Tag Archives: vampires

Review – The Gravewood by Kelly Andrew #kellyandrew #netgalley #thegravewood

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The Gravewood
The Gravewood

 

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

I love the bloody cover of The Gravewood by Kelly Andrew, and I love anything vampire, so this was an easy book for me to get lost in. The story takes place in a dystopian world. We have some diverse characters, which adds that extra little bit to keep me interested. I have to know what will happen to Shea.

Shea is the main female character and there are two men, one a vampire, competing for her heart. Shea is deaf and made a deal with Lys, the vampire. She would let him feed from her in exchange for batteries for her hearing aid. Then, we have Asher, a human that has his sights on Shea too. It is kind of a ‘Twilight’ sort of story and I loved Twilight.

We shift between points of view, which helps to reveal each character’s motivations for their actions taken. We have plenty of blood and gore to fill my mind with visuals. I love the blend of apocalyptic/dystopian and paranormal/supernatural.

The downside of The Gravewood by Kelly Andrew is waiting for Book II of the duology.

My thanks go out to NetGalley and Scholastic Press for the opportunity to read and review The Gravewood by Kelly Andrew.

4 Stars

AMAZON SYNOPSIS

An instant New York Times bestseller! The first in a darkly romantic duology that explores disability, obsession, and the twisted limits of loyalty.

Shea Parker has lived her entire life in the shadow of the Gravewood, an impassable forest that’s cut off her town from the rest of the world. With resources limited and supplies scarce, Shea is forced to carefully ration her hearing aid batteries. When her stash runs out, she’ll be left in the silence.

Desperate, Shea turns to the only person who can help — Oliver Lysander, the volatile leader of a vampiric gang that rules the Gravewood.

The arrangement between Shea and Lysander starts off simply enough. She gives him her blood. He tracks down batteries. They don’t cross any lines. They don’t make it personal. But when Shea’s best friend is lured into the Gravewood, her disappearance brings her older brother home from the frontlines. Asher Thorley is willing to do whatever it takes to find his sister, even if it means holding Shea’s ugliest secrets over her head.

Ever an opportunist, Lysander renegotiates the terms of their deal. If Asher takes out Lysander’s vampire rival, Lysander will help him find his sister. And if Shea agrees to Turn, Lysander will give her a cure for her ailing mother. For the first time ever, Shea finds herself leaving home. Swallowed up in the dreamlike dark of the Gravewood and traveling in the company of killers, it isn’t long before she risks becoming one herself.

  • Genre: Apocalyptic, Dystopian, Fantasy, Fiction, Paranormal, Supernatural, Vampires, Young Adult
  • 348 pages, Kindle Edition
  • First published April 7, 2026
  • Series: The Gravewood, #1
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$20 GC – The Cardinal Code: Absolution by Avery Sterling @xpressotours #averysterling #thecardinalcode

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The Cardinal Code: Absolution
Avery Sterling
(The Cardinal Code, #2)
Publication date: April 17th 2026
Genres: New Adult, Paranormal, Romance

The Cardinal Code: Absolution continues the dark, seductive saga of the Cardinales—an elite society of vampires whose influence shapes governments, history, and the hidden world beneath human civilization.

Paislee Sullivan never wanted power. She only wanted Michael. But loving a man born into a secret dynasty of blood and control means standing in the shadow of everything he represents.

When Michael Chamberlain is summoned to London, he’s pulled into a political struggle rooted in ancient bloodlines and forbidden truths. As old laws are challenged and long-buried secrets begin to surface, Paislee finds herself no longer at the edge of his world—but at its center.

The deeper she is drawn into Cardinales society, the more dangerous her presence becomes. To some, she is leverage. To others, a threat. To Michael, she is the only thing that has ever mattered.

Bound by love and hunted by forces determined to preserve the Order’s control, they must confront a truth the Dominium has spent centuries suppressing.

Because some bloodlines were never meant to merge.

And loving each other may cost them everything.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

—

EXCERPT:

Paislee leaned her head on Michael’s shoulder.

“You didn’t look surprised by that envelope.”

“Because I wasn’t.”

“What is it?”

“An invitation,” he said, lacing his fingers through hers and brushing her knuckles with his lips.

