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art_books_chemistry's review
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
I was 0.2 seconds away from throwing my kindle across the room at least 3 times during this book.
If that isn't enough of a rave review for you, I guess you can keep reading.
The tension in this book ruined me. There's a wonderful plot but every time Kieran and Arken start verbally sparring with each other, you completely forget about it for a few painfully angsty moments. The main plot point is not a secret from you as the reader and it's one of the most heart-wrenching and wonderful parts of the book as you see their friendship unfold. The last chapter made me heartsick and I almost screamed when I realized we were leaving off this point at such a pivotal moment in the plot.
I'll leave off the flowery prose for a second and real talk of the rest of the novel. I appreciate how much thought Hawthorne has already put into her world building which was thorough in the beginning while still being engaging. She also clearly has developed her side characters well, although I'd like to see more depth in Sienna in book 2. Unlike some adult fantasy authors, I think Hawthorne did a good job of balancing the spice content with the plot and integrating it into the story logically; even if the slow burn absolutely unalived me.
I absolutely recommend Of Blood and Aether for anymore that enjoys darker romantasy in a well built fantasy world.
Thank you The NerdFam for the gifted ARC!
If that isn't enough of a rave review for you, I guess you can keep reading.
The tension in this book ruined me. There's a wonderful plot but every time Kieran and Arken start verbally sparring with each other, you completely forget about it for a few painfully angsty moments. The main plot point is not a secret from you as the reader and it's one of the most heart-wrenching and wonderful parts of the book as you see their friendship unfold. The last chapter made me heartsick and I almost screamed when I realized we were leaving off this point at such a pivotal moment in the plot.
I'll leave off the flowery prose for a second and real talk of the rest of the novel. I appreciate how much thought Hawthorne has already put into her world building which was thorough in the beginning while still being engaging. She also clearly has developed her side characters well, although I'd like to see more depth in Sienna in book 2. Unlike some adult fantasy authors, I think Hawthorne did a good job of balancing the spice content with the plot and integrating it into the story logically; even if the slow burn absolutely unalived me.
I absolutely recommend Of Blood and Aether for anymore that enjoys darker romantasy in a well built fantasy world.
Thank you The NerdFam for the gifted ARC!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Child death, Cursing, Death, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, Kidnapping, and Alcohol
Moderate: Abandonment and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Misogyny, Stalking, Death of parent, and Sexual harassment
alysbookclub's review
adventurous
dark
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
The first in a series, Of Blood and Aether is a solid (spicy!) romantasy with interesting worldbuilding and steamy romance. As soon as I read the prologue I was hooked. If you like the following, you won't be disappointed:
- Dual POV
- Dark prophecy, dangerous secrets
- Charming & clever FMC
- Morally grey shadow daddy MMC
- Banter for days
- Tension, slow burn, angst, and yearning
- 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Spiceeeee
- Arcane university
- Elemental magick
We're left on a cliffhanger, and I'm excited to see what happens in the next book!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Sexual content, and Stalking
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