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Inked & Bloodbound: A Dark Vampire Romance
"If I have to choose…I'll take the kind of monster all the others fear."
Nurse Lily has been hearing voices for months. Shadows in empty hospital corridors. Whispers that shouldn't exist. She's had every test, consulted every specialist. Nothing explains it.
Until she walks into a tattoo parlor on the anniversary of her mother's death and hears the artist's thoughts in her head.
Cassini tells her what doctors couldn't—she's a medium, one of the rarest supernatural beings in existence. In Austin's vampire underworld, that either makes her a powerful weapon to be wielded, or a dangerous threat to be eliminated.
The brooding tattoo artist is a vampire in exile, hiding his true identity and bound by a blood oath that weakens him with every sunrise. With his enemies closing in and a missing girl's life on the line, Lily's rare power could be his salvation...or her destruction.
Forced into an uneasy alliance, they must navigate the treacherous line between predator and prey, where every touch ignites desire and every secret threatens betrayal.
But the closer they become, the more Cassini fears the he may not be able to protect her from the secrets hunting them both.
Or from himself…
TRUE BLOOD meets THE SOPRANOS in a dark vampire noir romance of romantic telepathy, forbidden desire, and love that might cost everything.
For fans of J.R. Ward, Nalini Singh, and Patricia Briggs who crave slow burn, steamy, yearning, morally grey MMCs, dark romance, psychic bonds, vampire politics and family drama.
Nurse Lily has been hearing voices for months. Shadows in empty hospital corridors. Whispers that shouldn't exist. She's had every test, consulted every specialist. Nothing explains it.
Until she walks into a tattoo parlor on the anniversary of her mother's death and hears the artist's thoughts in her head.
Cassini tells her what doctors couldn't—she's a medium, one of the rarest supernatural beings in existence. In Austin's vampire underworld, that either makes her a powerful weapon to be wielded, or a dangerous threat to be eliminated.
The brooding tattoo artist is a vampire in exile, hiding his true identity and bound by a blood oath that weakens him with every sunrise. With his enemies closing in and a missing girl's life on the line, Lily's rare power could be his salvation...or her destruction.
Forced into an uneasy alliance, they must navigate the treacherous line between predator and prey, where every touch ignites desire and every secret threatens betrayal.
But the closer they become, the more Cassini fears the he may not be able to protect her from the secrets hunting them both.
Or from himself…
TRUE BLOOD meets THE SOPRANOS in a dark vampire noir romance of romantic telepathy, forbidden desire, and love that might cost everything.
For fans of J.R. Ward, Nalini Singh, and Patricia Briggs who crave slow burn, steamy, yearning, morally grey MMCs, dark romance, psychic bonds, vampire politics and family drama.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 29, 2025
12 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
October 29, 2025
ARC review!
Wow. That is how you do a Vampire Romance story!
This is a new author for me, and OMG I'll read anything they write from here on in!
This was fantastic. Compulsive and addictive reading, with a load of mystery and searching adventures thrown in. I adored the characters so much, their POVs just drew me to them more.
A fabulous read.
Wow. That is how you do a Vampire Romance story!
This is a new author for me, and OMG I'll read anything they write from here on in!
This was fantastic. Compulsive and addictive reading, with a load of mystery and searching adventures thrown in. I adored the characters so much, their POVs just drew me to them more.
A fabulous read.
October 13, 2025
Another ARC read from a new author for me and what a read! It's the first in a series which I didn't realise but the story was gripping and frustrating in equal measures. I loved the whole vampire with a grudge thing and the unsuspecting medium who thought she was cracking up hearing voices. The dynamic between the two was funny but some what strained, the vampire was quite selfish with his need of her gifts but still felt enough for her to fall in love and want to protect her. It can be read as a stand alone but their story is far from over and I look forward to reading the rest. 4 🌟
October 21, 2025
I don’t normally lean towards the morally grey stories but I was utterly compelled by this book. The characters were so well crafted that it felt completely believable and honest, and I was DEEPLY invested in their outcome.
Likewise, sometimes paranormal romances can require some very heavy handed world-building to get to the place where you can understand the stakes and the actions of the characters. Not so with May Maddox. The world unfolds in such a way that feels organic and enticing, without relying on heavy chunks of exposition. I felt of the world, I felt like it could be happening in parallel to the world outside.
This was a great book. It was dark without being exploitative and questioned morality and limits without relying on dubious consent or philosophising. Compelling and a swift read, intriguing side characters (always a plus), and a solid ending with the door (literally )open to the next book
Full disclosure, the author is a friend, but this is an unbiased review of a well crafted story from a fellow former vamp loving teen 🤣 but one who enjoyed reading out of her comfort zone for this book, and devoured it (pun slightly intended) in two sittings
Likewise, sometimes paranormal romances can require some very heavy handed world-building to get to the place where you can understand the stakes and the actions of the characters. Not so with May Maddox. The world unfolds in such a way that feels organic and enticing, without relying on heavy chunks of exposition. I felt of the world, I felt like it could be happening in parallel to the world outside.
This was a great book. It was dark without being exploitative and questioned morality and limits without relying on dubious consent or philosophising. Compelling and a swift read, intriguing side characters (always a plus), and a solid ending with the door (literally )open to the next book
Full disclosure, the author is a friend, but this is an unbiased review of a well crafted story from a fellow former vamp loving teen 🤣 but one who enjoyed reading out of her comfort zone for this book, and devoured it (pun slightly intended) in two sittings
November 1, 2025
I. Am. In. Love with this book!! steamy with some humor. chaotic, and hot vampire. you so can't beat that. These two together were awesome. I've never read this author before but you better believe I'll be reading EVERYTHING!
great story, great characters. I couldn't read this fast enough.
but dang! you leave me hanging!? I'll be waiting for the next book.
great story, great characters. I couldn't read this fast enough.
but dang! you leave me hanging!? I'll be waiting for the next book.
October 17, 2025
Do you like slow-burn romance, Vampires, gore and special abilities? Then Inked and Bloodbound may be for you.
This is book one in an upcoming series. I really enjoyed this story and the many twists and turns within. Author May Maddox gives readers a unique style of the vampire image, which I loved.
In this book we follow Lily as she tries to track down information about a tattoo her mother had and the meaning behind it. She’s been seeing others with the exact same tattoo and placement which has made her start questioning what her mother was really involved in.
What she doesn’t know won’t hurt her, right? All is well until she meets Cass and the truth starts to reveal itself, therefore putting her into danger. Her eyes are opened to the bigger picture, the overall picture, the one of a world made up of not only humans, but vampires and secret abilities.
I found this story fairly fast paced when reading. There are many scenes within the plot of the book that keep the chapters transitioning nicely.
There are some gory vampiric described scenes, some semi spicy romance scenes and an underlying storyline that I expect to continue on into the next book.
I enjoyed this Inked and Bloodbound and look forward to reading more of this series as it releases. This book releases Oct 29, 2025.
This is book one in an upcoming series. I really enjoyed this story and the many twists and turns within. Author May Maddox gives readers a unique style of the vampire image, which I loved.
In this book we follow Lily as she tries to track down information about a tattoo her mother had and the meaning behind it. She’s been seeing others with the exact same tattoo and placement which has made her start questioning what her mother was really involved in.
What she doesn’t know won’t hurt her, right? All is well until she meets Cass and the truth starts to reveal itself, therefore putting her into danger. Her eyes are opened to the bigger picture, the overall picture, the one of a world made up of not only humans, but vampires and secret abilities.
I found this story fairly fast paced when reading. There are many scenes within the plot of the book that keep the chapters transitioning nicely.
There are some gory vampiric described scenes, some semi spicy romance scenes and an underlying storyline that I expect to continue on into the next book.
I enjoyed this Inked and Bloodbound and look forward to reading more of this series as it releases. This book releases Oct 29, 2025.
October 16, 2025
Inked & Bloodbound is the first in a series. It's a phenomenal debut book for May Maddox. Am I a newly sucker for dual pov? Yes, I am. Am I a sucker for vampire spicy romance? Yes, yes, yes I am. Ms. May has captured this world in a way that I haven't experienced before, and I'm all in and here for it. Ms. May's writing is unmatched. The flow is fast-paced, but it's just the perfect amount of speed. Also also, the suspense and clues offer the right amount of frosting. Ms. May has me so invested in Cas and Lily, that I can't hardly wait to find out what's going to happen next.
I truly recommend that y'all get y'alls hands on this book, y'all won't be disappointed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I truly recommend that y'all get y'alls hands on this book, y'all won't be disappointed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 20, 2025
Inked and Bloodbound pulled me in from the first page and didn’t let go. It’s a perfect mix of dark romance, danger, and supernatural mystery that kept me hooked the whole time. I loved the chemistry between Cassini and Lily — their connection felt intense, emotional, and haunting in the best way. The writing is vivid and atmospheric, with just the right balance of grit and tenderness.
May Maddox creates a world that feels raw, seductive, and deeply human, even when it’s full of monsters. If you love morally gray characters, slow-burn tension, and stories that make your heart race, this book is a must-read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May Maddox creates a world that feels raw, seductive, and deeply human, even when it’s full of monsters. If you love morally gray characters, slow-burn tension, and stories that make your heart race, this book is a must-read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 12, 2025
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🩸Vampire Romance
🩸Criminal Underworld
🩸Fated Mates
🩸Morally Grey MMC
🩸Psychic Connection
🩸Protective Alpha, Touch Her and 💀
What’s a great read! Inked & Bloodbound is a dark vampire romance set in Austin’s supernatural underworld with blood oaths, psychic connection, and a bloody messy love story. I’ve always been a “sucker” for a vampire romance and this book did it for me. Filled with spice, action, humour and mystery.
Cassini’s obsessive devotion and list toward Lily was everything you could ask for. May slayed and delivered! Very well written and I cannot wait for the second book to come out so I can finally know what’s going to happen!
Book One of the Dirty 6th Vampires series
October 16, 2025
The story and plot were interesting. The underworld of vampires is a good twist from other books with vampires. both maim characters grow throughout the book. The twist at the very end has me wanting to read the next book in the series. This book was a fun read.
October 17, 2025
Another arc read down for me! And this was beyond what I was expecting honestly and in a good way!! It had me gripping my phone with each page and I can’t wait for more!!
Read
October 15, 2025I absolutely love this book. I love vampire books, and this one did not disappoint. I cannot wait until November, when the next book comes out. This is going to be a great series.
October 11, 2025
Spicy vampire romance? Yes please!!
What starts as a late night tattoo appointment on Austin’s sixth street turns into blood oaths, psychic connections, and the kind of obsessive devotion that makes you question your life choices (in a good way)
Absolutely brilliant read! Perfect combo of spice, action, humour and vampires! May has written this beautifully, I was absolutely captivated from page 1 and can’t wait to find out what happens next to Cas and Lily.
I’m not normally a fan of dual pov, but this was done really well!
What starts as a late night tattoo appointment on Austin’s sixth street turns into blood oaths, psychic connections, and the kind of obsessive devotion that makes you question your life choices (in a good way)
Absolutely brilliant read! Perfect combo of spice, action, humour and vampires! May has written this beautifully, I was absolutely captivated from page 1 and can’t wait to find out what happens next to Cas and Lily.
I’m not normally a fan of dual pov, but this was done really well!
October 12, 2025
oh my word. I loved this story, its fast paced and full of action. Im not sure who feel first but they both fall hard. I loved watching their connection grow but im not a fan of that cliffhanger. I thought it was happy ending but nope. Really looking forward to what happens next, definitely an amazing read
November 20, 2025
The book features quick-witted dialogue, a fast pace, and a classic broody vs. sunshine dynamic. I really enjoyed it and I’m looking forward to the sequel. There were a few minor language hicks in the beginning, but it improved as the story went on. Good spice with a dust of yearning. And I really like the development of the female character.
October 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I NEED MORE!!!!! I need more of this story, you can not leave it on that cliffhanger.
This book is for anyone who craves slow burn, steamy, yearning (OMG the yearning), morally grey MMCs, dark romance, psychic bonds, vampire politics and family drama.
*Vampires
*Witches/Mediums
*Blood bonds
*Forbidden love
*Hidden/Secret identity
I NEED MORE!!!!! I need more of this story, you can not leave it on that cliffhanger.
This book is for anyone who craves slow burn, steamy, yearning (OMG the yearning), morally grey MMCs, dark romance, psychic bonds, vampire politics and family drama.
*Vampires
*Witches/Mediums
*Blood bonds
*Forbidden love
*Hidden/Secret identity
October 22, 2025
Dark, seductive, and emotionally brutal in the best way possible.
Inked & Bloodbound pulled me in from the very first page and refused to let go. What begins as a seemingly simple tattoo appointment on Austin’s Sixth Street quickly twists into a story soaked in secrets, blood, and supernatural danger. At the center of it all is Lily — a woman searching for closure on the anniversary of her mother’s death — and Cassini, the dark, enigmatic tattoo artist with a past as jagged and ink-stained as the art he creates.
From the moment these two characters meet, the tension is electric. Their connection is magnetic, simmering with slow-burn heat and emotional weight. Maddox doesn't give us instant gratification — she gives us something better: a romance built on pain, trust, vulnerability, and undeniable attraction. The chemistry between Cas and Lily is intense, complicated, and haunting. You feel it in every glance, every unspoken word, every reckless choice they make to protect — and destroy — each other.
This book walks the line between romance and something far darker. There’s violence here. There’s grief. There’s a terrifying supernatural undercurrent, with blood oaths, psychic abilities, and vampires who are far from romanticized. This isn’t a glittery fantasy — it’s sharp, raw, and brimming with danger. But within that darkness, Maddox crafts moments of tenderness and quiet heartbreak that hit just as hard as the action scenes.
What stood out most for me was the emotional honesty of the characters. Lily isn’t a helpless heroine — she’s scared, scarred, but undeniably strong. She doesn’t want power, but she refuses to back down when it comes for her. Cas is beautifully broken, the kind of morally gray character who makes you ache because you know he’s holding back oceans of pain. His devotion to Lily is obsessive, messy, and yet, somehow, pure.
The writing itself is a standout — vivid, lyrical, and atmospheric. May Maddox has a gift for scene-setting that immerses you completely in the gritty streets of Austin, the pulsing energy of the vampire underworld, and the private hells each character is trying to escape. The pacing is perfect — steady when it needs to simmer, explosive when it needs to burn.
This is the kind of book that lingers. The kind you stay up too late reading and think about long after it ends. It’s dark, it’s dangerous, and it’s absolutely captivating.
If you love:
Morally gray love interests with tortured pasts
Heroines who grow fiercer the more the world tries to break them
Found family vibes mixed with enemies who may kiss or kill you
Stories that blend action, paranormal intrigue, and deeply emotional romance
Then Inked & Bloodbound needs to be at the top of your TBR.
I’m already desperate for the next chapter of Cas and Lily’s story. Whatever Maddox is writing next — I’m there for it, heart wide open and ready to be wrecked.
Inked & Bloodbound pulled me in from the very first page and refused to let go. What begins as a seemingly simple tattoo appointment on Austin’s Sixth Street quickly twists into a story soaked in secrets, blood, and supernatural danger. At the center of it all is Lily — a woman searching for closure on the anniversary of her mother’s death — and Cassini, the dark, enigmatic tattoo artist with a past as jagged and ink-stained as the art he creates.
From the moment these two characters meet, the tension is electric. Their connection is magnetic, simmering with slow-burn heat and emotional weight. Maddox doesn't give us instant gratification — she gives us something better: a romance built on pain, trust, vulnerability, and undeniable attraction. The chemistry between Cas and Lily is intense, complicated, and haunting. You feel it in every glance, every unspoken word, every reckless choice they make to protect — and destroy — each other.
This book walks the line between romance and something far darker. There’s violence here. There’s grief. There’s a terrifying supernatural undercurrent, with blood oaths, psychic abilities, and vampires who are far from romanticized. This isn’t a glittery fantasy — it’s sharp, raw, and brimming with danger. But within that darkness, Maddox crafts moments of tenderness and quiet heartbreak that hit just as hard as the action scenes.
What stood out most for me was the emotional honesty of the characters. Lily isn’t a helpless heroine — she’s scared, scarred, but undeniably strong. She doesn’t want power, but she refuses to back down when it comes for her. Cas is beautifully broken, the kind of morally gray character who makes you ache because you know he’s holding back oceans of pain. His devotion to Lily is obsessive, messy, and yet, somehow, pure.
The writing itself is a standout — vivid, lyrical, and atmospheric. May Maddox has a gift for scene-setting that immerses you completely in the gritty streets of Austin, the pulsing energy of the vampire underworld, and the private hells each character is trying to escape. The pacing is perfect — steady when it needs to simmer, explosive when it needs to burn.
This is the kind of book that lingers. The kind you stay up too late reading and think about long after it ends. It’s dark, it’s dangerous, and it’s absolutely captivating.
If you love:
Morally gray love interests with tortured pasts
Heroines who grow fiercer the more the world tries to break them
Found family vibes mixed with enemies who may kiss or kill you
Stories that blend action, paranormal intrigue, and deeply emotional romance
Then Inked & Bloodbound needs to be at the top of your TBR.
I’m already desperate for the next chapter of Cas and Lily’s story. Whatever Maddox is writing next — I’m there for it, heart wide open and ready to be wrecked.
October 29, 2025
Some stories pull you in slowly. Inked & Bloodbound sinks its fangs in from the very first page and doesn’t let go.
May Maddox delivers a masterful blend of supernatural mystery, slow-burn romance, and emotional intensity that makes this book impossible to put down. Nurse Lily’s world begins unraveling the moment she starts hearing voices no one else can. Shadows whisper. Corridors seem alive. Every doctor says she’s fine—but she knows something is deeply wrong. When she steps into a tattoo parlor looking for answers about her late mother, she doesn’t expect to find them in the mind of the dangerously magnetic artist, Cassini.
Cass is everything Lily has been warned about—brooding, secretive, and otherworldly. A vampire in exile, he’s bound by blood and haunted by enemies who won’t stop until he’s ashes. But beneath the ink and scars lies a heart still capable of tenderness—and a connection that sparks the moment he meets Lily. Their chemistry isn’t just attraction; it’s something elemental, like gravity pulling them toward each other despite every warning and danger.
As Lily uncovers the truth about her mother’s past—and her own rare gift as a medium—she’s drawn deeper into a hidden world of power, blood, and betrayal. Every revelation cuts deeper. Every touch between her and Cass feels like a promise and a threat all at once.
May Maddox’s writing is electric—rich with atmosphere, pulsing with tension, and threaded with real emotion. The world feels dark yet alive, filled with characters you can feel in your bones. Cass and Lily’s relationship walks that razor edge between danger and devotion, making every moment between them feel intimate, haunting, and utterly addictive.
Inked & Bloodbound isn’t just a paranormal romance—it’s a story about discovering who you are when everything you believed starts to crumble, and about choosing love even when it terrifies you.
If you crave books that make your pulse race and your heart ache in equal measure—think A Discovery of Witches meets Black Dagger Brotherhood—this one will leave you breathless, ink-stained, and begging for more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May Maddox delivers a masterful blend of supernatural mystery, slow-burn romance, and emotional intensity that makes this book impossible to put down. Nurse Lily’s world begins unraveling the moment she starts hearing voices no one else can. Shadows whisper. Corridors seem alive. Every doctor says she’s fine—but she knows something is deeply wrong. When she steps into a tattoo parlor looking for answers about her late mother, she doesn’t expect to find them in the mind of the dangerously magnetic artist, Cassini.
Cass is everything Lily has been warned about—brooding, secretive, and otherworldly. A vampire in exile, he’s bound by blood and haunted by enemies who won’t stop until he’s ashes. But beneath the ink and scars lies a heart still capable of tenderness—and a connection that sparks the moment he meets Lily. Their chemistry isn’t just attraction; it’s something elemental, like gravity pulling them toward each other despite every warning and danger.
As Lily uncovers the truth about her mother’s past—and her own rare gift as a medium—she’s drawn deeper into a hidden world of power, blood, and betrayal. Every revelation cuts deeper. Every touch between her and Cass feels like a promise and a threat all at once.
May Maddox’s writing is electric—rich with atmosphere, pulsing with tension, and threaded with real emotion. The world feels dark yet alive, filled with characters you can feel in your bones. Cass and Lily’s relationship walks that razor edge between danger and devotion, making every moment between them feel intimate, haunting, and utterly addictive.
Inked & Bloodbound isn’t just a paranormal romance—it’s a story about discovering who you are when everything you believed starts to crumble, and about choosing love even when it terrifies you.
If you crave books that make your pulse race and your heart ache in equal measure—think A Discovery of Witches meets Black Dagger Brotherhood—this one will leave you breathless, ink-stained, and begging for more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 30, 2025
Quote: “I want you to worship me the way you prayed over me.”
“I’d crawl on my hands and knees through a pile of broken glass and shaved silver in the midday sun if it meant I could have a single taste.”
ARC Review (No Spoilers)
Okay, this might sound strange, but as much as this is a dark, dangerous vampire romance, it still feels surprisingly light and warm ❤️🔥
The blurb already reveals quite a bit, but there are still so many delicious details you can only uncover by reading. The writing is smooth, addictive, and easy to fall into. The dual POV makes the world breathe - full of emotion, longing, and fire between the main characters.
Lily and Cassini are drawn to each other long before they admit it, and their connection is something special. With it comes danger, lust, raw need.🔥
Lily dives into everything headfirst - reckless maybe, but brave and driven by a kind heart, while Cassini, no matter how ancient, is powerless to resist what’s blooming between them. I loved their chemistry, the humor, and the grounding calm whenever they’re side by side.🌟🌟
Sure, a few things might lean a bit naïve, but the story itself swept me away so completely that it didn’t matter.🎢
One of the reasons I picked this up was because of my own connection to the world of tattoos. It’s woven in beautifully and meaningfully. And honestly, when the ancient, very sexy vampire also happens to be the artist with a long and surprising history? Yeah… definitely a must-read for me. 🥵🖤
Oh, and the spice? Perfect. Their first time made me laugh and blush at the same time.🙈😈
And that cliffhanger… Both a blessing and a curse. I’m hooked and I can’t wait to see where those choices and reunions will lead next!
Thank you, @booksirens and @maymaddox, for this addictive ARC read! 🖤
Enjoy!🪄
⭐️ 4/5 | 🌶 1.5/5
Dark Fantasy Romance ∙ Vampires & Humans ∙ Criminal Underground ∙ Bloodbinding ∙ Age Gap ∙ Touch Her and D!e ∙ Psychic Connection ∙ Fated Mates ∙ Morally Gray MMC ∙ 1st Person, Dual POV ∙ 18+ / TW
“I’d crawl on my hands and knees through a pile of broken glass and shaved silver in the midday sun if it meant I could have a single taste.”
ARC Review (No Spoilers)
Okay, this might sound strange, but as much as this is a dark, dangerous vampire romance, it still feels surprisingly light and warm ❤️🔥
The blurb already reveals quite a bit, but there are still so many delicious details you can only uncover by reading. The writing is smooth, addictive, and easy to fall into. The dual POV makes the world breathe - full of emotion, longing, and fire between the main characters.
