as the use of mobile phones, movies and cards against humanity. I personally don't enjoy this cross over and would prefer my fantasy reads to be separated out from our normal day to day. That being said, I think this does make it more approachable for a new fantasy reader or someone looking to give it a try. It cuts down on all the world building which I know many people new to fantasy can find intimidating and difficult to follow.
- Insta love and Ick - There is no slow burn yearning here at all. The FMC and MMC fall hard pretty much straight away. Not my personal bag. I much prefer a slow slow burn, or at least that they have to work for it at least a little bit. Their love is forbidden but that element isn't used to lengthen the longing in any way. I also personally don't like the sappy pet names "babe" etc but again probably just me 😂
In summary:
An enjoyable read/listen that’s a good introduction to fantasy with minimal world building.
February 16, 2024
Bright: A Forbidden Love Story is a captivating, heartwarming, heartbreaking, engaging, magical, mysterious, adventurous, thrilling, and unpredictable read! This book truly has a little bit of everything. I have never read a book like this before. Fantasy is not typically my genre, but I loved this story! I am so glad my friend, Kia, asked me to be on her launch team so could fall into the magical world of Kian!
Bright is a fantasy novel which takes places in a wonderfully crafted fictional land which is full of tension, violence, and discrimination. Vampires, werewolves, hybrids, witches, and various creatures live King Abel's rule who is a ruthless leader. His daughter Akira is the exact opposite of him. She is unaware how deeply corrupt he is, but often disagrees with his beliefs. Akira, the vampire princess, is sent to retrieve skilled fighters from the hybrid kingdom. The king has different plans than stated for the fighters. As Akira learns more about his intentions, uncovers secrets, learns of an old prophecy, and finds hidden truths about herself, she becomes morally conflicted. To make everything more complicated she falls in love with the prince of the hybrid kingdom. As war erupts what to do and who to trust becomes unclear. Can Akria stay true to herself and follow her heart through all the turmoil and unknowns?
I love Akira's character! She is the perfect combination of strong and gentle. A few side characters bring some much needed humor to this book, the romance is so sweet, and the storyline wonderfully written!
Warning this book is best suited for adults and older teenagers. It does contain some triggering things and a favorite character may die.
Bright is a fantasy novel which takes places in a wonderfully crafted fictional land which is full of tension, violence, and discrimination. Vampires, werewolves, hybrids, witches, and various creatures live King Abel's rule who is a ruthless leader. His daughter Akira is the exact opposite of him. She is unaware how deeply corrupt he is, but often disagrees with his beliefs. Akira, the vampire princess, is sent to retrieve skilled fighters from the hybrid kingdom. The king has different plans than stated for the fighters. As Akira learns more about his intentions, uncovers secrets, learns of an old prophecy, and finds hidden truths about herself, she becomes morally conflicted. To make everything more complicated she falls in love with the prince of the hybrid kingdom. As war erupts what to do and who to trust becomes unclear. Can Akria stay true to herself and follow her heart through all the turmoil and unknowns?
I love Akira's character! She is the perfect combination of strong and gentle. A few side characters bring some much needed humor to this book, the romance is so sweet, and the storyline wonderfully written!
Warning this book is best suited for adults and older teenagers. It does contain some triggering things and a favorite character may die.
March 17, 2024
BRIGHT: A FORBIDDEN LOVE STORY By K.C. McMillian
Vampire Princess Akira Ronin's compassion for all is against her father, King Abel Ronin's ironclad rule.
This year, she must journey to the hybrid kingdom to retrieve five skilled fighters to serve in her kingdom.
The king has a devastating plan in place but will Akira's humanity stand in his way and be the catalyst for an unforeseen revolution?
As the gears of fate turn, she treads on a path of revelations. The hidden secrets of Akira’s past, and newfound powers, thrust her into a whirlwind of uncertainty.
😊What i liked -
✔ This book has it all. Vampires, Werewolves, Hybrids, Shapeshfters and Witches.
✔ I absolutely loved the character buildup of Akira and Troy.
✔ I absolutely loved the suspense , the thrill, the friendship dynamics, the betrayal etc.
✔ I absolutely loved Cameron's character and the relationship he shares with Akira.
✔ I loved the twists and turns this book had. It kept you totally engrossed in the story.
✔ It's an absolute page turner.
✔ Kia revived her previous book by adding to the plot giving the book a bit more edge. It sure did add more punch to the story.
