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Lharmell #2
Blood Storm
The rain wanted to be ocean; the ice in the mountain caps wanted freedom. I never knew that water held such longing. The clouds above my head rumbled like a growling wolf, impatient to release their burden. I held the rain there a moment longer. I turned to Renata, heard her gasp and knew my eyes glowed blue.
I spoke a single word. 'Rain.'
In the Second Book of Lharmell, Zeraphina and Rodden must travel across the sea to find the elusive ingredients that will help them to win the coming battle against the Lharmellin – but shadows from Rodden’s dark past may come back to haunt him. And while she learns to harness her new abilities, Zeraphina still fights the hunger that makes her crave the north – not to mention avoiding her mother, who wants to see her wayward daughter married to a prince at all costs.
I spoke a single word. 'Rain.'
In the Second Book of Lharmell, Zeraphina and Rodden must travel across the sea to find the elusive ingredients that will help them to win the coming battle against the Lharmellin – but shadows from Rodden’s dark past may come back to haunt him. And while she learns to harness her new abilities, Zeraphina still fights the hunger that makes her crave the north – not to mention avoiding her mother, who wants to see her wayward daughter married to a prince at all costs.
364 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2012
About the author
Rhiannon Hart
6 books245 followersRhiannon is a freelance writer and author living in London. Originally from Australia, she loves exploring new cities and open spaces. When she's not writing, she plays video games, hikes and pats any cat she meets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
October 2, 2012
Firstly, thank you to Random House Australia for providing me with a copy to read and review!
Read in September 2012
Find my complete review here: http://rachybee-the-rest-is-still-unw...
Blood Storm is the dark, exhilarating sequel to Aussie author Rihannon Hart’s debut, Blood Song, and will draw readers once again into the heart of this series in an eerie, driven sequel that will leave you want more, more, more!
Considering that Blood Song was one of my favourite books of last year, to say I’d been looking forward to this sequel would be an understatement. While it didn’t exactly hold my attention in the death grip that Blood Song previously had, I found Blood Storm to be an exciting follow up, one that certainly had its fair share of mystery and revelations.
Picking up a few months after the first book concluded Rihannon Hart once again captivated me with Blood Storm’s well written, well told story that had my complete attention from the moment I opened the book. There’s something so wonderful about Rihannon Hart’s story telling. Weaving romance and fantasy together beautifully, the writing and detailed prose easily sweep you into the story and incredible world of Pergamia and Lharmell!
I admit that I did feel that the progression of the storyline within Blood Storm was a little bit slower than its predecessor, but that didn’t in anyway deter me from the book. This dark fantasy world is filled with danger and adventure and blends forbidden romance and touching friendship with royal politics to create an addictively exciting read that will have you never wanting it to end.
Set in an eerily, dark world, the storyline of this book is fantasy at its best, driving home all the aspects that make this series great. The characters we came to love in the first novel shine once more as Hart tells of the next stage in Zeraphina’s journey. It was really exciting to be with these characters again, Zeraphina and Rodden in particular as we see that leave the palace at Pergamia and journey to collect various minerals that may help in their fight against the Lharmell’s.
As our heroine, Zeraphina is strong willed and intelligent and more than able to handle her own. Despite her princess status, this is a girl who is well and truly able to stand on her own two feet and who is not shy about telling it like it is. She may hold all the poise and grace of a princess, but as she shows time and time again, this girl is a warrior through and through. Zeraphina is settling into her life as a Harming quite well in this book and she has good naturally accepted what it means to be a Harming.
I found it delicious that many of the questions we have surrounding Rodden were answered in this book. Light was shed on his past and we begin to understand his character a bit more as we learn of what drives him. I’d be lying if I didn’t say Rodden’s heart breaking past got to me, but at least it makes it clear why this honourable, often infuriating yet oh so incredible man is the way he is.
The relationship between Zeraphina and Rodden continues to grow in this book and takes a few unexpected turns. The chemistry is still there and with Rodden finally sharing his past with Zeraphina, it paints their relationship in a new light. There is mutual respect and friendship there between them as well as a decent amount of teasing, but in the end their closeness learns towards something more. No matter what Zeraphina’s mother may want.
Racing all the way to a gripping ending that will have you clawing at the pages, hoping and praying there’s more, Blood Storm is a delightfully dark sequel to Blood Song that is sure to catch you, hook line and sinker and have you eagerly awaiting the third book after a cliff-hanger that will rip your heart out!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2012
Last year, I fell in love with Rhiannon Hart's debut, Blood Song. Guys, she was only warming up. Rhiannon Hart completely bypasses the dreaded curse of the second book in a series to deliver a completely addictive, twisty, dangerous and (more than) satisfying sequel. Where Blood Song introduced us to the world of Lharmell, Zeraphina and Rodden, Blood Storm takes us way deeper into their world.
A list of so many things I loved about Blood Storm:
That it is easy to read*. I struggle with high fantasy, yet the world of Lharmell is so seductively easy to curl up into. The landscape of Blood Storm is huge: from small haunted towns, to cities, to danger on the high seas and nomads in the desert. It's the ultimate road trip.
Hart is some kind of genius at creating questions in the reader, leaving me hanging out just the right tantalising amount, and then delivering revelations that had me 1. reeling, 2. aching, and 3. more addicted to her characters and world.
I loved that my heart was ripped out more than once. I love a good ache-y read and this one got me 100%. Rodden. My gosh. I am still reeling from it. Talk about haunting.
That, while the first half was clipping along at a steady, comfortable pace, the second half grabbed me and would not let me go. Reading past midnight because a book has captured me is the absolute best feeling.
I love that Hart is unafraid to take the story to some dark (seriously dark) places, yet lightens the mood with such a likeable narrator. Zeraphina is gutsy and bold but vulnerable in all the right places. I love how she comes into her own . More certain of who she is even as she is discovering more about herself and her powers.
Speaking of main characters: Rodden is intriguingly unreadable and seemingly unsympathetic at times, which makes his moments of unexpected sweetness even more swoon-worthy. He is the perfect brooding, tortured soul and his chemistry with Zeraphina dances a fine line: quietly understated and then moments of perfect zing. LOVE. I did not expect to feel so drawn to him as I did, especially as some of his secrets are made known.
Hart lushly draws the reader into her world without drowning us in description (thank you!). A few carefully coined phrases had me feeling like I was travelling right alongside our hero and heroine: sights, sounds, smells and a great sense of history oozing from the pages.
Likewise, the action scenes are riveting, they played out in my head seamlessly.
I found Blood Storm to be unpredictable (always a good good thing). Things are not always as they seem. Hart took me on a wild journey yet kept me grounded the whole way.
There's an absolute killer cliffhanger, yet for some reason, I was not frustrated. I was so reeling and exhilarated form the climax that I was ready to forgive Hart anything. I have no doubt she will deliver above and beyond in the third and final book in the trilogy.
* 'Easy reading is damn hard writing' Nathaniel Hawthorn
A list of so many things I loved about Blood Storm:
That it is easy to read*. I struggle with high fantasy, yet the world of Lharmell is so seductively easy to curl up into. The landscape of Blood Storm is huge: from small haunted towns, to cities, to danger on the high seas and nomads in the desert. It's the ultimate road trip.
Hart is some kind of genius at creating questions in the reader, leaving me hanging out just the right tantalising amount, and then delivering revelations that had me 1. reeling, 2. aching, and 3. more addicted to her characters and world.
I loved that my heart was ripped out more than once. I love a good ache-y read and this one got me 100%. Rodden. My gosh. I am still reeling from it. Talk about haunting.
That, while the first half was clipping along at a steady, comfortable pace, the second half grabbed me and would not let me go. Reading past midnight because a book has captured me is the absolute best feeling.
I love that Hart is unafraid to take the story to some dark (seriously dark) places, yet lightens the mood with such a likeable narrator. Zeraphina is gutsy and bold but vulnerable in all the right places. I love how she comes into her own . More certain of who she is even as she is discovering more about herself and her powers.
Speaking of main characters: Rodden is intriguingly unreadable and seemingly unsympathetic at times, which makes his moments of unexpected sweetness even more swoon-worthy. He is the perfect brooding, tortured soul and his chemistry with Zeraphina dances a fine line: quietly understated and then moments of perfect zing. LOVE. I did not expect to feel so drawn to him as I did, especially as some of his secrets are made known.
Hart lushly draws the reader into her world without drowning us in description (thank you!). A few carefully coined phrases had me feeling like I was travelling right alongside our hero and heroine: sights, sounds, smells and a great sense of history oozing from the pages.
Likewise, the action scenes are riveting, they played out in my head seamlessly.
I found Blood Storm to be unpredictable (always a good good thing). Things are not always as they seem. Hart took me on a wild journey yet kept me grounded the whole way.
There's an absolute killer cliffhanger, yet for some reason, I was not frustrated. I was so reeling and exhilarated form the climax that I was ready to forgive Hart anything. I have no doubt she will deliver above and beyond in the third and final book in the trilogy.
* 'Easy reading is damn hard writing' Nathaniel Hawthorn
December 4, 2013
A storm is approaching and Zeraphina and Rodden know why. The death of the Lharmellin leader caused a disturbance in Lharmell, sparking an uproar that could not be ignored. After a string of murders are made known to them, our duo set out to discover what the Lharmellins are up to and who leads them in their quest to infiltrate and take over Amentia. While on this journey, Zeraphina and Rodden cross the lands, the deserts, and seas in search for components of a weapon that are lethal to the Lharmellins – but there is much more to this adventure. With further revelations of one another and the powers they have, can Zeraphina and Rodden calm the storm before all is too late for the Kingdom of Pergamia? But what of themselves?
