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Mortal and Divine #2
Bloodborn Prince
As a bloodborn Nephilim, Vincent’s power of seduction can compel beings to spill their secrets, but he seeks to know the mysteries of only one man's soul—those of his protector, Henri.
Torn between his grief over Orlando’s death and his soul’s rebirth as his own bloodborn kin, Henri resists Vincent’s amorous advances. Even as the bond between them intensifies, and his self-control falters, Henri won’t risk losing his beloved again.
When Henri takes Vincent as his demon-hunting apprentice, their combined abilities uncover corruption amongst the gods. Tempers flare and loyalties are tested as the lies meant to protect become the same ones that ensnare.
And with divine forces attempting to coerce him at every turn, Henri must distinguish ally from enemy, and truth from deceit if he hopes to protect his bloodborn prince.
Bloodborn Prince is the second installment of the Mortal and Divine trilogy. Blood crimes and betrayal abound.
Torn between his grief over Orlando’s death and his soul’s rebirth as his own bloodborn kin, Henri resists Vincent’s amorous advances. Even as the bond between them intensifies, and his self-control falters, Henri won’t risk losing his beloved again.
When Henri takes Vincent as his demon-hunting apprentice, their combined abilities uncover corruption amongst the gods. Tempers flare and loyalties are tested as the lies meant to protect become the same ones that ensnare.
And with divine forces attempting to coerce him at every turn, Henri must distinguish ally from enemy, and truth from deceit if he hopes to protect his bloodborn prince.
Bloodborn Prince is the second installment of the Mortal and Divine trilogy. Blood crimes and betrayal abound.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2020
15 people are currently reading
230 people want to read
About the author
Laura Lascarso
30 books501 followersMM+ AUTHOR | Romance so good it hurts
Laura Lascarso wants you to stay up way past your bedtime reading her stories. She aims to inspire more questions than answers in her fiction and believes in the power of storytelling to heal and transform a society.
When not writing, Laura can be found screaming “finish” on the soccer fields, rewatching Avatar: The Last Airbender, and trying to convince politicians to act on climate change. She lives in North Florida with her darling husband and two kids. She loves hearing from readers, and she’d be delighted to hear from you.
Join her Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/LaurasLounge
Sign up for her newsletter at www.lauralascarso.com
Laura Lascarso wants you to stay up way past your bedtime reading her stories. She aims to inspire more questions than answers in her fiction and believes in the power of storytelling to heal and transform a society.
When not writing, Laura can be found screaming “finish” on the soccer fields, rewatching Avatar: The Last Airbender, and trying to convince politicians to act on climate change. She lives in North Florida with her darling husband and two kids. She loves hearing from readers, and she’d be delighted to hear from you.
Join her Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/LaurasLounge
Sign up for her newsletter at www.lauralascarso.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
August 7, 2020
So damn good!!!!
5 glorious, epic, chilling, exhilarating, beautiful, captivating Stars.
Mortal and Divine is without a doubt my most favorite series of 2020. I don't see that changing.
My patience is about to be tested while waiting for Parousia to come out.
How to even review this. Just freaking read it because seriously none of my words will do this story justice. Also, I'm too overly exited so this is bound to be one chaotic gush-fest of a review .
It's so intricate and perception is ever changing. Who is good? Who is evil? Angels and Demons each with their own motivations and reverent belief in the rightness of their behavior. Henry and Vincent caught up in turmoils not of their own making. Pawns? Salvation? Who knows.
" Morality is a spectrum, dependent on any given circumstance. No one is all good."
The only thing that is steadfast and unchanging is Henry's devotion, his love, his reverence.
Laura Lascarso has outdone herself with this series. There aren't many MM authors that wield the english language as beautifully and poetically.
*** sharing something smutty, NSFW, +18 ***
I mean let's just all awe and coo at the most beautiful description of foreplay.
Seriously.
"My tongue brushed against your tight coil, and you twisted like a silk ribbon against the sheets. I lapped at the pool of saliva with long, languid strokes that caused your tremulous bud to pulse, too shy yet to bloom. My hands kneaded the backs of your thighs, until at last, you relaxed, and my tongue made its first foray into your body".
**** Read no further if you don't want to know anything more, though I don't consider my mini revelation a spoiler since it's quite apparent in the blurb and expanded upon within the second page of the novel but I would hate to be the catalyst to spoilers *****
The Romance
Gosh I love Vincent(previously:Orlando) and Henry.
Their link is physical, emotionally, soul-bound, unbreakable. Whether it be platonic or sexual it shimmers in its brightness.
"You were my homeland and my reason for war. My devotion to you was eternal. “I’ll follow you anywhere." -Henry
“There is a strait between my islands where the sirens sing,” I said. “Where ships have wrecked and men have died, caught between the mercurial sea and its rocky shores.” I didn’t know why that thought had sprung to mind, except that I felt as helpless as a sailor with you in my arms.
“Am I the siren?” you asked quietly.
“And the rocks. And the sea. And the tempest that comes on suddenly, then breaks again into blue skies.”
The belong to each other, they always will.
Just as in the first book the narration gives off this omnious feel. This deep-gut, chilling feeling that things will take a turn for the worst but a reassurance that they will always find their way to one another. After all soul-bound is not tethered to a physical body or realm.
Despite the cliffhanger, I'm still satiated with what's revealed in Bloodborn Prince . It's an odd feeling. Lascarso manages to walk this fine line, where she leaves you wanting more, but with enough breadcrumbs that you don't quite hate her for making you wait.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND to anyone who enjoys a paranormal tale with gorgeous world building, beautiful language, complex characters, morally ambiguous behavior and an epic love story.
Also definitely NOT a standalone.
Me before and me after! I cannot wait for the finale!!!!
August 15, 2020
Listen. I am hella privileged to be one of the beta-ish readers for this series so it's impossible to say that I am totally unbiased about this world after being in it for so long however I do want to say that I've read this book three times and I loved it more each time.
This series, in general, is delightful because it feels different from so many other paranormal romances out there, queer or otherwise, and because it's just dark enough to thrill you without leaning too hard on any particular buttons.
"I've been waiting so long for a human to enchant me enough that I don't wish to kill them. But they've all turned out to be disappointments."
"You might want to lower your expectations."
"Maybe."
This second installment, in particular, is a little less extreme in the ups and downs both in plot and in what happens to our much loved characters. But considering what we endured at the end of book one? I think Lascarso was just throwing us a bone. Or perhaps lulling us into a false sense of security because who knows what book three has in store for us (I can honestly say, at this point, I don't even know!).
"I made some very ugly and descriptive threats [when I learned about you]."
"What were some of the threats?"
"Oh, you know, I'd hunt you down and spit-roast you like a suckling pig. Carve up your flesh and feed it to you, unseasoned. Dissect your body and store your bits in separate jars, without labels."
"Without labels? Asshole."
"I'm very organized."
In a similar vein, I don't know what I can really say about this book as it's a sequel and we don't believe in spoilers in this house b u t I do not think fans of book one will be disappointed. Yes, the angst and heartache is toned down a bit, but this is not without a few well-timed emotional gut punches, it's got a few scenes that might send you running to shove your face in freezer, and it's just as funny, if not funnier, than it's predecessor. Humour is definitely an underrated element in books, particularly those like these which, as the author herself describes, contain "violence and moral ambiguity."
Is there a cliffhanger, you might be asking? I'm not telling. But what I will say is that, once again, you'll be thanking your lucky stars there isn't a year to wait between these installments. I know I am.
4.5 stars
** I received an ARC the author (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
This series, in general, is delightful because it feels different from so many other paranormal romances out there, queer or otherwise, and because it's just dark enough to thrill you without leaning too hard on any particular buttons.
