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Bonds of Blood #2
Every Longing Heart
Victorian London’s vampire society has a new ruler—just in time for Christmas.
Bluestocking turned vampire Genevieve has endured hell for twenty years, forced to obey by her loathed vampire maker because of the blood bond connecting them. Now with her maker finally dead, she’s free of his oppressive control but left with little hope and too many scars. This bleak midwinter, she has a slim chance at a different future, for better or worse—but that depends on the new vampire ruler choosing a different path and not being dispatched first.
One of the oldest vampires in England, Kendrick has returned to London wielding his sword to reform vampire society. He understands the mistakes and failings of the past but struggles to see a way forward after years of being alone. Attempts on his un-life don’t help either—but he is more intrigued than he has been in centuries by a comely woman who leaves him cryptic warnings and harangues him on the conduct of his new rule.
Genevieve has the foresight for what the relationship between vampires and humans could be. Kendrick has the power to make it come to pass. But to surmount the resistance from London’s vampires, they must join forces in a most convenient union to bring outcasts in from the cold and prove that not all bonds are forged with blood.
Love breathes life into the dead in this Christmas gothic Victorian romance, perfect for fans of Mimi Matthews, Jacquelyn Benson, and all those who like a little bite amidst their comfort and joy. Every Longing Heart is a cozy vampire marriage of convenience and the companion novel to Black and Deep Desires.
Bluestocking turned vampire Genevieve has endured hell for twenty years, forced to obey by her loathed vampire maker because of the blood bond connecting them. Now with her maker finally dead, she’s free of his oppressive control but left with little hope and too many scars. This bleak midwinter, she has a slim chance at a different future, for better or worse—but that depends on the new vampire ruler choosing a different path and not being dispatched first.
One of the oldest vampires in England, Kendrick has returned to London wielding his sword to reform vampire society. He understands the mistakes and failings of the past but struggles to see a way forward after years of being alone. Attempts on his un-life don’t help either—but he is more intrigued than he has been in centuries by a comely woman who leaves him cryptic warnings and harangues him on the conduct of his new rule.
Genevieve has the foresight for what the relationship between vampires and humans could be. Kendrick has the power to make it come to pass. But to surmount the resistance from London’s vampires, they must join forces in a most convenient union to bring outcasts in from the cold and prove that not all bonds are forged with blood.
Love breathes life into the dead in this Christmas gothic Victorian romance, perfect for fans of Mimi Matthews, Jacquelyn Benson, and all those who like a little bite amidst their comfort and joy. Every Longing Heart is a cozy vampire marriage of convenience and the companion novel to Black and Deep Desires.
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 24, 2025
2 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Claire Trella Hill
10 books97 followersClaire Trella Hill will read anything, but fantasy romance and gothic fiction are her favorites. When Claire isn't writing, she can be found with her nose glued to her library app, assisting with the last tricky pieces of a puzzle, swilling Dr. Pepper, collecting vintage romance covers, or cuddling with her cat.
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October 26, 2025cute and cosy; reforms among the vampires for rights for blood-children, and all the heart-warming feels to be expected from Claire.
one of the things i loved the most about this book was the way that we get to know that our heroine had been horribly used and abused without having our noses rubbed in the horror and degradation of it. we never lose our sense of Genevieve as a person in the horror of what happened to her, which means we can concentrate more on her healing and her stepping into the sunlight (ehehehe) than the trauma of what happened to her.
Black & Deep Desires, the first in this series, is still by far my favourite, because apparently i love gothic vampires with a monster locked in the cellar more than city vampires with an ancient celtic lord vampire--but this one is well worth the read.
i do love the way that light is used in this book, especially toward the end; light is the opposite of dark, and a christmas story with vampires could seem as odd as a story with vampires featuring light in a prominent place, but it WORKS
if you're a reader/lover of sweet regency books, this will most likely work for you--and it has vampires! win/win
one of the things i loved the most about this book was the way that we get to know that our heroine had been horribly used and abused without having our noses rubbed in the horror and degradation of it. we never lose our sense of Genevieve as a person in the horror of what happened to her, which means we can concentrate more on her healing and her stepping into the sunlight (ehehehe) than the trauma of what happened to her.
