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Blood Grace #8
Blood Feast
Her Grace is in danger - and her fangs are ready for battle.
Cassia has risen from the ashes of her human life as a Hesperine with magic the world has never seen. The Gift of immortality from Lio seals their fated Grace bond and frees her from the ancient necromancer known as the Collector. But she won't leave everyone they love, Hesperines and humans alike, as pawns in his schemes.
Lio fears their hard-won alliances only played into the necromancer's plots. With their warrior brothers Mak and Lyros, Lio and Cassia embark on a quest to uncover the conspiracy he's been brewing for centuries. Lio must duel the mage for his secrets on the most dangerous battlefield of all - the minds of the assassins who serve him.
As the four Hesperines face off with the Collector's deadliest playing pieces, he's intent on punishing Lio for stealing Cassia from him. Can her new power protect her Grace from their enemy's revenge?
Spicy romance meets classic fantasy worldbuilding in Blood Grace. Follow fated mates Lio and Cassia through their epic love story for a guaranteed series HEA.
Cassia has risen from the ashes of her human life as a Hesperine with magic the world has never seen. The Gift of immortality from Lio seals their fated Grace bond and frees her from the ancient necromancer known as the Collector. But she won't leave everyone they love, Hesperines and humans alike, as pawns in his schemes.
Lio fears their hard-won alliances only played into the necromancer's plots. With their warrior brothers Mak and Lyros, Lio and Cassia embark on a quest to uncover the conspiracy he's been brewing for centuries. Lio must duel the mage for his secrets on the most dangerous battlefield of all - the minds of the assassins who serve him.
As the four Hesperines face off with the Collector's deadliest playing pieces, he's intent on punishing Lio for stealing Cassia from him. Can her new power protect her Grace from their enemy's revenge?
Spicy romance meets classic fantasy worldbuilding in Blood Grace. Follow fated mates Lio and Cassia through their epic love story for a guaranteed series HEA.
624 pages, Paperback
First published June 3, 2024
134 people are currently reading
1080 people want to read
About the author
Vela Roth
17 books649 followersGet a free book when you sign up for Vela's mailing list at vroth.co/signup!
Vela Roth manifested unstable writing powers at a young age, and many of her early experiments had unintended results. As she grew, a curriculum of fantasy novels with kickass heroines helped her learn to control and wield her abilities.
Eventually she dared pursue the knowledge inside the most forbidden tomes: romance novels. She's been practicing the dark arts of fantasy romance ever since, but she strives to use her novels only for good.
She lives in a solar-powered writer's garret at the foot of the mountains. Her familiar is a rescue cat with a missing fang and a huge heart. When not typing furiously at her manuscript, she can usually be found gaming on her home-built PC or trying to grow roses in the desert.
She loves hearing from readers and hopes you'll visit her at velaroth.com.
Vela Roth manifested unstable writing powers at a young age, and many of her early experiments had unintended results. As she grew, a curriculum of fantasy novels with kickass heroines helped her learn to control and wield her abilities.
Eventually she dared pursue the knowledge inside the most forbidden tomes: romance novels. She's been practicing the dark arts of fantasy romance ever since, but she strives to use her novels only for good.
She lives in a solar-powered writer's garret at the foot of the mountains. Her familiar is a rescue cat with a missing fang and a huge heart. When not typing furiously at her manuscript, she can usually be found gaming on her home-built PC or trying to grow roses in the desert.
She loves hearing from readers and hopes you'll visit her at velaroth.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
August 3, 2025
There's a new war on the horizon, and Hesperines need to shed antiquated customs to remind themselves why they are the heretics in the first place.
Cassia is finally a Hesperine! I can't believe it took her almost eight full books before she finally accepted the Gift. I was beginning to think Vela is going to stretch this until the end of the series. Speaking of which, while I have loved that the series stretched this long, I am beginning to think that it may be stretched too far already. This should have either ended already or this should have been the last book (it's not, and I'm obviously going to stick with it until the end, but I can't help but complain, sorry).
Cassia shines as a Hesperine. The one thing I do hate is that Roth has decided to keep her in the "oh I don't want any more power, I love that the Collector took most of my magic away, I don't need to be more powerful" BS. I LOVE LOVE LOVE that Lio is more than willing to fight for her power and insists she is not a bad person for wanting it and that the power won't necessarily corrupt her. We need more male love interests like that, even when their female counterparts have only been allowed to have the female power of the household and the loom their entire lives.
So much happens in this book, I finally feel like we have picked up the pace. The Eight Circle decides to arm themselves and go errant while Orthros wants to arrest them because the broke the law against weapons. They call themselves the Black Roses - a little nod to both Hespera and Cassia's power. Solia is the queen of Tenebra (finally) but needs to fight to keep her throne and her people safe. Monsoon and her are still pretending they don't need each other - they should just get over themselves and give in FFS. Miranda is an evil Gift Collector hunting the errant Black Roses while they run around Tenebra awakening the old Lustra magic.
I won't say any spoilers, but there is a major reveal of the Collector - his name, and even in the end, what is his end goal and why he's been so adamant about getting Cassia to help him work toward his goals. It was both incredibly surprising, but also kind of strangely making sense and expecting? I don't know, I guess you'll have to figure it out for yourselves.
I do hope we get to see Rudhira and Nike find their Graces before the end. They have definitely waited long enough. And of course, I keep thinking Methu is still alive and being held captive by the Aithuorian Circle, and we'll see him - if he is, the author is keeping it well under wraps, but I keep hoping.
Here's to hoping the next book is released soon!
Cassia is finally a Hesperine! I can't believe it took her almost eight full books before she finally accepted the Gift. I was beginning to think Vela is going to stretch this until the end of the series. Speaking of which, while I have loved that the series stretched this long, I am beginning to think that it may be stretched too far already. This should have either ended already or this should have been the last book (it's not, and I'm obviously going to stick with it until the end, but I can't help but complain, sorry).
Cassia shines as a Hesperine. The one thing I do hate is that Roth has decided to keep her in the "oh I don't want any more power, I love that the Collector took most of my magic away, I don't need to be more powerful" BS. I LOVE LOVE LOVE that Lio is more than willing to fight for her power and insists she is not a bad person for wanting it and that the power won't necessarily corrupt her. We need more male love interests like that, even when their female counterparts have only been allowed to have the female power of the household and the loom their entire lives.
So much happens in this book, I finally feel like we have picked up the pace. The Eight Circle decides to arm themselves and go errant while Orthros wants to arrest them because the broke the law against weapons. They call themselves the Black Roses - a little nod to both Hespera and Cassia's power. Solia is the queen of Tenebra (finally) but needs to fight to keep her throne and her people safe. Monsoon and her are still pretending they don't need each other - they should just get over themselves and give in FFS. Miranda is an evil Gift Collector hunting the errant Black Roses while they run around Tenebra awakening the old Lustra magic.
I won't say any spoilers, but there is a major reveal of the Collector - his name, and even in the end, what is his end goal and why he's been so adamant about getting Cassia to help him work toward his goals. It was both incredibly surprising, but also kind of strangely making sense and expecting? I don't know, I guess you'll have to figure it out for yourselves.
I do hope we get to see Rudhira and Nike find their Graces before the end. They have definitely waited long enough. And of course, I keep thinking Methu is still alive and being held captive by the Aithuorian Circle, and we'll see him - if he is, the author is keeping it well under wraps, but I keep hoping.
Here's to hoping the next book is released soon!
June 10, 2024
Blood Feast was everything the series has been building towards as far as Lio and Cassia’s relationship is concerned. Finally getting to experience the most sacred part of Hesperine culture firsthand was everything I had been waiting for and made my heart so happy. I love getting to learn more about the Hesperine’s and with Cassia becoming fully immersed in their society it was an opportunity to learn alongside her as she navigated what it meant to be fully Hesperine herself. And considering how long anticipated it has been for Cassia to become one with Lio in every way, the satisfaction of this was so extreme.
Of course, things couldn’t remain completely perfect and happy as Lio and Cassia learned to navigate their eternities together, or we wouldn’t have the kind of story that keeps readers coming back for more. The anxiety and tension of strife does return to haunt the couple, but the story is all the more interesting for it and had me once again racing through the pages to find out what would happen for this couple, Hesperines, and Tenebra alike. As always, the political intrigue and the battle to save their people makes this book unputdownable and I was hooked from beginning to end. I cannot get enough of this world and the characters, and having Cassia deal with the struggle of becoming fully Hesperine on top of her fight to keep her people safe just adds to the tension as she tries to figure out who she is now.
The characters are always such a highlight in this series. Whether it’s Lio and Cassia themselves, impossible not to love and respect, or the side characters, who manage to steal your heart no matter how infrequently they might be on the page, I am smitten with so many of them. I was so happy to get more of Mak and Lyros being a bigger part of the story as they are such a lovable duo. Even smaller glimpses of other characters such as Solia, Tendo, and Rhudira had me happy to get a chance to spend some time with others I love dearly. Though, of course, I can’t help but wish to see more of them and get a bigger chunk of their stories as well. But that is something this series does so well. It leaves you wanting to know greater details of so many other characters than just the main ones because their backstories are so enthralling and the depth of their characters is so incredible even when they aren’t central to every book.
