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Vows and Vengeance #1
La Maison de Fléau et de Sang
Il a la magie, elle a la science.
Bientôt, ils auront la guerre.
Officiellement, Nicolaï Attano est à la tête des plus grandes aciéries de Lynchaven, mais dans l'ombre, il dirige la Ruelle, le quartier magique de la ville. De son côté, Camilla Marchese est l'héritière endettée du chemin de fer de Lynchaven, et rivale ancestrale des Attano.
Lorsqu'elle se retrouve contrainte d'épouser Nicolaï pour rembourser les dettes de sa famille, Camilla ne sait pas qu'elle engage plus que sa main. Car son fiancé est déterminé à tirer profit de cette union et à récolter les informations qui lui manquent pour démasquer le Collecteur, un mystérieux criminel qui sévit dans la Ruelle.
Mais leur contrat stipule qu'ils n'ont que six semaines. Six semaines avant qu'ils ne soient définitivement liés. Six semaines pour qu'ils dévoilent les complots qui gangrènent la ville, les secrets qui les lient et les sentiments qui pourraient les faire sombrer...
Traduit de l'anglais par Raphaëlle Pache
Bientôt, ils auront la guerre.
Officiellement, Nicolaï Attano est à la tête des plus grandes aciéries de Lynchaven, mais dans l'ombre, il dirige la Ruelle, le quartier magique de la ville. De son côté, Camilla Marchese est l'héritière endettée du chemin de fer de Lynchaven, et rivale ancestrale des Attano.
Lorsqu'elle se retrouve contrainte d'épouser Nicolaï pour rembourser les dettes de sa famille, Camilla ne sait pas qu'elle engage plus que sa main. Car son fiancé est déterminé à tirer profit de cette union et à récolter les informations qui lui manquent pour démasquer le Collecteur, un mystérieux criminel qui sévit dans la Ruelle.
Mais leur contrat stipule qu'ils n'ont que six semaines. Six semaines avant qu'ils ne soient définitivement liés. Six semaines pour qu'ils dévoilent les complots qui gangrènent la ville, les secrets qui les lient et les sentiments qui pourraient les faire sombrer...
Traduit de l'anglais par Raphaëlle Pache
464 pages, Paperback
First published October 18, 2023
About the author
Alexis L. Menard
7 books1,332 followersAlexis is a registered nurse based out of Louisiana where she lives with her husband, toddler, and two oversized dogs. She enjoys long walks through the Renaissance Fair, reading smutty romance into the dark hours of the night, and wine nights with her "Finer Things Club." She hopes to enrich the lives of her readers with worlds they can both escape in and take with them long after the final chapter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,668 reviews
March 15, 2024
An entertaining read but fell short for me in some areas. Maybe had I read it at some other time, or mood I would have liked it more😅
✔️ Peaky blinders vibes x magic
✔️ Rivals to lovers
✔️ Marriage of convenience
✔️ Found family
✔️ "Who did this to you"
✔️ "Touch her and die"
I liked the concept of mob families and the magic system but it wasn't executed well imo. The first half sort of confused me when it came to the magic, I couldn't quite understand it. The plot execution came across as weak too, the story didn't have a clear direction and it seemed to be jumping around crucial points a lot. Reading it felt like I was missing a huge chunk.
But I was still entertained, thanks to the characters and romance. The characters- Camilla and Nicolai were so good. The chemistry between them was great and off the charts. I liked Camilla more than Nicolai, as she was simply put- a badass. I liked how she always stood up for herself, was honest and upfront, never took anyone's bs and loved her action sequences. Nicolai, grew on me. I liked how much he cared for Camilla even though he claimed otherwise. He was so protective of her. His powers intrigued me a lot.
The romance was chef's kiss. I was yearning for things to happen between the two in almost each and every scene. The chemistry and the spice is so well written.
The ending, especially the last 50-60 pages had me gasping. So much happened 😩😩 I may have shed a few tears 🫣 But after the way it ended, I need the next one ASAP.
~•~•~
I liked the cover so here I am
✔️ Peaky blinders vibes x magic
✔️ Rivals to lovers
✔️ Marriage of convenience
✔️ Found family
✔️ "Who did this to you"
✔️ "Touch her and die"
I liked the concept of mob families and the magic system but it wasn't executed well imo. The first half sort of confused me when it came to the magic, I couldn't quite understand it. The plot execution came across as weak too, the story didn't have a clear direction and it seemed to be jumping around crucial points a lot. Reading it felt like I was missing a huge chunk.
But I was still entertained, thanks to the characters and romance. The characters- Camilla and Nicolai were so good. The chemistry between them was great and off the charts. I liked Camilla more than Nicolai, as she was simply put- a badass. I liked how she always stood up for herself, was honest and upfront, never took anyone's bs and loved her action sequences. Nicolai, grew on me. I liked how much he cared for Camilla even though he claimed otherwise. He was so protective of her. His powers intrigued me a lot.
The romance was chef's kiss. I was yearning for things to happen between the two in almost each and every scene. The chemistry and the spice is so well written.
The ending, especially the last 50-60 pages had me gasping. So much happened 😩😩 I may have shed a few tears 🫣 But after the way it ended, I need the next one ASAP.
~•~•~
I liked the cover so here I am
Read
January 24, 2024The idea of HOBAB was born from a three day Netflix binge watching Peaky Blinders when I was four weeks postpartum and it has slowly become my entire personality.
Thank you so much to everyone for reaching out, expressing your enthusiasm, and starting this new series with me. This space is wholly dedicated to readers and your reviews, and I will be stepping off to give everyone a safe place to express your honest thoughts.
Before I go, I'd like to answer a few frequently asked questions:
1. yes there is a cliffhanger ending. You've been warned. Please don't let that prevent you from picking up this book before the next one comes out. Us indie authors need the fruits of our labors in order to produce the next book.
2. This is the beginning of a *planned* four book series. The first two books will follow Nico and Milla and the last two will follow a different couple. I starred planned because things can change but that is all I have vaguely plotted for now!
3. This book is lower on the spice. There IS spice, but being the first book, there isn't a lot. I wanted it to feel natural for the story and I didn't force much spice into this book. There is a good amount of slow burning building up to the spice.
4. This is a NEW adult fantasy romance.
5. YES THERE WILL BE AN AUDIOBOOK! Coming spring 2024, before book 2 releases!
If you have any other questions, feel free to find me on social media or ask here on Goodreads. Thank you for giving HOBAB a look!
Thank you so much to everyone for reaching out, expressing your enthusiasm, and starting this new series with me. This space is wholly dedicated to readers and your reviews, and I will be stepping off to give everyone a safe place to express your honest thoughts.
Before I go, I'd like to answer a few frequently asked questions:
1. yes there is a cliffhanger ending. You've been warned. Please don't let that prevent you from picking up this book before the next one comes out. Us indie authors need the fruits of our labors in order to produce the next book.
2. This is the beginning of a *planned* four book series. The first two books will follow Nico and Milla and the last two will follow a different couple. I starred planned because things can change but that is all I have vaguely plotted for now!
3. This book is lower on the spice. There IS spice, but being the first book, there isn't a lot. I wanted it to feel natural for the story and I didn't force much spice into this book. There is a good amount of slow burning building up to the spice.
4. This is a NEW adult fantasy romance.
5. YES THERE WILL BE AN AUDIOBOOK! Coming spring 2024, before book 2 releases!
If you have any other questions, feel free to find me on social media or ask here on Goodreads. Thank you for giving HOBAB a look!
March 24, 2024
3.75!
“You’re my dream.” He grabbed my perusing hand in his. “You’re the center of all my circles.”
I was so excited for this book because look at the tropes and the way it was sold to us. Everything that I had heard about this book made me shape my expectations....safe to say they were high and I mean look at that cover! it is so beautiful. So, I went in this book and I was enjoying it for the first 40% mainly just because the characters, their interactions, the romance and the angst and the plot though trippy was still fine but then from 40-90% I was so bored and lost that I did not even know if I wanted to continue it and then the last 10% was very explosive and safe to say that I will continue onwards with the sequel.
Nico and Camilla were such fun characters to read about because oh my god! they made me laugh and cry, it was like I was the one there falling for them and the fact it happens again and again and again in books and never in real life with me *ouch* but their interactions, their personalities, everything was nearly perfect. Camilla's wittiness and the way she would send retorts toward Nico and how he did not back off and I love when its a mob romance but instead of the MMC being all protective and having a backbone, in this the FMC has too! (RK you need to read this)
The romance had me screaming, crying, wailing, screeching, shrieking, weeping, whimpering, squealing and dying . It was easily the best part of the book the build up to it was magnificent and the tension, angst and the slow burn between these two was out of the roof amazing. There was ONE spicy scene but the build up towards that was amazing and I am absolutely feral over it! I devoured it. I want what they have and I also want Nico to burn everything down after that ending.
The plot was the weakest here, for a book inspired by peaky blinders and sold as heavily influenced by it...I was disappointed because I loved the plot in peaky blinders but here it was a little messy at parts and some place needed better execution and all in all at times it felt as if it was all over the place but it did start to make sense at the end as everything came together so hopefully my experience with book 2 will be better?
The setting was truly so amazing and the world building as well also how well was that magic system written!! I was so happy to read that part. Also, for a setting that was inspired by Peaky Blinders...I think this nailed that part fully.
I would recommend it, because I believe people should read it at least once and it has a lot of potential...I enjoyed it but would no read it again unless book 2 is diabolical.
~~~
This book has:
.Found family
.Marriage of convenience
.Rivals to lovers
.Morally grey MMC
.Deadly family secrets
."Where is my wife?" 🫠
.Spice
.Its also Yaz.the.bookish approved
I am bound to love this....
“You’re my dream.” He grabbed my perusing hand in his. “You’re the center of all my circles.”
I was so excited for this book because look at the tropes and the way it was sold to us. Everything that I had heard about this book made me shape my expectations....safe to say they were high and I mean look at that cover! it is so beautiful. So, I went in this book and I was enjoying it for the first 40% mainly just because the characters, their interactions, the romance and the angst and the plot though trippy was still fine but then from 40-90% I was so bored and lost that I did not even know if I wanted to continue it and then the last 10% was very explosive and safe to say that I will continue onwards with the sequel.
Nico and Camilla were such fun characters to read about because oh my god! they made me laugh and cry, it was like I was the one there falling for them and the fact it happens again and again and again in books and never in real life with me *ouch* but their interactions, their personalities, everything was nearly perfect. Camilla's wittiness and the way she would send retorts toward Nico and how he did not back off and I love when its a mob romance but instead of the MMC being all protective and having a backbone, in this the FMC has too! (RK you need to read this)
The romance had me screaming, crying, wailing, screeching, shrieking, weeping, whimpering, squealing and dying . It was easily the best part of the book the build up to it was magnificent and the tension, angst and the slow burn between these two was out of the roof amazing. There was ONE spicy scene but the build up towards that was amazing and I am absolutely feral over it! I devoured it. I want what they have and I also want Nico to burn everything down after that ending.
The plot was the weakest here, for a book inspired by peaky blinders and sold as heavily influenced by it...I was disappointed because I loved the plot in peaky blinders but here it was a little messy at parts and some place needed better execution and all in all at times it felt as if it was all over the place but it did start to make sense at the end as everything came together so hopefully my experience with book 2 will be better?
The setting was truly so amazing and the world building as well also how well was that magic system written!! I was so happy to read that part. Also, for a setting that was inspired by Peaky Blinders...I think this nailed that part fully.
I would recommend it, because I believe people should read it at least once and it has a lot of potential...I enjoyed it but would no read it again unless book 2 is diabolical.
~~~
This book has:
.Found family
.Marriage of convenience
.Rivals to lovers
.Morally grey MMC
.Deadly family secrets
."Where is my wife?" 🫠
.Spice
.Its also Yaz.the.bookish approved
I am bound to love this....
May 6, 2024
This was a perfect way to wrap Camilla and Nicolai's story. Also, so much better written compared to the first book.
When it comes to the House of Bane and Blood, I had found myself confused and thought the plot execution was weak. City of Mirth and Malice was much refined in writing. It was also easy to follow through mostly but the whole Order and Chaos thing towards the end still managed to lose my attention which is why it's a four star read for me rather than five.
I loved the Peaky Blinders vibes again and also the whole prison storyline was very Azkaban vibes imo 👀 I lived for the romance between Camilla and Nicolai, both of them have grown so much as individuals and a couple. It was endearing. Their chemistry, angst and spice was perfect!! Ngl I swooned every time Nicolai talked about her as "my wife." It just never gets old. The only thing that annoyed me a bit was the amount of interruptions made by Luther whenever the two were about to have a spicy moment. It was just dragged for nothing imo 😅
The ending left me satisfied. Would definitely recommend
~•~•~
So excited for this sequel. Also, loving the artwork but most importantly the recap cause my goldfish memory would have struggled 🫣
When it comes to the House of Bane and Blood, I had found myself confused and thought the plot execution was weak. City of Mirth and Malice was much refined in writing. It was also easy to follow through mostly but the whole Order and Chaos thing towards the end still managed to lose my attention which is why it's a four star read for me rather than five.
I loved the Peaky Blinders vibes again and also the whole prison storyline was very Azkaban vibes imo 👀 I lived for the romance between Camilla and Nicolai, both of them have grown so much as individuals and a couple. It was endearing. Their chemistry, angst and spice was perfect!! Ngl I swooned every time Nicolai talked about her as "my wife." It just never gets old. The only thing that annoyed me a bit was the amount of interruptions made by Luther whenever the two were about to have a spicy moment. It was just dragged for nothing imo 😅
The ending left me satisfied. Would definitely recommend
~•~•~
So excited for this sequel. Also, loving the artwork but most importantly the recap cause my goldfish memory would have struggled 🫣
May 18, 2024
I'm just going to go ahead and say it. I'm really starting to question the individuals marketing comparisons to Peaky Blinders like? Have you ever even watched the show? This doesn't remotely give Tommy Shelby - or any of the Shelby brothers.
The setting doesn't give anything remotely close to Peaky Blinders.
Now that I've got that off my chest. What the fuck is actually even going on in this book? It's all over the place. The magic isn't explained really well. I ...
You know what - I just don't like anything about it. I'll rant on later but I just want to push this dumb ass book from my mind right now.
DNF @55% bc IDEGASF.
Well... I've been down the road of a promise of 'Peaky Blinders but with magic' before *cough* (A Tempest of Tea) and was disappointed, but. I'm going to go out on a limb again and see if this can deliver.
Wish me luck.
The setting doesn't give anything remotely close to Peaky Blinders.
Now that I've got that off my chest. What the fuck is actually even going on in this book? It's all over the place. The magic isn't explained really well. I ...
You know what - I just don't like anything about it. I'll rant on later but I just want to push this dumb ass book from my mind right now.
DNF @55% bc IDEGASF.
Wish me luck.
October 16, 2024
Wow wow okay I was not expecting to love this as much as I did but safe to say this book had me in a chokehold! The fact that this is so underrated actually makes me want to SCREAM! The last 15% had me filled with so much anxiety I had to drop everything I was doing and immediately jump into book 2!
1920s mafia meets a fantasy world?!!!!! I mean come on, seeing as dark mafia romance and fantasy romance are my favorite genres I simply cannot describe a more perfect book for me!!! Honestly obsessed is an understatement. Now that being said, this book is very character driven so I can’t say it will be for everyone especially if you don’t connect with the characters. So keep that in mind! But my god I loved them.
The world building in this was absolutely phenomenal the story is set in a post industrial era in a city divided by magic! And the magic system is so unique, it was so refreshing to have a break from the same old copy and paste romantasy’s out there. Nico our MMC and Camilla our FMC are from rival families and they enter a marriage of convenience which turns into them having to work together to take down their corrupt government… AND THEN EVERYTHING IS JUST NONSTOP FROM THERE! It is so much more than a marriage of convenience, the plot is so intriguing and kept me glued to every single page.
And not just the plot but the ROMANCE!! THE. ROMANCE. God don’t even get me started Camilla and Nico had me giggling and kicking my feet the entire time I absolutely adore them!! Their chemistry was palatable from page 1 and only got better and better. This is how you do marriage of convenience, with all the tension and banter and LONGING! Ugh I ate it up and left no crumbs.
Getting into the characters…. Our FMC Camilla is the type of badass FMC I’ve been YEARNING FOR all goddamn year!! I do in fact have a crush on her. She’s strong and cutthroat but also the biggest heart and would do anything for her family. And she takes ZERO shit from men. For example the first conversation she has with husband she told him not to test her and what did he do? He tested her, so obviously she smashed a whiskey glass over his head. As she should. Example #2, she had her husband get down on his knees to tie her heels and strap her knives to her thigh. Yeah. Yeah.
NICOLAI. I’m sat. I’m seated. I’m ready. FROM THE MOMENT WE WERE INTRODUCED TO HIM THIS MAN HAD ME ON MY KNEES!!!! My obsession with him might not be healthy…. What else is new. I mean are we surprised??? Morally grey mafia men are my favorite. And add MAGIC TO THAT??? Did I also mention he’s a witty flirt with a filthy mouth? Yeah I’m easy to please. The way this man would CRAWL FOR HER!!
“Do not touch her. And if I find out you skimmed a bead on her skirt, I don’t care what face you wear, I’ll never stop hunting you until I take the air from your chest for good.”
“I would run through fire and burn for you. I would lose arm and leg and limb. I’d do it all over, knowing what would happen to me, if it meant eventually having you as I do now”
“Whatever you want, princess. The heart in your chest, the air in your lungs, I’ll take whatever you offer me, and I won’t regret it. I never do.”
I mean…… yeah. Yeah. He also has a thing for throats…. Goodbye.
Read this if you like:
- Found family
- Marriage or convenience
- Slowwwwwww burn
- Rivals to lovers
- Morally grey MMC (with a metal hand 🤭)
- Secrets and betrayal
- Political intrigue
- Unique magic system
- Hidden identity
- Gas lamp fantasy
- Post industrial era
I need more mafia romantasy please and thank you.
1920s mafia meets a fantasy world?!!!!! I mean come on, seeing as dark mafia romance and fantasy romance are my favorite genres I simply cannot describe a more perfect book for me!!! Honestly obsessed is an understatement. Now that being said, this book is very character driven so I can’t say it will be for everyone especially if you don’t connect with the characters. So keep that in mind! But my god I loved them.
The world building in this was absolutely phenomenal the story is set in a post industrial era in a city divided by magic! And the magic system is so unique, it was so refreshing to have a break from the same old copy and paste romantasy’s out there. Nico our MMC and Camilla our FMC are from rival families and they enter a marriage of convenience which turns into them having to work together to take down their corrupt government… AND THEN EVERYTHING IS JUST NONSTOP FROM THERE! It is so much more than a marriage of convenience, the plot is so intriguing and kept me glued to every single page.
And not just the plot but the ROMANCE!! THE. ROMANCE. God don’t even get me started Camilla and Nico had me giggling and kicking my feet the entire time I absolutely adore them!! Their chemistry was palatable from page 1 and only got better and better. This is how you do marriage of convenience, with all the tension and banter and LONGING! Ugh I ate it up and left no crumbs.
Getting into the characters…. Our FMC Camilla is the type of badass FMC I’ve been YEARNING FOR all goddamn year!! I do in fact have a crush on her. She’s strong and cutthroat but also the biggest heart and would do anything for her family. And she takes ZERO shit from men. For example the first conversation she has with husband she told him not to test her and what did he do? He tested her, so obviously she smashed a whiskey glass over his head. As she should. Example #2, she had her husband get down on his knees to tie her heels and strap her knives to her thigh. Yeah. Yeah.
NICOLAI. I’m sat. I’m seated. I’m ready. FROM THE MOMENT WE WERE INTRODUCED TO HIM THIS MAN HAD ME ON MY KNEES!!!! My obsession with him might not be healthy…. What else is new. I mean are we surprised??? Morally grey mafia men are my favorite. And add MAGIC TO THAT??? Did I also mention he’s a witty flirt with a filthy mouth? Yeah I’m easy to please. The way this man would CRAWL FOR HER!!
“Do not touch her. And if I find out you skimmed a bead on her skirt, I don’t care what face you wear, I’ll never stop hunting you until I take the air from your chest for good.”
“I would run through fire and burn for you. I would lose arm and leg and limb. I’d do it all over, knowing what would happen to me, if it meant eventually having you as I do now”
“Whatever you want, princess. The heart in your chest, the air in your lungs, I’ll take whatever you offer me, and I won’t regret it. I never do.”
I mean…… yeah. Yeah. He also has a thing for throats…. Goodbye.
Read this if you like:
- Found family
- Marriage or convenience
- Slowwwwwww burn
- Rivals to lovers
- Morally grey MMC (with a metal hand 🤭)
- Secrets and betrayal
- Political intrigue
- Unique magic system
- Hidden identity
- Gas lamp fantasy
- Post industrial era
I need more mafia romantasy please and thank you.
November 11, 2023
it’s giving grishaverse x peaky blinders while somehow being completely original at the same time. this is almost definitely going to be in my top 5 reads of 2023.
May 5, 2024
"The difference between you and me, Uncle," I said, gesturing between us with the burning cigarillo, "is that I will play until I lose. I have lost my parents, my sister, my very flesh and bone, but I haven't lost my fight. The day I have, you will need to carve the letters for my tomb. Because I will either die for what I love, or I will live forever."
I never thought I'd become a "my wife" kind of gal and then nicolai attano happened...
