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Lead Me To Temptation #1

Bloody Temptations

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“Forever is a long time for a being. Longer still for a vamp.”

Finn
When I left Twin Heads, a beach town just outside of Whisper Woods, to move to Ulydessia, I had plans—swanky job, swanky apartment, and a wardrobe to match. Then one night of fun changed everything. And I mean everything. I had not planned on that.

As a recently turned vamp, I’m doing my best to be as invisible as I feel. Between getting fired for my new status, my less than stellar new job and apartment, and having to figure out my new life all on my own, I’m… lonely. Which is why I finally agree to a night out with my coworker and his friends to the vamp bar Bloody Temptations. One night and my life is turned upside all over again.

Kai
Every night’s a good night when you’re living the dream. Working at a bar might not be everybody's dream, but not everybody works at Bloody Temptations. Being one of the ‘Hot Vampire Bartenders (as the fans calls) means I get to spend my nights dancing on the bartop with all eyes on me. Life couldn’t be better.

And then I saw him—the freshly turned vamp, all alone in the world. The timid former cat shifter has turned my life upside down and now I find myself wanting more. I just need to convince him to give me—and us—a real chance.

Bloody Temptations is a MM vampire rom-com and the first in the Lead Me to Temptation series. Each book in the series is interconnected, but can be read as a standalone.

280 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 23, 2025

34 people are currently reading
266 people want to read

About the author

Ali Woods

6 books34 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
Profile Image for Dani.
1,683 reviews320 followers
July 19, 2025
This author was new to me and I had so much fun reading this that I'm eager to go find everything else they've written!

I'm pretty sure I've never read this take on vampires before and I loved it! Kai has such a big presence and he's so fun, but he was such a bad communicator because he was under the impression Finn could magically read his mind 😂 Finn was totally adorable and he had a lot to overcome, but his self-esteem was on the floor and his insecurities were ruining his life. I loved how things went for him!

These two weirdly balanced each other out so well, and once they resolved their communication issue it was like you could feel their happiness.

The side characters all seemed interesting too, and I am so curious about whatever has happened between Niko and Willan in the past...

Looking forward to more books to come in this series!

*****
I received an ARC of this book from Book Sirens, and this is my honest review

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HRCYED2: Spooky Creatures
Profile Image for Nick M..
11 reviews1 follower
July 31, 2025
***ARC Review – I received a copy of this book from author Ali Woods in exchange for my honest review.***

Bloody Temptations by Ali Woods
Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ / 5

🩸 🩸 🩸
This was my first read by this author and it certainly won’t be my last. Bloody Temptations is a MM Vampire rom-com and the first in Ali Woods’ new series Lead Me to Temptation.
We are introduced to Finn, a newly turned Vampire and Kai, who is older and more set in his way as the two main characters. Finn is our standard introvert personality and Kai is more extroverted. The dynamic between the two characters is well-written and drew me in from the start. Their chemistry is instant and believable, while also being refreshing and sweet.
I also loved all the side characters in the book. Each had a place in the story, and I found that I was rooting for many of them as much as the main couple (looking at you Willan; Nikki)!
The growth that the characters, in particular Finn, experience through the book was satisfying to read and did not feel forced at all. Additionally, the progression of the relationship, while fast, seemed natural and not at all contrived.

Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5 / 5
The spice in the book was the perfect amount, in my opinion. The balance between spice and plot was spot-on and the scenes themselves were a hot read. It was overall a satisfying addition to the book and integral to the relationship between Finn and Kai.

Final Thoughts:
If you are a fan of vampires in general and/or MM rom-com books, please pick this up and read it! It was a quick read, full of sweet, tender moments between characters, full of character growth, yearning, and many cute moments. Thank you again to the author for this ARC and I cannot wait to rejoin this cast of characters in the next book!
Profile Image for Cara .
337 reviews22 followers
September 3, 2025
This was SO MUCH FUN!!! I will write a review next week. Perfect read for spooky season- a take on vampires like I haven’t read before. And SUPER HOT!
Profile Image for Belinda Smith.
548 reviews19 followers
July 22, 2025
“Forever is a long time for a being. Longer still for a vamp.” 🥺🖤

I did not want this book to end. I need more fluff. More banter. More idiots in love trying to act chill but absolutely spiraling inside. 🫠💘

Bloody Temptations was everything I hoped for and more—a delicious, soft, spicy, slightly chaotic MM vampire rom-com with the most lovable characters and a found family I would die for (or be turned for 🧛‍♂️). This book hooked me from page one and wrapped me in a warm, bloody hug. (Don’t judge me, it’s a vampire book.)

We follow Finn, a recently turned baby vamp who just wants to keep his head down and survive in Ulydessia. He left his beach town life behind hoping for big-city dreams—swanky job, stylish wardrobe, sleek apartment—but instead, he’s lonely, lost, and stuck in a life that doesn’t feel like his own anymore. After finally agreeing to a night out with his work friend, he ends up at Bloody Temptations, a vampire bar full of mischief and mayhem—and that’s where everything changes.

Because that night, he meets Kai—a confident, chaotic, ridiculously hot bartender who dances on bar counters and wears tiny shorts and socks that definitely stay on during certain scenes 👀🧦🔥. But beneath the swagger, Kai is also a bit of a dork (and I love him so much for that) and instantly smitten with the awkward blond vamp trying to be invisible in a bar full of glittering distractions.

The introvert x extrovert energy was perfection. 💗 Finn is so shy, sweet, and awkward in the most endearing ways—his word vomit had me cackling 😭. And Kai, for all his confidence, is just as much of a dork underneath. Their chemistry was explosive, but what really got me was how soft they were with each other. Vulnerability, hesitation, tension, mutual pining—it all felt so real.

