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Blood
The only thing Seth Stark adores more than his girlfriend, Kiki Belven, is football.
The only thing Adara Stromer hates more than her lifelong nemesis, Kiki Belven, is fire.
And the only thing that irks Tray Stark more than his lifelong nuisance, Adara Stromer, is not being able to study.
So when two strange men arrive on the doorstep of their home and tell these teens they have superpowers, the last thing Tray wants to hear is he’ll have to drop out of school, the last thing Adara wants to discover is this “Affinity" of hers includes flames, and the last thing Seth wants to do is leave his football team.
Traveling to Periculand, a town for Affinities, the three friends soon realize bullies, homework, and sports should be the least of their concerns: the infamous, terrorist Wackos, a group of Affinities with a flair for violence, have shifted their focus from killing “Regular” people to infiltrating Periculand.
As secrets and mysteries unfold, Adara, Tray, and Seth, along with their new friends and rivals, must determine what hidden motives are at work—and who among them is their true enemy.
The only thing Adara Stromer hates more than her lifelong nemesis, Kiki Belven, is fire.
And the only thing that irks Tray Stark more than his lifelong nuisance, Adara Stromer, is not being able to study.
So when two strange men arrive on the doorstep of their home and tell these teens they have superpowers, the last thing Tray wants to hear is he’ll have to drop out of school, the last thing Adara wants to discover is this “Affinity" of hers includes flames, and the last thing Seth wants to do is leave his football team.
Traveling to Periculand, a town for Affinities, the three friends soon realize bullies, homework, and sports should be the least of their concerns: the infamous, terrorist Wackos, a group of Affinities with a flair for violence, have shifted their focus from killing “Regular” people to infiltrating Periculand.
As secrets and mysteries unfold, Adara, Tray, and Seth, along with their new friends and rivals, must determine what hidden motives are at work—and who among them is their true enemy.
512 pages, Paperback
Published February 7, 2019
7 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
January 14, 2024
I was given a free copy for an honest review.
This has been on my TBR for so long, at least a year. When I finally got the chance to read it, I was enamored, and I could not put this down (I was folding my clothes while simultaneously reading this LOL). The characters are incredibly compelling, and I adore the choice to make Adara more morally grey, chaotic, and cruel. Despite the fact that I'd probably hate her attitude and rude commentary in real life, I found her to be a funny protagonist to follow, and spent many moments in the book laughing. The writing is so charming, and the mutation of chromosomes in the Affinities is interesting! I'd love to know more.
As for the characters, I enjoyed the banter between Adara and Calder, as well as Adara and Tray. I feel that the three of them had the most unique, developed personalities. I personally didn't vibe with either Seth or Avner, but I am hoping for some development with them! Kiki was so ridiculous that she became hilarious, similar to Nero. Even though Nixie's role was minor, I enjoyed her character as well.
I cannot wait to read the next book! Thank you for your wonderful writing, Kirsten <3
This has been on my TBR for so long, at least a year. When I finally got the chance to read it, I was enamored, and I could not put this down (I was folding my clothes while simultaneously reading this LOL). The characters are incredibly compelling, and I adore the choice to make Adara more morally grey, chaotic, and cruel. Despite the fact that I'd probably hate her attitude and rude commentary in real life, I found her to be a funny protagonist to follow, and spent many moments in the book laughing. The writing is so charming, and the mutation of chromosomes in the Affinities is interesting! I'd love to know more.
As for the characters, I enjoyed the banter between Adara and Calder, as well as Adara and Tray. I feel that the three of them had the most unique, developed personalities. I personally didn't vibe with either Seth or Avner, but I am hoping for some development with them! Kiki was so ridiculous that she became hilarious, similar to Nero. Even though Nixie's role was minor, I enjoyed her character as well.
I cannot wait to read the next book! Thank you for your wonderful writing, Kirsten <3
August 7, 2020
I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Title: Blood
Author: Kirsten Krueger
Pages: 502
Genre: Young Adult
Rating: 4/5
The story started with our protagonist, Adara caught stealing a heart-shaped necklace of her bully. From this point, we follow Adara, twins Seth and Tray, and other 16 year old teenagers discover that they have supernatural abilities and live in a town with other people like them.
I like that the book featured a lot of Affinities, like all the supernatural ability you can think of, which made the characters unique from one another. The power I was so interested was the one who can pop off blood vessels by mind because that is such a unique and two way ability. I love that the book has little romance, like I followed an obvious pair with romantic relationship but it's not seen all the time which is refreshing from the common YA books. I appreciate effort on world builiding and research done to explain the cause affinity.