Her head lifted. “An invitation for what?”

“To Etxe Bakarra.”

“What’s that?”

“A celebration they hold every year—but barely understand. It was hand-delivered. Required my signature. Which means I must attend or face consequences.”

She studied the envelope, running her fingers over its embossed seal. “It’s beautiful. What is Etxe Bakarra?”

“A celebration of unity. Of peace.”

“Are you required to attend every year?”

“No.”

“Then why now?”

“Because the harvest moon aligns with the autumn equinox. It’s incredibly rare.”

She blinked. “Harvest moon, autumn equinox . . . the Order sounds mystical.”

He chuckled. “It’s their favorite bedtime story.”

As the car hummed down the avenue, she turned the envelope over in her hands.

“You didn’t even open it.”

“I know what it says.”

“I’ll open it, then.”

Her eyes skimmed the elegant script inside. Then she paused. “Michael . . . why is my name on it?”

He went still.

“Right under yours. It says the invitation extends to ‘Michael Chamberlain and companion, Paislee Sullivan.’”

He reached over and took the invitation from her hands. His easy charm shuttered, replaced by something darker. Calculating.

Michael stared out the window for a long moment.

“They want to see you,” he said quietly.

Paislee frowned. “Why?”

“I don’t know.”

A pause hung between them.

She rested her head against his shoulder, listening to the steady thud of his heart beneath the fine weave of his jacket. He didn’t speak again, but he didn’t have to. She could feel it in the way he held her hand tighter than before—the silent promise tucked into his touch.

Whatever this celebration meant, whatever game the Order was playing, she was now a part of it.

Author Bio:

Avery Sterling’s love for the romance genre began in her teen years when she picked up her first novel. She was captivated by the sweeping scale of emotions brought about by the words. The experience catapulted her towards learning the art of wielding a breathtaking adventure, with a love that felt authentic. Wanting to inspire people with her own thoughts and words, she finished her first novel at sixteen. It was a step towards understanding the essence of what she wished to create.

Most of her youth was spent traveling, searching out the romance and beauty in her everchanging world. From the waves that crashed against the rocky shores of Downeast, Maine, to the warm breezes of the Caribbean, she discovered that love was universal, apparent in its grandest and simplest of forms. Her goal is to write novels an audience can relate to, one that conveys the truth and nature of love… with all that steamy romance.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / X


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The Cardinal Code: Absolution Blitz

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AWESOME – Review – Redemption by V E Huntley #VEHuntley #redemption

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They think his love for her makes him week with phoenix
they're about to lean it makes him unstoppable
my penance will never be enough redemption

 

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

Whew (as I brush the sweat off my brow). Redemption by V E Huntley is the heart pounding conclusion of Aden and Ellie’s story in the Bloodstone Legacy trilogy. Between the smoking hot sex (XXX Rated) and the bloody and savage battles, I can’t think of one thing V E Huntley left out. I love her original interpretation of the vampire world.

We see the story from two points of view, Aden’s and Ellie’s. I love when I can see events unfold from different perspectives, delving into the minds of each character, allowing me to empathize with them, even when they are wrong.

I will keep this review short and sweet, seeing I really do not want to spoil anything for those who will begin the series with Damnation. I cannot recommend the Bloodstone Legacy enough. The vampires are unique and have the same issues as us humans, politics, communication, and kids. What will they turn out to be? Vampires? Half breed’s? Humans?

What a fabulous happy ever after ending to a mind blowing conclusion of Aden and Ellie’s story. Any time I see V E Huntley’s name, I’m hoping she has come out with a new book. She is definitely hovering around the top of my must read author list.

My thanks go out to V E Huntley for the opportunity to read, review and share my thoughts for Redemption.

 

5 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

MY PENANCE WILL NEVER BE ENOUGH The breathtaking conclusion to The BloodStone Legacy trilogy—a dark, seductive paranormal romance about forbidden love, impossible choices, and the price of redemption.

They think his love for her makes him weak. They’re about to learn it makes him unstoppable.

For centuries, vampire commander Aden Westcott’s reputation for brutality was legendary. Until her. When Ellie awakens feelings he thought long dead, their forbidden bond becomes both his salvation and his greatest vulnerability.

