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Blackthorn #8
Blood Broken
‘Our love could save us both. Or it could destroy everything.’
Leila McKay is both blessed and cursed. Her potent serryn powers are growing stronger, but they come with a heavy price. And to prove her love for vampire leader Caleb, she needs to bring his murdered brother Jake back to life. The only way is to cast a spell no one has dared to attempt before, that could tear apart the fabric of time itself…
But Caleb fears that treachery runs deep in Leila’s veins. Although the heat between them grows hotter by the second, Caleb’s past has left him with a hard heart and a mistrustful nature, and it was at her sister’s hands that Jake was killed… but with his brother’s life in the balance, giving in to his primal instincts is more tempting than ever.
Time is running out for Caleb. In a matter of hours, Jake will be past the point of and around them, all-out war rages in Blackthorn. With genetically modified lycans and vicious convicts roaming the streets, Sirius Throme at the Global Council has secret plans that threaten to devastate the whole district… and Leila is the only one powerful enough to save them all. But can Caleb really trust her?
With countless lives at stake, will Leila and Caleb’s fierce attraction be strong enough to see them through the ultimate test? Or in unleashing the darkness within, will they destroy everything they hold dear?
The explosive, action-packed conclusion to the utterly addictive Blackthorn series will leave fans of paranormal romance breathless. Blackthorn is an eight-book series with an overarching plot, so if you’re at the start of your Blackthorn journey, read BLOOD SHADOWS to discover how it all began…
Read what everyone’s saying about the Blackthorn
‘I don’t think I have read such a finely executed dark PNR world before…This series truly surprised me. I didn’t think I would love it that much or be intrigued by it. I couldn’t stop thinking about these books once I was done with them… The world-building is spectacular. The characters are enthralling and addicting… Plain fabulousness.’ Gaga Over Books
‘I am completely enthralled with this paranormal series. You get so wrapped up in the story and characters that you lose track of time… This is one of my favorite series so far this year!’ Paranormal Book Club
‘This is a paranormal universe like none you have encountered before… There are stories that are so powerful, so intense that I do not believe anyone should warn you about what is to come… I truly do feel that if you love the Paranormal genre and have not yet discovered Lindsay J. Pryor or these novels then you need to read them, experience them firsthand.’ Keeper Bookshelf
‘I am officially addicted to this series. Why, you ask? Because Lindsay Pryor is my kind of fearless author. She isn’t afraid to “go there”, to create characters and situations that challenge me as a reader.’The Demon Librarian
‘Not only are Pryor’s characters and fathomlessly dark love stories fabulous, but her continual world building of Blackthorn blows me away.’ Gravetells.
Leila McKay is both blessed and cursed. Her potent serryn powers are growing stronger, but they come with a heavy price. And to prove her love for vampire leader Caleb, she needs to bring his murdered brother Jake back to life. The only way is to cast a spell no one has dared to attempt before, that could tear apart the fabric of time itself…
But Caleb fears that treachery runs deep in Leila’s veins. Although the heat between them grows hotter by the second, Caleb’s past has left him with a hard heart and a mistrustful nature, and it was at her sister’s hands that Jake was killed… but with his brother’s life in the balance, giving in to his primal instincts is more tempting than ever.
Time is running out for Caleb. In a matter of hours, Jake will be past the point of and around them, all-out war rages in Blackthorn. With genetically modified lycans and vicious convicts roaming the streets, Sirius Throme at the Global Council has secret plans that threaten to devastate the whole district… and Leila is the only one powerful enough to save them all. But can Caleb really trust her?
With countless lives at stake, will Leila and Caleb’s fierce attraction be strong enough to see them through the ultimate test? Or in unleashing the darkness within, will they destroy everything they hold dear?
The explosive, action-packed conclusion to the utterly addictive Blackthorn series will leave fans of paranormal romance breathless. Blackthorn is an eight-book series with an overarching plot, so if you’re at the start of your Blackthorn journey, read BLOOD SHADOWS to discover how it all began…
Read what everyone’s saying about the Blackthorn
‘I don’t think I have read such a finely executed dark PNR world before…This series truly surprised me. I didn’t think I would love it that much or be intrigued by it. I couldn’t stop thinking about these books once I was done with them… The world-building is spectacular. The characters are enthralling and addicting… Plain fabulousness.’ Gaga Over Books
‘I am completely enthralled with this paranormal series. You get so wrapped up in the story and characters that you lose track of time… This is one of my favorite series so far this year!’ Paranormal Book Club
‘This is a paranormal universe like none you have encountered before… There are stories that are so powerful, so intense that I do not believe anyone should warn you about what is to come… I truly do feel that if you love the Paranormal genre and have not yet discovered Lindsay J. Pryor or these novels then you need to read them, experience them firsthand.’ Keeper Bookshelf
‘I am officially addicted to this series. Why, you ask? Because Lindsay Pryor is my kind of fearless author. She isn’t afraid to “go there”, to create characters and situations that challenge me as a reader.’The Demon Librarian
‘Not only are Pryor’s characters and fathomlessly dark love stories fabulous, but her continual world building of Blackthorn blows me away.’ Gravetells.
567 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 17, 2019
71 people are currently reading
367 people want to read
About the author
Lindsay J. Pryor
16 books522 followersSign up to be the first to hear about Lindsay's NEW releases here: http://bit.ly/150twsa
*Lindsay is not an active Goodreads user. Please visit her website if you would like to contact her.*
Lindsay J. Pryor is a speculative fiction author published by Hachette U.K. Her dark, gritty and complex dystopian BLACKTHORN series has achieved numerous Gothic and PNR Amazon number ones both in the UK and the US. Her spin-off LOWTOWN standalone novels are underway as well as her upcoming romantic Gothic horror.
Quickly deciding that fantasy was more interesting than reality, Lindsay has been creating stories since she was nine years old. She holds a BSc (Hons) degree in Psychology and Communication and is a qualified Psychology lecturer and English teacher. She taught for eighteen years before becoming a full-time author.
Lindsay was born and grew up in Wales and now lives in South West England with her husband and a plethora of wild woodland creatures.
To find out more about Lindsay and her books, please visit her website: lindsayjpryor.com
BLACKTHORN is published by Bookouture. Her LOWTOWN novels are being published by Piatkus (Little, Brown Book Group).
I absolutely adore the world she's put into place here. Everything is so well formed with its own history and culture that it really feels like I'm living in Blackthorn... (Marked by Books)
This is a paranormal universe like none you have encountered before. (Keeper Bookshelf)
I don't think I have read such a finely executed dark PNR world before... The world-building is spectacular. (Gaga Over Books)
Lindsay Pryor has crafted a world that's intricate, gritty and genuinely fascinating... (Big Little Sister Blog)
This concept is creative and different from other paranormal books I've read lately. (My Paranormal Book Review)
I cannot say how much I love this author. She is creating a world which sucks you in, which makes you want to know more about Blackthorn and its inhabitants. (I Heart Books)
Not only are Pryor's characters and fathomlessly dark love stories fabulous, but her continual world building of Blackthorn blows me away. (Gravetells)
Lindsay is a wonderful writer. She's crafted one heck of a world... (Vice President of Creative Affairs for Relativity Media Film Studios, California)
*Lindsay is not an active Goodreads user. Please visit her website if you would like to contact her.*
Lindsay J. Pryor is a speculative fiction author published by Hachette U.K. Her dark, gritty and complex dystopian BLACKTHORN series has achieved numerous Gothic and PNR Amazon number ones both in the UK and the US. Her spin-off LOWTOWN standalone novels are underway as well as her upcoming romantic Gothic horror.
Quickly deciding that fantasy was more interesting than reality, Lindsay has been creating stories since she was nine years old. She holds a BSc (Hons) degree in Psychology and Communication and is a qualified Psychology lecturer and English teacher. She taught for eighteen years before becoming a full-time author.
Lindsay was born and grew up in Wales and now lives in South West England with her husband and a plethora of wild woodland creatures.
To find out more about Lindsay and her books, please visit her website: lindsayjpryor.com
BLACKTHORN is published by Bookouture. Her LOWTOWN novels are being published by Piatkus (Little, Brown Book Group).
I absolutely adore the world she's put into place here. Everything is so well formed with its own history and culture that it really feels like I'm living in Blackthorn... (Marked by Books)
This is a paranormal universe like none you have encountered before. (Keeper Bookshelf)
I don't think I have read such a finely executed dark PNR world before... The world-building is spectacular. (Gaga Over Books)
Lindsay Pryor has crafted a world that's intricate, gritty and genuinely fascinating... (Big Little Sister Blog)
This concept is creative and different from other paranormal books I've read lately. (My Paranormal Book Review)
I cannot say how much I love this author. She is creating a world which sucks you in, which makes you want to know more about Blackthorn and its inhabitants. (I Heart Books)
Not only are Pryor's characters and fathomlessly dark love stories fabulous, but her continual world building of Blackthorn blows me away. (Gravetells)
Lindsay is a wonderful writer. She's crafted one heck of a world... (Vice President of Creative Affairs for Relativity Media Film Studios, California)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
May 8, 2019
I gotta say, I was not expecting that ending. Years ago I picked up book 6 not realizing it was a series. While there are so many characters, so much going on and the releases are kind of far apart...despite all that, the author completely captivated me with this story.
