The past will always have its claws in the present.
When Charlotte Walsh leaves Rosebrook Valley to attend college four hours away, she finds herself trapped in a cycle of regret and depression, amplified when she falls victim to a stalker. After the unwelcome roses and peeping tom behavior escalates to threatening notes and ominous phone calls, she wants to return home. But if she runs away, her shadows could follow her. She won’t put her loved ones in danger. With no one else to turn to, she clings to the one friend who makes her feel safe: Aiden Easton.
Plagued by nightmares that replay his death, Aiden struggles through each day. When his adorable friend Charlotte hints that college life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, he visits her at UGA to take his mind off his own stress. But her situation is worse than he anticipated—Rogue Vasirian surround her, putting her in more danger than a human stalker ever could. Despite the ever-present reminder that they cannot be anything more than friends because she’s human, and he’s not, he protects what’s his—even in the face of temptation.
No one could have foreseen the full repercussions of Aiden’s magical resurrection. No one expected his fated mate—his Korrena—to awaken.
He bathed in her blood, a baptism that exorcised his former life without her.
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Book five of the Blackthorn Saga is a medium burn/high heat, full length (160k+ words) new adult friends to lovers romance featuring two side characters as the main characters. While it's best to read the previous books (at least book 4 if you wish to have a deeper understanding of the MMC's struggle), there's enough information it can be read as a standalone for newcomers to the series.
The dark and mysterious world of the Blackthorn Saga is a new take on vampire romance in an academy setting complete with a king and his court, fated mates, magic, and more! Blackthorn Saga takes a new approach to the fated mates trope and the toxicity around the jealousy and possessive behaviors that can come from it, allowing the characters to evolve and grow across multiple books to find themselves and find a true, organic love without just bending to "destiny."
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Author's Note: 18+ This series contains content that may be unsuitable for certain readers. To learn more about content warnings in the author's work, please visit her website. Please note this book deals with themes of depression and PTSD.
Stephanie Denne is a #1 international bestselling author of paranormal romance with a focus on mental health and trauma healing ranging from light to dark. Born in the United States, Stephanie now calls Ontario, Canada her home. When not writing, she can be found reading her favorite stories, playing video games with her husband, painting and drawing, or cuddling her Golden Retrievers. But not the cat—the cat has her own agenda.
A very special THANK YOU and many forehead kisses to Stephanie Denne for giving me the opportunity to read yet another Blackthorn Saga ARC. This is my 3rd ARC and, boy, do I feel like a veteran **ugly happy tears** With that said, I also feel this overwhelming bittersweet unease about our Blackthorn journey coming to an end (even though we’re still in the middle of this saga. More on that later). So to jump right into things, (this review will be detailed. Hopefully not too spoiler-y but if you’re looking for a simplified overview, THIS AIN’T IT. Proceed with caution)- I really loved that this book (#5 in the series) started with Charlotte the main character being isolated from the rest of the Blackthorn gang. It really set the tone for where her journey would begin both physically, mentally, and emotionally. If you’ve read books 1 & 2 you know that Charlotte has always been an outlier when it comes to this story to the point where in my mind she was never really a side character. So it just made so much sense that her story would begin completely detached from the primary location the overarching plot takes place in. This change in setting took those of us that have been keeping up with the saga out of our element and comfort zone (if you can call Blackthorn Academy comforting. Hint: YOU CAN’T). By doing so, the beginning of the book is hyper immersive (even if you’re new to the saga, you will still get this feeling, dw bb). From the jump, Fractured Fate feels ominous, creepy, and like an early 2000s slasher film. I was picturing the Scream franchise every time Charlotte would walk down the street at night and answer phone calls from a mystery man (wink wink). The suspenseful vibes are so spine tingly delicious, lemme tell you!
