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The Ravens #1
The Last Raven
I’ll be forced to take the crown, simply because of who my parents are. Never mind that my skin, my eyes, the way I move, everything will give me away for what I am.
Human.
In a world ruled by vampires.
As sole heir to the House of Raven, there is nothing Emelia can’t have. The only problem is, she doesn’t want it.
But when a new guard enters her closed-off existence, she sees a way out. As rebellion and dark forces swirl around her, Emelia has a choice to make – leave everyone she loves behind, or stay and accept her destiny…
Human.
In a world ruled by vampires.
As sole heir to the House of Raven, there is nothing Emelia can’t have. The only problem is, she doesn’t want it.
But when a new guard enters her closed-off existence, she sees a way out. As rebellion and dark forces swirl around her, Emelia has a choice to make – leave everyone she loves behind, or stay and accept her destiny…
384 pages, Paperback
First published October 31, 2024
169 people are currently reading
8282 people want to read
About the author
Helen Glynn Jones
16 books134 followersHelen Glynn Jones has lived in both Australia and Canada, but a few years ago she returned to her native England where, when she’s not writing stories, she likes to hunt for vintage treasures, explore stone circles and watch the sky change colour.
She writes about vampires and dragons and kissing and magic, as well as spicy contemporary romance under the name Isadora Love. She also has short stories in several anthologies. She now lives in Hertfordshire with her husband, daughter, and wonderfully chaotic cockapoo.
She writes about vampires and dragons and kissing and magic, as well as spicy contemporary romance under the name Isadora Love. She also has short stories in several anthologies. She now lives in Hertfordshire with her husband, daughter, and wonderfully chaotic cockapoo.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 457 reviews
February 20, 2025
This is how the first half of the book felt:
I wake up and throw my hair up in a messy bun before running downstairs. My parents are the rulers of the vampire kingdom, but I’m not like other heirs. I’m only alive because my mother stopped my father from killing me. My name is Y/N, and I am a Human .
‘’You’re going to a party’’ said my father, fatherly.
ugh! I'd rather stay home!
Since i am a human and so weak, they have me take a bodyguard everywhere.
‘’Daughter’’ said my mother. She smiles happily. ‘’Meet your new super young, barely an adult just like you, bodyguard. Because your old and experienced one will simply not do’’
I look at the door and there he is; the hottest vampire bodyguard who could ever guard your body.
‘’Hello’’ he said, hotly ‘’I’m Zayn Malik’’
ugh, I hate him already!’’
He looks at me with his… eyes. ‘’You’re dumb’’
‘’Omg how dare you’’
‘’Shut up let’s go’’
‘’Okay’’
When we arrive, another bitchy vampire is mean to me. But not as mean as Hot Zayn. They have humans in cages. Do they like being in cages and used for their blood? Who knows!
Another vampire tries to attack me immediately and Zayn saves me.
‘’Let’s go, dumb heir’’
‘’Okay’’ I say, un-happily.
He flies me to a forest.
‘’What are we doing here’’ I ask, confused and wanting an answer.
‘’There are the humans of the world’’ he answers, because I was confused and asked ‘’see? They don’t like to be prey’’
Oh my god.
They don’t!
Hi guys! Sorry this chapter isn’t long. I was in a car crash last week after robbing a bank and I’m still waiting for some court updates. They have great wifi at the police station tho. See you next week, if my lawyers allow. LOL. Sorry for the grammar. English is not my first language :)
I wake up and throw my hair up in a messy bun before running downstairs. My parents are the rulers of the vampire kingdom, but I’m not like other heirs. I’m only alive because my mother stopped my father from killing me. My name is Y/N, and I am a Human .
‘’You’re going to a party’’ said my father, fatherly.
ugh! I'd rather stay home!
Since i am a human and so weak, they have me take a bodyguard everywhere.
‘’Daughter’’ said my mother. She smiles happily. ‘’Meet your new super young, barely an adult just like you, bodyguard. Because your old and experienced one will simply not do’’
I look at the door and there he is; the hottest vampire bodyguard who could ever guard your body.
‘’Hello’’ he said, hotly ‘’I’m Zayn Malik’’
ugh, I hate him already!’’
He looks at me with his… eyes. ‘’You’re dumb’’
‘’Omg how dare you’’
‘’Shut up let’s go’’
‘’Okay’’
When we arrive, another bitchy vampire is mean to me. But not as mean as Hot Zayn. They have humans in cages. Do they like being in cages and used for their blood? Who knows!
Another vampire tries to attack me immediately and Zayn saves me.
‘’Let’s go, dumb heir’’
‘’Okay’’ I say, un-happily.
He flies me to a forest.
‘’What are we doing here’’ I ask, confused and wanting an answer.
‘’There are the humans of the world’’ he answers, because I was confused and asked ‘’see? They don’t like to be prey’’
Oh my god.
They don’t!
Hi guys! Sorry this chapter isn’t long. I was in a car crash last week after robbing a bank and I’m still waiting for some court updates. They have great wifi at the police station tho. See you next week, if my lawyers allow. LOL. Sorry for the grammar. English is not my first language :)
November 6, 2024
2.5*
This was the most anticlimactic ending I think I’ve ever read for a romantasy book that is intended to be a duology.
I had no interest in the plot — as predictable as it was — or the characters or the chemistry between any of the mc’s.
I wasn’t more interested in the parents love lives than the main characters lmao
The fmc frustrated me quite a lot, I didn’t connect to her at all.
The pacing was rushed to a point I wanted to dnf halfway thru but I kept going to see if it gets better and tbh it didn’t but I’m glad I made it thru for that one scene where she makes her single best decision this entire book and opens the blinds (Iykyk)
The writing style wasn’t to my preference and yet I would’ve overlooked it if the story was better but they both equally fell flat for me.
─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
SAY VAMPIRES AND IM THERE 🔐💋
ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was the most anticlimactic ending I think I’ve ever read for a romantasy book that is intended to be a duology.
I had no interest in the plot — as predictable as it was — or the characters or the chemistry between any of the mc’s.