"I've been waiting so long for a human to enchant me enough that I don't wish to kill them. But they've all turned out to be disappointments."
"You might want to lower your expectations."
"Maybe."
This second installment, in particular, is a little less extreme in the ups and downs both in plot and in what happens to our much loved characters. But considering what we endured at the end of book one? I think Lascarso was just throwing us a bone. Or perhaps lulling us into a false sense of security because who knows what book three has in store for us (I can honestly say, at this point, I don't even know!).
"I made some very ugly and descriptive threats [when I learned about you]."
"What were some of the threats?"
"Oh, you know, I'd hunt you down and spit-roast you like a suckling pig. Carve up your flesh and feed it to you, unseasoned. Dissect your body and store your bits in separate jars, without labels."
"Without labels? Asshole."
"I'm very organized."
In a similar vein, I don't know what I can really say about this book as it's a sequel and we don't believe in spoilers in this house b u t I do not think fans of book one will be disappointed. Yes, the angst and heartache is toned down a bit, but this is not without a few well-timed emotional gut punches, it's got a few scenes that might send you running to shove your face in freezer, and it's just as funny, if not funnier, than it's predecessor. Humour is definitely an underrated element in books, particularly those like these which, as the author herself describes, contain "violence and moral ambiguity."
Is there a cliffhanger, you might be asking? I'm not telling. But what I will say is that, once again, you'll be thanking your lucky stars there isn't a year to wait between these installments. I know I am.
4.5 stars
** I received an ARC the author (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
August 11, 2020
Bloodborn Prince is currently my favorite book from the series. It has it all:
*Villains you can't help but root for
*Passionate devotion
*Plot twists
*Shade Vales! - my favorite place.
*Demon hunting
*Nail biting tension
*Hot hot love making
*A writing style so lyrical, and a prose so beautiful and personal it gives you the impression you're reading the private letters of two real people.
________________________________
I can't wait for Parousia!
________________________________
For those of you wondering if there is a love triangle in this series, I ask you to open your minds and focus on one word .
From Hiroku to Book of Orlando, from When Everything Is Blue to Bloodborn Prince, I have been riveted by Laura's stories. Hiroku remains my favorite, but Bloodborn Prince gets the silver medal.
Laura manages to lure me again and again with her huge guts to write stories out of the norm, truckloads of talent and her unique style. She is unimitable, she is an original .
I have been privileged to be one of the beta readers for this story.
August 23, 2021
this book equally impressed and frustrated me. i loved loved the world with its lores and mythologies surrounding the characters. but my main struggle was the romance. it was subpar in comparison to book 1. i just couldn't believe that everything the mcs went through and all the build up literally went up in flames in this. henri's constant act of pulling away from his love interest made my head spin. and that one scene i was very looking forward to was highly anticlimactic!! also, i starved not only with the romance but with the sexy times too. still excited for the next one!
September 1, 2020
I'm going to try to do this without spoiling so get ready for THE VAGUENESS.
I make no bones about being a squishy marshmallow. This series isn't exactly squishy marshmallow material but I'm ok with that as long as I know what I'm getting into beforehand. The problem is Book of Orlando was...
So to say my expectations were high for Bloodborn Prince is an understatement.
I guess they were too high.
First things first, the world building is on point. There's no denying that but I'm a character and relationship development person and I just didn't feel it. That grab you by the throat and heart and not let go till the end, have to know feeling that makes reading... reading? It's oftentimes undefinable. Sometimes I don't really know what makes me love a book I just do. That feeling snuck up on me in Book of Orlando and I fully realize it isn't fair to expect lightening to strike twice but what can I say?
Firstly, I was disappointed by the events of the first half that were basically a carbon copy of the first one with a few notable exceptions. The second half I kept waiting to invest in this relationship but, as it turns out, I find myself still waiting. Maybe it happens in the last book which I will be reading since I've come this far. I dearly hope so.
Furthermore, *ducks* I'm not a fan of Vincent. He's kind of sassy but also kind of annoying. I'm hoping the tide turns in the conclusion. But at this point I don't think he's good enough for Henri. Needless to say, Henri and I are good, so that's something to build on.
Lastly, I'm not crazy about where this story is headed either. Don't get me wrong I do want to know who's going to come out on top, though I'm certain Ms. Lascarso will insure both sides pay a hefty price for their hubris; however, I hope the romance plays a larger role in the conclusion.
So... I believe this puts me in the minority. Again. But I found Bloodborn Prince pretty forgettable so I'm going with 2.5.
I make no bones about being a squishy marshmallow. This series isn't exactly squishy marshmallow material but I'm ok with that as long as I know what I'm getting into beforehand. The problem is Book of Orlando was...
So to say my expectations were high for Bloodborn Prince is an understatement.
I guess they were too high.
First things first, the world building is on point. There's no denying that but I'm a character and relationship development person and I just didn't feel it. That grab you by the throat and heart and not let go till the end, have to know feeling that makes reading... reading? It's oftentimes undefinable. Sometimes I don't really know what makes me love a book I just do. That feeling snuck up on me in Book of Orlando and I fully realize it isn't fair to expect lightening to strike twice but what can I say?
Firstly, I was disappointed by the events of the first half that were basically a carbon copy of the first one with a few notable exceptions. The second half I kept waiting to invest in this relationship but, as it turns out, I find myself still waiting. Maybe it happens in the last book which I will be reading since I've come this far. I dearly hope so.
Furthermore, *ducks* I'm not a fan of Vincent. He's kind of sassy but also kind of annoying. I'm hoping the tide turns in the conclusion. But at this point I don't think he's good enough for Henri. Needless to say, Henri and I are good, so that's something to build on.
Lastly, I'm not crazy about where this story is headed either. Don't get me wrong I do want to know who's going to come out on top, though I'm certain Ms. Lascarso will insure both sides pay a hefty price for their hubris; however, I hope the romance plays a larger role in the conclusion.
So... I believe this puts me in the minority. Again. But I found Bloodborn Prince pretty forgettable so I'm going with 2.5.
February 17, 2022
4.5 stars.
Confesso que não esperava nenhuma das reviravoltas que aconteceu nesse segundo livro. Já me choquei nos primeiros momentos quando descobrimos que Orlando reencarnou em tão pouco tempo. Eu achei que iria demorar anos para sua alma reencarnar, mas Lena deu um golpe de mestre ao orquestrar onde a alma de Orlando retornaria. Não sou de me surpreender muito, mas isso foi um golpe de mestra dela!!
Um verdadeiro caso de famílias 😅 Orlando voltar como meio- irmão de Henri foi um grande plot twist, todos são meras peças nas mãos da matriarca Lena, mulher traiçoeira que não tem escrúpulos em usar seus próprios filhos. Azrael e Lena são do mesmo feitio, duas criaturas desprezíveis com seus planos( fiquei com ódio dos dois no final). Sinto pena de Henri, o homem é mesmo azarado no amor. Foi trágico com Lior, foi trágico com Orlando, e pode ser trágico com com Vincent que é reencarnação de Orlandinho 😭
O segundo livro foi bem mais movimentado, mas o momento mais chocante foi o início nos dois primeiros capítulos. O retorno da alma de Orlando como um Nephelim filho de Lena foi estranhamente genial!
Henri como meio-irmão de Vincent( Orlando) foi muito estranho, o Incesto não é algo bizarro para nascidos do sangue, mas foi uma surpresa estranha. Orlando como Vincent veio mais atrevido em sua personalidade, gostei bastante.
Só espero que no final dessa trilogia... Todos os sacrifícios não tenha sido em vão. Veremos se a profecia se realizará. Não quero que Henri e Vincent sofram muito, Henriv merece um pouco de paz em sua vida ( isso se a mãe filha da puta deixar).
➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖
4.5 stars.
I confess that I didn't expect any of the twists that happened in this second book. I was already shocked in the first moments when we found out that Orlando was reincarnated in such a short time. I thought it would take years for her soul to be reincarnated, but Lena delivered a masterstroke in orchestrating where Orlando's soul would return. I'm not easily impressed, but that was a masterstroke of hers!!
A true family affair 😅 Orlando returning as Henri's half-brother was a big plot twist, they are all mere pieces in the hands of matriarch Lena, a treacherous woman who has no qualms about using her own children. Azrael and Lena are of the same nature, two despicable creatures with their plans (I was hating them both at the end). I feel sorry for Henri, the man is really unlucky in love. It was tragic with Lior, it was tragic with Orlando, and it can be tragic with Vincent who is Orlandinho's reincarnation 😭
The second book was a lot busier, but the most shocking moment was the beginning of the first two chapters. Orlando's soul's return as a Nephelim son of Lena was strangely genius!
Henri as Vincent's (Orlando) half-brother was very strange, Incest is not something bizarre for bloodborn, but it was a strange surprise. Orlando as Vincent came more daring in his personality, I liked it a lot.
I just hope that at the end of this trilogy... All the sacrifices weren't in vain. We will see if the prophecy will come true. I don't want Henri and Vincent to suffer too much, Henri deserves some peace in his life ( It's going to depend on his mother's son of a bitch)
Confesso que não esperava nenhuma das reviravoltas que aconteceu nesse segundo livro. Já me choquei nos primeiros momentos quando descobrimos que Orlando reencarnou em tão pouco tempo. Eu achei que iria demorar anos para sua alma reencarnar, mas Lena deu um golpe de mestre ao orquestrar onde a alma de Orlando retornaria. Não sou de me surpreender muito, mas isso foi um golpe de mestra dela!!
Um verdadeiro caso de famílias 😅 Orlando voltar como meio- irmão de Henri foi um grande plot twist, todos são meras peças nas mãos da matriarca Lena, mulher traiçoeira que não tem escrúpulos em usar seus próprios filhos. Azrael e Lena são do mesmo feitio, duas criaturas desprezíveis com seus planos( fiquei com ódio dos dois no final). Sinto pena de Henri, o homem é mesmo azarado no amor. Foi trágico com Lior, foi trágico com Orlando, e pode ser trágico com com Vincent que é reencarnação de Orlandinho 😭
O segundo livro foi bem mais movimentado, mas o momento mais chocante foi o início nos dois primeiros capítulos. O retorno da alma de Orlando como um Nephelim filho de Lena foi estranhamente genial!
Henri como meio-irmão de Vincent( Orlando) foi muito estranho, o Incesto não é algo bizarro para nascidos do sangue, mas foi uma surpresa estranha. Orlando como Vincent veio mais atrevido em sua personalidade, gostei bastante.
Só espero que no final dessa trilogia... Todos os sacrifícios não tenha sido em vão. Veremos se a profecia se realizará. Não quero que Henri e Vincent sofram muito, Henriv merece um pouco de paz em sua vida ( isso se a mãe filha da puta deixar).
➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖
4.5 stars.
I confess that I didn't expect any of the twists that happened in this second book. I was already shocked in the first moments when we found out that Orlando was reincarnated in such a short time. I thought it would take years for her soul to be reincarnated, but Lena delivered a masterstroke in orchestrating where Orlando's soul would return. I'm not easily impressed, but that was a masterstroke of hers!!
A true family affair 😅 Orlando returning as Henri's half-brother was a big plot twist, they are all mere pieces in the hands of matriarch Lena, a treacherous woman who has no qualms about using her own children. Azrael and Lena are of the same nature, two despicable creatures with their plans (I was hating them both at the end). I feel sorry for Henri, the man is really unlucky in love. It was tragic with Lior, it was tragic with Orlando, and it can be tragic with Vincent who is Orlandinho's reincarnation 😭
The second book was a lot busier, but the most shocking moment was the beginning of the first two chapters. Orlando's soul's return as a Nephelim son of Lena was strangely genius!
Henri as Vincent's (Orlando) half-brother was very strange, Incest is not something bizarre for bloodborn, but it was a strange surprise. Orlando as Vincent came more daring in his personality, I liked it a lot.
I just hope that at the end of this trilogy... All the sacrifices weren't in vain. We will see if the prophecy will come true. I don't want Henri and Vincent to suffer too much, Henri deserves some peace in his life ( It's going to depend on his mother's son of a bitch)
August 14, 2020
As I said below in the status updates, this book was kinda weird. While Book 1 was intriguing and fresh because of the second person POV, and the melodic, almost haunting way of writing, this book was definitely less fresh (because I'm used to it) and for much of it, just plain boring.
It went on, and on, and on! Because the relationship between the 2 MCs has already been established in book 1, the first oh 60-70% of this book was just plain SLOW. Vincent's childhood, his interactions with this mysterious but ever-present Henri, etc. I felt like I was reading book 1 all over again.
There's also a lot less sex, which is surprising. What disturbed me in book 1 was the sudden 30-40% of nonstop shagging, and yet here, it only really happened at 90%. Which made the rest of it REALLY SLOW.
The action and "suspense" --the plot-- only picked up past the 60% mark, which is waaaaayyyy too long to start picking up steam. By then I was really bored and ready to throw in the towel. And then, when it finally got interesting, THE END.
Until the next book.
I honestly don't know right now if I'll care enough to read on.
It went on, and on, and on! Because the relationship between the 2 MCs has already been established in book 1, the first oh 60-70% of this book was just plain SLOW. Vincent's childhood, his interactions with this mysterious but ever-present Henri, etc. I felt like I was reading book 1 all over again.
There's also a lot less sex, which is surprising. What disturbed me in book 1 was the sudden 30-40% of nonstop shagging, and yet here, it only really happened at 90%. Which made the rest of it REALLY SLOW.
The action and "suspense" --the plot-- only picked up past the 60% mark, which is waaaaayyyy too long to start picking up steam. By then I was really bored and ready to throw in the towel. And then, when it finally got interesting, THE END.
Until the next book.
I honestly don't know right now if I'll care enough to read on.
August 14, 2020
I started this at 2.30 am because I have no time, and who needs sleep, right? I do... but that's beside the point. This will be an interrupted reading/reviewing attempt as I have life and work and text books and family all needing my attention.
However, so far, the moral ambiguity is even greater. Ah, Henri - and by that I mean Laura Lascarso -from 5 y/o to the smell of placenta. You have my indebtedness for going for it. The dialogue works, the sweet but dark notes. It's like butter wouldn't melt in your mouth. Oh, but it would. It does. The visceral grip. The family issues we all face, although most of us do it without the heme drinking, loving thy stepbrother, the Latin educating, dream-walking, mum killing the baby-daddy and looking for demon dominance thing going on. *Sighs. It's perfect.
Gah! My feelings! My heart. Their hearts. Their journey. What will happen when he knows? And he will know.
I read and completed this book in the wee, small hours of the morning and as I add this last part here, having finished Bloodborn Prince, it's nearing 1.30 am. Once I picked it up my fate was sealed, pretty much like when Orlando met Henri, in #1, and Henri fell in obsession and love-eternal with him, and vice versa. These characters are larger than life and written for character obsessives with a love of moral ambiguity and wonderful storytelling. The supernatural and mythological and spiritual/religious tones are the delicious icing on top of everything else.
