What do you think?
Rate this book
I killed their queen and soon I’ll claim her throne…
As a half-vampire born of scandal, I fled the coven before I could be executed for the crime of existing.
I built a peaceful human life, found love, and thought I was finally safe. I was wrong.
When the vampire queen captured my betrothed and turned him in the most brutal way possible, she sealed her fate. Driving a stake through her black heart was only the beginning.
Now the court’s bloodthirsty nobles are vying for her throne. Perfect. I’ll slip into their bloody competition wearing a disguise and let them crown me their new sovereign.
Enemies lurk in every shadow. But little do many of the monsters around me realize—it’s their bones that will pave my ascent.
To conquer the coming trials, I have to do more than pretend to be one of them. I must claim mates to empower me.
Zane, my betrothed, chips away at my defenses. His fangs only sharpen his devotion to me.
Finn, my childhood friend, aches for the chaos I plan to unleash.
Mathias, the stern overseer ruling in the queen's absence, should be my enemy. Instead, I'm drawn to him with a pull that could cost me everything.
Noir, the rival coven’s notorious assassin, helps me out of sheer ennui. I shouldn't trust him. I definitely shouldn't want him.
Each fanged kiss and sip of depravity is more addictive than the last. Yet nothing tastes sweeter than my enemies’ blood.
Thirst is the first book of a dark vampire romantasy trilogy featuring a strong main character who has more than one love interest and doesn’t choose between them. This book has a cliffhanger ending and is intended for audiences 18+.
As a half-vampire born of scandal, I fled the coven before I could be executed for the crime of existing.
I built a peaceful human life, found love, and thought I was finally safe. I was wrong.
When the vampire queen captured my betrothed and turned him in the most brutal way possible, she sealed her fate. Driving a stake through her black heart was only the beginning.
Now the court’s bloodthirsty nobles are vying for her throne. Perfect. I’ll slip into their bloody competition wearing a disguise and let them crown me their new sovereign.
Enemies lurk in every shadow. But little do many of the monsters around me realize—it’s their bones that will pave my ascent.
To conquer the coming trials, I have to do more than pretend to be one of them. I must claim mates to empower me.
Zane, my betrothed, chips away at my defenses. His fangs only sharpen his devotion to me.
Finn, my childhood friend, aches for the chaos I plan to unleash.
Mathias, the stern overseer ruling in the queen's absence, should be my enemy. Instead, I'm drawn to him with a pull that could cost me everything.
Noir, the rival coven’s notorious assassin, helps me out of sheer ennui. I shouldn't trust him. I definitely shouldn't want him.
Each fanged kiss and sip of depravity is more addictive than the last. Yet nothing tastes sweeter than my enemies’ blood.
Thirst is the first book of a dark vampire romantasy trilogy featuring a strong main character who has more than one love interest and doesn’t choose between them. This book has a cliffhanger ending and is intended for audiences 18+.
452 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2026
About the author
Ella Hendricks
8 books315 followersElla Hendricks is an author of romances with dark roots and steamy twists. She loves getting lost in fantasy worlds, especially if the monsters are naughty and the lady saves the day in the end. When Ella is not writing about swoon-worthy men, she’s off collecting video game achievements. She holds a master’s degree in journalism and lives in Texas with her family.
Follow Ella!
Newsletter: https://ellahendricks.com/newsletter/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellahendric...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellahendricks...
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/70615...
Follow Ella!
Newsletter: https://ellahendricks.com/newsletter/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellahendric...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellahendricks...
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/70615...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
April 13, 2026
I enjoyed this why choose, with a strong FMC and her men.
May 5, 2026
*Reverse Harem
*Paranormal
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Vampires vs Slayers
*Royal Trials
*Second Chance
*Friends to Lovers
*Revenge Plotline
*Building Harem (4)
*Mid Burn
*Book 1 / ?
Strong read 😄
Enjoyed this one, took me a few chapters to get into it but once I did it was a strong read.
Sidney our FMC is half human half vampire and a slayer…after taking out their queen she’s out for revenge on the whole house that’s done her wrong 😳 and to do so she’s doing it from the inside by partaking in their trails to find a new queen 🙈 she’s fierce and at some points gets through in sheer luck but you have to admire her tenacity! She also has some vulnerable moments when she’s caught between the two worlds and realises all is not as black and white as it seems 😬
Her Devotion (harem) builds throughout, we get three confirmed and pretty sure the fourth one is a given too 😅 each of them men have a very different connection to her and are very much their own unique personalities! There’s some serious id do anything for you - you’re the only one for me scenes 😍 mixed with some spice 🔥
Overall found the start a little slow but after that the pace was good and there was a great balance between the quest/action elements, with drama and then the relationship! Look forward to the next one 👍
*Paranormal
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Vampires vs Slayers
*Royal Trials
*Second Chance
*Friends to Lovers
*Revenge Plotline
*Building Harem (4)
*Mid Burn
*Book 1 / ?
Strong read 😄
Enjoyed this one, took me a few chapters to get into it but once I did it was a strong read.
Sidney our FMC is half human half vampire and a slayer…after taking out their queen she’s out for revenge on the whole house that’s done her wrong 😳 and to do so she’s doing it from the inside by partaking in their trails to find a new queen 🙈 she’s fierce and at some points gets through in sheer luck but you have to admire her tenacity! She also has some vulnerable moments when she’s caught between the two worlds and realises all is not as black and white as it seems 😬
Her Devotion (harem) builds throughout, we get three confirmed and pretty sure the fourth one is a given too 😅 each of them men have a very different connection to her and are very much their own unique personalities! There’s some serious id do anything for you - you’re the only one for me scenes 😍 mixed with some spice 🔥
Overall found the start a little slow but after that the pace was good and there was a great balance between the quest/action elements, with drama and then the relationship! Look forward to the next one 👍
May 1, 2026
Not sure you’re completely ready for this absolutely twisted story that is Thirst! We start off with FMC Sidney who is a dhampir who grew up in the House of the Sanguine. Because she was half vampire and half human she was outcast and abused. We have moments throughout the story where Sidney will have flashbacks of her childhood. Because of this we experience her journey of childhood and what she endured. We journey through the story as she meets up with her betrothed and an old childhood friend. Sidney joined the trials to become queen and what she as well as the other contestants have to go through will keep you on the edge of your seat. I absolutely love Sidney and her personality. The story is packed with action, drama, and suspense. It will have you on the edge and ends in a cliffhanger that has me absolutely excited to see what is going to happen next. This is absolutely a great read.
May 10, 2026
This book has a little bit of everything!
There is:
- vampires
- vampire hunters
- reverse harem
- friends to lovers
- second chances
This was a fun read and kept me highly entertained with jokes and slightly insane vampires. Other than I felt like it was a little bit rushed part way towards the end it was a reasonably well paced book. I honestly can't wait to see what the future holds for Sidney and her men.
There is:
- vampires
- vampire hunters
- reverse harem
- friends to lovers
- second chances
This was a fun read and kept me highly entertained with jokes and slightly insane vampires. Other than I felt like it was a little bit rushed part way towards the end it was a reasonably well paced book. I honestly can't wait to see what the future holds for Sidney and her men.
May 5, 2026
Action Packed
THIS IS PURE BRILLIANCE
I absolutely loved 'Thirst'. I was hooked from the start and am in love with the whole concept of Vampire Queens and men as 'devotees. I cannot wait for the next book.
THIS IS PURE BRILLIANCE
I absolutely loved 'Thirst'. I was hooked from the start and am in love with the whole concept of Vampire Queens and men as 'devotees. I cannot wait for the next book.
