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Blood Grace #2
Blood Solace
If they reunite, a magical war could tear the kingdom apart…
Lio is an immortal Hesperine, but he’s out of time. His Craving for Cassia’s blood is killing him, while an ancient spell and deadly politics keep them apart. His dangerous plan could save them both - or leave the Hesperines defenseless against their mortal enemies.
Cassia is the Hesperines’ secret protector in the human court, sabotaging the king’s every move. But her tyrant father will stop at nothing to make war on the immortals, no matter the cost to his subjects. It’s time for her to come out of the shadows, even if it means sacrificing herself.
Steamy romance meets classic fantasy worldbuilding in Blood Grace. Follow fated mates Lio and Cassia through their epic story of forbidden love for a guaranteed series HEA.
New edition featuring a fantasy world map, glossary of lore and characters, enhanced opening chapter, and all-new cover artwork
Lio is an immortal Hesperine, but he’s out of time. His Craving for Cassia’s blood is killing him, while an ancient spell and deadly politics keep them apart. His dangerous plan could save them both - or leave the Hesperines defenseless against their mortal enemies.
Cassia is the Hesperines’ secret protector in the human court, sabotaging the king’s every move. But her tyrant father will stop at nothing to make war on the immortals, no matter the cost to his subjects. It’s time for her to come out of the shadows, even if it means sacrificing herself.
Steamy romance meets classic fantasy worldbuilding in Blood Grace. Follow fated mates Lio and Cassia through their epic story of forbidden love for a guaranteed series HEA.
New edition featuring a fantasy world map, glossary of lore and characters, enhanced opening chapter, and all-new cover artwork
616 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2018
464 people are currently reading
3080 people want to read
About the author
Vela Roth
17 books644 followersGet a free book when you sign up for Vela's mailing list at vroth.co/signup!
Vela Roth manifested unstable writing powers at a young age, and many of her early experiments had unintended results. As she grew, a curriculum of fantasy novels with kickass heroines helped her learn to control and wield her abilities.
Eventually she dared pursue the knowledge inside the most forbidden tomes: romance novels. She's been practicing the dark arts of fantasy romance ever since, but she strives to use her novels only for good.
She lives in a solar-powered writer's garret at the foot of the mountains. Her familiar is a rescue cat with a missing fang and a huge heart. When not typing furiously at her manuscript, she can usually be found gaming on her home-built PC or trying to grow roses in the desert.
She loves hearing from readers and hopes you'll visit her at velaroth.com.
Vela Roth manifested unstable writing powers at a young age, and many of her early experiments had unintended results. As she grew, a curriculum of fantasy novels with kickass heroines helped her learn to control and wield her abilities.
Eventually she dared pursue the knowledge inside the most forbidden tomes: romance novels. She's been practicing the dark arts of fantasy romance ever since, but she strives to use her novels only for good.
She lives in a solar-powered writer's garret at the foot of the mountains. Her familiar is a rescue cat with a missing fang and a huge heart. When not typing furiously at her manuscript, she can usually be found gaming on her home-built PC or trying to grow roses in the desert.
She loves hearing from readers and hopes you'll visit her at velaroth.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 334 reviews
September 21, 2022
A whole lot of nothing happens
The story starts out with them separated, then they become unseparated. The end.
🥀Things this book has but does nothing with:
-a supportive bestie
-lesbian vampire queens (um yes please)
-badass female warriors and scholars
Like, they all just make an appearance and that's it. Let's show more of that instead of spending half the book watching Lio be a whiny b*tch
I'm so bored! Why are there so many books in this series?! I'm out 😪💤
The story starts out with them separated, then they become unseparated. The end.
🥀Things this book has but does nothing with:
-a supportive bestie
-lesbian vampire queens (um yes please)
-badass female warriors and scholars
Like, they all just make an appearance and that's it. Let's show more of that instead of spending half the book watching Lio be a whiny b*tch
I'm so bored! Why are there so many books in this series?! I'm out 😪💤
April 21, 2024
DNF at 75%, i just can’t get through it lol
November 28, 2024
Torn apart, but striving to be together.
After the Hesperine embassy was forced to come home because their negotiations ended in failure, Cassia won't rest until she ensures all Hesperines errant can roam Tenebra freely and perform Mercy without fear of persecution. Tenebrans don't know she is the secret power behind the Free Lord's unified front against the King's continued efforts to start the war.
Lio, on the other hand, is doing everything he can to get back to Tenebra, despite his Queen's closure of the Orthros's borders. He doesn't tell anyone the real reason, though. Cassia is his Grace. His one true love, the reason for his continued existence. He is doomed to suffer alone the effects of the Thirst, without Cassia to sate his Hunger.
Putting everything he has, he proposes Orthros to do something that has never been done. Lio wants them to host their own negotiations and invite Tenebrans embassy to come to Orthros in an attempt to prevent the seemingly inevitable war. One stipulation? Cassia has to come, as representative of the Royal Family. They will finally get together, after six long months.
After the Hesperine embassy was forced to come home because their negotiations ended in failure, Cassia won't rest until she ensures all Hesperines errant can roam Tenebra freely and perform Mercy without fear of persecution. Tenebrans don't know she is the secret power behind the Free Lord's unified front against the King's continued efforts to start the war.
Lio, on the other hand, is doing everything he can to get back to Tenebra, despite his Queen's closure of the Orthros's borders. He doesn't tell anyone the real reason, though. Cassia is his Grace. His one true love, the reason for his continued existence. He is doomed to suffer alone the effects of the Thirst, without Cassia to sate his Hunger.
Putting everything he has, he proposes Orthros to do something that has never been done. Lio wants them to host their own negotiations and invite Tenebrans embassy to come to Orthros in an attempt to prevent the seemingly inevitable war. One stipulation? Cassia has to come, as representative of the Royal Family. They will finally get together, after six long months.
November 18, 2023
Slow burn steam fantasy romance
Well, if that headline doesn't get your attention, let me try to persuade you further.
This is the second book in the Blood Grace series. It follows two young lovers-Lio and Cassia, who are from two different societies that have long been enemies but the pair are determined to change all that.
Readers can expect...
(1)Lots of world building(arguably a little too heavy at the beginning of the first books before getting into the meat of the storyline)
(2) The romance is truly steamy. The levitating copulating had my jaw dropping.
(3) These books are huge over 500+ pages, so if you like big books...
(4) To find all of the books in the series on Kindle Unlimited.
Goodreads review published 18/11/23
Well, if that headline doesn't get your attention, let me try to persuade you further.
This is the second book in the Blood Grace series. It follows two young lovers-Lio and Cassia, who are from two different societies that have long been enemies but the pair are determined to change all that.
Readers can expect...
(1)Lots of world building(arguably a little too heavy at the beginning of the first books before getting into the meat of the storyline)
(2) The romance is truly steamy. The levitating copulating had my jaw dropping.
(3) These books are huge over 500+ pages, so if you like big books...
(4) To find all of the books in the series on Kindle Unlimited.
Goodreads review published 18/11/23
May 15, 2025
After reading this book I feel very conflicted about the series as a whole, just like I did when I finished the first book. There are some great ideas here and I really love the two main characters, but there’s just something about this series that really doesn’t click for me. For one thing, I feel like these books would have heavily benefited from more editing. There’s just so much unnecessary fluff and longwinded exposition. I’m someone who really enjoys fluff and sweetness in my books, but this is a little too much even for me. The pacing is often just so painfully slow that it really drags down the overall experience.
Last year after I finished Blood Mercy, the first book in the Blood Grace series, I really struggled to decide whether I wanted to continue on to the next book. It took me almost a year to work up the desire to finally pick up the sequel. Sadly, I feel almost exactly the same way after reading Blood Solace as I did after reading the first book. On the one hand, I absolutely adored Cassia and Lio and I thought that their whole dynamic was very cute. I’m a huge fan of the friends to lovers trope and of sweet, caring love interests. There were some really interesting and unique ideas in these books as well as excellent world building. I enjoyed all the political intrigue and the fact that the main characters were not warriors for once but diplomats. All of the building blocks were there for a great story; unfortunately, they were not utilized in the best way. The rampant pacing issues really destroy any intrigue the story has and make Blood Solace really feel like a fragment of a book rather than its own novel. Despite its considerable length, nothing much actually happens.
In some ways, Blood Solace was sort of the opposite of its predecessor, Blood Mercy. Whereas I felt like Blood Mercy had a very slow beginning and took a long time to actually get going before finally picking up and becoming more exciting towards the end, Blood Solace started out more interesting, had its climax somewhere in the middle, and then petered out into slow, uneventful drudgery towards the end. There is no exciting conclusion, no real conflict, the book just sort of…ends. I started out feeling very hopeful that I would enjoy this book more than the first one because there seemed to be a lot happening at the beginning, but sadly, by the end, I actually liked this one less than the previous book.
There are A LOT of side characters to keep track of in these books, as well as a lot of terms, various cultural nuances to remember, historical and religious details and complex relationships between various nations and political factions. And, though I do think that this is great from a world building perspective, it can be a little hard to remember who is who and what is what, especially if you take your time in between books. I also felt that things were a bit too easy in this book. There was very little conflict, and the author made Hesperine society too perfect to the point of being boring and unrealistic. Every relationship Cassia formed was instantaneously flawless and easy. Everyone accepted her immediately and acted as if they had known her for their entire lives despite only just having met her. There was no tension, no relationship building, no conflict. It was all just effortlessly perfect. Everyone loved her and felt instantly comfortable with her. As nice as that is, it’s also very boring from a narrative perspective and doesn’t seem very believable. I would have preferred to see some effort being expended in order for those relationships to form and feel earned.
I still love Cassian and Lio’s dynamic, but there is just far too much fluffy filler involving their relationship. On top of that, I personally really struggle to get into the spicy scenes in this series. For one thing, I just can’t really get over how the author chose to use made up words for male and female genitalia. I understand that she was trying to subvert some of the more negative connotations around the English words, but the made up ones just really take me out of the scene, personally. I know that the purpose behind it wasn’t for censorship reasons, but I can’t help feeling that it makes the scenes seem somewhat juvenile and the words themselves sound silly to me. I suppose that’s just my own personal preference, but I just didn’t like it. Given the fact that I was listening to this on audiobook, it was hard for me to just replace the words in my head and ignore it the way I might have been able to if I was reading it on my own. Another problem I had with the spice was one scene in particular where Lio is licking and sucking Cassia’s feet and literally bites into and drinks blood from her foot. No kink shaming or anything, but to me this is just a complete turn off. I personally find feet to be pretty icky, so this scene really turned my stomach and was the complete opposite of arousing. Beyond that, there’s just something about the way this author writes spice that really does not do it for me personally. I often find myself increasing the audiobook speed just to get through these scenes more quickly, which can become a bit annoying since they are long and plentiful.
Unfortunately, after finishing Blood Solace, I find myself in almost the exact same position I was after reading the first book. I love these characters, and there’s just enough there with the story and world building to make me curious to know what might happen next. However, I’m not really sure if I have the motivation to slog through all of the fluff, filler and rampant pacing issues that seem to pervade these books. I also don’t know if I have it in me to listen to another spicy scene written by this author, given that my tastes seem to be fairly different from hers in that regard. I honestly can’t decide whether I want to continue or give up on this series at this point. I guess we’ll see what happens. Maybe in another year I will feel up to continuing, but as of right now, I don’t see myself reading the next book any time soon.
Last year after I finished Blood Mercy, the first book in the Blood Grace series, I really struggled to decide whether I wanted to continue on to the next book. It took me almost a year to work up the desire to finally pick up the sequel. Sadly, I feel almost exactly the same way after reading Blood Solace as I did after reading the first book. On the one hand, I absolutely adored Cassia and Lio and I thought that their whole dynamic was very cute. I’m a huge fan of the friends to lovers trope and of sweet, caring love interests. There were some really interesting and unique ideas in these books as well as excellent world building. I enjoyed all the political intrigue and the fact that the main characters were not warriors for once but diplomats. All of the building blocks were there for a great story; unfortunately, they were not utilized in the best way. The rampant pacing issues really destroy any intrigue the story has and make Blood Solace really feel like a fragment of a book rather than its own novel. Despite its considerable length, nothing much actually happens.
In some ways, Blood Solace was sort of the opposite of its predecessor, Blood Mercy. Whereas I felt like Blood Mercy had a very slow beginning and took a long time to actually get going before finally picking up and becoming more exciting towards the end, Blood Solace started out more interesting, had its climax somewhere in the middle, and then petered out into slow, uneventful drudgery towards the end. There is no exciting conclusion, no real conflict, the book just sort of…ends. I started out feeling very hopeful that I would enjoy this book more than the first one because there seemed to be a lot happening at the beginning, but sadly, by the end, I actually liked this one less than the previous book.
There are A LOT of side characters to keep track of in these books, as well as a lot of terms, various cultural nuances to remember, historical and religious details and complex relationships between various nations and political factions. And, though I do think that this is great from a world building perspective, it can be a little hard to remember who is who and what is what, especially if you take your time in between books. I also felt that things were a bit too easy in this book. There was very little conflict, and the author made Hesperine society too perfect to the point of being boring and unrealistic. Every relationship Cassia formed was instantaneously flawless and easy. Everyone accepted her immediately and acted as if they had known her for their entire lives despite only just having met her. There was no tension, no relationship building, no conflict. It was all just effortlessly perfect. Everyone loved her and felt instantly comfortable with her. As nice as that is, it’s also very boring from a narrative perspective and doesn’t seem very believable. I would have preferred to see some effort being expended in order for those relationships to form and feel earned.
I still love Cassian and Lio’s dynamic, but there is just far too much fluffy filler involving their relationship. On top of that, I personally really struggle to get into the spicy scenes in this series. For one thing, I just can’t really get over how the author chose to use made up words for male and female genitalia. I understand that she was trying to subvert some of the more negative connotations around the English words, but the made up ones just really take me out of the scene, personally. I know that the purpose behind it wasn’t for censorship reasons, but I can’t help feeling that it makes the scenes seem somewhat juvenile and the words themselves sound silly to me. I suppose that’s just my own personal preference, but I just didn’t like it. Given the fact that I was listening to this on audiobook, it was hard for me to just replace the words in my head and ignore it the way I might have been able to if I was reading it on my own. Another problem I had with the spice was one scene in particular where Lio is licking and sucking Cassia’s feet and literally bites into and drinks blood from her foot. No kink shaming or anything, but to me this is just a complete turn off. I personally find feet to be pretty icky, so this scene really turned my stomach and was the complete opposite of arousing. Beyond that, there’s just something about the way this author writes spice that really does not do it for me personally. I often find myself increasing the audiobook speed just to get through these scenes more quickly, which can become a bit annoying since they are long and plentiful.
Unfortunately, after finishing Blood Solace, I find myself in almost the exact same position I was after reading the first book. I love these characters, and there’s just enough there with the story and world building to make me curious to know what might happen next. However, I’m not really sure if I have the motivation to slog through all of the fluff, filler and rampant pacing issues that seem to pervade these books. I also don’t know if I have it in me to listen to another spicy scene written by this author, given that my tastes seem to be fairly different from hers in that regard. I honestly can’t decide whether I want to continue or give up on this series at this point. I guess we’ll see what happens. Maybe in another year I will feel up to continuing, but as of right now, I don’t see myself reading the next book any time soon.
December 18, 2022
Yeah I gave it a shot but it’s just not worth continuing with this series. The first book was meh. This one is exactly the same. The beginning was somehow more entertaining than the end, and I was bored as hell in the very beginning… practically nothing happens in this book. All that happened is they get reunited. Also Leo is so “good” that’s really freaking boring. The smut is too blood heavy. We have tough female characters but nothing is done with them. We have insta love with these “found families” that just feels really forced. And I’m bored. It’s just lacking overall :/ Ticktock doesn’t know good books lol
February 6, 2023
How did this get so boring? I really liked the first book but this second one was reeeeally tiring to get through. It was mostly Lio whining and not asking for help. If he just told anyone of his family literally anything the book would be 60% shorter. And then when he sees Cassia it's just an endless charade of showing orthros and nothing really happens for chapters on end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 20, 2023
I had a great time with this one! It's slow and methodical, but the politics and world are amazing. I also loved the character dynamics in this one. I do feel like the pining drug out a bit long, but otherwise, great time
Read the full review here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4pYxU...
Read the full review here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4pYxU...
May 3, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ I found this one much easier to get into than the first book. I was more used to the language and writing style, and I feel like the plot progressed much faster. The politics in this series continue to be so interesting and complex, and I love how this installment built upon everything learned in book one.
This book starts out with Lio and Cassia being separated after the ending of the previous book. Cassia has had so much character growth already. I loved reading about her spying and scheming against the king. The court dynamics in this were *chefs kiss* and really showcased Cassia’s intelligence and determination. And the YEARNING in this book?? They both YEARN from opposite sides of the world with no contact for 6+ months. They both would’ve done absolutely anything to get back to one another. I was so happy when they were finally able to reunite
A big chunk of this takes place in Orthros, and I LOVED being in the Hesperine realm instead of the musty human realm. Their structure and culture is totally different from Tenebra in the best way possible. We also got to meet so many new characters, and I feel like the found family in this series is going to be so good. Now, onto the next book!
This book starts out with Lio and Cassia being separated after the ending of the previous book. Cassia has had so much character growth already. I loved reading about her spying and scheming against the king. The court dynamics in this were *chefs kiss* and really showcased Cassia’s intelligence and determination. And the YEARNING in this book?? They both YEARN from opposite sides of the world with no contact for 6+ months. They both would’ve done absolutely anything to get back to one another. I was so happy when they were finally able to reunite
A big chunk of this takes place in Orthros, and I LOVED being in the Hesperine realm instead of the musty human realm. Their structure and culture is totally different from Tenebra in the best way possible. We also got to meet so many new characters, and I feel like the found family in this series is going to be so good. Now, onto the next book!
March 23, 2022
Blood Solace is the second book in Vela Roth’s Blood Grace series, and after the ending of the first book, I couldn’t wait to start this one. Some time has passed from the end of the first book, and Cassia in Tenebra infiltrating from the inside. In Orthos, Lio is suffering from his thirst for Cassia which consumes him. Will these two find a way back to each other, and can they save their kingdoms from war and destruction?
Much like the first book, the world-building in this book is immense. I was so excited to learn more about Lio’s home, and this book delves quite deeply into the land, culture, beliefs, family structures, and history of Orthos. It’s fascinating and impressively detailed and rich with history and culture, as well as some amazing Hesperines. Lio’s family and friends have large roles in the story, and I loved learning more about each of them. His friends, family, and allies are fantastic! They are supportive and honorable, and they are all so dynamic. I like that the characters are as intricately developed as the plot and world-building, and I’m eager to see more of them in the next book. Of course, my favorite Hesperine is Lio!
I absolutely adore Lio! He is so kind and gentle, and he always thinks of others before himself, even when it’s to his detriment, and especially when it comes to the people he loves. For example, Lio suffers so much because of his craving for Cassia’s blood. Sick and weak, he knows he could die without her, but he never wants her to feel pressured or trapped, so he doesn’t tell her about his need. Much like Lio, Cassia wants a more peaceful and allied world, and she risks her life on a daily basis working as a spy against her father and others in power. Determined to protect Lio, the Hespertines, and other allies, Cassia faces insurmountable danger, and the stakes keep getting higher as the series progresses. She has become quite fearless and brave, and her ferocity is to her benefit.
Of course, my favorite part of the story is the romance, and Lio and Cassia do not disappoint! I adore their love story, and the deep and lasting connection they form. Though they spend much time apart, their feelings for each other never waver. In fact, they only seem to grow stronger. And when they reunite… sa-wooon!!! They have such a passionate love affair, and I definitely need more of their story in my life!
This is a great sequel to Blood Mercy and a super immersive read. It’s intense, as Cassia and Lio spend time apart and desperately try to work their way back to each other while trying to halt a brewing war between their kingdoms. It’s also super romantic, as Cassia and Lio reunite under perilous circumstances and fight to be together. I can’t wait to find out what’s in store for Lio and Cassia as they continue on this epic journey!
Much like the first book, the world-building in this book is immense. I was so excited to learn more about Lio’s home, and this book delves quite deeply into the land, culture, beliefs, family structures, and history of Orthos. It’s fascinating and impressively detailed and rich with history and culture, as well as some amazing Hesperines. Lio’s family and friends have large roles in the story, and I loved learning more about each of them. His friends, family, and allies are fantastic! They are supportive and honorable, and they are all so dynamic. I like that the characters are as intricately developed as the plot and world-building, and I’m eager to see more of them in the next book. Of course, my favorite Hesperine is Lio!
I absolutely adore Lio! He is so kind and gentle, and he always thinks of others before himself, even when it’s to his detriment, and especially when it comes to the people he loves. For example, Lio suffers so much because of his craving for Cassia’s blood. Sick and weak, he knows he could die without her, but he never wants her to feel pressured or trapped, so he doesn’t tell her about his need. Much like Lio, Cassia wants a more peaceful and allied world, and she risks her life on a daily basis working as a spy against her father and others in power. Determined to protect Lio, the Hespertines, and other allies, Cassia faces insurmountable danger, and the stakes keep getting higher as the series progresses. She has become quite fearless and brave, and her ferocity is to her benefit.
Of course, my favorite part of the story is the romance, and Lio and Cassia do not disappoint! I adore their love story, and the deep and lasting connection they form. Though they spend much time apart, their feelings for each other never waver. In fact, they only seem to grow stronger. And when they reunite… sa-wooon!!! They have such a passionate love affair, and I definitely need more of their story in my life!
This is a great sequel to Blood Mercy and a super immersive read. It’s intense, as Cassia and Lio spend time apart and desperately try to work their way back to each other while trying to halt a brewing war between their kingdoms. It’s also super romantic, as Cassia and Lio reunite under perilous circumstances and fight to be together. I can’t wait to find out what’s in store for Lio and Cassia as they continue on this epic journey!
March 10, 2025
Oh. My. Gosh. Vela Roth has had me hooked since book one, but “Blood Solace” has cemented her as one of my favorite fantasy romance authors.
Cassia and Lio’s love story is breathtakingly beautiful and agonizingly angsty, and I adored every second of it. I was super excited to learn more about the Hesperine culture in this one as well.
Lio. My heart goes out to him. He’s such a good hearted male, and everything he does is for the good of his people, or out of love for Cassia. He also revealed more of a sensual side that I loved!
Cassia. I want to be her when I grow up! She’s so brave, strong, and resilient. She also never lost her kind heart or tender nature. I’m completely obsessed with this series, so I will definitely be continuing!
Cassia and Lio’s love story is breathtakingly beautiful and agonizingly angsty, and I adored every second of it. I was super excited to learn more about the Hesperine culture in this one as well.
Lio. My heart goes out to him. He’s such a good hearted male, and everything he does is for the good of his people, or out of love for Cassia. He also revealed more of a sensual side that I loved!
Cassia. I want to be her when I grow up! She’s so brave, strong, and resilient. She also never lost her kind heart or tender nature. I’m completely obsessed with this series, so I will definitely be continuing!
November 23, 2023
I could watch cassia and Lio literally just eat dinner for pages and pages.
Something about these two and this relationship has sucked me in so deeply that I am here for everything they do.
This sequel is filled with a lot of political maneuvering specifically behind the scenes and also a lot of world building which is incredible. The vampires and their history that Vela Roth has created is something I've seen done very few times. It feels like they truly exist imo they are so well thought out.
Do I think this book had enough plot in it to be as long as it was? Probably not. Did I care? no!
As I said I will watched these two do nothing forever. They are just so sweet.
Something about these two and this relationship has sucked me in so deeply that I am here for everything they do.
This sequel is filled with a lot of political maneuvering specifically behind the scenes and also a lot of world building which is incredible. The vampires and their history that Vela Roth has created is something I've seen done very few times. It feels like they truly exist imo they are so well thought out.
Do I think this book had enough plot in it to be as long as it was? Probably not. Did I care? no!
As I said I will watched these two do nothing forever. They are just so sweet.
April 19, 2022
Omg, I'm so in love with this world.
Lio and Cassia are marvelous, in so many ways that I have no words to describe how incredibly in love I am with their story. Love and devotion is two words that come to mind when I think of them. I can't wait to continue their journey.
Lio and Cassia are marvelous, in so many ways that I have no words to describe how incredibly in love I am with their story. Love and devotion is two words that come to mind when I think of them. I can't wait to continue their journey.
September 26, 2025
this a high fantasy romance series involving sexy pacifist vampires, political intrigue, beautiful romance, and adventure. Again, a lot of dry dialogue and flowery language but for a change of pace, this book was a cozy adventure. books three and four are split into two parts so I am eager for the other shoe to drop in the story.
June 22, 2023
4.5 stars
January 23, 2023
I really enjoyed this! I loved the progression of Cassia and Lio's relationship, Cassia really coming into her own independence, and getting to see Orthros from the perspective of both someone who'd lived there their entire life and someone who was seeing it for the first time. Also Zoe is just a sweetheart and I will protect her with my entire being.
Maybe I'm just used to fast-paced books, but I felt like this dragged in some areas in comparison to the first one. There were a lot of major plot points that just weren't tied up by the end of the book, and at moments it was like I was watching a TV show's filler episode. I felt like many of the conversations that established relationships between characters we hadn't met yet could have been trimmed down a bit, but I understand and respect the fact that many of those conversations were also utilized to move the plot forward.
And I'm really sorry cuz this is definitely a me thing and no reflection on the author or the writing, but I cannot, in good conscious, give 5 stars to a book with feet play.
Maybe I'm just used to fast-paced books, but I felt like this dragged in some areas in comparison to the first one. There were a lot of major plot points that just weren't tied up by the end of the book, and at moments it was like I was watching a TV show's filler episode. I felt like many of the conversations that established relationships between characters we hadn't met yet could have been trimmed down a bit, but I understand and respect the fact that many of those conversations were also utilized to move the plot forward.
And I'm really sorry cuz this is definitely a me thing and no reflection on the author or the writing, but I cannot, in good conscious, give 5 stars to a book with feet play.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2022
This book feels like a better and bolder version of twilight. I can’t help but dislike some components though - the holier than thou attitude of the Hesperines reminds me too much of Christian missionaries. I really dislike how black and white the characters and places are in this book. It’s very obvious there is one right way and one right thing. This sets back on adult tone that this book has regarding consent, relationships and much other stuff. I understand that the plot has medieval undertones but I hate the flowery language. I really love the portrayal of soulmates and the romance. All in all I feel like the book could have been wayyy better than what it was.
November 14, 2022
Even better than the first book! I couldn’t stop reading
July 15, 2023
Dnf-ed at 68%
May 10, 2024
so this series is utter perfection. k?
January 9, 2023
SLAYYYYY I ADOREDDDDD THISSSSS
June 23, 2024
This series is such a pleasure to read so far!
I love Lio and Cassia sooo much, and I loved how much time they got to spend together in this book compared to the stolen moments and terrifying ending of Blood Mercy! Roth wrote Lio's struggle with being away from Cassia so well that I cried. I can tell that this series is going to continue to slowly move along, but I'm along for the ride because between the love story, the spice, the political intrigue, the action, the passion, the magic, the longing, the plotting—I'm in love! There are so many strong, compelling parts about this series so far.
I'm also realizing if you're not in love with the characters, this series might not agree with you. For everything I mentioned above, Blood Solace feels a lot like building up to book 3, which is familiar to experience for a fantasy romance series as long as this one, but a lot of Blood Mercy felt like it was building up to Blood Solace. I've been told books 3 and 4 are where things truly pick up, but again, I adored this story because I adore Lio and Cassia, so I didn't mind reading about them exploring Orthros together, Cassia maturing some more, and Lio taking on more responsibilities. All of the action happens in the first 40% or so, and then the rest of the book is love and exploration and trust and found family—I loved it.
So excited for both volumes of Blood Sanctuary!
5 ⭐️s
4 🌶️
I love Lio and Cassia sooo much, and I loved how much time they got to spend together in this book compared to the stolen moments and terrifying ending of Blood Mercy! Roth wrote Lio's struggle with being away from Cassia so well that I cried. I can tell that this series is going to continue to slowly move along, but I'm along for the ride because between the love story, the spice, the political intrigue, the action, the passion, the magic, the longing, the plotting—I'm in love! There are so many strong, compelling parts about this series so far.
I'm also realizing if you're not in love with the characters, this series might not agree with you. For everything I mentioned above, Blood Solace feels a lot like building up to book 3, which is familiar to experience for a fantasy romance series as long as this one, but a lot of Blood Mercy felt like it was building up to Blood Solace. I've been told books 3 and 4 are where things truly pick up, but again, I adored this story because I adore Lio and Cassia, so I didn't mind reading about them exploring Orthros together, Cassia maturing some more, and Lio taking on more responsibilities. All of the action happens in the first 40% or so, and then the rest of the book is love and exploration and trust and found family—I loved it.
So excited for both volumes of Blood Sanctuary!
5 ⭐️s
4 🌶️
June 26, 2023
I found the first half of this when they were separated soooo boring 💔 I almost DNF’d. I think the only part I’m really enjoying about this series so far is the romance, I am bored otherwise. This book ended on a happy note, so I might just stop here. Although I would like to know Cassia’s reaction when Lio tells her she’s his grace and shit, and I wanna see her become one of them, I’m not sure I’m willing to read 5 more 600+ books for it. Also I draw the line at him sucking blood from her foot, I think that pushed me over the edge to lose interest in this series. I’m sorry feet just give me the ick.
Also want to add that I think the Hesperines are wayyyy to “perfect” and it’s a little obnoxious. Like we get it, they live in the perfect utopian society. This series relies too heavily on the political kingdom stuff, and I think I’m just so burnt out on that kind of fantasy romance. From now on I’m going to try and only pick up fantasy that is NOT politically based setting with a heroine overthrowing the bad empire.
Also want to add that I think the Hesperines are wayyyy to “perfect” and it’s a little obnoxious. Like we get it, they live in the perfect utopian society. This series relies too heavily on the political kingdom stuff, and I think I’m just so burnt out on that kind of fantasy romance. From now on I’m going to try and only pick up fantasy that is NOT politically based setting with a heroine overthrowing the bad empire.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2023
This didn't have any business being this long. The whole book was pretty pointless, and by the end of it, I was tired and annoyed. I literally skipped a ton of pages but still got what was happening; in short, 85% of this wasn't that important for the plot.
September 10, 2023
3.5 Stars
This book had a happy ending so I think it's the perfect time to DNF the rest of the series lol :D
I like most aspects of this series but it's just not able to hold my attention.
This book had a happy ending so I think it's the perfect time to DNF the rest of the series lol :D
I like most aspects of this series but it's just not able to hold my attention.
December 22, 2022
Title: Blood Solace
Author: Vela Roth
Synopsis: Lio is an immortal Hesperine, but he’s out of time. His Craving for Cassia’s blood is killing him, while an ancient spell and deadly politics keep them apart. His dangerous plan could save them both - or leave the Hesperines defenseless against their mortal enemies.
Cassia is the Hesperines’ secret protector in the human court, sabotaging the king’s every move. But her tyrant father will stop at nothing to make war on the immortals, no matter the cost to his subjects. It’s time for her to come out of the shadows, even if it means sacrificing herself.
Review: Such a captivating sequel that does not disappoint! This is top notch world building and I did not want to put it down! The more I read the more I fall more in love with Lio! He is perfection! The spice is chef’s kiss! There is still so much in store for Cassia and Lio! I will always be invested in them! They are a match made in heaven! I could read about Lio and Cassia forever and never get tired of them I am ready for the next book!
Author: Vela Roth
Synopsis: Lio is an immortal Hesperine, but he’s out of time. His Craving for Cassia’s blood is killing him, while an ancient spell and deadly politics keep them apart. His dangerous plan could save them both - or leave the Hesperines defenseless against their mortal enemies.
Cassia is the Hesperines’ secret protector in the human court, sabotaging the king’s every move. But her tyrant father will stop at nothing to make war on the immortals, no matter the cost to his subjects. It’s time for her to come out of the shadows, even if it means sacrificing herself.
Review: Such a captivating sequel that does not disappoint! This is top notch world building and I did not want to put it down! The more I read the more I fall more in love with Lio! He is perfection! The spice is chef’s kiss! There is still so much in store for Cassia and Lio! I will always be invested in them! They are a match made in heaven! I could read about Lio and Cassia forever and never get tired of them I am ready for the next book!
Read
January 24, 2023This one is still good with elaborate world building and beautiful characterization. Vela Roth is a word lover and a dreamer and it shows so strongly in her writing. It was not quite as good as the first one, but very fascinating and fun to learn about how the Hesperines live.
Constructively, this one has one great exciting part so far but is a little too agonizingly slow with the pace and there’s a little too much conversation and build up. This also feels like another cliffhanger because some of the main issues are not resolved.
Lio is so dreamy and Cassia is so inspiring!
Constructively, this one has one great exciting part so far but is a little too agonizingly slow with the pace and there’s a little too much conversation and build up. This also feels like another cliffhanger because some of the main issues are not resolved.
Lio is so dreamy and Cassia is so inspiring!
December 31, 2022
Yep I'm still enjoying this
February 10, 2023
I love this series with all my heart!
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