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Beyond the Gloom #2
Blood Binds
IN BLOOD WE TRUST.
IN BLOOD WE'RE BOUND.
IN BLOOD WE FALL.
An heir with nothing left but rage...
Aurora, in need of her Creator’s power, heads straight into the Republic that has marked her for death, while the Shepherd, a conscious commander of Stalker legions, grows stronger with every kill.
Crowns and stolen thrones can wait. Her usurper can rot. Because without Dracula's help, the creature hunting her guild will drown the world in monsters.
A varcolac tortured by the voices of the dead…
Radu hears the dead screaming, and now one of them is calling his name. Driven toward madness, he must return with Aurora to the place that killed his parents. Dracula's blood magic is the only weapon that can stop the Shepherd and silence the screams, and Radu’s Chronoportal is the only path for Aurora to claim it.
A bond that will damn them both...
The hunger between them is no longer a small obsession. It’s a consuming fire, a tether that will drag them both to damnation. She's destined to rule. He's planning to die fighting. But power always demands sacrifice. And in a land where gods sleep and blood remembers, Aurora must choose: betray Radu to save her people, or stand with him as the world burns down around them.
IN BLOOD WE'RE BOUND.
IN BLOOD WE FALL.
An heir with nothing left but rage...
Aurora, in need of her Creator’s power, heads straight into the Republic that has marked her for death, while the Shepherd, a conscious commander of Stalker legions, grows stronger with every kill.
Crowns and stolen thrones can wait. Her usurper can rot. Because without Dracula's help, the creature hunting her guild will drown the world in monsters.
A varcolac tortured by the voices of the dead…
Radu hears the dead screaming, and now one of them is calling his name. Driven toward madness, he must return with Aurora to the place that killed his parents. Dracula's blood magic is the only weapon that can stop the Shepherd and silence the screams, and Radu’s Chronoportal is the only path for Aurora to claim it.
A bond that will damn them both...
The hunger between them is no longer a small obsession. It’s a consuming fire, a tether that will drag them both to damnation. She's destined to rule. He's planning to die fighting. But power always demands sacrifice. And in a land where gods sleep and blood remembers, Aurora must choose: betray Radu to save her people, or stand with him as the world burns down around them.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 11, 2026
21 people are currently reading
286 people want to read
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Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thanks to Valentine PR for providing the eARC. This is my honest opinion.
Where every choice leads to bloodshed
With ‘Blood Binds’, Denisa Mih raises the stakes even further. This second instalment picks up directly where the first book left off and makes it clear that this series is meant to be read in order. Storylines, relationships and conflicts are a direct continuation of earlier events, making prior knowledge essential for fully understanding the narrative.
Action is at the heart of this book. Fight scenes follow each other at a rapid pace, creating constant tension and a sense of urgency. The confrontations are physical, raw and often ruthless, giving the story an intense and relentless atmosphere. Moments of calm are rare and feel more like brief pauses than true relief.
At the same time, interpersonal dynamics remain important. The characters are pushed to their limits and forced to make difficult choices as the situation escalates. Trust is fragile, loyalties are tested and existing relationships shift under pressure. This combination of action and personal conflict adds depth and prevents the story from becoming a sequence of battles alone.
Denisa Mih’s direct writing style keeps the story moving forward at all times. While this ensures strong momentum, it also demands the reader’s full attention. Without having read the first book, much of the emotional weight and context would be lost. ‘Blood Binds’ is clearly written as part of a larger narrative and ends in a way that builds anticipation for what is yet to come.
‘Blood Binds’ is an explosive sequel filled with action and tension, featuring characters who become increasingly entangled in conflict and warfare. Recommended for readers who enjoy fast-paced fantasy with intense combat and a continuing storyline.
Where every choice leads to bloodshed
With ‘Blood Binds’, Denisa Mih raises the stakes even further. This second instalment picks up directly where the first book left off and makes it clear that this series is meant to be read in order. Storylines, relationships and conflicts are a direct continuation of earlier events, making prior knowledge essential for fully understanding the narrative.
Action is at the heart of this book. Fight scenes follow each other at a rapid pace, creating constant tension and a sense of urgency. The confrontations are physical, raw and often ruthless, giving the story an intense and relentless atmosphere. Moments of calm are rare and feel more like brief pauses than true relief.
At the same time, interpersonal dynamics remain important. The characters are pushed to their limits and forced to make difficult choices as the situation escalates. Trust is fragile, loyalties are tested and existing relationships shift under pressure. This combination of action and personal conflict adds depth and prevents the story from becoming a sequence of battles alone.
Denisa Mih’s direct writing style keeps the story moving forward at all times. While this ensures strong momentum, it also demands the reader’s full attention. Without having read the first book, much of the emotional weight and context would be lost. ‘Blood Binds’ is clearly written as part of a larger narrative and ends in a way that builds anticipation for what is yet to come.
‘Blood Binds’ is an explosive sequel filled with action and tension, featuring characters who become increasingly entangled in conflict and warfare. Recommended for readers who enjoy fast-paced fantasy with intense combat and a continuing storyline.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Second book and I loved how the story is progressing.
More battles, more clarity about the purpose behind it all. Constantly life-or-death situations. When these people will rest? Give them a break.
The canyon scene and the Selena's use of magic were stunning and heartbreaking.
The dynamic between Aurora and Radu. Letting another person in is never easy, and I'm glad their lust is layered on top of mutual respect and shared honor. They're perfect imbalanced, yet they complement each other so well.
Also, can't ignore Selena as character - loyal, straightforward and honest to the core.
As for the ending, I expected something more traumatic. But I am glad Aurora gained some allies.
Can't wait to read the next one. I really hope Lev gets what he deserves.
Thank you The Nerd Farm to eARC!
December 11, 2025
Thank you Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC!
Everything I loved about Blood Sings continued in this one--the epic battle scenes, the character development, the WTF moments--I had a great time!
And we have two MCs that for the most part ACTUALLY TALK TO EACH OTHER! Sure, there's a bit of information withholding near the beginning, but we actually get some real pressure to communicate and it's resolved relatively quickly. I HATE the "you almost died because I didn't think it pertinent to disclose information" trope, so I was very happy to see how it played out here!
And if you wanted more spice than you got in the first book--you'll be pleased with this one. Early and often.
But that ENDING??? WHAT??? Unwell.
Overall, I had a great time with this one and can definitely see it being a great read for fans of Serpent and the Wings of Night! In fact, I actually think I like this series more! If you want vampires who fight and blood magic, this is definitely the series for you!
Everything I loved about Blood Sings continued in this one--the epic battle scenes, the character development, the WTF moments--I had a great time!
And we have two MCs that for the most part ACTUALLY TALK TO EACH OTHER! Sure, there's a bit of information withholding near the beginning, but we actually get some real pressure to communicate and it's resolved relatively quickly. I HATE the "you almost died because I didn't think it pertinent to disclose information" trope, so I was very happy to see how it played out here!
And if you wanted more spice than you got in the first book--you'll be pleased with this one. Early and often.
But that ENDING??? WHAT??? Unwell.
Overall, I had a great time with this one and can definitely see it being a great read for fans of Serpent and the Wings of Night! In fact, I actually think I like this series more! If you want vampires who fight and blood magic, this is definitely the series for you!
January 9, 2026
Blood Binds, book two in the Beyond the Gloom series by Denisa Mih
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
💥 5 stars 💥
I don’t know if any of you read my review of the first book, Blood Sings, but I wrapped up that one stating that “The only reason I gave this four stars instead of five is because I’m not entirely sold on the romance. YET.”
Consider me sold!