Black & Deep Desires, the first in this series, is still by far my favourite, because apparently i love gothic vampires with a monster locked in the cellar more than city vampires with an ancient celtic lord vampire--but this one is well worth the read.
i do love the way that light is used in this book, especially toward the end; light is the opposite of dark, and a christmas story with vampires could seem as odd as a story with vampires featuring light in a prominent place, but it WORKS
if you're a reader/lover of sweet regency books, this will most likely work for you--and it has vampires! win/win
October 24, 2025
UPDATE: as of 10/24/25, EVERY LONGING HEART is now OUT IN THE WORLD! You can get it any place books are sold or right here: https://books2read.com/everylongingheart
I hope you find some comfort and joy in the pages...along with a little bit of bite.
* * *
I am SO EXCITED to announce the companion novel for Black and Deep Desires and to share the cover reveal for EVERY LONGING HEART! This Christmas gothic Victorian romance with a dash of paranormal vampires is a great blend of the spooky and the cozy of the Christmas season. I hope you all fall in love with Genevieve and Kendrick!
Romantic content: closed door
Sensitive content: Mentions of physical violence, torture, assault (off page, in past), unbalanced power dynamics (past for the MC, present for some side characters), Victorian London being a rough place to live when poor. Vampiric death, regular death.
I hope you find some comfort and joy in the pages...along with a little bit of bite.
* * *
I am SO EXCITED to announce the companion novel for Black and Deep Desires and to share the cover reveal for EVERY LONGING HEART! This Christmas gothic Victorian romance with a dash of paranormal vampires is a great blend of the spooky and the cozy of the Christmas season. I hope you all fall in love with Genevieve and Kendrick!
Romantic content: closed door
Sensitive content: Mentions of physical violence, torture, assault (off page, in past), unbalanced power dynamics (past for the MC, present for some side characters), Victorian London being a rough place to live when poor. Vampiric death, regular death.
October 25, 2025
To anyone who didn't know they needed a Gothic Christmas vampire romance in their lives: you absolutely need a Gothic Christmas vampire romance in your life. Every Longing Heart is a treat of a book that's delightful whether or not you've read Black and Deep Desires.
If you've read BaDD, you'll enjoy seeing more of old friends (notably Kendrick, Etienne, and Addie, though Salem and Ophelia do eventually show up as well) and following Kendrick as he cleans up the mess that Rupert left behind. You'll also find more exploration of humanity, monstrosity, and what sets the boundaries between them, following up on the themes of BaDD . . . and some musings and reassurance that no one is truly beyond hope or help unless they choose to be. Even if you haven't read BaDD, though, you'll still be able to enjoy this book — the narrative clarifies what you'll need to know, though you will end up learning some spoilers in the process.
Besides the themes, I absolutely loved the characters. I’m always a fan of the protector characters, the ones determined to shield and help those in need, and both Kendrick and Genevieve fall into that category, in different ways. Kendrick, originally from the pre-Roman era, still carries the fierceness of his time, coupled with determination, courage, and cunning, and seeing him rise to the occasion of rulership and become the leader the Ossuary needed was delightful. Just as delightful was watching Genevieve grow into the person she was meant to be — one who no longer hides in the shadows but stands and speaks fearlessly on behalf of others and who can protect those she loves the way she wants to. Side characters were also delightful, and I loved how much of Genevieve's character is built on and informed by her friendships — and how we saw those friends grow alongside our main characters.
The romance is also lovely. Kendrick and Genevieve are our main couple, and I was sold on them pretty much from their first meeting, when Genevieve called out Kendrick on what he was overlooking and failing to do and, in doing so, gave him the perspective shift he needed to begin making a difference. The way they care for each other and are patient with each other’s troubles and traumas, while simultaneously challenging each other and refusing to let each other stay locked in old hurts, is beautiful. Also, because this is a marriage of convenience story, we do get to see them supporting each other and caring for each other as husband and wife and figuring out how to do marriage well, and it's absolutely lovely. (Be aware that this does mean there are a couple scenes with them in bed together, but not in the context of sexual activity. I was fine with it; but some people might want to know.)