The world building is superb, it sinks into your viscera until you feel every turn of the page. You're just waiting for the other shoe to drop and it consumes you emotionally. The progression of Vol 1 to Vol 2, the characterisations...seamless. Brilliantly done. The beings, the demons, the angels, the machinations, the love, the hurt, the blood, the rollercoaster of emotions is a juggernaut that barrels over the top of you. Vol 3 cannot come soon enough. I'm hanging out because that ending. I'm left, once again, hanging by my nails to a cliff-edge, my sanity in tatters, but they are so worth it. I'm also interested to see what's in Lucian's future - mouthy, sadistic, mummy issues shit that he is. I kinda like him. I also want to see some people explode. Oh, and three times is not a charm in this book.
What a ride. I'm tired and I'm left bereft and wanting and I wouldn't have it any other way, well, except bring on Parousia, the third and final book. Who needs sleep?
Blog audio-visual review-
However, so far, the moral ambiguity is even greater. Ah, Henri - and by that I mean Laura Lascarso -from 5 y/o to the smell of placenta. You have my indebtedness for going for it. The dialogue works, the sweet but dark notes. It's like butter wouldn't melt in your mouth. Oh, but it would. It does. The visceral grip. The family issues we all face, although most of us do it without the heme drinking, loving thy stepbrother, the Latin educating, dream-walking, mum killing the baby-daddy and looking for demon dominance thing going on. *Sighs. It's perfect.
Gah! My feelings! My heart. Their hearts. Their journey. What will happen when he knows? And he will know.
I read and completed this book in the wee, small hours of the morning and as I add this last part here, having finished Bloodborn Prince, it's nearing 1.30 am. Once I picked it up my fate was sealed, pretty much like when Orlando met Henri, in #1, and Henri fell in obsession and love-eternal with him, and vice versa. These characters are larger than life and written for character obsessives with a love of moral ambiguity and wonderful storytelling. The supernatural and mythological and spiritual/religious tones are the delicious icing on top of everything else.
The world building is superb, it sinks into your viscera until you feel every turn of the page. You're just waiting for the other shoe to drop and it consumes you emotionally. The progression of Vol 1 to Vol 2, the characterisations...seamless. Brilliantly done. The beings, the demons, the angels, the machinations, the love, the hurt, the blood, the rollercoaster of emotions is a juggernaut that barrels over the top of you. Vol 3 cannot come soon enough. I'm hanging out because that ending. I'm left, once again, hanging by my nails to a cliff-edge, my sanity in tatters, but they are so worth it. I'm also interested to see what's in Lucian's future - mouthy, sadistic, mummy issues shit that he is. I kinda like him. I also want to see some people explode. Oh, and three times is not a charm in this book.
What a ride. I'm tired and I'm left bereft and wanting and I wouldn't have it any other way, well, except bring on Parousia, the third and final book. Who needs sleep?
Blog audio-visual review-
March 19, 2023
If I had known then, what I know now...I wouldn't have read this book.
AND that would have been a bloody shame!! Because this series has consumed me!
I was pouting like a child when I started this because of my mishap with the blurb while finishing the first book. I contemplated (for 2 seconds) not continuing with the series but there was no denying myself, I HAD to know what happened.
Lena, Henri's crazy-ass demon mother was very ominous with her final words in the last book...because the conviving witch was up to no good.
If I had finished reading this blurb, I would have caught the clue but I didn't.
Kin. Really?!? Kin. Is Vincent his kin? Yes, yes he is. *cringe*
Damn, that's messed up. I don't read this particular taboo but apparently, I do now because there was no way in hades I wasn't finishing.
So here's the gist...
Vincent is born (again) and raised by his two "mortal" fathers, Santiago and Xavier. Henri is ever present throughout his childhood, like an overprotective Uncle or bodyguard. The problem is, they are trying to blend Vincent into the mortal world. And he is not mortal. Drinking blood (since he's half demon) incognito and curbing his natural desires only works for so long. After a close accident, it's clear Vincent needs to embrace his true self. Despite Henri's protest, Vincent becomes his apprentice. His soul-reaping apprentice. Henri never wanted Vincent to know or see this darker part of his life but he can no longer shelter his beloved.
The passion is subdued but the love is bright and strong, thundering through the pages. Henri resists all of Vinecent's sexual advances until he's of age. (whew) But again, there are larger taboos at play here. Then Lucian comes into the picture and things get wild. They embark on a rescue mission, to save their mother. The mine adventure was...freaky. And then so HOT. *sigh* Henri owns my heart.
It's creepy and gory.
It's chilling and grim.
It's ANOTHER CLIFFHANGER!!!
*stomps foot*
I'm so glad I discovered these books once the trilogy was complete.
I'd be spitting nails if I had to wait for book 3.
Speaking of, gotta run...I have NEEDS...and Parousia is calling my name.
Sidenote: I wouldn't start this series without committing to completion...they are each messed up in their own way but create the most stunning picture when finished.
AND that would have been a bloody shame!! Because this series has consumed me!
I was pouting like a child when I started this because of my mishap with the blurb while finishing the first book. I contemplated (for 2 seconds) not continuing with the series but there was no denying myself, I HAD to know what happened.
Lena, Henri's crazy-ass demon mother was very ominous with her final words in the last book...because the conviving witch was up to no good.
If I had finished reading this blurb, I would have caught the clue but I didn't.
Kin. Really?!? Kin. Is Vincent his kin? Yes, yes he is. *cringe*
Damn, that's messed up. I don't read this particular taboo but apparently, I do now because there was no way in hades I wasn't finishing.
So here's the gist...
Vincent is born (again) and raised by his two "mortal" fathers, Santiago and Xavier. Henri is ever present throughout his childhood, like an overprotective Uncle or bodyguard. The problem is, they are trying to blend Vincent into the mortal world. And he is not mortal. Drinking blood (since he's half demon) incognito and curbing his natural desires only works for so long. After a close accident, it's clear Vincent needs to embrace his true self. Despite Henri's protest, Vincent becomes his apprentice. His soul-reaping apprentice. Henri never wanted Vincent to know or see this darker part of his life but he can no longer shelter his beloved.
The passion is subdued but the love is bright and strong, thundering through the pages. Henri resists all of Vinecent's sexual advances until he's of age. (whew) But again, there are larger taboos at play here. Then Lucian comes into the picture and things get wild. They embark on a rescue mission, to save their mother. The mine adventure was...freaky. And then so HOT. *sigh* Henri owns my heart.
It's creepy and gory.
It's chilling and grim.
It's ANOTHER CLIFFHANGER!!!
*stomps foot*
I'm so glad I discovered these books once the trilogy was complete.
I'd be spitting nails if I had to wait for book 3.
Speaking of, gotta run...I have NEEDS...and Parousia is calling my name.
Sidenote: I wouldn't start this series without committing to completion...they are each messed up in their own way but create the most stunning picture when finished.
August 9, 2020
Finding this series was one of the best and worst thing that’s ever happened to me. Best, because both Bloodborn Prince and Book of Orlando are my absolute favorite reads of 2020, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon. Worst, because THE WAIT FOR THE FINAL BOOK IS GOING TO KILL ME! 😭
First of all, let me just say that I’m a HUGE fan of Lascarso’s writing style. The unique POV aside, there’s just something so beautiful about her voice. It’s so emotional and different, and that really enhances the whole reading experience. I’m always on the lookout for books like these. I only wish there were more authors with her gift.
I’m not sure how to review this book without giving out too many spoilers. The plot was just so wonderfully complex and unpredictable… Our MCs hunted demons and went through many unexpected ordeals, centuries-old nefarious schemes were revealed, allies became enemies… — and vice versa.