I kept telling myself I needed to go back and start book 1 before I read anymore but did I listen? No. I just couldn't resist and I'm not sorry. I still want to go back to book 1 and read this whole series over, especially now that this last book is done. I think this is one of those series you need to read more than once because you'll discover things you missed in the first read.
If you love paranormal romance, you gotta check this series out. There are Vampires, Lycans, Angels, witches, modified humans, and a fourth dimension species that I couldn't even begin to describe as well as the author has. It's scary good and sadly you don't want to get too attached to all the characters. You never know who will survive.
I kept telling myself I needed to go back and start book 1 before I read anymore but did I listen? No. I just couldn't resist and I'm not sorry. I still want to go back to book 1 and read this whole series over, especially now that this last book is done. I think this is one of those series you need to read more than once because you'll discover things you missed in the first read.
If you love paranormal romance, you gotta check this series out. There are Vampires, Lycans, Angels, witches, modified humans, and a fourth dimension species that I couldn't even begin to describe as well as the author has. It's scary good and sadly you don't want to get too attached to all the characters. You never know who will survive.
April 12, 2019
This. This book. It’s a climb a mountain and hold it aloft, Lion King style, without the need for words, book. It’s that good. And I’ll be that person holding it aloft whilst the tears flow from my eyes. Blood Broken broke me! This entire series broke me.
It breaks my heart to say that Blood Broken is the final book of the Blackthorn series. Yet it ends perfectly. This series is so unique, in that it’s a continuity series, and so unique in the way that each of the eight books in the series is as equally strong throughout. A rare talent. The best series I have ever read.
The Blood Broken plot is ridiculously clever. My heart raced the entire way through! It’s spine tingling. Known as the queen of twists, Lindsay J. Pryor, did not disappoint. Never, not once, throughout the entire series, have I ever become anywhere close to guessing the outcome. I thought I knew Blackthorn, thought my beloved characters couldn’t possibly endure more conflict, yet everything I thought I knew was tipped on its head. And oh, THE TENSION! THE TENSION!
In Blood Broken, Leila returns to Caleb, sword in hand, with a plan to bring Caleb’s brother back to life. Except, everything action in Blackthorn seems to have a consequence to the prophecy. But with cons and the fourth species on the loose, and humans putting the safety of Blackthorn on the line, is there enough time? Will Caleb’s actions have the biggest consequence of all? It’s a race to survival. Tick tock!
That’s as far as I’m willing to go with the plot, it would be an injustice to reveal any more. What I will say is that it’s clear that the author cared about Blood Broken, cared about the characters (even when putting them through hell) and cared about her readers. What you don’t appreciate, until you read Blood Broken, is everything that happens from book one, through to book eight, really does have a significance. From secondary characters, to settings. Everything is meaningful. Everything. And that’s what makes Blood Broken so incredibly powerful. And what made my heart swell, was the little nods to previous favourite quotes. The tenderness between each pair, despite their dire situation. Kane and Caitlin, Jask and Phia, Eden and Jessie and Caleb and Leila, are all fighting for survival, trying to avenge wrongs, yet there are still moments of humour (take a bow Eden), and importantly, love. Including the bromances!
As readers, we often get so consumed in the finished product that we tend to forget the author, living a real life, working damn hard to get the book out to the desperate fans. For those who follow Lindsay on social media, you may know that she was having a difficult time whilst writing Blood Broken. Yes, authors are real people, often going their own personal hell. We often don’t appreciate that enough in our need for the finished product. I am completely in awe, now having read Blood Broken, of how this author managed to produce a plot so complex, with characters so real I am now married to one and the rest are my friends, and achieve it so beautifully. Lindsay J. Pryor, I applaud you. You put your heart and soul into it and you did it.
I sobbed at the beautiful dedication, wept, yet smiled at times, throughout the story and bawled at the author’s letter and dedication. I was more than broken. I felt shattered. It was the ending I never expected and never knew I wanted. It was perfect.
And, I have tears rolling now as I write my final Blackthorn review. Farewell, Kane, Caitlin, Jask, Phia, Eden, Jessie, Caleb and Leila. Thank you for an amazing journey.
To Lindsay J. Pryor: Thank you for years of absolute joy. You did the Blackthorn fans proud, you did yourself proud. No need to search for Narnia anymore, you created your own wardrobe! Thank you for taking me with you.
An outstanding finale, to a phenomenal series. Stunning.
It breaks my heart to say that Blood Broken is the final book of the Blackthorn series. Yet it ends perfectly. This series is so unique, in that it’s a continuity series, and so unique in the way that each of the eight books in the series is as equally strong throughout. A rare talent. The best series I have ever read.
The Blood Broken plot is ridiculously clever. My heart raced the entire way through! It’s spine tingling. Known as the queen of twists, Lindsay J. Pryor, did not disappoint. Never, not once, throughout the entire series, have I ever become anywhere close to guessing the outcome. I thought I knew Blackthorn, thought my beloved characters couldn’t possibly endure more conflict, yet everything I thought I knew was tipped on its head. And oh, THE TENSION! THE TENSION!
In Blood Broken, Leila returns to Caleb, sword in hand, with a plan to bring Caleb’s brother back to life. Except, everything action in Blackthorn seems to have a consequence to the prophecy. But with cons and the fourth species on the loose, and humans putting the safety of Blackthorn on the line, is there enough time? Will Caleb’s actions have the biggest consequence of all? It’s a race to survival. Tick tock!
That’s as far as I’m willing to go with the plot, it would be an injustice to reveal any more. What I will say is that it’s clear that the author cared about Blood Broken, cared about the characters (even when putting them through hell) and cared about her readers. What you don’t appreciate, until you read Blood Broken, is everything that happens from book one, through to book eight, really does have a significance. From secondary characters, to settings. Everything is meaningful. Everything. And that’s what makes Blood Broken so incredibly powerful. And what made my heart swell, was the little nods to previous favourite quotes. The tenderness between each pair, despite their dire situation. Kane and Caitlin, Jask and Phia, Eden and Jessie and Caleb and Leila, are all fighting for survival, trying to avenge wrongs, yet there are still moments of humour (take a bow Eden), and importantly, love. Including the bromances!
As readers, we often get so consumed in the finished product that we tend to forget the author, living a real life, working damn hard to get the book out to the desperate fans. For those who follow Lindsay on social media, you may know that she was having a difficult time whilst writing Blood Broken. Yes, authors are real people, often going their own personal hell. We often don’t appreciate that enough in our need for the finished product. I am completely in awe, now having read Blood Broken, of how this author managed to produce a plot so complex, with characters so real I am now married to one and the rest are my friends, and achieve it so beautifully. Lindsay J. Pryor, I applaud you. You put your heart and soul into it and you did it.
I sobbed at the beautiful dedication, wept, yet smiled at times, throughout the story and bawled at the author’s letter and dedication. I was more than broken. I felt shattered. It was the ending I never expected and never knew I wanted. It was perfect.
And, I have tears rolling now as I write my final Blackthorn review. Farewell, Kane, Caitlin, Jask, Phia, Eden, Jessie, Caleb and Leila. Thank you for an amazing journey.
To Lindsay J. Pryor: Thank you for years of absolute joy. You did the Blackthorn fans proud, you did yourself proud. No need to search for Narnia anymore, you created your own wardrobe! Thank you for taking me with you.
An outstanding finale, to a phenomenal series. Stunning.
May 6, 2019
What an incredible conclusion to the most wonderful of series. All good things come to those who wait and this was soooo worth waiting for. The ultimate emotional rollercoaster, with twists and turns you never see coming. A gripping story of epic proportions, a world I can immerse myself in and completely feel a part of! I absolutely loved it, even though I had no idea how it would end.
What is amazing is that the last few books have only covered a time span of a couple of days. The depth and detail written has just the right balance to make you feel like you're right there in Blackthorn with all the characters, good and bad, seeing it all play out first hand. That is a skill LJP has in spades.
If you haven't read this author yet, pleeease go and download Book 1, Blood Shadows. I hope you will love it as much as I have ❤
If you are excitedly anticipating and dreading this finale as much as I have, (because I needed to know the outcome but didnt want it to end), just dive in and be glued to the pages and be as awed as I was. All our favourite characters play a part, all the loose ends have been tied off, I can't imagine a different or a better and more complete ending, emotional as it was!
Lindsay J Pryor, this was superb and completely exceeded all hopes and expectations. Blood Broken is worth so much more than the 5 stars I can give.
What is amazing is that the last few books have only covered a time span of a couple of days. The depth and detail written has just the right balance to make you feel like you're right there in Blackthorn with all the characters, good and bad, seeing it all play out first hand. That is a skill LJP has in spades.
