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New Protectorate #3.7
Sanguine: The New Protectorate Stories: Volume Six
She needs an escape.
Carmine never wanted to be a blood bride. Despite what the instructors tell her fellow brides, she knows that being sold off to the highest vampiric bidder will at best be fatally boring and, at worst, actually fatal. When her bride price is paid, she’s prepared to do whatever it takes to save herself from becoming a vampire’s mate.
He wants a change.
Atticus Caldwell is restless. He doesn’t regret leaving the vampiric crime syndicates behind, but as the years crawl by, he’s forced to admit that something’s missing. Seeking to break up the mundanity of his life, he takes on a safe, straightforward job. Unfortunately, there’s very little that’s straightforward about being tricked into transporting a rebellious blood bride to her groom, and there’s certainly nothing safe about the troublesome woman herself.
They’ll both get more than they bargained for.
Carmine is by turns disarmingly sweet and a vicious little hellcat ready to do anything to change her fate. Atticus would’ve helped her on principle, but with every new stunt she pulls, he’s forced to admit he isn’t doing it just out of the goodness of his heart. He doesn’t want a blood bride, but he’d do just about anything to have her. Too bad she’s determined not to become a vampire’s mate — and he’s not the only vampire desperate for a taste.
Sanguine is a complete standalone novella in The New Protectorate Universe and can be read without the context of the other books in the series. A full series list as well as a character directory and content warnings can be found on the author's website.
Carmine never wanted to be a blood bride. Despite what the instructors tell her fellow brides, she knows that being sold off to the highest vampiric bidder will at best be fatally boring and, at worst, actually fatal. When her bride price is paid, she’s prepared to do whatever it takes to save herself from becoming a vampire’s mate.
He wants a change.
Atticus Caldwell is restless. He doesn’t regret leaving the vampiric crime syndicates behind, but as the years crawl by, he’s forced to admit that something’s missing. Seeking to break up the mundanity of his life, he takes on a safe, straightforward job. Unfortunately, there’s very little that’s straightforward about being tricked into transporting a rebellious blood bride to her groom, and there’s certainly nothing safe about the troublesome woman herself.
They’ll both get more than they bargained for.
Carmine is by turns disarmingly sweet and a vicious little hellcat ready to do anything to change her fate. Atticus would’ve helped her on principle, but with every new stunt she pulls, he’s forced to admit he isn’t doing it just out of the goodness of his heart. He doesn’t want a blood bride, but he’d do just about anything to have her. Too bad she’s determined not to become a vampire’s mate — and he’s not the only vampire desperate for a taste.
Sanguine is a complete standalone novella in The New Protectorate Universe and can be read without the context of the other books in the series. A full series list as well as a character directory and content warnings can be found on the author's website.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
29 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
About the author
Abigail Kelly
11 books242 followersAbigail Kelly is a writer of alternate histories, love stories, and women with drive. Her work is heavily influenced by both her modest family roots and her passion for history. A former illustrator, she is now a bookseller at an independent bookshop where she gets to badly influence impressionable young minds and put her favorite books in eager hands. She is also the host of the Kingdom of Thirst podcast, a show all about romance novels and why they matter.
Her favorite authors are Shirley Jackson, V. E. Schwab, Ursula K. Le Guin, Kresley Cole, Nalini Singh, and just about anyone who writes about the weird and wonderful. She lives in San Francisco with her dog, Babs, who remains stubbornly illiterate.
Her favorite authors are Shirley Jackson, V. E. Schwab, Ursula K. Le Guin, Kresley Cole, Nalini Singh, and just about anyone who writes about the weird and wonderful. She lives in San Francisco with her dog, Babs, who remains stubbornly illiterate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
October 3, 2024
Abigail Kelly gave us a vampire/vampire romance! I enjoy how this author focuses on the intricacies of the cultures of different races. All of her books have content warnings and glossaries at the back too.
Here we have Atticus (H), who’s a side character from a prior book (though this stands alone fine) and head of security for an estate. He's a survivor and had a rough start, but he's in a good place now. He's been restless lately though so he takes a job transporting something. Well, turns out, that something is actually a someONE, Carmine (h), and she’s a blood bride who’s been purchased by Atticus’s client. Carmine’s venom neutral, meaning she can be fed on by another vampire and produce pure vampire offspring. It’s a practice that’s illegal and when he inspects the trailer after a bad feeling settles in, Atticus is horrified. Carmine’s confused and not exactly hopeful that something good will come out of this unusual situation. But something good does happen because these two were meant for each other.
Written in third person, dual POV. No ow/om drama (though h is hung up on the idea of needing a groom for a while, because that’s what she’s been trained for). H is experienced (he thinks about how he hasn’t been with anyone for a while and I don’t believe he was a player; a couple throwaway comments that refer to his past experiences but they’re not specific and I don’t even remember what they were) and h is a virgin because she had to be kept “pure” for her groom.
I love dual POV, especially when it provides insightful peeks into the mindsets of the characters when the other characters aren’t reliable at understanding them. Here it’s used effectively because Atticus is fairly stoic, with flashes of stronger feelings, usually when he’s reacting to a scheme of Carmine’s. Carmine’s an open book in some ways but also trying not to be. She often exudes a feeling of being trapped, by her training and by her expectations. She’s also extremely sheltered since she hasn’t been in the outside world since she was a child and she has no personal resources. She also understands others through a unique lens because of her experiences and also that she trained as a mortician. I felt Atticus’s struggle to be careful with her, building that trust, while he’s also overwhelmed at times with his want of her. He’s trapped too, by his worries over wanting Carmine despite her being venom neutral and how they’re meeting.