Rhiannon Hart has written a tempest of a sequel. More of this fantasy world is unleashed upon us; whether it’s sailing on a ship with a group of piratey-sailory-men, travelling in the desert accompanied by Jarbins, or flying on brants (giant birds), the plot keeps on rolling as incidents occur to prod Zeraphina and Rodden ever closer – ever slowly – towards their destination and ultimate goal. Seeing more of the world was a highlight of the book; we encounter different cultures and groups of people. And even learn snippets/phrases of the Jarbin language through Zeraphina. Rhiannon has provided more depth to this world however shallow some thought of Blood Song.
Princess Zeraphina? HAH! Forget that title. Zeraphina is Zeraphina and no title or mother or blood is going to weigh her down, plan out her life, and make choices for her. Phina really comes into her own in Blood Storm. She accepts that she’s half-Lharmellin and harnesses the abilities she has to do good unto the world. There’s no denying that she is as vulnerable and as real as the rest of us. She clashes with her mother Renata much more in this book; this time there are realistic reasons making Phina a bit more wild and rebellious. One: Renata paints Rodden as a monster, which we learn is not true at all. Two: she’s determined to marry Zeraphina off to a Prince, whom is a f***ing ass (I wanted to grab him by the collar and give him a good ol’ beating myself, but lucky I didn’t have to because he got much worse). Three: she doesn’t accept her past wrongs and suppresses the truth, and this suppression brings about reasons one and two. The banter between this mother and daughter was ever so entertaining and I hope there is more of this in book three, Blood Queen… The rebellious teen and her authoritarian mother (whom fails at being authoritative).
I’ve come to accept endings like this as I am quite used to them, so when such things happen I drop the book and applaud to no end (I did this with another book I recently read as they were similar with how the characters ended in the book – but not the plot). And that is all I will say. LIPS. ARE. ZIPPED. AND. LOCKED. Zeraphina has the keys. Fight her for them. You might get your Rodden too. *tick* Times are wasting. *tick* *tick*
Blood Storm was a surprisingly brilliant lead-up to the yet-to-come end of Zeraphina and Rodden’s journey. When finished you will automatically reach for pitchforks and torches, not because you might be upset about how it ends, but because the final book must hold everything and give us an ending that will have us submitting our wrists to Phina’s mouth with intent of feeding her our blood. Rhiannon: pressure much? *snicker* Blood Storm is a sequel which will have you screaming LHARMELLINS!!!! for more.
Rhiannon Hart has written a tempest of a sequel. More of this fantasy world is unleashed upon us; whether it’s sailing on a ship with a group of piratey-sailory-men, travelling in the desert accompanied by Jarbins, or flying on brants (giant birds), the plot keeps on rolling as incidents occur to prod Zeraphina and Rodden ever closer – ever slowly – towards their destination and ultimate goal. Seeing more of the world was a highlight of the book; we encounter different cultures and groups of people. And even learn snippets/phrases of the Jarbin language through Zeraphina. Rhiannon has provided more depth to this world however shallow some thought of Blood Song.
Princess Zeraphina? HAH! Forget that title. Zeraphina is Zeraphina and no title or mother or blood is going to weigh her down, plan out her life, and make choices for her. Phina really comes into her own in Blood Storm. She accepts that she’s half-Lharmellin and harnesses the abilities she has to do good unto the world. There’s no denying that she is as vulnerable and as real as the rest of us. She clashes with her mother Renata much more in this book; this time there are realistic reasons making Phina a bit more wild and rebellious. One: Renata paints Rodden as a monster, which we learn is not true at all. Two: she’s determined to marry Zeraphina off to a Prince, whom is a f***ing ass (I wanted to grab him by the collar and give him a good ol’ beating myself, but lucky I didn’t have to because he got much worse). Three: she doesn’t accept her past wrongs and suppresses the truth, and this suppression brings about reasons one and two. The banter between this mother and daughter was ever so entertaining and I hope there is more of this in book three, Blood Queen… The rebellious teen and her authoritarian mother (whom fails at being authoritative).
I’ve come to accept endings like this as I am quite used to them, so when such things happen I drop the book and applaud to no end (I did this with another book I recently read as they were similar with how the characters ended in the book – but not the plot). And that is all I will say. LIPS. ARE. ZIPPED. AND. LOCKED. Zeraphina has the keys. Fight her for them. You might get your Rodden too. *tick* Times are wasting. *tick* *tick*
Blood Storm was a surprisingly brilliant lead-up to the yet-to-come end of Zeraphina and Rodden’s journey. When finished you will automatically reach for pitchforks and torches, not because you might be upset about how it ends, but because the final book must hold everything and give us an ending that will have us submitting our wrists to Phina’s mouth with intent of feeding her our blood. Rhiannon: pressure much? *snicker* Blood Storm is a sequel which will have you screaming LHARMELLINS!!!! for more.
August 18, 2012
Given the trouble Zeraphina and Rodden caused in Lharmell at the end of Blood Song, it's no surprise to say things are changing in Blood Storm. But in a much subtle, devious, what-is-going-on kind of way. The weather has been far better in Armentia, for starters, and when the weather shifts, dear readers, you ought to be alarmed. Suspicious murders are on the rise, and Rodden's hackles are raised. Determined to find out what the Harmings are up to and who the new Lharmellin leader is, our delightful duo set upon a journey in search for materials fatal to the Lharmellins, so they can arm themselves and strike agai. Preferably before the Lharmellins and Harmings take over. A journey rife with danger, terrible secrets, entertaining banter and an ending that will shock!
Zeraphina is just as stubborn and feisty as ever; a girl who throws the standard notion of "Princess" off a cliff and stands proudly in defiance. She's growing into new abilities, courtesy of her Harming nature, which prove to be an exciting journey for both her and us. She and Rodden are, as always, simultaneously at odds with one another and yet fighting this burning attraction that is so obviously evident! You're growling at them both to give in already. But we're rewarded with something we've been waiting for just as long: answers to 'The Mystery of the Sexy and Infurating Rodden Lothskorn'. Thanks to Zeraphina's unwavering persistence, he reluctantly lets down his barriers to expose the devastating truth of his past. And oh, it will make you ache for him.
But knowing the truth doesn't mean these two are going to jump on the back of a brant and engage in some airborne romping. If anything, this revelation appears to cement the divide between them. Fear not, though, because the easy banter and blistering romantic tension are still ever present. It's just Zeraphina has a greater understanding of The Mystery Formerly Known As Rodden Lothskorn... so she's given reason to play by his annoyingly chaste rules. But how long can they really deny their feelings for one another?
Amidst the life and death of the Lharmell problem, Zeraphina has another shudder-worthy dark cloud hovering over her head.... marriage. Her 17th birthday is nearly upon her and Queen Renata, is adamant that her daughter marry. Oh Renata.... you want to hate her, scream at her in frustration, but there is something I find so delightfully amusing about her scenes. I think it's because Zeraphina does whatever she can to get under Renata's skin and she's not the perfect, obedient daughter. She's that wild child who Renata is desperate to reign in, but despite her efforts, it's clear she never will. This paves the way for some ridiculously entertaining scenes. But Zeraphina's stay in Armentia is not an entirely pleasant read. You know that type of Royal who has you wanting to claw the very skin off their face? Yeah, we meet a man of such breed and I VERY MUCH WANTED TO CLAW THE SKIN OFF HIS FACE.
The ending. Don't even.... I don't want to... just don't ask. I had to reread the last couple of pages as soon as I finished, just to make sure I read it right. WHAT. THE. LHARMELLINS DO YOU THINK YOU'RE PLAYING AT, MISS HART?! You can't DO that and then cackle madly from your throne (likely carved from humans, she's so EVIL) and tell us we have to wait until the next book to see what happens next. YOU HORRID LADY. It's.... definitely a cliffhanger. A cruel, 'WHAT THE EFF?' moment that has you not quite wanting to believe what just happened. And I don't, for your information. I JUST DON'T, OKAY?
Despite the cruelty of the final pages, there's no denying Rhiannon Hart is a brilliant Aussie talent, treating us to a thrilling sequel that oozes with danger, mystery, a feisty, ever complicated romance, and a climax to leave you breathless. You'll be begging for the third installment in the trilogy by the time you reach the acknowledgements page, because... DAMN YOU, RHIANNON!
Zeraphina is just as stubborn and feisty as ever; a girl who throws the standard notion of "Princess" off a cliff and stands proudly in defiance. She's growing into new abilities, courtesy of her Harming nature, which prove to be an exciting journey for both her and us. She and Rodden are, as always, simultaneously at odds with one another and yet fighting this burning attraction that is so obviously evident! You're growling at them both to give in already. But we're rewarded with something we've been waiting for just as long: answers to 'The Mystery of the Sexy and Infurating Rodden Lothskorn'. Thanks to Zeraphina's unwavering persistence, he reluctantly lets down his barriers to expose the devastating truth of his past. And oh, it will make you ache for him.
But knowing the truth doesn't mean these two are going to jump on the back of a brant and engage in some airborne romping. If anything, this revelation appears to cement the divide between them. Fear not, though, because the easy banter and blistering romantic tension are still ever present. It's just Zeraphina has a greater understanding of The Mystery Formerly Known As Rodden Lothskorn... so she's given reason to play by his annoyingly chaste rules. But how long can they really deny their feelings for one another?
Amidst the life and death of the Lharmell problem, Zeraphina has another shudder-worthy dark cloud hovering over her head.... marriage. Her 17th birthday is nearly upon her and Queen Renata, is adamant that her daughter marry. Oh Renata.... you want to hate her, scream at her in frustration, but there is something I find so delightfully amusing about her scenes. I think it's because Zeraphina does whatever she can to get under Renata's skin and she's not the perfect, obedient daughter. She's that wild child who Renata is desperate to reign in, but despite her efforts, it's clear she never will. This paves the way for some ridiculously entertaining scenes. But Zeraphina's stay in Armentia is not an entirely pleasant read. You know that type of Royal who has you wanting to claw the very skin off their face? Yeah, we meet a man of such breed and I VERY MUCH WANTED TO CLAW THE SKIN OFF HIS FACE.