Ugh! If I were the type to claim I had a book boyfriend, Radu (Harbinger) would be the man I claimed. I am obsessed with how broody he is. Sarcastic. Snarky. Salty. Yet, protective. Possessive. Territorial. Insatiable. Loyal. I could literally go on for ages. Aurora is the perfect compliment to him. She is quick witted and sarcastic also which creates great banter which is also sometimes hilarious. She holds many of the same character traits as Radu. Although their communication skills have improved (since the first book,) BOTH are STILL frustratingly stubborn and accustomed to handling things solo, which causes unnecessary tension (and admittedly sometimes delicious) because they’d rather stuff their feelings down and hide them rather than just admit them and speak openly.
I digress…
Book two picks up right where book one left us. Aurora left the crew awestruck after deploying her blood manipulation and showing immense control when it left her in a terrifying state of blood lust. Radu and Aurora have let themselves go (mostly,) and acknowledged that they have an overwhelming attraction and need for the other. The fireworks, tension, physicality of their relationship was inevitable. They are undeniably a great duo. I really enjoyed watching them grow and spark positive change in each other. In fact, the entire guild has come together and now operate like a fine oiled machine.
Not only is there a lot of character and relationship development in this book (with ALL the characters,) we also learn more about Radu’s secrets.(Trust me, there is a big one that gets revealed!) We get more history on Dracula. (Oh, did I not mention Aurora is a direct descendant of him?) 😂 He and his brothers are the ultimate original pure bloods with powers that are unmatched.
The battle scenes are epic, spiking my anxiety and keeping me on the edge of my seat. (I LOVED this aspect!)
There is so much information, details and terrifying truths that are revealed in this book and the Black Guild puts a plan of action into place. Lead by Aurora with Radu who refuses to leave her side, can they pull it off?
Man, this book gave me everything. As I said, with the first book heavy on world building, character and relationship development with all the characters, not just Radu and Aurora was strong. This enabled me to fall in immense like with everyone. Learning the truth about the war, the council, etc had me just as bitter and angry as the characters. Epic battle scenes. Heavy delicious spice. Emotional devastation and heartbreak (the canyon IYKYK) I was run through the gambit and I still want more.
The cliffhanger punched me in the face and left me absolutely gutted.
Here’s to praying that I get the opportunity to ARC read the next book! 🤞
Thank you to NerdFam and Denisa Mih for the digital advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
Expected publish date: January 11, 2026.
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
💥 5 stars 💥
I don’t know if any of you read my review of the first book, Blood Sings, but I wrapped up that one stating that “The only reason I gave this four stars instead of five is because I’m not entirely sold on the romance. YET.”
Consider me sold!
Ugh! If I were the type to claim I had a book boyfriend, Radu (Harbinger) would be the man I claimed. I am obsessed with how broody he is. Sarcastic. Snarky. Salty. Yet, protective. Possessive. Territorial. Insatiable. Loyal. I could literally go on for ages. Aurora is the perfect compliment to him. She is quick witted and sarcastic also which creates great banter which is also sometimes hilarious. She holds many of the same character traits as Radu. Although their communication skills have improved (since the first book,) BOTH are STILL frustratingly stubborn and accustomed to handling things solo, which causes unnecessary tension (and admittedly sometimes delicious) because they’d rather stuff their feelings down and hide them rather than just admit them and speak openly.
I digress…
Book two picks up right where book one left us. Aurora left the crew awestruck after deploying her blood manipulation and showing immense control when it left her in a terrifying state of blood lust. Radu and Aurora have let themselves go (mostly,) and acknowledged that they have an overwhelming attraction and need for the other. The fireworks, tension, physicality of their relationship was inevitable. They are undeniably a great duo. I really enjoyed watching them grow and spark positive change in each other. In fact, the entire guild has come together and now operate like a fine oiled machine.
Not only is there a lot of character and relationship development in this book (with ALL the characters,) we also learn more about Radu’s secrets.(Trust me, there is a big one that gets revealed!) We get more history on Dracula. (Oh, did I not mention Aurora is a direct descendant of him?) 😂 He and his brothers are the ultimate original pure bloods with powers that are unmatched.
The battle scenes are epic, spiking my anxiety and keeping me on the edge of my seat. (I LOVED this aspect!)
There is so much information, details and terrifying truths that are revealed in this book and the Black Guild puts a plan of action into place. Lead by Aurora with Radu who refuses to leave her side, can they pull it off?
Man, this book gave me everything. As I said, with the first book heavy on world building, character and relationship development with all the characters, not just Radu and Aurora was strong. This enabled me to fall in immense like with everyone. Learning the truth about the war, the council, etc had me just as bitter and angry as the characters. Epic battle scenes. Heavy delicious spice. Emotional devastation and heartbreak (the canyon IYKYK) I was run through the gambit and I still want more.
The cliffhanger punched me in the face and left me absolutely gutted.
Here’s to praying that I get the opportunity to ARC read the next book! 🤞
Thank you to NerdFam and Denisa Mih for the digital advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
Expected publish date: January 11, 2026.
January 1, 2026
THREE WORDS... So freaking amazing!!
That mouth, full and wicked and designed for sin. Those liquid amber eyes, with their thick fringe of lashes, made the crimson flecks in his irises gleam like scattered rubies.
Pure fantasy made flesh.
Denisa, what did you mix into this book because I could not put it down!! The slow burn between Harbinger and Aurora all of a sudden became California reaper hot 🌶️ When I tell you that you NEED Radu "Harbinger" in your life, you are going to nod along like a good reader and get yourself a copy of this book!
This book picks up right where book 1 left off, and with more of Harbinger's past revealed right away. Harbinger's tightly held secrets are being slowly revealed and he must trust Aurora with them. Aurora is at her weakest, in total blood lust and yet we see her brilliant blood manipulation magic do its most damage in battle. Her raw fury and burn the world down energy is released and the battle is quickly over.
Beautiful, in the way a wildfire consuming a forest was beautiful. Terrifying. Mesmerizing.
And then when Aurora feeds off Harbinger after the battle ends, this has got to be one of the hottest scenes I have ever read in a book! 🫠 I sat and stared at the wall imagining this scene over and over 😏
I really fell more in love with their whole crew this book. The banter within the unit was always hilarious and made me laugh, but in book 2 my heart felt so warm whenever they would joke and tease. Which made losing some of my favourite characters even more heartbreaking 💔
We see so much more of Radu and Aurora in this book and the way that no matter how forbidden their love is, no matter how hard they fight it, their attraction and need for each other not only physically but in an emotional sense in the way they seem to be healing each other's jagged edges.
There are fast paced moments and slower, sweeter moments that allow the reader time to get to know Radu and Aurora on a more intimate level and this makes the spice even more delicious. She may have fallen first but when Radu finally gives himself to her, I was screeching it was so so GOOD!!
He caged me between his body and the rock, getting in my face while he enunciated each word. "Since the moment you became mine to protect." *Swoon*
There's a lot more political intrigue and explanation about Dracula and his brothers and the magics they have and the history of how their world has gotten to such an out of balance state. Which is necessary as this is what is driving Aurora to make her choices.
Ok, so the cliffhanger. Denisa, that wasn't fair 😭 My heart cracked in two and I was very very close to throwing my kindle. I was screaming NO NO NO to Aurora!!
I am low key crazy in love with this book!! This series is so fun and high adrenaline mixed in with laughs and sizzling spice. I cannot wait for book 3.
Thank you to Denisa for the eARC and this is my honest review.
That mouth, full and wicked and designed for sin. Those liquid amber eyes, with their thick fringe of lashes, made the crimson flecks in his irises gleam like scattered rubies.
Pure fantasy made flesh.
Denisa, what did you mix into this book because I could not put it down!! The slow burn between Harbinger and Aurora all of a sudden became California reaper hot 🌶️ When I tell you that you NEED Radu "Harbinger" in your life, you are going to nod along like a good reader and get yourself a copy of this book!
This book picks up right where book 1 left off, and with more of Harbinger's past revealed right away. Harbinger's tightly held secrets are being slowly revealed and he must trust Aurora with them. Aurora is at her weakest, in total blood lust and yet we see her brilliant blood manipulation magic do its most damage in battle. Her raw fury and burn the world down energy is released and the battle is quickly over.