We get to experience Carmine’s craftiness as she toggles between potential escape plans, uncertainties, potential freedom, and an unprecedented interest in someone else. The dynamic of their forced proximity and Atticus trying to save her while Carmine’s unsure of what’s happening was different. Both experience new to them drives and instincts too. The angst though before they reach the spot of being in an actual relationship is rough in places. At one time Atticus thinks Carmine’s trying to leverage an interaction between them for protection. Later, Carmine’s convinced that feelings are one-sided and she’s going to have to let him go so that SHE’S not taking advantage of HIM. I wouldn’t say that this story has miscommunication exactly, for as open and blunt as both can be, they have a lack of fully sharing their personal feelings so they sometimes misconstrue what the other’s motivations are.
I liked that Atticus wants to give Carmine all the experiences and small things that she’s missed out on, it was empowering of him. In return, Carmine gives Atticus a sense of purpose and settles the restlessness that started nagging at him. Physically, the biting and steamy times are fantastic. The possessiveness and instincts that ride both of them are perfect for this type of story. Atticus is generous and giving and I liked that for all that Carmine didn’t see the appeal in sex, she’s keen to get some reciprocation going. I did wish that there was maybe one more scene cause I’m greedy.
We get to see Harlan and his anchor, Zia, (from the book Empire) and their adorable toddler. We get a bit of Atticus’s sister and the men he works with too. Primarily though, this is a book focused on Atticus and Carmine. Oh and the person who bought Carmine does get what they deserve.
The epilogue has a sweet poignancy to it with its focus on the found family that exists on the estate and a nod to fresh starts and moving forward positively. It also gives a final glimpse at how preciously Atticus treats Carmine and how she’s woven into the fabric of the estate dynamic just as much as everyone else. This isn't my favorite of this author's epilogues, but it's still a good one.
Here we have Atticus (H), who’s a side character from a prior book (though this stands alone fine) and head of security for an estate. He's a survivor and had a rough start, but he's in a good place now. He's been restless lately though so he takes a job transporting something. Well, turns out, that something is actually a someONE, Carmine (h), and she’s a blood bride who’s been purchased by Atticus’s client. Carmine’s venom neutral, meaning she can be fed on by another vampire and produce pure vampire offspring. It’s a practice that’s illegal and when he inspects the trailer after a bad feeling settles in, Atticus is horrified. Carmine’s confused and not exactly hopeful that something good will come out of this unusual situation. But something good does happen because these two were meant for each other.
Written in third person, dual POV. No ow/om drama (though h is hung up on the idea of needing a groom for a while, because that’s what she’s been trained for). H is experienced (he thinks about how he hasn’t been with anyone for a while and I don’t believe he was a player; a couple throwaway comments that refer to his past experiences but they’re not specific and I don’t even remember what they were) and h is a virgin because she had to be kept “pure” for her groom.
I love dual POV, especially when it provides insightful peeks into the mindsets of the characters when the other characters aren’t reliable at understanding them. Here it’s used effectively because Atticus is fairly stoic, with flashes of stronger feelings, usually when he’s reacting to a scheme of Carmine’s. Carmine’s an open book in some ways but also trying not to be. She often exudes a feeling of being trapped, by her training and by her expectations. She’s also extremely sheltered since she hasn’t been in the outside world since she was a child and she has no personal resources. She also understands others through a unique lens because of her experiences and also that she trained as a mortician. I felt Atticus’s struggle to be careful with her, building that trust, while he’s also overwhelmed at times with his want of her. He’s trapped too, by his worries over wanting Carmine despite her being venom neutral and how they’re meeting.
We get to experience Carmine’s craftiness as she toggles between potential escape plans, uncertainties, potential freedom, and an unprecedented interest in someone else. The dynamic of their forced proximity and Atticus trying to save her while Carmine’s unsure of what’s happening was different. Both experience new to them drives and instincts too. The angst though before they reach the spot of being in an actual relationship is rough in places. At one time Atticus thinks Carmine’s trying to leverage an interaction between them for protection. Later, Carmine’s convinced that feelings are one-sided and she’s going to have to let him go so that SHE’S not taking advantage of HIM. I wouldn’t say that this story has miscommunication exactly, for as open and blunt as both can be, they have a lack of fully sharing their personal feelings so they sometimes misconstrue what the other’s motivations are.
I liked that Atticus wants to give Carmine all the experiences and small things that she’s missed out on, it was empowering of him. In return, Carmine gives Atticus a sense of purpose and settles the restlessness that started nagging at him. Physically, the biting and steamy times are fantastic. The possessiveness and instincts that ride both of them are perfect for this type of story. Atticus is generous and giving and I liked that for all that Carmine didn’t see the appeal in sex, she’s keen to get some reciprocation going. I did wish that there was maybe one more scene cause I’m greedy.
We get to see Harlan and his anchor, Zia, (from the book Empire) and their adorable toddler. We get a bit of Atticus’s sister and the men he works with too. Primarily though, this is a book focused on Atticus and Carmine. Oh and the person who bought Carmine does get what they deserve.