There are also things I least like about the book and hope I can read more on the next book. I know we are trying to make Adara the "not-like-the-other-girls" type so her personality mostly consist of sass and angst but there were times I just find her plain rude like when she answers back or interupts her teachers during lesson. I also wish there will more background story for the characters so I can know what or where the affinity came from. I would also love to read more on the scientific explanation of Affinity because the addition of another pair chromosome and mutation intrigues me a lot.
Over all, it's a good and interesting read. If you like superpowers, banter, and friendship among teens then give this book a try.
Title: Blood
Author: Kirsten Krueger
Pages: 502
Genre: Young Adult
Rating: 4/5
The story started with our protagonist, Adara caught stealing a heart-shaped necklace of her bully. From this point, we follow Adara, twins Seth and Tray, and other 16 year old teenagers discover that they have supernatural abilities and live in a town with other people like them.
I like that the book featured a lot of Affinities, like all the supernatural ability you can think of, which made the characters unique from one another. The power I was so interested was the one who can pop off blood vessels by mind because that is such a unique and two way ability. I love that the book has little romance, like I followed an obvious pair with romantic relationship but it's not seen all the time which is refreshing from the common YA books. I appreciate effort on world builiding and research done to explain the cause affinity.
There are also things I least like about the book and hope I can read more on the next book. I know we are trying to make Adara the "not-like-the-other-girls" type so her personality mostly consist of sass and angst but there were times I just find her plain rude like when she answers back or interupts her teachers during lesson. I also wish there will more background story for the characters so I can know what or where the affinity came from. I would also love to read more on the scientific explanation of Affinity because the addition of another pair chromosome and mutation intrigues me a lot.
Over all, it's a good and interesting read. If you like superpowers, banter, and friendship among teens then give this book a try.
Read
September 7, 2019Witchery!Trickery! Modern sorcery! When I started this book, I knew I'd hate Adara, the Main character or maybe hate is too strong a word, but she definitely didn't gain any good points in my book. She was arrogant, bitchy, annoying and she seemed to pick up a fight for no reason at all. Did I mention annoying? It also irked me to no end how she seemed to get away with anything she said to anyone. But. As the book progressed I found myself looking forward to read her scenes, she's the kind of character that grows on you even though nothing about her changed. No wonder everyone seems to follow her around.
The story revolves around a bunch of teens who seem to have mysteriously acquired superpowers and a dye-job. They are plucked from their daily lives and shoved in this little town of Affinities which is a training school and not a prison, in case you're wondering. We then go through a roller coaster of emotions, love, deceit, betrayal and friendship to die for. I'm not going for my traditional things I like/dislike in a book, because seriously it's hard to find any flaws here. Despite being a debut novel, Kirsten's work shines with the superiority of an experienced writer. The banter and tension between the characters kept me hooked. As clichéd as it sounds, there wasn't a single dull moment in this book. Before you roll your eyes at all the teen drama that's going on, There also seems to be a political conspiracy, where the Affinites are fighting not only for a space in the regular world but also trying to make peace with their own kind, a group of affinites who go by the name Wackos.
I recommend this book if you like:
Teen drama and superpowers.
Sassy characters who banter a lot.
Multiple PoVs.
Slow burn.
Enemies to lover? (possibly)
Renegades by Marissa Meyer.
Surprise twists and suspense.
I'm super pumped up to read the rest of the books in the series. I hope their powers are further explored. It'd be pretty interesting to see the loyalties of the characters too.
I hope this series blows up, till then it's just me and my feelings.
The story revolves around a bunch of teens who seem to have mysteriously acquired superpowers and a dye-job. They are plucked from their daily lives and shoved in this little town of Affinities which is a training school and not a prison, in case you're wondering. We then go through a roller coaster of emotions, love, deceit, betrayal and friendship to die for. I'm not going for my traditional things I like/dislike in a book, because seriously it's hard to find any flaws here. Despite being a debut novel, Kirsten's work shines with the superiority of an experienced writer. The banter and tension between the characters kept me hooked. As clichéd as it sounds, there wasn't a single dull moment in this book. Before you roll your eyes at all the teen drama that's going on, There also seems to be a political conspiracy, where the Affinites are fighting not only for a space in the regular world but also trying to make peace with their own kind, a group of affinites who go by the name Wackos.
