Let It Rain: Blood of the Hidden Wilds, Book 1

by B.G. Vandenberg

The war between blood and bagic has begun. She is the storm that will end it all.
They told us the legends, but they were full of half-truths and darker secrets.

Vampires bask in daylight. Rain sears the skin. And human blood is poison…except for one rare A Negative.

Octavia is an A‑neg who has hidden in the shadows her whole life. Seth, heir to one of the most powerful vampire families in the South, is the anomaly who can't drink her blood.

Three years ago, he saved her from being harvested, and he has kept her safe in the woods of East Texas ever since. But when a new threat emerges, their darkest secrets unravel. As rival factions close in, will their forbidden bond be enough to keep them alive—or will betrayal tear them apart?

Genres: Young Adult

300 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 31, 2025

Reviews

[Sabine · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 blood stars

I didn't realize this was a ya book (I wouldn't have requested it if I knew), and the story features many of the tropes and plot devices popular in this genre. Most of the things that bothered me are typical of that genre (and therefore aren't problems for others), so I won't discuss these.

I found the twist of lore super interesting, but for me it lacked world-building, especially in the beginning of the book.

I also got very frustrated because the FMC is carried along by the story and the other characters, she's more passive that active, the story happens to her instead of her being a driver of the story.

The last chapter lets us see that things are more complex than they appeared, and secrets will unravel in the next book. I'm still curious to see how the story will develop in future books

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

[Lisa Gainers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actual rating 4.25⭐️

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

What a refreshing twist on a Vampire story. This was a quick fast read that left me wanting more! I enjoyed the FMC Octavia and how she was feisty, loyal and questioned everything. The journey she is forced on leads to a discovery she did not see coming.

[Ashley - ReadingGamer · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Before she closes her eyes again, I swear I see her smile. And this is where is all changes."

✨ Book Review — Let It Rain by B.G. Vandenberg ✨

⭐ Rating: 4 / 5

📖 Spoiler-Free Summary:

In a world where rain burns vampires and only certain blood types can keep them alive, Octavia - one of the rare A-Negatives - has spent her life hiding. Saved and protected by Seth, a vampire heir with secrets of his own, she suddenly finds herself caught between warring factions, rising threats, and a bond she isn’t sure she should trust.

💭 My Thoughts:

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

I really enjoyed this read! Octavia is such an interesting FMC — flawed, unsure, stubborn, realistic. She isn’t perfect, and that made her incredibly easy to root for.

The twist on vampire lore in this book is so refreshing:

🌧️ rain burns them
🩸 not all blood is drinkable
✨ magic tangled into the world

It creates a really unique, atmospheric world that sucked me right in. The multiple POVs work well, giving depth to the characters and expanding the worldbuilding in a really solid way.

This is definitely a YA-leaning story, with:

💘 a love triangle
🔍 lots of mystery
⚔️ tension and danger
😱 and plot twists I didn’t see coming

Overall, Let It Rain was a compelling start to the series, and I’m genuinely excited to see where the next book takes us!

[Nicole Wilson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.

I think this book had a very interesting and unique premise. The concept of harvesting specific humans to feed vampires to strike a tenuous peace between the two species had me giddy.

I think overall it would have benefited from stronger character development and stronger development of the mythos of the unique species/fantasy creatures that pop up in the story.

What worked well
-writing style: there were similes and metaphors in here that had me smiling. I enjoyed the banter
-the author writes a Cajun accent/speaking style incredibly well. As a previous New Orleans resident I could hear the accent clear as a bell in my head
-unique concept

What needs work
-development of characters
-development of unique creatures
-development of the romance, felt rushed
It was overall a quick read, so I think there was room for additional pages to help flesh out these concepts.

Overall: If you’re looking for a quick read this spooky season I wouldn’t hesitate to pick it up, but there are flaws that can be addressed/expanded upon in future sequels

[Lilith's_Library_ · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Unique and Lushly Written Fantasy That Brings the Wild to Life

Let It Rain is a refreshingly original take on the fantasy genre, offering a world that feels both untamed and deeply spiritual. B.G. Vandenberg has created a setting that is rich in texture and lore, where nature isn't just a backdrop — it’s a force with will and teeth. The Hidden Wilds feel real and threatening, yet beautiful in a way that stays with you long after turning the final page.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its atmosphere. The connection to nature, the presence of rain, and the weight of ancient forces all create a mood that is immersive and haunting. The writing is lyrical and evocative, often poetic, and the tone fits perfectly with the wild and mysterious world the characters must navigate.

The protagonist is compelling — not perfect, but real. I appreciated how their emotional journey was given as much weight as the external conflicts. Themes of loss, survival, and identity run deep here. You can feel how the environment and the magic system are tied into who they are, and the emotional arcs are handled with care.

[K.A. Hough · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I'm familiar with some of B.G. Vandenberg's other work, I was pleasantly surprised by this new series in a completely new genre: urban fantasy.

