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Marvel Aconyte Novels
Elsa Bloodstone: Bequest: A Marvel Heroines Novel
Smart-mouthed monster hunter extraordinaire, Elsa Bloodstone isn’t easily fazed, but a shocking family revelation sends her down a bloody path, in this witty and action-soaked Marvel Heroines adventure
Elsa Bloodstone just can’t catch a break. She’s barely finished shutting down a hive of ratmen when a special ops squad turns up guns blazing – and they’re shooting at her! It’s nothing a good grenade can’t sort out though. When Elsa returns home, she discovers an unexpected guest claiming to be her long-lost sister, seeking her own stolen Bloodstone shard. The Bloodstone is the secret to Elsa’s superhuman powers, and a shard in villainous hands is seriously bad news. Cue globetrotting adventures full of monster-smashing. But danger stays one step ahead of them as Elsa realizes her sister isn’t quite what she seems, and an old enemy with a secret about her family’s past could overturn everything Elsa’s ever believed.
Elsa Bloodstone just can’t catch a break. She’s barely finished shutting down a hive of ratmen when a special ops squad turns up guns blazing – and they’re shooting at her! It’s nothing a good grenade can’t sort out though. When Elsa returns home, she discovers an unexpected guest claiming to be her long-lost sister, seeking her own stolen Bloodstone shard. The Bloodstone is the secret to Elsa’s superhuman powers, and a shard in villainous hands is seriously bad news. Cue globetrotting adventures full of monster-smashing. But danger stays one step ahead of them as Elsa realizes her sister isn’t quite what she seems, and an old enemy with a secret about her family’s past could overturn everything Elsa’s ever believed.
336 pages, Paperback
First published May 4, 2021
16 people are currently reading
259 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
June 18, 2021
Elsa Bloodstone is a badass monster hunter just like her father was. When she's attacked by a group of mercenaries who attempt to take her bloodstone shard, she takes it personally. She along with a new familiar character go after the mercenaries to find out who is behind it all and put a stop to them.
Using Elsa Bloodstone in a novel was smart. She's a little used Marvel character with limited backstory so you don't have to worry much about offending the continuity gods. She's a great character. A take charge, doesn't put up with any nonsense kind of women. I did enjoy all the little nods to the Marvel universe inserted into the book and especially the references to past continuity like her brother Cullen's time trapped in Murderworld in Avengers Arena.
Received a review copy from Aconyte Books and NetGalley.
#Marvel #MarvelEnt #Aconytebooks #review
About Marvel Entertainment
Marvel Entertainment, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is one of the world’s most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of more than 8,000 characters featured in a variety of media for over eighty years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in entertainment, licensing, publishing, games, and digital media.
For more information visit marvel.com. © 2020 MARVEL
Using Elsa Bloodstone in a novel was smart. She's a little used Marvel character with limited backstory so you don't have to worry much about offending the continuity gods. She's a great character. A take charge, doesn't put up with any nonsense kind of women. I did enjoy all the little nods to the Marvel universe inserted into the book and especially the references to past continuity like her brother Cullen's time trapped in Murderworld in Avengers Arena.
Received a review copy from Aconyte Books and NetGalley.
#Marvel #MarvelEnt #Aconytebooks #review
About Marvel Entertainment
Marvel Entertainment, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is one of the world’s most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of more than 8,000 characters featured in a variety of media for over eighty years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in entertainment, licensing, publishing, games, and digital media.
For more information visit marvel.com. © 2020 MARVEL
April 29, 2021
The Husband pointed this book out to me on Netgalley, but I was kinda hesitant to request it. Mainly because that cover is Horrible. But I do have a weak for some Marvel ladies, and I was unfamiliar with Elsa so I went for it anyway. And I am really happy I did!
Elsa is described in the book as:
You move like a cat and fight like a wolverine, and you do it all in heels and toting more guns than most people can even name. You’re a stone cold badass, Elsa Bloodstone.
And that is pretty accurate. We are introduced to her by a massive shootout in a graveyard, in which she kills a ratman by kicking him in the throat with her stilettos. Yes, Elsa is a monster hunter who lives in a manor house with a Frankenstein creature for a butler (who is brilliant by the way). And yes the manor has massive underground shooting range in which she tests out her vast array of custom made weapons. She also has a bloodstone shard which gives her super strenght, ‘spider sense’, and regenerative powers. She is also incredibly snarky, has a pretty decent ego and likes to kick balls. Did I mention that she is great?
We follow Elsa and her halfsister as they travel around the world looking for their father’s hidded bases and possible other bloodstone shards. Along the way they come across a bunch of monsters to slay. And these aren’t just your typical vampires etc. Lauria has used creatures from Slavic, Zulu and Swahili mythology and lore, among others, and I loved this so much!
This book had quite a different tone to the ‘usual’ Marvel stuff and for the most part read like its own thing – apart from the few mentions of for example Wakanda or Stark Industries. Because of that I feel you can very easily read this without much more than some basic knowledge from the movies.
I was disappointed with the main villain though, but this may just be a personal thing. I was familiar with them from a different comic in which I already didn’t like them, so being confronted with them at the end of this book I hugely enjoyed wasn’t a nice surprise.
I had a blast with this book and have found a new heroine to look out for. I am definitely going to pick up some comics Elsa features in soon! She is So Much Fun!!!
Elsa is described in the book as:
You move like a cat and fight like a wolverine, and you do it all in heels and toting more guns than most people can even name. You’re a stone cold badass, Elsa Bloodstone.
And that is pretty accurate. We are introduced to her by a massive shootout in a graveyard, in which she kills a ratman by kicking him in the throat with her stilettos. Yes, Elsa is a monster hunter who lives in a manor house with a Frankenstein creature for a butler (who is brilliant by the way). And yes the manor has massive underground shooting range in which she tests out her vast array of custom made weapons. She also has a bloodstone shard which gives her super strenght, ‘spider sense’, and regenerative powers. She is also incredibly snarky, has a pretty decent ego and likes to kick balls. Did I mention that she is great?
