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Midnight's Crown #3
Diadem of Blood and Bones
Sacrifice.... Transformation… It all comes down to the final battle... Forced to choose between her life and the lives of the vampires she loves, Briar made the ultimate sacrifice. For her, a world without Marcus, Hudson, Sylvain, and Valen was inconceivable. But her vampires didn't accept her decision, and at the last moment, transformed her from woman to immortal. Awakened to a new, utterly different life, the sun can finally shine on Briar Hale. With eternity in front of her, all she sees is love and hope. So when the creatures of darkness threaten everything she holds dear, Briar will not surrender. She's stronger now and she has a vampire inside her ready to go to war. Can Briar hold onto herself while protecting those she loves? Or will she give into her new power, and become her worst nightmare?
238 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2018
315 people are currently reading
283 people want to read
About the author
Ripley Proserpina
50 books521 followersRipley Proserpina spends her days huddled near a fire in the frozen northern wilds of Vermont. She lives with her family, two magnificent cats, and one dog who aspires to cat-hood.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
August 23, 2018
I was not prepared for this to be the last in the series
My love for this series knows no bounds so I am going back and doing a proper series review here
I completely think this should have been a 4 novel series. The ending was rushed, I would have liked to see it expanded out over 2 books especially with the addition of 3 most interesting characters at the very end!
Are we getting a spin off perhaps?I would love to see that, so Ripley if you’re reading this
The ending was perhaps too sweet but it was such a sweet story of love, acceptance and healing for all the characters throughout the trilogy that I can’t even be too grumpy about it. It couldn’t have been anything other than a HEA
====================================================
Pre review stuff
where did you come from you sneaky little release!
THE FEELINGS
I can't cope!!
Must.not.eat.or.sleep.until.finished
My love for this series knows no bounds so I am going back and doing a proper series review here
I completely think this should have been a 4 novel series. The ending was rushed, I would have liked to see it expanded out over 2 books especially with the addition of 3 most interesting characters at the very end!
Are we getting a spin off perhaps?I would love to see that, so Ripley if you’re reading this
The ending was perhaps too sweet but it was such a sweet story of love, acceptance and healing for all the characters throughout the trilogy that I can’t even be too grumpy about it. It couldn’t have been anything other than a HEA
====================================================
Pre review stuff
where did you come from you sneaky little release!
THE FEELINGS
I can't cope!!
Must.not.eat.or.sleep.until.finished
January 24, 2019
Boy, am I glad this series is over. It's not that I didn't like it. Because I sure did like all of the guys. And Briar wasn't that bad of an MC. But, the story line was just boring. I felt it could've been written much better. There was too much time going by where absolutely NOTHING happened. And it just made it boring.
This book starts off right where book two ended. Briar is a new vampire. She is running through the city because she's confused after being turned. She ends up back home with the guys where they are working together to figure out how to handle Briar being a vampire.
There is a new bad guy in this book too. Which I felt like was unnecessary. Asher shouldn't have died in the second book. He should've been the bad guy throughout the entire series. Because this book just felt thrown together. You got almost nothing from the 'new' bad guy besides two scenes and the ending. Which was super annoying. Why throw that in there? It was seriously unnecessary.
This series, just meh. I could've liked it so much more if it was executed better.
This book starts off right where book two ended. Briar is a new vampire. She is running through the city because she's confused after being turned. She ends up back home with the guys where they are working together to figure out how to handle Briar being a vampire.
There is a new bad guy in this book too. Which I felt like was unnecessary. Asher shouldn't have died in the second book. He should've been the bad guy throughout the entire series. Because this book just felt thrown together. You got almost nothing from the 'new' bad guy besides two scenes and the ending. Which was super annoying. Why throw that in there? It was seriously unnecessary.
This series, just meh. I could've liked it so much more if it was executed better.
February 14, 2025
Tags: age-gaaap, alphalicious, college-romance, friends-to-lovers, hero-loved-or-loves-ow, older-hero-younger-heroine, ow-drama, pnr-vampire, read, rh-paranormal, rh-with-teacher-in-it, rich-hero, slowburn, teacher-student_romance, widower
August 22, 2018
A solid 4 star series.
I really enjoyed this series, more than I thought I would.
Briar was a great MC. She didn't make stupid, rash choices. She thought logically and rationally.
I thought the ending fell a little flat, there was no real explanation as to who the guys who showed up at the end.
I am going to miss Briar and her guys.
I really enjoyed this series, more than I thought I would.
Briar was a great MC. She didn't make stupid, rash choices. She thought logically and rationally.
I thought the ending fell a little flat, there was no real explanation as to who the guys who showed up at the end.
I am going to miss Briar and her guys.
August 30, 2018
I cried. Well, almost.
But that ending was just....
*cue the tears*
I will say, it was my fave in the series.
I could’ve gone without Hudson’s dramatic temporary exit for half of it, but to each their own.