Beautiful, in the way a wildfire consuming a forest was beautiful. Terrifying. Mesmerizing.
And then when Aurora feeds off Harbinger after the battle ends, this has got to be one of the hottest scenes I have ever read in a book! 🫠 I sat and stared at the wall imagining this scene over and over 😏
I really fell more in love with their whole crew this book. The banter within the unit was always hilarious and made me laugh, but in book 2 my heart felt so warm whenever they would joke and tease. Which made losing some of my favourite characters even more heartbreaking 💔
We see so much more of Radu and Aurora in this book and the way that no matter how forbidden their love is, no matter how hard they fight it, their attraction and need for each other not only physically but in an emotional sense in the way they seem to be healing each other's jagged edges.
There are fast paced moments and slower, sweeter moments that allow the reader time to get to know Radu and Aurora on a more intimate level and this makes the spice even more delicious. She may have fallen first but when Radu finally gives himself to her, I was screeching it was so so GOOD!!
He caged me between his body and the rock, getting in my face while he enunciated each word. "Since the moment you became mine to protect." *Swoon*
There's a lot more political intrigue and explanation about Dracula and his brothers and the magics they have and the history of how their world has gotten to such an out of balance state. Which is necessary as this is what is driving Aurora to make her choices.
Ok, so the cliffhanger. Denisa, that wasn't fair 😭 My heart cracked in two and I was very very close to throwing my kindle. I was screaming NO NO NO to Aurora!!
I am low key crazy in love with this book!! This series is so fun and high adrenaline mixed in with laughs and sizzling spice. I cannot wait for book 3.
Thank you to Denisa for the eARC and this is my honest review.
November 19, 2025
I’m genuinely grateful to have had early access to this as part of the ARC team. Blood Binds is the kind of sequel that reminds you why you fell into a story in the first place and why you’re willing to be emotionally wrecked for it a second time.
Where Blood Sings focused heavily on world-building—the politics, the history, the machinery of an empire built on blood, Blood Binds shifts its weight toward character. The world is still rich and cinematic (very Underworld-esque and I love it for that), but here it’s the people at the centre of it who take over the narrative.
Aurora and Radu’s character development is the spine of the book. Their bond sharpens, deepens, and complicates in ways that feel both inevitable and dangerous. There’s a tenderness between them this time, a raw honesty that is set against a backdrop that is anything but gentle. Radu’s inner turmoil and Aurora’s moral clarity strike against each other like flint, and the sparks are everywhere. Watching them change, not just as individuals but in response to one another, is one of the most compelling parts of the story.
Denisa also threads in the emotional weight of loyalty, grief, and power with a confidence that stands out far more in this instalment. The stakes aren’t just WAY higher in this book, they’re more personal. The reveals deepen the story rather than distract from it, and every character choice lands with intent.
The fight scenes deserve a mention on their own: fluid, brutal, and so well-paced they slip straight into the imagination. They carry the same feral energy as the relationship at the book’s heart: sharp, breathless, and meaningful beyond the violence itself - I literally could imagine them like a movie.
And then there’s the ending. No spoilers, but it left me gutted. Denisa I AM DEVASTATED!
Blood Binds is darker, more mature, and more emotionally layered than its predecessor. It takes everything Blood Sings set up and turns it into something richer and far more human. I absolutely cannot wait for Book 3 - I NEED to know what happens next.
Where Blood Sings focused heavily on world-building—the politics, the history, the machinery of an empire built on blood, Blood Binds shifts its weight toward character. The world is still rich and cinematic (very Underworld-esque and I love it for that), but here it’s the people at the centre of it who take over the narrative.
Aurora and Radu’s character development is the spine of the book. Their bond sharpens, deepens, and complicates in ways that feel both inevitable and dangerous. There’s a tenderness between them this time, a raw honesty that is set against a backdrop that is anything but gentle. Radu’s inner turmoil and Aurora’s moral clarity strike against each other like flint, and the sparks are everywhere. Watching them change, not just as individuals but in response to one another, is one of the most compelling parts of the story.
Denisa also threads in the emotional weight of loyalty, grief, and power with a confidence that stands out far more in this instalment. The stakes aren’t just WAY higher in this book, they’re more personal. The reveals deepen the story rather than distract from it, and every character choice lands with intent.
The fight scenes deserve a mention on their own: fluid, brutal, and so well-paced they slip straight into the imagination. They carry the same feral energy as the relationship at the book’s heart: sharp, breathless, and meaningful beyond the violence itself - I literally could imagine them like a movie.
And then there’s the ending. No spoilers, but it left me gutted. Denisa I AM DEVASTATED!
Blood Binds is darker, more mature, and more emotionally layered than its predecessor. It takes everything Blood Sings set up and turns it into something richer and far more human. I absolutely cannot wait for Book 3 - I NEED to know what happens next.
December 24, 2025
I had the privilege of reading this book early and am beyond grateful to have gotten my hands on it. This is the second book in the series and it starts with a bang and ends on a cliffhanger that will have you gasping for more!
Aurora is ready to take on the world, with Harbinger and Selena, and the rest of the team by her side. She has found her fight, and has decided that it is worthy, and she will stand tall during it. There are moments in this book that are absolutely devastating, but the author does not keep us there for long, while allowing us the grace period to process what happens. The story is full of action and so many mixed emotions and then ends on an epic cliffhanger, more intense than the first book.
What I will continue to love about this author is her ability to bring us into the story and keep us there while continuing to elaborate with us their worlds vampiric politics, without making us feel as though it is overwhelming the story. She also has created characters that you will absolutely fall in love with and able to live through their experiences as a reader. This world is chaos, but I am here to stay with Aurora until her story is finished, and if you give this author, a chance, I believe you also will.
Aurora is ready to take on the world, with Harbinger and Selena, and the rest of the team by her side. She has found her fight, and has decided that it is worthy, and she will stand tall during it. There are moments in this book that are absolutely devastating, but the author does not keep us there for long, while allowing us the grace period to process what happens. The story is full of action and so many mixed emotions and then ends on an epic cliffhanger, more intense than the first book.
What I will continue to love about this author is her ability to bring us into the story and keep us there while continuing to elaborate with us their worlds vampiric politics, without making us feel as though it is overwhelming the story. She also has created characters that you will absolutely fall in love with and able to live through their experiences as a reader. This world is chaos, but I am here to stay with Aurora until her story is finished, and if you give this author, a chance, I believe you also will.
December 26, 2025
3.75⭐️
Book 2 came out of the gates SWINGING, and I was surprised by how much I enjoyed that aspect (without spoiling too much, for context I’m normally a reallllllly slow burn type of girl)!
I personally felt like the middle of the book became a little redundant with how some scenes unfolded which is what dropped this just below a 4 star rating and kept it the same as book 1 for me.
HOWEVER, the battle scenes are still my favorite part and how they ramped up in intensity was WILD (and sad 😭). The ending left on a cliff hanger that made me audibly say “UGH. This can’t be how it ends!”. Looking forward to seeing where the story goes in book 3, and hoping for a little more happiness 😅
Thank you to The NerdFam for sending me an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review 💕
Book 2 came out of the gates SWINGING, and I was surprised by how much I enjoyed that aspect (without spoiling too much, for context I’m normally a reallllllly slow burn type of girl)!
I personally felt like the middle of the book became a little redundant with how some scenes unfolded which is what dropped this just below a 4 star rating and kept it the same as book 1 for me.
HOWEVER, the battle scenes are still my favorite part and how they ramped up in intensity was WILD (and sad 😭). The ending left on a cliff hanger that made me audibly say “UGH. This can’t be how it ends!”. Looking forward to seeing where the story goes in book 3, and hoping for a little more happiness 😅
Thank you to The NerdFam for sending me an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review 💕
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2026
3.75⭐️, 2.5🌶️
I enjoyed this one more than the first!
