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Hive of Blood
Nelvethearia is a land full of magic, wealthy nobles, and bloody battles. Wars have raged on between the Weavers and the Lasevrens for years. Weavers keep their spiders and Lasevrens keep wasps.
Insects and arachnids have never coexisted in peace.
Nathaniel is neither a Weaver or Lasevren. He is but a lowly harvester who tends to the land, and he wants nothing more than to marry his childhood sweetheart and lead a happy life with her. Until everything comes crashing down around him.
Blinded by heartbreak and betrayal, he flees to the forbidden lands of the north.
The lands of the Lasevrens.
When Nathaniel is captured by Lasevren soldiers, they see something in him, and they spare no efforts in compelling him to join them and forsake everything he ever loved.
Will Nathaniel succumb to Lasevren cruelty and become one of the cruel soldiers he’s always feared or will he escape to the remnants of his old life?
What if the Lasevrens aren’t the real enemy? What if Nathaniel has nothing left?
Insects and arachnids have never coexisted in peace.
Nathaniel is neither a Weaver or Lasevren. He is but a lowly harvester who tends to the land, and he wants nothing more than to marry his childhood sweetheart and lead a happy life with her. Until everything comes crashing down around him.
Blinded by heartbreak and betrayal, he flees to the forbidden lands of the north.
The lands of the Lasevrens.
When Nathaniel is captured by Lasevren soldiers, they see something in him, and they spare no efforts in compelling him to join them and forsake everything he ever loved.
Will Nathaniel succumb to Lasevren cruelty and become one of the cruel soldiers he’s always feared or will he escape to the remnants of his old life?
What if the Lasevrens aren’t the real enemy? What if Nathaniel has nothing left?
Kindle Edition
Published March 8, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
April 8, 2023
First of all, I want to thank Shantel Brunton for sending me a copy of Hive of Blood in exchange for an honest review. I am forever grateful.
Hive of Blood is a really uniquely written book. It really took me by surprise the second I started reading this book. Shantel really has her own writing style. And I think if I would read random books, I would pick hers out instantly. It is that unique.
In HoB we follow Nathaniel. He is a harvester, just like his parents and he adores being one. His biggest wish is to marry, have kids and own his own farm. We see him as a young boy, and grown into a young adult. In the beginning of the book several potential storylines are set up. About the different classes, the royals and a few more. We learn that the North of Nelvethearia is in the hands of the Laseverns. And that no one else lives there, because the Laseverns are volatile and they kill outsiders.
We also see Nathaniel fall in love with Gwyneth. He wants nothing more than to make her his wife. But things fall apart very quickly and he decides to buy his own farm far, far away from where he currently lives. He buys a farm on the edge of the North and for a while he lives there peacefully and quietly. He mourns the loss of Gwyneth and the future he should have had with her.
But a few months later the Laseverns show up. And tell him he lives on their land and they take him with them to their castle.
They want him to choose to become a Lasevern. But Nathaniel refuses and he gets tortured in the most horrendous ways. My heart ached for him. And that is where the story kickstarts. We see the strength in him and the will to stay a harvester.
I don't want to spoil what comes next. But we quickly learn what the consequences of his choices are. And what he discovers lives inside of him. How that influences the people around him. And himself.
I adored his relationship with Clare beyond anything. I love how important the several animals are throughout the book.
The only thing that troubled me a bit is the ending. The ending in itself was good and it did tie several storylines. But it also made me wonder about all the things that were set up in the beginning and weren't worked out in the rest of the book. I also think there will be a sequel. But the ending isn't really set up for a sequel. It ends up quite finished. But if this is the end, it doesn't feel complete. I still have a million questions. So I am really curious if there will be a sequel or if this is it.
Because this story is written in such a different and distinctive style I'll give it 4/5 stars! Really enjoyed this one.
Hive of Blood is a really uniquely written book. It really took me by surprise the second I started reading this book. Shantel really has her own writing style. And I think if I would read random books, I would pick hers out instantly. It is that unique.
In HoB we follow Nathaniel. He is a harvester, just like his parents and he adores being one. His biggest wish is to marry, have kids and own his own farm. We see him as a young boy, and grown into a young adult. In the beginning of the book several potential storylines are set up. About the different classes, the royals and a few more. We learn that the North of Nelvethearia is in the hands of the Laseverns. And that no one else lives there, because the Laseverns are volatile and they kill outsiders.