And the spice?
Whew. 😮‍💨🫠🔥 Perfectly timed, gorgeously written, and surprisingly emotional in the best way.

I loved how grounded the story felt, despite the vampire/supernatural world. Finn is still adjusting to life as a vampire, and I really appreciated the exploration of vampire discrimination—people crossing the street to avoid him, job loss, that constant sense of otherness. It added a layer of realism and emotional depth I wasn’t expecting in a rom-com.

Slowly but surely, Finn finds his footing:
🩷 A hot and hilarious lover in Kai
🩷 A messy but wholesome found family who had me giggling and crying (Matteus and Aristet = DADS OF THE YEAR)
🩷 A mentor who actually understands what he’s going through
🩷 A place to belong

Watching him come into his own was just… 🥹✨ Beautiful.

And the side characters? HILARIOUS. Nikolo needs his own book. Matteus and Aristet arguing over their sweet vampire son Finn had me wheezing. The chaotic bar staff. Kai’s sassy best friend. I cannot wait to see whose stories are next because the seeds have been planted, and I am READY.

🎯 This book is perfect for fans of:
💘 MM rom-coms with heat and heart
🧛‍♂️ Found family + vampire chaos
💬 Dual POV with mutual pining
🧦 “Leave the socks on” energy
🫠 Soft awkward boys who can’t flirt to save their lives
🔥 Open-door spice with real emotional intimacy
😂 Banter and friendly roasting
💥 Misunderstandings that feel human
🏠 Domesticity kink (yes, you read that right)

Tropes I adored:
✨ Shy x confident
✨ Baby vampire + experienced vamp
✨ Found family
✨ Biting (duh)
✨ Mutual pining
✨ Miscommunication
✨ Idiots in love
✨ HEA 💕

🌸 What I LOVED:
• The slow evolution of Finn’s confidence 🥺
• That his shyness wasn’t something to “fix”—it was celebrated
• The spice was 🔥 and emotionally driven
• Low-stakes plot with soft tension = cozy vibes
• The vampire lore was unique and fresh
• Absolutely NO cheating
• Finn and Kai being absolute dorks together
• The cover matches the story perfectly—adorable and chaotic

🧛‍♂️✨ Bloody Temptations was the cozy, spicy, found-family-filled vampire rom-com I didn’t know I needed. It was heartfelt, funny, sexy, and filled with so much love. I fell hard for Kai and Finn and their messy, soft, beautiful journey. I want to squish them both and make them cuddle forever.

Huge thanks to Ali Woods and BookSirens for the ARC opportunity 💖 I already know I’ll be rereading this every time I need to believe in soft dorks, spicy socks, and unexpected second chances at love. 🧦💘
Profile Image for Lauren.
270 reviews21 followers
July 9, 2025
This was my first Ali Woods read and I really enjoyed it. What a hoot Kai is. Then there’s sweet Finn with a surprise side (won’t spoil but you’ll see). I also liked Ali’s take on vampires— it’s always refreshing to read a different spin on vampires and their life/world than your standard cookie cutter understanding of them. This was a lovely read filled with laughter and love. And the spice!! Love when an author is expertly detailed… swoon! Looking forward to more from Ali with this series.
Profile Image for Demian Grimm.
269 reviews3 followers
July 25, 2025
Bloody Temptations is the first book in the new Lead Me To Temptation series by Ali Woods.
While it’s set in the same world as the Legends of the Whisper Woods trilogy, and we actually meet Finn in that series, this book doesn’t spend much time on worldbuilding. That’s not a criticism, just something for both new and returning readers to keep in mind. And for those “coming from” Whisper Woods, it’s worth mentioning that the focus here is very much on the romance, there is no mystery to solve or big adventures to go on.

Ok, with that out of the way, let’s get back to Bloody Temptations. 😉

This is an interesting mix of vampire “drama”, romance, and playful chaos. It is a sweet, funny, and surprisingly spicy vampire romcom that’s just a joy to read.

The story follows two idiot vampire boys, Finn and Kai, meeting and falling in love.
Finn is a newly turned vampire whose fresh start in the city isn’t going all that well. He’s sweet and likable, but full of anxiety and self-doubt. Then one night his friend(s) drag him to Bloody Temptations, and that’s where he meets Kai, the effortlessly charming bartender with a bit of a fan club. Needless to say, there’s some sparks flying right away.

It’s interesting how Kai and Finn couldn’t be more different, but are so good together. Kai is bold, flirty, and totally comfortable in his skin. Finn is awkward (in an endearing way), and convinced no one could really want him. And while their chemistry is instant and electric, they are genuinely sweet together.
That said, communication, or more accurately, miscommunication is a big hurdle for them. Kai assumes Finn can read between the lines, and Finn's low self-esteem makes him misinterpret Kai's intentions. That gets frustrating at times, especially for me since I am not a big fan of that trope, but…their eventual honesty and connection feel genuine.

What I found very satisfying was how all of this (everything mentioned above) was mixed with real growth and vulnerability of the characters. Finn in particular goes through a lot of growth, and it’s lovely to watch him start to believe he deserves more.

As with the Whisper Woods trilogy, the side characters are really great and interesting. There are definitely hints of future stories, especially around Niko and Willan, and I’m already curious to learn more about them all.

There is softness and humour, but also spice and a bit of kink, but don’t worry, the story always keeps the emotional connection front and center.

All in all, I’m looking forward to other books in this series!

I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my unbiased review.
Profile Image for Aitana.
95 reviews2 followers
September 13, 2025
Thanks to Booksirens and Ali Woods for sending me an advance review copy for free, I'm leaving this review honestly and voluntarily.