In a society divided by power and blood, redemption demands the highest price. In this final chapter, Aden and Ellie’s choices will echo through eternity. Some say love conquers all. In Aden and Ellie’s world, it might just destroy everything.

Perfect for fans of J.R. Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood, Sarah J. Maas’s Crescent City, Scarlett St. Clair’s Adrian X Isolde, Karina Halle’s The Dracula Duet, and readers who crave their romance dark, passionate, and unforgettable with brooding anti-heroes paired with resilient heroines.

Redemption is Book 3 of a trilogy. It ends with the HEA you’ve been waiting for.

Perfect for fans of enemies-to-lovers romance and dark fantasy who crave high stakes, forbidden love, and a brooding immortal hero facing his own redemption.

This book is a dark paranormal romance. Be mindful of the trigger

Graphic violence
Sexual situations
Blood Play
Adult language – the word “fuck” is used a lot

  • Genre: Dark Fantasy, Fantasy, Fiction, Paranormal, Romance, Supernatural, Vampires
  • 647 pages, Kindle Edition
  • Published February 19, 2026
  • Series: The Bloodstone Legacy #3

ABOUT V E HUNTLEY

V.E. Huntley is a retired producer who has spent her life telling stories in one way or another. Just ask her cats. They had to endure a lifetime of her endlessly reciting entire dialogue scenes to them, even though all they desperately wanted to do was nap.

Her childhood fear of Dracula was so intense that she couldn’t sleep without the lights on and her mother guarding her bedroom door. Over time, this fear evolved into a lifelong obsession with the dark and twisted world of vampires and the concept of immortality. So, after more than two decades in the film and television industry, she ultimately chose to pursue her true passion—writing dark and sexy paranormal romance.

Besides writing, her hobbies include reading, watching movies, traveling, and keeping her husband busy with an endless honey-do list.

Website

MY V E HUNTLEY REVIEWS

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Review – Facing Nightfall by Michael B Chikondi @M_B_Chikondi #facingnightfall

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Amazon / KindleUnlimited / Goodread

MY REVIEW

Facing Nightfall: The Sunrise Saga by Michael B Chikondi is his first novel and I am glad that he brought it into the light. This dark, gothic, eerie novel can be described as a coming of age novel for Abbey Sharp. I love that she climbs out her window and has a hideaway on the roof where she observes her surroundings while smoking cigarettes.

Abbey and her friend, Lewis, wander the streets at night fighting against the darkness that calls to them. They will face more than the supernatural. They will question their life, their loyalty will be tested and it will take a lot of strength to resist the evil taking over the town.

MIchael B Chikondi blends the supernatural with humanity, making the characters question their choices. I found Facing Nightfall to be an original take on a familiar tale and I do love my vampires, so getting lost in Abbey’s story was exciting, making it hard to stop reading. It’s 419 pages of deliciousness.

I have read numerous novels by Michael B Chikondi, but this is my favorite.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
5 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

When the quiet town of Masham falls under the shadow of something ancient and merciless, Abbey Sharp finds herself drawn into a struggle far larger than late-night smokes on the rooftop and her parents’ weary routines.
As night stretches on, whispers of missing people, strange broadcasts, and creatures that shouldn’t exist unravel the fabric of normal life. Abbey and her friend Lewis are forced to confront a terrifying the town is infested with vampires, and survival demands more than just keeping the lights on.
But in a world where allegiances blur and even family can change overnight, Abbey must decide how much of herself she’s willing to sacrifice. Is she strong enough to resist the seductive pull of power, or will she lose everything in the fight against the darkness?
Facing Nightfall is a gothic, atmospheric vampire tale where loyalty is tested, blood is bargained, and the night never truly ends.

  • Genre: Fiction, Gothic, Horror, Paranormal, Supernatural, Vampires
  • 419 pages, Kindle Edition
  • Published October 31, 2025

ABOUT MICHAEL B CHIKONDI (from Amazon)

Michael B. Chikondi is not to be trusted, but the creature agrees to a meeting in its burrow. We enter with trepidation, given that the thing has no doorbell. As we crawl through the narrow tunnel, gored out by its own teeth, by the texture, we hear what can only be described as a hacking cough.

“Can we approach?” we call.

