Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Blood Grace #0.5

Blood Price

Rate this book
An ancient feud. A forbidden love. A bargain with the darkest magic...

Lady Maerea has lost everything to her forefathers' feud, and now it falls to her to stop the bloodshed. When the enemy storms the castle gates, he makes promises, not demands. Lord Alcaeus tempts her in ways she never imagined, but surrender would be the ultimate betrayal of her family.

Alcaeus doesn't care about winning the war, but he would do everything to win Maerea's heart. He secures her hand in a marriage alliance that could lead to a lifetime of passion. But her brother's retribution is swift. Alcaeus's only hope is to become humans' worst fear: a Hesperine, a fanged immortal with a taste for blood.

Will his new power save Maerea - and can she love the monster he's become?

This steamy fated mates romance with an HEA is a standalone novel and prequel to the epic Blood Grace series.

300 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 2, 2020

151 people are currently reading
2291 people want to read

About the author

Vela Roth

16 books646 followers
Get 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.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
149 (36%)
4 stars
143 (34%)
3 stars
85 (20%)
2 stars
26 (6%)
1 star
9 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
Profile Image for Bex (Beckie Bookworm).
2,529 reviews1,600 followers
November 19, 2020
Untitled design-High-Quality
My Review

This is a fantasy romance that initially had a very medieval historical romance vibe.
As this then unfolds we see the fantasy and paranormal elements also added to the mix.
A different take on vampires that had some imaginative ideas.

Two family’s and neighbours feuding for years until Alcaeus and Maerea both wanting peace and finding a mutual affection try to bridge the gap through a joining in marriage.
But others are not as quick to set aside old grudges and Alcaeus finds himself forced into a life-changing decision.

This was quite instalove it also felt very romantic.
The lyrical use of the language also contributes to the overall vibe as well and this had a very old world historical feel to it all.

Both main characters were just nice nothing really stood out about them here.
Alcaeus comes across as quite an idealist with old-world values and manners.
He isn’t a hot-head and has quite the loyal steadfast nature.
He wants to do what’s right and has strong emotion for Maerea not wanting her to pay for the sins of others.
He also most definitely has a white knight complex which makes him, unfortunately, behave like somewhat of a martyr at times.

Maerea also didn’t show herself in the best light on her husband's initial return acting judgemental and close-minded when She should have been open to the possibilities.
it just seemed she was not willing to take the same leap of faith that he initially did with her.
She also wore blinkers where her brother was concerned refusing to hold him accountable forever making excuses for his poor decisions and behaviour.

She did come through in the end but I was then annoyed again that Alcaeus then seemed to do the same thing back to her in return.
At times I felt like shaking some sense into his noggins.
He wanted to be accepted for himself but couldn’t seem to grasp how his wife could want the exact same thing he did.
He felt he had some sort of price to pay, hence him behaving like a martyr, It just didn’t have to be so bloody difficult.

This one wasn’t quite for me though I did enjoy the first half more than the second.
I just got a bit bored as not much was happening and I felt like we were continually rehashing old ground.
I found all the various names and places slightly confusing and thought it strange how the two mains here just changed their names halfway through, I understand they wanted a fresh start but it was weird still.
I also thought that the flashback scene was definitely in the wrong place in the book it felt disjointed and out of place.

For me, this did lack chemistry and I wasn’t invested in the characters themselves.
I also wasn’t a fan of the overly emotional language and behaviour it’s not really my thing these two were just way too nice there was no grit to them.

Finally, the writing with this was fine, It was quite formal in its tone which wasn’t my favourite but did work for the story itself.
I believe this is a prequel novel to the series as a whole which I haven’t read.
This ends in a HEA so you get closure and there’s no cliffhanger just an epilogue that teases you with what to come in the next book.

This is going to be a hit for those who like a more traditional type of romance with all the wooing and romance and such.
I’m more a fan of the caveman approach myself imaginative but this wasn’t quite for me, unfortunately.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of Blood Price (A Blood Grace prequel).

Untitled design

Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
Profile Image for Julie - One Book More.
1,325 reviews238 followers
June 20, 2022
This prequel follows different characters than the rest of the series. I love Lio and Cassia, but Maerea and Alcaeus are just as compelling, and their romance is super swoon-worthy!