If you haven't read this author yet, pleeease go and download Book 1, Blood Shadows. I hope you will love it as much as I have ❤
If you are excitedly anticipating and dreading this finale as much as I have, (because I needed to know the outcome but didnt want it to end), just dive in and be glued to the pages and be as awed as I was. All our favourite characters play a part, all the loose ends have been tied off, I can't imagine a different or a better and more complete ending, emotional as it was!
Lindsay J Pryor, this was superb and completely exceeded all hopes and expectations. Blood Broken is worth so much more than the 5 stars I can give.
May 20, 2019
Can I just take a moment to sigh. To take in the fact that this is the very LAST book in the Blackthorn series. Like, how did that happen?
It’s funny because I’m double sided with this one. Like on the one hand I want it to keep running & running and then on the other hand there is this need to know what happens to them, the characters.
If you’ve seen my reviews or comments in the past, you’ll know that the only way Lindsay could have lost me as a reader was to get rid of/kill any of the four main male characters, Caleb, Kane, Jask and Eden. (The others, yeah...not so much) So up until now she has kept me glued to the pages of my kindle. I won’t spoil the ending by saying if any of them survive, it’s not my place. What I will say is that I was glued to my kindle the entire ride with Blood Broken.
Feelings and emotions were flying around all over the joint. Tension, intrigue, ingenuity, world building, character chemistry, HOT character chemistry, mystery, lust, love, tears and sweat. Those were just some of the emotions and feelings that ran through me.
I absolutely loved it. I’m definitely sad it’s over but I’m also happy to have an ultimate. To know what happened to my beloved characters. I’m very content right now.
Highly recommend this book, this series and this author!
Merged review:
Can I just take a moment to sigh. To take in the fact that this is the very LAST book in the Blackthorn series. Like, how did that happen?
It’s funny because I’m double sided with this one. Like on the one hand I want it to keep running & running and then on the other hand there is this need to know what happens to them, the characters.
If you’ve seen my reviews or comments in the past, you’ll know that the only way Lindsay could have lost me as a reader was to get rid of/kill any of the four main male characters, Caleb, Kane, Jask and Eden. (The others, yeah...not so much) So up until now she has kept me glued to the pages of my kindle. I won’t spoil the ending by saying if any of them survive, it’s not my place. What I will say is that I was glued to my kindle the entire ride with Blood Broken.
Feelings and emotions were flying around all over the joint. Tension, intrigue, ingenuity, world building, character chemistry, HOT character chemistry, mystery, lust, love, tears and sweat. Those were just some of the emotions and feelings that ran through me.
I absolutely loved it. I’m definitely sad it’s over but I’m also happy to have an ultimate, an ending that far surpassed what I imagined it’d be. To know what happened to my beloved characters. I’m very content right now.
Highly recommend this book, this series and this author!
It’s funny because I’m double sided with this one. Like on the one hand I want it to keep running & running and then on the other hand there is this need to know what happens to them, the characters.
If you’ve seen my reviews or comments in the past, you’ll know that the only way Lindsay could have lost me as a reader was to get rid of/kill any of the four main male characters, Caleb, Kane, Jask and Eden. (The others, yeah...not so much) So up until now she has kept me glued to the pages of my kindle. I won’t spoil the ending by saying if any of them survive, it’s not my place. What I will say is that I was glued to my kindle the entire ride with Blood Broken.
Feelings and emotions were flying around all over the joint. Tension, intrigue, ingenuity, world building, character chemistry, HOT character chemistry, mystery, lust, love, tears and sweat. Those were just some of the emotions and feelings that ran through me.
I absolutely loved it. I’m definitely sad it’s over but I’m also happy to have an ultimate. To know what happened to my beloved characters. I’m very content right now.
Highly recommend this book, this series and this author!
Merged review:
Can I just take a moment to sigh. To take in the fact that this is the very LAST book in the Blackthorn series. Like, how did that happen?
It’s funny because I’m double sided with this one. Like on the one hand I want it to keep running & running and then on the other hand there is this need to know what happens to them, the characters.
If you’ve seen my reviews or comments in the past, you’ll know that the only way Lindsay could have lost me as a reader was to get rid of/kill any of the four main male characters, Caleb, Kane, Jask and Eden. (The others, yeah...not so much) So up until now she has kept me glued to the pages of my kindle. I won’t spoil the ending by saying if any of them survive, it’s not my place. What I will say is that I was glued to my kindle the entire ride with Blood Broken.
Feelings and emotions were flying around all over the joint. Tension, intrigue, ingenuity, world building, character chemistry, HOT character chemistry, mystery, lust, love, tears and sweat. Those were just some of the emotions and feelings that ran through me.
I absolutely loved it. I’m definitely sad it’s over but I’m also happy to have an ultimate, an ending that far surpassed what I imagined it’d be. To know what happened to my beloved characters. I’m very content right now.
Highly recommend this book, this series and this author!
October 28, 2021
FULL REVIEW 10/27/21
First off, Lindsay J. Pryor is amazing. I am a lifelong fan. I am so thankful that she has written the Blackthorn series. It is one of the best paranormal vampire dystopian series ever. Period.
However, I really need to share my thoughts about one HEA in order to come to some form of closure. And hopefully this helps with anyone else asking, ok but why?? 😭😭😭
INITIAL THOUGHTS 10/23/21
Me finishing Blood Broken:
Me realizing this is the last book to the Blackthorn series:
It's official. Blackthorn Series has wrecked me for all vampire/PNR series from here on out.
I cried, I was physically ill, I was happy, I laughed, I was turned on, I was stressed...
IT WAS TOO MUCH BUT ALSO NOT ENOUGH.
How did Lindsay J. Pryor keep turning up the notch with this series?? Each book is amazing, but each book just twists the knife in a little bit more, raises the stakes, unleashes the villains, and continues to expand the universe in mind-blowing ways.
Romance? Check. Chemistry? Check. Agonizing plot where it seems no end is in sight? Check. Emphasis on the agonizing, especially as I can't get over the HEAs...
I'm going to quickly jot down my thoughts as I just finished it because otherwise I will explode. Might add some more thoughts in the future but the rest of the review will discuss what happens so don't read it, as this series is better if you don't know anything.
First off, Lindsay J. Pryor is amazing. I am a lifelong fan. I am so thankful that she has written the Blackthorn series. It is one of the best paranormal vampire dystopian series ever. Period.
However, I really need to share my thoughts about one HEA in order to come to some form of closure. And hopefully this helps with anyone else asking, ok but why?? 😭😭😭
INITIAL THOUGHTS 10/23/21
Me finishing Blood Broken:
Me realizing this is the last book to the Blackthorn series:
It's official. Blackthorn Series has wrecked me for all vampire/PNR series from here on out.
I cried, I was physically ill, I was happy, I laughed, I was turned on, I was stressed...
IT WAS TOO MUCH BUT ALSO NOT ENOUGH.
How did Lindsay J. Pryor keep turning up the notch with this series?? Each book is amazing, but each book just twists the knife in a little bit more, raises the stakes, unleashes the villains, and continues to expand the universe in mind-blowing ways.
Romance? Check. Chemistry? Check. Agonizing plot where it seems no end is in sight? Check. Emphasis on the agonizing, especially as I can't get over the HEAs...
I'm going to quickly jot down my thoughts as I just finished it because otherwise I will explode. Might add some more thoughts in the future but the rest of the review will discuss what happens so don't read it, as this series is better if you don't know anything.
June 5, 2019
Blackthorn is one of my favorite PNR series, and I was beyond thrilled that my ARC request was granted by the publishers. Book 7, Blood Bound, blew my mind last year. It’s still one of my favorite books in the series. I rated Blood Bound 5 stars easily. It pains me to give the conclusion of the series anything less than 4 stars, but it didn’t live up to my high expectations. I was moved by the ending, and this series overall is still one of my favorites that I would recommend to anyone who loves reading PNR. Overall this series has almost ruined other books in the PNR genre for me. Many other PNR books simply don't live up to the quality that is this series. Pyror’s ability to world-build, create suspense, and develop interesting characters is almost unparalleled in PNR. Often I find myself frustrated with overly simple writing styles in this genre (think the writing style of Charlaine Harris and Karen Marie Moning), but Lindsay J. Pryor can write. She’s won me over as a loyal fan, and I look forward to reading more from her.
Now to list reasons why this book was only a 3 star read for me:
1) There were too many POVs. I understand why Pryor added in several POVs. This book needed to wrap up many story lines. Unfortunately, the constant switching around slightly ruined my immersion in the story, took away some of the suspense, and frustrated me. Some of the POV switches felt unnecessary and like they could have been edited out.
2) This book didn’t get interesting until I reached 70%. The first half was full of inner angst and back and forth between Leila and Caleb. It was also full of planning from the rest of the Blackthorn team. There were paragraphs upon paragraphs of dialogue. It felt tedious to read. I’ll admit I was irritated with Leila and Caleb’s inner angst and then their switch to lovey-dovey talk, but Lindsey Pryor made up for it with a HUGE twist later in the book.