With an edgy-but-enchanting mix of vampires, fae, humans, and other magical creatures, the book starts quickly, and the rules of magic in this world are revealed as the fast-paced story, fraught with danger and intensity, develops, with new twists and reveals in every chapter. The characters, and their roles, evolve throughout, leaving me guessing at who to trust.

Tavi is an interesting and strong main character in her own rights, but I loved how Vandenberg worked multiple POV into her work, lending realistic humour and empathetic qualities to her villains (perceived and otherwise)… and tugging at my heartstrings on the way.

To sum up, if you like YA urban fantasy/horror, love triangles, plot twists, and SO MUCH MAGIC, this is an excellent read.

(I'm still not sure if I'm on Team Seth or Team Bastien, so I'll need to read the next book(s) in the series, to help make up my mind!)

[Raven R · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5
This was a fun, quick read with a unique brand of vampire that can't get wet and can only feed on one blood type. Plus, we have humans, fae, and a new winged creature called Kretarie. Both Seth and Octavia are unique exceptions to their species and are wanted by those in power to be experimented on.

I really enjoyed the fast pace, cliffhanger chapters, all the different POVs, and especially Seth! I adore him and my heart is aching over all that he goes through. There is another character introduced whose emotional meddling I'm not a fan of and Octavia's choices around him make me not like her 😑. Solidly team Seth over here. 🤍

As much as I appreciate a short story, I think I would have liked to see slightly more of the war history, details on the magic, and romantic buildup (the second relationship is insta/rushed).

The reveal at the end was exciting and I'm looking forward to finding out where it goes. I'm also excited for Genevieve and whatever she's plotting!


Thank you to the author for an early copy to review!

[Dezi Alvarez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been given the best opportunity to be an arc reader for Brandi I loved every bit of it and every book, she has yet to disappoint me
Let is rain is a paranormal romance that has vampires, fae, kretarie. First I would like to state that I am team Bastien🤭(who is a kretarie) this book will most definitely leave you on a cliff hanger but so worth it. Brandi has a thing for leaving her readers on a cliff hanger and as much as it sucks I still love it. This books had so many twists and turns I couldn’t put it down its not boring or slow paced which I love and it has secrets, and having to keep the main character Tavi protected and hidden because she isn’t who she thinks she is. Sorry trying not to do so much spoilers. Seth has been the one helping keep her hidden because he knows what she is and how important she is, they fall in love while in hiding together eventually Seth feels he can’t protect her alone by his self anymore so he goes to who told him to keep Tavi hidden.
This book is amazing and helped me get out of my book slump I was in.

[Cici Zhen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Overall, I think I would've enjoyed this better if the prose was written more descriptively, and it flowed better overall. Majority of the chapters our FMC didn't initiate anything and have that drive, that intensity I look for in YA, especially urban fantasy. And all these trials, she didn't have the most active participation, but I'm not sure whether that was intentional or not.

The worldbuilding is too shallow and not developed enough because despite having that pleasant twist in the classic supernatural powers, I feel like the differences and changes could've been more distinct and explored further. I'd like to see how the finale ends, and how the relationships will develop of the course of the series. It was pretty rushed and the chemistry didn't click for me, and was rather strained, but I'm willing to see how it will further play out.

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

[David Carriere · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let It Rain immediately sets itself apart with a vampire mythology that feels both inventive and unsettling. Day walking vampires, rain that burns, and blood rules that refuse to behave as expected give the story a sharp edge right from the start. The worldbuilding unfolds naturally, pulling you deeper without slowing the pace.

Octavia is a quietly strong protagonist shaped by fear, secrecy, and survival, while Seth’s role as both protector and anomaly adds emotional weight to every decision they make. Their connection feels tense and earned, built on trust forged in hiding rather than convenience or trope. As rival factions emerge and buried truths surface, the story tightens into something darker and more dangerous.

Atmospheric, emotionally charged, and layered with mystery, Let It Rain is a compelling YA paranormal opener that promises high stakes, forbidden bonds, and a series worth following.

[Kaitlyn Craft · Rating 4 out of 5]

So Let it Rain is a fun twist on vampire lore and I’m always excited to see new ways for people to twist and make the lore their own. Personally the reason I gave only four stars is I liked the characters and the twist on reality but I needed more world building. I got the basics that vampires have kinda taken over but then later in the book it felt more like vampires and humans have a truce even though we don’t really see any other humans. I also need more backstory on everyone I’m curious and I kept reading hoping to understand the characters more and I did a little but I want more. Overall this book is face paced and entertaining. I also received this book as an advanced reader copy and thank the author for allowing me to read this book.

[Jemma · Rating 3 out of 5]

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

This book had some good points to it.

I liked the new take on the vampires and the mix with witches and fae’s.

The main female character was easy to like and you wanted it all to turn out well for her. To find what she truly wanted.

The main male character was complex at times which was good to read. You understood why he did the things he did, how choices sometimes are taken away.

I liked the style of the book at times, however it did take a while to get into the main story.

It was worth a read and I will look out for more from this author.

[Isabella · Rating 4 out of 5]

In my opinion it needs better character POVS of them sharing their feelings and what they’re thinking about one another. And just POVS in general sometimes halfway through one characters POV another starts talking which I don’t like I feel like only that character the chapter is named after should speak. I enjoyed the book other than that it’s really exciting and filled with a lot of unexpected twists. It hooks you in right from the beginning it’s fast paced which I love. I finished the book in one day.

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

[Jennifer Lambert · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was wonderful. I have read many paranormal romance books, but this book was so different. This book had more than just vampires, there were other wonderful creatures also. I would love to read more books from this author.


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

[Denise · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this as an Arc. I enjoy a good vampire book. This one was a good quick read, but i felt the beginning could have done with more world and character building. I loved the twist with the rain harming the vampires and only being able it drink A negative blood. I look forward to the next book in the series.

[Rebecca Masterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.Wow, I loved it. Anything vampire is a huge plus to me but the characters in this book got me hooked. I highly recommend it to everyone.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished in one night. Can’t lie, I’m a Seth girl through and through. Bastien definitely had me questioning my loyalty to Seth sometimes though haha. The plot twist had me standing up in my bed no kidding😭 I received an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review

[Mybookish.odyssey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let it Rain: Book I , Blood of the Hidden Wilds 4.5⭐️
I must admit this book literally kept me captivated. I love the new take on Vampires in this plot. Not your typical vampire book. The plot twist within the book was not expected. I am really intrigued to see what book II, has in store for the FMC. I enjoyed the writing style. I definitely recommend this book!
Thank you BookSiren, The Bookish Berg publishing and B.G. Vandenberg for providing me with this free eARC.

[Jeni M. · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF. Was not for me. I could not get past the rain blisters vampires and they took dirt baths. Made it only 2 chapters in before I had to stop.

[Kim Bernat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well written! Fantastic read!! Can’t wait for the next book in this series!!

[Jennifer Schexnailder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just the escape you need when you pick a book of this genre! It’s an adventure to another world with creative characters and intriguing stories of the heart! What a wonderful read!

[Lilia Melisse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let It Rain was a fast, addictive start to a new YA paranormal series with a genuinely refreshing twist on vampire lore. Day-walking vampires, rain that burns, poisoned blood, and one rare A-negative heroine? Immediately intriguing.

Octavia is a quiet, guarded FMC shaped by survival, and while she can feel more reactive than proactive at times, her fear, loyalty, and resilience made her easy to root for. Seth, on the other hand, absolutely stole the show for me. His role as protector, anomaly, and emotional anchor added real weight to the story, and their bond felt tense, forbidden, and layered with history.

The pacing is quick and the multiple POVs keep things moving, but I did find myself wishing for a bit more worldbuilding and deeper exploration of the magic system, war history, and side characters. The romance and wider mythology sometimes felt slightly rushed, though the cliffhanger ending and final reveals definitely pulled me back in.

Overall, this was an atmospheric, engaging YA urban fantasy with strong concepts, high stakes, and plenty of promise. I’m very curious to see how the world, the relationships, and the secrets unravel in book two.

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

[Trish Benson · Rating 2 out of 5]

I definitely feel I have an outside opinion based on other reviews of this book. I was excited to read "Let it Rain." I mean, vampires, love triangles, mysterious warring factions? Vampires that burn when it rains? Humans harvested for their blood? Sign me up! Unfortunately, it all fell a little flat.

The story is about Octavia, Tavi, a human in hiding because she has a rare blood type that vampires love and has an added benefit of keeping them alive. She is protected by Seth, a vampire heir, who is the one vampire unable to drink her blood.

Unfortunately, the story begins by dropping you into the middle of their world with absolutely no information. There is no build-up as to how this apocalyptic-like world came about. There is little to no character development. You find out little bits and pieces of information the more you read however, in my case, I found that I didn't really care too much about the characters because I didn't completely understand what was happening until about a third of the way in.

My biggest gripe with Tavi was that while she was human and in a dangerous situation, most of the story happened to her. She didn't really make decisions that drove the story. I also had no feelings in regards to her romantic partner, Seth. Again, it just felt like you were dropped in and automatically supposed to care about and root for these two but they're literal strangers.

I did finish the book, however, and would be interested to see how the story plays out in regards to the vamps vs. humans plot.

[Morgan · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐️ I received an advance review copy of this book in return for an honest review of the content.

While an interesting concept, I think the book (and my reading experience) would have benefited from more world- and character-building initially. It felt like it jumped right into the middle of a plot line for it to only be the first book in the series. It was a quick read overall!