As always with this series there were also moments that absolutely tugged at my heartstrings. This series has the ultimate ability to make me feel all of the things for the characters and everything they are going through, both heartwarming and heartbreaking. It is impossible not to feel every emotion for them and this is something that has truly made me love this series so completely. They are beautiful moments that had me teary for the characters that they finally made it to such important moments, and circumstances that affected them so deeply and negatively that had me wishing they would get through it and everything would be perfect on the other side. I can’t handle how intensely I feel for these characters sometimes, both main and side, and it’s truly a testament to Vela Roth’s writing that I am without fail so deeply affected every time.
Lio doing what he does for Dame had me so teary and at the same time so excited about the possibilities. This was everything I didn’t know this book needed and warmed my heart and kept me on edge as far as her safety. But suffice it to say I loved Dame so much.
Now, Lio and Cassia. With as many books as there have been in this story, and as much as the two have managed to grow as characters, it seems like they might have done all of the growing that they have to do already. And yet they still manage to surprise me and their character arcs are so masterfully written. Cassia is forced to deal with her own inner demons brought on by fear of her own self this time. With all of the awful examples she has of people in power and seeking ultimate power in her life, she is crippled by her fear of abusing her own power as she navigates her her freshly discovered magical lineage. This also serves to set Lio’s frustration off but it just makes the two of them so real and relatable which is what I love so deeply about this book, and this series in general. Lio on the other hand goes through his darkest period so far and it’s devastating to watch, even more difficult because it is so contradictory to who Lio is as a Hesperine, being the light and positivity. It’s the first time he really questions everything he believes in and the darkness in him broke my heart every moment, while somehow making him so much more real, and quite frankly it was a reminder that not even Hesperine’s are perfect, as much as they across as being in these books, and I think that’s a powerful, important lesson in Blood Feast.
Honestly what doesn’t Blood Feast have? Moments with all the feels, incredible characters, the kind of storyline that is impossible to stop reading, and even epic battles. And the anxiety these battles caused me over the fates of these beloved characters was crazy. I blasted through the last part of the book because it was so action packed I couldn’t stop and I needed to know what would happen to all these characters I love so much. This series continues to knock it out of the park and I adored every page of this book and could not get enough. Now to wait for the next book with everything left up in the air. This is definitely a must read!
June 3, 2024
***ARC***ARC***ARC****
“You just won a staring contest with a liegehound.”
“That might be my greatest accomplishment yet, after persuading him to make room on the bed for me.”
I WAITED for this book and after inhaling it like it is my only way to breathe, I can only say I bow to you Vela! Your Books are exactly the reason why I love Fantasy in the first place. Powerful stories drenched with Love, action and tears is what makes my heart beat faster and oh boy did it beat faster! Cassia is finally learning to be a Hesperine and with Lio as her teacher I am so here for it. But danger does not sleep neither did it forget about them. Now Cassia needs to navigate her new powers that not only challenge her but her bond with Lio. You cannot put this one down even when in tears. YES, TEARS. Sudden blurry visions are a side effect and you will be happy about it. Sudden heart stopping scenes will also be a cause of health issues but again you will be happy about it. This book felt more intimate than the others and it made the spice more intense. *wink wink* My Fantasy Lovers. If you have until now not read one of Vela Roth’s Books, I feel sorry for your sad life, you miss big time!
***ARC***ARC***ARC****
“You just won a staring contest with a liegehound.”
“That might be my greatest accomplishment yet, after persuading him to make room on the bed for me.”
I WAITED for this book and after inhaling it like it is my only way to breathe, I can only say I bow to you Vela! Your Books are exactly the reason why I love Fantasy in the first place. Powerful stories drenched with Love, action and tears is what makes my heart beat faster and oh boy did it beat faster! Cassia is finally learning to be a Hesperine and with Lio as her teacher I am so here for it. But danger does not sleep neither did it forget about them. Now Cassia needs to navigate her new powers that not only challenge her but her bond with Lio. You cannot put this one down even when in tears. YES, TEARS. Sudden blurry visions are a side effect and you will be happy about it. Sudden heart stopping scenes will also be a cause of health issues but again you will be happy about it. This book felt more intimate than the others and it made the spice more intense. *wink wink* My Fantasy Lovers. If you have until now not read one of Vela Roth’s Books, I feel sorry for your sad life, you miss big time!
***ARC***ARC***ARC****
January 23, 2025
4.5 stars.
June 9, 2024
A written beauty, a just and enchanting continuation in the world of our beloved Blood Grace! This book is desire, magic, and transcendence made manifest; an offer of devotion and the most exquisite gift to BG readers…
Unrelinquished hope and paralyzing fear meet in a place of fantastical reckoning with the most anticipated moments of this series being met with such integrity and love. Every chapter offered me an exquisite taste of escapism. My heart was so quickly drawn into the story. I laughed, cried, celebrated, and ACHED with each of the characters, and I believe that the depth of emotionality offered on every page speaks to the greater themes surrounding love, war, and how precarious and how constant both can be during times of destined change.We are introduced to the sense that everything is on the verge of a great shift; at the end of everything we’ve known so far, in the face of everything that Blood Grace will become, readers begin this book. Love is the ever-present angel on our hopeful shoulders…but just as comfortably sat is devilish Chaos who lurks, appears, then lurks again. Warmth and joy are met with sacrifice and trepidation, and it was a true testament to escapism that I was able to see both juxtapose and evolve into one another throughout the story.
Through every grand moment and excruciating decision, the spirit of BG remained the same, and despite being pushed to the greatest lows and being raised to the highest highs, I felt like the unique integrity of every character was present and articulated beautifully. The decisions that were made, moments and circumstances throughout the story, no matter how shocking they may have seemed, spoke to me of unconditional love and the brutality/ruthlessness of war; I was so compelled as a reader through these visceral emotions that I felt called to reflect upon my own bonds of loyalty, duty, and love.
I existed so deeply within each characters’ conquest of mortal, immortal, and moral woe, and I was rewarded with observing, as a reader, the depth of spiritual awareness that is gifted to each character after such tribulations.Truly such a profound and emotional experience! The villain of this story was the perfect foe for our dears, Lio and Cassia; I could feel the taint of the Collector and his pillaged magic through the pages, and I could feel the twin hands of Despair and Hysteria hovering over my shoulders, waiting, as I was waiting, for the final blow to be dealt and for my heart to break with the characters who I was afraid would break and fall beneath a seemingly final blow!
However, coupled with this dark sense of an impending doom, was the celebratory light of hope and love and victory. There was so much harmony, such a beautiful sense of shared experience, of unconditional love, and unwavering magic to meet the horrors of war and malice. The liberation, the celebration, the sense of coming home was a balm to the tension and a warm embrace shielding me from Despair and Hysteria. If this was the book that truly made me feel the depths of darkness that Lio, Cassia, and company were up against, then the divine essence of love and unbreakable bonds was introduced to me, unfiltered and alive, in equal measure.
As always, I am impatiently and enthusiastically awaiting the next book!
Unrelinquished hope and paralyzing fear meet in a place of fantastical reckoning with the most anticipated moments of this series being met with such integrity and love. Every chapter offered me an exquisite taste of escapism. My heart was so quickly drawn into the story. I laughed, cried, celebrated, and ACHED with each of the characters, and I believe that the depth of emotionality offered on every page speaks to the greater themes surrounding love, war, and how precarious and how constant both can be during times of destined change.We are introduced to the sense that everything is on the verge of a great shift; at the end of everything we’ve known so far, in the face of everything that Blood Grace will become, readers begin this book. Love is the ever-present angel on our hopeful shoulders…but just as comfortably sat is devilish Chaos who lurks, appears, then lurks again. Warmth and joy are met with sacrifice and trepidation, and it was a true testament to escapism that I was able to see both juxtapose and evolve into one another throughout the story.
Through every grand moment and excruciating decision, the spirit of BG remained the same, and despite being pushed to the greatest lows and being raised to the highest highs, I felt like the unique integrity of every character was present and articulated beautifully. The decisions that were made, moments and circumstances throughout the story, no matter how shocking they may have seemed, spoke to me of unconditional love and the brutality/ruthlessness of war; I was so compelled as a reader through these visceral emotions that I felt called to reflect upon my own bonds of loyalty, duty, and love.
I existed so deeply within each characters’ conquest of mortal, immortal, and moral woe, and I was rewarded with observing, as a reader, the depth of spiritual awareness that is gifted to each character after such tribulations.Truly such a profound and emotional experience! The villain of this story was the perfect foe for our dears, Lio and Cassia; I could feel the taint of the Collector and his pillaged magic through the pages, and I could feel the twin hands of Despair and Hysteria hovering over my shoulders, waiting, as I was waiting, for the final blow to be dealt and for my heart to break with the characters who I was afraid would break and fall beneath a seemingly final blow!
However, coupled with this dark sense of an impending doom, was the celebratory light of hope and love and victory. There was so much harmony, such a beautiful sense of shared experience, of unconditional love, and unwavering magic to meet the horrors of war and malice. The liberation, the celebration, the sense of coming home was a balm to the tension and a warm embrace shielding me from Despair and Hysteria. If this was the book that truly made me feel the depths of darkness that Lio, Cassia, and company were up against, then the divine essence of love and unbreakable bonds was introduced to me, unfiltered and alive, in equal measure.
As always, I am impatiently and enthusiastically awaiting the next book!