We also see Nathaniel fall in love with Gwyneth. He wants nothing more than to make her his wife. But things fall apart very quickly and he decides to buy his own farm far, far away from where he currently lives. He buys a farm on the edge of the North and for a while he lives there peacefully and quietly. He mourns the loss of Gwyneth and the future he should have had with her.
But a few months later the Laseverns show up. And tell him he lives on their land and they take him with them to their castle.
They want him to choose to become a Lasevern. But Nathaniel refuses and he gets tortured in the most horrendous ways. My heart ached for him. And that is where the story kickstarts. We see the strength in him and the will to stay a harvester.
I don't want to spoil what comes next. But we quickly learn what the consequences of his choices are. And what he discovers lives inside of him. How that influences the people around him. And himself.
I adored his relationship with Clare beyond anything. I love how important the several animals are throughout the book.
The only thing that troubled me a bit is the ending. The ending in itself was good and it did tie several storylines. But it also made me wonder about all the things that were set up in the beginning and weren't worked out in the rest of the book. I also think there will be a sequel. But the ending isn't really set up for a sequel. It ends up quite finished. But if this is the end, it doesn't feel complete. I still have a million questions. So I am really curious if there will be a sequel or if this is it.
Because this story is written in such a different and distinctive style I'll give it 4/5 stars! Really enjoyed this one.
February 21, 2023
Overview: I have to say straight away that this book surprised me...in a very good way. Dark fantasy (or any fantasy) in general is not my usual genre (although I do read Sarah J Maas) so I don't always feel "qualified" to review these types of books. However I am delighted to say that I thoroughly enjoyed it. There are certainly some dark and gory elements, but what I enjoyed most was the world building, which is always a tricky thing to do with fantasy books (I find anyway).
Good Points: Nathanial is a likeable MC and his character development is spot on. I really felt for him at times. As mentioned, the world building is great and the descriptions of the world and characters was really wonderful. I could easily imagine the lands. I enjoyed the inclusion of the wasps near the end and felt the ending was well rounded...possibly a sequel in the mix????
Not so Good Points: The only negative thing I have to say is in regards to the dialogue...in that there wasn't always much of it. At times it was very heavy on the internal thoughts (as it is told in first person). The dialouge that was there felt a bit stiff and almost robotic in places, but this may have been because of the characters themselves. However, despite this, it didn't make it hard to read and I still really enjoyed it.
Good Points: Nathanial is a likeable MC and his character development is spot on. I really felt for him at times. As mentioned, the world building is great and the descriptions of the world and characters was really wonderful. I could easily imagine the lands. I enjoyed the inclusion of the wasps near the end and felt the ending was well rounded...possibly a sequel in the mix????
Not so Good Points: The only negative thing I have to say is in regards to the dialogue...in that there wasn't always much of it. At times it was very heavy on the internal thoughts (as it is told in first person). The dialouge that was there felt a bit stiff and almost robotic in places, but this may have been because of the characters themselves. However, despite this, it didn't make it hard to read and I still really enjoyed it.
Read
March 10, 2023DNF. Unfortunately this wasn’t for me.
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy!
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy!
March 3, 2023
*WARNING* This book contains graphic scenes of torture.
I normally don’t read a lot of fantasy, but I enjoyed Hive of Blood, which I would say is more dark fantasy with body horror elements. Whatever the genre, it worked. Body horror gets under my skin the most so I definitely appreciated those moments 👌🏻👍🏻
This is my second book by Shantel Brunton and I must say I enjoy her writing style. The story reads well and characters feel so real. Nathaniel is an excellent main character and easy to root for. I love good character development. It literally makes a story for me. I love the emotional/mental journey Nathaniel goes on to work through his own personal demons/trauma.
I know it was probably mentioned in other reviews but I’m going to speak on it anyway. I love when an author puts effort into world building. It makes the story feel more “real” and well rounded. It also puts me directly into the story so I can imagine areas, settings, characters etc a lot more clear. The spiders were a pleasant touch as well. I happen to adore our little eight-legged friends, but if you suffer from arachnophobia be warned, there are plenty of spiders.