Plus, in addition to Genevieve and Kendrick, there are several side romances that are also super cute, even if they don’t get a lot of page time. Etienne and Addie continue to be adorable, but they're probably tied for my favorite side couple with two newcomers, Elspeth and Robbie.
Also, if you're seeing this review not at Christmas time: while this book does take place at Christmas (and while I may be adding it to my Christmas reads list), most of the story could just as easy take place at another time of year. That means that you could easily read it in any season you like.
I will say that I think BaDD was a slightly stronger book than Longing is. The tension drops a bit more than I'd like in the last quarter of the book, and the themes can get a bit heavy-handed in that section as well. Other than that, though, I loved this story, and I'm so glad that Hill continued to explore these characters and this setting.
If you've read BaDD, you'll enjoy seeing more of old friends (notably Kendrick, Etienne, and Addie, though Salem and Ophelia do eventually show up as well) and following Kendrick as he cleans up the mess that Rupert left behind. You'll also find more exploration of humanity, monstrosity, and what sets the boundaries between them, following up on the themes of BaDD . . . and some musings and reassurance that no one is truly beyond hope or help unless they choose to be. Even if you haven't read BaDD, though, you'll still be able to enjoy this book — the narrative clarifies what you'll need to know, though you will end up learning some spoilers in the process.
Besides the themes, I absolutely loved the characters. I’m always a fan of the protector characters, the ones determined to shield and help those in need, and both Kendrick and Genevieve fall into that category, in different ways. Kendrick, originally from the pre-Roman era, still carries the fierceness of his time, coupled with determination, courage, and cunning, and seeing him rise to the occasion of rulership and become the leader the Ossuary needed was delightful. Just as delightful was watching Genevieve grow into the person she was meant to be — one who no longer hides in the shadows but stands and speaks fearlessly on behalf of others and who can protect those she loves the way she wants to. Side characters were also delightful, and I loved how much of Genevieve's character is built on and informed by her friendships — and how we saw those friends grow alongside our main characters.
The romance is also lovely. Kendrick and Genevieve are our main couple, and I was sold on them pretty much from their first meeting, when Genevieve called out Kendrick on what he was overlooking and failing to do and, in doing so, gave him the perspective shift he needed to begin making a difference. The way they care for each other and are patient with each other’s troubles and traumas, while simultaneously challenging each other and refusing to let each other stay locked in old hurts, is beautiful. Also, because this is a marriage of convenience story, we do get to see them supporting each other and caring for each other as husband and wife and figuring out how to do marriage well, and it's absolutely lovely. (Be aware that this does mean there are a couple scenes with them in bed together, but not in the context of sexual activity. I was fine with it; but some people might want to know.)
Plus, in addition to Genevieve and Kendrick, there are several side romances that are also super cute, even if they don’t get a lot of page time. Etienne and Addie continue to be adorable, but they're probably tied for my favorite side couple with two newcomers, Elspeth and Robbie.
Also, if you're seeing this review not at Christmas time: while this book does take place at Christmas (and while I may be adding it to my Christmas reads list), most of the story could just as easy take place at another time of year. That means that you could easily read it in any season you like.
I will say that I think BaDD was a slightly stronger book than Longing is. The tension drops a bit more than I'd like in the last quarter of the book, and the themes can get a bit heavy-handed in that section as well. Other than that, though, I loved this story, and I'm so glad that Hill continued to explore these characters and this setting.
October 1, 2025
I really liked the worldbuilding, it was cool to see how vampire society changed after the events of the first book in the series. I also liked the main couple, I felt like they had nice chemistry and I like the "marriage of convenience with a side of will they/won't they" combo platter. I wished that aspect had been talked about more at the close of the book though. Not that I necessarily needed spice, just an acknowledgment of how far the characters had come in overcoming trauma in the latter half of the book and how it impacted the romance in the end.
I think the stakes of the book overall were my main criticism, especially compared to the first book. It felt like many of the plot arcs resolved a bit too neatly - there were a couple of moments that I thought were setups where the big bad would show up and cause trouble (my gut absolutely dropped at one of them!) but then it turned out I had just imagined that there was a twist coming.