The epilogue has a sweet poignancy to it with its focus on the found family that exists on the estate and a nod to fresh starts and moving forward positively. It also gives a final glimpse at how preciously Atticus treats Carmine and how she’s woven into the fabric of the estate dynamic just as much as everyone else. This isn't my favorite of this author's epilogues, but it's still a good one.
October 5, 2024
3.5 Stars
I wish it was longer because both MCs were right up my alley. Too bad this is kind of short hence the lower rating.
I wish it was longer because both MCs were right up my alley. Too bad this is kind of short hence the lower rating.
September 5, 2025
This was fine, I guess? I was looking for vampire smut and I found it. The book was quite short so I can’t really fault it for the lack of meaningful build-up in the romance or the world in general, but there also wasn’t enough smut to justify the lack of plot. There wasn’t even really a climax (well, excerpt for *that* kind 👀), the book just kind of ended. Will be forced to continue looking for a book that scratches the slutty vamp itch
December 9, 2025
2.5 ish stars
I’m honestly not sure how I feel about this one. Mostly I’m in denial my time in the NPU is over…for now.
So I loved Carmine’s story, it was sad and heartbreaking and redeeming..but as much as I hate to say it I didn’t always like the Atticus parts. Ahh. I just didn’t like some of the early decisions he made, but overall they make sense - just cringed a few times
I’m honestly not sure how I feel about this one. Mostly I’m in denial my time in the NPU is over…for now.
So I loved Carmine’s story, it was sad and heartbreaking and redeeming..but as much as I hate to say it I didn’t always like the Atticus parts. Ahh. I just didn’t like some of the early decisions he made, but overall they make sense - just cringed a few times
October 1, 2024
Thank you to Abigail Kelly for the ARC!
Trigger or content warnings? Yes! Included in the back of the book.
Details?
FMC’s name is Carmine, and she is older than 30. She was sold to the crypt at the age of 6, and was there for “decades and decades”.
MMC’s name is Atticus, and he is older as well. He was adopted by Harlan as a preteen, and has been with him ever since.
Atticus has the birth control shot.
Carmine is a virgin against her will, Brides are expected to be “pure” for their buyers when the time is right.
No OW.
OM- Junger is the man who hired Atticus to “pick up a package” and bring it back to him. He is the one who bought Carmine because there was a discount on her. Carmine and Junger never meet.
My thoughts?
Vampire x Vampire? Sign me up. Double the biting fun.
Atticus has become discontent with his life as of late, he’s watching his chosen-father live out every vampires dream. Having an anchor and building a life together. So, just for the funsies, he took on a job. It was a simple task, bring a trailer back to Junger and under no circumstances…do not open it. Atticus has wicked good gut instincts, so he opened the trailer and lo and behold- there’s Carmine.
Carmine also has wicked gut instincts, even if hers are more animalistic. So when facing off with a predator who has confirmed he is not her “groom” she darts away. Flight all the way, babes. Unfortunately for her, Atticus is exceptionally good at what he does and catches her within seconds.
Which starts their journey together- I love a good road trip romance. An attitude is discovered. Caretaking shenanigans. Primal instincts.
Intertwined by a moment of fate, Carmine and Atticus end up connecting on every level they can. She actually ends up back at Harlan’s estate where she will be safe while Atticus takes a minor but well needed detour.
I love blunt fmcs and Carmine was just *chefs kiss*. Being raised in a crypt, and working in a morgue the bodies shes around are not known for talking back to her. So she knows the basics, but leans towards being straight to the point. The author actually made an edit of Carmine and Atticus in the vehicle, and it’s the audio of Fox Moulder saying “spooky? Do you think I’m spooky?”….yes Carmine. I think you’re spooky as heck dude.
There is a hint of angst, but it’s all slight miscommunication. Overall I found this to be the perfect autumn read.
Trigger or content warnings? Yes! Included in the back of the book.
Details?
FMC’s name is Carmine, and she is older than 30. She was sold to the crypt at the age of 6, and was there for “decades and decades”.
MMC’s name is Atticus, and he is older as well. He was adopted by Harlan as a preteen, and has been with him ever since.
Atticus has the birth control shot.
Carmine is a virgin against her will, Brides are expected to be “pure” for their buyers when the time is right.
No OW.
OM- Junger is the man who hired Atticus to “pick up a package” and bring it back to him. He is the one who bought Carmine because there was a discount on her. Carmine and Junger never meet.
My thoughts?
Vampire x Vampire? Sign me up. Double the biting fun.
Atticus has become discontent with his life as of late, he’s watching his chosen-father live out every vampires dream. Having an anchor and building a life together. So, just for the funsies, he took on a job. It was a simple task, bring a trailer back to Junger and under no circumstances…do not open it. Atticus has wicked good gut instincts, so he opened the trailer and lo and behold- there’s Carmine.
Carmine also has wicked gut instincts, even if hers are more animalistic. So when facing off with a predator who has confirmed he is not her “groom” she darts away. Flight all the way, babes. Unfortunately for her, Atticus is exceptionally good at what he does and catches her within seconds.
Which starts their journey together- I love a good road trip romance. An attitude is discovered. Caretaking shenanigans. Primal instincts.
Intertwined by a moment of fate, Carmine and Atticus end up connecting on every level they can. She actually ends up back at Harlan’s estate where she will be safe while Atticus takes a minor but well needed detour.
