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The Royal Spares #2
A Pact of Blood
The trials are over. The game has only just begun...
I came to Dariu to win a husband—and an empire. I wasn't prepared for that husband to be so set in his brutal ways, for his people to see our marriage as a bad omen... or for my heart to be aching for three princes I can't have.
I can't afford to let any of those problems stop me. My kingdom is counting on me, and all the conquered countries of the empire need my help. I'll win the respect of every skeptic and enemy, no matter what dangers I have to face.
But when rebellion stirs in one of the outer kingdoms and my husband starts taking out his fury on the men I hold dearest, I'm not sure how much more sacrifice I can bear. To bring about the peace I've dreamed of, must I wage my own private war against the man I swore to serve?
*A Pact of Blood is the second book in a new fantasy romance series with a sizzling enemies-to-lovers romance, smoldering morally grey men, and a determined heroine they'll regret underestimating. There are more books to come.*
I came to Dariu to win a husband—and an empire. I wasn't prepared for that husband to be so set in his brutal ways, for his people to see our marriage as a bad omen... or for my heart to be aching for three princes I can't have.
I can't afford to let any of those problems stop me. My kingdom is counting on me, and all the conquered countries of the empire need my help. I'll win the respect of every skeptic and enemy, no matter what dangers I have to face.
But when rebellion stirs in one of the outer kingdoms and my husband starts taking out his fury on the men I hold dearest, I'm not sure how much more sacrifice I can bear. To bring about the peace I've dreamed of, must I wage my own private war against the man I swore to serve?
*A Pact of Blood is the second book in a new fantasy romance series with a sizzling enemies-to-lovers romance, smoldering morally grey men, and a determined heroine they'll regret underestimating. There are more books to come.*
458 pages, Hardcover
Published December 16, 2024
667 people are currently reading
2085 people want to read
About the author
Eva Chase
124 books3,805 followersEva Chase lives in Canada with her family. She loves stories both swoony and supernatural, and strong women and the men who appreciate them. You can visit her online at www.evachase.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 200 reviews
December 4, 2024
WHAT IN THE ACTUAL HELL WAS THAT ENDING!?! I just screamed so loud omg
December 8, 2024
A Game of Veils was a solid 5⭐️ read for me so this book was highly anticipated for me! I had this at 3.75⭐️ but the ending honestly is what made it 4.
This felt like more of a filler book honestly, the pacing was a little slow for me compared to the first book, and the characters didn’t really have a lot of development. By the end of the book she’s still in the same place she started, with an added little complication. I do love the characters, and there are still some trials but I felt like the first 50 percent of the book was just the same thing on repeat. It definitely took me longer to get into than the first book. Maybe my expectations were just set too high, I did enjoy the story but felt it was longer than necessary.
I absolutely adore Eva Chase and her writing and will be continuing the series. The ending was absolutely unexpected and definitely explains the mood changes we saw Marclinus constantly experience.
Thank you so much to Eva Chase and Book sirens for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
This felt like more of a filler book honestly, the pacing was a little slow for me compared to the first book, and the characters didn’t really have a lot of development. By the end of the book she’s still in the same place she started, with an added little complication. I do love the characters, and there are still some trials but I felt like the first 50 percent of the book was just the same thing on repeat. It definitely took me longer to get into than the first book. Maybe my expectations were just set too high, I did enjoy the story but felt it was longer than necessary.
I absolutely adore Eva Chase and her writing and will be continuing the series. The ending was absolutely unexpected and definitely explains the mood changes we saw Marclinus constantly experience.
Thank you so much to Eva Chase and Book sirens for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
November 17, 2024
THIS BOOK CONSUMED ME THE ENTIRE TIME, and it’s literally currently midnight when it dropped the biggest plot twist and I AM ON THE FLOOR
I need a few business days to recover from this.
I need a few business days to recover from this.
November 26, 2024
ARC-read review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Book: A Pact of Blood by Eva Chase
This is the second book in The Royal Spares series, and it did not disappoint!
“𝘖𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘓𝘢𝘮𝘣. 𝘞𝘦’𝘳𝘦 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦. 𝘞𝘦’𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘸𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘱𝘪𝘦𝘤𝘦 𝘢𝘵 𝘢 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘭 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘳𝘶𝘣𝘣𝘭𝘦.”
This story was very well done with interesting court politics, world building while traveling, and a lot of careful scheming. With A Pact Of Blood you're slowly building up to a very mindblowing twist! And I did not see that plot twist coming!!
“𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦’𝘴 𝘯𝘰 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘐’𝘥 𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘦 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘦. 𝘐’𝘥 𝘴𝘦𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘰𝘯 𝘪𝘵 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘪𝘧 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥.”
I love how devoted the three princes are to Aurora even though she had to scheme her way into a marriage with the cruel new Emperor. They try and work together in secret, plotting their way to a better future. With both delicious and harrowing encounters, they'll do anything for each other!
“𝘐 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘐’𝘥 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘐 𝘰𝘸𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘰𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘴, 𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘰𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦.”
I want to thank the author for sending me an eARC to read and review!
Book: A Pact of Blood by Eva Chase
This is the second book in The Royal Spares series, and it did not disappoint!
“𝘖𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘓𝘢𝘮𝘣. 𝘞𝘦’𝘳𝘦 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦. 𝘞𝘦’𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘸𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘱𝘪𝘦𝘤𝘦 𝘢𝘵 𝘢 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘭 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘳𝘶𝘣𝘣𝘭𝘦.”
This story was very well done with interesting court politics, world building while traveling, and a lot of careful scheming. With A Pact Of Blood you're slowly building up to a very mindblowing twist! And I did not see that plot twist coming!!
“𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦’𝘴 𝘯𝘰 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘐’𝘥 𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘦 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘦. 𝘐’𝘥 𝘴𝘦𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘰𝘯 𝘪𝘵 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘪𝘧 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥.”
I love how devoted the three princes are to Aurora even though she had to scheme her way into a marriage with the cruel new Emperor. They try and work together in secret, plotting their way to a better future. With both delicious and harrowing encounters, they'll do anything for each other!
“𝘐 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘐’𝘥 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘐 𝘰𝘸𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘰𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘴, 𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘰𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦.”
I want to thank the author for sending me an eARC to read and review!
December 4, 2024
✨𝒜𝑅𝒞 𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌✨
📖: A Pact of Blood (The Royal Spares Book 2)
"𝘠𝘰𝘶'𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘥. 𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘐'𝘭𝘭 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘪𝘧 𝘪𝘵 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘢𝘧𝘦."
The initial trials may be over, but her work has just begun. Thrust into the heart of the Dariu court, Aurelia must navigate her precarious situation and accept the consequences of her actions. Her heart is torn between her duty and her desires. Can she remain unwavering in her determination and pursuit of securing her place within the empire?
In the wake of betrayals and deceptions, has she lost her once-allies?
Tropes:
👀 Multi POV
⛔️ Enemies to lovers
🚫 Forbidden love
👑 Royals
💀 Deadly trials
👯♂️ Why choose
🩶 Morally grey MCs
🌶️ : Moderate
"𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦. 𝘠𝘰𝘶'𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘦'𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴."
This installment explores the rich history of the empire and the godlens the various regions serve. The world building in this series is immersive and richly detailed.
Aurelia is hands down one of my favorite underestimated FMCs. She’s perceptive, resourceful, and impossibly courageous. The MMCs compliment her so well and I loved seeing their interactions when they are free of their courtly masks. Their love is fierce yet tender and deliciously forbidden.