May 15, 2026
As a fan of why-choose dark romance, Thirst, book one of Arcane Alliances: House of the Sanguine, was absolutely my kind of read. The premise of a half-vampire FMC seeking vengeance and a throne after her betrothed is brutally turned, using her charm and cunning to conquer a bloodthirsty court, is pure gold.
The FMC is a formidable protagonist. Her backstory as a half-vampire born of scandal, her human life, and the ultimate betrayal she faces, fuel her ambition and ruthlessness. She's not just pretending to be one of them; she's ready to outplay and outmaneuver the bloodthirsty nobles, using her wits and the growing power from her mates. Her enemies' bones paving her ascent is a beautiful metaphor for her determination.
The MMCs are a diverse and incredibly appealing group. Zane, her loyal and intensely devoted betrothed. Finn, the childhood friend who thrives on the chaos she brings. Mathias, the stern, forbidden overseer who draws her with an undeniable pull. And Noir, the unpredictable assassin who helps out of sheer ennui. Their fanged kisses and the depravity they share are incredibly potent, making the journey of claiming mates to empower her feel both strategic and deeply intimate.
The vampire court setting is dark and dangerous, filled with political intrigue and shadowy threats. The author does a great job of immersing you in this world where nothing tastes sweeter than an enemy's blood.
My reason for a four-star rating is that, for a book that sets up such a complex web of courtly dangers and promises a bloody competition, I found myself desiring a slightly more continuous sense of active external threat or a more rapid escalation of the political games within this specific book. While the danger is always present, some sections felt like a build-up to a bigger confrontation yet to come.
Despite that, Thirst is a captivating and intensely satisfying dark vampire romantasy. If you love a strong, vengeful FMC, complex MMCs, a world of shadows and power struggles, and a truly addictive why-choose story with a cliffhanger that demands the next book, then this is definitely for you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The FMC is a formidable protagonist. Her backstory as a half-vampire born of scandal, her human life, and the ultimate betrayal she faces, fuel her ambition and ruthlessness. She's not just pretending to be one of them; she's ready to outplay and outmaneuver the bloodthirsty nobles, using her wits and the growing power from her mates. Her enemies' bones paving her ascent is a beautiful metaphor for her determination.
The MMCs are a diverse and incredibly appealing group. Zane, her loyal and intensely devoted betrothed. Finn, the childhood friend who thrives on the chaos she brings. Mathias, the stern, forbidden overseer who draws her with an undeniable pull. And Noir, the unpredictable assassin who helps out of sheer ennui. Their fanged kisses and the depravity they share are incredibly potent, making the journey of claiming mates to empower her feel both strategic and deeply intimate.
The vampire court setting is dark and dangerous, filled with political intrigue and shadowy threats. The author does a great job of immersing you in this world where nothing tastes sweeter than an enemy's blood.
My reason for a four-star rating is that, for a book that sets up such a complex web of courtly dangers and promises a bloody competition, I found myself desiring a slightly more continuous sense of active external threat or a more rapid escalation of the political games within this specific book. While the danger is always present, some sections felt like a build-up to a bigger confrontation yet to come.
Despite that, Thirst is a captivating and intensely satisfying dark vampire romantasy. If you love a strong, vengeful FMC, complex MMCs, a world of shadows and power struggles, and a truly addictive why-choose story with a cliffhanger that demands the next book, then this is definitely for you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 5, 2026
I really enjoyed Ella Hendricks's witchy series, so I thought I would give her vampire co-write with Nicole LaBrocca a try. I do love a good revenge plot. The story didn't start off the best. It was a little slow, and the beginning events threw me off. However, I stuck with it, and I'm glad I did. Thirst is an interesting story.
MFC Sidney is a dhampir and seemed cold at first, but as the story goes on, I realized she wasn't. It was just her logical, scientific mind, and the fact that she was raised by the temple of Aetherius (zealots) made her seem detached from her feelings. She was raised as a slayer with a deep hatred for vampires, and with her history, I can't really say I blame her. When four vampires get introduced, or in some cases reintroduced, into her life, things get complicated. I can see why she's starting to have a crisis of faith. The romance was a mix of slow-burning and high heat. Two of the guys she knew when they were human, and the other two she only knew as vampires. So everyone is at different stages, but things were looking good.
The world-building was good. I liked Ella's and Nicole's take on vampires and vampire culture. It was familiar but with a small twist. The different gods and goddesses and how they are connected to the vampire houses. These vampires aren't the sweet kind; most are brutal, and the magic they wield is incredible. After that initial kickoff, the story got so much better. There's tension because of Sidney hiding her identity and the danger of the trials. The romance was pretty good too, but it was the brighter moments in the story that really stood out for me. The scenes with the animals were great. The whole chorus line thing was a good one. Then there was Nior... gods, I do love the crazy ones. At one point, it was like a three-ring circus, and I enjoyed every second. Well, that ending really got my blood pumping. While Thirst didn't end on a cliffhanger, it does have me wondering where the story is going, but I'm ready.
MFC Sidney is a dhampir and seemed cold at first, but as the story goes on, I realized she wasn't. It was just her logical, scientific mind, and the fact that she was raised by the temple of Aetherius (zealots) made her seem detached from her feelings. She was raised as a slayer with a deep hatred for vampires, and with her history, I can't really say I blame her. When four vampires get introduced, or in some cases reintroduced, into her life, things get complicated. I can see why she's starting to have a crisis of faith. The romance was a mix of slow-burning and high heat. Two of the guys she knew when they were human, and the other two she only knew as vampires. So everyone is at different stages, but things were looking good.
The world-building was good. I liked Ella's and Nicole's take on vampires and vampire culture. It was familiar but with a small twist. The different gods and goddesses and how they are connected to the vampire houses. These vampires aren't the sweet kind; most are brutal, and the magic they wield is incredible. After that initial kickoff, the story got so much better. There's tension because of Sidney hiding her identity and the danger of the trials. The romance was pretty good too, but it was the brighter moments in the story that really stood out for me. The scenes with the animals were great. The whole chorus line thing was a good one. Then there was Nior... gods, I do love the crazy ones. At one point, it was like a three-ring circus, and I enjoyed every second. Well, that ending really got my blood pumping. While Thirst didn't end on a cliffhanger, it does have me wondering where the story is going, but I'm ready.
May 10, 2026
This book did not disappoint. I was already onboard with this being an RH/Why Choose story but even without the spicy scenes this book was an enjoyable read.
Sidney is a dhampir and an outcast amongst vampires and humans. Sidney has been a prisoner of the Vampire Queen Nemea since she was little; what makes matters worse the Queen Nemea is her grandmother. Sidney has longed desired to put an end to the vampire kingdom and has trained as a skilled vampire hunter to help bring them all down.
When the Queen turns her betrothed into a vampire; Sidney embarks on a mission to burn it all down; beginning with Grand mommy dearest. Once Sidney has completed her task there is one more goal she must achieve and that is to take the throne. Unfortunately, as a dhampir that is impossible so she must take drastic measures to become the one thing she truly despises and search for her beloved and ascend the throne.
As Sidney navigates her new normal and embark upon the deadly trials necessary to ascend the throne; she learns that this is an impossible feat without mates and one by one Sidney gathers her own Vampire Dream Team to help her through deadly trials and in her quest to accomplish the impossible.
Finn - Her deaf childhood friend with the ability to talk telepathically to animals
Zane - Her beloved who was turned by Queen Nemea to spite Sidney, who wields shadow magic
Noir - Unhinged chaotic retired assassin who is ready for a good time and loves his bananas.