As far as emotional isolation goes, even in scenes where there were interactions with other characters, Charlotte stood out as a solitary figure. This in conjunction with her innermost thoughts really built the foundation of who she is at her core- a lost, lonely, isolated girl who takes pleasure in solitary activities (video games), and who views the world and those in it as separate entity beyond her reach. The result of these factors culminating in Charlotte’s clinical depression. And as we all know, Ms. Stephanie Denne loves a good mental health awareness moment! To which, Stephanie, did not shy away from. From the very beginning Charlotte was forthright about her struggles and negative thought patterns, be it from missing her friends that didn’t seem (to her) to miss her back, to feeling like she wasn’t allowed to reach out and ask for a helping hand (even when things got dangerous). She often felt like she didn’t belong in her world and that there was no way to really navigate through a life that didn’t particularly cater to her or her feelings. This is where the ever beautiful soul, Aiden, comes into play.
For 4 books we have seen Aiden as the best friend, brother, protector, and leader of the Blackthorn gang, but never as the love interest. I mean, if you don’t count that one time where things looked a lil dodgy (IYKYK)! Overall Aiden has continuously played second fiddle when not problem solving or in savior role. There has never been a time when Aiden has had anything that he can take sole claim of, that is until he develops PTSD and suffers through the nightmares that accompany it. With the development of Aiden’s vivid nightmares he finds himself in an environment that is just as isolating as the one Charlotte finds herself in. His roommate has just moved out of their dorm, his friends have all paired up and left him as the 5th wheel tagalong, and his world has shifted from something that he once considered to be a big part of to something he is now looking in on. All in all there is no longer a place for him when he’s always been the savior and everyone else has a mate that can easily come to the rescue. Until he realizes Charlotte is too timid to ask to be saved, so what does our lil Clark Kent do? He goes to save the girl in hopes that he can lend a helping hand to him and Charlotte both. By taking himself out of his day to day life Aiden hopes to curb his nightmares and protect someone he considers a friend. Little do Aiden and Charlotte know that their so called independent worlds will converge in a mass scale Blackthorn amalgamation!
With their joined worlds, we get so many new elements to the main plot of the saga that act as building blocks to further our progression to the Blackthorn finish line. In addition, we also get answers to speculations from book 2 and beyond (don’t worry only book 1-4 readers will notice) as well as new developments to look forward to, MOVE OVER BLAIRE! For these reasons, I feel like we are at the climax of the series (this is where my bittersweet feelings come into play) and what comes next will bring us that one step closer to the end *ugly sobbing* It is because of this, that I read this book with a certain level of detachment. I’m really bad at feeling sad, so I push those feelings down, down, down, until I’m numb. Even writing this makes my eyes glassy, not going to lie. These characters and this world have been there for me in times of painful life transitions and nights when I felt so alone just like Charlotte. That is why I really appreciate Stephanie’s dedication to character consistency. All of her characters have stayed true to who they are at their core. I often notice that many authors tend to forget who their characters are at a basic level when writing “spin-off” books in order to have the plot progress. But Stephanie’s strengths lie in her plot mapping, world building, and character foundation, because of that having to alter a character’s core personality is a non-factor. Making it so that her books don’t feel like spin-offs but an extension of the story as a whole and like every new book has that feeling of coming home from vacation. The pages of this story and characters will take your bags off your shoulders so that you can sit back and relax (using the word LOOSELY) just for that moment while you get reacquainted with the best vampire found family you will ever encounter. And while we’re talking about reacquainting ourselves, this book felt like a true stand alone when compared to Ruinous Secrets as the timeline was further away from the main story plot/couple. In the grand scheme of things the timeline fits in seamlessly but because of the way the characters processed past events it feels like a more natural starting point if you’re looking into starting the series with this book and then working your way backwards. With that said, the recapping of books 1-4 are sprinkled in so organically and spaced apart throughout the book that you don’t feel like there are any spoilers or that you’re missing key information. If a new reader starts their Blackthorn journey with this book and backtracks, books 1-4 will still feel brand spanking new!
TLDR: THE PLOT, PLOTS! THE SPICE IS SPIIICYYYYYY (hello demisexual hard pucci pounding dom), THE BOOK IS A BANGER!!! READ IT NOW!!
*available on Kindle Unlimited & Paperback
**Book can be read as a standalone or series starter and ebook presale is at a discounted rate until release day (august 9, 2024)**
A huge thank you to Stephanie Denne for giving me the opportunity to read this as an ARC.
