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Grayshell Rising #3
Commanding Blood And Bonds
In games of gods and monsters, no one walks away free. All debts must be paid.
As the Four Horsemen ride to open the gates of hell, Alvara and August race to align the prophecy’s fractured pieces. Their only hope lies in their Soul Bond, a connection more powerful—and dangerous—than they ever imagined. But time is slipping away, and even fate may not save them from this storm.
Freya is no stranger to impossible missions. Tasked with rallying the continent’s second-largest legion to Grayshell’s cause, she plans to deliver more than her orders require. Failure isn’t an option—because this time, her life depends on it. But Freya isn’t just fighting for survival; she’s waging a private war against the shadows of her past, and her enemies will see just how far she’s willing to go.
Cyrus Stuart has his hands full unraveling the lore of Bellpost’s ghost, a Wraith tearing through his life and legacy. When a masked man arrives to collect on an ancient, deadly bargain, Cyrus must delve deep into history’s darkest corners, where gods and mortals alike have burned their hands on the threads of power.
As alliances shift and betrayals mount, the lines between hero and villain blur.
The clock is ticking. The gates are opening. And the game is only just beginning.
As the Four Horsemen ride to open the gates of hell, Alvara and August race to align the prophecy’s fractured pieces. Their only hope lies in their Soul Bond, a connection more powerful—and dangerous—than they ever imagined. But time is slipping away, and even fate may not save them from this storm.
Freya is no stranger to impossible missions. Tasked with rallying the continent’s second-largest legion to Grayshell’s cause, she plans to deliver more than her orders require. Failure isn’t an option—because this time, her life depends on it. But Freya isn’t just fighting for survival; she’s waging a private war against the shadows of her past, and her enemies will see just how far she’s willing to go.
Cyrus Stuart has his hands full unraveling the lore of Bellpost’s ghost, a Wraith tearing through his life and legacy. When a masked man arrives to collect on an ancient, deadly bargain, Cyrus must delve deep into history’s darkest corners, where gods and mortals alike have burned their hands on the threads of power.
As alliances shift and betrayals mount, the lines between hero and villain blur.
The clock is ticking. The gates are opening. And the game is only just beginning.
958 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 16, 2025
7 people are currently reading
184 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 17, 2025
Oh my gosh, this book completely took me out. It’s dark, intense, and so full of tension that I was hooked from the first chapter. The characters are gloriously messy in the best way morally gray, constantly torn between loyalty and desire, and the kind of people you can’t stop rooting for even when they make terrible choices. The chemistry? Absolutely electric. I’m talking enemies-to-lovers energy, soul bonds, slow-burn longing, and those “just kiss already” moments that make you scream at your book.
The world itself feels massive, full of politics, prophecy, and high-stakes battles but it’s the relationships that had me glued to the page. Every alliance, betrayal, and stolen glance carries so much weight, and it all builds into this delicious storm of drama, angst, and found-family dynamics. By the time I got to the end, I was fully wrecked. And that ending? Brutal, brilliant, and completely unfair. I’m going to be thinking about it until I get my hands on the next book. Thanks to the Realm Studios for the gifted arc.
The world itself feels massive, full of politics, prophecy, and high-stakes battles but it’s the relationships that had me glued to the page. Every alliance, betrayal, and stolen glance carries so much weight, and it all builds into this delicious storm of drama, angst, and found-family dynamics. By the time I got to the end, I was fully wrecked. And that ending? Brutal, brilliant, and completely unfair. I’m going to be thinking about it until I get my hands on the next book. Thanks to the Realm Studios for the gifted arc.
September 17, 2025
S.J. Barnett’s Commanding Blood and Bonds is not a book. It’s a 958-page declaration of war on my emotions. I was not prepared. I thought I was. I’ve read the first two books. I’ve seen what Barnett can do. And still—still—this one caught me slipping. From the first page, it pulls you under with prophecy, power, and that deep, simmering tension that only truly unhinged, slow-burn fantasy can deliver.
This book takes place partially in parallel with the second in the series, and that narrative choice? Brilliant. While we were busy panicking over Aren and Magnolia, Barnett was building something bigger in the shadows—layering secrets, expanding the stakes, and showing us exactly what was happening behind the curtain the whole time. Watching the storylines overlap, twist, and then slam together as time catches up to the present was jaw-dropping. Everything we thought we understood about the second book is now drenched in new context, new weight, and a sense of looming, inescapable consequence.
At the center of this chaos are Alvara and August—Soul Bonded and emotionally imploding under the weight of it. Their bond isn’t soft or sweet. It’s sharp-edged, loaded with prophecy, tension, and a shared history that feels like it was carved into stone and blood. They aren’t just trying to survive; they’re trying to rewrite the fate that has already swallowed so many before them. The chemistry is unbearable in the best way—every brush of a hand, every unsaid word, every sacrifice hits like a blade to the chest. Their dynamic is brutal and magnetic, a constant push and pull between obligation, desire, and destiny. Watching their relationship evolve is like watching a slow-motion collapse—beautiful, terrifying, and completely inevitable.
Then we have Freya, who deserves her own temple at this point. She is every bit the general we were promised—strategic, devastating, and utterly focused—but this book peels back her armor. Her journey is deeply personal. She’s not just fighting enemies on the battlefield—she’s fighting the ghosts she carries, the orders she’s starting to question, and the guilt she can’t quite drown. Her alliance with Cyrus is everything I didn’t know I needed. Their interactions are a masterclass in restrained intensity. The snark, the reluctant respect, the tension that builds like a storm—every scene between them pulses with heat and danger. If Alvara and August are the heart of this book, Freya and Cyrus are the blade.
Speaking of Cyrus Stuart—someone get this man a nap and a therapy session. He is unraveling under the weight of Wraith lore, ancient bargains, and a bloodline that refuses to die quietly. There’s a haunted, scholarly energy to him that makes every decision feel heavy. He doesn’t chase power. He’s running from it. But power finds him anyway, and the consequences are always devastating. His chapters are full of tension, loss, and the slow descent into something he can’t escape. And yet, somehow, he keeps going. Keeps choosing. Keeps fighting. His arc hit me in a quiet, aching way I wasn’t ready for.
Barnett doesn’t waste a single POV. Every character feels like a living, breathing person with their own apocalypse unfolding in real time. The prose is sharp and lyrical, loaded with meaning. The pacing walks the perfect line between plot and character, allowing the quiet, emotional moments to breathe before hitting you with another betrayal, another twist, another “oh my god, no” moment. And just when you think you’re safe, that maybe—maybe—you’ve reached solid ground, Barnett yanks it out from under you with the kind of reveal that makes you reread the last three chapters in denial.
One line that refuses to leave my brain: “In games of gods and monsters, the only prize is survival—and even that has a cost.” That’s the soul of this book. Survival isn’t a victory—it’s a burden. Power isn’t freedom—it’s debt. Love isn’t salvation—it’s a blade you hold at your own throat. Every character bleeds. Every decision matters. And nothing is safe—not even hope.
By the final pages, I was hollowed out and wrecked in the best way. If you’re looking for a fantasy novel that blends emotional devastation with political scheming, mythic stakes, and slow-burn romance so intense it borders on painful, this book will ruin you in exactly the way you’re hoping it will. And the ending? No spoilers, but if you expected resolution, comfort, or even a second to breathe—you clearly haven’t read Barnett before. I closed the book, stared into space, and muttered, “How dare you” like it was a prayer.