The political intrigue, the romance, and the pacing all improved in this book compared to book 1 in my opinion. This is defintely a character driven story, but I do think it was important for the bigger picture and the future things that may happen.
I think the both of our main characters and even some side characters had growth in this book. We didn’t have a lot of action and huge gains in the larger plot, but we didn’t learn a lot of new info that it’s important for the plot and for the way the series is going to go. I think she did a good job of giving us new info as needed as the character themselves learn of it too.
The romance and spice level was definitely upped in this book as well. I think the spice scenes were done well and this was a big book for our characters’ relationship. It developed well throughout this book and started to feel more like an epic love compared to the first book.
As for the ending I am nervous for the characters and will most likely continue this series!
I enjoyed this one more than the first!
The political intrigue, the romance, and the pacing all improved in this book compared to book 1 in my opinion. This is defintely a character driven story, but I do think it was important for the bigger picture and the future things that may happen.
I think the both of our main characters and even some side characters had growth in this book. We didn’t have a lot of action and huge gains in the larger plot, but we didn’t learn a lot of new info that it’s important for the plot and for the way the series is going to go. I think she did a good job of giving us new info as needed as the character themselves learn of it too.
The romance and spice level was definitely upped in this book as well. I think the spice scenes were done well and this was a big book for our characters’ relationship. It developed well throughout this book and started to feel more like an epic love compared to the first book.
As for the ending I am nervous for the characters and will most likely continue this series!
December 7, 2025
*Arc review*
Oooooo I'm mad maf about that ending lol
The utter audacity to have 2 cliff hangers like this, how very dare you lol
Wow is all i can say. Wow, wow, wow. I have no words.
The character growth for everyone was so good, the pay off after theslowburn of book 1 left me blushing.
And now i have to wait 30 thousand yrs for book 3 lol honestly i absolutely loved this book so much so i read it in a day.
Thank you TheNerdFam and denise for the opportunity to read this arc in exchange for my honest review
Oooooo I'm mad maf about that ending lol
The utter audacity to have 2 cliff hangers like this, how very dare you lol
Wow is all i can say. Wow, wow, wow. I have no words.
The character growth for everyone was so good, the pay off after theslowburn of book 1 left me blushing.
And now i have to wait 30 thousand yrs for book 3 lol honestly i absolutely loved this book so much so i read it in a day.
Thank you TheNerdFam and denise for the opportunity to read this arc in exchange for my honest review
November 12, 2025
You ever read a book that was so good, but you can barely remember it after you finish it because all you can think about is THAT ENDING?! My mind is completely blown. This was such a roller coaster ride! 🎢
My God, if I thought Blood Sings was a slow burn, Blood Binds is an instant inferno. Spicy friends, this one is definitely for you! 🔥
I loved these characters so much. Their banter, their bond, the way they love each other like family, it all creates warm fuzzies in my chest. The chemistry between Harbinger (aka Radu) and Aurora is off the charts. No more pushing and pulling like the ocean in this book. In Blood Binds, they can't stay away from each other, and I am here for it! 👏🏻
I never know what to expect from Denisa Mih, and I find that SO refreshing. Absolutely zero predictability here. I've never read another book like hers.
That ending though 😭 It hurt. And I'm not just talking about the cliffhanger. I'm anxious for Book 3 to be released already.
Release date: January 11, 2026. Go ahead and preorder it now.
My God, if I thought Blood Sings was a slow burn, Blood Binds is an instant inferno. Spicy friends, this one is definitely for you! 🔥
I loved these characters so much. Their banter, their bond, the way they love each other like family, it all creates warm fuzzies in my chest. The chemistry between Harbinger (aka Radu) and Aurora is off the charts. No more pushing and pulling like the ocean in this book. In Blood Binds, they can't stay away from each other, and I am here for it! 👏🏻
I never know what to expect from Denisa Mih, and I find that SO refreshing. Absolutely zero predictability here. I've never read another book like hers.
That ending though 😭 It hurt. And I'm not just talking about the cliffhanger. I'm anxious for Book 3 to be released already.
Release date: January 11, 2026. Go ahead and preorder it now.
January 11, 2026
3.75 🌟
I enjoyed book one but book two was on a different level. The character building, the romance, and the story development in this book were really well done and helped me feel a lot more connected to the characters and story.
The character development was really next level in this book. To really get an understanding of Harbringer, his backstory, and understand why he is the way he is really made me like his character so much more. And Aurora really grew into her own as well. She’s such a strong and fierce FMC who would do anything to protect the ones she loves and do what’s right.
The romance between Aurora and Radu was so beautiful. It is the definition of forbidden love defying the odds. The way Harbringer is soft for only her, is so protective, and would burn the world down for her, it’s hard to not fall for him.
This apocalyptic & dystopian world really developed in this book. From the threatening monsters & shepherd to the corrupt government politics, the main characters have their back against the wall and are still standing up to fight against their odds.
The pacing felt a little off at times, and some parts felt like they dragged a bit and were a little too drawn out, but I still had a great time reading it
This book is beautiful, heartbreaking, spicy, funny, and inspiring all wrapped in one. The ending was absolutely devastating and had me screaming at my kindle. I cannot wait to see what happens in the final book because there’s still so much to unpack.
I enjoyed book one but book two was on a different level. The character building, the romance, and the story development in this book were really well done and helped me feel a lot more connected to the characters and story.
The character development was really next level in this book. To really get an understanding of Harbringer, his backstory, and understand why he is the way he is really made me like his character so much more. And Aurora really grew into her own as well. She’s such a strong and fierce FMC who would do anything to protect the ones she loves and do what’s right.
The romance between Aurora and Radu was so beautiful. It is the definition of forbidden love defying the odds. The way Harbringer is soft for only her, is so protective, and would burn the world down for her, it’s hard to not fall for him.
This apocalyptic & dystopian world really developed in this book. From the threatening monsters & shepherd to the corrupt government politics, the main characters have their back against the wall and are still standing up to fight against their odds.
The pacing felt a little off at times, and some parts felt like they dragged a bit and were a little too drawn out, but I still had a great time reading it
This book is beautiful, heartbreaking, spicy, funny, and inspiring all wrapped in one. The ending was absolutely devastating and had me screaming at my kindle. I cannot wait to see what happens in the final book because there’s still so much to unpack.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the absolute privilege of reading this book early and I am ever so thankful to the author for giving me this opportunity because this second installment hits hard from the very first page and never lets up, launching with explosive momentum and crashing into an ending so brutal and breathtaking it will leave you gasping for more. Aurora has found her fight, and with Harbinger, Selena, and the rest of her found family at her side, she stands tall and unyielding, ready to face a world that is as vicious as it is chaotic. There are moments that are utterly devastating, the kind that knock the air from your lungs, yet the author masterfully allows just enough space to process the pain before dragging you headfirst back into the fire. The action is relentless, the emotions are raw and tangled, and the cliffhanger somehow even more intense than the first book feels downright cruel in the best possible way. What continues to set this author apart is her ability to fully immerse you in the story while seamlessly expanding the intricate vampiric politics and world-building without ever overwhelming the narrative, all while crafting characters you don’t just read about you live through. This world is absolute chaos, and I am locked in, heart and soul, staying with Aurora until the very last page of her story… and if you give this author a chance, I have no doubt you’ll be right here with me.
January 5, 2026
I swear these cliffhangers get worse and worse as if you didn’t already spear me through the chest with parts of this book you had to go and do that, have her say those things that was rude, on so many levels. She didn’t have to do that. Ugh. I am not okay with that and what she did. I’m so upset, my heart is hurting. Other than that the book was phenomenal finished it in one day basically one sitting, I was quite bummed waited the entire book to basically meet Dracula but glad we finally glimpsed that and saw that entire exchange go down. I’m ready to see some feminine rage go down in book three and better see her do some apologies as well in book three after that ending because that’s rude. Honestly the way I’d say leave the republic to fend for themselves after all the lies they have spat is an understatement but I guess I should say the way I wouldn’t that for the people in charge I.e. lev, her mother, her brother, the council, members, guards all of the above and the innocents can be left alone the rest they could be left to their fate. I want them to all suffer. Give me book 3 soon because I need more asap and see justice be served because the rage and hurt I have is an understatement .
January 13, 2026
Thank you so much @NerdFam for this incredible opportunity to read Blood Sings and Blood Binds with gifted eARCs!
Trust is basically a myth at this point....
This book is a heart attack in paper form. The action is relentless... We’re talking fight scenes that hit at a rapid-fire pace, leaving you with that constant sense of, "we’re all going to die." The confrontations are physical, raw, and honestly? Ruthless. Denisa doesn't give you "calm before the storm" moments. She gives you a three second breather before throwing you back into the grinder. It’s intense, it’s sweaty, and it’s gritty as hell.
The sense of community from the first book is put through the wringer. Every fight scene isn't just a physical battle; it’s a test of whether this group can actually stay together when the world is quite literally falling apart.
Blood Binds is an explosive, high-octane sequel that proves found families are forged in fire and usually covered in blood. If you like your fantasy fast-paced, your combat intense, and your cliffhangers agonizing, this is your next obsession.
Trust is basically a myth at this point....
This book is a heart attack in paper form. The action is relentless... We’re talking fight scenes that hit at a rapid-fire pace, leaving you with that constant sense of, "we’re all going to die." The confrontations are physical, raw, and honestly? Ruthless. Denisa doesn't give you "calm before the storm" moments. She gives you a three second breather before throwing you back into the grinder. It’s intense, it’s sweaty, and it’s gritty as hell.
The sense of community from the first book is put through the wringer. Every fight scene isn't just a physical battle; it’s a test of whether this group can actually stay together when the world is quite literally falling apart.
Blood Binds is an explosive, high-octane sequel that proves found families are forged in fire and usually covered in blood. If you like your fantasy fast-paced, your combat intense, and your cliffhangers agonizing, this is your next obsession.
December 10, 2025
Thank you to the Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC!
This book picks up right where Blood Sings left off.
Aurora has been fighting with the black guild and trying to come to terms with just corrupt the Republic has become. She is uncovering secrets and trying to fight her feelings for Harbinger💞
She learns what enemy they truly are facing and the fact that everyone in the Republic is facing death if they aren’t able to end the stalkers for good.
I thought this book was a lot more fast paced than the first, I finished it in two sittings!!
I loved seeing the evolution of Aurora and how she handles learning that most what she has been told her whole life was a lie. Seeing her form relationships with not only Harbinger, but the rest of the black guild, was just 🥹
I was absolutely NOT expecting that ending!! 😭 I will be impatiently waiting for the next book
This book picks up right where Blood Sings left off.
Aurora has been fighting with the black guild and trying to come to terms with just corrupt the Republic has become. She is uncovering secrets and trying to fight her feelings for Harbinger💞
She learns what enemy they truly are facing and the fact that everyone in the Republic is facing death if they aren’t able to end the stalkers for good.
I thought this book was a lot more fast paced than the first, I finished it in two sittings!!
I loved seeing the evolution of Aurora and how she handles learning that most what she has been told her whole life was a lie. Seeing her form relationships with not only Harbinger, but the rest of the black guild, was just 🥹
I was absolutely NOT expecting that ending!! 😭 I will be impatiently waiting for the next book
Review of advance copy received from Author
What an ending!!!!
I devoured this book!! I could not get enough of it fast enough.
It leaves off right where Blood Sings (book one) ends. If you've read Blood Sings, you know what a cliff hanger that was! I was so excited to finally find out what happens, and I was not disappointed! Don't worry, you will find no spoilers here. Other then Harbinger is my new book boyfriend!! 🤤😍
So much happens in this book, and Aurora finally finds out the truth about the enemy. Of course, after finding out this information, Aurora needs to be the hero.. or so she thinks. I love her character for that, though.
This book brings the story in a completely different direction then I thought it would go. But, it was even better then I could have hoped for. The ending of this one is another huge Cliffhanger that I still think about.
The next book is going to be another banger, I just know it!!
Thank you so much Denisa Mih for sharing your brilliant imagination with us readers!! I can't wait to find out what happens next!
I devoured this book!! I could not get enough of it fast enough.
It leaves off right where Blood Sings (book one) ends. If you've read Blood Sings, you know what a cliff hanger that was! I was so excited to finally find out what happens, and I was not disappointed! Don't worry, you will find no spoilers here. Other then Harbinger is my new book boyfriend!! 🤤😍
So much happens in this book, and Aurora finally finds out the truth about the enemy. Of course, after finding out this information, Aurora needs to be the hero.. or so she thinks. I love her character for that, though.
This book brings the story in a completely different direction then I thought it would go. But, it was even better then I could have hoped for. The ending of this one is another huge Cliffhanger that I still think about.
The next book is going to be another banger, I just know it!!
Thank you so much Denisa Mih for sharing your brilliant imagination with us readers!! I can't wait to find out what happens next!
February 19, 2026
I think I liked the first book a bit more, but I did enjoy this one as well and am excited for the next. We get so much deeper into the plot and more details about the antagonists, which I loved. Aurora and Harbinger's relationship develops as well and was really fun to read. I guess this is the year of silver haired men!! I think I have to go from 4 to 3 stars because I did not like the ending at all. I get the point of it, but I just hate the whole storyline of telling someone everything was a lie for the own good to make them hate you and leave. I feel like that is semi-lazy writing, because after everything Harbinger and Aurora have been through, you would assume he could see right through that. That is my biggest qualm and why I cannot give it a higher rating.
November 23, 2025
I was left completely immersed from start to finish. The story had me on the edge of my seat with intense battles and moments that genuinely made me tear up. Aurora was such a strong, determined, and relatable heroine, while Radu is broody, protective, and morally complex, the kind of MMC who makes every interaction feel charged. Their dynamic is full of tension, slow burn romance, and genuinely satisfying moments of connection. The story balances action, romance, and emotional stakes perfectly. The ending left me impatient for the next installment, and I can’t wait to see what happens next. Thank you so much to the author and The Nerd Fam for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a whirlwind 😭
That ending killed me 🫠🫠 Why did it have to end like that 😭
Gah, I really hope a certain someone is gonna get what he deserves soon. 😡
The book is so goooodd, I loved the chemistry between Aurora and Radu 😍 Their time together is pure chaotic and I wouldn't have it any other way.
I love the found family Aurora has now 🥹 She's always had Sel, but now having the others is so good on her. How she wants to fight to protect them. 🥹
Aaaannd finally, we have a princess that finally realized what's happening in her kingdom and is stepping up to help. 😭
I really cannot wait for the next book to see where everything leads and how this ends. 😭
That ending killed me 🫠🫠 Why did it have to end like that 😭
Gah, I really hope a certain someone is gonna get what he deserves soon. 😡
The book is so goooodd, I loved the chemistry between Aurora and Radu 😍 Their time together is pure chaotic and I wouldn't have it any other way.
I love the found family Aurora has now 🥹 She's always had Sel, but now having the others is so good on her. How she wants to fight to protect them. 🥹
Aaaannd finally, we have a princess that finally realized what's happening in her kingdom and is stepping up to help. 😭
I really cannot wait for the next book to see where everything leads and how this ends. 😭
January 17, 2026
Blood Binds, book two in the Beyond the Gloom series, definitely holds up next to book one. This book will take you a ride as you dive deeper into the war that the Black Guild is fighting and the inevitable fate of the Republic. The question is will Aurora’s plan to save the Republic and her people work? Will Aurora and Harbinger make it out of all of this together?
Can’t wait until book three to find out what happens.
Thank you Denisa Mih for letting me be apart of your advanced reader team.
Can’t wait until book three to find out what happens.