Personally, I like to handle my life failures with online shopping.
I wished we had seen more of Theia in the first two books. I feel like she could have been incorporated into the story earlier on.
The three dudes at the end: Ra, Horus, Seti.
Very random.
I also wish, since it was mentioned they sought out Hudson, that they’d been introduced earlier on in the book.
I think there was a brief mention here and there, though.
Team Sylvain all the way, he was my fave of the four. Read if you’ve read the books:
Loved them all though.
I also finally stopped saying Sylvia in my head.
That epilogue though. Crying.
Alllll the tearssss
But that ending was just....
*cue the tears*
I will say, it was my fave in the series.
I could’ve gone without Hudson’s dramatic temporary exit for half of it, but to each their own.
Personally, I like to handle my life failures with online shopping.
I wished we had seen more of Theia in the first two books. I feel like she could have been incorporated into the story earlier on.
The three dudes at the end: Ra, Horus, Seti.
Very random.
I also wish, since it was mentioned they sought out Hudson, that they’d been introduced earlier on in the book.
I think there was a brief mention here and there, though.
Team Sylvain all the way, he was my fave of the four. Read if you’ve read the books:
Loved them all though.
I also finally stopped saying Sylvia in my head.
That epilogue though. Crying.
Alllll the tearssss
November 29, 2022
3.5 Stars
This was an OK end I just thought this book was kind of weird. I enjoyed their HEA but I struggle with understanding this new enemy that pops up out of nowhere and throws a tantrum. This leads to Briar and two of her men being separated from the rest as one of them brooded after being manipulated. Also not sure that I actually liked Briar as a vamp. In most other reads it's something you root for so the characters HEA can last forever. But with Briar having the sun syndrome and suddenly becoming a vampire Queen it was just too much. Overall an OK trilogy.
This was an OK end I just thought this book was kind of weird. I enjoyed their HEA but I struggle with understanding this new enemy that pops up out of nowhere and throws a tantrum. This leads to Briar and two of her men being separated from the rest as one of them brooded after being manipulated. Also not sure that I actually liked Briar as a vamp. In most other reads it's something you root for so the characters HEA can last forever. But with Briar having the sun syndrome and suddenly becoming a vampire Queen it was just too much. Overall an OK trilogy.
October 26, 2024
Edit 2024:
I found the audiobooks included in my subscription. And I enjoyed them like the first time. I like that the vampires are predators but they try to hide it at first and then they try to be sensible about it. I like authors who describe vampires in a more unique way than the old vampire films like Dracula. I liked Briar, who was a good fit for the four vampires and always found a way to involve the two who were not scientists in their science talk.
I recommend this series, it was a good one.
Review 2028
A good Ending to this series. It's a must read for people who aready read the first two parts.
I found the audiobooks included in my subscription. And I enjoyed them like the first time. I like that the vampires are predators but they try to hide it at first and then they try to be sensible about it. I like authors who describe vampires in a more unique way than the old vampire films like Dracula. I liked Briar, who was a good fit for the four vampires and always found a way to involve the two who were not scientists in their science talk.
I recommend this series, it was a good one.
Review 2028
A good Ending to this series. It's a must read for people who aready read the first two parts.
August 4, 2018
3.5, not sure whether to round up or down.
The shining point of this series has been Briar, really, and how refreshing it is to have a female MC who makes sensible, logical decisions.
The men are all lovely, and the plot is fine, but I guess I found it all a little insipid for my tastes. Everything is too perfect and there's no real sense of drama, as you know everything is just going to work out.
It is pretty well written though, and I would recommend it for fans of the genre, I just think it was just a little sickly-sweet and cheesy in places for my tastes to rate is any higher.
The shining point of this series has been Briar, really, and how refreshing it is to have a female MC who makes sensible, logical decisions.
The men are all lovely, and the plot is fine, but I guess I found it all a little insipid for my tastes. Everything is too perfect and there's no real sense of drama, as you know everything is just going to work out.
It is pretty well written though, and I would recommend it for fans of the genre, I just think it was just a little sickly-sweet and cheesy in places for my tastes to rate is any higher.
October 2, 2021
I loved this series at first I found book one to be slow but continued and all of a sudden I couldn't put the book down. Now two days of smiling, laughing and crying later I've finished the last book and it's now one of my favourite reverse harem series. Definitely a must read if your into reverse harems and sexy loveable vampires
November 9, 2020
I mean, the end of these series is never super earth shattering. Good show of coming up with a new reasonable antagonist, though it felt kinda thrown in. Also, totally random having the Egyption brothers at the end....?
I saw the pregnancy coming a mile away though, that's a popular ending too. It's cute, I approve. Would have liked a conclusion on the vampire evolution stuff, instead of just speculation....
This book was meh, it was an end to the series, but truly the plot wasn't needed. You could have just skipped from when she became a vampire to the pregnancy to the graduation.