I wasn’t more interested in the parents love lives than the main characters lmao
The fmc frustrated me quite a lot, I didn’t connect to her at all.
The pacing was rushed to a point I wanted to dnf halfway thru but I kept going to see if it gets better and tbh it didn’t but I’m glad I made it thru for that one scene where she makes her single best decision this entire book and opens the blinds (Iykyk)
The writing style wasn’t to my preference and yet I would’ve overlooked it if the story was better but they both equally fell flat for me.
─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
SAY VAMPIRES AND IM THERE 🔐💋
ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 18, 2024
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 3.25 stars
‘Can you help me do it?’ I counter. He smiles. ‘For you, anything.’
-`♡´- Thank you edelweiss and one more chapter for giving me the opportunity to read this before it's release in exchange of my honest review.
This is advertised as a romance for twilight fans, and as an edward cullen fan since 9 years old I HAD to read this. I has such high hopes for this and sadly they were not reached. Before reviewing I'd like to say this is NOT a romantasy at all. This book is twilight if Edward was secretly evil and bella killed him. Anywhoo these are my thoughts on the book:
₊˚⊹♡ Plot:
Emilia Raven is a human girl born from vampires. She's the heir to the throne of Raven, one of the kingdoms in this book. Despite being the heir she doesn't know her kingdom very well, as she's been resguarded her whole life in fear of becoming food to vampires. She's closer each day to coronation day with her 18th birthday coming up. So in an attemp to get her to see her kingdom to prepare her, she's assigned a personal guard to be with her at all times. Kyle is her personal guard and her love interest and he shows her the land she is to inherit. But after learning of the abuse that humans, like her, go through in Raven, Emilia is left with a choice, who to betray her family or her species?
₊˚⊹♡ What went wrong:
1. The world building:
I think it's safe to say that world building plays one of the biggest parts in fantasy books. This book is about an heiress to a vampire world so there was SO MUCH potential to make the world setting a cool vampire kingdom. And yet there was nothing of the sorts, this book is set in our wold (meaning earth) . The characters wear skinny jeans, they have phones and laptops, they go to the beach. It's weird because it kinda makes you question how things are even happening. Like you meant to tell me you can play roblox but you can't install security cameras in the castle? priorities ig.
2. The plot
It makes no sense when you actually think about the plot. They're vampires, her dad is literally 500+ years old, and somehow she's the heir? She's literally 17, what's she gonna do in the little life span she has?
Not to mention the ending (WHICH SUCKS ASS) made no sense, why ruin everything in 5 chapters? WHY? it made it so overwhelming and left me distraught.
3. The romance
Inssta-love doesn't work in general, but SPECIALLY not in fantasy books. You cannot sell me a romance book ,in which ,the characters are together in the first 5 chapters. Kyle was bland and boring ,and Emilia was spoiled and obnoxious. You'd think "oh well they deserve each othe ig" BUT NO cause he's FUCKING EVIL.
(side note: I swear a lot, I do. And I don't mind swearing in books, but AGAIN in a fantasy book? really? istg my dude kyle was saying fuck every two pages)
4. The pace
Okay I'm short chapters n1 fan, but for like the 5th time IN A FANTASY BOOK? no it sucks, this wasn't fast paced it was flash pace. So many things were happening and there was no time to process it at all. Give me 40 page chapters but explain what's happening PLEASE
Final thoughts: I would not recommend this if your a fan of the romantasy genre or just plain fantasy in general. The romance is too dull to consider it as a good one and the world building is so lacking it cannot count as a good fantasy book either. I would have probably dnfed this if it wasn't for it being an arc because it was also kinda boring. Dissapointing but nevertheless counts towards my reading goal so 😘
‘Can you help me do it?’ I counter. He smiles. ‘For you, anything.’
-`♡´- Thank you edelweiss and one more chapter for giving me the opportunity to read this before it's release in exchange of my honest review.
This is advertised as a romance for twilight fans, and as an edward cullen fan since 9 years old I HAD to read this. I has such high hopes for this and sadly they were not reached. Before reviewing I'd like to say this is NOT a romantasy at all. This book is twilight if Edward was secretly evil and bella killed him. Anywhoo these are my thoughts on the book:
₊˚⊹♡ Plot:
Emilia Raven is a human girl born from vampires. She's the heir to the throne of Raven, one of the kingdoms in this book. Despite being the heir she doesn't know her kingdom very well, as she's been resguarded her whole life in fear of becoming food to vampires. She's closer each day to coronation day with her 18th birthday coming up. So in an attemp to get her to see her kingdom to prepare her, she's assigned a personal guard to be with her at all times. Kyle is her personal guard and her love interest and he shows her the land she is to inherit. But after learning of the abuse that humans, like her, go through in Raven, Emilia is left with a choice, who to betray her family or her species?
₊˚⊹♡ What went wrong:
1. The world building:
I think it's safe to say that world building plays one of the biggest parts in fantasy books. This book is about an heiress to a vampire world so there was SO MUCH potential to make the world setting a cool vampire kingdom. And yet there was nothing of the sorts, this book is set in our wold (meaning earth) . The characters wear skinny jeans, they have phones and laptops, they go to the beach. It's weird because it kinda makes you question how things are even happening. Like you meant to tell me you can play roblox but you can't install security cameras in the castle? priorities ig.
2. The plot
It makes no sense when you actually think about the plot. They're vampires, her dad is literally 500+ years old, and somehow she's the heir? She's literally 17, what's she gonna do in the little life span she has?
Not to mention the ending (WHICH SUCKS ASS) made no sense, why ruin everything in 5 chapters? WHY? it made it so overwhelming and left me distraught.
3. The romance
Inssta-love doesn't work in general, but SPECIALLY not in fantasy books. You cannot sell me a romance book ,in which ,the characters are together in the first 5 chapters. Kyle was bland and boring ,and Emilia was spoiled and obnoxious. You'd think "oh well they deserve each othe ig" BUT NO cause he's FUCKING EVIL.