We follow Elsa and her halfsister as they travel around the world looking for their father’s hidded bases and possible other bloodstone shards. Along the way they come across a bunch of monsters to slay. And these aren’t just your typical vampires etc. Lauria has used creatures from Slavic, Zulu and Swahili mythology and lore, among others, and I loved this so much!
This book had quite a different tone to the ‘usual’ Marvel stuff and for the most part read like its own thing – apart from the few mentions of for example Wakanda or Stark Industries. Because of that I feel you can very easily read this without much more than some basic knowledge from the movies.
I was disappointed with the main villain though, but this may just be a personal thing. I was familiar with them from a different comic in which I already didn’t like them, so being confronted with them at the end of this book I hugely enjoyed wasn’t a nice surprise.
I had a blast with this book and have found a new heroine to look out for. I am definitely going to pick up some comics Elsa features in soon! She is So Much Fun!!!
May 14, 2021
Elsa Bloodstone was a character I knew little to nothing to about prior to requesting this through Netgalley. I knew that she is sometimes tied to Deadpool, a plus, and is a monster hunter, a major plus. So, this was an excellent chance to learn more about a new character for me. I loved this addition to the Marvel Heroines series and felt like it was super accessible to me as someone who knew very little about Bloodstone prior to starting it.
I received an ecopy of this book via Netgalley; however, my opinions are my own.
I received an ecopy of this book via Netgalley; however, my opinions are my own.
April 12, 2021
Thank you Netgalley, Marvel Entertainment and Aconyte books for a review copy of this novel!
I loved the Marvel Heroines Rogue novel and was excited to read this one about Elsa Bloodstone. To be honest, while I’m a major Marvel fan (my daughters named after Marvel), I didn’t know anything about Elsa. But my goodness is she awesome! This is such a great novel for introducing the character to more people and open a gateway to more of the Marvel heroines we don’t hear about often.
Reminding me of Van Helsing mixed with Buffy, Elsa is a monster hunter who possesses a bloodstone she inherited from her father. It gives her inhuman abilities that help her in her endeavors. This novel follows Elsa as she helps her newfound long lost sister find her own stolen bloodstone as they traipse around the world.
With fun calls to other Marvel characters, it’s a familiar world that was fun to get lost in.
I loved the Marvel Heroines Rogue novel and was excited to read this one about Elsa Bloodstone. To be honest, while I’m a major Marvel fan (my daughters named after Marvel), I didn’t know anything about Elsa. But my goodness is she awesome! This is such a great novel for introducing the character to more people and open a gateway to more of the Marvel heroines we don’t hear about often.
Reminding me of Van Helsing mixed with Buffy, Elsa is a monster hunter who possesses a bloodstone she inherited from her father. It gives her inhuman abilities that help her in her endeavors. This novel follows Elsa as she helps her newfound long lost sister find her own stolen bloodstone as they traipse around the world.
With fun calls to other Marvel characters, it’s a familiar world that was fun to get lost in.
March 16, 2021
4.5 This was super fun. I don't have much background on the character so that may enhance the story even more but even so it was a wild ride.
July 27, 2023
Elsa Bloodstone dürfte für die meisten wohl nicht zu den bekannten Marvel-Charakteren gehören. Ich zumindest kannte sie nicht. Gut, ich bin auch nicht der absolute Über-Fan, der jeden Comic liest, aber ich habe zumindest schon Namen gehört, die über das MCU hinausgehen.
Daher wird man hier direkt in die Geschichte hineingeworfen, denn man erfährt wenig über Elsas Vergangenheit und Heldengeschichte, sondern schnappt das ein oder andere eher zwischendurch auf. Z.B. das sie Monsterjägerin ist und durch einen Blutstein ähnlich wie Wolverine Verletzungen sehr schnell regenerieren kann. Die Profession als Monsterjägerin hat sie von ihrem verstorbenen Vater übernommen, den sie davon ab aber nicht unbedingt als Vorbild sieht.
Ansonsten ist hat sie natürlich eine große Klappe (das wurde auch so im Klappentext beschrieben), was ich normalerweise mag, aber irgendwie ist es mir hier an der ein oder anderen Stelle too much. Ich hab relativ schnell verstanden, dass sie als toughe Heldin dargestellt werden soll, aber je öfter man es liest, desto mehr bekommt man das Gefühl, dass es einem tatsächlich mit dem Zaunpfahl eingeprügelt werden soll. Winken hätte für mich aber völlig ausgereicht.
Außerdem fühlt sie sich durch ihre Regenerationskräfte quasi unverwundbar und ich mag solche "Übercharaktere", die alles besiegen und alles überleben und dann noch übertrieben cool dabei sind, einfach nicht so sehr. Ich als Leser kann mit ihnen einfach nicht mitfühlen, weil sie ja auch kaum wirklich in Gefahr geraten und man sich ernsthaft fragt, ob sie es wieder daraus schaffen. Wenn man mit mehreren Dinosauriern fertig wird, wird man es wohl auch mit einem verrückten Bösewicht. Dessen Motivation ich übrigens auch nicht gecheckt habe. Der war einfach so klischeehaft "verrückter, böser Irrer" das ich ihn so gar nicht ernst nehmen konnte.
Insgesamt blieb die Geschichte für mich daher hinter ihren Möglichkeiten. Es war mir einfach oft zu viel des Guten, auch wenn sie sich immerhin gut weglesen ließ. Für mich sind es aber nur 2,5 Sterne.
Daher wird man hier direkt in die Geschichte hineingeworfen, denn man erfährt wenig über Elsas Vergangenheit und Heldengeschichte, sondern schnappt das ein oder andere eher zwischendurch auf. Z.B. das sie Monsterjägerin ist und durch einen Blutstein ähnlich wie Wolverine Verletzungen sehr schnell regenerieren kann. Die Profession als Monsterjägerin hat sie von ihrem verstorbenen Vater übernommen, den sie davon ab aber nicht unbedingt als Vorbild sieht.
