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Blood and War
Loyalty and love can ruin you. But hope is the deadliest of all.
For ten years Demitria Collins has fought the creatures of nightmares to protect the one person she has left. With a rising string of demon attacks on the forefront, she knows it’s only a matter of time until they’re next.
But when a routine patrol goes awry, and Demitria has a fated encounter with the legendary Horsemen known as War, everything she fought for is threatened. Including her life.
Kellan, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, has been sent to Earth by the High Council of Eden to restore the balance with his siblings. Dispatched on their newest assignment, he expected the task to be simple. Not for his charge to be human.
When a split second decision leaves even more blood on his hands, Kellan has questions for the council– Ones they won't answer.
The warrior should embody everything Demitria hates, but a growing darkness forces them into an unlikely allegiance to uncover a deadly truth. When an inexplicable pull complicates matters even worse, and that unyielding hostility turns into something beautiful and fiery that breaks through every belief they’ve ever had, both know the consequences will be deadly.
But together, they might stand a chance to restore order before the ultimate destruction of a planet that she, and the High Council, hold dear.
BLOOD & WAR is a new adult romantasy by debut author Belle Walker. Combining the epic journey and heart stopping romance of A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES, the scorching spice from FALL OF RUIN AND WRATH, and the dark vibes of SUPERNATURAL, this story will appeal to fans of heated romance with high stakes!
For ten years Demitria Collins has fought the creatures of nightmares to protect the one person she has left. With a rising string of demon attacks on the forefront, she knows it’s only a matter of time until they’re next.
But when a routine patrol goes awry, and Demitria has a fated encounter with the legendary Horsemen known as War, everything she fought for is threatened. Including her life.
Kellan, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, has been sent to Earth by the High Council of Eden to restore the balance with his siblings. Dispatched on their newest assignment, he expected the task to be simple. Not for his charge to be human.
When a split second decision leaves even more blood on his hands, Kellan has questions for the council– Ones they won't answer.
The warrior should embody everything Demitria hates, but a growing darkness forces them into an unlikely allegiance to uncover a deadly truth. When an inexplicable pull complicates matters even worse, and that unyielding hostility turns into something beautiful and fiery that breaks through every belief they’ve ever had, both know the consequences will be deadly.
But together, they might stand a chance to restore order before the ultimate destruction of a planet that she, and the High Council, hold dear.
BLOOD & WAR is a new adult romantasy by debut author Belle Walker. Combining the epic journey and heart stopping romance of A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES, the scorching spice from FALL OF RUIN AND WRATH, and the dark vibes of SUPERNATURAL, this story will appeal to fans of heated romance with high stakes!
398 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2024
176 people are currently reading
7981 people want to read
About the author
Belle Walker
1 book70 followersBelle Walker grew up on the west coast of beautiful Vancouver Island where fantastical worlds with romance and otherworldly creatures quickly became her obsession from a young age. With a penchant for heart stopping romance in everything she writes, Belle loves anything magical. When not creating epic worlds, you can find her enjoying the beautiful outdoors with her husband, pair of wildling children, and their two golden retrievers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
October 8, 2024
I haven’t read a good 4 horseman of the apocalypse book in quite some time and I LOVED this one!
It follows War. He has been sent to take out a human who is destined to unbalance the world. But when he gets to her, everything changes.
Demi is a survivor. She’s been fighting her entire life and barely scrapping by in a world that’s already seen the end of days. Now there’s a bounty on her head and every demon, angel and horseman is coming to collect. But when the horseman gets to her first, she makes him question everything he has ever known.
This story took such an unexpected turn and I loved it!
It follows War. He has been sent to take out a human who is destined to unbalance the world. But when he gets to her, everything changes.
Demi is a survivor. She’s been fighting her entire life and barely scrapping by in a world that’s already seen the end of days. Now there’s a bounty on her head and every demon, angel and horseman is coming to collect. But when the horseman gets to her first, she makes him question everything he has ever known.
This story took such an unexpected turn and I loved it!
September 25, 2024
I wanted to like this book. The premise is so good! On top of that I was given the book as an ARC.
Unfortunately, the book fell short for me. I DNF’ed the book at 68%. So much of the book is spent traveling. Traveling to this cave, that cave, this trade outpost that community. I struggled to get through to the next page. I found myself constantly asking, “why is this important?!” The book really didn’t start getting interesting until after 50% book. That’s too long for me. I want to be hooked in and kept interested throughout the book.
There’s lots of repetition. The FMC constantly talks about Jace and her community and her people. Yes yes I get it. Let’s move on with the plot.
Also, I don’t understand why the ascension occurred in the first place?
I wasn’t feeling the chemistry between the FMC and War.
The writing was done well. Just the pacing and plot didn’t deliver.
Unfortunately, the book fell short for me. I DNF’ed the book at 68%. So much of the book is spent traveling. Traveling to this cave, that cave, this trade outpost that community. I struggled to get through to the next page. I found myself constantly asking, “why is this important?!” The book really didn’t start getting interesting until after 50% book. That’s too long for me. I want to be hooked in and kept interested throughout the book.
There’s lots of repetition. The FMC constantly talks about Jace and her community and her people. Yes yes I get it. Let’s move on with the plot.
Also, I don’t understand why the ascension occurred in the first place?
I wasn’t feeling the chemistry between the FMC and War.
The writing was done well. Just the pacing and plot didn’t deliver.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2024
A solid 3.5 so I rounded up to 4 since this was an ARC read.
I really struggled through 60% of the book and put it down to take breaks several times. And then I felt the author really found their footing.
