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Founded on Blood and Magic
Founded on Blood and Magic — A Cozy Novel with Fangs.
She died once. That should’ve been the end.
But in a world of blood and hidden magic, death is only the beginning.
Kate has always been different — sensitive to emotions, attuned to things that shouldn’t exist. But she’s spent her whole life pretending to be ordinary. Until the day she dies.
When she wakes in a morgue, cold and changed, her world tilts into darkness. Now she’s something not quite human, with powers she doesn’t understand and a vampire she doesn’t trust claiming to be her only guide.
As Kate unravels the mystery of what she’s become, she discovers a hidden world built on ancient magic, uneasy alliances, and blood-bound laws. Survival means adapting — even if that means embracing the very thing she fears becoming.
Readers are often surprised by how cozy and character-driven this tale of death and rebirth feels — a quiet, powerful story where danger and warmth intertwine.
Founded on Blood and Magic is a contemporary paranormal fantasy about hidden power, self-discovery, found family, and finding light in the shadows — perfect for readers who enjoy atmospheric, slow-burn supernatural stories with rich worldbuilding and a strong female lead.
Perfect for readers who
cozy paranormal romancevampires and magicslow-burn romancefound family
She died once. That should’ve been the end.
But in a world of blood and hidden magic, death is only the beginning.
Kate has always been different — sensitive to emotions, attuned to things that shouldn’t exist. But she’s spent her whole life pretending to be ordinary. Until the day she dies.
When she wakes in a morgue, cold and changed, her world tilts into darkness. Now she’s something not quite human, with powers she doesn’t understand and a vampire she doesn’t trust claiming to be her only guide.
As Kate unravels the mystery of what she’s become, she discovers a hidden world built on ancient magic, uneasy alliances, and blood-bound laws. Survival means adapting — even if that means embracing the very thing she fears becoming.
Readers are often surprised by how cozy and character-driven this tale of death and rebirth feels — a quiet, powerful story where danger and warmth intertwine.
Founded on Blood and Magic is a contemporary paranormal fantasy about hidden power, self-discovery, found family, and finding light in the shadows — perfect for readers who enjoy atmospheric, slow-burn supernatural stories with rich worldbuilding and a strong female lead.
Perfect for readers who
cozy paranormal romancevampires and magicslow-burn romancefound family
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 15, 2025
About the author
A.R. Abbott
8 books10 followersA.R. Abbott is the author of The House of Ward series, a sweeping paranormal fantasy saga where vampires, witches, and shifters navigate treachery, passion, and ancient power. Known for her lush, character-driven storytelling, Abbott delves into themes of found family, desire, and the dangerous bargains of magic. A designer and illustrator as well as a writer, she draws on her love of folklore and paranormal romance to craft immersive worlds. She has lived across the globe with her diplomat husband and now calls Northern Virginia home.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
June 26, 2025
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, I had a great time with this book. I made over a hundred notes for this review and almost all were completely positive. So let's go through some.
I found the writing very pleasant. It felt calm and comfortable at the right times but upped the tension when needed. The author took the time to describe characters, locations and objects extensively without breaking up the narrative. They were really helpful to me. I always appreciate when we know what a character looks like early on instead of halfway through.
Which brings me to the characters. Each chapter is from one of three characters' POVs, marked by their name as the chapter title. This way, we get to experience the same moment from different perspectives or see what was happening in several places at once. It also beautifully highlighted their relationships and especially how those relationships evolved throughout the story. My one nitpick is that perhaps Kate and Sara had similar voices at times, so I had to check whose POV I was in. Only happened once or twice, though, so definitely not a dealbreaker.
I loved Sara from the start. Up to 20% of my notes are just about how amazing she is. The more we learn about her, the more I love her. She's definitely a great friend and manages to pull Kate through everything. She also has her own life happening despite all this main plot so I was cheering her on the whole time.
James' arc was incredible to me. What we see of him through Kate's eyes and what we learn from his own thoughts is very different. The multiple POV format really comes through here. He's very unlike the usual young(ish) male vampire and remains an interesting character that doesn't fall into clichés (he's no Edward Cullen). His position towards Kate as the older, more experienced vampire creates an interesting dynamic that the author explores really well. Saying any more would spoil things for you, but trust me that he's worth reading.