Commanding Blood and Bonds is an absolute masterclass in emotionally intelligent storytelling wrapped in a dark, delicious fantasy shell. It’s character-driven and plot-twisting, full of yearning, sacrifice, and beautifully orchestrated pain. I laughed. I yelled. I cried. And now I need the next book immediately or I will riot.
★★★★★ (5/5 stars)
#CommandingBloodAndBonds #SJBarnett #FantasyReview #SoulBond #EpicFantasy #QueerFantasy #FreyaAndCyrus #AlvaraAndAugust #FantasyRomance #WraithLore #HighStakesFantasy #TheRealmStudios #GrayshellRising #ARCReview
This book takes place partially in parallel with the second in the series, and that narrative choice? Brilliant. While we were busy panicking over Aren and Magnolia, Barnett was building something bigger in the shadows—layering secrets, expanding the stakes, and showing us exactly what was happening behind the curtain the whole time. Watching the storylines overlap, twist, and then slam together as time catches up to the present was jaw-dropping. Everything we thought we understood about the second book is now drenched in new context, new weight, and a sense of looming, inescapable consequence.
At the center of this chaos are Alvara and August—Soul Bonded and emotionally imploding under the weight of it. Their bond isn’t soft or sweet. It’s sharp-edged, loaded with prophecy, tension, and a shared history that feels like it was carved into stone and blood. They aren’t just trying to survive; they’re trying to rewrite the fate that has already swallowed so many before them. The chemistry is unbearable in the best way—every brush of a hand, every unsaid word, every sacrifice hits like a blade to the chest. Their dynamic is brutal and magnetic, a constant push and pull between obligation, desire, and destiny. Watching their relationship evolve is like watching a slow-motion collapse—beautiful, terrifying, and completely inevitable.
Then we have Freya, who deserves her own temple at this point. She is every bit the general we were promised—strategic, devastating, and utterly focused—but this book peels back her armor. Her journey is deeply personal. She’s not just fighting enemies on the battlefield—she’s fighting the ghosts she carries, the orders she’s starting to question, and the guilt she can’t quite drown. Her alliance with Cyrus is everything I didn’t know I needed. Their interactions are a masterclass in restrained intensity. The snark, the reluctant respect, the tension that builds like a storm—every scene between them pulses with heat and danger. If Alvara and August are the heart of this book, Freya and Cyrus are the blade.
Speaking of Cyrus Stuart—someone get this man a nap and a therapy session. He is unraveling under the weight of Wraith lore, ancient bargains, and a bloodline that refuses to die quietly. There’s a haunted, scholarly energy to him that makes every decision feel heavy. He doesn’t chase power. He’s running from it. But power finds him anyway, and the consequences are always devastating. His chapters are full of tension, loss, and the slow descent into something he can’t escape. And yet, somehow, he keeps going. Keeps choosing. Keeps fighting. His arc hit me in a quiet, aching way I wasn’t ready for.
Barnett doesn’t waste a single POV. Every character feels like a living, breathing person with their own apocalypse unfolding in real time. The prose is sharp and lyrical, loaded with meaning. The pacing walks the perfect line between plot and character, allowing the quiet, emotional moments to breathe before hitting you with another betrayal, another twist, another “oh my god, no” moment. And just when you think you’re safe, that maybe—maybe—you’ve reached solid ground, Barnett yanks it out from under you with the kind of reveal that makes you reread the last three chapters in denial.
One line that refuses to leave my brain: “In games of gods and monsters, the only prize is survival—and even that has a cost.” That’s the soul of this book. Survival isn’t a victory—it’s a burden. Power isn’t freedom—it’s debt. Love isn’t salvation—it’s a blade you hold at your own throat. Every character bleeds. Every decision matters. And nothing is safe—not even hope.
By the final pages, I was hollowed out and wrecked in the best way. If you’re looking for a fantasy novel that blends emotional devastation with political scheming, mythic stakes, and slow-burn romance so intense it borders on painful, this book will ruin you in exactly the way you’re hoping it will. And the ending? No spoilers, but if you expected resolution, comfort, or even a second to breathe—you clearly haven’t read Barnett before. I closed the book, stared into space, and muttered, “How dare you” like it was a prayer.
Commanding Blood and Bonds is an absolute masterclass in emotionally intelligent storytelling wrapped in a dark, delicious fantasy shell. It’s character-driven and plot-twisting, full of yearning, sacrifice, and beautifully orchestrated pain. I laughed. I yelled. I cried. And now I need the next book immediately or I will riot.
★★★★★ (5/5 stars)
#CommandingBloodAndBonds #SJBarnett #FantasyReview #SoulBond #EpicFantasy #QueerFantasy #FreyaAndCyrus #AlvaraAndAugust #FantasyRomance #WraithLore #HighStakesFantasy #TheRealmStudios #GrayshellRising #ARCReview
September 12, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨
My Ratings:
5⭐️ 2🌶️ 🚫🎧
📅RELEASE: September 16, 2025
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐘𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆.
Roughly 850 pages of pure action, agony, unknown, hope, despair, snark, tenderness, romance, knives to every body part (and I do mean every 😏), grit, spice, and every emotion you could ever imagine - wrapped in one package.
It’s multi POV. Mostly focusing on Ally & August’s journey and the budding romance (?) between our favorite little wraith, Freya, and a rival, sexy, shadow daddy, Cyrus. Their chemistry is Out. Of. This. World. And had me screaming JUST KISS ALREADY!!! It’s touches, and saving each other and fighting and tending to wounds and reluctantly allying and showing up for each other over and over.
The majority of Book 3 happens on the same timeline as book 2 and it was INCREDIBLE to see what was happening behind the scenes, why certain actions were carried out, who was involved in all of the schemes, hits, and heists. But then, BUT THEN, time catches up to present and we see JUST WHAT HAPPENS after that absolutely WILD reveal at the end of Book 2. DAMN. I won’t say more - GO FREAKING READ THIS SERIES!
The twists. The Easter eggs that have been laid and continue to come together into answers… and more questions… the spiraling of what ifs and what could be’s that are swirling around in my brain. SJ Barnett is an absolute genius and I’m obsessed with her brain!
THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart to @barnettbooktalk and @therealm.studios for the chance to read this early with an eARC! It was phenomenal!!!
My Ratings:
5⭐️ 2🌶️ 🚫🎧
📅RELEASE: September 16, 2025
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐘𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆.
Roughly 850 pages of pure action, agony, unknown, hope, despair, snark, tenderness, romance, knives to every body part (and I do mean every 😏), grit, spice, and every emotion you could ever imagine - wrapped in one package.
It’s multi POV. Mostly focusing on Ally & August’s journey and the budding romance (?) between our favorite little wraith, Freya, and a rival, sexy, shadow daddy, Cyrus. Their chemistry is Out. Of. This. World. And had me screaming JUST KISS ALREADY!!! It’s touches, and saving each other and fighting and tending to wounds and reluctantly allying and showing up for each other over and over.
The majority of Book 3 happens on the same timeline as book 2 and it was INCREDIBLE to see what was happening behind the scenes, why certain actions were carried out, who was involved in all of the schemes, hits, and heists. But then, BUT THEN, time catches up to present and we see JUST WHAT HAPPENS after that absolutely WILD reveal at the end of Book 2. DAMN. I won’t say more - GO FREAKING READ THIS SERIES!