There is a lot of just travel, something happens but it’s fast, and then back to travel. The pacing felt off to me. There were a few times when I wondered why the author bothered to have multiple POV when you could get in the other characters heads in any POV. It could use some tune ups there. This book had more typos than any other ARCs I’ve had but I didn’t hold that against it. I also didn’t really feel chemistry between the two main love interests.
The ending though. It really clipped along. I felt much more like I wanted to hear the rest. The way it ended definitely makes me feel ready for book two. If the first half of the book matched the story and pace of the second half I would have rated higher.
I really struggled through 60% of the book and put it down to take breaks several times. And then I felt the author really found their footing.
There is a lot of just travel, something happens but it’s fast, and then back to travel. The pacing felt off to me. There were a few times when I wondered why the author bothered to have multiple POV when you could get in the other characters heads in any POV. It could use some tune ups there. This book had more typos than any other ARCs I’ve had but I didn’t hold that against it. I also didn’t really feel chemistry between the two main love interests.
The ending though. It really clipped along. I felt much more like I wanted to hear the rest. The way it ended definitely makes me feel ready for book two. If the first half of the book matched the story and pace of the second half I would have rated higher.
October 15, 2024
This is such a unique spin on a post-apocalyptic story in a world overrun by demons and angelic forces where humans are just trying to survive.
Kellan, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, who is sent to Earth to restore balance by removing Demitria from the board. Demitria is a fierce and determined heroine that I liked. I really enjoyed the sweet bond between Demi and Kellan. I appreciated that their connection felt surprisingly healthy, especially in a genre where romance can sometimes lean toward toxic dynamics. Their evolving partnership brings warmth to an otherwise dark and chaotic setting, and their growth together is one of the more satisfying elements of the story. The bond between Demitria and Jace is one of my favorite parts —a heartfelt sibling relationship that adds something sweet to the chaos and war that surrounds them.
That being said, I struggled with the pacing. While the setup is compelling—combining post-apocalyptic survival with supernatural elements—the story often felt like it was moving in fits and starts. Some parts dragged, and I struggled to stay fully engaged at times. While Demitria and Kellan were likable, and Jace added a sweet familial element, I never felt fully immersed in their emotional journeys.
That said, it was interesting enough to continue. And with that ending, I can't imagine where things might go from here. It’s still worth checking out. It’s a solid read with some memorable moments, even if it didn’t fully land for me.
Thanks to The NerdFam for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own and this review is voluntary.
Kellan, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, who is sent to Earth to restore balance by removing Demitria from the board. Demitria is a fierce and determined heroine that I liked. I really enjoyed the sweet bond between Demi and Kellan. I appreciated that their connection felt surprisingly healthy, especially in a genre where romance can sometimes lean toward toxic dynamics. Their evolving partnership brings warmth to an otherwise dark and chaotic setting, and their growth together is one of the more satisfying elements of the story. The bond between Demitria and Jace is one of my favorite parts —a heartfelt sibling relationship that adds something sweet to the chaos and war that surrounds them.
That being said, I struggled with the pacing. While the setup is compelling—combining post-apocalyptic survival with supernatural elements—the story often felt like it was moving in fits and starts. Some parts dragged, and I struggled to stay fully engaged at times. While Demitria and Kellan were likable, and Jace added a sweet familial element, I never felt fully immersed in their emotional journeys.
That said, it was interesting enough to continue. And with that ending, I can't imagine where things might go from here. It’s still worth checking out. It’s a solid read with some memorable moments, even if it didn’t fully land for me.
Thanks to The NerdFam for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own and this review is voluntary.
July 26, 2024
eARC Book Review
Book: Blood & War by Belle Walker
5/5 ⭐️
“She may be flawed, but she was not broken.”
WHAT. A. DEBUT!
Walker has crafted a unique Earth-based, post-apocalyptic/dystopian fantasy filled with heart (and heartbreak). Angels, demons, humans (and more) make up this fast-paced narrative.
I loved Demitria. I loved her fierceness, her rage, her softness, her surety; her humanity. She’s a better person than I. She was such a wonderful protagonist to root for and was someone you wanted to see succeed at every turn. I felt connected to her and the emotions she felt, the ease at which she’d cry (because hi, SAME), and the way she fights for those she loves. I can truly feel the care with which Walker crafted Demitria.
Kellan was *chef’s kiss*. I love me a baddie MMC turned-softie-do-anything-for-your-girl type.
I loved the way Walker portrayed that release of holding onto guilt for things that aren’t our fault. Of healing and acceptance. Of being true to ourselves even if the world is telling us to be something else.
10/10 smut.
Ummm that ending?! Hello? Can I have book 2 now, Belle??? No? Please!!
My only gripe is I needed the twins to suffer (immensely) 🤣
Absolutely canNOT wait for the sequel!!
Book: Blood & War by Belle Walker
5/5 ⭐️
“She may be flawed, but she was not broken.”
WHAT. A. DEBUT!
Walker has crafted a unique Earth-based, post-apocalyptic/dystopian fantasy filled with heart (and heartbreak). Angels, demons, humans (and more) make up this fast-paced narrative.
I loved Demitria. I loved her fierceness, her rage, her softness, her surety; her humanity. She’s a better person than I. She was such a wonderful protagonist to root for and was someone you wanted to see succeed at every turn. I felt connected to her and the emotions she felt, the ease at which she’d cry (because hi, SAME), and the way she fights for those she loves. I can truly feel the care with which Walker crafted Demitria.