I love blunt fmcs and Carmine was just *chefs kiss*. Being raised in a crypt, and working in a morgue the bodies shes around are not known for talking back to her. So she knows the basics, but leans towards being straight to the point. The author actually made an edit of Carmine and Atticus in the vehicle, and it’s the audio of Fox Moulder saying “spooky? Do you think I’m spooky?”….yes Carmine. I think you’re spooky as heck dude.
There is a hint of angst, but it’s all slight miscommunication. Overall I found this to be the perfect autumn read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2024
“It doesn’t have to mean anything. You take what you need.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5
Abigail did it again.
We’ve got a story full of longing, flirting and glassy shards we are offered to eat.
Atticus (our man) is a son of Harlan (male from Empire) and this means that he is a kinda mafia man. And due to his own foolish choices he needs to assist one vampire and deliver container.
Does he have any idea what’s inside? Nope.
Will he open it to investigate? For sure.
And imagine his surprise when he found that there is a lady inside. Lady who is a blood bride and this practice is outlawed, so course of actions changes and our adventure begins.
Girl, it was an emotional roller coaster and i loved every second. The way Atticus behaves, supports and protects his girl Carmine and the way he gives her all the reins in this situation and decisions of how her future will unfold.
Many thanks to Abigail for sharing this book in ARC format with me, now i’m waiting for the release day (1.10.24), so i can reread it with Empire once again!
Also i’m in love with this cover! New hands in our collection, welcome home darlings.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5
Abigail did it again.
We’ve got a story full of longing, flirting and glassy shards we are offered to eat.
Atticus (our man) is a son of Harlan (male from Empire) and this means that he is a kinda mafia man. And due to his own foolish choices he needs to assist one vampire and deliver container.
Does he have any idea what’s inside? Nope.
Will he open it to investigate? For sure.
And imagine his surprise when he found that there is a lady inside. Lady who is a blood bride and this practice is outlawed, so course of actions changes and our adventure begins.
Girl, it was an emotional roller coaster and i loved every second. The way Atticus behaves, supports and protects his girl Carmine and the way he gives her all the reins in this situation and decisions of how her future will unfold.
Many thanks to Abigail for sharing this book in ARC format with me, now i’m waiting for the release day (1.10.24), so i can reread it with Empire once again!
Also i’m in love with this cover! New hands in our collection, welcome home darlings.
October 6, 2024
Story rating: 4.5⭐️ | Romance lvl: 4.0⭐️
Spice lvl: 3.5🌶️ | Smut frequency: 2.0⏳
----------------------—
Tropes:
♥️ Vampire x Vampire
✨ Unexpected soul mates
👉 Trauma due to long captivity
👀 He's a killer but a sweetheart for her
🙌 Found family
----------------------—
~ STORY 📝 ~
Hooked from the first page and didn't put it down until the last one! It's super entertaining, I F-ING LOVE their dynamic, and I loved the pacing too because while fast (like the book is pretty short) it allows a lot of relationship development between them which makes the yearning for them to finally be together intense! 😂
Also, that mouth on Atticus... 🫠
~ SPICE 🌶️ ~
Soooo, if you're reading Sanguine, you're in for:
🧛🏻♂️ slow burn, fast attraction
🧛🏻♂️ erotic feeding
🧛🏻♂️ king of consent
🧛🏻♂️ virgin fmc
🧛🏻♂️ one of the hottest vampire smut of your life
---------------------—
This is an arc review. Thanks to the author for the advanced ebook copy 🙏💖
---------------------—
Spice lvl: 3.5🌶️ | Smut frequency: 2.0⏳
----------------------—
Tropes:
♥️ Vampire x Vampire
✨ Unexpected soul mates
👉 Trauma due to long captivity
👀 He's a killer but a sweetheart for her
🙌 Found family
----------------------—
~ STORY 📝 ~
Hooked from the first page and didn't put it down until the last one! It's super entertaining, I F-ING LOVE their dynamic, and I loved the pacing too because while fast (like the book is pretty short) it allows a lot of relationship development between them which makes the yearning for them to finally be together intense! 😂
Also, that mouth on Atticus... 🫠
~ SPICE 🌶️ ~
Soooo, if you're reading Sanguine, you're in for:
🧛🏻♂️ slow burn, fast attraction
🧛🏻♂️ erotic feeding
🧛🏻♂️ king of consent
🧛🏻♂️ virgin fmc
🧛🏻♂️ one of the hottest vampire smut of your life
---------------------—
This is an arc review. Thanks to the author for the advanced ebook copy 🙏💖
---------------------—
September 15, 2024
"I'm obsessed with you," he breathed against her swollen lips. "You're the first thing I think about when I wake up and the last thing I think about before I go to sleep. I dream about how you taste and I--fuck, doll, I'd do anything to make you mine."
Abigail is just so talented in giving us such amazing world building and a swoony, believable romance in such a short book. I loved every moment of reading this. Atticus is such a consent king. I loved his tough guy exterior but somewhat gooey personality on the inside. At least where Carmine and his family were concerned. Poor Atticus was even too much of a sweetie, waiting for Carmine to be comfortable that she didn't realize he was into her.
All of these books have such a strong found family vibe for me and this one was no different. It makes me sad and jealous I don't have that for myself!
Can't wait to hopefully see Atticus and Carmine in later books.
Abigail is just so talented in giving us such amazing world building and a swoony, believable romance in such a short book. I loved every moment of reading this. Atticus is such a consent king. I loved his tough guy exterior but somewhat gooey personality on the inside. At least where Carmine and his family were concerned. Poor Atticus was even too much of a sweetie, waiting for Carmine to be comfortable that she didn't realize he was into her.