The strengths of the story lie in the character development and world-building. Though this story is shorter than the others, it is still incredibly layered, and the author continues to build an immersive setting and dynamic characters. Maerea and Alcaeus (love them both!!!) wish for peace and want a different future for themselves and their people. Unfortunately, they stand alone in their desires. They are both so good and honorable, and they are bright spots in a dark situation. I like that the story is told mostly from both of their perspectives, as you really understand the depth of their feelings toward each other as well as their motivations and opinions on everything that happens in the story. You also get to see how much they grow over the course of the story. They learn so much about themselves, each other, and the world around them, and the messages about tradition, prejudice, religion, and more are explored from their perspectives.

Of course, my favorite part of the story is the romance! Maerea and Alcaeus have the most epic love story!!! In some ways, it is reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet (without the tragic deaths lol). With families as sworn enemies, murders on both sides, a brother seeking vengeance, and so many insurmountable odds against them, their romance stands in stark contrast to the brutality and violence that surrounds them. However, this couple fights so hard to be together, and their love story is pure, true, and so romantic!

The secondary characters are also well-developed, especially the ones who aid Maerea and Alcaeus in their journey. Minor characters from the main story have larger roles in this prequel, and I enjoyed learning more about them and their history. It was so interesting to see how they were brought together with Maerea and Alcaeus and how they connect to the main characters in the rest of the series.

Blood Price is a brilliant prequel to the Blood Grace series. I loved the romance and the characters as well as how it ties into the rest of the series. I would definitely recommend the book to readers who like romantasy, and I’m thankful to Vela Roth for providing me with a copy of it.
Profile Image for Toribetweenpages.
465 reviews1,228 followers
October 24, 2023
Okay but I want to know more about Iskhyraaaaa!!! Cassia here I come 👀

No seriously this book has STUNNING vamps some of my most favorite. I really loved how blood sucking was written in this book 😂 it was so sensual and stunning. This was definitely 90% romance 10% plot but stunning romance, stunning world building. No complaints outside of the beginning was a little boring until we got to the vampy bits but I’m so happy I stuck it out
Profile Image for Lila.
909 reviews197 followers
December 1, 2024
THAT is the prequel I wanted to read!

What happened to Alkaios and Nephalea and how did they become what they did? What path did lead them to each other and to Iskhyra? And years later, Cassia?

We find out their general backstory after they finally reach Orthros. Their fueding families sound like a Shakespearean fairy tale. They fall in love despite the odds.

But neither family is happy, and her brother is determined to end the feud by ending his enemy's line.

Alkaios, broken and bleeding, and abandoned, makes a deal with the devil (or a wicked sorceress). Nephalea decided to go with him and they manage to break the siege with their newfound powers.

Their entire story leads to that moment. When they spot a little girl in the middle of another siege, twenty years later. They don't realize just how much that small act of Mercy changes the course of history.

Whoever is a fan of Blood Mercy series like me will surely enjoy this prequel. Like other prequels, you know how it will end, but this one still continues to surprise and awe, something I haven't read before. If that smalle glimpse of Alkaios and Nephalea wasn't enough for you, like me, you will enjoy this story immensely.
Profile Image for Deana The  Queen .
459 reviews42 followers
October 2, 2020
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from Book Sirens in exchange for an honest review. This has in no way affected my review of the novel.

The days and nights are long, and Maerea is weary of fighting.

As the only one left to defend her people aside from her brother Gerrian, Maerea is alone when Lord Alcaeus comes to collect the life price for the deaths of his father and brother at Gerrian's hand. But Alcaeus, wanting to end this feud for all time, tells Maerea that he will work with her on finding something suitable that would both satisfy the debt and attempt to ease tensions between their families.

But as each days passes, Maerea realizes she is falling in love with Alcaeus and yet has nothing to offer him … other than the most valuable gift in the kingdom - herself. Defying her brother who is still away in the battlefields, the two marry and know they are fated to be as one, forever. Alcaeus finds Maerea the most beautiful being he’s ever met and vows to protect her from her brother and her past - forever.

But as fate has it, Gerrian is against the marriage that’s already happened as the families are arch enemies. And when a well-placed sword point brings the end close for Alcaeus, he is faced with one choice: to die and leave Maerea alone, or to die only to rise again and become an undead Hesperine and be with her always.