3) This is just my opinion, but I was fascinated by Jessie and the new information revealed about the angels in book 7. The twist with Torren in book 7 was incredible… I could read an entire series based on these angels. So, I was slightly let down the angels had a lighter role in this book. I again understand why, Lindsey Pryor had to fit in A LOT in this final book.
4) Overall this book felt anti-climatic, especially after how epic and suspenseful book 7 felt. I think it suffered from law of diminishing returns. I feel the majority of this series was a suspenseful build-up (up to book 7) and the payoff didn’t match the suspense.
I see myself rereading this series, but in all honesty I probably will not reread this book. Jessie and Eden are my favorite couple, I suggest reading through this series just for them. Caitlin and Kane, and Caleb and Leila's story in Blood Roses is excellent too. The entire series must be read in order, but Eden and Jessie's story is in book 4 and book 7. Jask and Sophie are the most irritating, but its been worth pushing through their POVs to get to Jessie and Eden.
With all that said, I was moved by the ending and even shed a tear. I do believe Lindsey Pryor gave resolution to all these characters, and she should be proud of this achievement. I don't regret reading the book, and still consider this one of my favorite PNR series.
Now to list reasons why this book was only a 3 star read for me:
1) There were too many POVs. I understand why Pryor added in several POVs. This book needed to wrap up many story lines. Unfortunately, the constant switching around slightly ruined my immersion in the story, took away some of the suspense, and frustrated me. Some of the POV switches felt unnecessary and like they could have been edited out.
2) This book didn’t get interesting until I reached 70%. The first half was full of inner angst and back and forth between Leila and Caleb. It was also full of planning from the rest of the Blackthorn team. There were paragraphs upon paragraphs of dialogue. It felt tedious to read. I’ll admit I was irritated with Leila and Caleb’s inner angst and then their switch to lovey-dovey talk, but Lindsey Pryor made up for it with a HUGE twist later in the book.
3) This is just my opinion, but I was fascinated by Jessie and the new information revealed about the angels in book 7. The twist with Torren in book 7 was incredible… I could read an entire series based on these angels. So, I was slightly let down the angels had a lighter role in this book. I again understand why, Lindsey Pryor had to fit in A LOT in this final book.
4) Overall this book felt anti-climatic, especially after how epic and suspenseful book 7 felt. I think it suffered from law of diminishing returns. I feel the majority of this series was a suspenseful build-up (up to book 7) and the payoff didn’t match the suspense.
I see myself rereading this series, but in all honesty I probably will not reread this book. Jessie and Eden are my favorite couple, I suggest reading through this series just for them. Caitlin and Kane, and Caleb and Leila's story in Blood Roses is excellent too. The entire series must be read in order, but Eden and Jessie's story is in book 4 and book 7. Jask and Sophie are the most irritating, but its been worth pushing through their POVs to get to Jessie and Eden.
With all that said, I was moved by the ending and even shed a tear. I do believe Lindsey Pryor gave resolution to all these characters, and she should be proud of this achievement. I don't regret reading the book, and still consider this one of my favorite PNR series.
May 16, 2019
This series has been without a doubt phenomenal and that’s not a word I use lightly. The characters have taken twists and turns and truly been through the mill . I honestly wasn’t sure what the author could do to bring everything to a close in a satisfying way that would do justice to this amazing world building so let me start by saying this book whilst heartbreaking as it’s the last is imaginative and in a class of its own !
I’m going to be blunt and state that I wasn’t really feeling it initially as Caleb reluctantly let Leah back into his home . Leah left to find a way to bring Calebs brother Jake back from death but Caleb knows deep down that believing in a Serryn could lead to disaster. Caleb doesn’t trust easily but there’s more in play here than even he realises. The whole district is under threat and it’s time for Vampires and Werewolves to unite but is Leah going to be a help or is she the biggest threat facing Blackthorn?
Ok I admit it for me the beginning was a little slow with lots of unnecessary navel gazing from Caleb as he came to terms with his feelings towards Leah and I honestly thought that I as going to be disappointed. Well I should have known better as this story just rolled along gathering pace and old friends along the way. Truly the tension started to rise with danger escalating that left this reader so involved in the lives of these characters that at times it’s hard to remember that they are fictional. It’s a fabulous conclusion that is shocking, emotional and yes there’s romance here but it’s played out in a unique way that only this author could do. A fitting end to a series that goes in directions that no one could ever predict.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
I’m going to be blunt and state that I wasn’t really feeling it initially as Caleb reluctantly let Leah back into his home . Leah left to find a way to bring Calebs brother Jake back from death but Caleb knows deep down that believing in a Serryn could lead to disaster. Caleb doesn’t trust easily but there’s more in play here than even he realises. The whole district is under threat and it’s time for Vampires and Werewolves to unite but is Leah going to be a help or is she the biggest threat facing Blackthorn?
Ok I admit it for me the beginning was a little slow with lots of unnecessary navel gazing from Caleb as he came to terms with his feelings towards Leah and I honestly thought that I as going to be disappointed. Well I should have known better as this story just rolled along gathering pace and old friends along the way. Truly the tension started to rise with danger escalating that left this reader so involved in the lives of these characters that at times it’s hard to remember that they are fictional. It’s a fabulous conclusion that is shocking, emotional and yes there’s romance here but it’s played out in a unique way that only this author could do. A fitting end to a series that goes in directions that no one could ever predict.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
May 1, 2019
When I was offered the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Blood Broken, I didn't hesitate for a second. I have been hotly anticipating this book for over two years and before I get into my review properly, let me say one thing....
The author did not disappoint!
Blood Broken took me on a rollercoaster of a ride. The intricate plot that has led us to this point culminates in a heart-pounding, thrilling journey leading to a very satisfying end. For such a complicated story to finish with every single plot thread sewn up is an amazing feat and one I am still applauding the author for days after finishing Blood Broken.
This series has been a part of my life for five years, and I've loved every second of it. While Kane remains my firm favorite, Caleb won me over in this book. Although I will say that there were times (several of them in fact) where I gasped aloud with an accompanying "NO!" Suffice to say, Lindsay J Pryor is the master of leading the reader down a path where you are so certain you know where you're going, only to be blindsided by the sheer genius of the writing and plotting.
Am I sad it's over. Yes, a little. But as I have every book in Paperback and digital, it's fair to say that Blackthorn will remain a part of my life for many years to come.
Highly highly recommend.
My heartfelt thanks go to the publisher, Bookouture, and the author, Lindsay J Pryor, for giving me the honor of reading an advanced copy of this book.
The author did not disappoint!
Blood Broken took me on a rollercoaster of a ride. The intricate plot that has led us to this point culminates in a heart-pounding, thrilling journey leading to a very satisfying end. For such a complicated story to finish with every single plot thread sewn up is an amazing feat and one I am still applauding the author for days after finishing Blood Broken.
This series has been a part of my life for five years, and I've loved every second of it. While Kane remains my firm favorite, Caleb won me over in this book. Although I will say that there were times (several of them in fact) where I gasped aloud with an accompanying "NO!" Suffice to say, Lindsay J Pryor is the master of leading the reader down a path where you are so certain you know where you're going, only to be blindsided by the sheer genius of the writing and plotting.
Am I sad it's over. Yes, a little. But as I have every book in Paperback and digital, it's fair to say that Blackthorn will remain a part of my life for many years to come.
Highly highly recommend.
My heartfelt thanks go to the publisher, Bookouture, and the author, Lindsay J Pryor, for giving me the honor of reading an advanced copy of this book.
May 17, 2019
Blood Broken is the phenominal conclusion to Lindsay J. Pryor's epic Blackthorn series.
I love Lindsay J. Pryor's writing style, she has this unparalleled gift of world building, and the meticulous detail she goes into with that and her characters makes me feel like I am part of the story.
In reading Blood Broken, I have come to really appreciate every little nuance, every tiny piece of information that Lindsay J. Pryor has given in the earlier books. Nothing in this series has happened without a reason, that is how masterful this amazing author is. I know I will now be re-reading Blackthorn from the beginning, because not doing so would be doing this series a disservice. Each time a read these gripping stories, I am confident I will pick up yet more details I have previously missed.
Although part of me is so very disappointed this series has come to an end, I could not have asked for anything better. It is clear Lindsay J. Pryor has poured her heart and soul into Blood Broken. There are so many twists and turns, questions which are answered, action, romance and so many emotions!! I was on the edge of my seat from the very first page. I loved spending the last precious hours with Caleb, Leila and all my favourite Blackthorn characters. It is a bittersweet finale, but what a finale!! Blood Broken is Lindsay J. Pryor at her absolute best.
I love Lindsay J. Pryor's writing style, she has this unparalleled gift of world building, and the meticulous detail she goes into with that and her characters makes me feel like I am part of the story.