“No soliciting.” the voice returns.

“You sent for us; you told us to ask you questions. You know, for promotional reasons.”

“Ask.” the dread voice responds.

“Alright, who are you?” we try.

“A creature of mist and shadow, half-mad, I used to go out, I did, and know those…humans. Not now, not since…the pen.”

“You found a pen? That’s why you became a writer?” we ask, now terrified, trying to gauge how fast we can leave the burrow. The photographer has already left us, chewing off his own watch, caught on a tree root.

“Yes, but now…I hunger…”

We are not proud; we turn tail and flee, before it can leave its den. We aren’t paid enough to get a full bio. We can only pray someone buys its books, so that the thing never comes out on its own.

Ed. What the hell is this? This isn’t what we requested. Just some nonsense and an artist’s rendition of what one of my people saw before he contracted rabies? Eh, whatever. Plenty more writers in the sea.

MY MICHAEL B CHIKONDI REVIEWS

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Review – Winter Of Blood And Miracles by M Guida #mguida #winterofbloodandmiracles

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Amazon / KindleUnlimited / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

Winter Of Blood And Miracles is a holiday bonus story for the French Quarter Vampire King series. I love a good vampire story and I don’t read many where a child is born, let alone it being half nephilim and half vampire. I can see why demons would love to get their hands on the child. I was quickly wrapped up in the story, not wanting to stop reading until the last word was read.

I was swept away. Once I started reading, I didn’t want to stop. There were no big surprises in Winter Of Blood And Miracles, but it was a wonderfully written holiday story with some danger thrown in, friends shared, and a happy ever after.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

I never thought I’d get a miracle.
Not with my past. Not with the blood on my hands. And certainly not with a vampire king as my husband. But against every odd, I’m pregnant.

This child shouldn’t exist—half Nephilim, half vampire. A blend of heaven and darkness. My body can barely handle carrying it, and the supernatural world isn’t ready for what our baby could become.

Especially Balthazar.

The demon has been watching us, waiting. And when he finally strikes, he doesn’t come for me—he comes for our child.

Now the clock is ticking, and the snow-soaked streets of New Orleans run red as we tear the city apart to find who took our baby. I’ve faced monsters before… but nothing like this.

Because this time, I’m not just fighting for my life.
I’m fighting for my family.

Winter of Blood and Miracles is a dark holiday bonus story in the French Quarter Vampire King series—a tale of love, sacrifice, and the lengths a mother and father will go to for the miracle they never thought they’d have.

Dark Holiday Romance
Touch Her and DieG
Found Family
Miracle Baby
Protective Alpha Hero
Fated Mates

  • Genre: Dark Fantasy, Holiday, Horror, Paranormal, Romance, Supernatural, Vampires
  • 199 pages, Kindle Edition
  • Published November 25, 2025
  • Series: French Quarter Vampire King, Book 4

ABOUT M GUIDA

M Guida has always loved fantasy and romance, especially dragons. Growing up, she devoured fantasy books and all kinds of young adult books. And then she found romance and a whole new world opened up to her.

Now as an adult, she fell in love with academy romance and has blended all of her past loves into one compelling series. Dragons, vampires, elves, demons, and shifters all attend Legacy Academy.

When she’s not writing, she lives in the colorful Rocky Mountains with her fur baby, Raven, and enjoys taking her for walks.

Would you like to become a Legacy? Sign up for her mailing list and enter a world of the supernatural. https://geni.us/akJn

You can also join her private Facebook page-Legacy Academy https://geni.us/aksDhUZ You’ll become a legacy and find out about your special power and maybe even find some romance!

MY M GUIDA REVIEWS

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
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Review The Witches Of Hant Hollow by D F Jones @Author_DFJones #thewitchesofhanthollow

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Fantasy Romance YA Fantasy Witches Wizards Time Travel Romance Magic Paranormal Bestseller ebook
Fantasy Romance YA Fantasy Witches Wizards Time Travel Romance Magic Paranormal Bestseller ebook
Fantasy Romance YA Fantasy Witches Wizards Time Travel Romance Magic Paranormal Bestseller ebook

 

 

Amazon / KindleUnlimited / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

I love the wonderful cover for The Witches Of Hant Hollow: Jonathon’s Curse by D F Jones. I also like the cute witch that’s at the head of each chapter. I picked it up on a free day, which I discovered through her newsletter. A perfect book for the upcoming Spooktacular season.