(side note: I swear a lot, I do. And I don't mind swearing in books, but AGAIN in a fantasy book? really? istg my dude kyle was saying fuck every two pages)
4. The pace
Okay I'm short chapters n1 fan, but for like the 5th time IN A FANTASY BOOK? no it sucks, this wasn't fast paced it was flash pace. So many things were happening and there was no time to process it at all. Give me 40 page chapters but explain what's happening PLEASE
Final thoughts: I would not recommend this if your a fan of the romantasy genre or just plain fantasy in general. The romance is too dull to consider it as a good one and the world building is so lacking it cannot count as a good fantasy book either. I would have probably dnfed this if it wasn't for it being an arc because it was also kinda boring. Dissapointing but nevertheless counts towards my reading goal so 😘
did-not-finish
June 5, 2025my most petty reason for DNF-ing a book
His name is Kyle
His name is Kyle
October 31, 2024
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of this book.
Unfortunately my frontal lobe is too developed to enjoy any of this book. I read the entire book for the integrity of this rating and I liked none of it. Just went I thought it could not get worse it did. I did not enjoy I’m sorry I tried.
Unfortunately my frontal lobe is too developed to enjoy any of this book. I read the entire book for the integrity of this rating and I liked none of it. Just went I thought it could not get worse it did. I did not enjoy I’m sorry I tried.
October 23, 2025
2.5 ★
ੈ✩‧₊˚ my thoughts
The concept of this book is great; it was just kind of lacking in execution. There was little emotional connection with the characters, and much of the story felt superficial. It felt like you were on the outside looking in, and it somehow made me very aware that I was reading a book.
I have the arc for the next book, so I'm going to give it a try, but I don't really have the highest hopes atm.
ੈ✩‧₊˚ my thoughts
The concept of this book is great; it was just kind of lacking in execution. There was little emotional connection with the characters, and much of the story felt superficial. It felt like you were on the outside looking in, and it somehow made me very aware that I was reading a book.
I have the arc for the next book, so I'm going to give it a try, but I don't really have the highest hopes atm.
November 17, 2024
Thank you to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy of this book. Here are my honest thoughts and review.
“My weakness is also my strength.”
This book was a pleasant surprise that kept me on my toes from start to finish. The ending? I could NEVER have predicted it—it took me by surprise in the best way possible. This is a perfect read for late teens or early adulthood readers who enjoy a mix of fantasy, intrigue, and personal growth.
The Plot
Emelia Raven, born from the union of two vampires but entirely human, is the heir to the Raven throne. Despite her status, she has been sheltered her entire life and is unprepared to rule a world dominated by vampires. As her coronation day looms, she is assigned a bodyguard, Kyle—who also becomes her love interest. Along the way, Emelia uncovers shocking truths about how humans are mistreated by vampires and faces a choice: step into her role as the Raven heir or abandon it all for the chance at a normal human life.
Tropes
Human x vampire 🧛
Forbidden ♥️ love
Forced proximity
Royalty👸 x bodyguard
World-Building
At first, I had so many questions about the world and why we (as readers) knew so little about it. By the end, I realized this was intentional. The limited perspective reflects Emelia's own lack of knowledge, which I thought was such a clever narrative choice. The world unfolds gradually, allowing the reader to learn alongside Emelia. This approach made it easy to connect with her and experience her growth firsthand.
The Romance
The relationship initially felt very insta-lust, with a heavy focus on physical attraction. However, as the story progressed, their dynamic deepened, and the fast-paced escalation made sense within the context of the plot. There’s a reason behind the rushed nature of their connection, and it tied into the story nicely by the end.
Foreshadowing
The author sprinkled in plenty of foreshadowing, which helped me form some theories about the rebellion (who was behind it, why it was happening, etc.). However, I was completely wrong, and the plot twists genuinely surprised me. It was refreshing to be caught off guard, especially since I often find mysteries in fantasy books too easy to solve.
Characters
Emelia Raven: As a blood-borne human heir to a vampire throne, Emelia starts off as somewhat obnoxious. She complains despite her privileged life and high status. However, she undergoes significant growth over the course of the book. Betrayals, secrets, and heartbreak push her to finally find her strength. By the end, she’s a mature, badass woman determined to use her unique position for good.
Kyle: The dark-haired, brooding vampire bodyguard and love interest. His loyalty is tested in ways I can’t discuss without spoiling the book. Let’s just say his arc kept me guessing.
Michael: (Blonde alert!) Michael appears toward the end of the book, and I LOVED him. Based on his dynamic with Emelia, I’m very excited to see more of him in what I assume will be a sequel.
Pacing
The pacing was well-balanced overall, allowing me to immerse myself in the story and world. I especially appreciated the short chapters, which made the book so much easier to read (long chapters tend to put me off). The last few chapters, however, were a whirlwind of action and revelations. While it felt slightly overwhelming, I enjoyed the fast pace—it gave the book a strong, exciting finish and left me eager for more.
A Chilling Parallel: "We Are Meat"
I love the (probably unintentional) parallel between how humans once farmed animals for their meat and how vampires now farm humans for their blood. It’s fascinating—and unsettling—that we only seem to condemn this practice when we’re the ones being "farmed." Is this a subtle social message? A stark reminder that, in the end, we are meat.
Final Thoughts
I need the next book already! There are so many unanswered questions, and I hope the sequel will deliver the answers I crave. This book leans toward the simpler side of fantasy, making it perfect for younger readers. If I’d read this when I was under 19, it probably would’ve been a 5⭐️ read for me.
Disclaimer: This is NOT a romantasy. If that’s your expectation, adjust accordingly—or you might want to pick up something else.
Overall, this was a fun, fast-paced read that was easy to follow and has left me yearning for more.
“My weakness is also my strength.”
This book was a pleasant surprise that kept me on my toes from start to finish. The ending? I could NEVER have predicted it—it took me by surprise in the best way possible. This is a perfect read for late teens or early adulthood readers who enjoy a mix of fantasy, intrigue, and personal growth.
The Plot
Emelia Raven, born from the union of two vampires but entirely human, is the heir to the Raven throne. Despite her status, she has been sheltered her entire life and is unprepared to rule a world dominated by vampires. As her coronation day looms, she is assigned a bodyguard, Kyle—who also becomes her love interest. Along the way, Emelia uncovers shocking truths about how humans are mistreated by vampires and faces a choice: step into her role as the Raven heir or abandon it all for the chance at a normal human life.