One last word about Hive of Blood, I totally love that it’s “different.” It’s similar to a creature-feature but with bugs rather than monsters. Which I find to be cool because you don’t see it a lot. Definitely worth the read. Check out her book Tortured Innocence as well for another dark, twisted tale.
March 9, 2023
When I heard this dark fantasy was up for grabs, I had to jump up and snatch an ARC. This may have been my smartest move in 2023! The start is a bit deceiving in that you are introduced to a seemingly simple main character with an interesting trait. As we learn more about his family, lifestyle, and town we are introduced to a powerful group that is feared by almost everyone. Nathaniel (the main character) remains unfazed by his knowledge of these beings and continues toward the path of his choosing. Eventually, he finds himself at a detour leading him closer to those feared, the Lasevrens. He must then ask himself who the real monsters are.
The plot and world builds in a way that introduces fantasy elements in a manner that is easy to follow. The characters create interesting dynamics that keep you tied to the story (my favorite being the dichotomy between twins, Nicolai and Xavier). The story telling in the book was exquisite and allowed for association to real life nuances. It made me question the validity of events and societies throughout history, and brought forth the saying, “truth is stranger than fiction.”
This book exceeded my expectations and made me question what I hold as truths! I highly recommend this book if you enjoy: The Children of Blood and Bone by Toni Adiyemi, The Miracle Sin by Marcus Hawke, and The Heretics Saga by C.A. Campbell.
The plot and world builds in a way that introduces fantasy elements in a manner that is easy to follow. The characters create interesting dynamics that keep you tied to the story (my favorite being the dichotomy between twins, Nicolai and Xavier). The story telling in the book was exquisite and allowed for association to real life nuances. It made me question the validity of events and societies throughout history, and brought forth the saying, “truth is stranger than fiction.”
This book exceeded my expectations and made me question what I hold as truths! I highly recommend this book if you enjoy: The Children of Blood and Bone by Toni Adiyemi, The Miracle Sin by Marcus Hawke, and The Heretics Saga by C.A. Campbell.
February 15, 2023
Wow!
I was given this as an ARC. I jumped into it not knowing anything about it. I quickly realized this story was written from the soul. Not just filler words but meaningful words that captured the MC Nathanial journey to finding love.
Author Shantel Brunton did an amazing job creating this story. This imaginary world she created was so detailed that I have a vivid description stamped into my brain.
I would say this is a unique love story. Sure he fell in love with a woman but then was hit with sorrow. The path he thought he was taking in life quickly took a detour. In the end he fell in love.... with himself, his new tribe and with natures creatures.
I highly recommend this brutal love story! Congratulations to the author!
I was given this as an ARC. I jumped into it not knowing anything about it. I quickly realized this story was written from the soul. Not just filler words but meaningful words that captured the MC Nathanial journey to finding love.
Author Shantel Brunton did an amazing job creating this story. This imaginary world she created was so detailed that I have a vivid description stamped into my brain.
I would say this is a unique love story. Sure he fell in love with a woman but then was hit with sorrow. The path he thought he was taking in life quickly took a detour. In the end he fell in love.... with himself, his new tribe and with natures creatures.
I highly recommend this brutal love story! Congratulations to the author!
February 16, 2023
I strayed from my usual romance reads to pick this one up. It's a dark, dark fantasy with some paranormal aspects. There are descriptive scenes of torture that you need to be aware of before reading this one, so if that isn't your thing, then it's probably better to move along the bus. Nathaniel proved to be a strong, resilient MC, and I enjoyed his development from the sheltered harvester to something much much more. In some parts, I thought it could do with a little condensing, but that didn't stop me from reading the book to the end. I'm kind of hoping there will be another one, as I'd love to see what happens to Nathaniel and how he adapts to his new life. Plus, I'd love to see some steam, but that's just me and my romantic heart.
February 13, 2023
4 ⭐️
Shantel kindly reached out to me and asked if I'd be interested in reading her new release and I was so excited.
Nathaniel is a character I don't usually catch myself liking but he definitely changed throughout the novel and I felt so bad for all the things he goes through but he comes out stronger!
Shantel's writing is very powerful it's like you can physically see everything happening as if you were with Nathaniel throughout the story and that's such a cool thing about reading.