And, of course, Kate. Our main character. From the start, we know she is special. However, it's once again not the cliché YA protagonist special. Her power is subtly revealed and then referenced and used regularly. It ties the characters and plotlines together in a way that makes sense, without elevating her to a chosen one. She feels real and nothing is just handed to her. Our girl fights for what she wants.
Other characters, like Alexander or Bruce, still felt like people who occupy a world and live their lives. They weren't NPCs in the background of our hero's story. Even the receptionist has things going on outside of being a receptionist. The supernaturals' use of cars and phones, texting each other essential details, also made it feel more real. No contracts written in blood, they're just people who happen to not be human but live in the human world comfortably. Some are outdated, probably because they're half a millenium old, and others are annoyed at their elders' lack of skill with technology. Some clubs put preservatives in their blood to keep it longer. Drinking from someone's neck is improper. Little details that ground the story.
The way vampires are made and the way they exist has a little novelty to it, altering some classic myths while disregarding others. The method of becoming a vampire isn't something never seen before, but we do experience it along with our protagonists. We see how the first days go and know how vampires change (or don't, the hair thing is just rude) over the years. I loved the small things that show vampires being predators in some way, no matter how well they behave.
The reveals I could predict, because they were foreshadowed properly. The author was helping you figure it out, not trying to drop a bomb out of nowhere. What I guess would be the big plot twist was less predictable, but still made complete sense with the information we had.
In the story, we're not just rushing from one action sequence to the next. There's moments of rest, where we get a momentary reprieve. These are written just as vividly as the action and there's always a sword hanging over your head, waiting for the next big thing to happen. By switching POV during an event and making a slight jump back in time, we can see the way all our protagonists go into something, what they know and think and feel. It adds tension to the story while also giving us additional information on what's happening.
Like I mentioned earlier, the characters text a lot. The texts are formatted differently, making them stand out and clarifying that it's not dialogue. They also text realistically, without perfect interpunction in every text. Nobody is thinking of commas if they're texting in a moment of panic.
All in all, a solid debut. The writing is interesting and had me hooked, leading me to finish the book in less than two days while I really did have to work on other things. The characters grow throughout the story, the worldbuilding is realistic and the supernatural blends with the human seamlessly. The author has a solid grip on power and relationships and it shows. An exciting yet comfortable novel that's definitely worth a read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
First of all, I had a great time with this book. I made over a hundred notes for this review and almost all were completely positive. So let's go through some.
I found the writing very pleasant. It felt calm and comfortable at the right times but upped the tension when needed. The author took the time to describe characters, locations and objects extensively without breaking up the narrative. They were really helpful to me. I always appreciate when we know what a character looks like early on instead of halfway through.
Which brings me to the characters. Each chapter is from one of three characters' POVs, marked by their name as the chapter title. This way, we get to experience the same moment from different perspectives or see what was happening in several places at once. It also beautifully highlighted their relationships and especially how those relationships evolved throughout the story. My one nitpick is that perhaps Kate and Sara had similar voices at times, so I had to check whose POV I was in. Only happened once or twice, though, so definitely not a dealbreaker.
I loved Sara from the start. Up to 20% of my notes are just about how amazing she is. The more we learn about her, the more I love her. She's definitely a great friend and manages to pull Kate through everything. She also has her own life happening despite all this main plot so I was cheering her on the whole time.
James' arc was incredible to me. What we see of him through Kate's eyes and what we learn from his own thoughts is very different. The multiple POV format really comes through here. He's very unlike the usual young(ish) male vampire and remains an interesting character that doesn't fall into clichés (he's no Edward Cullen). His position towards Kate as the older, more experienced vampire creates an interesting dynamic that the author explores really well. Saying any more would spoil things for you, but trust me that he's worth reading.
And, of course, Kate. Our main character. From the start, we know she is special. However, it's once again not the cliché YA protagonist special. Her power is subtly revealed and then referenced and used regularly. It ties the characters and plotlines together in a way that makes sense, without elevating her to a chosen one. She feels real and nothing is just handed to her. Our girl fights for what she wants.