🤔What could have been better -
✔ Nada.
📚Who Should read :
👶 Beginner's
💫Fantasy Lovers
💖Forbidden Love
📈My Rating : 4.5/5
P.S - Looking forward to reading her next.
Thank you K.C. McMillian for a copy.
Vampire Princess Akira Ronin's compassion for all is against her father, King Abel Ronin's ironclad rule.
This year, she must journey to the hybrid kingdom to retrieve five skilled fighters to serve in her kingdom.
The king has a devastating plan in place but will Akira's humanity stand in his way and be the catalyst for an unforeseen revolution?
As the gears of fate turn, she treads on a path of revelations. The hidden secrets of Akira’s past, and newfound powers, thrust her into a whirlwind of uncertainty.
😊What i liked -
✔ This book has it all. Vampires, Werewolves, Hybrids, Shapeshfters and Witches.
✔ I absolutely loved the character buildup of Akira and Troy.
✔ I absolutely loved the suspense , the thrill, the friendship dynamics, the betrayal etc.
✔ I absolutely loved Cameron's character and the relationship he shares with Akira.
✔ I loved the twists and turns this book had. It kept you totally engrossed in the story.
✔ It's an absolute page turner.
✔ Kia revived her previous book by adding to the plot giving the book a bit more edge. It sure did add more punch to the story.
🤔What could have been better -
✔ Nada.
📚Who Should read :
👶 Beginner's
💫Fantasy Lovers
💖Forbidden Love
📈My Rating : 4.5/5
P.S - Looking forward to reading her next.
Thank you K.C. McMillian for a copy.
February 26, 2024
The book will take you on a roller coaster ride. I felt innumerable emotions while reading this book. I deeply felt for Akira. There were so many twists and turns. The world building is beautiful and dangerous. The characters are interesting. The author has added depth to the plot by adding more to the story.
So Akira is the daughter of King Abel and Queen Aika but she is oblivion to her prophecy and destiny. King Abel devise a plan to make alliance with Hybrid kingdom. But is it really alliance or deception hidden behind the alliance? The odyssey of Akira followed by a stroke of fate and Prince Troy and Princess Akira falls in love. Though when secrets and lies unveils, they turn her world upside down and the more she learns about her past, prophecy, secrets her parents kept from her, the more she thinks that her existence is a lie and delusion . In the midst of deception, buried secrets and war, dark secrets are unleashing themselves, prophecy is coming true and darkness and grief are consuming her. She is in such a dilemma, If she should choose the path of avenge or she should move forward
So Akira is the daughter of King Abel and Queen Aika but she is oblivion to her prophecy and destiny. King Abel devise a plan to make alliance with Hybrid kingdom. But is it really alliance or deception hidden behind the alliance? The odyssey of Akira followed by a stroke of fate and Prince Troy and Princess Akira falls in love. Though when secrets and lies unveils, they turn her world upside down and the more she learns about her past, prophecy, secrets her parents kept from her, the more she thinks that her existence is a lie and delusion . In the midst of deception, buried secrets and war, dark secrets are unleashing themselves, prophecy is coming true and darkness and grief are consuming her. She is in such a dilemma, If she should choose the path of avenge or she should move forward
March 19, 2024
This was a fantastic fantasy story with vampires, witches, hyrbids, phoenixes, werewolves, and shapeshifters.
I loved the relationship development between Akira and Troy from the beginning to end.
I loved the friendship dynamics between Shelly, Cameron, Sophia, etc. I loved the multiple POVs. I even enjoyed reading Abel's (the ruthless)king's pov.
The beginning of the story has dual pov and then the second half of the story has multiple povs that I found very interesting and not overwhelming or confusing. It's like the author gave us time to fall in love with the relationship between Akira and Troy before taking us into other characters perspectives.
The author penned together a majestic tale, we learn about the past and all my questions that I have throughout the story are answered.
The action and fight scenes were executed with perfection. The book has you feeling all emotions.
I enjoyed every minute of this wonderful story.
Keep the stories coming, definitely an auto-buy author!
I loved the relationship development between Akira and Troy from the beginning to end.
I loved the friendship dynamics between Shelly, Cameron, Sophia, etc. I loved the multiple POVs. I even enjoyed reading Abel's (the ruthless)king's pov.