Kellan was *chef’s kiss*. I love me a baddie MMC turned-softie-do-anything-for-your-girl type.
I loved the way Walker portrayed that release of holding onto guilt for things that aren’t our fault. Of healing and acceptance. Of being true to ourselves even if the world is telling us to be something else.
10/10 smut.
Ummm that ending?! Hello? Can I have book 2 now, Belle??? No? Please!!
My only gripe is I needed the twins to suffer (immensely) 🤣
Absolutely canNOT wait for the sequel!!
October 9, 2024
This was the first four horsemen retelling I’ve read so I don’t have anything to compare it to, but I absolutely loved this concept. This gave me the same feeling as The Witch Collector with a man tasked with killing a girl but ending up allying with her on an adventure where he protects her from anything. I’ve been searching for a book with similar vibes and I’m so glad I finally found it. I really enjoyed this dark world filled with angels and demons. The powers of the horsemen were really cool and I loved their different personalities. Kellan was a calm and protective male main character with a gruesome past that he still harbors guilt over. The way he cared for her was so sweet, and I found their healthy relationship refreshing in a sea of semi-toxic romantasy couples. This was a great start to a series and I’m excited to see where it goes next.
October 29, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
♡ Post Apocalyptic
♡ Four Horsemen
♡ Demons/Angels
♡ Enemies to Lovers
♡ Captive/Captor
♡ Strong FMC
♡ Morally Grey MMC
In this post-apocalyptic world, survival is the most important thing. Demitria has nothing left except for her childhood best friend, Jace, and the small community they are a part of. Demon attacks are increasing, and somehow, Demitria gains the attention of not only the demons but also angels and the four Horsemen.
This is a "soft" enemies to lovers, in my opinion, but definitely a forbidden romance given the consequences of such a pairing.
Both MCs struggle with their worth and guilt from their last. Demitria for being a survivor. Kellan, for things he has done in the name of War.
"Despite what others think, you're good, Kellan. Genuine. Kind."
The pacing is a little slow, but I was invested enough to keep with it. Just a warning, if you're expecting answers by the end of book one, you won't get any. 😂 But it did set up for book 2. Maybe we'll get some answers there?
Thank you to the Nerd Fam for gifting me and advanced reader copy!
🌶🌶
♡ Post Apocalyptic
♡ Four Horsemen
♡ Demons/Angels
♡ Enemies to Lovers
♡ Captive/Captor
♡ Strong FMC
♡ Morally Grey MMC
In this post-apocalyptic world, survival is the most important thing. Demitria has nothing left except for her childhood best friend, Jace, and the small community they are a part of. Demon attacks are increasing, and somehow, Demitria gains the attention of not only the demons but also angels and the four Horsemen.
This is a "soft" enemies to lovers, in my opinion, but definitely a forbidden romance given the consequences of such a pairing.
Both MCs struggle with their worth and guilt from their last. Demitria for being a survivor. Kellan, for things he has done in the name of War.
"Despite what others think, you're good, Kellan. Genuine. Kind."
The pacing is a little slow, but I was invested enough to keep with it. Just a warning, if you're expecting answers by the end of book one, you won't get any. 😂 But it did set up for book 2. Maybe we'll get some answers there?
Thank you to the Nerd Fam for gifting me and advanced reader copy!
August 21, 2024
✨Blood and War✨
In the post-apocalyptic world where Fallout meets The Four Horseman, we get to delve into a dying world riddled with demons and angels.
It’s been ten years since the ascension and the deaths of Demitria and Jace’s family. They’re all each other have left and the demon raids continue to increase. When a patrol goes wrong, Demi finds herself kidnapped by one of the Four Horsemen, War. But Kellan’s (War) mission takes a turn when he realizes his target isn’t who he was told.
Demi and Kellan now venture to seek answers. With her community turning on her, demons attacking her, and the High Council avoiding assistance, twists and turns in a dying land abound.
This book was really fun and unique! The Horsemen, angels, and creatures are dark, morally grey, and yet -in some cases- lovable. The tension is 🔥. The mystery elusive. I enjoyed the compassion of the FMC who has lost everything and been given no choice for her circumstances. Her friendship with Jace is so incredible. And our Kellan, he is fierce, deadly, but maybe a bit of a burnt cinnamon roll just for her. 🤭
Tropes you may find in BAW are forbidden love, morally grey MMC, demons and angels, dual POV, forced proximity, post-apocalyptic lands, horse sidekick, spooky vibes, enemies to reluctant allis to lovers, knife to throat, and slow burn to spice 2/5.
Thank you, Belle, for this gifted arc! I can’t wait to see what’s next in store for our characters!
In the post-apocalyptic world where Fallout meets The Four Horseman, we get to delve into a dying world riddled with demons and angels.
It’s been ten years since the ascension and the deaths of Demitria and Jace’s family. They’re all each other have left and the demon raids continue to increase. When a patrol goes wrong, Demi finds herself kidnapped by one of the Four Horsemen, War. But Kellan’s (War) mission takes a turn when he realizes his target isn’t who he was told.
Demi and Kellan now venture to seek answers. With her community turning on her, demons attacking her, and the High Council avoiding assistance, twists and turns in a dying land abound.
This book was really fun and unique! The Horsemen, angels, and creatures are dark, morally grey, and yet -in some cases- lovable. The tension is 🔥. The mystery elusive. I enjoyed the compassion of the FMC who has lost everything and been given no choice for her circumstances. Her friendship with Jace is so incredible. And our Kellan, he is fierce, deadly, but maybe a bit of a burnt cinnamon roll just for her. 🤭
Tropes you may find in BAW are forbidden love, morally grey MMC, demons and angels, dual POV, forced proximity, post-apocalyptic lands, horse sidekick, spooky vibes, enemies to reluctant allis to lovers, knife to throat, and slow burn to spice 2/5.