A Pact of Blood had me *shook* with some epic reveals/plot twists. Eva expertly crafts an exhilarating story brimming with angst, sizzling tension, and suspenseful intrigue. And did I mention there’s a secret Shadow Daddy 👀?? I cannot get enough of this series and am counting down the days and hours until I get my hands on A Dance of Shadows 🥲
So grateful to the author and BookSirens for the review copy opportunity! This is my honest and voluntary review.
📖: A Pact of Blood (The Royal Spares Book 2)
"𝘠𝘰𝘶'𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘥. 𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘐'𝘭𝘭 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘪𝘧 𝘪𝘵 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘢𝘧𝘦."
The initial trials may be over, but her work has just begun. Thrust into the heart of the Dariu court, Aurelia must navigate her precarious situation and accept the consequences of her actions. Her heart is torn between her duty and her desires. Can she remain unwavering in her determination and pursuit of securing her place within the empire?
In the wake of betrayals and deceptions, has she lost her once-allies?
Tropes:
👀 Multi POV
⛔️ Enemies to lovers
🚫 Forbidden love
👑 Royals
💀 Deadly trials
👯♂️ Why choose
🩶 Morally grey MCs
🌶️ : Moderate
"𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦. 𝘠𝘰𝘶'𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘦'𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴."
This installment explores the rich history of the empire and the godlens the various regions serve. The world building in this series is immersive and richly detailed.
Aurelia is hands down one of my favorite underestimated FMCs. She’s perceptive, resourceful, and impossibly courageous. The MMCs compliment her so well and I loved seeing their interactions when they are free of their courtly masks. Their love is fierce yet tender and deliciously forbidden.
A Pact of Blood had me *shook* with some epic reveals/plot twists. Eva expertly crafts an exhilarating story brimming with angst, sizzling tension, and suspenseful intrigue. And did I mention there’s a secret Shadow Daddy 👀?? I cannot get enough of this series and am counting down the days and hours until I get my hands on A Dance of Shadows 🥲
So grateful to the author and BookSirens for the review copy opportunity! This is my honest and voluntary review.
December 17, 2024
This book was such a fun ride!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 and 🌶️🌶️🌶️
First things first, our FMC completely steals the show! Eva Chase does an incredible job crafting Aurelia as a strong, confident, and highly intelligent character. She isn’t your typical “fighter” FMC—instead, she’s quiet, calculating, and methodical, which makes her absolutely so fun to read.
And, of course, our boys—the “spares”—are completely swoon-worthy! They’re totally devoted to Aurelia, and honestly, who doesn’t dream of a small group of men at their service? The spice was top-tier, too!
Book two really dives into the political intrigue, and I loved seeing the strategic moves and countermoves unfold. The magic system also stands out as incredibly unique, offering a fresh take on how power is distributed.
I’ll admit, I felt a little back and forth in the middle, as some parts felt more drawn out and I was questioning why. But then that ending, and the major plot twist, totally pulled it all together! I seriously can’t wait for book three!!
First things first, our FMC completely steals the show! Eva Chase does an incredible job crafting Aurelia as a strong, confident, and highly intelligent character. She isn’t your typical “fighter” FMC—instead, she’s quiet, calculating, and methodical, which makes her absolutely so fun to read.
And, of course, our boys—the “spares”—are completely swoon-worthy! They’re totally devoted to Aurelia, and honestly, who doesn’t dream of a small group of men at their service? The spice was top-tier, too!
Book two really dives into the political intrigue, and I loved seeing the strategic moves and countermoves unfold. The magic system also stands out as incredibly unique, offering a fresh take on how power is distributed.
I’ll admit, I felt a little back and forth in the middle, as some parts felt more drawn out and I was questioning why. But then that ending, and the major plot twist, totally pulled it all together! I seriously can’t wait for book three!!
December 15, 2024
This is the kind of book that keeps you hooked, even if you’re not entirely sure why. It’s dramatic, fast-paced, and packed with enough twists and emotional turmoil to feel like a fantasy telenovela—and honestly, I’m not mad about it.
There are (more!) trials and political machinations that made the first one so interesting. Typically, sequels lean more heavily on character development, but that's not really the case in this one. Secondary characters get a bit more of the spotlight this time, though some weren’t my favorites to begin with, so I didn’t find their arcs as satisfying. Instead, we explored the villain in more depth but he kept his secrets until the end - which was also fun.
That said, the book’s strength lies in its unapologetic embrace of drama. Betrayals, rebellions, yearning, and dramatic reveals —it’s all dialed up to the max. The resolution of certain conflicts felt a little too quick (especially forgiveness arcs that could have simmered longer), but the speed doesn’t detract from the story’s addictive nature. It’s one of those reads where you can’t help but keep turning pages, even if you’re rolling your eyes at times. I both gasped AND rolled my eyes at that twist at the end.
Is this objectively good? Probably not, but that doesn’t stop it from being WILDLY entertaining. The flawed but lovable characters and over-the-top stakes make it impossible to put down. If you’re in the mood for something dramatic, a little messy, and utterly bingeable, this series is exactly what you need. I’ll definitely be diving into the next installment—and loving every second of it.
There are (more!) trials and political machinations that made the first one so interesting. Typically, sequels lean more heavily on character development, but that's not really the case in this one. Secondary characters get a bit more of the spotlight this time, though some weren’t my favorites to begin with, so I didn’t find their arcs as satisfying. Instead, we explored the villain in more depth but he kept his secrets until the end - which was also fun.
That said, the book’s strength lies in its unapologetic embrace of drama. Betrayals, rebellions, yearning, and dramatic reveals —it’s all dialed up to the max. The resolution of certain conflicts felt a little too quick (especially forgiveness arcs that could have simmered longer), but the speed doesn’t detract from the story’s addictive nature. It’s one of those reads where you can’t help but keep turning pages, even if you’re rolling your eyes at times. I both gasped AND rolled my eyes at that twist at the end.
Is this objectively good? Probably not, but that doesn’t stop it from being WILDLY entertaining. The flawed but lovable characters and over-the-top stakes make it impossible to put down. If you’re in the mood for something dramatic, a little messy, and utterly bingeable, this series is exactly what you need. I’ll definitely be diving into the next installment—and loving every second of it.
January 12, 2025
OMG! THAT ENDING!
While it's not a cliffhanger per say, I did NOT see the ending coming and now I desperately need it to be March so I can read the third book!
Eva Chase has written a series that is just so captivating and un-put-downable - I LOVE it. You definitely need to read in order, as this one picks up right where the first one ends.
Aurelia has now won the competition (which was like The Bachelor but instead of leaving the mansion, you leave the land of the living lol) and is married to Marclinus, but she is still determined to end his reign and bring peace and prosperity back to the royal lands. Now the newly appointed king, Marclinus is traveling through their lands to engage in various ceremonies to prove his right to rule. Aurelia is joining in on each ritual to also cement her place at his side.
She still has her men - and I continue to enjoy her relationship with them all. Now there is even more secrecy as she fights to win over her people and try to get the upper hand with Marclinus.
I just completely loved this one and my jaw dropped at that last chapter! Hurry up and get here, March!
I received a gifted copy to read. My thoughts are my own.
While it's not a cliffhanger per say, I did NOT see the ending coming and now I desperately need it to be March so I can read the third book!
Eva Chase has written a series that is just so captivating and un-put-downable - I LOVE it. You definitely need to read in order, as this one picks up right where the first one ends.