Ansonsten ist hat sie natürlich eine große Klappe (das wurde auch so im Klappentext beschrieben), was ich normalerweise mag, aber irgendwie ist es mir hier an der ein oder anderen Stelle too much. Ich hab relativ schnell verstanden, dass sie als toughe Heldin dargestellt werden soll, aber je öfter man es liest, desto mehr bekommt man das Gefühl, dass es einem tatsächlich mit dem Zaunpfahl eingeprügelt werden soll. Winken hätte für mich aber völlig ausgereicht.
Außerdem fühlt sie sich durch ihre Regenerationskräfte quasi unverwundbar und ich mag solche "Übercharaktere", die alles besiegen und alles überleben und dann noch übertrieben cool dabei sind, einfach nicht so sehr. Ich als Leser kann mit ihnen einfach nicht mitfühlen, weil sie ja auch kaum wirklich in Gefahr geraten und man sich ernsthaft fragt, ob sie es wieder daraus schaffen. Wenn man mit mehreren Dinosauriern fertig wird, wird man es wohl auch mit einem verrückten Bösewicht. Dessen Motivation ich übrigens auch nicht gecheckt habe. Der war einfach so klischeehaft "verrückter, böser Irrer" das ich ihn so gar nicht ernst nehmen konnte.
Insgesamt blieb die Geschichte für mich daher hinter ihren Möglichkeiten. Es war mir einfach oft zu viel des Guten, auch wenn sie sich immerhin gut weglesen ließ. Für mich sind es aber nur 2,5 Sterne.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2021
I have been provided with an advance copy of the new Marvel Heroines book Elsa Bloodstone: Bequest by Cath Lauria, published by Aconyte Books, so here is the honest review I promised in exchange for the book.
So here is an important disclaimer which is always important to put out there first. I have a casual work contact with Asmodee to demonstrate board games for them in stores and at conventions. Asmodee being the parent company of Aconyte the publisher.
I am going to try my best to not let this cloud my judgement in this review, but I accept that subconsciously it might.
What is Marvel
Look at this point I would bore you with a bit of background to the game/universe, but lets not, you all know the Marvel Universe, if you don’t have you been living under a rock!
The Marvel Heroines series focuses on the female hero’s of the Marvel universe, the first two books in the series, Domino Strays and Rogue Untouched were extremly good, so I was looking forward to this.
The Story
So I think its best to introduce Elsa Bloodstrone first, she is a monster hunting heroine introduced to the Marvel universe by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning. She is the daughter of Ulysses Bloodstone and follows in his footsteps of protecting the world from vampires, demons and monsters. Very much a Buffy type character.
She is British, loves her tea and doesn’t take s**t from anyone, and likes to keep people at a distance, but all that changes when a woman turns up on her doorstep claiming to be her half sister who has had her Bloodstone shard stolen, the Bloodstone being what grands Elsa her powers of superhuman strength, healing and endurance.
The core of this story is less so the adventure they are on, but the relationship between Elsa and Mihaela as they travel across thje world, investigating Ulysses old bases of operation to ensure he hasn’t left anymore Bloodstone shards lying around, lest what could happen if they ended up in the hands of evil doers.
We start off being very distrust of Mihaela, who lacks the same strength and attitude as Elsa and its very much an odd couple kind of relationship, with them constantly at each others throats, in more ways than one!
Mihaelas comments about Elsas attitude and recklessness are meet with very witty, sarcastic and snarky comebacks, even in the middle of a battle. Lauria does an excellent job of getting into Elsas head, we slowly get to see more and more about why she prefers to work alone and more about why she doesn’t want her sister in her life.
Conclusion
This book is really really good, and its refreshing to get a good book about one of Marvels lesser known heroes, and I really hope that Lauria is allowed to continue this storyline as the conclusion sets up some cool possibilities.
The backstory for Elsa and Mihaela is explored very well, so if you have never heard about Elsa before, then you will have no issues enjoying this book.
Overall its a fantastic pulpy adventure with cameos by a couple of other heroes on the trek around the world and a rather cool twist that turns everything around very nicely.
This is a brilliant book, full of background, but done in such a way as to not overwhelm and crammed full of comic book style action.
Solid 5 out of 5 stars from me!
The eBook is released on the 4th May and the paperback hits the shelves on 22nd July.
So here is an important disclaimer which is always important to put out there first. I have a casual work contact with Asmodee to demonstrate board games for them in stores and at conventions. Asmodee being the parent company of Aconyte the publisher.
I am going to try my best to not let this cloud my judgement in this review, but I accept that subconsciously it might.
What is Marvel
Look at this point I would bore you with a bit of background to the game/universe, but lets not, you all know the Marvel Universe, if you don’t have you been living under a rock!
The Marvel Heroines series focuses on the female hero’s of the Marvel universe, the first two books in the series, Domino Strays and Rogue Untouched were extremly good, so I was looking forward to this.
The Story
So I think its best to introduce Elsa Bloodstrone first, she is a monster hunting heroine introduced to the Marvel universe by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning. She is the daughter of Ulysses Bloodstone and follows in his footsteps of protecting the world from vampires, demons and monsters. Very much a Buffy type character.
She is British, loves her tea and doesn’t take s**t from anyone, and likes to keep people at a distance, but all that changes when a woman turns up on her doorstep claiming to be her half sister who has had her Bloodstone shard stolen, the Bloodstone being what grands Elsa her powers of superhuman strength, healing and endurance.
The core of this story is less so the adventure they are on, but the relationship between Elsa and Mihaela as they travel across thje world, investigating Ulysses old bases of operation to ensure he hasn’t left anymore Bloodstone shards lying around, lest what could happen if they ended up in the hands of evil doers.
We start off being very distrust of Mihaela, who lacks the same strength and attitude as Elsa and its very much an odd couple kind of relationship, with them constantly at each others throats, in more ways than one!
Mihaelas comments about Elsas attitude and recklessness are meet with very witty, sarcastic and snarky comebacks, even in the middle of a battle. Lauria does an excellent job of getting into Elsas head, we slowly get to see more and more about why she prefers to work alone and more about why she doesn’t want her sister in her life.