Sidney is destined for one more mate and it's obvious who it is but their resistance to one another and the obvious attraction and loathing will make this pairing very interesting when they can no longer resist one another.
This book was full of witty banter, action, magic, spice, sassy animal companions, manipulation, betrayal, fierce and protective mates and a dhampir warrior who refuses to lose. I can't wait to see what happens next.
Sidney is a dhampir and an outcast amongst vampires and humans. Sidney has been a prisoner of the Vampire Queen Nemea since she was little; what makes matters worse the Queen Nemea is her grandmother. Sidney has longed desired to put an end to the vampire kingdom and has trained as a skilled vampire hunter to help bring them all down.
When the Queen turns her betrothed into a vampire; Sidney embarks on a mission to burn it all down; beginning with Grand mommy dearest. Once Sidney has completed her task there is one more goal she must achieve and that is to take the throne. Unfortunately, as a dhampir that is impossible so she must take drastic measures to become the one thing she truly despises and search for her beloved and ascend the throne.
As Sidney navigates her new normal and embark upon the deadly trials necessary to ascend the throne; she learns that this is an impossible feat without mates and one by one Sidney gathers her own Vampire Dream Team to help her through deadly trials and in her quest to accomplish the impossible.
Finn - Her deaf childhood friend with the ability to talk telepathically to animals
Zane - Her beloved who was turned by Queen Nemea to spite Sidney, who wields shadow magic
Noir - Unhinged chaotic retired assassin who is ready for a good time and loves his bananas.
Sidney is destined for one more mate and it's obvious who it is but their resistance to one another and the obvious attraction and loathing will make this pairing very interesting when they can no longer resist one another.
This book was full of witty banter, action, magic, spice, sassy animal companions, manipulation, betrayal, fierce and protective mates and a dhampir warrior who refuses to lose. I can't wait to see what happens next.
May 5, 2026
𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙜𝙞𝙛𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙚 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬. 𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙝𝙖𝙨𝙣'𝙩 𝙖𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙤𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙬𝙖𝙮.
𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 is perfect for fans of...
⁀➷ vengeful FMCs who take charge of their own lives
⁀➷ second chance romance
⁀➷ why choose with no MM
⁀➷ hidden identities
⁀➷ deadly games and trials with lots of action and fight scenes
⁀➷ telepathic animal side characters
⁀➷ unhinged, goofy but dangerous MMCs
⁀➷ estranged childhood friends turned lovers (he's always secretly liked her)
⁀➷ non-virgin FMCs
⁀➷ books where the spice supports the plot, not the other way around
⁀➷ heavy focus on the FMC's POV with a few chapters from the MMCs
⁀➷ FMCs well into their 20s
I had a great time with this one. The FMC, Sidney, is the illegitimate half-human daughter of a prince. She grew up with a vendetta against vampires and was trained to be a slayer from a young age. When the kingdom holds a competition to determine who the next queen will be, Sidney steals the identity of a deceased noblewoman and enters the competition. She has great internal conflict as she gets increasingly close to her love interests, who were turned into vampires, despite her slayer allies pressuring her to put an end to them (along with all other vampires). She was taught to suppress her vampire half, but as the story goes on she's forced to embrace it more and more.
It only took me a couple chapters to get into the plot, and these chapters are fairly short. The romance is fairly fast-burn with two of the four MMCs, which makes sense because she already knows them. One of the MMCs is Deaf and communicates mostly through sign language throughout the book.
I will note that one of the MMCs can communicate with animals and enlists them as allies, including during the trials, and due to the lethal nature of the trials, animals are injured-- sometimes fatally-- on multiple occasions. The primary animal characters make it to the end of the book.
--
Overall rating: 4.5 ★
Character chemistry: 🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 💀💀
Emotional damage: 💔💔
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 is perfect for fans of...
⁀➷ vengeful FMCs who take charge of their own lives
⁀➷ second chance romance
⁀➷ why choose with no MM
⁀➷ hidden identities
⁀➷ deadly games and trials with lots of action and fight scenes
⁀➷ telepathic animal side characters
⁀➷ unhinged, goofy but dangerous MMCs
⁀➷ estranged childhood friends turned lovers (he's always secretly liked her)
⁀➷ non-virgin FMCs
⁀➷ books where the spice supports the plot, not the other way around
⁀➷ heavy focus on the FMC's POV with a few chapters from the MMCs
⁀➷ FMCs well into their 20s
I had a great time with this one. The FMC, Sidney, is the illegitimate half-human daughter of a prince. She grew up with a vendetta against vampires and was trained to be a slayer from a young age. When the kingdom holds a competition to determine who the next queen will be, Sidney steals the identity of a deceased noblewoman and enters the competition. She has great internal conflict as she gets increasingly close to her love interests, who were turned into vampires, despite her slayer allies pressuring her to put an end to them (along with all other vampires). She was taught to suppress her vampire half, but as the story goes on she's forced to embrace it more and more.
It only took me a couple chapters to get into the plot, and these chapters are fairly short. The romance is fairly fast-burn with two of the four MMCs, which makes sense because she already knows them. One of the MMCs is Deaf and communicates mostly through sign language throughout the book.
I will note that one of the MMCs can communicate with animals and enlists them as allies, including during the trials, and due to the lethal nature of the trials, animals are injured-- sometimes fatally-- on multiple occasions. The primary animal characters make it to the end of the book.
--
Overall rating: 4.5 ★
Character chemistry: 🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 💀💀
Emotional damage: 💔💔
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
May 14, 2026
This book is vicious, seductive, power-hungry chaos and I was OBSESSED from the first page 👀🩸🖤
Half-vampire heroine?
Dead vampire queen?
Deadly court politics?
Multiple morally questionable love interests??
Yeah… this book absolutely knew how to pull me in.
What I loved most is that the FMC isn’t trying to survive quietly—she’s stepping directly into a brutal vampire power struggle fully prepared to TAKE the throne.
And honestly??
She was incredible.
She’s angry, ruthless when she needs to be, emotionally layered, and completely unwilling to let the people around her control her fate anymore.
The atmosphere in this book is DARK in the best way. Everything feels drenched in danger, bloodlust, manipulation, and temptation. Every scene inside the vampire court feels like someone is seconds away from betrayal or murder.
And the love interests?? 👀🔥
Each one brings something completely different to the story:
• Zane’s devotion is intense and emotional
• Finn thrives in the chaos alongside her
• Mathias brings that forbidden, tension-filled dynamic
• Noir is dangerous, unpredictable, and impossible not to be intrigued by
The chemistry throughout this book is absolutely addictive. Not just romantic tension either—power dynamics, loyalty, desire, manipulation… it all blends together into this beautifully messy vampire romantasy.
I also really loved how ambitious the story feels. The trials, political maneuvering, hidden agendas, and rising power struggle keep the pacing fast while still giving the emotional relationships time to build.
And that ending??
RUDE 😭🔥
✨ If you love:
• dark vampire romantasy
• morally grey/morally black characters
• why choose romance
• deadly court politics
• powerful FMCs hungry for revenge and power
This one is bloody, addictive, dramatic, and absolutely impossible to stop reading 🩸🖤
Half-vampire heroine?
Dead vampire queen?
Deadly court politics?
Multiple morally questionable love interests??
Yeah… this book absolutely knew how to pull me in.
What I loved most is that the FMC isn’t trying to survive quietly—she’s stepping directly into a brutal vampire power struggle fully prepared to TAKE the throne.