Aurelia has now won the competition (which was like The Bachelor but instead of leaving the mansion, you leave the land of the living lol) and is married to Marclinus, but she is still determined to end his reign and bring peace and prosperity back to the royal lands. Now the newly appointed king, Marclinus is traveling through their lands to engage in various ceremonies to prove his right to rule. Aurelia is joining in on each ritual to also cement her place at his side.
She still has her men - and I continue to enjoy her relationship with them all. Now there is even more secrecy as she fights to win over her people and try to get the upper hand with Marclinus.
I just completely loved this one and my jaw dropped at that last chapter! Hurry up and get here, March!
I received a gifted copy to read. My thoughts are my own.
December 16, 2024
The first book in this series was not entirely my thing. It was the first book by this author I didn't fully enjoy. It was hard to pinpoint why, but the end of the book was incredibly promising and encouraged me to keep on reading. So, when I saw that a review copy was available through BookSirens I grabbed one and started reading.
I enjoyed this book a lot more than the first book and I think it's mostly because it feels like the heroine is way more in control in this book. Things aren't just happening to her anymore, she's taking matters into her own hands and she's trying to actively do something about her situation. It made her journey and struggles and challenges way more interesting.
I also really enjoyed all the political scheming in this book. All important characters in this book have their own goals and plans and they all have to be smart about it to make them happen. Some plans fail, some plans work out, sometimes plans need to be adjusted to reach the wanted goal. It's a constant push and pull and it really kept me on the tips of my toes.
I also loved loved loved the ending of the book! I don't wanna say too much about it, because the less you know the more exciting it is, but it doesn't happen often that I don't see something coming. This time the author really managed to surprise me and in a really good way. The political game just got a lot more interesting and I'm really excited about the next book in the series!
I enjoyed this book a lot more than the first book and I think it's mostly because it feels like the heroine is way more in control in this book. Things aren't just happening to her anymore, she's taking matters into her own hands and she's trying to actively do something about her situation. It made her journey and struggles and challenges way more interesting.
I also really enjoyed all the political scheming in this book. All important characters in this book have their own goals and plans and they all have to be smart about it to make them happen. Some plans fail, some plans work out, sometimes plans need to be adjusted to reach the wanted goal. It's a constant push and pull and it really kept me on the tips of my toes.
I also loved loved loved the ending of the book! I don't wanna say too much about it, because the less you know the more exciting it is, but it doesn't happen often that I don't see something coming. This time the author really managed to surprise me and in a really good way. The political game just got a lot more interesting and I'm really excited about the next book in the series!
May 31, 2025
Book 2 continues smoothly from Game of Veils with Tarquin's funeral with a hefty pack edition. As the people see the emperor's death on her wedding as a bad omen, Aurelia has a steep treacherous path ahead plus she has to win back her lovers, but one thing about the MFC is perseverance. She has to complete the rites with the emotional temperamental Marclinus. Conspiracies and an expected kind of friendship with Bianca of all people. The youngest foster prince features a little more. What an earth shattering revelation at the end! Wow! That was totally unexpected and I can't wait to see where Eva is going to lead with that.
I received an advanced review copy and leave this review voluntary Thank you BookSirens
I received an advanced review copy and leave this review voluntary Thank you BookSirens
December 5, 2024
Eva Chase has done it again! I am so invested in this series, and when I tell you I can't wait for the next book to come out!! Yes, this leaves us on a cliffhanger (Eva Chase writes phenomenal cliffys.)
Aurelia continues to face challenge after challenge in her bid to win the favor of the people. This book is a why choose fantasy romance with enemies-to-lovers and morally grey men. I highly recommend this series so far!
I received an advance and gifted copy. This review is honest and voluntary.
Aurelia continues to face challenge after challenge in her bid to win the favor of the people. This book is a why choose fantasy romance with enemies-to-lovers and morally grey men. I highly recommend this series so far!
I received an advance and gifted copy. This review is honest and voluntary.
July 22, 2025
A Pack of Blood is a wild, addictive ride full of magic, danger, and steamy tension! Eva Chase delivers a fierce heroine, four irresistible princes, and a high-stakes world where betrayal and desire collide. You won’t be able to stop turning the pages it’s reverse harem fantasy at its most thrilling!
November 9, 2025
That fucking TWIST! I was thinking wtf is wrong with him...so hot and so cold. Makes total sense now.
November 21, 2024
In book two of 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝘆𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲𝘀, Aurelia’s fight for peace has just begun. Her new husband is set in his brutal ways, and the people of his court see their marriage as a bad omen.
Aurelia’s Kingdom and the conquered countries of the empire need help. Aurelia quickly realizes she may have to wage her own war to walk them across the bridge to peace.
𝙊𝙝. 𝙈𝙮. 𝙂𝙤𝙨𝙝.
This is one of those series where the second book is somehow even better than the first. Eva took the high stakes from book one and amped them up ⬆️
Aurelia has the complete devotion of her husband’s 3 foster brothers, who use their unique magical gifts to support her cause. The four of them become their own found family that will pull at your heartstrings 🖤
The plot twist in 𝗔 𝗚𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗩𝗲𝗶𝗹𝘀 made me gasp, but the plot twist in 𝗔 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗱 completely took me out 🫠
If you love why choose fantasy books, stick this series at the top of your tbr immediately ❤️🔥
Aurelia’s Kingdom and the conquered countries of the empire need help. Aurelia quickly realizes she may have to wage her own war to walk them across the bridge to peace.
𝙊𝙝. 𝙈𝙮. 𝙂𝙤𝙨𝙝.
This is one of those series where the second book is somehow even better than the first. Eva took the high stakes from book one and amped them up ⬆️
Aurelia has the complete devotion of her husband’s 3 foster brothers, who use their unique magical gifts to support her cause. The four of them become their own found family that will pull at your heartstrings 🖤
The plot twist in 𝗔 𝗚𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗩𝗲𝗶𝗹𝘀 made me gasp, but the plot twist in 𝗔 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗱 completely took me out 🫠
If you love why choose fantasy books, stick this series at the top of your tbr immediately ❤️🔥
February 1, 2025
We are back with Aurelia in the well paced, dangerous and dramatic second book! It’s exciting, it’s emotional and it is brimming with twists and turns that will have you hooked and on the edge of your seat. We pick up from where we left off in book one and it is one hell of a ride as we continue of this journey with these Incredible characters and that ending OMG! WTH I did not see that coming!
April 2, 2025
Mannn! What a twisted book. I was dead set on this theory through most of the book, but I wasn’t even close to guessing correctly which made the ending way more fire stoking. At the end of book one, I wasn’t sure what I would be in for with this book because there were a lot of twists at the end of the plot, and I wasn’t sure how the characters would reconcile and how the plot would move forward.
I’m not sure why I worried, considering how the plot did move.
At the beginning of this book, Aurelia is not speaking to any of the ‘foster’ princes. She has claimed Marcelius (which I know I’ve spelt wrong) as her husband after winning the trials set in book 1. The emperor Tarquin has left the mortal plain.
I’ll admit that I felt a little lost in terms of Aurelia’s character because with the reveal at the end of book one I felt I had underestimated her, but I also felt like she’d betrayed me somehow for not letting me in on her secrets.
It quickly became apparent to me just how strategic Aurelia is. Not just from what I have seen while reading, but all the hidden hints that have unravelled and become known to the reader.
She has much more resilience than I had given her credit for.
In this book, Raul becomes her biggest supporter. He sees through her act if you will and begins to see her in a new light. He is sort of overjoyed to have found this side of her. His almost instant realisation does a great service to Aurelia’s character, giving her hope and strength at a time she needs it most.
Lorenzo and Bastian take a lot longer to come around. But it’s not entirely Aurelia’s fault. Both these characters carry their own scars and insecurities, and they have to work through those before they can understand her motives, and Chase gives them the chance to do that.
We also see more of Neven, the four ‘foster brother’ prince. We saw him in the first book, but he was not as heavily featured as the other brothers. We see him a little more in this book, firstly through suspicion of his actions, but later as the 4th of a unified quartet dedicated to bringing down what they see as a tyranny.
I’m not saying that the empire is or isn’t a tyranny. I think it’s more complex than that. It is easy for a rebellion to revolt against an empire who doesn’t have their best interests at heart. It is also easy to be an empire trying to squash a small rebellion that poses a threat to the overall empire. It’s not so much cut and dry as it is a grey area to be handled delicately. I think, Chase is managing to toe the line. Having already finished the Rites of Possession series that is set in the same world, I think I understand more of the dynamics at play here. I might not be able to see all the pieces on the board, but I have more of a sense of what is at stake.
The biggest bombshell of this book came at the end. I read this book during the day, but my dreams were filled with bits of the ending. It really seeped into my mind, and I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I did have various ideas as to what might be the cause behind the individual involved but compared to the actual reveal, I was thinking small fish!
In my mind, this reveal changes the course of the series. It shocked me enough to take stock of the characters and think about how the plot would develop from here. I’m sure I feel as unfooted as Aurelia does. It changes everything.
I am filled with intrigue as to where the third book will take me.
I’m not sure why I worried, considering how the plot did move.
At the beginning of this book, Aurelia is not speaking to any of the ‘foster’ princes. She has claimed Marcelius (which I know I’ve spelt wrong) as her husband after winning the trials set in book 1. The emperor Tarquin has left the mortal plain.
I’ll admit that I felt a little lost in terms of Aurelia’s character because with the reveal at the end of book one I felt I had underestimated her, but I also felt like she’d betrayed me somehow for not letting me in on her secrets.
It quickly became apparent to me just how strategic Aurelia is. Not just from what I have seen while reading, but all the hidden hints that have unravelled and become known to the reader.
She has much more resilience than I had given her credit for.
In this book, Raul becomes her biggest supporter. He sees through her act if you will and begins to see her in a new light. He is sort of overjoyed to have found this side of her. His almost instant realisation does a great service to Aurelia’s character, giving her hope and strength at a time she needs it most.
Lorenzo and Bastian take a lot longer to come around. But it’s not entirely Aurelia’s fault. Both these characters carry their own scars and insecurities, and they have to work through those before they can understand her motives, and Chase gives them the chance to do that.
We also see more of Neven, the four ‘foster brother’ prince. We saw him in the first book, but he was not as heavily featured as the other brothers. We see him a little more in this book, firstly through suspicion of his actions, but later as the 4th of a unified quartet dedicated to bringing down what they see as a tyranny.
I’m not saying that the empire is or isn’t a tyranny. I think it’s more complex than that. It is easy for a rebellion to revolt against an empire who doesn’t have their best interests at heart. It is also easy to be an empire trying to squash a small rebellion that poses a threat to the overall empire. It’s not so much cut and dry as it is a grey area to be handled delicately. I think, Chase is managing to toe the line. Having already finished the Rites of Possession series that is set in the same world, I think I understand more of the dynamics at play here. I might not be able to see all the pieces on the board, but I have more of a sense of what is at stake.
The biggest bombshell of this book came at the end. I read this book during the day, but my dreams were filled with bits of the ending. It really seeped into my mind, and I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I did have various ideas as to what might be the cause behind the individual involved but compared to the actual reveal, I was thinking small fish!
In my mind, this reveal changes the course of the series. It shocked me enough to take stock of the characters and think about how the plot would develop from here. I’m sure I feel as unfooted as Aurelia does. It changes everything.
I am filled with intrigue as to where the third book will take me.
January 30, 2025
Eva Chase has done it again. Another excellent five star book. And the twist at the end, when Marclinus reveals his secret - omg! It makes me want to go back and reread the first book to see if I can spot any clues there. The book doesn’t end on a cliffhanger per se, but the twist (which I certainly did not see coming) really creates suspense for the next book.
This book picked up shortly after book one ended, right after Aurelia murdered the tyrant emperor Tarquin, not yet knowing whether her three lovers will forgive her for her seeming betrayal, when she refused to run away with them and instead went ahead with her marriage to Marclinus. She may not have had faith in them, but I was sure they would forgive her, and they did. No surprise there.
Where book one focused on a set of bloodthirsty trials that Aurelia had to complete in order to marry Marclinus, book 2 is structured around a set of four confirmation rites that Marclinus has to complete to become emperor. Aurelia decides that she needs to complete these rights as well, to gain the approval of the citizens of Darium. But just as the trials in book one were bloodthirsty, the confirmation rites in book 2 are potentially lethal - unless one has the special knowledge that the ever unhelpful Marclinus possesses and does not share with Aurelia.
Some things I particularly enjoyed in this book: learning more about the other godlen through the confirmation rites, a slightly increased role for Neven, Aurelia‘s complex interactions with Vicerine Bianca, and Aurelia‘s kitten.
I would have liked a few more chapters from the perspective of Aurelia‘s three lovers. I realize she is the focus of the book and naturally gets more chapters but I would like to see more of her men, even though that would make the book that much longer. And I wonder if, now that we know Marclinus’ secret, we’ll get chapters from his point of view. That would be interesting, although it will still take a lot of work for me to be able to appreciate his good points (on the assumption that he really does have some, as Elox suggests in his dream messages to Aurelia).
I am so excited for the next book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book picked up shortly after book one ended, right after Aurelia murdered the tyrant emperor Tarquin, not yet knowing whether her three lovers will forgive her for her seeming betrayal, when she refused to run away with them and instead went ahead with her marriage to Marclinus. She may not have had faith in them, but I was sure they would forgive her, and they did. No surprise there.
Where book one focused on a set of bloodthirsty trials that Aurelia had to complete in order to marry Marclinus, book 2 is structured around a set of four confirmation rites that Marclinus has to complete to become emperor. Aurelia decides that she needs to complete these rights as well, to gain the approval of the citizens of Darium. But just as the trials in book one were bloodthirsty, the confirmation rites in book 2 are potentially lethal - unless one has the special knowledge that the ever unhelpful Marclinus possesses and does not share with Aurelia.
Some things I particularly enjoyed in this book: learning more about the other godlen through the confirmation rites, a slightly increased role for Neven, Aurelia‘s complex interactions with Vicerine Bianca, and Aurelia‘s kitten.
I would have liked a few more chapters from the perspective of Aurelia‘s three lovers. I realize she is the focus of the book and naturally gets more chapters but I would like to see more of her men, even though that would make the book that much longer. And I wonder if, now that we know Marclinus’ secret, we’ll get chapters from his point of view. That would be interesting, although it will still take a lot of work for me to be able to appreciate his good points (on the assumption that he really does have some, as Elox suggests in his dream messages to Aurelia).
I am so excited for the next book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 3, 2024
‘“I’ll endeavour to continue impressing you.”
His chuckle follows me to the door. “I’m sure you will, wild princess of mine.”
He can say that all he wants, but I’ll never be his.’
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Let me just pick my jaw up from the floor, because that ending… OH MY GOD. I finished this book 5 or so days ago but wasn’t able to string sentences together for a review before now. This book is truly that good. This is the second of The Royal Spares series by Eva Chase and she does not disappoint. I discovered her books this year and I am obsessed. Eva is an amazing writer with the ability to truly pull her readers into the fantasy world she has created for a fully immersive experience.
This book picks up straight after the first with Aurelia helping her new husband pick up the pieces following the death of Emperor Tarquin. It follows the rites that Marclinus must undertake to be accepted by the gods, and the citizens of the realm, but with a twist. This time, Aurelia will also be undertaking the rites, in an effort to win over the people who see her marriage as nothing but a bad omen. Naturally, Marclinus offers his wife zero assistance on the matter, and she relies on her trio of princes to help her navigate the difficult trials ahead.
I love the continued development of Aurelia and the princes’ relationship, both individually and as a group. The prince’s feel betrayed that Aurelia did not leave with them, but they come around as they realise she has big plans in the making and she can’t achieve their shared goals without their help. Throughout this book, Marclinus shows huge mood swings, and just when Aurelia thinks she has gained some ground, it’s two steps forward, five steps back. Is this just Marclinus’ usual performative personality, or is everything not what it seems?
There are some spicy scenes, possibly a few more than the first. This will satisfy any reader wanting some steamy romance with their plot, and it’s not too much to take away from the incredible world that Eva has created.
Thank you so much to Eva for the ARC of this book. I enjoyed it so much and I cannot wait for book 3!
His chuckle follows me to the door. “I’m sure you will, wild princess of mine.”
He can say that all he wants, but I’ll never be his.’
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Let me just pick my jaw up from the floor, because that ending… OH MY GOD. I finished this book 5 or so days ago but wasn’t able to string sentences together for a review before now. This book is truly that good. This is the second of The Royal Spares series by Eva Chase and she does not disappoint. I discovered her books this year and I am obsessed. Eva is an amazing writer with the ability to truly pull her readers into the fantasy world she has created for a fully immersive experience.
This book picks up straight after the first with Aurelia helping her new husband pick up the pieces following the death of Emperor Tarquin. It follows the rites that Marclinus must undertake to be accepted by the gods, and the citizens of the realm, but with a twist. This time, Aurelia will also be undertaking the rites, in an effort to win over the people who see her marriage as nothing but a bad omen. Naturally, Marclinus offers his wife zero assistance on the matter, and she relies on her trio of princes to help her navigate the difficult trials ahead.
I love the continued development of Aurelia and the princes’ relationship, both individually and as a group. The prince’s feel betrayed that Aurelia did not leave with them, but they come around as they realise she has big plans in the making and she can’t achieve their shared goals without their help. Throughout this book, Marclinus shows huge mood swings, and just when Aurelia thinks she has gained some ground, it’s two steps forward, five steps back. Is this just Marclinus’ usual performative personality, or is everything not what it seems?
There are some spicy scenes, possibly a few more than the first. This will satisfy any reader wanting some steamy romance with their plot, and it’s not too much to take away from the incredible world that Eva has created.
Thank you so much to Eva for the ARC of this book. I enjoyed it so much and I cannot wait for book 3!
June 27, 2025
✨ Just finished A Pact of Blood and WOW — this series just keeps getting better and more intense!! 😍🎧 I was completely hooked from the first scene and didn’t want to stop for a second. If A Game of Veils drew me in, A Pact of Blood grabbed me by the heart and refused to let go. This is fantasy romance at its most thrilling — layered, emotional, and totally addictive. 💫👑
Eva Chase does it AGAIN with the stakes higher, the world darker, and the emotional depth even more intense. Our heroine is now fully immersed in the deadly political game she never asked to play — and watching her navigate betrayal, secrets, and complicated alliances? Chef’s kiss. Every moment had me breathless. The pacing? Spot on. The reveals? Chilling. The tension? OFF. THE. CHARTS. 🔥🗡️
And let’s talk about the men… again. Because YES. Each of them continues to bring such layered emotional presence and unique chemistry. The slow-burn vibes are still strong, but the intensity between them is building in a way that feels so earned, so intimate, and sooooo satisfying. The push and pull, the loyalty tested, the moments of vulnerability — I was LIVING for it. 🖤
🎧 Meg Sylvan and Aaron Shedlock are once again absolute magic together. Their voices carry so much nuance and emotion that I swear I felt every heartbeat, whisper, and scream. The way they shift between characters, tension, and tenderness is flawless. Truly top-tier narration that makes this audiobook experience unforgettable.
If you’re craving a fantasy romance that dives deeper into danger, desire, and destiny — A Pact of Blood is IT. It’s sharper, darker, and even more emotionally gripping than Book 1. And that ENDING?! No spoilers but… I need the next one like YESTERDAY. 😭💥
Tropes you’ll find here:
👑 Royal Intrigue
🔥 Slow-Burn Reverse Harem
💔 Betrayal & Loyalty
🩸 Dangerous Alliances
🌒 Dark Magic & Secrets
💖 Strong, Determined Heroine Rising
5🌟 — A stunning, high-stakes fantasy with soul, spice, and SO much heart. Completely obsessed.
Eva Chase does it AGAIN with the stakes higher, the world darker, and the emotional depth even more intense. Our heroine is now fully immersed in the deadly political game she never asked to play — and watching her navigate betrayal, secrets, and complicated alliances? Chef’s kiss. Every moment had me breathless. The pacing? Spot on. The reveals? Chilling. The tension? OFF. THE. CHARTS. 🔥🗡️
And let’s talk about the men… again. Because YES. Each of them continues to bring such layered emotional presence and unique chemistry. The slow-burn vibes are still strong, but the intensity between them is building in a way that feels so earned, so intimate, and sooooo satisfying. The push and pull, the loyalty tested, the moments of vulnerability — I was LIVING for it. 🖤
🎧 Meg Sylvan and Aaron Shedlock are once again absolute magic together. Their voices carry so much nuance and emotion that I swear I felt every heartbeat, whisper, and scream. The way they shift between characters, tension, and tenderness is flawless. Truly top-tier narration that makes this audiobook experience unforgettable.
If you’re craving a fantasy romance that dives deeper into danger, desire, and destiny — A Pact of Blood is IT. It’s sharper, darker, and even more emotionally gripping than Book 1. And that ENDING?! No spoilers but… I need the next one like YESTERDAY. 😭💥
Tropes you’ll find here:
👑 Royal Intrigue
🔥 Slow-Burn Reverse Harem
💔 Betrayal & Loyalty
🩸 Dangerous Alliances
🌒 Dark Magic & Secrets
💖 Strong, Determined Heroine Rising
5🌟 — A stunning, high-stakes fantasy with soul, spice, and SO much heart. Completely obsessed.
August 6, 2025
That Twist Tho! 🌶️
OK, damn Eva! You had me the whole way through. This book has the same pace and feel as the first in the series, and while the challenges the FMC faces feel similar, the setting and stakes are different. A similarly paced plot, with a twist in the end that I felt silly that I didn't see earlier in the story. I did guess during the final chapter though as more obvious hints are dropped. The ending sets up the start for the next book int he series which I'll be starting very soon. This is a higher angst book, so if you're looking for something more relaxed or cozy then you may want to return to this when you're ready for more action. Make sure to check the trigger warnings! There are a few scenes that while written very well, are a bit hard to listen to. Overall I thought the book was a brilliant second installment to the series. I listened to it in about two sittings. I didn't want to stop listening to go to bed - the story really pulls you in. The author expands her world building, and we get to see a bigger image of the environment that our characters inhabit. The narrators were great. They were able to capture the emotion and personalities of each character. Major shout out to Meg Sylvan on her portrayal of Marclinus during the scenes of his more abominable acts - those were despicable and she portrayed them beautifully. The length is apt as well, especially since the story is so immersive, it doesn't feel like any scene is rushed or too drawn out. It allows for the listener (or reader) to really dedicate that time to become involved with the characters. I'll definitely be looking up the next book after writing this review!