Other characters, like Alexander or Bruce, still felt like people who occupy a world and live their lives. They weren't NPCs in the background of our hero's story. Even the receptionist has things going on outside of being a receptionist. The supernaturals' use of cars and phones, texting each other essential details, also made it feel more real. No contracts written in blood, they're just people who happen to not be human but live in the human world comfortably. Some are outdated, probably because they're half a millenium old, and others are annoyed at their elders' lack of skill with technology. Some clubs put preservatives in their blood to keep it longer. Drinking from someone's neck is improper. Little details that ground the story.
The way vampires are made and the way they exist has a little novelty to it, altering some classic myths while disregarding others. The method of becoming a vampire isn't something never seen before, but we do experience it along with our protagonists. We see how the first days go and know how vampires change (or don't, the hair thing is just rude) over the years. I loved the small things that show vampires being predators in some way, no matter how well they behave.
The reveals I could predict, because they were foreshadowed properly. The author was helping you figure it out, not trying to drop a bomb out of nowhere. What I guess would be the big plot twist was less predictable, but still made complete sense with the information we had.
In the story, we're not just rushing from one action sequence to the next. There's moments of rest, where we get a momentary reprieve. These are written just as vividly as the action and there's always a sword hanging over your head, waiting for the next big thing to happen. By switching POV during an event and making a slight jump back in time, we can see the way all our protagonists go into something, what they know and think and feel. It adds tension to the story while also giving us additional information on what's happening.
Like I mentioned earlier, the characters text a lot. The texts are formatted differently, making them stand out and clarifying that it's not dialogue. They also text realistically, without perfect interpunction in every text. Nobody is thinking of commas if they're texting in a moment of panic.
All in all, a solid debut. The writing is interesting and had me hooked, leading me to finish the book in less than two days while I really did have to work on other things. The characters grow throughout the story, the worldbuilding is realistic and the supernatural blends with the human seamlessly. The author has a solid grip on power and relationships and it shows. An exciting yet comfortable novel that's definitely worth a read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 2, 2026
The story starts strong and the author manages to carefully introduce the chatecters an de surroundings, without slowing the pace of the story. He truly manages to connect the chatecters and the reader as one!
I’ve enjoyed reading this book and will want to know what comes next!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’ve enjoyed reading this book and will want to know what comes next!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 9, 2025
If you enjoy vampire books, you might want to check out Founded on Blood and Magic by A.R. Abbott. It's been a while since I read a vampire book, and this one was good and had a darker edge. The story is told from three perspectives. Kate, the MFC, was a bit of a mess but really kind and loyal to her friends. Sara, her ride-or-die bestie, who is a little mysterious herself, and the vampire, James. I really liked the bond between Kate and Sara. Kate did not have it together, like in any way, but Sara was consistently there for and understanding of her best friend. A lot of people would have given up on Kate, but Sara never did. They were more like family than friends, and never more so than after the events in this book.
James was a good character. I didn't like him, but he was a good character. At first, he seemed okay for a vampire. Then, with every choice he made, the real him was revealed. He's incredibly selfish and completely obsessed with Kate, and not in a good way. The plot was good. The first half was pretty decent, but there was an incredible plot twist around the halfway mark, and things took a darker, more sinister turn. Honestly, the twist shocked the heck out of me. I was gasping because it was so good!
Founded on Blood and Magic was good. I do enjoy a good vampire read. The story ended with a twist, but thankfully, there was no cliffhanger. This is just the start of Kate's story; I can't even begin to imagine where the story will go next.
James was a good character. I didn't like him, but he was a good character. At first, he seemed okay for a vampire. Then, with every choice he made, the real him was revealed. He's incredibly selfish and completely obsessed with Kate, and not in a good way. The plot was good. The first half was pretty decent, but there was an incredible plot twist around the halfway mark, and things took a darker, more sinister turn. Honestly, the twist shocked the heck out of me. I was gasping because it was so good!
Founded on Blood and Magic was good. I do enjoy a good vampire read. The story ended with a twist, but thankfully, there was no cliffhanger. This is just the start of Kate's story; I can't even begin to imagine where the story will go next.