In reading Blood Broken, I have come to really appreciate every little nuance, every tiny piece of information that Lindsay J. Pryor has given in the earlier books. Nothing in this series has happened without a reason, that is how masterful this amazing author is. I know I will now be re-reading Blackthorn from the beginning, because not doing so would be doing this series a disservice. Each time a read these gripping stories, I am confident I will pick up yet more details I have previously missed.
Although part of me is so very disappointed this series has come to an end, I could not have asked for anything better. It is clear Lindsay J. Pryor has poured her heart and soul into Blood Broken. There are so many twists and turns, questions which are answered, action, romance and so many emotions!! I was on the edge of my seat from the very first page. I loved spending the last precious hours with Caleb, Leila and all my favourite Blackthorn characters. It is a bittersweet finale, but what a finale!! Blood Broken is Lindsay J. Pryor at her absolute best.
May 6, 2019
It's not often that I am lost for words after reading a book. But i have had to take time to digest this final book in the Blackthorn series and mourn for the loss of possibly my favourite ever book series.
The final book in the series brings the stories of Kane and Caitlin, Jask and Sophia, Eden and Jessie, and, of course, Caleb and Leila to a truly thunderous climax. The non-stop, electrifying actions of our heroic couples desperately trying to save Blackthorn from complete annihilation form the backdrop to this final book, but Caleb and Leila continue to slowly circle round each other, like birds of prey waiting for the kill. Neither wanting to take a leap of faith and trust the unknown.
All our favourite characters come together in this book, good v evil fighting it out, each winning rounds, each scoring points off each other and it's never clear who is actually going to come out on top and ultimately win. Having recovered from the shock of both the ending and this series ending, I now realise it couldn't possibly have finished any other way.
Bravo Ms Pryor, you have created an enigmatic, electrifying, magnificent world that will definitely live on and on.
The final book in the series brings the stories of Kane and Caitlin, Jask and Sophia, Eden and Jessie, and, of course, Caleb and Leila to a truly thunderous climax. The non-stop, electrifying actions of our heroic couples desperately trying to save Blackthorn from complete annihilation form the backdrop to this final book, but Caleb and Leila continue to slowly circle round each other, like birds of prey waiting for the kill. Neither wanting to take a leap of faith and trust the unknown.
All our favourite characters come together in this book, good v evil fighting it out, each winning rounds, each scoring points off each other and it's never clear who is actually going to come out on top and ultimately win. Having recovered from the shock of both the ending and this series ending, I now realise it couldn't possibly have finished any other way.
Bravo Ms Pryor, you have created an enigmatic, electrifying, magnificent world that will definitely live on and on.
May 15, 2019
Utterly gripping finale!
This whole series is rooted in passion, whether it’s dark and twisted or light and heroic, the characters are passionate about their place in this world the author has created - and what a world it is. Lindsay’s creativity shines off the page and keeps me thoroughly engaged. This finale has been a long time coming and I’ve had time to theorise my own concepts but the journey you are taken on is fraught with twists and turns. An absolute page turner that I couldn’t put down. The emotional rollercoaster I feel I have been on has left me feeling sick, elated, frustrated and hopeful. But most of all I feel content. This finale is inspired and I cannot praise it enough. Lindsay’s storytelling is superb with dark compelling characters, interesting plot and fantastic conclusion. I am sad that this is the end for this series as I would happily read more. There is potential for spin offs and I would gladly dive into this world again. Thank you for this incredible conclusion to a truly creative and amazing series.
This whole series is rooted in passion, whether it’s dark and twisted or light and heroic, the characters are passionate about their place in this world the author has created - and what a world it is. Lindsay’s creativity shines off the page and keeps me thoroughly engaged. This finale has been a long time coming and I’ve had time to theorise my own concepts but the journey you are taken on is fraught with twists and turns. An absolute page turner that I couldn’t put down. The emotional rollercoaster I feel I have been on has left me feeling sick, elated, frustrated and hopeful. But most of all I feel content. This finale is inspired and I cannot praise it enough. Lindsay’s storytelling is superb with dark compelling characters, interesting plot and fantastic conclusion. I am sad that this is the end for this series as I would happily read more. There is potential for spin offs and I would gladly dive into this world again. Thank you for this incredible conclusion to a truly creative and amazing series.
May 24, 2019
Although I enjoyed the conclusion of the Blackthorn series I think in the end left me a bit flat. The Caleb&Leila epilogue left me wondering "what other life?". I don't know. I expected some kind of zenith that it never came and it kept me wanting.
May 15, 2019
Wow. That ending was insane. And I never saw any of it coming.
This book was quite literally all over the place. We jumped from past to present, from people we know to people we don't. Despite all that, it was surprisingly still easy to follow. And there was simply just that much going on here that we kind of needed most of it.
I had been looking forward to an epic conclusion for Caleb and Leila. Did this deliver? Perhaps epic is too strong a word, but it was a damn good one. I was constantly being bounced around and occasionally frustrated by what was happening with these two, only to be thrown a curve ball out of left field that knocked me on my ass.
I love Caleb even more after reading this book. The poor guy is trying to do right by his own beliefs and feelings but he's always being manipulated by those around him to the point where it's impossible to know who to trust and believe. I was so overjoyed when he manned up to his feelings for Leila and his little gift for her was priceless. Which is what made what happens afterwards all that much harder to bear.
While Leila is making her way back to Caleb and then trying to convince him to trust her and do a reversal spell, all the rest of them have their hands completely full with trying to protect as many people as they can. The six of them have organized the third species as best they can and come up with plans to evacuate as many innocents as possible while fighting off the escaped cons. Only adding to that stress is the discovery of the global council's plan for mass murder as a way of containment. And time is running out fast. Fortunately, Caleb was already one step ahead of Throme and because of him, one crisis is averted. UNfortunately, we find out that the prophecy was never what was widely believed and now time is running out fast for a completely different reason.
There literally is so much going on here that it's hard to even summarize it. Much of the beginning is the group doing the best they can to survive and save as many as they can while trying to get the word out to the other districts of what is really going on. But towards the end, Kane has made a devastating discovery and knows of only one way to stop it at great cost to himself. Jessie ends up having to fight Torren again for her position which leads to something happening to her that nobody expected. And Sophia is forced to do something she desperately doesn't want to do but knows it's the only way to save everyone. There was one moment of relative calm where both Kane and Jask got the revenge they both deserved, and I was happy for them.
In the end, they win. But at a great cost. Caleb and Leila's ending was so so sad, but also quite sweet. Now it's time to rebuild the system and their world. We get epilogues of each couple one year later and I liked each one. But if I'm being honest, I'm a little upset with happens to Caleb and Leila. Not that I'm surprised by it or even didn't expect it, but I guess I just wish it was a little different. Even so, it was still a good end for them. And a great end to this series.
ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley.
This book was quite literally all over the place. We jumped from past to present, from people we know to people we don't. Despite all that, it was surprisingly still easy to follow. And there was simply just that much going on here that we kind of needed most of it.
I had been looking forward to an epic conclusion for Caleb and Leila. Did this deliver? Perhaps epic is too strong a word, but it was a damn good one. I was constantly being bounced around and occasionally frustrated by what was happening with these two, only to be thrown a curve ball out of left field that knocked me on my ass.
I love Caleb even more after reading this book. The poor guy is trying to do right by his own beliefs and feelings but he's always being manipulated by those around him to the point where it's impossible to know who to trust and believe. I was so overjoyed when he manned up to his feelings for Leila and his little gift for her was priceless. Which is what made what happens afterwards all that much harder to bear.
While Leila is making her way back to Caleb and then trying to convince him to trust her and do a reversal spell, all the rest of them have their hands completely full with trying to protect as many people as they can. The six of them have organized the third species as best they can and come up with plans to evacuate as many innocents as possible while fighting off the escaped cons. Only adding to that stress is the discovery of the global council's plan for mass murder as a way of containment. And time is running out fast. Fortunately, Caleb was already one step ahead of Throme and because of him, one crisis is averted. UNfortunately, we find out that the prophecy was never what was widely believed and now time is running out fast for a completely different reason.
There literally is so much going on here that it's hard to even summarize it. Much of the beginning is the group doing the best they can to survive and save as many as they can while trying to get the word out to the other districts of what is really going on. But towards the end, Kane has made a devastating discovery and knows of only one way to stop it at great cost to himself. Jessie ends up having to fight Torren again for her position which leads to something happening to her that nobody expected. And Sophia is forced to do something she desperately doesn't want to do but knows it's the only way to save everyone. There was one moment of relative calm where both Kane and Jask got the revenge they both deserved, and I was happy for them.
In the end, they win. But at a great cost. Caleb and Leila's ending was so so sad, but also quite sweet. Now it's time to rebuild the system and their world. We get epilogues of each couple one year later and I liked each one. But if I'm being honest, I'm a little upset with happens to Caleb and Leila. Not that I'm surprised by it or even didn't expect it, but I guess I just wish it was a little different. Even so, it was still a good end for them. And a great end to this series.
ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley.