Relationship-wise, this book satisfied me on so many levels. Some might consider it an extremely slow-burn romance, but I don’t see it that way. Henri and Vincent’s unbreakable soul-bond, the building tension between them, the trust and intimacy were just incredible — that’s first-class relationship development, as far as I’m concerned. And the sex scenes were well worth the wait. As was the case with Book of Orlando, they’re some of the hottest I’ve ever read. SO. DAMN. GOOD.
We finally got to know Lucian a bit more, and I really liked that, too. In Book of Orlando he was kind of reduced to Lena’s minion, but here we caught a glimpse of his true(?) self. I, for one, wouldn’t mind finding more about his past and how it’d shaped him…
I NEED the final book, and I need it NOW! 😭
First of all, let me just say that I’m a HUGE fan of Lascarso’s writing style. The unique POV aside, there’s just something so beautiful about her voice. It’s so emotional and different, and that really enhances the whole reading experience. I’m always on the lookout for books like these. I only wish there were more authors with her gift.
I’m not sure how to review this book without giving out too many spoilers. The plot was just so wonderfully complex and unpredictable… Our MCs hunted demons and went through many unexpected ordeals, centuries-old nefarious schemes were revealed, allies became enemies… — and vice versa.
Relationship-wise, this book satisfied me on so many levels. Some might consider it an extremely slow-burn romance, but I don’t see it that way. Henri and Vincent’s unbreakable soul-bond, the building tension between them, the trust and intimacy were just incredible — that’s first-class relationship development, as far as I’m concerned. And the sex scenes were well worth the wait. As was the case with Book of Orlando, they’re some of the hottest I’ve ever read. SO. DAMN. GOOD.
We finally got to know Lucian a bit more, and I really liked that, too. In Book of Orlando he was kind of reduced to Lena’s minion, but here we caught a glimpse of his true(?) self. I, for one, wouldn’t mind finding more about his past and how it’d shaped him…
I NEED the final book, and I need it NOW! 😭
June 7, 2022
The writing style was beautiful and the story is epic but for me it was slow, hence the 4 stars.
May 28, 2021
Ugh. This book was aggravating.
I adored the first book. It was such a unique and beautiful story with mesmerizing language. I couldn’t wait to read this one and even went into without high expectations because I was warned it wasn’t as good. I was still disappointed.
Let me start by saying some good things though. The author still has a way with words and I highlighted so many passages in the first half of the book. There were some absolutely lovely scenes. It was fun to watch Vincent grow up and, like with Orlando, those were some of my favorite moments. I liked the introduction of more Lena and Lucian. They were fun and interesting. The plot was somewhat compelling and I did want to know what happened...mostly because I kept hoping for more.
Sadly, that’s about all I liked. Things that I loved in the first book just could not be replicated. Vincent and Henri felt like shadows of their characters from the first book. Their personalities and even their language choices (which were previously so well done) just fell flat. I couldn’t believe the same person was writing them.
I understand needing tension between Vincent and Henri, but Henri’s reluctance was just too much. This is his fucking soulmate! Where was my sexual tension? How could he stay away? Why was there no sex until basically the end of the book?! Seriously, after the first book being a veritable wealth of hot, intense, and emotional sex I was absolutely astonished by how little was shown here. It wasn’t just withheld from us either, it was not well-written. Nothing about it was hot. I believe I even grimaced while reading it because of...blood.
There was just so much fucking blood. It was overdone. I liked the use blood in the first book. It was very much like a sexy vampire vibes and added to the mystique of the book. This time around, it was such a turn-off. I really think that Vincent’s reliance and obsession with blood could have been handled better. In retrospect, I’m not surprised because the overall weight and sense of being an epic love story went completely downhill after the end of book one.
I get the sense that the author wanted to steer away from the romance aspect and add more action. Except there wasn’t much action and it was the romance that was so compelling to begin with. I need to stop being told how devoted and in love our MCs were and be show the depth of their passion and devotion. I want to believe this book just suffered from being the middle/filler book of a forced trilogy, but I’m not sure I have it in me to be disappointed again.
Gosh I’m sad. I did have hope up until about 3/4 of the way through, I read it all quickly, and still liked the writing most of the time so that kept my rating up.
I adored the first book. It was such a unique and beautiful story with mesmerizing language. I couldn’t wait to read this one and even went into without high expectations because I was warned it wasn’t as good. I was still disappointed.
Let me start by saying some good things though. The author still has a way with words and I highlighted so many passages in the first half of the book. There were some absolutely lovely scenes. It was fun to watch Vincent grow up and, like with Orlando, those were some of my favorite moments. I liked the introduction of more Lena and Lucian. They were fun and interesting. The plot was somewhat compelling and I did want to know what happened...mostly because I kept hoping for more.
Sadly, that’s about all I liked. Things that I loved in the first book just could not be replicated. Vincent and Henri felt like shadows of their characters from the first book. Their personalities and even their language choices (which were previously so well done) just fell flat. I couldn’t believe the same person was writing them.
I understand needing tension between Vincent and Henri, but Henri’s reluctance was just too much. This is his fucking soulmate! Where was my sexual tension? How could he stay away? Why was there no sex until basically the end of the book?! Seriously, after the first book being a veritable wealth of hot, intense, and emotional sex I was absolutely astonished by how little was shown here. It wasn’t just withheld from us either, it was not well-written. Nothing about it was hot. I believe I even grimaced while reading it because of...blood.
There was just so much fucking blood. It was overdone. I liked the use blood in the first book. It was very much like a sexy vampire vibes and added to the mystique of the book. This time around, it was such a turn-off. I really think that Vincent’s reliance and obsession with blood could have been handled better. In retrospect, I’m not surprised because the overall weight and sense of being an epic love story went completely downhill after the end of book one.
I get the sense that the author wanted to steer away from the romance aspect and add more action. Except there wasn’t much action and it was the romance that was so compelling to begin with. I need to stop being told how devoted and in love our MCs were and be show the depth of their passion and devotion. I want to believe this book just suffered from being the middle/filler book of a forced trilogy, but I’m not sure I have it in me to be disappointed again.
Gosh I’m sad. I did have hope up until about 3/4 of the way through, I read it all quickly, and still liked the writing most of the time so that kept my rating up.
December 21, 2020
Where to begin with this review ?
I don’t want to spoil it for others by giving too much away ( but it’ll be so difficult at times ,though…)
The blurb of this book says enough about the way this story begins so I don ‘t have to tell it again .
Bloodborn Prince is the second installment of the Mortal and Divine trilogy. Blood crimes and betrayal abound.
There is so much going on in this book ; confusing plot-twists like mad, taking us on a very crazy and intriguing adventure into this bloodthirsty world of demons, angels , beastborns and other creatures.
I didn ‘t expected to be this book so good .From the start I was captivated by the tense and weird atmosphere and the very confusing and frustrating plot .
At first I could hardly keep up with all these intricate plot-twists and sometimes the confusing and weirdness was a little too much to take .When I finally understood what was really going on ….bang !!...another shocking event happened and ...once again there was hell to pay !
Henri’s relationship with Vincent was truly something to behold .
You were my homeland and my reason for war .My devotion to you was eternal.
“ I’ll follow you anywhere !”
Holding Vincent in his arms when he was born , to see him grown into a beautiful young man, spending many weekends together and...resisting young Vincent’s amorous advances was very hard and torturous for poor Henri .He still had that protective streak towards Vincent and melted my heart by all his patience and love for him .
Together they formed an unbreakable bond and when that bond intensified and Henri’s self-control faltered , he had to put the protection of his bloodborn prince in the first place. It was so frustrating to see that nothing in this whole story seemed ever to go as planned .
Since the first book I have a soft spot for Henri , even he’s a bloodborn Nephilim .
