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The Blood Saga #2
Blood Rising
In a brilliantly terrifying blend of supernatural horror and alternate history for fans of Ryan Coogler's Sinners and readers of Victor LaValle, Tananarive Due, and Stephen Graham Jones, a vengeful vampire tribe formed of formerly enslaved Africans wages war across the Southern colonies in the ultimate battle of blood and betrayal.
Kwadzo Okoro never believed the bloody legend of Ramanga was real. Now, he stands as the leader of a new Ramanga Tribe, one that sieged the Barrow plantation in a storm of righteous carnage, liberating its formerly enslaved Africans. Reclaimed as the Crimson Plantation, it is now also home to the wronged Natives who fearlessly aligned with the Ramangans.
But Kwadzo knows that freedom is not secure. Bartholomew and Constance Crabtree, the most influential slaveholders in the region since the demise of Big Jim Barrow, are galvanizing the Lakeside community to strike back—violently. The threat they pose pales in comparison to the insidious menace of Penelope Knudsen. Her white-hot hatred, now fueled by Ramangan blood, and an ability to survive the sunlight—a power Kwadzo doesn’t have—threatens to upend Kwadzo’s advancement of Ramangan might throughout the colonies, especially as she builds a white vampire army of her own and wages an all-out war against him.
But the gravest threat comes from Rafazi. His blood fathered the rebellion, but he will not take orders from his own creation. And when Rafazi makes a deadly deal with the Crabtrees, Kwadzo is forced into a battle with his maker that he may not survive, while the everlasting freedom of every enslaved person in the colonies hangs in the balance.
Kwadzo Okoro never believed the bloody legend of Ramanga was real. Now, he stands as the leader of a new Ramanga Tribe, one that sieged the Barrow plantation in a storm of righteous carnage, liberating its formerly enslaved Africans. Reclaimed as the Crimson Plantation, it is now also home to the wronged Natives who fearlessly aligned with the Ramangans.
But Kwadzo knows that freedom is not secure. Bartholomew and Constance Crabtree, the most influential slaveholders in the region since the demise of Big Jim Barrow, are galvanizing the Lakeside community to strike back—violently. The threat they pose pales in comparison to the insidious menace of Penelope Knudsen. Her white-hot hatred, now fueled by Ramangan blood, and an ability to survive the sunlight—a power Kwadzo doesn’t have—threatens to upend Kwadzo’s advancement of Ramangan might throughout the colonies, especially as she builds a white vampire army of her own and wages an all-out war against him.
But the gravest threat comes from Rafazi. His blood fathered the rebellion, but he will not take orders from his own creation. And when Rafazi makes a deadly deal with the Crabtrees, Kwadzo is forced into a battle with his maker that he may not survive, while the everlasting freedom of every enslaved person in the colonies hangs in the balance.
432 pages, Hardcover
Published August 25, 2026
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August 27, 2026
Winning freedom was only the beginning. Blood Rising, the second installment in Markus Redmond’s Blood Saga, explores the far more complicated question of what happens after the oppressors have been overthrown.
The story returns to the former Barrow plantation, now reclaimed as Crimson Plantation by the Ramanga who seized it in Blood Slaves. Kwadzo Okoro was once tortured and treated by his white enslavers as something less than human, a commodity for labor and entertainment. Now, he leads a new Ramanga tribe and hopes to build a society where formerly enslaved Africans and their Native allies can live freely.
But freedom remains precarious. Rumors of an uprising are spreading through the surrounding community, and powerful enslavers Bartholomew and Constance Crabtree are determined to regain control. Although the local white population knows that the plantation has been overtaken, they do not yet understand what its inhabitants have become. Meanwhile, Penelope Knudsen survived the original rebellion with vengeance on her mind and with an ability that may give Crimson Plantation’s enemies a dangerous advantage.
The greatest threat, however, may come from within. Rafazi was once the last of the Ramanga, and he is not prepared to surrender his authority to Kwadzo, even if his own blood created this new tribe. His vision for the Ramanga conflicts with Kwadzo’s hopes of liberating others, turning their disagreement into a struggle that threatens humans and Ramanga alike.
As the story progresses, the fight for freedom becomes an increasingly complicated contest for power. More humans and Ramanga enter the conflict, and Redmond expands the mythology by revealing that the Ramanga do not all possess the same abilities. Their powers extend beyond those traditionally associated with vampires, adding new layers of danger and unpredictability to the story.
The betrayals within the community were upsetting, although not entirely surprising. I wanted everyone to stop bickering and fighting for dominance long enough to work together to create a new world. But, in reality, that was never going to be easy. People who have endured the same oppression do not automatically agree about what freedom should look like, who should lead, or how power should be used.
For me, Blood Rising did not offer the same feeling of justice served as Blood Slaves. The violence in the first book was directed largely at monstrous enslavers, making the Ramanga uprising feel fiercely cathartic despite its brutality. Here, the lines are less distinct. The conflict turns inward, and the killing feels more tragic than triumphant. That difference makes sense for the direction of the series, even if it made this installment less emotionally satisfying for me. Overthrowing a cruel system is one battle; building something better in its place may be the harder one.
Akin Omotoso once again impressed me with his ability to capture the characters’ pain, anger, and growing resentment. His performance gives the escalating divisions real emotional weight. Waceke Wambaa has a much smaller role, but her narration provides an intriguing opening into a storyline that appears far from finished.
Blood Rising is a strong continuation for readers who enjoyed the alternate history, vampire mythology, moral complexity, and unflinching violence of Blood Slaves. This is not a standalone, and the series is best read in order.
Content considerations include slavery, racism, torture, graphic violence, blood, murder, and betrayal.
Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for providing an advanced listener copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
The story returns to the former Barrow plantation, now reclaimed as Crimson Plantation by the Ramanga who seized it in Blood Slaves. Kwadzo Okoro was once tortured and treated by his white enslavers as something less than human, a commodity for labor and entertainment. Now, he leads a new Ramanga tribe and hopes to build a society where formerly enslaved Africans and their Native allies can live freely.
But freedom remains precarious. Rumors of an uprising are spreading through the surrounding community, and powerful enslavers Bartholomew and Constance Crabtree are determined to regain control. Although the local white population knows that the plantation has been overtaken, they do not yet understand what its inhabitants have become. Meanwhile, Penelope Knudsen survived the original rebellion with vengeance on her mind and with an ability that may give Crimson Plantation’s enemies a dangerous advantage.
The greatest threat, however, may come from within. Rafazi was once the last of the Ramanga, and he is not prepared to surrender his authority to Kwadzo, even if his own blood created this new tribe. His vision for the Ramanga conflicts with Kwadzo’s hopes of liberating others, turning their disagreement into a struggle that threatens humans and Ramanga alike.
As the story progresses, the fight for freedom becomes an increasingly complicated contest for power. More humans and Ramanga enter the conflict, and Redmond expands the mythology by revealing that the Ramanga do not all possess the same abilities. Their powers extend beyond those traditionally associated with vampires, adding new layers of danger and unpredictability to the story.
The betrayals within the community were upsetting, although not entirely surprising. I wanted everyone to stop bickering and fighting for dominance long enough to work together to create a new world. But, in reality, that was never going to be easy. People who have endured the same oppression do not automatically agree about what freedom should look like, who should lead, or how power should be used.
For me, Blood Rising did not offer the same feeling of justice served as Blood Slaves. The violence in the first book was directed largely at monstrous enslavers, making the Ramanga uprising feel fiercely cathartic despite its brutality. Here, the lines are less distinct. The conflict turns inward, and the killing feels more tragic than triumphant. That difference makes sense for the direction of the series, even if it made this installment less emotionally satisfying for me. Overthrowing a cruel system is one battle; building something better in its place may be the harder one.
Akin Omotoso once again impressed me with his ability to capture the characters’ pain, anger, and growing resentment. His performance gives the escalating divisions real emotional weight. Waceke Wambaa has a much smaller role, but her narration provides an intriguing opening into a storyline that appears far from finished.
Blood Rising is a strong continuation for readers who enjoyed the alternate history, vampire mythology, moral complexity, and unflinching violence of Blood Slaves. This is not a standalone, and the series is best read in order.
Content considerations include slavery, racism, torture, graphic violence, blood, murder, and betrayal.
Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for providing an advanced listener copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 31, 2026
🎧AudioBook Review🎧
Blood Rising by Markus Redmond
#2 in the Blood Saga series
I listened to Blood Slaves a few months ago and was hooked by this brutal blood bath. It was brutal as hell with no apologies and I couldn’t wait to read the second one.
Blood Rising focuses on a vampire tribe of formerly enslaved Africans who are now at war. It starts off a bit slower than the first one. The pacing is slow as well. I think I was wanting more fight scenes than dialogue between the characters. There are many characters to keep up with too.
