Book review of Of Brides and Blood

by K.L. Ziggler (Author)

Updated at: 13/02/2025

In K.L. Ziggler's Of Brides and Blood, the second installment in the Magic and Monsters series, Nathalie seeks vengeance against the king who failed to protect her family from monstrous creatures. Her opportunity arises when she's hired to assassinate the king's son, Prince Cahir, before he can secure his throne through an ancient marriage ritual. Posing as a guard, Nathalie finds herself drawn to the alluring prince, complicating her deadly mission. Cahir, however, harbors his own secrets, threatening Nathalie's plans and stirring unexpected feelings. This standalone novel explores themes of revenge, forbidden love, and political intrigue in a world brimming with magic and monsters, as Nathalie battles her own desires while fighting for survival against a rising tide of betrayal.

Of Brides and Blood (Magic and Monsters)

4.6 / 10 ratings

Review Of Brides and Blood

Oh my goodness, "Of Brides and Blood" completely swept me away! Going into it, I had high hopes – the first book in the series was fantastic – and this one not only met those expectations, it soared past them. It's a truly captivating blend of dark fantasy and romance, the kind of story that keeps you on the edge of your seat while simultaneously making your heart melt.

Nathalie, our fierce monster hunter, is just incredible. She's driven by a powerful need for revenge, a completely understandable reaction to the tragedy she's endured. But she's not just a one-dimensional revenge-seeker; Ziggler gives her such depth, showcasing her vulnerabilities and her quiet strength. Watching her grapple with her feelings for Cahir, while simultaneously trying to carry out her deadly mission, was utterly compelling. The internal conflict she faces is so realistically portrayed, you'll be right there with her, second-guessing every decision.

And then there's Cahir. He's the reluctant prince, burdened by his own secrets and responsibilities. He's not your typical fairytale prince, and that's what makes him so appealing. He's complex, flawed, and surprisingly vulnerable. The push-and-pull dynamic between him and Nathalie is electric; their chemistry crackles off the page, building a slow burn that’s both frustrating and intensely satisfying. I especially appreciated the healthy communication between them; it's refreshing to see a romance where the characters actually talk to each other and work through their issues, rather than resorting to dramatic misunderstandings. Their relationship felt incredibly mature and authentic, moving beyond simple attraction to a deep connection born of shared trauma and mutual respect.

The world-building is fantastic, too. Ziggler paints such a vivid picture of this dangerous, magical world, complete with monstrous creatures and courtly intrigue. The political machinations add another layer of suspense, keeping you constantly guessing who to trust and what will happen next. While some supporting characters felt a little underdeveloped, leaving me wanting to know more about the world beyond Nathalie and Cahir’s immediate orbit, the central romance and plot were so well-executed that it didn’t detract significantly from my overall enjoyment. The pacing was perfect, never dragging but also allowing time for the emotional beats to land effectively. There were some truly intense scenes, both action-packed and emotionally charged, that left me breathless. The author’s descriptive prose truly brought the world and the characters to life.

While I appreciated the "Bachelor"-esque premise of the royal selection, the book transcends that trope. It’s a story about healing, forgiveness, and finding love in the most unexpected of places. It's a story that stays with you long after you’ve turned the final page, leaving you eager to see what happens next for Nathalie, Cahir, and the other intriguing characters. Highly recommended, especially for fans of dark fantasy romance with strong female leads and complex male characters. Four stars, with the potential for five if some of the supporting characters had been given a little more development. Absolutely worth reading!

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