I recommend this book if you like:
Teen drama and superpowers.
Sassy characters who banter a lot.
Multiple PoVs.
Slow burn.
Enemies to lover? (possibly)
Renegades by Marissa Meyer.
Surprise twists and suspense.
I'm super pumped up to read the rest of the books in the series. I hope their powers are further explored. It'd be pretty interesting to see the loyalties of the characters too.
I hope this series blows up, till then it's just me and my feelings.
March 8, 2019
Blood Review -
Listen this isn’t going to be overly formal cause I’m a sappy sod and really quite terrible at analysing things formally so I’ll just say this - I have been following Kirsten’s writings for the better part of 3 years now, and I can safely say that she is my favourite author, period. She has this distinct style of writing, so descriptive and yet humorous at the same time. It really makes you FEEL things. As for Blood itself, this is the first book as a part of her Affinities series (she currently has two others in the series written/being written and I can confirm that so far they’re both amazing). Blood is an incredible book that gets you aquatinted with so many quirky characters and I assure that you will fall in love with each and every one of them whether you like it or not. Everything about this book is perfect. It puts a modern twist on the classic idea of “teens with superpowers”, taking you through a whole roller coaster of emotions. Gonna get cliche here and say the whole “you will laugh till your stomach hurts and cry till there are no tears left while reading”. But it’s literally true like I’m not even exaggerating. Whats best about it all (other than a certain Pixie Prince, of course) is that the main character isn’t even stereotypically likeable. No, Adara Stromer is a bitch and practically impossible to like but you end up falling in love with her anyway, just for being different. Anyways, do yourself a MASSIVE favour and give this story a read. The characters will resonate with you like no others. Give yourself the opportunity to experience what reading Kirsten’s writing is like cause I promise you it’s a feeling like no other.
Listen this isn’t going to be overly formal cause I’m a sappy sod and really quite terrible at analysing things formally so I’ll just say this - I have been following Kirsten’s writings for the better part of 3 years now, and I can safely say that she is my favourite author, period. She has this distinct style of writing, so descriptive and yet humorous at the same time. It really makes you FEEL things. As for Blood itself, this is the first book as a part of her Affinities series (she currently has two others in the series written/being written and I can confirm that so far they’re both amazing). Blood is an incredible book that gets you aquatinted with so many quirky characters and I assure that you will fall in love with each and every one of them whether you like it or not. Everything about this book is perfect. It puts a modern twist on the classic idea of “teens with superpowers”, taking you through a whole roller coaster of emotions. Gonna get cliche here and say the whole “you will laugh till your stomach hurts and cry till there are no tears left while reading”. But it’s literally true like I’m not even exaggerating. Whats best about it all (other than a certain Pixie Prince, of course) is that the main character isn’t even stereotypically likeable. No, Adara Stromer is a bitch and practically impossible to like but you end up falling in love with her anyway, just for being different. Anyways, do yourself a MASSIVE favour and give this story a read. The characters will resonate with you like no others. Give yourself the opportunity to experience what reading Kirsten’s writing is like cause I promise you it’s a feeling like no other.
February 10, 2019
Blood review!
Spoiler free!
Blood is a type of high school drama in a completely different setting - in a sci-fi world where everyone has unique superpowers. It’s a bunch of hormonal teenagers from different backgrounds forced into a school and a new life they know nothing about - the Affinities, people with superpowers who are are despised and feared among Reggs aka normal people - hence the town, including the school, is being kept hidden from the outside world. The teenagers have to learn to live among each other - both friends and enemies - and to sort out a new pecking order in the school hierarchy. I live for drama so I was totally sucked in.
If you’re a fan of banter (there’s LOADS), dark and silly humor, teenage drama, power struggle and superpowers ranging from completely weird and useless to deathly, I highly recommend this book! Funny thing is, I usually go for fantasy romances (nsfw is always better lol) so this genre wouldn’t be my first pick but you can’t help falling in love with the characters. At first it might seem a bit confusing as there are so many of them but you’ll soon get used to it and will surely find your own type to hate and root for (I’ve already claimed my mischievous and morally challenged character, as always). Love/hate relationships are a must-have for me and this series will provide you with some!
What also strikes me is how aesthetic the story is: a plain-looking town populated by people of every colour - literally, everyone’s hair and eye color changes and develops to something unique once they start training their affinities and learn to master them. Personally I love observing the details and guess at everyone’s affinity the second their looks start to change.