I have been OBSESSED with the saga since I read Mark of the Vasirian last year and I feel like this one seriously tied them all together for me. I just can’t wait for the next one! I think Charlotte and Aiden are my new favourite Blackthorn couple?? The slow burn and tension had me in such a state, honestly my man got seriously sick of me gasping over them having a bloody phone call at one point. I just love how much each couple gets their own story without taking away from the wider picture.
Charlotte wasn’t around much for the other books, and was basically introduced as “Blaire’s human friend”, but i got attached to her so quickly. An important thing to note here is that there is some really good mental health representation when it comes to Charlotte, and my heart just connected with her story so much. Isolation and depression are major themes here, as even when everyone is reunited Charlotte still feels like she’s an outsider.
Aiden, Aiden, Aiden AHHHHHHHHHHHH This man is my favourite ever. Does he have a hero complex? Yes. Would I let him do bad bad things to me? Absofuckinglutely i would. I’m so glad he got what he deserves, cause my man gone through some shit. By that I mean more mental health rep, which I love. Shout out Stephanie🫡I salute you bbygirl. Aiden has PTSD and has recurring problems with it throughout the book (check ya TWs). Plus the demisexual rep? slay
I missed the rest of the characters so I’m glad I got to see them again too!
If you haven’t read the other books first, this can be read as a standalone as you’re brought up to speed throughout the book, but honestly? Just read the whole series okayyyyy
If you want vampire(-like species)’s, fated mates, one of the best found family series ever, a lot of “Touch her and 💀” moments, friends to lovers (yes dear goodreads followers, i said friends to lovers), and some sexi, bitey, and a little bit bloody, spicy time? THEN I SUGGEST YOU BUY A COPY!!!!
Stephanie Denne the woman that you are🫶🏼kisses. I can’t wait to read whatever whirlwind you’re gonna take us on next!
I was trying to be serious and then i got to talking about Aiden and lost all the seriousness in my body in replacement of horniness soooo, I deeply apologise, and someone please find me that man…my neck is looking a lil juicy rn💀
This was an ARC read, but these are all my own views. Fractured Fate is available from 9th August, on KU & paperback. Ebook presale is at a discounted rate until release day.
I finished this book in two days, I have loved reading this series and seriously cannot wait for another book.
It has been so good reading Aiden and Charlotte’s story. I had this feeling from book 1 that Charolette would be tied in somehow just never would’ve guessed how it would be done. I’m so ready to continue to see how this groups ties truly are in this series. Obviously we get tid bits but not enough, however it makes you want to continue to read.
I cannot wait for another one, but I ever so slightly hope to return to Lukas and Blair’s POV of continuing in the world they live it. Even though I’ve loved hearing about everyone else I have an attachment to those two mostly because the first two books.
This series just keeps getting better and better with every book released. I fall in love with the main characters everytime. When I think they can't be topped a new main character duo comes along and I find it hard to decide who my favourites are! There's no deciding on that though I love them all. When I saw this was Charlotte and Aiden's story I was not sure how it was going to fit in with the previous storylines with the dynamics of the group but let me tell you Stephanie has done it again! The intensity of the story line and the growing relationship between Charlotte and Aiden unfolded so beautifully🥺 Ughhh let me tell you Aiden is a man after my own heart😮💨The sweet romantic moments, the twists and turns and anticipation made the story wonderful also not forgetting the spicy factors 🌶️🥵😮💨I loved all the tropes and representation within not only this book but all of Stephanie's other books in the series. All representation and issues were handled so perfectly with the characters. Can I just say reading through Charlottes friendship with Blaire I love them! Each time I read a Blackthorn book I get drawn in and invested deeper I cannot wait for the next instalment. I highly recommend reading the others in the series as once you start reading you can't stop. You will want all the juicy details you'll regret just reading one of the Blackthorn books as a stand-alone you will want them all! Thank you so much Stephanie for the arc opportunity cannot wait to grab a paperback on release day for my collection. The Ebook is also up for preorder at a discounted rate and will be full price on release day highly recommend getting yourself a Bargain with this new book ❤️ 😄
I have been absolutely anticipating this story after devouring the last four books. Aiden had been an early stand out for favorite characters for me and I couldn’t wait to get a peak into his life as a main character and this book did not disappoint. Seeing him and Charlotte navigate the complexities of their mental illnesses and trauma while also building an unexpected relationship was almost like a cathartic experience for me. While I believe you should read all four Blackthorn Academy books before this one for the full experience I think you could read this one alone and still love it. Cannot wait for release day for everyone else to get to enjoy this story!