The twists. The Easter eggs that have been laid and continue to come together into answers… and more questions… the spiraling of what ifs and what could be’s that are swirling around in my brain. SJ Barnett is an absolute genius and I’m obsessed with her brain!
THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart to @barnettbooktalk and @therealm.studios for the chance to read this early with an eARC! It was phenomenal!!!
September 23, 2025
This book is a great read, book 3 in the Grayshell Rising series and 4.5/5 stars!
Commanding Blood and Bonds is a wild ride full of magic, betrayal, passion, and power struggles that kept me hooked from beginning to end. This book balances worldbuilding with character driven tension so well, it never felt like the plot slowed down, and every new reveal had me flipping pages faster.
The characters Alvara, August, Cyrus, and Freya are all well crafted. Our FMCs standout because in their own ways, each lady is resilient, sharp, and determined, but also vulnerable in ways that make them deeply relatable. Watching each of them step into her strength while navigating complicated loyalties and bonds was one of my favorite parts. And the MMCs are chef’s kiss. They bring their own fire to the story: a mix of danger, seduction, and fierce protectiveness. The bond dynamics felt believable and added layers of both tension and tenderness, making the relationships realistic even in such a fantastical setting.
I can say that the worldbuilding is immersive without being overwhelming. The blood magic system is dark, fascinating, and cleverly interwoven into both the politics and the romance. Every magical choice had consequences, and that raised the stakes beautifully.
What struck me most was how well the story balances romantic tension and high stakes conflict. The banter is sharp, the chemistry crackles, and the betrayals hurt in the best way. I mean sticks and stones may break my bones but these words cut deep. And when the action comes in whether it’s battle, scheming, or emotional fallout, you are enthralled because it hits hard.
Why 4.5 Stars? I found that there were a few moments where the pacing slowed just a touch, and I wanted a bit more clarity around certain side characters’ motives (IYKYK). But honestly, those are small quibbles in a book that delivered so much.
If you love dark fantasy romance with bonds, betrayals, and characters who refuses to be broken, this one is a must read. It’s intense, addictive, and left me impatient for the next installment.
Thank you to The Realm Studios for gifting me the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Commanding Blood and Bonds is a wild ride full of magic, betrayal, passion, and power struggles that kept me hooked from beginning to end. This book balances worldbuilding with character driven tension so well, it never felt like the plot slowed down, and every new reveal had me flipping pages faster.
The characters Alvara, August, Cyrus, and Freya are all well crafted. Our FMCs standout because in their own ways, each lady is resilient, sharp, and determined, but also vulnerable in ways that make them deeply relatable. Watching each of them step into her strength while navigating complicated loyalties and bonds was one of my favorite parts. And the MMCs are chef’s kiss. They bring their own fire to the story: a mix of danger, seduction, and fierce protectiveness. The bond dynamics felt believable and added layers of both tension and tenderness, making the relationships realistic even in such a fantastical setting.
I can say that the worldbuilding is immersive without being overwhelming. The blood magic system is dark, fascinating, and cleverly interwoven into both the politics and the romance. Every magical choice had consequences, and that raised the stakes beautifully.
What struck me most was how well the story balances romantic tension and high stakes conflict. The banter is sharp, the chemistry crackles, and the betrayals hurt in the best way. I mean sticks and stones may break my bones but these words cut deep. And when the action comes in whether it’s battle, scheming, or emotional fallout, you are enthralled because it hits hard.
Why 4.5 Stars? I found that there were a few moments where the pacing slowed just a touch, and I wanted a bit more clarity around certain side characters’ motives (IYKYK). But honestly, those are small quibbles in a book that delivered so much.
If you love dark fantasy romance with bonds, betrayals, and characters who refuses to be broken, this one is a must read. It’s intense, addictive, and left me impatient for the next installment.
Thank you to The Realm Studios for gifting me the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
September 23, 2025
A storm of prophecy, power, and reckoning
Book three raises the stakes and deepens the lore in a sweeping, high-stakes installment that refuses to pull its punches. In this world of shifting alliances and ancient debts, every choice carries weight, and every soul has a cost.
Where the previous book expanded the world, this one tilts it on its axis. The pacing is relentless, driven by converging storylines that are each compelling in their own right. Alvara and August’s bond takes center stage in unexpected, volatile ways, an anchor and a spark in equal measure. Their connection is raw, tested, and laced with tension that never lets go.
Freya steps fully into her own here, commanding the page with grit, cunning, and a quiet vulnerability that makes her mission all the more resonant. Cyrus’s arc adds a darker, cerebral thread to the story, pulling the curtain back on the series’ oldest mysteries with chilling effect. Each perspective feels essential, revealing not only the breadth of the world, but the cost of holding it together.
The mythos grows even richer, weaving divine machinations, haunted pasts, and the looming threat of apocalypse into a tight narrative web. There’s a cinematic quality to the way it all unfolds, fast-paced, emotionally charged, and always teetering on the edge of revelation.
If book two was a storm gathering, book three is the lightning strike. Bold, unflinching, and intricately layered, it asks hard questions about power, sacrifice, and who we become when the end begins.
And with the gates cracking open, one thing is clear: there’s no turning back now.
Book three raises the stakes and deepens the lore in a sweeping, high-stakes installment that refuses to pull its punches. In this world of shifting alliances and ancient debts, every choice carries weight, and every soul has a cost.
Where the previous book expanded the world, this one tilts it on its axis. The pacing is relentless, driven by converging storylines that are each compelling in their own right. Alvara and August’s bond takes center stage in unexpected, volatile ways, an anchor and a spark in equal measure. Their connection is raw, tested, and laced with tension that never lets go.
Freya steps fully into her own here, commanding the page with grit, cunning, and a quiet vulnerability that makes her mission all the more resonant. Cyrus’s arc adds a darker, cerebral thread to the story, pulling the curtain back on the series’ oldest mysteries with chilling effect. Each perspective feels essential, revealing not only the breadth of the world, but the cost of holding it together.
The mythos grows even richer, weaving divine machinations, haunted pasts, and the looming threat of apocalypse into a tight narrative web. There’s a cinematic quality to the way it all unfolds, fast-paced, emotionally charged, and always teetering on the edge of revelation.
If book two was a storm gathering, book three is the lightning strike. Bold, unflinching, and intricately layered, it asks hard questions about power, sacrifice, and who we become when the end begins.
And with the gates cracking open, one thing is clear: there’s no turning back now.
September 16, 2025
ARC Review
The information and new characters so far is making the wheels turn so much! And knowing this is parallel to what Aren is doing in the last book is mind blowing to the enormity of what is coming up in the rest of the series.
I am LOVING Freya! Her attitude and sass is so fun!! And literally makes me laugh out loud!
The ending of chapter 25 is so satisfying where people are realizing WHO Freya was is a past life!!! It is "chefs kiss"
I absolutely love the banter and the build up between Freya and Cyrus! I honestly think they are my favorite couple so far!!
At about the middle of the book it feels like the end, there is chaos and mayhem, and the things that come to light are mind blowing and absolutely shocking!
Adrastos is Ally's Brother????????
So much seems to be coming to light here and you can feel the chaos building!!