Tropes
Human x vampire 🧛
Forbidden ♥️ love
Forced proximity
Royalty👸 x bodyguard
World-Building
At first, I had so many questions about the world and why we (as readers) knew so little about it. By the end, I realized this was intentional. The limited perspective reflects Emelia's own lack of knowledge, which I thought was such a clever narrative choice. The world unfolds gradually, allowing the reader to learn alongside Emelia. This approach made it easy to connect with her and experience her growth firsthand.
The Romance
The relationship initially felt very insta-lust, with a heavy focus on physical attraction. However, as the story progressed, their dynamic deepened, and the fast-paced escalation made sense within the context of the plot. There’s a reason behind the rushed nature of their connection, and it tied into the story nicely by the end.
Foreshadowing
The author sprinkled in plenty of foreshadowing, which helped me form some theories about the rebellion (who was behind it, why it was happening, etc.). However, I was completely wrong, and the plot twists genuinely surprised me. It was refreshing to be caught off guard, especially since I often find mysteries in fantasy books too easy to solve.
Characters
Emelia Raven: As a blood-borne human heir to a vampire throne, Emelia starts off as somewhat obnoxious. She complains despite her privileged life and high status. However, she undergoes significant growth over the course of the book. Betrayals, secrets, and heartbreak push her to finally find her strength. By the end, she’s a mature, badass woman determined to use her unique position for good.
Kyle: The dark-haired, brooding vampire bodyguard and love interest. His loyalty is tested in ways I can’t discuss without spoiling the book. Let’s just say his arc kept me guessing.
Michael: (Blonde alert!) Michael appears toward the end of the book, and I LOVED him. Based on his dynamic with Emelia, I’m very excited to see more of him in what I assume will be a sequel.
Pacing
The pacing was well-balanced overall, allowing me to immerse myself in the story and world. I especially appreciated the short chapters, which made the book so much easier to read (long chapters tend to put me off). The last few chapters, however, were a whirlwind of action and revelations. While it felt slightly overwhelming, I enjoyed the fast pace—it gave the book a strong, exciting finish and left me eager for more.
A Chilling Parallel: "We Are Meat"
I love the (probably unintentional) parallel between how humans once farmed animals for their meat and how vampires now farm humans for their blood. It’s fascinating—and unsettling—that we only seem to condemn this practice when we’re the ones being "farmed." Is this a subtle social message? A stark reminder that, in the end, we are meat.
Final Thoughts
I need the next book already! There are so many unanswered questions, and I hope the sequel will deliver the answers I crave. This book leans toward the simpler side of fantasy, making it perfect for younger readers. If I’d read this when I was under 19, it probably would’ve been a 5⭐️ read for me.
Disclaimer: This is NOT a romantasy. If that’s your expectation, adjust accordingly—or you might want to pick up something else.
Overall, this was a fun, fast-paced read that was easy to follow and has left me yearning for more.
December 29, 2024
What in the wattpad-riverdale-CW-Disneychannel did I just attempt to read 🤯. I have NEVER dnf a book so fast in my life. Well done though to the marketing team at One chapter for fooling us all with the nice cover. Which I assume they knew is the only way this would sell more than 10 copies. 🤔
This book is an insult to any readers over the age of 10 intelligence. Mind you this is not advertised as a YA book but oh boy it is and a very bad one. Shame on them for putting “spicy books” sticker on the back a book with a 17 year old lead. How is this even allowed?! ❌
Let me start by telling you about the ridiculous start of the plot. I got to 50 pages and was ready to throw the book in the bin:
“A human girl is born to the ruling royal family of a continent👑 (Europe apparently) and has been hidden all her life because she is basically vampire food🧛♀️. She’s locked up home, not told anything about the world outside their home. Until her dad throws a tantrum that she doesn’t represent their family name and doesn’t go anywhere (which was their fault because again she’s vampire food) and then she most go to a nightclub🪩 to represent her family name (lol you read that right), as it’s time to show her face to the world since she will be 18 soon and have to take over and rule the continent (stupid as hell rule since her parents are 500+ so why would they trust an 18 year old to rule is beyond me😩) but it’s okay they got her a new hot, sexy, beautiful, gorgeous vampire guard called…Kyle…KYLE🫥🫥🫥 (it should be illegal to name a vampire mmc Kyle) and he will look after her. They are INSTANTLY attracted to each other. Of course. And they bicker like school children. Her parent let her go to a party where instantly she gets attacked by a vampire thinking she’s “free range food🐓” and hot sexy Kyle 🤮 throws him away causes he’s so strong and handsome and amazing. Did I mention Kyle wears denim jackets? That he can’t keep his hands off the princess he met a few hours ago lol”
Ridiculous plot. I know. I could not get past this. There is absolutely no world building. The fact the vampire royalty didn’t have more kids, also how come they can have kids in this world, how come they had a human child, why, gods why would anyone hand over a kingdom to an 18 year old even a vampire one. Ridiculous. The dialogues are so childish. I cannot believe this is written by an adult. People don’t talk like this. Maybe on Disney channel.
