By Ali Hazelwood
SPOILER-FREE
Misery Lark, the only daughter of the most powerful Vampyre councilman of the Southwest, is an outcast—again. Her days of living in anonymity among the Humans are over: she has been called upon to uphold a historic peacekeeping alliance between the Vampyres and their mortal enemies, the Weres, and she sees little choice but to surrender herself in the exchange—again…
Weres are ruthless and unpredictable, and their Alpha, Lowe Moreland, is no exception. He rules his pack with absolute authority, but not without justice. And, unlike the Vampyre Council, not without feeling. It’s clear from the way he tracks Misery’s every movement that he doesn’t trust her. If only he knew how right he was….
Because Misery has her own reasons to agree to this marriage of convenience, reasons that have nothing to do with politics or alliances, and everything to do with the only thing she’s ever cared about. And she is willing to do whatever it takes to get back what’s hers, even if it means a life alone in Were territory…alone with the wolf.
REVIEW
THEMES: FANTASY, ROMANCE, DARK, FUNNY, ADVENTUROUS, MEDIUM-PACED.
Getting into the Halloween spirit, I thought it would be fitting to review a werewolf-vampire fantasy. It is also topical, considering book two of the ‘series’, Mate, was recently released.
What I love about Bride is that Hazelwood has established her voice in her writing; she is humorous, witty and down to earth.
I found myself relating to Misery, as she would make humorous remarks that would echo my thoughts and feelings. This connection made the story even more engaging.
Whilst I have read plenty of fantasy books with interesting main characters – Hazelwood has a way of channelling herself into her characters, granting them their uniqueness – which is a rare talent. Her interviews and her general online presence, proves this to be true, in my opinion.
The plot is interesting – arguably a bit unoriginal – but Hazelwood is able to build-off the familiar concept and make it her own. There was an appropriate level of drama in the books, I did not feel overwhelmed or bombarded – which can happen (sometimes) in standalone novels.
Fair warning, there are certainly some aspects of the book, that may force you to take a moment and stare at the wall. Hazelwood has a reputation for her sultry writing and unusual… tastes.
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a light, enjoyable read — especially Romance/Fantasy readers or those wanting a gateway into contemporary romance. Since Hazelwood predominantly writes in that genre, Bride is a fun crossover with a familiar voice.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
The Book Slump 