The pieces all start coming together and I honestly thought the story would wrap up with this book the way things were happening.... but I should have known that Sydne's mind was going to twist things....the cliffhanger on this one was the worst yet!!!
I loved how the last few chapters of this book actually picked up where the last book left off, and then we saw the epic battle they had all been preparing for... and of course the cliffhanger that no one expected.
all in all, this book was incredible I loved it so much, best book of the series so far! Sydne's mind is brilliant the way she pulls so many details together with so many different characters!
I cannot wait for the next book!!
The information and new characters so far is making the wheels turn so much! And knowing this is parallel to what Aren is doing in the last book is mind blowing to the enormity of what is coming up in the rest of the series.
I am LOVING Freya! Her attitude and sass is so fun!! And literally makes me laugh out loud!
The ending of chapter 25 is so satisfying where people are realizing WHO Freya was is a past life!!! It is "chefs kiss"
I absolutely love the banter and the build up between Freya and Cyrus! I honestly think they are my favorite couple so far!!
At about the middle of the book it feels like the end, there is chaos and mayhem, and the things that come to light are mind blowing and absolutely shocking!
Adrastos is Ally's Brother????????
So much seems to be coming to light here and you can feel the chaos building!!
The pieces all start coming together and I honestly thought the story would wrap up with this book the way things were happening.... but I should have known that Sydne's mind was going to twist things....the cliffhanger on this one was the worst yet!!!
I loved how the last few chapters of this book actually picked up where the last book left off, and then we saw the epic battle they had all been preparing for... and of course the cliffhanger that no one expected.
all in all, this book was incredible I loved it so much, best book of the series so far! Sydne's mind is brilliant the way she pulls so many details together with so many different characters!
I cannot wait for the next book!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2025
wow... just wow... If you are a fan of the torture Rebecca Yarrow's left us with in Onyx Storm then you will love the last few chapters of this book. Be warned.
Huge thank you to #TheRealmStuios and the author herself #Barnettbooktalk for this ARC opportunity. I BLEW through the first 2 books in preparation for this ARC, and let me say... wow... in a good way of course... but just wow. I am speechless 🥹
Now! For the review!
This book was a rollercoaster of emotions. Highs and lows and all the in-between. it was action packed like I could never have imagined. And that was ending??!! Wow. bring a box of tissues, your favorite drink and snack and buckle up, cause you are about to embark on one hell of a good ride. I'll try not to spoil it. But once you finish... we have a support group you may be interested in joining 🤣 link is at the end of this review.
I've given many ⭐⭐⭐⭐ reads over the last few months, bit this one is an infinity star rating. If I could give more than 5, I would. so good! Great character development. The plot was very well paced and written. Lots of "come to fruition" moments. *Chefs Kiss*. Hands down one of my top 3 reads of 2025.
🔗 Discord support group ❤️
https://discord.gg/yXJBGr5Z
Huge thank you to #TheRealmStuios and the author herself #Barnettbooktalk for this ARC opportunity. I BLEW through the first 2 books in preparation for this ARC, and let me say... wow... in a good way of course... but just wow. I am speechless 🥹
Now! For the review!
This book was a rollercoaster of emotions. Highs and lows and all the in-between. it was action packed like I could never have imagined. And that was ending??!! Wow. bring a box of tissues, your favorite drink and snack and buckle up, cause you are about to embark on one hell of a good ride. I'll try not to spoil it. But once you finish... we have a support group you may be interested in joining 🤣 link is at the end of this review.
I've given many ⭐⭐⭐⭐ reads over the last few months, bit this one is an infinity star rating. If I could give more than 5, I would. so good! Great character development. The plot was very well paced and written. Lots of "come to fruition" moments. *Chefs Kiss*. Hands down one of my top 3 reads of 2025.
🔗 Discord support group ❤️
https://discord.gg/yXJBGr5Z
September 22, 2025
I truly didn’t know what to expect with this third book, given it was meant to take place at the same time as book 2, following Ally, August and Freya, and I ABSOLUTELY needed to know what happened with Aren and Magnolia after book 2. But it did not disappoint.
Want real enemies to lovers ? Check
Real tension and chemistry? Check
Heart wrenching moments ? Check
Absolutely terrifying action that keeps you on the edge of your seat ? Check
A villain that will pull at your heart strings and stomp on your heart ? Check
This book gave me what I didn’t know I needed: Ansel as a girl dad; Freya as the most feral and unhinged FMC I’ve read since Aelin Galathynius herself; a vulnerable and completely relatable August; the different layers of Adrastos; and a very obsessed and devoted Cyrus.
From the beginning Cyrus is fascinated by Freya, an admiration he can’t hide from his family and I love an obsessed MMC. Freya on the other hand? Female rage incarnate. A fun, witty, snarky and resilient woman you do NOT want to cross. But together, the sparks fly and there is no denying the chemistry between the two. I loved watching their relationship unfold, and Freya’s character development was delightful. Chapter 65? A masterpiece.
It was so good to delve back into Ally and August’s story, getting more of them, Alec and Fae as well. You can feel the pressure on Ally’s shoulders, the sword of Damocles hanging over her head at all times, and her scrambling to try and save everyone. Meanwhile August never leaves her side, worshipping her and trying his damndest to protect her. Because although he is the prophesied saviour, there is no doubt in August’s mind that Ally comes first before the world. A true book boyfriend.
And once this book catches back up with where it ended in book 2? Buckle up, because from then on it’s gripping tension, hard conversations that leave you gasping with betrayal, fights that end in absolute tears (still can’t believe it!), and a cliffhanger that makes you want to scream. I literally squealed when part 3 started with Aren’s POV, but at what cost ?? I was not prepared for the last 12% of this book and I know that ending will haunt me until book 4 is out !
Want real enemies to lovers ? Check
Real tension and chemistry? Check
Heart wrenching moments ? Check
Absolutely terrifying action that keeps you on the edge of your seat ? Check
A villain that will pull at your heart strings and stomp on your heart ? Check
This book gave me what I didn’t know I needed: Ansel as a girl dad; Freya as the most feral and unhinged FMC I’ve read since Aelin Galathynius herself; a vulnerable and completely relatable August; the different layers of Adrastos; and a very obsessed and devoted Cyrus.
From the beginning Cyrus is fascinated by Freya, an admiration he can’t hide from his family and I love an obsessed MMC. Freya on the other hand? Female rage incarnate. A fun, witty, snarky and resilient woman you do NOT want to cross. But together, the sparks fly and there is no denying the chemistry between the two. I loved watching their relationship unfold, and Freya’s character development was delightful. Chapter 65? A masterpiece.
It was so good to delve back into Ally and August’s story, getting more of them, Alec and Fae as well. You can feel the pressure on Ally’s shoulders, the sword of Damocles hanging over her head at all times, and her scrambling to try and save everyone. Meanwhile August never leaves her side, worshipping her and trying his damndest to protect her. Because although he is the prophesied saviour, there is no doubt in August’s mind that Ally comes first before the world. A true book boyfriend.
And once this book catches back up with where it ended in book 2? Buckle up, because from then on it’s gripping tension, hard conversations that leave you gasping with betrayal, fights that end in absolute tears (still can’t believe it!), and a cliffhanger that makes you want to scream. I literally squealed when part 3 started with Aren’s POV, but at what cost ?? I was not prepared for the last 12% of this book and I know that ending will haunt me until book 4 is out !
