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!
Okay so I’m late, but it had to be said: if you crave angels vs demons, this is your go-to. I promise, no other book will satisfy you like this one. So when I started this I didn’t expect to like it so much, but I loved it. I absolutely could not put it down. Seriously, I brought it everywhere ...... even when I volunteered at bingo I was reading between customers. And I had my son read to me while I drove him. It literally is my favorite angels vs demons book.
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.
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. 🩷
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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!
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
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 ✨
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!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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.
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.
Holy moly. My mouth has been on the floor since halfway of reading this book. I honestly love the angels and demons theme here, as I am a Supernatural fanatic🙃.I honestly had to force myself to set the book down so that I could go to sleep for work 😂, but alas, we have made it to the end.
I honestly was not surprised at the revelation of who Peter's father was. Since the mission thay Blaire had went to with her fellow classmates, and the plan thay was told to her, I knew right there who Peters father was.
I also knew, or at least had the idea, of what really happened to one of Blaire's friend as well. All the signs were there, especially with how close Blaire's friend and another half-demon got during one scene in the book (for the purpose of this review being spoilers free i am not naming either of these characters).
I am also absolutely gobsmacked at the ending.😮 we all saw it coming, BUT I did notice one difference than what was shown in the vision. So I am HOPING that maybe, just maybe the future is changing. Destiny is ever-changing, and hopefully all will come to light.
As always, the world building is what made this a 4.5 start rating, just because sometimes whenever I read fantasy books, the world building is always the hardest for me to read. But it was necessary.
Blood of the Angel follows Peter, a half-demon fire elemental struggling with the prejudice against demons, and Blair, a half-angel princess who can see glimpses of the future through her dreams. The two become connected as they uncover secrets about their pasts, a possible war between supernatural factions, and a prophecy that could change the fate of their world
I really liked the concepts in this book: dual POVs, an academia setting, and a variety of supernatural creatures. The world had some really interesting ideas, like the conflict surrounding Lucifer’s return and the potential of war. The prejudice against demons was one of the stronger parts of the story because you could really feel the frustration and injustice they were experiencing
I struggled a bit with the romance as I’m not a huge fan of insta-attraction and felt like Blair was very inconsiderate toward Peter. At times the story also felt a little disconnected as some scenes felt like a genre switch from what the story started out as
Overall, I enjoyed parts of the worldbuilding and Peter’s storyline, and although it was predictable at times, the ending did set up some interesting possibilities for the next book so I might continue the series to see where it goes!
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.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Blood of the Angel has an interesting premise, combining angels, demons, prophecy, and a supernatural academy setting. There are some creative ideas throughout the story, and I can see the appeal for readers who enjoy paranormal fantasy and forbidden-romance elements. Unfortunately, this book wasn't quite the right fit for me. I found it difficult to connect with the characters, which made it harder for me to become fully invested in the story and its central relationships. While the world-building was ambitious, I sometimes struggled to stay engaged and found that it took me much longer than usual to make progress with the book. That said, there were aspects of the story that I appreciated, particularly the unique supernatural concepts and the mystery surrounding Peter's heritage and destiny. I think readers who enjoy magical academy settings, angel-and-demon lore, and prophecy-driven fantasy romances may have a more enjoyable experience than I did.
I really enjoyed this one! The whole angels, demons, prophecy, and supernatural academy setting pulled me in pretty quickly. Peter was such an interesting character, especially with everything he’s been through and the struggle of figuring out who—and what—he really is.
And then there’s Blair. I loved the push and pull between these two. She’s literally having visions of Peter being connected to destruction, yet she can’t seem to stay away from him. Of course, that makes for some seriously good tension!
There’s plenty of secrets, magic, forbidden feelings, and a whole lot of questions about fate and whether you can actually change what’s been written for you. I especially enjoyed watching Peter and Blair start to uncover the truth behind their connection.
If you like paranormal/fantasy romance with angels, demons, an academy setting, prophecy, and a little forbidden romance, definitely add this one to your list!
Thank you to the author and publisher for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book was so good the world building was done beautifully. I love how the story is an academia setting. Its dark and delicious with some spice and forbidden yearning between the MMC and FMC. I love the MMC Peter is struggles with himself slowly growing into himself. The FMC Blair is a strong bad ass warrior with struggles herself.
I loved how it's angels and demons with other species as well.i enjoyed how the characters had multiple different magical abilities like there was demonic magic, angelic magic but there's also like elemental magic which was so cool.
I really loved how the author gives you backstories and more information slowly throughout the book which I think helps with the world building so much. The books ending was so good, and the cliffhanger.I honestly cannot wait to read the second book.