***
🧥𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗦𝗘 𝗢𝗙 𝗕𝗔𝗡𝗘 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗕𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗗 - 𝗔𝗟𝗘𝗫𝗜𝗦 𝗟. 𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗔𝗥𝗗🧥
★𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗦: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
★𝗬𝗔/𝗡𝗔/𝗔: 🅽🅰/🅰
★𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗦: 𝙾𝚁𝙳𝙴𝚁 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙲𝙷𝙰𝙾𝚂 #𝟷
★𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗥𝗘 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗨𝗡𝗗𝗘𝗥𝗧𝗢𝗡𝗘𝗦: 𝙳𝙰𝚁𝙺 𝙵𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙰𝚂𝚈 - 𝚂𝚄𝙿𝙴𝚁𝙽𝙰𝚃𝚄𝚁𝙰𝙻 - 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙰𝚂𝚈 - 𝙼𝙰𝙶𝙸𝙲 - 𝙶𝙾𝙳𝚂 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙳𝙴𝙸𝚃𝙸𝙴𝚂 - 𝙱𝙸𝙶 𝙿𝙴𝙰𝙺𝚈 𝙱𝙻𝙸𝙽𝙳𝙴𝚁𝚂 𝙼𝙴𝙴𝚃𝚂 𝚂𝙸𝚇 𝙾𝙵 𝙲𝚁𝙾𝚆𝚂 𝚅𝙸𝙱𝙴𝚂
★𝗣𝗢𝗩: 𝙳𝚄𝙰𝙻 𝙿𝙾𝚅 - 𝙵𝙸𝚁𝚂𝚃 𝙿𝙴𝚁𝚂𝙾𝙽 - 𝙿𝙰𝚂𝚃 𝚃𝙴𝙽𝚂𝙴
★𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦: 𝚁𝙸𝚅𝙰𝙻 𝙵𝙰𝙼𝙸𝙻𝙸𝙴𝚂 - 𝙳𝙸𝚂𝙻𝙸𝙺𝙴 𝚃𝙾 𝙰𝙻𝙻𝙸𝙴𝚂 𝚃𝙾 𝙻𝙾𝚅𝙴𝚁𝚂 - 𝙰𝚁𝚁𝙰𝙽𝙶𝙴𝙳 𝙼𝙰𝚁𝚁𝙸𝙰𝙶𝙴/𝙼𝙰𝚁𝚁𝙸𝙰𝙶𝙴 𝙾𝙵 𝙲𝙾𝙽𝚅𝙴𝙽𝙸𝙴𝙽𝙲𝙴 - 𝚂𝙴𝙲𝚁𝙴𝚃 𝙸𝙳𝙴𝙽𝚃𝙸𝚃𝙸𝙴𝚂 - 𝙱𝙰𝙳𝙰𝚂𝚂 𝙵𝙼𝙲 - 𝙵𝙼𝙲 𝙸𝚂 𝙱𝙾𝚂𝚂 𝙻𝙰𝙳𝚈 - 𝙼𝙾𝚁𝙰𝙻𝙻𝚈 𝙶𝚁𝙰𝚈 𝙼𝙼𝙲 - 𝙵𝙼𝙲 𝙸𝚂 𝙰𝙻𝚂𝙾 𝙺𝙸𝙽𝙳𝙰 𝙶𝚁𝙰𝚈-𝙸𝚂𝙷 - 𝙼𝙼𝙲 𝙸𝚂 𝙱𝙰𝚂𝙸𝙲𝙰𝙻𝙻𝚈 𝚃𝙷𝙾𝙼𝙰𝚂 𝚂𝙷𝙴𝙻𝙱𝚈 𝙱𝚄𝚃 𝚂𝙴𝚇𝙸𝙴𝚁 - 𝚂𝙷𝙰𝙳𝙾𝚆 𝙳𝙰𝙳𝙳𝚈 - "𝙼𝚈 𝚆𝙸𝙵𝙴" - "𝙷𝚄𝚂𝙱𝙰𝙽𝙳" 𝙰𝚂 𝙰 𝙿𝙴𝚃 𝙽𝙰𝙼𝙴 - 𝚃𝙴𝙽𝙳𝙸𝙽𝙶 𝚃𝙾 𝚆𝙾𝚄𝙽𝙳𝚂 - 𝙵𝙾𝚄𝙽𝙳 𝙵𝙰𝙼? - 𝙹𝙴𝙰𝙻𝙾𝚄𝚂𝚈 - 𝚆𝙷𝙾 𝙳𝙸𝙳 𝚃𝙷𝙸𝚂 𝚃𝙾 𝚈𝙾𝚄 - 𝙼𝚄𝚃𝚄𝙰𝙻 𝙿𝙸𝙽𝙸𝙽𝙶 - 𝚂𝙴𝚇𝚄𝙰𝙻 𝚃𝙴𝙽𝚂𝙸𝙾𝙽 - 𝚃𝙾𝚄𝙲𝙷 𝙷𝙴𝚁/𝙷𝙸𝙼 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙳𝙸𝙴 - 𝙳𝙸𝚂𝙰𝙱𝙸𝙻𝙸𝚃𝚈 𝚁𝙴𝙿 (𝙼𝙼𝙲 𝙷𝙰𝚂 𝙰 𝙼𝙴𝙲𝙷𝙰𝙽𝙸𝙲 𝙰𝚁𝙼) - 𝙵𝙴𝙼𝙰𝙻𝙴 𝚁𝙰𝙶𝙴
★𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗘:
★𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗦: 👥👥👥👥👥/𝟱
★𝗪𝗥𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ✍🏼✍🏼✍🏼✍🏼½/𝟱
★𝗣𝗟𝗢𝗧: 📜📜📜📜/𝟱
★𝗦𝗘𝗧𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚/𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗟𝗗 𝗕𝗨𝗜𝗟𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️/𝟱
★𝗠𝗔𝗚𝗜𝗖 𝗦𝗬𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗠: 🔮🔮🔮½/𝟱
★𝗗𝗔𝗥𝗞 𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗦 & 𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗚𝗘𝗥 𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗦: 💀💀💀/𝟱 (𝙳𝙴𝙰𝚃𝙷 𝙾𝙵 𝙵𝙰𝙼𝙸𝙻𝚈 𝙼𝙴𝙼𝙱𝙴𝚁𝚂/𝙻𝙾𝚅𝙴𝙳 𝙾𝙽𝙴𝚂 - 𝙳𝚈𝚂𝙵𝚄𝙽𝙲𝚃𝙸𝙾𝙽𝙰𝙻 𝙵𝙰𝙼𝙸𝙻𝙸𝙴𝚂 - 𝙸𝙼𝙿𝚁𝙸𝚂𝙾𝙽𝙴𝙼𝙴𝙽𝚃 - 𝚃𝙾𝚁𝚃𝚄𝚁𝙴 - 𝚅𝙸𝙾𝙻𝙴𝙽𝙲𝙴 & 𝚆𝙾𝚄𝙽𝙳𝚂 - 𝙻𝙸𝙴𝚂 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙻𝚈𝙸𝙽𝙶 𝙱𝚈 𝙾𝙼𝙸𝚂𝚂𝙸𝙾𝙽 - 𝚂𝙼𝙾𝙺𝙸𝙽𝙶 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙳𝚁𝙸𝙽𝙺𝙸𝙽𝙶 - 𝙼𝙴𝙼𝙾𝚁𝚈 𝙻𝙾𝚂𝚂)
★𝗥𝗢𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗧𝗬: 🌻🌻🌻½/𝟱
★𝗥𝗢𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬: 🌹🌹🌹🌹½/𝟱
★𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘 𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗔𝗡𝗚𝗟𝗘: ❌ (𝙼𝙴𝙽𝚃𝙸𝙾𝙽 𝙾𝙵 𝙼𝙼𝙲 𝙱𝙴𝙸𝙽𝙶 𝙸𝙽 𝙰 𝙽𝙾𝙽𝙲𝙾𝙼𝙼𝙸𝚃𝚃𝙰𝙻 𝚁𝙴𝙻𝙰𝚃𝙸𝙾𝙽𝚂𝙷𝙸𝙿 𝚆𝙸𝚃𝙷 𝙰𝙽𝙾𝚃𝙷𝙴𝚁 𝚆𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽 - 𝙼𝙼𝙲 𝙸𝚂 𝙺𝙸𝚂𝚂𝙴𝙳 𝙱𝚈 𝙾𝚆 𝙸𝙽 𝙵𝚁𝙾𝙽𝚃 𝙾𝙵 𝙵𝙼𝙲)
★𝗠𝗔𝗜𝗡 𝗥𝗢𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘: 𝙵/𝙼
★𝗘𝗡𝗘𝗠𝗜𝗘𝗦-𝗧𝗢-𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗦: 🖤🖤½/𝟱
★𝗦𝗠𝗨𝗧 𝗧𝗘𝗖𝗛𝗡𝗜𝗖𝗔𝗟 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗡𝗧/𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗡𝗦𝗜𝗧𝗬: 🔥🔥🔥½/𝟱 (𝙺𝙸𝚂𝚂𝙸𝙽𝙶 - - 𝙵𝙸𝙽𝙶𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙽𝙶 - 𝙿𝙸𝚅 𝚂𝙴𝚇 - 𝙾𝚁𝙰𝙻 𝚂𝙴𝚇)
★𝗦𝗠𝗨𝗧 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬: 🚒🚒🚒🚒/𝟱
★𝗦𝗠𝗨𝗧 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗧𝗬: 💣💣½/𝟱
★𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗟𝗜𝗖𝗜𝗧𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗦: 🤐🤐½/𝟱 (𝙼𝙰𝚃𝚄𝚁𝙴 𝙻𝙰𝙽𝙶𝚄𝙰𝙶𝙴 - 𝙴𝚇𝙿𝙻𝙸𝙲𝙸𝚃 𝙳𝙴𝚂𝙲𝚁𝙸𝙿𝚃𝙸𝙾𝙽𝚂 𝙾𝙵 𝚅𝙸𝙾𝙻𝙴𝙽𝙲𝙴, 𝚃𝙾𝚁𝚃𝚄𝚁𝙴, 𝚆𝙾𝚄𝙽𝙳𝚂 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝚂𝙴𝚇𝚄𝙰𝙻 𝚂𝙸𝚃𝚄𝙰𝚃𝙸𝙾𝙽𝚂)
★𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗟 𝗔𝗡𝗚𝗦𝗧 𝗟𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗟: 💔💔💔/𝟱
★𝗧𝗬𝗣𝗘 𝗢𝗙 𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚:
★𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗘:
★𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗠𝗘 𝗦𝗢𝗡𝗚: 🎶𝙺𝙸𝙽𝙶𝙳𝙾𝙼 𝙾𝙵 𝙲𝙰𝚁𝙳 - 𝙱𝙰𝙳 𝙾𝙼𝙴𝙽𝚂🎶
▰▰▰▰▰▰▰▰▰▰▰▰
***I always try to be as objective as I can with my ratings for DARK THEMES & TRIGGER WARNINGS, SMUT TECHNICAL CONTENT/INTENSITY, SMUT QUANTITY, ROMANCE QUANTITY, ANGST LEVEL, ENEMIES-TO-LOVERSNESS; the ratings for CHARACTERS, WRITING, PLOT, WORLD BUILDING, SETTING, SMUT QUALITY, ROMANCE QUALITY, are instead tied to my own subjective reading experience and final opinion of the book.
You know those books that, despite their flaws and inconsistencies - despite not being deep and life-changing in terms of mental growth, simply click with you on a profound level?
This book was, for me, one of those.
I'm familiar with Menard's work, because I've read and appreciated a few of her previous books, but when I picked this up, I knew instantly I was in for the treat of a lifetime.
I am a big sucker for anything Six of Crows or Peaky Blinders related, especially when it comes to men and women in dark, fine coats and knives hidden in breeches, and this book seems like it was written just for me.
Add to it that it seems to be inspired by Italian culture, and you know I'm hooked for life.
Everything, from the characters development to the crafting of the setting is simply divine.
The romance is exquisitely crafted, so greatly paced, and I can see fans of the marriage of convenience trope fall for this as badly as I did.
Sure, it wasn't all perfect and not everything made sense (I'm still trying to figure out how ), but the way I was able to suspend my belief and was so totally engrossed with this story to the point I couldn't focus on anything else, told me just how far my love for this book would go.
The magic system is pretty simple, but you'll need some time to get used to the various terms and techniques. Thankfully, it comes with a pretty simple and useful glossary, so you won't have to rack your brain over things too much.
Nico and Milla are impressively good and likeable main characters, with a dark side, distinctive voices and personal thoughts that don't revolve exclusively around each other. Their banter is *chefs kiss* and the progression from forced proximity to deep love is well developed. However, the my wife/husband gig starts pretty soon, so be ready to swoon even when the characters themselves don't seem to have understood the depth of their pining.
I personally am not complaining about it.
There are a tons of secondary characters, too. Some more likeable than others, but pretty much all entertaining and interesting in their own way.
Last but not least, don't expect much action from this because there isn't much, but I promise you guys the tension between N and M is just as good as the real deal.
So, in short: read this book if you're interested.
And if you don't love it, please don't tell me.
I'd really like to stay in this blissful bubble for a little longer, at least until I've finished book 2.
July 11, 2024
2 ★’s
This is not a bad book, but it’s not for me.
My thoughts for this are very similar to the first book.
This has many of the things I usually enjoy when reading; action, political intrigue, scheming, found family, interesting magic system, etc.
However, all of this falls completely flat when the main characters are the least interesting part of the books.
Only looking at the romance, I cannot see any sort of tension or chemistry between them.
Due to their actions, I buy that there is love there but it’s more so giving an elderly couple that is neglecting each other, rather than a newly in-love couple that hasn’t even confessed their feelings yet.
I think too much was focused on the spice building their chemistry and dynamic, whereas their communication was just plain, unexciting and nothing I haven't heard before. We never really got to see them open up or bond over anything.
Looking at the main characters separately as individuals.
Camilla was incredibly whiny and honestly stupid throughout a lot of this book, which made me not really care for her all that much.
However, Nicolai I actively dislike. The way he went through all this trouble of saving her, for then not actually spending any time with her? And every time they did spend together, he was just thinking about how horny she made him?
The moment Nico said “you were worth it all” after them having sex for the first time after him saving her, made me want to throw my kindle into the wall. (Don’t worry, I didn’t - my kindle is safe and sound)
Over to the things I did enjoy:
I love a good found family, and that was my favourite part about book one of this series and it continues to be the favourite thing in this book.
Nonna, Esme & Luther are my loves, and I wished to have seen them even more.
"We're her family too" coming from Luther made my heart burst just a little bit.
The revenge plot felt a bit vague at times, but the ending did end up being satisfying. The last 20% of the book is probably when I felt most engulfed in the story.
I also want to give credit for an incredibly well made recap. When it’s been a little while between books, it’s so easy to forget details and relations. Here the recap cleared out any question marks in advance.
All in all, I can see why some people like this. It’s unique, well written and has an overall interesting plot. Although, as I personally couldn’t connect to the main characters I didn’t end up feeling immersed in the story, hence this wasn’t for me.
Thank you to Booksirens and the publisher for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
________
⌞Pre-read:⌝
I'm way too indecisive rn, but I just remembered this one that I have to finish. I hope this is gonna do it for me🤞
This is not a bad book, but it’s not for me.
My thoughts for this are very similar to the first book.
This has many of the things I usually enjoy when reading; action, political intrigue, scheming, found family, interesting magic system, etc.
However, all of this falls completely flat when the main characters are the least interesting part of the books.
Only looking at the romance, I cannot see any sort of tension or chemistry between them.
Due to their actions, I buy that there is love there but it’s more so giving an elderly couple that is neglecting each other, rather than a newly in-love couple that hasn’t even confessed their feelings yet.
I think too much was focused on the spice building their chemistry and dynamic, whereas their communication was just plain, unexciting and nothing I haven't heard before. We never really got to see them open up or bond over anything.
Looking at the main characters separately as individuals.
Camilla was incredibly whiny and honestly stupid throughout a lot of this book, which made me not really care for her all that much.
However, Nicolai I actively dislike. The way he went through all this trouble of saving her, for then not actually spending any time with her? And every time they did spend together, he was just thinking about how horny she made him?
The moment Nico said “you were worth it all” after them having sex for the first time after him saving her, made me want to throw my kindle into the wall. (Don’t worry, I didn’t - my kindle is safe and sound)
Over to the things I did enjoy:
I love a good found family, and that was my favourite part about book one of this series and it continues to be the favourite thing in this book.
Nonna, Esme & Luther are my loves, and I wished to have seen them even more.
"We're her family too" coming from Luther made my heart burst just a little bit.
The revenge plot felt a bit vague at times, but the ending did end up being satisfying. The last 20% of the book is probably when I felt most engulfed in the story.
I also want to give credit for an incredibly well made recap. When it’s been a little while between books, it’s so easy to forget details and relations. Here the recap cleared out any question marks in advance.
All in all, I can see why some people like this. It’s unique, well written and has an overall interesting plot. Although, as I personally couldn’t connect to the main characters I didn’t end up feeling immersed in the story, hence this wasn’t for me.
Thank you to Booksirens and the publisher for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
________
⌞Pre-read:⌝
I'm way too indecisive rn, but I just remembered this one that I have to finish. I hope this is gonna do it for me🤞
May 15, 2024
"For what it's worth, I'm really glad you're here. I didn't think..." She swallowed hard. "I didn't think I'd ever see you again."
The pain of the truth filled her eyes, and the force of it nearly broke my heart. "There isn't a hell in the void that could keep me from you, Milla. I'd suffer for a lifetime to have another moment on your lips."
My honesty was rewarded with the tip of her chin, lifting her mouth to mine in a way that felt like an offering. "I think we have a moment to spare.
EXCUSE ME WHILE I FANGIRL LIKE IT'S 2008 BUT THIS WAS JUST TOO BEAUTIFUL!!1!111!!!!!!
I can't believe this duology is already over, like...what do you mean there's only two books? I'd read a thousand novels about Nico and Milla, and I'd probably read a few about the rest of the Attano family, as well, included a prequel about Nonna, if there ever was one!
Seriously, I can see myself hyping this series up till the end of my days, because it was just that good.
The sequel picks up immediately after the first installment and it doesn't give you the chance to take a breath. I found myself overwhelmed by what was going on because there was literally always something
Those last 6 chapters were pure torture and I'm going to send Alexis Menard my hairdresser bill when I'll have to cover the grays her evil mind procured me.
I unfortunately didn't adore it as much as the first book and I think it's because it was really packed with endless adrenalinic scenes that sometimes were too fast-paced and that gave the fluffiest moments an edge I wasn't expecting.
I also didn't really vibe with how the truth about Milla's true nature was handled. I have so many questionssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss???????????????????????????
On the other hand, the romance was just as exquisite as it was in House of Bane and Blood and I can't get enough of these two idiots who are so in love with each other they make me wanna barf rainbows. I love them and their relationship so much T___T
Menard's spice is so enjoyable and soooooo hot. The office scene was pure fire and the carriage one also made my stomach clench so many times (except I still don't know how I feel about that whole false hand update business lol - I'm pretty positive Milla enjoyed despite what I think about it).
I wished we had more sweet moments and, why not, I wouldn't have minded a couple more smutty ones, either.
If only Luther wasn't such an immense cockblocker.
Plotwise speaking, there is very little I didn't like. The first part was so entertaining and interesting, both in terms of character depth and story development. I loved seeing Nico and Milla fight to come back to each other, because there's very little they wouldn't do to be together and it's the thought of spending eternity together that guides their actions, making them unhinged and completely reckless. We love a morally gray FMC just as much (possibly even more, really) as we love a morally questionable MMC, in this household. And Milla is a total badass.
Another thing I wanna praise the author for is how she managed to create conflict in and outside the main relationship without throwing unnecessary drama or meaningless break-ups in the readers face. Every time shit hit the fan I kept bracing myself for heartbreak, but it never came, and it made me appreciate the romance even more.
Not that this prevented my heart from being broken. Fuck my life, there were moments that really had me worried. Aramis, if you're reading this, I hope every side of your pillow is always warm.
In conclusion, this was the perfect conclusion to a perfect duology that I'll never stop recommending. I can't already wait to re-read it.
May 7, 2024
I am so excited to conclude Nico and Milla's story with City of Mirth and Malice. Their story has changed my life and my career as an author, and I am so grateful for everyone who has read, starred, reviewed, and/or shared House of Bane and Blood.
You can absolutely expect more books from this world, and I am so excited to start writing the next installment! Follow me on IG and TT, and don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more information regarding future books!
You can absolutely expect more books from this world, and I am so excited to start writing the next installment! Follow me on IG and TT, and don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more information regarding future books!
November 26, 2023
4.5 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
“I would run through fire and burn for you. I would lose arm and leg and limb. I’d do it all over, knowing what would happen to me, if it meant eventually having you as I do now.”
House of Bane and Blood is a brilliantly rendered adult fantasy romance powered by the steampunk subgenre which transports the reader into a post-industrial setting, you can think of it as Peaky Blinders but with magic.
The Peaky Blinders comparison is not just for the vibes, in fact the book follows rival families and gangs with their own deadly secrets and schemes. It's all about the money and power.
Sometimes even the worst of enemies can place their interests above their own hatred and often times than not, a means to an end could be a marriage contract.
The Marcheses and the Attanos set their decade-long feud aside temporarily to unify their families, or at least for pretend to be unified for six weeks until they figure out their own mess.
One family is bankrupt and desperate.
The other want to inherit the former's railway company.
Plans and schemes usually crumble in the face of true love. Not as innocent as one would think nor is it a blossoming love story.
It gets gritty. It gets violent. It gets intense.
But what a fun ride will that be!
I once vowed after the death of my father that if I ever met an Attano, I’d kill them. Instead, I married one.
Marriage of convenience trope never fail me.
Camilla and Nico's chemistry was crackling and deliciously tense. Their romance teetered a fine line between love and hate which made the tension between them so entertaining. Also, it does have a drop of a forbidden romance as members of rival families with a violent history.
Each had a sharp wit and tongue so the banter and flirting was top notch!
There was an abundance of compelling and fun characters to read about, especially Nico's family. They're fleshed out and given proper page time to know them well, even if briefly.
I can't end this review without gushing about the fascinating lore and magic system the author crafted for this world. It is a reminiscent of Grishaverse/Six of Crows but maintains an authentic elements about it that sets it apart. The magic system is rooted is not only magical factors, but also science and alchemy.
Highly recommend this one if you're a fantasy romance fan it's definitely not a book to miss out on
Tropes:
— Marriage of Convenience
— Rivals to Lovers
— Slowburn, Reluctance, Longing
— Close Proximity
— Found Family
— Mafia/Gang Families
— Morally Grey Characters
— Deadly Family Secrets
— Witty Banter
— Magic, Science and Alchemy
— Spicy (2.5/5)
Content warnings: this book contains strong language and content some readers may find distressing including profanity, tobacco and alcohol use, graphic sexual content, kidnapping, mentioned death of a loved ones, gaslighting family members, brief breath play, and mentions of suic*de (past recollection, not present time).
“I would run through fire and burn for you. I would lose arm and leg and limb. I’d do it all over, knowing what would happen to me, if it meant eventually having you as I do now.”
House of Bane and Blood is a brilliantly rendered adult fantasy romance powered by the steampunk subgenre which transports the reader into a post-industrial setting, you can think of it as Peaky Blinders but with magic.
The Peaky Blinders comparison is not just for the vibes, in fact the book follows rival families and gangs with their own deadly secrets and schemes. It's all about the money and power.
Sometimes even the worst of enemies can place their interests above their own hatred and often times than not, a means to an end could be a marriage contract.
The Marcheses and the Attanos set their decade-long feud aside temporarily to unify their families, or at least for pretend to be unified for six weeks until they figure out their own mess.
One family is bankrupt and desperate.
The other want to inherit the former's railway company.
Plans and schemes usually crumble in the face of true love. Not as innocent as one would think nor is it a blossoming love story.
It gets gritty. It gets violent. It gets intense.
But what a fun ride will that be!
I once vowed after the death of my father that if I ever met an Attano, I’d kill them. Instead, I married one.
Marriage of convenience trope never fail me.
Camilla and Nico's chemistry was crackling and deliciously tense. Their romance teetered a fine line between love and hate which made the tension between them so entertaining. Also, it does have a drop of a forbidden romance as members of rival families with a violent history.
Each had a sharp wit and tongue so the banter and flirting was top notch!
There was an abundance of compelling and fun characters to read about, especially Nico's family. They're fleshed out and given proper page time to know them well, even if briefly.
I can't end this review without gushing about the fascinating lore and magic system the author crafted for this world. It is a reminiscent of Grishaverse/Six of Crows but maintains an authentic elements about it that sets it apart. The magic system is rooted is not only magical factors, but also science and alchemy.
Highly recommend this one if you're a fantasy romance fan it's definitely not a book to miss out on
Tropes:
— Marriage of Convenience
— Rivals to Lovers
— Slowburn, Reluctance, Longing
— Close Proximity
— Found Family
— Mafia/Gang Families
— Morally Grey Characters
— Deadly Family Secrets
— Witty Banter
— Magic, Science and Alchemy
— Spicy (2.5/5)
Content warnings: this book contains strong language and content some readers may find distressing including profanity, tobacco and alcohol use, graphic sexual content, kidnapping, mentioned death of a loved ones, gaslighting family members, brief breath play, and mentions of suic*de (past recollection, not present time).
October 18, 2024
I’m actually depressed that Nico and Camilla’s story is over, thank god we’re getting more books in the series following different couples because I don’t think I’m capable of parting from this world I LOVED IT SO MUCH!!
I absolutely ADORED book 1 in this duet and book 2 did not at all disappoint. We picked up right where the heartbreaking ending of book 1 left off and when I say it was NONSTOP from page one… my anxiety was through the roof. In a good way I swear. This was not one of those situations where the couple finally gets together and you end up bored and losing interest (yes I’m guilty of this). Let’s just say Nico and Camilla did not have it easy…
My heart broke for Camilla in this book my good did she go through it and somehow made it out even stronger, her growth was incredible. I do wish we got to see her work with her magic more, I feel like I still don’t quite understand it and there’s still a lot more to learn about it.
Nicolai continued to have me giggling and kicked my feet, the way Camilla has him wrapped around her finger is EVERYTHING! The two of them together are just chefs kiss. The chemistry only got stronger and I love how they give touch her AND touch HIM and you die.
“She’s stunning when she’s homicidal, isn’t she, cousins?”
Get you a man that supports your murderous rampages!!!
Safe to say these books unlocked a new obsession that is mafia meets romantasy and I NEED MORE OF IT!!
I did find the plot at the end to be a bit all over the place and slightly rushed which is why this is a 4 star and not a 5 star, I also just feel like I still have so many questions!!!! But I still loved this and had so much fun, I cannot recommend it enough!
I absolutely ADORED book 1 in this duet and book 2 did not at all disappoint. We picked up right where the heartbreaking ending of book 1 left off and when I say it was NONSTOP from page one… my anxiety was through the roof. In a good way I swear. This was not one of those situations where the couple finally gets together and you end up bored and losing interest (yes I’m guilty of this). Let’s just say Nico and Camilla did not have it easy…
My heart broke for Camilla in this book my good did she go through it and somehow made it out even stronger, her growth was incredible. I do wish we got to see her work with her magic more, I feel like I still don’t quite understand it and there’s still a lot more to learn about it.
Nicolai continued to have me giggling and kicked my feet, the way Camilla has him wrapped around her finger is EVERYTHING! The two of them together are just chefs kiss. The chemistry only got stronger and I love how they give touch her AND touch HIM and you die.
“She’s stunning when she’s homicidal, isn’t she, cousins?”
Get you a man that supports your murderous rampages!!!
Safe to say these books unlocked a new obsession that is mafia meets romantasy and I NEED MORE OF IT!!
I did find the plot at the end to be a bit all over the place and slightly rushed which is why this is a 4 star and not a 5 star, I also just feel like I still have so many questions!!!! But I still loved this and had so much fun, I cannot recommend it enough!
April 21, 2024
4 ⭐️ This is very much a mood rating hahaha. I almost rated 3 stars but it’s getting 4 off the strength of the romance and relationship between Nico and Milla as well as the last 20%. Also the characters were written quite well.
You’ve got: marriage of convenience, morally grey hero, and found family. It’s also got a whole load of “who did this to you” “touch her and you die”…you know, the usual good stuff 😉
The plot didn’t capture me that much. And I feel like the writing was a little too all over the place and awkward in an attempt to world build. BUT it was a solid story with promise. This was clearly the case of ‘first book in the series’ jitters. Now that we have a good premise, I have high hopes for book two.
For all his faults, Nico was a real lover boy ➡️
“I see you, Milla. I see all of you. The good, the better, and the best because there is no bad in you. You are enough”🥹😭
He was also a CHARMER! ➡️
“I like how your hair curls more when it’s damp outside. I like how your hips look in a silk dress. I particularly like the way you say my name when you’re frustrated, as it gives me a hint of how you’d say it in my bed.”
“Nicolai!”
“That’s right. Keep practicing.”🫠🔥
Milla was likeable and had the good amount of passion and confidence in who she was. I’m getting a little sick of damsels in distress so give me a gun toting FMC any day 👏🏾. I liked her back story and the complicated relationship with her brothers. It added some good substance to her character.
Her brothers? They are ALL trash!!! Right down to Giles. I’m sorry, he can take his lovey dovey cute brother routine and stick it where the sun don’t shine. You don’t sit by and watch the sister you claim to love be treated and lied to like that.
Amaris...you stupid bitter hoe! You better hope I don’t catch you in these streets. With your fake brotherly protection act. Using Milla like she’s a pawn and causing a whole world of hurt in the end for no reason. I’m sorry but you will not be getting redemption in my eyes!!!!! I don’t care if you “did it to protect - blah blah BLAH”
True heroes? Luther and Gideon 🥹❤️ baby boys who would do anything for their cousin Nico and his girl Milla. They deserve it all. Luther, I pray you get a healing story, I love you x
You’ve got: marriage of convenience, morally grey hero, and found family. It’s also got a whole load of “who did this to you” “touch her and you die”…you know, the usual good stuff 😉
The plot didn’t capture me that much. And I feel like the writing was a little too all over the place and awkward in an attempt to world build. BUT it was a solid story with promise. This was clearly the case of ‘first book in the series’ jitters. Now that we have a good premise, I have high hopes for book two.
For all his faults, Nico was a real lover boy ➡️
“I see you, Milla. I see all of you. The good, the better, and the best because there is no bad in you. You are enough”🥹😭
He was also a CHARMER! ➡️
“I like how your hair curls more when it’s damp outside. I like how your hips look in a silk dress. I particularly like the way you say my name when you’re frustrated, as it gives me a hint of how you’d say it in my bed.”
“Nicolai!”
“That’s right. Keep practicing.”🫠🔥
Milla was likeable and had the good amount of passion and confidence in who she was. I’m getting a little sick of damsels in distress so give me a gun toting FMC any day 👏🏾. I liked her back story and the complicated relationship with her brothers. It added some good substance to her character.
Her brothers? They are ALL trash!!! Right down to Giles. I’m sorry, he can take his lovey dovey cute brother routine and stick it where the sun don’t shine. You don’t sit by and watch the sister you claim to love be treated and lied to like that.
Amaris...you stupid bitter hoe! You better hope I don’t catch you in these streets. With your fake brotherly protection act. Using Milla like she’s a pawn and causing a whole world of hurt in the end for no reason. I’m sorry but you will not be getting redemption in my eyes!!!!! I don’t care if you “did it to protect - blah blah BLAH”
True heroes? Luther and Gideon 🥹❤️ baby boys who would do anything for their cousin Nico and his girl Milla. They deserve it all. Luther, I pray you get a healing story, I love you x
January 18, 2024
So I found this book on BookTok and am so glad I did. This is certainly different than the current fantasy books that I have been reading as of late. Author Interview on BookTube: HERE
Read if:
💛Marriage of Convenience
💛Rivals to lovers
💛Steampunk vibes
💛Touch her and 💀
💛Disability rep
The magic system in this book took me by surprise. It has a lot of current magical elements such as vampires and elemental magic. But giving it a name by calling it Remnant. It is intricate and draws me in wanting more.
The main characters and even the side characters you easily wanted to either love or hate. Because the author does a great job at writing each one a personality.
The main characters' relationship had great chemistry but came a little together a little too quickly in my opinion. But alas, it was still good.
The ending.....was intense. It did happen so quickly that I had to reread it because I wasn't sure what had happened. But it did and I was shellshocked. The ending wasn't something I had read before and loved how it left me on a cliffhanger.
Now this is more of a personal preference than anything but there was a scene in this book that had me rolling my eyes and turned me off from enjoying this book for a hot second. There is a particular scene that happened in A Court of Mist and Fury that authors like to include in their book for some reason. It just annoys me because it doesn't feel original and some people are just trying to copy that moment. To me, it's not entertaining. Like I said, more of a personal preference.
I enjoyed the book and will continue regardless.
Connect With Me:
BLOG ⟫ INSTAGRAM ⟫ PODCAST ⟫ TIKTOK ⟫
The algorithm felt the need to repeatedly show this book on my TikTok. So naturally, I will be checking this out.
Read if:
💛Marriage of Convenience
💛Rivals to lovers
💛Steampunk vibes
💛Touch her and 💀
💛Disability rep
The magic system in this book took me by surprise. It has a lot of current magical elements such as vampires and elemental magic. But giving it a name by calling it Remnant. It is intricate and draws me in wanting more.
The main characters and even the side characters you easily wanted to either love or hate. Because the author does a great job at writing each one a personality.
The main characters' relationship had great chemistry but came a little together a little too quickly in my opinion. But alas, it was still good.
The ending.....was intense. It did happen so quickly that I had to reread it because I wasn't sure what had happened. But it did and I was shellshocked. The ending wasn't something I had read before and loved how it left me on a cliffhanger.
Now this is more of a personal preference than anything but there was a scene in this book that had me rolling my eyes and turned me off from enjoying this book for a hot second. There is a particular scene that happened in A Court of Mist and Fury that authors like to include in their book for some reason. It just annoys me because it doesn't feel original and some people are just trying to copy that moment. To me, it's not entertaining. Like I said, more of a personal preference.
I enjoyed the book and will continue regardless.
Connect With Me:
BLOG ⟫ INSTAGRAM ⟫ PODCAST ⟫ TIKTOK ⟫
The algorithm felt the need to repeatedly show this book on my TikTok. So naturally, I will be checking this out.
February 2, 2026
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley (thank you, Second Sky/Forever). All thoughts and opinions are my own.
✅ Marriage of convenience
✅ Enemies to lovers
✅ Found family
✅ Steampunk mafia vibe
✅(🆗) Plot
✅🆗 Romance
✅🆗 Pace
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: deaths (not graphic), shootings, stabbings, drinking blood
🔥 Spice level : 🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
The first part of the book is kind of intriguing, but then it gets boring. The magic system is interesting, but not exploited enough in the book, especially in the second part of the book, where the focus seems to be mostly on the mafia and revenge element of the plot, and less on the fantasy and magic aspect. Overall, the plot felt erratic; it seemed to jump from place to place, and I was never sure where this story was going or what the endgame was.
Honestly, I struggled to remain engaged, despite everything that was going on. Things were not explained and developed enough for me to get invested in the plot, and the characters lacked depth, so I didn’t care that much about them either. There are a lot of groups mentioned at the beginning of the book: gangs, law enforcement agencies, and others, but there are no real explanations about the groups, their functioning, and dynamics, making it confusing at times and hard to care about.
Milla and Nico have a tense dynamic at first, and I liked it. They argued and pushed on each other’s buttons on purpose, and there was a sexual tension between them, too. Sadly, it quickly soured when Milla kept on being antagonistic (not an issue with me), only for Nico to almost instantly become possessive of her, without any real buildup.
The romance was okay, but a little cheesy at times. There was potential for something much more intense and angsty. This is a marriage of convenience, meaning it usually comes with forced proximity, and in this case, even an enemies-to-lovers trope. It is the perfect combination for the author to slowly build sexual tension and have the characters discover each other bit by bit, and learn to know and appreciate each other bit by bit. Instead, Nico seemed to instantly be devoted to Milla and willing to risk anything to protect her, and it made their relationship feel rushed, with a weak foundation. Their dialogues lacked smoothness and real chemistry and felt forced at times.
Nico gets kissed (more or less willingly), and he has a reputation for being a womanizer. Yet, Milla stays at home quietly, even when she thinks he might be with another girl. This doesn’t fit her fiery temper that comes out to play every once in a while, and it annoyed me that Nico would act this way. He is not instigating the kisses, but he is not always in a hurry to stop them either.
Overall, the ideas are there, and they have potential, but the execution is lacking. If you are looking for a romantasy with mafia vibes that checks the boxes of the usual tropes, this one might be a good fit. If you want something more elaborate, focused on the plot, and with characters that have layers and real chemistry, this might not be the one for you.
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✅ Marriage of convenience
✅ Enemies to lovers
✅ Found family
✅ Steampunk mafia vibe
✅(🆗) Plot
✅🆗 Romance
✅🆗 Pace
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: deaths (not graphic), shootings, stabbings, drinking blood
🔥 Spice level : 🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
The first part of the book is kind of intriguing, but then it gets boring. The magic system is interesting, but not exploited enough in the book, especially in the second part of the book, where the focus seems to be mostly on the mafia and revenge element of the plot, and less on the fantasy and magic aspect. Overall, the plot felt erratic; it seemed to jump from place to place, and I was never sure where this story was going or what the endgame was.
Honestly, I struggled to remain engaged, despite everything that was going on. Things were not explained and developed enough for me to get invested in the plot, and the characters lacked depth, so I didn’t care that much about them either. There are a lot of groups mentioned at the beginning of the book: gangs, law enforcement agencies, and others, but there are no real explanations about the groups, their functioning, and dynamics, making it confusing at times and hard to care about.
Milla and Nico have a tense dynamic at first, and I liked it. They argued and pushed on each other’s buttons on purpose, and there was a sexual tension between them, too. Sadly, it quickly soured when Milla kept on being antagonistic (not an issue with me), only for Nico to almost instantly become possessive of her, without any real buildup.
The romance was okay, but a little cheesy at times. There was potential for something much more intense and angsty. This is a marriage of convenience, meaning it usually comes with forced proximity, and in this case, even an enemies-to-lovers trope. It is the perfect combination for the author to slowly build sexual tension and have the characters discover each other bit by bit, and learn to know and appreciate each other bit by bit. Instead, Nico seemed to instantly be devoted to Milla and willing to risk anything to protect her, and it made their relationship feel rushed, with a weak foundation. Their dialogues lacked smoothness and real chemistry and felt forced at times.
Nico gets kissed (more or less willingly), and he has a reputation for being a womanizer. Yet, Milla stays at home quietly, even when she thinks he might be with another girl. This doesn’t fit her fiery temper that comes out to play every once in a while, and it annoyed me that Nico would act this way. He is not instigating the kisses, but he is not always in a hurry to stop them either.
Overall, the ideas are there, and they have potential, but the execution is lacking. If you are looking for a romantasy with mafia vibes that checks the boxes of the usual tropes, this one might be a good fit. If you want something more elaborate, focused on the plot, and with characters that have layers and real chemistry, this might not be the one for you.
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August 27, 2024
"He was strikingly handsome, obnoxiously wealthy and apparently had a thing for throats"
STOPPPP, I am obsessed. This is legit ✨perfection✨
The banter was BANTERING, ok??!! It's giving peaky blinders with the coolest fucking magic system. I ate it up!!
I fell in love with both main characters, Nico + Milla are perfection. You've got a badass, takes no shit fmc and a possessive, touch her + die mmc. 👌👌👌
I think, if you are someone who truly enjoyed the banter from Powerless/ Reckless but wanted more adult and less YA - PICK THIS UP!!!
The Vex Veritas scene!!! Obsessed
BUT THE SCENE WHERE HE FIXES HER SHOE!!! I am done.
moments:
"Let go of my wife, or you will die tonight."
"You really can't just admit you think I'm attractive."
"I'd rather show you what I ate for breakfast yesterday."
"I see you, Milla. I see all of you. The good, the better, and the best because there is no bad in you. You are enough."
"Wanting you isn't hard, princess. It's all the rest that makes it difficult."
"I hope you don't expect me to go without you. We're a package deal now. Where you go, I go. Till death parts us."
-peaky blinders vibes
-magic
-marriage of convenience
-rivals to lovers
-touch her her + die
-a+ banter
STOPPPP, I am obsessed. This is legit ✨perfection✨
The banter was BANTERING, ok??!! It's giving peaky blinders with the coolest fucking magic system. I ate it up!!
I fell in love with both main characters, Nico + Milla are perfection. You've got a badass, takes no shit fmc and a possessive, touch her + die mmc. 👌👌👌
I think, if you are someone who truly enjoyed the banter from Powerless/ Reckless but wanted more adult and less YA - PICK THIS UP!!!
The Vex Veritas scene!!! Obsessed
BUT THE SCENE WHERE HE FIXES HER SHOE!!! I am done.
moments:
"Let go of my wife, or you will die tonight."
"You really can't just admit you think I'm attractive."
"I'd rather show you what I ate for breakfast yesterday."
"I see you, Milla. I see all of you. The good, the better, and the best because there is no bad in you. You are enough."
"Wanting you isn't hard, princess. It's all the rest that makes it difficult."
"I hope you don't expect me to go without you. We're a package deal now. Where you go, I go. Till death parts us."
-peaky blinders vibes
-magic
-marriage of convenience
-rivals to lovers
-touch her her + die
-a+ banter
July 31, 2024
This breathed life into the romantasy genre for me. It felt like something so different then all the rest I have been reading.
For one this is no fae romance. It's actually an urban steam punk setting, there's guns and politicians and a war between the humans and the magic users. But the non magic users use science to help even the playing field.
There's an important train😂
A marriage of convenience
A metal hand👀
Our male main character is known to be ruthless but a serious softie at heart.
I loved the banter between them, but also loved the small moments between them.
Please please please pick this one up
For one this is no fae romance. It's actually an urban steam punk setting, there's guns and politicians and a war between the humans and the magic users. But the non magic users use science to help even the playing field.
There's an important train😂
A marriage of convenience
A metal hand👀
Our male main character is known to be ruthless but a serious softie at heart.
I loved the banter between them, but also loved the small moments between them.
Please please please pick this one up
November 8, 2024
3 stars
I liked this, but do think it was right book wrong time.
Romantasy with mafia elements? Loved that aspect! The magic system was interesting, the banter was fabulous and I think I have more of a crush on Milla than I do on Nico. ALTHOUGH, the fact that this MAN is dyslexic and spent ALL NIGHT writing a marriage proposal (albeit, against her will) for her so that he could present her with something that she would take seriously and would impress her had me SWOONING.
Now, the plot twists did not twist for me, but I read this for the vibes, not for an intricate plot so I was okay with that!
Definitely recommend if you just want a fun Romantasy book!
I liked this, but do think it was right book wrong time.
Romantasy with mafia elements? Loved that aspect! The magic system was interesting, the banter was fabulous and I think I have more of a crush on Milla than I do on Nico. ALTHOUGH, the fact that this MAN is dyslexic and spent ALL NIGHT writing a marriage proposal (albeit, against her will) for her so that he could present her with something that she would take seriously and would impress her had me SWOONING.
Now, the plot twists did not twist for me, but I read this for the vibes, not for an intricate plot so I was okay with that!
Definitely recommend if you just want a fun Romantasy book!
December 19, 2024
4 stars! ✨ Big thanks to Alexis L. Menard and Booksirens for the complimentary copy! 🖤
Okay, let’s talk about City of Mirth and Malice! This book was a wild ride. Nico and Camilla’s story had me from the very first page, and it did not let go. Like, I had to pace myself so I wouldn’t burn out from all the adrenaline 😂. I was SO ready for this conclusion, and while I loved the chaos, the action, and the slow-burn romance, there were just a couple of things that kept it from being a full 5-star experience for me.
✧ Mafia Romance 💘
✧ Forced Proximity 💗
✧ Marriage of Convenience 💍
✧ Enemies to Lovers (with a twist) 💓
✧ Dark Secrets & Lies 👀
✧ Forbidden Magic 🔮
✧ Angst & Tension 😩
✧ Found Family 💕
Okay, the plot? Hold onto your seat because it’s full of twists and turns. I lived for the chaos! But the whole “Order and Chaos” thing at the end? Mmm, it got a little too much for me. Like, I was kinda lost there for a second. The pacing felt off at times—some scenes rushed, others dragging a bit—but hey, the romance? Chef’s kiss. Nico and Camilla’s bond is so deep, it’s like, “I’ll burn the world for you” level. And every time Nico called her “my wife”? My heart did a little happy dance. 🤭
The chemistry between them? EVERYTHING. 🔥 I couldn't get enough of their intense connection. And that office scene? Uh, wow. Spicy doesn't even begin to cover it. 🔥 I do wish we had more of the sweet moments, though, but with Luther being the ultimate cockblock, that was kinda hard to come by. 😅 Interruptions were so annoying, but I guess it kept things interesting?