OK, damn Eva! You had me the whole way through. This book has the same pace and feel as the first in the series, and while the challenges the FMC faces feel similar, the setting and stakes are different. A similarly paced plot, with a twist in the end that I felt silly that I didn't see earlier in the story. I did guess during the final chapter though as more obvious hints are dropped. The ending sets up the start for the next book int he series which I'll be starting very soon. This is a higher angst book, so if you're looking for something more relaxed or cozy then you may want to return to this when you're ready for more action. Make sure to check the trigger warnings! There are a few scenes that while written very well, are a bit hard to listen to. Overall I thought the book was a brilliant second installment to the series. I listened to it in about two sittings. I didn't want to stop listening to go to bed - the story really pulls you in. The author expands her world building, and we get to see a bigger image of the environment that our characters inhabit. The narrators were great. They were able to capture the emotion and personalities of each character. Major shout out to Meg Sylvan on her portrayal of Marclinus during the scenes of his more abominable acts - those were despicable and she portrayed them beautifully. The length is apt as well, especially since the story is so immersive, it doesn't feel like any scene is rushed or too drawn out. It allows for the listener (or reader) to really dedicate that time to become involved with the characters. I'll definitely be looking up the next book after writing this review!
November 25, 2024
First, let me say that I am really enjoying the increase in political intrigue found in this series - more so than in other series I've read from Eva Chase. The overall tension is HIGH in this one. The whole book you're thinking "You're going to be caught, how have you not been caught, okay today you're being caught" and with every scene, you are certain that it is the one. The romance isn't a slow burn, but the political plot sure is. There were a few points where I hoped the FMC would be caught, so we could get a bit more forward movement.
There is a trials aspect to this book, not the same type as the first in the series but trials nonetheless. They were well done and I wasn't bored of them midway through the book, as can sometimes be the case in books with competitions or trials.
The magic system continues to be one of my favourites I've read. I appreciate the balance of it, and the mystery surrounding it. One person's magic type and strength differ entirely from another's, and you may not know what it is unless they tell you.
There is a key character that we are still waiting to discover their magic, and I thought surely that would be the cliffhanger. While I did predict the big twist, I could never have predicted the cliffhanger. I gasped audibly and woke my dog up (she's a German Shepherd and immediately underwent a search of the house for intruders).
Thank you to BookSirens and Eva Chase for a digital advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There is a trials aspect to this book, not the same type as the first in the series but trials nonetheless. They were well done and I wasn't bored of them midway through the book, as can sometimes be the case in books with competitions or trials.
The magic system continues to be one of my favourites I've read. I appreciate the balance of it, and the mystery surrounding it. One person's magic type and strength differ entirely from another's, and you may not know what it is unless they tell you.
There is a key character that we are still waiting to discover their magic, and I thought surely that would be the cliffhanger. While I did predict the big twist, I could never have predicted the cliffhanger. I gasped audibly and woke my dog up (she's a German Shepherd and immediately underwent a search of the house for intruders).
Thank you to BookSirens and Eva Chase for a digital advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 5, 2024
The trials may be over, but the real battle begins in A Pact of Blood, the captivating second book in The Royal Spares series. Eva Chase turns up the heat, the stakes, and the heartbreak in this spellbinding continuation of a story filled with power struggles, forbidden love, and unwavering determination.
Princess. Wife. Strategist. Ally. How many roles can one woman endure while navigating a cruel husband, a skeptical empire, and the undeniable pull toward three dangerously captivating princes? With rebellion brewing and her marriage proving more of a battlefield than a partnership, our heroine must summon every ounce of strength and cunning to protect her heart and her mission.
Eva Chase delivers a masterclass in tension and intrigue, weaving together a narrative that balances love, loyalty, and survival. The morally grey characters and sizzling chemistry will keep you hooked from start to finish.
✨ What to Expect:
💔 Angsty Enemies-to-Lovers Drama
⚔️ Fierce, Strong-Willed Heroine
🔥 Sizzling Why-Choose Romance
✨ Magical World-Building
🖤 Morally Grey Men & High Stakes
⚡ A Pact of Blood is a fiery and emotional ride that’ll leave you desperate for the next installment. If you’re ready for more betrayal, passion, and power plays, don’t miss this one! 👑
#APactOfBlood #EvaChase #ReverseHaremRomance #EnemiesToLovers #WhyChooseRomance #StrongWomen #FantasyRomance #MorallyGreyCharacters #ArrangedMarriage #RoyalSparesSeries #DarkFantasyRomance #SlowBurnRomance #BookishFantasy #RHBooks #SpicyReads
Princess. Wife. Strategist. Ally. How many roles can one woman endure while navigating a cruel husband, a skeptical empire, and the undeniable pull toward three dangerously captivating princes? With rebellion brewing and her marriage proving more of a battlefield than a partnership, our heroine must summon every ounce of strength and cunning to protect her heart and her mission.
Eva Chase delivers a masterclass in tension and intrigue, weaving together a narrative that balances love, loyalty, and survival. The morally grey characters and sizzling chemistry will keep you hooked from start to finish.
✨ What to Expect:
💔 Angsty Enemies-to-Lovers Drama
⚔️ Fierce, Strong-Willed Heroine
🔥 Sizzling Why-Choose Romance
✨ Magical World-Building
🖤 Morally Grey Men & High Stakes
⚡ A Pact of Blood is a fiery and emotional ride that’ll leave you desperate for the next installment. If you’re ready for more betrayal, passion, and power plays, don’t miss this one! 👑
#APactOfBlood #EvaChase #ReverseHaremRomance #EnemiesToLovers #WhyChooseRomance #StrongWomen #FantasyRomance #MorallyGreyCharacters #ArrangedMarriage #RoyalSparesSeries #DarkFantasyRomance #SlowBurnRomance #BookishFantasy #RHBooks #SpicyReads
September 26, 2025
DNF at 71%. Unfortunately I just can’t get into this book series. It has so much potential in my mind and I’m trying to enjoy the journey of the story but it feels so slow moving. I have a few reasons why I won’t read on at this stage:
• to me the magic system doesn’t really make sense. I know the characters make an offering to the godlen that they dedicate themselves to but the power they receive makes no rhyme nor reason as to why they get it. Maybe I’ve missed this explanation somewhere but it’s unclear to me and therefore I’m struggling to buy into it
• At the point I got to in the book, I’d expect to have some idea of Marclinus’s power or at least have some more insight into Marclinus x Aurelia. I imagine this builds out at some point but it just feels like it’s dragging out with no end goal in sight
• I don’t actually feel like I’ve warmed to any of the characters other than one of the MMCs, Lorenzo. I find Raul and Bastien a bit meh, as well as Aurelia. Our FMC is obviously meant to be very cunning and have a bit of a fiery personality but it feels the opposite, like her personality is quite so bland. She has so much more potential! I think if I liked the characters more I’d be able to overlook how slow the plot feels. There just isn’t much banter or giggles or comedic reprieve so it just feels very prim and proper and dry, which some people might like but it’s just not my preference!
I’m sure all these questions get answers or built upon in later books but sadly I just dont feel I can continue them right now!
• to me the magic system doesn’t really make sense. I know the characters make an offering to the godlen that they dedicate themselves to but the power they receive makes no rhyme nor reason as to why they get it. Maybe I’ve missed this explanation somewhere but it’s unclear to me and therefore I’m struggling to buy into it
• At the point I got to in the book, I’d expect to have some idea of Marclinus’s power or at least have some more insight into Marclinus x Aurelia. I imagine this builds out at some point but it just feels like it’s dragging out with no end goal in sight
• I don’t actually feel like I’ve warmed to any of the characters other than one of the MMCs, Lorenzo. I find Raul and Bastien a bit meh, as well as Aurelia. Our FMC is obviously meant to be very cunning and have a bit of a fiery personality but it feels the opposite, like her personality is quite so bland. She has so much more potential! I think if I liked the characters more I’d be able to overlook how slow the plot feels. There just isn’t much banter or giggles or comedic reprieve so it just feels very prim and proper and dry, which some people might like but it’s just not my preference!
I’m sure all these questions get answers or built upon in later books but sadly I just dont feel I can continue them right now!
December 4, 2024
“You're in my blood. Every beat of my heart belongs to you. I'll spill it all if it keeps you safe.”
The deadly trials may be over, but the stakes are just as high. A Pact of Blood begins after the events at the conclusion of A Game of Veils (aka the death of the emperor). Following the funeral, the newlyweds journey on a ceremonial procession through Dariu, where Marclinius must undergo rites to be accepted by the gods and citizens as the new Emperor. With the people believing their marriage is a bad omen, Aurelia decides to take part in the rites as well to prove herself worthy as Empress. Marclinus is as difficult and terrible as ever with his continually changing moods and leaving Aurelia to manage by herself. But don't worry because Aurelia is one brilliant and fierce FMC, ready to tackle any challenges headed her way. Not to mention, she has three devoted princes to help protect her.
Wow, I did not see that ending coming! (although I realized there were signs after I thought about it lol). I was kept on the edge of my seat, wondering what was going to happen next, especially with the rites. And after all of the careful plotting, I can't wait to find out what's next in the third book, A Dance of Shadows!
I would definitely recommend giving this a read if you love high-stakes action romantasy with:
✨️Multiple POV
✨️Forbidden love
✨️Arranged marriage
✨️Why choose
✨️Political intrigue
✨️Morally grey MC
✨️Spice
Thanks so much to Eva Chase for the ARC!
The deadly trials may be over, but the stakes are just as high. A Pact of Blood begins after the events at the conclusion of A Game of Veils (aka the death of the emperor). Following the funeral, the newlyweds journey on a ceremonial procession through Dariu, where Marclinius must undergo rites to be accepted by the gods and citizens as the new Emperor. With the people believing their marriage is a bad omen, Aurelia decides to take part in the rites as well to prove herself worthy as Empress. Marclinus is as difficult and terrible as ever with his continually changing moods and leaving Aurelia to manage by herself. But don't worry because Aurelia is one brilliant and fierce FMC, ready to tackle any challenges headed her way. Not to mention, she has three devoted princes to help protect her.
Wow, I did not see that ending coming! (although I realized there were signs after I thought about it lol). I was kept on the edge of my seat, wondering what was going to happen next, especially with the rites. And after all of the careful plotting, I can't wait to find out what's next in the third book, A Dance of Shadows!
I would definitely recommend giving this a read if you love high-stakes action romantasy with:
✨️Multiple POV
✨️Forbidden love
✨️Arranged marriage
✨️Why choose
✨️Political intrigue
✨️Morally grey MC
✨️Spice
Thanks so much to Eva Chase for the ARC!
November 30, 2024
This is the second book in the Royal Spares, a fantasy romance series set in the author’s Abandoned Realms world. Tropes and themes include marriage of convenience, court intrigue, why choose, pregnancy and political unrest. In addition to some spicy scenes, there are some dark themes so please check the content warnings.
The Lovely: I still love the FMC, Aurelia, and how she’s secretly a b@da$$. She’s so good at playing her role, all the while scheming to reach her end goals. I grew to like the MMCs more in this book, especially once they started taking the initiative to help her (instead of being told what to do).
The Mundane: The ending felt like it came out of left field for me. Not like a big “ah ha” reveal kind of way, but more of a “huh” moment. I’m interested to see how this will be addressed in book three and the fall out from the reveal.
Rating: 4/5 Stars 3/5 Flames
Recommendation: I received an early copy and my thoughts are my own. If you like why choose fantasy romance with a strong heroine in a well thought out world, I think you would like this book. Book three, of the expected four book series, is due to be released in March 2025. This book/series takes place in the author’s Abandoned Realms world, which also houses her Rites of Possession series and a recently released novella, Heart of Defiance.
The Lovely: I still love the FMC, Aurelia, and how she’s secretly a b@da$$. She’s so good at playing her role, all the while scheming to reach her end goals. I grew to like the MMCs more in this book, especially once they started taking the initiative to help her (instead of being told what to do).
The Mundane: The ending felt like it came out of left field for me. Not like a big “ah ha” reveal kind of way, but more of a “huh” moment. I’m interested to see how this will be addressed in book three and the fall out from the reveal.
Rating: 4/5 Stars 3/5 Flames
Recommendation: I received an early copy and my thoughts are my own. If you like why choose fantasy romance with a strong heroine in a well thought out world, I think you would like this book. Book three, of the expected four book series, is due to be released in March 2025. This book/series takes place in the author’s Abandoned Realms world, which also houses her Rites of Possession series and a recently released novella, Heart of Defiance.
July 26, 2025
- Slight spoilers -
Called the plot twist at the end!! I had my suspicions at the end of book 1 but by the end of 2 it was obvious to me
It pushed the book from a 3.5 to a 4 as it was an interesting twist that I’m keen to see unfold (I also would have been funny to see the reveal happen through a successful assassination that they’ve been building up to, and he just sits down for breakfast the day after like nothing happened)
It was nice to see Aurelia step into her own a bit more in this book, her placid attitude in the first book started to grate on me but it felt better balanced here!
You would have thought she devoted herself to the godlen of luck with how much she narrowly escaped scheming faux pas in this book. How was she to know Linus was taking contraception 😂 absolute blind dumb luck it happened to be Marc instead at the correlating time. Also the fact she hadn’t made an assassination move yet before finding that out 😭
I also enjoyed seeing people’s gifts utilised more in this book. Although I’m still really curious what some people’s gifts are… I have a feeling the Marclinus gifts will come back to bite us in the ass down the line as they’re still being concealed from the reader
We want to hope and pray that baby doesn’t come out with red hair hahahah
MVP: Sprite 😸
Called the plot twist at the end!! I had my suspicions at the end of book 1 but by the end of 2 it was obvious to me
It pushed the book from a 3.5 to a 4 as it was an interesting twist that I’m keen to see unfold (I also would have been funny to see the reveal happen through a successful assassination that they’ve been building up to, and he just sits down for breakfast the day after like nothing happened)
It was nice to see Aurelia step into her own a bit more in this book, her placid attitude in the first book started to grate on me but it felt better balanced here!