The ending. Don't even.... I don't want to... just don't ask. I had to reread the last couple of pages as soon as I finished, just to make sure I read it right. WHAT. THE. LHARMELLINS DO YOU THINK YOU'RE PLAYING AT, MISS HART?! You can't DO that and then cackle madly from your throne (likely carved from humans, she's so EVIL) and tell us we have to wait until the next book to see what happens next. YOU HORRID LADY. It's.... definitely a cliffhanger. A cruel, 'WHAT THE EFF?' moment that has you not quite wanting to believe what just happened. And I don't, for your information. I JUST DON'T, OKAY?
Despite the cruelty of the final pages, there's no denying Rhiannon Hart is a brilliant Aussie talent, treating us to a thrilling sequel that oozes with danger, mystery, a feisty, ever complicated romance, and a climax to leave you breathless. You'll be begging for the third installment in the trilogy by the time you reach the acknowledgements page, because... DAMN YOU, RHIANNON!
August 16, 2012
Review originally posted in: http://forget8me8not.blogspot.com.au/...
Cover:
Striking and stunning! I adored Blood Song's cover but I LOVE Blood Storm's cover. The blue background and the clouds really appeal to me and I love the girl's dress too!
Story:
A bloody storm is heading towards Zeraphina...
If you remember reading my review of Blood Song, then you'll know how much I loved it. Besides the fact that it's an Aussie novel which meant that of course I had to read it, the world Rhiannon Hart has created in Blood Song sang to me in many different ways. I was immersed in her writing and Zeraphina's story. I needed the sequel so badly and when I finally had the chance to read it, it completely took my breath away. Blood Storm is an AMAZING sequel to Blood Song.
Blood Storm continues Zeraphina's story as she unravels more secrets behind her life and what it means to be a Harming. In Blood Storm, we're taken on a journey with Zeraphina and Rhodden as they gather ingredients which can help them defeat the Lharmells. I absolutely love 'road trips' and Zeraphina and Rhodden's trip is so exciting! I like how things are slowly beginning to unravel, such as Rhodden's past and the looks of Zeraphina's future. Rhiannon continues with her beautiful, eerie and gorgeous lyrical writing, hooking me into the story with each words and leaving me hanging with the ending. I could not believe Blood Storm ended that way and now I am desperate for the third book already!
Characters:
How I adore Zeraphina and Rhodden. Let's start with Zeraphina first! During the journey, Zeraphina endures quite a few problems that she deals with very well. Rhodden is not available to help her at times and I like how she can stand on her own, defend herself and also help others. Her growing relationship with Rhodden is my favourite! After that beautiful 'peacock' scene in Blood Song, I am curious of how their relationship will develop and I'm glad my curiousity is answered in Blood Storm. Rhodden is slowly opening up to Zeraphina, including sharing his past to her and while sometimes Rhodden can be cold, I like his sweet moments with Zeraphina. It pains me to think of what Rhodden has been through! While I liked Renata and Lilith (Zeraphina's mother and sister) in Blood Song, I feel annoyed with them in this book. Renata is all about 'Zeraphina, you are 17 already! You must marry someone now!' and Lilith is not supportive of her own sister. I wish they can understand Zeraphina's feeling better, rather than thinking of themselves all the time! But it's not a problem since Zeraphina and Rhodden's scenes coats my little frustration over Lilith and Renata!
Overall:
Blood Storm is the lyrical and eerily gorgeous sequel to Blood Song. Rhiannon Hart's writing once again pulls me into the world of Lharmells, hooking me with each words and leaving me hanging with the ending. Dark, romantic and exciting, Blood Storm is an epic stormy sequel to Blood Song readers will love!
Thank you Rhiannon Hart for the copy of Blood Storm! ♥
Cover:
Striking and stunning! I adored Blood Song's cover but I LOVE Blood Storm's cover. The blue background and the clouds really appeal to me and I love the girl's dress too!
Story:
A bloody storm is heading towards Zeraphina...
If you remember reading my review of Blood Song, then you'll know how much I loved it. Besides the fact that it's an Aussie novel which meant that of course I had to read it, the world Rhiannon Hart has created in Blood Song sang to me in many different ways. I was immersed in her writing and Zeraphina's story. I needed the sequel so badly and when I finally had the chance to read it, it completely took my breath away. Blood Storm is an AMAZING sequel to Blood Song.
Blood Storm continues Zeraphina's story as she unravels more secrets behind her life and what it means to be a Harming. In Blood Storm, we're taken on a journey with Zeraphina and Rhodden as they gather ingredients which can help them defeat the Lharmells. I absolutely love 'road trips' and Zeraphina and Rhodden's trip is so exciting! I like how things are slowly beginning to unravel, such as Rhodden's past and the looks of Zeraphina's future. Rhiannon continues with her beautiful, eerie and gorgeous lyrical writing, hooking me into the story with each words and leaving me hanging with the ending. I could not believe Blood Storm ended that way and now I am desperate for the third book already!
Characters:
How I adore Zeraphina and Rhodden. Let's start with Zeraphina first! During the journey, Zeraphina endures quite a few problems that she deals with very well. Rhodden is not available to help her at times and I like how she can stand on her own, defend herself and also help others. Her growing relationship with Rhodden is my favourite! After that beautiful 'peacock' scene in Blood Song, I am curious of how their relationship will develop and I'm glad my curiousity is answered in Blood Storm. Rhodden is slowly opening up to Zeraphina, including sharing his past to her and while sometimes Rhodden can be cold, I like his sweet moments with Zeraphina. It pains me to think of what Rhodden has been through! While I liked Renata and Lilith (Zeraphina's mother and sister) in Blood Song, I feel annoyed with them in this book. Renata is all about 'Zeraphina, you are 17 already! You must marry someone now!' and Lilith is not supportive of her own sister. I wish they can understand Zeraphina's feeling better, rather than thinking of themselves all the time! But it's not a problem since Zeraphina and Rhodden's scenes coats my little frustration over Lilith and Renata!
Overall:
Blood Storm is the lyrical and eerily gorgeous sequel to Blood Song. Rhiannon Hart's writing once again pulls me into the world of Lharmells, hooking me with each words and leaving me hanging with the ending. Dark, romantic and exciting, Blood Storm is an epic stormy sequel to Blood Song readers will love!
Thank you Rhiannon Hart for the copy of Blood Storm! ♥
September 22, 2012
***If you’ve not read Blood Song (Book #1) by Rhiannon Hart, there be spoilers ahead. Argh!
“Wait… WHAT?! WHAT JUST HAPPENED?!”
Such was my reaction upon finishing Blood Storm at 3:30am one morning not long ago. My sleeping husband snuffled indignantly at my outburst as he rolled over in bed beside me, reminding me that “Oh right, it is an ungodly hour of the morning, so I might want to keep my screaming to a minimum.”
So instead, I silently vented my disbelief at my bedroom ceiling (who wasn’t empathic at all, I might add. The nerve.). Anyway, there I was, gesticulating wildly, and after about 3 minutes of that… I felt better.
Mildly better.
Ok… no, I didn’t feel better at all.
[sigh]...
This book ate at my heart little-by-little, page-by-page and I just loved, loved, loved every, single second of it.
When we last saw Zeraphina, she had killed the Lharmellin ruler and she & Rodden had made it safely back to Pergamia where she was determined to stay on for a bit, despite her mother’s desire for her to come home to Amentia. Though the Lharmellin leader is dead, Rodden & Zeraphina’s work is far from over, and it won’t be until they can figure out a way to rid Brivora of the Harmings and Lharmellins. There’s only one effective way of killing the creatures: yelbar. A metal alloy, that’s all but useless to humans but absolutely lethal to those with Lharmellin blood. But Pergamia’s supply has all but dwindled sending Rodden and Zeraphina on a dangerous quest across continents to acquire more.
Zeraphina. Her experiences in the North have matured her and given her purpose. It’s no longer just about learning to live with her Lharmellin blood, but rather it’s become about ensuring a future where mankind is no longer threatened by the Lharmellins or their Harming servants. Zeraphina, of course, is still the Zeraphina I fell in love with in Blood Song. Plucky, tenacious, independent, outspoken, intelligent and courageous – it’s not that Zeraphina doesn’t feel afraid when considering going up against the monsters of the North, it’s just that the potential price for her inaction frightens her more. I just love Zeraphina’s spirit, her quick quips and comebacks, her behavior that can be shockingly unprincess-like. She may have been raised a princess but Zeraphina’s become a rather capable fighter, she’s not afraid to get her hands dirty, and she can slum it with the best of them. She abhors the thought of a loveless, political marriage that her mother’s determined to make for her and longs to be more useful than just a means of providing another Brivoran royal heir. And perhaps it is ironic… but for however much she and her mother don’t get along, Zeraphina actually is a lot like Queen Renata in her steely resolve and regal no-nonsense attitude. It’s just that unlike her mother, Zeraphina doesn’t have her head buried in the sand. She sees the world for what it is and wants to change it.
Rodden. In Blood Song, Rodden was formidable, imposing, and played a bit to the antagonistic side of things. But by the end of that book, the reader was given a pretty clear-cut view of his character (i.e. as in, the values by which he lives) even if his past remained much of a mystery. No longer such a mystery as he was in Blood Song, we see a lot more of Rodden in this book. He becomes more of a tantalizing flesh & blood person, rather than a tantalizing, handsome enigma. For instance, fun fact about Rodden: he gets violently seasick, which is an endless source of amusement. The almighty Rodden Lothskorn laid low by a bobbing boat. But we also learn that Rodden’s a tortured soul, forever running from a past he can never quite escape. He’s honorable, deadly, fierce, insightful, extremely knowledgeable, and surprisingly sweet. I love that he has high expectations of Zeraphina and that he treats her as an equal. He doesn’t coddle her, doesn’t mince words, seems to live to antagonize her, but it’s also clear that he cares for her very much. Before Zeraphina, Rodden’s existence had been a lonely one, but in her Rodden finds hope, a kindred spirit, and possibly absolution.
