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House of Bane and Blood
In a city split into two opposing sides, power comes in many forms: bloodlines, money, love, and—most importantly—secrets.
An heiress in the most notorious family in Lynchaven, Camilla Marchese is doing all she can to keep her family's syndicate, the Iron Saint Railway, from slipping into bankruptcy. When the gorgeous and depraved Nicolai Attano, the leader of a rival family, offers to pay off the inspector in exchange for her hand, she has no choice but to give up not only her throne—but her name.
Nico has his own motivations for their union beyond maintaining peace with her family. A serial kidnapper known as The Collector has been ravaging the streets of Remnant Row, stirring up mistrust between natives and descendants. If Milla can help restore safety to his streets, he'll have no need for her or her family's company. Find the Collector, prevent a war between their sides of the city, and pay off the family debt before she turns twenty-one. If Milla can fulfill her end of the bargain, she'll walk away with more freedom than she's ever had before.
This deal plunges Milla into the city's dark underbelly where remnant magic and arcane science compete in a deadly game of depravity. When forbidden feelings rise for her new husband and dark family secrets come to light, Milla must discover the truth about her past before it gets them both killed or worse—collected.
Set in a post-industrial age setting on a magical isle, Peaky Blinders meets the magic system of the Grishaverse in this rivals-to-lovers adult fantasy romance.
An heiress in the most notorious family in Lynchaven, Camilla Marchese is doing all she can to keep her family's syndicate, the Iron Saint Railway, from slipping into bankruptcy. When the gorgeous and depraved Nicolai Attano, the leader of a rival family, offers to pay off the inspector in exchange for her hand, she has no choice but to give up not only her throne—but her name.
Nico has his own motivations for their union beyond maintaining peace with her family. A serial kidnapper known as The Collector has been ravaging the streets of Remnant Row, stirring up mistrust between natives and descendants. If Milla can help restore safety to his streets, he'll have no need for her or her family's company. Find the Collector, prevent a war between their sides of the city, and pay off the family debt before she turns twenty-one. If Milla can fulfill her end of the bargain, she'll walk away with more freedom than she's ever had before.
This deal plunges Milla into the city's dark underbelly where remnant magic and arcane science compete in a deadly game of depravity. When forbidden feelings rise for her new husband and dark family secrets come to light, Milla must discover the truth about her past before it gets them both killed or worse—collected.
Set in a post-industrial age setting on a magical isle, Peaky Blinders meets the magic system of the Grishaverse in this rivals-to-lovers adult fantasy romance.
13 pages, Audible Audio
Published March 19, 2024
About the author
Alexis L. Menard
9 books1,384 followersAlexis is a registered nurse based out of Louisiana where she lives with her husband, toddler, and two oversized dogs. She enjoys long walks through the Renaissance Fair, reading smutty romance into the dark hours of the night, and wine nights with her "Finer Things Club." She hopes to enrich the lives of her readers with worlds they can both escape in and take with them long after the final chapter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 261 reviews
March 15, 2024
An entertaining read but fell short for me in some areas. Maybe had I read it at some other time, or mood I would have liked it more😅
✔️ Peaky blinders vibes x magic
✔️ Rivals to lovers
✔️ Marriage of convenience
✔️ Found family
✔️ "Who did this to you"
✔️ "Touch her and die"
I liked the concept of mob families and the magic system but it wasn't executed well imo. The first half sort of confused me when it came to the magic, I couldn't quite understand it. The plot execution came across as weak too, the story didn't have a clear direction and it seemed to be jumping around crucial points a lot. Reading it felt like I was missing a huge chunk.
But I was still entertained, thanks to the characters and romance. The characters- Camilla and Nicolai were so good. The chemistry between them was great and off the charts. I liked Camilla more than Nicolai, as she was simply put- a badass. I liked how she always stood up for herself, was honest and upfront, never took anyone's bs and loved her action sequences. Nicolai, grew on me. I liked how much he cared for Camilla even though he claimed otherwise. He was so protective of her. His powers intrigued me a lot.
The romance was chef's kiss. I was yearning for things to happen between the two in almost each and every scene. The chemistry and the spice is so well written.
The ending, especially the last 50-60 pages had me gasping. So much happened 😩😩 I may have shed a few tears 🫣 But after the way it ended, I need the next one ASAP.
~•~•~
I liked the cover so here I am
✔️ Peaky blinders vibes x magic
✔️ Rivals to lovers
✔️ Marriage of convenience
✔️ Found family
✔️ "Who did this to you"
✔️ "Touch her and die"
I liked the concept of mob families and the magic system but it wasn't executed well imo. The first half sort of confused me when it came to the magic, I couldn't quite understand it. The plot execution came across as weak too, the story didn't have a clear direction and it seemed to be jumping around crucial points a lot. Reading it felt like I was missing a huge chunk.
But I was still entertained, thanks to the characters and romance. The characters- Camilla and Nicolai were so good. The chemistry between them was great and off the charts. I liked Camilla more than Nicolai, as she was simply put- a badass. I liked how she always stood up for herself, was honest and upfront, never took anyone's bs and loved her action sequences. Nicolai, grew on me. I liked how much he cared for Camilla even though he claimed otherwise. He was so protective of her. His powers intrigued me a lot.
The romance was chef's kiss. I was yearning for things to happen between the two in almost each and every scene. The chemistry and the spice is so well written.
The ending, especially the last 50-60 pages had me gasping. So much happened 😩😩 I may have shed a few tears 🫣 But after the way it ended, I need the next one ASAP.
~•~•~
I liked the cover so here I am
January 18, 2024
So I found this book on BookTok and am so glad I did. This is certainly different than the current fantasy books that I have been reading as of late. Author Interview on BookTube: HERE
Read if:
💛Marriage of Convenience
💛Rivals to lovers
💛Steampunk vibes
💛Touch her and 💀
💛Disability rep
The magic system in this book took me by surprise. It has a lot of current magical elements such as vampires and elemental magic. But giving it a name by calling it Remnant. It is intricate and draws me in wanting more.
The main characters and even the side characters you easily wanted to either love or hate. Because the author does a great job at writing each one a personality.
The main characters' relationship had great chemistry but came a little together a little too quickly in my opinion. But alas, it was still good.
The ending.....was intense. It did happen so quickly that I had to reread it because I wasn't sure what had happened. But it did and I was shellshocked. The ending wasn't something I had read before and loved how it left me on a cliffhanger.
Now this is more of a personal preference than anything but there was a scene in this book that had me rolling my eyes and turned me off from enjoying this book for a hot second. There is a particular scene that happened in A Court of Mist and Fury that authors like to include in their book for some reason. It just annoys me because it doesn't feel original and some people are just trying to copy that moment. To me, it's not entertaining. Like I said, more of a personal preference.