Conclusion
This book is really really good, and its refreshing to get a good book about one of Marvels lesser known heroes, and I really hope that Lauria is allowed to continue this storyline as the conclusion sets up some cool possibilities.
The backstory for Elsa and Mihaela is explored very well, so if you have never heard about Elsa before, then you will have no issues enjoying this book.
Overall its a fantastic pulpy adventure with cameos by a couple of other heroes on the trek around the world and a rather cool twist that turns everything around very nicely.
This is a brilliant book, full of background, but done in such a way as to not overwhelm and crammed full of comic book style action.
Solid 5 out of 5 stars from me!
The eBook is released on the 4th May and the paperback hits the shelves on 22nd July.
April 19, 2021
I received an electronic ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Elsa is living the best life a superpowered monster hunter can live. But when the half-sister she never knew she had shows up at Bloodstone Manor, everything comes to a screeching halt.
Elsa’s introduction to her half-sister, Mihaela Zamfir, is a rough one. Mihaela begs Elsa to help her retrieve her Bloodstone shard, the one memento she has left from their deceased father. Unfortunately, Elsa doesn’t have the same fond opinion of Ulysses Bloodstone that her dear sister does. While Mihaela views Ulysses as a distant but heroic figure, Elsa saw him as a selfish, careless man.
Despite her distrust of Mihaela, Elsa agrees to help her hunt down her Bloodstone shard because she fears that Ulysses may have left other shards behind...
The voice that Lauria gives Elsa is the best part of Elsa Bloodstone: Bequest. It’s a lot of fun to read from her point of view. Elsa is hilarious. Snarky and sarcastic, she always has a witty comeback or quip ready, even when she’s in battle. Lauria gives Elsa a very distinct and memorable voice.
It would’ve been easy for Lauria to write Elsa as a one-dimensional character, snarky comic relief with no depth. Thankfully, Lauria does not go this route. Throughout Elsa Bloodstone: Bequest, it becomes clear that Elsa’s acerbic attitude and bravado act as a self-defense mechanism. People who end up in Elsa’s life, be it teammates, love interests, or friends, never stick around for long. They die, they kick her off the team, they have a falling out, etc. And Elsa always ends up alone...
...Elsa Bloodstone: Bequest is a monstrously good time to read, with laugh-out-loud moments, meaningful family bonding, memorable characters, and plenty of comic book-level action. Even if you’ve never read an Elsa Bloodstone comic, this novel will entertain and amuse you and provide plenty of character background so you won’t be lost.
My full review is available at https://butwhythopodcast.com/2021/04/...
Elsa is living the best life a superpowered monster hunter can live. But when the half-sister she never knew she had shows up at Bloodstone Manor, everything comes to a screeching halt.
Elsa’s introduction to her half-sister, Mihaela Zamfir, is a rough one. Mihaela begs Elsa to help her retrieve her Bloodstone shard, the one memento she has left from their deceased father. Unfortunately, Elsa doesn’t have the same fond opinion of Ulysses Bloodstone that her dear sister does. While Mihaela views Ulysses as a distant but heroic figure, Elsa saw him as a selfish, careless man.
Despite her distrust of Mihaela, Elsa agrees to help her hunt down her Bloodstone shard because she fears that Ulysses may have left other shards behind...
The voice that Lauria gives Elsa is the best part of Elsa Bloodstone: Bequest. It’s a lot of fun to read from her point of view. Elsa is hilarious. Snarky and sarcastic, she always has a witty comeback or quip ready, even when she’s in battle. Lauria gives Elsa a very distinct and memorable voice.
It would’ve been easy for Lauria to write Elsa as a one-dimensional character, snarky comic relief with no depth. Thankfully, Lauria does not go this route. Throughout Elsa Bloodstone: Bequest, it becomes clear that Elsa’s acerbic attitude and bravado act as a self-defense mechanism. People who end up in Elsa’s life, be it teammates, love interests, or friends, never stick around for long. They die, they kick her off the team, they have a falling out, etc. And Elsa always ends up alone...
...Elsa Bloodstone: Bequest is a monstrously good time to read, with laugh-out-loud moments, meaningful family bonding, memorable characters, and plenty of comic book-level action. Even if you’ve never read an Elsa Bloodstone comic, this novel will entertain and amuse you and provide plenty of character background so you won’t be lost.
My full review is available at https://butwhythopodcast.com/2021/04/...
June 7, 2021
Elsa Bloodstone: Bequest, written by Cath Lauria, is the latest Marvel Aconyte novel, and since it covers one of my favorite Marvel heroines, I just knew that I had to read it. If you enjoyed the heroine run of novels, make sure to also check out Rogue's new novel, as well as Domino's.
Elsa Bloodstone is a famous monster hunter. More than that, she comes from a family famous for their monster hunting abilities. It's that very family which is about to force her latest adventure on her.
Somebody just tried very hard to steal Elsa's Bloodstone shard, the source of her powers. While they failed to grab hers, they succeeded in getting her sister's Bloodstone shard. A sister that Elsa didn't know about, right up until she arrived at her doorstep begging for help.
“Ready for some bloodshed, boys? They'd be getting their fill of entertainment before long.”
Elsa Bloodstone is one of my favorite Marvel characters, one that I personally consider to be seriously underrated on the whole. Naturally, I was absolutely thrilled to hear about Elsa Bloodstone: Bequest. I couldn't have grabbed this book faster if I tried.
Bequest is a fantastic and approachable introduction to Elsa's character, not to mention the whole convoluted family history. Her monster hunting days are fairly clear in this book, as she gets into (and out of) more than one adventure.
More than that, her personality shines through. Okay, most of her personality could be described as sass and frustration, but I swear that's half the reason I adore her. That and she is a truly impressive combatant.
I knew going into this (thanks to the description) that family drama would be a major part of the story, yet even I was surprised by the level it went to and just how complex it truly got before it was all said and done. It helped to round out Elsa's story.