Now, don't get me wrong, I have nothing against a cozy Christmas vampire romance! It just feels weird to have a villain at all if he's just going to say "the heroine will rue the day she crossed me!" but then sit in the dark and do nothing for 91% of the book. He was too ineffectual to add any meaningful tension to the plot.
Overall a fun little holiday read, a nice one to sit down with a warm drink and a tree-scented candle to really get into the Christmas spirit, and I eagerly await the author's next book (but no pressure;))
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I think the stakes of the book overall were my main criticism, especially compared to the first book. It felt like many of the plot arcs resolved a bit too neatly - there were a couple of moments that I thought were setups where the big bad would show up and cause trouble (my gut absolutely dropped at one of them!) but then it turned out I had just imagined that there was a twist coming.
Now, don't get me wrong, I have nothing against a cozy Christmas vampire romance! It just feels weird to have a villain at all if he's just going to say "the heroine will rue the day she crossed me!" but then sit in the dark and do nothing for 91% of the book. He was too ineffectual to add any meaningful tension to the plot.
Overall a fun little holiday read, a nice one to sit down with a warm drink and a tree-scented candle to really get into the Christmas spirit, and I eagerly await the author's next book (but no pressure;))
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 24, 2025
I rated this 3.5 out of 5.
I enjoyed reading this book as it gave North and South vibes, but with vampires. Its strength was in the diverse group of characters that Hill created and followed along throughout the story. I was just as emotionally invested in August and June as I was in Genevieve and Kendrick. I enjoyed how each character had a distinct personality, even if they were only on the page for a few moments, and felt multidimensional. I also loved how the characters from the first book made an appearance during the course of this book.
However, I think that this book got really bogged down in the minutiae of things. I understand that Hill was attempting to show all that Genevieve and Kendrick were accomplishing, but it felt like too much of the book focused on these details, and we never got into the meat. For instance, it was clear that Genevieve and Kendrick cared for each other throughout the book, but it felt like I was being told that rather than shown that. Of course, Kendrick's attention to detail and the caring things he does throughout the book are swoon-worthy, but I never felt like I was seeing the deep emotional connection that I would expect on the page of a romance. I feel like if Genevieve had ever revealed something about what happened to her, the connection between her and Kendrick would have read stronger on the page. I understand that part of her character is that she doesn't remember her transformation, but we get all these hints about the abuse that occurred after that, and the reader is never given details about it.
I also feel like there were a bit more religious tangents during this book than I remember being in the first. It makes sense that there would be religious aspects, as the book is set in Victorian England, but toward the end, it felt a bit like Genevieve was hyperfixated on this when the groundwork for it was not really laid out at any point prior. It felt a bit like the soliloquies that Angel goes on over the course of Buffy, the Vampire Slayer. Also, did Sparrow ever go to church? That is a plot hole that was left open is rather annoying to me.
Overall, this book is about found family and learning to live again after grief. It is an engrossing read, and I would recommend it. However, there is more political intrigue than romance in the pages of this book. You will get romantic gestures, but the emotional depth you might expect from a romance is a little lacking on the page.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
CONTENT WARNINGS
Graphic: Death, Toxic relationship, Blood, Death of a parent, Murder, Classism
Moderate: Misogyny, Sexism, Torture, Violence
Minor: Alcohol
I enjoyed reading this book as it gave North and South vibes, but with vampires. Its strength was in the diverse group of characters that Hill created and followed along throughout the story. I was just as emotionally invested in August and June as I was in Genevieve and Kendrick. I enjoyed how each character had a distinct personality, even if they were only on the page for a few moments, and felt multidimensional. I also loved how the characters from the first book made an appearance during the course of this book.
