Rite of Blood and Patience

House of Blood and Roses #4

by Laura Greenwood

Beatrice never expected waiting for her wedding was going to be hard.

Beatrice's life has gone from complicated to worse while she juggles her growing relationship with a prince with learning how to navigate court life, and mastering some of the basics she never learned as a child.

But even if her relationship with Linc is getting stronger by the day, it's causing problems with her brother, and he's not about to let Beatrice go without a fight.

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Rite of Blood and Patience is book four of House of Blood and Roses. It is a fantasy romance series full of vampires, court intrigue, and a slow burn hidden identity arranged marriage m/f romance.

113 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 9, 2025

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

[Lola · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

I really like this series and was excited to get this fourth book in the series and started reading it soon after receiving it. Bea and Linc now know they are betrothed to one another and I liked seeing how they handled this new information and grow even closer. I liked reading more about the characters and this world filled with vampire politics.

I like reading about Bea and Linc, they make for such a great couple. And I liked seeing them grow even closer in this book now that they know they are betrothed to one another and no longer have to hide their feelings. Things also turn steamy and it was nice seeing how they both know so little about how that all works and figure things out together. It all felt very realistic and I liked seeing them figure things out.

I also liked reading about Beatrice question what she would want to do in her future, she doesn't just want to be Linc's wife, but isn't quite sure what she wants to do besides that. I liked seeing her ask these questions and figure out more about who she is and wants to be, now that she's more comfortable at court. I also like how she continues to learn more, both about things like history and politics as well as skills like reading and writing that she never learned as a kid. There also is some tension as Bea's brother Bastian doesn't seem to like Linc and I wonder how that will play out and create more unrest. There is more about some of the side characters and it just very interesting reading about this vampire world and the politics involved.

To summarize: This was another great read in the series. I like reading more about Beatrice and Linc and seeing them grow closer. They no longer have to hide their feelings now that they know they are betrothed to the other and I liked seeing their romance deepen. Things turn steamy and I liked seeing how neither knew a lot about that and they are figuring things out together, it felt very realistic. I like reading about this world filled with vampire politics as well as the various side characters. I already look forward to the next book!

[TaniaRina Valdespino · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marry the person; marry the family
An overbearing sibling whose prone to temper tantrums is only one of the many challenges that our hero and heroine will face upon marriage. The author provides many more examples of the bad blood that can occur with marital alliances. Such cold-hearted stuff that will really set your teeth on edge!


Some food for thought:
‘Power does strange things to people.’
‘Understand the system to survive in it.’
‘This is court … be careful around everyone.’


I have ‘Heart Of Blood And Ice’ to keep me sated until ‘Rite of Blood and Vows’ releases.

[Katelyn D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Linc and Beatrice are so adorable. I truly think they’re perfect for each other. In this short addition to the story, Bea and Linc are gearing up for their wedding. Bea is continuing to grow and slowly accepting her new life and I love the dynamics we’re able to see between her and the people she’s surrounding herself with. Bastian, on the other hand, makes me question him more and more, and I can’t help but wonder what he will do in the future…

[Fiona Tewson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 4th book in The House of Blood and Roses series.

Beatrice and Linc are to be married, fortunately to each other, and a ball is to be held for Bea and Bastian for their birthday.

Bastian is married now to Lady Ermentrude and Bea has yet to make a favourable opinion of her. Bastian is trying to put Bea off Linc as he says he doesn't trust him. This culminates in a stand off between them both, with Bea in the middle.

Laura Greenwood writes believable characters - Bastian is not coming out favourably. He perhaps deserves his aserbic wife! Linc and Bea are 2 lovely characters, with their personality shining through. There are good side characters, Marcus and his lover and Emilia to name a few. I can't wait for book 5 to land to read more on these engaging people.