The actual rating of this book is around 3'5-3'75, rounded up to four.

It was a really really fun read! I laughed quite a bit while reading. The main characters were lovable and completely in love and the perfect amount of dumb for the miscommunication trope to work.

But they maybe were a bit too horny for me.

I've been reading more books with spice in them and it used to make me feel uncomfortable. Now they sometimes do and sometimes not. In this case, I found the spice really well-handed and not uncomfortable to read. I thought those parts were really good!

By the " a bit too horny" I mean that every time they even looked at each other they got hard, which was… shocking for asexual me. But it was fine and really helped explaining their dumbness. It was also how some fun quotes came to be.

The main characters were lovable because they had defects and insecurities, but they were amazing people to the very core. And I really liked their communication journey. I just wish we got more emotional and/or cute momentz between them, since I personally prefer that to spice.
But I really loved the ending and how happy and in love they are at the end.

The world was also really cool with the different beings living together and the vampire discrimination was well-handed in my opinion. I liked how the author interpreted vamps. And a lot of the places we're really cool to imagine, like the vampire club Heart Gate and the Mage festival.

The secondary characters were also fun and I really want to know more about Nikki and Willan's past.

It was my first book by this author but won't be my last. I started the book in the e- arc format and promptly got it on kindle unlimited to read the second half as soon as it came out, to support the author more.
Profile Image for Ash .
347 reviews52 followers
July 15, 2025
4.5 ⭐
2.5🌶️

Kai and Finn were so stinking cute. I didn't know I needed a vampire rom-com in my life until I read this. Now it's all I can think about. The entire friend group was hilarious. I loved that they called Finn out on his crap and didn't collapse in on himself and turn everyone away.

This was a low angst, good time, sexy as hell vibes read. I really enjoyed the way their relationship progressed. It was definitely instalust on both sides but also a very sweet slow burn. I enjoyed every second of Kai and Finn.

WHAT TO EXPECT
🩸 Vampire x Vampire
🖤 Introvert x Extrovert
🩸 Found Family
🖤 Insta-Lust/Love
🩸 Slow Burn
🖤 Hurt/Comfort

Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
Profile Image for Hetty.
108 reviews
July 15, 2025
Absolutely loved
Bloody Temptations by Ali Woods. The introvert-extrovert dynamic was perfection – Finn is such an adorable dork (I love him so much), and even though Kai is scorching hot, he’s got his own dorky traits that make him real and loveable. The relationship ebbs and flows so naturally with vulnerability, tension, and genuine ups and downs. It hooked me from the first page and never let go. And the spice… hot hot hot 🔥🔥🔥. I adored the rom-com vibe while still feeling grounded despite the vampires and supernatural chaos. Well written, engaging, and an absolute must read if you love spice, giggles, and vampires. 🩸
PS: leave the socks on
Profile Image for sixteenpawssevenears.
61 reviews17 followers
July 12, 2025
Finn & Kai

Rating: 4,5 ⭐️


🩸 MM Vampire Rom-Com
🖤 Introvert x Extrovert
🩸 Exhibitionist kink
🖤 Vampire x Vampire
🩸 Miscommunication
🖤 Found Family
🩸 Insta-lust/love
🖤 “Leave the socks on”
🩸 Domesticity kink




Well, now I'm sad.

I'm currently on summer vacation & read it in one day.
And it is just not enough.
Not enough pages.
Not enough story.
Not enough of Finns & Kais feel-good love.

Okay.

It was a little bit angsty, but not too bad (I promise!!!)

I loved them both & again - I read my fair share of romance novels - but these two are just pure joy & love.
Neither of them is shitty or makes the other feel less than.
The issues both had ( and now I really try not to spoiler anything) felt relatable & happen more often than not in the beginning of relationships.
The difference, though - they handled it better than most ❤️

Anyway.

The spice is good & not too much.
Vampires are hot AF.
But I mostly just enjoyed how their relationship was forming.

My only real critique is:
This book could have been 500+ pages long. It sometimes felt a little too rushed & shallow in order to wrap the story up. (hence the 4,5 ⭐️)

Still, I ate it up in less than 24 hours & could barely put it down.


Now.
Give me the next one!!!
I really hope the next is Nikki & Willan ❤️❤️❤️
And soon. Please & thank you!




Content Warnings:

• Blood play & biting in sex
• Non-consensual turning discussions involving an MC and their feelings about it.
• Violent shifter attack (historical, of page, involving an MC)
• Insecure, negative, self sabotaging inner monologue
• Vampire discrimination
• Alcohol use and a rather unfortunate drunken night
• Discussion of a vampire ending their own life


Verse: No
HEA: Yes
POV: duo
Breakup: No
Cheat: No
Profile Image for Rae, shutupandbookup.
380 reviews2 followers
August 18, 2025
"But now it’s gone. All of it. Along with all my dreams and everything that went with them. All because I thought it would be hot to get dicked down by a vampire. What an idiot." - Finn


Becoming a vampire has been difficult for Finn. Having to figure out how to navigate his new undead life and file all the legal paperwork. Finn's existence has a permanent raincloud hovering over it with no real light in sight. Until Finn breaks down and finally agrees to be dragged out for a night on the town with his coworker, Bedeer, and B.'s friends.


Bloody Temptations is a wild vampire bar that caters to vamps and is run and staffed by vamps! Finn is completely awestruck by the place and a certain bartender that has fan pages dedicated to the walking thirst trap. Kai seems to also take an interest in Finn but is he for real or just being flirty-nice to gain more tips? Old insecurities start creeping their way back into Finn's head even as the two grow closer. Finn finding himself on the same barstool almost every night just to be able to talk with Kai.