Vincent had to grow on me .At times he annoyed the hell out of me being a spoiled brat but that doesn‘t mean he was totally helpless. At the contrary !!
Lucian ,Henri’s cocky and sadistic brother ,was a real cynical straight-up psycho ,who didn‘t stop pestering his brother .But I truly believe it was part of his charm.
Lucian squeezed my shoulder, signaling he was done and you released my my head .
“I’m afraid I’m all out of lollipops,but I have something more gratifying you can suck on ..”
“ Be careful , I bite “
The way this author writes down the main-and second characters , with layer upon layer , just makes this book simply consuming and brilliant .
Honestly , at the end of this maddening and intricate story with all his mischievous dialogues ,my nerves are wrecked 😫(but still in a positive way)
And I ‘m very excited for the final book “Parousia” in this trilogy because this series is so worth the read .
I don’t want to spoil it for others by giving too much away ( but it’ll be so difficult at times ,though…)
The blurb of this book says enough about the way this story begins so I don ‘t have to tell it again .
Bloodborn Prince is the second installment of the Mortal and Divine trilogy. Blood crimes and betrayal abound.
There is so much going on in this book ; confusing plot-twists like mad, taking us on a very crazy and intriguing adventure into this bloodthirsty world of demons, angels , beastborns and other creatures.
I didn ‘t expected to be this book so good .From the start I was captivated by the tense and weird atmosphere and the very confusing and frustrating plot .
At first I could hardly keep up with all these intricate plot-twists and sometimes the confusing and weirdness was a little too much to take .When I finally understood what was really going on ….bang !!...another shocking event happened and ...once again there was hell to pay !
Henri’s relationship with Vincent was truly something to behold .
You were my homeland and my reason for war .My devotion to you was eternal.
“ I’ll follow you anywhere !”
Holding Vincent in his arms when he was born , to see him grown into a beautiful young man, spending many weekends together and...resisting young Vincent’s amorous advances was very hard and torturous for poor Henri .He still had that protective streak towards Vincent and melted my heart by all his patience and love for him .
Together they formed an unbreakable bond and when that bond intensified and Henri’s self-control faltered , he had to put the protection of his bloodborn prince in the first place. It was so frustrating to see that nothing in this whole story seemed ever to go as planned .
Since the first book I have a soft spot for Henri , even he’s a bloodborn Nephilim .
Vincent had to grow on me .At times he annoyed the hell out of me being a spoiled brat but that doesn‘t mean he was totally helpless. At the contrary !!
Lucian ,Henri’s cocky and sadistic brother ,was a real cynical straight-up psycho ,who didn‘t stop pestering his brother .But I truly believe it was part of his charm.
Lucian squeezed my shoulder, signaling he was done and you released my my head .
“I’m afraid I’m all out of lollipops,but I have something more gratifying you can suck on ..”
“ Be careful , I bite “
The way this author writes down the main-and second characters , with layer upon layer , just makes this book simply consuming and brilliant .
Honestly , at the end of this maddening and intricate story with all his mischievous dialogues ,my nerves are wrecked 😫(but still in a positive way)
And I ‘m very excited for the final book “Parousia” in this trilogy because this series is so worth the read .
October 21, 2020
Please give the book 3
“ There is a strait between my islands where the sirens sing,” I said. “Where ships have wrecked and men have died, caught between the mercurial sea and its rocky shores.” I didn’t know why that thought had sprung to mind, except that I felt as helpless as a sailor with you in my arms.”
“You were my homeland and my reason for war. My devotion to you was eternal. I’ll follow you anywhere.”
...............
I swallowed my moans all the time in this book from overflowing emotions and how incredibly good this was. I have been constantly in awe of this author's work of poetry and descriptive narration since the first book.
I worshiped Henri's devotion to Vincent wholeheartedly. That's Henri for you. Perpetual loyalty. Past, present, and future held no meaning to cheapen or undermine their love. Time and space were irrelevant. They were bound together for eternity the moment they met -mind, body, and soul. The intensity of their love terrified me and warmed me simultaneously.
Love so blind because you are the center and nothing exists.
Love so powerful because I worship your very existence.
Love so true because you are the law and moral compass.
P.S. I knew that this series was not complete, so I have to bear the consequences of having to wait for the final book.
Damn you cliffhanger!
“ There is a strait between my islands where the sirens sing,” I said. “Where ships have wrecked and men have died, caught between the mercurial sea and its rocky shores.” I didn’t know why that thought had sprung to mind, except that I felt as helpless as a sailor with you in my arms.”
“You were my homeland and my reason for war. My devotion to you was eternal. I’ll follow you anywhere.”
...............
I swallowed my moans all the time in this book from overflowing emotions and how incredibly good this was. I have been constantly in awe of this author's work of poetry and descriptive narration since the first book.
I worshiped Henri's devotion to Vincent wholeheartedly. That's Henri for you. Perpetual loyalty. Past, present, and future held no meaning to cheapen or undermine their love. Time and space were irrelevant. They were bound together for eternity the moment they met -mind, body, and soul. The intensity of their love terrified me and warmed me simultaneously.
Love so blind because you are the center and nothing exists.
Love so powerful because I worship your very existence.
Love so true because you are the law and moral compass.
P.S. I knew that this series was not complete, so I have to bear the consequences of having to wait for the final book.
Damn you cliffhanger!
August 9, 2020
This book is seriously so hard for me to write a review on because I feel like everything, and I mean
e v e r y t h i n g is a spoiler.
So for a vague and spoiler free review I will say:
I still think about Book of Orlando all the time. It started off the year as one of my favorite reads, and I’m 99% sure that by the time this year ends it will stay that way. Safe to say, I could not wait to get my hands on Bloodborn Prince and return to the world of Mortal & Divine.
I loved returning to the unique world that Laura has created, my love of her prose winding around me like a warm blanket. Laura’s take on vampires and angels is so unique and refreshing, I’ve never read anything like it. I will forever and always adore these characters, and I loved seeing more of their world, experiences and adventures. Wow, I really feel like if I say much of anything it will.. be a spoiler.. so... you should just check it out for yourselfffff.
FROM HERE DOWN WILL HAVE SPOILERS SO LOOK. AWAY.
*****
****
last chance
***
**
for real
*
Hi. Hello. Welcome to the spoiler-y review.
Le sigh, honestly my love for this series is overwhelming. Laura has taken something that is so popular (vamps and angels) and made it completely her own which I absolutely adore. The world of the Mortal and Divine is so seductively captivating, I cannot get enough.
This book was so interesting because it was a little like the first, with Henri and Vincent meeting when Vincent is a baby, and yet nothing like it at all as Vincent's upbringing was completely different than Orlando's, and yet. And yet, Orlando/Vincent's personalities were essentially unaltered and all the things I loved about him in the first book shown through in this one. I really loved the exploration of what would change for Vincent in the whole aspect of Nature vs. Nurture.
Also, hello. Can we talk about how Vincent is pretty much the king of cats?! HOW CUTE AND FUN.
Though Bloodborn Prince is a bit of a restart, Laura takes the opportunity to expand on not only the world, but the characters as well. Watching Henri process the events of Book of Orlando was heartbreaking, it was interesting seeing how those events influenced Henri in this installment, and how no matter how hard he tried one really cannot manipulate fate. I loved the secondary characters, as always, and learning more about the world in which Henri exists. I think this is where my one niggle comes in (and I also think this is just a me problem), I do wish that there was a bit more focus on the paranormal aspect/demon hunting but I think there will be a lot more of that in the next book.