Zeraphina & Rodden. Theirs is the kind of romance that shines because of it’s subtleties – it requires a bit of reading between the lines, picking up all the things they won’t admit to each other, or can’t say. Zeraphina and Rodden have always been a bit of a tempestuous pair, but it’s tamed slightly since they’ve returned from Lharmell. They’ve developed a more comfortable rapport with each other. Oh, they still bicker like cats and dogs, but it’s more familiar and doesn’t hold the same biting, malicious edge. There’s a growing trust between them, and a camaraderie because of their shared experiences and natures. One of the reasons I love this book so much is that Zeraphina & Rodden get to spend almost every scene together – so much wonderful interaction between them – as they journey to Verapine and back again. It’s a quiet, but powerful romance with lots of lovely tension.
Story. So yes, Zeraphina and Rodden go off adventuring in this novel. Yes, just the two of them. No, no chaperone. Yes, I know! This is a direction I often find myself hoping novels will take, but rarely do they ever venture down Hero-&-Heroine-Only Lane. And why? Because I suppose there are a lot of cliches and romantic pitfalls that can occur when you don’t have buffers and barriers between your two romantic leads. I get it. And you know what I mean. Exhibit A: The sun is going down, Hero and Heroine must find a place to stay for the night. Our options are:
Scenario #1: There’s only enough money for one motel, hotel, tavern room. Guess what? There also happens to only be one bed. Hero offers to stay on floor, Heroine feels bad. Guess what happens… no really, guess.
Scenario #2: “Oh! Your sleeping bag somehow conveniently disappeared in an event that was fraught with danger and much mortal peril? Well, please share mine. And you’re also soaked to the bone AND lost your only other change of clothes?! Well, then the only solution is to share my sleeping bag wearing only our delicates.”
Yeah. You know what I’m talking about.
Guess what? This story doesn’t do that. It doesn’t conveniently throw Zeraphina and Rodden together in situations that must make them release the romantic tension in incredibly cliché ways. And this is to the point where it’s almost frustrating. There are so many opportunities where this novel could’ve taken the “wide road,” but it doesn’t. Somehow Rhiannon Hart has created a fresh journey/adventure story featuring her two main characters – who happen to spark romantic tension like a live wire — without caving to conventional methods of building or relieving that tension. It is refreshing. It is awesome. It is oh-so-frustrating. But it makes it that much better. So while at times I just wanted to knock their heads together so their lips might finally meet (Kiss! KISS!), I thought the way she handled the circumstances of Zeraphina & Rodden traveling together really well done.
Once again we see this world and its players through the eyes of Zeraphina – her narration wonderfully wry and subtly humorous. Which is always the best kind of storytelling, one shouldn’t take themselves or their story too seriously, after all. Although, there are many, many serious things that do occur in this story. Things that took me off-guard and shocked me. Things that I both liked and didn’t, but they are ultimately the things that made Blood Storm so excellent. I’m absolutely dying for the third book; I started craving it the nanosecond I read the very last word of this novel. There are things I must know, theories I must have confirmed or denied, and it’s going to be a very, very long year until I can receive that resolution.
Overall. With gorgeously lyrical prose, a wonderfully dry sense of humor, a rich and alluring landscape, refreshing originality, and an achingly beautiful romance, Blood Storm reminded me of just why I fell in love with Zeraphina & Rodden’s story in the first place… and then made me fall all over again.
“Wait… WHAT?! WHAT JUST HAPPENED?!”
Such was my reaction upon finishing Blood Storm at 3:30am one morning not long ago. My sleeping husband snuffled indignantly at my outburst as he rolled over in bed beside me, reminding me that “Oh right, it is an ungodly hour of the morning, so I might want to keep my screaming to a minimum.”
So instead, I silently vented my disbelief at my bedroom ceiling (who wasn’t empathic at all, I might add. The nerve.). Anyway, there I was, gesticulating wildly, and after about 3 minutes of that… I felt better.
Mildly better.
Ok… no, I didn’t feel better at all.
[sigh]...
This book ate at my heart little-by-little, page-by-page and I just loved, loved, loved every, single second of it.
When we last saw Zeraphina, she had killed the Lharmellin ruler and she & Rodden had made it safely back to Pergamia where she was determined to stay on for a bit, despite her mother’s desire for her to come home to Amentia. Though the Lharmellin leader is dead, Rodden & Zeraphina’s work is far from over, and it won’t be until they can figure out a way to rid Brivora of the Harmings and Lharmellins. There’s only one effective way of killing the creatures: yelbar. A metal alloy, that’s all but useless to humans but absolutely lethal to those with Lharmellin blood. But Pergamia’s supply has all but dwindled sending Rodden and Zeraphina on a dangerous quest across continents to acquire more.
Zeraphina. Her experiences in the North have matured her and given her purpose. It’s no longer just about learning to live with her Lharmellin blood, but rather it’s become about ensuring a future where mankind is no longer threatened by the Lharmellins or their Harming servants. Zeraphina, of course, is still the Zeraphina I fell in love with in Blood Song. Plucky, tenacious, independent, outspoken, intelligent and courageous – it’s not that Zeraphina doesn’t feel afraid when considering going up against the monsters of the North, it’s just that the potential price for her inaction frightens her more. I just love Zeraphina’s spirit, her quick quips and comebacks, her behavior that can be shockingly unprincess-like. She may have been raised a princess but Zeraphina’s become a rather capable fighter, she’s not afraid to get her hands dirty, and she can slum it with the best of them. She abhors the thought of a loveless, political marriage that her mother’s determined to make for her and longs to be more useful than just a means of providing another Brivoran royal heir. And perhaps it is ironic… but for however much she and her mother don’t get along, Zeraphina actually is a lot like Queen Renata in her steely resolve and regal no-nonsense attitude. It’s just that unlike her mother, Zeraphina doesn’t have her head buried in the sand. She sees the world for what it is and wants to change it.
Rodden. In Blood Song, Rodden was formidable, imposing, and played a bit to the antagonistic side of things. But by the end of that book, the reader was given a pretty clear-cut view of his character (i.e. as in, the values by which he lives) even if his past remained much of a mystery. No longer such a mystery as he was in Blood Song, we see a lot more of Rodden in this book. He becomes more of a tantalizing flesh & blood person, rather than a tantalizing, handsome enigma. For instance, fun fact about Rodden: he gets violently seasick, which is an endless source of amusement. The almighty Rodden Lothskorn laid low by a bobbing boat. But we also learn that Rodden’s a tortured soul, forever running from a past he can never quite escape. He’s honorable, deadly, fierce, insightful, extremely knowledgeable, and surprisingly sweet. I love that he has high expectations of Zeraphina and that he treats her as an equal. He doesn’t coddle her, doesn’t mince words, seems to live to antagonize her, but it’s also clear that he cares for her very much. Before Zeraphina, Rodden’s existence had been a lonely one, but in her Rodden finds hope, a kindred spirit, and possibly absolution.
Zeraphina & Rodden. Theirs is the kind of romance that shines because of it’s subtleties – it requires a bit of reading between the lines, picking up all the things they won’t admit to each other, or can’t say. Zeraphina and Rodden have always been a bit of a tempestuous pair, but it’s tamed slightly since they’ve returned from Lharmell. They’ve developed a more comfortable rapport with each other. Oh, they still bicker like cats and dogs, but it’s more familiar and doesn’t hold the same biting, malicious edge. There’s a growing trust between them, and a camaraderie because of their shared experiences and natures. One of the reasons I love this book so much is that Zeraphina & Rodden get to spend almost every scene together – so much wonderful interaction between them – as they journey to Verapine and back again. It’s a quiet, but powerful romance with lots of lovely tension.
Story. So yes, Zeraphina and Rodden go off adventuring in this novel. Yes, just the two of them. No, no chaperone. Yes, I know! This is a direction I often find myself hoping novels will take, but rarely do they ever venture down Hero-&-Heroine-Only Lane. And why? Because I suppose there are a lot of cliches and romantic pitfalls that can occur when you don’t have buffers and barriers between your two romantic leads. I get it. And you know what I mean. Exhibit A: The sun is going down, Hero and Heroine must find a place to stay for the night. Our options are:
Scenario #1: There’s only enough money for one motel, hotel, tavern room. Guess what? There also happens to only be one bed. Hero offers to stay on floor, Heroine feels bad. Guess what happens… no really, guess.
Scenario #2: “Oh! Your sleeping bag somehow conveniently disappeared in an event that was fraught with danger and much mortal peril? Well, please share mine. And you’re also soaked to the bone AND lost your only other change of clothes?! Well, then the only solution is to share my sleeping bag wearing only our delicates.”
Yeah. You know what I’m talking about.
Guess what? This story doesn’t do that. It doesn’t conveniently throw Zeraphina and Rodden together in situations that must make them release the romantic tension in incredibly cliché ways. And this is to the point where it’s almost frustrating. There are so many opportunities where this novel could’ve taken the “wide road,” but it doesn’t. Somehow Rhiannon Hart has created a fresh journey/adventure story featuring her two main characters – who happen to spark romantic tension like a live wire — without caving to conventional methods of building or relieving that tension. It is refreshing. It is awesome. It is oh-so-frustrating. But it makes it that much better. So while at times I just wanted to knock their heads together so their lips might finally meet (Kiss! KISS!), I thought the way she handled the circumstances of Zeraphina & Rodden traveling together really well done.