I saw the pregnancy coming a mile away though, that's a popular ending too. It's cute, I approve. Would have liked a conclusion on the vampire evolution stuff, instead of just speculation....
This book was meh, it was an end to the series, but truly the plot wasn't needed. You could have just skipped from when she became a vampire to the pregnancy to the graduation.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2018
The third book was just as great as the first two. I enjoyed Briar’s growth and new changes throughout the entire story. Loving the tough vampire chick that can protect her men. Who wants to always read about the damsel in distress anyway? And this girl has brains too! I loved the relationships between the MC and her men. Each character was unique and enjoyable. This was a awesome series and I’m sad that it’s over. I’m hoping for maybe a spin-off? Hint. Hint.
October 26, 2025
Never in all my days have I read a RH that didn’t involve at least a threesome. It’s important to know, going into this series, that it’s mostly plot, lots of romance, and minimal smut. It’s a fast-paced, interesting read. However, I was surprised at the content given this was a TikTok rec. Overall, I would definitely recommend the whole series for a quick read.
September 22, 2018
DNF 64% - I tried to finish it , but it just isn’t worth it. The first two books I liked, even though the second one was super cheesy and it was insta-lovey. I liked the guys, but this book they just blend together. Not for me.
August 1, 2018
Forced by Asher to choose between her own life and those of her vampires, Marcus, Hudson, Sylvain, and Valen was no choice at all. Briar burned. But she didn't die. She returned to her vampires as a vampire herself. A new kind of vampire. One that can exist in the sun, one who doesn't drink human blood, one whose body holds secrets. With an eternity to spend together, learning, loving, the family has one more battle to fight. One of Asher's children wants his power. She wants the soldiers and the crawlers and she wants Asher's day-walking sons. One last war to fight. Briar is ready this time. She and her vampire will protect the vampires she loves, fight for the life they want.
Diadem of Blood and Bones is the wonderful conclusion to Briar's story. It's a story of Briar's transformation. Not just the physical transformation into a vampire but also into a powerful woman. Gone is the young, lost girl with dreams she can't ever imagine becoming a reality. Briar has realized her dreams in a way she could have never imagined. Her brilliance is now joined with confidence. Her four vampires, her own vampire, and Briar, herself have helped her to become a force. Her vampires have also changed. She has brought them to life again, offered them a real future. This is an emotional, heartfelt story.
Ripley created a fantastic set of characters, a relationship worth fighting for, and a dangerous enemy. This book has everything; steamy times, action, danger, angst, and lots of love with a few surprises thrown in for good measure. It wraps up nicely with what I consider the perfect ending.
Diadem of Blood and Bones is the wonderful conclusion to Briar's story. It's a story of Briar's transformation. Not just the physical transformation into a vampire but also into a powerful woman. Gone is the young, lost girl with dreams she can't ever imagine becoming a reality. Briar has realized her dreams in a way she could have never imagined. Her brilliance is now joined with confidence. Her four vampires, her own vampire, and Briar, herself have helped her to become a force. Her vampires have also changed. She has brought them to life again, offered them a real future. This is an emotional, heartfelt story.
Ripley created a fantastic set of characters, a relationship worth fighting for, and a dangerous enemy. This book has everything; steamy times, action, danger, angst, and lots of love with a few surprises thrown in for good measure. It wraps up nicely with what I consider the perfect ending.
August 19, 2018
As always, finishing a series has a bittersweet feeling to it. I kinda like the way it all ended, but I'm also gonna miss this characters quite a lot.
The last book was good. And even though most of the action was packed in the last 30 or so pages, it does not mean that I did not enjoy the remaining part of the story. Because I did, quite a lot. And Sylvain was probably the main reason for it. He was always my favorite, but this book was where he and his personality really shined. His unique and sometimes abrasive sense of humor and his general behavior is what made this book so much better than it could've been. Not to say that I did not like the other guys, I did. It just that Sylvain seemed like the lead hero in this installment. And Briar. She has really grown throughout these books and it was good to see her so confident and sure of herself. It suits her.
However, while the majority of the story was amazing, the ending kind of put me off a bit. First it was the Originals that entered the picture. Don't get me wrong, their appearance actually made me giddy and pleasantly surprised. I enjoy a good plot twist, especially with some mythology woven into it (I mean, come on, their names are actually Ra, Seti and Horus! You didn't think I would miss it, did you?). So I was more than a little eager to see where this was going. Imagine my disappointed when I realized that it was going nowhere! They just left, promising to keep in touch and then the book ended. Why would you insert and dangle an interesting and promising storyline in front of me, if you were not going to exploit it? That's just cruel, in my opinion.
Second, I did not like Briar's position on her relationship with her parents, or rather the fact that she lets her parents believe in whatever. The fact that I wanted to see her introducing her parents to her mates aside, I just do not like that their relationship is kept secret. It feels wrong.