This was good expansion of the world, and adding even more stabilization to the foundation because some of this stuff can be a little confusing. The ending was wooooo, a ride, and I really enjoyed delving more into the legends and folklore behind Laura's world. I'm VERY excited to see where she takes everything in book 3.
I LOVE THIS WORLD, AND THESE CHARACTERS AND THIS SERIES.
P.s. I think it would be helpful if Book of Orlando was fresh, fresh when starting this one.
Received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
e v e r y t h i n g is a spoiler.
So for a vague and spoiler free review I will say:
I still think about Book of Orlando all the time. It started off the year as one of my favorite reads, and I’m 99% sure that by the time this year ends it will stay that way. Safe to say, I could not wait to get my hands on Bloodborn Prince and return to the world of Mortal & Divine.
I loved returning to the unique world that Laura has created, my love of her prose winding around me like a warm blanket. Laura’s take on vampires and angels is so unique and refreshing, I’ve never read anything like it. I will forever and always adore these characters, and I loved seeing more of their world, experiences and adventures. Wow, I really feel like if I say much of anything it will.. be a spoiler.. so... you should just check it out for yourselfffff.
FROM HERE DOWN WILL HAVE SPOILERS SO LOOK. AWAY.
*****
****
last chance
***
**
for real
*
Hi. Hello. Welcome to the spoiler-y review.
Le sigh, honestly my love for this series is overwhelming. Laura has taken something that is so popular (vamps and angels) and made it completely her own which I absolutely adore. The world of the Mortal and Divine is so seductively captivating, I cannot get enough.
This book was so interesting because it was a little like the first, with Henri and Vincent meeting when Vincent is a baby, and yet nothing like it at all as Vincent's upbringing was completely different than Orlando's, and yet. And yet, Orlando/Vincent's personalities were essentially unaltered and all the things I loved about him in the first book shown through in this one. I really loved the exploration of what would change for Vincent in the whole aspect of Nature vs. Nurture.
Also, hello. Can we talk about how Vincent is pretty much the king of cats?! HOW CUTE AND FUN.
Though Bloodborn Prince is a bit of a restart, Laura takes the opportunity to expand on not only the world, but the characters as well. Watching Henri process the events of Book of Orlando was heartbreaking, it was interesting seeing how those events influenced Henri in this installment, and how no matter how hard he tried one really cannot manipulate fate. I loved the secondary characters, as always, and learning more about the world in which Henri exists. I think this is where my one niggle comes in (and I also think this is just a me problem), I do wish that there was a bit more focus on the paranormal aspect/demon hunting but I think there will be a lot more of that in the next book.
This was good expansion of the world, and adding even more stabilization to the foundation because some of this stuff can be a little confusing. The ending was wooooo, a ride, and I really enjoyed delving more into the legends and folklore behind Laura's world. I'm VERY excited to see where she takes everything in book 3.
I LOVE THIS WORLD, AND THESE CHARACTERS AND THIS SERIES.
P.s. I think it would be helpful if Book of Orlando was fresh, fresh when starting this one.
Received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
September 17, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
Bloodborn Prince is book two in the Mortal and Divine series. The books are meant to be read in order and reading anything about the events in this book will open up spoilers for the series.
This series is amazing and the allure is there to get to the full story quickly.
The book opens with Vincent and Henri’s personal relationships and lays a new foundation for them and then effortlessly transitions to the battle and the inevitable war. It’s fascinating to watch Vincent come of age and retain memories that he cannot explain. Henri is devoted to Vincent and the bond between them is absolute. Vincent now has powers to compel and there are those that want to break him and contain him.
There are beautiful, sensual passages between Henri and Vincent and this is a true soulmates book with lots of twists and betrayal. The journey and the battle are once again building for these men and, if the next book was out, I would be reading it right now. For a fabulous and all-consuming tale of soul mates with a never-ending love story showcasing an unbreakable bond, with sensual writing and betrayal around every dark corner, certainly check out the Mortal and Divine series.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
Bloodborn Prince is book two in the Mortal and Divine series. The books are meant to be read in order and reading anything about the events in this book will open up spoilers for the series.
This series is amazing and the allure is there to get to the full story quickly.
The book opens with Vincent and Henri’s personal relationships and lays a new foundation for them and then effortlessly transitions to the battle and the inevitable war. It’s fascinating to watch Vincent come of age and retain memories that he cannot explain. Henri is devoted to Vincent and the bond between them is absolute. Vincent now has powers to compel and there are those that want to break him and contain him.
There are beautiful, sensual passages between Henri and Vincent and this is a true soulmates book with lots of twists and betrayal. The journey and the battle are once again building for these men and, if the next book was out, I would be reading it right now. For a fabulous and all-consuming tale of soul mates with a never-ending love story showcasing an unbreakable bond, with sensual writing and betrayal around every dark corner, certainly check out the Mortal and Divine series.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
August 18, 2020
3.5 stars
I was so excited to read this book. After book 1 I just couldn't wait. When this came out, I got it immediately but then I saw a different name ( I had pretty much forgotten book 1 at this point) so I decided to reread book 1 first. Terrific decision right there, I was able to follow this book clearly.
I loved Henri and Vicente. I didn't love the pacing. We already saw how Henri and Orlando's relationship came to be. We saw how Henri met Orlando when he was a kid and kept showing up till they became friends and more. That is exactly how this book was too. Vicente comes back and we spend years just hanging out with him as he grows older. It was annoying, again because we already did that in book 1.
It only started to pick up towards the end when they had to go to Shade Vale,besides that it was almost boring. I saw almost because I still found some things I enjoyed as I read on.
I can't wait to see what comes next.
I was so excited to read this book. After book 1 I just couldn't wait. When this came out, I got it immediately but then I saw a different name ( I had pretty much forgotten book 1 at this point) so I decided to reread book 1 first. Terrific decision right there, I was able to follow this book clearly.
I loved Henri and Vicente. I didn't love the pacing. We already saw how Henri and Orlando's relationship came to be. We saw how Henri met Orlando when he was a kid and kept showing up till they became friends and more. That is exactly how this book was too. Vicente comes back and we spend years just hanging out with him as he grows older. It was annoying, again because we already did that in book 1.
It only started to pick up towards the end when they had to go to Shade Vale,besides that it was almost boring. I saw almost because I still found some things I enjoyed as I read on.
I can't wait to see what comes next.
May 25, 2021
Is my disappointment shining through enough with this rating?
I can only imagine what was going through the author's mind when she decided to make the most anticipated revelation in the whole book , at least for me, as anticlimactic as it could be. Give me a little more EMOTION, man.
Also, Very unbelievable. The sweetness I felt in the first book was seriously lacking. Not gonna be reading the third one anytime soon. I need a break.
I suppose this is how big expectations shattering feels like. :(
I can only imagine what was going through the author's mind when she decided to make the most anticipated revelation in the whole book , at least for me, as anticlimactic as it could be. Give me a little more EMOTION, man.
Also, Very unbelievable. The sweetness I felt in the first book was seriously lacking. Not gonna be reading the third one anytime soon. I need a break.
I suppose this is how big expectations shattering feels like. :(
August 16, 2020
Hmmm... 3.5 stars?
I was so excited after the first book. But after I got past the excitement, I was kinda bored. And honestly, I almost gave up at the midway point. I just didn’t see why we had to know all the minutiae of Vincent’s life. It was only the last 40% that was relevant, in my opinion and prolly the last 20% that was exciting.
I don’t know.... I’m definitely torn about this book 😟
I was so excited after the first book. But after I got past the excitement, I was kinda bored. And honestly, I almost gave up at the midway point. I just didn’t see why we had to know all the minutiae of Vincent’s life. It was only the last 40% that was relevant, in my opinion and prolly the last 20% that was exciting.