And honestly??
She was incredible.
She’s angry, ruthless when she needs to be, emotionally layered, and completely unwilling to let the people around her control her fate anymore.
The atmosphere in this book is DARK in the best way. Everything feels drenched in danger, bloodlust, manipulation, and temptation. Every scene inside the vampire court feels like someone is seconds away from betrayal or murder.
And the love interests?? 👀🔥
Each one brings something completely different to the story:
• Zane’s devotion is intense and emotional
• Finn thrives in the chaos alongside her
• Mathias brings that forbidden, tension-filled dynamic
• Noir is dangerous, unpredictable, and impossible not to be intrigued by
The chemistry throughout this book is absolutely addictive. Not just romantic tension either—power dynamics, loyalty, desire, manipulation… it all blends together into this beautifully messy vampire romantasy.
I also really loved how ambitious the story feels. The trials, political maneuvering, hidden agendas, and rising power struggle keep the pacing fast while still giving the emotional relationships time to build.
And that ending??
RUDE 😭🔥
✨ If you love:
• dark vampire romantasy
• morally grey/morally black characters
• why choose romance
• deadly court politics
• powerful FMCs hungry for revenge and power
This one is bloody, addictive, dramatic, and absolutely impossible to stop reading 🩸🖤
May 3, 2026
Sidney is a dhampir, half human/half vampire, and granddaughter of queen Nemea of the House of the Sanguine. She escapes the cruel reign of her grandmother's court and finds refuge in the Temple of Aetherius, where she becomes a successful slayer with one goal: kill Nemea and compete in the Trials of Succession to become the new queen. If she succeeds, she can destroy the House from within.
Sidney is a strong, determined FMC, scarred by abuse and the loss of her betrothed - stolen from her by the queen. It's always refreshing to read about a female character who doesn't just rely on the men in her life, but knows how to carry her own.
Along the way she reconnects with old friends and forges new alliances. The MMC's are all their own person, with distinct and -mostly- likeable personalities. Zane, her first love and betrothed, who will always support her. Finn, her childhood friend who always knows just how to uplift the mood. Noir, the quirky rival coven's assassin (I'm still not sure how sane of mind he is). And Mathias, the regent overseeing the Trials, is he friend or foe?
Sidney discovers the world isn't all black or white. She struggles with her betrayal and deceit when she learns not all vampires are bad. Doubts creep in when she returns to the Temple and the welcome is lukewarm at best.
I loved watching Sidney grow from a person driven solely by revenge and trained with a purpose, into a woman making her own decisions. The story never dulled and kept me on the edge of my seat. I am looking forward to seeing where the author will take us in the next book!
I kindly received an ARC from the author through Bookfunnel. The opinions in this review are completely my own.
Sidney is a strong, determined FMC, scarred by abuse and the loss of her betrothed - stolen from her by the queen. It's always refreshing to read about a female character who doesn't just rely on the men in her life, but knows how to carry her own.
Along the way she reconnects with old friends and forges new alliances. The MMC's are all their own person, with distinct and -mostly- likeable personalities. Zane, her first love and betrothed, who will always support her. Finn, her childhood friend who always knows just how to uplift the mood. Noir, the quirky rival coven's assassin (I'm still not sure how sane of mind he is). And Mathias, the regent overseeing the Trials, is he friend or foe?
Sidney discovers the world isn't all black or white. She struggles with her betrayal and deceit when she learns not all vampires are bad. Doubts creep in when she returns to the Temple and the welcome is lukewarm at best.
I loved watching Sidney grow from a person driven solely by revenge and trained with a purpose, into a woman making her own decisions. The story never dulled and kept me on the edge of my seat. I am looking forward to seeing where the author will take us in the next book!
I kindly received an ARC from the author through Bookfunnel. The opinions in this review are completely my own.
May 7, 2026
Such a cool new Vampire RH!
I absolutely LOVED this book… and I cannot wait to find out what happens next with Sidney, Zane, and Finn. After growing up as the dhampir (half human/half vampire) granddaughter of the current Queen Nemea and treated as nothing more than a blood slave, she escapes her life and joins a group of slayers. Years later, her life is good – she’s betrothed and ready to marry Zane, until her horrible grandmother steals him and turns him from human to a vampire to join her Devotion. Beyond furious, she finally manages to kill her grandmother and now that she’s dead, a new vampire queen must be chosen.
Sidney has a witch perform some serious black magic that allows her to pretty much become one of the contestants after killing her. It will give her three weeks to participate in the trials to become Queen so she can take down ALL the horrible vampires within it, find Zane and then try to figure out a way to change him back…
Things get crazy really fast – and when she finds one of her old childhood friends who was turned a couple of years ago, Finn, she enlists his help to get through the trials. Zane immediately realizes something is familiar about the strange woman, but Sidney is just so happy to have him back – even as a vampire.
These vampires are an interesting lot. Each of them has a different type of “power” and when a woman has her 4 men tied to her as mates (her Devotion), she can use their powers too. Zane has a crazy ability to use shadows; Finn can speak with animals which is great since he is deaf. And the 3rd person to join her little group is absolutely insane. Can’t wait to see how that pans out… and, of course, I have to wonder about Marcus who is the Regent until the new Queen is chosen. This should be fun!
I absolutely LOVED this book… and I cannot wait to find out what happens next with Sidney, Zane, and Finn. After growing up as the dhampir (half human/half vampire) granddaughter of the current Queen Nemea and treated as nothing more than a blood slave, she escapes her life and joins a group of slayers. Years later, her life is good – she’s betrothed and ready to marry Zane, until her horrible grandmother steals him and turns him from human to a vampire to join her Devotion. Beyond furious, she finally manages to kill her grandmother and now that she’s dead, a new vampire queen must be chosen.
Sidney has a witch perform some serious black magic that allows her to pretty much become one of the contestants after killing her. It will give her three weeks to participate in the trials to become Queen so she can take down ALL the horrible vampires within it, find Zane and then try to figure out a way to change him back…
Things get crazy really fast – and when she finds one of her old childhood friends who was turned a couple of years ago, Finn, she enlists his help to get through the trials. Zane immediately realizes something is familiar about the strange woman, but Sidney is just so happy to have him back – even as a vampire.
These vampires are an interesting lot. Each of them has a different type of “power” and when a woman has her 4 men tied to her as mates (her Devotion), she can use their powers too. Zane has a crazy ability to use shadows; Finn can speak with animals which is great since he is deaf. And the 3rd person to join her little group is absolutely insane. Can’t wait to see how that pans out… and, of course, I have to wonder about Marcus who is the Regent until the new Queen is chosen. This should be fun!
May 7, 2026
Thirst completely pulled me into its dark, dangerous world and honestly did not let me breathe until the final page. Sidney was such a compelling FMC to follow because she feels raw and real underneath all the chaos surrounding her. She’s grieving, angry, stubborn, and trying to survive in a world that has constantly demanded pieces of her, and I found myself emotionally attached to her so quickly. Even when she makes reckless choices, I understood why, which made her journey hit even harder for me.
One of my favorite things about this book was how distinct each relationship felt. Zane, Finn, Mathias, and Noir all brought something different into Sidney’s life, and the chemistry with every single one of them felt intense in its own way. Some moments were comforting, some heartbreaking, and some had me absolutely stressed in the best possible way. I loved that the romance never felt shallow or forced just for spice. Every connection added more emotional weight to the story and made the stakes feel even higher.