This is apparently a prelude to a series yet to be released, and I am eagerly waiting to see what delights Ms. Roth can next bring forth. I found this to be a totally different and fresh take on the traditional vampire romance. At first I wasn’t sure exactly where it was going. I mean, can any man be as hot and dedicated as Alcaeus? Can any woman be as delicate yet strong and beautiful as Maerea? The answer is, yes!

While this novel takes place in an unknown land, it kind of gave off a bit of a gothic and medieval feel, what with the castles, dressing gowns, lilies, and moonlit nights. There were blood feuds and tragedies; deaths and love. There was also rebirth - rebirth of loves and lives forced to remain hidden in the shadows. There is good and evil and all shades in-between.

I would have liked to have seen a bit more world building, as I did not really feel comfortable with when and where the tale was taking place. In what type of society were the characters living? The story itself took place within a very small geographical location among local lords, but I would have liked a better overview of the time and place and structure of society.

Many of the names threw me off as well. When a name doesn’t flow easily in my mind, I get a bit stuck each time I come across it. This happened with the character and place names. In the latter part of the book, some of the characters also change their names, but to equally unpronounceable ones. This was another tick off for me as I had to remind myself who was speaking, and what name they were known by previously.

Otherwise, this was a strong start to an interesting series.
Profile Image for Elsie Winters.
Author 9 books252 followers
September 17, 2021
This story hit me hard in the feels. I loved it so much because to me, it was the embodiment of the feeling that 'nothing else in the world matters when you have the love of your partner'... of just being able to close your eyes against the pain, and strife, and betrayal inherent in the world around us and just exist with that one person who has your whole heart for a moment. But imagine if that moment could stretch into eternity? Just absolute bittersweet perfection.

I was SO excited reading the ending of the story, and seeing how it ties in with Blood Mercy. I don't agree at all with the other review that this ends on a cliffhanger. It's well wrapped up and completely satisfying, only leaving open the possibility of more to come in future books.

5 stars. 5 flames. 5 hearts.
Profile Image for Jamaika Macias.
7 reviews1 follower
September 27, 2021
I love this book! It introduced me very well to a new author as well as a new “-verse”. For those who have not tried it, it is a new perspective on the oft-used plot of vampire lore. There is more light than darkness but there is plenty valor and strength of character in the protagonists of the book. If you’re into the paranormal, this is one book I would recommend.
Profile Image for Shemique Blair.
Author 3 books24 followers
November 26, 2020
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story is a long romance. The adoration and love development between the main characters takes forefront. Of course there are obstacles they encounter to their love but I especially like the storyline transition from mortality to immortality and the supplementary characters introduced to thicken the plot.
Profile Image for Alex (HEABookNerd).
2,451 reviews
did-not-finish
February 11, 2025
DNF 25%

I read this author several years ago and curious about returning to this series but the slow pace is still not for me. Just personal preference, nothing against the book itself.
Profile Image for Rach.
154 reviews19 followers
June 29, 2022
YES YES YES YES YES

Blood Price is a prequel novel to Vela Roth’s spellbinding Blood Grace series. It follows different main characters in a time prior to the series. It could be read before Blood Mercy, but I think it was well received read after as well.

The book starts with an offer and an acceptance. Life over death. We know nothing of the characters or their lives, apart from Alcaeus’ love for Maerea. I was immediately enthralled.

Maerea’s father dies, and her brother immediately strikes in action. He kills his father’s long lived, generational familial rival and his eldest son before leaving the stronghold to seek reinforcements and allies elsewhere. Maerea is left to keep the crumbling estate together, ensure food for the people her family rules over, and grieve the loss of her father.

Before long, Alcaeus arrives to the stronghold to request the life price for his elder brother’s death. There is an almost immediate connection between Maerea and Alcaeus as they discuss their lives, state of Maerea’s household, and how she can possibly afford to pay him for her brother’s rash decisions.

Love blooms, and before long, Maerea agrees to marry Alcaeus, even though she knows her brother will never understand or agree with her decision.

He returns, lacking allies, to find his sister has wed the enemy. He again uses his sword instead of his words and attempts to slaughter Alcaeus on the battlefield.

We are introduced to a Hesperine, the feared immortal beings that desecrate human graves and feast on blood. Or so the followers of Anthros think…

I loved this book, as I’ve loved all of Vela Roth’s books. Blood Price is a taste of the world of Anthros and Hespera before the true political, religious feast in the books that follow. Alcaeus and Maerea are two characters you root for from the very beginning, and their love is truly what dreams are made of. Above all else, through all life throws at them, their love holds fast.