Thankyou again Shantel, this was so good. Also, that cover? wow
Shantel kindly reached out to me and asked if I'd be interested in reading her new release and I was so excited.
Nathaniel is a character I don't usually catch myself liking but he definitely changed throughout the novel and I felt so bad for all the things he goes through but he comes out stronger!
Shantel's writing is very powerful it's like you can physically see everything happening as if you were with Nathaniel throughout the story and that's such a cool thing about reading.
Thankyou again Shantel, this was so good. Also, that cover? wow
February 22, 2023
I love fantasy, especially when it has a dark and violent twist, so it was a real pleasure to explore the paths of Nelvethearia and to meet its fascinating inhabitants.
A good part of the story focuses on the psychology and feelings of the main character, making it easy to identify with him and share his pain.
Shantel Brunton offers us an intriguing and gripping story, filled with mystery, magic, and nuanced characters, in which things are not always what they seem.
A good part of the story focuses on the psychology and feelings of the main character, making it easy to identify with him and share his pain.
Shantel Brunton offers us an intriguing and gripping story, filled with mystery, magic, and nuanced characters, in which things are not always what they seem.
February 15, 2023
I loved the way I was able to escape into a new world with this book. The story was wonderfully written and easy to fall into and forget the real world for a while. Although the story is dark, there is an overall theme of hope and second chances. Not sure if there are plans for more books, but I would love to see where Nathaniel's story goes and if he ever finds love again.
March 1, 2023
This book was dark and dangerous novel.
Very easy to love the characters and get sucked up in the terror. Time did fly by for me reading this book it was that smooth. I did however struggle with the brutal torture because it’s detailed (which is a good thing) and not usually my genre to read. That was my main struggle. However, if this is your kinda jam I would recommend this novel for you.
February 24, 2023
QUICK TAKE
Hive of Blood by Shantel Brunton is an intense and beautifully written dark fantasy with elements of body horror and torture. The world she created is spellbinding, and I was captivated within the first few chapters. Brunton wove horror and fantasy with an expert hand. This is one of the most original novels I have read, and I see a re-read in my future.
TELL ME MORE
Hive of Blood by Shantel Brunton is an expertly woven dark fantasy that presents the reader with a dangerous and enticing world worthy of lore. Fantasy can sometimes be hard to follow if the author creates a world that is too complicated and doesn’t portray it properly to the reader. However, this was not the case with Brunton. She had a clear vision for the world she was creating and wrote in such a way that the reader became part of the story.
The idea of spiders being kept by the Weavers because they harvested silk from the spiders was an ingenious concept. I loved how both the Weavers and Lasevrens were rivals because one side kept spiders, while the other kept wasps. The focus on insects and arachnids created a “creature feature” concept throughout the story, which was wholly enjoyable.
There is a fair amount of torture and body horror throughout the book, as Nathaniel – the main character – is taken captive and tortured extensively. Trauma is a big theme within the story as well, which may be triggering for some readers. However, Brunton did include a disclaimer in the beginning of the book to notify readers of aspects of the novel that they might find triggering before reading. Lovers of body horror are sure to enjoy this storyline, though, and I appreciated how the novel did not rely on shock factor to keep the reader engaged. There is a lot of depth to the story beyond the horror “shock factor”, and it is sure to appeal to lovers of body horror and creature features.
Hive of Blood by Shantel Brunton is an incredibly conceived dark fantasy with elements of torture and body horror that will appeal to readers who love stories that are a cross between horror and fantasy. Brunton’s imagination is phenomenal, and her writing is effortless. I loved her artistic voice, and the care that she put into creating her world and conceiving her characters. Pick this one up! You will not be disappointed.
Hive of Blood by Shantel Brunton is an intense and beautifully written dark fantasy with elements of body horror and torture. The world she created is spellbinding, and I was captivated within the first few chapters. Brunton wove horror and fantasy with an expert hand. This is one of the most original novels I have read, and I see a re-read in my future.
TELL ME MORE
Hive of Blood by Shantel Brunton is an expertly woven dark fantasy that presents the reader with a dangerous and enticing world worthy of lore. Fantasy can sometimes be hard to follow if the author creates a world that is too complicated and doesn’t portray it properly to the reader. However, this was not the case with Brunton. She had a clear vision for the world she was creating and wrote in such a way that the reader became part of the story.