The beginning of the story has dual pov and then the second half of the story has multiple povs that I found very interesting and not overwhelming or confusing. It's like the author gave us time to fall in love with the relationship between Akira and Troy before taking us into other characters perspectives.
The author penned together a majestic tale, we learn about the past and all my questions that I have throughout the story are answered.
The action and fight scenes were executed with perfection. The book has you feeling all emotions.
I enjoyed every minute of this wonderful story.
Keep the stories coming, definitely an auto-buy author!
May 21, 2024
I read the first edition of Bright and enjoyed it, but reading this version, it was even more fantastic!! The first half of the story is written more in depth, and then the second half of the story continues on.
The new version of Bright is a beautiful, heartbreaking, engaging, action-packed, and magical read.
There are vampires, witches, hybrids, shapeshifters, phoenixes, and werewolves. And of course, there is some conflict brewing with the vampire King Abel Ronin set on destroying whichever faction doesn't support his ruling.
I felt every emotion while reading this. I was happy, sad, mad, yelling no at my book when certain parts happened. It's fast-paced and has multiple point of views. The characters were wonderfully portrayed.
The romance between Akira and Troy was beautifully done, I loved all the aspects of their relationship and truly felt for them both during the hard parts. The twists and turns I did not see coming!! The action was gripping, and the ending was WOW! This was truly a great book, I look forward to reading more from this author.
The new version of Bright is a beautiful, heartbreaking, engaging, action-packed, and magical read.
There are vampires, witches, hybrids, shapeshifters, phoenixes, and werewolves. And of course, there is some conflict brewing with the vampire King Abel Ronin set on destroying whichever faction doesn't support his ruling.
I felt every emotion while reading this. I was happy, sad, mad, yelling no at my book when certain parts happened. It's fast-paced and has multiple point of views. The characters were wonderfully portrayed.
The romance between Akira and Troy was beautifully done, I loved all the aspects of their relationship and truly felt for them both during the hard parts. The twists and turns I did not see coming!! The action was gripping, and the ending was WOW! This was truly a great book, I look forward to reading more from this author.
February 26, 2024
The author has revived 'Bright' with an extraordinary spell.
Bright: A Forbidden Love Story is a YA/NA dark fantasy novel. This book is about Vampires, Werewolves, Witches, shapeshifters, hybrids and much more. The author has penned in sensitive topics seamlessly. Akira was a courageous girl, who stood against her father's evil. Troy was a sturdy, brave and supported Akira in all circumstances. The romance between Akira and Troy was amazing, I was rooting for them. The other side-character was amazing. It's fast-paced and has multiple POV. The characters were brilliantly portrayed. This book literally has a part of every character, where you get to know more about the past. The actions were intense and enthralled. The world build-up and the plot was brilliantly written with many jaw dropping twists and turns.
Overall it's an adventurous read.
I'm looking forward to read more of Kia's work. ❤️
Thank you @kmcinspired_author for giving me this ARC.
Bright: A Forbidden Love Story is a YA/NA dark fantasy novel. This book is about Vampires, Werewolves, Witches, shapeshifters, hybrids and much more. The author has penned in sensitive topics seamlessly. Akira was a courageous girl, who stood against her father's evil. Troy was a sturdy, brave and supported Akira in all circumstances. The romance between Akira and Troy was amazing, I was rooting for them. The other side-character was amazing. It's fast-paced and has multiple POV. The characters were brilliantly portrayed. This book literally has a part of every character, where you get to know more about the past. The actions were intense and enthralled. The world build-up and the plot was brilliantly written with many jaw dropping twists and turns.
Overall it's an adventurous read.
I'm looking forward to read more of Kia's work. ❤️
Thank you @kmcinspired_author for giving me this ARC.
February 26, 2024
If you like
-Multiple POVs
-Betrayal
-Fast-paced action
-Diversity
-Forbidden love
-Rival kingdoms
-Vampires,witches,hybrids,phoenixes,shapeshifters and werewolves!
Then I think you'll love this book.
Kia's writing style feels very personal as if the character speaking is letting us in on a secret. I found it really easy to slip into this story and tell everyone around me to bugger off.
I've never fallen in love with a main character as quickly as i fell for Akira. Living in a cruel world its dangerous having a mind of her own. She could so easily be like everyone else but Akira stands up for others no matter the cost and I love her for that. Even though ......her sheer determination, stubbornness and selflessness lead to a fast paced, emotion-packed, action -heavy war between creatures. oops.