September 17, 2025
I received an eARC of this book from the author through The Realm Studios (thank you). These opinions are my own!
I don’t even know… well anything after that… WTF?!?!? I’m shocked, I’m horrified, I’m heartbroken, I need more ASAP!!!
OK, I hate spoilers, but just so you have a general idea and the vibe of the book and the series… These books follow the stories of half human/half angels in a coven and their allies. They are on a mission to try and save the world from demons and monsters and the devil and all his homies. There are all sorts of magic and history. There’s shadow daddy’s and mommy’s, there’s witches and fallen angels, it’s really a very unique story and series!!
This is easily one of my fav series of the year… there’s so much world and character development. The politics and relationships of characters and groups of characters is so deep and intense.
So this book happens on the same time line as the second book… I’m not a huge re-reader at least not yet but the author suggests a tandem read of book 2 and 3 and now I want to re-read the whole series to see all the little things I missed!!!
This follows mainly Freya and Cyrus but we do get other POVs and reappearances of characters from previous books. Freya is a totally Baddy. I mean she’s just an epic character!!
There are some delicious spice scenes and tension, but these books are definitely plot and character heavy!! I did a little bit of eyeballing and listening for books 1 and 2. The audio was duet style and so dang good!!
It’s honestly an adventure that you will completely get lost in. The banter is also amazing! Some of my fav lines are in this!! I highly highly recommend that you read this entire series… I read that it’s going to be five books in total, but we will see. I promise it’s worth every tear and every bit of shock and frustration. It’s just so so good!
#angels #demons #soulbound #mates #magic #spiritualwar #fourhorsemen #apocalypse #commandingbloodandbonds #commandingearthandshadow #commandingflameandshield #sassyfmc #badassfmc
I don’t even know… well anything after that… WTF?!?!? I’m shocked, I’m horrified, I’m heartbroken, I need more ASAP!!!
OK, I hate spoilers, but just so you have a general idea and the vibe of the book and the series… These books follow the stories of half human/half angels in a coven and their allies. They are on a mission to try and save the world from demons and monsters and the devil and all his homies. There are all sorts of magic and history. There’s shadow daddy’s and mommy’s, there’s witches and fallen angels, it’s really a very unique story and series!!
This is easily one of my fav series of the year… there’s so much world and character development. The politics and relationships of characters and groups of characters is so deep and intense.
So this book happens on the same time line as the second book… I’m not a huge re-reader at least not yet but the author suggests a tandem read of book 2 and 3 and now I want to re-read the whole series to see all the little things I missed!!!
This follows mainly Freya and Cyrus but we do get other POVs and reappearances of characters from previous books. Freya is a totally Baddy. I mean she’s just an epic character!!
There are some delicious spice scenes and tension, but these books are definitely plot and character heavy!! I did a little bit of eyeballing and listening for books 1 and 2. The audio was duet style and so dang good!!
It’s honestly an adventure that you will completely get lost in. The banter is also amazing! Some of my fav lines are in this!! I highly highly recommend that you read this entire series… I read that it’s going to be five books in total, but we will see. I promise it’s worth every tear and every bit of shock and frustration. It’s just so so good!
#angels #demons #soulbound #mates #magic #spiritualwar #fourhorsemen #apocalypse #commandingbloodandbonds #commandingearthandshadow #commandingflameandshield #sassyfmc #badassfmc
September 16, 2025
📚✨ ARC REVIEW: COMMANDING BLOOD AND BONDS by S.J. Barnett
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5 Stars!
#GrayshellRising #SJBarnett #ARCReview #SoulBondTension #DarkFantasyRomance
This book did not come to play. It came to destroy. And I loved every soul-ripping, heart-pounding second of it.
S.J. Barnett’s Commanding Blood and Bonds is a brutal, brilliant, slow-burn fantasy masterpiece. We’re talking multi-POV intensity, prophecy-driven chaos, lovers on the edge of war, found family, soul bonds, ancient secrets, political betrayals, and tension so sharp it could slice through realms.
📖 Quick breakdown:
– Alvara & August: Soul Bonded, emotionally imploding, fate-fighting warriors.
– Freya & Cyrus: Shadowy tension, battlefield alliances, reluctant vulnerability, and chemistry so dangerous I was holding my breath.
– Lore, magic, war, and trauma wrapped into beautiful prose and SO many layered stakes.
– That parallel timeline to Book 2? Genius. Everything you thought you knew turned completely on its head!
There’s something absolutely magnetic about how Barnett writes relationships. The romance never overshadows the plot though it just deepens it. Every touch, every unsaid word, every betrayal feels so deliberate and with so much intention! The push and pull between destiny and desire in this book is next level.
This world is MASSIVE. But Barnett gives you the heart of each character right alongside the heavy lore, ancient bargains, and battles waged in shadows. And that ending?
No.
Absolutely not.
I am in ruins.
If you’re craving:
*Slow burn that burns
*Enemies with ridiculous chemistry (JUST KISS ALREADY FEELS)
*Epic, character-driven fantasy
*Morally gray women in power
*Shadow daddies and prophecy disasters
*Emotional damage (lovingly delivered)
Then this book is for you! And if you haven’t started this series yet, what are you even doing? Pick up Cast in Fire and Fear and let yourself fall.
Huge thank you to @barnettbooktalk and @therealm.studios for this early copy. I feel honored. And absolutely destroyed. In the best way.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5 Stars!
#GrayshellRising #SJBarnett #ARCReview #SoulBondTension #DarkFantasyRomance
This book did not come to play. It came to destroy. And I loved every soul-ripping, heart-pounding second of it.
S.J. Barnett’s Commanding Blood and Bonds is a brutal, brilliant, slow-burn fantasy masterpiece. We’re talking multi-POV intensity, prophecy-driven chaos, lovers on the edge of war, found family, soul bonds, ancient secrets, political betrayals, and tension so sharp it could slice through realms.
📖 Quick breakdown:
– Alvara & August: Soul Bonded, emotionally imploding, fate-fighting warriors.
– Freya & Cyrus: Shadowy tension, battlefield alliances, reluctant vulnerability, and chemistry so dangerous I was holding my breath.
– Lore, magic, war, and trauma wrapped into beautiful prose and SO many layered stakes.
– That parallel timeline to Book 2? Genius. Everything you thought you knew turned completely on its head!
There’s something absolutely magnetic about how Barnett writes relationships. The romance never overshadows the plot though it just deepens it. Every touch, every unsaid word, every betrayal feels so deliberate and with so much intention! The push and pull between destiny and desire in this book is next level.
This world is MASSIVE. But Barnett gives you the heart of each character right alongside the heavy lore, ancient bargains, and battles waged in shadows. And that ending?
No.
Absolutely not.
I am in ruins.
If you’re craving:
*Slow burn that burns
*Enemies with ridiculous chemistry (JUST KISS ALREADY FEELS)
*Epic, character-driven fantasy
*Morally gray women in power
*Shadow daddies and prophecy disasters
*Emotional damage (lovingly delivered)
Then this book is for you! And if you haven’t started this series yet, what are you even doing? Pick up Cast in Fire and Fear and let yourself fall.
Huge thank you to @barnettbooktalk and @therealm.studios for this early copy. I feel honored. And absolutely destroyed. In the best way.