Thank you Denisa Mih for letting me be apart of your advanced reader team.
December 28, 2025
I really enjoyed this story and can’t wait to find out what happens next. I’m loving the character development throughout this series so far.
January 31, 2026
4.5 STARS!!
This sequel absolutely understood the assignment and then made it feral.
Everything is darker and heavier here. The stakes are higher, the losses hurt more, and Aurora is fully stepping into her power even when it scares her. Nothing about leadership is easy in this book and I loved that the story lets it be ugly and costly.
And Radu… yeah. That’s it. That’s the review.
He’s controlled, lethal, and constantly holding himself back in a way that makes every scene he’s in feel loaded. The tension between him and Aurora is delicious. Slow burn, trust issues, power imbalance, and that constant feeling that if they cross the line they are screwed. He’s not softened or made safe for romance and that somehow makes him even better.
The world keeps expanding without dragging, the politics are messier, and the action feels chaotic instead of flashy. No plot armor, no easy wins.
Book one pulled me in, then Blood Binds locked me in. Dark, intense, emotionally messy, and yes I am extremely invested in this series now.
Huge thanks to The Nerd Fam and Denisa Mih for the eARC copy to provide my honest review (and honestly to dive into this world).
This sequel absolutely understood the assignment and then made it feral.
Everything is darker and heavier here. The stakes are higher, the losses hurt more, and Aurora is fully stepping into her power even when it scares her. Nothing about leadership is easy in this book and I loved that the story lets it be ugly and costly.
And Radu… yeah. That’s it. That’s the review.
He’s controlled, lethal, and constantly holding himself back in a way that makes every scene he’s in feel loaded. The tension between him and Aurora is delicious. Slow burn, trust issues, power imbalance, and that constant feeling that if they cross the line they are screwed. He’s not softened or made safe for romance and that somehow makes him even better.
The world keeps expanding without dragging, the politics are messier, and the action feels chaotic instead of flashy. No plot armor, no easy wins.
Book one pulled me in, then Blood Binds locked me in. Dark, intense, emotionally messy, and yes I am extremely invested in this series now.
Huge thanks to The Nerd Fam and Denisa Mih for the eARC copy to provide my honest review (and honestly to dive into this world).
December 1, 2025
Oooo baby. If you liked the first book, you’ll undeniably love the second book. It takes everything that is incredible from book one and transforms it into this epic, intense, emotional ride that is unputdownable. You’ll tear up, you’ll laugh, you’ll smile, and the whole time, you’ll forget that you’re reading.
While book one had a lot of world building to go along with the character focus, book two is absolutely character driven. We still have world building, but rather than being more world heavy, book two is very much about the characters. I loved diving into the characters and learning more about them while new dynamics are established, bonds are deepened, and love really takes root.
After that ending, I’m very much looking forward to book two. Denisa sure knows how to write an addicting ending to her stories.
Thank you so much to Denisa Mih for an arc of this book!
While book one had a lot of world building to go along with the character focus, book two is absolutely character driven. We still have world building, but rather than being more world heavy, book two is very much about the characters. I loved diving into the characters and learning more about them while new dynamics are established, bonds are deepened, and love really takes root.
After that ending, I’m very much looking forward to book two. Denisa sure knows how to write an addicting ending to her stories.
Thank you so much to Denisa Mih for an arc of this book!
January 11, 2026
Arc review
Thank you, Denisa Mih for accepting me in your ARCteam and for giving me the chance to read Blood Binds ahead of release day!
After reading Blood Sings, I was left with many questions unanswered and a need to follow ahead Aurora Tepes' story. And Blood Binds is not only doing that, but also plunged my brain into chaos and impatience to read the next book!
The story is intense, the battles the Tenth squad are caught into are brutal yet the love between Aurora and Radu seems to catch the stage. There are moments when the reader is left in tears... I had to stop reading twice, the story just blew my mind! I do not intend to go into details, I would hate to spoil the book for others.
The torment through which Radu goes through, hearing all the voices of the Stalkers in his head, culminating with the Shepherd 's voice is one of Aurora 's incentive for trying to get Dracula's blessing and Blood Aura.
The whole book is about love and what that makes us do, about what we are capable of and what lenght we are willing to go to and what boundaries to cross.
Blood Binds is a beautiful and heartbreaking story and I can honestly say that I can't wait for the next book in the series! 🖤
Thank you, Denisa Mih for accepting me in your ARCteam and for giving me the chance to read Blood Binds ahead of release day!
After reading Blood Sings, I was left with many questions unanswered and a need to follow ahead Aurora Tepes' story. And Blood Binds is not only doing that, but also plunged my brain into chaos and impatience to read the next book!
The story is intense, the battles the Tenth squad are caught into are brutal yet the love between Aurora and Radu seems to catch the stage. There are moments when the reader is left in tears... I had to stop reading twice, the story just blew my mind! I do not intend to go into details, I would hate to spoil the book for others.
The torment through which Radu goes through, hearing all the voices of the Stalkers in his head, culminating with the Shepherd 's voice is one of Aurora 's incentive for trying to get Dracula's blessing and Blood Aura.
The whole book is about love and what that makes us do, about what we are capable of and what lenght we are willing to go to and what boundaries to cross.
Blood Binds is a beautiful and heartbreaking story and I can honestly say that I can't wait for the next book in the series! 🖤
August 26, 2025
I loved book one in this series, but book 2 just blew that one out of the park.
I absolutely adored how the story progressed!
I read this whole book with my heart in my throat. Everything was so intense, I ran the gamut of feels: I laughed, I cried – boy how I cried , I blushed, I swooned!
The battle scenes had me biting my nails, and sobbing. The spice had me blushing. And the beautiful way Radu and Aurora’s story progress had me swooning over and over again.
I love that we get Radu‘s POV more and we learn more about him, although secrets still abound. And did I mention my husband’s name is Radu? How can I not love him?
Aurora keeps on fighting for everyone even if it means endangering herself. I love her spirit, bravery and determination to do everything she can to save everyone around her.
I also got so attached to the whole cast of lovable side characters, to the point that they feel like my family.
And that ending!! I need book 3 now!
I have received a free copy of this book for beta reading and this is my voluntary and honest review.
I absolutely adored how the story progressed!
I read this whole book with my heart in my throat. Everything was so intense, I ran the gamut of feels: I laughed, I cried – boy how I cried , I blushed, I swooned!
The battle scenes had me biting my nails, and sobbing. The spice had me blushing. And the beautiful way Radu and Aurora’s story progress had me swooning over and over again.
I love that we get Radu‘s POV more and we learn more about him, although secrets still abound. And did I mention my husband’s name is Radu? How can I not love him?
Aurora keeps on fighting for everyone even if it means endangering herself. I love her spirit, bravery and determination to do everything she can to save everyone around her.
I also got so attached to the whole cast of lovable side characters, to the point that they feel like my family.
And that ending!! I need book 3 now!
I have received a free copy of this book for beta reading and this is my voluntary and honest review.
December 10, 2025
Blood Sings built the bones of this world, the politics, the history, the blood-soaked architecture of an empire, but Blood Binds? This one went straight for the heart. The world is still dark, vivid, and cinematic (I swear, the Underworld vibes are practically dripping off the page), but this time it’s the characters who swallow the spotlight and refuse to let go.
Aurora and Radu absolutely wrecked me in this book. Their evolution isn’t just development, it’s an emotional unraveling. Their connection sharpens and deepens in ways that feel dangerous, tender, and painfully inevitable. There’s a raw honesty between them now, the kind that hits like a punch because it’s happening in a world that has no room for softness. Radu’s inner chaos and Aurora’s fierce moral compass collide beautifully, violently, and constantly, and I felt every spark like it was aimed straight at me. Watching them change, because of each other, despite each other, is honestly one of the best parts of the entire series.