The romance is beautifuly sweet and the story gets even more gripping the further you read,
-Multiple POVs
-Betrayal
-Fast-paced action
-Diversity
-Forbidden love
-Rival kingdoms
-Vampires,witches,hybrids,phoenixes,shapeshifters and werewolves!
Then I think you'll love this book.
Kia's writing style feels very personal as if the character speaking is letting us in on a secret. I found it really easy to slip into this story and tell everyone around me to bugger off.
I've never fallen in love with a main character as quickly as i fell for Akira. Living in a cruel world its dangerous having a mind of her own. She could so easily be like everyone else but Akira stands up for others no matter the cost and I love her for that. Even though ......her sheer determination, stubbornness and selflessness lead to a fast paced, emotion-packed, action -heavy war between creatures. oops.
The romance is beautifuly sweet and the story gets even more gripping the further you read,
May 23, 2024
I loved this story. I read the first version of Bright so I was SO excited to read this new version. it definitely did not disappoint! Akira and Troy are so cute. their relationship moves so realistically. the drama of Akira's father's hate just brings the drama to this story. I love good action in a book. I devoured the second half. KC killed this one. the chapters were quick, even the long ones! I've never been really into fantasy but K.C. is bringing me into her world of vampires and mythical creatures. I love the romance, the action, the drama, the twists and turns. everyone needs to give K.C. a chance!
February 23, 2024
It's back and better than ever!
Kia has brought the story of Akira and Troy with this second edition of Bright!
You've got loads of different factions: Vampires, Hybrids, Witches, Werewolves & Shapeshifters. I loved going back into their world. This book was even more intense (if that's possible) and it made me feel ALL the emotions, but in a good way.
I really enjoyed how we got to see more of Troy's character development in this book, and of course Kias writing!
Thank you so much to K.C McMillian for a copy of this book!
Kia has brought the story of Akira and Troy with this second edition of Bright!
You've got loads of different factions: Vampires, Hybrids, Witches, Werewolves & Shapeshifters. I loved going back into their world. This book was even more intense (if that's possible) and it made me feel ALL the emotions, but in a good way.
I really enjoyed how we got to see more of Troy's character development in this book, and of course Kias writing!
Thank you so much to K.C McMillian for a copy of this book!
November 24, 2025
Bright was such a dark, heartbreaking, sometimes brutal and entertaining read. There are multiple povs the second half of the story and I loved knowing what everyone was thinking even Abel. The ending was crazy!
Akira and Troy's forbidden love story was challenging yet satisfying. This was a great read!
Trigger Warnings are listed on the Author's website as well as the beginning of the book.
Akira and Troy's forbidden love story was challenging yet satisfying. This was a great read!
Trigger Warnings are listed on the Author's website as well as the beginning of the book.
April 14, 2024
What a great book! This one was a thrill ride! I didn’t read the first edition but I thoroughly enjoyed this eclectic mix of vampires, wolves, witches and more. The deep seeded betrayal, the banter, and the strong FMC in Akira gave me ALL THE FEELS! We need more Akira! 🖤
This is only my second book by this author, but KC has made a forever reader in me!
This is only my second book by this author, but KC has made a forever reader in me!
May 1, 2025
This book was pretty good. I thought the different factions, the world, and the magic system was unique. I liked the FMC a lot and the little plot twists were played nicely.
If you enjoy books about revealing secrets, fighting oppression, forbidden love, and an HEA, then this book is for you. There is a third-act breakup, but it does end in an HEA.
If you enjoy books about revealing secrets, fighting oppression, forbidden love, and an HEA, then this book is for you. There is a third-act breakup, but it does end in an HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2025
This was such an epic enemies to lovers read. The action was so detailed. I loved the multiple points of view in the second half of the story. There were moments I even cried. The heartbreak was real and the ending was wow! Akira and Troy💖 I love them! Great story and great read!
April 1, 2025
There are so many plot twists and oh wow moments in this book. I absolutely loved this story so much.
KC has such a gifted and amazing imagination.
KC has such a gifted and amazing imagination.
March 28, 2024
I don't normally read fantasy but I could not put this book down! I was so invested in the story and the relationships between the characters that I was getting mad and feeling all the feels throughout lol The author has an amazing imagination to think of the wonderful world she has created in this book. I look forward to reading more of her work.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews