In need of your next fantasy read? The Queen of Blood by Sarah Beth Durst might just be your next addiction. The book was published in 2016 and two more books in the series have since followed. It’s a little under 400 pages total, and it is worth every page.

This book checks a few classics fantasy aspects of the box, but in a way that didn’t feel like I had read the plot a million times before. Daleina, a young girl whose town was attacked and destroyed, leaves her family to train at a special academy. This academy trains these girls to fill the role of a Queen and contain the spirits. These spirits are attacking cities, destroying homes, and killing anyone in their pathways.

A former champion (think of him as a protector of soldier of the queen) named Ven aides Daleina in her training. The dynamic duo, if you will, face attacks from spirits are the most unexpected and expected times.

I loved how action packed Durst made this book. Every time I turned the page more and more tidbits of the whole story started to click together. All the action felt necessary and had me building the world in my head. Each room, town, person, and spirit stuck like an image in my head. The world building Durst did is pure talent. I can’t emphasize enough just how difficult world building is, but it was done magnificently by Durst. The details and characteristics of every little thing had me hooked. Seriously. I had such a hard time putting this book down.

Now, can we talk about character development? There’s nothing worse than a character who lacks any personality and has no development. This book is the polar opposite. Since Daleina is a young girl, she starts off set in her ways but changes after witnessing attacks and learning to control the spirits. Her inner monologue is especially interesting when she disagrees with instructors at the academy. And then there’s Ven. I love Ven. He’s the stereotypical brooding guy in the corner who has a lot to say but rarely does. He’s the guy with the tough shell but is really a big softie on the inside. I really can’t say much more, I just loved Ven.

There isn’t a single complaint to share about this book. The next to in the series are on my list for the new year!

I’d explain the title, but that’s really for you to read and learn 😉

As always, I hope y’all have a groovy weekend!

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