Blood of the Angel

by D.B. Newman

436 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication August 10, 2026

Reviews

[Reux · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do you like badass warrior FMCs?
Angels and Demons forbidden romance?
Spice? An MMC who worships and can't get enough of the FMC?
This book made me fall in love with Peter, his flaws made him feel real and his flirting skills had me smiling like a madman at my kindle. The FMC isn't some meager damsel in distress either, she's clearly a badass and despite her warrior abilities she's still got heart and big feelings and is so relatable.
AND THE ENDING?! No spoilers here so you've just gotta read it when it releases because omg I need more!

Review of advanced reader copy provided by author

[Lea Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

Blood of the Angel is a promising start to what I think will be an engaging series. As a first book, it does a good job of introducing the world and its characters while laying the groundwork for what's to come.

One of the novel's greatest strengths are its characters. I especially liked Peter. Both the main and supporting characters felt distinct, and I enjoyed watching them develop as the story unfolded.

D.B. Newman has a beautifully descriptive writing style that made the settings easy to visualize and added depth to the characters, and the world.

The pacing did slow somewhat through the middle. While it occasionally felt drawn out, I suspect much of that detail is intentional, and will become more significant as the series progresses.

The final chapters were my favourite part of the book. The pacing picked up, the story became increasingly compelling, and the ending left me genuinely curious to see what happens next!

My only criticism is that I think the book would benefit from another round of editing. There were enough grammatical and formatting issues that they occasionally interrupted the flow of the story. With a little more polish, I think the writing would shine even more.

Overall, this was an enjoyable read with an interesting premise, memorable characters, and a conclusion that has me looking forward to the next book.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of advanced reader copy sent by the Author.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ stars

What to expect:
Forbidden romance • Angels vs Demons • Fated mates • Dark academia • Elemental magic • A secret prophecy • Found family •

I had a such good time with this book; I'm a sucker for anything with Angels and Demons.
If you're also a fan of angel vs demons in a dark academic setting with elemental magic, then this is book is perfect for you.

We follow our MMC Peter Bronze, he has spent his life running from an abusive past and his awakening powers.
After a tragic accident revealing Peter's powers and the fact he is half demon, he is offered a spot at Oaken Academy. A hidden university where supernatural beings are trained how to use their powers to serve the Covenant.

There he meets our FMC Blair Dawn, daughter of an Archangel and heir to one of the most powerful bloodlines, she is haunted by prophetic dreams. They are immediately drawn to each other. Peter and Blair need to uncover the truth behind their bond before it's too late.

Ah these characters were so good, the character growth that Peter went through in this book was fantastic, from being afraid of himself and what he was capable of to finally embracing who he is and wanting to learn more. 👏🏽
And Blair, she is struggling with her feelings and the horrific visions she gets, can she save him or was it doomed from the beginning?
I enjoyed that neither character was perfect. They both had some growing to do.

The forbidden romance element to this book 🤌🏽
Ekk the constant yearning in this book was next level! Both of them wanted each other desperately but they knew they couldn't do it. Heart breaking 💔

The plot was interesting and mysterious; we are constantly learning new bits of information and that kept upping the stakes.

The worldbuilding was immersive and descriptive, I could picture everything. I loved the Academy setting. And the magical classes they attended.

I loved that this book features elemental magic. 👏🏽

The found family element to this book was lovely.

The last 10% of this book was hectic and action packed. The ending was left on a cliff hanger, and I can't wait to read the next one.

Thank you to the Author and Hayling Bookstorm LTD for allowing me to arc read this book. 🩷

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A highly atmospheric, thought-provoking dark fantasy that breathes its own unique life into a familiar world.

First, a huge thank you to the author, D.B. Newman, and Hayling Bookstorm Ltd. for providing me with an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of Blood of the Angel in exchange for an honest review!

The Atmosphere & Pacing
Let’s start with the writing style: D.B. Newman is a master of atmosphere. The prose is incredibly descriptive and vivid, I could literally envision every single location the story threw me into. That being said, if I’m being completely honest, the heavy description made the writing feel almost a little too dense at times, which slowed down the overall pacing of the story for me. It took me a bit longer to get through than usual, but the sheer world-building detail is undeniable.

The Tropes & Themes
On the surface, the setup might feel familiar to seasoned dark fantasy readers. If you’ve read recent university-set books featuring demons, devils, half-angels, and the like, you will recognize the niche territory. However, Newman elevates this by taking it in a much more mature, "adult" direction. The spice content is higher, and the book deals with some subtle mental health references and outcomes that gives the narrative darker weight.