I enjoyed the book and will continue regardless.
Connect With Me:
BLOG ⟫ INSTAGRAM ⟫ PODCAST ⟫ TIKTOK ⟫
The algorithm felt the need to repeatedly show this book on my TikTok. So naturally, I will be checking this out.
Read if:
💛Marriage of Convenience
💛Rivals to lovers
💛Steampunk vibes
💛Touch her and 💀
💛Disability rep
The magic system in this book took me by surprise. It has a lot of current magical elements such as vampires and elemental magic. But giving it a name by calling it Remnant. It is intricate and draws me in wanting more.
The main characters and even the side characters you easily wanted to either love or hate. Because the author does a great job at writing each one a personality.
The main characters' relationship had great chemistry but came a little together a little too quickly in my opinion. But alas, it was still good.
The ending.....was intense. It did happen so quickly that I had to reread it because I wasn't sure what had happened. But it did and I was shellshocked. The ending wasn't something I had read before and loved how it left me on a cliffhanger.
Now this is more of a personal preference than anything but there was a scene in this book that had me rolling my eyes and turned me off from enjoying this book for a hot second. There is a particular scene that happened in A Court of Mist and Fury that authors like to include in their book for some reason. It just annoys me because it doesn't feel original and some people are just trying to copy that moment. To me, it's not entertaining. Like I said, more of a personal preference.
I enjoyed the book and will continue regardless.
Connect With Me:
BLOG ⟫ INSTAGRAM ⟫ PODCAST ⟫ TIKTOK ⟫
The algorithm felt the need to repeatedly show this book on my TikTok. So naturally, I will be checking this out.
April 26, 2024
DNF @ 49%
House of Bane and Blood is one of those books which made me feel gaslit because of its exceptionally high reviews. What is wrong with me? What is everyone else seeing that I'm not?
And because of these glowing reviews, I gave it much longer than it deserved. As such, I'm confident that the issue isn't me 😝
Here's what I couldn't look past and ultimately made me DNF:
⟶ The worldbuilding is wayyyyy too sparse, and what we do get is confusing as hell. Is this steampunk? Urban fantasy? What are the limits of technology? How the fuck does the magic system work? It seemed like the author was trying to avoid info-dumps with such ferocity that they swung the pendulum to the other side instead of finding an appropriate middle ground.
⟶ For the life of me, I could not navigate the inconsistencies we get with character speech patterns. Not only did this play into the mess that was the worldbuilding (ex. having characters who never use contractions tells you a lot about the time period, social expectations, etc.) but it meant I couldn't make any determinations about the characters themselves when their speech was changing so drastically from, in some cases, the last thing they said.
⟶ The writing needed at least one more round of line edits. Even though I'm slightly more likely to give iffy writing a pass when listening to audios, there were sentences so bizarre that I genuinely had to pause, go back, and relisten just to make sure I hadn't heard them incorrectly and made it up in my head. For example: "...only because he could hurt my family hard if he wanted to."
Notes on the audiobook
⟶ Dual narration. (Is it terrible that, these days, I'm expecting indies to be done in duet?)
⟶MMC Even this being narrated by James Cavenaugh/Fouhey, the same voice actor who brings to life Foz Meadow's Tithinai series (along with Vikas Adams) wasn't enough to keep me going.
⟶FMC Jacci Prior is a new-to-me narrator. There were no ticks or strange choices, so I'm looking forward to seeing what she does with a book that isn't (I'm sorry in advance... but...) a turd.
House of Bane and Blood is one of those books which made me feel gaslit because of its exceptionally high reviews. What is wrong with me? What is everyone else seeing that I'm not?
And because of these glowing reviews, I gave it much longer than it deserved. As such, I'm confident that the issue isn't me 😝
Here's what I couldn't look past and ultimately made me DNF:
⟶ The worldbuilding is wayyyyy too sparse, and what we do get is confusing as hell. Is this steampunk? Urban fantasy? What are the limits of technology? How the fuck does the magic system work? It seemed like the author was trying to avoid info-dumps with such ferocity that they swung the pendulum to the other side instead of finding an appropriate middle ground.
⟶ For the life of me, I could not navigate the inconsistencies we get with character speech patterns. Not only did this play into the mess that was the worldbuilding (ex. having characters who never use contractions tells you a lot about the time period, social expectations, etc.) but it meant I couldn't make any determinations about the characters themselves when their speech was changing so drastically from, in some cases, the last thing they said.
⟶ The writing needed at least one more round of line edits. Even though I'm slightly more likely to give iffy writing a pass when listening to audios, there were sentences so bizarre that I genuinely had to pause, go back, and relisten just to make sure I hadn't heard them incorrectly and made it up in my head. For example: "...only because he could hurt my family hard if he wanted to."
Notes on the audiobook
⟶ Dual narration. (Is it terrible that, these days, I'm expecting indies to be done in duet?)
⟶MMC Even this being narrated by James Cavenaugh/Fouhey, the same voice actor who brings to life Foz Meadow's Tithinai series (along with Vikas Adams) wasn't enough to keep me going.
⟶FMC Jacci Prior is a new-to-me narrator. There were no ticks or strange choices, so I'm looking forward to seeing what she does with a book that isn't (I'm sorry in advance... but...) a turd.
November 25, 2025
4.5⭐️
Vibes were IMMACULATE in this!!
Peaky blinders x magic x vampires x mafia yesssss please!
I really liked the magic system in this, and how it was this really cool urban/historic mafia-esque setting fantasy
I loved the romance between Milla and Nico, they’re in a marriage of convenience between two rival families two sides of the city, Milla is an heiress to the steam train empire which Nico wants to take over, but soon the lines between whose side she’s on gets blurred as they develop feelings for each other.
The magic was really cool, there are 4 classes that you can be a remnant of, which decides what powers you have like shape shifting, wielding air, controlling thoughts etc and in some parts of the city magic is suppressed or not allowed to be used so that the mundane can be safe! I wish there was a bit more focus around the magic in this but the romance UGH THE TENSIONNNN!!! Plus, the plot was a bit jumpy but going straight into book two after that ending 😍
Vibes were IMMACULATE in this!!
Peaky blinders x magic x vampires x mafia yesssss please!
I really liked the magic system in this, and how it was this really cool urban/historic mafia-esque setting fantasy
I loved the romance between Milla and Nico, they’re in a marriage of convenience between two rival families two sides of the city, Milla is an heiress to the steam train empire which Nico wants to take over, but soon the lines between whose side she’s on gets blurred as they develop feelings for each other.