Another thing you’ll notice is the political, personal and public power struggle between three different categories: the Affinities (youngsters and adults alike), terrorist Wackos and the Reggs (“normal people”). Sometimes I find myself rooting for the evil people but I never go for the morals in a book anyway. I also liked following the presidential election and young voices raised in all that mess, things will be sure to escalate and get ugly.
I’m the type to usually dig up reviews on a book before diving into them which is why Blood was a complete mystery to me, wherein I didn’t know what to expect. It has characters that I both hate and obsess over. The humor isn’t for everyone but for me it’s totally catching. I mean, how could it not be interesting with an almost boarding school-like atmosphere in a guarded town full of people who don’t fit the norm??
Spoiler free!
Blood is a type of high school drama in a completely different setting - in a sci-fi world where everyone has unique superpowers. It’s a bunch of hormonal teenagers from different backgrounds forced into a school and a new life they know nothing about - the Affinities, people with superpowers who are are despised and feared among Reggs aka normal people - hence the town, including the school, is being kept hidden from the outside world. The teenagers have to learn to live among each other - both friends and enemies - and to sort out a new pecking order in the school hierarchy. I live for drama so I was totally sucked in.
If you’re a fan of banter (there’s LOADS), dark and silly humor, teenage drama, power struggle and superpowers ranging from completely weird and useless to deathly, I highly recommend this book! Funny thing is, I usually go for fantasy romances (nsfw is always better lol) so this genre wouldn’t be my first pick but you can’t help falling in love with the characters. At first it might seem a bit confusing as there are so many of them but you’ll soon get used to it and will surely find your own type to hate and root for (I’ve already claimed my mischievous and morally challenged character, as always). Love/hate relationships are a must-have for me and this series will provide you with some!
What also strikes me is how aesthetic the story is: a plain-looking town populated by people of every colour - literally, everyone’s hair and eye color changes and develops to something unique once they start training their affinities and learn to master them. Personally I love observing the details and guess at everyone’s affinity the second their looks start to change.
Another thing you’ll notice is the political, personal and public power struggle between three different categories: the Affinities (youngsters and adults alike), terrorist Wackos and the Reggs (“normal people”). Sometimes I find myself rooting for the evil people but I never go for the morals in a book anyway. I also liked following the presidential election and young voices raised in all that mess, things will be sure to escalate and get ugly.
I’m the type to usually dig up reviews on a book before diving into them which is why Blood was a complete mystery to me, wherein I didn’t know what to expect. It has characters that I both hate and obsess over. The humor isn’t for everyone but for me it’s totally catching. I mean, how could it not be interesting with an almost boarding school-like atmosphere in a guarded town full of people who don’t fit the norm??
September 12, 2019
Incredible, fast-paced story with compelling characters and an intriguing plot! Great summer read :)
May 5, 2020
What did I think? Well, there's a sarcastic unheroine, a smart boy who really is sometimes dumb and a strong boy who really is the strongest in the mental capacity for believing his own lies about himself. What do you think I think? Seriously, it's a 4.5 stars from me.
Adara is honestly the best MC I've read about in a while. I appreciate that she's so against helping people, that she doesn't believe in her power, and that she literally is sassy and sarcastic and strong and not at all what you "usually" get - and that just makes her a mile more interesting. Seth is adorable and kind, and has a weird relationship with Adara - since his girlfriend and her are at wits end with each other. But Tray's interactions are even more interesting. He says he doesn't care and then you get some glimmer of hope that he isn't really like that and then it's shot down again - like he's at a loss with himself. This trio are a mess and I love it.
(Oh, and the "banter" *wink wink* between Adara and Calder is literally hurting me in the best way and I need more.)
This book was definitely a 4.5 star read for me. It took a little getting into, but once it got rolling, it really rolled down that hill! And that twist? Unexpected.
All in all, I love.
Adara is honestly the best MC I've read about in a while. I appreciate that she's so against helping people, that she doesn't believe in her power, and that she literally is sassy and sarcastic and strong and not at all what you "usually" get - and that just makes her a mile more interesting. Seth is adorable and kind, and has a weird relationship with Adara - since his girlfriend and her are at wits end with each other. But Tray's interactions are even more interesting. He says he doesn't care and then you get some glimmer of hope that he isn't really like that and then it's shot down again - like he's at a loss with himself. This trio are a mess and I love it.
(Oh, and the "banter" *wink wink* between Adara and Calder is literally hurting me in the best way and I need more.)