October 26, 2025
Excuse me for a moment while I bawl my eyes out thanks to S.J. BARNETT AGAIN. This book was so amazing and I was so glad to see the other pov of what was happening during Commanding Earth and Shadows. Still, I wasn't expecting to end up again in the pit of despair wondering if anyone is going to get a happy ending in this series or if it's a tragedy. Seriously, I couldn't put this book down, and it was EXTREMELY difficult to do so to do the tandem read that's hinted at in the book. But OH I loved the tandem read, it lines up so well and even though the second book was a reread it brought up so much I didn't remember. I love the multiple POV's, I loved how complex all of the characters are in this series.
There is so much lore, so much depth and world building and honestly so much backstory that's been explored and has yet to be explored. This world that Barnett has created is just so dense, but in the absolute best way epic fantasies are. I have been utterly obsessed with this series since the beginning, it is easily a favorite and continues to be so. Despite having my heart ripped out, knowing there would be more heartache after we catch up to the ending of book 2 and surpass it, I was still hoping.
The tension is so strong, the stakes are so high, and there's just this one line that just grips you like a vice because it holds true so thoroughly. "In games of gods and monsters, the only prize is survival - and even that has a cost." We watch these characters fight, fight themselves, their powers, the monsters and fate, fate closing in at every moments decision. Grayshell is the epitome of power, but we see how that power isn't freedom its a shackle that comes with a great debt. Their love and loved ones are a salvation but also their endings. No character is safe, nothing is safe in this world.
I cannot express how beautifully done this book and this entire series is. It's dark, emotional, intelligent, plot-twisting, character driven. You will feel every emotion these characters feel, and you will need a full box of tissues. I swear, I need the next book now because I have been left just staring at the wall balling and I refuse to be stuck in this pit of despair.
Thank you to the masterful genius who destroyed me SJ Barnett and The Realm Studios for the gifted arc. All opinions are my own.
There is so much lore, so much depth and world building and honestly so much backstory that's been explored and has yet to be explored. This world that Barnett has created is just so dense, but in the absolute best way epic fantasies are. I have been utterly obsessed with this series since the beginning, it is easily a favorite and continues to be so. Despite having my heart ripped out, knowing there would be more heartache after we catch up to the ending of book 2 and surpass it, I was still hoping.
The tension is so strong, the stakes are so high, and there's just this one line that just grips you like a vice because it holds true so thoroughly. "In games of gods and monsters, the only prize is survival - and even that has a cost." We watch these characters fight, fight themselves, their powers, the monsters and fate, fate closing in at every moments decision. Grayshell is the epitome of power, but we see how that power isn't freedom its a shackle that comes with a great debt. Their love and loved ones are a salvation but also their endings. No character is safe, nothing is safe in this world.
I cannot express how beautifully done this book and this entire series is. It's dark, emotional, intelligent, plot-twisting, character driven. You will feel every emotion these characters feel, and you will need a full box of tissues. I swear, I need the next book now because I have been left just staring at the wall balling and I refuse to be stuck in this pit of despair.
Thank you to the masterful genius who destroyed me SJ Barnett and The Realm Studios for the gifted arc. All opinions are my own.
September 13, 2025
Every book in this series just keeps getting better and better! I cannot believe that ending too, after all the twists and turns leading up, some reveals even still surprise me and have me absolutely shattered! This book follows multiple POVs and I love still getting insight into the other relationships and challenges being faced but with the most focused on what I’ve decided is my new favorite couple of Freya and Cyrus. They very much give me Romeo and Julliet vibes, two people fighting on opposite sides of waring clans, with undeniable tension and a pull to be together.
Full of lots of action and adventure, life threatening missions, and of course more meddling from Ally’s foresight, this book had me on the edge of my seat waiting for what was next the entire time. There were several new characters being flushed out in this book who’s stories of a family at war with itself made my heart shatter right along with them with some of their losses and that game within a game that Freya was playing with them was excellently done. I love the concept of past lives this series explores that helps build relationships between characters without them all needing to be hundreds of years old with how complex and interwoven all their lives are.
The result of all of Freya’s hard work turns out in a way I didn’t fully expect from the beginning and I cannot wait for the next books to see more of her and Cyrus! The last section of this book was so exciting and terrifying in the best way and I am still so crushed by the ending. I still can’t believe some of the betrayals and reveals and I need that next book like asap please! Overall my rating 4.7/5!
Thank you to the author and The Realm Studios for the gifted ARC, all opinions given are my own!
Full of lots of action and adventure, life threatening missions, and of course more meddling from Ally’s foresight, this book had me on the edge of my seat waiting for what was next the entire time. There were several new characters being flushed out in this book who’s stories of a family at war with itself made my heart shatter right along with them with some of their losses and that game within a game that Freya was playing with them was excellently done. I love the concept of past lives this series explores that helps build relationships between characters without them all needing to be hundreds of years old with how complex and interwoven all their lives are.
The result of all of Freya’s hard work turns out in a way I didn’t fully expect from the beginning and I cannot wait for the next books to see more of her and Cyrus! The last section of this book was so exciting and terrifying in the best way and I am still so crushed by the ending. I still can’t believe some of the betrayals and reveals and I need that next book like asap please! Overall my rating 4.7/5!
Thank you to the author and The Realm Studios for the gifted ARC, all opinions given are my own!
September 17, 2025
I had the pleasure of arc reading this book. This is book 3 in the series and can I just say this entire series has EVERYTHING! I'm talking morally gray characters, so much action you'll have whiplash, and most of all some of the best character building.This book kept me on my toes from the very beginning. It was so well written and the author left nothing unanswered. It’s action packed and full of twists and turns. The characters are incredible and will stop at nothing to keep order and others safe. There will be moments where you are laughing, crying, and screaming. It's action packed and exceeded my expectations. I thought I knew what was happening and then BAM nope I didn't. I loved Alvara and August so much. Their soul bond was powerful and more than any plain ol' mating bond. There were so many times where they put everyone else before themselves and most of those times I was a little mad about it. I begged for them to be selfish, but at the same point I don't think their story would have been as epic as it was if they did. August's sister Freya was every bit of the commander I wanted and needed. All I can say is buckle up buttercup and get ready for the emotional ride of your life. Because this series and book has it all from romance, tragedy, hope, action, and so so much more! This will be a series that I wish I could read for the first time again!! If I could have given it more than 5 stars I would have trust me!!!
September 17, 2025
Commanding Blood and Bonds – Book Review
I’ve had the privilege of ARC reading all of Sydne’s books from the very beginning, and each one just gets better and better. Sydne is without a doubt one of those authors I will always recommend—and her books will always have a place on my shelf.
Now, onto Commanding Blood and Bonds.
What I love about this third book is how part of it runs parallel to Book 2, giving us an inside look at everything that was happening between the pages—and wow, there was a lot happening. This book expands on things happening in book2 and gives us even more of the story while also delivering banter, emotion, and unforgettable moments that had me laughing out loud:
That scene perfectly captures the tight-knit, found-family dynamic at the heart of this series. Magic, lore, mystery, action, romance, banter, and tension—it’s all here. The worldbuilding and character development are so intricate and immersive, making this feel like a true epic fantasy while still balancing romance in a way that doesn’t overshadow the story itself.