However, I think that this book got really bogged down in the minutiae of things. I understand that Hill was attempting to show all that Genevieve and Kendrick were accomplishing, but it felt like too much of the book focused on these details, and we never got into the meat. For instance, it was clear that Genevieve and Kendrick cared for each other throughout the book, but it felt like I was being told that rather than shown that. Of course, Kendrick's attention to detail and the caring things he does throughout the book are swoon-worthy, but I never felt like I was seeing the deep emotional connection that I would expect on the page of a romance. I feel like if Genevieve had ever revealed something about what happened to her, the connection between her and Kendrick would have read stronger on the page. I understand that part of her character is that she doesn't remember her transformation, but we get all these hints about the abuse that occurred after that, and the reader is never given details about it.
I also feel like there were a bit more religious tangents during this book than I remember being in the first. It makes sense that there would be religious aspects, as the book is set in Victorian England, but toward the end, it felt a bit like Genevieve was hyperfixated on this when the groundwork for it was not really laid out at any point prior. It felt a bit like the soliloquies that Angel goes on over the course of Buffy, the Vampire Slayer. Also, did Sparrow ever go to church? That is a plot hole that was left open is rather annoying to me.
Overall, this book is about found family and learning to live again after grief. It is an engrossing read, and I would recommend it. However, there is more political intrigue than romance in the pages of this book. You will get romantic gestures, but the emotional depth you might expect from a romance is a little lacking on the page.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
CONTENT WARNINGS
Graphic: Death, Toxic relationship, Blood, Death of a parent, Murder, Classism
Moderate: Misogyny, Sexism, Torture, Violence
Minor: Alcohol
September 27, 2025
I've been in a Christmas-y mood since early September and this book really helped scratch that itch! Somehow Ms. Hill's books always manage to dig deep into the hard, dark, and/or scary parts of life while still focusing equally on what is comforting, right, and good. This book really felt like a cozy old-fashioned Christmas- I almost didn't even care about the conflict with the antagonist anymore because I was so invested in the interpersonal relationships and the unfolding of the protagonists' projects.
Kendrick and Genevieve were fantastic heros; so many admirable qualities about both of them and you could really feel how well they worked together. I enjoyed seeing their relationship unfold-- no miscommunications, just honest respect and growing trust.
The side characters all had well-drawn, interesting personalities, and it was nice to see some of them returning from Black and Deep Desires, the earlier book (which was also a five-star read!). The details of historical London+vampires felt very convincing as well.
I loved the central themes of this book- I wasn't expecting to come away from a story about Victorian vampires feeling so encouraged, but the message was so uplifting and such a wonderful reflection of truth.
I received a copy of this book as an ARC; all thoughts expressed in this review are honest, non-obligatory, and my own. To sum up- this is a fantastic book that I would absolutely recommend to mature YA audiences and up.
Content: discussion of/flashbacks to sexual abuse, torture, and coercion (nothing graphic but still pretty dark); blood (it is a vampire story); some kissing (any romantic content beyond this is implied/referenced but not shown).
Kendrick and Genevieve were fantastic heros; so many admirable qualities about both of them and you could really feel how well they worked together. I enjoyed seeing their relationship unfold-- no miscommunications, just honest respect and growing trust.
The side characters all had well-drawn, interesting personalities, and it was nice to see some of them returning from Black and Deep Desires, the earlier book (which was also a five-star read!). The details of historical London+vampires felt very convincing as well.
I loved the central themes of this book- I wasn't expecting to come away from a story about Victorian vampires feeling so encouraged, but the message was so uplifting and such a wonderful reflection of truth.
I received a copy of this book as an ARC; all thoughts expressed in this review are honest, non-obligatory, and my own. To sum up- this is a fantastic book that I would absolutely recommend to mature YA audiences and up.
Content: discussion of/flashbacks to sexual abuse, torture, and coercion (nothing graphic but still pretty dark); blood (it is a vampire story); some kissing (any romantic content beyond this is implied/referenced but not shown).
September 30, 2025
I loved everything about this book! I have read nearly every book by this author now, and (while they are all amazing!) the vampire ones are my all-time favorites.
This installment follows Kendrick as he takes over the now-leaderless vampires in London. He has a lot of hurt to overcome, a lot of anger to assuage, and a lot of honor and justice to teach the others. Genevieve has been one of the vampires who has felt the pain of injustice in the Ossuary under the previous leader, but she has kept her kind spirit and has helped to support those around her all these years. Now with Kendrick stepping in as leader, Genevieve has to hope for better outcomes for the vampire "rabble."
I loved these characters. Kendrick is honorable, kind, chivalrous, and strong. Genevieve is kind, stands up for the oppressed, gentle, and yet fierce. They are a perfect team. I loved the marriage of convenience (my favorite trope!), the way Kendrick and Genevieve relate, and the way they support each other. Throw in a few cute kids, some danger, a little trauma, and this book has it all.
Absolutely recommend this one! Great for fans of Elisa Rae/Rachel Rossano, Tara Grayce, and Selina R. Gonzalez.
Rated PG-13 for some mature themes
--mild to moderate violence, including death (only mildly graphic)
--clean romance without explicit scenes
--little to no language
--some mild depiction of the aftermath of torture (recounted, not depicted)
I received this eARC free from the author with no expectation of a good review. My opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
This installment follows Kendrick as he takes over the now-leaderless vampires in London. He has a lot of hurt to overcome, a lot of anger to assuage, and a lot of honor and justice to teach the others. Genevieve has been one of the vampires who has felt the pain of injustice in the Ossuary under the previous leader, but she has kept her kind spirit and has helped to support those around her all these years. Now with Kendrick stepping in as leader, Genevieve has to hope for better outcomes for the vampire "rabble."
I loved these characters. Kendrick is honorable, kind, chivalrous, and strong. Genevieve is kind, stands up for the oppressed, gentle, and yet fierce. They are a perfect team. I loved the marriage of convenience (my favorite trope!), the way Kendrick and Genevieve relate, and the way they support each other. Throw in a few cute kids, some danger, a little trauma, and this book has it all.
Absolutely recommend this one! Great for fans of Elisa Rae/Rachel Rossano, Tara Grayce, and Selina R. Gonzalez.
Rated PG-13 for some mature themes
--mild to moderate violence, including death (only mildly graphic)
--clean romance without explicit scenes
--little to no language
--some mild depiction of the aftermath of torture (recounted, not depicted)
I received this eARC free from the author with no expectation of a good review. My opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
October 17, 2025
If you had told me the book I needed right now was a cozy Christmas romance with Victorian vampires, I don't think I would have believed you, but here we are.
This book was so good! The world building was fantastic. I love all the details of how the vampires function in this world (crying blood?!), and it felt very true to Victorian London.
I loved the main couple!! Genevieve and Kendrick were so perfect for each other! I live how they come together and make each other better, and I love how patient Kendrick is. He understands that Genevieve has been hurt in the past, and he is so gentle with her. I also just love how Genevieve is so protective of those around her. Her past could make her bitter, and it did harden her heart in some ways, but ultimately, it makes her want to help those around her so no one else has to go through what she did, and I love that about her.
Another thing I love is Genevieve's faith and her struggles with reconciling her faith and her vampirism. It was really cool to see, and I really liked the eventual conclusion. It all played very nicely with the Christmas theme, and I like what the author did with it.
Some warnings: There is blood and mentions of killing (as one would expect of vampires), but nothing terribly graphic. There's also non graphic references to past sexual abuse and trauma. There's only kissing, but there is talk about intimacy in marriage (and hang-ups due to the past abuse), and there is one scene of the main couple drinking each other's blood after getting married that read as very intimate.
This book was so good! The world building was fantastic. I love all the details of how the vampires function in this world (crying blood?!), and it felt very true to Victorian London.
I loved the main couple!! Genevieve and Kendrick were so perfect for each other! I live how they come together and make each other better, and I love how patient Kendrick is. He understands that Genevieve has been hurt in the past, and he is so gentle with her. I also just love how Genevieve is so protective of those around her. Her past could make her bitter, and it did harden her heart in some ways, but ultimately, it makes her want to help those around her so no one else has to go through what she did, and I love that about her.
Another thing I love is Genevieve's faith and her struggles with reconciling her faith and her vampirism. It was really cool to see, and I really liked the eventual conclusion. It all played very nicely with the Christmas theme, and I like what the author did with it.