Throughout the story, I really felt the philosophical debate of good versus evil. I was often questioning what it means to be a "good, God-following human." Are we really doing moral work when we treat those who are different with prejudice? What side of the fence would I be on?

The Characters & Romance
Blair and Peter's dynamic is an absolutely agonizing slowburn, and I loved every second of it! I am a total sucker for opposites attract and taboo relationships. The foreshadowing woven through the Dreaming was brilliant and kept me hooked.

Peter, in particular, is a fascinating character. I am so invested in his personal journey, what his father has to teach him in the next installment, and ultimately finding out where his true allegiance lies when everything comes to a head.

Final Thoughts
Overall, D.B. Newman took a popular, familiar storyline and setting and successfully made it their own. It’s slow, deliberate, and philosophical. I am definitely looking forward to Book 2 to see how this journey unfolds!

[Suzi McWhinney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh WOW!! This book, just sucked me in from the very first page. I am all for the PNR and Angels and Demons are my No.!
D.B. Newman takes you on a journey that is awe inspiring with it's depth of knowledge.
Yes, this is a work of fiction, but it is also a work of perfection.
The details in the writing, the surroundings, the workings of the Nephilium and the Half Demons is brilliant.
I loved it from start to finish, BUT I did not realise it was going to be a series. Maybe it is written somewhere that I glanced over, so I only say now that OMG what an ending!! I feel the need to have book 2 immediately LOL, no pressure @DBNewman!
The story lies in the backbone of Oaken Academy. The secret world of The Covenant.
Peter Bronze was born a half demon, but did not know his true identity until he was 22 years old. But he knew he was different. He never knew a world of Angels and Demons and other monsters even existed. But he was soon to find out.
Blair Dawn was an half Angel. Daughter of Archangel Michael. She was nearing the completion of her studies, but then she meets Peter and the thread between the two is undeniable. It pulls them together, even though it is forbidden.
This story evolves as Peter finds his footing in the supernatural world. He trains and studies hard to achieve greatness. But he wants, no, he needs Blair. She is his kryptonite. But Angels and Demons are forbidden to be together. The struggle is real for them both, and Blair is fearful that he is her one true mate. So deciding not to cross the line and be with him, is extremely tortorous for her and us as readers!! jz sayin!! This story is so slow burn....ahhhh poor Peter LOL. Not being with Blair leads him to make some unwise decisions, but a guy has to do what a guy has to do.
So who is Peter's father, well that is for you to read and find out!
Blair has sleep visions and she knows that Peter is the centre of them. She has to stop what is to become of him, but is she strong enough?
A great 1st instalment that will get you so wrapped up in all things Oaken Academy that you will not be able to put this book down!! I couldn't!
Thanks for this opportunity to be an advanced reader @haylingbookstormltd

[Johnna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blood of the Angel is a story that follows Peter Bronze and Blair Dawn, Peter is a student at Oaken Academy where he meets Blair. Upon meeting they feel an instant connection but they can’t act upon it because it’s illegal for them to do so. Why? Because Blair is a half-angel and Peter is a half-demon. But Peter is determined to win over the rule-following Blair because he can’t stay away from her.

Blair is a top student, training to be a warrior and heir to the throne, she can’t let down her family down but she also doesn’t agree with the way that their world treats half-demons. She also has visions in her dreams of something terrible happening at the school and thinks she can change the future.

Peter was accepted into Oaken late since he was on the run after he was the cause of an accident at his high school when his powers finally show themselves. When he meets Blair he knows he would do anything to stay by her side even tho he wants more.

This story follow them as they fight the forbidden temptation of one another while traversing the ups and downs of school, entering a new world and a secret prophecy. Will Blair be able to change the future she dreams about? What will happen with her and peter?

I really enjoyed this book! I did think the first few chapters were slow and slightly repetitive but after the first few chapters I was hooked. I love how strong Blair is in her convictions, and she’s an amazing fighter and leader. Love a strong FMC. I also love the journey and growth Peter goes through in this first book, he really has to prove himself, not just to his fellow classmates but also to himself. And the yearning he does for Blair is top tier, and it’s a slow burn which are my favorite. And the end of the book was crazy, was absolutely not expecting that twist. I can’t wait to read the next book and find out what happens with Peter and Blair.