This book was definitely a 4.5 star read for me. It took a little getting into, but once it got rolling, it really rolled down that hill! And that twist? Unexpected.
All in all, I love.
September 12, 2020
This book was so good! I’m totally invested with the plot and love the dynamic of the characters!
May 5, 2019
This is a very well-written book! I honestly don’t think I saw a single typo, but I also speak to the writing style which was clear and on point.
What I liked most about the story was the complexity of the relationships between the characters, even though I didn’t always understand the characters themselves. Adara, in particular, irked me.
In direct contrast to Adara is Eliana. Hers and Hasting’s storyline was my favorite. Hastings was a the most complex, “real,” and admirable character IMO.
One of my main issues with the book had to do with how and why Adara, Seth, and Tray end up in Periculand—how they just picked up and left with Fraco and Aethelred without notifying the twins’ parents. Also, the book is heavy on banter which I usually enjoy. But here much of it involved Adara being demeaning, which can get wearying.
Otherwise, Blood has good storytelling, a diverse and compelling cast of characters, and is well-paced and easy to read.
What I liked most about the story was the complexity of the relationships between the characters, even though I didn’t always understand the characters themselves. Adara, in particular, irked me.
In direct contrast to Adara is Eliana. Hers and Hasting’s storyline was my favorite. Hastings was a the most complex, “real,” and admirable character IMO.
One of my main issues with the book had to do with how and why Adara, Seth, and Tray end up in Periculand—how they just picked up and left with Fraco and Aethelred without notifying the twins’ parents. Also, the book is heavy on banter which I usually enjoy. But here much of it involved Adara being demeaning, which can get wearying.
Otherwise, Blood has good storytelling, a diverse and compelling cast of characters, and is well-paced and easy to read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2019
(Caution: may contain slight spoilers!)
Wow! What a fantastic book!
From the very start, when delinquent, set-minded protagonist, Adara Stromer banters with her ‘boyfriend cop’, I was intrigued. I have so enjoyed watching Adara and her Stark twins developing as characters (especially Seth–it was quite heartwarming seeing him mature and realise the more important things to value in life). However, my favourite characters have to be the shy but lovely and loyal Eliana and her *good friend* moral-but-lethal Hastings Lanio. So, as you can understand if you’ve read the book, I was damn near in tears during a scene near the end involving dear Hastings-with-the-tragic-past!
On another note, the mysteriousness behind each character’s Affinities made the story so gripping! Kirsten is really clever at keeping the suspense and interest elevated all throughout the novel. And I admit that, against my better judgement, I did really enjoy all of the characters’ snarky (and often silly and immoral) remarks and quips throughout the book–they sure made me laugh out loud!
Blood is not only full of snarky humour and hormonal teenagers though; it delves into relevant societal and political problems, and cleverly depicts the beginnings of a minority group (the Affinities) rising up and fighting for justice against their racist oppressors (the Reggs). They also advocate that the Affinities are not all dangerous people (i.e., not all part of the terrorist group of Wackos). Blood so brilliantly mirrors the various strata of humans different people oppress, or are afraid of, due to ignorance–like with Muslims! They’re not all terrorists! Or the LGBTQ+ community! They’re not all ‘terrible sinners’ (God and religion are man-made concepts and the queer were brought into this world by natural means–as was everyone else who ever walked the Earth)!
But I digress! On a less broad note, I have personally related to many of the characters in this book (they reflect how I have grown throughout my life): Kiki when I was young and naïve, Adara during my ‘pre-teen rebellion’ phase, and Eliana/Tray now! It has been so interesting to see how complex each of the characters are and to unravel their pasts and personalities as if in real life!
And finally, the ending! I was so sad to see the book finish after it has kept me company for the last few days. But also, man, what a cliffhanger! (I am so glad the first chapter of the second book, Nerve, is up on Quotev.com–I don’t think I would have been able to manage myself much longer with that magnitude of suspense!)
So, if you’re looking for a book full of passive-aggression, love-hate relationships, character building, skewed politics, unresolved sexual tension, sarcastically sycophantic or (mostly) playful demeaning aphorisms, you’ve found the right author!
Wow! What a fantastic book!
From the very start, when delinquent, set-minded protagonist, Adara Stromer banters with her ‘boyfriend cop’, I was intrigued. I have so enjoyed watching Adara and her Stark twins developing as characters (especially Seth–it was quite heartwarming seeing him mature and realise the more important things to value in life). However, my favourite characters have to be the shy but lovely and loyal Eliana and her *good friend* moral-but-lethal Hastings Lanio. So, as you can understand if you’ve read the book, I was damn near in tears during a scene near the end involving dear Hastings-with-the-tragic-past!