Some warnings: There is blood and mentions of killing (as one would expect of vampires), but nothing terribly graphic. There's also non graphic references to past sexual abuse and trauma. There's only kissing, but there is talk about intimacy in marriage (and hang-ups due to the past abuse), and there is one scene of the main couple drinking each other's blood after getting married that read as very intimate.
October 12, 2025
Who knew that vampires from the 1800s and Christmas would go together? I felt like I was entering the world of 'Interview with a Vampire,' but with less blood and sex. I LOVED Kendrick and Genevieve so much! I think I’ll have to go back and read book one. That’s how much I love this book. I also really loved the kids and humans; they actually added depth to the story and weren’t just random side characters.
I also really appreciate how much Kendrick loves Genevieve, understands her trauma, and gives her space—he didn't rush things or make the marriage all about himself. Her getting to read her father's letter!!! AHhh, it made me ball like a baby! He is so perfect!
Honestly, I didn’t think I would like this book as much as I did. The beginning was definitely slow, but I understood by the end that this is more of a character-driven story than one focused on a single goal. I also really liked the political subplot with the other vampires and all the backstory.
I am so grateful to the author and Booksirens for providing a free Kindle ARC so I could give an honest and full review.
I also really appreciate how much Kendrick loves Genevieve, understands her trauma, and gives her space—he didn't rush things or make the marriage all about himself. Her getting to read her father's letter!!! AHhh, it made me ball like a baby! He is so perfect!
Honestly, I didn’t think I would like this book as much as I did. The beginning was definitely slow, but I understood by the end that this is more of a character-driven story than one focused on a single goal. I also really liked the political subplot with the other vampires and all the backstory.
I am so grateful to the author and Booksirens for providing a free Kindle ARC so I could give an honest and full review.
November 23, 2025
I love Claire Trella Hill's fantasy, and this was no exception! I felt drawn into Genevieve's world of vampires living in the underground of Victorian London. The atmosphere here is somehow both gritty and comforting; there is smog and pollution in the streets, but tenderness in the way Genevieve cares for human children--and of course in her growing romance to Kendrick, a thousand-year-old vampire who's new in town and becomes their leader.
Both Kendrick and Genevieve have hopes of reforming their vampire society, which is filled with inequality, poverty, and bullying. Together they join in a marriage of convenience, though really Kendrick is already in love with her. You can't help but root for these two honorable characters and their blossoming love, especially Genevieve as she heals from past trauma and grows in faith over the Christmas season.
I haven't read the first in this series yet. I wasn't confused, though I imagine it would've made for a richer experience, as characters from that book appear here.
Recommend if you enjoy Charles Dickens, historical romance, vampires, slow-burn love stories, or moving faith journeys.
Both Kendrick and Genevieve have hopes of reforming their vampire society, which is filled with inequality, poverty, and bullying. Together they join in a marriage of convenience, though really Kendrick is already in love with her. You can't help but root for these two honorable characters and their blossoming love, especially Genevieve as she heals from past trauma and grows in faith over the Christmas season.
I haven't read the first in this series yet. I wasn't confused, though I imagine it would've made for a richer experience, as characters from that book appear here.
Recommend if you enjoy Charles Dickens, historical romance, vampires, slow-burn love stories, or moving faith journeys.
October 12, 2025
A vampyric, Dickensian, Hallmark-Christmas-movie mashup? What an unexpected and enjoyable mix!
Every Longing Heart follows Kendrick as he fills the vampire power vacuum in London. Genevieve, a relatively new vampire, is navigating the regime change. Her desire to create a better future necessities the marriage of convenience trope as the two try to reshape class experiences in vampire society. Genevieve brings together a new found family, all set during a Victorian Christmas. This is a companion novel to Black and Deep Desires, and follows the effects of that tale. Having read both, I would say that reading the earlier book or other novellas is not a requirement.
This is a sweet story and the author put work into capturing the feel of 1880s London. It is a quick read, and while the novel may not have any shocking twists, it concludes with a satisfying, feel-good ending. A good cozy, historical, fantasy, Christmas read. 3.5 Stars, rounded up!