The magic was really cool, there are 4 classes that you can be a remnant of, which decides what powers you have like shape shifting, wielding air, controlling thoughts etc and in some parts of the city magic is suppressed or not allowed to be used so that the mundane can be safe! I wish there was a bit more focus around the magic in this but the romance UGH THE TENSIONNNN!!! Plus, the plot was a bit jumpy but going straight into book two after that ending 😍
October 3, 2025
Nicolai Attano… I would die for you! 😮💨🤌🏼
August 8, 2025
3,75⭐️
Je suis un peu partagée sur certains points : j'ai trouvé que l'univers était HYPER riche et intéressant, mais amené de manière un peu maladroite, un peu brouillonne ? Genre on nous balance pas mal d'infos mais en même temps j'avais l'impression d'être un peu dans le flou pour plein d'autres choses... je ne sais pas bien comment le décrire et ça m'a ralentie pour vraiment entrer dans l'univers. Au delà de ça, je dois reconnaitre que l'ambiance est TOP, j'ai trouvé l'intrigue super addictive et accrocheuse, les personnages siiiii intéressants et attachants... et la relation popopoooo. Un peu trop rapide, oui, mais exactement comme je l'attendais avec la tension et le mariage de convenance pile comme je l'aime. Donc, ouais, certaines choses m'ont dérangée mais comme vous pouvez le constater, j'ai quand même bien kiffé !! Vivement la suite...
Je suis un peu partagée sur certains points : j'ai trouvé que l'univers était HYPER riche et intéressant, mais amené de manière un peu maladroite, un peu brouillonne ? Genre on nous balance pas mal d'infos mais en même temps j'avais l'impression d'être un peu dans le flou pour plein d'autres choses... je ne sais pas bien comment le décrire et ça m'a ralentie pour vraiment entrer dans l'univers. Au delà de ça, je dois reconnaitre que l'ambiance est TOP, j'ai trouvé l'intrigue super addictive et accrocheuse, les personnages siiiii intéressants et attachants... et la relation popopoooo. Un peu trop rapide, oui, mais exactement comme je l'attendais avec la tension et le mariage de convenance pile comme je l'aime. Donc, ouais, certaines choses m'ont dérangée mais comme vous pouvez le constater, j'ai quand même bien kiffé !! Vivement la suite...
July 9, 2025
“He was a mistake, the most gorgeous one I would ever make”
This follows the heiress Camilla whose family is well known with power in Lynchaven. They own the Iron Saint Railway which has been in the family a long time and they will do anything to make sure it doesn’t go under. Then along comes Nicolai an enemy and part of a rival family who has an offer that she has no choice to refuse.
What a book. I went into this all because I saw the author say she binge-watched Peaky Blinders for three days straight and that’s how the book was born. THIS DID NOT DISAPPOINT. You could feel the Peaky Blinders inspiration in this book which I loved so much. The magic system and the storyline created by Alexis was fantastic. Camilla and Nico are both strong leads. They had this hate banter and tension between them which made you fall in love instantly. The things that man said in this book have me weak and wanting more. The slow burn wait to the spice was worth it. Chapter 35 was perfection I was screaming. Then we get to Chapter 41 I’m in shock I’m questioning did I read that, it can’t be real. Chapter 42 I was balling my eyes out and I couldn’t carry on. I had to take a breath before finishing. Once I got myself together I was back at it and then I finished the Epilogue. To say I’m excited for the next book is an understatement. It consumed my every thought for the past three days I honestly didn’t want it to end.
If you love:
🔹Adult Fantasy Romance
🔹Marriage Of Convenience
🔹Rivals
🔹Magic System
🔹Slow Burn
🔹Perfect Amount Of Spice
Genre/Type: Adult Fantasy Romance 18+
APK: Physical Read
Pages: 434
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️.5
Series or Stand Alone: Book 1 In The Order And Chaos Series
Tropes or Themes: Marriage Of Convenience, Rivals To Lovers, Found Family, Slow Burn, Protective MMC, Strong FMC, Contracts, Magic System, Prison, Power, Betrayal, Secrets, Mine, Jealousy, My Wife, Eyes On Me, Taken Care Of, Guns, Murder, Sexual Content, Virgin, Praise, Breath Play, Injury, Death, Cursing and Cliffhanger.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
This follows the heiress Camilla whose family is well known with power in Lynchaven. They own the Iron Saint Railway which has been in the family a long time and they will do anything to make sure it doesn’t go under. Then along comes Nicolai an enemy and part of a rival family who has an offer that she has no choice to refuse.
What a book. I went into this all because I saw the author say she binge-watched Peaky Blinders for three days straight and that’s how the book was born. THIS DID NOT DISAPPOINT. You could feel the Peaky Blinders inspiration in this book which I loved so much. The magic system and the storyline created by Alexis was fantastic. Camilla and Nico are both strong leads. They had this hate banter and tension between them which made you fall in love instantly. The things that man said in this book have me weak and wanting more. The slow burn wait to the spice was worth it. Chapter 35 was perfection I was screaming. Then we get to Chapter 41 I’m in shock I’m questioning did I read that, it can’t be real. Chapter 42 I was balling my eyes out and I couldn’t carry on. I had to take a breath before finishing. Once I got myself together I was back at it and then I finished the Epilogue. To say I’m excited for the next book is an understatement. It consumed my every thought for the past three days I honestly didn’t want it to end.
If you love:
🔹Adult Fantasy Romance
🔹Marriage Of Convenience
🔹Rivals
🔹Magic System
🔹Slow Burn
🔹Perfect Amount Of Spice
Genre/Type: Adult Fantasy Romance 18+
APK: Physical Read
Pages: 434
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️.5
Series or Stand Alone: Book 1 In The Order And Chaos Series
Tropes or Themes: Marriage Of Convenience, Rivals To Lovers, Found Family, Slow Burn, Protective MMC, Strong FMC, Contracts, Magic System, Prison, Power, Betrayal, Secrets, Mine, Jealousy, My Wife, Eyes On Me, Taken Care Of, Guns, Murder, Sexual Content, Virgin, Praise, Breath Play, Injury, Death, Cursing and Cliffhanger.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
July 8, 2026
2.5 ⭐️
As soon as I found out that this is a fantasy book set in the twentieth century with peaky blinders vibes, I was sold. 👀🐍🖤
And it certainly was a fun read. But not more.
The chemistry between the main characters is not exactly my cup of tea. It came across as „mainstream romantasy“ and the romance part was very icky. Didn’t think I would ever use this term but here I am. The only way to describe it. 😅
It felt as if the author simply tried to mix all the popular romantasy tropes into one book, while completely missing the opportunity to create something that makes this a special read. There isn’t much focus on the world building, so the world and „creatures“ living in it are really blurry in my head. A lot of things are explained poorly, even confusing sometimes.
As soon as I found out that this is a fantasy book set in the twentieth century with peaky blinders vibes, I was sold. 👀🐍🖤
And it certainly was a fun read. But not more.