ALSO, CAN I JUST SAY AIDEN EASTON THE MAN THAT YOU ARE 😮💨
Thank you everyone who has continued to support the Blackthorn Saga, and my journey as a debut author. With each new book I feel I grow a little more and I’m proud of the community I have found in my readers. You’re all amazing.
* THIS WILL BE MOSTLY SPOILER FREE BUT NOT COMPLETELY*
** I want to say thank you, for giving me the best birthday gift of all which was the arc for this. I have been so eagerly awaiting the next Blackthorn Saga book and I was so thankful and honored to be able to read this earlier than I would have been able to. I was truly suffering awaiting to read about my baby angels **
***As with the rest of the Blackthorn Saga, I absolutely devoured this. Upon reading this, I will say that this can easily be read by itself OR as apart of the series. I think Stephanie does a wonderful job of writing explanations that do well to catch new readers up, but carefully done to not become repetitive for old readers. ***
She looked at the screen. "unknown caller." She lifted the phone to her ear again. "Who is this?" She pressed the phone to her ear tightly, listening to the sound of breathing on the other end. 🔪 ☎️
I am reading by candle light, fully embracing summerween. So to start off with this book feeling like a slasher film, I am here for it. The setting surrounds you with a eerie, creepy vibe. I found myself fighting the urge to look over my shoulder. We are then fortunately blessed and comforted by our mmc that is Aiden. His voice being a lighthouse in the dusk on the other end of the line for our main girl Charlotte. I felt nostalgic for all the moments in my life where I was anxious and had that comfort person on the other line tethering myself to reality.
Charlotte being a plant mom, having a room filled with celestial touches, and being an avid gamer easily allowed myself to find her likable and relatable. Aiden being a protective, caring, and selfless character through and through continued to bring myself kicking my feet up. 🥵🌶️
I adore all of the moments we get with our characters from books prior. Seth and Riley hold such a special place in my heart and having moments with them had me laughing out loud. The characters in this series have become such comfort characters to me. I am going to be honest here in thinking that Seth and Riley will always hold a top golden spot in my heart and then Aiden and Charlotte come blasting through. Stephanie does such a lovely job with her writing that I cannot get enough of this world. I want to dive into it and fully surround myself with the Blackthorn universe and am cursing the gods daily for not being apart of it.
Stephanie have such great rep in her books and I admire her dearly for it. "She hated days like this, when the lows were particularly low and sucked the hope and joy out of everything." Like yes babe, we relate so hard to this. "She pushed down the emotions bubbling under the surface and forced a smile, sliding her mask back into place." 🥲🥲🥲🥲 EXCUSE ME, STEPHANIE HAVE YOU BEEN SECRETLY INSIDE MY HEAD????
I am a full on lesbian, but these Blackthorn Saga men keep proving that men written by women are so superior. I mean hello Aiden. Mr. "You're gonna have to tell me what's up." ❤️🔥🥵🥵🌶️🫡🫡
ALSO THE TROPES IN THIS SERIES >>>>>>>
❤️🔥 TOUCH HER & 🔪 🌶️ONE BED ❤️🔥FATED MATES 🌶️ FOUND FAMILY ❤️🔥 LGBTQA+ demisexual rep 🌶️ MENTAL HEALTH
I am not a big friends to lovers girlie. I adore enemies to lovers and gobble it up. Stephanie's writing has me kicking my feet up, screeching unnatural sounds, and giggling at the moments between these two.
"I'll sleep in the bed under one condition." "Name it," she fired back, a triumphant look on her face. "You sleep in the bed too."