The characters run the gamut, from the best of the best, to the worst of the worst. It has an especially intriguing villain in Iris, the matriarch of the Doanhart Coven. We have poor Jonathon, who D F Jones puts through the wringer, and Jasmine, who’s heart is so big, she will sacrifice herself for the good of all. AND, there are a lot of peripheral characters that have an important part to play. We, also, have many supernatural characters that make an appearance.

The story begins in 1915 Rockvale, Tennessee. The action moves the story along, sometimes at a fast pace, other times the characters have a chance to treasure a moment in time. There is plenty of romance to go around, as the characters struggle to find their soul mates and overcome the obstacles put in front of them.

D F Jones has crafted a fantastic tale of magic and mayhem and I definitely want to continue my journey with The Witches Of Hant Hollow.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

Wickedly thrilling fast-paced tale of a family of witches power struggles over light and dark magic, and how one mortal man gets caught in the crosshairs of the feud causing upheaval in not only Jasmine’s love life but rife within the American Mage Alliance.

Will Jasmine save Jonathan at the risk of losing the one she loves most?

  • Genre: Fae, Fantasy, Fiction, Halloween, Paranormal, Romance, Supernatural, Vampires, Werewolves, Witches, Wizards, Young Adult

ABOUT D F JONES

USA Today Bestselling Author, D. F. Jones began her career as a broadcast consultant at the ABC Affiliate in Nashville, which led her to open an advertising agency. Over the years, she’s created many campaigns for clients but fell in love with writing fiction.

Writing is a source of creative expression for DF. Jones, but it also releases stress. Writing takes D.F. Jones to a place where anything is possible, and fiction takes her to a place made of dreams..

Whether it’s angels or demons, time travel adventures, witches and wizards, mystery suspense, or ghosts, her books are action-packed with supernatural and romantic elements.

Website / Twitter

MY D F JONES REVIEWS

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Review – Samhain Sacrifice by Kat Ensmore @KatyaEnsmore #samhainsacrifice

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Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

Cora died on Devil’s night – sacrificed by the man she loved.

A picnic. In the darkness. I know that can’t be a good thing.

With a start like that I felt I was going to love to ride the revenge train with Cora. She is going to make Chad pay…does she ever. Her desire to strip Chad of everything he traded her life for, knows no bounds. I love books that deal with a woman ‘scorned’.

The crossroads demon that brought her back, wants her. I didn’t see that coming and I wonder…with the demon get the girl?

We alternate between three points of view: Chad, Cora, and the Crossroads Demon.

Kat Ensmore got the idea for Samhain Sacrifice from a meme. I wonder if you will search for it like I did.

Him: aww babe look at you, getting all romantic with all of these candle.

Me: First of all, I’m about to sacrifice you.

An author never knows where inspiration will come from.

Looking for a Halloween book to get in the proper mood? Look no further. Samhain Sacrifice has all the gruesome and demonic moments that I require in a horror story. Want a good haunting to entertain you? You will find it here. Samhain Sacrifice by Kat Ensmore may be a quick read, but it was chock full of horrorlicious moments sure to entertain those that are not faint at heart.

Soooo, why don’t you join me?

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

Cora died on Devil’s night—sacrificed by the man she loved.

Ten years later, she’s back, resurrected by a seductive demon and bound to a ticking clock. With just days before the veil between worlds seals shut, Cora has one chance to make Chad pay for what he did.

But revenge has a price.

The demon who brought her back wants more than blood—he wants her. And as their twisted connection deepens, Cora finds herself torn between the fury that fuels her and the fire that consumes her every time he’s near.

She was born to burn him to the ground.
But if she’s not careful… she’ll go up in flames with him.

Samhain Sacrifice is a dark Halloween themed novella written for mature audiences and is recommended for readers 18+ for adult content, situations and language.