August 1, 2025
Pub date: 15 July 2025
Thanks to Book Sirens & Lost Warren Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Kate has always known she was different—but waking up in a morgue as something not-quite-human wasn’t in her five-year plan. Her journey into the supernatural begins under the cold, commanding eye of James, a vampire who makes it clear she now owes him. But as Kate adapts to her new reality, she begins to question not just him, but everything she thought she knew. 🩸🔮
Told through three POVs—Kate (chaotically disorganised but fiercely loyal), Sara (the true MVP with grit and heart), and James (a vampire with all the charm of a brick wall)—this YA paranormal debut explores found family, identity, and defying societal expectations.
The friendship dynamics were a highlight for me, full of warmth and dry humour amidst the chaos. Sara especially stood out—brave, principled, and the kind of friend you’d want in your corner. The supporting cast adds depth and tension, with special mentions for Marcus (potential future love interest, perhaps? 👀) and Silas, a protective, steadfast ally.
A couple of things stretched believability—Kate’s stubborn refusal to fully accept her undead status, and the odd absence of any explanation for how she funds her post-death lifestyle (surely her bank accounts would’ve been frozen?)—but given the YA tone, these were easy to overlook.
All in all, a cosy, low-spice supernatural romp perfect for readers who love mystical creatures, emotional bonds, and journeys of self-discovery. I’ll definitely be back for Bonded by Friendship and Faith. 💫
Thanks to Book Sirens & Lost Warren Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Kate has always known she was different—but waking up in a morgue as something not-quite-human wasn’t in her five-year plan. Her journey into the supernatural begins under the cold, commanding eye of James, a vampire who makes it clear she now owes him. But as Kate adapts to her new reality, she begins to question not just him, but everything she thought she knew. 🩸🔮
Told through three POVs—Kate (chaotically disorganised but fiercely loyal), Sara (the true MVP with grit and heart), and James (a vampire with all the charm of a brick wall)—this YA paranormal debut explores found family, identity, and defying societal expectations.
The friendship dynamics were a highlight for me, full of warmth and dry humour amidst the chaos. Sara especially stood out—brave, principled, and the kind of friend you’d want in your corner. The supporting cast adds depth and tension, with special mentions for Marcus (potential future love interest, perhaps? 👀) and Silas, a protective, steadfast ally.
A couple of things stretched believability—Kate’s stubborn refusal to fully accept her undead status, and the odd absence of any explanation for how she funds her post-death lifestyle (surely her bank accounts would’ve been frozen?)—but given the YA tone, these were easy to overlook.
All in all, a cosy, low-spice supernatural romp perfect for readers who love mystical creatures, emotional bonds, and journeys of self-discovery. I’ll definitely be back for Bonded by Friendship and Faith. 💫
July 8, 2026
LOVED This ! Brilliant Start To The Series.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I absolutely loved it ! The characters are relatable, and I practically inhaled this first book.
Kate is a twenty something young woman living city life in the Pacific Northwest, she has strong artistic leanings that haven’t quite moved in the direction she wanted them to. Now she’s working in an art supply store and everything about her life is disorganised chaos. She knows she’s different from other people because she can feel other people’s emotions and sometimes change them.
Her best friend Sara is in her opinion an absolute saint for putting up with her. Kate’s life is about to change in ways she never imagined, her last normal day on earth involved getting home late from work, running late to meet Sara for an art show opening (not her own), deciding on a last minute visit to her mum. She never made it, the last thing she did was step off the pavement and the next evening she woke up in the hospital’s morgue. Now she’s permanently ‘late’.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I absolutely loved it ! The characters are relatable, and I practically inhaled this first book.
Kate is a twenty something young woman living city life in the Pacific Northwest, she has strong artistic leanings that haven’t quite moved in the direction she wanted them to. Now she’s working in an art supply store and everything about her life is disorganised chaos. She knows she’s different from other people because she can feel other people’s emotions and sometimes change them.
Her best friend Sara is in her opinion an absolute saint for putting up with her. Kate’s life is about to change in ways she never imagined, her last normal day on earth involved getting home late from work, running late to meet Sara for an art show opening (not her own), deciding on a last minute visit to her mum. She never made it, the last thing she did was step off the pavement and the next evening she woke up in the hospital’s morgue. Now she’s permanently ‘late’.