Truth be told, I was actually pretty sad when this story came to a close. Not because the ending was depressing, but because I had been really enjoying the narrative all the way through. I don't know how likely it is for there to be a sequel, but a girl can hope.
Thanks to Aconyte and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Check out more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
Elsa Bloodstone is a famous monster hunter. More than that, she comes from a family famous for their monster hunting abilities. It's that very family which is about to force her latest adventure on her.
Somebody just tried very hard to steal Elsa's Bloodstone shard, the source of her powers. While they failed to grab hers, they succeeded in getting her sister's Bloodstone shard. A sister that Elsa didn't know about, right up until she arrived at her doorstep begging for help.
“Ready for some bloodshed, boys? They'd be getting their fill of entertainment before long.”
Elsa Bloodstone is one of my favorite Marvel characters, one that I personally consider to be seriously underrated on the whole. Naturally, I was absolutely thrilled to hear about Elsa Bloodstone: Bequest. I couldn't have grabbed this book faster if I tried.
Bequest is a fantastic and approachable introduction to Elsa's character, not to mention the whole convoluted family history. Her monster hunting days are fairly clear in this book, as she gets into (and out of) more than one adventure.
More than that, her personality shines through. Okay, most of her personality could be described as sass and frustration, but I swear that's half the reason I adore her. That and she is a truly impressive combatant.
I knew going into this (thanks to the description) that family drama would be a major part of the story, yet even I was surprised by the level it went to and just how complex it truly got before it was all said and done. It helped to round out Elsa's story.
Truth be told, I was actually pretty sad when this story came to a close. Not because the ending was depressing, but because I had been really enjoying the narrative all the way through. I don't know how likely it is for there to be a sequel, but a girl can hope.
Thanks to Aconyte and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Check out more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
June 26, 2021
I received a ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Elsa Bloodstone is a Marvel superhero and master monster hunter. Never one to shy away from a fight, Elsa can handle any monster she comes across but what about a long lost sister who shows up on her doorstep? Read on for a review of Cath Lauria’s Elsa Bloodstone: Bequest!
When Elsa Bloodstone is attacked by a mercenary group on a run of the mill mission, her curiosity is peaked. It becomes apparent that the bloodstone shard that gives her enhanced capabilities, is a sought after item. When her half-sister Mihaela is attacked for hers, the two sisters travel around the world to try to figure out who is hunting them for their shards. I really liked that each location opens up a tiny bit of the mystery and the two women have to work together to make progress. There’s some uneasiness between the two, possibly because of their stark differences in dealing with their father Ulysses.
Elsa Bloodstone Bequest is such a fun action adventure story, not knowing anything about Elsa Bloodstone won’t affect your ability to enjoy the story. There is enough of a back story that explains the character’s sarcastic attitude and humor and the author also touches on canon Marvel events like Arcade kidnapping Elsa’s brother Cullen. The author name drops some familiar Marvel characters like Captain America, Tony Stark (an ally) and Wolverine (a former lover?) tying Elsa into the Marvel Universe. Elsa has a distinct voice, it’s British and snarky and I’d love to see where future adventures take her.
Elsa Bloodstone is a Marvel superhero and master monster hunter. Never one to shy away from a fight, Elsa can handle any monster she comes across but what about a long lost sister who shows up on her doorstep? Read on for a review of Cath Lauria’s Elsa Bloodstone: Bequest!
When Elsa Bloodstone is attacked by a mercenary group on a run of the mill mission, her curiosity is peaked. It becomes apparent that the bloodstone shard that gives her enhanced capabilities, is a sought after item. When her half-sister Mihaela is attacked for hers, the two sisters travel around the world to try to figure out who is hunting them for their shards. I really liked that each location opens up a tiny bit of the mystery and the two women have to work together to make progress. There’s some uneasiness between the two, possibly because of their stark differences in dealing with their father Ulysses.
Elsa Bloodstone Bequest is such a fun action adventure story, not knowing anything about Elsa Bloodstone won’t affect your ability to enjoy the story. There is enough of a back story that explains the character’s sarcastic attitude and humor and the author also touches on canon Marvel events like Arcade kidnapping Elsa’s brother Cullen. The author name drops some familiar Marvel characters like Captain America, Tony Stark (an ally) and Wolverine (a former lover?) tying Elsa into the Marvel Universe. Elsa has a distinct voice, it’s British and snarky and I’d love to see where future adventures take her.
April 3, 2021
Part of the Marvel: Heroines series from Aconyte Books, Cath Lauria’s Elsa Bloodstone: Bequest is a madcap thrill-ride full of monster battles, jet-setting and bickering siblings. Elsa Bloodstone – badass monster hunter, daughter of the famed Ulysses Bloodstone, definitely not a team player – is quite content with her life spent travelling the world, slaying assorted horrors for money. When a simple monster hunt is interrupted by mercenaries wanting her bloodstone shard, however, it seems as though her life is about to get a bit more complicated, an impression only reinforced by the appearance of a previously unknown half-sister asking for help in recovering her own, recently-lost bloodstone. Begrudgingly, Elsa agrees to help Mihaela, and the two of them set out to track down whoever’s behind the bloodstone theft.
It’s fun to read about high-profile characters from the Marvel universe, but there’s something to be said for the slightly less well-known names like Elsa Bloodstone who – for someone like me who’s mostly familiar with Marvel from the movies rather than the comic books – can bring something a bit different to the table. To my mind, this is a great example of how much fun superheroes can be, but at the same time how important it is that their stories are grounded in character first and foremost. If you’re on the lookout for a pulpy action adventure with a Marvel character who deserves much more attention (and lots more stories after this), I can heartily recommend you give this a go.
Read the full review at https://www.trackofwords.com/2021/04/...
It’s fun to read about high-profile characters from the Marvel universe, but there’s something to be said for the slightly less well-known names like Elsa Bloodstone who – for someone like me who’s mostly familiar with Marvel from the movies rather than the comic books – can bring something a bit different to the table. To my mind, this is a great example of how much fun superheroes can be, but at the same time how important it is that their stories are grounded in character first and foremost. If you’re on the lookout for a pulpy action adventure with a Marvel character who deserves much more attention (and lots more stories after this), I can heartily recommend you give this a go.