Happy to say my last book of 2024 is the worst one of this year 🤣
This book is an insult to any readers over the age of 10 intelligence. Mind you this is not advertised as a YA book but oh boy it is and a very bad one. Shame on them for putting “spicy books” sticker on the back a book with a 17 year old lead. How is this even allowed?! ❌
Let me start by telling you about the ridiculous start of the plot. I got to 50 pages and was ready to throw the book in the bin:
“A human girl is born to the ruling royal family of a continent👑 (Europe apparently) and has been hidden all her life because she is basically vampire food🧛♀️. She’s locked up home, not told anything about the world outside their home. Until her dad throws a tantrum that she doesn’t represent their family name and doesn’t go anywhere (which was their fault because again she’s vampire food) and then she most go to a nightclub🪩 to represent her family name (lol you read that right), as it’s time to show her face to the world since she will be 18 soon and have to take over and rule the continent (stupid as hell rule since her parents are 500+ so why would they trust an 18 year old to rule is beyond me😩) but it’s okay they got her a new hot, sexy, beautiful, gorgeous vampire guard called…Kyle…KYLE🫥🫥🫥 (it should be illegal to name a vampire mmc Kyle) and he will look after her. They are INSTANTLY attracted to each other. Of course. And they bicker like school children. Her parent let her go to a party where instantly she gets attacked by a vampire thinking she’s “free range food🐓” and hot sexy Kyle 🤮 throws him away causes he’s so strong and handsome and amazing. Did I mention Kyle wears denim jackets? That he can’t keep his hands off the princess he met a few hours ago lol”
Ridiculous plot. I know. I could not get past this. There is absolutely no world building. The fact the vampire royalty didn’t have more kids, also how come they can have kids in this world, how come they had a human child, why, gods why would anyone hand over a kingdom to an 18 year old even a vampire one. Ridiculous. The dialogues are so childish. I cannot believe this is written by an adult. People don’t talk like this. Maybe on Disney channel.
Happy to say my last book of 2024 is the worst one of this year 🤣
October 21, 2024
Ok so this was like an un-edited proof copy thing that I was given from the lovely Saskia who works in a book shop, so maybe it will get better if it’s edited (a lot) and I did accept the book knowing it would be a bit bad but probably kinda fun
HOWEVER
Like this was so manic 💀
“Enemies to lovers”
- the “enemies” was a princess and her bodyguard who she was mildly irritated by for about 2 pages before finding him absolutely handsome and wonderful la
“Forced proximity”
- once again this girl’s bodyguard… who she could literally have fired whenever, like her parents even thought he was low key annoying and wanted to fire him 😭
The book was described as “hot” and leaving you “craving for more”
- in the one, I repeat ☝️one 1️⃣ sex scene, she legit was like “yeah it was fine” LMAOOO like she said it to his face AHAHAHAHAHAHHAA acc made me laugh so much
- also very badly written smut, like surely as an author you would’ve done your research on how to write a sex scene whether it be mind blowing sex or “fine” 💀
The storyline was pretty cool, I feel like it would slay if it was a bit more gorey because it’s legit got vampires keeping humans in cages and feeding on them but it’s very blazé about all that, I feel like some torture and violence would do the book good, however I don’t think that was the vibe they were going for lmao
HOWEVER
Like this was so manic 💀
“Enemies to lovers”
- the “enemies” was a princess and her bodyguard who she was mildly irritated by for about 2 pages before finding him absolutely handsome and wonderful la
“Forced proximity”
- once again this girl’s bodyguard… who she could literally have fired whenever, like her parents even thought he was low key annoying and wanted to fire him 😭
The book was described as “hot” and leaving you “craving for more”
- in the one, I repeat ☝️one 1️⃣ sex scene, she legit was like “yeah it was fine” LMAOOO like she said it to his face AHAHAHAHAHAHHAA acc made me laugh so much
- also very badly written smut, like surely as an author you would’ve done your research on how to write a sex scene whether it be mind blowing sex or “fine” 💀
The storyline was pretty cool, I feel like it would slay if it was a bit more gorey because it’s legit got vampires keeping humans in cages and feeding on them but it’s very blazé about all that, I feel like some torture and violence would do the book good, however I don’t think that was the vibe they were going for lmao
November 30, 2024
first i loved it
then it was insta love
then i was bored
then i hated it
then it was predictable
then i wanted to dnf (but it was an arc so i couldn’t)
but i somehow finished and finally so
like it was goodish, i suspected right within the first few chapters and then everything else was kinda annoying, emelia was just always crying and complaining
it honestly put me in such a slump 🤦🏻♀️
then it was insta love
then i was bored
then i hated it
then it was predictable
then i wanted to dnf (but it was an arc so i couldn’t)
but i somehow finished and finally so
like it was goodish, i suspected right within the first few chapters and then everything else was kinda annoying, emelia was just always crying and complaining
it honestly put me in such a slump 🤦🏻♀️
January 17, 2025
2025 reads: 9/300
2025 tbr: 5/111
i received an advanced review copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
emelia raven is a human born to vampires. if not for her important family name, her human status would have subjected her to a very different fate. still, hidden away from others, she can’t help but want more. when a new bodyguard is assigned to her, she believes she’s finally found her way out. she has to decide, though, if leaving everyone she loves behind is worth being able to live her own life.
i was interested in this book because i always love reading about vampires. i also thought it was interesting that this book made the vampires/humans dynamic different than normal. in this world, vampires are the dominant group. when emelia’s vampire parents realized she was a human upon her birth, her own father almost killed her. this is just the first of many reasons emelia wants to get out of the vampire sphere. she begins to wonder, where would she be had she not been born a raven? i liked how this was explored throughout the book.
the romance aspect was interesting, but don’t go in expecting it to be a typical romance. i don’t want to spoil anything, so i’ll leave it at that for now!
overall, this was a quick and interesting vampire book. i’d be interested in reading book two!
2025 tbr: 5/111
i received an advanced review copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
emelia raven is a human born to vampires. if not for her important family name, her human status would have subjected her to a very different fate. still, hidden away from others, she can’t help but want more. when a new bodyguard is assigned to her, she believes she’s finally found her way out. she has to decide, though, if leaving everyone she loves behind is worth being able to live her own life.
i was interested in this book because i always love reading about vampires. i also thought it was interesting that this book made the vampires/humans dynamic different than normal. in this world, vampires are the dominant group. when emelia’s vampire parents realized she was a human upon her birth, her own father almost killed her. this is just the first of many reasons emelia wants to get out of the vampire sphere. she begins to wonder, where would she be had she not been born a raven? i liked how this was explored throughout the book.
the romance aspect was interesting, but don’t go in expecting it to be a typical romance. i don’t want to spoil anything, so i’ll leave it at that for now!
overall, this was a quick and interesting vampire book. i’d be interested in reading book two!
January 9, 2025
Insta love with predictable plot just generic book.