Denisa Mih leans so confidently into the themes of loyalty, grief, love, and power in this instalment, and the emotional stakes are miles higher than before. Everything feels more personal, like every choice, every reveal, every confrontation is a tightening hand around your heart. Nothing feels wasted. Nothing feels accidental. Every moment lands with weight.
And the fight scenes? They are alive. Fluid, brutal, and cinematic in a way that made my pulse pick up. They feel like choreography made of adrenaline and emotion, not just violence, and I could see every single moment play out like a movie in my mind.
But the ending. Oh my god. The ending. I closed the book and just sat there in absolute shock. Devastated isn’t even the right word, Denisa destroyed me. Completely. I can’t remember half the small details because THAT ENDING is all my brain will allow me to think about. My soul left my body. I’m still floating somewhere above my couch.
And on top of all that emotional carnage? This book is HOT. If Blood Sings was a slow burn, Blood Binds is a straight-up inferno. The tension between Aurora and Radu is scorching, they don’t dance around each other anymore, they gravity toward each other, and I loved every second of it.
I’m obsessed with these characters, their banter, their loyalty, the found-family warmth that sneaks up on you and squeezes your chest. There is truly no predicting where Denisa is going with this series, and honestly? That thrill of never knowing what’s coming next is one of my favorite parts.
But that cliffhanger… that pain… I’m not okay. I need Book 3 like air.
January 11, 2026 cannot come fast enough. Preorder it now and prepare your heart.
Aurora and Radu absolutely wrecked me in this book. Their evolution isn’t just development, it’s an emotional unraveling. Their connection sharpens and deepens in ways that feel dangerous, tender, and painfully inevitable. There’s a raw honesty between them now, the kind that hits like a punch because it’s happening in a world that has no room for softness. Radu’s inner chaos and Aurora’s fierce moral compass collide beautifully, violently, and constantly, and I felt every spark like it was aimed straight at me. Watching them change, because of each other, despite each other, is honestly one of the best parts of the entire series.
Denisa Mih leans so confidently into the themes of loyalty, grief, love, and power in this instalment, and the emotional stakes are miles higher than before. Everything feels more personal, like every choice, every reveal, every confrontation is a tightening hand around your heart. Nothing feels wasted. Nothing feels accidental. Every moment lands with weight.
And the fight scenes? They are alive. Fluid, brutal, and cinematic in a way that made my pulse pick up. They feel like choreography made of adrenaline and emotion, not just violence, and I could see every single moment play out like a movie in my mind.
But the ending. Oh my god. The ending. I closed the book and just sat there in absolute shock. Devastated isn’t even the right word, Denisa destroyed me. Completely. I can’t remember half the small details because THAT ENDING is all my brain will allow me to think about. My soul left my body. I’m still floating somewhere above my couch.
And on top of all that emotional carnage? This book is HOT. If Blood Sings was a slow burn, Blood Binds is a straight-up inferno. The tension between Aurora and Radu is scorching, they don’t dance around each other anymore, they gravity toward each other, and I loved every second of it.
I’m obsessed with these characters, their banter, their loyalty, the found-family warmth that sneaks up on you and squeezes your chest. There is truly no predicting where Denisa is going with this series, and honestly? That thrill of never knowing what’s coming next is one of my favorite parts.
But that cliffhanger… that pain… I’m not okay. I need Book 3 like air.
January 11, 2026 cannot come fast enough. Preorder it now and prepare your heart.
January 12, 2026
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted e-arc.
Book two in the Beyond the Gloom series begins where we were left in Blood Sings. Returning to this intriguing world, we dive deeper into the political dynamics, blood magic, relationships, and insight into the antagonistic forces at work. The tension is higher as the stakes become clearer.
Building on what was introduced in the first novel, Blood Binds really ramps up the pace and the action as there is a lot more reaction to revelations.
I am so fascinated by this world and the characters with many of the side characters stealing the show for me. But I felt so removed from the novel as despite there being a glossary and pronunciation guide, I didn't feel trusted by the author to remember the information provided in the first novel. So much was repeated, and although I don't mind referrals back to important details; I find it hard to stay invested in the story when all the small details previously mentioned are included in these reminders.
The novel continues with the dual narrative of and there is definitely more balance between the amount of time spent between Aurora and Harbinger. It was enjoyable seeing Aurora and Selena be integrated into the group and have a place among the Outliers. I always love reading a strong found family storyline.
It was all going so well until more drastic and tragic consequences of the circumstances came to the fore. Then Aurora just seemed to go rogue. She just became too wrapped up in herself that I just could not agree with her reasoning and actions. Especially amongst a group of people who have to rely on each other to survive. She just seemed to betray their values and love for each other. There was a really poignant moment where I just wanted to reach into the book and shake her to tell her, "Get a grip."
I'm now staying for the side characters as I really want to know what happens to the group of Outliers, and Selena is still my favourite tell it as it is supporting character who has just stolen the show for me.
Things are definitely more dramatic and fast-paced. The stakes are so much higher as much more is entwined in the conflict than what was originally thought, and I'm curious how it will all pan out.
____________________
Favourite Quotes:
Sentenced to die. That’s all they’d ever been.
She wasn’t some damsel in distress. She was a goddamn Tepes; the most dangerous bloodline in the Republic. She’d just annihilated Stalkers with nothing but her mind. And yet here I was, wanting to protect her when she was knee- deep in their remains.
Some battles couldn’t be won, some friends couldn’t be saved, and some losses would hollow you from the inside. We were running out of time to save the ones still breathing.
____________________
🌶🌶🌶/5
Book two in the Beyond the Gloom series begins where we were left in Blood Sings. Returning to this intriguing world, we dive deeper into the political dynamics, blood magic, relationships, and insight into the antagonistic forces at work. The tension is higher as the stakes become clearer.
Building on what was introduced in the first novel, Blood Binds really ramps up the pace and the action as there is a lot more reaction to revelations.
I am so fascinated by this world and the characters with many of the side characters stealing the show for me. But I felt so removed from the novel as despite there being a glossary and pronunciation guide, I didn't feel trusted by the author to remember the information provided in the first novel. So much was repeated, and although I don't mind referrals back to important details; I find it hard to stay invested in the story when all the small details previously mentioned are included in these reminders.
The novel continues with the dual narrative of and there is definitely more balance between the amount of time spent between Aurora and Harbinger. It was enjoyable seeing Aurora and Selena be integrated into the group and have a place among the Outliers. I always love reading a strong found family storyline.
It was all going so well until more drastic and tragic consequences of the circumstances came to the fore. Then Aurora just seemed to go rogue. She just became too wrapped up in herself that I just could not agree with her reasoning and actions. Especially amongst a group of people who have to rely on each other to survive. She just seemed to betray their values and love for each other. There was a really poignant moment where I just wanted to reach into the book and shake her to tell her, "Get a grip."
I'm now staying for the side characters as I really want to know what happens to the group of Outliers, and Selena is still my favourite tell it as it is supporting character who has just stolen the show for me.
Things are definitely more dramatic and fast-paced. The stakes are so much higher as much more is entwined in the conflict than what was originally thought, and I'm curious how it will all pan out.
____________________
Favourite Quotes:
Sentenced to die. That’s all they’d ever been.
She wasn’t some damsel in distress. She was a goddamn Tepes; the most dangerous bloodline in the Republic. She’d just annihilated Stalkers with nothing but her mind. And yet here I was, wanting to protect her when she was knee- deep in their remains.
Some battles couldn’t be won, some friends couldn’t be saved, and some losses would hollow you from the inside. We were running out of time to save the ones still breathing.
____________________
🌶🌶🌶/5
January 3, 2026
I received this book as an ARC.
Blood Binds picks up where Blood Sings left off. There is a wonderful summary at the beginning of the book that captures all of the main points of book one.