All of these books have such a strong found family vibe for me and this one was no different. It makes me sad and jealous I don't have that for myself!
Can't wait to hopefully see Atticus and Carmine in later books.
September 26, 2024
i am OBSESSED with abigail’s NPU series and novellas!! atticus and carmine were so wholesome and lovely, i loved reading their story. i loved how atticus gave carmine the space she needed to grow as an individual and for their relationship. carmine is just that girl, giving the power to her for so many [redacted] 😈 idk how she did it bc i would’ve been sat the moment atticus told me to [redacted]
“𝒊 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅’𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒇𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓… 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒊 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏’𝒕”
BRB CRYING THANKS ABIGAIL!! 😭😭😭
literally read these books!! js abigail is one of my favorite authors that is an instant auto buy, i love the NPU and can’t ever get enough of her writing !!
“𝒊 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅’𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒇𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓… 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒊 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏’𝒕”
BRB CRYING THANKS ABIGAIL!! 😭😭😭
literally read these books!! js abigail is one of my favorite authors that is an instant auto buy, i love the NPU and can’t ever get enough of her writing !!
October 1, 2024
If Abigail Kelly has no fans, I'm dead. Mafia vampires on a road trip? How do you manage to put all of my personal favorite things in one short novella? And it's written well? Take my money.
December 3, 2024
Cute!!
December 27, 2025
So sad these novellas are over. I need more
November 1, 2024
Sanguine is a perfect example of an Abigail Kelly novella; the characters have their own personalities, the romance is perfection, and you will leave it begging for more. Every New Protectorate book is my new favorite, leaving me with no choice but to clear space on my shelves for a physical copy.
Sanguine is no different. Atticus decides to take on a slightly sketchy job because guarding an estate every day for his adoptive father leaves him without purpose. On this job, he finds that the person that hired him forced him to cross a line he would never have crossed on his own: trafficking another being, Carmine.
Carmine always planned to escape being a blood bride, but she didn’t count on Atticus being the one she would need to escape from. And he’s not letting her get away only to end up hurt.
It has aspects of a road trip, like Burden’s Bonds, with two delightful idiots who can’t seem to use WORDS to tell one another they’re obsessed. I loved it.
I also loved seeing a peel of Zia and Harlan’s life (from Empire). I know Adriana’s story is coming and I can’t wait to see how Atty reacts to her finding someone.
Thank you to Abigail Kelly for a perfect installment to the New Protectorate universe!
Sanguine is no different. Atticus decides to take on a slightly sketchy job because guarding an estate every day for his adoptive father leaves him without purpose. On this job, he finds that the person that hired him forced him to cross a line he would never have crossed on his own: trafficking another being, Carmine.
Carmine always planned to escape being a blood bride, but she didn’t count on Atticus being the one she would need to escape from. And he’s not letting her get away only to end up hurt.
It has aspects of a road trip, like Burden’s Bonds, with two delightful idiots who can’t seem to use WORDS to tell one another they’re obsessed. I loved it.
I also loved seeing a peel of Zia and Harlan’s life (from Empire). I know Adriana’s story is coming and I can’t wait to see how Atty reacts to her finding someone.
Thank you to Abigail Kelly for a perfect installment to the New Protectorate universe!
August 2, 2025
I felt this couple's chemistry way more than vital.
Plot:
- h is a rare vampire who's venom doesn't kill another vampire's, making her a sought out commodity for purist vampires.
- H is hired to transport goods, but he gets curious and finds out that h is in the van and has been sold as a bride.
- H is furious and is determined to free h and kill the guy who hired him. h has a hard time trusting him at first, but grows to be fond of him and that he might be her person.
- H fights his attraction, not wanting h to feel like her safety is dependent on sexual favors. Meanwhile, h is also attracted to him.
- h is having a hard time eating, and H tells her to feed from him, which turns both of them incredibly on. h asks him to defile him, and he is horrified that he's pressured her. However, h clears up the misunderstanding, saying that losing her virginity would just make her less appealing as a bride.
- H drops her off at his dad's mansion and goes to kill h's former groom.
- h starts to adapt to life with H's family and slowly grow out of her shell. Even though she continues to feed on H, he never does on her, and she grows dejected at the fact that he has only been taking care of her out of pity and not bc he loves her.
- When h tells H that she plans on moving out and stopping feeding from him, H is upset and tells her how he's been in love since they first met.
Plot:
- h is a rare vampire who's venom doesn't kill another vampire's, making her a sought out commodity for purist vampires.
- H is hired to transport goods, but he gets curious and finds out that h is in the van and has been sold as a bride.
- H is furious and is determined to free h and kill the guy who hired him. h has a hard time trusting him at first, but grows to be fond of him and that he might be her person.
- H fights his attraction, not wanting h to feel like her safety is dependent on sexual favors. Meanwhile, h is also attracted to him.
- h is having a hard time eating, and H tells her to feed from him, which turns both of them incredibly on. h asks him to defile him, and he is horrified that he's pressured her. However, h clears up the misunderstanding, saying that losing her virginity would just make her less appealing as a bride.
- H drops her off at his dad's mansion and goes to kill h's former groom.
- h starts to adapt to life with H's family and slowly grow out of her shell. Even though she continues to feed on H, he never does on her, and she grows dejected at the fact that he has only been taking care of her out of pity and not bc he loves her.