Thank you, Belle, for this gifted arc! I can’t wait to see what’s next in store for our characters!
October 14, 2024
I struggled with rating this book because this books plot is absolutely wonderful. BUT, I wasnt pulled in as much as I could’ve been for a decent amount in the beginning of the book. I feel that for a good chunk of the book the romance really takes the back seat. Then once the romance gets attention its a fast burn. I can say that once the romance was heavily added into the story, I was much more invested. I loved the dystopian, four horsemen storyline, it really is so good. This being said the romance is established, I will be following this author for book 2 because of that ending…
This is a consuming fantasy romance. The romance in this book is a forbidden romance. The book is not very spicy, but the spice it does have is fairly descriptive. The book moves at a steady pace following Demitria, as she meets one of the four horseman who is sent to kill her to restore balance. Only once he meets her he realizes things don’t add up, and they set on a path for answers. The answers they find could cost them not only their lives but so much more. This book is full of intrigue, excitement, and romance with its original story that will have you saying one more chapter until the last one.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
This is a consuming fantasy romance. The romance in this book is a forbidden romance. The book is not very spicy, but the spice it does have is fairly descriptive. The book moves at a steady pace following Demitria, as she meets one of the four horseman who is sent to kill her to restore balance. Only once he meets her he realizes things don’t add up, and they set on a path for answers. The answers they find could cost them not only their lives but so much more. This book is full of intrigue, excitement, and romance with its original story that will have you saying one more chapter until the last one.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
October 10, 2024
⭐️:3.5
🌶️:2/5
Slowburn, enemies to lovers, romantasy, four horsemen, post apocalyptic world
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC. #bloodandwar #thenerdfam
Demetria has lost every single person she’s cared about except one. And she cannot lose him. They live in a post apocalyptic world where angels and demons exist and destroy every thing in their wake. One day during a routine patrol, Demetria meets one of the Horseman, War who claims he was sent to unal!v3 her.
Kellan is one of the four horseman, War. He and his siblings were sent to earth to restore balance…which happens to be unal!ving Demetria, who he realizes is a human. How could the balance of earth depend on the life of one measly human?
Kellan wants answers and the only way to get them is to find his siblings and keep Demetria alive…for now
The story really accelerated after War and Demetria meet. I love the tension between them and how feisty Demetria is.
The ending was unexpected and a little abrupt though. I’m gonna need a book two coz that cliffhanger k!led me lol.
🌶️:2/5
Slowburn, enemies to lovers, romantasy, four horsemen, post apocalyptic world
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC. #bloodandwar #thenerdfam
Demetria has lost every single person she’s cared about except one. And she cannot lose him. They live in a post apocalyptic world where angels and demons exist and destroy every thing in their wake. One day during a routine patrol, Demetria meets one of the Horseman, War who claims he was sent to unal!v3 her.
Kellan is one of the four horseman, War. He and his siblings were sent to earth to restore balance…which happens to be unal!ving Demetria, who he realizes is a human. How could the balance of earth depend on the life of one measly human?
Kellan wants answers and the only way to get them is to find his siblings and keep Demetria alive…for now
The story really accelerated after War and Demetria meet. I love the tension between them and how feisty Demetria is.
The ending was unexpected and a little abrupt though. I’m gonna need a book two coz that cliffhanger k!led me lol.
October 15, 2024
This is a post apocalyptic story about the 4 horseman and a mere human. Demitria has been trying to stay alive for 10 years now while demons and dark creatures attack her world.
War(MMC) is sent to earth to destroy Demitria but his curiosity gets the best of him and he gets sidetracked in his mission.
The potential for this book was there but the execution didn't keep me wanting more, it was a lot of thoughts with little action, it's a good debut fantasy novel. Thank you Belle Walker for sending me this eARC.
War(MMC) is sent to earth to destroy Demitria but his curiosity gets the best of him and he gets sidetracked in his mission.
The potential for this book was there but the execution didn't keep me wanting more, it was a lot of thoughts with little action, it's a good debut fantasy novel. Thank you Belle Walker for sending me this eARC.
October 14, 2024
3/5 Stars
Thank you to The Nerd Farm for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book had a lot of potential, I enjoyed the fantasy and magic system aspect as well as the plot. Unfortunately, there was an overall lack of development which caused me to not become emotionally invested in the characters and the story.
Thank you to The Nerd Farm for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book had a lot of potential, I enjoyed the fantasy and magic system aspect as well as the plot. Unfortunately, there was an overall lack of development which caused me to not become emotionally invested in the characters and the story.
October 30, 2024
This was the perfect post apocalyptic/dystopian fantasy, with a forbidden romance you can't help but cheer on!
If you love a fierce and selfless fmc, Demetria is that girl.
If you're drawn to a scarred and tormented mmc, with a dark past, Kellan will capture your heart.
"Despite what others think, you're good Kellan." She smiled up at him. Genuine. Kind.
Desperate for book 2
THE ENDING!!!
If you love a fierce and selfless fmc, Demetria is that girl.
If you're drawn to a scarred and tormented mmc, with a dark past, Kellan will capture your heart.
"Despite what others think, you're good Kellan." She smiled up at him. Genuine. Kind.
Desperate for book 2
THE ENDING!!!