The chemistry between the main characters is not exactly my cup of tea. It came across as „mainstream romantasy“ and the romance part was very icky. Didn’t think I would ever use this term but here I am. The only way to describe it. 😅
It felt as if the author simply tried to mix all the popular romantasy tropes into one book, while completely missing the opportunity to create something that makes this a special read. There isn’t much focus on the world building, so the world and „creatures“ living in it are really blurry in my head. A lot of things are explained poorly, even confusing sometimes.
August 28, 2025
4.5 stars!!!
I absolutely loved Milla and Nico! And yes...I would call Nico "Daddy" too. I simped so hard for this man! I loved the character progression and the marriage of convenience trope was done SO WELL! The steampunk setting and the metal hand was such a vibe. I need book 2 ASAP...
I'm thrilled to hear that the first two books in this series are focusing on Milla and Nico, while the latter two will be on another couple - I wonder who?!
Thank you to NetGalley and Second Sky/Forever for the opportunity to read an Advanced Reader's Copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
I absolutely loved Milla and Nico! And yes...I would call Nico "Daddy" too. I simped so hard for this man! I loved the character progression and the marriage of convenience trope was done SO WELL! The steampunk setting and the metal hand was such a vibe. I need book 2 ASAP...
I'm thrilled to hear that the first two books in this series are focusing on Milla and Nico, while the latter two will be on another couple - I wonder who?!
Thank you to NetGalley and Second Sky/Forever for the opportunity to read an Advanced Reader's Copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
February 25, 2026
Esistono i colpi di fulmine letterari? Perché questo libro è stato proprio questo per me.
Nella città di Lynchaven, lacerata da antiche rivalità tra nativi e discendenti, Camilla Marchese, ultima erede di una dinastia sull’orlo della rovina, è disposta a tutto pur di salvare la propria famiglia. Quando Nicolai Attano, carismatico e temuto capo di una casata nemica, le offre un patto in grado di estinguere i suoi debiti, Camilla non ha altra scelta che accettare. E se all’inizio quel patto sembra una condanna, si trasforma presto in qualcosa del tutto inatteso. Quello che doveva essere un accordo d’interesse diventa presto una partita di passione, potere e sangue, e tra complotti e antichi patti magici, l’amore che lega Milla e Nico potrebbe diventare la loro unica salvezza o la loro rovina.
Primo volume della dilogia Vows and Vengeance, House of Bane and Blood è un fantasy romance avvincente che combina magistralmente ambientazioni post-industriali, un romance esplosivo e una trama piena di colpi di scena.
Si respira un’atmosfera di inizio Novecento, con un tocco dark e aristocratico alla Peaky Blinders, ma immersa in un contesto fantasy con poteri arcani e segreti di sangue. Il worldbuilding è talmente vivido che si percepisce il fumo delle fabbriche e si sente il rumore delle rotaie e il peso di antiche rivalità.
I personaggi mi hanno conquistata. Mi sono rivista tanto in Milla, che porta sulle spalle il peso della sua famiglia e delle aspettative: lei che non si è mai sentita abbastanza, che ha sempre compiaciuto gli altri pur perdendo sé stessa. E poi c’è l’enigmatico e magnetico Nicolai Attano, che mi ha fatto arrossire parecchie volte. Farebbe di tutto per i suoi ideali, per la vendetta e per la sua famiglia.
La storia d’amore mi ha fatto impazzire. La chimica tra i due è elettrica, ogni dialogo è carico di tensione e ogni scontro è esplosivo.
La trama è ricca di colpi di scena, rilevazioni e verità inaspettate con conflitti di potere, misteri, segreti famigliari, alleanze fragili, tradimenti, arcane alleanze, vendetta e poteri magici.
Siamo solo a febbraio, ma per me è già uno dei libri preferiti del 2026 e non verrà spodestato facilmente.
Nella città di Lynchaven, lacerata da antiche rivalità tra nativi e discendenti, Camilla Marchese, ultima erede di una dinastia sull’orlo della rovina, è disposta a tutto pur di salvare la propria famiglia. Quando Nicolai Attano, carismatico e temuto capo di una casata nemica, le offre un patto in grado di estinguere i suoi debiti, Camilla non ha altra scelta che accettare. E se all’inizio quel patto sembra una condanna, si trasforma presto in qualcosa del tutto inatteso. Quello che doveva essere un accordo d’interesse diventa presto una partita di passione, potere e sangue, e tra complotti e antichi patti magici, l’amore che lega Milla e Nico potrebbe diventare la loro unica salvezza o la loro rovina.
Primo volume della dilogia Vows and Vengeance, House of Bane and Blood è un fantasy romance avvincente che combina magistralmente ambientazioni post-industriali, un romance esplosivo e una trama piena di colpi di scena.
Si respira un’atmosfera di inizio Novecento, con un tocco dark e aristocratico alla Peaky Blinders, ma immersa in un contesto fantasy con poteri arcani e segreti di sangue. Il worldbuilding è talmente vivido che si percepisce il fumo delle fabbriche e si sente il rumore delle rotaie e il peso di antiche rivalità.
I personaggi mi hanno conquistata. Mi sono rivista tanto in Milla, che porta sulle spalle il peso della sua famiglia e delle aspettative: lei che non si è mai sentita abbastanza, che ha sempre compiaciuto gli altri pur perdendo sé stessa. E poi c’è l’enigmatico e magnetico Nicolai Attano, che mi ha fatto arrossire parecchie volte. Farebbe di tutto per i suoi ideali, per la vendetta e per la sua famiglia.
La storia d’amore mi ha fatto impazzire. La chimica tra i due è elettrica, ogni dialogo è carico di tensione e ogni scontro è esplosivo.
La trama è ricca di colpi di scena, rilevazioni e verità inaspettate con conflitti di potere, misteri, segreti famigliari, alleanze fragili, tradimenti, arcane alleanze, vendetta e poteri magici.
Siamo solo a febbraio, ma per me è già uno dei libri preferiti del 2026 e non verrà spodestato facilmente.
January 21, 2024
That cliffhanger ... broke me. I'm writing this with trembling hands and tears in my eyes.
I want to scream, cry, rage, set them on fire
Actual Rating: 4.5🌟
⇢ What to expect:
∘ Adult Fantasy Romance
∘ Dual POV
∘ Unique Magic System
∘ Post-Industrial Age setting
∘ Morally Grey MMC
∘ Family Secrets
∘ Peaky Blinders vibes
⇢ Tropes:
∘ Marriage of Convenience
∘ "Who did this to you?"
∘ Slowburn
∘ Rivals to Lovers
∘ Touch her/him & die
∘ "Where is my wife?"