I AM LIVING FOR THE VAMPIRE RENAISSANCE STEPHANIE IS BLESSING US WITH.
this is book 5 in the blackthorn saga series, though it can be read as a standalone — i only read the first book before jumping into this and at no point did i feel out of the loop, but boy am i excited to go back and read the other three books (i’m not kidding when i say this is a new fave series for me!!!).
to put it simply, i adored this book. this was truly a read that had me HOOKED from the first page. i really enjoyed the plot and writing in this book. though again, it can be read as a standalone, i really appreciated the fact that there was ample info given to the plot points of the previous books in the series and i didn’t feel lost at all.
i loved charlotte’s character more than i can express. the themes of her depression, isolation and overall feeling like an outsider were incredibly relatable and emotional at times. aiden defo made the jump straight to the book boyfriend list when i first met him in book 1 but rest assured, he secured his place after this book. a demisexual dom king after my own heart 😮💨🤌 his protectiveness of and connection w charlotte from the beginning was beautiful.
the slow burn and tension between these two — and good lord the hot bloody (lol) spicey spice 🥵🌶️!!!! — obsessed.
read if you like: ➷ vamps !!!! ➷ fates mates ➷ friends to lovers ➷ forbidden love ➷ found fam ➷ touch her & ☠️ ➷ forced proximity ➷ one bed ➷ mental health, demisexual & LGBTQ+ rep !!!
thank you to stephanie denne for the free arc copy of this book. this review and rating is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
It took me 400 pages to get into this book, which is why the three stars were awarded. I was really disappointed in how long it took me to get into this book, due to how quickly I was able to read the first four books in this series.
I really loved Aiden in the first four books and I was really excited to read and learn more about his character, I felt like I didn't learn anything new about him. He seemed the same, the only difference being that he was more protective of Charlotte for obvious reasons.
The main thing I hated about this book was the amount of time that it took for me to read it. I wanted to give up and DNF it several times, but I felt like I had to finish it seeing as I finished the first four books in this series. The other thing I hated was how clear it was that Noah was working with Charlotte's stalker. From the moment the stalker and Noah were introduced, I knew that he was involved.
I do so love this world. If I had to pick a favorite so far, it would be this book or the most recent. I still have a lot of gripes with the first three books.
With both Seth/Riley and Adrian/Charlotte we get our characters TOGETHER building that connection and their relationship. I still feel like we didn't get enough time with Blaire/Lukas to really get invested. I hope we get more books from their POV.
But I digress. Adrian had become the 5th wheel, through no fault of his own. Watching all your friends be loved up can be difficult. Add in nightmares about being shot and killed... Didn't make things easier.
Charlotte was Blaire's closest friend before the series and has been left out since Blaire met Lukas. Now while this was for her own safety.. the frustration and hurt she feels is completely justified.
I have been rooting for these two to get together since I met them, so this book made my heart happy.
After a stalker threatens Charlotte, Adrian swoops in to protect her and things get 🥵.
I look forward to continuing this story and seeing how Blaire and Charlotte begin to navigate their potential jump into "immortality".
*I received an eARC and I am leaving this review voluntarily*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Be warned, this is another addictive read, in a good way. Friends to lovers, fated korrena pair, vampire-ish, stalker that you'll never guess who. This book keeps the angst going between characters and I'm here for it. Eagerly awaiting next book
I DEVOURED this book! Honestly probably my favorite one in the entire series (so far) and I could not get enough of it. Aiden and Charlotte go so well together, and the tension was SO INTENSE.
Aiden being demisexual is so 💕💗💖💞 I think it fits so well. Charlotte and Aiden both suffer with mental health issues, which I think is so important to their characters. I love that Aiden is so protective over Charlotte yet not toxically possessive, and he really is the protective hero that has been through so much more than we thought.
The pet name “kitten” is honestly amazing, I never knew I would like it this much?? The spice was AMAZING I was blushing at every scene. Aiden absolutely worships his girl and Charlotte eats it tf up. I’m glad the author didn’t make Charlotte an innocent virgin like I thought she would, I think it added a lot more depth to her. The spice was so well implemented and felt so genuine to me, and it didn’t overtake the plot and fantasy elements.
We learn more about the Vasirian world in this book, but it totally could be read as a standalone, since it’s more detached from the original story than the other books, and it recaps more stuff in a very natural way. I don’t recommend reading it as a standalone though, because you’re totally missing out on the experience if you do. The writing in this book was so much better than the previous books (not that the writing was bad) and I truly loved it so much.