As for the ending—satisfying, yes, but I still have SO many questions! What happened to Milla’s true nature?? Like, give me the answers, please! 😫 Overall, it was such a fun conclusion to the series. The dark, twisted romance of Lynchaven has my heart forever. 💖
Highly recommend if you’re into dark mafia romance with a dash of magic, steamy moments, and all the angst. I’m off to stalk the author’s socials to see what’s next in the world of Order and Chaos because I need more!! 😍🔥
Okay, let’s talk about City of Mirth and Malice! This book was a wild ride. Nico and Camilla’s story had me from the very first page, and it did not let go. Like, I had to pace myself so I wouldn’t burn out from all the adrenaline 😂. I was SO ready for this conclusion, and while I loved the chaos, the action, and the slow-burn romance, there were just a couple of things that kept it from being a full 5-star experience for me.
✧ Mafia Romance 💘
✧ Forced Proximity 💗
✧ Marriage of Convenience 💍
✧ Enemies to Lovers (with a twist) 💓
✧ Dark Secrets & Lies 👀
✧ Forbidden Magic 🔮
✧ Angst & Tension 😩
✧ Found Family 💕
Okay, the plot? Hold onto your seat because it’s full of twists and turns. I lived for the chaos! But the whole “Order and Chaos” thing at the end? Mmm, it got a little too much for me. Like, I was kinda lost there for a second. The pacing felt off at times—some scenes rushed, others dragging a bit—but hey, the romance? Chef’s kiss. Nico and Camilla’s bond is so deep, it’s like, “I’ll burn the world for you” level. And every time Nico called her “my wife”? My heart did a little happy dance. 🤭
The chemistry between them? EVERYTHING. 🔥 I couldn't get enough of their intense connection. And that office scene? Uh, wow. Spicy doesn't even begin to cover it. 🔥 I do wish we had more of the sweet moments, though, but with Luther being the ultimate cockblock, that was kinda hard to come by. 😅 Interruptions were so annoying, but I guess it kept things interesting?
As for the ending—satisfying, yes, but I still have SO many questions! What happened to Milla’s true nature?? Like, give me the answers, please! 😫 Overall, it was such a fun conclusion to the series. The dark, twisted romance of Lynchaven has my heart forever. 💖
Highly recommend if you’re into dark mafia romance with a dash of magic, steamy moments, and all the angst. I’m off to stalk the author’s socials to see what’s next in the world of Order and Chaos because I need more!! 😍🔥
April 26, 2024
DNF @ 49%
House of Bane and Blood is one of those books which made me feel gaslit because of its exceptionally high reviews. What is wrong with me? What is everyone else seeing that I'm not?
And because of these glowing reviews, I gave it much longer than it deserved. As such, I'm confident that the issue isn't me 😝
Here's what I couldn't look past and ultimately made me DNF:
⟶ The worldbuilding is wayyyyy too sparse, and what we do get is confusing as hell. Is this steampunk? Urban fantasy? What are the limits of technology? How the fuck does the magic system work? It seemed like the author was trying to avoid info-dumps with such ferocity that they swung the pendulum to the other side instead of finding an appropriate middle ground.
⟶ For the life of me, I could not navigate the inconsistencies we get with character speech patterns. Not only did this play into the mess that was the worldbuilding (ex. having characters who never use contractions tells you a lot about the time period, social expectations, etc.) but it meant I couldn't make any determinations about the characters themselves when their speech was changing so drastically from, in some cases, the last thing they said.
⟶ The writing needed at least one more round of line edits. Even though I'm slightly more likely to give iffy writing a pass when listening to audios, there were sentences so bizarre that I genuinely had to pause, go back, and relisten just to make sure I hadn't heard them incorrectly and made it up in my head. For example: "...only because he could hurt my family hard if he wanted to."
Notes on the audiobook
⟶ Dual narration. (Is it terrible that, these days, I'm expecting indies to be done in duet?)
⟶MMC Even this being narrated by James Cavenaugh/Fouhey, the same voice actor who brings to life Foz Meadow's Tithinai series (along with Vikas Adams) wasn't enough to keep me going.
⟶FMC Jacci Prior is a new-to-me narrator. There were no ticks or strange choices, so I'm looking forward to seeing what she does with a book that isn't (I'm sorry in advance... but...) a turd.
House of Bane and Blood is one of those books which made me feel gaslit because of its exceptionally high reviews. What is wrong with me? What is everyone else seeing that I'm not?
And because of these glowing reviews, I gave it much longer than it deserved. As such, I'm confident that the issue isn't me 😝
Here's what I couldn't look past and ultimately made me DNF:
⟶ The worldbuilding is wayyyyy too sparse, and what we do get is confusing as hell. Is this steampunk? Urban fantasy? What are the limits of technology? How the fuck does the magic system work? It seemed like the author was trying to avoid info-dumps with such ferocity that they swung the pendulum to the other side instead of finding an appropriate middle ground.
⟶ For the life of me, I could not navigate the inconsistencies we get with character speech patterns. Not only did this play into the mess that was the worldbuilding (ex. having characters who never use contractions tells you a lot about the time period, social expectations, etc.) but it meant I couldn't make any determinations about the characters themselves when their speech was changing so drastically from, in some cases, the last thing they said.
⟶ The writing needed at least one more round of line edits. Even though I'm slightly more likely to give iffy writing a pass when listening to audios, there were sentences so bizarre that I genuinely had to pause, go back, and relisten just to make sure I hadn't heard them incorrectly and made it up in my head. For example: "...only because he could hurt my family hard if he wanted to."
Notes on the audiobook
⟶ Dual narration. (Is it terrible that, these days, I'm expecting indies to be done in duet?)
⟶MMC Even this being narrated by James Cavenaugh/Fouhey, the same voice actor who brings to life Foz Meadow's Tithinai series (along with Vikas Adams) wasn't enough to keep me going.
⟶FMC Jacci Prior is a new-to-me narrator. There were no ticks or strange choices, so I'm looking forward to seeing what she does with a book that isn't (I'm sorry in advance... but...) a turd.
June 30, 2024
4 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Your laugh is a song of victory, proving you faced their worst and not only survived, but came out with joy still in your heart. And that fucking smile, not to mention your eyes—the light still shining in your eyes—they are beacons to me, guiding me to my true home as they have since the first time I caught a glimpse of them.”
We continue in City of Mirth and Malice where we left off in the first book, so you are hit yet again with a sense of immense dread (without spoiling anything).
The sequel promises non-stop thrilling action and scheming while in parallel transporting us to darker settings. In a world of lethal magic and vengeful gang families, the stakes are extremely high and the potential consequences are devastating if one wrong move is made.
Milla goes through so much and her arc is done splendidy even if my heart hurt for what she had been subjected to. On the other hand, Nico is completely devoted and helplessly in love with his wife he is willing to burn the whole world for her.
Among all the seriousness, there were some lighthearted and hilarious scenes that made me howl! I adore the familial bonds and I consider them part of the backbone of the duology as much as the romance and magic system.
I think the pacing faltered a bit midway and the scenes didn't flow easily with so much happening, but it all builds up to an explosive climax.
I'm elated to know that this won't be the end of the world of Order and Chaos, I'm excited to see what Alexis has planned next!
Content warning: profanity, tobacco and alcohol use, graphic sexual content, mentioned death of a parent and sibling, gaslighting family members, brief breath play, torture, violence, and mentions of suic*de.
“Your laugh is a song of victory, proving you faced their worst and not only survived, but came out with joy still in your heart. And that fucking smile, not to mention your eyes—the light still shining in your eyes—they are beacons to me, guiding me to my true home as they have since the first time I caught a glimpse of them.”
We continue in City of Mirth and Malice where we left off in the first book, so you are hit yet again with a sense of immense dread (without spoiling anything).
The sequel promises non-stop thrilling action and scheming while in parallel transporting us to darker settings. In a world of lethal magic and vengeful gang families, the stakes are extremely high and the potential consequences are devastating if one wrong move is made.
Milla goes through so much and her arc is done splendidy even if my heart hurt for what she had been subjected to. On the other hand, Nico is completely devoted and helplessly in love with his wife he is willing to burn the whole world for her.
Among all the seriousness, there were some lighthearted and hilarious scenes that made me howl! I adore the familial bonds and I consider them part of the backbone of the duology as much as the romance and magic system.
I think the pacing faltered a bit midway and the scenes didn't flow easily with so much happening, but it all builds up to an explosive climax.
I'm elated to know that this won't be the end of the world of Order and Chaos, I'm excited to see what Alexis has planned next!
Content warning: profanity, tobacco and alcohol use, graphic sexual content, mentioned death of a parent and sibling, gaslighting family members, brief breath play, torture, violence, and mentions of suic*de.
October 25, 2024
The setting, romance, and vibes were really solid for me.
I had a few issues with world building and plotting.
It was giving me Devil of Downtown by Joanna Shupe meets steam punk vibes.
I had a few issues with world building and plotting.
It was giving me Devil of Downtown by Joanna Shupe meets steam punk vibes.
May 6, 2024
A very solid 4.5 ⭐️
“You spoil me, Attano.”
“You’re already spoiled, princess.” 🫠🥹🤧
This was definitely better than book 1! I kind of had a feeling it would be because the plot and good characters were there. It’s was just a little awkward in book 1, but I kind of understand because world building alongside a plot can’t be easy.
It neatly ties up Milla and Nico’s story, with a nice HEA(for now? I don’t know if we’ll get more books regarding Milla’s search for her past…)
Similar to the first instalment, it’s a dual POV.
City and Mirth continues where House of Bane and Blood left off; with Milla in the Hightower Prison and Nico trying to save her. Nico spends a good portion of the book scheming and doing all he can free his wife. We also get to see Milla’s challenges in the prison and the awful tests she is put through. This is where you can see that the writing style and plot has DEFINITELY improved - my God, the way we see Milla struggle and how she is being broken whilst we see how stressed and desperate Nico is on the outside? 👏🏾🥺 I was really sad for the first could chapters.
Without spoiling how, Milla and Nico eventually reunite ➡️
“Nico,”
“Hello, princess.” 🤧🥹🫠🫶🏾
Then we get all the romance. The romance was romancing!! And Nico’s love declarations were EVERYTHING ➡️ “There isn’t a hell in the void that could keep me from you, Milla. I’d suffer for a lifetime to have another moment on your lips.” CRYING IN THE CLUB RIGHT NOW X
Only complaint is that Nico and Milla were a little too cringey at times…there’s a difference between cheesy (kinda good) and cringey (kinda bad). But that’s okay because the overall romance was a solid 4/5.
The whole story is a big game of politics. It’s also the classic plot of those in power trying to control those different from them (descendants with magic). We see this time and time again - stories where the rich and powerful fear the loss of status…fear those they do not understand will someday overpower them...cowards. This story had a little bit more substance with in my opinion, and it came together quite well. I started to understand the plot and magic system way more and how the those in the row threatened the nine families.
Last point: I still really really REALLY hate Aramis, Milla’s brother. There’s a good storyline here about how family can gaslight you. Also, how people closest to you can think they are protecting you by controlling you and refusing to let you make your own decisions. Again, no spoilers but I hated how everything turned out with her brothers. Because they were still wrong!!!!!
Anyways, yes to this book. 👏🏾 I’ve seen lots of descriptions refer to it as a peaky blinders fantasy and I’d have to say these are accurate.