I felt like I hadn't read a good vampire book in a while and decided to take a chance on this one. I'm very glad I did and found a new author I enjoy! The writing is beautiful and had me hooked and submerging myself deeper into the story. The worldbuilding for this book was fantastic and I loved all the unique twists.


"But something about the awkward, adorable man said this guy—he’s important. I knew it in my guts—I had to go talk to him." - Kai


What solidified my love for this book was the intricacies of being/becoming a vampire. There are several steps and legal forms that must be met and filled out. Finn's maker didn't exactly check all the boxes leaving Finn scrambling. Finn felt alone in the world and vampires are still not fully welcomed into society. There are still stereotypes and racism against vamps. But when Finn finally goes to Bloody Temptations it feels like coming home, in a loud and odd way.


The bar isn't just for drinking, dancing, and talking to the cute bartender. The staff seem to take Finn under their wings as they notice Finn and Kai getting closer. Plus, they want in on the hot gossip and to be a little nosy. But if you've worked anywhere with a group of people you will understand the want to be in the loop of hot tea and potential trainwrecks. Living or undead "the drama, it's a drug"! More importantly Finn no longer feels alone being surrounded by other vampires with different backstories.


This book does contain language throughout. Do check TWs. Both of our MCs are vamps and there are several scenes of blood drinking whether from each other or fancy and unique drinks. This world has many beings (non-humans) in it, but vamps are still discriminated against. Scenes of vamp-phobic people/places talked about in the past tense. Mental and physical concerns that come with being turned and after being turned. Some heavy emotions and spiraling moments and putting yourself in the others shoes/perspective.


"Finn’s cheeks flame just like I knew they would. Honestly, how the fuck does he manage that as a vamp? Not that I’m complaining, I live for those little blushes." - Kai


I loved the relationship that was built between Kai and Finn despite the lack of communication/misunderstandings. The instant attraction, the cute dates, and the banter between them! Little bit of a slow burn but the MM scenes are very spicy. I loved the twist with their dynamic and enjoyed reading the scenes! Kai was made to be in front of a camera making public and private thirst traps. Finn having no problem watching both types on repeat and excited to be the one inspiring Kai to make private ones!


I really want to continue this series and see who the next couple will be! Loved Nikki and Maddy along with several other side characters! This read felt real and authentic. Raw emotions being shown and everything not instantly being perfect or resolved. Being in a relationship whether romantic or not takes time and effort for everyone involved. We do get an HEA for the guys and growth/healing to come. Ready for the next installment!


Enjoy the read with vampires, crazy vampire establishments, cute/swoony moments, and more! And don't forget to give the author some stars!


Thank you, BookSirens!


shutupandbookup.com
Profile Image for Dulce Funez.
96 reviews5 followers
July 18, 2025
Finn is a baby vamp or better said, a brand-new vampire whose life took a sudden and unexpected turn. He's still adjusting to this new reality. He works a monotonous job that, while far from his dream, helps pay the bills. In short, his life is boring and melancholic. That’s why he finally decides to say yes to his work friend’s invitation and visit the vampire bar Bloody Temptations not knowing that that night he’d meet his greatest temptation.
Kai, on the other hand, is going through something similar. He’s immediately drawn to the shy blond who seems to do everything he can to go unnoticed. So Kai decides to talk to him. Apparently, Finn misunderstood his approach, but instead of being offended, he found it endearing—and there’s something about him that makes Kai want to know more.
Look, these two are adorable. I love how their relationship starts with Finn casually visiting Kai’s bar, and then slowly becomes something more. Finn is still new to being a vampire, so Kai tries to teach him more about their kind. Finn also begins to experience the discrimination vampires face in society, and we see how prejudice still exists against them. So no, Finn hasn’t exactly had a great time being a vamp, but things begin to look up. He builds a found family that had me both laughing and saying “aww,” finds an amazing lover who looks really good in tight shorts and socks, and gains a mentor who actually understands him. We see him slowly start to let go and be himself.
And yes, these two are absolute idiots in love, but you’ll love them with all your heart because they’re cute, funny, and hot as hell.
P.S. I can’t wait to see the next couples! We’ve gotten a few hints about two potential ones, but one thing I absolutely loved and hope to keep seeing, is Finn being Matteus and Aristet’s son 😂. Poor Finn was stuck right in the middle of his dads’ fight, but I was laughing so hard. I seriously can’t wait to see more of them!

Star Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice Rating: 2.5 /5 🔥🔥

If you like to read:
🩸 MM Vampire Rom-Com
🖤 Introvert x Extrovert
🩸 Insta-lust/love
🖤 Found Family
🩸 “Leave the socks on”
🖤 Domesticity kink
Profile Image for Ashley Carrillo.
305 reviews
August 15, 2025
So I've seen this author recommended and I've been into paranormal romances so I was excited to pick up this book and I love reading new to me author's work and I have to say I'm obsessed! This was so damn sweet and definitely had that spice mixed in there as well as sexual tension and chemistry because Finn and Kai had heaps of it. They were everything I needed. Finn is a new vamp, not by choice, and sadly hasn't had anyone to help him through such a difficult transition. He's been getting by on his own but depression is no joke even for vampires. He works at a job he can't stand and lives in a place he wouldn't choose but had no choice. He isolates himself even with a co worker trying to befriend him and asking him to come out with his friends. He always declines but something has to give so he finds himself saying yes one day. And thats when he's introduced to the vampire bar Bloody Temptations and meets the gorgeous vampire bartender named Kai who he doesn't know is going to challenge all of his insecurities. Kai loves his job at Bloody Temptations. He was working there before he was turned but after he stayed and had a lot of support from his friends there and his family to get him through the change. He also gets to dress in revealing matching costumes with his best friend and dance on the bar to give the crowd a show. When Kai sees Finn for the first time he's drawn to him and he wants to know more. Things are rocky in the beginning as Kai hits on Finn and tries to show his interest but Finn's insecurities get in the way and both have trouble with communicating. I wanted to tell them so many times to talk and that yes actions are great and show intentions but words to reassure and stay on the same page are also required. They fumbled at times but in the end there's no way either of them could walk away from the intense bond they shared. I loved their story and I can't wait for more! The side characters were amazing as well and I'm excited for all the possible couples for future books!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for James Weems.
13 reviews2 followers
September 22, 2025
I don’t read a lot of paranormal romance, but vampires falling in love? That I can sink my teeth into – if you’ll excuse the terrible pun. If my choice of words bothers you, don’t take it out on this novel! This is a dual point of view book, generally alternating between Finn and Kai, the two romantic leads.