- When h tells H that she plans on moving out and stopping feeding from him, H is upset and tells her how he's been in love since they first met.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2024
Sanguine by Abigail Kelly is a novella in her New Protectorate world. It takes place in the alternate US called the United Territories and Allies (UTA) in the near future where humans coexist with fey, demons, elves, witches, and more. If you’ve read Empire by her, then you’ll recognize the hero, Atticus.
Carmine is a blood bride, which makes her a vampire that is compatible with other vampires for reproduction. For this reason, blood brides are usually kidnapped and sold to vampires who can afford their price. When Carmine is sold, she decides she needs to do whatever it takes to get away from her buyer. Atticus is hired to do a simple transport job, but when the circumstances seem suspicious, he decides to see exactly what he is transporting. He is horrified to find out he was tricked into transporting a blood bride. Atticus decides to help her, but Carmine does not trust him. Can a long road trip bring them together?
Another favorite of mine by Abigail Kelly! This was such a fun read even though the topic is so heavy. I loved reading how two very opposite people ended up fitting so well together. I loved reading how Atticus took Carmine to experience things for the first time since she had such a sheltered upbringing. I also loved the mutual pining they both had for each other that was so well written in a novella. I enjoyed reading about the respect Atticus had for Carmine and how he never forced her into anything even though his vampire instincts were telling him otherwise. It was so good I honestly want to reread it again already!
I really liked Atticus as a character in Empire, so I was pleasantly surprised when I found out he was getting his own book! You don’t need to read Empire before reading Sanguine. Sanguine does have spoilers for Empire though if you do plan on reading both.
If you love paranormal romances, forced proximity, obsessed heroes, shy but strong heroines, road trips, and vampires, then this book is for you!
Huge thanks to Abigail Kelly for sending me an ARC to review!
Carmine is a blood bride, which makes her a vampire that is compatible with other vampires for reproduction. For this reason, blood brides are usually kidnapped and sold to vampires who can afford their price. When Carmine is sold, she decides she needs to do whatever it takes to get away from her buyer. Atticus is hired to do a simple transport job, but when the circumstances seem suspicious, he decides to see exactly what he is transporting. He is horrified to find out he was tricked into transporting a blood bride. Atticus decides to help her, but Carmine does not trust him. Can a long road trip bring them together?
Another favorite of mine by Abigail Kelly! This was such a fun read even though the topic is so heavy. I loved reading how two very opposite people ended up fitting so well together. I loved reading how Atticus took Carmine to experience things for the first time since she had such a sheltered upbringing. I also loved the mutual pining they both had for each other that was so well written in a novella. I enjoyed reading about the respect Atticus had for Carmine and how he never forced her into anything even though his vampire instincts were telling him otherwise. It was so good I honestly want to reread it again already!
I really liked Atticus as a character in Empire, so I was pleasantly surprised when I found out he was getting his own book! You don’t need to read Empire before reading Sanguine. Sanguine does have spoilers for Empire though if you do plan on reading both.
If you love paranormal romances, forced proximity, obsessed heroes, shy but strong heroines, road trips, and vampires, then this book is for you!
Huge thanks to Abigail Kelly for sending me an ARC to review!
October 1, 2024
This was a wonderful time. I always love getting to dip my toes back into the NPU. Especially when we get to revisit characters we’ve met before. It was fun getting to know Atticus more. He’s a gruff grump that loves his people. Carmine was wonderful! I loved getting to watch this slightly feral, sweet mortician find her footing in the world. .watching these two come together and get to know one another was a delight! It was great getting to see the Bounds daily being all cute and cozy in this book too. I love getting to see how Kelly adds to her world lore with each book. It was cool getting to dive more into vampires and exploring blood brides and neutral vampires. Which we got a little bit of a taste of in Empire. Would always highly recommend anything in the NPU and this was a great addition!
November 26, 2024
-Vampires
-Short Stand Alone
-MMC absolutely feral for FMC
-Forced Proximity
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A spicy, sweet short read about two vampires that I absolutely loved! He is the true definition of an obsessed MMC—completely crazy about her in the best way possible.
The story is about a blood bride—a vampire with pure blood—who is sold against her will. He’s a restless vampire, feeling unfulfilled despite having everything, who takes a job transporting her as "cargo" to distract himself. From there, their journey unfolds beautifully.
I really enjoyed everything about this book—the writing, the characters, and the love story. It all came together perfectly. The passion and chemistry between the characters were hot, and I couldn’t put it down!
If you’re looking for something exciting, romantic, and easy to devour in one sitting, I’d definitely recommend this.
-Short Stand Alone
-MMC absolutely feral for FMC
-Forced Proximity
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A spicy, sweet short read about two vampires that I absolutely loved! He is the true definition of an obsessed MMC—completely crazy about her in the best way possible.
The story is about a blood bride—a vampire with pure blood—who is sold against her will. He’s a restless vampire, feeling unfulfilled despite having everything, who takes a job transporting her as "cargo" to distract himself. From there, their journey unfolds beautifully.
I really enjoyed everything about this book—the writing, the characters, and the love story. It all came together perfectly. The passion and chemistry between the characters were hot, and I couldn’t put it down!
If you’re looking for something exciting, romantic, and easy to devour in one sitting, I’d definitely recommend this.
December 12, 2024
I’ve found a favorite new author.
What an amazing story. Abigail Kelly did a wonderful job with the characters, world building, and expertise used to beautifully write this novel.