What I loved were the different aspects of culture and the powers they held. The narrators did an excellent job and it was easy for me to follow.
Overall, it was enjoyable and I look forward to book 3.
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Blood Rising by Markus Redmond
#2 in the Blood Saga series
I listened to Blood Slaves a few months ago and was hooked by this brutal blood bath. It was brutal as hell with no apologies and I couldn’t wait to read the second one.
Blood Rising focuses on a vampire tribe of formerly enslaved Africans who are now at war. It starts off a bit slower than the first one. The pacing is slow as well. I think I was wanting more fight scenes than dialogue between the characters. There are many characters to keep up with too.
What I loved were the different aspects of culture and the powers they held. The narrators did an excellent job and it was easy for me to follow.
Overall, it was enjoyable and I look forward to book 3.
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 29, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC
Releases 8-25-26
This was my most anticipated read of 2026. I’ve been thinking about Kwadzo, Irene, and Rafazi for over a year. Notice I didn’t say Gertie... 😂. When we last left them, Kwadzo was leading the Ramangan tribe, and we were all wondering what Penelope might do next.
This story picks up right where Blood Slaves left off. It’s a little slower-paced and not as violent as the first book; however, it dives much deeper into the characters and their everyday lives. We get to see what it’s like to be a Ramangan and what it was like sharing a plantation with the Native people. We also learn that each Ramangan may possess unique special abilities.
We’re introduced to Bartholomew and Constance Crabtree, who are just as horrible as Jim Barrow, but not as dangerous as Penelope, whose special powers make her especially terrifying.
On top of that, there’s trouble brewing within the tribe. Will your favorite characters from Blood Slaves still be your favorites after reading this one? Or will they become your most hated?
Blood Rising is filled with lies, betrayal, and moments that had me screaming at the pages. I’ll just leave you with this: Just because someone can use your comb doesn’t make them family.
Releases 8-25-26
This was my most anticipated read of 2026. I’ve been thinking about Kwadzo, Irene, and Rafazi for over a year. Notice I didn’t say Gertie... 😂. When we last left them, Kwadzo was leading the Ramangan tribe, and we were all wondering what Penelope might do next.
This story picks up right where Blood Slaves left off. It’s a little slower-paced and not as violent as the first book; however, it dives much deeper into the characters and their everyday lives. We get to see what it’s like to be a Ramangan and what it was like sharing a plantation with the Native people. We also learn that each Ramangan may possess unique special abilities.
We’re introduced to Bartholomew and Constance Crabtree, who are just as horrible as Jim Barrow, but not as dangerous as Penelope, whose special powers make her especially terrifying.
On top of that, there’s trouble brewing within the tribe. Will your favorite characters from Blood Slaves still be your favorites after reading this one? Or will they become your most hated?
Blood Rising is filled with lies, betrayal, and moments that had me screaming at the pages. I’ll just leave you with this: Just because someone can use your comb doesn’t make them family.
June 2, 2026
This book just like the first one had me in a chokehold! Shoutout to the author for another banger! Love how this tells history in a different light! 10000/10!
September 6, 2026
One of the best books I’ve read so far this year. Picking up after Blood Slaves, Kwadzo Okoro is now leading the Ramanga tribe, a group of formerly enslaved Africans who have reclaimed a plantation and are trying to build something of their own. But winning freedom is one thing. Holding on to it? That’s another story.
What I really enjoyed about Blood Rising is how Redmond expands the world beyond the bloodshed. We get more of the Ramanga mythology, deeper character development, and a closer look at the relationships and power struggles within the tribe. The Native characters also have a stronger presence, which adds another meaningful layer to the story.
This one is more character-driven and slower-paced than the first, but when the tension boils over, Redmond delivers the betrayal, violence, and supernatural mayhem. The audio narration by Akin Omotoso and Waceke Wambaa is superb. They bring this story to life. Very well done. Kept me mesmerized.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What I really enjoyed about Blood Rising is how Redmond expands the world beyond the bloodshed. We get more of the Ramanga mythology, deeper character development, and a closer look at the relationships and power struggles within the tribe. The Native characters also have a stronger presence, which adds another meaningful layer to the story.
This one is more character-driven and slower-paced than the first, but when the tension boils over, Redmond delivers the betrayal, violence, and supernatural mayhem. The audio narration by Akin Omotoso and Waceke Wambaa is superb. They bring this story to life. Very well done. Kept me mesmerized.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 20, 2026
As with the first book, I loved the main male character. I also enjoyed Gertie's evolution (I didn't like her in the first book). The action was on point. And as with any book that deals with slavery, be mindful of the violence and abuse.
September 3, 2026
Power struggle, Vampires with special powers, revolution.
Penelope is such an interesting character. A survivor.
Love the sidekick animals.
Definitely recommend audio helps create the atmosphere and setting
Penelope is such an interesting character. A survivor.
Love the sidekick animals.
Definitely recommend audio helps create the atmosphere and setting
Want to Read
March 26, 2026OMG I cannot wait!
August 30, 2026
My rating 4.25
We join The Blood Saga with book 2, Blood Rising right after the events in book 1, Blood Slaves. Full of power struggles from within the group of Africans who have accepted the Ramanga blood, Kwadzo attempts to unite the tribe against the Southern whites while also trying to stay free.
Hatred is strong in this story, not just between black and white, but also between Rafazi and Kwadzo themselves. Both vying for control of the group, but with very different plans for the future. This is a great power dynamic with consequences to all involved.
I especially loved the character Penelope. The only white Ramanga, her hatred for pretty much everything brings so much to this story. She is powerful and driven to destroy the slaves who have dared to rise up. She makes a threat to make more white Ramanga in order to start a war against Kwadzo and his group.
Amazing characters in this novel. Writing an alternate history story gives the author the freedom to create monsters but he manages to stay true to actual facts and experiences of the slaves that lived in that era. Visceral and violent, the book is hard to read at times but draws you in and won't let go. The author is amazing at making readers uncomfortable in the best way.
I'm so looking forward to the third book in this series.
A huge shout out to the incredible narrators of Akin Omotoso and Waceke Wambaa who brought all the performance possible to this story.
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing and RBmedia for the opportunity to do an immersive read and listen with the audio as well. My thoughts are my own.
We join The Blood Saga with book 2, Blood Rising right after the events in book 1, Blood Slaves. Full of power struggles from within the group of Africans who have accepted the Ramanga blood, Kwadzo attempts to unite the tribe against the Southern whites while also trying to stay free.
Hatred is strong in this story, not just between black and white, but also between Rafazi and Kwadzo themselves. Both vying for control of the group, but with very different plans for the future. This is a great power dynamic with consequences to all involved.
I especially loved the character Penelope. The only white Ramanga, her hatred for pretty much everything brings so much to this story. She is powerful and driven to destroy the slaves who have dared to rise up. She makes a threat to make more white Ramanga in order to start a war against Kwadzo and his group.
Amazing characters in this novel. Writing an alternate history story gives the author the freedom to create monsters but he manages to stay true to actual facts and experiences of the slaves that lived in that era. Visceral and violent, the book is hard to read at times but draws you in and won't let go. The author is amazing at making readers uncomfortable in the best way.
I'm so looking forward to the third book in this series.
A huge shout out to the incredible narrators of Akin Omotoso and Waceke Wambaa who brought all the performance possible to this story.
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing and RBmedia for the opportunity to do an immersive read and listen with the audio as well. My thoughts are my own.
September 7, 2026
I think I may have enjoyed Blood Rising more than Blood Slaves.
Blood Rising managed to keep the same elements that made Blood Slaves so unique and intriguing but upped the ante. Now we not only have an uprising, we have Ramangan blood running through the blood of one of their enemies. Furthermore, one of the key protagonists from book 1 is now an antagonist. I was genuinely captivated from start to finish and I cannot wait for book 3 (if there is another book which I hope there is!)
Overall, I would rate this 4.75 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington for an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Blood Rising managed to keep the same elements that made Blood Slaves so unique and intriguing but upped the ante. Now we not only have an uprising, we have Ramangan blood running through the blood of one of their enemies. Furthermore, one of the key protagonists from book 1 is now an antagonist. I was genuinely captivated from start to finish and I cannot wait for book 3 (if there is another book which I hope there is!)
Overall, I would rate this 4.75 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington for an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 30, 2026
Thank you to Kensington and NetGalley for providing me with the ARC. In addition, thank you to Recorded Books for allowing me to review the ALC in exchange my for my honest review.
I really enjoyed reading Blood Rising by Markus Redmond! I loved the introduction of a new enemy, and the plot twists kept me hooked. The story also revealed so much more about the betrayal among members and leaders of the Ramanga Tribe. While I do think some of this information could have been included in the first book, it was still vital to the story, especially with the introduction of a new character related to Rafazi's existence (you'll have to read the story to find out). I'm honestly still trying to figure out the reason this character was introduced into the story, but knowing how Markus Redmond's mind works, I'm sure she'll have a much bigger significance in the third book, maybe?
One of my favorite things was the banter between the characters. It was always so intense, direct and kept the tension high. I loved the action, and when it came time to fight, they definitely put up a fight at the end. In the same way, it was great storytelling and I thought the plot development was amazing. The story felt well-balanced between being plot driver and character driven, which made it easy for me to stay invested in the story.
Kwadzo is just my favorite character. He protected Gertie as any cost, and you really see his courage and strength rise in this book. The traumatic events that he went through were gruesome, but his resilience is what kept him going while being in chains (this was my favorite part of the story).
Now, Rafazi? He really worked my nerves in this book! I expected more from his character. He didn't want to be a leader but demanded respect, and seemed low-key envious of the work Kwadzo was accomplishing without his help. I definitely had some thoughts about this one.
I also listened to the audiobook, and the narration was phenomenal. The cadence was perfect for the tone of the story, and I could genuinely feel the emotions of each character within every scene. Normally, I would suggest dual narration when one narrator is performing all the characters, but this absolutely worked for this story. I was completely immersed in the story, and that is exactly wat I want from an audiobook.
Overall, Markus Redmond knows how to keep me invested, and I'm curious to see where this story goes next.
Full review on YT: https://youtu.be/d2L_s9dUKUM
I really enjoyed reading Blood Rising by Markus Redmond! I loved the introduction of a new enemy, and the plot twists kept me hooked. The story also revealed so much more about the betrayal among members and leaders of the Ramanga Tribe. While I do think some of this information could have been included in the first book, it was still vital to the story, especially with the introduction of a new character related to Rafazi's existence (you'll have to read the story to find out). I'm honestly still trying to figure out the reason this character was introduced into the story, but knowing how Markus Redmond's mind works, I'm sure she'll have a much bigger significance in the third book, maybe?
One of my favorite things was the banter between the characters. It was always so intense, direct and kept the tension high. I loved the action, and when it came time to fight, they definitely put up a fight at the end. In the same way, it was great storytelling and I thought the plot development was amazing. The story felt well-balanced between being plot driver and character driven, which made it easy for me to stay invested in the story.
Kwadzo is just my favorite character. He protected Gertie as any cost, and you really see his courage and strength rise in this book. The traumatic events that he went through were gruesome, but his resilience is what kept him going while being in chains (this was my favorite part of the story).
Now, Rafazi? He really worked my nerves in this book! I expected more from his character. He didn't want to be a leader but demanded respect, and seemed low-key envious of the work Kwadzo was accomplishing without his help. I definitely had some thoughts about this one.
I also listened to the audiobook, and the narration was phenomenal. The cadence was perfect for the tone of the story, and I could genuinely feel the emotions of each character within every scene. Normally, I would suggest dual narration when one narrator is performing all the characters, but this absolutely worked for this story. I was completely immersed in the story, and that is exactly wat I want from an audiobook.
Overall, Markus Redmond knows how to keep me invested, and I'm curious to see where this story goes next.
Full review on YT: https://youtu.be/d2L_s9dUKUM
August 25, 2026
Talk about drama, talk about betrayal, talk about pressure, talk about FREEDOM 😩 Blood Rising took me THROUGH IT. The betrayal and audacity of Rafazi really angered me to my core. Him & Kwadzo was a battle of selfishness vs selflessness. Book II really raised the stakes, in every way. Learning more of the history of the Romangan tribe was the perfect addition. Kwadzo’s character development was spot on, he literally had the world on his shoulders while trying to figure out his new reality. The rebellion, the vengeance, the fight for freedom … Penelope and those Crabtrees came in HOT. I couldn’t believe some of what I was reading 😂 Rafazi???? I wanted to feed him some hateful blood so bad. An ego filled, selfish, selfish man — the kind of betrayal he proved he is capable of is unspeakable.. I’m still mad about it. Irene was a very nice surprise in this one, love her down ! She stepped up and it was good to see her in her expanded role.
Lies, betrayal, disappointment and so much disrespect within the tribe on top of fighting outside sources… a wild ride.
10/10, no notes. Audio book was 10/10 as well !
Lies, betrayal, disappointment and so much disrespect within the tribe on top of fighting outside sources… a wild ride.
10/10, no notes. Audio book was 10/10 as well !
October 31, 2026
Really liked book one, but Blood Rising left a lot to be desired.
I will say, I LOVED that the author did a recap at the beginning from Gertie’s POV! More authors should consider this!
I will say, I LOVED that the author did a recap at the beginning from Gertie’s POV! More authors should consider this!
August 31, 2026
This was some great storytelling. There were so many themes and great conversation starters that makes this story perfect for group reads.
Some of the characters were a great examples of how the past will continue to repeat itself, especially if they have questionable morals. This also reminded me a lot of some of our civil rights leaders and the discourse and disagreements that took place during that time period. Overall this was amazing.
Head over to the authors instagram to find out his book signing locations and dates while he’s on tour!!!
Some of the characters were a great examples of how the past will continue to repeat itself, especially if they have questionable morals. This also reminded me a lot of some of our civil rights leaders and the discourse and disagreements that took place during that time period. Overall this was amazing.
Head over to the authors instagram to find out his book signing locations and dates while he’s on tour!!!
May 24, 2026
Markus Redmond has done it again! Blood Rising is the sequel to Blood Slaves and if you haven’t read or listened to Blood Slaves, what are you waiting for? Blood Rising picks up right where Blood Slaves left off…at Penelope (Barrow’s daughter). Her pain, her hurt, her revenge will set the tone for this entire book.
There isn’t as much action in this as book 1 but this goes deeper into what happened after the plantation takeover. This is like reading a historical version of The Matrix. What side are you on? The blue pill or the red pill? A lot of supporting characters are now having a chance to shine in this book. This also goes deeper into what happens when money, power and respect come into play. A few of the characters that were deemed heroes/saviors in the first book are now villains and the transition to this was perfect.
Kwadzo struggled throughout this book with his newfound power but his passion and heart leads him through this new journey. Gertie is back and just like my review of her in the last book, she again has made me mad with her thought process towards Kwadzo. Sometimes I just wish she would take the blood and shut up lol.
Irene in my eyes was most definitely the star of this book! For her to be so young, she truly has grown into her new life as a Ramangan!
Rafazi…I’m just at a loss for words with this one…you’ll have to read the book for you to understand.
Overall this was a great yet calmer sequel to Blood Slaves! I give this 4.5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing, Dafina and Markus Redmond for this amazing arc read!
Let the Bloody 🩸 Revolution continue…
There isn’t as much action in this as book 1 but this goes deeper into what happened after the plantation takeover. This is like reading a historical version of The Matrix. What side are you on? The blue pill or the red pill? A lot of supporting characters are now having a chance to shine in this book. This also goes deeper into what happens when money, power and respect come into play. A few of the characters that were deemed heroes/saviors in the first book are now villains and the transition to this was perfect.
Kwadzo struggled throughout this book with his newfound power but his passion and heart leads him through this new journey. Gertie is back and just like my review of her in the last book, she again has made me mad with her thought process towards Kwadzo. Sometimes I just wish she would take the blood and shut up lol.
Irene in my eyes was most definitely the star of this book! For her to be so young, she truly has grown into her new life as a Ramangan!
Rafazi…I’m just at a loss for words with this one…you’ll have to read the book for you to understand.
Overall this was a great yet calmer sequel to Blood Slaves! I give this 4.5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing, Dafina and Markus Redmond for this amazing arc read!
Let the Bloody 🩸 Revolution continue…
August 29, 2026
Markus Redmond really said winning your freedom was only the beginning.
I loved Blood Slaves, but Blood Rising made me appreciate what Markus Redmond is building with this series on an entirely different level. Instead of simply trying to recreate the rebellion and bloodshed that made the first book so powerful, he takes the story somewhere more complicated: what happens after the oppressed finally have power? And how do you hold onto freedom when the people around you are determined to take it back?
We pick up right after Blood Slaves. The Barrow plantation has fallen, the formerly enslaved people have reclaimed it as the Crimson Plantation, and Kwadzo Okoro is now leading the newly formed Ramanga Tribe alongside the Native people who helped them fight for their freedom.
Except freedom doesn't magically fix everything.
Kwadzo suddenly has people depending on him while he's still learning what being Ramanga actually means. I loved watching Markus explore that weight because Kwadzo isn't written as some flawless revolutionary hero who always knows the right thing to do. He's powerful, but power and leadership aren't the same thing. He has to make decisions about survival, expansion, protection, and the future of people who don't always agree with him—and some of those choices get MESSY.
And the threats aren't just coming from one direction.