August 25, 2024
“‘The fear you smell is nothing but your own.’ She growled. Turning with him, meeting his gaze every step of the way. She wouldn’t be afraid, not anymore. She was strong, and she was still standing.”
Forbidden love. ❤️🔥 Enemies to lovers. ⚔️ Touch her and die. ⚰️ Tortured souls bonding. ❤️🩹Falling for your captor. ⛓️💥 Found family. 👩🏼❤️👨🏼
Four Horseman. Post apocalyptic world. Angels. Demons.
Demetria Collins is a force to be reckoned with who refuses to bow to anyone. In her post apocalyptic world, she is fierce and determined. With a tortured past that haunts her, she will defend her community and sacrifice herself for a chance to save the ones she loves. When she is hunted by both sides of the supernatural war that has taken over her home land, she is forced to question everything she believes in to get her answers.
“She may be flawed, but she was not broken.”
Kellan is the horseman of war. Known for being brutal and destructive. He follows orders and doesn’t ask questions. Feared by all humans, until he meets Demetria. After one encounter with her, he is left with nothing but questions and will have to go against everything he stands for to learn the answers to those questions.
“‘I don’t claim to know about your past beyond what has been said,’ She started, slowly meeting his piercing gaze. ‘But from what I gather, you and I have shared similar fates. Bound to those we love to a fault, and doomed to a life we can’t live.’”
Belle Walker has made an INCREDIBLE debut! This was such a fun and emotional read. I was invested in the characters and the story. I CAN’T WAIT for the sequel!!! Fans of Supernatural, The Walking Dead, adventure and romance with a dark twist RUN to get lost in your next favorite world and adventure!
eARC Book review: review believed in, not paid for. THANK YOU, Belle for giving me the chance to read this extraordinary story before release! And thank you for sharing your work with all of us!
Forbidden love. ❤️🔥 Enemies to lovers. ⚔️ Touch her and die. ⚰️ Tortured souls bonding. ❤️🩹Falling for your captor. ⛓️💥 Found family. 👩🏼❤️👨🏼
Four Horseman. Post apocalyptic world. Angels. Demons.
Demetria Collins is a force to be reckoned with who refuses to bow to anyone. In her post apocalyptic world, she is fierce and determined. With a tortured past that haunts her, she will defend her community and sacrifice herself for a chance to save the ones she loves. When she is hunted by both sides of the supernatural war that has taken over her home land, she is forced to question everything she believes in to get her answers.
“She may be flawed, but she was not broken.”
Kellan is the horseman of war. Known for being brutal and destructive. He follows orders and doesn’t ask questions. Feared by all humans, until he meets Demetria. After one encounter with her, he is left with nothing but questions and will have to go against everything he stands for to learn the answers to those questions.
“‘I don’t claim to know about your past beyond what has been said,’ She started, slowly meeting his piercing gaze. ‘But from what I gather, you and I have shared similar fates. Bound to those we love to a fault, and doomed to a life we can’t live.’”
Belle Walker has made an INCREDIBLE debut! This was such a fun and emotional read. I was invested in the characters and the story. I CAN’T WAIT for the sequel!!! Fans of Supernatural, The Walking Dead, adventure and romance with a dark twist RUN to get lost in your next favorite world and adventure!
eARC Book review: review believed in, not paid for. THANK YOU, Belle for giving me the chance to read this extraordinary story before release! And thank you for sharing your work with all of us!
November 25, 2024
It was really hard for me to get through this.
The dialogue was not good and the FMC spent 90% of the book talking to herself in her head. I enjoy some internal turmoil and such but this was too much. The book doesn't pick up until about halfway through and it still was dull...
I tried to pick this up so many times in the past month but just wasn't for me
The dialogue was not good and the FMC spent 90% of the book talking to herself in her head. I enjoy some internal turmoil and such but this was too much. The book doesn't pick up until about halfway through and it still was dull...
I tried to pick this up so many times in the past month but just wasn't for me
October 15, 2024
I was immediately drawn to the unique elements of Blood and War by Belle Walker, a fresh take on the Four Horsemen tale. The setup of a dying world, the presence of angels and demons, and a story of forbidden love amidst it all make this dark fantasy a perfect read for this fall. Blood and War, released yesterday, October 15th, is now available for you to immerse yourself in this unique world.
Belle Walker's writing brings to life an apocalyptic world where death and monsters rule, and the bravest fight back. This is the world Demitria Collins lives in. And this is the world where we meet Kellan, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, sent to restore the balance with his siblings. But everything he knows will be tested once Demetria crosses his path.
I loved the growing tension between them and how they slowly built their relationship, given that they started as enemies. Kellan's unwavering devotion and care were beautiful to see, as well as the protection he offered her, even against his siblings.
As the first book in Belle's dark fantasy series, Blood and War serves as a captivating introduction to the world she has crafted. While some questions are answered, there are many more mysteries to unravel.
Blood and War will offer you the following:
- dark & postapocalyptic setting
- angels & demons
- Four Horsemen
- forbidden love
- forced proximity
- enemies to allies to lovers
- slow-burn
and an enthralling tale to keep you on the edge of your seat!
Belle Walker's writing brings to life an apocalyptic world where death and monsters rule, and the bravest fight back. This is the world Demitria Collins lives in. And this is the world where we meet Kellan, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, sent to restore the balance with his siblings. But everything he knows will be tested once Demetria crosses his path.
I loved the growing tension between them and how they slowly built their relationship, given that they started as enemies. Kellan's unwavering devotion and care were beautiful to see, as well as the protection he offered her, even against his siblings.