Thank you to the author and to hayling storm LTD for giving me a chance to do an arc review.
The story is about a half Demon and a half Angel in a world where those two species despise each other but what happens when those exact species can't live without each other?
The story revolves around Peter Bronze a half Demon and Blair Dawn a half Angel. The story starts with blair having dreams about a new arrival boy she never saw before and then her being friends with him later even though demon and angel can't be anything.
My opinion :
The FML is very strong and can stand up for herself, I really like that the author didn't give her a pure, sensitive angel personality. Everything was perfect until the unnecessary spice scene of MML with different characters. This was actually stupid to make him have s*x with other female characters just because he was horny even though FML was in his mind all the time during his deeds. Apart from these scenes the overall story is good.
I wanted to love this one so badly! A dark academia fantasy set at a mysterious university, half-demons and half-angels, forbidden magic, and fated mates? It sounded like it had everything I normally look for in a fantasy.
There were definitely things I enjoyed, and the author’s writing was beautiful, but unfortunately, this one just wasn’t for me in the end. I was really hoping to become completely immersed in the university and its dark, magical atmosphere, but I found myself craving so much more world-building.
Blair the FMC is a badass half-angel who fights for her friends and what is right. And then there is Peter our MMC, he really tested my patience. Maybe it was a me problem, but man he made some poor choices and I could not seem to like or root for him.
Overall giving this book 3 stars, because again it was beautifully written. This is book 1 in a series. Thank you to the author for an early read of this book.
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. But like I said it might just be me, it was definitely not deal breaker obviously I gave the story 4.5 stars 🌟
If you were a teen in the days of angel / demon YA books and crave the feeling that those gave you -- THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU.
I ate this one up!
A badass warrior FMC An amazing cast of memorable characters! Fated mates Forbidden romance
Truly its got SO many good tropes.
And Peter? I loved him. He was perfectly flawed and written beautifully. AND THE YEARNING?
This was such a good start to a series that I cannot wait to read more of! My 4 star rating only reflects on the fact that I rhink the book would have benefited from another round of edits. There were grammar errors, and formatting was pretty wonky as well. Other than that I loved it! Thank you Hayling book storm for the ARC of this book!!
This Angels vs Demons story is based at Oaken academy. The story follows Blair Dawn (Angel) and Peter (devil). Peter has only recently discovered his powers and magic. Blair is a bad ass FMC who is also a princess. They fall for each other even though it is outlawed for them to be together. They are mates and the push and pull and slow burn romance is exceptional. There is conflict between the 2 sides and we find out who Peter's father is and are left on a cliffhanger. It's full of rich world building and gives intense emotional feelings about right and wrong.
The story unfolds through a fast-paced, layered plot that casts suspicion on nearly everyone, from angels and demons to Academy faculty. As hidden agendas emerge, Peter and Blair become trapped at the center of a larger conflict. Tension builds as dark forces test loyalties and threaten their bond, and when Peter’s father arrives to claim him, they are left facing an uncertain future. From the beginning, the story draws readers in with Peter’s struggle to escape an abusive past, confront dangerous new powers, and uncover the truth of what he truly is.
Peter is a half demon who didn't know what powers he had until a tragedy struck. He's brought to an Academy to help him learn and adjust to who he his now. Blair is a half angel who is the daughter of Archangel Michael so the expectations on her are immense. They have a connection that can't be denied but will they risk it all or follow the status quo of angels and demons do not interact. This story flowed and it pulled you in wanting to know more. The cast of characters add to story they don't detract from it.
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.
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!
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.
I was given this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This one was just ok for me. I like the premise of the story and the majority of the characters. However, the character development was not fully there for me. The storyline also felt disjointed and didn’t flow for me at all. Random sexual scenes seemed forced as well. I wanted to love this because the premise is so good but it didn’t do it for me.
This was a amazing story..i kind of figured out who Peter was from the beginning but it was still awesome story..I loved the characters as well. The ending...ugh..such a cliffhanger...I can't wait to read the next book! I recieved an advance reader copy of this book for an honest voluntary review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This was a really captivating story. I loved both Blair and Peter. Him going into the academy and not really fitting in anywhere. And Blair being an heir to one of the most powerful bloodlines. The way they connected, knowing she should stay away, but she just couldn’t. This was chaotic and intense. Sweet and steamy. A really great story.
Omg what an opening book, the world building, the mythology of the supernatural. Blair and Peter's story is amazing, but the connection that you gave us to all the characters, personal fave is Crow, I'm a little upset at you about the ending but I know it's because we have hell and high water to get through in the next book!