As another reviewer stated, I did get tired of hearing Atticus always refer to the blood bride as “Doll”. But, I just ignored it and throughly enjoyed this love story that was so fresh and unique.
Abigail Kelly first introduced us to Atticus, which was very different from most romance novels. We were able to learn about him and grow to like him even before we met Carmine, who was such a sweet person. Her development and discovery that she could trust Atticus was perfectly timed with his own character’s growth.
This was my first Abigail Kelly novel. I can’t wait to discover and buy more of her novels.
What an amazing story. Abigail Kelly did a wonderful job with the characters, world building, and expertise used to beautifully write this novel.
As another reviewer stated, I did get tired of hearing Atticus always refer to the blood bride as “Doll”. But, I just ignored it and throughly enjoyed this love story that was so fresh and unique.
Abigail Kelly first introduced us to Atticus, which was very different from most romance novels. We were able to learn about him and grow to like him even before we met Carmine, who was such a sweet person. Her development and discovery that she could trust Atticus was perfectly timed with his own character’s growth.
This was my first Abigail Kelly novel. I can’t wait to discover and buy more of her novels.
September 16, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Abigail Kelly can truly do no wrong in my eyes because she pulled out the miscommunication trope AND I ENJOYED IT!! It was only for a chapter and it was only because Atticus is a true consent king but STILL!! I really loved this 🥺 Atticus is the perfect grumpy but only soft for her and Carmine is so strong and curious. I needed this to be 1000% longer because I needed to see them do so many more mundane things like the arcade date. I recommend reading Empire before this but it’s more for fun and background than a necessity. I can only beg you TO READ THE NEW PROTECTORATE UNIVERSE ITS TRULY EVERYTHING TO ME
Thank you so much for the author for letting me have an arc 🩷
Abigail Kelly can truly do no wrong in my eyes because she pulled out the miscommunication trope AND I ENJOYED IT!! It was only for a chapter and it was only because Atticus is a true consent king but STILL!! I really loved this 🥺 Atticus is the perfect grumpy but only soft for her and Carmine is so strong and curious. I needed this to be 1000% longer because I needed to see them do so many more mundane things like the arcade date. I recommend reading Empire before this but it’s more for fun and background than a necessity. I can only beg you TO READ THE NEW PROTECTORATE UNIVERSE ITS TRULY EVERYTHING TO ME
Thank you so much for the author for letting me have an arc 🩷
September 30, 2024
I looooove these novellas from the NPU, there is so much rich history of the world woven in and it just adds so many layers to the entire world. This one follows Atticus a grumpy retired vampire assassin looking to find himself and what matters to him and Carmine a stolen blood bride-what ensues is a roadtrip of exploration, revenge and new life.
You don't have to read all the other books to enjoy this one but there are some spoilers for a previous book in the series-and frankly they are all so good it's best just to read them all anyway!
I received an advanced copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.
You don't have to read all the other books to enjoy this one but there are some spoilers for a previous book in the series-and frankly they are all so good it's best just to read them all anyway!
I received an advanced copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.
October 2, 2024
I love Abigail’s NPU series, and Sanguine is a great addition to it. I loved that while this is a shorter story, it doesn’t lack character development/plot/romance. Abigail takes us on a rollercoaster of emotions alongside our leads. They have a lot to work through during the story, especially Carmine, but with how strong she is, and with the support system she ended up gaining, she gets her HEA. Atticus was an amazing ML. He is so supportive, protective, and has a lot of patience/understanding for our FL. If you’ve read the NPU series, you’ll definitely enjoy this book. If you haven’t, I recommend binging the series and start from the beginning.
October 14, 2024
Paperback Not even 1 star
first 49 pages of boring boring boring, starting to skip .. the story & conversations are a nothing burger... Page 88 and I am done with this primitive stuff. Skipping... So the little kids first words where Shit, Head and Piss. Disgusting and primitive.
That main Character girl is stupid beyond believe too.. This author is no Anne Rice that if for sure. Once of the worse books I had as of late. Not well written... conversations more than lacking.. mistakes in the book, can someone say editor please? One more author I will never read again. Did I mentioned the cover is ugly too?
first 49 pages of boring boring boring, starting to skip .. the story & conversations are a nothing burger... Page 88 and I am done with this primitive stuff. Skipping... So the little kids first words where Shit, Head and Piss. Disgusting and primitive.
That main Character girl is stupid beyond believe too.. This author is no Anne Rice that if for sure. Once of the worse books I had as of late. Not well written... conversations more than lacking.. mistakes in the book, can someone say editor please? One more author I will never read again. Did I mentioned the cover is ugly too?
January 4, 2026
Taí, não foi tão bom quanto o do Harlan. Não sei, não consegui me apegar aos dois principais, o que foi uma surpresa aliás, porque eu gostei do Atticus no livro do pai dele e estava bastante ansiosa por esse livro daqui.
Foi gostosinho de ler e extremamente fofas as interações com a Serafina (❤️🤏🥺), mas não me atraiu muito. Achei que ia dar mais treta isso das noivas de sangue e do tráfico de pessoas, mas ficou muito de escanteio o desenvolvimento dessa parte.