As the first book in Belle's dark fantasy series, Blood and War serves as a captivating introduction to the world she has crafted. While some questions are answered, there are many more mysteries to unravel.
Blood and War will offer you the following:
- dark & postapocalyptic setting
- angels & demons
- Four Horsemen
- forbidden love
- forced proximity
- enemies to allies to lovers
- slow-burn
and an enthralling tale to keep you on the edge of your seat!
October 21, 2024
I thought this was a very intriguing and well thought out book! I really enjoyed this author’s take on a four Horsemen story as well; it was done in a way I haven’t read before.
Starting with our main character Demetria, she was strong and strong willed but wasn’t afraid to show her soft side and lean on those closest to her when she needed to. And I absolutely loved her relationship with Jace, her longtime friend who’s been with her through literally any hardship you can think of, they went through it together, ha! Also, I loved how they didn’t push a romantic relationship between these two characters, and truly just showed how friendship can be one of the best bonds one can have.
The MMC, Kellen, man did that guy just need a hug. Being one of the horsemen and being whipped around by people all his life really made me love how his initial relationship with Demetria was so rocky at the start. Though, through it all, he eventually opened himself up to love, even though it is forbidden.
I thoroughly, thoroughly enjoyed this book. I thought the characters were very well written all their motivations made sense. The writing in this was awesome for a new-ish writer, and I can assume the story getting more intense and interesting from here since we were left on a cliffhanger. I’m excited to see what book 2 has in store, and where the characters will go from there. 5/5 stars
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC. #bloodandwar #thenerdfam
Starting with our main character Demetria, she was strong and strong willed but wasn’t afraid to show her soft side and lean on those closest to her when she needed to. And I absolutely loved her relationship with Jace, her longtime friend who’s been with her through literally any hardship you can think of, they went through it together, ha! Also, I loved how they didn’t push a romantic relationship between these two characters, and truly just showed how friendship can be one of the best bonds one can have.
The MMC, Kellen, man did that guy just need a hug. Being one of the horsemen and being whipped around by people all his life really made me love how his initial relationship with Demetria was so rocky at the start. Though, through it all, he eventually opened himself up to love, even though it is forbidden.
I thoroughly, thoroughly enjoyed this book. I thought the characters were very well written all their motivations made sense. The writing in this was awesome for a new-ish writer, and I can assume the story getting more intense and interesting from here since we were left on a cliffhanger. I’m excited to see what book 2 has in store, and where the characters will go from there. 5/5 stars
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC. #bloodandwar #thenerdfam
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
October 16, 2024Deciding to DNF at 56%
In deciding to DNF this book, I have been reading on it for about 3 weeks, and only just over halfway through. I can usually get through a book in about 3-4 days normally, and this one was just not really pulling me in.
I liked the concept of the story and the post apocalyptic world, but in the half of the book it felt like we hadn't really gotten very far in the plot, and it felt a bit repetitive to me at times. Then enter Kellan, who hates her, and she hates him. There was no chemistry in my opinion. They LOATHE each other, very reluctantly save each other, and have a single night that they talk, and then besides just kind of staring at each others bodies from time to time, that's kind of it. He then goes on to talk about how "She's changing him" --like, you guys have had a single positive interaction. I don't know it wasn't for me. I saw other reviewers saying the book picked up in the last quarter, but I was reading this one less and less and its already almost been a month.
There's a good chance this was some of my own personal hang-ups.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC of this book, and the opportunity to read this early!
In deciding to DNF this book, I have been reading on it for about 3 weeks, and only just over halfway through. I can usually get through a book in about 3-4 days normally, and this one was just not really pulling me in.
I liked the concept of the story and the post apocalyptic world, but in the half of the book it felt like we hadn't really gotten very far in the plot, and it felt a bit repetitive to me at times. Then enter Kellan, who hates her, and she hates him. There was no chemistry in my opinion. They LOATHE each other, very reluctantly save each other, and have a single night that they talk, and then besides just kind of staring at each others bodies from time to time, that's kind of it. He then goes on to talk about how "She's changing him" --like, you guys have had a single positive interaction. I don't know it wasn't for me. I saw other reviewers saying the book picked up in the last quarter, but I was reading this one less and less and its already almost been a month.
There's a good chance this was some of my own personal hang-ups.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC of this book, and the opportunity to read this early!
September 30, 2024
3.5 stars. Overall I enjoyed this book! I feel like the world building was lacking a bit; I wanted more and was a little confused on the whole concept. There were some holes it seemed in the reader getting the whole picture of the world especially with the horsemen and their background. (Why and how was kellan with the dark king? What exactly is the distinction between the different species: horsemen and the fallen and nephilim and the demons?) I understand that basically demons came to earth and so did nephilim but then they became fallen because of it? Maybe I just missed some of this, but the whole apocalyptic world and how it came to be could have used some more explanation. Honestly, I feel like a prologue with a brief synopsis about the ascension and the different species would do a lot for the book.
That being said, the writing was good and the characters were fun. I do wish the relationship between Kellan and Demitria had been a little more developed. They kind of went from zero to sixty pretty quickly without any of the nuance of an “enemies to lovers” type story.
The plot and the characters has great potential though and I think with the next book (hopefully) we’ll get a little bit more of the background story and a more developed relationship between our main characters. I have hope for the series, and I did enjoy the story!
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC. #bloodandwar #thenerdfam
That being said, the writing was good and the characters were fun. I do wish the relationship between Kellan and Demitria had been a little more developed. They kind of went from zero to sixty pretty quickly without any of the nuance of an “enemies to lovers” type story.