I also loved seeing more of Alvara and August, as well as getting deeper into Freya’s journey after what we learned more about her in Book 2. Her personal mission, Aren’s orders, the introduction of new characters, and the emotional highs and lows kept me hooked from start to finish. And having Aren back! Love Aren! And that ending? I have no words. I need the next book immediately!
With so many fantasy stories following somewhat similar patterns, this series stands out as something truly unique. If you haven’t started the Grayshell Rising series yet, you absolutely need to.
I’ve had the privilege of ARC reading all of Sydne’s books from the very beginning, and each one just gets better and better. Sydne is without a doubt one of those authors I will always recommend—and her books will always have a place on my shelf.
Now, onto Commanding Blood and Bonds.
What I love about this third book is how part of it runs parallel to Book 2, giving us an inside look at everything that was happening between the pages—and wow, there was a lot happening. This book expands on things happening in book2 and gives us even more of the story while also delivering banter, emotion, and unforgettable moments that had me laughing out loud:
“Think three hours is enough to let them burn it off? I miss my bed.”
“I dunno,” Alec said. “The guy’s got centuries of blue balls.”
“Oh, gross,” Ally muttered, wrinkling her nose.
“Tell me he’s wrong,” I added, laughing as Alec shot me finger guns.”
That scene perfectly captures the tight-knit, found-family dynamic at the heart of this series. Magic, lore, mystery, action, romance, banter, and tension—it’s all here. The worldbuilding and character development are so intricate and immersive, making this feel like a true epic fantasy while still balancing romance in a way that doesn’t overshadow the story itself.
“I may be many wicked things, Magnolia Green—both despicable and divine—but I promise you, a coward I am not.”
I also loved seeing more of Alvara and August, as well as getting deeper into Freya’s journey after what we learned more about her in Book 2. Her personal mission, Aren’s orders, the introduction of new characters, and the emotional highs and lows kept me hooked from start to finish. And having Aren back! Love Aren! And that ending? I have no words. I need the next book immediately!
“Let me equip you. Let me make you the most dangerous weapon on this planet and only then can you show the world what mercy looks like.”
With so many fantasy stories following somewhat similar patterns, this series stands out as something truly unique. If you haven’t started the Grayshell Rising series yet, you absolutely need to.
September 29, 2025
I loved this book. Commanding Blood and Bonds by SJ Barnett is the third book in the Grayshell Rising series and had me hooked from the go. In this book we reconnect with our OG couple August and Alvara but we also get to know more about the spicy and non-stop Freya and Cyrus.
While Alvara and August hunt down Ally’s visions and explore their bond on a deeper level Freya is sent to convince another coven to side with Aren but has her own revenge plot to enact. Cyrus is from the other, literal, side of the river and her rival’s son. There is so much history between these two that even they haven’t unpacked.
There is sooooo much to these stories that keeps you turning the page well into the night. Passion, betrayal, revenge, loyalty along with twists and turns at each new point. We get to dive deeper into August and Ally’s history and bond but we also get to see the start of something completely new and, in true Grayshell form, complicated.
I will be patiently waiting and rereading until the next book comes out because the way Barnett builds the worlds and characters is true magic. There’s a level of humanity that we feel and understand completely mixed with the allure of fantasy and worlds we can only imagine. Plus, who doesn’t love women who kick but and the men that love them!
While Alvara and August hunt down Ally’s visions and explore their bond on a deeper level Freya is sent to convince another coven to side with Aren but has her own revenge plot to enact. Cyrus is from the other, literal, side of the river and her rival’s son. There is so much history between these two that even they haven’t unpacked.
There is sooooo much to these stories that keeps you turning the page well into the night. Passion, betrayal, revenge, loyalty along with twists and turns at each new point. We get to dive deeper into August and Ally’s history and bond but we also get to see the start of something completely new and, in true Grayshell form, complicated.
I will be patiently waiting and rereading until the next book comes out because the way Barnett builds the worlds and characters is true magic. There’s a level of humanity that we feel and understand completely mixed with the allure of fantasy and worlds we can only imagine. Plus, who doesn’t love women who kick but and the men that love them!
September 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
I genuinely can not form words to describe this masterpiece of a book and series.
I devoured Commanding Blood and Bonds. Book 3 in the Greyshell Rising Series by S.J. Barnett. Each book in this series just gets better and better!
I have been so lucky to be a reader for S.J. for each book, to which I fell head over heels for Commanding Flame and Shield, and then Commanding Earth and Shadow.
Angels, Demons, Nephilim, soul connections, fated love, reincarnation, clairvoyance, light vs. dark, elementalism, slow burn angst, and delicious tension. Commanding Blood and Bonds was MASTERFUL... but this series together is the best series I have read in years!
Breathtaking worldbuilding that instantly engages the imagination, multiple POVs, and a timeline that coincides with book two to give you an inside look... almost a behind the scenes experience that is so rich and expansive.
S.J.'s characters are such beautifully deep and complex beings, and honestly, the FMCs are some of my favorite ever.
I can not get enough of this slow burn EPIC fantasy romance. This is, without a doubt, a series for the ages!
🌶🌶
I genuinely can not form words to describe this masterpiece of a book and series.
I devoured Commanding Blood and Bonds. Book 3 in the Greyshell Rising Series by S.J. Barnett. Each book in this series just gets better and better!
I have been so lucky to be a reader for S.J. for each book, to which I fell head over heels for Commanding Flame and Shield, and then Commanding Earth and Shadow.
Angels, Demons, Nephilim, soul connections, fated love, reincarnation, clairvoyance, light vs. dark, elementalism, slow burn angst, and delicious tension. Commanding Blood and Bonds was MASTERFUL... but this series together is the best series I have read in years!
Breathtaking worldbuilding that instantly engages the imagination, multiple POVs, and a timeline that coincides with book two to give you an inside look... almost a behind the scenes experience that is so rich and expansive.
S.J.'s characters are such beautifully deep and complex beings, and honestly, the FMCs are some of my favorite ever.
I can not get enough of this slow burn EPIC fantasy romance. This is, without a doubt, a series for the ages!
September 16, 2025
I don’t know where to even start; this was a fun and wild ride that I just want to jump back to the beginning and read again. Our FMC, Freya aka The Wraith, is everything I expected her to be. Chaotic, feral, and so headstrong. She is balanced out by the clever, intelligent, and shadow-wielding Cyrus. Yasss. I loved that most of the book was their story unfolding but I was incredibly excited to be reunited with our favorite Grayshellians as well.
This book has everything. War, history, magic, love, and a found family you won’t forget. SJ, what are you doing to my heart? Because that ending?…I’m not okay. I’ll send you my therapy bill. This is a must read.
Favorite quotes:
“Feral, demon creature”
“Flirting over bloodshed. That was new”
“Your death would be a lukewarm inconvenience”
“My love for you isn’t so feeble it withers in a storm. It weathers it. Always.”
This book has everything. War, history, magic, love, and a found family you won’t forget. SJ, what are you doing to my heart? Because that ending?…I’m not okay. I’ll send you my therapy bill. This is a must read.
Favorite quotes:
“Feral, demon creature”
“Flirting over bloodshed. That was new”
“Your death would be a lukewarm inconvenience”
“My love for you isn’t so feeble it withers in a storm. It weathers it. Always.”
September 23, 2025
THIS BOOK.
(Spoiler Free!)