Thank you to the author for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Every Longing Heart follows Kendrick as he fills the vampire power vacuum in London. Genevieve, a relatively new vampire, is navigating the regime change. Her desire to create a better future necessities the marriage of convenience trope as the two try to reshape class experiences in vampire society. Genevieve brings together a new found family, all set during a Victorian Christmas. This is a companion novel to Black and Deep Desires, and follows the effects of that tale. Having read both, I would say that reading the earlier book or other novellas is not a requirement.
This is a sweet story and the author put work into capturing the feel of 1880s London. It is a quick read, and while the novel may not have any shocking twists, it concludes with a satisfying, feel-good ending. A good cozy, historical, fantasy, Christmas read. 3.5 Stars, rounded up!
Thank you to the author for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 24, 2025
I’ve loved everything I’ve read by this author, so to say I was excited for this book is an understatement. It did not disappoint. I loved that this was a Victorian vampire story set during Christmastime. You don’t really see that combination, but I loved it!
The characters were wonderful and so likable. Genevieve was so kind, and I loved her passion for justice. Kendrick was the very definition of swoonworthy. He was noble, sincere, and a strong and fair leader. I loved seeing his commitment to changing things for the better.
I loved the faith elements in this story. And the fact that it addressed a vampire’s struggles and longings for their faith.
If you’re a fan of cozy vampire tales, grab a copy of this book. You’ll love it! I highly recommend it!
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
The characters were wonderful and so likable. Genevieve was so kind, and I loved her passion for justice. Kendrick was the very definition of swoonworthy. He was noble, sincere, and a strong and fair leader. I loved seeing his commitment to changing things for the better.
I loved the faith elements in this story. And the fact that it addressed a vampire’s struggles and longings for their faith.
If you’re a fan of cozy vampire tales, grab a copy of this book. You’ll love it! I highly recommend it!
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
November 1, 2025
3.5 stars
This is a cosy tale centered around a coven of vampires in the late 19th century London. Cosy is not a word generally associated with vampires, but the main characters were so wholesome, with their high values and christian roots returning to our heroine over Christmas, cosy fits the vibe.
There are of course villains, and plots in this novel, but no real sense of danger. Or fear for the characters. It's more a story of found family and community. If you want a cute christmas tale, with non human characters, then this is the season and the book.
However if you are looking for fast paced action, danger, conflicted morals and tgey usual vampire hero's with grey morals, this isn't that book.
Over all I enjoyed this well written, light read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a cosy tale centered around a coven of vampires in the late 19th century London. Cosy is not a word generally associated with vampires, but the main characters were so wholesome, with their high values and christian roots returning to our heroine over Christmas, cosy fits the vibe.
There are of course villains, and plots in this novel, but no real sense of danger. Or fear for the characters. It's more a story of found family and community. If you want a cute christmas tale, with non human characters, then this is the season and the book.
However if you are looking for fast paced action, danger, conflicted morals and tgey usual vampire hero's with grey morals, this isn't that book.
Over all I enjoyed this well written, light read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 19, 2025
I had high expectations for Every Longing Heart and it did not disappoint! It had all of the elements that I loved in Black and Deep Desires with a bit of politics instead of science experiments. This book has romance, found family, character growth, villains, swords, and the return of characters from book one.
Claire does a great job of blending Christmas, assassination attempts, Victorian England, and underground living to create a cozy and spooky, gothic paranormal romance.
I really hope we get more books in this series!
Claire does a great job of blending Christmas, assassination attempts, Victorian England, and underground living to create a cozy and spooky, gothic paranormal romance.
I really hope we get more books in this series!
October 23, 2025
I very much enjoyed this spooky (but with Christmas-vibes) book! The characters were all quite likeable, and the plot kept me invested without being stressful. I do wish the romance had a been a bit more of a slow burn, but it was still great! Overall a very fun read, especially if you want a good book for this time of year :)
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
October 27, 2025
Lovely! Very cozy for Christmas but still supernatural enough for October. Loved further development of this version of the world! If you have read her first book, this one is a great addition!
October 28, 2025
Different than expected, but in good ways. Rather enjoyed that. :)
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