While I felt that this book was a little better in story progression and general intrigue, I felt that it still lacked in character growth, and general world/background development. The characters still have rapid emotional changes and volatile responses (e.g. everyone's eating dinner having relaxed discussions and then Selena erupts, slamming her fist, splintering wood...). Selena also still exhibits these inconsistent character traits of supposedly strong, enemy-eliminating beast, then needing to fight off crying and displaying unreasonable naivety with misunderstanding her and Radu's relationship and his intentions. Furthermore, Selena is overly antagonistic with Radu in a way that doesn't contribute to the story or relationship: always taking the opposing view, always being difficult or making a petulant comment or thought back. Radu's and Selana's relationship still feels too insta-love. There is just not enough growth of the relationship between the two books at 23% in the second book where Selena is describing how Radu makes her feel complete, and Radu mentally expresses his desperate need to protect her.
I also feel like there are descriptive gaps: smaller details that would enhance the moment are left out. I can never tell if the ongoing events are during the day or night. When did she wrap a throw around herself when they made it back to his bedroom? Did she just get there naked (where did her clothes go)?
Questions and details I want to know more about: Can we know more about Radu being her blood source? Why isn't she considered his blood source (or is she)? What are the stipulations of being a blood source? What is Radu's wolf's role in everything? How does the wolf make a difference in his behavior?
I feel like there is a large plot-hole in the logic for Aurora to go back as a means to further their plans. As a reader, we were informed that the plan was to announce she was dead. How did the masses, her mother, and Prince Lev take this news. Since the story progressed as it did, did certain people get in trouble for false statements? Again, a lot of missing pieces that we need answered and fleshed out.
The other thing that kept sticking out to me was how much this reminded me of the Underworld movie. Without spoiling anything, the whole plan of going back to the palace or Chamber, intent, and concerns expressed reflect very similarly to the movie.
Ultimately, this book left me wanting too much, but I did find the concept behind the Stalkers interesting.
Blood Binds picks up where Blood Sings left off. There is a wonderful summary at the beginning of the book that captures all of the main points of book one.
While I felt that this book was a little better in story progression and general intrigue, I felt that it still lacked in character growth, and general world/background development. The characters still have rapid emotional changes and volatile responses (e.g. everyone's eating dinner having relaxed discussions and then Selena erupts, slamming her fist, splintering wood...). Selena also still exhibits these inconsistent character traits of supposedly strong, enemy-eliminating beast, then needing to fight off crying and displaying unreasonable naivety with misunderstanding her and Radu's relationship and his intentions. Furthermore, Selena is overly antagonistic with Radu in a way that doesn't contribute to the story or relationship: always taking the opposing view, always being difficult or making a petulant comment or thought back. Radu's and Selana's relationship still feels too insta-love. There is just not enough growth of the relationship between the two books at 23% in the second book where Selena is describing how Radu makes her feel complete, and Radu mentally expresses his desperate need to protect her.
I also feel like there are descriptive gaps: smaller details that would enhance the moment are left out. I can never tell if the ongoing events are during the day or night. When did she wrap a throw around herself when they made it back to his bedroom? Did she just get there naked (where did her clothes go)?
Questions and details I want to know more about: Can we know more about Radu being her blood source? Why isn't she considered his blood source (or is she)? What are the stipulations of being a blood source? What is Radu's wolf's role in everything? How does the wolf make a difference in his behavior?
I feel like there is a large plot-hole in the logic for Aurora to go back as a means to further their plans. As a reader, we were informed that the plan was to announce she was dead. How did the masses, her mother, and Prince Lev take this news. Since the story progressed as it did, did certain people get in trouble for false statements? Again, a lot of missing pieces that we need answered and fleshed out.
The other thing that kept sticking out to me was how much this reminded me of the Underworld movie. Without spoiling anything, the whole plan of going back to the palace or Chamber, intent, and concerns expressed reflect very similarly to the movie.
Ultimately, this book left me wanting too much, but I did find the concept behind the Stalkers interesting.
January 12, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.25 stars
Blood Binds picks up immediately where the brutal cliffhanger of book one left us—and I mean immediately. Aurora is literally on the brink of death, her mind burning out 😬, when Harbringer makes a desperate choice and breaks the Nexus connection (still not entirely sure what that is, to be honest… I struggle to visualize it 😅) to save her life.
Aurora, understandably furious, becomes convinced that Harbringer betrayed her (girl… you’re only questioning this now?! 🤣) What follows is an intense and violent confrontation between the two… quickly followed by succession of very, very, VERY hot chapters 🥵🔥 Where book one made us wait almost until the end for a single kiss, book two wastes absolutely no time. The tension explodes. Aurora and Radu (his real name) give in to a raw, consuming passion that feels impossible to resist.
And then (no pause, no breathing room) the author throws us straight into the heart of the story: war and secrets. Radu and his group know far more about this conflict than Aurora ever imagined, and when the truth finally comes out, the pressure is intense. Aurora realizes this war has far darker, more horrifying goals than she believed. Determined to end it at all costs, she makes an unthinkable decision: to awaken Dracula himself.
I truly loved this book. Radu is such a deeply tormented character, shaped by decades of grief, sacrifice, and loss. His entire group has endured unimaginable suffering, and it shows. Aurora also evolves a lot in this installment : she becomes more assertive, more aware, and her relationship with Radu profoundly changes her.
The romance is forbidden, intense, and heartbreaking: an original vampire heir falling for a half-breed (vampire/werewolf). Aurora is torn between her duty to the crown and her growing love for Radu, while Radu himself is conflicted with life altogether. His goal was never to live( only to die fighting) yet he finds himself bound to a future queen who completely unravels him.
The ending of this book is devastating. Between battles, losses, impossible choices, and emotional damage, it left me hollow and desperate for the next installment.
Blood Binds is darker, bolder, more emotional, and far more intense than book one—and I’m fully invested in where this series is going next. And again that cliffhanger ?!! Aurora made a bold choice to save lives and let me tell you, book 3 is going to be rough😭😭😭
Thank you TheNerdFam and the author for the gifted eARC🖤
Blood Binds picks up immediately where the brutal cliffhanger of book one left us—and I mean immediately. Aurora is literally on the brink of death, her mind burning out 😬, when Harbringer makes a desperate choice and breaks the Nexus connection (still not entirely sure what that is, to be honest… I struggle to visualize it 😅) to save her life.
Aurora, understandably furious, becomes convinced that Harbringer betrayed her (girl… you’re only questioning this now?! 🤣) What follows is an intense and violent confrontation between the two… quickly followed by succession of very, very, VERY hot chapters 🥵🔥 Where book one made us wait almost until the end for a single kiss, book two wastes absolutely no time. The tension explodes. Aurora and Radu (his real name) give in to a raw, consuming passion that feels impossible to resist.
And then (no pause, no breathing room) the author throws us straight into the heart of the story: war and secrets. Radu and his group know far more about this conflict than Aurora ever imagined, and when the truth finally comes out, the pressure is intense. Aurora realizes this war has far darker, more horrifying goals than she believed. Determined to end it at all costs, she makes an unthinkable decision: to awaken Dracula himself.
I truly loved this book. Radu is such a deeply tormented character, shaped by decades of grief, sacrifice, and loss. His entire group has endured unimaginable suffering, and it shows. Aurora also evolves a lot in this installment : she becomes more assertive, more aware, and her relationship with Radu profoundly changes her.
The romance is forbidden, intense, and heartbreaking: an original vampire heir falling for a half-breed (vampire/werewolf). Aurora is torn between her duty to the crown and her growing love for Radu, while Radu himself is conflicted with life altogether. His goal was never to live( only to die fighting) yet he finds himself bound to a future queen who completely unravels him.
The ending of this book is devastating. Between battles, losses, impossible choices, and emotional damage, it left me hollow and desperate for the next installment.
Blood Binds is darker, bolder, more emotional, and far more intense than book one—and I’m fully invested in where this series is going next. And again that cliffhanger ?!! Aurora made a bold choice to save lives and let me tell you, book 3 is going to be rough😭😭😭
Thank you TheNerdFam and the author for the gifted eARC🖤
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