The vampire politics and tension throughout this book were so addicting too. There was always this feeling that something bad was lurking around the corner, and I kept telling myself “just one more chapter” until suddenly it was way too late at night. The blood-sharing scenes especially were written so well — intimate, dangerous, emotional, and honestly some of my favorite scenes in the entire book.
What really stayed with me though was Sidney herself. Watching her fight through betrayal, grief, fear, and everything being thrown at her while still refusing to completely break made me root for her so hard. She’s messy, emotional, fierce, and incredibly human despite the darkness surrounding her character.
One of my favorite things about this book was how distinct each relationship felt. Zane, Finn, Mathias, and Noir all brought something different into Sidney’s life, and the chemistry with every single one of them felt intense in its own way. Some moments were comforting, some heartbreaking, and some had me absolutely stressed in the best possible way. I loved that the romance never felt shallow or forced just for spice. Every connection added more emotional weight to the story and made the stakes feel even higher.
The vampire politics and tension throughout this book were so addicting too. There was always this feeling that something bad was lurking around the corner, and I kept telling myself “just one more chapter” until suddenly it was way too late at night. The blood-sharing scenes especially were written so well — intimate, dangerous, emotional, and honestly some of my favorite scenes in the entire book.
What really stayed with me though was Sidney herself. Watching her fight through betrayal, grief, fear, and everything being thrown at her while still refusing to completely break made me root for her so hard. She’s messy, emotional, fierce, and incredibly human despite the darkness surrounding her character.
May 6, 2026
This is the first book in a new dark vampire romantasy trilogy.
We have a strong FMC who is a dhampir (half human/half vampire) assassin who is trained to kill vampires called Sidney. Sidney is the illegitimate Granddaughter of the current vampire Queen, and fled the palace as a child to save herself from being killed. Now the Queen has kidnapped and turned her love Zane and Sidney is out for revenge! Sidney murders the Queen triggering them to have to crown a new Queen and sneaks into the competition disguised as one of the other competitors using a Witch’s spell.
In this story a ‘Vampiress’ is supported by four male vampires as ‘devotees’ who form her support network, and who she can draw powers from at will based on the different powers the male vampires have. We get to see Sydney start to build her devotees and it’s an interesting mix.
Finn the deaf stable boy that Sidney has been friends with since childhood and his ability to communicate with animals. Next comes Zane the lover her Grandmother the former Queen kidnapped, now a vampire with his ability to manipulate shadows. Lastly comes the former assassin Noir who is a bit of a wildcard. Has that dangerous edge to him, the ability to communicate telepathically and I suspect a few other abilities we will find out later in the series. I don’t think life is going to be boring with him in the picture.
Book 1 ends not on a cliffhanger but definitely with a desire to know what happens next as Sydney’s time with her disguise is running out and too many potential Queens still stand between her and that crown! Can’t wait to see what happens next.
We have a strong FMC who is a dhampir (half human/half vampire) assassin who is trained to kill vampires called Sidney. Sidney is the illegitimate Granddaughter of the current vampire Queen, and fled the palace as a child to save herself from being killed. Now the Queen has kidnapped and turned her love Zane and Sidney is out for revenge! Sidney murders the Queen triggering them to have to crown a new Queen and sneaks into the competition disguised as one of the other competitors using a Witch’s spell.
In this story a ‘Vampiress’ is supported by four male vampires as ‘devotees’ who form her support network, and who she can draw powers from at will based on the different powers the male vampires have. We get to see Sydney start to build her devotees and it’s an interesting mix.
Finn the deaf stable boy that Sidney has been friends with since childhood and his ability to communicate with animals. Next comes Zane the lover her Grandmother the former Queen kidnapped, now a vampire with his ability to manipulate shadows. Lastly comes the former assassin Noir who is a bit of a wildcard. Has that dangerous edge to him, the ability to communicate telepathically and I suspect a few other abilities we will find out later in the series. I don’t think life is going to be boring with him in the picture.
Book 1 ends not on a cliffhanger but definitely with a desire to know what happens next as Sydney’s time with her disguise is running out and too many potential Queens still stand between her and that crown! Can’t wait to see what happens next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5 Stars
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Spice: 3/5
Paranormal
Vampire Society
Hidden Identity
Why Choose
Second Chance
Cinnamonroll
Assassin FMC
Royalty
Chosen Mates
Amazing Animal Sidekicks
Thirst is book one in The House of the Sanguine series. The books must be read in order. It ends on a cliffhanger.
Sydney is on a mission to get revenge on the House of the Sanguine, one of the most powerful vampire dynasties in the land. The Queen stole her betrothed and several of the vampires abused her as a child. She was forced to flee and found shelter amongst a coven of vampire slayers. Sydney is a dhamphir - a half vampire, half human hybrid, gifted with vampire powers and cursed to be viewed as a half-breed - welcome in neither world.
She sets out to eliminate the current Queen, triggering a set of trials where vampiresses compete in deadly games to be her replacement. Sydney is set on winning the crown and destroying the House from within.
This is an exciting and fantastic mix of The Hunger Games meets The Vampire Diaries/The Originals. Sydney is a fierce FMC determined to do whatever it takes to exact her vengeance. The guys who become her Devotion are excellent characters and really add to the story with their uniqueness and passion for both Sydney and her cause. The plot is original, the world building was incredible, and it was a pleasure to read this unique spin on a vampire tale. Highly recommend.
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Spice: 3/5
Paranormal
Vampire Society
Hidden Identity
Why Choose
Second Chance
Cinnamonroll
Assassin FMC
Royalty
Chosen Mates
Amazing Animal Sidekicks
Thirst is book one in The House of the Sanguine series. The books must be read in order. It ends on a cliffhanger.
Sydney is on a mission to get revenge on the House of the Sanguine, one of the most powerful vampire dynasties in the land. The Queen stole her betrothed and several of the vampires abused her as a child. She was forced to flee and found shelter amongst a coven of vampire slayers. Sydney is a dhamphir - a half vampire, half human hybrid, gifted with vampire powers and cursed to be viewed as a half-breed - welcome in neither world.
She sets out to eliminate the current Queen, triggering a set of trials where vampiresses compete in deadly games to be her replacement. Sydney is set on winning the crown and destroying the House from within.
This is an exciting and fantastic mix of The Hunger Games meets The Vampire Diaries/The Originals. Sydney is a fierce FMC determined to do whatever it takes to exact her vengeance. The guys who become her Devotion are excellent characters and really add to the story with their uniqueness and passion for both Sydney and her cause. The plot is original, the world building was incredible, and it was a pleasure to read this unique spin on a vampire tale. Highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book 1 - Revenge era for our FMC
Great start to this new series. FMC, Sidney is in her revenge era against her grandmother, who just happens to be the vampire queen, and the House of Sanguine who abused her throughout her childhood. She's got a list and she's going to make them pay for all they did to her. Especially, after her grandmother stole her fiancé and turned him. Sidney is a dhampir and with her plan, she's going to take them all down, and become the next queen of the house. After she kills her grandmother, she is entering the trial under a false identity to take them down from the inside. As she enters the last place she even wanted to be, she finds herself among people she despises, as well as people that were her friends that she thought she lost. Her friend, Finn, who she shares her secret with, becomes her first new devotee, and will be her mate. And once she finds her lost betrothed, Zane, she's got two strong male vamps on her side. She's feeling guilty for some of the things she's done and will have to do, and as we travel through the book, you can definitely understand the guilt she carries. She's been with the slayers so long, viewing the vampires all as monsters, as she navigates the trials, she sees maybe they're not all bad. And maybe her slayer friends aren't all good either. I get a definite "bad vibe" from them. I can't wait for book 2, I loved the plot and hope the next ones are just as good.