Yall. I have yet another favorite fantasy author!
I was very excited to get to read this as an ARC, though I am a little behind since I read book 2 also. *But it's fine*
2 Words. WORLD BUILDING. Enough Said.
But really-
The way that I was in deep-
I absolutely love that books 2 and 3 are of the same tineline, and the OHH moments that you come across when some of the pieces fit together. NOW I want to go back and do a tandem read!
I cannot wait for the next installment!
Multi POV, Freya is absolutely a BADASS, their relationship... perfection.
Excellent with bit of spice, but plot driven.
Lets be real- you had me at Shadow Daddy.
This is one of those series that you'll put down, come back, take a walk, no, Im back again. Then left in shock 😂
Thank you so, so much for the opportunity to read this ❤️
@therealmstudios
@barnettbooktalk
(Spoiler Free!)
Yall. I have yet another favorite fantasy author!
I was very excited to get to read this as an ARC, though I am a little behind since I read book 2 also. *But it's fine*
2 Words. WORLD BUILDING. Enough Said.
But really-
The way that I was in deep-
I absolutely love that books 2 and 3 are of the same tineline, and the OHH moments that you come across when some of the pieces fit together. NOW I want to go back and do a tandem read!
I cannot wait for the next installment!
Multi POV, Freya is absolutely a BADASS, their relationship... perfection.
Excellent with bit of spice, but plot driven.
Lets be real- you had me at Shadow Daddy.
This is one of those series that you'll put down, come back, take a walk, no, Im back again. Then left in shock 😂
Thank you so, so much for the opportunity to read this ❤️
@therealmstudios
@barnettbooktalk
October 12, 2025
I’m wrecked. This book (and whole series) has been added to my absolute favorites! But it absolutely destroyed me (in a good way).
The character and world building, the magic, the tension between mates, enemies-to-lovers relationships, the betrayals. ALL OF IT.
I have read MANY romantasy series and this one had me hooked more than almost anything I’ve read. I couldn’t put it down but I didn’t want to finish it either! I wasn’t ready to not have these characters a part of my daily life! But here I am - anxiously waiting for the next book in the series. This is one of those books that you just can’t pick up another book to read because it will disappoint in comparison to this one.
So I’ll be here, ruminating over this ruthless yet brilliant ending and waiting for what happens next. (Hopefully sooner rather than later!)
The character and world building, the magic, the tension between mates, enemies-to-lovers relationships, the betrayals. ALL OF IT.
I have read MANY romantasy series and this one had me hooked more than almost anything I’ve read. I couldn’t put it down but I didn’t want to finish it either! I wasn’t ready to not have these characters a part of my daily life! But here I am - anxiously waiting for the next book in the series. This is one of those books that you just can’t pick up another book to read because it will disappoint in comparison to this one.
So I’ll be here, ruminating over this ruthless yet brilliant ending and waiting for what happens next. (Hopefully sooner rather than later!)
September 16, 2025
This series was big, and HEAVY, but it just kept getting better as I kept reading😍
Book three is multi POV, which sometimes I struggle with but here it was well done. I enjoyed the insight to the challenges and relationships through different POVs, and wow did it get me hooked on Freya and Cyrus👀🔥
There's action and adventure, meddling and missions, and I was on the edge of my seat for a lot of the book. The exploration of past lives was well done, and there's such a complexity to the characters and plot.
Omg. The ending. After so many twists and turns throughout the book, THAT was where we got to? I definitely had my fair share of surprises throughout this storyline. It was exciting and shocking in all the best ways🤯
A huge thank you to The Realm Studios for the ARC!!!
Book three is multi POV, which sometimes I struggle with but here it was well done. I enjoyed the insight to the challenges and relationships through different POVs, and wow did it get me hooked on Freya and Cyrus👀🔥
There's action and adventure, meddling and missions, and I was on the edge of my seat for a lot of the book. The exploration of past lives was well done, and there's such a complexity to the characters and plot.
Omg. The ending. After so many twists and turns throughout the book, THAT was where we got to? I definitely had my fair share of surprises throughout this storyline. It was exciting and shocking in all the best ways🤯
A huge thank you to The Realm Studios for the ARC!!!
September 16, 2025
This was EVERYTHING! My most anticipated book of September and it did not disappoint! The chemistry between our favorite wraith Freya and our new favorite shadow daddy Cyrus is everything you could want between two characters! And of course we can’t for our favorite og couple Ally and August, they are still as strong as ever and with the plot, and the twist, this book will make go through all the emotions. And let me tell you, I felt the all. There may or may not have been a couple times where I wanted to throw my kindle across the room, but I didn’t and no kindles were hurt when reading this amazing book! So please, PLEASE go read it!
September 17, 2025
This author sets the bar high when it comes to writing fantasy. She consistently delivers a story that is so unique and multi-layered that I’m left in awe. Commanding Blood and Bonds while book 3 in the series, takes place parallel to book 2, so it felt like a little added bonus of getting another perspective of certain scenes. Our favorite characters like August and Alvara continue to make the reader fall in love with them more, and the new characters are definitely intriguing. Freya and Cyrus relationship was chef’s kiss and I am here for it!
The direction this series is going is mind-blowing and is a ride you won’t want to miss a second off. Highly recommended.
The direction this series is going is mind-blowing and is a ride you won’t want to miss a second off. Highly recommended.
September 17, 2025
S.J. Barnett’s Commanding Blood and Bonds is not a book—it’s a 958-page war on my emotions. I thought I was prepared. I wasn’t. Prophecy, power, soul bonds, betrayal, and slow-burn tension so sharp it cuts—this story wrecked me in the best way. Every POV is brilliant, every twist devastating, and the ending left me hollow, whispering “How dare you.”
September 25, 2025
Ugh it just keeps getting better. I am obsessed with everything about this series. The pinning, the yearning, the chemistry. I just loved every second of it. This was a massive undertaking, but honestly the perfect conclusion to this series and I wanted more.
October 17, 2025
This series is so good. It’s so hard to do a duel timeline and have it make sense and keep the reader invested yet this book did it so flawlessly. The romance we get along with the action scenes and twists! So much packed into one book. I can’t wait for the next one.
September 21, 2025
holey crap! that ending! there's so many pieces and moving parts! I will for sure be continuing this series! i have theories but then i dont!? ugh so good!:
October 4, 2025
The series takes the characters on an epic journey, over different lifetimes. There's romance and battles and deceit and plenty of drama.
I loved the first two books, and this one was amazing, also. I liked how this book ran along the same timeline as the previous book, but we got to see the events from different points of view. We saw how everyone ended up where we knew they had, but were given more information.
I can't wait for what comes next in this series! This one was an emotional one.
I loved the first two books, and this one was amazing, also. I liked how this book ran along the same timeline as the previous book, but we got to see the events from different points of view. We saw how everyone ended up where we knew they had, but were given more information.
I can't wait for what comes next in this series! This one was an emotional one.
October 18, 2025
This thing come in hot so be prepared to fall in love with the characters quickly. Things accelerate quickly too. I’m still reading I’m on 30% in and I already know I’m gunna need tissue and chocolate to get through this but it’s going to be oh so worth it.
Update:
Rating still stands. This book is just so good I am so in awe of this story and I need the next one right away!!!
Update:
Rating still stands. This book is just so good I am so in awe of this story and I need the next one right away!!!
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