House of Bane and Blood is undeniably one of the best books I've come across lately. If you have yet to read a story set in a post-industrial age, consider starting with this one.
Expect unique worldbuilding, complex plot, intricate character dynamics that not only captivate but also burrow under your skin, and a rollercoaster of emotions.
— RTC.
I want to scream, cry, rage, set them on fire
Actual Rating: 4.5🌟
⇢ What to expect:
∘ Adult Fantasy Romance
∘ Dual POV
∘ Unique Magic System
∘ Post-Industrial Age setting
∘ Morally Grey MMC
∘ Family Secrets
∘ Peaky Blinders vibes
⇢ Tropes:
∘ Marriage of Convenience
∘ "Who did this to you?"
∘ Slowburn
∘ Rivals to Lovers
∘ Touch her/him & die
∘ "Where is my wife?"
House of Bane and Blood is undeniably one of the best books I've come across lately. If you have yet to read a story set in a post-industrial age, consider starting with this one.
Expect unique worldbuilding, complex plot, intricate character dynamics that not only captivate but also burrow under your skin, and a rollercoaster of emotions.
— RTC.
March 7, 2024
AAHH BOOK 2 PLEASE
I might have screamed and thrown the book when I finished. In a good way.
🐍🖤
I might have screamed and thrown the book when I finished. In a good way.
🐍🖤
August 2, 2025
it was a struggle to understand the worldbuilding, the lore and all the fantasy elements🫣
the relationship development was sporadic, sometimes chef's kiss, but sometimes lacking.
idk if I will read part 2, so I guess it tells you everything you need to know 👉🏼👈🏼
the relationship development was sporadic, sometimes chef's kiss, but sometimes lacking.
idk if I will read part 2, so I guess it tells you everything you need to know 👉🏼👈🏼
undecided
March 15, 2024― it's inspired by peaky blinders it's inspired by peaky blinders IT'S INSPIRED BY PEAKY BLINDERS
April 8, 2024
THIS WAS INCREDIBLE.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Why did I hesitate to pick this up? The world may never know and I regret not reading this sooner. One of my favorite aspects was the readability. This was written with such ease and flow I could not put it down. I was drawn in from the first few chapters and smitten with the whole plot.
The BANTER and snark and dynamic between Nico and Camilla was everything. I was obsessed with these two and how they interacted. Perfectly heated and torturous where you can clearly see the connection forming between them. I loved Nico. Protective without being a jerk and was absolutely swoony too. One of my favorite micro tropes is when the guy picks out a dress for the girl and this NAILED IT. Camilla was stunning too. She showed a lot of growth throughout as she tackled new information about herself and understanding her spot in the hierarchy of her family.
I loved the setting and vibes this book gave off. It’s dark and gritty, filled with a steam-punk, gilded age aura but add magic. And it WORKS. I am so enthralled by this book. I absolutely can’t wait for book two.
Overall audience notes:
- Fantasy Romance
- Language: low
- Romance: 1 open door; low innuendo
- Violence: high
- Trigger/Content Warnings: tobacco and alcohol use, kidnapping, death of loved ones, gaslighting family members, brief breath play, mentions of suicide (recounted)
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Why did I hesitate to pick this up? The world may never know and I regret not reading this sooner. One of my favorite aspects was the readability. This was written with such ease and flow I could not put it down. I was drawn in from the first few chapters and smitten with the whole plot.
The BANTER and snark and dynamic between Nico and Camilla was everything. I was obsessed with these two and how they interacted. Perfectly heated and torturous where you can clearly see the connection forming between them. I loved Nico. Protective without being a jerk and was absolutely swoony too. One of my favorite micro tropes is when the guy picks out a dress for the girl and this NAILED IT. Camilla was stunning too. She showed a lot of growth throughout as she tackled new information about herself and understanding her spot in the hierarchy of her family.
I loved the setting and vibes this book gave off. It’s dark and gritty, filled with a steam-punk, gilded age aura but add magic. And it WORKS. I am so enthralled by this book. I absolutely can’t wait for book two.
Overall audience notes:
- Fantasy Romance
- Language: low
- Romance: 1 open door; low innuendo
- Violence: high
- Trigger/Content Warnings: tobacco and alcohol use, kidnapping, death of loved ones, gaslighting family members, brief breath play, mentions of suicide (recounted)
July 30, 2025
« Tout ce que tu voudras, je te le donnerai. Je déposerai ce monde à tes pieds, si tu me le demandes. »
Un 4,75⭐️ car il a frôlé la perfection. Honnêtement si vous aimez Peaky Blinder, Tommy Shelby X Kaz Brekker, une FMC Morally Grey qui doit toujours aller à la rescousse de son « faux » mari beaucoup trop ambitieux, un slow burn ennemie to lovers avec de la tension bien dosé, un found family bien écrit, des personnages que vous pensiez connaître mais qui cache une autre facette, un système de magie unique, une fin qui VOUS DONNE ENVIE DE LIRE LE TOME 2 (c'est une duologie)... et bien foncez lire ce livre !!!
« — Je veux t'embrasser.
— Alors pourquoi tu ne l'as pas fait ?
— Tu ne me l'as pas demandé. »
« Je courrais à travers le feu et je brûlerai pour toi. Je perdrai un bras, une jambe ou n'importe quel membre. Je referais tout, en sachant ce qui m'arriverait, si ça signifiait finalement t'avoir comme je t'ai maintenant. »
With all my love,
Lyna 🫶🏻
Un 4,75⭐️ car il a frôlé la perfection. Honnêtement si vous aimez Peaky Blinder, Tommy Shelby X Kaz Brekker, une FMC Morally Grey qui doit toujours aller à la rescousse de son « faux » mari beaucoup trop ambitieux, un slow burn ennemie to lovers avec de la tension bien dosé, un found family bien écrit, des personnages que vous pensiez connaître mais qui cache une autre facette, un système de magie unique, une fin qui VOUS DONNE ENVIE DE LIRE LE TOME 2 (c'est une duologie)... et bien foncez lire ce livre !!!
« — Je veux t'embrasser.
— Alors pourquoi tu ne l'as pas fait ?
— Tu ne me l'as pas demandé. »
« Je courrais à travers le feu et je brûlerai pour toi. Je perdrai un bras, une jambe ou n'importe quel membre. Je referais tout, en sachant ce qui m'arriverait, si ça signifiait finalement t'avoir comme je t'ai maintenant. »
With all my love,
Lyna 🫶🏻
March 30, 2024
⭐️4.5⭐️
Girllll not the first book of the year being an amazing enemiesxlovers, tense, high fantasy, marriage of convenience, epic adventure book like DAMN the bar for my books this year have been set so highhhh
also the book itself has ART OF both mcs??? And theyre so hot????? Like first of all Nico dresses like the peaky blinders men sooooo 🥵🥵🥵. And Milla??? Well she’s just the most badass queen out there!