Once again we see this world and its players through the eyes of Zeraphina – her narration wonderfully wry and subtly humorous. Which is always the best kind of storytelling, one shouldn’t take themselves or their story too seriously, after all. Although, there are many, many serious things that do occur in this story. Things that took me off-guard and shocked me. Things that I both liked and didn’t, but they are ultimately the things that made Blood Storm so excellent. I’m absolutely dying for the third book; I started craving it the nanosecond I read the very last word of this novel. There are things I must know, theories I must have confirmed or denied, and it’s going to be a very, very long year until I can receive that resolution.
Overall. With gorgeously lyrical prose, a wonderfully dry sense of humor, a rich and alluring landscape, refreshing originality, and an achingly beautiful romance, Blood Storm reminded me of just why I fell in love with Zeraphina & Rodden’s story in the first place… and then made me fall all over again.
October 25, 2012
My review can also be found on my blog Collections.
Wow, I almost don't even know what to say. I'm just really impressed and shocked right now. I loved the first novel in the series Blood Song, but man... Blood Storm definitely topped it! Everything I hoped to find in this sequel was there and a whole lot more. It was all freaking awesome, and much praise to the author for writing such a fantastic and mesmerizing read!
Blood Storm begins five months where Blood Song left off. Zeraphina and Rodden are still bickering companions, and Rodden is as mysterious as ever. But they continue to look out for one another. After everything they went through, I thought their relationship would have evolved into something slightly more romantic by now. However, that wasn't the case at all. Zeraphina obviously has feelings for Rodden. She won't tell him, though, especially since he acts more distance towards her for reasons not even she can figure out. It may have been frustrating for her, but as a reader, I didn't find it frustrating in the least. I loved that there were plenty of interactions and development between them. What I realized is that they didn't need to be in a romantic relationship for us readers to know that they both had strong feelings for each other and that they would do anything to protect the other. It really made the wait for even just a hint of romance much more rewarding and satisfying.
When I finished Blood Song, one of the things I wanted to know more about was Rodden's past. All the answers about him I was looking for were eventually revealed in this book. But what got to me was how truly heartbreaking his past was. He suffers from tons of guilt and regret. And it explained why he kept secrets and why he tried to stay emotionally distant from Zeraphina. He's an amazing person with so much depth to him, and I just wanted to comfort him right along with Zeraphina. Not only was Rodden's past dark, but the entire novel felt a whole lot darker than Blood Song. Zeraphina and Rodden went through many terrifying ordeals in this novel. It wasn't an easy journey, and they had to work hard to survive and keep each other safe. Zeraphina proved yet again how strong and determined she is. She's an awesome heroine that I admire. I really just adored both these characters; they no doubt make a perfect team.
I'm already counting down the days till the final book Blood Queen. Blood Storm was completely captivating and addicting, and definitely one of my favorite books and sequels this year. It had everything I loved about Blood Song and other aspects that made me love it even more. It was darker, filled with nonstop action and adventure, and had a believable and gradually developing romance. And unlike Blood Song's ending, this ending pretty much killed me! It was a huge cliffhanger! I have no idea how what happened is going to be fixed, but it makes me desperately want the next book right NOW. Seriously, a wonderful series that I can't recommend enough.
August 3, 2012
Yay! Adventure in the world and exploration of the characters psyches, my favourite combination! I found myself totally absorbed into the story and enjoyed it even more than the first book. Thank you Rhiannon Hart.
August 5, 2012
Wow! This is one of those book that I finish....and then sob because I have to wait now until the third book comes out. It has been a few hours now since I have finished it and I so I have calmed down and can talk about it. This book was fantastic, everything that I wanted and more. Zeraphina is still amazing and in this book (book 2) she seemed slightly more vulnerable yet still being so brave and courageous. Rodden was still Rodden (swoon!) and I was glad to find out more about him and his past. I enjoyed reading the interaction between Zeraphina and Rodden throughout their journey and at times I was almost holding my breath, (c'mon..just kiss) They both work so well together that when they were apart, I felt as though I was missing someone myself.
And then that ending, I really do think I held my breath for the last 10 pages and well.... all I can say is , that ending just made me want book three so much more!
A great read!
And then that ending, I really do think I held my breath for the last 10 pages and well.... all I can say is , that ending just made me want book three so much more!
A great read!
October 2, 2012
4.5-5
That ending! That ending! Oh my heart!!
Blood Storm is the amazing sequel to Blood Song. Blood Song was the introduction to Zeraphina and her world (and Rodden- can't forget Rodden) but the action really begins in Blood Storm. I found myself much more emotionally involved in this novel and the last 1/4 had me frantically turning the pages. To say I'm feeling desperate for the next book is an understatement. Im still in shock over Blood Storm's ending. Loved this book!
That ending! That ending! Oh my heart!!
Blood Storm is the amazing sequel to Blood Song. Blood Song was the introduction to Zeraphina and her world (and Rodden- can't forget Rodden) but the action really begins in Blood Storm. I found myself much more emotionally involved in this novel and the last 1/4 had me frantically turning the pages. To say I'm feeling desperate for the next book is an understatement. Im still in shock over Blood Storm's ending. Loved this book!
January 19, 2013
Oh I would have looooved the book yet I really hate tragic endings... I believe him dying is a cop-out and makes me wonder why I even read it if it ends with one of the two main characters dying!! Great for those of you who like tragities but I'm just not a big fan. Hopefully (finger-crossing!!) there will be a next book and he didn't actually die... but that's only hoping :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2018
A nail-biting, intense drama that’s utterly engaging and mesmerising. Having fallen in love with Rhiannon Hart’s sensational Young Adult, paranormal debut novel, Blood Song, I was looking forward to reading the sequel. This book exceeded all expectations, as I was whisked off on a thrilling adventure, that spanned across oceans and took one to distant, exotic lands. Full of dramatic action, spinechilling tension and mystery, this is a story that grabs you from the first page. Zeraphina, is a brilliant likable heroine, and I fell completely in love with Rodden as much as Zeraphina did. The climatic, shocking ending to their adventure was so unexpected that I almost fell off my chair. I am now anxiously awaiting Rhiannon Hart’s third novel, which I look forward to with eager expectation. Her novels are extremely addictive and engrossing, and I would highly recommend them to anyone who loves tingling romance and sparkling fantasy.
Some fantastic quotes from the book;
“You're doing well, you know," Rodden said.
I snorted. He'd not even broken a sweat and I was about to become the first girl to drown on dry land.”
“To be wounded or die at the hands of one who is meant to love you. Is there a more miserable thing in the world?”
September 1, 2018
A good second book, though didn't like the ending, and it seems there may be another book in the pipeline???
September 29, 2014
Full review at http://bronzelock619.blogspot.com/2013/08/blood-storm-lharmell-2-rhiannon-hart.html.
Even though I like the cover of this book, I did not like it as much as the cover of the previous book. I like the bright blue colours of the background, and the gown the girl was wearing. Her gown at her chest looks a bit weird, like it was a bad Photoshop job. Her cape near her right arm also looks a bit unreal. I prefer the cover of the first book, which looks more ominous. Comparing the events that occurred in both books, I think that cover was more suited for this book, since there was more action and deeper emotions. I think it is supposed to depict the last scene of the book, but with the expression on the girl's face, I think she looked more like she is enjoying the wind and the spray of water from the sea, which does not fit in with Zeraphina's feelings in this scene.
In this book, Rodden's back story was finally revealed, including how he came to be a harming, how he became the king's adviser in Pergamia. The rest was a bit of a cliché, with all the "not deserving to be happy" stuff since he did something really bad. But even though most of his tragic past were stories that had been told a thousand times, it was still quite interesting. Other than Rodden's story, their little adventure to get yelbar ingredients is choked full of excitement and tension, certainly not like the first book with its mysterious romantic flair.
As for Zeraphina, her situation got worse with every passing day. It was so weird that even though Renata obviously love her child, she would force her daughter to marry a terrible man such as Folsum. I can understand how as a queen, she does not want her daughter to marry a commoner, but surely there must be other eligible princes out there. Even though Folsum's country is a powerful one, Renata should not have sold her daughter like that. Didn't warning bells ring when Folsum kept on humiliating Zeraphina by wanting her examined before the wedding to prove that she is a virgin? He even kept on accusing Zeraphina of being a bastard child, which also meant accusing Renata herself of having an affair. She did not even voice out then. All she did was to withhold the laudanum from Folsum after he was attacked by Zeraphina's brant, and that was after Zeraphina was brutallly whipped by Folsum. Just when I thought she at least still have her wits about her, she did not help Zeraphina out of the situation when Folsum's sister came looking for vengeance. However, the worse was when Zeraphina's own sister, Lilith, did not stand by her side when she was accused, even after Zeraphina showed the scars on her back and shoulders from the whipping. I know Lilith and Zeraphina were not close, but at the very least they are family. I could not imagine how she could do that to her own sister, when even her husband had tried to voice out to help Zeraphina.
Zeraphina's situation is getting more and more impossible. I for one think that she would not go back to either Amentia or Pergamia at the start of the next book, unless she wanted to be married off to Folsum and endure his brutal treatment for the rest of her life. With her sister's attitude, I think Pergamia is no longer suitable for her to stay. Amentia would be the obvious place Folsum's sister would expect her to be. I for one think Zeraphina could survive on her own, after all these training with Rodden. I for one wonder if Rodden (major spoiler:) is really dead. If he is, I think the readers will be really angry.
Even though I like the cover of this book, I did not like it as much as the cover of the previous book. I like the bright blue colours of the background, and the gown the girl was wearing. Her gown at her chest looks a bit weird, like it was a bad Photoshop job. Her cape near her right arm also looks a bit unreal. I prefer the cover of the first book, which looks more ominous. Comparing the events that occurred in both books, I think that cover was more suited for this book, since there was more action and deeper emotions. I think it is supposed to depict the last scene of the book, but with the expression on the girl's face, I think she looked more like she is enjoying the wind and the spray of water from the sea, which does not fit in with Zeraphina's feelings in this scene.