  • Genre: Fiction, Halloween, Horror, Novella, Paranormal, Supernatural, Vampires
  • Kindle Edition
  • Expected publication October 3, 2025

ABOUT KAT ENSMORE

Katya Ensmore resides in rural Saskatchewan with her #writingbuddy a Great Dane aptly named Khaos. When she is not spending time with Khaos, she can be found writing or hiding behind her iPad buried in the digital pages of a book.

When it comes to literature and film, she enjoys all things supernatural. She has been writing since she was a child. She currently has several works in progress with hopes to publish more in the near future.

Website / Twitter / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok

 

MY KAT ENSMORE REVIEWS

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Review – Cry Of Blood And Joy by M Guida #mguida #cryofbloodandjoy

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Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

M Guida had put out a call through her newsletter for ARC readers, for Cry Of Blood And Joy. When I read the blurb and saw the eye catching cover, I knew it was for me. That prompted me to buy the first book in the series, Oath Of Blood And Joy. I didn’t hesitate at the $.99 price. A steal, because Joy’s story just keeps getting better and better. The big thing is to not spoil anything for you. I am sure you will want to discover all the goodness between the pages for yourself.

Cry Of Blood And Joy by M Guida picks up where Oath Of Blood And Joy left off. Joy has no control over her powers, and when she hurts her best friend because of it, the vampire mafia king goes on a rampage . Serenity may be her best friend, but she is the vampire king’s wife. Joy, Enzo, and Joy’s brother, Steve, are running for their lives.

We have alternating points of view with Joy and Enzo.

There is nonstop action. The story unfolded at a rapid pace. The danger and suspense is off the charts, filled with nail biting moments, and times where I felt like yelling at the characters, don’t go there, don’t do that. Unputdownable. Amazing story with a fast tempo. Once it grabbed me, it never let me go.

I had saved the man I loved by potentially dooming the entire world.

We end with another cliffhanger, of sorts. If we have to have a stopping point, this is a good spot. BUT, when do we get a glimpse of Pride Of Blood And Joy? I do see it coming soon and I can hardly wait to get my hands on it.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
5 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

He fell first. She fell harder. Now they’re both falling into hell.
When Joy’s powers exploded and wounded the vampire mafia king’s mate, she signed their death warrant. Now she and her ruthless enforcer protector are the most hunted fugitives in New Orleans—and he’d burn the world down before letting anyone touch her.

Desperate, he makes a deal with the Dark Fae Mafia king. But when the fae’s prized stone disappears, every bloody death gets pinned on the enforcer. Someone’s playing puppet master, and they’re the perfect fall guys.

Then they take Joy’s brother.

Come alone or he dies.

She runs. He follows. They both get captured.

Big mistake.

Because now they’ve uncovered a conspiracy that makes vampire mafia politics look like child’s play—and the enemy has been pulling their strings from the very beginning.
Touch her and die was never just a threat. It was a promise.

Cry of Blood and Joy is the explosive second book in the French Quarter Vampire Enforcer series. A forbidden romance where star-crossed lovers collide with vampire mafia vendettas in a deadly game that will leave you breathless and craving more.

  • Genre: Angels And Demons, Fantasy, Louisiana, Nephilim, Paranormal, Romance, Supernatural, Vampires, Werewolves
  • 334 pages, Kindle Edition
  • Published September 3, 2025
  • Series: French Quarter Vampire Enforcer #2

ABOUT M GUIDA

M Guida has always loved fantasy and romance, especially dragons. Growing up, she devoured fantasy books and all kinds of young adult books. And then she found romance and a whole new world opened up to her.

Now as an adult, she fell in love with academy romance and has blended all of her past loves into one compelling series. Dragons, vampires, elves, demons, and shifters all attend Legacy Academy.

When she’s not writing, she lives in the colorful Rocky Mountains with her fur baby, Raven, and enjoys taking her for walks.

Would you like to become a Legacy? Sign up for her mailing list and enter a world of the supernatural. https://geni.us/akJn

You can also join her private Facebook page-Legacy Academy https://geni.us/aksDhUZ You’ll become a legacy and find out about your special power and maybe even find some romance!

MY M GUIDA REVIEWS

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • Product images are linked/I am an Amazon affiliate.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

Review – Oath Of Blood And Joy by M Guida #mguida #oathofbloodandjoy

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plan
changed
mistake

 

Amazon / KindleUnlimited / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

I am so happy I am following M Guida, because she put out a call for ARC readers for Cry Of Blood And Joy. I jumped all over it…because, I love vampires! Seeing it’s Book II in the series, I had to see about Book I, Oath Of Blood And Joy. It was on sale for $.99. Yeah.