Cant wait for book 2 ❤️
Girllll not the first book of the year being an amazing enemiesxlovers, tense, high fantasy, marriage of convenience, epic adventure book like DAMN the bar for my books this year have been set so highhhh
also the book itself has ART OF both mcs??? And theyre so hot????? Like first of all Nico dresses like the peaky blinders men sooooo 🥵🥵🥵. And Milla??? Well she’s just the most badass queen out there!
Cant wait for book 2 ❤️
April 26, 2025
The atmosphere gives Ketterdam/Peaky Blinders vibes. I really enjoyed the plot and the romance. It’s arranged marriage, slow burn, and forced proximity!
August 4, 2026
Tropes: Dark Mafia Romantasy, Peaky Blinders Vibes, Rivals to Lovers, Found Family, Marriage of Convenience, Deadly Family, Where is My Wife!?, Metal Hand Daddy
Quotes: "You are what I want every morning when I wake, every need of my flesh, every dream when I close my eyes.”
Review No Spoilers: Set in the smoke filled, post industrial city of Lynchaven, this dark fantasy romance delivers a gripping blend of steampunk aesthetics, mafia family politics, and slow burning romance. Often compared to Peaky Blinders meets the Grishaverse, the novel combines high-stakes intrigue with rich world-building and an unforgettable marriage of convenience storyline.
After the death of her father, Camilla “Milla” Marchese is left fighting to save her family’s once-powerful railway empire from financial ruin. Just as she’s about to enter an arranged marriage meant to rescue the Marchese name, the city’s most feared rival, Nicolai “Nico” Attano, interrupts the ceremony with an offer no one can refuse. He’ll erase her family’s crushing debt but only if she marries him instead.
What begins as a calculated business arrangement quickly evolves into something far more dangerous. With a mysterious serial kidnapper known as The Collector abducting citizens with magical bloodlines, Lynchaven teeters on the edge of chaos. Forced to work together to uncover the truth and prevent an all-out war between rival factions, Milla and Nico find themselves navigating shifting alliances, deadly secrets, and an undeniable attraction neither expected.
The novel excels at balancing political intrigue with emotional depth. The gritty steampunk setting feels immersive, filled with towering railways, industrial grime, and an undercurrent of magic that adds another layer of mystery. Milla is a determined, resilient heroine whose desire to protect her family makes her easy to root for, while Nico is the perfect morally gray love interest charismatic, ruthless, and endlessly intriguing.
The romance is a delicious slow burn, fueled by reluctant trust, sharp banter, and simmering chemistry. Combined with the suspense surrounding The Collector and the ever-present threat of gang warfare, the story keeps the tension high from beginning to end.
Perfect for readers who enjoy dark fantasy romance with arranged marriages, enemies-to-allies dynamics, morally gray heroes, and richly atmospheric worlds, this is an addictive read that seamlessly blends romance, mystery, and steampunk adventure into one captivating story.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Quotes: "You are what I want every morning when I wake, every need of my flesh, every dream when I close my eyes.”
Review No Spoilers: Set in the smoke filled, post industrial city of Lynchaven, this dark fantasy romance delivers a gripping blend of steampunk aesthetics, mafia family politics, and slow burning romance. Often compared to Peaky Blinders meets the Grishaverse, the novel combines high-stakes intrigue with rich world-building and an unforgettable marriage of convenience storyline.
After the death of her father, Camilla “Milla” Marchese is left fighting to save her family’s once-powerful railway empire from financial ruin. Just as she’s about to enter an arranged marriage meant to rescue the Marchese name, the city’s most feared rival, Nicolai “Nico” Attano, interrupts the ceremony with an offer no one can refuse. He’ll erase her family’s crushing debt but only if she marries him instead.
What begins as a calculated business arrangement quickly evolves into something far more dangerous. With a mysterious serial kidnapper known as The Collector abducting citizens with magical bloodlines, Lynchaven teeters on the edge of chaos. Forced to work together to uncover the truth and prevent an all-out war between rival factions, Milla and Nico find themselves navigating shifting alliances, deadly secrets, and an undeniable attraction neither expected.
The novel excels at balancing political intrigue with emotional depth. The gritty steampunk setting feels immersive, filled with towering railways, industrial grime, and an undercurrent of magic that adds another layer of mystery. Milla is a determined, resilient heroine whose desire to protect her family makes her easy to root for, while Nico is the perfect morally gray love interest charismatic, ruthless, and endlessly intriguing.
The romance is a delicious slow burn, fueled by reluctant trust, sharp banter, and simmering chemistry. Combined with the suspense surrounding The Collector and the ever-present threat of gang warfare, the story keeps the tension high from beginning to end.
Perfect for readers who enjoy dark fantasy romance with arranged marriages, enemies-to-allies dynamics, morally gray heroes, and richly atmospheric worlds, this is an addictive read that seamlessly blends romance, mystery, and steampunk adventure into one captivating story.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
September 5, 2025
Si je vous dis univers sombre avec des vibes à la Peaky Blinders et Six of Crows, avec un enemies to lovers, mariage arrangé, et une tension palpable à chaque échange entre les deux personnages, et des retournements de situation qui empêchent de reposer le livre une fois commencé… On est d’accord, on tient là une pépite. 😮💨
J’ai dévoré ce roman du début à la fin. Il cochait absolument toutes les cases pour me plaire; un univers sombre et fascinant mêlé à la magie, une romance addictive, et un rythme captivant. 🥹
On suit Camilla, héritière du chemin de fer de Lynchaven. Sa famille croule sous les dettes et, pour les éponger, elle se retrouve contrainte d’épouser Nicolaï. Un accord qui profite largement à ce dernier… et il compte bien en tirer avantage. 👀
Camilla, comment vous dire… C’est un coup de foudre. Forte, déterminée, refusant catégoriquement de se laisser marcher dessus, et surtout pas par un homme, elle envoie des répliques cinglantes qui m’ont fait sourire à chaque page. Alors imaginez les étincelles quand elle se retrouve face à Nicolaï, qui a lui à un tempérament piquant et un goût du défi, et il adore la provoquer juste pour voir jusqu’où elle ira. 🤭
Et Nicolaï… Je crois bien que j’ai eu un coup de foudre aussi. 🤧 Morally grey, avec une aura de danger façon mafia, charismatique au possible. Dès ses premières apparitions, il a gagné sa place dans ma (longue) liste de bookboyfriends. 🖤
Quant à la romance, j’étais addict ! J’adore la trope mariage arrangé, j’adore encore plus les enemies to lovers, et ici, c’était juste parfait; une vraie raison pour qu’ils se détestent, une tension qui crépite dès les premières pages, et pourtant avec un slow burn bien dosé, qui rend chaque rapprochement explosif.