In this book, Rodden's back story was finally revealed, including how he came to be a harming, how he became the king's adviser in Pergamia. The rest was a bit of a cliché, with all the "not deserving to be happy" stuff since he did something really bad. But even though most of his tragic past were stories that had been told a thousand times, it was still quite interesting. Other than Rodden's story, their little adventure to get yelbar ingredients is choked full of excitement and tension, certainly not like the first book with its mysterious romantic flair.
As for Zeraphina, her situation got worse with every passing day. It was so weird that even though Renata obviously love her child, she would force her daughter to marry a terrible man such as Folsum. I can understand how as a queen, she does not want her daughter to marry a commoner, but surely there must be other eligible princes out there. Even though Folsum's country is a powerful one, Renata should not have sold her daughter like that. Didn't warning bells ring when Folsum kept on humiliating Zeraphina by wanting her examined before the wedding to prove that she is a virgin? He even kept on accusing Zeraphina of being a bastard child, which also meant accusing Renata herself of having an affair. She did not even voice out then. All she did was to withhold the laudanum from Folsum after he was attacked by Zeraphina's brant, and that was after Zeraphina was brutallly whipped by Folsum. Just when I thought she at least still have her wits about her, she did not help Zeraphina out of the situation when Folsum's sister came looking for vengeance. However, the worse was when Zeraphina's own sister, Lilith, did not stand by her side when she was accused, even after Zeraphina showed the scars on her back and shoulders from the whipping. I know Lilith and Zeraphina were not close, but at the very least they are family. I could not imagine how she could do that to her own sister, when even her husband had tried to voice out to help Zeraphina.
Zeraphina's situation is getting more and more impossible. I for one think that she would not go back to either Amentia or Pergamia at the start of the next book, unless she wanted to be married off to Folsum and endure his brutal treatment for the rest of her life. With her sister's attitude, I think Pergamia is no longer suitable for her to stay. Amentia would be the obvious place Folsum's sister would expect her to be. I for one think Zeraphina could survive on her own, after all these training with Rodden. I for one wonder if Rodden (major spoiler:) is really dead. If he is, I think the readers will be really angry.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2013
FINALLY!! I have waited months to find this book! It was definitely worth the wait. I couldn't put it down, and read it all in one sitting.
Zeraphina & Rodden are back from killing the leader of the Lharmell. They are hoping that if they didn't stop them completely, they have at least bought themselves some time. During her stay there Zeraphina is learning many useful skills for their eventual run-in with the Harmings. Lharmellen drink blood and live in what was once a volcano. The humans they turn are called Harmings. The Harmings job, since they can pass for human, is to go out and bring back new recruits and food (blood). When several homeless people are discovered dead, and they have been drained they know that the Harmings are back to work, but this time they are being smarter about it. Apparently the new leader has more sense than bloodlust. Dodging her mothers not so subtle demands that it's time for her to marry off, the two of them slip away to locate all of the ingredients to make the poison harmful to Lharmellan & Harmings both.
***Spoilers*** (for my memory)
During their journey they are thrown overboard when they are accused of working with the Lharmell. With only a small boat, very little water, and no blood they barely make it to the next town alive. Zeraphina is clearly falling for Rodden, but he is sending mixed signals. We finally learn of his past, which explains a lot about who he is today. When he was younger his father sent him to a local school, determined that he would get an education and a trade. What he later learned is that the person running the school, Levin Servilock is also a Harming recruiting and training his future converts. He turns Rodden and locks him away starving him of blood until he is delirious. When he finally releases him he comes out to find his family, and girlfriend bloody and mindlessly attacks. He has held on to that guilt since, determined to seek revenge when he sees Servilock again. Renata (Zeraphina's mother) agrees to a marriage between Zeraphina and Prince Folsum. When he later reveals his sadistic nature by whipping her Brant, she naturally tries to stop him only to be whipped herself. Without any way to save herself she gets the brant to attack him. He barely makes it out alive, losing his eye in the process. His sister comes to find her and demands she return with them as agreed. Instead of walking into a sure death, she and Rodden head to Lharmell to finally destroy them. They have put the poison in glass balls that all have a master glass. They are unbreakable, unless the master glass is broken. They plan to fill the tunnels with the balls, and once they are all in there block it off and break the master glass. Once they arrive they learn that the new leader is Servilock, and they are captured before they can escape. He starts the process of turning Rodden but they are able to get away. They race to the end of the tunnel to block it off, but instead of following Rodden locks himself inside and breaks the glass. As the door is closing they both confess their love for each other. Zeraphina hears him scream, and then their connection is gone. THAT is how it ends!!!!!!! After all of that work, and heartache he sacrifices himself because he knows he won't be able to hold onto his humanity. OMG I cannot wait for the next book!!!
Zeraphina & Rodden are back from killing the leader of the Lharmell. They are hoping that if they didn't stop them completely, they have at least bought themselves some time. During her stay there Zeraphina is learning many useful skills for their eventual run-in with the Harmings. Lharmellen drink blood and live in what was once a volcano. The humans they turn are called Harmings. The Harmings job, since they can pass for human, is to go out and bring back new recruits and food (blood). When several homeless people are discovered dead, and they have been drained they know that the Harmings are back to work, but this time they are being smarter about it. Apparently the new leader has more sense than bloodlust. Dodging her mothers not so subtle demands that it's time for her to marry off, the two of them slip away to locate all of the ingredients to make the poison harmful to Lharmellan & Harmings both.
***Spoilers*** (for my memory)
During their journey they are thrown overboard when they are accused of working with the Lharmell. With only a small boat, very little water, and no blood they barely make it to the next town alive. Zeraphina is clearly falling for Rodden, but he is sending mixed signals. We finally learn of his past, which explains a lot about who he is today. When he was younger his father sent him to a local school, determined that he would get an education and a trade. What he later learned is that the person running the school, Levin Servilock is also a Harming recruiting and training his future converts. He turns Rodden and locks him away starving him of blood until he is delirious. When he finally releases him he comes out to find his family, and girlfriend bloody and mindlessly attacks. He has held on to that guilt since, determined to seek revenge when he sees Servilock again. Renata (Zeraphina's mother) agrees to a marriage between Zeraphina and Prince Folsum. When he later reveals his sadistic nature by whipping her Brant, she naturally tries to stop him only to be whipped herself. Without any way to save herself she gets the brant to attack him. He barely makes it out alive, losing his eye in the process. His sister comes to find her and demands she return with them as agreed. Instead of walking into a sure death, she and Rodden head to Lharmell to finally destroy them. They have put the poison in glass balls that all have a master glass. They are unbreakable, unless the master glass is broken. They plan to fill the tunnels with the balls, and once they are all in there block it off and break the master glass. Once they arrive they learn that the new leader is Servilock, and they are captured before they can escape. He starts the process of turning Rodden but they are able to get away. They race to the end of the tunnel to block it off, but instead of following Rodden locks himself inside and breaks the glass. As the door is closing they both confess their love for each other. Zeraphina hears him scream, and then their connection is gone. THAT is how it ends!!!!!!! After all of that work, and heartache he sacrifices himself because he knows he won't be able to hold onto his humanity. OMG I cannot wait for the next book!!!
May 6, 2012
Five months after Blood Song finished, Zeraphina is still in Pergamia and has been extremely busy. Training with her trusty bow and arrow – as well as her drain cat, Leap and loyal eagle, Griffin – Rodden has been trying to get Zeraphina prepared for fighting the Lharmellians. With her seventeenth birthday approaching, there’s more to worry about than just the Harmings – her mother, Renata, is finding potential Princes who would be willing to marry the somewhat wayward princess. Trying to fight both her destiny and the blood tie to Lharmell, Zeraphina and Rodden set out to collect supplies for a weapon deadly to all with Lharmellian blood.
Zeraphina is one of those heroines that make me like her more with every word I read about her. She’s fiercely loyal and smart. Her bloodthirstiness (and not just the thirst-quenching kind) is somehow admirable. I adored how she took care of Rodden, both physically and emotionally. She’s brave and even when things are at their most dire, she’s starting to behave like a potential queen and is looking out for those who can’t look out for themselves.
I loved the relationship that has been brewing between Rodden and Zeraphina since the first time we met the King’s Advisor in Blood Song. They have chemistry but with the class system and Renata so violently opposed to their relationship it feels like they are doomed from the start. Regardless of the potential (and probably) doomed ending, I love how these two interact. They’re not all rainbows and sunshine (however there is a cute fluffy bunny or two). Their world is hard and dangerous but throughout everything I love the way Zeraphina and Rodden treat each other – it’s not often kind but always considerate.
This book developed Rodden’s history fantastically. As he and Zeraphina travel the lands gathering supplies for their secret weapon we get to see just who Rodden was before he became Prince Amis’ best friend. The view of the country and the people who live there added an extra something to this novel and the world in which it exists.
Blood Storm is a fantastic fantasy novel set in a world where the blood-sucking creatures are so much more than your typical vampires. The characters are interesting and the plot gets thicker and more fascinating with every twist. After the way this book finished I am on the edge of my seat with anticipation. Blood Queen will be released sometime in 2013. I can not wait to get my hands on a copy!
Zeraphina is one of those heroines that make me like her more with every word I read about her. She’s fiercely loyal and smart. Her bloodthirstiness (and not just the thirst-quenching kind) is somehow admirable. I adored how she took care of Rodden, both physically and emotionally. She’s brave and even when things are at their most dire, she’s starting to behave like a potential queen and is looking out for those who can’t look out for themselves.
I loved the relationship that has been brewing between Rodden and Zeraphina since the first time we met the King’s Advisor in Blood Song. They have chemistry but with the class system and Renata so violently opposed to their relationship it feels like they are doomed from the start. Regardless of the potential (and probably) doomed ending, I love how these two interact. They’re not all rainbows and sunshine (however there is a cute fluffy bunny or two). Their world is hard and dangerous but throughout everything I love the way Zeraphina and Rodden treat each other – it’s not often kind but always considerate.