Lily and Cassini are drawn to each other long before they admit it, and their connection is something special. With it comes danger, lust, raw need.🔥
Lily dives into everything headfirst - reckless maybe, but brave and driven by a kind heart, while Cassini, no matter how ancient, is powerless to resist what’s blooming between them. I loved their chemistry, the humor, and the grounding calm whenever they’re side by side.🌟🌟
Sure, a few things might lean a bit naïve, but the story itself swept me away so completely that it didn’t matter.🎢
One of the reasons I picked this up was because of my own connection to the world of tattoos. It’s woven in beautifully and meaningfully. And honestly, when the ancient, very sexy vampire also happens to be the artist with a long and surprising history? Yeah… definitely a must-read for me. 🥵🖤
Oh, and the spice? Perfect. Their first time made me laugh and blush at the same time.🙈😈
And that cliffhanger… Both a blessing and a curse. I’m hooked and I can’t wait to see where those choices and reunions will lead next!
Thank you, @booksirens and @maymaddox, for this addictive ARC read! 🖤
Enjoy!🪄
⭐️ 4/5 | 🌶 1.5/5
Dark Fantasy Romance ∙ Vampires & Humans ∙ Criminal Underground ∙ Bloodbinding ∙ Age Gap ∙ Touch Her and D!e ∙ Psychic Connection ∙ Fated Mates ∙ Morally Gray MMC ∙ 1st Person, Dual POV ∙ 18+ / TW
October 23, 2025
Inked & Bloodbound contains triggering situations such as explicit sexual content, violence and blood, grief, addiction, substance abuse depictions, power dynamics and supernatural compulsion, suicidal ideation, family trauma, rejection, stalking, trafficking and the death of a parent.
Inked & Bloodbound also explores themes of Morally gray male lead, fated mates, dangerous supernatural world, heroine in peril, secrets and betrayal, redemption arc, touch her and die, forbidden love (vampire x human), psychic bond/telepathic connection.
I rated this book 5* I'm obsessed with the gripping plot and its twists and turns, plus the chemistry between characters
Cassini, a vampire tattoo artist hiding his true identity, meets Lily, who's seeking memorial ink on the anniversary of her mother's death. Their touch awakens her supernatural gift... which makes her a target in the vampire underworld.
Cassini's enemies are closing in, and Lily's power could be his salvation or demise.
As they're forced to work together to find a missing girl, their alliance blurs the lines between protection and predation. Cassini fears his darkness may consume them both.
I'd highly recommend this book to those who like vampire books.
Inked & Bloodbound also explores themes of Morally gray male lead, fated mates, dangerous supernatural world, heroine in peril, secrets and betrayal, redemption arc, touch her and die, forbidden love (vampire x human), psychic bond/telepathic connection.
I rated this book 5* I'm obsessed with the gripping plot and its twists and turns, plus the chemistry between characters
Cassini, a vampire tattoo artist hiding his true identity, meets Lily, who's seeking memorial ink on the anniversary of her mother's death. Their touch awakens her supernatural gift... which makes her a target in the vampire underworld.
Cassini's enemies are closing in, and Lily's power could be his salvation or demise.
As they're forced to work together to find a missing girl, their alliance blurs the lines between protection and predation. Cassini fears his darkness may consume them both.
I'd highly recommend this book to those who like vampire books.
October 19, 2025
Phenomenal Debut: Inked & Bloodbound
May Maddox is an author to watch! This is a phenomenal debut and the first book in the Dirty 6th Vampires series.
It's a dark, spicy vampire romance with a gripping, fast-paced plot set in Austin’s supernatural underworld. I loved the dynamic between the obsessed vampire Cassini and the funny, unsuspecting medium Lily. The dual POV is fantastic, and Maddox’s writing is unmatched.
Filled with action, humor, and a final twist that will leave you desperate for the next installment, you'll be completely invested in Cas and Lily. I truly recommend you grab this book—you won't be disappointed!
(Note: I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.)
May Maddox is an author to watch! This is a phenomenal debut and the first book in the Dirty 6th Vampires series.
It's a dark, spicy vampire romance with a gripping, fast-paced plot set in Austin’s supernatural underworld. I loved the dynamic between the obsessed vampire Cassini and the funny, unsuspecting medium Lily. The dual POV is fantastic, and Maddox’s writing is unmatched.
Filled with action, humor, and a final twist that will leave you desperate for the next installment, you'll be completely invested in Cas and Lily. I truly recommend you grab this book—you won't be disappointed!
(Note: I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.)
October 26, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨
Thank you to May Maddox for having me as an ARC reader.
I LOVED this book. I was hooked from the first page, and once I had a day free to read, I couldn’t put it down!
Ok, sure, you had me at vampire. But tall, dark, handsome, and ITALIAN?! *Grabby hands* Yes please!
And Lily is just the kind of badass I want to be when I grow up. As Cassini says - “the kind of girl you take home to meet your mama. Not mine obviously. My mother would destroy her.”
This book has the perfect balance of lust, fear, tension, and laughs, and feels like True Blood but darker, and with more of a gangster/organised crime edge.
I can’t wait for the rest of this series (including the novella), and to find out where Lily and Cass’ story goes from here.
Thank you to May Maddox for having me as an ARC reader.
I LOVED this book. I was hooked from the first page, and once I had a day free to read, I couldn’t put it down!