The idea of spiders being kept by the Weavers because they harvested silk from the spiders was an ingenious concept. I loved how both the Weavers and Lasevrens were rivals because one side kept spiders, while the other kept wasps. The focus on insects and arachnids created a “creature feature” concept throughout the story, which was wholly enjoyable.
There is a fair amount of torture and body horror throughout the book, as Nathaniel – the main character – is taken captive and tortured extensively. Trauma is a big theme within the story as well, which may be triggering for some readers. However, Brunton did include a disclaimer in the beginning of the book to notify readers of aspects of the novel that they might find triggering before reading. Lovers of body horror are sure to enjoy this storyline, though, and I appreciated how the novel did not rely on shock factor to keep the reader engaged. There is a lot of depth to the story beyond the horror “shock factor”, and it is sure to appeal to lovers of body horror and creature features.
Hive of Blood by Shantel Brunton is an incredibly conceived dark fantasy with elements of torture and body horror that will appeal to readers who love stories that are a cross between horror and fantasy. Brunton’s imagination is phenomenal, and her writing is effortless. I loved her artistic voice, and the care that she put into creating her world and conceiving her characters. Pick this one up! You will not be disappointed.
February 4, 2023
Unique, suspenseful, and Curious
Nathaniel's story is one of intrigue as you follow him through a gauntlet of pain and struggle. Life is not what it seems and as his joy is replaced by pain, sorrow, and outright misery, he's forced to reevaluate what it means to truly live.
For someone who struggles at time with reading torture, this book was difficult in many ways. A large portion of the book is torture and struggle as Nathaniel is "convinced" to become someone he despises. Some moments are rather descriptive where others weren't as difficult, but keep that in mind.
What I enjoyed about this book was the strength of our MC. He's determined to find his path in life, whatever it means, he doesn't give up, and manages to find happiness in small ways as time goes on. I'm eager to see where this story goes in future books and how the countries conflicts are handled moving forward. There's definitely more to the story than we're being told.
Nathaniel's story is one of intrigue as you follow him through a gauntlet of pain and struggle. Life is not what it seems and as his joy is replaced by pain, sorrow, and outright misery, he's forced to reevaluate what it means to truly live.
For someone who struggles at time with reading torture, this book was difficult in many ways. A large portion of the book is torture and struggle as Nathaniel is "convinced" to become someone he despises. Some moments are rather descriptive where others weren't as difficult, but keep that in mind.
What I enjoyed about this book was the strength of our MC. He's determined to find his path in life, whatever it means, he doesn't give up, and manages to find happiness in small ways as time goes on. I'm eager to see where this story goes in future books and how the countries conflicts are handled moving forward. There's definitely more to the story than we're being told.
March 8, 2023
The main character in this book, Nathaniel, drew my interest from the first few pages. His characteristics and high moral values were an inspiration. Through a series of unexpected events, Nathaniel’s circumstances completely change. Nevertheless, he sticks to his convictions and refuses compromise and become a Lasevren. It is only when his parents are threatened that he gives in and becomes something he could never imagine himself being. It is at this point when a complete metamorphosis of the character occurs and through the superb writing, we see this from the eyes of Nathaniel. We feel what he feels, share in his emotional roller coasters, and challenge to ask ourselves what we would do if we were in his predicament. Moreover, I found the contrasting personalities of the twins, Xavier and Nicolai, to be extremely well done and added to the dynamics of the story. This is a unique book that is well-written, interesting, and easy to follow.
February 15, 2023
Where to start? There is a lot of darkness in this story. Nathaniel is a tortured soul in it's purest from. Shantel does not stray from creating a wild and vivid depiction of the torment Nathaniel faces from ending up prisoner to the Lasevren's. Nicolai is one of them and he is as cruel and viscious as one can be. He does not let up with his vile attempts to force Nathaniel to become like him. Natahaniel is strong and stubborn. He fights hard to remain loyal to his beliefs.
This story has elements of paranormal beings and it is written with heart. The ending was not what I'd expected which is good. I don't want to read something that doesn't throw me for a spin (which it did) and I was sad for Natahniel. I don't want to spoil anything but I will say there are a lot of lessons to take from this story and I truly enjoyed it.