This book developed Rodden’s history fantastically. As he and Zeraphina travel the lands gathering supplies for their secret weapon we get to see just who Rodden was before he became Prince Amis’ best friend. The view of the country and the people who live there added an extra something to this novel and the world in which it exists.
Blood Storm is a fantastic fantasy novel set in a world where the blood-sucking creatures are so much more than your typical vampires. The characters are interesting and the plot gets thicker and more fascinating with every twist. After the way this book finished I am on the edge of my seat with anticipation. Blood Queen will be released sometime in 2013. I can not wait to get my hands on a copy!
August 25, 2012
Why it has taken me so long to read this series is definitely beyond me, it's full of adventure, humour and a great sizzling tension between out heroine and hero, Zeraphina and Rodden.
The first book Blood Song was so good and this one was as good as the first, but with a killer ending that left me jaw-droppingly speechless and desperately needing and wanting the third book to read, unfortunately it won't be released till next year.
It's been five months since the end of the last book, Zeraphina has stayed in Pergamia, training with Rodden to eventually defeat the Lharmellen's, her seventeenth birthday is drawing near and her mother Queen Renata is back home in Amentia searching for a husband (preferably a Prince) to marry Zeraphina now that she will be of marrying age, but Zeraphina is not interested in marrying somebody just to produce heirs, she want's to marry someone of her own choosing, she's also in love with Rodden but he doesn't seem to reciprocate her feelings.
'Me and Rodden nothing. I'm marrying a limp-wristed inbreed and I can't wait.'
Rodden has discovered a lot of mysterious deaths outside of Pergamia which point to Harmings, he and Zeraphina journey to these places to investigate and also to collect materials to make up the poison which is fatal to all with Lharmell blood, there is a lot of action and adventure in their travels and nothing ever really runs smoothly, there is an incident at home in Armentia when they arrive to visit the mines, Zeraphina's betrothed has been chosen by her mother, and he's a extremely awful character who you only wish bad things for especially after what occurs between them both, we also find out Rodden's back story and how he came to have Lharmellen blood flowing through this veins, and it's such a tragic story, you feel so bad for him and I can definitely understand why he's the way he is.
And then the end, I don't know what to say, this book would have to have one of the biggest cliffhanger's I've ever read, and I've read a lot!
It's just cruel to have us read that and then expect us to have to wait soo long to see it resolve itself, and it had better because I just don't think I could handle it if it doesn't.
Fingers crossed the third book comes out in a hurry!
I give this 4.5/5.
The first book Blood Song was so good and this one was as good as the first, but with a killer ending that left me jaw-droppingly speechless and desperately needing and wanting the third book to read, unfortunately it won't be released till next year.
It's been five months since the end of the last book, Zeraphina has stayed in Pergamia, training with Rodden to eventually defeat the Lharmellen's, her seventeenth birthday is drawing near and her mother Queen Renata is back home in Amentia searching for a husband (preferably a Prince) to marry Zeraphina now that she will be of marrying age, but Zeraphina is not interested in marrying somebody just to produce heirs, she want's to marry someone of her own choosing, she's also in love with Rodden but he doesn't seem to reciprocate her feelings.
'Me and Rodden nothing. I'm marrying a limp-wristed inbreed and I can't wait.'
Rodden has discovered a lot of mysterious deaths outside of Pergamia which point to Harmings, he and Zeraphina journey to these places to investigate and also to collect materials to make up the poison which is fatal to all with Lharmell blood, there is a lot of action and adventure in their travels and nothing ever really runs smoothly, there is an incident at home in Armentia when they arrive to visit the mines, Zeraphina's betrothed has been chosen by her mother, and he's a extremely awful character who you only wish bad things for especially after what occurs between them both, we also find out Rodden's back story and how he came to have Lharmellen blood flowing through this veins, and it's such a tragic story, you feel so bad for him and I can definitely understand why he's the way he is.
And then the end, I don't know what to say, this book would have to have one of the biggest cliffhanger's I've ever read, and I've read a lot!
It's just cruel to have us read that and then expect us to have to wait soo long to see it resolve itself, and it had better because I just don't think I could handle it if it doesn't.
Fingers crossed the third book comes out in a hurry!
I give this 4.5/5.
October 6, 2012
4.5 stars
I was stoked to find another fantasy series to add to my keeper bookshelf after devouring Blood Song. Now Rhiannon Hart continues the fantasy adventure with Blood Storm and it's another effortless read chock full of quest-like danger and excitement, romantic tension, and wicked creatures in a unique world.
Don't worry I'm keeping this spoiler free but I'm pretty sure fantasy lovers and YA fans will adore this addictive series. If you missed the first book (and awesome debut) or need further convincing check out my review of Blood Song.
Zeraphina & Rodden grow and mature in this installment, we learn so much more about them (especially Rodden, which is great as he was quite the enigmatic character in book 1.) I love the interaction between these two, the sarcasm and banter, the subtle dance around their attraction. The sparks-flying-mutual-antagonism of Blood Song has eased into growing trust, friendship and mutual respect but the romantic tension simmers and bubbles ... love it.
Zeraphina and Rodden's quest to make Brivora safe from Lharmellin's and their harming retainers oozes suspense - anticipation helped along by a few plot twists I didn't see coming; always fun being kept on your toes. Zeraphina's time away from Amentia has added strength and assertiveness to her feisty character but I confess I wanted to slap Zeraphina's mother Renata and for good measure her sister Lilith. Not to worry, Zeraphina can take care of herself ... with a little help from Rodden lol
Now I was pretty sure I liked Ms Hart but after coming to that ending in Blood Storm I've come to the conclusion Rhiannon Hart is an author with a Lharmellin size evil streak ;)
Come on ... you wouldn't really do that to your dear readers would you Rhiannon?
*stamps feet* ... nope I'm not entertaining that one.
Ok breathing now, I've convinced myself ... it's just an evil twist
Blood Storm is a brilliant second installment, it'll have you screaming for more. Bring on the final book, I'll be one of the first in line. Be warned, I'll also be the one throwing a hissy fit if the 'evil twist' proves to be more evil than twist?
I was stoked to find another fantasy series to add to my keeper bookshelf after devouring Blood Song. Now Rhiannon Hart continues the fantasy adventure with Blood Storm and it's another effortless read chock full of quest-like danger and excitement, romantic tension, and wicked creatures in a unique world.
Don't worry I'm keeping this spoiler free but I'm pretty sure fantasy lovers and YA fans will adore this addictive series. If you missed the first book (and awesome debut) or need further convincing check out my review of Blood Song.
Zeraphina & Rodden grow and mature in this installment, we learn so much more about them (especially Rodden, which is great as he was quite the enigmatic character in book 1.) I love the interaction between these two, the sarcasm and banter, the subtle dance around their attraction. The sparks-flying-mutual-antagonism of Blood Song has eased into growing trust, friendship and mutual respect but the romantic tension simmers and bubbles ... love it.
Zeraphina and Rodden's quest to make Brivora safe from Lharmellin's and their harming retainers oozes suspense - anticipation helped along by a few plot twists I didn't see coming; always fun being kept on your toes. Zeraphina's time away from Amentia has added strength and assertiveness to her feisty character but I confess I wanted to slap Zeraphina's mother Renata and for good measure her sister Lilith. Not to worry, Zeraphina can take care of herself ... with a little help from Rodden lol
Now I was pretty sure I liked Ms Hart but after coming to that ending in Blood Storm I've come to the conclusion Rhiannon Hart is an author with a Lharmellin size evil streak ;)
Come on ... you wouldn't really do that to your dear readers would you Rhiannon?
*stamps feet* ... nope I'm not entertaining that one.
Ok breathing now, I've convinced myself ... it's just an evil twist
Blood Storm is a brilliant second installment, it'll have you screaming for more. Bring on the final book, I'll be one of the first in line. Be warned, I'll also be the one throwing a hissy fit if the 'evil twist' proves to be more evil than twist?
January 1, 2015
Last year I read and enjoyed the first in the series Blood Song so I was more than happy when I got my grubby little paws on book two. Where ‘Blood Song’ is about Zeraphina and the start of the adventure, BLOOD STORM is all about Rodden and his mysterious past; it also continues the adventure, for their work is not done. Rodden is a man with a past; he is brooding and inscrutable, a private man who is not willing to open up about private stuff and certainly doesn’t want to share what he is up to. Now we get to see just who he was before he became Prince Amis’ best friend and chief security advisor for the King. I was curious as to how the relationship between Zeraphina and Rodden would progress after the edge of the seat climatic ending of ‘Blood Song’, it is not a romance – yet - but there is deep friendship and great respect between the two. Oh ok – maybe there is love, but not the smooch stuff. Rodden is more than happy to let Zeraphina explore her powers – weather control being one of them – which came in handy (when it worked according to plan). They travel across the sea, then across the desert to get what they need to create a secret weapon, this sounds straightforward – but Zeraphina and Rodden are being hunted as their very presence is a threat to Lharmellin. Rodden is trying to prepare Zeraphina for the upcoming fight, however her mother and sister have weddings on their mind – Zeraphina’s - and the groom to be is an absolute monster. So getting out of a marriage without causing a political incident is also on the to-do list!
BLOOD STORM is fast-paced, action packed and a rollicking good adventure from beginning to end, with lots of twists, turns and edge of the seat moments.And the ending!!! My goodness where on earth can the story possibly go now – how can what happened be fixed!!! Thank goodness the last book in the trilogy, ‘Blood Queen,’ is out later this year.
Rating: C – Above average. Was very readable and I really liked it but was easily able to put it down and walk away for a while.
BLOOD STORM is fast-paced, action packed and a rollicking good adventure from beginning to end, with lots of twists, turns and edge of the seat moments.And the ending!!! My goodness where on earth can the story possibly go now – how can what happened be fixed!!! Thank goodness the last book in the trilogy, ‘Blood Queen,’ is out later this year.