April 15, 2019
If I could rate this book higher than 5 stars I would, it is that good! I have been a huge fan of the author since the first Blackthorn book came out, and I have remained a huge fan ever since. Each book in the series has brought something more to the series, and this one is the icing on the cake!
What can I say about this book that I’m sure many others will be saying as soon as they read it? The author takes us on a journey to hell and back during the course of this book, and what she puts her characters through is even worse. I found myself constantly being wowed by the twists the story kept taking, and turning back the pages to see if what I was reading was actually happening.
All of the characters we have grown to love as if they were part of our families are back, each of them going through different trials as they try to reach the common goal of protecting Blackthorn, its surrounding locales and their families and friends. Some succeed, others don’t, but every one of the characters get a conclusive ending. Or do they??
Every single couple we have met goes through quite a journey, some far more than others. But what I will forever be grateful to the author for is the fact she finishes off all of their stories in this book. There is no wondering what may have happened to them. The very last chapter in particular had me in tears as did the letter to the readers at the end.
Words cannot express how extremely privileged I feel to have been able to follow the authors progress over the years, and equally to be named in the books as a loyal reader. I am gutted I couldn’t meet Lindsay in London but I hope to finally meet her one day as I owe her a huge hug.
An amazing book and a fantastic ending to a brilliant series. I still can’t believe it’s all over though. Huge thanks go to Lindsay, Bookouture and Netgalley for providing a copy. Now I’m going to go take a lie down in a dark room and cry my eyes out!
What can I say about this book that I’m sure many others will be saying as soon as they read it? The author takes us on a journey to hell and back during the course of this book, and what she puts her characters through is even worse. I found myself constantly being wowed by the twists the story kept taking, and turning back the pages to see if what I was reading was actually happening.
All of the characters we have grown to love as if they were part of our families are back, each of them going through different trials as they try to reach the common goal of protecting Blackthorn, its surrounding locales and their families and friends. Some succeed, others don’t, but every one of the characters get a conclusive ending. Or do they??
Every single couple we have met goes through quite a journey, some far more than others. But what I will forever be grateful to the author for is the fact she finishes off all of their stories in this book. There is no wondering what may have happened to them. The very last chapter in particular had me in tears as did the letter to the readers at the end.
Words cannot express how extremely privileged I feel to have been able to follow the authors progress over the years, and equally to be named in the books as a loyal reader. I am gutted I couldn’t meet Lindsay in London but I hope to finally meet her one day as I owe her a huge hug.
An amazing book and a fantastic ending to a brilliant series. I still can’t believe it’s all over though. Huge thanks go to Lindsay, Bookouture and Netgalley for providing a copy. Now I’m going to go take a lie down in a dark room and cry my eyes out!
May 30, 2019
#TeamBlackthorn 🖤
OMG!! I absolutely loved how this last book played out, full of twists with a few suprises. Gripping and intense from start to finish It brought everything full circle and I loved every minute.
I first stumbled across this series back in 2014 and before I'd even finished book 1 (Blood Shadows) I knew I'd discovered something special.
I'm a huge PnR reader and this series has all the elements I look for and more. It's turned out to be one of the best PnR series I've read....EVER!!
The complex and dangerous world Lindsay J Pryor has created is seductive and unique. These books always play out like a movie in my mind, it's truly a magical experience and a pleasure to read.
Caleb Dehain the sinfully sexy Vampire, he's always been a very intriguing character throughout the series. Caleb is Dark and Dangerous, Shrewd and Unscrupulous. A Master manipulator who plays his cards close to his chest.
After this book he's up there with Jask who's still my favourite from the Blackthorn leading Men, but Caleb isn't far behind now.
This being the final instalment in the Blackthorn World I'll admit I felt a pang of sadness as I started this one. I've come to love this world and all the characters that reside there, I wasn't ready to let them go and I'm still not if I'm honest.
They will always hold a special place in my heart.
Thank you Lindsay for the amazing adventure, it's been an unforgettable journey and one I will think of often and revisit time and again.
#TeamBlackthornForever 🖤
OMG!! I absolutely loved how this last book played out, full of twists with a few suprises. Gripping and intense from start to finish It brought everything full circle and I loved every minute.
I first stumbled across this series back in 2014 and before I'd even finished book 1 (Blood Shadows) I knew I'd discovered something special.
I'm a huge PnR reader and this series has all the elements I look for and more. It's turned out to be one of the best PnR series I've read....EVER!!
The complex and dangerous world Lindsay J Pryor has created is seductive and unique. These books always play out like a movie in my mind, it's truly a magical experience and a pleasure to read.
Caleb Dehain the sinfully sexy Vampire, he's always been a very intriguing character throughout the series. Caleb is Dark and Dangerous, Shrewd and Unscrupulous. A Master manipulator who plays his cards close to his chest.
After this book he's up there with Jask who's still my favourite from the Blackthorn leading Men, but Caleb isn't far behind now.
This being the final instalment in the Blackthorn World I'll admit I felt a pang of sadness as I started this one. I've come to love this world and all the characters that reside there, I wasn't ready to let them go and I'm still not if I'm honest.
They will always hold a special place in my heart.
Thank you Lindsay for the amazing adventure, it's been an unforgettable journey and one I will think of often and revisit time and again.
#TeamBlackthornForever 🖤
May 20, 2019
The saying goes ‘the end is bittersweet’, but after reading this book it should be ‘the end is a tornado of emotions riding on the back of a hurricane’.
I thought I knew how it would end… but this ending I never saw coming.
The prophecy must come to fruition, but it is the way that all the characters interweave to make it happen that is unbelievably complex and unmistakingly clever in only the way the writing of Lindsay J Pryor can do. Her characters and world building are unparalleled. She has truly poured her heart and soul into this series-ending book.
Blood Broken brings us back to the painful love and sacrifices of Leila and Caleb. Both of them fighting the love and the obligations that they have, unwilling to trust fully in each other.
But the prophecy doesn’t happen in a vacuum, and the consequences are already spiraling out of control. Some will make it unscathed, some won’t.
I don’t want to reveal anymore of the plot, in one of the most amazing books I have read in the last decade. I wouldn’t want to deprive anyone of the journey.
I will say that I wept uncontrollably in finishing this book, reading the last word in the last book in the last Blackthorn adventure. I will be forever grateful for this author letting us into this world, where heroes can act like villains, where love can be messy, and the journey will always be worth it. I left a piece of me in Blackthorn, I know you will too.
I thought I knew how it would end… but this ending I never saw coming.
The prophecy must come to fruition, but it is the way that all the characters interweave to make it happen that is unbelievably complex and unmistakingly clever in only the way the writing of Lindsay J Pryor can do. Her characters and world building are unparalleled. She has truly poured her heart and soul into this series-ending book.
Blood Broken brings us back to the painful love and sacrifices of Leila and Caleb. Both of them fighting the love and the obligations that they have, unwilling to trust fully in each other.
But the prophecy doesn’t happen in a vacuum, and the consequences are already spiraling out of control. Some will make it unscathed, some won’t.
I don’t want to reveal anymore of the plot, in one of the most amazing books I have read in the last decade. I wouldn’t want to deprive anyone of the journey.
I will say that I wept uncontrollably in finishing this book, reading the last word in the last book in the last Blackthorn adventure. I will be forever grateful for this author letting us into this world, where heroes can act like villains, where love can be messy, and the journey will always be worth it. I left a piece of me in Blackthorn, I know you will too.
May 20, 2019
Nothing is scarier than knowing that one of your favorite authors is finishing one of your favorite series...cause it can go seriously wrong. This is NOT one of those times.
In so many ways, both big and small, Lindsay delivered on the full complexity of not just two characters, but all the characters that she has painstakingly built over the prior seven books. Characters whose motivations and pasts are layered and difficult for even them to express and deal with inside their own heads.
The story weaves through what you know, what you think you know, and what you hope for everyone. I was thrilled, and if you're looking for a brilliant world, that's character-driven, that won't leave you wanting to strangle someone, this is your series, your book, and your author.
Congrats to Pryor for closing out this cycle with finesse.
In so many ways, both big and small, Lindsay delivered on the full complexity of not just two characters, but all the characters that she has painstakingly built over the prior seven books. Characters whose motivations and pasts are layered and difficult for even them to express and deal with inside their own heads.
The story weaves through what you know, what you think you know, and what you hope for everyone. I was thrilled, and if you're looking for a brilliant world, that's character-driven, that won't leave you wanting to strangle someone, this is your series, your book, and your author.
Congrats to Pryor for closing out this cycle with finesse.
March 4, 2020
Amazingly Gripping! Totally recommend!!
Lindsey J Pryor you are fantastic and very talented! The world you created for this series was mind blowing....you totally get swept along with the residents of Blackthorn.
What an Utterly amazing ending this series is... this would make a great TV series or Films (The Blackthorn Saga!)
Its been so so worth the long wait between releases. There's 8 books in all and need to be read in order.
Lots of plotting, twists and turns to keep you guessing.