Read the full review at https://www.trackofwords.com/2021/04/...
February 14, 2022
Prior to reading this novel, I only had a passing familiarity with Elsa Bloodstone. She made her comics debut in 2001, and I knew of her only from appearances in video games.
I found her an absolutely wonderful character, and I thank the author for presenting her so well that I could instantly get what Elsa was all about. I enjoyed the globe-trotting aspect of this story too.
I found her an absolutely wonderful character, and I thank the author for presenting her so well that I could instantly get what Elsa was all about. I enjoyed the globe-trotting aspect of this story too.
May 29, 2024
I really enjoyed this until the villain reveal -- this is just one of the least enjoyable Marvel villains, imo. But I love that Elsa got this much attention and depth, and I do understand WHY this is the villain they chose. I am kind of confused about why they repeated this plotline but with just a slight twist like two years later in the comics?? But I'll go with it!
June 5, 2021
No origin story, no coming of age, just a straight-ahead, girl-powered adventure tale epic in scope, with globe-spanning travel, monsters galore, a firm but fun grip on the Marvel Universe, and an engaging prose style from an author who listens to her protagonist. Good and getting better, this series.
November 15, 2021
in my opinion, elsa bloodstone is criminally underrated. as one of the only monster hunters in the marvel universe, she deserves much more than she gets.
this was a very fun read and lauria's voice for elsa was extremely entertaining and snarky, which is exactly what you would expect from a monster hunter who doesn't put up with anyone she doesn't have to. i was familiar with elsa before reading this novel but she was very much underused in the marvel universe and this provided her with wonderful depth that still felt familiar to the character that i knew. for fans who are looking for more of elsa or just fans who wish to have a good time reading, this is definitely the book for you. thank you to netgalley for the opportunity to read this!
this was a very fun read and lauria's voice for elsa was extremely entertaining and snarky, which is exactly what you would expect from a monster hunter who doesn't put up with anyone she doesn't have to. i was familiar with elsa before reading this novel but she was very much underused in the marvel universe and this provided her with wonderful depth that still felt familiar to the character that i knew. for fans who are looking for more of elsa or just fans who wish to have a good time reading, this is definitely the book for you. thank you to netgalley for the opportunity to read this!
May 5, 2021
Elsa Boodstone: Bequest was my first experience with the character of Elsa Bloodstone, and as such I had no idea what to expect from this book. Instead of the usual super hero fare readers get presented with a kick-ass action heroine fighting monsters and the creatures of the night in a story that feels more like Urban Fantasy than a Marvel story; and because of that it stands out as a truly unique and exciting addition the the Marvel Heroines line.
The story follows Elsa Bloodstone, daughter of the immortal monster hunter Ulysses Bloodstone. Thanks to her father's genes, and the powers of the mystical Bloodstone shard she wears around her neck, Elsa has gained superhuman powers of super strength and regeneration; allowing her to follow in her father's footsteps and fight the creatures of the night that haunt the Marvel Universe.
When dealing with what should have been a relatively easy case in Glasgow Elsa is attacked by a group of armed assailants after her Bloodstone shard. After defeating them and making her way back home to Boston Elsa learns that there's another person in the world with a Bloodstone shard, who's just had it stolen; and what's even more surprising, the person who just had their shard stolen is her sister, Mihaela.
Despite not wanting anything to do with this sister she never even knew existed, and doesn't really like much, she agrees that it's dangerous for anyone to possess a piece of the Bloodstone, and sets out on a journey across the globe with Mihaela that will see the two of them seeking out their fathers hidden bases. Their journey will take them to New York, Mombasa, and the Arctic, and will see them having to confront a bevy of monsters, traps, and armed men as they fight to find out who's behind the theft.
From the very first moments of the book it's clear that this isn't going to be like most comic stories. There's no brightly costumed heroes, no villains with odd gimmicks. Instead we meet Elsa as she enters a Glasgow cemetery armed with a variety of weapons and a shovel as she tries to clear out an infestation of rat men. The book feels much more down to earth at time, which is odd considering Elsa jumps around the globe fighting monsters, but this certainly feels like a more street level story; and fans of characters like Blade or Jessica Jones will definitely find something to like here.
Elsa isn't really in this for the adventure, she doesn't really hang out with big name heroes, or fights flashy villains. Instead, she sees herself as more of a pest controller, going around killing monsters in the shadows, unseen and unthanked because it's the right thing to do. In a lot of ways she feels like a more moral hero that most, despite the fact that she kills a lot, because she's never in the public light, and has committed herself to a cause that will never see her showered in praise like people like Iron-Man or the Avengers.
That being said, Elsa isn't perfect, and at times she comes across as a bit of a bitch. And I loved it. Cath Luria manages to make Elsa into the kind of person you'd want at your back in a fight, but one who you might not get on with. She's catty and judgemental, and she's flawed. It makes her all the more relatable, and means that she gets a lot of opportunity to grow across the book; something that's really used in regards to her relationship with her new sister.
The sisters and the way they evolve with each other over the course of the book is one of the best parts of the story. It's nice to get to see how these two people who clearly hate each other and don't want to be friends at the start slowly come to respect each other, and even begin to care. Both of the characters come with a lot of baggage, and seeing them work through that is at times even better than the monster killing action. Mihaela's backstory is particularly interesting, and discovering her secrets across the narrative is a highlight.
The book is also packed with action, and instead of it just being flashy characters punching each other and throwing villains through buildings things have a much more realistic edge to them. Despite her enhanced strength Elsa has to rely on weapons to help her fight her foes, and it's great seeing her having to figure out the best methods of dispatching the strange monsters she comes across in the book. Elsa never feels overly powerful, and despite being able to do things that no human ever could she always feels just a rung or two under her foes, meaning that she really has to struggle to survive some of these encounters.