But yeah. Overall, the good definitely outweighs the bad for me with this book and I am happy that I found these series and had the chance to read and live though this story.
The last book was good. And even though most of the action was packed in the last 30 or so pages, it does not mean that I did not enjoy the remaining part of the story. Because I did, quite a lot. And Sylvain was probably the main reason for it. He was always my favorite, but this book was where he and his personality really shined. His unique and sometimes abrasive sense of humor and his general behavior is what made this book so much better than it could've been. Not to say that I did not like the other guys, I did. It just that Sylvain seemed like the lead hero in this installment. And Briar. She has really grown throughout these books and it was good to see her so confident and sure of herself. It suits her.
However, while the majority of the story was amazing, the ending kind of put me off a bit. First it was the Originals that entered the picture. Don't get me wrong, their appearance actually made me giddy and pleasantly surprised. I enjoy a good plot twist, especially with some mythology woven into it (I mean, come on, their names are actually Ra, Seti and Horus! You didn't think I would miss it, did you?). So I was more than a little eager to see where this was going. Imagine my disappointed when I realized that it was going nowhere! They just left, promising to keep in touch and then the book ended. Why would you insert and dangle an interesting and promising storyline in front of me, if you were not going to exploit it? That's just cruel, in my opinion.
Second, I did not like Briar's position on her relationship with her parents, or rather the fact that she lets her parents believe in whatever. The fact that I wanted to see her introducing her parents to her mates aside, I just do not like that their relationship is kept secret. It feels wrong.
But yeah. Overall, the good definitely outweighs the bad for me with this book and I am happy that I found these series and had the chance to read and live though this story.
July 16, 2020
The last book of the series has me so sad! I wish this had continued and stretched out into a four part series but here were are with a trilogy.
Briar is now a vampire. She can walk in the sun and feel it’s warmth for the first time since she was five. Briar saved her boys from Asher, and they killed him for the loss of life he wrought. Now that she’s a vampire, they have forever to enrich their relationships and build their family up towards higher places.
I really do wish this book had been divided and stretched out into two. Although it was possible to have this book be the ending, I felt the ending was rushed. There was a lot happening and even new characters introduced (which I spotted as them being for the spin off series *hello*), but even with the rush I loved the series. It was so endearing.
Blair overall is a good character. She’s strong and knows her limits of strength. Learning to rely and depend on others, Blair knows that she can take care of herself, especially since turning into a vampire, but let’s the guys protect her for their sake. She’s very in tune with their emotional needs and loves them dearly, and they love her just as much. I love seeing the guys’ POV. It just gives that much more a glimpse into what is happening with them and their relationships with each other.
I will say this... even at the end of this book, I have solidified that *Slyvain* is by far the best of the men. I love him to bits and he is my beau. CAN’T EVEN! Don’t even get me started that the epilogue hinted at MAJOR SPOILER ALERT their child being his. Like... boo I love it so much. Regardless of whose kid it is, their family dynamic is so wholesome and I would LOVE a baby novella about their life together a few years off with their kids, Briar, and the guys. It would be so cute.
Anyway, I would totally recommend this to RH lovers out there who fancy a little vampire in their lives. A very good slow burn series that has the emotional relationships that make your heart swoon. Too cute.
Briar is now a vampire. She can walk in the sun and feel it’s warmth for the first time since she was five. Briar saved her boys from Asher, and they killed him for the loss of life he wrought. Now that she’s a vampire, they have forever to enrich their relationships and build their family up towards higher places.
I really do wish this book had been divided and stretched out into two. Although it was possible to have this book be the ending, I felt the ending was rushed. There was a lot happening and even new characters introduced (which I spotted as them being for the spin off series *hello*), but even with the rush I loved the series. It was so endearing.
Blair overall is a good character. She’s strong and knows her limits of strength. Learning to rely and depend on others, Blair knows that she can take care of herself, especially since turning into a vampire, but let’s the guys protect her for their sake. She’s very in tune with their emotional needs and loves them dearly, and they love her just as much. I love seeing the guys’ POV. It just gives that much more a glimpse into what is happening with them and their relationships with each other.
I will say this... even at the end of this book, I have solidified that *Slyvain* is by far the best of the men. I love him to bits and he is my beau. CAN’T EVEN! Don’t even get me started that the epilogue hinted at MAJOR SPOILER ALERT their child being his. Like... boo I love it so much. Regardless of whose kid it is, their family dynamic is so wholesome and I would LOVE a baby novella about their life together a few years off with their kids, Briar, and the guys. It would be so cute.
Anyway, I would totally recommend this to RH lovers out there who fancy a little vampire in their lives. A very good slow burn series that has the emotional relationships that make your heart swoon. Too cute.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2018
Diadem of Blood and Bones: Midnight's Crown, Book 3 Kindle Edition
by Ripley Proserpina
<<>>
Happy Dance all over the place as I am swept back into the world of 4 sexy vampires and their 'human' love.