I love books that take place in familiar places and I have spent a lot of time in New Orleans. Sorry to say, I haven’t run across any supernatural creatures…yet. I do have my fingers crossed.

Girls are going missing in New Orleans and when Joy’s best friend, Stephanie was kidnapped, she made it her personal mission to find her. Unfortunately, during the process, she, herself, was kidnapped. Enzo is the vampire mafia’s most feared enforcer and he knows he has to save her. She doesn’t realize why, but he will burn everything down if he must.

For Joy I would burn the world to ashes.

The vivid, detailed descriptions had shivers crawling up and down my spine. The battles were ferocious and bloody and I loved it, but we do have moments of light and laughter. We have all kinds of creatures: vampires, dark demons, golden demons, werewolves, nephilim, angels, unseelie, dark fae….

I love everything about Oath Of Blood And Joy. I was so engrossed, I zipped through the pages. Before I knew it, I reached the end. There is a bit of a cliffhanger, but it was a good stoppping place. I’m not sweating it, because I have Book II, Cry Of Blood And Joy at hand.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

Missing girls in New Orleans have one they’re never found alive. I’m about to join their ranks. Unless the vampire enforcer tracking me can shatter every rule—and every precedent.My name is Joy, and I’ve always lived up to it—smiling through problems, finding silver linings, believing tomorrow will be better. But over a month ago, my optimism met its match when I was kidnapped while searching for my missing best friend.

Now I’m a prisoner of New Orleans’ most dangerous crime lord, thrust into a world I never knew existed. Vampires are real. Vampire mafia? Also real. And something is stirring inside me—a power I can’t explain that’s the only reason I’m still alive.

They say he’s coming for me. Enzo. The vampire mafia’s most feared enforcer. Cold. Ruthless. Merciless. The man leaves a trail of bodies wherever he goes. The whispers about him terrify even my captors.

But when his dark eyes find mine in the chaos of my prison, I see something impossible. Recognition. Possession. As if I belong to him. As if I’ve always belonged to him.

I don’t know this vampire. Don’t trust him. And I absolutely refuse to accept his ridiculous claim that I’m his “fated mate”—whatever that means. I didn’t even believe vampires existed, and now this terrifying man with perpetually furrowed brows thinks he owns me? I’ve spent weeks fighting my captors at every turn—I’m not about to stop now.

But when his cold eyes find mine, something deep inside me responds. No matter how loudly I tell myself this brooding, dangerous creature is my enemy, my stubborn heart won’t listen. And as my mysterious powers grow stronger, I’m running out of options for allies in a world I never knew was real.

The human mafia won’t let me go without bloodshed. And as ancient power awakens within me, I find myself caught between two worlds with ties to both.

My captor thinks I’m leverage. My would-be savior thinks I’m his. But neither of them knows what I’m becoming—or how my relentless optimism and newfound power might be the most dangerous weapon of all.

Oath of Blood and Joy is a steamy enemies-to-lovers vampire mafia romance featuring a joyful but fierce heroine and a gorgeous, grumpy vampire enforcer. Get ready for intense action, mind blowing plot twists, sizzling forbidden romance, and dark supernatural fireworks that will keep you on the edge of your seat!

  • Genre: Fantasy, Fiction, Paranormal, Romance, Supernatural, Vampires
  • 360 pages, Kindle Edition
  • Published June 11, 2025
  • Series: French Quarter Vampire Enforcer #1

ABOUT M GUIDA

M Guida has always loved fantasy and romance, especially dragons. Growing up, she devoured fantasy books and all kinds of young adult books. And then she found romance and a whole new world opened up to her.

Now as an adult, she fell in love with academy romance and has blended all of her past loves into one compelling series. Dragons, vampires, elves, demons, and shifters all attend Legacy Academy.

When she’s not writing, she lives in the colorful Rocky Mountains with her fur baby, Raven, and enjoys taking her for walks.

