Rite of Blood and Bonds

House of Blood and Roses #2

by Laura Greenwood

Learning how to be a vampire is only half of Beatrice's problems.

Adjusting to life as a vampire noble is harder than Beatrice thought it would be, even if she has a handsome and charming vampire to teach her history.

But even as Beatrice and Linc grow closer, the pressures of the Vampire Court start closing in.

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Rite Of Blood And Bonds is book two of House Of Blood And Roses. It is a romantasy series full of vampires, court intrigue, and a slow burn hidden identity arranged marriage m/f romance.

Genres: Romantasy, Fantasy

156 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 3, 2024

About the author

Laura is a USA Today Bestselling Author of fantasy romance and urban fantasy. She lives in the UK, where most of her books are set, with her partner. When she's not writing, Laura can be found exploring worldwide cusine with her partner, drinking tea, and reading fantasy books. Laura specialises in quick reads, featuring healthy relationships and consent-positive moments, regardless of whether she's writing light-hearted romance, mythology-inspired modern fantasy, cozy fantasy or anything in between.

Discover one of Laura Greenwood's most popular series:
- The Apprentice of Anubis (mythology inspired modern/urban fantasy)
- Forgotten Gods (mythology inspired fantasy romance)
- Jinx Paranormal Dating Agency (mythology inspired paranormal rom-com)
- House of Blood and Roses (vampire romantasy)
- Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries (urban fantasy murder mystery)
- Scales of Justice (mythology inspired modern/urban fantasy)
- Purple Oak Oasis (cozy fantasy romance)
- Falhaven Castle (cozy fantasy romance)

You can find a full book list and more information on her website, or in her Facebook Reader Group.

Happy Reading!

Reviews

[Nathalie Bookwurm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura Greenwood’s Rite of Blood and Bonds is a compelling tale of politics, romance, and familial expectations, earning every bit of its 5-star rating. The story follows Beatrice, a strong-willed heroine who is caught in the web of political marriages orchestrated by her father. Beatrice’s distaste for the idea of marrying a stranger for political gain is palpable, making her an instantly relatable and likable character.

Her connection with Linc, whom she meets for reading sessions, adds a layer of emotional depth and tension to the narrative. Beatrice’s growing feelings for Linc contrast sharply with the cold practicality of the political alliances surrounding them, creating a poignant push-and-pull dynamic. The revelation that her brother is also being forced into a marriage underscores the story’s central theme: the inescapable entanglement of personal desires with political strategy.

The novel thrives on its intricate power plays and shifting loyalties, where every decision has far-reaching consequences. The increasing mentions of Linc, and his own surprising betrothal, intensify the stakes and keep readers invested in the outcome. Greenwood masterfully balances romance and political intrigue, crafting a world where love is just another pawn in a larger game.

Overall, Rite of Blood and Bonds is a captivating read, perfect for fans of political drama with a heartfelt romantic core. Greenwood’s ability to weave complex characters into a richly detailed plot makes this book an unforgettable experience.

[Lola · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.

I enjoyed the first book in this series and was excited to see how the story would continue. I wanted to read a book I was sure I would enjoy and picked this one up. I think it's an awesome sequel and I really enjoyed it.

Rite of Blood and Bonds delves deeper in the world of vampires and vampire politics that Beatrice is now part of. Where book 1 was Beatrice's introduction to the world of vampires when she finds out she's one, in this book she gets to know more about the vampire politics and gains her footing a bit. It was interesting to see more of the world and the vampire politics.

There's also a lot more of the romance as Beatrice and Linc spend more time together. I really liked reading about them together. I really felt their connection and I liked their scenes in the library as well as those outside of it. Their feelings deepen and I liked seeing them get to know each other more and share more about themselves with the other. There is an awesome scene where they share some vulnerable parts of themselves. I am eager to see how things continue for them and if they figure out how to be together.

To summarize: Rite of Blood and Bonds is an awesome sequel. I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed learning more about the world of vampires and seeing Beatrice gain her footing in this world. The romance deepens and I liked reading about Beatrice and Linc. I really felt their connection and enjoyed seeing them grow closer and share more about themselves with the other. The ending leaves me eager for the next book in this series.

[Beba Andric · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bea is trying to adjust to her new situation, although that's not easy. Growing up poor, she has no idea of protocols, behaviour at court, especially not a vampire court! I liking her more and more, she's showing she has a steel rod for a backbone, as Bella says at one point "You've got bite cousin". So she's saying all the right things, as is expected of her, but she scoures the library to learn all she can. Another one I'm enjoying immensely, is Linc. He's so affable and happy to help Bea but he's keeping who HE is close to his chest. I love the easiness between them and the brewing romance, even though it appears it's doomed. With Bea being forced to adhere to vamp protocols, arranged marriages are the order of the day. And I'm liking Bastian less and less...geez, as a brother and twin, so far, he really sucks!

Laura is one of the more relatable authors, she understands how to move a story forward without dragging loose bits all over the place. It's starkly efficient, it's beautifully crafted and touches on real issues so many have. But she does so with a delicate hand, a sensitive hand, a very visible potent hand. Tackling addiction such as alcoholism is no mean feat to relay it truthfully, yet Laura does so. She pinpoints accurately what a person suffering from it goes through and in a very sympathetic way. I love her full characters, "evil" or not, they're true, authentic. I too enjoy Ms Greenwood's ability to surprise me, she even gets me liking characters I previously disliked! Bella is a prime example, her caustic tongue is a ruse, under that she's a real mensch.

The love sparking between Linc and Bea has nowhere to go, as much as they want it to, they are beholden to their respective fathers and their fathers have already have betrothed them, but to whom is the question? My heart went out to both of them, the desperation of their feelings and the unknown about to befall them both.

Someone mentioned that this author, Laura Greenwood is my go to comfort author and they were right. Laura has me captivated with every story, I know, without a question of doubt that I'll love her gorgeously moulded characters, that I'll be feeling all they do, every step of the way and she always has me feeling warm and gooey. I'm diving straight into the next book!

[Manuela Molteni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Laura Greenwood sweeps us back into the beautifully twisted tapestry of her House of Blood and Roses series, and oh, what a deliciously tangled web she weaves. In Rite of Blood and Bonds, we find Beatrice navigating the treacherous waters of a society where power trumps love, secrets are currency, and politics is the deadliest game of all.

Accompanied by her ever-loyal Pip (the goodest doggo to ever grace a fantasy novel), Beatrice juggles clandestine lessons with Linc—who is equal parts tutor, partner-in-crime, and romantic temptation. Their dynamic is as captivating as it is precarious, given the weight of their arranged futures. In a world where arranged betrothals are a looming threat rather than a romantic prospect, the duo carves out a fragile sanctuary of their own—a place of quiet rebellion against the suffocating expectations of their society.

Greenwood’s signature humor and sharp prose are on full display here, adding levity to a plot thick with intrigue and emotional stakes. Misunderstandings abound (what else would we expect from this genre?), yet Greenwood sprinkles just enough breadcrumbs for readers to start piecing together the larger puzzle. It’s a masterclass in storytelling, managing to be rich and fulfilling despite its brevity.

And yet, the story doesn’t fully resolve—because why tie everything up when you can leave us dangling, heart in hand, begging for the next installment? Greenwood has perfected the art of teasing just enough to keep her audience enthralled while offering tantalizing hints at what’s to come.

So here I am, perched on the edge of my metaphorical seat, eager to see what lies ahead for Beatrice, Linc, Pip, and the rest of this wonderfully flawed cast. If there’s one thing I know, it’s that Greenwood will ensure every character gets their moment to shine—or suffer, because let’s be honest, we’re here for both.

Verdict: A short, sharp dive into the beauty of love, ambition, and the quiet rebellion of simply surviving in a cruel world. Bring on the next book, Greenwood—I’ll be waiting.

[TaniaRina Valdespino · Rating 4 out of 5]

Would you sell your soul for creature comforts?
What are willing to give up for a varied & healthy diet, no housework, and easy access to a library? Not to mention some long-lost cousins and a cute guy (who enjoys reading, no less).
How much would you be willing to lose for a romance that’s already doomed? Would you listen to advice and play it safe or would you take a chance on love and risk the wrath of the Court?
No easy decision to make under the best of circumstances, let alone while learning about palace politics.

Some sage survival advice from the author:
Learn quickly how “to play the game”.
‘It's not about being friends […], it's about not making someone an enemy.’
Sad that this too often can be true in real life…

Fave line:
‘What the moon has made cannot be undone.’


May we all live a life not dictated by the concept that our emotions would be used against us.


The ARC for the author’s short story ‘Masquerade Of Blood And Silence’ will have to keep me satiated until the sequel ‘Rite Of Blood And Masks’ releases in early December.

[DianaRaven · Rating 4 out of 5]

RITE OF BLOOD AND BONDS is the second installment in the House Of Blood And Roses series by Laura Greenwood. There's even a summary of what previously happened. A big thank you!  I read so many books and with a long lag between installments, I need a little reminder of what happened  before. 

Beatrice is still adjusting to life as  a vampire and a noble. Fortunately, she has made a friend of a charming vampire. Linc is helping her learn about her history and to understand the complexities of the deadly court life. As their friendship grows, Beatrice and Linc realize heartbreak is in their future. Both are to be betrothed to others, but they can't help themselves as they give into their mutual feelings.  

I am so looking forward to the next book in the series to see what happens next. I did received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Katelyn D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve really enjoyed Beatrice’s story so far. Finding out she’s a dhampire, then turned vampire, everything she sees is new to her. A father she never knew about, cousins she doesn’t know, and a brother she grew up with that seems to be changing before her very eyes. Not only does she have to learn the ins and outs of being a vampire, but she has to learn how to play the games of the court and who she can trust. This book in particular shows that although she is learning, there’s still a lot that Beatrice doesn’t know. Who is Linc really? Is Bastian actually on her side or is he really just power-hungry. I’m looking forward to learning more about Eliza, Bella, and Marcus. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

A love story and a seemingly tragedy all rolled into one. Bea is adjusting to life at the Vampire Court well especially since she has some help from Linc. Unfortunately they both know this idyllic period can’t last. With weddings and betrothals, politics and positioning court life is never dull but can be deadly.
I enjoyed this second installment of Bea and Linc’s story. What an interesting red herring Marcus is, and such a huge secret he’s hiding. This has a very Shakespearean vibe to it. I know there are vampires but the back room dealings, the pawns made of children it would fit into any of the Bard’s plays. I’m enjoying this series and very much looking forward to how things develop.
I received an ARC from the author this review reflects my honest and sincere thoughts.

[Frank · Rating 5 out of 5]

This continues the "House of Blood & Roses" series, following Beatrice (Bea), the unwilling vampire trapped in the court, Bastian (her scheming brother), and Linc (her somewhat mysterious friend) as she tries to navigate the minefield of vampire politics & intrigue.

Many of the supporting characters introduced in the first book develop nicely in this volume, e.g., Bella (the cousin, whose cutting wit starts to warm her to Bea), and Marcus (of the Royal Family who still supports & helps her).

This is a very enjoyable slow-burn vampire tale that definitely lives up to the excellent start given in book 1 (and makes me look forward to December for book 3!).

[Linda (ellsky) Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beatrice and Linc's story continues to expand in this second installment in the series. I enjoyed seeing Beatrice's friendships develop with Emilia and Bella, and the introduction of some interesting side characters. It was a little hard to suspend disbelief about Linc's identity, which made the ending less anxiety-ridden for me than for Beatrice. I also did not really enjoy Linc's wine addiction, although it was done tastefully and considerately, I just personally don't enjoy reading about addiction. I'm looking forward to seeing where the series will continue to go based on what happens at the end.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mystyc Metrik · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great continuation of Beatrice's story, as she struggles to acclimate to vampire society. She finds an unexpected ally in her cousin Bella, who explains many aspects of vampire life to her, and a good friend in her other cousin Emilia. Throughout this story, we get to see Beatrice as she grows closer to the mysterious Linc, meeting him clandestinely in the library as their secret romance grows. Both agree that, when they are betrothed, their relationship will have to stop, but until then, they agree to see where their relationship goes. The story follows their blossoming romance, and follows and builds on the vampire lore. Great choice for readers of romantasy!

[Penny · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was excited to see what was happening in Beatrice’s world when I started this second book in the series. I was glad to see how she and her love interest are getting to know each other. I love how she’s embraced her new role, and she’s learning how to survive in it. I find it hard that she doesn’t know…well, I won’t say anything. I’m intrigued for the next book when they each figure out what’s going on and see what’s coming next. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.

[DeeDeeWReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent next installment in the House of Blood and Roses series. Bea and Linc are getting closer, but will it end in diaster? What secrets are out there, ready to tear people apart? Bea is seeming to find her place at court, her brother is being betrothed, and she is moving towards when hers will be announced.

I am loving this series, it's lighthearted, fun, and easy to get into. Afternoon reads for sure too so makes for a 'easy gratification' kind of book. Can't wait for the next one!

[Alias11 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this fun and entertaining continuation of Beatrice's story, as she weathers Bastion's betrayal and her impending betrothal, while she continues to navigate the vampire court and politics. I enjoy the easy friendships between she and Linc, and I think I know how her betrothal is going to go. Totally enjoyed seeing Bastion's surprise at his unexpected (by him) betrothal plans, too. Serves him right, LOL. I look forward to the next book.

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.

[Christinaraven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beatrice is back and still working on settling in as a vampire and getting to know her new family and court. Of course Linc is helping her and they get close. But a bit of drama occurs, Beatrice and Linc face the fact they are more then friends (yes I knew we saw that coming but the way it went down was cute and funny at the same time). Then the ending came and I need the next one now. I good and clean entertaining story.

[Geff Ratcheson · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one. 2 half human/half vampires become full vampires & continue learning about that world.

The 2 are brother & sister. The male is a bit of a jerk, but in this world's customs, he is named heir to a small kingdom. The sister is much nicer. They both find out from their vamp father that they must get married to the person of his choosing, and fast! There is an obvious cliffhanger on this one, but I can't tell you, because it would totally be a spoiler. If the reader somehow doesn't figure it out, I'm pretty sure it will be revealed in book 3.

Really good characters in this one. I found myself disliking the brother, but I think that was intentional on the author's part.

I'm looking forward to book 3 (these are short, so hopefully #3 will come soon!)

I received an advance reader's copy at no charge, & am leaving an honest review.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beatrice still has so much to learn, thankfully she has a good friend Linc to help her. She has to prepare to have a husband, so she shouldn’t fall for Linc. You have to read to see what choices she made. Beatrice still has no idea who Linc is. This definitely ends on a cliffhanger, I can't wait to read more. I highly rescind this book. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[J Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surviving in the Vampire Court

Beatrice knows her survival at court depends on knowing its history and politics. Meeting Linc has helped. He shows her the right books in the library to study and helps her read them. As their friendship grows, Beatrice is warned by her cousins not to fall in love. Lord Fallmartin has plans for her betrothal and her wishes won’t matter.

This is a sweet falling-in-love romance. I like Pip. I received a free copy but my review is honest and voluntary.

[LizJ. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rite Of Blood and Bonds Book 2 in the House of Blood and Roses series by Laura Greenwood is a great continuation of Beatrice's story. Beatrice struggles to adjust to being a noble in vampire society. She finds allies in her cousins Bella, who explains many aspects of vampire life to her, and Emilia. Ms. Greenwood gives a summary of the previous book which is helpful and I look forward to seeing how Beatrice fares in her new life.

I was given an ARC and this is my honest review freely given.

[Tracy Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bea and Vampire Life!

Bea’s learning to play Court Politics and seems to accept her position at Court. She needs to guard her heart because she and Linc are getting close and her betrothal is any day. There are more betrothal could be at any moment. But her friend has a problem and needs her help to overcome it, but if she becomes betrothed then it’s over between Bea and her friend.
I definitely recommend this to everyone. The books are upbeat and a joy to read!🫶

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beatrice goes through a lot as she learns about the vampire court and her new life there. Beatrice and Linc are growing closer and things are taking a romantic turn. This is a well written, paranormal romance with well developed characters and a page turning storyline. Rite of Blood and Bonds is book two in the House of Blood and Roses series and I look forward to reading the rest of this paranormal/fantasy series. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.

[Carla Zanghellini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adjustments! This book is about the new life in the new surroundings. We move and have to see who the friends and enemies are. I love the journey that Beatrice takes, she is determined to make the best of the situation. Food for thought. The author has once again managed to draw me into this fantasy journey. For all those who like a break from everyday life, but don't want to be completely removed from reality. For all those who love fantasy and vampires, this series is a great way to have fun.

[Heather Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great second book! It was over before I knew it! It continues the first story and even gives a summary of the first story at the beginning. I love this because I read so many books. I need a little reminder of the characters and what happened in the book before. Thank you so much for this. I can’t wait to read more about Bea and Linc!

[Taara Amrine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am enamored by this series! The details of life at court. The relations in a world so cut off from the rest of the world. The romance blossoming between friends. The changes in new friendships and family. The fun blips of life at court for Pip. I can't wait for the next book!! What will come of everyone? When will the new betrothal's be announced?

[L & J Ross · Rating 4 out of 5]

Intriguing Vampire Romantasy

Laura Greenwood is such a compelling writer! This is the second in the House of Blood and Roses series. There are fated mates, and since this a series about vampires, there is blood and gore, a cute dog, substance abuse and substance dependency issues.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tears

Okay. I want to cry so bad but I suspect our novice vampire Beatrice is falling in love with her secret tutor Linc only it will end in heartbreak. I want to cry when they both find themselves betrothed but unclear whom their intended is. Although I have my suspicions, it doesn’t stop the waterworks. Off to read book 3 because I need to solve this mystery.

[Carolyn Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy the relationship between Linc and Beatrice, and the world building is exquisite. While the subject can be dark, the relationships developing between the various characters is fascinating.

[Debbie Benson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm voluntarily leaving a review after receiving a free copy. I like the bit of iron in that Sebastian doesn't get a choice either. I hope what I suspect about Linc and Beatrice comes true. Their friendship and support for each other is very nice.

[Rowan Creech · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a unique story that was very enjoyable to red, but then every book by Laura Greenwood is a great read. This has a unique twist with enjoyable characters and leaves you wanting to read the next book in the series.

[K06n · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beatrice, aka Bea, has been thrust into a world that she knows nothing about and is simply trying to make the best out of the situation.

My only “complaint” is that I want to know more, but have to wait until book 3 is released.