Ms. Proserpina is one of the founders of the Reverse Harem movement and you can see how much she adds to the genre in this (hopefully not, but I am afraid so) final novel in the series.
When we left Sylain, Hudson, Marcus and Valen they had just lost Briar in a battle with their master. Allergic to the Sun, Briar chose death to protect the four men she loves. Through a medical miracle, she returns to them. Only to find that their battles aren't over.
Other children of Asher return (btw – can we retire that name for vampires?) to the fold, wanting to take a crown they should not have and Briar Hale freshly returned and able to walk in the sun for the first time in her short, adorably angst filled lie, must learn her own talents, and how to use them.
The romance remains foremost and once again, Reverse Harem- how did I not know about this in high school and college?? Ms. Proserpina manages to balance the steamy scene between all four of them and highlights each man's strengths and weaknesses, making them more real than almost any characters I have seen this year or any other in a romance.
I do admit to preferring the Viking, Valen, above all else, but hey, I married a Viking so I am biased. But Valen does, indeed seem to be the North Star everyone else ends up following.
5 gloriously sexy stars out of 5
The Book Nerd recommends with the highest praise!
https://smile.amazon.com/Diadem-Blood...
by Ripley Proserpina
<<>>
Happy Dance all over the place as I am swept back into the world of 4 sexy vampires and their 'human' love.
Ms. Proserpina is one of the founders of the Reverse Harem movement and you can see how much she adds to the genre in this (hopefully not, but I am afraid so) final novel in the series.
When we left Sylain, Hudson, Marcus and Valen they had just lost Briar in a battle with their master. Allergic to the Sun, Briar chose death to protect the four men she loves. Through a medical miracle, she returns to them. Only to find that their battles aren't over.
Other children of Asher return (btw – can we retire that name for vampires?) to the fold, wanting to take a crown they should not have and Briar Hale freshly returned and able to walk in the sun for the first time in her short, adorably angst filled lie, must learn her own talents, and how to use them.
The romance remains foremost and once again, Reverse Harem- how did I not know about this in high school and college?? Ms. Proserpina manages to balance the steamy scene between all four of them and highlights each man's strengths and weaknesses, making them more real than almost any characters I have seen this year or any other in a romance.
I do admit to preferring the Viking, Valen, above all else, but hey, I married a Viking so I am biased. But Valen does, indeed seem to be the North Star everyone else ends up following.
5 gloriously sexy stars out of 5
The Book Nerd recommends with the highest praise!
https://smile.amazon.com/Diadem-Blood...
August 11, 2019
3.5 Vampirism is a Virus Stars
I really enjoyed these succinct ending to this series. Following along Briar’s heart-wrenching journey, that started with her not being able to simply walk in the sun without burning, and to where she is now at the end of this series is blissful.
Her men match her so well. They each encompass almost entirely different sides of her, but the five of them work well together. It’s almost always shocking how authors make five people seem made for each other. Especially without making it overly cheesy and gag inducing.
I did read a review that I can’t help to agree a little with; in regards to Theia and how forced her as the antagonist felt. While this story also lacked depth into those mysterious saviors at the end. The final battle indeed felt very rushed and the epilogue just didn’t hit home for me. I think Ripley focused too much on her graduating and getting her Masters which is indeed an achievement. I do however believe that focusing more on a moment in their child’s life would had a better response from more readers. It just pulls on more heart strings, and I can only speak for myself here, but I was more interested in learning more about their child for the story to really feel like it wrapped up.
I loved the brainstorming and scientific aspect in this series. It wrongs true for me, being someone who constantly likes to learn more and more. It helped to make me feel more connected and interested in Briar, and the way her beautiful brain worked.
I really enjoyed these succinct ending to this series. Following along Briar’s heart-wrenching journey, that started with her not being able to simply walk in the sun without burning, and to where she is now at the end of this series is blissful.
Her men match her so well. They each encompass almost entirely different sides of her, but the five of them work well together. It’s almost always shocking how authors make five people seem made for each other. Especially without making it overly cheesy and gag inducing.
I did read a review that I can’t help to agree a little with; in regards to Theia and how forced her as the antagonist felt. While this story also lacked depth into those mysterious saviors at the end. The final battle indeed felt very rushed and the epilogue just didn’t hit home for me. I think Ripley focused too much on her graduating and getting her Masters which is indeed an achievement. I do however believe that focusing more on a moment in their child’s life would had a better response from more readers. It just pulls on more heart strings, and I can only speak for myself here, but I was more interested in learning more about their child for the story to really feel like it wrapped up.
I loved the brainstorming and scientific aspect in this series. It wrongs true for me, being someone who constantly likes to learn more and more. It helped to make me feel more connected and interested in Briar, and the way her beautiful brain worked.