Bartholomew and Constance Crabtree are rallying the surrounding slaveholding community against the Crimson Plantation, while Penelope Knudsen has become something even more dangerous after the events of the first book. Her Ramangan blood gives her an ability Kwadzo doesn't have: she can survive sunlight. Watching Markus take someone filled with that much hatred and give her an advantage over Kwadzo added such an interesting layer to the power dynamics.
But RAFazi?!
The fact that one of Kwadzo's greatest threats comes from the very person whose blood helped create this rebellion was probably one of my favorite conflicts in the book. Rafazi may have helped give Kwadzo his power, but that doesn't mean he's willing to follow him. That struggle between creator and creation makes the entire idea of power in this story even more complicated—especially when Rafazi's own interests begin colliding with everything Kwadzo is trying to build.
That's where I think Markus Redmond really shines. There would have been an easy version of this story where the Ramanga are simply the heroes, the slaveholders are the villains, and we spend 400 pages watching vampires tear horrible people apart. And listen...I absolutely would have read that too.
But this is so much more interesting.
There are disagreements within the community. There are competing ideas about what freedom should look like. There is self-interest, betrayal, fear, anger, vengeance, loyalty, and the uncomfortable reality that sharing the same enemy doesn't automatically mean everyone shares the same vision for the future.
We also get to dig much deeper into the Ramanga themselves. The expanded mythology was one of my FAVORITE parts of Blood Rising. Markus gives us more history behind the blood and the different abilities connected to it, which made the vampire mythology feel even bigger than what we were introduced to in Blood Slaves. This isn't vampirism dropped into a historical setting just because it's cool—the Ramanga mythology feels integral to the story Markus is telling about power, survival, resistance, and reclamation.
And that's ultimately what keeps impressing me about this series.
The vampires are horrifying, the violence is brutal, and the revenge can be incredibly satisfying, but the supernatural characters aren't necessarily the monsters here. Markus continually brings the story back to the very human systems that created this violence in the first place.
Blood Rising asks what people do when they're finally given power after spending their lives without it. Who do they become? Do they protect their community? Do they use that power for themselves? Can liberation survive without unity? And how far are you willing to go to protect freedom once you've finally tasted it?
Those questions made this sequel feel bigger to me than simply escalating the action from book one. Markus Redmond has created such an interesting combination of historical fiction, alternate history, supernatural horror, African vampire mythology, and revenge horror, while still giving the characters enough complexity that I was constantly questioning how I felt about their choices.
It's bloody. It's angry. It's morally messy. There are betrayals that had me MAD, characters making decisions that had me talking to my audiobook, and enough expansion of the Ramanga lore that now I have approximately 700 more questions.
And THAT ENDING?!
Yeah. I need book three.
Audiobook review
The audiobook was such a strong way to experience this story. Akin Omotoso returns after narrating Blood Slaves, and I already associated his voice so heavily with this world that hearing him again immediately pulled me back into it. His delivery has so much weight and presence, which works especially well for Kwadzo in this book as he goes from fighting for freedom to carrying the responsibility of leading an entire community.
I also really appreciated how Omotoso handles the emotional range of the story. There are moments filled with rage, fear, grief, betrayal, and outright brutality, but his performance never makes those scenes feel overdone. He lets the heavier moments sit while still bringing that intensity when the story becomes violent or confrontational. With the expanded Ramanga lore, shifting alliances, and larger cast, his character differentiation and changes in tone also made it much easier to keep track of who was speaking and what was happening.
Waceke Wambaa joins the narration this time as well, and I loved having another voice added to the production. Her inclusion gives another perspective its own distinct presence and adds some variation to a story that has grown significantly beyond the scope of the first book. I almost wish we had gotten even more from her because her addition worked so well.
More than anything, the narration made this story feel incredibly cinematic. I could SEE the Crimson Plantation, the confrontations, the violence, and the Ramanga in my head while listening. It isn't a dramatized or full-cast production, but there were absolutely moments where it gave me that same immersive feeling.
If you listened to Blood Slaves, I would 100% recommend continuing The Blood Saga on audio. Omotoso feels like part of the identity of this series for me at this point, and adding Wambaa only made the audio experience stronger.
I loved Blood Slaves, but Blood Rising made me appreciate what Markus Redmond is building with this series on an entirely different level. Instead of simply trying to recreate the rebellion and bloodshed that made the first book so powerful, he takes the story somewhere more complicated: what happens after the oppressed finally have power? And how do you hold onto freedom when the people around you are determined to take it back?
We pick up right after Blood Slaves. The Barrow plantation has fallen, the formerly enslaved people have reclaimed it as the Crimson Plantation, and Kwadzo Okoro is now leading the newly formed Ramanga Tribe alongside the Native people who helped them fight for their freedom.
Except freedom doesn't magically fix everything.
Kwadzo suddenly has people depending on him while he's still learning what being Ramanga actually means. I loved watching Markus explore that weight because Kwadzo isn't written as some flawless revolutionary hero who always knows the right thing to do. He's powerful, but power and leadership aren't the same thing. He has to make decisions about survival, expansion, protection, and the future of people who don't always agree with him—and some of those choices get MESSY.
And the threats aren't just coming from one direction.
Bartholomew and Constance Crabtree are rallying the surrounding slaveholding community against the Crimson Plantation, while Penelope Knudsen has become something even more dangerous after the events of the first book. Her Ramangan blood gives her an ability Kwadzo doesn't have: she can survive sunlight. Watching Markus take someone filled with that much hatred and give her an advantage over Kwadzo added such an interesting layer to the power dynamics.
But RAFazi?!
The fact that one of Kwadzo's greatest threats comes from the very person whose blood helped create this rebellion was probably one of my favorite conflicts in the book. Rafazi may have helped give Kwadzo his power, but that doesn't mean he's willing to follow him. That struggle between creator and creation makes the entire idea of power in this story even more complicated—especially when Rafazi's own interests begin colliding with everything Kwadzo is trying to build.
That's where I think Markus Redmond really shines. There would have been an easy version of this story where the Ramanga are simply the heroes, the slaveholders are the villains, and we spend 400 pages watching vampires tear horrible people apart. And listen...I absolutely would have read that too.
But this is so much more interesting.
There are disagreements within the community. There are competing ideas about what freedom should look like. There is self-interest, betrayal, fear, anger, vengeance, loyalty, and the uncomfortable reality that sharing the same enemy doesn't automatically mean everyone shares the same vision for the future.
We also get to dig much deeper into the Ramanga themselves. The expanded mythology was one of my FAVORITE parts of Blood Rising. Markus gives us more history behind the blood and the different abilities connected to it, which made the vampire mythology feel even bigger than what we were introduced to in Blood Slaves. This isn't vampirism dropped into a historical setting just because it's cool—the Ramanga mythology feels integral to the story Markus is telling about power, survival, resistance, and reclamation.
And that's ultimately what keeps impressing me about this series.
The vampires are horrifying, the violence is brutal, and the revenge can be incredibly satisfying, but the supernatural characters aren't necessarily the monsters here. Markus continually brings the story back to the very human systems that created this violence in the first place.
Blood Rising asks what people do when they're finally given power after spending their lives without it. Who do they become? Do they protect their community? Do they use that power for themselves? Can liberation survive without unity? And how far are you willing to go to protect freedom once you've finally tasted it?
Those questions made this sequel feel bigger to me than simply escalating the action from book one. Markus Redmond has created such an interesting combination of historical fiction, alternate history, supernatural horror, African vampire mythology, and revenge horror, while still giving the characters enough complexity that I was constantly questioning how I felt about their choices.
It's bloody. It's angry. It's morally messy. There are betrayals that had me MAD, characters making decisions that had me talking to my audiobook, and enough expansion of the Ramanga lore that now I have approximately 700 more questions.
And THAT ENDING?!
Yeah. I need book three.
Audiobook review
The audiobook was such a strong way to experience this story. Akin Omotoso returns after narrating Blood Slaves, and I already associated his voice so heavily with this world that hearing him again immediately pulled me back into it. His delivery has so much weight and presence, which works especially well for Kwadzo in this book as he goes from fighting for freedom to carrying the responsibility of leading an entire community.
I also really appreciated how Omotoso handles the emotional range of the story. There are moments filled with rage, fear, grief, betrayal, and outright brutality, but his performance never makes those scenes feel overdone. He lets the heavier moments sit while still bringing that intensity when the story becomes violent or confrontational. With the expanded Ramanga lore, shifting alliances, and larger cast, his character differentiation and changes in tone also made it much easier to keep track of who was speaking and what was happening.
Waceke Wambaa joins the narration this time as well, and I loved having another voice added to the production. Her inclusion gives another perspective its own distinct presence and adds some variation to a story that has grown significantly beyond the scope of the first book. I almost wish we had gotten even more from her because her addition worked so well.
More than anything, the narration made this story feel incredibly cinematic. I could SEE the Crimson Plantation, the confrontations, the violence, and the Ramanga in my head while listening. It isn't a dramatized or full-cast production, but there were absolutely moments where it gave me that same immersive feeling.
If you listened to Blood Slaves, I would 100% recommend continuing The Blood Saga on audio. Omotoso feels like part of the identity of this series for me at this point, and adding Wambaa only made the audio experience stronger.
August 25, 2026
4.25 ⭐️
I found book 2 to be soooo bingeable! It was hard to put the book down!
We pick up right where we left off in book 1 , but I do believe that if you had a hard time remembering where that was that the beginning does a good job of filling that in before jumping back in.
We are seeing the Ramanga Tribe really coming together and that includes figuring out how to actually work together. There are some power dynamics that are being tested amongst the Tribe that were really interesting to witness.
I feel like the pacing was a bit off in the beginning but did get better.
We have a bit of queer rep here, but I don’t love who Irene fell in love with.
The character work is where this book shines-especially when I compare it to book 1. I loved getting to see our characters change, grow, face new things and I felt like I really got to know them.
I also loved the lore that we got. It filled in a lot of the spaces I needed it to from book 1.
Overall I had a great time reading this!
Thanks NetGalley and RBmedia for the ALC!
I found book 2 to be soooo bingeable! It was hard to put the book down!
We pick up right where we left off in book 1 , but I do believe that if you had a hard time remembering where that was that the beginning does a good job of filling that in before jumping back in.
We are seeing the Ramanga Tribe really coming together and that includes figuring out how to actually work together. There are some power dynamics that are being tested amongst the Tribe that were really interesting to witness.
I feel like the pacing was a bit off in the beginning but did get better.
We have a bit of queer rep here, but I don’t love who Irene fell in love with.
The character work is where this book shines-especially when I compare it to book 1. I loved getting to see our characters change, grow, face new things and I felt like I really got to know them.
I also loved the lore that we got. It filled in a lot of the spaces I needed it to from book 1.
Overall I had a great time reading this!
Thanks NetGalley and RBmedia for the ALC!
September 1, 2026
I am actually obsessed with Akin Omotoso’s voice 🙌🏻 He is SUCH a good narrator, and I had a great time diving back into this world.
First of all, I absolutely LOVED that we got an actual recap of book one. I read so many books that sometimes remembering all the little details between installments is a struggle, and this was such a well written and well narrated way to pull me right back into the story.
This one definitely starts off a little slower, and it took me a bit to fully settle back in. Instead of the bloody justice we got in book one, we’re now dealing with the power vacuum left behind after the downfall of the Barrow plantation. I really enjoyed watching all of those new power struggles unfold, especially because the lines between who was right and wrong felt a lot blurrier this time around.
It was especially interesting seeing Kwadzo try to navigate tension coming from every direction. There was pressure from the white people outside his community while also dealing with conflict and competing interests within his own tribe. I really appreciated that added complexity and thought it gave the story a much more dynamic feel.
That being said, there were moments where it almost felt like TOO much was happening at once. The fight for control was coming from every possible direction, and at one point it felt like literally everyone wanted to be in charge. I enjoyed all the different dynamics at play, but I do think the sheer number of competing power struggles made parts of the story feel a little crowded.
Overall, this was a really solid continuation of the first book, and I’m very curious to see where all of this tension leads next!
Thank you to RBmedia for a copy of this audiobook via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
First of all, I absolutely LOVED that we got an actual recap of book one. I read so many books that sometimes remembering all the little details between installments is a struggle, and this was such a well written and well narrated way to pull me right back into the story.
This one definitely starts off a little slower, and it took me a bit to fully settle back in. Instead of the bloody justice we got in book one, we’re now dealing with the power vacuum left behind after the downfall of the Barrow plantation. I really enjoyed watching all of those new power struggles unfold, especially because the lines between who was right and wrong felt a lot blurrier this time around.
It was especially interesting seeing Kwadzo try to navigate tension coming from every direction. There was pressure from the white people outside his community while also dealing with conflict and competing interests within his own tribe. I really appreciated that added complexity and thought it gave the story a much more dynamic feel.
That being said, there were moments where it almost felt like TOO much was happening at once. The fight for control was coming from every possible direction, and at one point it felt like literally everyone wanted to be in charge. I enjoyed all the different dynamics at play, but I do think the sheer number of competing power struggles made parts of the story feel a little crowded.
Overall, this was a really solid continuation of the first book, and I’m very curious to see where all of this tension leads next!
Thank you to RBmedia for a copy of this audiobook via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
October 27, 2026
"Blood Rising" picks up where "Blood Slaves" leaves off, so reading book one is highly recommended. This series is more than historical vampire fantasy, it addresses American history during the period of enslavement. Themes include violence, grief, empathy, forgiveness, and what to do when working towards understanding and forgiveness doesn't work. The ending here is excellent, giving our MMC and his partner their happy ending away from everything, but it also gives room in case Redmond builds onto the world or character stories later. I would absolutely continue this series following the lives of the other characters as they navigate their new identities, but leave Kwadzo alone - he's earned his HEA.
September 3, 2026
It almost had me, but this wasn't for me. Cool concept, poor delivery. The writing felt too plain and objective with elements of feeling like another generic marvel movie. The characters were interesting, but far too many to keep track of. The plot felt like one long string that you just followed for an outcome. He did this, she did that, I'm taking revenge and here's my plan, etc. Very explicit and not very introspective or fluid or something.. And by the end I was truly bored.
This was an advanced readers copy provided by Netgalley.
This was an advanced readers copy provided by Netgalley.
August 26, 2026
Unfortunately, I cannot do this review without spoilers.
Book 1 left me desiring more and book 2 made me wish I never read this duology to begin with.
In book 1, the authors note gave me high hopes for the story. He spoke about George Floyd & the rage he felt alongside the urge to write a vampiric story in an alternate reality where enslaved Black people got their lick back. The concept was solid and the authors note put the nail in the coffin for this story to be captivating.
Well, it wasn’t.
While, I enjoyed the vampiric lore & fantastical elements the plot was… certainly a choice. There was a disturbingly consistent amount of pandering to whiteness that made me feel like this story wasn’t to uplift Black people at all. The Black characters were having a c**n contest to see who could lick the white mans boots the fastest. Page after page did I feel an overwhelming sense of disappointment in the way the author chose to tell this story.
Where was the “alternate reality”?
Yes, there were vampires. Cool.
But, in a fictional world where something could be different for Black people the author still chose for them to take the high road, promote interracial romances during the middle of a racial massacre & had Black folks quite literally choosing to be slaves because they thought being a vampire was WORSE. Odd.
The vivid descriptions of abuse; sexual, emotional, physical was happening CONSISTENTLY and when the option to be free presents itself the author chooses for them to think slavery is a GOOD thing? They trusted white people too easily immediately after choosing freedom made me feel like this book was written as a joke.
After 82% did we get an ending and it felt lackluster down to the final page. It almost gave “here damn”. It wasn’t a beautiful buildup to what these characters deserved. There was more effort in their trauma than it was in their joy.
Needless to say, I won’t be reading anything he writes in the future.
Book 1 left me desiring more and book 2 made me wish I never read this duology to begin with.
In book 1, the authors note gave me high hopes for the story. He spoke about George Floyd & the rage he felt alongside the urge to write a vampiric story in an alternate reality where enslaved Black people got their lick back. The concept was solid and the authors note put the nail in the coffin for this story to be captivating.
Well, it wasn’t.
While, I enjoyed the vampiric lore & fantastical elements the plot was… certainly a choice. There was a disturbingly consistent amount of pandering to whiteness that made me feel like this story wasn’t to uplift Black people at all. The Black characters were having a c**n contest to see who could lick the white mans boots the fastest. Page after page did I feel an overwhelming sense of disappointment in the way the author chose to tell this story.
Where was the “alternate reality”?
Yes, there were vampires. Cool.
But, in a fictional world where something could be different for Black people the author still chose for them to take the high road, promote interracial romances during the middle of a racial massacre & had Black folks quite literally choosing to be slaves because they thought being a vampire was WORSE. Odd.
The vivid descriptions of abuse; sexual, emotional, physical was happening CONSISTENTLY and when the option to be free presents itself the author chooses for them to think slavery is a GOOD thing? They trusted white people too easily immediately after choosing freedom made me feel like this book was written as a joke.
After 82% did we get an ending and it felt lackluster down to the final page. It almost gave “here damn”. It wasn’t a beautiful buildup to what these characters deserved. There was more effort in their trauma than it was in their joy.
Needless to say, I won’t be reading anything he writes in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2026
3.5⭐️
A rage-inducing read from start to finish!
I was very excited to read the next installment after enjoying the first book, Blood Slaves. My favorite aspect of this sequel is that we’re given more knowledge and lore surrounding the Ramangan people. It blends vampirism with colonial African culture in a way that feels highly unique and compelling. I also enjoyed learning about the specialized powers each individual obtains. Similar to the first book, this story is bloody, action-packed, and rage-inducing. The horrors the slaves endure are abhorrent, and I appreciate that the author does not sugarcoat them, as they reflect a stark reality that deserves to be understood. This book is brutal and graphic, but so is our history.
I struggled with the beginning of the book. Gertie, Kwazdo’s wife, takes up much of the focus, and I found her irritating at times. In the previous book, we saw immense growth in her character arc, but that progress seems to regress at the start of this installment. Her jealousy and constant squabbles detract from the story. However, her arc begins to develop again toward the middle of the book. Additionally, I found the ending abrupt and somewhat underwhelming. I expected more from a story that otherwise packs such a punch.
Overall, I preferred the first book, but I greatly enjoyed the expanded depth of the Ramangan lore. I’m intrigued to see how the story continues to evolve!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
A rage-inducing read from start to finish!
I was very excited to read the next installment after enjoying the first book, Blood Slaves. My favorite aspect of this sequel is that we’re given more knowledge and lore surrounding the Ramangan people. It blends vampirism with colonial African culture in a way that feels highly unique and compelling. I also enjoyed learning about the specialized powers each individual obtains. Similar to the first book, this story is bloody, action-packed, and rage-inducing. The horrors the slaves endure are abhorrent, and I appreciate that the author does not sugarcoat them, as they reflect a stark reality that deserves to be understood. This book is brutal and graphic, but so is our history.
I struggled with the beginning of the book. Gertie, Kwazdo’s wife, takes up much of the focus, and I found her irritating at times. In the previous book, we saw immense growth in her character arc, but that progress seems to regress at the start of this installment. Her jealousy and constant squabbles detract from the story. However, her arc begins to develop again toward the middle of the book. Additionally, I found the ending abrupt and somewhat underwhelming. I expected more from a story that otherwise packs such a punch.
Overall, I preferred the first book, but I greatly enjoyed the expanded depth of the Ramangan lore. I’m intrigued to see how the story continues to evolve!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
September 24, 2026
Book 1 is the movie that is released in theaters. Book 2 is the unnecessary straight to DVD sequel.
October 17, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, Markus Redmond, and Kensington Publishing for a free review copy of this novel in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Content Warnings: Blood, Racism, Vampires, Sexism, Gore, Fire Injury/Abilities, Death of a Child, Slavery, Fatphobia/Fat Kink, and Violence in General
Last year through NetGalley, I was lucky enough to read the prequel to "Blood Rising" by Markus Redmond. "Blood Slaves" was an interesting start to the Blood Saga series. Unfortunately I cannot give the same kind of credit to the second novel. "Blood Rising" was not as well written nor as well paced as the first novel. There were many times when a character would doing something in the scene, but then they would suddenly jump into a conversation no where near them. It almost felt like characters were teleporting in and out of existence. There was also an issue, at least for me, of the Ramanga powers. Main members of the main cast are vampire-like creatures, known as Ramanga, and their powers were well documented and explained in the first novel. In the sequel, some of the powers seem like they don't work the way we were originally told, but that fact is never really explained, either. It is simply retconned. For example, the first novel explains that Ramanga are able to learn, understand, read, speak, and write every language in the world very easily. Yet, in the second book, it seems that not all of the Ramanga are able to understand the languages of the Native Americans.
Honestly, I feel like this wouldn't be such a big deal, except for that every human character can speak English or the Native American tongue (I do not believe that a Nation is ever named, so we don't know which language the Natives are speaking), or a language originating in Africa (again, no specific peoples are mentioned really, so we do not know what language a good chunk of the cast can speak). One of the main characters of the series, love interest Gertie, obviously struggles to speak English. She is a human character, but her romantic partner is a Ramanga, meaning that he can learn and speak her native language easily. Why does he never think to speak to her in a language that is more familiar to her, instead of forcing her to struggle through a language she does not care for? There are times in the novel that she expresses how 'dumb' she feels as she learned English second-hand and cannot speak it as 'nicely' as white folks. Not to mention that her name, 'Gertie,' is the name given to her by slavers. Why doesn't her lover as for her real name, her birth name, so that she may reclaim it as he had done with this own name, Kwadzo?
The plot of "Blood Rising" is very slowly paced. While the first novel was an extremely exciting and quick read, I felt that "Blood Rising" was far too slow. There were a lot of things that were happening at once, yet none of them felt like the characters really wanted to deal with these issues. For example, at the end of "Blood Slaves," a small, secondary character is accidentally turned into a Ramanga. With all of the build up, it felt like this plot point would become a major issue to deal with here, in the second novel. Instead, it was brushed aside for a good chunk of the book. Sure, it was mentioned a few times, but nothing was done beyond 'oh maybe we should do something about that.' By the time the cast finally got around to planning, I had already stopped caring.
I think "Blood Rising" needed a few more passes with an editor before publishing. The plot needed to be tightened up, and some of the glaring contradictions needed to be cleaned up. I will still suggest that people read "Blood Slaves," as I think it was a very unique and challenging novel about overcoming oppression, and the weight of a soul, but as for "Blood Rising..." I am just going to pretend that the first novel was a stand-alone with an ambiguous ending. It's better that way.
Content Warnings: Blood, Racism, Vampires, Sexism, Gore, Fire Injury/Abilities, Death of a Child, Slavery, Fatphobia/Fat Kink, and Violence in General
Last year through NetGalley, I was lucky enough to read the prequel to "Blood Rising" by Markus Redmond. "Blood Slaves" was an interesting start to the Blood Saga series. Unfortunately I cannot give the same kind of credit to the second novel. "Blood Rising" was not as well written nor as well paced as the first novel. There were many times when a character would doing something in the scene, but then they would suddenly jump into a conversation no where near them. It almost felt like characters were teleporting in and out of existence. There was also an issue, at least for me, of the Ramanga powers. Main members of the main cast are vampire-like creatures, known as Ramanga, and their powers were well documented and explained in the first novel. In the sequel, some of the powers seem like they don't work the way we were originally told, but that fact is never really explained, either. It is simply retconned. For example, the first novel explains that Ramanga are able to learn, understand, read, speak, and write every language in the world very easily. Yet, in the second book, it seems that not all of the Ramanga are able to understand the languages of the Native Americans.
Honestly, I feel like this wouldn't be such a big deal, except for that every human character can speak English or the Native American tongue (I do not believe that a Nation is ever named, so we don't know which language the Natives are speaking), or a language originating in Africa (again, no specific peoples are mentioned really, so we do not know what language a good chunk of the cast can speak). One of the main characters of the series, love interest Gertie, obviously struggles to speak English. She is a human character, but her romantic partner is a Ramanga, meaning that he can learn and speak her native language easily. Why does he never think to speak to her in a language that is more familiar to her, instead of forcing her to struggle through a language she does not care for? There are times in the novel that she expresses how 'dumb' she feels as she learned English second-hand and cannot speak it as 'nicely' as white folks. Not to mention that her name, 'Gertie,' is the name given to her by slavers. Why doesn't her lover as for her real name, her birth name, so that she may reclaim it as he had done with this own name, Kwadzo?
The plot of "Blood Rising" is very slowly paced. While the first novel was an extremely exciting and quick read, I felt that "Blood Rising" was far too slow. There were a lot of things that were happening at once, yet none of them felt like the characters really wanted to deal with these issues. For example, at the end of "Blood Slaves," a small, secondary character is accidentally turned into a Ramanga. With all of the build up, it felt like this plot point would become a major issue to deal with here, in the second novel. Instead, it was brushed aside for a good chunk of the book. Sure, it was mentioned a few times, but nothing was done beyond 'oh maybe we should do something about that.' By the time the cast finally got around to planning, I had already stopped caring.
I think "Blood Rising" needed a few more passes with an editor before publishing. The plot needed to be tightened up, and some of the glaring contradictions needed to be cleaned up. I will still suggest that people read "Blood Slaves," as I think it was a very unique and challenging novel about overcoming oppression, and the weight of a soul, but as for "Blood Rising..." I am just going to pretend that the first novel was a stand-alone with an ambiguous ending. It's better that way.
August 23, 2026
I would like to thank Kensington Creator HQ for my special edition of Blood Slaves, the ARC for Blood Rising!
When I read Blood Slaves last year, the book blew me away! It was the best vampire book I had read since Grady Hendrix’s The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires. To say that Blood Rising was one of my highly anticipated releases for 2026 doesn’t come close to the reality of how excited I was to be on Crimson Council Street Team to promote Markus’s book! It has been an honor!
What I loved so much about Blood Slaves is Redmond’s unique vision to add a new (and much-needed) take to vampire fiction, while also tackling the heavy topic of slavery. But while Blood Slaves was the best book I had read in a long time, it was easily replaced by its sequel, Blood Rising! There’s a return of both beloved/hated characters from BS, and new beloved/hated characters in BR! Jenue is one of my new favorites!
What Markus did in Blood Slaves, he only amplified it in Blood Rising. One of the discussion questions in the back of BR (Blood Rising) mentioned there was less violence than BS (Blood Slaves), I would certainly argue that the body count scenes were much more graphic in description, and I think rightfully so! As a horror fan, I cheered on! These were some of the most epic kill scenes I think I have ever read! Award-worthy!
In BS, I struggled to appreciate Gertie’s character because she was just so ungrateful and frankly a pain in the ass. However, I love a good character evolution because she fully redeems herself in BR! And while I felt sorry for Rafazi in BS, I was even more infuriated by his character evolution than I was ever mad with Gertie in BS! Like, 🤯! His actions in BR disgusted and disappointed me beyond measure.
I recall Markus discussing BS, and he said, “this isn’t a book about slavery,” I would say this book is about peace. Because when you look at the actions that surround Willie/Kwadzo, it all comes back to peace, and vampires, because well, we all know that’s my thing!
There’s just so much more I want to say but it will ruin the story, and I think that would do any future reader an injustice! Highly encourage you to start with Blood Slaves, and then Blood Rising!
Markus, you already know this but it needs to be said again, I’m ready for book three! Please! 🙏
Memorable quotes:
“Yes, victors write the story, but what if the victors were the previously oppressed?”
“No one gains power without opposition, after all.”
“Hate is evil and that’s evil through and through, and the only thing evil pay attention to is evil.”
“Love and hate be in the blood, one healin’, one deadly.”
“Being a leader does not mean you must lead every moment.”
“We do not aim to return the horror that was shown to us in great measure, but we are more than capable of doing so. We wish to find our place peacefully.”
“If it took dying to feel this alive, then so be it.”
“But you will exist forever now. And forever is a long time to be alone.”
“I can still smell the remnants of his human blood, and even in its diminished form, it still carries an exquisite bouquet.”
“Forever is a long time to be alone.”
“She’s an evil child.”
“You can’t pick and choose with your compassions…You’re either compassionate or you’re not.”
“Should a man show love when he feels it? And why should power dictate it?”
“Dying was a small price to pay to live forever.”
“Did white folks enslave everyone?”
“There is a difference between being mastered and choosing to be mastered.”
“The world was full of so many delicious amusements. Fighting was for fools.”
“You can have your war. I far prefer carnal delights.”
When I read Blood Slaves last year, the book blew me away! It was the best vampire book I had read since Grady Hendrix’s The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires. To say that Blood Rising was one of my highly anticipated releases for 2026 doesn’t come close to the reality of how excited I was to be on Crimson Council Street Team to promote Markus’s book! It has been an honor!
What I loved so much about Blood Slaves is Redmond’s unique vision to add a new (and much-needed) take to vampire fiction, while also tackling the heavy topic of slavery. But while Blood Slaves was the best book I had read in a long time, it was easily replaced by its sequel, Blood Rising! There’s a return of both beloved/hated characters from BS, and new beloved/hated characters in BR! Jenue is one of my new favorites!
What Markus did in Blood Slaves, he only amplified it in Blood Rising. One of the discussion questions in the back of BR (Blood Rising) mentioned there was less violence than BS (Blood Slaves), I would certainly argue that the body count scenes were much more graphic in description, and I think rightfully so! As a horror fan, I cheered on! These were some of the most epic kill scenes I think I have ever read! Award-worthy!
In BS, I struggled to appreciate Gertie’s character because she was just so ungrateful and frankly a pain in the ass. However, I love a good character evolution because she fully redeems herself in BR! And while I felt sorry for Rafazi in BS, I was even more infuriated by his character evolution than I was ever mad with Gertie in BS! Like, 🤯! His actions in BR disgusted and disappointed me beyond measure.
I recall Markus discussing BS, and he said, “this isn’t a book about slavery,” I would say this book is about peace. Because when you look at the actions that surround Willie/Kwadzo, it all comes back to peace, and vampires, because well, we all know that’s my thing!
There’s just so much more I want to say but it will ruin the story, and I think that would do any future reader an injustice! Highly encourage you to start with Blood Slaves, and then Blood Rising!
Markus, you already know this but it needs to be said again, I’m ready for book three! Please! 🙏
Memorable quotes:
“Yes, victors write the story, but what if the victors were the previously oppressed?”
“No one gains power without opposition, after all.”
“Hate is evil and that’s evil through and through, and the only thing evil pay attention to is evil.”
“Love and hate be in the blood, one healin’, one deadly.”
“Being a leader does not mean you must lead every moment.”
“We do not aim to return the horror that was shown to us in great measure, but we are more than capable of doing so. We wish to find our place peacefully.”
“If it took dying to feel this alive, then so be it.”
“But you will exist forever now. And forever is a long time to be alone.”
“I can still smell the remnants of his human blood, and even in its diminished form, it still carries an exquisite bouquet.”
“Forever is a long time to be alone.”
“She’s an evil child.”
“You can’t pick and choose with your compassions…You’re either compassionate or you’re not.”
“Should a man show love when he feels it? And why should power dictate it?”
“Dying was a small price to pay to live forever.”
“Did white folks enslave everyone?”
“There is a difference between being mastered and choosing to be mastered.”
“The world was full of so many delicious amusements. Fighting was for fools.”
“You can have your war. I far prefer carnal delights.”
August 23, 2026
4.5⭐️
Check TW‼️
Book 2 in series
I did immersive read: 📖🎧
Blood Rising was such a strong follow up to Blood Slaves! It picks up in the aftermath of the first book, but this time the story feels bigger with even more action. We’re no longer just dealing with survival and freedom, but as readers we’re reading the beginnings of a revolution and all the complications that come with trying to build something new after tearing the old system down.
One of my favorite parts of this book was Kwadzo’s growth. He’s been thrust into a leadership position while still figuring out what freedom even looks like for himself. He wants to protect his people and free others, but he’s also struggling with how to lead without becoming another version of the people who once controlled him. Reading about him realize that he couldn’t keep approaching every situation with the mentality that had been forced onto him while enslaved was probably the most compelling part of his journey.
And then there’s Rafazi… he frustrated me from beginning to end. His conflict with Kwadzo was an interesting dynamic in the book because Rafazi never really pretends to be anything other than who he is. I kept hoping he would prove me wrong, and yet… he did not. 😅
I also loved getting more Ramangan lore and seeing the world expand beyond Crimson Plantation. The growing conflict with the surrounding slaveholders, the attempts to free people on other plantations, and the involvement of the Indigenous characters made it feel like we were seeing the beginnings of something much larger.
I loved book 2 way more than book 1! It has action, betrayals, transformations, complicated relationships, folklore, horror, and characters who had me arguing with them like they could actually hear me. Most importantly, it continues exploring what happens after people gain their freedom.
Tropes + atmosphere:
Supernatural horror
Folklore
Historical
Vampires
Morally grey/black characters
Betrayals
Check them TW‼️
Also, shoutout to the narrators for bringing this story to life! The accents sounded overall spot on and I could feel the emotional conflict that was happening in this book brought out through the narrators.
A big thank you to Kensington Publishing for the eARC and RBMedia for the ALC via NetGalley!
“He said to fight, then fight we must. And fight we will… for him.”
Check TW‼️
Book 2 in series
I did immersive read: 📖🎧
Blood Rising was such a strong follow up to Blood Slaves! It picks up in the aftermath of the first book, but this time the story feels bigger with even more action. We’re no longer just dealing with survival and freedom, but as readers we’re reading the beginnings of a revolution and all the complications that come with trying to build something new after tearing the old system down.
One of my favorite parts of this book was Kwadzo’s growth. He’s been thrust into a leadership position while still figuring out what freedom even looks like for himself. He wants to protect his people and free others, but he’s also struggling with how to lead without becoming another version of the people who once controlled him. Reading about him realize that he couldn’t keep approaching every situation with the mentality that had been forced onto him while enslaved was probably the most compelling part of his journey.
And then there’s Rafazi… he frustrated me from beginning to end. His conflict with Kwadzo was an interesting dynamic in the book because Rafazi never really pretends to be anything other than who he is. I kept hoping he would prove me wrong, and yet… he did not. 😅
I also loved getting more Ramangan lore and seeing the world expand beyond Crimson Plantation. The growing conflict with the surrounding slaveholders, the attempts to free people on other plantations, and the involvement of the Indigenous characters made it feel like we were seeing the beginnings of something much larger.
I loved book 2 way more than book 1! It has action, betrayals, transformations, complicated relationships, folklore, horror, and characters who had me arguing with them like they could actually hear me. Most importantly, it continues exploring what happens after people gain their freedom.
Tropes + atmosphere:
Supernatural horror
Folklore
Historical
Vampires
Morally grey/black characters
Betrayals
Check them TW‼️
Also, shoutout to the narrators for bringing this story to life! The accents sounded overall spot on and I could feel the emotional conflict that was happening in this book brought out through the narrators.
A big thank you to Kensington Publishing for the eARC and RBMedia for the ALC via NetGalley!
“He said to fight, then fight we must. And fight we will… for him.”
August 23, 2026
Thank you Kensington for the Advanced Readers Copy
OMG this was amazing. It was definitely what I was hoping it to be. The strength, passion, love, determination, and community they have was just beautiful. No matter the circumstances, they fraught hard and stuck together. But there was also still a lot of ugly, angry inducing, hateful, and pathetic moments you would certainly expect in this time. Markus did an excellent job with reminding us that no matter what, we must always have compassion and remind ourselves we are all human beings.
The character development was so good. I love that Irene was included more and we got to see her growth and development. Also the little added surprise relationship had me so giddy. Gertie’s growth throughout was also great to see. I feel like she finally found confidence and grew into leading her people. Kwadzo also grew and changed his view on things but in a different way from the others. I’m curious to see how Rafazi is in the next book and more on Penelope. The ending was definitely satisfying and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!
This book can be triggering to some, so people take caution when reading.
OMG this was amazing. It was definitely what I was hoping it to be. The strength, passion, love, determination, and community they have was just beautiful. No matter the circumstances, they fraught hard and stuck together. But there was also still a lot of ugly, angry inducing, hateful, and pathetic moments you would certainly expect in this time. Markus did an excellent job with reminding us that no matter what, we must always have compassion and remind ourselves we are all human beings.
The character development was so good. I love that Irene was included more and we got to see her growth and development. Also the little added surprise relationship had me so giddy. Gertie’s growth throughout was also great to see. I feel like she finally found confidence and grew into leading her people. Kwadzo also grew and changed his view on things but in a different way from the others. I’m curious to see how Rafazi is in the next book and more on Penelope. The ending was definitely satisfying and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!
This book can be triggering to some, so people take caution when reading.
July 29, 2026
4.5⭐️
Thank you NetGalley, Kensington Publishing and Dafina for this ARC for my honest review.
I love how Blood Rising picks up right where Blood Slave left off. Markus Redmond made it so easy to jump right back into the story, and I was pulled right back in.
Blood Rising took a different approach than Blood Slave. It was definitely more character driven with a slower pace and less action, but I actually enjoyed getting to know the characters on a deeper level.
The betrayal had me mad, but I understood why it happened and what it added to the story. The new characters, Bartholomew, his wife Constance, Jenue, and Seneca, were great additions and brought so much to the book. I also loved learning more about the different abilities and watching the world continue to grow.
Even though I missed some of the nonstop action from the book one, this book did a great job setting up what’s next. I’m definitely invested in this series and can’t wait to see where Markus Redmond takes it next.
Thank you NetGalley, Kensington Publishing and Dafina for this ARC for my honest review.
I love how Blood Rising picks up right where Blood Slave left off. Markus Redmond made it so easy to jump right back into the story, and I was pulled right back in.
Blood Rising took a different approach than Blood Slave. It was definitely more character driven with a slower pace and less action, but I actually enjoyed getting to know the characters on a deeper level.
The betrayal had me mad, but I understood why it happened and what it added to the story. The new characters, Bartholomew, his wife Constance, Jenue, and Seneca, were great additions and brought so much to the book. I also loved learning more about the different abilities and watching the world continue to grow.
Even though I missed some of the nonstop action from the book one, this book did a great job setting up what’s next. I’m definitely invested in this series and can’t wait to see where Markus Redmond takes it next.
July 30, 2026
What I love about novels like this one is the inherent flaws that are reflected in humanity. Yes, this is a novel with vampires but in those vampires is still the very basic human truths like love and how power corrupts.
Blood Rising is the second book in the Blood Saga series. This one is a great follow up to Blood Slaves as the story takes off running from the start. The questions left unanswered at the end of Blood Slaves are answered and the world expands so much more. Markus Redmond does a fantastic job world and character building that really brings the reader in. I have started to read more historical fiction books and I have fallen in love with this series. It can be dark at times but there is so much hope and wanting to build a better future that is so relatable.
I recommend this book for those who like a good historical fiction retelling with a paranormal aspect. If you don’t know if you like historical fiction or are slowly getting into it, I recommend this series.
Blood Rising is the second book in the Blood Saga series. This one is a great follow up to Blood Slaves as the story takes off running from the start. The questions left unanswered at the end of Blood Slaves are answered and the world expands so much more. Markus Redmond does a fantastic job world and character building that really brings the reader in. I have started to read more historical fiction books and I have fallen in love with this series. It can be dark at times but there is so much hope and wanting to build a better future that is so relatable.
I recommend this book for those who like a good historical fiction retelling with a paranormal aspect. If you don’t know if you like historical fiction or are slowly getting into it, I recommend this series.
August 1, 2026
This was the absolute perfect follow up to the first installment of the Blood Saga.
Following the wildly bloody, gruesome and vengeful takeover of the Barrow Plantation, Kwadzo, Gertie, Rafazi and the rest of the newly freed slaves are finding their footing in unfamiliar territory.
They knew there would be attempts from the village folk to take back the land and return things to ‘normal’ by their standards, but with the Ramangan Blood on their side, Kwadzo and his people are more than prepared to fight back to keep what they’ve won.
But it’s not the only challenge Kwadzo faces moving forward.
Between each subsequent attack, there’s proverbial fires to douse between those of the Ramangan blood, those that chose to remain human, and the native folk who want to be of the blood.
Then there’s Rafazi. Rafazi chose to delegate leadership to Kwadzo, but as the one who’s been around for hundreds of years, you’d think he’d assume a bit of responsibility in helping his newly born people transition into their eternal existence.
But you would in fact be very wrong. Rafazi has taken on an air of selfish and hedonistic behaviors that has Kwadzo and the rest of the Ramangans feeling puzzled, and maybe even a bit betrayed.
He doesn’t want any of the responsibility of leadership. But in a way, he wants to have his cake and eat it too. And he’s not about to let any baby Ramangan with a complex or his woman get in his way.
There were so many things pushing this story forward y’all. The power struggle dynamics were crazy, and freshly discovered Ramangan powers amongst the ranks are consistently shaking things up.
Just when Kwadzo thinks he’s got it all figured out with just the right setup amongst them all to both keep the humans safe, and the Ramangans satiated, some other curveball gets tossed in or land mine is set off.
But it’s all in the name of spreading the Ramangan blood, telling of their collective plight and how they and how they were able to take back their power and win back their freedom in hopes that others would follow suit.
But how do you fight back when the one that started the entire revolution refuses to fight among the ranks or even help at all? The kind of message that must spread…
Following the wildly bloody, gruesome and vengeful takeover of the Barrow Plantation, Kwadzo, Gertie, Rafazi and the rest of the newly freed slaves are finding their footing in unfamiliar territory.
They knew there would be attempts from the village folk to take back the land and return things to ‘normal’ by their standards, but with the Ramangan Blood on their side, Kwadzo and his people are more than prepared to fight back to keep what they’ve won.
But it’s not the only challenge Kwadzo faces moving forward.
Between each subsequent attack, there’s proverbial fires to douse between those of the Ramangan blood, those that chose to remain human, and the native folk who want to be of the blood.
Then there’s Rafazi. Rafazi chose to delegate leadership to Kwadzo, but as the one who’s been around for hundreds of years, you’d think he’d assume a bit of responsibility in helping his newly born people transition into their eternal existence.
But you would in fact be very wrong. Rafazi has taken on an air of selfish and hedonistic behaviors that has Kwadzo and the rest of the Ramangans feeling puzzled, and maybe even a bit betrayed.
He doesn’t want any of the responsibility of leadership. But in a way, he wants to have his cake and eat it too. And he’s not about to let any baby Ramangan with a complex or his woman get in his way.
There were so many things pushing this story forward y’all. The power struggle dynamics were crazy, and freshly discovered Ramangan powers amongst the ranks are consistently shaking things up.
Just when Kwadzo thinks he’s got it all figured out with just the right setup amongst them all to both keep the humans safe, and the Ramangans satiated, some other curveball gets tossed in or land mine is set off.
But it’s all in the name of spreading the Ramangan blood, telling of their collective plight and how they and how they were able to take back their power and win back their freedom in hopes that others would follow suit.
But how do you fight back when the one that started the entire revolution refuses to fight among the ranks or even help at all? The kind of message that must spread…
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