Great start to this new series. FMC, Sidney is in her revenge era against her grandmother, who just happens to be the vampire queen, and the House of Sanguine who abused her throughout her childhood. She's got a list and she's going to make them pay for all they did to her. Especially, after her grandmother stole her fiancé and turned him. Sidney is a dhampir and with her plan, she's going to take them all down, and become the next queen of the house. After she kills her grandmother, she is entering the trial under a false identity to take them down from the inside. As she enters the last place she even wanted to be, she finds herself among people she despises, as well as people that were her friends that she thought she lost. Her friend, Finn, who she shares her secret with, becomes her first new devotee, and will be her mate. And once she finds her lost betrothed, Zane, she's got two strong male vamps on her side. She's feeling guilty for some of the things she's done and will have to do, and as we travel through the book, you can definitely understand the guilt she carries. She's been with the slayers so long, viewing the vampires all as monsters, as she navigates the trials, she sees maybe they're not all bad. And maybe her slayer friends aren't all good either. I get a definite "bad vibe" from them. I can't wait for book 2, I loved the plot and hope the next ones are just as good.
May 7, 2026
I fell in love with this book so quickly. Or more so, I fell into this book from the beginning and didn’t want to find my way out. It made me think of an alternate RH fantasy version of the princess trials, and I adored that series.
Sidney is your typical headstrong FMC who has been kicked while she was down so much, that she learned to bite back. And boy did she ever. The book starts out with her enacting revenge, and continues into her going through with the threat she made while doing so. It’s a diabolical and fantastic plot, but time isn’t on her side.
She finds a few unexpected friends on the inside along the way. Both exciting, and devastating in their own ways for each of them. But there’s also those who are suspicious of her, and those she has to be careful of. However, when things go a bit off the rails she finds herself no longer having the support on the outside that she had anticipated, she starts to spiral a bit. With things seeming to unravel before her eyes, and threats that have made themselves very known at the end, she’s not quite sure how she is going to pull off everything she needs to in the time she has left. She is going to try her hardest though, for herself, her fiancé, and her friends who have had their lives turned upside now for the whims of the vampires of the house of sanguine. And she doesn’t plan to leave any of them standing.
Im so excited to see what happens next. I was crushed when I realized I had turned the final page.
Sidney is your typical headstrong FMC who has been kicked while she was down so much, that she learned to bite back. And boy did she ever. The book starts out with her enacting revenge, and continues into her going through with the threat she made while doing so. It’s a diabolical and fantastic plot, but time isn’t on her side.
She finds a few unexpected friends on the inside along the way. Both exciting, and devastating in their own ways for each of them. But there’s also those who are suspicious of her, and those she has to be careful of. However, when things go a bit off the rails she finds herself no longer having the support on the outside that she had anticipated, she starts to spiral a bit. With things seeming to unravel before her eyes, and threats that have made themselves very known at the end, she’s not quite sure how she is going to pull off everything she needs to in the time she has left. She is going to try her hardest though, for herself, her fiancé, and her friends who have had their lives turned upside now for the whims of the vampires of the house of sanguine. And she doesn’t plan to leave any of them standing.
Im so excited to see what happens next. I was crushed when I realized I had turned the final page.
May 9, 2026
Sidney/Lady Ilyana a half human/vampire as she was not a full blood vampire she had what they called dhampire blood and as such was treated as nothing more than a slave. The cruelty of the vampires to her as a child she swore revenge. In our youth black and white is what we see, what happens when the lines are not so clear cut and people you love have been turned into a vampire. As Sidney in the disguise as Lady Ilyana enter the trials for the next Vampire Queen (after she had killed the old queen). The trials are to the death she has met some women that have entered that she would like to be friends, but as the says goes there can only be one! As Sidney now with devotees Zane, Finn and now Noir, what of the hate/attraction she has to the Lord Regent? Now with a honey badger names Boris, a mouse, and some rats and a big scary beast names Ash and like Cinderella Sidney’s time is running out when the spell will wear off as Lady Ilyana and Sidney’s true self will be present. Can she when the trials? Where is the other stake? Who stole it? Carlyle her trainer at the Temple of Aetherius is beginning to think she is losing her way that her half vampire blood is going to take over, is it? What happens when the people who you trained with, fought with now look at you differently? Life you start out thinking you have all the answers and do we ever?
May 11, 2026
While I have read one story from a shared world by one of the authors, the other is entirely new to me, and I have to say, this book was fantastic.
Sidney, the FMC, is a half-breed, a dhampir, and the granddaughter of the current Queen, though you wouldn't know that from the way the Queen treats her. Luckily, Sidney is able to escape, and she never had plans to return to the House of the Sanguine, but when the Queen takes what is hers, everything changes. She seeks revenge in the best way, and that is to bring the House of the Sanguine to an end, no matter what it takes.
With the demise of the Queen, the Sanguine must now get a new Queen, and that involves becoming a competitor in the games to win the spot. Most have devotees (mates) to help them, but not Sidney; she is quite prepared to do it all on her own.
Of course, this is a why choose, so that isn't what happens in the end, and Sidney ends up with an interesting mix of devotees. I have to admit her last choice, closer to the end of the book, is my favourite. He is a literal psycho golden retriever, and I love him and his crazy obsession with bananas.
I loved every page of this book and can't wait for the next one to come out. Sidney is now on the clock, and I want to see if she can complete her mission before her time runs out.
Sidney, the FMC, is a half-breed, a dhampir, and the granddaughter of the current Queen, though you wouldn't know that from the way the Queen treats her. Luckily, Sidney is able to escape, and she never had plans to return to the House of the Sanguine, but when the Queen takes what is hers, everything changes. She seeks revenge in the best way, and that is to bring the House of the Sanguine to an end, no matter what it takes.
With the demise of the Queen, the Sanguine must now get a new Queen, and that involves becoming a competitor in the games to win the spot. Most have devotees (mates) to help them, but not Sidney; she is quite prepared to do it all on her own.
Of course, this is a why choose, so that isn't what happens in the end, and Sidney ends up with an interesting mix of devotees. I have to admit her last choice, closer to the end of the book, is my favourite. He is a literal psycho golden retriever, and I love him and his crazy obsession with bananas.
I loved every page of this book and can't wait for the next one to come out. Sidney is now on the clock, and I want to see if she can complete her mission before her time runs out.
May 15, 2026
Slow start, but lots of twists and turns!
The story starts off rather slow, which had me switching off a little. But I persevered and was glad I did as it got exciting once the trials started. From this point there was danger, revelations and hostile alliances, with a little bit of steam sprinkled here and there.
Sidney sets out for revenge against the vampires who tormented and abused her when she was growing up…a quest she sets out on alone. Her plan is simple: infiltrate the trials, become queen and dismantle the House of Sanguine.
But she finds her hatred for vampires may be misplaced when she comes across an old friend, lost love and makes new alliances in order to survive the trials to become the new queen. Slowly realising that those she works for have their own agenda and are using her as a means to an end.
Love, friendship and loyalty are all tested in this book, along with Sidney’s ability to survive the trials and the vampire politics.
Finn is the best friend, Zane is the lost love, Mathias is calculating and obsessed/drawn to her, and Noir is just plain crazy…but funny! I’m not sure she realises she’s building a powerful Harem (or Devotion as they’re called in the book) which will make her more powerful when she learns to harness the powers of her mates.