March 1, 2022
So, now we hit the end of the story. First, I loved this series. The characters and all made it easy to love it.
The story itself, even if it wasn't perfect, was an interesting journey. I like it, that the relationships and their emotions is in the center of the story and not just a byproduct.
The plot around the new villain Theia. I think, that wasn't necessary. She wasn't mentioned before and during the story she appeared only four times (two times in the in-between, one time in the college, though we don't see her and at the ending). Mostly, she was just a background threat, that wasn't really threatening. She appeared like a toddler with a fit, because she didn't get what she wants. Asher was a better villain. But I don't complain about that, and it's not meant to be a criticism. It's just stating a fact for me.
Another thing is the originals. I don't just mean the three guys who helped in the end. But the connection between them and Briar and all. I wished, there would have been an explanation about the origins. But there wasn't.
I have seen there is a spin-off to this series. Maybe there will be shown more.
But okay. The epilogue was too short for my taste. Don't get me wrong. I'm glad, that there is one, and that Briar got all she wanted. But I wished to see more of their life after that and solutions. Their plans. But again, I hope for the spin-off to solve some of that or at least they show something.
So, in the end, all is good. :)
The story itself, even if it wasn't perfect, was an interesting journey. I like it, that the relationships and their emotions is in the center of the story and not just a byproduct.
The plot around the new villain Theia. I think, that wasn't necessary. She wasn't mentioned before and during the story she appeared only four times (two times in the in-between, one time in the college, though we don't see her and at the ending). Mostly, she was just a background threat, that wasn't really threatening. She appeared like a toddler with a fit, because she didn't get what she wants. Asher was a better villain. But I don't complain about that, and it's not meant to be a criticism. It's just stating a fact for me.
Another thing is the originals. I don't just mean the three guys who helped in the end. But the connection between them and Briar and all. I wished, there would have been an explanation about the origins. But there wasn't.
I have seen there is a spin-off to this series. Maybe there will be shown more.
But okay. The epilogue was too short for my taste. Don't get me wrong. I'm glad, that there is one, and that Briar got all she wanted. But I wished to see more of their life after that and solutions. Their plans. But again, I hope for the spin-off to solve some of that or at least they show something.
So, in the end, all is good. :)
August 5, 2018
This was a nice conclusion to Briar and her four vamps' story. Briar was definitely the high point of this entire series for me - and this is rare because usually it is almost always one or more of the heroes that I say that about. Briar is so quietly strong, so intelligent and logical - she was a pleasure to read about. This author consistently writes good stories, with interesting plots and emotional romance (rather than steamy romance), and I always enjoy them. This book swayed heavily to the plot and action of dealing with a new villain threatening their lives and way of life, in the setting of Briar's change at the end of Book 2, so it felt less romantic overall. The heroes continued their fierce protectiveness in thinking and talking about Briar being the priority, and saving Briar - but Briar can save herself, and them. A trio of new characters were introduced at the very end - I'm not sure if they were meant to be brought in as a possible direction for a spin-off? If so, Briar and her vamps could appear briefly in that spin-off, but this was the end of their trilogy and while it was probably my least favorite of the three, I felt it was an appropriate ending, with a sweet happy development to see them off.
3.5 Stars
I read this book as part of the Amazon KU program.
3.5 Stars
I read this book as part of the Amazon KU program.
July 23, 2019
Diadem of Blood and Bones is the final book in the Midnight's Crown trilogy written in all pov which makes my heart sing! All of the guys are unique and amazing and Briar is a BA Mofo! She is caring, kind and considerate as well as genius level smart and she can handle her own and then some! The thoughtful consideration and top notch research that Proserpina has put into this series earns her my deepest admiration. This story rings as completely plausible even though it's science fiction. Thank you to Sylvain and Valen for their constant complaining for the science nerds to speak English.
In the last book the bad guy was dispatched but left behind a big problem. This family of five take as their duty to clean up the dangerous mess, learning how deeply they love each other along the way. I especially enjoyed the interaction between Briar and her vampire as well as the help from the guys and each of their own vampires. There is a new villain to hate! It was difficult to watch Hudson struggle with his weakness. There is quite a lot of action this time around and I felt right in the thick of it. I got my HEA and a bonus! I could not be happier!
In the last book the bad guy was dispatched but left behind a big problem. This family of five take as their duty to clean up the dangerous mess, learning how deeply they love each other along the way. I especially enjoyed the interaction between Briar and her vampire as well as the help from the guys and each of their own vampires. There is a new villain to hate! It was difficult to watch Hudson struggle with his weakness. There is quite a lot of action this time around and I felt right in the thick of it. I got my HEA and a bonus! I could not be happier!
September 16, 2018
I was sad because this was the grand finale of Briar's story. And what a fantastic ending! I'm going to miss Briar, Hudson, Valen, Marcus and Sylvain. After the last book I was in tears, Briar sacrificing herself for the guys she loves, braving the deathly sun and not a kind death. But then she frealing came back as a vampire. But a vampire with a twist. And Stronger too!