Finn, the first character we meet, seems to have a “normal” life – until he reveals he’s a vampire. First big twist – he’s fairly comfortable being a vampire, and his worries and concerns are about the same as those of a living human, other than sleeping during daylight hours and coming alive once the sun goes down. He’s got a unique group of friends, composed of a mage, a couple of witches, and his co-worker, a blue-skinned fae. Bedeer, the fae, is persistent, and persuades him to join them for a fun “night out” after work at this great vampire bar called Bloody Temptations.

Kai is one of the employees at Bloody Temptations, along with Nikolo, his friend and apartment-mate. The two of them, both vampires, frequently put on a show, sexy dancing in revealing outfits, and have acquired the nickname “Hot Vampire Bros,” even getting social media coverage of their outlandish performances. No bar is complete without assorted other employees, and this one’s got them covered. There are orcs and scycathians and a barback-type employee named Lifo who’s probably the most unpleasant guy you could imagine. To get a rough idea without reading the book, it’s kind of like the bar in Star Wars: A New Hope, with all manner of beings and a definite mix of legal and shady types. Once Kai and Nikolo have finished their dance, Kai is jazzed and decides it’s going to be his lucky night.

When Finn walks into Bloody Temptations, he and Kai see each other, and there’s your “meet cute.” Things progress with tentative steps, missteps, and misunderstandings, ultimately leading to a happily ever after. Again, I strongly recommend this book. Well-crafted characters, believable scenes, and a swift read.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for A.G..
248 reviews1 follower
August 8, 2025
This book was cute and the world was original, and both of the characters were sweet and likeable and the side characters were fun without being overwhelming to the story. It was a lighthearted read, and I liked it, but if I were being more critical I'd call this a 3 star read. As it is, I enjoyed it and am boosting that last star on vibes alone. Others have said this book is funny, and I didn't find it very funny, necessarily. Sweet and silly at times, and light, but there were no laugh out loud moments, only a few grins at the silliness between the two.

There were parts that were choppy, timeline wise, where we'd be in one place and fast forward a few weeks later. I would've liked to seen more interactions between Kai and Finn during those moments as they got to know each other, instead of just being told it was happening.

My biggest complaint was that holy shit that miscommunication should've been resolved long before it was. Both characters had inner monologue about talking to the other about their relationship status, but neither of them actually does it. And for like, 2 months, they're coasting along oblivious to the other's feelings, and by 60% I wanted to knock their heads together. That was a SIMPLE conversation that both of them had acknowledged to themselves, and while I can understand Finn's hesitation to a point, I don't know why Kai didn't speak up about it. And the problem with this lies in that without that lack of communication, there would be no drama in the 3rd act, so the entire storyline revolved around this tiny little talking point, and that got on my nerves.

That, and the fact that these two were popping boners literally every time they touched. I could've done with a few less cock twitches and random public boners to show their attraction to each other, because it started to make it feel that maybe Finn's worries were justified, and maybe it was all sexual attraction and not the deep connection we're told about but never see, because we're more focused on the sex.
Profile Image for S. Shybrarian.
64 reviews3 followers
July 20, 2025
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐.75 / 5 (rounded up)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ / 5

Where are all the fans of The Passing Through Cafe, Goliaths of Wrestling, and other paranormal MM romantic comedies? If you enjoyed those stories, I think you’ll be a big fan of Finn and Kai.

Woods does a great job weaving an engaging, unique paranormal world and dropping us right in the middle of it from the start. Finn is a sweet, somewhat bumbling vampire who has been through it and, when his friends take him to the “vamp-lite” bar to check out the Hot Vampire Bartenders (HVBs), sparks instantly fly.

What follows is an endearing, funny, and intriguing tale of lust-at-first-sight, overcoming trauma, miscommunication, and finding one’s place in a new and unknown world. It’s wrapped up in just enough of the “mundane” day-to-day to make it feel almost contemporary, especially with the quick pace.

Kai is a swoonworthy MC who is immediately smitten and oh so lovable. His chemistry with Finn is undeniable and leaps off the page.

There’s a lot going on from a plot perspective, and plenty of hints for possible future stories (admittedly, almost to the point of distraction as we near the end).

Bloody Temptations is such a good time and I enjoyed it from start to finish. Recommended for fans of Lily Mayne, Lark Taylor, Nik Knight, Emmy Sanders, and similar MM authors who write fun, humorous stories.

