Blood Justice by Terry J. Benton Walker
Rating: 3.8⭐️
Pub Date: OUT NOW!

In Blood Justice, the sequel to Blood Debts, we pick up nine months after the fiery end to Lenora Savant’s reign of the Generational Magic Council of New Orleans and the reinstatement of Cristina and Clement’s mom as Queen.
Cris feels as though there’s more justice to be served for the wrongs her family has suffered, and violence might be the only way to achieve sufficient justice.
Clem is overwhelming himself by trying to keep up the appearance that Yves, his boyfriend that was killed then partially brought back to life, is still attending school, while trying to figure out a way to bring Yves back fully.
Valentina Savant is grieving the death of her grandparents and is angry that her chance on the throne was stolen, leading to her forming alliances and a plot to take back what’s hers.
While we follow these three main characters’ journeys, a murderer is on the loose, anti-magic protestors continue their racist bullshit, and a brutal god is possibly hiding in the shadows.

It’s been a year since Blood Debts came out, so I forgot about certain things. While some parts were very well recapped, unfortunately, there were bits that weren’t. I enjoyed learning more about gen magic and seeing the twins’ growth in it; however, the middle 50-60% was a bit slow, but I’m guessing it’s setting up for the last book in the trilogy to be a war on two different fronts. The one issue that continued from the last book was that there are chapters through other POVs, which revealed a couple of things that would have had a bigger impact if those POVs weren’t included or were more vague. As a heads up, there is a bit of body horror/gore, and lots of murder (hence the title). Overall, I really enjoyed Blood Justice and appreciated the continuation of the commentary of racism in America. I can’t wait for the last book to see what happens!

First, thank you Net Galley for this ARC.

Now, onto Blood Justice. I wanted to devour this book the moment I got my hands on it, and I did dive right in. The story kicks off just a few months after what happened in Blood Debts. The plot wastes no time in jumping into not only the fallout from what happened in the first book but also the big changes that it caused for much of the cast.

I do not want to say too much to give away any of the plot, as I feel like it is best experienced going in with just the knowledge of the first book. The twists, turns, and secrets revealed are done so well that each one left me absolutely shocked before needing to read a couple more chapters. Clem and Cris are still two of my favorite MC's right now and I cannot wait to see what happens next after the cliffhanger that happens at the end.

It is honestly safe to say that the author has gained a lifetime reader from me after this book, and I am going to be recommending this series to everyone I can.

I have so many words and none at all! How did Terry J not get hit with the sequel blues bc this read was literally everything?! EVERYTHING! I was on the edge of my seat the entire book. The adventure, the storytelling, I felt like I was watching a movie. THIS NEEDS TO BE A MOVIE!!

There is nothing bad that you can say about this book.. hell.. about TJBW! I won't allow it.

Infinity out of 5 Stars

I loved everything about this book. Full Stop. The way Terry continues to expand this world while also making me feel every single emotion should be studied. I’m not a fantasy reader and he has changed that with this series.

We pick up right after the events that ended Blood Debts and for a few pages I hoped the nonsense would be a thing of the past. It wasn’t, in fact it was more egregious than in Blood Debts. Yes the Trudeau’s have reclaimed the throne but what’s coming is even more challenging. Bodies are dropping, people are giving up and some folks are missing. It’s literal chaos.

My babies Cris and Clem. I feel so connected to them, they represent what it’s like to be Black. I FELT Cristina’s rage and Clem’s exhaustion because really how much should they have to deal with. I even found myself feeling bad for Valentina, it didn’t last long but it did happen. The last 15% of the book was filled with so much that I was kind of out of breath by the end. I know plans for book 3 haven’t been announced but someone needs to get on their Zoom IMMEDIATELY. THIS STORY DESERVES EVERYYHING.

I could go on and on and on about how much I loved this book, but I think you should read it for yourself. Thank you Terry for giving visibility to not only black teens but LGBTQ+ people of color. The respect and care you showed with your characters is not in vain and frankly I’d like to see more of it. Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to start this one a little early. All thoughts and feelings are my own.