You would think they deserve some happiness, they can all enjoy the sun, spend eternity together and just love. But no. Asher's Death caused a vaccuum and no one to control his soldiers and other creations (think gross venom vampiric worm that used to be a person) and all the vampires that want to rule and take Asher's place (and creations) come out of the woodwork.
But then Asher's Daughter comes out. She now not only wants the crown an everything that belonged to Asher but the guys too. And that's just not on. Briar will do whatever it takes to protect her and her men. And now she has tje power and strength not just in mind but in body to do something.
Read this Reverse Harem trilogy. You need too!
You would think they deserve some happiness, they can all enjoy the sun, spend eternity together and just love. But no. Asher's Death caused a vaccuum and no one to control his soldiers and other creations (think gross venom vampiric worm that used to be a person) and all the vampires that want to rule and take Asher's place (and creations) come out of the woodwork.
But then Asher's Daughter comes out. She now not only wants the crown an everything that belonged to Asher but the guys too. And that's just not on. Briar will do whatever it takes to protect her and her men. And now she has tje power and strength not just in mind but in body to do something.
Read this Reverse Harem trilogy. You need too!
November 26, 2023
The series ends well and is cute, but there’s nothing special about this series that would make me ever think about this book or characters again like a great book does where theirs characters and entire worlds that stay with you forever.
The characters were lacking I was so intrigued when I first started these books by the fact that they could live thousands of years, yet two of her men (felt stupid compared to her and the two doctors) they they they never had a formal education. Seriously 😒 after hundreds of years you easily could have got any kind of education you wanted it just seemed like lazy writing on the writer side.
The entire storyline of her one doctor boyfriend who’s mind was controlled by another vampire and he hurt Briar, then he runs away for weeks because he’s afraid of hurting her only to come back because of a medical solution that Briar came up with, It was stupid. I could have done without that storyline!
The characters were lacking I was so intrigued when I first started these books by the fact that they could live thousands of years, yet two of her men (felt stupid compared to her and the two doctors) they they they never had a formal education. Seriously 😒 after hundreds of years you easily could have got any kind of education you wanted it just seemed like lazy writing on the writer side.
The entire storyline of her one doctor boyfriend who’s mind was controlled by another vampire and he hurt Briar, then he runs away for weeks because he’s afraid of hurting her only to come back because of a medical solution that Briar came up with, It was stupid. I could have done without that storyline!
August 23, 2025
2.5🌟
I actually thought there will be more book atleast one more .
now she's a vampire, has all power and the pervious maker had apparently queen of all the soldier the previous maker created, but there is competition, there are other heir ( if ypu how this typical vampire hire blood stuff works its the same )
and there is other party who controlling all this soldier and trying to cause chaos in he city and she and bf's are killing them most part of the book but this other party apparently wants all the vampires also her bf's so in the end they go for a fight aka war and they Win ( sun and few other vampires help) and she is peg now .... ( this vampire who helped her her apparently bron like her current peg baby)
HEA..
now the problem is this was perdictable and boring 😴 1st 2 books has science and magic mix with was kinda intriguing but this so predictable it was boring .....
I actually thought there will be more book atleast one more .
now she's a vampire, has all power and the pervious maker had apparently queen of all the soldier the previous maker created, but there is competition, there are other heir ( if ypu how this typical vampire hire blood stuff works its the same )
and there is other party who controlling all this soldier and trying to cause chaos in he city and she and bf's are killing them most part of the book but this other party apparently wants all the vampires also her bf's so in the end they go for a fight aka war and they Win ( sun and few other vampires help) and she is peg now .... ( this vampire who helped her her apparently bron like her current peg baby)
HEA..
now the problem is this was perdictable and boring 😴 1st 2 books has science and magic mix with was kinda intriguing but this so predictable it was boring .....
August 6, 2018
Amazing Conclusion!
"May Contain Spoilers"
So if you haven't read the first two and love RH and Vampires then this is the story for you! It is such an interesting take on soooo many vampire stories. That are already out there. And for those who did read the others two, this one picks up where book two left off... At a very cruel cliffhanger I might add. Thankfully no cliffhangers for this one seeing how its the last one(an author did that once... Yeah left a cliffhanger at the END OF THE SERIES!!! Who does that!!!)
Anyway I reccomend this series very highly!
Now spoiler time...
The way this ended was very interesting and in my own opinion left open a possible spin off series with Briar's daughter... Maybe ending up with the original three vampires? But thats just me hoping... Although it would be an awesome read!