On another note, the mysteriousness behind each character’s Affinities made the story so gripping! Kirsten is really clever at keeping the suspense and interest elevated all throughout the novel. And I admit that, against my better judgement, I did really enjoy all of the characters’ snarky (and often silly and immoral) remarks and quips throughout the book–they sure made me laugh out loud!
Blood is not only full of snarky humour and hormonal teenagers though; it delves into relevant societal and political problems, and cleverly depicts the beginnings of a minority group (the Affinities) rising up and fighting for justice against their racist oppressors (the Reggs). They also advocate that the Affinities are not all dangerous people (i.e., not all part of the terrorist group of Wackos). Blood so brilliantly mirrors the various strata of humans different people oppress, or are afraid of, due to ignorance–like with Muslims! They’re not all terrorists! Or the LGBTQ+ community! They’re not all ‘terrible sinners’ (God and religion are man-made concepts and the queer were brought into this world by natural means–as was everyone else who ever walked the Earth)!
But I digress! On a less broad note, I have personally related to many of the characters in this book (they reflect how I have grown throughout my life): Kiki when I was young and naïve, Adara during my ‘pre-teen rebellion’ phase, and Eliana/Tray now! It has been so interesting to see how complex each of the characters are and to unravel their pasts and personalities as if in real life!
And finally, the ending! I was so sad to see the book finish after it has kept me company for the last few days. But also, man, what a cliffhanger! (I am so glad the first chapter of the second book, Nerve, is up on Quotev.com–I don’t think I would have been able to manage myself much longer with that magnitude of suspense!)
So, if you’re looking for a book full of passive-aggression, love-hate relationships, character building, skewed politics, unresolved sexual tension, sarcastically sycophantic or (mostly) playful demeaning aphorisms, you’ve found the right author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2019
Dozens of awesome superpowers, a bunch of compelling characters and a plot which kept surprising me, this book deserves no other place than among my favorites of all times.
Okay, I admit it. I might be a little biased here because I grew incredibly attached to the writing. Nonetheless, it’s the novels with characters who I came to love for their flaws even more than their strengths which mark my five-star-ratings. And Blood definitely demands a place on that list.
In the introduction, you might not expect something ground-breaking new when Adara Stromer and her friends attend a boarding school to learn and develop their powers. But it won’t take long to realize that this story will be different in every way possible, starting with the protagonist herself who’s everything but your typical heroine. Complex, fiercely outspoken and besotted with doughnuts. What’s else to ask for?
It's the characters who drive this story with their strengths (or superpowers ;)) and imperfections, which make them feel so human and easy to relate to. Not to mention that the author handles multiple viewpoints with each such a unique voice, I never had troubles to distinguish one from another. As wildly differing as the variation of hair colors, each of them has its own exciting backstory and personality. I don’t want to spoil too much, but I have to mention how I love the connection between those two.
And this was just the beginning. The story ended with a promise for so much more, and I’m definitely in for the ride!
Okay, I admit it. I might be a little biased here because I grew incredibly attached to the writing. Nonetheless, it’s the novels with characters who I came to love for their flaws even more than their strengths which mark my five-star-ratings. And Blood definitely demands a place on that list.
In the introduction, you might not expect something ground-breaking new when Adara Stromer and her friends attend a boarding school to learn and develop their powers. But it won’t take long to realize that this story will be different in every way possible, starting with the protagonist herself who’s everything but your typical heroine. Complex, fiercely outspoken and besotted with doughnuts. What’s else to ask for?
It's the characters who drive this story with their strengths (or superpowers ;)) and imperfections, which make them feel so human and easy to relate to. Not to mention that the author handles multiple viewpoints with each such a unique voice, I never had troubles to distinguish one from another. As wildly differing as the variation of hair colors, each of them has its own exciting backstory and personality. I don’t want to spoil too much, but I have to mention how I love the connection between those two.
And this was just the beginning. The story ended with a promise for so much more, and I’m definitely in for the ride!
February 16, 2022
Before I say anything, go and read this book!
Okay, now enjoy. :)
•THIS CONTAINS MINOR SPOILERS SO IF YOU WANT TO GO INTO THE BOOK KNOWING NOTHING, THEN DON'T READ ON!•
I think this series is going to be one of my favourites, even though I have only read the first book. This book better gain the popularity that it deserves soon, or else.