The plot and the characters has great potential though and I think with the next book (hopefully) we’ll get a little bit more of the background story and a more developed relationship between our main characters. I have hope for the series, and I did enjoy the story!
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC. #bloodandwar #thenerdfam
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 24, 2024
Set in an apocalyptic world, where demons & angels fight for control and humans are stuck in the middle trying to survive. Demitria is trying to support and protect her community, when the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse are sent to kill her. Kellan, the Horseman of War, finds himself unable to kill her to keep the balance and is drawn inexplicably towards her.
I thought the story line was really interesting and I loved the demons vs angels backstory, with the inclusion of the Horsemen as I thought it refreshing from other fantasy books. Occasionally the pace was slower than I’d like, before really ramping up for the action sections and it didn’t build as much as I’d have liked towards the end. I love Kellan as a brooding MMC but I felt there could have been more of a build / chemistry between him and Demitria. The ending however, left me wanting more and I’m now impatiently waiting for the next instalment so I can find out what happens next.
I was lucky enough to receive an eARC for this book.
I thought the story line was really interesting and I loved the demons vs angels backstory, with the inclusion of the Horsemen as I thought it refreshing from other fantasy books. Occasionally the pace was slower than I’d like, before really ramping up for the action sections and it didn’t build as much as I’d have liked towards the end. I love Kellan as a brooding MMC but I felt there could have been more of a build / chemistry between him and Demitria. The ending however, left me wanting more and I’m now impatiently waiting for the next instalment so I can find out what happens next.
I was lucky enough to receive an eARC for this book.
October 4, 2024
I thought this was a decent debut. Nothing that really grabbed hold of me and kept me overly invested, but nothing wrong with the story either.
I was expecting a little more mayhem from the Four Horsemen and that sort of failed, although the main MMC War (Kellan) does go through a pretty aggressive spot at the end there.
This was a true enemies to lovers as War was sent to eliminate Dimitria and then they end up falling for each other over the span of a few weeks.
Dimitria also has a very close knit relationship with Jace, whom she grew up with. Their relationship was sweet as they are each other's life raft.
I'm intrigued after the ending to see how the characters progress in the next book.
Read if you love:
-Angels and Demons
-Four horsemen
-Dystopian setting
-Touch her and die
-Enemies to lovers
Thank you to The Nerd Fam and the author for the eARC. My thoughts are entirely my own.
Finish date: 10/3/24, Release date: 10/15/24
I was expecting a little more mayhem from the Four Horsemen and that sort of failed, although the main MMC War (Kellan) does go through a pretty aggressive spot at the end there.
This was a true enemies to lovers as War was sent to eliminate Dimitria and then they end up falling for each other over the span of a few weeks.
Dimitria also has a very close knit relationship with Jace, whom she grew up with. Their relationship was sweet as they are each other's life raft.
I'm intrigued after the ending to see how the characters progress in the next book.
Read if you love:
-Angels and Demons
-Four horsemen
-Dystopian setting
-Touch her and die
-Enemies to lovers
Thank you to The Nerd Fam and the author for the eARC. My thoughts are entirely my own.
Finish date: 10/3/24, Release date: 10/15/24
October 14, 2024
I truly enjoyed this story. The world was interesting and the characters relatable.
I really liked Demetria as an FMC. She was strong, determined, and fierce. Nothing about her annoyed me.
I loved Kellen as an MMC. Particularly, his journey back to himself and learning some of his backstory,
I loved the relationship between Kellen and Demetria. It’s what kept me going when I got to a few things that had me questioning the plot here and there (nothing major, but briefly pulled me out of my willing suspension of disbelief). I’m also really intrigued by the friendship/relationship between Jace and Demetria.
The emotions were portrayed really well through each of the characters experiences.
I loved the cliffhanger and honestly am dying to see how this turns out. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series.
***I am incredibly grateful to Aethon Books and Belle Walker for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.***
I really liked Demetria as an FMC. She was strong, determined, and fierce. Nothing about her annoyed me.
I loved Kellen as an MMC. Particularly, his journey back to himself and learning some of his backstory,
I loved the relationship between Kellen and Demetria. It’s what kept me going when I got to a few things that had me questioning the plot here and there (nothing major, but briefly pulled me out of my willing suspension of disbelief). I’m also really intrigued by the friendship/relationship between Jace and Demetria.
The emotions were portrayed really well through each of the characters experiences.
I loved the cliffhanger and honestly am dying to see how this turns out. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series.
***I am incredibly grateful to Aethon Books and Belle Walker for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.***
October 6, 2024
It took me a bit to get into this story as the world building took me awhile to get through. The pace really started to pick up around 40% into the story. While the book was enemies to lovers, I felt as though the enemy portion didn’t last very long at all. I felt more of an instant connection between Kellan and Demitria.
While the first have of the book was slow, I absolutely love the second half. The devotion that Kellan had towards Demitria was *chefs kiss*. That man did a full 180 so quickly it almost gave me whiplash. Overall, I think this story has amazing potential and I cannot wait for book two especially after that ending. Like, oh my goodness I was not expecting that at all!
While the first have of the book was slow, I absolutely love the second half. The devotion that Kellan had towards Demitria was *chefs kiss*. That man did a full 180 so quickly it almost gave me whiplash. Overall, I think this story has amazing potential and I cannot wait for book two especially after that ending. Like, oh my goodness I was not expecting that at all!
October 19, 2024
I was super unsure at the beginning of this book and couldn’t figure out if it was suppose to be urban fantasy or not - plus I wasn’t really loving Jace but then as we met more characters and got to see more of the “four horseman” influence it got so good! I loved the angels and demons and the enemies to lovers - plus that ending WOW it bumped the book up so much in my mind. I would for sure check this book out if you love unique fantasy stories.