If you’re interested in reading Blood the Angel also. Preorders go on sale July 10 So check out @dbnewman.author on Instagram for more info on that

And thank you again to @haylingbookstormltd and D.B Newman for the advanced copy ✨

[Michelle Andersen · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Advanced reader copy review*
4.5⭐️
When I read the blurb for this I was instantly hooked! And when I received this arc and started reading was instantly engulfed. I loved the academy setting this takes place in where all half creatures attend. We have half angels, demons, shifters, sirens, you name it and then throw in the use of magic and we have the perfect setting for our plot. I loved that our two main characters are spiritual opposites; Peter being a half demon newly thrown into the supernatural world and academy, and Blair the half angel princess who has been groomed her entire life for divine perfection and to take over the thrown. These two have a fated bond that they have to try and navigate without anyone knowing because in the supernatural world demon and angels are forbidden to be together. It is a very very slow burn, and just when you think one of them might cave in, events happen to shift the trajectory or their relationship. I loved where this story is heading and cannot wait to see how the strife between demons and angles plays out as well as what happens now with our two MMC’s. Looking forward to the continuation of this book.


Now my only criticism of this book was the over use of the MC’s full names. It was over the top. Every start of a chapter was either Peter Bronze or Blair Dawn or princess. Even in the middle of the chapter after already stating it they would still refer to them by using their fill name. It might just be me but it became so incredibly frustrating. It made me feel as the reader the author thought we weren’t smart enough to know whose chapter we were reading even though it is very clear, and that we needed constant reminding. I don’t need to be reminded every 5 paragraphs that it is Peter Bronze or Blair Dawn talking or thinking …it is already presumed from earlier acknowledgment. Other than that and a few minor errors I absolutely loved the story. But the overall kill of the name dropping did distract me a bit. Bug like I said it might just be me, it was definitely not deal breaker obviously I gave the story 4.5 stars 🌟

[Jaimie M · Rating 3 out of 5]

Phew....this book was a roller coaster of emotions.

First, let me start off by saying that I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the plot line. The main characters showed growth for their younger ages, and the supporting characters were so fun and engaging. For the story alone, I would definitely give 4 stars. I want to know more about Peter and Blair, and how their story plays out.

What I struggled with (and what dropped this to a 3 star review) was the lack of editing. I know this is mostly a 'me' issue, but I had a hard time wanting to read the book because I knew there would be an error every 3-4 pages. I fought with myself several times about DNFing, but ultimately, the characters and story kept me invested. The developmental, line, and copy editing are certainly lacking though, leaving odd sentence structures, gaps in the narrative, and tons of inconsistencies.

I truly feel bad for this author because she referenced an editor in her acknowledgements, and I have to wonder what they actually did for her. If you had told me this was a first draft or a beta read, I would understand it. But this book is being published soon, and I feel like they did a horrible job helping this author shine and polish her book.

If I could separate the editor from the book, I would give this editor a -5.

I am hoping DB Newman is able to have the book re-edited before publishing, because this truly is an engaging dark academia, angels and demons, paranormal romance that has tons of potential and is certainly a 4star read!!

Thank you to Hayling Bookstorm and DB Newman for this ARC!

[Sonya · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story grabs your attention at the very beginning and keeps you guessing. There are so many moving parts: Angels, Demons, Secrers, Deception and Betrayal. You really don't know who to trust and our MMC Peter has spent his life running from an abusive past, trying to navigate terrifying powers awakening within him as well as the truth of who or rather what he is.

When his demonic lineage is discovered, he is given a second chance at life by attending Oaken Academy. An academy that is a hidden university where supernatural being can learn and train to ultimately serve the covenant. Unfortunately, Peter is having a hard time because the demons don't trust him and the angels despises him with the exception of Blair who is a child of the Arch Angel Michael. She knows that Peter is off limits, but something keeps pulling the two of them together and with Blair's recurring dream about Peter being the one to bring total annihilation and ruin; she is left with a difficult decision.

Things aren't as they appear to be. Dark forces are lurking in the shadows and loyalties are tested and deception isn't far away. Peter and Blair must decide if they are better together or apart. Unfortunately, Peter's father comes to collect his son leaving both Peter and Blair on the precipice of things to come.

There are so many moving parts in this story, and I was giving every character the side eye Angels, Demons as well as the faculty everybody has an agenda and Peter and Blair are the pawns stuck in the middle of everything.