Et Nicolaï, incarné vraiment LE bookboyfriend dont on rêve toutes avec ces « Qui t’a fait ça ? », « Ne touche pas à ma femme ». 🫠 Il faut absolument me le trouver en vrai celui là.
Le tout est porté par un univers riche avec de la magie, des conflits, des complots, des alliances fragiles et des trahisons. Chaque chapitre apporte son lot de rebondissements et de révélations, rendant la lecture absolument impossible à lâcher, jusqu’à la dernière page.
Bref, ce roman est une vraie une pépite, le genre de lecture qui me rend vraiment accro et je n’ai qu’une envie, c’est de retrouver Camilla et Nicolaï le plus vite possible !
J’ai dévoré ce roman du début à la fin. Il cochait absolument toutes les cases pour me plaire; un univers sombre et fascinant mêlé à la magie, une romance addictive, et un rythme captivant. 🥹
On suit Camilla, héritière du chemin de fer de Lynchaven. Sa famille croule sous les dettes et, pour les éponger, elle se retrouve contrainte d’épouser Nicolaï. Un accord qui profite largement à ce dernier… et il compte bien en tirer avantage. 👀
Camilla, comment vous dire… C’est un coup de foudre. Forte, déterminée, refusant catégoriquement de se laisser marcher dessus, et surtout pas par un homme, elle envoie des répliques cinglantes qui m’ont fait sourire à chaque page. Alors imaginez les étincelles quand elle se retrouve face à Nicolaï, qui a lui à un tempérament piquant et un goût du défi, et il adore la provoquer juste pour voir jusqu’où elle ira. 🤭
Et Nicolaï… Je crois bien que j’ai eu un coup de foudre aussi. 🤧 Morally grey, avec une aura de danger façon mafia, charismatique au possible. Dès ses premières apparitions, il a gagné sa place dans ma (longue) liste de bookboyfriends. 🖤
Quant à la romance, j’étais addict ! J’adore la trope mariage arrangé, j’adore encore plus les enemies to lovers, et ici, c’était juste parfait; une vraie raison pour qu’ils se détestent, une tension qui crépite dès les premières pages, et pourtant avec un slow burn bien dosé, qui rend chaque rapprochement explosif.
Et Nicolaï, incarné vraiment LE bookboyfriend dont on rêve toutes avec ces « Qui t’a fait ça ? », « Ne touche pas à ma femme ». 🫠 Il faut absolument me le trouver en vrai celui là.
Le tout est porté par un univers riche avec de la magie, des conflits, des complots, des alliances fragiles et des trahisons. Chaque chapitre apporte son lot de rebondissements et de révélations, rendant la lecture absolument impossible à lâcher, jusqu’à la dernière page.
Bref, ce roman est une vraie une pépite, le genre de lecture qui me rend vraiment accro et je n’ai qu’une envie, c’est de retrouver Camilla et Nicolaï le plus vite possible !
January 26, 2026
La maison des fléaux et du sang va rester à la maison !!!!🤩🤩🤩
Je ne connaissais pas du tout ce titre. J'ai aimé le résumé. Je l'ai acheté sans aucune attente. Résultat : un coup de cœur énorme !!!!🤩🤩🤩🤩
J'ai adoré les deux personnages principaux ! Que ce soit en terme de passé, d'épreuves, personnalités, humours, et évolutions en solo et en duo, Camilla et Nicolaï sont cool à suivre 🤩 Les suivre ensemble surtout. Avec découvrir les gros plus apportés à l'un par l'autre.
Autre point notoire : l'univers steampunk sombre ! Climat politique et complotiste, la présence de dangereuses créatures, des personnes possèdant des pouvoirs sanguinaires, l'association de tous ces éléments m'a bien gagné !🤩🔴
Il y a de longues phases d'actions 💥 Ça fait plaisir de voir qu'on prend le temps de faire durer ces scènes ! 🤩
Le rythme de l'histoire est tel qu'il n'y a pas moyen de s'ennuyer 😄
Une plume prennante et addictive 😀
Le prologue et l'épilogue sont de bonnes idées dans leurs élaborations 😊
Toutefois, certains éléments n'ont pas été très clairs😬
Le deuxième tome sort bientôt ! Je suis déjà prêt à le prendre !🔥
Je ne connaissais pas du tout ce titre. J'ai aimé le résumé. Je l'ai acheté sans aucune attente. Résultat : un coup de cœur énorme !!!!🤩🤩🤩🤩
J'ai adoré les deux personnages principaux ! Que ce soit en terme de passé, d'épreuves, personnalités, humours, et évolutions en solo et en duo, Camilla et Nicolaï sont cool à suivre 🤩 Les suivre ensemble surtout. Avec découvrir les gros plus apportés à l'un par l'autre.
Autre point notoire : l'univers steampunk sombre ! Climat politique et complotiste, la présence de dangereuses créatures, des personnes possèdant des pouvoirs sanguinaires, l'association de tous ces éléments m'a bien gagné !🤩🔴
Il y a de longues phases d'actions 💥 Ça fait plaisir de voir qu'on prend le temps de faire durer ces scènes ! 🤩
Le rythme de l'histoire est tel qu'il n'y a pas moyen de s'ennuyer 😄
Une plume prennante et addictive 😀
Le prologue et l'épilogue sont de bonnes idées dans leurs élaborations 😊
Toutefois, certains éléments n'ont pas été très clairs😬
Le deuxième tome sort bientôt ! Je suis déjà prêt à le prendre !🔥
August 6, 2025
This book is 🤯 I’m in love!🖤 Obsessed is understatement!
The world building is phenomenal. The story is set in a post-industrial era but with magic. I loved every detail of it!
Main characters? OMG, they are perfect! The chemistry between Camilla and Nicolai is something I’m looking for in every book. Sooo well written, I was giggling everytime they interacted and that was A LOT. The slow burn was chef’s kiss.
The plot is very intriguing, I was sitting at the edge of my seat for the last 100 pages!
This book just sucked me in, I couldn’t put it down. One of the top reads of 2025 for me. This is a must!🖤
“Wanting you isn’t hard, princess. It’s all the rest that makes it difficult.”
- slow burn
- marriage of convenience
- rivals / enemies to lovers
- strong FMC
- found family
- interesting magical system
- political affairs
- post-industrial era with peaky blinders vibes
The world building is phenomenal. The story is set in a post-industrial era but with magic. I loved every detail of it!
Main characters? OMG, they are perfect! The chemistry between Camilla and Nicolai is something I’m looking for in every book. Sooo well written, I was giggling everytime they interacted and that was A LOT. The slow burn was chef’s kiss.