There are Vampires, Lycans , Witches ,Deamons, and Angels and one massive Prophecy! So what you waiting for dive into the world of Blackthorn if you dare...you wont be disappointed !
Lindsey J Pryor you are fantastic and very talented! The world you created for this series was mind blowing....you totally get swept along with the residents of Blackthorn.
What an Utterly amazing ending this series is... this would make a great TV series or Films (The Blackthorn Saga!)
Its been so so worth the long wait between releases. There's 8 books in all and need to be read in order.
Lots of plotting, twists and turns to keep you guessing.
There are Vampires, Lycans , Witches ,Deamons, and Angels and one massive Prophecy! So what you waiting for dive into the world of Blackthorn if you dare...you wont be disappointed !
May 30, 2019
5 Stars!!
What a powerful ending to an amazing series!! I was on the edge of my seat through most of the book and even shed some tears! I loved it so much!! I’m so sad that it has come to an end but thankful that I had the chance to read 8 great books!!
You are awesome Lindsay J Pryor and I look forward to more of your books!! Please! Please continue on with Lowtown! ❤️❤️
What a powerful ending to an amazing series!! I was on the edge of my seat through most of the book and even shed some tears! I loved it so much!! I’m so sad that it has come to an end but thankful that I had the chance to read 8 great books!!
You are awesome Lindsay J Pryor and I look forward to more of your books!! Please! Please continue on with Lowtown! ❤️❤️
December 2, 2021
Reread. Still agree with what I emailed the author June 9, 2019
"Hi Lindsay,
I just binged your entire Series in a week. And though I loved loved so much of it I'm left feeling bereft at the end of book. I'm legitimately in mourning for fictional characters right now. Especially Caleb who lost everything and was so so hurt, and didnt get any reprieve. In him you created probably the best Anti Hero I've ever read, and I just wanted him to be happy - Once. The fact that not one interactions he had with Leila in this book was genuine just breaks my heart. All those books trying to get back to him... Sigh
I know you left it on the somewhere somehow they're together but ... I don't know. And it's not your responsibility to make me feel better after all the work you put into these books. Perhaps if you had them happy together in Another Universe I wouldnt feel as depressed as I do now. Your series hurt my heart. But I also really enjoyed the journey.
Just wanted to let you know if you ever write a stand-alone romance book where the main characters happened to be called Caleb and Leila... 🤷♀️🤷♀️
---
Her reply 😭
Oh Leandra! It is my responsibility to make you feel better because you’re one of my readers - and a very special reader at that because you’ve taken the time to get in touch.
Firstly thank you so much for reading my series - and for loving it - but I’m so sorry you’ve been left feeling bereft at the end of book 8. I’ll tell you how I see and then you can mull it over.
Caleb did get his reprieve. He got what he always wanted in the end: to be loved unconditionally as he was by Leila and to truly believe he was loved unconditionally which, in those last moments, he did. Therein was his happiness. The interactions with Leila may not have been genuine on her side, but they were on his. And amidst all of that, he knew what his Leila had done for him. He knew she had risked everything to get back to him. He had his redemption through that and achieved what he believed was impossible as a result: to be himself again. He was even reunited with Jake. And through Kane and Phia, the rest of the group know what he did: they know that Caleb was a hero, that he saved them all when he could have condemned them.
Caleb had his moment of triumph stepping into the brink. I can guarantee he is getting his reward now. He’s with the woman he loves and having a fresh start. They’re together again but, this time, under far better circumstances with the freedom to finally be who they both want to be. They worked for it, they earned it, and they got to be together in the end. Just think of the possibilities! I think they have a LOT of fun ahead.
Caleb has been my favourite (anti) hero to write. It would have been easier emotionally to keep him in Blackthorn but I knew I could give him so much more elsewhere - a lifelong happiness with the woman he loves. So I did.
Take care,
Lindsay <3
"Hi Lindsay,
I just binged your entire Series in a week. And though I loved loved so much of it I'm left feeling bereft at the end of book. I'm legitimately in mourning for fictional characters right now. Especially Caleb who lost everything and was so so hurt, and didnt get any reprieve. In him you created probably the best Anti Hero I've ever read, and I just wanted him to be happy - Once. The fact that not one interactions he had with Leila in this book was genuine just breaks my heart. All those books trying to get back to him... Sigh
I know you left it on the somewhere somehow they're together but ... I don't know. And it's not your responsibility to make me feel better after all the work you put into these books. Perhaps if you had them happy together in Another Universe I wouldnt feel as depressed as I do now. Your series hurt my heart. But I also really enjoyed the journey.
Just wanted to let you know if you ever write a stand-alone romance book where the main characters happened to be called Caleb and Leila... 🤷♀️🤷♀️
---
Her reply 😭
Oh Leandra! It is my responsibility to make you feel better because you’re one of my readers - and a very special reader at that because you’ve taken the time to get in touch.
Firstly thank you so much for reading my series - and for loving it - but I’m so sorry you’ve been left feeling bereft at the end of book 8. I’ll tell you how I see and then you can mull it over.
Caleb did get his reprieve. He got what he always wanted in the end: to be loved unconditionally as he was by Leila and to truly believe he was loved unconditionally which, in those last moments, he did. Therein was his happiness. The interactions with Leila may not have been genuine on her side, but they were on his. And amidst all of that, he knew what his Leila had done for him. He knew she had risked everything to get back to him. He had his redemption through that and achieved what he believed was impossible as a result: to be himself again. He was even reunited with Jake. And through Kane and Phia, the rest of the group know what he did: they know that Caleb was a hero, that he saved them all when he could have condemned them.
Caleb had his moment of triumph stepping into the brink. I can guarantee he is getting his reward now. He’s with the woman he loves and having a fresh start. They’re together again but, this time, under far better circumstances with the freedom to finally be who they both want to be. They worked for it, they earned it, and they got to be together in the end. Just think of the possibilities! I think they have a LOT of fun ahead.
Caleb has been my favourite (anti) hero to write. It would have been easier emotionally to keep him in Blackthorn but I knew I could give him so much more elsewhere - a lifelong happiness with the woman he loves. So I did.
Take care,
Lindsay <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2019
What a bittersweet review to write; the final installment to my beloved blackthorn series.
This book was a rollercoaster ride for sure! One minute I think I know what will happen next, then BAM, not at all how I thought, but even better. This book will take you to the brink of everything you thought you knew about Blackthorn. I can recall many "OH NO" and "OH YES" moments, some where I felt vindicated along with the main characters.
"Strong isn’t about not being afraid Caitlin; it's about facing what you're scared of". I came across this line in the book and to me, nothing better sums up this last installment.
This book picks up where we left off with our mains; Caleb/Leia, Jask/Phia, Eden/Jessie & Kane/Caitlin, the consequences of actions taken and the ultimate conclusion. Will the Tyrran rise or will he fall? Who will pay the price for their actions? What consequences will come as a result of the prophecy not coming to fruition when it first began? Can our beloved characters survive? Suffice to say, I'm still reeling from all the action, plot twists and revelations.
A fantastic ending to this series that has sucked me in since Blood Shadows! Thank you Lindsay for this amazing series & thank you Bookoture for publishing it!
This book was a rollercoaster ride for sure! One minute I think I know what will happen next, then BAM, not at all how I thought, but even better. This book will take you to the brink of everything you thought you knew about Blackthorn. I can recall many "OH NO" and "OH YES" moments, some where I felt vindicated along with the main characters.
"Strong isn’t about not being afraid Caitlin; it's about facing what you're scared of". I came across this line in the book and to me, nothing better sums up this last installment.
This book picks up where we left off with our mains; Caleb/Leia, Jask/Phia, Eden/Jessie & Kane/Caitlin, the consequences of actions taken and the ultimate conclusion. Will the Tyrran rise or will he fall? Who will pay the price for their actions? What consequences will come as a result of the prophecy not coming to fruition when it first began? Can our beloved characters survive? Suffice to say, I'm still reeling from all the action, plot twists and revelations.
A fantastic ending to this series that has sucked me in since Blood Shadows! Thank you Lindsay for this amazing series & thank you Bookoture for publishing it!
June 3, 2019
I have read the series, and let me just say it is one of my all time favorite series. The characters in the series are well developed, as is the storyline. Every time I finished a book in the series, I was sad it was over and couldn't wait to get my hands on the next. I've laughed with these characters, and I've cried with them. I was sad to find out this was the last book in the series. I enjoyed it immensely, EXCEPT for the ending. For the first time ever, I was upset at how a book/series ended. It just kind of just stopped for Leila and Caleb. Yes, they found each other again, somewhere else in another dimension, but it felt like there should have been at least one more book to the series. Where somehow they remember and fight to make it back to their own world. Instead they just left everyone behind wondering. I don't understand how Leila could just leave that all behind knowing the battle everyone fought to save her, Caleb, and their world. I've docked a star, because honestly, I feel jipped.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2019
The end...
