Off Key: Blood&Ink Volume 2

by Ashley Chapman

Amber thought she had it all. Her biggest story, unlimited access to the supernatural world, and the heart of a vampire, Reuben.

Until one night shattered it.

Now, a steady stream of unwanted texts is all that remains of her love life. But what is she supposed to do when those messages suddenly stop? Has Reuben finally accepted their breakup… or has something far more sinister silenced him?

She better find out quickly. Human-led protests are turning violent, while vampires are mysteriously falling ill. Without her ex-boyfriend fighting for supernatural voices in government, the stakes have never been higher. And failure could cost more than just one life.

Where is Reuben? Can he continue gaining in the polls? Or will their breakup undo all the progress he made?

285 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 9, 2025

Reviews

[LiteraryHouse · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐

This book picks up right where Torn Pages (Book 1) left off. Book 2 really solidified my love for Reuben he’s absolutely adorable. That said, this one didn’t quite hit the same for me as the first book. After the initial chaos at the beginning, I felt the characters and plot became a bit stagnant. There wasn’t much growth, and the conversations often felt repetitive. At times, the dialogue was a little too on the nose or too polished, which made the characters feel less organic and real.

This book does wrap up nicely but is left open ended so I’m not sure if there will be a Book 3, but If so I'd definitely read it. As I really enjoy the dynamic between Amber and Reuben they’re so cute together. Reuben has my heart, and I just love his nickname for Amber.

Thank you again, Ashley Chapman, for the opportunity to read this ARC.

[Miryam Drakon · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️
I enjoyed book one and applied for this sequel on a whim. While I did find it engaging overall, I struggled to fully connect with the characters—likely because it’s been a year since I read the first book. The story picked up more for me around the halfway mark, but something about the tone felt too formal. Even close friends, and surprisingly even Reuben and Amber, spoke to each other with a distance that kept me from feeling the chemistry I expected.

The pacing was also uneven—slow through much of the middle, then rushed at the end. Since this was marketed as a duology, I was surprised by how open-ended the conclusion felt. It seems like the author may have plans for another installment, though I’m not sure if I’ll continue with the series.

[Patsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was very interesting. The underlying story plot to me was unique. Amber and Reuben were definitely an interesting couple. The story continues on from the cliffhanger of book one.

Book one left you naturally with a lot of unanswered questions. However , I feel like book two filled in a lot of gaps for me. I'd love seeing the complex dynamics between Amber and Reuben. Their characters had a lot of depth to them and I loved seeing not only their individual growth but together as well. The relationship between the two of them felt very real and relatable.

The writing was solid and I would actually love to read more from the author. For that reason I give this a four out of five stars.

[TheLiterary Mug · Rating 4 out of 5]

Building on the momentum of the first book, the story masterfully weaves together the journeys of both Rueben the MMC and Amber the FMC as they bridge their differences, evolving as individuals, united by a shared vision for the future.

Although the pacing slowly ebbed and flowed, I was deeply impressed by the author's skillful infusion of the storyline with a gentle yet heartfelt touch, striking a perfect balance that radiates warmth and sincerity without ever feeling overwhelming. This book is truly exceptional!

[FN · Rating 5 out of 5]

Picking up seamlessly from where the first book left off, the story follows both the MMC and FMC as they navigate their differences and grow—individually and together—to make a meaningful impact on society. I really appreciated how the author infused the narrative with a gentle, heartfelt touch. It never felt overwhelming, and the overall tone radiates warmth and sincerity. Love the book!

Thank you for the ARC opportunity.

[S.G. Darley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was an ARC reader for this novel, and I enjoyed it! Chapman improved from her first novel, and this one was a fun read. I found myself lacking any deep connection to the characters, hence why I give this four stars, but they do have a great relationship.

also, quick shout out to Taylor, who is probably my favorite character in the whole book. What a great guy!

I recommend this novel, it's a cozy read and definitely gets swoony.

[c_reads_books_ · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌶️: 3 on RCRS (heavy kisses)

Off-key is my third time ARC reviewing for Ashley Chapman, and I am delighted in the advancements I’ve witnessed in her storytelling! Amber and Reuben’s voices were more defined than in Torn Pages, and Chapman’s dialogue flows with such a casual ease that it feels like a real conversation is happening on the page.

I was excited to revisit our awkward couple and see how (and if) they were able to come back together after the cliffhanger at the end of book 1. I was so happy to see their incredibly healthy relationship flourish and it’s a rare treat for a fictional couple to have such open communication and clear boundaries.

While I’m happy to report Off-key doesn’t end on another cliffhanger, there is enough left open for me to hope this isn’t the end of the road for this series and that I’ll be able to enjoy Gem & Benji a little longer. Thank you to Ashley Chapman for the opportunity to once more read and review prior to release.

[Allie · Rating 4 out of 5]

🩶Arc review🩶
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This was such a cute story. It picks up right where book 1 ends, and honestly, everything about it is good in my opinion. The characters are still so awkward its adorable!

I hope we get a book 3 because I have questions!!