May 16, 2025
I’m obsessed with this series and I’m absolutely HEARTBROKEN that I have to wait for book 9. The eighth installment of the blood grace series is a wild ride. We begin with the highest of highs, with Cassia finally becoming Hesperine and having her avowal ceremony with Lio surrounded by all of their love ones. Then, basically, everything goes to shit and Mak, Lyros, Lio, and Cassia go errant in Tenebra. They step all over Tenebra and face about a million challenges. Like the last book, this one was super action-packed and impossible to put down.
The lore continues to grow!! I absolutely loved learning more about Lustra magic and all of its ties in Tenebran history. It’s a very mysterious type of magic and not much is known about it, so we’re learning about it at the same time the characters are.
I love the character growth in this series. Everyone has had to adapt so much to the circumstances. The characters have flaws and make mistakes, but they grow from them.
I’m honestly so shook that I’m still not bored with a series with 8 books and counting. I’m so invested in these characters, and I truly don’t know how I’ll survive until book 9 comes out. I’ve been in this world for over two weeks and I’m not ready to leave
The lore continues to grow!! I absolutely loved learning more about Lustra magic and all of its ties in Tenebran history. It’s a very mysterious type of magic and not much is known about it, so we’re learning about it at the same time the characters are.
I love the character growth in this series. Everyone has had to adapt so much to the circumstances. The characters have flaws and make mistakes, but they grow from them.
I’m honestly so shook that I’m still not bored with a series with 8 books and counting. I’m so invested in these characters, and I truly don’t know how I’ll survive until book 9 comes out. I’ve been in this world for over two weeks and I’m not ready to leave
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2025
3 stars Firm three, people because... I'm getting kind of frustrated with how "rinse and repeat" most of this series is starting to feel, save for a few moments here and there
-Love that Cassia has finally become a full blood (pun intended) Hesperine
-Lio and Cassia... these two crazy kids finally get an avowal ceremony
*Thank God! And instead of yet another arbitrary "eight day separation", her found family suggests a time served kind of deal (AKA they list off the trials/separations these two endured via the previous books).
*Also, the inclusion of botanical detailing in their clothing (Cassia's wedding dress brocade is embroidered with floral imagery), Lio's chalice decorated imperfectly with flowers (side note, there's a moment in chapter one where Cassia's frustrated at not controlling her power well enough, how she's destroying more than she's enchanting. Lio goes "The imperfections are my favorite part". And when Lio's upset that the she'll hate the flaws in their wedding chalice, Cassia responds "don't worry; the flaws are also my favorite part"), and even their wedding night🌹 (rose petals from her own grown black roses on the vine rain down on them as they do-the do.
*The moment where Cassia's in her wedding robe, lamenting she'll wear this when holding her and Lio's children at first ritual... my ❤️🥹.
-Cassia basking in the comfort of found family
*Not only do we get the brief return of Perita (and mention of the special soap Cassia used in book one) and Solia (her mortal sister finally gives her blessing), but there's a moment between herself and Apollon where she allows him to shoulder some of her burden so she can enjoy her avowal ceremony. We already know she calls him "Papa", but she literally stops and takes stock of the blessing he's given her: how she's got a dad now, a man who's the exact opposite of her mortal father. How wonderful it feels for her to trust people. I nearly wept.
This girl has been through so much, what with finding out her own existence stemmed from The Collector forcing her father to basically R word her mother until Cassia was conceived and then they could keep her mentally abused/strip her of power she was unaware she had that I'm just kind of feeling fatigue with the war elements. I guess I need equal romance and action in my romantasy. I liked the conflict presented with them taking illegal weapons into war as diplomats. I think the series could've been done in four books... it's giving very Iron Fey towards the end for me. Will I buy the next one? Yeah. But not with my own money. I'm just kind of ready for the promised guaranteed HEA for these two. Does that make me a bad reader 🤔?
-Love that Cassia has finally become a full blood (pun intended) Hesperine
-Lio and Cassia... these two crazy kids finally get an avowal ceremony
*Thank God! And instead of yet another arbitrary "eight day separation", her found family suggests a time served kind of deal (AKA they list off the trials/separations these two endured via the previous books).
*Also, the inclusion of botanical detailing in their clothing (Cassia's wedding dress brocade is embroidered with floral imagery), Lio's chalice decorated imperfectly with flowers (side note, there's a moment in chapter one where Cassia's frustrated at not controlling her power well enough, how she's destroying more than she's enchanting. Lio goes "The imperfections are my favorite part". And when Lio's upset that the she'll hate the flaws in their wedding chalice, Cassia responds "don't worry; the flaws are also my favorite part"), and even their wedding night🌹 (rose petals from her own grown black roses on the vine rain down on them as they do-the do.
*The moment where Cassia's in her wedding robe, lamenting she'll wear this when holding her and Lio's children at first ritual... my ❤️🥹.
-Cassia basking in the comfort of found family
*Not only do we get the brief return of Perita (and mention of the special soap Cassia used in book one) and Solia (her mortal sister finally gives her blessing), but there's a moment between herself and Apollon where she allows him to shoulder some of her burden so she can enjoy her avowal ceremony. We already know she calls him "Papa", but she literally stops and takes stock of the blessing he's given her: how she's got a dad now, a man who's the exact opposite of her mortal father. How wonderful it feels for her to trust people. I nearly wept.
This girl has been through so much, what with finding out her own existence stemmed from The Collector forcing her father to basically R word her mother until Cassia was conceived and then they could keep her mentally abused/strip her of power she was unaware she had that I'm just kind of feeling fatigue with the war elements. I guess I need equal romance and action in my romantasy. I liked the conflict presented with them taking illegal weapons into war as diplomats. I think the series could've been done in four books... it's giving very Iron Fey towards the end for me. Will I buy the next one? Yeah. But not with my own money. I'm just kind of ready for the promised guaranteed HEA for these two. Does that make me a bad reader 🤔?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2025
✨What to expect✨
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
✔️Hesperine Cassia
✔️Lio get’s his own familiar! A female Liege hound, she was so cute!
✔️Expanse on the world and lore
✔️ Cute moments
I really enjoyed the first 200 pages, but as soon as the “weapons” were discovered and Lio, Cassia, Lyros and Mak ran away, the book lost me. There was so much back and forth, miscommunication, unnecessary arguments, and “events”, that I started to dislike the book more and more. The plot felt so random and it felt like we continuously were going back in character development and all of their “failures” felt completely unnecessary (especially since everything would be “okay” 15 pages later, so it felt like the author was creating problems just for the fuck of it). And the identity of the Collector STILL not getting revealed??? A crime.
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
✔️Hesperine Cassia
✔️Lio get’s his own familiar! A female Liege hound, she was so cute!
✔️Expanse on the world and lore
✔️ Cute moments
I really enjoyed the first 200 pages, but as soon as the “weapons” were discovered and Lio, Cassia, Lyros and Mak ran away, the book lost me. There was so much back and forth, miscommunication, unnecessary arguments, and “events”, that I started to dislike the book more and more. The plot felt so random and it felt like we continuously were going back in character development and all of their “failures” felt completely unnecessary (especially since everything would be “okay” 15 pages later, so it felt like the author was creating problems just for the fuck of it). And the identity of the Collector STILL not getting revealed??? A crime.
June 26, 2024
a much-needed return to excellence
the last couple books in this series have slogged a little - it was difficult to keep track of everyone, the intricacies of politics bogged things down, and it seemed overall that we weren’t going anywhere fast.
not so with this installment.
vela roth may not love writing fighting scenes, but she does them so well - and the amount of it in this book was a welcome break from the frustration lio & cassia, and me as a reader, chafed under recently.
i particularly loved the growth of lio & cassia, the deepening world building, and the risks the characters took - even or maybe especially the ones that didn’t pay off. this one felt more like there was indeed a war than the others, and as a result, the highs and lows of the characters shone through. much like books 1-3, i was unable to put this one down.
i would love to see outside our main characters (rudhira comes to mind as one whose brain i am dying to get into, and mak has proven a welcome divergence in previous books) but the growth both lio & cassia have shown has made her interested once again in their narrative. overall, can’t wait for the next one(s) and the satisfying resolution we’re sure to have.
the last couple books in this series have slogged a little - it was difficult to keep track of everyone, the intricacies of politics bogged things down, and it seemed overall that we weren’t going anywhere fast.
not so with this installment.
vela roth may not love writing fighting scenes, but she does them so well - and the amount of it in this book was a welcome break from the frustration lio & cassia, and me as a reader, chafed under recently.
i particularly loved the growth of lio & cassia, the deepening world building, and the risks the characters took - even or maybe especially the ones that didn’t pay off. this one felt more like there was indeed a war than the others, and as a result, the highs and lows of the characters shone through. much like books 1-3, i was unable to put this one down.
i would love to see outside our main characters (rudhira comes to mind as one whose brain i am dying to get into, and mak has proven a welcome divergence in previous books) but the growth both lio & cassia have shown has made her interested once again in their narrative. overall, can’t wait for the next one(s) and the satisfying resolution we’re sure to have.
June 28, 2025
Amazing installment that I enjoyed the whole way through. It only took so long to read due to the length and my scarcity of reading time lately. This was exciting and different than the other books. Vela Roth’s creativity is never ending!
This book in the series shows Cassia and Lio becoming Hesperine Errants and the creation of The Black Roses. I really loved it and going to keep reading until the end.
This book in the series shows Cassia and Lio becoming Hesperine Errants and the creation of The Black Roses. I really loved it and going to keep reading until the end.