📚Fast facts📚
✨ Coyote Ugly but w/ vampires
✨ Utter obliviousness
✨ Insta love / lust
✨ Miscommunication (relatable!)
✨ Exh!b!tion!sm k!nk
✨ Domesticity k!nk
✨ Overcoming insecurity
✨ Unique worldbuilding
✨ Found family
✨ Open door
✨ Paranormal MM rom-com
✨ Standalone (first in a series)
✨ First person, dual POV, present tense

I am so grateful to the author to have received an advanced copy of this story! This is my honest and unbiased review.
63 reviews2 followers
July 21, 2025
*ARC Review* Thank you to Ali Woods for sending me a copy!

Intro:
This book is an MM romance between two vampires named Kai and Finn. Kai works in a bar called Bloody Temptations and Finn works in a call center.


Tropes/Highlights:
-Dual POV
-MM
-Open Door Spice
-Shy/Outgoing
-Mutual Pining
-Found Family
-Biting/Blood
-Friendly Ribbing
-Miscommunication
-Idiots in love
-HEA


Likes:
-No cheating
-I love how awkward Finn's character is and how his shyness isn't a problem to overcome
-The vampire system is uniquely written, I haven't seen vampires written with these set of rules before regarding the sun
-There isn't an insane climax to the story, but when it does happen, I like the way it is resolved
-Kai and Finn are so sweet, but they are lil idiots sometimes (especially Finn and his word vomit)
-This story was a comfy rom-com read with low plot, in a good way
-Nikolo was a fun side character and I really hope he gets his own book
-The spice scenes were well timed and well written
-The cover is so cute and matches the vibes of the story so well

Neutrals:
-Plot mostly centers around the bar, Bloody Temptations

My Dislikes:
-Didn't have any critiques, it was a fun fluff read

This was a fun and endearing read. I loved Kai and Finn's story and how it evolved around the ups and downs, as any relationship would. Both of the characters were so sweet and I enjoyed their slightly messy way of finding their way to each other. The side characters and dynamic of Kai's best friend really add to the story and make me love the characters more. These characters aren't afraid to be themselves and they definitely aren't afraid to be perceived as weird. I recommend checking this book out if you love tender idiot vampires trying hard not to catch feelings but falling head over heels in love anyways.
Profile Image for Brandie.
95 reviews5 followers
August 20, 2025
5/5⭐
2/5 🌶️

I was beyond pleasantly surprised when I received an ARC copy for Bloody Temptations by Ali Woods. The only thing I love more than an up-beat urban fantasy is an up-beat urban fantasy with Vampires. And both of the main love interests in this book are vampires.

Kai is a model-handsome, experienced vampire working at a campy vampire themed bar where he adores dancing on the bar and being the center of attention.

Finn is an introverted baby vamp with a tragic past and low self-esteem who stubbles upon Bloody Temptations (the bar Kai works at) on a night out with new friends. There is an immediate attraction between the two.

I don't want to give too much away but I can tell you that it is a heartwarming low angst, high heat love story with a plethora of fun supporting side characters of varying mythical creatures. The world building is perfection. It's different enough that you know it's about a completely different and magical world. But it's not so complicated and confusing that you need to annotate every other paragraph as a reference to look back on later. It sucks you into the new reality effortlessly. (Pun ALWAYS intended)

I would highly recommend this to anyone who loves MM romance and fantasy.

Features:
- New Vamp/Experienced Vamp
- Magical World
- Introvert/Extrovert
- Discrimination
- Vampires As Mistreated Beings
- Few Humans Mentioned, Mostly "Other" Beings Depicted
- Vampires Live Long Lives but Not Immortal
- Blood Drinking
- Vamp Bites As Part of Spicy Fun Times
- Traumatic Turning
- Dancing & Air Guitar Playing Vampires
- Dating Miscommunication
- Mutual Pinning
- Starting Over/New Life
- Larger Top/Smaller Bottom
- Extremely Supportive Friends
- Slow Burn Relationship
- Exibibitionist Kink
- Only Bossy In The Bedroom
Profile Image for ljreads_13.
47 reviews5 followers
July 23, 2025
Bloody Temptations is everything I never knew I needed in a vampire rom-com—and then some. 🥰🥰

Imagine taking a bite out of your favorite cinnamon roll and realizing it’s filled with sass, fangs, and just the right amount of spice!😏😏

That’s Finn!!! He is a sweet, awkward, newly-turned vamp just trying to survive post-cat-shifter life, one blood- apple martini at a time. 🍸

Then there’s Kai, the glitter-drenched, bar-dancing, confidence-exuding vampire bartender who probably sparkles even without vampire magic (and yes, I’m convinced his hips have their own personality🙂‍↕️🙂‍↕️).

The moment these two lock eyes at Bloody Temptations, it’s game over. Cue the swoon.

Their chemistry? Unholy in the best way. 🤩🤩

They are Passionate, playful, and full of the kind of longing looks that make you kick your feet under the blanket like a teenager.

They’re opposites in the most adorable way—Finn with his shy “please don’t look at me” energy and Kai who absolutely wants everyone to look at him—and somehow they fit together perfectly.

The angst is mostly low, like a rom-com bubble bath with just enough heat to keep your glasses fogged, and the found family vibes made my little heart absolutely melt.

This book didn’t just make me smile—it made me giggle, swoon, and text my friends in all caps about how disgustingly cute these two are. 🙈🙈

If you like romance with heart, heat, and hilariously hot vampires who can’t help but fall head over heels, Bloody Temptations is your new favorite obsession.

Thank you to the author for giving me the chance to read this as an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Rae_Reads.
136 reviews7 followers
July 21, 2025
Bloody Temptations introduces us to Finn, a newly turned vampire whose life has spiraled since the change. He’s lost his job, his apartment, and his self-confidence, and spends most of his days quietly trying to adapt. When a workmate persuades him to join a night out at the legendary vampire bar Bloody Temptations, one look at Kai, the bartender with effortless charm and vampire-model looks, completely throws Finn off balance.