I don’t know.... I’m definitely torn about this book 😟
Want to read
December 5, 2020This awesome gift is from There’s some HO HO HO’s in this house, who really made my evening!! 😂😂🥰 Thanks so much, I’m looking forward to it. ❤️
July 28, 2020
Holy Crap. L Lascarso knows how to write. She just does this amazing thing in her writing that constantly makes you think you're either going to love or hate what will happen on the next page - you read her books in a constant state of anxiety (My nails are non-existent now) - which just makes you greedy for her next page.
I love when i can picture the movie - when the writing is so visually stimulating you can see every scene, every face, every room. Thats not even necessarily because every scene is overly descriptive - it's because Lascaro makes you feel like you ARE every character in each scene - you cant help but see it and feel it.
"It made me feel like a huge pervert, to be quite honest"
Dont we all have that thought most days? Well, at least i know i will anytime im looking at a cucumber now. Julienned or whole.
* I received an ARC from the author * and i am SO grateful, because this book consumed me for a full 48 hours. Though now im wishing i spaced it out because what the hell am i meant to read now following THAT?
I love when i can picture the movie - when the writing is so visually stimulating you can see every scene, every face, every room. Thats not even necessarily because every scene is overly descriptive - it's because Lascaro makes you feel like you ARE every character in each scene - you cant help but see it and feel it.
"It made me feel like a huge pervert, to be quite honest"
Dont we all have that thought most days? Well, at least i know i will anytime im looking at a cucumber now. Julienned or whole.
* I received an ARC from the author * and i am SO grateful, because this book consumed me for a full 48 hours. Though now im wishing i spaced it out because what the hell am i meant to read now following THAT?
February 25, 2021
"You returned to me in a torrential downpour that blurred the world like a smudge of paint on an otherwise orderly canvas"
The opening to Laura Lascarso's second installment in the Mortal and Divine series kept my love for her beauty prose going. And it was sustained throughout the book with scattered pieces of inspired writings like that.
Trading emotions for suspense in her second book, Laura reunited Henri with his lover, now reincarnated as a bloodborn and named Vincent. Together they discovered the deception of the gods, and was thrusted into an all-out war. While I appreciated the thickened plot, as compared to book 1, I think Laura showed her lack of strength in writing suspense. The pacing in the middle of the book was a bit wrong, I was bored, instead of thrilled, a few times because of the lack of plot intensity and some meandering events. Luckily it picked up at the end with some twists and a cliffhanger that compelled me to continue with Book 3.
The opening to Laura Lascarso's second installment in the Mortal and Divine series kept my love for her beauty prose going. And it was sustained throughout the book with scattered pieces of inspired writings like that.
Trading emotions for suspense in her second book, Laura reunited Henri with his lover, now reincarnated as a bloodborn and named Vincent. Together they discovered the deception of the gods, and was thrusted into an all-out war. While I appreciated the thickened plot, as compared to book 1, I think Laura showed her lack of strength in writing suspense. The pacing in the middle of the book was a bit wrong, I was bored, instead of thrilled, a few times because of the lack of plot intensity and some meandering events. Luckily it picked up at the end with some twists and a cliffhanger that compelled me to continue with Book 3.
August 9, 2020
I HAVE NO WORDS TO DESCRIBE HOW MUCH I LOVE THESE BOOKS’ WRITING I SWEAR. I AM VERY EMOTIONAL I KNEW THIS BOOK WAS GONNA END WITH A SLAP JUST LIKE THE FIRST ONE AND NOW I AM VERY SAD AND VERY IN NEED OF THE THIRD ONE.
Read
July 8, 2021Desisto al 30%.
Ellos cada vez me interesan menos y la historia es aburrida.
Ellos cada vez me interesan menos y la historia es aburrida.
August 10, 2020
I’ve just finished devouring Bloodborn Prince. The follow up to Book of Orlando. It can’t have been easy producing a book as good as its predecessor but Laura Lascarso has done it. Actually Bloodborn Prince was even better. I’m sorry but I shed a tear at the end for Vincent. I hate to think what he’s facing and the final book will be no doubt hard to read. Be under no illusion Bloodborn Prince is dark, violent, and very sexy. A typical Laura Lascarso read involves amazing writing, a strong story that pulls you in until the end and the need for more.
August 7, 2020
5 stars
Nobody talk to me until the next book comes out.
I don’t know how to articulate how amazing this book is. I was obsessed with the Book of Orlando and I’m equally obsessed with Bloodborn Prince. This world is so wonderful. Henri and Vincent’s relationship had me slowly dying until the very end. AND THE ENDING. Seriously I just sat there open mouth because I needed more.
* ARC gifted to me by the author *
———-
*grabby hands*
GIMME GIMME GIMME
Nobody talk to me until the next book comes out.
I don’t know how to articulate how amazing this book is. I was obsessed with the Book of Orlando and I’m equally obsessed with Bloodborn Prince. This world is so wonderful. Henri and Vincent’s relationship had me slowly dying until the very end. AND THE ENDING. Seriously I just sat there open mouth because I needed more.
* ARC gifted to me by the author *
———-
*grabby hands*
GIMME GIMME GIMME
Read
January 13, 2021Holy freaking hell.... these guys can't catch a break!!! I am in love with this series!
Review to come!
Review to come!
August 13, 2020
3.5 stars
I was a tad disappointed in this long-awaited sequel. What I loved about the first book seemed to be missing from the second. The first book was a love story with the strange and unique conflicts that come from loving a powerful being without a body. This book was primarily about the escalating conflict between Azrael and Lena, but even this aspect of the plot seemed to be more mundane than it had the potential for, given the backdrop of a brewing war between angels and demons. Instead, the majority of the book is about a relatively mundane search for Vincent’s mysterious stalker and then an ensuing search for Lena. Henry and Vincent’s relationship and even their own character development took a back seat. I didn’t like the beginning (which did have more of a focus on Henri and Vincent and was reminiscent of book 1), but then things went off on a tangent that lost me.
The book had a strong finish with another cliff hanger very similar to book 1, and there’s definitely potential for the story to get a lot more interesting. Maybe we’ll see more of Henry’s crazy brother Lucian :-)
.
I was a tad disappointed in this long-awaited sequel. What I loved about the first book seemed to be missing from the second. The first book was a love story with the strange and unique conflicts that come from loving a powerful being without a body. This book was primarily about the escalating conflict between Azrael and Lena, but even this aspect of the plot seemed to be more mundane than it had the potential for, given the backdrop of a brewing war between angels and demons. Instead, the majority of the book is about a relatively mundane search for Vincent’s mysterious stalker and then an ensuing search for Lena. Henry and Vincent’s relationship and even their own character development took a back seat. I didn’t like the beginning (which did have more of a focus on Henri and Vincent and was reminiscent of book 1), but then things went off on a tangent that lost me.
The book had a strong finish with another cliff hanger very similar to book 1, and there’s definitely potential for the story to get a lot more interesting. Maybe we’ll see more of Henry’s crazy brother Lucian :-)
.
October 26, 2021
3.5 ⭐️
"I was not a good man, but I was determined"
i specially liked the end.
Pain of losing once is too much and now loosing again is like death but i am sure Henri will find you again bcoz he is determined
Interesting💃
"I was not a good man, but I was determined"
i specially liked the end.
Pain of losing once is too much and now loosing again is like death but i am sure Henri will find you again bcoz he is determined
Interesting💃
August 10, 2020
Laura Lascarso has achieved her goal of keeping me up past my bedtime with both books in this series. I’m usually a patient man, but waiting for Parousia will be difficult as Henri and Orlando / Vincent’s story is just so unique and irreplaceable.
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