*~I received an ARC from the author. This is my voluntary review~*
Profile Image for Melanie.
149 reviews4 followers
November 2, 2020
Very good book. Fast paced and full of energy. Emotionally it was a roller coaster ride. Looking forward to more.
Profile Image for Debbie Eyre.
5,918 reviews116 followers
June 22, 2022
This is an incredible prequel set in the amazing world of the Blood Grace series. It introduces us to two fantastic characters Lady Maerea and Lord Alcaeus and their story of intrigue, treachery, betrayal, chemistry and romance. Well written and fast paced this draws you in easily with more incredible world building and a magical and emotion storyline and sets everything up nicely for the series. I loved it.
Profile Image for Sabine.
345 reviews14 followers
September 6, 2024
2.5 rhabdos stars
Medieval historical romance meets vampires. I liked the different take on vampires, I haven't read anything like the Hesperines, so it felt fresh to me.
But the pace was waaaay too slow for me and some scenes were very long, much too long.
So, overall, not really for me.
285 reviews7 followers
October 3, 2020
Preface: I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

This novel is a prequel to the author's Blood Grace series, and it was lovely to be immersed in her world again, even though we were following a different cast (mostly). I enjoyed seeing two minor characters from the main series getting their time in the spotlight, and it was fun to explore their past together. This book takes place on a much smaller scale than the main series, and it was refreshing not to have to worry about the fate of entire kingdoms, just a few little lords duking it out.

This novel is a lot shorter (roughly half the size) of the books in the main series, which was also an interesting experience. It was neat to see an author who normally writes very long, slow-burn material challenge herself to pull together a full story in ~300 pages, and overall I think she did well. The plot definitely kept moving throughout, although there were a few hiccups here and there (mainly time skips where characters undergo big changes and have to cope with the aftermath, and an oddly placed flashback at one point). The central romance was touching and sweet. Alcaeus is a lovely gentleman, and Maerea had a surprising amount of spunk to her, especially in the second half when she really takes charge of her destiny. Their relationship moved much faster than the one in the main series, which wasn't to my preference, but I can see it being more accessible to a general audience. This honestly wouldn't be a bad place for newbies to dip their toes into the series, since they can see just from this short novel that the author will fully deliver when it comes to the romance and steamy scenes.

I did love seeing Iskhyra and what she's been up to. She's a very mysterious figure in the main series, and while this book doesn't give too much away about her, it does hint towards what she's been up to all this time. It seems she has some actual quest/goal she's pursuing, instead of just doing general Hesperine Mercy stuff like the main series suggests. I'm definitely intrigued and hoping to see more of her in later books.

Weird though it may sound, I think my favorite part about the story is the last 10% or so. Our heroes are in their full power, the climax is exciting, touching, and beautiful, and the epilogue was everything. I was a little iffy with other parts of the book, namely the speed of the romance and the little time-skips here and there, but the climax and the wrap-up put a lovely bow on everything.

Overall, this is a cute little romance with likeable characters and plenty of spice, and a good addition to the series. It can be enjoyed without reading the main series, but could also be a good entry point for anyone shy of longer reads. If you liked this, I would also HIGHLY recommend the main series, which has all the romance, magic, and joy of this one, and more.
Profile Image for Savannah.
242 reviews401 followers
January 10, 2023
Blood Price is a short (300 page) prequel to the Blood Grace series and is a quick read. The book gave me Romeo and Juliet vibes but with a happy ending and fantasy elements.

Blood Price follows Lady Maerea and Lord Alcaeus, who are from rival/feuding families but fall in love with each other against all odds. They have to fight for each other and for their happiness. The romance is insta-love but the way they grew to love and trust each other was sweet. The fast pacing of the romance does make sense because it is a prequel. This book is Maerea and Alcaeus love story and there are quite a few spicy scenes.

Maerea is very naïve and trusting of people when she sometimes shouldn’t be. However, she does start to open her eyes to the world throughout the book and I loved to see it. Alcaeus is the typical strong warrior with good intentions and he is so loyal to Maerea and it’s very romantic. We get both of their POVs which I always enjoy because dual and multi POV provides more context to the story. While I liked the characters, I didn’t connect with them or feel very invested in their story. However, I may feel differently if I read the next book in the series.

Blood Price and the rest of the series have vampires but the author makes it her own unique version. In this series, vampires are called Hesperine and they live much differently than traditional vampires. They follow a goddess and have really interesting magic that I’m excited to explore in the rest of the series.

For me, the pacing was a bit off. The first half of the book is fast paced and sucked me in, but the second half was a bit slower making it harder to stay invested. I’m interested to see how the plot and characters from this book tie into the rest of the series. This book has historical fantasy elements with the old fashioned language and mannerisms. It sets up nicely for the first book in the Blood Grace series and I’m excited to see where this series takes us.

Things to expect:
✨Fated mates
✨Vampires
✨Happily Ever After
✨Prequel to a series
✨Fantasy romance
✨Historical vibes

Spice: 🌶🌶🌶/5

Thank you, Vela Roth, for sending me a copy in exchange for a review!
Profile Image for Leigh.
225 reviews8 followers
June 15, 2022
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
🌶🌶

This beautiful love story follows Alcaeus and Maerea. Their families are feuding and a debt needs to be paid. Alcaeus arrives in Lapidae, Maerea’s family territory, to negotiate a payment (a Blood Price) for the death of his brother, slain by the hands of Maerea’s brother, Gerrian. With Gerrian gone, Maerea agrees to meet with Alcaeus to discuss payment. Lapidae has fallen on very hard times, crops do not grow and Maerea has sold almost everything of value, to keep her people fed. Alcaeus sees the toll the burden is taking on Maerea and wants to help in anyway he can. After days of negotiations, Maerea offers herself as Bride to Alcaeus, to join their families and end the ongoing feud. This isn’t just a business transaction, they have fallen in love. But what will happen when Gerrian finds out that his sister has married his mortal enemy?

Oh, I ate this story up. There’s something so beautiful about Vela’s writing style, I get pulled in at the very first page. I adored these characters and I was rooting for them the entire time. Forbidden love, fated mates, a happy ever after? Sign me up.

Oh. Did I mention vampires? Yep!
Vela’s take on vampires is one of my favourites I’ve ever read. From their rituals to their laws. I adore reading about the Hesperines!

It’s such a fast read, not one dull moment, the story just keeps moving forward but doesn’t compromise on the world building; which is one of Vela’s strongest points, you’re always promised truly atmospheric world building.

Blood Price is a prequel to the Blood Grace series, and if you’ve read Blood Mercy, that epilogue will leave you struck.

Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Cydney.
498 reviews40 followers
May 23, 2024
I cannot with how obsessed I am with the Blood Grace series—I can't even think or talk about anything else. It's so hard for me to read other things but I have to or else I'll burn through this series way too quickly—anyway!! I went back to read Blood Price after jumping straight into Blood Mercy, and, while you never have to read this prequel if you want to read the rest of the series, I recommend it so much.

Blood Price was TOO good. I struggled a bit with the pacing at first because I somehow really struggle with instalove, but only because I am relatively new to the concept of fated mates, which this story most certainly was. Maerea and Alcaeus were magical. Their love story was epic and breathtaking, and their commitment to finding love amidst their circumstances made this story worth it every step of the way.

As it was with Blood Mercy, the political intrigue, world-building, character development, action scenes, and spicy scenes were crafted so meticulously and beautifully that it was so hard to put the book down.

5 ⭐️s
3 🌶️
Profile Image for Nadine.
1,906 reviews2 followers
October 2, 2020
Amazing book!

For a prequel, its extremely well developed. Prequels often are novellas or shorts but this one is full-length.

I was immediately pulled in, great flow, great pace, great characters, great world-building. There was never a dull moment, never a point where it was too slow. The story kept me interested throughout. Intriguing, fascinating, exciting! Dual POV, plus a few bits from a Hesperine, a fanged immortal with powerful magic. Maerea, who has such a hard life, but is strong and resourceful; she always finds a way. Alcaeus, who is kind and loving. His love for Maerea is inspiring! He’s honorable and a real gentleman. And Iskhyra, who is a Hesperine, and they are very much misunderstood by humans.

Such an incredible story! Really well written. It was just so good!!!

It’s steamy, as in ooh-la-la!

If you like epic fantasy lore and paranormal vampire romance, you’ll be sure to love this, too!
Profile Image for Angela Plumeria.
430 reviews4 followers
April 4, 2024
Beautiful, beautiful prequel story in the Blood Grace series. I went in kind of blind and forgetting details of certain characters of the books further in the series so there was a big reveal that was really powerful and almost brought tears to my eyes about 3/4 of the way in. Very touching and lovely story and also loved seeing the dynamic between gifters and gifting. I actually am glad that I read all of the current Blood Grace books before the prequel, it made it more satisfying.

One little bit of criticism is that I was really hoping to see her fear him and put up some more resistance after his transformation. Would have been fun, alas Vela Roth does wonderful at the fantasy romance genre and rarely touches on romantic suspense elements. Overall, highly recommend this series by this wonderfully inventive world-building author!
Profile Image for Sarah | Retro Girl Reads.
1,617 reviews92 followers
March 4, 2025
“Blood Price” is the prequel novel to Vela Roth’s epic fantasy romance series, Blood Grace.

This book definitely gives a lot of insight into the world of the Hesperines, which I really enjoyed.

This is the story of Lord Alcaeus and Lady Maerea, who are the epitome of the star-crossed lovers trope.

Alcaeus and Maerea had a lot to work through, but at the same time, their love was incredibly strong.

I’m really glad I decided to read this prequel! It was a rather interesting book. I would definitely recommend!
Profile Image for Lia .
57 reviews11 followers
June 22, 2022
Full review on my blog: Blood Price Review

I LIKE IT! It surpasses my expectation.
If you have read From Blood and Ash and like it, you may also like this. I feel the same vibes from these two books. But for me, Blood Price has a better world building than From Blood and Ash.
Profile Image for Louisa.
8,843 reviews99 followers
March 18, 2023
This was a great story, I loved the world, I loved these characters and their romance, and I can't wait to start the full length books!
Profile Image for Michelle.
733 reviews2 followers
December 7, 2020
I loved this book! Not at all a typical vampire romance, it had so much to offer. There was drama, action, passion, betrayal, and so much more! I definitely recommend you check this out.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Jennifer Treviño.
555 reviews5 followers
July 3, 2022
A tragic tale with a magical transformation that did not disappoint!

An ancient feud. A forbidden love. A bargain with the darkest magic… … …a new to me author who I will follow forevermore!

Hesperine for the win!! Addicting entertainment that satisfies on every level. Spice level unlocked…this one is not for the littles folks. Prepare yourself for a thrilling adventure with a world & characters who win you over without even realizing their magic has entranced you … & left you begging for more…more….more!
Profile Image for Scarolet Ellis.
7,445 reviews55 followers
October 11, 2020
Blood Price: A Blood Grace Prequel by Vela Roth is a wonderful story to read. This is a wonderful prequel to the Blood Grace series that I am now hooked on to read. I can not wait to read the other book in this wonderful series. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about vampires, fantasy and paranormal romance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Bailey.
1,198 reviews39 followers
April 21, 2024
Sing it if you know it, as the shelves say "I just had a change of heart".

I found myself falling for this couple, thanks to a reviewer on this sight. They described it "R & J, but with an HEA+vampires". When you say it like that...

Maerea and Alcaeus were perfect from the jump in that they loved without judgement; yes, despite familial tragedy inflicted on one another, they want peace/security not only for each other, but their kingdoms.

Love that Maerea's proposal went something like this:

A: "What would you give me in return for security/resources?"
M: "My only thing of value is this (gestures to attire). It was my mother's wedding dress."
A: "You should only wear that on your wedding day to your beloved."
M: "Exactly, Alcaeus."

And don't get me started on the lilies he gives her every day being woven into a flower crown on their wedding day!! Not to mention their first (and many) smutty times. There was such tenderness in both action and conversation both as mortals and Hesperine (broke my heart when after they first do-the-do- Maerea and Alcaeus have a convo in bed:
M: *" I hope I am with child already."
A: *"There's a fine image. You with our child in your arms."
M: "I know we're getting a late start, but we've time enough. I'll bear you strong line."
A: "We don't have to worry about a strong line, bluebird. Just a happy one"/"You won't have time for sad memories if you're too busy chasing our brood around the house."

When Alcaeus arrived back to her arms, entering her bedchamber as a "creature of the night" (Maerea's words, not mine), and both their grief is lifted... and she wraps her tongue around his fang!? *blush*.

Love that this is all about a couple who embraces changes, from name changes, to family plans (their eagerness to adopt/Alcaeus reveling in the fact that they can have children... my smile is coming back). And hearing Maerea convey her reason for wanting the Gift (to be more like Iskhyra, and become powerful in her own way, rather than let Gerrian-her brother who still wants to control her like a puppet and straight up left Alcaeus for dead-marry her off to another lord) made me think: this reads like a more stream-lined Cassia and Lio story, what with Hesperine life/magic being a sense of belonging and taking back agency from an emotional traumatizing family member.

Couldn't remember if they did, but I so wanted Alkaios and Nephalea (AKA Alcaeus and Maerea) to be traveling around with their brood of adopted children. Someone's who's mind is sharper: did they and I just forgot?

Now all I ask is that Vela Roth give us two things... if they feel up to it, of course:
*A prequel about Lio's parents meeting/romance
*Cassia and Lio getting to adopt a baby to raise into a Hesperine!

On a personal note (not that I expect patrons to care) but re-reading with a changing mind may not be the mental cure all, but I think I'm getting somewhere... new?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
9 reviews
January 24, 2021
Yet another amazing book! There really is something about this books that really brings you the fairytale theme, but this time with vampires!

1. WRITING STYLE! NOTE! If you do not like more older type of English this will be hard for you. The book is written to display the time of era the book with written. One thing about this is that this does not feel like a YA read, so just take that into account before reading!

2. CHARACTERS! The characters are amazing! I love how the author grew the characters together, and that she clearly spent time into them. You can see this at the end, when the two main characters fit perfectly with each other, physically, emotionally, and through there powers!

3. STORYLINE! The storyline is jam packed with amazing content, and will keep you at the edge of your seat the entire way. One thing is halfway through the storyline kinda starts to change from the fairytale to the vampire, which is really great but to me a minute to notice!

4. POV! One thing I like to point out in all my book reviews is when there are different points of views! One thing to watch out with this is that character POV’s change mid chapter! One of the things with changing mid chapter is authors normally have a hard time letting us know who is speaking now, but this author does an amazing job, and her writing style complete changes to let your know ‘Hey! It’s me who is speaking now’

5. SOME CHANGES... There is very few things that I would change, and the one thing I would say is maybe hold back a little bit on the old English, but then again a lot of people like that, so really I would not change anything!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Britt 🐺.
462 reviews16 followers
November 10, 2022
“Everything—the wine, the food, the air—tasted sweeter, now that he knew the taste of her.”

This is the prequel book to Vela Roth’s Blood Grace series. We get a lot of background into Hesperines (similar to vampires in this world) and their history. We see some world-building come into play and meet a lot of fun characters.

This a high fantasy romance and I loved learning about the Hesperines and their history. Vela’s world-building is insane. You’re introduced to a new world without getting slapped in the face with a bunch of information that you can’t piece together.

I loved Maerea and Alcaeus. Their relationship was so cute and I loved how Alecaeus was immediately smitten with Maerea and willing to do whatever it takes to be with her. Their relationship is put to the test when Alcaeus is dying and found by a Hesperine and given the choice to become what he loathes or lose Maerea forever.

I also loved the little found family that M + A found within the Hesperine community.

Maerea really came into herself in this book and showed Alcaeus that just because she’s his woman and he wants to protect her, she’s her own woman and is strong.

The Hesperines are very similar to vampires which I LOVE. If there’s one thing I’m a sucker for, it’s a vampire romance. I loved how M + A mixed biting and sex and shared a sensual experience together. The sensual biting trope is something I adore reading in vampire romances.

I can’t wait to see where the rest of the series goes and learn more about the Hesperines.
Profile Image for Carole.
2,046 reviews15 followers
June 22, 2022
Blood Price is the stunning prequel to the Blood Grace series with the introduction of two new pivotal characters Lady Maerea and Lord Alcaeus and their story of forbidden love that is a fascinating exploration of the characters and world so richly imagined and brought to life by the authors persistently riveting prose and attention to all the complex details and nuances that power yet another epic tale.
Filled with the intrigue, treachery and emotional potency that has been a hallmark of the series I could not stop reading and marveling when I encountered some of the heart stopping scenes and revelations that preceded my beloved Lio and Cassia’s own story. OH, MY GOODNESS and the epilogue was a perfect tease to what is to come in Blood Grace!!!
Highly recommend the entire series!

I received an ARC copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.