Blood follows a teenage girl, Adara at the start, but as we meet more characters, it focuses on them too. Although Adara is extremely unlikeable and rude, she has grown on me and I have become extremely invested. At the beginning, Adara finds out that her, her best friend and his twin brother were all born with weird DNA, meaning they have powers (aka affinities). They are taken to a school where they will learn what their powers are and how to control them. A bunch of other amazing things happen which I guess you won't know until you read it. :( It could possibly be enemies to lovers, but I don't know yet. Sounds great, right. Good, now go and read it.
I don't think I have anything bad to say about this, it was that good. Okay, I'm off to read the second one now. Bye.
Okay, now enjoy. :)
•THIS CONTAINS MINOR SPOILERS SO IF YOU WANT TO GO INTO THE BOOK KNOWING NOTHING, THEN DON'T READ ON!•
I think this series is going to be one of my favourites, even though I have only read the first book. This book better gain the popularity that it deserves soon, or else.
Blood follows a teenage girl, Adara at the start, but as we meet more characters, it focuses on them too. Although Adara is extremely unlikeable and rude, she has grown on me and I have become extremely invested. At the beginning, Adara finds out that her, her best friend and his twin brother were all born with weird DNA, meaning they have powers (aka affinities). They are taken to a school where they will learn what their powers are and how to control them. A bunch of other amazing things happen which I guess you won't know until you read it. :( It could possibly be enemies to lovers, but I don't know yet. Sounds great, right. Good, now go and read it.
I don't think I have anything bad to say about this, it was that good. Okay, I'm off to read the second one now. Bye.
June 27, 2020
If Charles Xavier's X Men school was crossed with 1984 and The Breakfast Club, you'd be somewhere near Krueger's Blood.
Adara is a miserable bullied teen with a sassy mouth and a bad attitude. When her super power or 'affinity' emerges, she's forcibly placed in Periculand, a town filled with only affinities, and made to attend a school with other oddities and misfits. But amidst the snarky teens lurks another, wider agenda.
Krueger's talent is to create an entire cast of annoying, misbehaving teens that sound real, even whilst exhibiting the impossible. That gift sometimes made this reader want to slap some sense into the surly, but even then she's made it clear how past trauma is clouding both the present and the emergence of their affinities.
My only quibble with this well written book is that, for my taste, the narrative could have supported a little more plot development in the place of repeating teen conflict.
A different take on the school genre and an entertaining 4 stars.
Adara is a miserable bullied teen with a sassy mouth and a bad attitude. When her super power or 'affinity' emerges, she's forcibly placed in Periculand, a town filled with only affinities, and made to attend a school with other oddities and misfits. But amidst the snarky teens lurks another, wider agenda.
Krueger's talent is to create an entire cast of annoying, misbehaving teens that sound real, even whilst exhibiting the impossible. That gift sometimes made this reader want to slap some sense into the surly, but even then she's made it clear how past trauma is clouding both the present and the emergence of their affinities.
My only quibble with this well written book is that, for my taste, the narrative could have supported a little more plot development in the place of repeating teen conflict.
A different take on the school genre and an entertaining 4 stars.
August 10, 2020
I have to be honest and say that I did not complete this book, however none of that was the fault of Krueger or her writing. To be frank, I'm not really a fan of the superhero sci-fi genre, however I really wanted to support the indie community.
Let me say this at the very least: if you like the genre, this book ticks all the boxes. It's well written, extremely thoughtful, clever, a diverse cast, and I enjoyed getting to know the world that Krueger created. There were points where I felt it a bit difficult to follow whose POV due to the large cast, and I'm not quite sure about the overall plot itself, however I found it to be very fun and enjoyable.
In truth, I'd really love to see this as a webcomic or other kind of visual novel of some kind. I think illustrations would do all kinds of wonders for the equally colorful universe of this book.
In short, I highly recommend this for fans of the genre.
Let me say this at the very least: if you like the genre, this book ticks all the boxes. It's well written, extremely thoughtful, clever, a diverse cast, and I enjoyed getting to know the world that Krueger created. There were points where I felt it a bit difficult to follow whose POV due to the large cast, and I'm not quite sure about the overall plot itself, however I found it to be very fun and enjoyable.
In truth, I'd really love to see this as a webcomic or other kind of visual novel of some kind. I think illustrations would do all kinds of wonders for the equally colorful universe of this book.