[Beba Andric · Rating 5 out of 5]

And this is how one continues a series, the Laura way! There is the beauty and uncertainty of an impending marriage, the beauty and uncertainty of a new relationship, the beauty and uncertainty of a new life. Since Bea grudgingly agreed to attend the Golden Moon at the castle, she never for one minute thought she'd get used to it, nevermind actually enjoy it, and certainly never expected to fall in love. But she did, all of it! With such panache. I should say, it's thanks to the beautiful storytelling of Ms Greenwood, who sets her words with such panache! I loved seeing Beatrice's character grow, in each book she more resolute, less afraid of her new world. My best is that she's even standing up to Bastian! Like WOOT WOOT, YOU GO GIRL!

I've decided, confirmed it within myself, I DON'T like Bastian! This author has a flair for depicting characters so realistically, as the saying goes, not all that shines is gold, and Bastian is definitely tarnished! With Bastian married, and very much not a happy chappie about it either, Beatrice is counting down the days to her wedding, to the yummy Linc, as Bastian becomes more and more petulant. The whole intrigue as to his behaviour and that of his new wife, which is less than stellar, is very tantalising and I find myself with dozens of theories bashing around in my head. See? Laura KNOWS how to get my attention and sure as heck keep it! Ooo, there's also Lord Fallmartin, Bea and Bastian's conniving, scheming, rather cold father, who's taken a major interest in Bea. Now the reason for THAT I'm dying to know!

As I mentioned, I got to know all these characters, got a real feel for who they are. I love Marcus! Almost as much as I do Linc. Marcus is a super great friend to Bea and a terrific brother to Linc. Oh lordie is Linc just fabulous! He's loathes the whole politics surrounding court, not to mention the 'traditions and rituals' forced upon him, which makes him perfect for Bea. Together they are stronger, together they are tougher, together they sure Ignite each other, passionately! Loved them 'feeling out' the terrain and how beautifully their relationship is developing. I was so on the fence with Bella, she was initially a real b*tch, scathing snd down right nasty but heck did she do a 360 on me! She's still full of sass and pomp but I'm loving her newfound attitude towards Beatrice. And good golly did I get a giggle at the early wedding present she gave Beatrice! Hilarious reactions!

So there you have it, a fabulous, quick, fast paced and very intriguing story, building up with each book, enticingly, captivatingly, with court politics centre stage, a love that blossoms, jealously, jostling for position, this book has all of this and more! I'm very eager to continue my journey with Bea and Linc....

[Manuela Molteni · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’ve been keeping up with the House of Blood and Roses series, then you already know that Laura Greenwood has been spinning an enchanting web of vampire intrigue, court politics, and deliciously slow-burning romance. And in Rite of Blood and Patience, she delivers yet again—giving us the long-awaited payoff of Bea and Linc’s relationship finally stepping into the light (and, let’s be honest, into the sheets).

Bea and Linc are betrothed at last, and if you’ve been holding your breath for them to get a little… closer, congratulations—you may now exhale. The chemistry? Sizzling. The smexy moments? Worth the wait. And, as a cherry on top, we get some truly hilarious interludes, courtesy of a rather revealing book and a cousin who clearly has no filter.

Bastian, Bea’s ever-overbearing, petulant brother, seems hell-bent on making things unnecessarily complicated. Add his new wife into the mix (spoiler: she’s not exactly helping matters), and we have friction galore within the extended family. Because what’s vampire court intrigue without a little sibling tension, power struggles, and veiled threats over the dinner table?

The pacing? Lightning-fast. The world-building? As lush as ever. The court politics? A delicious, cutthroat spectacle. If you haven’t been pulled into Greenwood’s vampire universe yet, I suggest you fix that immediately. And for those of us who’ve been patiently waiting for Bea and Linc to claim their love while navigating this treacherous world—this installment was so worth it.

I, for one, am practically baring my fangs in anticipation for the next book. More, please. ✨💀👑

[Fiona Tewson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 4th book in The House of Blood and Roses series.

Beatrice and Lincoln are to be married, fortunately to each other, and a ball is to be held to celebrate their birthday.