——————————————
Ready for some Nico and Camilla content 🎉🤞🏾
Dear Alexis L Menard,
Please give me some Luther healing and justice narrative or I will RIOT.
Sincerely, a dramatic reader xo
“You spoil me, Attano.”
“You’re already spoiled, princess.” 🫠🥹🤧
This was definitely better than book 1! I kind of had a feeling it would be because the plot and good characters were there. It’s was just a little awkward in book 1, but I kind of understand because world building alongside a plot can’t be easy.
It neatly ties up Milla and Nico’s story, with a nice HEA(for now? I don’t know if we’ll get more books regarding Milla’s search for her past…)
Similar to the first instalment, it’s a dual POV.
City and Mirth continues where House of Bane and Blood left off; with Milla in the Hightower Prison and Nico trying to save her. Nico spends a good portion of the book scheming and doing all he can free his wife. We also get to see Milla’s challenges in the prison and the awful tests she is put through. This is where you can see that the writing style and plot has DEFINITELY improved - my God, the way we see Milla struggle and how she is being broken whilst we see how stressed and desperate Nico is on the outside? 👏🏾🥺 I was really sad for the first could chapters.
Without spoiling how, Milla and Nico eventually reunite ➡️
“Nico,”
“Hello, princess.” 🤧🥹🫠🫶🏾
Then we get all the romance. The romance was romancing!! And Nico’s love declarations were EVERYTHING ➡️ “There isn’t a hell in the void that could keep me from you, Milla. I’d suffer for a lifetime to have another moment on your lips.” CRYING IN THE CLUB RIGHT NOW X
Only complaint is that Nico and Milla were a little too cringey at times…there’s a difference between cheesy (kinda good) and cringey (kinda bad). But that’s okay because the overall romance was a solid 4/5.
The whole story is a big game of politics. It’s also the classic plot of those in power trying to control those different from them (descendants with magic). We see this time and time again - stories where the rich and powerful fear the loss of status…fear those they do not understand will someday overpower them...cowards. This story had a little bit more substance with in my opinion, and it came together quite well. I started to understand the plot and magic system way more and how the those in the row threatened the nine families.
Last point: I still really really REALLY hate Aramis, Milla’s brother. There’s a good storyline here about how family can gaslight you. Also, how people closest to you can think they are protecting you by controlling you and refusing to let you make your own decisions. Again, no spoilers but I hated how everything turned out with her brothers. Because they were still wrong!!!!!
Anyways, yes to this book. 👏🏾 I’ve seen lots of descriptions refer to it as a peaky blinders fantasy and I’d have to say these are accurate.
——————————————
Ready for some Nico and Camilla content 🎉🤞🏾
Dear Alexis L Menard,
Please give me some Luther healing and justice narrative or I will RIOT.
Sincerely, a dramatic reader xo
August 28, 2024
steampunk + mafia society + fantasy magic = a great freaking read
“𝐈 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚. 𝐈 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐨 𝐛𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡.”
TBH, this book kind of reminded me of Avatar: Legend of Korra, like that society where it's humans vs. benders, but better—and you know, spicier 😏.
Camilla Marchese is the heiress of the train empire, and her only purpose is to marry to save the company. Little did she know that her arranged marriage would be with Nicolai Attano—the leader of their rival family. The way they met, developed feelings, and navigated the politics behind it all made this book such a fast-paced read. I loved the tension, the spice is there but isn't the whole book, and I totally ate up the politics, idk why 👀
ALSO cannot forget how delicious Nicolai Attano was with his ✨she's my wife✨ vibes aghhhhh gimme gimme more! Can't wait to dive into the second one!
I recommend this book to anyone who loves a fantasy with a bucket of mafia elements!
Tropes:
ꪆৎ arranged marriage
ꪆৎ humans vs magical abilities
ꪆৎ touch her and 💀
ꪆৎ possessive mmc
⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.
𝗽𝗿𝗲-𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱: *insert new audiobook into rotation* I have a friend that raves about this book non-stop so let's give it a try shall we
“𝐈 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚. 𝐈 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐨 𝐛𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡.”
TBH, this book kind of reminded me of Avatar: Legend of Korra, like that society where it's humans vs. benders, but better—and you know, spicier 😏.
Camilla Marchese is the heiress of the train empire, and her only purpose is to marry to save the company. Little did she know that her arranged marriage would be with Nicolai Attano—the leader of their rival family. The way they met, developed feelings, and navigated the politics behind it all made this book such a fast-paced read. I loved the tension, the spice is there but isn't the whole book, and I totally ate up the politics, idk why 👀
ALSO cannot forget how delicious Nicolai Attano was with his ✨she's my wife✨ vibes aghhhhh gimme gimme more! Can't wait to dive into the second one!
I recommend this book to anyone who loves a fantasy with a bucket of mafia elements!
Tropes:
ꪆৎ arranged marriage
ꪆৎ humans vs magical abilities
ꪆৎ touch her and 💀
ꪆৎ possessive mmc
⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.
𝗽𝗿𝗲-𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱: *insert new audiobook into rotation* I have a friend that raves about this book non-stop so let's give it a try shall we
December 4, 2023
I loved this so much, I immediately bought the hardback after reading on kindle unlimited!
The setting is what really did it for me. I loved the industrial island and magic system. This arranged marriage of convenience plot had plenty of twists and turns. There were secrets, hidden agendas, and betrayals, and each of these characters had enough power to work their angles. In the midst of it all, the two main characters had great chemistry and interaction.
Mila, the FMC, was plenty capable, which I really liked. I found her motivations and ambitions to be the least inspiring of all the characters though, and her naive spunk irked me at times when I wanted her to be more calculating. To be fair, this story definitely gave me Grisha-verse vibes (big compliment), so I can't help but compare, and no one can touch Inej. So there's that.
The setting is what really did it for me. I loved the industrial island and magic system. This arranged marriage of convenience plot had plenty of twists and turns. There were secrets, hidden agendas, and betrayals, and each of these characters had enough power to work their angles. In the midst of it all, the two main characters had great chemistry and interaction.
Mila, the FMC, was plenty capable, which I really liked. I found her motivations and ambitions to be the least inspiring of all the characters though, and her naive spunk irked me at times when I wanted her to be more calculating. To be fair, this story definitely gave me Grisha-verse vibes (big compliment), so I can't help but compare, and no one can touch Inej. So there's that.
August 6, 2025
Tropes and Vibes:
💍 Marriage of convenience
💔 Enemies to lovers
🖤 Morally gray MMC
🔮 Dark/urban magic
🏙️ Mafia houses & cartel politics
🗡️ Serial‑killer hunt
🏠 Forced proximity (newlyweds)
♟️ Power plays & intrigue
🔥 Slow-burn tension with spice
I have no idea why this book isn’t getting more attention, it’s a hidden gem that absolutely deserves a place on BookTok! House of Bane and Blood sucked me in from the start with its gritty, magical world and fast-paced plot. If you’re into dark fantasy with political intrigue, family secrets, and steamy tension, this is one you need to read.
The dynamic between Milla and Nico is everything. The banter? On point. Their chemistry? Electric. It’s the perfect slow-burn, (supposed to be) enemies-ish-to-lovers setup, but with real emotional depth that makes you root for them beyond just the romance.
There are several plot twists throughout the book—some I saw coming, but that only made the reveal more satisfying because it was so well-executed. Watching everything unfold, especially with the mystery of the Collector and the stakes of Milla’s family legacy, made for a really immersive reading experience.
The worldbuilding feels like Peaky Blinders vibes, full of arcane science, political tension, and a post-industrial magical landscape that’s both gritty and lush. I’m dying to see more from this world.. especially if Alexis decides to build the series out more!
Highly recommend for anyone into dark, twisty fantasy with strong heroines, morally gray love interests, and a whole lot of secrets.
Thank you to NetGalley and Second Sky for an ARC!
💍 Marriage of convenience
💔 Enemies to lovers
🖤 Morally gray MMC
🔮 Dark/urban magic
🏙️ Mafia houses & cartel politics
🗡️ Serial‑killer hunt
🏠 Forced proximity (newlyweds)
♟️ Power plays & intrigue
🔥 Slow-burn tension with spice
I have no idea why this book isn’t getting more attention, it’s a hidden gem that absolutely deserves a place on BookTok! House of Bane and Blood sucked me in from the start with its gritty, magical world and fast-paced plot. If you’re into dark fantasy with political intrigue, family secrets, and steamy tension, this is one you need to read.
The dynamic between Milla and Nico is everything. The banter? On point. Their chemistry? Electric. It’s the perfect slow-burn, (supposed to be) enemies-ish-to-lovers setup, but with real emotional depth that makes you root for them beyond just the romance.
There are several plot twists throughout the book—some I saw coming, but that only made the reveal more satisfying because it was so well-executed. Watching everything unfold, especially with the mystery of the Collector and the stakes of Milla’s family legacy, made for a really immersive reading experience.
The worldbuilding feels like Peaky Blinders vibes, full of arcane science, political tension, and a post-industrial magical landscape that’s both gritty and lush. I’m dying to see more from this world.. especially if Alexis decides to build the series out more!
Highly recommend for anyone into dark, twisty fantasy with strong heroines, morally gray love interests, and a whole lot of secrets.
Thank you to NetGalley and Second Sky for an ARC!
November 2, 2023
Mob vibes meets fantasy.
Will come back to this review 🐍
Will come back to this review 🐍
August 29, 2024
3.5⭐
Book one? IMMACULATE. This one just fell a little flat unfortunately.
I felt like the beginning was a tad slow and hard to follow, like I still actually have questions. Then the middle picked up a little and I started to really enjoy it - and then it kinda just ended. I know this is a duet but I still feel like there could be more honestly.
I definitely didn't hate it like book one I loved so much and gave it 5 stars so the duet as a whole would probably get 4 stars from me and I definitely will still recommend it, I just really think book one is much stronger than book two. The banter didn't really feel as natural and I also almost felt like Milla wasn't as badass and that was my absolute favorite thing about her.
Anyway, still recommend this duet & will 100% read more from this author in the future!
Book one? IMMACULATE. This one just fell a little flat unfortunately.
I felt like the beginning was a tad slow and hard to follow, like I still actually have questions. Then the middle picked up a little and I started to really enjoy it - and then it kinda just ended. I know this is a duet but I still feel like there could be more honestly.
I definitely didn't hate it like book one I loved so much and gave it 5 stars so the duet as a whole would probably get 4 stars from me and I definitely will still recommend it, I just really think book one is much stronger than book two. The banter didn't really feel as natural and I also almost felt like Milla wasn't as badass and that was my absolute favorite thing about her.
Anyway, still recommend this duet & will 100% read more from this author in the future!
October 21, 2023
4.5⭐️ I ate this book up like it was breakfast, lunch, and dinner. So many of my favorite tropes that were done right. Milla and Nico will live in my head rent free from here on out. The banter and tension, A+. The world building and plot were so intriguing. The magic system and some of the politics confused me a little, but if I go back and reread some things, I’m sure it’ll make more sense. I need book 2! Bravo Alexis, you out did yourself with this one.
I absolutely loved the vibes that this book gave off! The pitch of shadow and bone meets peaky blinders was spot on.
I absolutely loved the vibes that this book gave off! The pitch of shadow and bone meets peaky blinders was spot on.
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