☠️ Touch her and die 🖤 Fated mates/ Friends to lovers 🧑🧑🧒 Found family 🌶️ spicy
Fractured Fate is book 5 of the Blackthorn Saga (could be read as a stand-alone but trust me you want to read the rest!) and centres around Aiden & Charlotte.
Every pairing in Stephanie’s books has me in a chokehold and Aiden & Charlotte are no exception. Watching these 2 realise their feelings for eachother was *chefs kiss*
The chemistry and the spice are perfect.
The lore that Stephanie has built for the Vasirian’s and around Blackthorn is captivating and enthralling.
Another 5 star read.
**full disclosure - I was lucky enough to arc read this - opinions are my own.
I’d like to start this review off by saying thank you to Stephanie, for once again graciously allowing me on her arc team so I could read and review this AMAZING book early. If you’re hesitant about reading this book due to not reading the other books, this book can be read as a standalone/series starter so don’t be afraid! I’m going to be honest here, I thought Seth and Riley’s book was my favourite and would forever be my favourite, but Charlotte and Aiden… don’t even get me started. They have absolutely taken the #1 spot for me. I loved the mental health representation as someone who struggles with depression also, Charlotte immediately became my favourite character because I could see myself relating to her. Aiden on the other hand, struggles also with bad dreams and although I can’t relate to what he went through specifically I get it. And although both were struggling with mental health issues they didn’t let any of it truly hold them back and I love that about both of them. Their romance now..once again, not the biggest fan of friends to lovers, i'm truly an enemies to lovers girly but just like with Seth and Riley’s book Stephanie has gotten me to adore this trope again. I loved the fact that they both had a mutual attraction to each other. Just neither was bold enough to say it at the start, but once they did it blossomed into something absolutely amazing. And the spicy scenes in this book were top tier for me, tons of kinks were explored in this book and I loved it! Plot wise and worldbuilding, we had some questions answered from previous books and there was a huge plot twist that even I wasn’t expecting that related to how Charlotte is all tied in. When I read that chapter I gasped so loud because I was trying to figure out the entire time how I thought she’d be tied in but I didn’t expect that! Once again thank you to Stephanie for allowing me to read an arc of this book, and I cannot wait for any more books in this series.
I have been reading this saga since it’s very first book, Mark of the Vasirian and I’ve been hooked and along for the ride ever since, which is an emotional and bumpy rollercoaster, but always fun. I adore a slow burn and boy did this tick all my boxes , I loved it (it’s still got plenty of steam for those worried) I think slow burn always builds the relationship so much better.
One thing I love with Stephanies books is that each couple gets has their own story but it doesn’t detract from the main story ongoing. This book and the last book could be read as stand-alone reads, but why would you want to miss out on the story when they are so fantastic.
I have loved Charlotte since the first book, so was so happy when I saw she was moved a main character in this book,after playing a smaller part in previous books. As someone who suffers depression and anxiety I loved the fact that Stephanie covered some really good mental health rep in Charlotte, I thought it was so beautifully covered and handled by the author. But also was th Auden too there is more mental health rep, but I won’t go into too much detail to avoid spoilers.
A massive thank you to Stephanie fr continuing to write some of my favourite books and characters, long may it continue, although I’m aware this series is heading towards its conclusion and I both look forward to and dread its resolution, because I will cry.
Hands down best book I’ve read in so long. I have read all the Blackthorn saga books and they just keep getting better and better. I love Charolette and Aiden’s stories, the dual POV is great to help you get to know the characters if you haven’t read the previous books(it can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the other 4 books) I can’t wait to see what Stephanie has in store for the future of the saga. I read this in a day and half and couldn’t put it down. You won’t be disappointed reading this book. I’m patiently waiting for the next book and I only finished this one last night 😂 Also the ebook is available for preorder at a discounted price compared to paying full price when the book is released on August 9th! And to Stephanie, thank you for the wonderful series. I have really enjoyed reading these books and getting to know the characters. Now I will go back and re read the whole series again!!
And here I thought I was a Seth girlie. Then Aiden came and bumped himself up to the number one spot.