November 19, 2024
**paid review**
First I would like to thank Aethon for bringing me in to read and review this book. I want to note that this is a fully honest review!
What a great first book!!
It was giving dystopian fantasy which was a lot of fun. I was a big dystopian reader growing up and this felt like a combo of my two favorite genres and I loved that.
I would have liked more worldbuilding earlier on because there wasn’t a lot of clarity on exactly what events happened in the world that led to the current state of it, and I would have liked more context so I could fully understand a lot of the motives and politics. That said, I enjoyed the writing style a lot!
I very much enjoyed the main character. She felt real and dynamic. I think she was really well rounded, rather than being a stereotype.
In terms of romance, I felt like Demitria and Kellan needed a little more tension and buildup, but I loved it nonetheless. I almost was rooting for Jace more than Kellan at some points, and am interested to see if a bigger love triangle type story ends up unfolding. I like that the story wasn’t primarily romance and that the fantasy plot was the main plot. The romance complimented it really well and I didn’t feel like the balance was off!
This feels like one of those books that’s gearing up for a lot to come. The ending was really great and made me decide without a doubt to read book 2!
First I would like to thank Aethon for bringing me in to read and review this book. I want to note that this is a fully honest review!
What a great first book!!
It was giving dystopian fantasy which was a lot of fun. I was a big dystopian reader growing up and this felt like a combo of my two favorite genres and I loved that.
I would have liked more worldbuilding earlier on because there wasn’t a lot of clarity on exactly what events happened in the world that led to the current state of it, and I would have liked more context so I could fully understand a lot of the motives and politics. That said, I enjoyed the writing style a lot!
I very much enjoyed the main character. She felt real and dynamic. I think she was really well rounded, rather than being a stereotype.
In terms of romance, I felt like Demitria and Kellan needed a little more tension and buildup, but I loved it nonetheless. I almost was rooting for Jace more than Kellan at some points, and am interested to see if a bigger love triangle type story ends up unfolding. I like that the story wasn’t primarily romance and that the fantasy plot was the main plot. The romance complimented it really well and I didn’t feel like the balance was off!
This feels like one of those books that’s gearing up for a lot to come. The ending was really great and made me decide without a doubt to read book 2!
November 3, 2024
Review coming soon.
December 16, 2024
That ending oh my gosh 😭😭
August 2, 2024
While the premise and idea for this story was really unique and cool, I found the actual story severely lacking. There were some gaps in world building and too many repetitive phrases. I didn’t feel any connection or emotions involvement in any of the characters. I had to force myself to pick up this book and keep reading. I made it to 80% but unfortunately I think I’ll have to DNF this one.
It’s slow moving, and when action does happen it lasts about a page, maybe three before it’s quickly over. There’s no chemistry between the FMC and MMC and I actually found myself rooting for the FMCs childhood best friend more than the real love interest.
I was blessed to receive this as an ARC, I wasn’t paid to leave this review. I truly wish the author all the best!! She has so much potential but I really think this story needed a bit more work before it was ready for the public. This one just wasn’t for me unfortunately!
It’s slow moving, and when action does happen it lasts about a page, maybe three before it’s quickly over. There’s no chemistry between the FMC and MMC and I actually found myself rooting for the FMCs childhood best friend more than the real love interest.
I was blessed to receive this as an ARC, I wasn’t paid to leave this review. I truly wish the author all the best!! She has so much potential but I really think this story needed a bit more work before it was ready for the public. This one just wasn’t for me unfortunately!
April 24, 2025
A solid 3.5 but I’m rounding it up to a 4 because the end was a show stopper ⭐️
I began this book because I was seeing really great reviews from those individuals who received it as an ARC so I proceeded to purchase it on my kindle. To be honest, I struggled with the story at first however I blame it on it being my first 3rd POV read (Shocking I know). Once I got the hang of it, it was an easy read.
Now hear me out, the first 50% of the book contains lots of traveling, I personally found myself taking a break from it because it got a bit boring BUT… hear me out…once the real plot comes through *gasp*!!
the ending was brutal however I believe it’s what I needed to observe the character growth in Kellen and wanting to read a second book.
I personally would’ve preferred less traveling more flirtatious moments between Kellen and Demitria just because I honestly didn’t even realize when they “fell” for each other but again, the ending made up for it!
October 15, 2024
This was my first post apocalyptic Romantasy, or a book with the 4 horseman. There were a lot of great aspects about this book. I really enjoyed the overall plot, and the vibes of the book. I also loved the true enemies to lovers and the slow burn. Also the way this book ended was not at all what I was expecting.
I am really hoping there is book 2 because I have a lot of questions that I felt went unanswered. I need to know more of Kellen’s back story, I felt like I was missing something to truly connect with him. I also need to know why everyone wants Demitria unalived.
Overall I enjoyed this book, but I also hope there is more coming to settle some of my questions. Great start to a series!
Thank you to the Nerd Fam for the gift of this ARC, I always appreciate being an ARC reader.
I am really hoping there is book 2 because I have a lot of questions that I felt went unanswered. I need to know more of Kellen’s back story, I felt like I was missing something to truly connect with him. I also need to know why everyone wants Demitria unalived.
Overall I enjoyed this book, but I also hope there is more coming to settle some of my questions. Great start to a series!
Thank you to the Nerd Fam for the gift of this ARC, I always appreciate being an ARC reader.
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