Kai, on the other hand, is everything Finn isn’t: bold, extroverted, and utterly magnetic. Turned at his physical peak, Kai has cultivated a fanbase that borders on obsession, with social media accounts dedicated to him and his best friend, both of whom put on a show every night behind the bar.

After several hesitant visits, Finn finally catches Kai’s attention. A genuine friendship blossoms, but Finn’s lack of self-worth clouds his judgment. Despite clear chemistry and real feelings, Finn convinces himself it’s just a casual fling, something fleeting. The miscommunication simmers into angst as both want more but Finn can't allow himself to believe it could be true.

Thankfully an unexpected new mentor helps Finn begin to rewrite the narrative he’s trapped in. And yes—this story delivers a satisfying HEA that leaves you grinning.

Funny, sweet, and spiced just right, this romance delivers cozy vibes with a side of vampire drama. I genuinely enjoyed it and can’t wait to sink my teeth into the next installment.

Vibes:
Slow Burn
MM Vampire Rom-Com
Introvert x Extrovert
Exhibitionist Kink
Vampire x Vampire
Miscommunication
Found Family
Insta-lust/love

Rating: 4⭐️
Spice: 2🌶
Profile Image for ivanareadsalot.
797 reviews256 followers
July 23, 2025
I would like to thank BookSirens for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

Ahhhhh this was so soooo good!!! Bloody Temptations was luscious, bitey fun, and i've mentally shelved this bloody delight up there with Rose's Bite Marks & Broken Hearts , Nik Knight's Passing Through Cafe series and Fae Quin's King of Hollywood !! You know, that smushy-sexy-supernatural energy that's all kinds of hot and adorable and very easy to fall in love with!

Kai was a fire show that melted my brain, but he was also the sweetest babe and i loved him immensely! And Finn was a veeeeeery sexy surprise, and with his heart-squeezing past, low self-esteem, bumbling limbs and a blush you could see from space i was gone for this confused, achy darling!

Together they were the epitome of "first relationship" Lovefools, sweet and caught up, a bit delusional and with little to no communication…because who wants THAT bubble to burst? So, even though the 3rd act detonation was seen coming from ten pages in lol, Kai and Finn were still very much the scorching hot, romantic, daydreamy stuff fantasy crushes are made of!

We love to read it! It's such a vibe!

I really really enjoyed this first book in Ali Woods' new series, and i'm monster levels of H A P P Y that there's more to come for the rest of the super babes of Bloody Temptations! I hope this series lasts forever because i had the best time with this book and i cannot wait for all the wild adventures still to come!
Profile Image for Lu.
77 reviews
August 10, 2025
⭐⭐⭐✨

ARC Review

Such a cosy and wholesome vampiric romance.

Set in Tathys (the exciting magical city introduced in Whisper Woods), we follow the romantic story of vampires Finn & Kai.

Sadly, society still has lots of prejudice against vampires and Finn has really felt the brunt of this since being turned. Made worse by the trauma of his turning - I think it was against his will, but it isn’t 100% clear.

An out of the ordinary trip to a night club with friends introduces Finn to Seth and a wonderful romantic journey happens from there.

The majority of the story is really sweet and wholesome and a real joy to read. There is just enough emotional drama to keep it exciting and of course, some wonderful spicy scenes.

The confusion around Finn’s turning and the lack of plot outside of the romance lowered the rating for me. I will definitely be reading the rest of the series though, as the city and the characters are wonderful. I also now know to expect less fantasy and questing with this series compared to those set in the Whisper Woods.

Themes/Tropes:
High Fantasy, Romance, Paranormal, Band of Misfits, Emotional Scars, Everyone Can See It, Afraid to Commit, Magic, Witches, Monsters/Fantastical Creatures, Vampires, Shifters, LGBTQIA+ Rep, MM & Multi POV.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

4/5 🌶
Profile Image for Lizzy.
160 reviews17 followers
July 16, 2025
These two were completely adorable!
The flirty & confident Kai who could so easily have seemed arrogant and vain was so loveable. I found myself wishing I had half his confidence. His joy for life was so fun to read.
The sweet & shy Finn. I wanted to wrap him up in the biggest hug throughout. He didn’t get the best start for his changed life and the knocks he received seemed to have shattered his already low sense of self-worth.
Together they made such a wonderful pairing.
These two really need to learn to communicate better! I was so mad at both of them sometimes. I just wanted them to declare their love constantly.

The side characters were fantastic. I would’ve loved to see more of them (esp Nikki & Willian) though it seems clear there is more to come from them all in the future. I’m greedy, I want it all now!

This was the first book I’ve read by this author and I look forward to reading many more in future. I really enjoyed the writing style and how all the details came together slowly, the world building was great, so many details included that really made this a unique vampire story. I will definitely be looking out for more in this series. I feel like we just scratched the surface of this world.
Profile Image for JessB.
134 reviews1 follower
August 14, 2025
Finn is a recently turned vampire, lonely and working a call center job that subjects him to verbal abuse and pervs. After being turned, he lost everything from his old life. He was fired due to his "status". He's desperate for something new and goes out to a vamp bar with friends. There, he meets Kai (Hot Vampire Bartender). Kai is outgoing, locally and social media famous for dancing seductively on the bar with his bff/roommate/coworker. Finn sees Kai doing his routine and is entranced (figuratively..that's important because this is a paranormal romance.) Kai notices Finn and approaches him. Finn is such an awkward, insecure little vamp you just want to jump in and cuddle him . He keeps showing up at the bar.