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story starts off rather slow, which had me switching off a little. But I persevered and was glad I did as it got exciting once the trials started. From this point there was danger, revelations and hostile alliances, with a little bit of steam sprinkled here and there.
Sidney sets out for revenge against the vampires who tormented and abused her when she was growing up…a quest she sets out on alone. Her plan is simple: infiltrate the trials, become queen and dismantle the House of Sanguine.
But she finds her hatred for vampires may be misplaced when she comes across an old friend, lost love and makes new alliances in order to survive the trials to become the new queen. Slowly realising that those she works for have their own agenda and are using her as a means to an end.
Love, friendship and loyalty are all tested in this book, along with Sidney’s ability to survive the trials and the vampire politics.
Finn is the best friend, Zane is the lost love, Mathias is calculating and obsessed/drawn to her, and Noir is just plain crazy…but funny! I’m not sure she realises she’s building a powerful Harem (or Devotion as they’re called in the book) which will make her more powerful when she learns to harness the powers of her mates.
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thirst is a great romantasy book, with vampires, slayers, and a witch with trespassing signs threatening “Violators Will Have Their Pricks Shrunk.” The characters and animals in this book were what really made it a hit for me, and I loved the vampire powers. The MFC is Sidney, who is a vampire slayer while being half vampire half human, and a scientist. She tends to see stabbing as a first resort. There are the MMC’s Zane (Irritable Inkblot per Noir,) Finn (hilarious) and Noir (the retired professional menace.)
I loved the characters, but Finn & Noir were my favorites. Finn had lost his hearing, was turned into a vampire and got the power to communicate with animals. He had great comments/thoughts such as “Was this foreplay? A quest? An execution? And were there snacks involved?” And hilarious pranks and mischief. The antics with the host of random animals were cracking me up! Noir is a bit nutty, and loves bananas. He says random off the wall things, like “I promise not to stab anyone unless it’s funny.”
I stayed up far too late reading this, especially during the labyrinth trial. I am definitely looking forward to part two, I need to know what happens!
Thank you to the authors for the opportunity to read this book, and leave a honest review
I loved the characters, but Finn & Noir were my favorites. Finn had lost his hearing, was turned into a vampire and got the power to communicate with animals. He had great comments/thoughts such as “Was this foreplay? A quest? An execution? And were there snacks involved?” And hilarious pranks and mischief. The antics with the host of random animals were cracking me up! Noir is a bit nutty, and loves bananas. He says random off the wall things, like “I promise not to stab anyone unless it’s funny.”
I stayed up far too late reading this, especially during the labyrinth trial. I am definitely looking forward to part two, I need to know what happens!
Thank you to the authors for the opportunity to read this book, and leave a honest review
May 5, 2026
Okay, so THIRST (#1) by Ella Hendricks and Nicole LaBrocca is one of those books that you don’t just read—you kind of fall into it and stay there longer than you planned.
toxic?? yes.
obsessive?? also yes.
couldn’t put it down?? ABSOLUTELY.
Sidney I just love although be warned she has grown up with abuse of different types most of her life but this has shaped her into the woman she is today hell bent on brining down the institution that stole the man she loved. She has her kill list and is working her way through it whilst competing in trials pretending to be some one she has already killed.
Zane and Finn are totally different characters, poles apart in so many ways but they come together so well as a united front to support Sydney - plus i love the spy network that Finn creates.
Plenty of spice and medium burn!
Noir is such an amazing character that he deserves his own review!
Is he a walking red flag? Yes.
Is he frustrating? Also yes.
Is he one of the most interesting parts of the book? 100%.
He’s the kind of character that i abosultely love 100% - Psychotic in the most delicious way and totally devoted to Sidney.
Absoluteley loved this book and cant wait for teh enxt installment!
toxic?? yes.
obsessive?? also yes.
couldn’t put it down?? ABSOLUTELY.
Sidney I just love although be warned she has grown up with abuse of different types most of her life but this has shaped her into the woman she is today hell bent on brining down the institution that stole the man she loved. She has her kill list and is working her way through it whilst competing in trials pretending to be some one she has already killed.
Zane and Finn are totally different characters, poles apart in so many ways but they come together so well as a united front to support Sydney - plus i love the spy network that Finn creates.
Plenty of spice and medium burn!
Noir is such an amazing character that he deserves his own review!
Is he a walking red flag? Yes.
Is he frustrating? Also yes.
Is he one of the most interesting parts of the book? 100%.
He’s the kind of character that i abosultely love 100% - Psychotic in the most delicious way and totally devoted to Sidney.
Absoluteley loved this book and cant wait for teh enxt installment!
May 13, 2026
I feel like this book series will soon be one of my comfort reads. It has started out with such an amazing story with some of my new favorite characters. We have Sidney a dhampir and slayer, Finn a childhood friend turned vampire, Zane her slayer finance turned vampire Noir a very ancient vampire that’s a little crazy and Mathias the lord regent of the house of Sanguine. So far I’m a big fan of the first three guys and cannot pick a favorite. Noirs crazy just makes me giggle and I practically swoon over Zane and his sweetness and then Finn is such a sweetheart. I’m sure Mathias will grow on me but he’s kind of the odd one out of the group. Hopefully we get more of him in the next book interacting with the group more.
The Queen of the house of Sanguine is dead and they hold a trial to pick the new one and Sidney finds a way to join to rescue Zane and exact her revenge. Things of course get a little out of hand and she must improvise along the way so that her identity is not discovered. We are left on a bit of a cliffhanger by the end of the book. I’m very excited to see what the next book holds.
The Queen of the house of Sanguine is dead and they hold a trial to pick the new one and Sidney finds a way to join to rescue Zane and exact her revenge. Things of course get a little out of hand and she must improvise along the way so that her identity is not discovered. We are left on a bit of a cliffhanger by the end of the book. I’m very excited to see what the next book holds.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my word Thirst was so good. I loved the action, characters, and the heated spicy scenes. From the first page I was thoroughly held in a storyline that had me enthralled. So much going on for the FMC and I loved her spirited mantra for what she had to do to survive. I learned about the FMC's past childhood and how she endured to become strong.
I found the FMC to be a strong and formidable force when put to the test. She sees truth, safety and honesty in the men that she loves.
The 2 MMC's Are incredible... Protective and strong. MMC 1 Zane is her knight in shining armor, MMC Fin is adorable and I love how he communicates to to the FMC and the other MMC. I love Finn's animal sidekicks specially the ones named Boris the Badger and Ash the tytosaurus and the rat army!
Oh and what can I say about Noir "The Banana eating Retired Professional Menace". I loved his comebacks and how he describes Zane and Finn. spot on and super funny.
So, if you love a strong FMC, Handsome Protective MMC's, Humor, Friendship, Vampires, High Heat and more you need Thirst.
I found the FMC to be a strong and formidable force when put to the test. She sees truth, safety and honesty in the men that she loves.
The 2 MMC's Are incredible... Protective and strong. MMC 1 Zane is her knight in shining armor, MMC Fin is adorable and I love how he communicates to to the FMC and the other MMC. I love Finn's animal sidekicks specially the ones named Boris the Badger and Ash the tytosaurus and the rat army!
Oh and what can I say about Noir "The Banana eating Retired Professional Menace". I loved his comebacks and how he describes Zane and Finn. spot on and super funny.
So, if you love a strong FMC, Handsome Protective MMC's, Humor, Friendship, Vampires, High Heat and more you need Thirst.