January 16, 2025
Enemies to lovers? Where?
Sizzling hot? Where?
**update**
I have thought long and hard about this view - a month later I’m still angry. I hate finished this book, who hate finishes a book? Apparently me.
Plot - weak
Romance - week
Is it enemies to lovers if they were never even enemies? No
And the random pointless plot holes were tied up in the last three pages?
Purely finished so I can help other people steer clear from how poorly advertised this was by booktok
What I will say is if you like a crappy YA romance with a small hint of fantasy (like reality tv book equivalent) you could like this.
Sizzling hot? Where?
**update**
I have thought long and hard about this view - a month later I’m still angry. I hate finished this book, who hate finishes a book? Apparently me.
Plot - weak
Romance - week
Is it enemies to lovers if they were never even enemies? No
And the random pointless plot holes were tied up in the last three pages?
Purely finished so I can help other people steer clear from how poorly advertised this was by booktok
What I will say is if you like a crappy YA romance with a small hint of fantasy (like reality tv book equivalent) you could like this.
October 28, 2024
ARC Read - Releasing in January 2025 - thank you NetGalley for the chance to get a sneak peek! This was a perfect book for a fall read - gothic, vampire vibes. Emelia is the Heir to the Vampire throne of Raven. Child to the current vampire leaders, she is unique as she is a human. An anomaly, an abomination. Unsure why and a rarity, her parents hid her away and kept her from society to protect her. Now, with her time to take the throne and lead Raven approaching, Emelia realizes all she wants is to lead a normal, human, life. But has she been fantasizing and seeing human life through rose coloured glasses? In this world, humans are cattle, they are the stock for vampire consumption. Emelia also gets a new handsome guard, Kyle, who is tempting her to stay and showing her a new side of her sheltered life. When the time comes, will she run or will she rule?
November 18, 2024
Thank you Harper Collins for kindly sending me this book for an honest review.
Now I love a good vampire read & was super excited for this one. I did enjoy reading it & it was a quick easy read BUT I didn’t love it.
Firstly.. it was super easy to read which I loved because I read it super quick. It’s very less detailed so this could be a good read for people who want something less world building & to get a kind of feel for the fantasy/vampire vibes?
The beginning of the book you are kind of thrown into the deep end of the ‘world building’ & it just seems rushed/not much is explained & for me personally..I need that to happen!
I feel like this could have so much more potential if this happened.
The relationship between the FMC & MMC was kinda wild & this story isn’t giving ‘hot’ as it said it would. I just couldn’t vibe with them & I did not enjoy the spice scene🤣
There is a huge twist which I kind of guessed half way through but still reading it gave me shock. So yes, I really enjoyed the twist & I think this book needed it, however I felt it could have been expanded.
The ending of the book was good!! It felt kinda iconic & such a statement piece to prepare us for what is next. I will be intrigued to know what happens next & hopefully we see our FMC finally take control & be the Raven she is.
Thank you Harper Collins for sending me this copy in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Now I love a good vampire read & was super excited for this one. I did enjoy reading it & it was a quick easy read BUT I didn’t love it.
Firstly.. it was super easy to read which I loved because I read it super quick. It’s very less detailed so this could be a good read for people who want something less world building & to get a kind of feel for the fantasy/vampire vibes?
The beginning of the book you are kind of thrown into the deep end of the ‘world building’ & it just seems rushed/not much is explained & for me personally..I need that to happen!
I feel like this could have so much more potential if this happened.
The relationship between the FMC & MMC was kinda wild & this story isn’t giving ‘hot’ as it said it would. I just couldn’t vibe with them & I did not enjoy the spice scene🤣
There is a huge twist which I kind of guessed half way through but still reading it gave me shock. So yes, I really enjoyed the twist & I think this book needed it, however I felt it could have been expanded.
The ending of the book was good!! It felt kinda iconic & such a statement piece to prepare us for what is next. I will be intrigued to know what happens next & hopefully we see our FMC finally take control & be the Raven she is.
Thank you Harper Collins for sending me this copy in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 9, 2025
Dude…
The ending was literally he was bad the whole time and she kills him. Bruh. I thought he’d have a twin or something but no, she just kills him. Rip Kyle I guess.
Insert then a new love interest? Kill me.
This book had a good plot but was so underwhelming and underdeveloped…and the love felt so fake (which it was) and there was no connection whatsoever.
I was excited for this but I was sad that when I’d started it wasn’t something where you could feel a connection to the characters.
I was excited her name was Emelia too bruh :(
Oh well.
2/5
The ending was literally he was bad the whole time and she kills him. Bruh. I thought he’d have a twin or something but no, she just kills him. Rip Kyle I guess.
Insert then a new love interest? Kill me.
This book had a good plot but was so underwhelming and underdeveloped…and the love felt so fake (which it was) and there was no connection whatsoever.
I was excited for this but I was sad that when I’d started it wasn’t something where you could feel a connection to the characters.
I was excited her name was Emelia too bruh :(
Oh well.
2/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2024
Tropes: Vampire x Human, Forbidden romance, forced proximity, Bodyguard
Emilia is a human in the world of vampires and heir to the Raven throne. She is supposed to have coronation on her 18th birthday but she is reluctant to take Raven crown and making a plan to escape to human world. Kyle is appointed as her personal bodyguard in view of growing tensions between vampires and humans.
I enjoyed reading this book as it fast paced and engaging, but I can’t say I loved it though. The world building is confusing like why a 500 vampire couple has an only daughter who is a human ? Emilia & Kyle connection seems to be instant but the fact that the author sprinkled an enemies trope for a bit baffled me which didn’t even last a chapter and they made up.
While all the plot happened in last 5 chapters seemed rushed to me. The betrayal cut deep but it is kinda predictable.
However I am curious to see what Emilia does next !
Emilia is a human in the world of vampires and heir to the Raven throne. She is supposed to have coronation on her 18th birthday but she is reluctant to take Raven crown and making a plan to escape to human world. Kyle is appointed as her personal bodyguard in view of growing tensions between vampires and humans.
I enjoyed reading this book as it fast paced and engaging, but I can’t say I loved it though. The world building is confusing like why a 500 vampire couple has an only daughter who is a human ? Emilia & Kyle connection seems to be instant but the fact that the author sprinkled an enemies trope for a bit baffled me which didn’t even last a chapter and they made up.
While all the plot happened in last 5 chapters seemed rushed to me. The betrayal cut deep but it is kinda predictable.
However I am curious to see what Emilia does next !
November 13, 2024
I was really excited to dive into The Last Raven. However, unfortunately, it ended up not being for me. The FMC Emelia was so whiny and complained and fought everything. The MMC is named Kyle, and I'm sorry, but there's no way I'm going to be excited about a Kyle. I felt like this book was reminiscent of lots of other books, so it just didn't hit on being unique. I felt like I had heard this story before. The pacing is super fast, but I felt like it was too fast at times. There was a lot happening, but nothing was given enough detail to drive things home. This seemed forced, and there was no real build-up to Kyle and Emelia's relationship it just happened right away and fell flat. As for the plot twist at the end, to me, it felt a bit forced and predictable. It didn't wow me. When I read a book, especially a fantasy, I need major world and character building so I can "see" it, and this just didn't do that for, and I really, really wanted it to. I think this may be a good "intro" to fantasy if you are just starting into the genre, but if you are a seasoned reader of the fantasy/romantasy genre, you may not love it.
Thank you, NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you, NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
DNF at 23%
Nope nope nope. I tried and was determined to read this simply because it’s not a long book, but the writing and the characters were too much for me to handle.
The dialogue was so clunky, the narration was repetitive and very much tell instead of show. And the characters, I didn’t realize I could despise the 2 main characters so much in such a short period of time, but turns out I can!
Emelia and Kyle might as well have the personalities of cardboard and about the same amount of chemistry too. And somehow they still have their first kiss at 22% despite the lack of chemistry? And yes that was the final straw to my DNF because this book is clearly a romance first and a fantasy second, and if the romance is that boring, I don’t care how it ends.
Read if you want I guess, but this was not for me.
DNF at 23%
Nope nope nope. I tried and was determined to read this simply because it’s not a long book, but the writing and the characters were too much for me to handle.
The dialogue was so clunky, the narration was repetitive and very much tell instead of show. And the characters, I didn’t realize I could despise the 2 main characters so much in such a short period of time, but turns out I can!
Emelia and Kyle might as well have the personalities of cardboard and about the same amount of chemistry too. And somehow they still have their first kiss at 22% despite the lack of chemistry? And yes that was the final straw to my DNF because this book is clearly a romance first and a fantasy second, and if the romance is that boring, I don’t care how it ends.
Read if you want I guess, but this was not for me.
October 16, 2024
Unfortunately this book wasn’t for me and I have come to the conclusion that I may not be the intended audience.
After reading the blurb on Netgalley, I was excited to get the e-arc. We are introduced to Emilia who is a human, born to Vampire parents who are rulers of their realm. She is appointed a personal guard named Kyle, who is a very unlikeable character in my eyes.
Insta love occurs, the plot just gets messy and the story itself seems rushed. I just couldn’t connect with the characters or the events that were unfolding.
Perfect for fans of
- Vampires
- Rebellions
- Insta love
- Plot Twists
Thank you Netgalley, Harper Collins UK and One More Chapter for the e-arc.
After reading the blurb on Netgalley, I was excited to get the e-arc. We are introduced to Emilia who is a human, born to Vampire parents who are rulers of their realm. She is appointed a personal guard named Kyle, who is a very unlikeable character in my eyes.
Insta love occurs, the plot just gets messy and the story itself seems rushed. I just couldn’t connect with the characters or the events that were unfolding.
Perfect for fans of
- Vampires
- Rebellions
- Insta love
- Plot Twists
Thank you Netgalley, Harper Collins UK and One More Chapter for the e-arc.
December 10, 2024
Dnf chapter 12
December 20, 2024
I had high hopes for this book but it really fell flat! The story was predictable and boring. Anyone could see the big twist coming a mile away! The ending was also meh 😑
I had no connection to the characters at all and the FMC was insufferable. What should be heartfelt moments between characters felt tired and tedious because there wasn't enough character development. Emilia is just petulant and her actions should have had bigger effect to the narrative. Instead, she doesn't learn from her childish behaviour and manages to avoid the consequences.
The main characters immediately fall in love without even getting to know each other. It's a shame because I really wanted to like it.
I had no connection to the characters at all and the FMC was insufferable. What should be heartfelt moments between characters felt tired and tedious because there wasn't enough character development. Emilia is just petulant and her actions should have had bigger effect to the narrative. Instead, she doesn't learn from her childish behaviour and manages to avoid the consequences.
The main characters immediately fall in love without even getting to know each other. It's a shame because I really wanted to like it.
April 17, 2025
Once again I tragically got lured in by a pretty cover and once again I was betrayed
I’ve read fics on AO3 written by twelve year olds on their iPads that had better writing than this
If you’re thinking this plot sounds good, I’d recommend reading Serpent and the Wings of Night instead
I’ve read fics on AO3 written by twelve year olds on their iPads that had better writing than this
If you’re thinking this plot sounds good, I’d recommend reading Serpent and the Wings of Night instead
March 23, 2025
For someone who hated vampires (thanks, Twilight), I was quite surprised that I picked up this book even when the pigs weren't flying. The synopsis sounded really intriguing and I did think this book had a great premise and even more promising sequel potential. Nothing beat having a strong and feisty female main character and this book was pretty well-done on the world building as well as character depiction. I truly enjoyed reading this one, especially that plot twist I didn't see coming at all. What's more, even though the ending seemed a bit rushed, I liked where the next book might go based on the breadcrumbs I got at the end of this book. That being said, I couldn't wait for the sequel and I'd recommend this series to vampire lovers.
***Thanks to the author and Harper360 for sending me a complimentary ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
***Thanks to the author and Harper360 for sending me a complimentary ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
February 22, 2025
I read this book in one day and while I definitely didn’t hate it I don’t have many positive things to say unfortunately :/
I was very excited to get into this because the premise reminded me of The Serpent & The Wings of Night (which I LOVED) but honestly this book disappointed me. The world-building is pretty much nonexistent and I feel like I was deceived in the synopsis after going into the book expecting the thrilling ‘rebellion and dark forces’ that it describes when really it’s just a couple rebel threats here and there and little detail into everything behind the supposed main storyline of The Last Raven.
The romance was also not it because it was insta-love. The author tried to have some semblance of a hate-to-love romance but if I remember correctly by the 60th page they were both already good with each other :/ I wasn’t a huge fan of Emilia, our main character, either. There wasn’t anything especially bad about her but I felt that her character lacked personality - there wasn’t anything to her other than her inner debate of whether she should stay in her royal house or flee.
The plot twist at the end was also predictable and I feel like instead of blowing my mind at how crazy-good it was, it just spoiled the book and everything we had read up until that point, in my opinion. 😕
Regardless of my thoughts on this though, thank you so much to NetGalley, One More Chapter/HarperCollins UK and to Helen Glynn Jones for an e-ARC copy of this in exchange for my honest opinion 🫶
I was very excited to get into this because the premise reminded me of The Serpent & The Wings of Night (which I LOVED) but honestly this book disappointed me. The world-building is pretty much nonexistent and I feel like I was deceived in the synopsis after going into the book expecting the thrilling ‘rebellion and dark forces’ that it describes when really it’s just a couple rebel threats here and there and little detail into everything behind the supposed main storyline of The Last Raven.
The romance was also not it because it was insta-love. The author tried to have some semblance of a hate-to-love romance but if I remember correctly by the 60th page they were both already good with each other :/ I wasn’t a huge fan of Emilia, our main character, either. There wasn’t anything especially bad about her but I felt that her character lacked personality - there wasn’t anything to her other than her inner debate of whether she should stay in her royal house or flee.
The plot twist at the end was also predictable and I feel like instead of blowing my mind at how crazy-good it was, it just spoiled the book and everything we had read up until that point, in my opinion. 😕
Regardless of my thoughts on this though, thank you so much to NetGalley, One More Chapter/HarperCollins UK and to Helen Glynn Jones for an e-ARC copy of this in exchange for my honest opinion 🫶
October 17, 2024
Overall I personally enjoyed this book. I would recommend to readers that enjoy fantasy and romance in a more modern setting. I don't want to give any spoilers because the plot twist was done well. I had suspicions, but was never predictably certain.
There is insta-love, betrayal, personal growth, and so much more.
The only action I thought took over a bit was *kissing*. It did not take away from the book as a whole, but once it started it almost never stopped.
The story ends on a good note. I am interested to see more growth from Emelia and learn more of the character at the end. I'd like to see what she learns about herself as a human heir to a vampire world. I'm curious what she'll take from choices she makes in the end and how she'll apply it to the future of Raven.
There is insta-love, betrayal, personal growth, and so much more.
The only action I thought took over a bit was *kissing*. It did not take away from the book as a whole, but once it started it almost never stopped.
The story ends on a good note. I am interested to see more growth from Emelia and learn more of the character at the end. I'd like to see what she learns about herself as a human heir to a vampire world. I'm curious what she'll take from choices she makes in the end and how she'll apply it to the future of Raven.
October 24, 2024
ARC review ✨
2.75/5⭐️
1/5 🌶️
If you like:
🩸vampire x human
🩸forbidden love
🩸modern day fantasy
🩸insta love
🩸rebellions/uprising
Then you might like this book!
For me, it fell a bit flat. I personally do not like modern fantasy, it takes me out of the story a bit. It’s a bit confusing to have guards refer to our FMC as “my lady” but then read that she is flipping open a laptop as soon as she gets to her room.
In general, I do not enjoy reading about really young. As a woman nearing 30 I just do not relate to a 17 year old FMC.
The romance was also very insta-lovey which is off putting to me.
The MMC is named Kyle, which sorry to all the Kyle’s out there, but that name also really took me out of the fantasy setting.
Overall, this just wasn’t for me but it did keep me engaged, especially with the plot twists. If it had been any longer though, I fear it might’ve taken me a bit to get through.
Thank you NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for access to this ARC!
2.75/5⭐️
1/5 🌶️
If you like:
🩸vampire x human
🩸forbidden love
🩸modern day fantasy
🩸insta love
🩸rebellions/uprising
Then you might like this book!
For me, it fell a bit flat. I personally do not like modern fantasy, it takes me out of the story a bit. It’s a bit confusing to have guards refer to our FMC as “my lady” but then read that she is flipping open a laptop as soon as she gets to her room.
In general, I do not enjoy reading about really young. As a woman nearing 30 I just do not relate to a 17 year old FMC.
The romance was also very insta-lovey which is off putting to me.
The MMC is named Kyle, which sorry to all the Kyle’s out there, but that name also really took me out of the fantasy setting.
Overall, this just wasn’t for me but it did keep me engaged, especially with the plot twists. If it had been any longer though, I fear it might’ve taken me a bit to get through.
Thank you NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for access to this ARC!
August 17, 2024
This is going to be your next fantasy obsession! It's amazing! Helen Glynn Jones, you've hooked me and I cant wait till the next one!
February 14, 2025
I gave this two stars as a GIFT because I’m in a GIVING mood. This book was not great. Vampire guy (who’s is old) takes a 17 year old (human daughter to vampire parents?) heiress’ virginity so that he can get approval from the villain (who’s not even a ruler or in charge) to change his human girlfriend into a vampire? Sick and weird. I’m calling a trusted adult. And the last chapter FMC finds another human born to vampire parents? Tell me you didn’t know how to end the book without telling me. FMC? Insufferable. She kills vampire guy though, so bad ass until she whines about it a page later and through the rest of the book. There was no character development. No world building. No explanation of how the blood magic works. The note from the author says this book started as a blog.. probably why it’s so all over the place. I don’t know. Waste of time. Also why does it have a spice rating of 3 peppers? Why is there a spice rating at all when it’s about someone under 18?!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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