August 16, 2025
I have a few weaknesses when it comes to books, and vampires is one of those. So, when I found this book on BookSirens, I had to grab a digital review copy.
The beginning of the book was quite exciting. I enjoyed the multiple point of views, I enjoyed the setting and I was curious about the vampire society. However, the plot took a direction I didn't entirely like. I of course don't want to give away too much in this review, but the main reason I ended up not really loving the book is that I got an entirely different plot than I expected and wanted. There were still some elements I liked, especially the politics and interspecies dynamics, and there are some things making me curious about the rest of the series, like the special gift our heroine has, but since the writing style also didn't seem to fit me, it focussed too much on what was happening and less on how that made the characters feel, I think I will not continue this series.
The beginning of the book was quite exciting. I enjoyed the multiple point of views, I enjoyed the setting and I was curious about the vampire society. However, the plot took a direction I didn't entirely like. I of course don't want to give away too much in this review, but the main reason I ended up not really loving the book is that I got an entirely different plot than I expected and wanted. There were still some elements I liked, especially the politics and interspecies dynamics, and there are some things making me curious about the rest of the series, like the special gift our heroine has, but since the writing style also didn't seem to fit me, it focussed too much on what was happening and less on how that made the characters feel, I think I will not continue this series.
December 27, 2025
That twist in the middle had me turning the page nonstop. I thought this was going one way and it went the complete opposite direction. Which was fine with me because I like a wrench thrown in every once in a while. I'm primarily a paranormal romance reader so it was looking good and set up like one. I love it thought. Made it super interesting. I will be going into the second book because I need to know more about the wolves and witches and how the house is going to grow and continue on. I am also interested if we will see a certain vampire once again. Probably knowing her luck.
July 5, 2026
Great story, fantastic characters!
I got completely pulled into this story, finding myself really caring about these characters. The blend of different beings including the non-victum humans made it very entertaining as Kate tried to figure it all out. Book two here I come.
I got completely pulled into this story, finding myself really caring about these characters. The blend of different beings including the non-victum humans made it very entertaining as Kate tried to figure it all out. Book two here I come.
July 28, 2025
Was a late night or should I say early morning, I could not put the book down , I had to read the ending. Great world building, different slant on vampires and their world plus some interesting supernaturals. Loved the characters, some I liked at the beginning but ended up being the bad guy. Would love to read more in this series, to see the future for these characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 16, 2025
Kate and James . . .
Kate was going with Sara for an evening art exhibition and nothing seemed to go right. She was to get out of work early, but he grouchy boss came in at quitting time with a long list of things that must be done before she leaves. Instead of reminding him she was leaving, she completed the list, making her late. When she arrives home, the landlord was parked out front and she was late on her rent, so had to hide until it was safe to run inside. Her apartment was cluttered beyond belief and her shoe was lost somewhere in the mess. She had to resort to uncomfortable heels, but at least her short dress would look good. She was very late by the time she reached her destination. She had tried to call Sara explaining she would be late, but forgot to charge her now-dead phone. She had always been able to feel the emotions of those around me, so she focused on a calm, quiet woman, closed her eyes, and rested her head against the window… and she woke up as they passed by her destination. Lucky for her, Sara is a reliable friend who stands by Kate and her craziness to always be there for her.
When we meet James, a vampire, it’s difficult to decide how to feel about him, although it leans on the side of not liking him. And he becomes obsessive toward Kate. Will she find out why she is so different? Can she deal with the supernatural world?
Kate was going with Sara for an evening art exhibition and nothing seemed to go right. She was to get out of work early, but he grouchy boss came in at quitting time with a long list of things that must be done before she leaves. Instead of reminding him she was leaving, she completed the list, making her late. When she arrives home, the landlord was parked out front and she was late on her rent, so had to hide until it was safe to run inside. Her apartment was cluttered beyond belief and her shoe was lost somewhere in the mess. She had to resort to uncomfortable heels, but at least her short dress would look good. She was very late by the time she reached her destination. She had tried to call Sara explaining she would be late, but forgot to charge her now-dead phone. She had always been able to feel the emotions of those around me, so she focused on a calm, quiet woman, closed her eyes, and rested her head against the window… and she woke up as they passed by her destination. Lucky for her, Sara is a reliable friend who stands by Kate and her craziness to always be there for her.