[Ajaisha Bradford · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was such an interesting read, and I still have so many questions. As the first book in a series, I did expect that I would feel this way when I came to the end. I honestly think I’m still in shock from the ending.
This story starts with our MMC, Peter Bronze, who is described as the typical handsome 20-something-year-old with a troubled past. He’s invited to study at Oaken Academy after a traumatic event uncovers his half-demon heritage, and it’s here that he meets our angelic FMC, Blair Dawn.
The story is told from a 3rd-person perspective, and while I feel that the storytelling was decent, the editing of this book was awful. There was incorrect spelling and grammar, and in many cases, incorrect words altogether that made me have to double back more than a few times to make sure I understood what was being said.
I did enjoy the dark academia vibes, and I especially enjoyed the slow-burn romance elements throughout the series. There’s also some solid spice sprinkled throughout the story. The explanations of the magic systems, supernatural castes, and politics were also well done.
I am giving a rating of 3 stars based on my overall enjoyment of this story despite the editing errors mentioned above. I am truly invested in the futures of the characters, and I’m also really interested in seeing how the politics play out in the next book(s). This was a fun take on the classic angels vs. demons, and I’m anxiously awaiting the next installment to this story.

[Kim Singley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of advanced copy received from author.

Peter Bronze is a new half-demon at Oaken Academy. He is running from this past and the trauma it caused him. He never knew he had magic and now he must learn to control it. But someone here has caught his eye and his heart. He is willing to do anything to prove himself to her.

Blair Dawn is the daughter of the highest Archangel and the heir to the Covenant. She must learn to rule with great power and grace. But she can see prophecies and one has her very concerned. The prophecy keeps leading her to the new student and someone she can never be with.


This is a really good book. I liked it a lot. However, I think it is was a very sexual book. The characters mostly think or revolve around sex more than their inner thoughts and turmoil sometimes. But it’s easy to move past that.

I do like that this book focuses on moving forward and righting the wrongs of past generations so demons and angels can be friends. It has a lot of great points and hidden themes. The ending blew my mind! I didn’t not expect that nor did it ever occur to me that it would end that way.

[Maddy]

I couldn't really get into this book, but I did start slowly getting into it until something happened at 45% and then I was just like "fuck no". I forced myself to keep reading and it just got worse for me and then I finally just decided that I didn't want to waste anymore time on it.

If that one thing hadn't happened and then to just keep adding to it, I could have probably ended up liking it and rating it 3 stars but I just couldn't continue.

[Ashley Martinez (ilovebooksandstuffblog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always love a good angels and demons read and this was no different!! I really loved the concept with the half human children and the academy like setting.

The story pulled me in with the various nephilhm, half demons, and supernatural creatures that were present in the story. There was prophecy, forbidden romance, rebellion, and social injustice!

The characters were easy to like and root for and I’m excited to see where Peter’s journey goes with the way things ended!

[Sandra Maloney · Rating 4 out of 5]

This tale of good against evil, angels vs. demons is the beginning of a series where book 1 ends in a cliffhanger. The pull of fated mates, the longing and lust of university students trying to find their way in life and love. Societal barriers keeping lovers apart and the personal growth each character is struggling to achieve. It’s only going to get better from here!
This book was provided to me as an eARC

[Patsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

One is half angel and one is half demon. What could happen? More than you think so buckle up.

Thats Blair and Peter. They are forbidden to be together but Peter is determined to break the rules. I liked this biok more than I thought I would. There are secrets and betrayals. You dont know who to trust. The twists and turns keep this interesting.

I give this four out of five stars and definitely recommend you read it if you love a lot of secrets with some angels and demons thrown in.

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given this to arc read and what I read was really good but I found pace to feel slow. Nothing again the book. Nothing against author. But due to the pacing I got half way through and it didnt change for me so I DNF. If you love angels and demons and spicy then this would be for you also there are triggers so please be away before reading.

[Kirsty Stagg · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark Academia ✔️
Fated mates ✔️
Angels Vs Demons ✔️


This book is brilliant, the world building is immersive and incredibly descriptive, you can certainly imagine every single location.

The FMC and the MMC are very easy to like and the debate of good vs evil leaves you questioning, but in a good way.


Thank you to D.B Newman and HaylingBookstorm for this ARC

[Ang_Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was great! I was feeling all the emotions in all the best ways. I loved both main characters even though I could throttle the MMC at times 😂.