Great job Shantel! xx
This story has elements of paranormal beings and it is written with heart. The ending was not what I'd expected which is good. I don't want to read something that doesn't throw me for a spin (which it did) and I was sad for Natahniel. I don't want to spoil anything but I will say there are a lot of lessons to take from this story and I truly enjoyed it.
Great job Shantel! xx
March 24, 2024
Hive of Blood by Shantel Brunton is a very unique dark fantasy read. It is always refreshing to pick up a book that has a different plot and exciting characters. I have to say Shantel Brunton did a great job with this story. I must warn you though please read the trigger warnings they are there for a reason.
Nathaniel is escaping to the north after having his heart broken. He lives in a world where insects and arachnids have never peacefully co existed together. He is captured and tormented in the north for a long time.
There is so much great world and character building in this story. I admit I have a fear of spiders so I was a little worried when they started mentioning them BUT I had no issue as I read through the story. I really enjoyed reading it and look forward to the next book in the series.
Nathaniel is escaping to the north after having his heart broken. He lives in a world where insects and arachnids have never peacefully co existed together. He is captured and tormented in the north for a long time.
There is so much great world and character building in this story. I admit I have a fear of spiders so I was a little worried when they started mentioning them BUT I had no issue as I read through the story. I really enjoyed reading it and look forward to the next book in the series.
March 24, 2023
Hive of Blood by Shantel Brunton is a fantasy and horror treat for readers. I loved Nathaniel's character, who has gone through many toils and hardships. The plot attracts attention just from the beginning. Easy to understand and a perfect one for the fantasy beginners. The story has love, emotions, action and adventure. Also, Nathaniel's character after many highs and lows enters the transition phase and we can see a drastic development of the character. I am eager to read the second book.
Definitely 4 stars for the book. Thanks to the author for providing me with an opportunity to read and review the book.
Read more on https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...
Definitely 4 stars for the book. Thanks to the author for providing me with an opportunity to read and review the book.
Read more on https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...
April 25, 2023
I went into Shantel Brunton's Hive of Blood blind, and I'm so glad I did.
This book was what I would classify as a dark fantasy book, a world filled with different classes, sects of people, and turmoil most know nothing about.
Our book begins with Nathaniel, our main character who grows in ways you'd never expect throughout the course of the book, and leaves you cheering for him every step of the way - even through some of his darker moments.
The way Brunton developed her world is stunning, and every detail is well thought out and beautifully done.
If you're looking for a fantasy book that explores the darker sides of reality, you'll want to grab this. Check TW before reading!!
This book was what I would classify as a dark fantasy book, a world filled with different classes, sects of people, and turmoil most know nothing about.
Our book begins with Nathaniel, our main character who grows in ways you'd never expect throughout the course of the book, and leaves you cheering for him every step of the way - even through some of his darker moments.
The way Brunton developed her world is stunning, and every detail is well thought out and beautifully done.
If you're looking for a fantasy book that explores the darker sides of reality, you'll want to grab this. Check TW before reading!!
April 24, 2023
I must say this book is very graphic so please be warned and double-check the trigger warning before licking this up to read.
I enjoyed the premise of the book however so chapters were very intense and it made them hard to read which meant it took a lot longer to read than anticipated. However, I did like to the storyline of the book overall, wouldn’t be something I would pick up and read again.
I want to thank Shantel for the copy and the opportunity to review another one of her books.
I enjoyed the premise of the book however so chapters were very intense and it made them hard to read which meant it took a lot longer to read than anticipated. However, I did like to the storyline of the book overall, wouldn’t be something I would pick up and read again.
I want to thank Shantel for the copy and the opportunity to review another one of her books.
May 29, 2024
An interesting personal journey.
Hive of Blood is a dark fantasy. It was my first book by Shantel. Definitely read the trigger warnings if you have any sensitivities as it is very detailed. Shantel does a wonderful job with world building and character building. Nathaniel is such a wholesome character and undergoes a very drastic life changing journey. This is book one of two. This one definitely stands on its own, but I am interested to see what book two could have in store.
Hive of Blood is a dark fantasy. It was my first book by Shantel. Definitely read the trigger warnings if you have any sensitivities as it is very detailed. Shantel does a wonderful job with world building and character building. Nathaniel is such a wholesome character and undergoes a very drastic life changing journey. This is book one of two. This one definitely stands on its own, but I am interested to see what book two could have in store.