Cath Lauria has managed to craft an engaging super hero story that's made for people who have probably never picked up a comic before in their lives. Yes, some big named heroes get mentioned here and there, and a few recognisable names make an appearance, but this is a book that could easily exist outside of the Marvel Universe with a couple of tiny tweaks and still stand on it's own. It has great character focus, leads who are able to change and evolve, interesting monsters, and a plot that will go in directions that you'll not be expecting. Thanks to this book I've discovered an awesome new hero, one that I hope I get to see Lauria write again for one day.
The story follows Elsa Bloodstone, daughter of the immortal monster hunter Ulysses Bloodstone. Thanks to her father's genes, and the powers of the mystical Bloodstone shard she wears around her neck, Elsa has gained superhuman powers of super strength and regeneration; allowing her to follow in her father's footsteps and fight the creatures of the night that haunt the Marvel Universe.
When dealing with what should have been a relatively easy case in Glasgow Elsa is attacked by a group of armed assailants after her Bloodstone shard. After defeating them and making her way back home to Boston Elsa learns that there's another person in the world with a Bloodstone shard, who's just had it stolen; and what's even more surprising, the person who just had their shard stolen is her sister, Mihaela.
Despite not wanting anything to do with this sister she never even knew existed, and doesn't really like much, she agrees that it's dangerous for anyone to possess a piece of the Bloodstone, and sets out on a journey across the globe with Mihaela that will see the two of them seeking out their fathers hidden bases. Their journey will take them to New York, Mombasa, and the Arctic, and will see them having to confront a bevy of monsters, traps, and armed men as they fight to find out who's behind the theft.
From the very first moments of the book it's clear that this isn't going to be like most comic stories. There's no brightly costumed heroes, no villains with odd gimmicks. Instead we meet Elsa as she enters a Glasgow cemetery armed with a variety of weapons and a shovel as she tries to clear out an infestation of rat men. The book feels much more down to earth at time, which is odd considering Elsa jumps around the globe fighting monsters, but this certainly feels like a more street level story; and fans of characters like Blade or Jessica Jones will definitely find something to like here.
Elsa isn't really in this for the adventure, she doesn't really hang out with big name heroes, or fights flashy villains. Instead, she sees herself as more of a pest controller, going around killing monsters in the shadows, unseen and unthanked because it's the right thing to do. In a lot of ways she feels like a more moral hero that most, despite the fact that she kills a lot, because she's never in the public light, and has committed herself to a cause that will never see her showered in praise like people like Iron-Man or the Avengers.
That being said, Elsa isn't perfect, and at times she comes across as a bit of a bitch. And I loved it. Cath Luria manages to make Elsa into the kind of person you'd want at your back in a fight, but one who you might not get on with. She's catty and judgemental, and she's flawed. It makes her all the more relatable, and means that she gets a lot of opportunity to grow across the book; something that's really used in regards to her relationship with her new sister.
The sisters and the way they evolve with each other over the course of the book is one of the best parts of the story. It's nice to get to see how these two people who clearly hate each other and don't want to be friends at the start slowly come to respect each other, and even begin to care. Both of the characters come with a lot of baggage, and seeing them work through that is at times even better than the monster killing action. Mihaela's backstory is particularly interesting, and discovering her secrets across the narrative is a highlight.
The book is also packed with action, and instead of it just being flashy characters punching each other and throwing villains through buildings things have a much more realistic edge to them. Despite her enhanced strength Elsa has to rely on weapons to help her fight her foes, and it's great seeing her having to figure out the best methods of dispatching the strange monsters she comes across in the book. Elsa never feels overly powerful, and despite being able to do things that no human ever could she always feels just a rung or two under her foes, meaning that she really has to struggle to survive some of these encounters.
Cath Lauria has managed to craft an engaging super hero story that's made for people who have probably never picked up a comic before in their lives. Yes, some big named heroes get mentioned here and there, and a few recognisable names make an appearance, but this is a book that could easily exist outside of the Marvel Universe with a couple of tiny tweaks and still stand on it's own. It has great character focus, leads who are able to change and evolve, interesting monsters, and a plot that will go in directions that you'll not be expecting. Thanks to this book I've discovered an awesome new hero, one that I hope I get to see Lauria write again for one day.
March 28, 2023
I'm absolutely loving the Marvel Heroines series as it unfolds, and this book is no exception. It's a real pleasure to read about superheroes who go under the radar, when they should be getting far more attention, and I'm glad to recommend this series far and wide!
I had very little knowledge of Elsa Bloodstone before picking this book up, but reading it made me check out her comic-book history - and she's quickly become a favourite character. Very British, non-nonsense and badass, she's fearless and strong in every way, with a complex history that as it unfolds here, shows her human side underneath, kept hidden for the sake of herself and her loved ones.
Elsa is the daughter of (late) adventurer Ulysses Bloodstone, whose bloodstone shard gives her strength, longevity and all the heroic attributes that she wields so well. However, there are apparently other shards in the world, and someone is trying to acquire them - so the game is afoot as Elsa travels the globe to get to the bottom of the mystery before the shards are used for nefarious purposes.
Not only is Elsa a great character, but the supporting folks are as well. From Adam, her monstrous butler, to her vampire lawyer, to super-friends such as Dr Strange and Stark Industries popping up to return favours, this is absolutely part of the now-famous Marvel multiverse. Unlike the movies, though, the book format allows the adventure to breathe, inside the heads of characters and visiting locations previously only seen in the comics, such as The Savage Lands.
Comic - sorry, graphic novel - fans will find much to enjoy here, as well readers new to this world (if anyone still isn't aware of Marvel by now!). I really do hope we hear more about Elsa in the future, with her love of restorative tea, protective trenchcoat and kickass boots. Definitely a heroine for our times.
I had very little knowledge of Elsa Bloodstone before picking this book up, but reading it made me check out her comic-book history - and she's quickly become a favourite character. Very British, non-nonsense and badass, she's fearless and strong in every way, with a complex history that as it unfolds here, shows her human side underneath, kept hidden for the sake of herself and her loved ones.