In short, I highly recommend this for fans of the genre.
October 7, 2020
**3.75
At first, I found it a little hard to get into Blood because the sarcastic tone of writing was so different than what I'm used to. I also found it strange how quickly the characters adapted to their new world even though just mere pages ago they were expressing fear and even hatred of Affinities, and I feel like that should have been examined more from their perspective (but that's an author's choice, which I respect). Despite this, I am very glad that I stuck with Blood. Although I wasn't attached to all of the characters, I found interest in some, and that gave me enough to want to read Blood whenever I had a spare moment. The ending caught me completely off guard, and I will definitely be reading the second book soon, despite what I originally thought.
At first, I found it a little hard to get into Blood because the sarcastic tone of writing was so different than what I'm used to. I also found it strange how quickly the characters adapted to their new world even though just mere pages ago they were expressing fear and even hatred of Affinities, and I feel like that should have been examined more from their perspective (but that's an author's choice, which I respect). Despite this, I am very glad that I stuck with Blood. Although I wasn't attached to all of the characters, I found interest in some, and that gave me enough to want to read Blood whenever I had a spare moment. The ending caught me completely off guard, and I will definitely be reading the second book soon, despite what I originally thought.
April 30, 2019
Blood is an amazing book that features such great characterisation and character arcs. The style of the book appeals to me as a reader and i’m able to enjoy the humour and banter the book offers. The story line and plot is very intriguing and it’s got me hooked all day. You feel emotionally attached to the characters as each character has been thoroughly written and given their own spark of personality. You can’t help but love this book. Can’t wait for the rest of series, amazing work Kirsten!
August 5, 2021
officially my new favourite book series. the characters are so fun to learn about, even the bad guys are cool, and the whole story always goes somewhere i don't expect it to. the humour is dark and funny as well. i often find myself laughing in real life as i read this book, and then covering my mouth so i dont seem like im crazy laughing by myself. i love and appreciate the whole vibe about this book. ^^
August 20, 2020
Great characters and premise.
Want to read
May 8, 2021Love this book!
October 17, 2021
This book was sooo good!
November 5, 2020
have you not read this book yet? PICK IT UP IMMEDIATELY.
but only if you enjoy quirky characters, finely-honed teenage banter, fantastic world-building, political dumpster fires, slow-burn romance, hilarious and unlikely friendships, action-packed face-punching, and of course, gut-wrenching loss.
this gem is a mashup of X-Men and Hogwarts - the best kind of blend if you ask me.
but only if you enjoy quirky characters, finely-honed teenage banter, fantastic world-building, political dumpster fires, slow-burn romance, hilarious and unlikely friendships, action-packed face-punching, and of course, gut-wrenching loss.
this gem is a mashup of X-Men and Hogwarts - the best kind of blend if you ask me.
January 10, 2025
The character building in this book was just too good! Every single character has such a distinctly different personality, and the way they interact with each other is always so comedic- I found myself bursting out laughing every other page. I feel like this is what sets Kirsten apart is her ability to craft such strong, dynamic characters. I don’t know if you guys read her fan fiction The Mudblood but the hilarious group dynamic of this book was so reminiscent of the Slytherin Six and it was so refreshing to read something that reminded me so much of the story that I enjoyed throughout my school years.💖💖
Forever grateful to Kirsten and her ability to build the most amazing bunch of hilariously silly characters that are just so fun to read!💖💖
Kiki Belven’s obsessive vanity reminded me so much of Astoria and made me so nostalgic, remembering cackling at the stupidity of Astoria and Ashley. And while the humour is unstoppable, Kirsten also weaves in so much depth to each and every character and had me sobbing- proper tears streaming down my face sobbing- in some parts of the story. The book had me gripped till the very end, balancing laugh-out-loud moments with deeply emotional ones and I loved it so, so much!!💖
Forever grateful to Kirsten and her ability to build the most amazing bunch of hilariously silly characters that are just so fun to read!💖💖
Kiki Belven’s obsessive vanity reminded me so much of Astoria and made me so nostalgic, remembering cackling at the stupidity of Astoria and Ashley. And while the humour is unstoppable, Kirsten also weaves in so much depth to each and every character and had me sobbing- proper tears streaming down my face sobbing- in some parts of the story. The book had me gripped till the very end, balancing laugh-out-loud moments with deeply emotional ones and I loved it so, so much!!💖
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