"May Contain Spoilers"
So if you haven't read the first two and love RH and Vampires then this is the story for you! It is such an interesting take on soooo many vampire stories. That are already out there. And for those who did read the others two, this one picks up where book two left off... At a very cruel cliffhanger I might add. Thankfully no cliffhangers for this one seeing how its the last one(an author did that once... Yeah left a cliffhanger at the END OF THE SERIES!!! Who does that!!!)
Anyway I reccomend this series very highly!
Now spoiler time...
The way this ended was very interesting and in my own opinion left open a possible spin off series with Briar's daughter... Maybe ending up with the original three vampires? But thats just me hoping... Although it would be an awesome read!
August 28, 2018
Good Finale
This was an enjoyable series. I liked all the science involved and that everything bad a basis in science. I do wish that the five of them would have had a closer relationship. It always seemed that others were suffering every time she spent time with just one of them. If you are going to love four guys, then love four guys. I also thought it was crazy that just a couple drips of her blood made them faster, more energetic and stronger, but not once when they were going to battle did she ever say hey, here everyone take some. It just made no sense not to use such a powerful weapon when they were up against huge possibly unbeatable odds. I was would have also like to see a longer Epilogue with getting to see more of the daughter and possibly the three originals. I could see her daughter and them hooking up when she grows up. It would make a good story ;)
This was an enjoyable series. I liked all the science involved and that everything bad a basis in science. I do wish that the five of them would have had a closer relationship. It always seemed that others were suffering every time she spent time with just one of them. If you are going to love four guys, then love four guys. I also thought it was crazy that just a couple drips of her blood made them faster, more energetic and stronger, but not once when they were going to battle did she ever say hey, here everyone take some. It just made no sense not to use such a powerful weapon when they were up against huge possibly unbeatable odds. I was would have also like to see a longer Epilogue with getting to see more of the daughter and possibly the three originals. I could see her daughter and them hooking up when she grows up. It would make a good story ;)
December 5, 2019
This was a 3 star read . I sort of enjoyed this series. Definitely the first book and kinda the second book( not enough plot, too much magic instant love ) and
Was meh on the third. There didn’t seem to be any personal growth for the main character besides she listened to her “separate” vampire. And I did feel she was. A Mary Sue . I should not write reviews at 5 am.
The science aspect of it was fun, if mentioned a little often. I did get the harem confused a bit as they had very similar voices in the last book.
The end was a little unsatisfying, especially with the introduction of the next series characters. It seemed very rushed and confusing. I don’t think we needed them introduced as the author had alluded to them before.
Also I hate she’s like “ oh yay. I’m pregnant.”Because who in the mfing world has such a vanilla reaction to that news.
The epilogue was 😑.
Was meh on the third. There didn’t seem to be any personal growth for the main character besides she listened to her “separate” vampire. And I did feel she was. A Mary Sue . I should not write reviews at 5 am.
The science aspect of it was fun, if mentioned a little often. I did get the harem confused a bit as they had very similar voices in the last book.
The end was a little unsatisfying, especially with the introduction of the next series characters. It seemed very rushed and confusing. I don’t think we needed them introduced as the author had alluded to them before.
Also I hate she’s like “ oh yay. I’m pregnant.”Because who in the mfing world has such a vanilla reaction to that news.
The epilogue was 😑.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2025
As the concluding book in the series, *Diadem of Blood and Bones* carries forward the distinct child-like tone of its predecessors while offering a plot that keeps readers engaged. Although the pacing felt lengthy at times, there was an undeniable pull to reach the end and uncover what happens.
The spice level saw an increase, but for me, it hovered around a moderate 2 or 3. While certain plot points were predictable, there were still refreshing twists that caught me off guard, balancing the overall narrative. A particular highlight was the infusion of science and medical knowledge—whether through research or expertise, the author's grasp on these elements added depth and authenticity to the story.
Though not without its flaws, *Diadem of Blood and Bones* succeeds in tying up the series with a plot that compels readers to persevere, even through its more drawn-out sections
The spice level saw an increase, but for me, it hovered around a moderate 2 or 3. While certain plot points were predictable, there were still refreshing twists that caught me off guard, balancing the overall narrative. A particular highlight was the infusion of science and medical knowledge—whether through research or expertise, the author's grasp on these elements added depth and authenticity to the story.
Though not without its flaws, *Diadem of Blood and Bones* succeeds in tying up the series with a plot that compels readers to persevere, even through its more drawn-out sections
August 23, 2018
I loved this third book in the Midnight’s Crown Series!!! Briar really evolves not only as a person but as a vampire as well. She really takes on the role of queen so well. She has this sweet, smart, and protective vibe to her that makes this book so enthralling and enjoyable!!! I loved how her relationship with Hudson, Sylvain, Marcus, and Valen grew and developed into this strong bond, united in an almost marriage and full circle with a child to cement them together. It was the perfect ending to all things Asher and his rule, including all his evil, horrible creatures and his crazy, power-hungry general, Theia. It was such a great series, and definitely one of my favorites from author, Ripley Proserpina!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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