September 6, 2024
I’m banging my fists on the wall for the next book. I’m absolutely feral for it
November 12, 2024
Love this whole series so far. So excited for the next book
July 18, 2025
4.5 ⭐
July 23, 2025
3.5 stars🌟
i honestly thought that this book dragged a lot more than the rest.
i was disappointed that 80% of the plot revolved around finding Miranda and they only ended up finding her at the end. i did like the ending though and how the book wrapped up.
i also didn’t like how we didn’t know what was going on in Orthos at all. I think more of a dual or multi-pov would’ve been well suited for this book
i honestly thought that this book dragged a lot more than the rest.
i was disappointed that 80% of the plot revolved around finding Miranda and they only ended up finding her at the end. i did like the ending though and how the book wrapped up.
i also didn’t like how we didn’t know what was going on in Orthos at all. I think more of a dual or multi-pov would’ve been well suited for this book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2024
Dare I say this is the best of the series thus far???
I don’t want to go into too much detail since this is the 8th book in the series but DAMN…. Vela really knocked it out of the park with this book. I was absolutely engulfed from cover to cover. There was not a dull moment spent reading this book. I’ve said it once and I’ll continue saying it, Cassia & Lio are my comfort couple. I love them so much and seeing their relationship progress and get tested was such a big part of this book. I also love how majority of the book was spent alongside Mak & Lyros. I NEED MORE OF THEM! I could’ve read their banter for hours.
You can really tell how much heart and soul Vela book into this book and series. She also pumped up the spice level…phew! I was LIVING for the spice. There was also A LOT of action. I mean, the last like quarter of the book had me literally on the edge of my seat. Cassia has really grown into herself and I love that about her. And Lio, ugh. Lio has my entire heart. Everything he says and does has me swooning.
I am hurt by that cliffs but I cannot wait for the next book! Reading this book made me want to go back and reread all the previous books and really see how far Cassia & Lio have come. 10/10 would recommend this series.
I don’t want to go into too much detail since this is the 8th book in the series but DAMN…. Vela really knocked it out of the park with this book. I was absolutely engulfed from cover to cover. There was not a dull moment spent reading this book. I’ve said it once and I’ll continue saying it, Cassia & Lio are my comfort couple. I love them so much and seeing their relationship progress and get tested was such a big part of this book. I also love how majority of the book was spent alongside Mak & Lyros. I NEED MORE OF THEM! I could’ve read their banter for hours.
You can really tell how much heart and soul Vela book into this book and series. She also pumped up the spice level…phew! I was LIVING for the spice. There was also A LOT of action. I mean, the last like quarter of the book had me literally on the edge of my seat. Cassia has really grown into herself and I love that about her. And Lio, ugh. Lio has my entire heart. Everything he says and does has me swooning.
I am hurt by that cliffs but I cannot wait for the next book! Reading this book made me want to go back and reread all the previous books and really see how far Cassia & Lio have come. 10/10 would recommend this series.
July 9, 2025
Well I am done
Honestly I stuck with these books cause I wanted to know how this ended. And I suspect I had hope that they would either get better or finally end. But I doubt I will read the next one. My frustration with the lack of movement of the story forward or actual character development has me annoyed.
Spoilers ahead-
But frankly you really only need to read maybe the first quarter to a third and the last third to a quarter. I would say a third to half the book is filler. And my annoyance with Cassia has reached epic proportions at this point. For every step forward she takes, she then takes about 30 backward, it feels like. And all the back and forth just felt like it was an attempt to up the page count. It didn't flesh out the story or add anything particularly relevatory for the story. And it is the same issue that has come up in just about every damn book. Cassia is her same stubborn self trying to run away from reality all while saying she wants to face it. That she really does trust and love Lio.... oh wait she knows better than everyone else.....oops please forgive me Lio I created a mountain out of a mole hill again and I was wrong.
Frankly it is starting to feel like the Harry Potter novels, which I barely made it through the last 3 cause there were entire portions, especially the last book in the series, that were just filler. They didn't progress the story or show actual character growth it was just to make it more wordy. I suppose we should be glad the author didn't make us sit through more of the inane stuff on all days she doesn't tell us what they are doing and skips forward to another day.
But the whole "wedding" where it appears Cassia has finally gotten over herself and moved on, then dumba Mak and trying to infuse spell magic on weapons they aren't allowed to have in orthos in orthos!?! Why did any of them think this was a good idea? Best and brightest my a. They couldn't have waited till they arrived in tenebra to give them weapons they could only use in tenebra? So now Cassia once again throws herself under the bus and they will have to face off against all of Orthos and be isolated without help. Dun dun dunh. Oh no whatever shall they do!!!
I realize the author wanted these 4 off on their own and add the same damn drama over again. Will they ever be able to be together, free of the world, and in Orthos?!?! This has been the constant theme for pretty much the entire 8, let me repeat 8, freaking books before this one. And the answer appears to be no. Other than learning what the old master actually wants in the last chapter of the book and Cassia getting her plant magic back there is little point in reading the rest of the book.
So my suggestion save yourself the time and just read the end of the book. That will probably be what I do if and when the 9th book comes out, though suspect that the 9th won't be the last. I think the author is going to beat this dead horse into an unrecognizable puddle of goo. She has a formula and she is gonna stick with it right to the end.
Honestly I stuck with these books cause I wanted to know how this ended. And I suspect I had hope that they would either get better or finally end. But I doubt I will read the next one. My frustration with the lack of movement of the story forward or actual character development has me annoyed.
Spoilers ahead-
But frankly you really only need to read maybe the first quarter to a third and the last third to a quarter. I would say a third to half the book is filler. And my annoyance with Cassia has reached epic proportions at this point. For every step forward she takes, she then takes about 30 backward, it feels like. And all the back and forth just felt like it was an attempt to up the page count. It didn't flesh out the story or add anything particularly relevatory for the story. And it is the same issue that has come up in just about every damn book. Cassia is her same stubborn self trying to run away from reality all while saying she wants to face it. That she really does trust and love Lio.... oh wait she knows better than everyone else.....oops please forgive me Lio I created a mountain out of a mole hill again and I was wrong.
Frankly it is starting to feel like the Harry Potter novels, which I barely made it through the last 3 cause there were entire portions, especially the last book in the series, that were just filler. They didn't progress the story or show actual character growth it was just to make it more wordy. I suppose we should be glad the author didn't make us sit through more of the inane stuff on all days she doesn't tell us what they are doing and skips forward to another day.
But the whole "wedding" where it appears Cassia has finally gotten over herself and moved on, then dumba Mak and trying to infuse spell magic on weapons they aren't allowed to have in orthos in orthos!?! Why did any of them think this was a good idea? Best and brightest my a. They couldn't have waited till they arrived in tenebra to give them weapons they could only use in tenebra? So now Cassia once again throws herself under the bus and they will have to face off against all of Orthos and be isolated without help. Dun dun dunh. Oh no whatever shall they do!!!
I realize the author wanted these 4 off on their own and add the same damn drama over again. Will they ever be able to be together, free of the world, and in Orthos?!?! This has been the constant theme for pretty much the entire 8, let me repeat 8, freaking books before this one. And the answer appears to be no. Other than learning what the old master actually wants in the last chapter of the book and Cassia getting her plant magic back there is little point in reading the rest of the book.
So my suggestion save yourself the time and just read the end of the book. That will probably be what I do if and when the 9th book comes out, though suspect that the 9th won't be the last. I think the author is going to beat this dead horse into an unrecognizable puddle of goo. She has a formula and she is gonna stick with it right to the end.
June 19, 2024
The Blood Grace series is one of my favorite fantasy romances. It is the ultimate escape into a beautifully crafted world with an ardent love story and well-developed characters. As much as I loved this series, it definitely did not need to be so many books, and sometimes the magic systems and plot were confusing. I didn’t realize there are still more books to come, so I look forward to continuing the series.
June 17, 2024
Okay okay, I’ve taken the time to compile my thoughts and I have SO MANY.
First, I’d like to thank Vela not only for giving me the privilege of reading this book in advance, but also for having written it in the first place.
This book is the culmination of what most of the fandom has been waiting on for the duration of the series. Cassia has been fully pulled into the world of the Hesperines, and she is finally given the opportunity to flourish.
But as with any good quality, epic high fantasy book, there is TURMOIL. The big bad is fully gearing up and is BIG BADDING OKAY?!
What I love and appreciate the most about this book is the pacing is absolutely perfect. It reads as a kind of quest book, which in my experience could easily get slogged down in travel and tell-not-showing but MS VELA COULD NEVER. There is ALWAYS something happening, always something to pull interest back to the book. The overarching plot of the previous books is at the forefront even as we deal with several other plots woven together.
The relationship dynamic between Cassia and Lio is changing, and of course there is going to be some friction with it, but our two lovelies always have each other - even in the harder times. It’s the disagreements that truly show the depth and quality of a relationship, in my very humble opinion. AND THE CEILING SCENE?! Sisters - I was gagged truly.
I can’t say enough about this series. I could sit and dissect it for days on end. But I will forever stand by the fact that there is not another book series I’ve read that has gripped me quite so thoroughly. I will never get enough.
First, I’d like to thank Vela not only for giving me the privilege of reading this book in advance, but also for having written it in the first place.
This book is the culmination of what most of the fandom has been waiting on for the duration of the series. Cassia has been fully pulled into the world of the Hesperines, and she is finally given the opportunity to flourish.
But as with any good quality, epic high fantasy book, there is TURMOIL. The big bad is fully gearing up and is BIG BADDING OKAY?!
What I love and appreciate the most about this book is the pacing is absolutely perfect. It reads as a kind of quest book, which in my experience could easily get slogged down in travel and tell-not-showing but MS VELA COULD NEVER. There is ALWAYS something happening, always something to pull interest back to the book. The overarching plot of the previous books is at the forefront even as we deal with several other plots woven together.
The relationship dynamic between Cassia and Lio is changing, and of course there is going to be some friction with it, but our two lovelies always have each other - even in the harder times. It’s the disagreements that truly show the depth and quality of a relationship, in my very humble opinion. AND THE CEILING SCENE?! Sisters - I was gagged truly.
I can’t say enough about this series. I could sit and dissect it for days on end. But I will forever stand by the fact that there is not another book series I’ve read that has gripped me quite so thoroughly. I will never get enough.
April 29, 2025
3.75 Stars But I'm feeling generous today
I'm most angry this isn't the last book! When I researched I couldn't figure out how many books there are going to be. I love these characters but this is dragging on and on. I'm ready for it to be over at this point. My other issue is I didn't remember enough from the previous books. There was too long between books and I don't remember all the intricacies of the world or the magic system. It made this book a rough read because I was just wandering in semi confusion the whole time.
The strongest part of these books is Lio's and Cassia's love for each other. The grace bond between all the couples is so fucking sweet. I love how they speak to and about each other. It's the most romantic thing I may have ever read.
*Small Review*
Cassia is done with her change and is a Hesperian. Her and Lio essentially get married. They have a big party and a bunch of past characters come back, but again, I didn't remember most of them. Mak and Lyros tell Cassia and Lio they want to bring them into their big secret. They agree and find out Mak has been forging weapons inside of Orthros which is a big NO NO. They decide to add their magic to their weapons. Because of Cassia using her magic Lyta (A leader in the Stand and Mak's mother) found them in the forge. Cassia and Mak convince Lyta it was only the two of them who were involved, not Lio or Lyros. She arrests them and puts them in a holding cell. Lio is big mad Cassia did this without consulting him. There is also a lot of tension between Mac and Lyros the whole book.
Lio, Lyros, and all their friends work to get them out. This includes Solia, Cassia's sister, and Tendo. (Remember they were lovers but then Solia made him think she was dead for like a million years so she could make Cassia queen again. Ya things aren't great between them. And there is some whisperings that Rudhira and Solia like each other. Poor Rudhira has been alive FOREVER and has never found his Grace.) Lio, Mak, Cassia, and Lyros decide to set out on their own to try and stop the gift collector. He is some ancient being. I think there are like 7 of them? They're always playing a game against each other. I'm not really sure how one of them wins/looses but the game starts over when all living beings die except for enough to repopulate the world.
Most of this book is a lot of fighting between the Lio & Cassia, and Mac & Lyros. Literally no one is communicating and they are all hurting one another. Lio is desperate to get Cassia's other magic back. I thought she all ready had her plant magic but apparently not all of it. She is fully missing her soothsaying and her beast magic. Lio saves a leigehound and names her Dame. They save some children from a crumbling tower after it was under seige.
They loose over and over again. They are trying to figure out what is behind the doors the gift collector is trying to open. But they don't even know how the doors are being opened in the first place.
Now, this is all the magic stuff I don't understand. Cassia uses Lustra magic. Which is an ancient way to use magic that no one remembers how to use. Cassia is a silvicultrix. Which basically means she's super powerful and has access to all 3 magics. Super rare and powerful. They know the Collector wants her because she is one. He is using Cassia childhood friend Miranda to try and kill Cassia. The Collector is one of those ancient beings who use humans/hesperians as his playing pieces in the games. He employees Gift Collectors to work for him. Gift collectors are mages, they can control fire, water, and stone I think. Gift Collectors hunt down Hesperines. Which he can semi-control with his powers. They gather Miranda was "gifted" Cassia's plant magic but it doesn't work for her. The Silvicultrixes from ancient times created "letting sites". Which is a really strong channel to the Lustra. There Cassia's magic is extra powerful. Cassia notices the Letting Sites have been corrupted over the years. She fixes one and makes it whole. She tires to fix another but ends up destroying quite a few of them. She realizes by destroying the letting sites it's opening the doors for the collector. There is only one door left.
The team decides they need to capture Miranda to figure out what is behind the 3rd door. They draw her in and fight. Mak and Lyros fight her physical form while Lio fights her mind, which is strengthened by the Collectors power. Lio finds out about the game, how it can't end without everyone being destroyed and the few survivors can't know about the game. 1600 Years ago there was a "Mage King". He married and a Silvicultrix. She performed some sort of spell that kept him alive and asleep and locked behind the doors for all these years. The Collector can't "win the game" until the Mage king is officially dead. Thus the Collector is big mad that he can't control Cassia because she's the only one who can open the last door.
Lio is able to free Miranda's mind from the Collectors hold and she runs away free. Lio however, is gravely damaged by the Collector. He sort of scrambles his brain. The three remaining conscious friends decide they need Rudhira. This is Lio's ritual father and son of the first Queens of Tenebra. He is like Lio and is a thelemancer (Mind magic). He comes and helps heal Lio's mind as much as possible. The friends are convinced Rudhira is going to arrest them. But he is pissed that they were arrested in the first place. He is in charge of all Hesperines who are in Tenebra so he pardons them and calls them heroes. He takes them back to his keep to give Lio time to heal.
Lio wakes but is not okay. He is struggling because of his scrambled brain. His most worrying symptom is he can't speak. Cassia tells the other that Lio found out the Mage king is behind the 3rd doors. As well as his Silvicultrixe wife's power.
I know I missed a lot. But that's all the energy I have time to spend on this tonight.
I'm most angry this isn't the last book! When I researched I couldn't figure out how many books there are going to be. I love these characters but this is dragging on and on. I'm ready for it to be over at this point. My other issue is I didn't remember enough from the previous books. There was too long between books and I don't remember all the intricacies of the world or the magic system. It made this book a rough read because I was just wandering in semi confusion the whole time.
The strongest part of these books is Lio's and Cassia's love for each other. The grace bond between all the couples is so fucking sweet. I love how they speak to and about each other. It's the most romantic thing I may have ever read.
*Small Review*
Cassia is done with her change and is a Hesperian. Her and Lio essentially get married. They have a big party and a bunch of past characters come back, but again, I didn't remember most of them. Mak and Lyros tell Cassia and Lio they want to bring them into their big secret. They agree and find out Mak has been forging weapons inside of Orthros which is a big NO NO. They decide to add their magic to their weapons. Because of Cassia using her magic Lyta (A leader in the Stand and Mak's mother) found them in the forge. Cassia and Mak convince Lyta it was only the two of them who were involved, not Lio or Lyros. She arrests them and puts them in a holding cell. Lio is big mad Cassia did this without consulting him. There is also a lot of tension between Mac and Lyros the whole book.
Lio, Lyros, and all their friends work to get them out. This includes Solia, Cassia's sister, and Tendo. (Remember they were lovers but then Solia made him think she was dead for like a million years so she could make Cassia queen again. Ya things aren't great between them. And there is some whisperings that Rudhira and Solia like each other. Poor Rudhira has been alive FOREVER and has never found his Grace.) Lio, Mak, Cassia, and Lyros decide to set out on their own to try and stop the gift collector. He is some ancient being. I think there are like 7 of them? They're always playing a game against each other. I'm not really sure how one of them wins/looses but the game starts over when all living beings die except for enough to repopulate the world.
Most of this book is a lot of fighting between the Lio & Cassia, and Mac & Lyros. Literally no one is communicating and they are all hurting one another. Lio is desperate to get Cassia's other magic back. I thought she all ready had her plant magic but apparently not all of it. She is fully missing her soothsaying and her beast magic. Lio saves a leigehound and names her Dame. They save some children from a crumbling tower after it was under seige.
They loose over and over again. They are trying to figure out what is behind the doors the gift collector is trying to open. But they don't even know how the doors are being opened in the first place.
Now, this is all the magic stuff I don't understand. Cassia uses Lustra magic. Which is an ancient way to use magic that no one remembers how to use. Cassia is a silvicultrix. Which basically means she's super powerful and has access to all 3 magics. Super rare and powerful. They know the Collector wants her because she is one. He is using Cassia childhood friend Miranda to try and kill Cassia. The Collector is one of those ancient beings who use humans/hesperians as his playing pieces in the games. He employees Gift Collectors to work for him. Gift collectors are mages, they can control fire, water, and stone I think. Gift Collectors hunt down Hesperines. Which he can semi-control with his powers. They gather Miranda was "gifted" Cassia's plant magic but it doesn't work for her. The Silvicultrixes from ancient times created "letting sites". Which is a really strong channel to the Lustra. There Cassia's magic is extra powerful. Cassia notices the Letting Sites have been corrupted over the years. She fixes one and makes it whole. She tires to fix another but ends up destroying quite a few of them. She realizes by destroying the letting sites it's opening the doors for the collector. There is only one door left.
The team decides they need to capture Miranda to figure out what is behind the 3rd door. They draw her in and fight. Mak and Lyros fight her physical form while Lio fights her mind, which is strengthened by the Collectors power. Lio finds out about the game, how it can't end without everyone being destroyed and the few survivors can't know about the game. 1600 Years ago there was a "Mage King". He married and a Silvicultrix. She performed some sort of spell that kept him alive and asleep and locked behind the doors for all these years. The Collector can't "win the game" until the Mage king is officially dead. Thus the Collector is big mad that he can't control Cassia because she's the only one who can open the last door.
Lio is able to free Miranda's mind from the Collectors hold and she runs away free. Lio however, is gravely damaged by the Collector. He sort of scrambles his brain. The three remaining conscious friends decide they need Rudhira. This is Lio's ritual father and son of the first Queens of Tenebra. He is like Lio and is a thelemancer (Mind magic). He comes and helps heal Lio's mind as much as possible. The friends are convinced Rudhira is going to arrest them. But he is pissed that they were arrested in the first place. He is in charge of all Hesperines who are in Tenebra so he pardons them and calls them heroes. He takes them back to his keep to give Lio time to heal.
Lio wakes but is not okay. He is struggling because of his scrambled brain. His most worrying symptom is he can't speak. Cassia tells the other that Lio found out the Mage king is behind the 3rd doors. As well as his Silvicultrixe wife's power.
I know I missed a lot. But that's all the energy I have time to spend on this tonight.
October 5, 2024
I didn't realize there was going to be a book 9 and now my day is ruined.
June 7, 2024
Vela Roth has done it again! This book is truly captivating and consuming! Book 8 starts quickly with the most action out of all of the books! Many of the lingering questions from the last 7 books are answered, and we really start to get a better understanding of the deeper conspiracy Killikrates has been masterminding…but with every question answered, another one is left in its place. YES! This book has everything that a traditional romance reader would want. SCORCHING hot spicy scenes, an avowal, and tons of romantic moments between Lio and Cassia. BUT this book is so much more than that. It is a beautiful blend of classic fantasy world building, romance, and conspiracy. Blood Feast is full of many heavy and complicated feelings, but especially focuses on the idea of not living up to the expectations we believe our loved ones have of us. Vela Roth also explores the moral responsibilities we all have when we have the power to change our society and ourselves. We get to see all of our favorite heroes fall apart and come together under the stress and trauma of war, all while being hunted down in a revenge plot that left my head spinning. We really see the questioning of Hesperine morals, and law in this book as the Black Roses evaluate if it is more important to uphold the spirit of the law or the letter of the law. Lio and Cassia along with every other Hesperine has to decide where their morals, and goddess will lead them at this moment in history.
Without giving away too much more of the story, know that there are plenty of friends and places from Cassia and Lio’s past that make a reappearance. Friendships are rekindled, and enemies are confronted. Along the way there is plenty of tragedy and devastation- so please have your tissues ready! This book was an emotional roller coaster. The ending is both beautiful and heartbreaking and will leave you wondering- what are you willing to sacrifice to fulfill your promises? What are you willing to endure in pursuit of what you believe is right? This book has you questioning your heart and holds a mirror up to all of us as we watch our own society struggle with these same questions. The hardest question this book asks our heroes, and really asks us all is this: are your morals and actions in line with each other? This fantasy romance meets the philosophical questions that plague us all- Human and Hesperine alike. Who are you when you are scared? Does your fear define you or push you to be stronger and overcome?
I am already counting down the days until book 9 gets here. If you can't tell, I am HOOKED and can't wait to see more of the world Vela Roth has so painstakingly created.
Without giving away too much more of the story, know that there are plenty of friends and places from Cassia and Lio’s past that make a reappearance. Friendships are rekindled, and enemies are confronted. Along the way there is plenty of tragedy and devastation- so please have your tissues ready! This book was an emotional roller coaster. The ending is both beautiful and heartbreaking and will leave you wondering- what are you willing to sacrifice to fulfill your promises? What are you willing to endure in pursuit of what you believe is right? This book has you questioning your heart and holds a mirror up to all of us as we watch our own society struggle with these same questions. The hardest question this book asks our heroes, and really asks us all is this: are your morals and actions in line with each other? This fantasy romance meets the philosophical questions that plague us all- Human and Hesperine alike. Who are you when you are scared? Does your fear define you or push you to be stronger and overcome?
I am already counting down the days until book 9 gets here. If you can't tell, I am HOOKED and can't wait to see more of the world Vela Roth has so painstakingly created.
October 6, 2024
I am so fucking exciting that this wasn’t the final book, so I’ll have time to get to see Cassia as a Hesperine, and see her claim the rest of her magic.
I genuinely don’t want these books to end because I love the world so much, Orthos truly feels like a utopia—I know it has its own problems—but compared to the rest of the world, wow. I love the concept of having an artisan / trade skill alongside a service that you offer to society. It’s something I’ve really never seen in fantasy, and neither is a matriarchal, nonviolent society. It’s so refreshing, and it’s certainly a major part of the reason why this fantasy series stands out for me.
But also, Vela’s storytelling is so vibrant. I feel like I’m a part of the world, and I’m walking alongside Cassia and Lio, as I’m reading.
I love how Cassia and Lio continue to redefine what it means to be heretical, especially to Hesperines. They are unique, and I don’t think any other pair could compare—except for Ebah and Lucian—but even still, their magic and how it is woven together as a mixture of them and it’s sheer power, is unmatched. Truly. The Gift Collectors messed with the wrong motherfuckers, and they will live to regret it.
I love that Lio got a familiar in this book! And he got a female liegehound, part as a companion for Knight, but also because he genuinely wanted to save Dame. Ugh, it makes me smile so big, every time I think about Cassia and Lio and their dogs and their little, but growing, family.
I’m so glad that Cassia and Lio are never alone. They always have friends and or family with them on their adventures. It brings a lot of light hearted ness and joy to the story, and helps them stay grounded and loved. I enjoyed getting to see Cassia’s relationships with Mak and Lyros grow.
There are so many little moments in these books that make me smile and tear up. All the jokes, the touches, the reassurances, the conversations, the revelations. I will never not be giddy and joyous while reading these books. I have so so so so much fun every time, even though my poor babies are facing terrible battles and heartache and evil mage gift collectors.
Cassia, Lio, and their friends and family will always come out triumphant. They are unbreakable. They are all that is good and kind and empathetic in the world.
ALSO, these little hints at Solia and Rudhira I believe are a ruse because she and Tendo are still very much in love with each other, but stubborn about it. So I need a BIG reminder: who does Lio think is Rudhira’s Grace? Is it Nike? That has been my long time guess for a few books, but I still haven’t gotten any confirmation / updates on that front, so PLEASE, Vela!
I genuinely don’t want these books to end because I love the world so much, Orthos truly feels like a utopia—I know it has its own problems—but compared to the rest of the world, wow. I love the concept of having an artisan / trade skill alongside a service that you offer to society. It’s something I’ve really never seen in fantasy, and neither is a matriarchal, nonviolent society. It’s so refreshing, and it’s certainly a major part of the reason why this fantasy series stands out for me.
But also, Vela’s storytelling is so vibrant. I feel like I’m a part of the world, and I’m walking alongside Cassia and Lio, as I’m reading.
I love how Cassia and Lio continue to redefine what it means to be heretical, especially to Hesperines. They are unique, and I don’t think any other pair could compare—except for Ebah and Lucian—but even still, their magic and how it is woven together as a mixture of them and it’s sheer power, is unmatched. Truly. The Gift Collectors messed with the wrong motherfuckers, and they will live to regret it.
I love that Lio got a familiar in this book! And he got a female liegehound, part as a companion for Knight, but also because he genuinely wanted to save Dame. Ugh, it makes me smile so big, every time I think about Cassia and Lio and their dogs and their little, but growing, family.
I’m so glad that Cassia and Lio are never alone. They always have friends and or family with them on their adventures. It brings a lot of light hearted ness and joy to the story, and helps them stay grounded and loved. I enjoyed getting to see Cassia’s relationships with Mak and Lyros grow.
There are so many little moments in these books that make me smile and tear up. All the jokes, the touches, the reassurances, the conversations, the revelations. I will never not be giddy and joyous while reading these books. I have so so so so much fun every time, even though my poor babies are facing terrible battles and heartache and evil mage gift collectors.
Cassia, Lio, and their friends and family will always come out triumphant. They are unbreakable. They are all that is good and kind and empathetic in the world.
ALSO, these little hints at Solia and Rudhira I believe are a ruse because she and Tendo are still very much in love with each other, but stubborn about it. So I need a BIG reminder: who does Lio think is Rudhira’s Grace? Is it Nike? That has been my long time guess for a few books, but I still haven’t gotten any confirmation / updates on that front, so PLEASE, Vela!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2025
Cassia really comes into her own here. She’s unapologetic, sharp, and completely in control of her power. Seeing her stop hiding, stop holding back, and use what she’s got to protect the people she cares about was satisfying. The way she confronts Lio, proposes the avowal, and lays it all on the table with no hesitation. She’s direct, she’s ready, and she doesn’t need permission. It’s the strongest she’s ever felt on the page.
Lio, for his part, meets her there. He doesn’t shrink from the weight of the commitment or the chaos surrounding them. His decision to say yes, even knowing the cost, made sense for where he’s grown to. They’ve been through enough to earn that moment.
Apollon’s defense of Cassia during the formal bloodline ceremony was one of the most affecting parts of the book. It wasn’t dramatic or flashy, but it hit hard. He simply said what needed to be said and gave her the kind of support that felt overdue. It gave weight to Cassia’s place in their world beyond just her relationship with Lio.
Of course, things don’t stay calm for long. The arrest scene came fast and hit harder than I expected. Cassia and Mak shackled over weapons, Lio and Lyros immediately ready to break them out, there’s no middle ground. Either you’re all in or you’re out. And Lio is all in, even when everything else falls apart around him.
There’s a shift in the middle of the book that felt a little rushed. After everything, Cassia somewhat turns herself in and leads Lio into isolation, and it hurts. His pain during that part was some of the most raw writing in the book. But then suddenly, after a nap and a single conversation, the whole group is back on the same page again. It was jarring. I wanted more time to sit in that fracture before it healed.
There are great moments of levity and tension throughout. Cassia levitating mid ‘scene’ and Lio reacting with genuine wonder was a highlight. Her dealing with the drunken commander was another strong moment cold, controlled, and unflinching.
By the end, the stakes feel massive again. Lio’s potential permanent voice loss, the ongoing fallout with Orthros, the uncertain safety of the Black Roses, t’s all still very precarious. Rudhira stepping in with the pardon was the kind of leadership I’ve been waiting to see, even if it won’t fix everything.
Lio, for his part, meets her there. He doesn’t shrink from the weight of the commitment or the chaos surrounding them. His decision to say yes, even knowing the cost, made sense for where he’s grown to. They’ve been through enough to earn that moment.
Apollon’s defense of Cassia during the formal bloodline ceremony was one of the most affecting parts of the book. It wasn’t dramatic or flashy, but it hit hard. He simply said what needed to be said and gave her the kind of support that felt overdue. It gave weight to Cassia’s place in their world beyond just her relationship with Lio.
Of course, things don’t stay calm for long. The arrest scene came fast and hit harder than I expected. Cassia and Mak shackled over weapons, Lio and Lyros immediately ready to break them out, there’s no middle ground. Either you’re all in or you’re out. And Lio is all in, even when everything else falls apart around him.
There’s a shift in the middle of the book that felt a little rushed. After everything, Cassia somewhat turns herself in and leads Lio into isolation, and it hurts. His pain during that part was some of the most raw writing in the book. But then suddenly, after a nap and a single conversation, the whole group is back on the same page again. It was jarring. I wanted more time to sit in that fracture before it healed.
There are great moments of levity and tension throughout. Cassia levitating mid ‘scene’ and Lio reacting with genuine wonder was a highlight. Her dealing with the drunken commander was another strong moment cold, controlled, and unflinching.
By the end, the stakes feel massive again. Lio’s potential permanent voice loss, the ongoing fallout with Orthros, the uncertain safety of the Black Roses, t’s all still very precarious. Rudhira stepping in with the pardon was the kind of leadership I’ve been waiting to see, even if it won’t fix everything.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2024
I love this series and it just keeps getting better and better.
This book had very high highs and very low lows. It was wonderful to see Lio and Cassia's Avowal but we did have to quickly plunge into some drama that forced the Black Roses - Lio, Cassia, Mak & Lyros into a perilous quest without any back up.
It was interesting to see what it was like for Cassia now that she was finally a Hesperine. Not just the access to the full Grace Union and Blood Union but the clash with the Hesperine society due to the acceptance of Mak's Avowal gift. That perhaps Hesperine society is not as perfect as we first think. That even with Grace Union there can be misunderstandings.
Not that there hasn't been conflict within Hersperine society before, such as with the two sides on the argument of the Departure ,but that is healthy debate of a society whereas the Young Bloods being forced to engage with the main Antagonist and his chess pieces on their own, leading to so much suffering both physical and psychological for our heroes is hard for both the readers and the characters to bear.
Their travails put pressure on their relationships with one another as well, between Mak & Lyros and Lio and Cassia. Lio is determined that Cassia gains access to all her magic whereas the earlier events that put them on the wrong side of the law and the border makes Cassia fear her magic. Mak worries he's done the wrong thing and Lyros aims for perfection as their general which also adds to their problems.
In the end, they overcome this and are returned to their loved ones within the Blood Errant but, whilst they have won an important battle, Cassia has more magic than ever before, they have insight into the Collector's goals (and can therefore with broader support have the hope of stopping him), we are left with the cliffhanger of Lio's infliction from the last battle, and now it is Cassia's turn to save him.
I'm very much looking forward to the next (last?) installation, whenever it becomes available.
This book had very high highs and very low lows. It was wonderful to see Lio and Cassia's Avowal but we did have to quickly plunge into some drama that forced the Black Roses - Lio, Cassia, Mak & Lyros into a perilous quest without any back up.
It was interesting to see what it was like for Cassia now that she was finally a Hesperine. Not just the access to the full Grace Union and Blood Union but the clash with the Hesperine society due to the acceptance of Mak's Avowal gift. That perhaps Hesperine society is not as perfect as we first think. That even with Grace Union there can be misunderstandings.
Not that there hasn't been conflict within Hersperine society before, such as with the two sides on the argument of the Departure ,but that is healthy debate of a society whereas the Young Bloods being forced to engage with the main Antagonist and his chess pieces on their own, leading to so much suffering both physical and psychological for our heroes is hard for both the readers and the characters to bear.
Their travails put pressure on their relationships with one another as well, between Mak & Lyros and Lio and Cassia. Lio is determined that Cassia gains access to all her magic whereas the earlier events that put them on the wrong side of the law and the border makes Cassia fear her magic. Mak worries he's done the wrong thing and Lyros aims for perfection as their general which also adds to their problems.
In the end, they overcome this and are returned to their loved ones within the Blood Errant but, whilst they have won an important battle, Cassia has more magic than ever before, they have insight into the Collector's goals (and can therefore with broader support have the hope of stopping him), we are left with the cliffhanger of Lio's infliction from the last battle, and now it is Cassia's turn to save him.
I'm very much looking forward to the next (last?) installation, whenever it becomes available.
May 23, 2025
4 stars
Ever since the third book, this series has been my escape.
Between work and other problems, it took me almost a month to finish 8 books, but it was worth it.
It's still difficult for me to express why this series captivated me so much.
It has such a puzzling writing style to which I had to adapt. The magic system and multitude of characters almost gave me a headache. The back-and-forth with the information and the exasperating delay of Cassia's Gifting. The books are so long but still manage to be insufficient by the end.
And besides all that, I still devoured these books every chance I got. I did not have the time to write a review for each book as I read it so for me it feels like a really long, continuous book, but these are my thoughts, in no order whatsoever:
- book 7 and book 1 had the best covers
- I liked that book 8 was darker, a bit more mature
- the author did an excellent job of presenting Lio and Cassia's story and development, it feels like we grew along with them
- my head did hurt sometimes trying to understand all the magic and plots
- who the hell is Rudhira’s Grace?? did we meet her yet? at some point I thought it might be Miranda, but she has the wrong kind of magic
- when is Methu going to become relevant to the story and show up
- same with Phaedros. There is no way that dude remains in exile when they mention him so much
- it's frustrating sometimes how stubbornly noble Hesperines are
- I want more scenes with Chrysanthos, he's so funny now that he's less evil
- I also want less angsty drama and more funny drama
All in all, this series turned out to be an unexpected surprise and I'll patiently wait for the next book.
8/10 would recommend
Ever since the third book, this series has been my escape.
Between work and other problems, it took me almost a month to finish 8 books, but it was worth it.
It's still difficult for me to express why this series captivated me so much.
It has such a puzzling writing style to which I had to adapt. The magic system and multitude of characters almost gave me a headache. The back-and-forth with the information and the exasperating delay of Cassia's Gifting. The books are so long but still manage to be insufficient by the end.
And besides all that, I still devoured these books every chance I got. I did not have the time to write a review for each book as I read it so for me it feels like a really long, continuous book, but these are my thoughts, in no order whatsoever:
- book 7 and book 1 had the best covers
- I liked that book 8 was darker, a bit more mature
- the author did an excellent job of presenting Lio and Cassia's story and development, it feels like we grew along with them
- my head did hurt sometimes trying to understand all the magic and plots
- who the hell is Rudhira’s Grace?? did we meet her yet? at some point I thought it might be Miranda, but she has the wrong kind of magic
- when is Methu going to become relevant to the story and show up
- same with Phaedros. There is no way that dude remains in exile when they mention him so much
- it's frustrating sometimes how stubbornly noble Hesperines are
- I want more scenes with Chrysanthos, he's so funny now that he's less evil
- I also want less angsty drama and more funny drama
All in all, this series turned out to be an unexpected surprise and I'll patiently wait for the next book.
8/10 would recommend
June 4, 2024
Another great book by Vela Roth following her Blood Grace series. It continues to amaze me how detailed these books are, I mean down to the smallest thing. It really makes you believe you’re in an entirely new world. Sometimes you read a book and you notice details that are similar to another you read and then continue to compare them. Not these books Vela even takes the idea of a vampire and creates a whole new religion through it with the only thing remaining the same the fact that they need blood to survive. In this new book in the series we continue to follow Cassia and Leo on their various adventures and quests to uncover forgotten truths. The beginning of this book definitely took a turn I did not see coming that set Cassia and Leo on a new path. After finding out about Kalos and his history with leighound it was a secret hope of mine that cassia would somehow acquire a leighound pup for him either with her beast magic or some other way. But after the amazing turn of events with the new addition of Dame I can totally see this happing. I will say I loved the portrayal of Cassias worries with Knight. Vela understands that things can’t just change and be the same or better. This same can be said for their plans throughout this book, they had to fail to understand what they had to overcome, making things more realistic. Everyone has to alter and adjust. I have to admit I’m always sad when I don’t get enough scenes with Zoe, I just love her and her goats so much. My last thought is more of a suggestion, I would love for there to be a pronunciation guide added and would find it helpful. I can wait to see what’s in store next for this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2024
I was lucky enough to be able to read an arc copy of this book and it did not disappoint!