The book was not worth the wait. Five of the first six books were wonderful. Book seven was a drag, and book eight was so slow for the first half I was beginning to wish it would end there. It did pick up some in the second half, but it definitely didn't measure up to the first books. I didn't care for the ending or the way the epilogue wrapped up. Overall, a real disappointment.
The book was not worth the wait. Five of the first six books were wonderful. Book seven was a drag, and book eight was so slow for the first half I was beginning to wish it would end there. It did pick up some in the second half, but it definitely didn't measure up to the first books. I didn't care for the ending or the way the epilogue wrapped up. Overall, a real disappointment.
May 28, 2019
Amazing final book!
I loved this book! It was amazing and utterly addictive. It was hard to put down! And the story weaving, it reminds me of Oceans 11 or Leverage. I was shocked quite a few times! Like whoa, did today just happen? This is a nail biting edge of your seat ride!
I loved this book! It was amazing and utterly addictive. It was hard to put down! And the story weaving, it reminds me of Oceans 11 or Leverage. I was shocked quite a few times! Like whoa, did today just happen? This is a nail biting edge of your seat ride!
July 12, 2019
Absolutely breathtaking finale to a series that I never wanted to end. I dipped my toe into the PNR world of Blackthorn several years ago when I took a chance with book #1, Blood Shadows, and was immediately immersed into Lindsay J. Pryor's compelling storytelling. Each successive novel was fascinating and intense, with a strong female lead character you could root for (and a deliciously captivating male lead to drool over), along with secondary characters that were vibrant as well. I was utterly hooked by book #2, Blood Roses, and the gripping story of Caleb and Leila (in which Caleb became my favorite hero/antihero...mmm). I actually bought books 2 and 3 at the same time because I was so taken with the writing and the characters, I knew I was in for great reading ahead. The setting is the dystopian world of Blackthorn, and each story in the series is masterfully woven into an intriguing, overarching plot. Flash forward to this year and I was on pins and needles, eagerly awaiting the release of Blood Broken, the final book in the series where the focus is back on Caleb and Leila. Blood Broken takes your heart and makes it race with so many different emotions...they ran the gamut: nervous, excited, worried, gratified, anxious, stunned, relieved, and delighted...not to mention moments of deep, heart-wrenching sobbing because I felt so emotionally connected to the characters. I have never read a series like this - it swept me away into another time, another place....and I cannot recommend it enough. (PS - You definitely need tissues!)
May 27, 2019
Wow i can't believe its over. What an emotional ride it has been. I had my reservations on how Caleb and Leila would end the story. I personally was not a fan of theirs in book 2. But this very last book in the series proved me wrong. I kept trying to guess how it would end. I did NOT except that ending. I REALLY hope since Lindsay ended on THAT note that they get another book.
This book is part of a series - you HAVE to read all the books before this one.
I loved this series. Maybe not "some" of the stories but as a whole it was so extremely good. Can not wait to read more from Lindsay, her writing and stories suck you in.
This book is part of a series - you HAVE to read all the books before this one.
I loved this series. Maybe not "some" of the stories but as a whole it was so extremely good. Can not wait to read more from Lindsay, her writing and stories suck you in.
May 29, 2019
I hope there is a spin off series
June 4, 2019
This is the final book in the blackthorn series and it will have your heart racing throughout ,its that spine tickling good.
July 9, 2019
I feel like it was a long wait for this book. I re-read the rest of the series in anticipation of the final book. On a re-read I realised-
1. I loved the Kane and Caitlin books the same amount on a second reading (probably loved book one even more on my 3rd reading)
2. I enjoyed book 2 with Leila and Caleb much more on a second read
3. It reinforced my intense dislike of Sophia
4. Jessie and Eden weren't my favourite books on a re-read (couldn't wait to finish book 7), but I still loved them as a couple.
5. Overall it is a very good series
So with the final book I have mixed emotions. I'd probably give the first half 3 stars and the second half 4 stars, so I'll be nice and rate it overall as a 4. The beginning was just a repeat of Leila and Caleb's first book together, in that he didn't trust her and she tried to prove him wrong and that argument kept going in circles. I thought we moved past that. However, once they got over that hurdle things started to pick up and it became really engrossing and exciting. Sophia is still a pain. I still loved Kane and Caitlin, and Eden and Jesse had a lovely moment towards the end. I am not a big fan of multiple POVs, but it was okay in previous books because it was mostly just the two protagonists and input from other characters was minimal. However, this book had way too many people narrating. We even had some random journalist, a human father and some politicians. On top of that we had a lot of back and forth in time. It just made everything so chaotic and not in a good, but maybe that's what the author was aiming for. I almost feel bad for Caleb and Leila because they only got about 50% of their own book.
I thought the book ended well. I was worried we wouldget a cop-out ending, but the author was clever in how she finished different plots. I'm not sure what to think about the ending for one of the couples. I guess it was good that they all didn't get a perfect happy ending, because it was verging on cheesy with the amount of couples together. What bugged me more will have to be in spoiler brackets.
So another series finished. I really liked it and it had some of my favourite book couples.
1. I loved the Kane and Caitlin books the same amount on a second reading (probably loved book one even more on my 3rd reading)
2. I enjoyed book 2 with Leila and Caleb much more on a second read
3. It reinforced my intense dislike of Sophia
4. Jessie and Eden weren't my favourite books on a re-read (couldn't wait to finish book 7), but I still loved them as a couple.
5. Overall it is a very good series
So with the final book I have mixed emotions. I'd probably give the first half 3 stars and the second half 4 stars, so I'll be nice and rate it overall as a 4. The beginning was just a repeat of Leila and Caleb's first book together, in that he didn't trust her and she tried to prove him wrong and that argument kept going in circles. I thought we moved past that. However, once they got over that hurdle things started to pick up and it became really engrossing and exciting. Sophia is still a pain. I still loved Kane and Caitlin, and Eden and Jesse had a lovely moment towards the end. I am not a big fan of multiple POVs, but it was okay in previous books because it was mostly just the two protagonists and input from other characters was minimal. However, this book had way too many people narrating. We even had some random journalist, a human father and some politicians. On top of that we had a lot of back and forth in time. It just made everything so chaotic and not in a good, but maybe that's what the author was aiming for. I almost feel bad for Caleb and Leila because they only got about 50% of their own book.
I thought the book ended well. I was worried we wouldget a cop-out ending, but the author was clever in how she finished different plots. I'm not sure what to think about the ending for one of the couples. I guess it was good that they all didn't get a perfect happy ending, because it was verging on cheesy with the amount of couples together. What bugged me more will have to be in spoiler brackets.
So another series finished. I really liked it and it had some of my favourite book couples.
May 20, 2019
The incredible finale to a brilliant series. 10 million gazilion stars.
If you have not yet read this series, omg seriously you are totally missing out, go and immediately start book 1, you wont regret it.
I am so sad to say goodbye to this world. Blackthorn has been firmly on my auto-buy list from the beginning. The first four books in this series introduce our 4 main couples where each book introduces you to the couple whilst furthering the overreaching arc which is started in book 1. The remaining 4 books pick up each couple again and deepen the connection you have with each couple whilst again furthering the story line.
Each book ratches up the tension, until you get to this explosive finale. This book is action packed from beginning to end full of twists and turns and ratches up the tension to the extreme.Will everyone survive , if everyone survives will Leila and Caleb get their HEA. (hah you thought I would spoiler, nope ).
The district Blackthorn is in grave peril (and not just Blackthorn but Lowtown too), we have 4th species roaming around, we have the cons who are pressing to the Midtown border causing havoc along the way, we have certain individuals in Summertown who think pressing buttons is a great option and we have a looming prophesy. Leila was in Summertown to find and bring back evidence of an alternative to the prophesy. She arrives back to Caleb with an option however as we know from the previous book her journey back was not without mishaps.
The ending omg the ending. I took some time to process the ending and yes its epic and exactly the way it should be.
If you have not yet read this series, omg seriously you are totally missing out, go and immediately start book 1, you wont regret it.
I am so sad to say goodbye to this world. Blackthorn has been firmly on my auto-buy list from the beginning. The first four books in this series introduce our 4 main couples where each book introduces you to the couple whilst furthering the overreaching arc which is started in book 1. The remaining 4 books pick up each couple again and deepen the connection you have with each couple whilst again furthering the story line.
Each book ratches up the tension, until you get to this explosive finale. This book is action packed from beginning to end full of twists and turns and ratches up the tension to the extreme.Will everyone survive , if everyone survives will Leila and Caleb get their HEA. (hah you thought I would spoiler, nope ).
The district Blackthorn is in grave peril (and not just Blackthorn but Lowtown too), we have 4th species roaming around, we have the cons who are pressing to the Midtown border causing havoc along the way, we have certain individuals in Summertown who think pressing buttons is a great option and we have a looming prophesy. Leila was in Summertown to find and bring back evidence of an alternative to the prophesy. She arrives back to Caleb with an option however as we know from the previous book her journey back was not without mishaps.
The ending omg the ending. I took some time to process the ending and yes its epic and exactly the way it should be.
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