Bastian is now married to Lady Ermentrude and Bea has yet to make a favourable opinion of her sister in law. Bastian is trying to put Bea off Linc, as he says he doesn’t trust him. This culminates in a stand off between both, with Bea in the middle.

Laura Greenwood writes believable characters - Bastian is not coming out favourably. He perhaps deserves his acerbic wife! Bea and Linc are 2 lovely people, with their personalities shining through. There are good side characters, Marcus, Lord Luca and Emilia to name a few.

I can’t wait for book 5 to read more on these engaging people.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

What should be and for the most part is a happy time for Beatrice and Linc is marred by some strange possessive behavior of Bastian. While the two betrothed get closer there’s so much changing that Bea is a bit overwhelmed at times. What’s true is that there’s plenty of drama, some spice and a growing love.
Very enjoyable story. I love how Bea is really taking to her new life. She is taking the opportunity and growing and learning not only about vampires but herself as well. I’m totally loving her and Linc as a couple. They’re so well suited it’s the stuff dreams are made of. Love the world of courtly vampires and our main characters!
I received an ARC from the author this review reflects my honest and sincere thoughts.

[Nathalie Bookwurm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rite of Blood and Patience by Laura Greenwood is a compelling vampire romance with courtly intrigue and a strong-willed protagonist. Beatrice, the main character, is honored with a grand ball as she prepares to marry a prince, but she is nervous about her wedding night. She receives lessons in history, writing, and reading from her personal tutor, showing her desire to be more than just a figurehead at court.

Beatrice also wants to change the strict rules of court life, which sets her apart as a reformer. Meanwhile, Bastian is fiercely protective of her, to the point of nearly fighting Lincoln, whom he sees as unworthy of her. This tension leads to repeated clashes between Beatrice and Bastian, adding drama to the story.

[Victoria Golby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vampire Court Romance and Politics

This continues on from "Rite Of Blood And Masks", Beatrice now knows she's betrothed to the one she wants, Lincon, but is still nervous about the ball to be held for her and her brother Bastian for their birthday. Bastian is now married to Lady Ermentrude, though they aren't seeing much of them together; and Bastian is becoming more brutish in his attitude to Bea who doesn't like or understand his dislike of Lincon.

This is a sweet and fun series of vampires, court politics, and slow-build romance with a lovey touch of humor. I really enjoyed reading this and look forward to the next in the series.

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

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐
I enjoyed this book more than I expected to. I'm usually not a vampire fan, but this pulled me in. I realized I read it out of order, so now I need to start back at the beginning (this is book 4), but I am more than ok with that.

The characters are intriguing and they interact as you'd expect - royal scheming, power struggles, all with a paranormal twist of vampires and dhampirs. It makes their exchanges that much more explosive and dangerous.

I love Ms. Greenwood's writing style and I look forward to reading backwards and forwards in this series (House of Blood and Roses) and her other ones too.

[Christinaraven · Rating 5 out of 5]

At the end of the last book Beatrice seemed to thinks her life was better then ever as she now knew she would be marring Linc. But in this one, there seemed to be surprises and drama she was not expecting. Beatrice and Linc were cute together in this story and had me laughing and Beatrice herself has come so far since she entered her new life. But I so wanted to slap her brother through most of this book and loved watching Beatrice stand up for herself. But the ending had me wondering what is coming...

[Carla Zanghellini · Rating 5 out of 5]

That's how it should be! I really enjoyed reading this book. The author has once again written an exciting story about vampires and court intrigues. It seems as if you are immersed in the time when court intrigues decided everyone's fate. Beatrice is caught between two stools and wants to do the right thing for everyone, but that is completely impossible. I think everyone has felt the frustration of such decisions at some point. This book is for anyone who misses what is happening in high society, loves fantasy, finds vampires exciting and likes a moment to relax and laugh.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bea and Linc are finally getting married and their story takes some unexpected twists and turns. This is a well written, paranormal romance with well developed characters and an entertaining story. Rite of Blood and Patience is book four in the House of Blood and Roses series. I look forward to reading the next book in this paranormal/fantasy series to see what happens next. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.

[Mystyc Metrik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beatrice should be thrilled, she has found out that she is betrothed to her best friend, Linc, and she has found favor with her father and is now able to take more control of her future. She is able to surround herself with Ladies in Waiting that she trusts, and she is being tutored to learn to read and write. While thrilled with all of these new developments, Bea is puzzled and angry about her twin brother's possessive behavior and rudeness to the prince. I'm eager to see what happens next!

[Jo Fouracre · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet again another fantastic book in the series. I love the way that linc and Beas relationship is progressing. Learning more about each other. Is bastian ever going to change from a nasty big egotistical brute. You do catch a glimpse of who he was before but it’s such a small window. Here’s to book 5 🥂

[Frank · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good book in a good series

This episode shows how Bea is being accepted in the family, how the relationship between Bea & Lincoln develops, and how that with Bastian deteriorates.

Each interaction is very nicely covered (complete with necessary frustration at times!) and some of the side characters are being built up too.

[J Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

A slow-burn romance.

Beatrice struggles to define her future role in the palace as the day of her wedding approaches. She and Linc grow closer with each stolen moment alone. Not everyone in the House of Rothorne approves of the match and some do not hide their feelings.

This is a sweet romance with a hint of spice. I received a free copy but my review is honest and voluntary.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Winds of Change

There’s a forecast of change happening and Bastian seems to be a villain-in-training. I love the closeness between Linc and Bea. But there is an ominous feel as the story progresses. It also feels that Bastian doesn’t want his sister to be married and away from him. It’s like as a twin he’s co-dependent. I’m curious to see how this all plays out.

[Di T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 4 in series and another great read. Each book is short 100-150 pages so easy to pick up & read in one go. This book is fast paced, with great characters with lots of twists & turns as Bea & Linc continue their journey. Can’t wait for book 5

I received a free ebook from the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Kerry Batchelor · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story continues through book 4, with twist and turns and Bastian acting strangely. It's nice to read about Bea and Lincs relationship flourishing and them getting to know each other better and experiencing firsts together. I look forward to book 5

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this engaging read. I was intrigued by what was going on and what was going to happen next. This book has a well written plot, I definitely am looking forward to reading the next book. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debbie Benson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm voluntarily leaving a review after receiving a free copy. I liked how Beatrice and Linc are getting to know each other better and are looking forward to their marriage. However I'm not sure what to make of her jealous brother.

[Buttercup1201]

Enjoying how Beatrice is growing & accepting who she now is. Who knew vampire society could be so complex. Hoping for a happy ending.

Now that she knows who her husband to be is, things should be getting easy but they are not. True feelings are shown. Her brother is not happy with her marriage.

[LizJ. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rite Of Blood and Patience Book 4 in the House of Blood and Roses series by Laura Greenwood is an enthralling adventure into vampire court politics, romance and so many twists and turns that will keep you guessing...so good!!!

I received an ARC from the author and am leaving my review freely.

[Brian Busby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vampire politics seem to be a harsh outlook for anyone to get involved in. Being betrothed to the prince has brought out the worst in her brother to everyone else it all seems to be happy families but the truth is now being uncovered about her brother's loathing.
I highly recommend this book

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fourth in a great vampire court series! It's so great to see Bea's strength and confidence continue to build with the help of the man she loves, her family, and her dog. Her twin Bastion is definitely a total bad guy and heir to their vampire house. I can't wait to see what happens!

[Carolyn Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

The world of vampires and dhampirs is fascinating in this series, and the characters continue to develop and the plot gets more complicated. A very entertaining read, I devoured it in one session.

[Veronica Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sensual Love ❤

I thought I'd understood this plot. Guess I was mistaken! It twist and turns, so by the end of this Episode, I'm befuddled. Leaving you wanting MORE!

[Sophie Eaton · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a Rite of Blood and Patience Beatrice and Linc's relationship deepens ahead of their upcoming nuptials. Whilst the relationship between Beatrice and Bastian becomes increasingly tumultuous.