Se tivesse sido com a Zia, Harlan ia colocar esse continente inteiro abaixo, não ia sobrar um vampiro sequer com a cabeça em cima dos ombros. Esperava mais do Atty, mas fico feliz que encontrou a âncora dele ❤️
Foi gostosinho de ler e extremamente fofas as interações com a Serafina (❤️🤏🥺), mas não me atraiu muito. Achei que ia dar mais treta isso das noivas de sangue e do tráfico de pessoas, mas ficou muito de escanteio o desenvolvimento dessa parte.
Se tivesse sido com a Zia, Harlan ia colocar esse continente inteiro abaixo, não ia sobrar um vampiro sequer com a cabeça em cima dos ombros. Esperava mais do Atty, mas fico feliz que encontrou a âncora dele ❤️
November 25, 2024
While I loved Atticus and Carmines story, this one felt a little on the cheesy side? Maybe just the epilogue. It worry’s me that we’re tying up too many ends in a storybook ending… does that mean THE END is close?
And the inner couple conflict and reason for it was very similar to Clementine and Emory’s from the prior book. If they fell further apart in the series I don’t know if I would have noticed so plainly because a lot are similar with tweaks and a book or two between. But this was super similar back to back.
Don’t speak to me until the next one’s out. I don’t know what to read.
And the inner couple conflict and reason for it was very similar to Clementine and Emory’s from the prior book. If they fell further apart in the series I don’t know if I would have noticed so plainly because a lot are similar with tweaks and a book or two between. But this was super similar back to back.
Don’t speak to me until the next one’s out. I don’t know what to read.
September 12, 2024
“Well, if he wasn’t going to be her groom, then he could shove his orders somewhere tender.”
This is the cutest little novella featuring a naive, scrappy female protagonist paired with a classic tough guy male protagonist. It is strong fan service for readers who loved Empire while also being a charming freestanding romance. It lacks some depth because it is so short but features the excellent writing and intricate world building at which Kelly excels.
This is the cutest little novella featuring a naive, scrappy female protagonist paired with a classic tough guy male protagonist. It is strong fan service for readers who loved Empire while also being a charming freestanding romance. It lacks some depth because it is so short but features the excellent writing and intricate world building at which Kelly excels.
September 28, 2024
I've been invested in this story since we met Atty in Empire and Abigail drew the sad and ethereal art of Carmine as a blood bride!
The way Atticus cares for Carmine while doing the utmost to ensure she doesn't feel pressured to reciprocate 🤌 meanwhile, Carmine wants to ditch her virginity FAST, and she is ready for anything 😂
I loved revisiting the Empire estate and seeing everyone again 🥰 Sanguine is a perfect (and feral) treat to enjoy!
The way Atticus cares for Carmine while doing the utmost to ensure she doesn't feel pressured to reciprocate 🤌 meanwhile, Carmine wants to ditch her virginity FAST, and she is ready for anything 😂
I loved revisiting the Empire estate and seeing everyone again 🥰 Sanguine is a perfect (and feral) treat to enjoy!
October 28, 2024
Excellent paranormal romance
The worldbuilding is fantastic, the story (yay, Atticus) is great, and the characters are memorable. I'm pleased that the loveable, well-written characters from the main series get their own stories and happily ever afters. Carmine and Atty are a fun couple. There is graphic sex.
The worldbuilding is fantastic, the story (yay, Atticus) is great, and the characters are memorable. I'm pleased that the loveable, well-written characters from the main series get their own stories and happily ever afters. Carmine and Atty are a fun couple. There is graphic sex.
September 30, 2024
Can it really be love at first bite? Atticus is thrown into a maelstrom of emotions as soon a he discovers his "easy job" is transporting a vampire blood bride to her groom, the very thing he's been protecting his sister from becoming herself. This man finds ways to twist himself up that would make a pretzel jealous.
Carmine has no social context from which to attempt to survive on her own after being sold off by the crypt she was raised in, but having never been able to trust anyone but herself, could Atticus be the safe haven she's been looking for? She desperately wants to trust him, but also hates feeling like he's only helping out of guilt or obligation.
After much internal debate for both, they both finally get on the same page with an ACTUAL conversation and the sparks they both were afraid were dwindling and reignite, BIG time. I love how Abigail teases is with the "they must not be that into me" only to bait and switch with a perfect "I'm obsessed with you, I can't imagine my life without you in it." Third act break ups? Not in the NPU!
Carmine has no social context from which to attempt to survive on her own after being sold off by the crypt she was raised in, but having never been able to trust anyone but herself, could Atticus be the safe haven she's been looking for? She desperately wants to trust him, but also hates feeling like he's only helping out of guilt or obligation.
After much internal debate for both, they both finally get on the same page with an ACTUAL conversation and the sparks they both were afraid were dwindling and reignite, BIG time. I love how Abigail teases is with the "they must not be that into me" only to bait and switch with a perfect "I'm obsessed with you, I can't imagine my life without you in it." Third act break ups? Not in the NPU!
November 14, 2024
Good but...
I enjoyed the story but every time he called her doll I was creeped out. Just a personal preference on my part. It's frequent and just weird to me so I didn't like reading this as much as I would've otherwise. love the author though!
I enjoyed the story but every time he called her doll I was creeped out. Just a personal preference on my part. It's frequent and just weird to me so I didn't like reading this as much as I would've otherwise. love the author though!
October 1, 2024
Amazing!!
This book was so sweet and fun to read. Atticus and Carmine melt my heart ❤️ As always 5 stars ⭐️
This book was so sweet and fun to read. Atticus and Carmine melt my heart ❤️ As always 5 stars ⭐️
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