Would you like to become a Legacy? Sign up for her mailing list and enter a world of the supernatural. https://geni.us/akJn

You can also join her private Facebook page-Legacy Academy https://geni.us/aksDhUZ You’ll become a legacy and find out about your special power and maybe even find some romance!

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
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  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
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$15 GC – The Cardinal Code by Avery Sterling @xpressotours @AverySterling17

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The Cardinal Code
Avery Sterling
Publication date: August 4th 2025
Genres: New Adult, Paranormal, Romance

Vampires are real. Powerful, organized, and nearly untouchable, they move through society under the governance of the Cardinalis Order—an ancient system built to protect their kind and punish those who defy its laws.

Michael Chamberlain is one of them. A successful entrepreneur with a carefully buried past, he returns to The Hamptons to take over his father’s elite nightclub—and to secure a contracted blood source. Cold, controlled, and emotionally detached, Michael has long accepted the rules of his world. That is, until he meets Paislee Sullivan.

A determined college student working to fund her future, Paislee doesn’t know the truth about the Order—or that her presence at the nightclub is more dangerous than she realizes. When her path collides with Michael’s, she’s pulled into the shadows of a world built on power, secrecy, and blood.

As their attraction deepens, Paislee must navigate a society where consent is contractual, love is forbidden, and ignorance offers the only safety. But some connections can’t be denied—and breaking the rules could mean losing everything.

The Cardinal Code is a seductive and high-stakes romance set in a world where the elite don’t just run society—they feed on it.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

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EXCERPT:

As they pulled into her uncle’s driveway, the house was shrouded in darkness.

Michael killed the engine and was out of the car in an instant. She fumbled for her keys and was surprised when he opened her door.

“Thanks,” she murmured, taking his outstretched hand as she stepped onto the driveway.

“How’s your ankle?”

She tested it. “Actually, it’s not that bad. Thanks for the ride.”

“Let me walk you in,” he offered.

Her heart thudded in her chest. “That’s…really not necessary.”

His lips quirked. “You have to let me finish redeeming myself, Paislee.”

With a dramatic sigh, she dangled her keys in front of him. “Very well, Sir Knightly. Here.”

Michael unlocked the front door, and they stepped into the house. His gaze swept over the modest furnishings as she turned on the lights.

“How long have you been working at Allusion?” he asked, pausing in the living room.

“A couple of weeks.” She slid her bag off her shoulder and set it on a nearby chair. “I came here for school. Allusion helps pay the bills.”

He stepped further into the room.

She busied herself with slipping off her sneakers, but the silence stretched long enough that she turned around.

He was inches away, his eyes dark and unreadable.

Her cheeks flushed, and she quickly changed the subject. “So, am I safe? No danger lurking in the shadows of my house?”

Michael reached for the strap on her skirt, and his fingers traced it slowly before he hooked it and tugged her forward.

“Why do you look so frightened?” he murmured, his brow furrowing.

“I’m not frightened,” she shot back, though her trembling hands betrayed her.

He arched a brow. “You’re shaking.”

Her cheeks burned. “Because I know you’re going to kiss me,” she admitted.

His lips curved into a slow, wicked smile. “Last night, you didn’t seem so afraid of me.”

Her resolve ebbed as his face inched closer. “That was impulsive,” she whispered. “Now I’m just…questioning what I’ve gotten myself into.”

He laughed softly, and the sound was rich and unguarded. “You have no idea what you’ve gotten yourself into, ducizza,” he breathed.

Author Bio:

Avery Sterling’s love for the romance genre began in her teen years when she picked up her first novel. She was captivated by the sweeping scale of emotions brought about by the words. The experience catapulted her towards learning the art of wielding a breathtaking adventure, with a love that felt authentic. Wanting to inspire people with her own thoughts and words, she finished her first novel at sixteen. It was a step towards understanding the essence of what she wished to create.

Most of her youth was spent traveling, searching out the romance and beauty in her everchanging world. From the waves that crashed against the rocky shores of Downeast, Maine, to the warm breezes of the Caribbean, she discovered that love was universal, apparent in its grandest and simplest of forms. Her goal is to write novels an audience can relate to, one that conveys the truth and nature of love… with all that steamy romance.

Website / Goodreads / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter / TikTok


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  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!