You would have thought she devoted herself to the godlen of luck with how much she narrowly escaped scheming faux pas in this book. How was she to know Linus was taking contraception 😂 absolute blind dumb luck it happened to be Marc instead at the correlating time. Also the fact she hadn’t made an assassination move yet before finding that out 😭
I also enjoyed seeing people’s gifts utilised more in this book. Although I’m still really curious what some people’s gifts are… I have a feeling the Marclinus gifts will come back to bite us in the ass down the line as they’re still being concealed from the reader
We want to hope and pray that baby doesn’t come out with red hair hahahah
MVP: Sprite 😸
November 23, 2024
Thank you to Booksirens and to the author for allowing me access to this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 3 ⭐️
Genre: New Adult Fantasy Romance
Format: ARC Ebook
Pages: 486
Spice: 2 🌶️
POV: Multiple POV
S/S: The Royal Spares #2
Check trigger warnings for any book.
This sequel felt very long and very slow.
While I enjoy our main characters, their relationships stay the same throughout the book. Nothing evolved in that regard. By the end of the book, Aurelia and her princes are as close and unable to love each other as before.
I do love Aurelia’s scheming, and boy did she have to in this book. However I don’t see any development regarding her in the court, with her husband or with the empire. It was another type of trial and travel through the book.
I’ll say that the last chapter reveal left me shocked and explained a looooot. But also left me confused and a bit disappointed. The book felt overly bland and then this reveal in the last page. It doesn’t make the 400 previous pages any more entertaining.
I hope book 3 will be more action-packed or have more diverse happenings and developments!
Leena - Leena.reader review - @leena.reader on tiktok and instagram
Rating: 3 ⭐️
Genre: New Adult Fantasy Romance
Format: ARC Ebook
Pages: 486
Spice: 2 🌶️
POV: Multiple POV
S/S: The Royal Spares #2
Check trigger warnings for any book.
This sequel felt very long and very slow.
While I enjoy our main characters, their relationships stay the same throughout the book. Nothing evolved in that regard. By the end of the book, Aurelia and her princes are as close and unable to love each other as before.
I do love Aurelia’s scheming, and boy did she have to in this book. However I don’t see any development regarding her in the court, with her husband or with the empire. It was another type of trial and travel through the book.
I’ll say that the last chapter reveal left me shocked and explained a looooot. But also left me confused and a bit disappointed. The book felt overly bland and then this reveal in the last page. It doesn’t make the 400 previous pages any more entertaining.
I hope book 3 will be more action-packed or have more diverse happenings and developments!
Leena - Leena.reader review - @leena.reader on tiktok and instagram
November 25, 2024
Let me just take a minute to pick my jaw up from the floor and form coherent thoughts real quick.
OH MY GOODNESS! What in the world was that cliffhanger? I literally feel like my brain has turned into mush because I didn’t see that coming! Out of all the thoughts that I had on how this book was going to end, IT WASN’T THAT! I need the next one like stat because WOW!
This story picks right back up from where the first one left off, the death of Emperor Tarquin. This story takes you through all of the rites that Prince Marclinus has to complete. Aurelia decides she will also go through the rites to prove herself to the people. With tasks that she never thought she’d go through, with the prince's mood changing constantly, and with everything always going against her, will Aurelia make it?
The plot in this book was perfect. This book kept me on my toes and once I started reading, I couldn’t get enough and I didn’t want to stop. The characters all grew so much and I really can’t wait to see what they do next. Honestly, I enjoyed this book so much and I recommend giving these books a shot!
OH MY GOODNESS! What in the world was that cliffhanger? I literally feel like my brain has turned into mush because I didn’t see that coming! Out of all the thoughts that I had on how this book was going to end, IT WASN’T THAT! I need the next one like stat because WOW!
This story picks right back up from where the first one left off, the death of Emperor Tarquin. This story takes you through all of the rites that Prince Marclinus has to complete. Aurelia decides she will also go through the rites to prove herself to the people. With tasks that she never thought she’d go through, with the prince's mood changing constantly, and with everything always going against her, will Aurelia make it?
The plot in this book was perfect. This book kept me on my toes and once I started reading, I couldn’t get enough and I didn’t want to stop. The characters all grew so much and I really can’t wait to see what they do next. Honestly, I enjoyed this book so much and I recommend giving these books a shot!
November 25, 2024
TITLE: A Pact Of Blood
GENRE: Fantasy Romance
AUTHOR: Eva Chase
TROPE: Enemies-to-Lovers
TYPE: Series (The Royal Spares Book 2)
POV: Multiple POV
MY RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5
⚠️ Check trigger warnings; this dark content is for +18 readers
📕 WHAT TO EXPECT:
🩸 Secretly Bada$$ Heroine
🩸Morally Grey Men
🩸Royalty
🩸Deadly Trials
🩸Enemies to Lovers
🩸Arranged Marriage
🩸Why Choose
I have loved The Royal Spares series since it started, and I must say I love the twists that caught me off guard in A Pact of Blood. I will absolutely be counting down the days until the next book in the series is released! Aurelia 100% fits the title of a Bada$$ Heroine. Some moments felt a bit slow at times for me as I am not a fan of too much political intrigue, but fear not the storyline picked back up again until that shocker of an ending that I did not see coming! I feel the storyline has set up an exciting upcoming book three in the series, and I can't wait to see what happens next with Aurelia, Raul, Lorenzo, and Bastien. I am giving a rating of 4 / 5 stars.
GENRE: Fantasy Romance
AUTHOR: Eva Chase
TROPE: Enemies-to-Lovers
TYPE: Series (The Royal Spares Book 2)
POV: Multiple POV
MY RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5
⚠️ Check trigger warnings; this dark content is for +18 readers
📕 WHAT TO EXPECT:
🩸 Secretly Bada$$ Heroine
🩸Morally Grey Men
🩸Royalty
🩸Deadly Trials
🩸Enemies to Lovers
🩸Arranged Marriage
🩸Why Choose
I have loved The Royal Spares series since it started, and I must say I love the twists that caught me off guard in A Pact of Blood. I will absolutely be counting down the days until the next book in the series is released! Aurelia 100% fits the title of a Bada$$ Heroine. Some moments felt a bit slow at times for me as I am not a fan of too much political intrigue, but fear not the storyline picked back up again until that shocker of an ending that I did not see coming! I feel the storyline has set up an exciting upcoming book three in the series, and I can't wait to see what happens next with Aurelia, Raul, Lorenzo, and Bastien. I am giving a rating of 4 / 5 stars.
December 7, 2024
Aurelia, Accasian princess, duplicitous murderer and newly minted wife/Empress of Marclinus', picks up at the funeral of Emperor Tarquin, soon after A Game of Veils left off. I actually stood up clapping at the end of book 1 of the Royal Spares series. That turn of events was so shocking that I had a physical reaction. I LOVED IT.
In A Pact of Blood Aurelia's true character expansion begins.
"This marriage is the most important mission I could have been given. Even Elox—my patron godlen, the divinity who champions peace and healing—has urged me on this path."
Eva chase masterfully manipulates her readers emotions as Aurelia navigates the pitfalls of ruling a country that hates her. I was holding my breath every time she took on a new godlen test. One of the things I like about this main character is her intelligence in problem solving. A good sequel.
Overall Enjoyment: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶
Prose: easy to read
Pacing (1=slow 5=fast): 3
Character Development: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In A Pact of Blood Aurelia's true character expansion begins.
"This marriage is the most important mission I could have been given. Even Elox—my patron godlen, the divinity who champions peace and healing—has urged me on this path."
Eva chase masterfully manipulates her readers emotions as Aurelia navigates the pitfalls of ruling a country that hates her. I was holding my breath every time she took on a new godlen test. One of the things I like about this main character is her intelligence in problem solving. A good sequel.
Overall Enjoyment: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶
Prose: easy to read
Pacing (1=slow 5=fast): 3
Character Development: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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