Ok, sure, you had me at vampire. But tall, dark, handsome, and ITALIAN?! *Grabby hands* Yes please!
And Lily is just the kind of badass I want to be when I grow up. As Cassini says - “the kind of girl you take home to meet your mama. Not mine obviously. My mother would destroy her.”
This book has the perfect balance of lust, fear, tension, and laughs, and feels like True Blood but darker, and with more of a gangster/organised crime edge.
I can’t wait for the rest of this series (including the novella), and to find out where Lily and Cass’ story goes from here.
October 29, 2025
I inhaled Inked and Bloodbound. I'm not a big reader so if something isn't well written and engaging, I get bored. That's probably my own issue but not one I had with this book. I loved it. Sexy, smart, romantic, and cool.
Every page, every character, every situation is dripping with style and it felt so visual to read. The author cemented me in a world and made it feel real.
I know this is the first in a series and if you would have asked me a week ago if I was salivating at the thought of getting to read more vampire romance, I would've said you're crazy because, chat, I'm hooked. Anyone know what's up with all the crows?! I know that's coming up and I cannot wait to know more about this universe.
Every page, every character, every situation is dripping with style and it felt so visual to read. The author cemented me in a world and made it feel real.
I know this is the first in a series and if you would have asked me a week ago if I was salivating at the thought of getting to read more vampire romance, I would've said you're crazy because, chat, I'm hooked. Anyone know what's up with all the crows?! I know that's coming up and I cannot wait to know more about this universe.
October 31, 2025
ARC REVIEW: (late I know. Life happened, don’t ask)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
What a read! Such a flawless mix of danger, mystery and romance. The connection between Lily and Cassini was INTENSE. The obsessive devotion was ✨*chefs kiss*✨
May Maddox effortlessly created a world that’s seductive, intense and gritty. The world building is vivid in a way that keeps the story flowing with zero stutter.
I love vampire fantasy’s and this is unlike every one I have read. May creates such a unique version of vampires, it’s hauntingly addicting to read such a fresh perspective. I found the pace of this fairly fast paced, but each scene differed in such a way that it wasn’t overwhelming whatsoever. I loved this book through and through. Worth 5 stars.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
What a read! Such a flawless mix of danger, mystery and romance. The connection between Lily and Cassini was INTENSE. The obsessive devotion was ✨*chefs kiss*✨
May Maddox effortlessly created a world that’s seductive, intense and gritty. The world building is vivid in a way that keeps the story flowing with zero stutter.
I love vampire fantasy’s and this is unlike every one I have read. May creates such a unique version of vampires, it’s hauntingly addicting to read such a fresh perspective. I found the pace of this fairly fast paced, but each scene differed in such a way that it wasn’t overwhelming whatsoever. I loved this book through and through. Worth 5 stars.
October 31, 2025
I enjoyed this story about Lily and Cass. A solid 4.5 stars for being well written and edited.
Lily is having headaches and can't find the cause. She meets Cass when she decides to get a tattoo on the fly. Cass realizes she's something more and the story evolves from there with some mysteries solved and some things left for the next book.
It's probably just me but I couldn't quite get into the book like I'm normally able. Maybe because it felt like a setup to something more? IDK. It ends on a cliff hanger and because I enjoyed the setup of this story, I am looking forward to reading the next installment.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lily is having headaches and can't find the cause. She meets Cass when she decides to get a tattoo on the fly. Cass realizes she's something more and the story evolves from there with some mysteries solved and some things left for the next book.
It's probably just me but I couldn't quite get into the book like I'm normally able. Maybe because it felt like a setup to something more? IDK. It ends on a cliff hanger and because I enjoyed the setup of this story, I am looking forward to reading the next installment.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2025
This book sucked me in right from the get-go. I haven't read a good vampire tale in eons, but for me, this one hit the mark really well. This new to me author knocked it out of the park.
There's enough intrigue to keep you interested, and the obvious connection between Lily and Cass is one for the ages.Their slow burn romance is a warm hug wrapped in barbed wire.
How Cass looks out for Lily, even though most of the time she's totally oblivious, is heart-warming. Endangering himself without a second thought to help her, sigh ...
Inked & Bloodbound has laughter, tears, and a solid dose of 'no, don't do it'.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I am totally thankful there won't be a long wait till book 2. I so want to read more.
There's enough intrigue to keep you interested, and the obvious connection between Lily and Cass is one for the ages.Their slow burn romance is a warm hug wrapped in barbed wire.
How Cass looks out for Lily, even though most of the time she's totally oblivious, is heart-warming. Endangering himself without a second thought to help her, sigh ...
Inked & Bloodbound has laughter, tears, and a solid dose of 'no, don't do it'.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I am totally thankful there won't be a long wait till book 2. I so want to read more.
October 26, 2025
Overall: 3.75/5 def worth rounding up on all platforms
Spice: 2/5
Plot: 4/5
This ARC definitely has me wanting to hop back into dark Vampire romance! Cassini was a fantastic MMC and his devotion to Lily hooked me almost immediately. Lily had some annoying tendencies and got in her own way a few times BUT that is explained with her childhood traumas. When I wasn’t actively reading this book I was thinking about it! I need to know if there is a book 2 and if that was a cliffhanger… if so, I’m on the edge of my seat for what’s to come. If not, then I feel left hanging cause I really want to know what becomes of Lilys gifts! If you can’t tell, I was very invested! :)
Spice: 2/5
Plot: 4/5
This ARC definitely has me wanting to hop back into dark Vampire romance! Cassini was a fantastic MMC and his devotion to Lily hooked me almost immediately. Lily had some annoying tendencies and got in her own way a few times BUT that is explained with her childhood traumas. When I wasn’t actively reading this book I was thinking about it! I need to know if there is a book 2 and if that was a cliffhanger… if so, I’m on the edge of my seat for what’s to come. If not, then I feel left hanging cause I really want to know what becomes of Lilys gifts! If you can’t tell, I was very invested! :)
February 7, 2026
Compulsive, gritty, and wildly addictive. This was my first read from this author and I’m already feral for book two.
I loved the Austin setting, the layered backstories of our two MCs, and the Dirty 6th vampires bringing full Sopranos energy. The vampire lore is woven in beautifully, familiar enough to feel grounded but twisted in ways that keep it fresh. Yes, silver and sunlight burn… but the devotion our MMC shows, even through that pain? Absolute chef’s kiss.
Dark, intense and a little bit gory, so definitely check the triggers. But if you like your vampires dangerous and devoted, this one delivers.
Thank you to BookSirens for the advance review copy.
I loved the Austin setting, the layered backstories of our two MCs, and the Dirty 6th vampires bringing full Sopranos energy. The vampire lore is woven in beautifully, familiar enough to feel grounded but twisted in ways that keep it fresh. Yes, silver and sunlight burn… but the devotion our MMC shows, even through that pain? Absolute chef’s kiss.
Dark, intense and a little bit gory, so definitely check the triggers. But if you like your vampires dangerous and devoted, this one delivers.
Thank you to BookSirens for the advance review copy.
October 30, 2025
The description of this book: "TRUE BLOOD meets THE SOPRANOS in a dark vampire noir romance of romantic telepathy, forbidden desire, and love that might cost everything." Had me immediately interested in knowing more about this story and I knew I had to get my hands on it. This book drew me in from the first page and I couldn't wait to read more. I really enjoyed the story as well as the characters.
Lily is a strong, smart FMC. As for Cassini, he is not as easy to love. He has an array of flaws and secrets and I don't even think we know the half of it yet. Lily was right to be afraid of him, but ultimately I love that he wants to protect her. Cassini is a bit shady in how he goes about things and I don't know if he always has the right intention but there is no denying his feelings for Lily.
Judging by the description of the second book, I think it may be even better than this one and I'll be patiently waiting for it to release!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Pub Date: 10/29/25
Lily is a strong, smart FMC. As for Cassini, he is not as easy to love. He has an array of flaws and secrets and I don't even think we know the half of it yet. Lily was right to be afraid of him, but ultimately I love that he wants to protect her. Cassini is a bit shady in how he goes about things and I don't know if he always has the right intention but there is no denying his feelings for Lily.
Judging by the description of the second book, I think it may be even better than this one and I'll be patiently waiting for it to release!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Pub Date: 10/29/25
November 9, 2025
I thought I was done with vampire romances—but this book completely reignited my interest. What a fantastic story, ending on a manageable cliffhanger that left me eager for more.
From the very first page, I was hooked. The world-building is vivid and immersive, the pacing brisk, and the central relationship feels refreshingly authentic. The characters are relatable and well-drawn, making it easy to invest in their journey.
I can’t wait for the next installment in the series. A solid five-star read for me.
From the very first page, I was hooked. The world-building is vivid and immersive, the pacing brisk, and the central relationship feels refreshingly authentic. The characters are relatable and well-drawn, making it easy to invest in their journey.
I can’t wait for the next installment in the series. A solid five-star read for me.
December 26, 2025
I enjoyed Inked and Bloodbound but the book was definitely there to provide the backstory of Cassini and Lily. The last 20% of the book was where most of the plot took place, but it geared up the series nicely ready for book 2.
I found the characters of Cassini and Lily likeable and believable and I can’t wait to see what happens next for them!
To get to 5⭐️ I think we needed more plot alongside the world building but that being said I don’t think the book was bad and can’t wait to read the next one!
I found the characters of Cassini and Lily likeable and believable and I can’t wait to see what happens next for them!
To get to 5⭐️ I think we needed more plot alongside the world building but that being said I don’t think the book was bad and can’t wait to read the next one!
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