February 16, 2023
A sadean fantasy that is certainly not for the weak of stomach. This story presents us with an interesting world, particularly the culture of the Laseverns. The protagonists journey from their old life to a radically different existence is gripping and the horrors he suffered are written of wonderfully. Definitely would recommend.
February 19, 2023
4.5/5
Was looking forward to this new tale by Brunton and it did not disappoint! While I'm not a big reader of fantasy, this was exceptionally written and easy to follow. Nathaniel felt so real to me, and I could relate to him on a lot of what he was going through. There are some very dark scenes of torture, so I'd exercise caution before reading them. To be honest, I always thought there was something special about Nathaniel. The writing is beyond exceptional and cannot wait to see what will be in Book 2!
Was looking forward to this new tale by Brunton and it did not disappoint! While I'm not a big reader of fantasy, this was exceptionally written and easy to follow. Nathaniel felt so real to me, and I could relate to him on a lot of what he was going through. There are some very dark scenes of torture, so I'd exercise caution before reading them. To be honest, I always thought there was something special about Nathaniel. The writing is beyond exceptional and cannot wait to see what will be in Book 2!
March 20, 2023
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
But here's why...
It took me a bit to get into this one, I usually read romance heavy on the steam, but the story held my attention as I dove deeper into it. I look forward to book 2, since book 1 implies there will be a 2. 😁
But here's why...
It took me a bit to get into this one, I usually read romance heavy on the steam, but the story held my attention as I dove deeper into it. I look forward to book 2, since book 1 implies there will be a 2. 😁
July 10, 2024
Such a great story!! It weaves a story of Nathanial as he is kidnapped and "persuaded" by his captors to join them. He is such a great character to watch and grow. This is a dark fantasy as always ** read the trigger warnings **. I can't wait to read more!!
June 17, 2024
It's a very interesting and detailed story. I don't know that I will ever look a insects and spiders the same again. There are definitely scenes that you will need a strong stomach for but overall it's an interesting story. Another way to show that things are rarely as they appear to be.
June 11, 2024
Hive of Blood was my first book by Shantel Brunton. I was not sure due to the warnings if I would be able to finish the book, but I was able to. I enjoyed the Dark Fantasy book. I did not read the description going in. This story is in a magical land where most are either a Weaver or Lasevren. Nathaniel is neither but is captured by the Lasevren and they try to compel him to join them. This was a very well written and intriguing story. The world that Brunton created kept me interested throughout the story. If you like Dark Fantasy I would recommend picking this book up. Do heed the content warnings.
June 11, 2024
great dark fantasy reader
This is a dark fantasy story. This story is about Nathaniel and the journey that he takes to discover all is not what it seems to be. It is not my usual read. It took me a while to get in story, but I ended up liking it. the characters are well developed in the story as well thought out, I cannot wait to read more in this series
This is a dark fantasy story. This story is about Nathaniel and the journey that he takes to discover all is not what it seems to be. It is not my usual read. It took me a while to get in story, but I ended up liking it. the characters are well developed in the story as well thought out, I cannot wait to read more in this series
June 12, 2024
Interesting
As many other reviews have stated: Read the warnings! If you are looking for a very detailed dark tale, this might be the book for you.
As many other reviews have stated: Read the warnings! If you are looking for a very detailed dark tale, this might be the book for you.
May 29, 2024
An interesting personal journey
Hive of Blood is a dark fantasy. It was my first book by Shantel. Definitely read the trigger warnings if you have any sensitivities as it is very detailed. Shantel does a wonderful job with world building and character building. Nathaniel is such a wholesome character and undergoes a very drastic life changing journey. This is book one of two. This one definitely stands on its own, but I am interested to see what book two could have in store.
Hive of Blood is a dark fantasy. It was my first book by Shantel. Definitely read the trigger warnings if you have any sensitivities as it is very detailed. Shantel does a wonderful job with world building and character building. Nathaniel is such a wholesome character and undergoes a very drastic life changing journey. This is book one of two. This one definitely stands on its own, but I am interested to see what book two could have in store.
May 30, 2024
Hive of blood was well written. But not my cup of tea. If you like a dark fantasy then this book is for you.
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