When we meet James, a vampire, it’s difficult to decide how to feel about him, although it leans on the side of not liking him. And he becomes obsessive toward Kate. Will she find out why she is so different? Can she deal with the supernatural world?
July 15, 2025
Just finished "Founded on Blood and Magic" by A.R. Abbott and seriously, you have to read this one! ✨
This book is a fantastic contemporary paranormal fantasy with a cozy feel, but don't let that fool you—it's got plenty of spice and action too. We meet Kate, who wakes up in a morgue (yikes! 😬) only to find she's not human anymore and is suddenly thrust into a hidden world of supernatural politics.
Her only guide is James, a super mysterious vampire, and trying to figure out if he's trustworthy is half the fun! The story is brilliantly told from multiple perspectives, making the world feel really rich. You'll find vampires, witches, shifters, and humans, all woven into a fresh, original plot.
If you're looking for an urban fantasy that's well-written, engaging, and offers a unique take on familiar themes, this is it. Highly recommend adding this to your list! 🥰
Thank you to A.R. Abbott and Booksprout for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
4.25 stars
This book is a fantastic contemporary paranormal fantasy with a cozy feel, but don't let that fool you—it's got plenty of spice and action too. We meet Kate, who wakes up in a morgue (yikes! 😬) only to find she's not human anymore and is suddenly thrust into a hidden world of supernatural politics.
Her only guide is James, a super mysterious vampire, and trying to figure out if he's trustworthy is half the fun! The story is brilliantly told from multiple perspectives, making the world feel really rich. You'll find vampires, witches, shifters, and humans, all woven into a fresh, original plot.
If you're looking for an urban fantasy that's well-written, engaging, and offers a unique take on familiar themes, this is it. Highly recommend adding this to your list! 🥰
Thank you to A.R. Abbott and Booksprout for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
4.25 stars
July 11, 2025
I throughly enjoyed this book,it was charming, exciting, the characters were engaging they where friends from their teen years into adulthood and no matter what went on In their lives it always remained. Kate and Sara went through a lot but came out together. The suspense, scheming and deception of other characters made this agreat book . I can’t wait to read more . Vampires, witches always exciting adventures.
July 9, 2026
A Unique and Hilarious Look at Supernatural Species
Characters you'll love & loathe. A tale of different supernatural species (vampires, witches & shifters) who discover love and friendship through bizarre circumstances. Makes you laugh out loud and shake your head at the greed & selfishness of some. Yet rejoice and feel satisfied at true integrity and deep friendship.
Characters you'll love & loathe. A tale of different supernatural species (vampires, witches & shifters) who discover love and friendship through bizarre circumstances. Makes you laugh out loud and shake your head at the greed & selfishness of some. Yet rejoice and feel satisfied at true integrity and deep friendship.
July 1, 2025
I am beyond happy that I got to read this, so thank you for letting me.
Firstly, this book is amazing! I am absolutely obsessed with this, and can’t wait to read the next books.
Kate being the FMC, is definitely the heart of the book. At first I thought that she was truly gone until we got further.
I had high hopes for James, thinking he was going to be this amazing person for Kate—but boy I was wrong. The more and more James appeared in the POV or chapters, the more I despised him.
As for Sara, she is my absolute favorite. She is very caring, and literally would do anything for her best friend. She is sweet and I can’t wait to see what happens between her and Silas.
Alexander wasn’t mentioned as much but I still despise him just from what I’ve read so far.
Honestly I wish we could get a POV from Marcus, hoping that since he is apart of the house, I’m truly hoping we will get to see some chemistry between Kate and Marcus. I’ve already felt it and I hope that becomes a thing.
Overall amazing read. Truly enjoyable and I can’t wait to read more!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Firstly, this book is amazing! I am absolutely obsessed with this, and can’t wait to read the next books.
Kate being the FMC, is definitely the heart of the book. At first I thought that she was truly gone until we got further.
I had high hopes for James, thinking he was going to be this amazing person for Kate—but boy I was wrong. The more and more James appeared in the POV or chapters, the more I despised him.