Rating: C – Above average. Was very readable and I really liked it but was easily able to put it down and walk away for a while.
September 20, 2012
Blood Storm by Rhiannon Hart is a YA paranormal romance starring Zeraphina, a princess whose older sister married the crown prince of another country, and Rodden, a commoner who rose to a position of power very young. Both Zeraphina and Rodden have been infected with the blood of Lharmellians, the precursor to turning them into Harmings (human vampires). As Zeraphina and Rodden struggle with side effects and struggle to remain human, retaining their will, they are intent on opposing Lharmellians and Harmings, whose politics may be more complex than they first appeared in Blood Song, the first in this trilogy.
In this, the second novel in the trilogy, Zeraphina and Rodden do a Cook’s tour of the countryside, learning more about each other and the Lharmellian conflict. Blood Storm has an episodic feel as if written for TV and the different locations are the ‘location of the week’. I particularly enjoyed the trip into the desert, which wasn’t just an excuse to feature belly dancing. ;)
Zeraphina is pursued by a prince of another country to be his bride. This courtship is my least favourite portion of the book as the prince is a bit of a caricature villain, missing only twirling black mustachios, but it’s a small portion of the story.
Revelations of Rodden’s past confirm that he’s not some mysterious prince in disguise, a somewhat time-worn trope. Rhiannon has more revelations planned for book three, which she discusses, at least in part, when she talked to me just before Blood Storm‘s launch in August.
Blood Song is an original, captivating YA paranormal romance. Blood Storm is not quite up to the same standard, but it’s still a solid second book for a new author. I look forward to reading the conclusion.
(Note: although I don't think Blood Storm is quite as good as Blood Song, it's worth more than 3 stars. If I could give it 7/10 I would, but failing that, I'm giving it 4 stars.)
In this, the second novel in the trilogy, Zeraphina and Rodden do a Cook’s tour of the countryside, learning more about each other and the Lharmellian conflict. Blood Storm has an episodic feel as if written for TV and the different locations are the ‘location of the week’. I particularly enjoyed the trip into the desert, which wasn’t just an excuse to feature belly dancing. ;)
Zeraphina is pursued by a prince of another country to be his bride. This courtship is my least favourite portion of the book as the prince is a bit of a caricature villain, missing only twirling black mustachios, but it’s a small portion of the story.
Revelations of Rodden’s past confirm that he’s not some mysterious prince in disguise, a somewhat time-worn trope. Rhiannon has more revelations planned for book three, which she discusses, at least in part, when she talked to me just before Blood Storm‘s launch in August.
Blood Song is an original, captivating YA paranormal romance. Blood Storm is not quite up to the same standard, but it’s still a solid second book for a new author. I look forward to reading the conclusion.
(Note: although I don't think Blood Storm is quite as good as Blood Song, it's worth more than 3 stars. If I could give it 7/10 I would, but failing that, I'm giving it 4 stars.)
August 1, 2012
WOW! Such a mesmerizing read. Rhiannon Hart has written yet another enticing read.
This series just keeps on getting better. Stephanie Meyer had better watch out, this is by far a more enthralling read than Twilight.
There is so much darkness throughout the book but the romance that is stirring between Princess Zeraphina and Rodden really makes for a juicy read.
Zeraphina becomes more than just a princess, she does things a respectable royal would not, she goes travelling the countryside alone with Rodden, who is seen by most as a commoner. From this I caught that Zeraphina doesn’t want to be seen as just a princess, she actually wants yo help the people of Brivora. The feeling of sitting in a thrown bore no interest to Zeraphina because you can’t see what people need by staying in a castle and not visiting the people under your rule.
I was totally captivated by both Blood Song and Blood Storm I can’t wait to see what Hart has in store for us in the next book of the Lharmell series.
This series just keeps on getting better. Stephanie Meyer had better watch out, this is by far a more enthralling read than Twilight.
There is so much darkness throughout the book but the romance that is stirring between Princess Zeraphina and Rodden really makes for a juicy read.
Zeraphina becomes more than just a princess, she does things a respectable royal would not, she goes travelling the countryside alone with Rodden, who is seen by most as a commoner. From this I caught that Zeraphina doesn’t want to be seen as just a princess, she actually wants yo help the people of Brivora. The feeling of sitting in a thrown bore no interest to Zeraphina because you can’t see what people need by staying in a castle and not visiting the people under your rule.
I was totally captivated by both Blood Song and Blood Storm I can’t wait to see what Hart has in store for us in the next book of the Lharmell series.
August 25, 2012
I couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy of this second book in the Lharmell series, having loved the first book.
It was continually listed as unavailable on Book Depository, was absent from all the bookstores in town, but then I finally found it for a reasonable price on the Angus and Robertson website, so I ordered it straight away.
I enjoyed the way the story picked up straight away, but Hart included the odd snippet of information to remind us of what had happened before without launching into a long-winded recap. That worked really well and I appreciated the gentle reminders since it had been a fairly long time since I'd read book one.
Hart continues to develop both the plot and characters well in this book and I was so caught up in it all that I found it hard to put the book down between reads. The story really is captivating and Hart's world-building is excellent.
The only problem - the cliff-hanger ending. I want to know what happens next now! It is truly going to be a tough wait for book three to see how things will work out for Zeraphina and Rodden.
It was continually listed as unavailable on Book Depository, was absent from all the bookstores in town, but then I finally found it for a reasonable price on the Angus and Robertson website, so I ordered it straight away.
I enjoyed the way the story picked up straight away, but Hart included the odd snippet of information to remind us of what had happened before without launching into a long-winded recap. That worked really well and I appreciated the gentle reminders since it had been a fairly long time since I'd read book one.
Hart continues to develop both the plot and characters well in this book and I was so caught up in it all that I found it hard to put the book down between reads. The story really is captivating and Hart's world-building is excellent.
The only problem - the cliff-hanger ending. I want to know what happens next now! It is truly going to be a tough wait for book three to see how things will work out for Zeraphina and Rodden.
October 6, 2015
This is a series review! Blood Storm is the sequel to Blood Song and a great follow up with a killer ending. The mystery of the plot and chemistry between all the characters just draws you in. All of the characters have flaws and redeeming qualities. It was fascinating to see them grow yet still retain some of the original flaws - ones they are well aware they have. The world is a fantastical setting that feels real. Countries are poor or rich each with their own climate and economic issues all giving credit to Rhiannon Hart's world building skills. I would definitely recommend giving this series a read!
October 27, 2013
Loved this book SO much!
This was a great second book, possibly even better than the first one. It's more exciting and the mystery is much deeper.
Finally got to find out a bit more about all the characters... especially Rodden, who I just couldn't figure out in the first book. The reason he is so broody is well explained as in this book we see into his tragic past D:! AND Zeraphina just kept on being her awesome, strong-willed and fiery heroine self.
There HAS to be sequel because the ending... well... they just CAN'T leave it like that!!!!!!!!
This was a great second book, possibly even better than the first one. It's more exciting and the mystery is much deeper.
Finally got to find out a bit more about all the characters... especially Rodden, who I just couldn't figure out in the first book. The reason he is so broody is well explained as in this book we see into his tragic past D:! AND Zeraphina just kept on being her awesome, strong-willed and fiery heroine self.
There HAS to be sequel because the ending... well... they just CAN'T leave it like that!!!!!!!!
March 16, 2015
I just love when the love confessions happen when one half of the relationship is about to die. So much happened in this book on all fronts, and it was great to get back to this world. That ending makes me even more eager to rejoin it later too, just to see how everything turns out. I hope it turns out well. Xeraphina's powers are growing, or maybe she's just discovering them. The new characters are great, even if some are a great big bag of dicks. And we get to find out more about the mysterious Rodden's past. I liked it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2012
Beautifully written, dark, romantic, empowering and lapped with such a great sense humour between its characters and the pages within, Rhiannon Hart's BLOOD STORM is by far one of the best sequels I've read in a very long while and it's only gearing me up in high anticipation for the last and final installment coming out next year!
Full review: http://talesoftheinnerbookfanatic.blo...
Full review: http://talesoftheinnerbookfanatic.blo...
May 14, 2013
Eh, it was okay. Took me forever to read and the ending wasn't my favourite but I guess it leaves us in shock?...maybe for some anyway, and anxious for the next book to keep us satasified. I think the first book was fantastic but this one didn't do it for me. Over eight weeks in reading it, yeah, sort of drones on. Don't take this personally those who liked it, it's just my opinion and unfortunately this book didn't come to my expectations and was a bit of a let down.
April 19, 2014
My other obligations and priorities took a backseat while reading this book. This book was so much fun and nerve-wracking, in a positive sense. The Bond between Zeraphina and someone ( clears throat, I won't spoil ) her friend in this book was so engaging. The adventure and suspense are evr-present factors- no boring bits - and some very realistic 'crush' feelings were had... if not by Zeraphina, then by me lol. The ending came way too soon. And then I read the intro to 'Blood Phantom'.
September 11, 2014
It was a bit boring at the start but as it continued, it got interesting and by the end, I was almost hyperventilating! Jokes, not that extreme, but the ending made my heart pound faster and it was really good- except for the fact that Rodden was in the cave. Is he okay? He has to be okay! Is he dead? He can't be dead; he mustn't be dead! Please don't be dead Rodden!!!!! Why did it have to end like that? :( I need the third book now!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2014
What can I say about this one?
Well for starters they could have been together from the start, that would have made my day.
Also, I would have loved if she would just get what she wanted in the beginning and not her mother pestering her in doing things that Zeraphina didn't want to do.
You should read it, it's awesome!!!
Well for starters they could have been together from the start, that would have made my day.
Also, I would have loved if she would just get what she wanted in the beginning and not her mother pestering her in doing things that Zeraphina didn't want to do.
You should read it, it's awesome!!!
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