Elsa is the daughter of (late) adventurer Ulysses Bloodstone, whose bloodstone shard gives her strength, longevity and all the heroic attributes that she wields so well. However, there are apparently other shards in the world, and someone is trying to acquire them - so the game is afoot as Elsa travels the globe to get to the bottom of the mystery before the shards are used for nefarious purposes.
Not only is Elsa a great character, but the supporting folks are as well. From Adam, her monstrous butler, to her vampire lawyer, to super-friends such as Dr Strange and Stark Industries popping up to return favours, this is absolutely part of the now-famous Marvel multiverse. Unlike the movies, though, the book format allows the adventure to breathe, inside the heads of characters and visiting locations previously only seen in the comics, such as The Savage Lands.
Comic - sorry, graphic novel - fans will find much to enjoy here, as well readers new to this world (if anyone still isn't aware of Marvel by now!). I really do hope we hear more about Elsa in the future, with her love of restorative tea, protective trenchcoat and kickass boots. Definitely a heroine for our times.
March 17, 2022
When I first started this book it was out of curiosity as to how an underrated character from Marvel would be represented in prose. It turns out Elsa Bloodstone is just as badass in this book as she is in the comics I’ve read with her in.
In fact that’s one of the best things about this book, even though it’s all prose the pacing of the story makes it feel like you’re reading a comic as the set pieces and action scenes all flow easily into one another and the quest sections help show how strange aspects of the Marvel universe is. I wish I could see the reactions of people who have never heard of the Savage Lands when they read that section.
The characters that I’m used to seeing in things felt correct to read, Elsa feeling like a mix of the best parts of Buffy Summers and Lara Croft is always great and even the villain (because yes there’s an actual named villain not someone made for the book) is written in a way that I can believe for what I know of the character. Even if his inclusion seems very juxtapositional compared to the rest of the book.
A solid four star read and if author Cath Lauria has ever written a comic I would love to read that soon.
In fact that’s one of the best things about this book, even though it’s all prose the pacing of the story makes it feel like you’re reading a comic as the set pieces and action scenes all flow easily into one another and the quest sections help show how strange aspects of the Marvel universe is. I wish I could see the reactions of people who have never heard of the Savage Lands when they read that section.
The characters that I’m used to seeing in things felt correct to read, Elsa feeling like a mix of the best parts of Buffy Summers and Lara Croft is always great and even the villain (because yes there’s an actual named villain not someone made for the book) is written in a way that I can believe for what I know of the character. Even if his inclusion seems very juxtapositional compared to the rest of the book.
A solid four star read and if author Cath Lauria has ever written a comic I would love to read that soon.
August 23, 2022
Monsterjagd und Familiendrama
Elsa muss einigen unschönen Entwicklungen ins Auge blicken und sich gleichzeitig der Vergangenheit ihres Vaters stellen. Nebenbei soll sie sich auch noch mit ihrer neuen Schwester auseinandersetzten, bzw. sich mit ihr vertragen. Alles während ihr Söldner und Monster auf der Ferse sitzen.
Klingt nach viel, aber für eine professionelle Monsterjägerin sicher machbar. Und so begleitet der Leser Elsa und ihre Schwerster auf eine Reise rund um die Welt in verschiedene Städte, mit verschiedensten Monstern.
Wenn man die Charaktere nicht kennt, fehlen einem einige Hintergrundinformationen. Dies erschwert das Einfühlen und das Verständnis, aber es muss nicht unbedingt den Lesefluss hindern. Das Buch bietet einen guten Einblick in die Geschichte einer unbekannten Marvel-"Heldin".
Eher etwas für eingefleischte Marvel und Frauenpower Fans.
Elsa muss einigen unschönen Entwicklungen ins Auge blicken und sich gleichzeitig der Vergangenheit ihres Vaters stellen. Nebenbei soll sie sich auch noch mit ihrer neuen Schwester auseinandersetzten, bzw. sich mit ihr vertragen. Alles während ihr Söldner und Monster auf der Ferse sitzen.
Klingt nach viel, aber für eine professionelle Monsterjägerin sicher machbar. Und so begleitet der Leser Elsa und ihre Schwerster auf eine Reise rund um die Welt in verschiedene Städte, mit verschiedensten Monstern.
Wenn man die Charaktere nicht kennt, fehlen einem einige Hintergrundinformationen. Dies erschwert das Einfühlen und das Verständnis, aber es muss nicht unbedingt den Lesefluss hindern. Das Buch bietet einen guten Einblick in die Geschichte einer unbekannten Marvel-"Heldin".
Eher etwas für eingefleischte Marvel und Frauenpower Fans.
November 27, 2022
I really like Elsa Bloodstone: Bequest. It was refreshing to read about a heroine that wasn’t all sharp edges but was 3 dimensional. Elsa lives in an interesting mix of magic and monsters that had a surprisingly real feeling. Lauria uses enough humor in the book to make it thoroughly enjoyable without becoming silly and it’s all appropriate for even young readers. I highly recommend this book for everyone to read.
Read the full review at: https://www.thecosmiccircus.com/book-...
Read the full review at: https://www.thecosmiccircus.com/book-...
August 7, 2021
I tried hard to get into this book. After 100 pages it was boring, drab, and quite honestly difficult to read. I didn't click with the author's writing style, which is sad because I was eager to read about Elsa Bloodstone.
March 4, 2025
I am sucker for Superhero stuff so of course 5 stars but it is a typical SH book. I am vast on the knowledge but knew very little on Elsa Bloodstone. I am intrigued. Going to look more into her because of the book. Great escape but not earth shattering but exactly what I was looking for.
October 29, 2025
I've found a new Marvel heroine to love, and it's Elsa Bloodstone. Ugh, she's so badass. This novel really kicks off with a bang and then goes straight into high-gear on a globetrotting race, National Treasure style, around the world. It's action-packed, witty, and sexy. I will say it loses its pace and its way about half way in, which is a disappointment, but the first half is so good that it still merits the 3 stars from me. Elsa is also featured in the MCU's Werewolf by Night special, so don't miss it.
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