by Vela Roth
ASIN/ISBN: 9781957040158
Publication: June 22, 2022

**I received a copy of an eARC of the book from the author. I voluntarily read and reviewed it. All opinions are my own.**

A long-standing feud between Maerea’s and Alcaeus’s families has led to tragedies on both sides. Seeking a blood price for the death of his brother, Alcaeus has to meet with Maerea because her brother Gerrian is off seeking allies. After agreeing to continue meet to until a blood price is determined, Maerea and Alcaeus begin to fall for each other.

While it is not necessary to read the series first, it will make a better experience if you read at least a few of the books in Blood Grace first. The series sets the tone going into the novella and provides greater context about Hesperines, or vampires. There is some information provided in the book, but it is not as extensive.

Roth moves at a leisurely pace, sometimes even slower, with Blood Grace, but the novella’s pace is much quicker. This was one of the reasons I wanted to read the novella; I wanted to see how the pace would change when the book was a standalone as opposed to an entire series. The pace would have been too fast for me had I not read the series first.

Although the story moves along swiftly, I greatly enjoyed it. These were individuals I didn’t even realize I wanted to know more about until I was given the opportunity. Marea and Alcaeus’s story was a wonderful addition to the world Roth created. Their story is nearly equal to that of Lio and Cassia’s despite its condensed length. Roth knows how to write an epic love story that will make you swoon.

It contains similar themes including the strength of love and how it can conquer everything, even death. It also emphasizes how women and their leadership capabilities are often underestimated. Marea’s story is reminiscent of Cassia’s. Despite Maerea’s leadership and care for her people, she is still seen as just a woman. Her opinions are not valued and her choices are not valid. Her powerlessness plays a significant role in the story.

Blood Price is a love story that will have pivotal consequences for the events of Blood Grace. If you’re a fan of the series, Blood Price will be a welcomed addition. . If you liked Lio, you’ll swoon over Alcaeus nearly as much–I did.