May 8, 2026
4.5 stars
A why choose romance. The FMC Sydney is a dhampir who grew up in the house of sanguine and was abused by her family and others due to being “dirty blooded”. She ended up becoming a bad@ss as a vampire slayer. After staking her grandmother who was the queen she sets out to get her revenge on the house of sanguine. Through trials set to become queen she takes her revenge on the other vampiress’s that were on her list. She’s not alone though she ends up having help with three devotions( mates) one who was her betrothed and she ended up finding again, and a childhood friend in the house of sanguine. all who have different powers and are unique in their own ways. Mixed with some spice. Sydney figures out while going through these trials that not everything is black and white and maybe being a vampire isn’t a bad thing. The beginning was a little hard to get into but once I got more into the book, I was hooked. Ending was left on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait for the next book.
Thank you to the authors for the Arc for a honest review.
A why choose romance. The FMC Sydney is a dhampir who grew up in the house of sanguine and was abused by her family and others due to being “dirty blooded”. She ended up becoming a bad@ss as a vampire slayer. After staking her grandmother who was the queen she sets out to get her revenge on the house of sanguine. Through trials set to become queen she takes her revenge on the other vampiress’s that were on her list. She’s not alone though she ends up having help with three devotions( mates) one who was her betrothed and she ended up finding again, and a childhood friend in the house of sanguine. all who have different powers and are unique in their own ways. Mixed with some spice. Sydney figures out while going through these trials that not everything is black and white and maybe being a vampire isn’t a bad thing. The beginning was a little hard to get into but once I got more into the book, I was hooked. Ending was left on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait for the next book.
Thank you to the authors for the Arc for a honest review.
Review of advance copy
This is book one of a trilogy! Can't recommend this enough if you don't mind waiting!
I absolutely loved Ella's new series starter! Sidney and her men have me hooked right from the start and I adore Nior and his brand of crazy personality and love for bananas! The plot kept me gripped and made me read it slow so it didn't end too quickly! The pacing was just right and loved the world building, can't wait for the next one! Can't recommend this book enough if you love medium burn, political mind games, all the killing and a crazy, retired assassin whose slightly crazy and chaotic!
I'm loving the connections and backstory Sidney has with her two first devotees. Her inner conflict between the vampire and human sides is conveyed really well as loyalty to the slayers and to her men causes her inner turmoil. She remains devoted to her personal kill list and I love having a trained vampire slayer for our fmc!
I absolutely loved Ella's new series starter! Sidney and her men have me hooked right from the start and I adore Nior and his brand of crazy personality and love for bananas! The plot kept me gripped and made me read it slow so it didn't end too quickly! The pacing was just right and loved the world building, can't wait for the next one! Can't recommend this book enough if you love medium burn, political mind games, all the killing and a crazy, retired assassin whose slightly crazy and chaotic!
I'm loving the connections and backstory Sidney has with her two first devotees. Her inner conflict between the vampire and human sides is conveyed really well as loyalty to the slayers and to her men causes her inner turmoil. She remains devoted to her personal kill list and I love having a trained vampire slayer for our fmc!
May 7, 2026
Slow Start, Addictive Finish.
This book definitely started off slow for me, and at times it felt a little difficult to stay fully engaged. You could kind of tell when the authors switched perspectives/styles (unless that was just me picking up on it), so the beginning took some effort to get through.
BUT once the story picked up, it really turned into such a great read. The storyline itself was very well written, and by the end I was fully invested. Noir was hands down my favorite character, and I absolutely cannot wait to read more about him in book two. I’m also so curious to see how everything twists now that the cure has been made.
And honestly… there’s no way Carlyle doesn’t find it in that hidden compartment. That felt like the biggest dead giveaway ever. 😂
The cliffhanger wasn’t too devastating, but it definitely left me wanting the next book immediately because now I need to know how all of this is going to play out.
This book definitely started off slow for me, and at times it felt a little difficult to stay fully engaged. You could kind of tell when the authors switched perspectives/styles (unless that was just me picking up on it), so the beginning took some effort to get through.
BUT once the story picked up, it really turned into such a great read. The storyline itself was very well written, and by the end I was fully invested. Noir was hands down my favorite character, and I absolutely cannot wait to read more about him in book two. I’m also so curious to see how everything twists now that the cure has been made.
And honestly… there’s no way Carlyle doesn’t find it in that hidden compartment. That felt like the biggest dead giveaway ever. 😂
The cliffhanger wasn’t too devastating, but it definitely left me wanting the next book immediately because now I need to know how all of this is going to play out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was honored to read an advance copy of this book, and the story was a blast. This was a great start to a new fantasy series, and I'm looking forward to reading more! I have to say, my favorite part of this book is the humor and whimsy that peeks through. I don't think I've ever laughed so much while reading a fantasy book!
For a why-choose, the spice is on the milder side, and is a bit of a slow burn. I'd rate it as 2🌶️ .
The world has the familiar vampire/human power struggle, with an added rivalry between various vampire houses, and a semi-matriarchal system.
The ending is not a dramatic cliffhanger, but does leave you with a ton of questions for the next book to answer!
I loved seeing how Sydney's character develops and changes through the book as she starts to accept her half-vampire side. Her men were the sweetest and I loved seeing them interact and care for her!
For a why-choose, the spice is on the milder side, and is a bit of a slow burn. I'd rate it as 2🌶️ .
The world has the familiar vampire/human power struggle, with an added rivalry between various vampire houses, and a semi-matriarchal system.
The ending is not a dramatic cliffhanger, but does leave you with a ton of questions for the next book to answer!
I loved seeing how Sydney's character develops and changes through the book as she starts to accept her half-vampire side. Her men were the sweetest and I loved seeing them interact and care for her!
Review of advance copy received from Author
We meet Sidney who is a dhampir who grew up in the House of the Sanguine. Because she was half vampire and half human she was not treated well. We have moments throughout the story where Sidney will have flashbacks of her childhood. Because of this we experience her journey of childhood and what she endured. We journey through the story as she meets up with her betrothed and an old childhood friend. Sidney is in trials to become queen and what she as well as the contestants have to go through will keep you on the edge of your seat. I absolutely love Sidney and her personality. The story is jammed packed with action, drama, and suspense. It will have you on the edge of your seat unable to put it down. It ends in a cliffhanger that has me absolutely excited to see what is going to happen next. This is absolutely a fantastic read.
May 5, 2026
Thirst... I did not know what to expect when I got this book. Very much up my alley, being supernatural and RH with a strong FMC. When I first started turning the pages, I was not sure I was going to like this, but as I continued, I was sucked in!
We start with Sidney, a dhampir, and her grandmother, a ruthless queen of her clan, threatening her with the dead fertilizing her roses. Lots of love building exercises there.
Oh, the spoilers I want to go into, but Sidney found her way away from the clan and found love, and her grandmother stole him and turned him to punish Sidney and claim him as her own.
Sidney is in it for revenge, and the story gets intense. I was here for it, for her and her men, and her journey to reclaim her life and who she is as a person without others controlling her.
I tore through this book and found myself at the end too soon. Definitely recommend, and I am looking forward to the continuation.
We start with Sidney, a dhampir, and her grandmother, a ruthless queen of her clan, threatening her with the dead fertilizing her roses. Lots of love building exercises there.
Oh, the spoilers I want to go into, but Sidney found her way away from the clan and found love, and her grandmother stole him and turned him to punish Sidney and claim him as her own.
Sidney is in it for revenge, and the story gets intense. I was here for it, for her and her men, and her journey to reclaim her life and who she is as a person without others controlling her.
I tore through this book and found myself at the end too soon. Definitely recommend, and I am looking forward to the continuation.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews