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Blood and Bargains: A Holiday Romance of the Unnatural Brethren

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When the veil is thin, death is only the beginning.This Samhain comes a reminder that some bargains echo across seasons—and the debts of winter’s magic must be paid.

Power has a price. For Cassandra Deveraux, it’s paid in binding magic and forced loyalty, sealed with a bracelet that burns against her skin even as her heart yearns for another. But the forthcoming winter solstice holds more dangers than navigating her engagement to the Ursa King.

As political tensions fracture the supernatural world, Cassandra must orchestrate the impossible—returning the dead to the living while hiding a dangerous secret. The child growing within her defies every natural law, a vampire-witch hybrid that could either bridge their fractured world or destroy it entirely.

But when love proves stronger than death itself, when true mates are reunited against all odds, the supernatural elite must cling to political convenience or embrace bonds that transcend mortality itself.

A tale of forbidden love, impossible resurrection, and dark magic that remembers what the modern supernatural world has forgotten—some powers are worth any price, and the deepest spells flow from hearts willing to sacrifice it all.

Blood and Bargains is a darkly romantic, spellbinding paranormal romance filled with forbidden love, forced proximity, and fated mates reunited against all odds. Fans of Jennifer L. Armentrout, Kerri Maniscalco, and Sarah J. Maas will love this thrilling holiday instalment of the Unnatural Brethren!

155 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 28, 2025

2 people are currently reading
9 people want to read

About the author

Silvana G. Sánchez

43 books304 followers


USA TODAY Bestselling Author Silvana G. Sánchez weaves tales of forbidden love and redemption. Her pen blurs the lines between good and evil, writing compelling heroes and irresistible villains with a heart of gold.
She lives her own happily ever after with her dashing prince, Eric, and darling son, David, in their home in the mystical city of Guadalajara, Mexico.
Don’t be afraid to drop her a line. She doesn't bite. Not always, anyway.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Profile Image for Munir.
24 reviews2 followers
November 10, 2025
Book: Blood and Bargains
Author: Silvana G. Sánchez
Genre: Paranormal Fantasy

Breakdown:
Worldbuilding
The story took place in modern-day Europe, where witches, shape-shifters, vampires, and other supernatural beings coexisted. We didn’t really get more from the setting than the Deveraux Manor and Alexeev Mansion; however, the Author did an amazing job bringing them to life.
Overall, the worldbuilding was mild, cozy, and interesting.

Plot
I wished the author had delved more into the circumstances surrounding Cassandra’s pregnancy. The sudden shift from Gavriil’s lusting after Cassandra to his grieving his ex was jarring and unconvincing. Also, there were talks of political conflicts, but even that could use a little more elaboration.
The plot wasn’t solid enough for me. But I must admit this might be because this book is part of a larger series I haven’t read yet.

Characterization
This rarely happens to me, but I like all the characters in this book. The FMC, Cassandra, was sweet and feisty, and the “MMC”, Gavriil, was arrogant and loving. I like them all.

Prose and Use of Language
The writing style was simple and precise. There was moderate use of stylistic language.
I didn’t stumble or get distracted at any point.

Pacing
The pacing was superb. I flew through the book in under five hours.

Tone
The book hit the mark for a witchy-paranormal fantasy. The atmosphere was cozy and spooky.

Theme
The theme was clear: liberating oneself and overcoming grief. The female lead did the unthinkable to reunite with her true love.

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Profile Image for Mariaan Belinfante.
876 reviews3 followers
October 24, 2025
The riveting intertwined world of the Aleev Ursa clan, the powerful Deveraux witches and not to forget the ancient vampires yet again had me spellbound and admittedly spilling a tear or three towards the end. Dark magic and love are a combustible combination, dangerous and the price thereof will be steep especially when bargains are made in the shadows. In a desperate move to shake the binding of the Ursa King Gavriil, Cassandra crosses the line and makes a pact with Kelham, bound in the Lost Garden for centuries. Freedom for them both, but a resurrection that will shake the foundations of their world. Can she resurrect Luciana, Gavriil's lost fated mate, break the forced binding of the bracelet and keep her and Dristan's unborn baby, an unheard of witch/vampire hybrid, safe? Is love the ultimate answer? It's intense, especially the reunions, while Ivan's POV interludes will keep you captivated till the very end, but leaving you wanting more of our very diverse and interesting characters. Best to read the previous books to provide overall insight on the characters, power plays and politics.
I received an advanced copy from the author and leave this review voluntary Thank you Silvana
Profile Image for Arianna Rose.
105 reviews2 followers
November 9, 2025
Cute winter romance. “Courage to let the ones we love choose their own path, even when it terrifies us”
1,064 reviews21 followers
November 13, 2025
When the veil is thin, death is only the beginning. This Samhain comes a reminder that some bargains echo across seasons—and the debts of winter’s magic must be paid.

Power has a price. For Cassandra Deveraux, it’s paid in binding magic and forced loyalty, sealed with a bracelet that burns against her skin even as her heart yearns for another. But the forthcoming winter solstice holds more dangers than navigating her engagement to the Ursa King.

As political tensions fracture the supernatural world, Cassandra must orchestrate the impossible—returning the dead to the living while hiding a dangerous secret. The child growing within her defies every natural law, a vampire-witch hybrid that could either bridge their fractured world or destroy it entirely.

But when love proves stronger than death itself, when true mates are reunited against all odds, the supernatural elite must cling to political convenience or embrace bonds that transcend mortality itself.

A tale of forbidden love, impossible resurrection, and dark magic that remembers what the modern supernatural world has forgotten—some powers are worth any price, and the deepest spells flow from hearts willing to sacrifice it all.

Blood and Bargains is a darkly romantic, spellbinding paranormal romance filled with forbidden love, forced proximity, and fated mates reunited against all odds. Fans of Jennifer L. Armentrout, Kerri Maniscalco, and Sarah J. Maas will love this thrilling holiday instalment of the Unnatural Brethren!

Tropes: Vampires, Fantasy, Paranormal, Historical, Witches, Dark Romance, Holiday Romance,

Blood and Bargains is A Holiday Romance of the Unnatural Brethren by Silvana G. Sanchez.

Once again the intertwined world of the Aleev Ursa Clan, the powerful Deveraux witches and we can't forget the ancient vampires held me by the throat and refused to let me go till the very end and of course I didn't get through it without spilling more than one or two tears. We are given dark magic, love are a volatile combination, dangerous and we get to see that the price is going to be exceedingly steep, distinctly as there are bargains being made in the dark shadows.

Cassandra crosses a dangerous line and makes a pact with Kelham in order to shake her binding with Ursa King Gavriil. A pact bound in the Lost Garden. This gives them both the freedom that they seek, but it also causes a resurrection that's going to shake the very foundations of their world.

Can Cassandra resurrect Luciana, Gavriil's once lost fated mate thus breaking the forced binding of the bracelet and in doing so keep her and Dristan's unborn child safe till she gives birth, of course this is an unheard of witch/vampire hybrid. Will love be their ultimate answer?

This is an intense story, especially with the reunions. Ivan's POV interludes will keep you enthralled until the very end but at the same time its going to keep you dying for more of all the diverse and interesting characters.

This is one series that you will want to read in order to best understand what has previously happened, who our characters are, the power plays, and all the politics.
Profile Image for Amber Leach.
21 reviews1 follower
November 4, 2025
ARC Review; Blood and Bargains

Blood and Bargains by Silvana Sanchez is a story that takes place take place after the 4th novel in the Bad Boy Shifters of the Unnatural Brethren series, Wings of Shadow. I haven’t read any of the novels within this series, and while I was still able to get the gist of what was happening, I wish that I had read those to get more context into the characters and their relationships with each other prior to this story. Blood and Bargains is a short but satisfying read. The story centers around Cassandra Deveraux, who is forced into an unwanted engagement with Ursa king, Gavriil, even though she remains desperately in love with Vampire, Dristan. From that love comes a secret that makes Cassandra desperate for a way out of the forced arrangement no matter the cost; Cassandra is pregnant with Dristan’s child, witch-vampire hybrid.

Reading this makes me want to start the series from the beginning. Cassandra’s character is not a pushover by any means; she is strong, feisty and everything I love in a female character. Her desperation when she feels all her choices in life being taken away was relatable on so many levels.

I highly recommend Blood and Bargains. I have a feeling if you are already familiar with the world and the characters you will love this addition. If you are unfamiliar, like myself, you will want to dive in head first to the rest of the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Kayla Chittum.
78 reviews
Read
November 30, 2025
Blood and Bargains surprised me in all the best ways. It’s a holiday romance wrapped in supernatural charm, a dash of danger, and just enough emotional tension to keep the pages turning. The author blends festive warmth with eerie magic, giving the story a unique tone that feels both cozy and deliciously strange — exactly what you’d expect from a world of “Unnatural Brethren.”

The romance is the heart of the book, and it delivers. The chemistry is immediate without feeling rushed, and the dynamic between the leads is fun, heartfelt, and a little chaotic in the best way. I especially enjoyed how their connection develops through bargains, secrets, and unexpected twists. The supernatural elements never overshadow the love story — instead, they add depth, humor, and a spark of unpredictability.

The pacing is quick and entertaining, though a few moments felt slightly underdeveloped, keeping this from being a full 5-star read for me. Still, the holiday backdrop, quirky lore, and lovable characters make it a standout seasonal romance.

If you enjoy:
✨ Paranormal love stories
✨ Holiday vibes with a twist
✨ Magic, bargains, and brotherhood lore
✨ Romance with heart and humor

…this one is definitely worth adding to your winter reading list.

A cozy, spooky, and sweet holiday escape — 4/5 stars!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Manuela Molteni.
608 reviews11 followers
October 31, 2025
If you’ve ever cracked open a Silvana G. Sánchez book, you already know: you don’t just read her worlds — you fall headfirst into them, cloak swirling, heart bruised, tea forgotten and cold. Blood and Bargains is no exception. Our favorite charmingly tormented narrator, Ivan Lockhart, takes the stage once again, and oh, does he make an entrance.

Set just before the emotional detonation that was in Wings of Shadows (and if you haven’t read it — my condolences and my advice: catch up immediately), this installment peels back the velvet curtain on the Unnatural Brethren. It’s a tale of loyalty and loss, of bargains written in blood and consequences written in fire. Sánchez, ever the literary sorceress, knows exactly how to twist the knife while making you thank her for it.

Reading Blood and Bargains feels like coming home — if “home” is a dimly lit manor filled with ancient secrets, forbidden magic, and devastatingly attractive people making ruinous decisions. Every chapter is a reminder that comfort can coexist with chaos, and heartbreak can be exquisitely beautiful when penned by the right hand.

And when the final page turns? You’ll be perched on that metaphorical cliff, staring into the abyss Sánchez left for us — trembling, thrilled, and already begging for the next fall.

Tea ready. Blanket waiting. Bring it on, Ms. Sánchez.
Profile Image for shadowarc13.
217 reviews3 followers
November 8, 2025
"I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.” Blood and Bargains unfolds in a world where death is never truly the end and magic demands its due. As Samhain approaches, the veil between worlds thins, and Cassandra Deveraux finds herself bound by powerful forces her loyalty sealed by a burning bracelet that reminds her of the price she’s paid. Engaged to the formidable Ursa King amid escalating political strife, Cassandra faces an even greater peril: the looming winter solstice and the secret growing within her.
Defying every natural law, her unborn child a hybrid of vampire and witch may become either the salvation or ruin of their fractured supernatural world. To protect both her secret and her love, Cassandra must attempt the impossible: bringing the dead back to life while balancing the demands of power and passion.
In this darkly romantic tale of sacrifice and resurrection, love proves stronger than death itself. Blood and Bargains blends forbidden romance, political intrigue, and the haunting allure of ancient magic into a captivating narrative. Readers will be drawn to its rich atmosphere, high stakes, and the enduring question at its heart: what price would you pay for love that defies mortality? I would do everything. I love this! 💛
Profile Image for Colette.
25 reviews
November 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ARC Review — Blood and Bargains by Silvana G. Sánchez

Blood and Bargains is dark, romantic, and utterly addictive. Silvana G. Sánchez weaves a world where magic binds, love defies death, and every bargain comes with a devastating cost.

Cassandra Deveraux’s story gripped me from the start — a forbidden love, a dangerous secret, and an unborn child who could unite or destroy entire worlds. The emotions hit hard, the world-building is lush, and the tension never lets up.

This is fantasy romance at its finest — full of passion, power, and heartbreak. Fans of The Unnatural Brethren series will be obsessed, and newcomers will want to start from the beginning just to experience it all.

Although I received this book as an ARC, I’m now officially addicted to this author and the books she has written. I’m hungry to read more about the intriguing paranormals and their intricately crafted stories.

In the end, Blood and Bargains is a story about what we owe to love, to power, and to ourselves — and the dangerous bargains we’re willing to make for all three.

Unputdownable. Haunting. Beautifully written.
Profile Image for Samantha.
17 reviews1 follower
October 31, 2025
The start of the book, a narrator is speaking directly to the reader. Introducing the story you are about to read. I like that touch. The conclusion is written similarly.

I did not realize this is one of the books within a series. So, some parts I was a bit lost with. THIS IS NOT A STAND ALONE! I believe there are 4 other books within this series.

It gave me Discovery of Witches vibes without time travel. The book contains all different kinds of beings. Witches, shapeshifters, dragons, vampires, fae, wolves.

I was able to follow and it was an interesting story. If I read the other books, I would probably be 100% wrapped! There are a bunch of different relationships floating around.
THERE ARE EXPLICIT SCENES WITHIN. Not a story for littles.

I would definitely recommend this book and also the others within the series. Because there are so many different beings, keep track on who is who.
Profile Image for Brieanna Clark.
72 reviews2 followers
November 6, 2025
Sylvana is such a natural story teller that I immediately was captivated! Diving back into the world of the unnatural brethren but this time learning Cassandra, my favorite witch of all time, story is just why I needed to get out of my reading slump. The vibe, the playlist, the respect for Samhain—top notch.

I fell in love with the yearning, the sassy banter, the “I hate you but still want you” feel. I genuinely loved how Gavriil wanted Cassandra exactly as she was—flaws and all. In that way, he respected her for the woman, and powerful witch, that she is.

When the question of freedom of choice is suddenly taken, all a person wants to do is break free, even if the forced choice was the right one.

“They say a guided cage is still a cage, but they never tell you how exquisite the bars can be.”

I cannot wait for the next installment in the series! Thank you for the opportunity to ARC read this novella. Count me in for the next book!
Profile Image for BackwardsBookshelf.
215 reviews2 followers
October 31, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5 stars)

A thrilling holiday novella that slices deep and sparkles darkly.
Sánchez’s world building remains top-tier, and her characters continue to evolve in complex, satisfying ways. If you’re new to the series, start at book one. You’ll connect more deeply with the characters and get swept into the magic of the world.
Our favorite charmingly tormented narrator, Ivan Lockhart, returns with flair, opening and closing the tale with his signature blend of wit and anguish.
Expect fated mates, forbidden love, supernatural intrigue, and a dash of holiday spice. Sanchez doesn't just write stories; she casts spells that capture me from page to page.

Thanks to Booksprout for the gifted copy. I devoured the novella in one sitting and can’t wait to see where the Brethren go next.
Profile Image for Michelle.
251 reviews1 follower
October 31, 2025
I've read every book in the two series so far, so I was jumping at the chance to get this book for free.

This was a tricky one to rate. I have become accustomed to much more spice than this book had, but it finally wrapped up something that has been eating at me since three books ago! That said, I figured that 4.5 was a fair rating.

The only bit of spice was in two dreams, and while you could feel the sexual tension, they were much too short.

With the developments at the end of this book, I am very interested to see where the story is going to go now. I feel like so much can happen! But, if I've learned anything, I'm betting Ms. Sanchez will do it all!

Patiently waiting for the next one…
Profile Image for Bella.
307 reviews5 followers
November 5, 2025
“Blood and Bargains” is a short novella (only 150ish pages on my kindle) that is from the Unnatural Brethren series. It has a lot of characters from the series, so it was enjoyable to see characters pop up! Something that I really enjoyed is how the author opens and closes the story the same way: it was different, draws you in, and sort of spooky in its own way??

Totally recommend this novella to any Unnatural Brethren series fan, and pretty much anyone looking for a fun, fast-paced, and interesting read. The 150 pages went by so fast!!!

Even though this book was given to me for free, this review is 100% my opinion and I happily and willingly give it! :) (lol it sounds like I’m swearing a vow but it’s true!)
834 reviews4 followers
October 28, 2025
This book takes us to the true spirit of the Unnatural Brethren. Ivan starts us off and closes it out. He and Juliette appear throughout, but this book belongs to Cassandra. She is challenged every way imaginable, physically, mentally, magically, and focused on overcoming all those challenges. Silvana is true to form here, with her precise, lush words painting pictures in our mind, dialogue that helps us make a movie in our heads. If you have read the previous books, you will welcome this one with open arms!
I did receive an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Julie Pratt.
4 reviews1 follower
October 28, 2025
I really enjoyed this short 130-page holiday novella from the Unnatural Brethren series. We follow the same main character, Ivan, from the first novel, Written in Blood, but we also meet some new characters along the way! I would recommend this short story to anyone who is a fan of the Unnatural Brethren series or anyone who likes vampires or holiday reads and is looking for a fast-paced read they can enjoy in one sitting. Thank you to Booksprout for gifting me another one of Silvana G. Sánchez's stories! I am eager to continue reading the rest of the books in this series!
Profile Image for Nicole Deanne Veracruz.
2,417 reviews15 followers
November 14, 2025
Wow, that was a serious roller coaster ride. Cassandra was looking to get out of a union that she did not want. Kelham wanted to be freed from a prison of his own making. Gavrill was still mourning the loss of his mate while trying to do what was right for his clan and the alliance. I broke down into tears when he saw Luciana again because I remembered what happened to her. And of course, I'm always happy when I see Vlad; I just wish he would have had a bigger role in this book.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for L KQ.
5,611 reviews21 followers
January 6, 2026
Holiday Surprises

Another surprising twist to this series that did not seem possible. This was a perfect story for the holiday season where miracles are more likely to happen. Cassandra was a well-rounded character who continued to develop into a magnificent witch. Ivan, Gavrill and their allies were also a great addition to plot as everything intertwined. Surprise returns, an ominous bargain and a story full of exhilarating moments. I could not put this book down and can't wait for more to come.

I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Profile Image for Johanna.
1,512 reviews38 followers
October 28, 2025
This is book 3.6 in The Unnatural Brethren series. It is recomnended to read the books in series order.

The characters were compelling, complex and well developed. World building was, as always, exceptional and very nicely done. The plot was intriguing, exciting and well paced. Great addition to series and I thoroughly enjoyed and recommend the series.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
706 reviews8 followers
November 1, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this book full of magic, forbidden love, political tensions in the supernatural world, binding magic
Everything changes on Samhain when Cassandra bargins for her freedom. In the name of love that is more powerful when she yearns for her true love.
This book is very well written. All the characters are great. I highly recommend this book.
Silvana is a wonderful author
Profile Image for BombshellDanielle.
178 reviews5 followers
November 6, 2025
Thank you to Silvana G. Sanchez for allowing me to read an eARC of Blood and Bargains. These opinions are my own!

That was perfect!!! I totally need to read all of the books in this world!!! There’s witches and vampires and dragons and bears!! Oh my!!

I loved all the politics in the supernatural worlds!! There’s some dreamy spice. But I really loved the overall message of unbreakable love!!

#bloodandbargains #supernatural #createyourownmagic #shadows #miracles
Profile Image for Sara Irons.
416 reviews7 followers
November 14, 2025
Cassandra and Dristan's story brings the journey of darkness and magic full circle. It sets the stage for the wars to come. It ties together all the previous books.

New life that should have been impossible will bring much joy, but it will also bring a war like no other. The characters are done very well and the world building is wonderful.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Brittany Phillips.
Author 1 book7 followers
November 28, 2025
I really am enjoying this series and how well it’s written. Love the voices. But I think I started listening out of order so I’m very confused lol. I’ll go back to them in January after I listen to all my Christmas romances 😆 i could do without the smut scene though. So odd how *spoiler* they were going at it and then he gets his love back from the dead and is so happy! 🥴 same with her? Cray cray.
2,015 reviews6 followers
October 31, 2025
Blood and Bargains: A Holiday Romance of the Unnatural Brethren by Silvana G. Sánchez is an enjoyable holiday short story that I really enjoyed reading. The worldbuilding is exceptional as always and the characters complex. I recommend you read this series and in order and this novella would be between books 3 and 4.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
468 reviews
October 31, 2025
Another holiday interlude in The Unnatural Brethren world, with the thinning veil of Samhain, pulls the reader in with Sanchez’s beautifully written world and characters. Fated mates, forbidden love, twists and turns, the supernatural, and some holiday spice in a fast paced novella.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tanya.
917 reviews6 followers
November 18, 2025
I just love Sanchez’s writing style. From the first page she has a way of drawing me in. Her characters speak to me. With their witty prose and strength in character it’s engaging and unputdownable. I especially enjoy the strength of her FMCs. Cassandra is no exception. Take a chance on this series. It’s a great one.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Genoveva.
1,509 reviews13 followers
November 23, 2025
Please check all CW and TW before reading this one. Love the universe this is written in. The author has a way to suck you into this fantastical world. The characters are likeable and you get invested into their journey. Cassandra is a FMC that I highly enjoyed reading about.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
42 reviews
January 8, 2026
Even without reading the previous books, I really enjoyed this story.

It sets. the scene quite well for the following books to come (as advertised by the author) and made me want to read more from her world.

The multiple POVs added depth to the short book and the setting was very well thought out.
Profile Image for Amy Laudick.
166 reviews3 followers
January 9, 2026
This is my first read from this offer and OMG! The characters, storyline, and world building were top tier. This is a short novella perfect for the holiday season. I would suggest reading this series in order now running to order the 1st book!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for The Book Ssirren.
1,306 reviews60 followers
January 16, 2026
Vampires and bears and witches oh my! I absolutely loved this. The magic and the politics. Everything was so amazing. I loved the supernatural aspect of this book. This really grabbed me and just held me throughout. I was so intrigued. I loved the world building and description. The characters were phenomenal. I don’t think there was anything about this that I didn’t love. Such a great book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews

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