The plot is very intriguing, I was sitting at the edge of my seat for the last 100 pages!
This book just sucked me in, I couldn’t put it down. One of the top reads of 2025 for me. This is a must!🖤
“Wanting you isn’t hard, princess. It’s all the rest that makes it difficult.”
- slow burn
- marriage of convenience
- rivals / enemies to lovers
- strong FMC
- found family
- interesting magical system
- political affairs
- post-industrial era with peaky blinders vibes
November 30, 2024
4.5⭐️
HOW DARE YOU?
HOW DARE YOU?
January 25, 2026
Ganz fiese Cliffhanger
September 11, 2025
Deux clans ennemis dans un univers flirtant avec le steampunk, une intrigue palpitante et une course contre la montre.
Camilla Marchese se retrouve liée bien malgré elle au chef de famille, ennemi de la sienne. Le père de ce dernier a tué le sien. On est sur un trope enemies to lovers très bien agencé et plein de promesses. Par certains aspects, ça m’a rappelé aussi la série Peaky Blinders (pour celleux qui connaissent).
Camilla est l’héritière de sa famille, malgré tout, son besoin de plaire à ses frères fait qu’elle accepte toute leur moindre exigence, ce que ne comprend pas trop le héros, Nico. Entre eux deux, il y a une attirance folle, une véritable alchimie. Mais leur mission est plus importante et les non-dits entachent ce qui pourrait advenir d’une potentielle romance. En parlant de cela, j’ai adoré, c’est super bien fait. On ne sait pas jusqu’au bout. Cela dit, ce n’est pas vraiment un slow burn. Et puis l’univers est innovant avec ces différences entre ceux qui possèdent la magie, les descendants et ceux qui n’en ont pas. On retrouve également tout un panel de créatures comme les vampires ou les métamorphes bien qu’ici, ils aient une autre appellation.
Pour ce qui est de la trame autour du Collecteur qui enlève et tue les Descendants, c’est haletant et on suit les avancés de Nico et Camilla avec plaisir. Camilla est une héroïne pleine de saveur que j’ai beaucoup aimée. Malgré ses faiblesses, elle a une force incroyable et va surprendre plus d’une fois Nico et sa famille.
En parlant de famille, j’ai adoré le found family qu’on retrouve ici avec le clan Attano. La grand-mère de Nico est une sacrée personne, mais je pense aussi à ses cousins et cousines… un vrai plus indéniable à l’histoire !
Dans l’ensemble, je ressors enthousiaste comme jamais avec cette lecture ! Si au début, je ne savais pas trop vers quoi j’allais, les différents rebondissements et le gros plot twist m’ont laissé comme deux ronds de flan. Je ne l’avais pas vu venir et la fin… ce n’est pas possible de terminer comme ça, c’est une pure torture.
Bref. J’ai adoré La Maison de Fléau et de Sang, la plume d’Alexis L. Menard, son univers et son ambiance que je trouve unique et incroyablement immersive ! À lire pour passer un chouette moment.
Camilla Marchese se retrouve liée bien malgré elle au chef de famille, ennemi de la sienne. Le père de ce dernier a tué le sien. On est sur un trope enemies to lovers très bien agencé et plein de promesses. Par certains aspects, ça m’a rappelé aussi la série Peaky Blinders (pour celleux qui connaissent).
Camilla est l’héritière de sa famille, malgré tout, son besoin de plaire à ses frères fait qu’elle accepte toute leur moindre exigence, ce que ne comprend pas trop le héros, Nico. Entre eux deux, il y a une attirance folle, une véritable alchimie. Mais leur mission est plus importante et les non-dits entachent ce qui pourrait advenir d’une potentielle romance. En parlant de cela, j’ai adoré, c’est super bien fait. On ne sait pas jusqu’au bout. Cela dit, ce n’est pas vraiment un slow burn. Et puis l’univers est innovant avec ces différences entre ceux qui possèdent la magie, les descendants et ceux qui n’en ont pas. On retrouve également tout un panel de créatures comme les vampires ou les métamorphes bien qu’ici, ils aient une autre appellation.
Pour ce qui est de la trame autour du Collecteur qui enlève et tue les Descendants, c’est haletant et on suit les avancés de Nico et Camilla avec plaisir. Camilla est une héroïne pleine de saveur que j’ai beaucoup aimée. Malgré ses faiblesses, elle a une force incroyable et va surprendre plus d’une fois Nico et sa famille.
En parlant de famille, j’ai adoré le found family qu’on retrouve ici avec le clan Attano. La grand-mère de Nico est une sacrée personne, mais je pense aussi à ses cousins et cousines… un vrai plus indéniable à l’histoire !
Dans l’ensemble, je ressors enthousiaste comme jamais avec cette lecture ! Si au début, je ne savais pas trop vers quoi j’allais, les différents rebondissements et le gros plot twist m’ont laissé comme deux ronds de flan. Je ne l’avais pas vu venir et la fin… ce n’est pas possible de terminer comme ça, c’est une pure torture.
Bref. J’ai adoré La Maison de Fléau et de Sang, la plume d’Alexis L. Menard, son univers et son ambiance que je trouve unique et incroyablement immersive ! À lire pour passer un chouette moment.
September 24, 2025
This was one of the best romantasy books I’ve read all year. I’ve had this series on my tbr for a while and so when my friend recommended it to me I knew I needed to read it soon. I’ve been in a slump all month but the second I started this book I was excited about reading again. The banter alone was keeping me alive, I mean this man literally had me giggling and kicking my feet over the things he said to her. Nico is now in my top book boyfriends list and I don’t throw that term out lightly with how many books I’ve read. The atmosphere of this world was really cool and unique: steampunk and industrial vibes, gaslamp era, enemy mafia familys, and forbidden magic. I’ve never watched Peaky Blinders, but the two books I’ve read that are compared to it have been phenomenal. If you’re looking for similar vibes to the dark, gritty, underground world of A Forbidden Alchemy, I think you’ll love House of Bane and Blood. The ending of this was insanity and I’m going to be jumping into the sequel as soon as possible to find out what happens next.
June 25, 2024
4.75⭐️
• vibes peaky blinders
• magie et science
• marriage of convenience
• personnages trop hot ;)
• business
• plot twists
• rivals families
Nouveau bookboyfriend débloqué 👀 et je dirais même aussi une bookgirlfriend 😏
Lu le 15/03/2024
• vibes peaky blinders
• magie et science
• marriage of convenience
• personnages trop hot ;)
• business
• plot twists
• rivals families
Nouveau bookboyfriend débloqué 👀 et je dirais même aussi une bookgirlfriend 😏
Lu le 15/03/2024
March 8, 2024
review to come and i need book two now 😭
February 21, 2026
bello bello
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