As for Sara, she is my absolute favorite. She is very caring, and literally would do anything for her best friend. She is sweet and I can’t wait to see what happens between her and Silas.
Alexander wasn’t mentioned as much but I still despise him just from what I’ve read so far.
Honestly I wish we could get a POV from Marcus, hoping that since he is apart of the house, I’m truly hoping we will get to see some chemistry between Kate and Marcus. I’ve already felt it and I hope that becomes a thing.
Overall amazing read. Truly enjoyable and I can’t wait to read more!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2025
I received an ARC copy of the second book in this series and took it upon myself to read this one even though it wasn’t required.
It was available on Kindle Unlimited.
I didn’t read the blurb or summary for this one and went in blind. While it still fits really well into the cozy category, it’s a bit darker than its successor at least at the beginning. That didn’t make it any less enjoyable it’s just something I noticed.
It was a pretty good start to the overall series and I’m happy I took the initiative to read this first.
Both books are available on Kindle Unlimited and are definitely worth the read.
It was available on Kindle Unlimited.
I didn’t read the blurb or summary for this one and went in blind. While it still fits really well into the cozy category, it’s a bit darker than its successor at least at the beginning. That didn’t make it any less enjoyable it’s just something I noticed.
It was a pretty good start to the overall series and I’m happy I took the initiative to read this first.
Both books are available on Kindle Unlimited and are definitely worth the read.
August 21, 2026
Vampires, shifters, and witches?! Oh my! Yess please!!
I loved learning how the series got its name!! I’m a huge fan of the multiple POV in this book because I definitely think it’s needed! I genuinely enjoyed the friendships in the book, the characters, the world building in the story, everything that came out page after page! The narration is BEAUTIFUL and she did a FABULOUS job!! If you like vampires, different houses (like in Harry Potter), witches and their relationships with vampires, I definitely recommend reading AND listening to this!!!
I loved learning how the series got its name!! I’m a huge fan of the multiple POV in this book because I definitely think it’s needed! I genuinely enjoyed the friendships in the book, the characters, the world building in the story, everything that came out page after page! The narration is BEAUTIFUL and she did a FABULOUS job!! If you like vampires, different houses (like in Harry Potter), witches and their relationships with vampires, I definitely recommend reading AND listening to this!!!
July 14, 2025
This paranormal fantasy is the first in the House of Ward series. Its cosy quality surprised me at first, but it worked really well, and the characters were all fun and likeable. If you're into books about vampires, this might be for you.
Thank you to Booksprout and the author for a free copy to review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Thank you to Booksprout and the author for a free copy to review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 31, 2025
Excellent start to new series with wonderful characters whose stories are slowly unfolded and characters developed as the story goes on. Lots of surprises and twists. I was totally hooked. Great wrap up while leaving the potential for future stories. Excellent details so you can see yourself right in the story. All around wonderful and I’m definitely looking forward to the next story.
July 14, 2025
I've enjoyed this read a lot. Here, there is great balance between engaging twists and tension and calm and cozy. And it's been refreshing how the vampire and witch elements are dealt. I've loved meeting interesting, worthy characters like Kate, James and Sara. Overall; 4,25⭐
August 3, 2025
This was an interesting story. I liked the friendship and support between Kate and Sara, but I'm still a bit undecided about James though.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 4, 2025
I’ve never read a vampire book before. Well written and quite fun!
November 25, 2025
Really enjoyed this. I love how it gave us the story from three POV.
August 22, 2026
Loved it so much. It reminded me of Twilight.
August 30, 2025
Adult urban fantasy, with a little violence, but so well written, smooth and never too much. So more on the cosy side. Vampires, witches, shifters, humans, and Kate. There’s a whole series, I think, for Kate to decide what she is. Lots of familiar themes, but has originality too. The story is written from a number of different character’s perspective. I liked Kate and Sara straight away. However the first time we meet James I thought - not sure about this book as this is such a strangely written chapter, and I don’t like him. Author’s skill here, and it made sense very quickly. Read straight through in just a few hours with midnight somewhere in the middle. Decided - I really loved this book. Can’t wait for the next one.
Thank you to A.R. Abbott and Booksprout for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
Thank you to A.R. Abbott and Booksprout for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
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