I loved this book! I’m so glad I finally got to Charlotte and Aiden’s book because I was so eager for the friend’s to lovers trope. I related to Charlotte in the depression department. My heart broke for Aiden’s PTSD. The most scary part about this story was the stalker that charlotte had! I swear the stalking is only hot when it’s the MMC doing it but that wasn’t the case. And Aiden being the protective person he is, went all the way to Athens to help her out. IF HE WANTED TO HE WOULD!!!!! On top of that, their attraction for each other was HOT. Girl i was sweating and fanning myself. Their smut scenes… PHENOMENAL. SEXY. KINKY. HEART POUNDING (that wasn’t the only thing pounding hehehehehehe). Loved it. Aiden calling her kitten—WHEWW🥵 me next me next!!!!
Very excited for more of Stephanie’s future books because I need Dom’s book ASAP. And also Layla’s story, too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
First off, I had no clue Aiden was packing that kind of energy. I mean, he’s been the overprotective bodyguard type forever, and then out of nowhere—bam—there’s this whole new side to him. Absolutely blindsided.. and I liked it.
And Charlotte? So much better than Blair. While Blair was out here acting confused, Charlotte just casually embraces the whole Vasirian world like she’s been waiting for this moment her entire life. She pairs up with Aiden and accepts the mate bond without a second thought—meanwhile, Blair’s still trying to read the manual and I’m sick of her.
The plot? Honestly, not the best—kind of flat. But the character development? Love.
Someone get my girl Charlotte off anti depressants though my god.
The 5th installment of the Blackthorn Saga. Whilst this book could be read as a standalone, it would be advisable to read the previous books to be able to grasp the entirety of the story. In this book we follow Charlotte and Aiden. I love the natural flow of the relationship and the real life reactions of the characters (something that I've enjoyed from previous books as well). This is a serious that I really love and it was great to see the story continue. I can't wait to see how things all work out in the end.
I am simply obsessed with this series. I definitely connected to Charlotte as a character. I think it was interesting to revisit introducing a character to the world of the Blackthorn Clan and I was glad that Charlotte and Blair had different reactions because otherwise the series would have felt repetitive. The chemistry between Charlotte and Aiden was great and the overall mystery of the plot of the series gained some traction and is still compelling.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
PTSD plus a hero complex make for an explosive storyline. Aiden becomes obsessed with keeping his "friend" Charlotte safe. However, the underside of her dilemma which brings them together is much more complicated than they anticipated. This story was enhanced with subplots, great world building and character development. I really must go back and read the rest of this series as it will provide some more background details. A definite must read that I could not put down.
I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily leave this review.
I really love reading the stories about the side characters from the very first books in this series, this time it's about Charlotte and Aiden. I really love getting to see even more of the world the the author writes about through the eyes of other people who are in it. Watching the connection between these characters unfold is great. I love how their story is so unique to them yet still a big part of what is happening in the overall scheme of things.
Thank you to Stephanie for once again inviting me to be a part of her world by letting me read an ARC and giving my thoughts about it.
literally have no words to describe how much I loved this book despite her depression and struggles Charlotte was an amazing and strong character and so admirable and Aiden was so so so cute but please please let him see a therapist 😭
I'm a Vampire romance addict and this new spin on the creatures is so new and interesting (not that different from the original but still twisty and new)
and I am very grateful that there was no miscommunication Trope because that shi is so overused nowadays it's annoying, thank you author for making them a healthy functioning couple <33
FINISHED IT! Freaking amazing book! Best in the series by far! Though I don’t think anyone can top Aiden and Charlotte as a couple. Amazing characters amazing story. Can’t wait for more of the books to come out in this series or its spin off’s. I thought everything ended with the third book in the series, never would’ve thought that the mystery still continues even after 2 couple’s stories came out. Thought it would be boring, but after each book it gets even more interesting. Can’t wait for the final book as well as Dom’s book (really hope he gets one)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I feel like this series had so much potential it could have lived up to but didn’t. I really liked the plot but the execution wasn’t the best for me. I probably would have enjoyed it more but just couldn’t based on how it was written. I can’t really describe it.
I like how despite the change in narrative every few books, the plot was continued and the main plot wasn’t forgotten about or left undone. I would continue when the next book comes out but only because I want to know what happens with the plot. I’m not overly connected to the characters or their relationship storylines.