“When you speak, I will make the world listen. When you fight, I will make your cause mine. And when you long for peace, I will be your Sanctuary.”
Cassia finally getting to experience her new Hesperine powers is oh so rewarding! As well as getting to read about how Lio and Cassia’s union grows stronger. This is exemplified by their inward emotions and outward actions throughout the book. The fact that they can finally make love as vampires and feast on each other is just *chefs kiss*.
Vela Roth truly knows how to write character development. She continues to make the immortal Hesperine’s grounded, relatable and ever evolving. Their blood union and empathy is felt throughout the entire book. You feel their elation, craving, devastation and conflicted emotions right along side them.
Honestly, I don’t know how I thought the war would play out between Tenebra, Orthros, Cordium and the Old Master but it wasn’t this. And I mean that in the best way possible! I am continuously surprised and engrossed in the politics of this world.
I do wish we got Mak’s POV again like we did in The Blood Union. It was like we got teased with it just so we would know about the forge and we never got it again after it served that purpose. I would have loved to get more insight into his thought process, emotions, and his grace union with Lyros.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed Blood Feast and I am so happy that this not the last book in the Blood Graces series! I absolutely cannot wait to read how the rest of the story unfolds!
“When you speak, I will make the world listen. When you fight, I will make your cause mine. And when you long for peace, I will be your Sanctuary.”
Cassia finally getting to experience her new Hesperine powers is oh so rewarding! As well as getting to read about how Lio and Cassia’s union grows stronger. This is exemplified by their inward emotions and outward actions throughout the book. The fact that they can finally make love as vampires and feast on each other is just *chefs kiss*.
Vela Roth truly knows how to write character development. She continues to make the immortal Hesperine’s grounded, relatable and ever evolving. Their blood union and empathy is felt throughout the entire book. You feel their elation, craving, devastation and conflicted emotions right along side them.
Honestly, I don’t know how I thought the war would play out between Tenebra, Orthros, Cordium and the Old Master but it wasn’t this. And I mean that in the best way possible! I am continuously surprised and engrossed in the politics of this world.
I do wish we got Mak’s POV again like we did in The Blood Union. It was like we got teased with it just so we would know about the forge and we never got it again after it served that purpose. I would have loved to get more insight into his thought process, emotions, and his grace union with Lyros.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed Blood Feast and I am so happy that this not the last book in the Blood Graces series! I absolutely cannot wait to read how the rest of the story unfolds!
June 30, 2024
Once again we are back in Orthros, in the wonderful world Ms Roth has created in this series.
To me, this is what fantasy writing is all about.
The world building is once again, superb. Her characters are so well thought out, so deep and full of life, you feel like revisiting a friend when you pick up another of these books.
Lio and Cassia are still secluded in their home as Cassia comes to terms with becoming Hesperine.
They enjoy all of the wonders her Gifting offers.
She is enveloped by her new family and her people, and life is wonderful.
However during her time in seclusion, life has continued out in the various kingdoms.
War is here.
And they are both needed.
She and Lio decide to officially avow themselves in front of their people, before setting off on their next mission.
However, an avowel gift from Mak and Lyros goes horribly wrong.
Cassia and Mak find themselves facing arrest.
And a decision is made for Lio, Cassia, Mak and Lyros to escape Orthros and go errant.
But not even the Charge can know their whereabouts for fear of them turning the 4 in.
They form their own Errant group which they call the Black Roses.
And they thrust into the wild and war torn lands of Tenebra in an effort to hide, as well as chase down The Collector and his pawns.
⭐️ Plot: 5/5
🌶️ Spice: 3/5
📖 Genre: Fantasy
🏞️ Setting: Tenebra and Orthros
🗣️ POV: Dual
🛏️ Tropes:
- Vampires (Hesperines)
- Political Drama
- New Magic
- Found Family
- Subterfuge and War
- Learning how to use magic
- Betrayal
To me, this is what fantasy writing is all about.
The world building is once again, superb. Her characters are so well thought out, so deep and full of life, you feel like revisiting a friend when you pick up another of these books.
Lio and Cassia are still secluded in their home as Cassia comes to terms with becoming Hesperine.
They enjoy all of the wonders her Gifting offers.
She is enveloped by her new family and her people, and life is wonderful.
However during her time in seclusion, life has continued out in the various kingdoms.
War is here.
And they are both needed.
She and Lio decide to officially avow themselves in front of their people, before setting off on their next mission.
However, an avowel gift from Mak and Lyros goes horribly wrong.
Cassia and Mak find themselves facing arrest.
And a decision is made for Lio, Cassia, Mak and Lyros to escape Orthros and go errant.
But not even the Charge can know their whereabouts for fear of them turning the 4 in.
They form their own Errant group which they call the Black Roses.
And they thrust into the wild and war torn lands of Tenebra in an effort to hide, as well as chase down The Collector and his pawns.
⭐️ Plot: 5/5
🌶️ Spice: 3/5
📖 Genre: Fantasy
🏞️ Setting: Tenebra and Orthros
🗣️ POV: Dual
🛏️ Tropes:
- Vampires (Hesperines)
- Political Drama
- New Magic
- Found Family
- Subterfuge and War
- Learning how to use magic
- Betrayal
June 10, 2024
Cassia just became a new Hesperine and is learning to control her powers with Lio, when they find out war is coming sooner than expected and they must go and help since she’s the only Hesperine who wields Lustra power and Lio is the only immortal mind mage who has defeated Kallikrates before.
They go on a quest with Mak and Lyros to uncover the Collector’s plot, who is determined to destroy Lio for taking Cassia away from him and turning her into a Hesperine, and also while Cassia is still learning how to control her powerful and deadly powers.
I really enjoyed this next installment of Cassia and Lio’s story! I loved seeing how they worked together with Cassia struggling with her new magic and trying to learn how to control it and to learn to trust Lio and trust him that she’s not hurting him. Their relationship is so real, they were relatable and entertaining when they’d have little spats and make up, or stop communicating and then finally give in and talk. I enjoyed every moment!
I loved the quest they took with Mak and Lyros. I always enjoy books with adventures and quests and this one was definitely adventurous! And to take it with these two made for a fun and entertaining quest!
With a touch of political intrigue and magical twists, and the tastefully done steamy romance is wonderful as always.
Just so good and such an amazing series! I definitely recommend it!
I received a free gifted e-copy to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
They go on a quest with Mak and Lyros to uncover the Collector’s plot, who is determined to destroy Lio for taking Cassia away from him and turning her into a Hesperine, and also while Cassia is still learning how to control her powerful and deadly powers.
I really enjoyed this next installment of Cassia and Lio’s story! I loved seeing how they worked together with Cassia struggling with her new magic and trying to learn how to control it and to learn to trust Lio and trust him that she’s not hurting him. Their relationship is so real, they were relatable and entertaining when they’d have little spats and make up, or stop communicating and then finally give in and talk. I enjoyed every moment!
I loved the quest they took with Mak and Lyros. I always enjoy books with adventures and quests and this one was definitely adventurous! And to take it with these two made for a fun and entertaining quest!
With a touch of political intrigue and magical twists, and the tastefully done steamy romance is wonderful as always.
Just so good and such an amazing series! I definitely recommend it!
I received a free gifted e-copy to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 13, 2024
Cassia and Lio are back baby! And they are NOT HAPPY. Ok, they are because we finally get what we have been collectively pining for; they're official and Cassia as a Hespy (my affectionate nickname). But other than that, they are NOT HAPPY because this war is going on far too long and they are ready for it to end! In Blood Feast we also get a reuniting of all our favorite characters to help with something that I had to put my book down and walk away because THAT JUST HAPPENED! Seriously, I cannot give any details without jeopardizing spoilers. But, I will say that it is always so fun and relaxing to return back to Vela Roth's world where I have multiple book crushes including those I want redemption arcs for hahaha.
What I can also say is that I appreciate characters who make mistakes and then when they also have to deal with consequences of those mistakes. Our motley crew, although experienced in other ways, are still young, impressionable, and oh so eager to make a name for themselves. That's what finding yourself and your place in the world is all about. So sit back with some rose hips tea and watch them learn from those mistakes.
If you liked the action from Blood Union and the exploration into more Hespy culture and politics from Blood Sanctuary than Blood Feast is going to be one of your favorites. (Which is almost impossible to pick haha)
What I can also say is that I appreciate characters who make mistakes and then when they also have to deal with consequences of those mistakes. Our motley crew, although experienced in other ways, are still young, impressionable, and oh so eager to make a name for themselves. That's what finding yourself and your place in the world is all about. So sit back with some rose hips tea and watch them learn from those mistakes.
If you liked the action from Blood Union and the exploration into more Hespy culture and politics from Blood Sanctuary than Blood Feast is going to be one of your favorites. (Which is almost impossible to pick haha)
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