On top of being lonely, being a vampire subjects Finn to discrimination, and it hurts his heart. He is lost in all aspects of life. However, going to the bar is helping because *Kai*. The community/society aspects and legalities around being turned are really interesting. He was abandoned by his maker the morning after. Makers are supposed to be legally responsible for those they turn for a year 😡. Kai's situation fell under a legal loophole.

You are taken through Finn and Kai's dating/friendship journey. It is sweet, captivating, frustrating, and HOT, HOT, HOT!

I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for the rest of the series.

Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥



*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Amy Watson.
88 reviews10 followers
July 14, 2025
When Finn finds himself newly turned and without a mentor to guide him, he feels completely out of place. . .like he has no one to turn to. That is, until he’s approached by the hot bartender he’s been secretly eyeing during a night out with friends. Kai knew from the moment he laid eyes on Finn that there was something different about him. And it wasn’t just the quiet, reserved demeanor. Being the flirt he is, Kai quickly finds himself drawn in by this baby vamp. He's pulled in by something he can’t quite explain. Finn and Kai couldn’t be more different. Finn is shy and soft-spoken, while Kai is outgoing and bold. But somehow, despite those differences, they just click. I absolutely loved their dynamic. I really connected with Finn with all the feelings of not being good enough, the constant self-doubt. It hit way closer to home than I expected. And Kai? I adore him so much. Sure, he wasn’t the best at communication, but the way he owned up to his mistakes and put in the work to fix things? It melted my heart with how much he showed Finn how much he cares for him. If you love introvert/extrovert, found family, and a little insta-lust, this is a must read.
Profile Image for Dayton.
488 reviews6 followers
July 23, 2025
man i really enjoyed this book!

Meet your new fave MM coupling, sweet shy introverted Finn, he was done wrong by his maker and has struggled adjusting to his new life as a vampire. Out there, in your face, sexy and he knows it, extrovert Kai who is well adjusted to his life a vamp and is a bartender at Bloody Temptations.

The chemistry between these two, the tension, the slow burn, the hesitation; it was soo good and made the story work really nicely. The plot was there and everything flowed well. I am never a fan of the third act breakup but I understood why it was needed (shows their miscommunication and just how much Finn is struggling with his insecurities), it really brought the story to a head and was worth it because the outcome we got from it was so good for them as a couple and for Finn as a vamp! So it worked here and I didn’t mind it!

I really enjoyed this book and knowing it’s number one in the series is even more exciting cause that means there is more to come!!!

Also, there is ✨whimpering✨ lots of it because these two are down bad for each other and when they give in, they give in!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
41 reviews
July 23, 2025
4.25 ⭐

Such a fun vampire romcom — sexy, funny, and heartfelt. I actually needed this, it had been so long since I read a romcom.

The story follows Finn, a newly turned vampire whose “fresh start” in the city hasn’t exactly gone to plan. He’s awkward, anxious, and completely out of his depth — until he walks into Bloody Temptations, and locks eyes with Kai, the charismatic bartender. Their connection is instant 👌🏼

But what really hooked me wasn’t just the chemistry (which is chef’s kiss, mwah mwah mwah), it was the emotional depth beneath the flirting, about learning to want more, and to believe you’re worth being wanted back. Both characters were so sweet, but also filthy animals 😏

This had the perfect balance between rom-com chaos, found family energy, and the darker edges of desire. Loved all the sass, swoon, and slow-burn vulnerability.

That spice *Dabs forehead with a cold cloth*

“What if I wanted to feed from your d!ck? Like teeth right in there and everything. Just nruff.”

🧛‍♂️ Tropes:
Vampire X Vampire Rom-Com
Miscommunication
Insta-Lust / Love
Domesticity Kink
Introvert × Extrovert
Exhibitionist Kink
Found Family
Blood... Obviously. Vampires duh
Profile Image for Yvonne.
611 reviews10 followers
August 14, 2025
Having read Ali Woods other series Legends of Whisper Woods, I was glad that we get more of this world. Finn's experience in Whisper Woods was a not a good one, when he was turned into a vampire and then left on his own. Since then he has faced nothing but prejudice, now lacking in confidence and having few friends, I felt so sorry for him. Going to Bloody Temptations his eyes locked with Kai a flamboyant bartender and fellow vampire Kai and the start of a new friendship for Finn.
This was such a pleasant read as I followed Finn grow in confidence, getting come to realise that he had got friends and folk who cared for him. Finn's friends were great and gave Finn the found family he deserved and I am interested in finding more about Niko and Willan, as there is definitely a story there.
At the start when Finn and Kai were together it was so sweet, but as things got serious the temperature rose. Although at times, I did want to sit them both down and have serious words. I loved reading about the vampire world and could clearly imagine walking round looking at the sights.
Looking forward to what is coming next
Profile Image for Flick.
1,012 reviews8 followers
November 27, 2025
I loved this new-to-me author!

This was so cute! I've not read anything by this author before and I am very excited about reading more - I really enjoyed the romcom feel of the writing, it was witty and fun but also sweet and romantic. Kai and Finn were the kind of couple that may not make sense initially but actually fit well with each other without having to give up who they are at their core. I'll admit, I am a fan of the introvert/extrovert combination and it worked really well here. Finn understandably incredible bruised in terms of life. Things had 'gone wrong' very quickly and he was really struggling with his self-confidence. I liked that Kai was able to bring that confidence back without being pushy or trying to change who Finn was. It's a pet peeve of mine when the key to self-confidence is suggested as being to simply change everything about yourself, including the things most intrinsically you. The secondary characters were really well done as well. I really enjoyed their parts of the story as much as the main plot between the MCs. It's made me really look forward to more from this series and from these characters.
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