I'm very grateful for this ARC and I loved Blood Debts, but unfortunately I DNF'd at 57%. This was very dense and I found that while there was a lot happening, I was just mostly bored. I wanted to love it more than I did. There was just so much going on.

I am sitting here utterly speechless and that is saying something after having read blood debts the first go round. Just when you think Terry J. Benton-Walker has nothing left in the chamber, another clip is unleashed and metamorphic bullets spray between pages. Blood Justice is a mf reckoning and heads will roll. (Literally)

My initial thoughts:
1. There wasn't nearly enough Aunt Ursula in this book and that is a crime.
2. As I stated before, the only person who doesn't vex me and that I 100% stand behind is Clem. His pure heart doesn't deserve the hand life has dealt him and peace eludes him.
3. This book is unapologetic and loud about it. It is a wonder that it hasn't shot up the ever growing list of banned books in America. Blood Justice is uber gay. There isn't a queer representation that I can think of that hasn't been showcased with the exception of asexual (but don't worry I have a feeling that could be Aurora's bag). In the Blood Debts Series being heterosexual is almost the minority in this book... as is not being a murderer.
4. Then add in how militantly Black the characters become and how it's detailing the systems of oppressions inside and outside the community. There is some undeniable truth to the story Terry is telling and it is invigorating to see characters take their destiny into their own hands. Regardless of how it is done or by what means....If I were a straight cis het white man making the rules I would be quaking in my boots.
5. This book is a look at humanity as a whole and the self-centered behavior that consumes everyone enough to cross the line of morality. If you ever wondered what a free fall into chaos would look like if people gave into their nature and were granted in the form of magical abilities look no further. Blood Debts paints a vivid bloody picture.

One my qualms about this book is that it feel unnecessarily long. Even though the action was nonstop and the plotline was hitting, this could have been broken apart. I know many won't agree with me but I felt every bit of them 480 pages. At some point it just becomes too much.

Needless to say but I will continue on in this series because Terry is cooking and serving it up!

Generational magic..
I'm still on a high from this book. So many different magical threads to follow. I loved the first book and this book goes deeper into the systemic racism and plots to undermine every power structure in the Gen Counsel and magical community. Everyone is fighting to get control. There are themes of stereotypes, white supremacy and homophobia in magical realism with a very unique magic system. The magic they held was so fascinating and the gods were terrifying. Loved the teenagers being forced to take the lead since the adults were playing deadly games. There was a lot of loss and some of it is graphic but necessary to the story, FYI.
Recommend if you enjoy:
🔸 Witches with generational magic
🔸 Revenge
🔸 New Orleans aesthetic
🔸 Lots of drama
🔸 Supernatural


Thank you tor for the e-ARC for the gifted copy.

"Blood Justice" by Terry J. Benton-Walker presents a captivating sequel set in magical New Orleans. The story delves into complex family histories and political intrigue, weaving together the lives of various families with a long and tangled past.

Set against the backdrop of generational curses and power dynamics, the book explores themes of justice, identity, and societal imbalance. Drawing from Conjure, Hoodoo, and other African Traditional Religions, the rich world-building expands the magical system, creating a vibrant and immersive experience for readers.

While the narrative is action-packed and engaging, it's advisable to start with the first book in the series to fully grasp the intricate plot and character dynamics. Overall, "Blood Justice" delivers a compelling story with vibrant characters and thought-provoking themes, leaving readers eager for the next installment.

One of my anticipated books. I was so excited for this to drop and it didn’t disappoint. I loved seeing the characters again like catching up with my babies. Terry really pulls you into the magic that is New Orleans. The elements of how the magic works continues to weave in these twins lives and how that affects their decisions and their relationships with each other and people outside their twin bubble on their journey to revenge. Great sequel and I can’t wait to see if they’ll be more.

I enjoyed every part of this book and definitely can't wait for the next installment! Keep them coming, Terry J.!

This book picks up right the events of book one 'Blood Debts' so likely spoilers for this but not for book two in this review

Cris and Clem are both looking for justice and/or a resolution after the events of book one.

Cris feels some parties involved in manipulating her and harming her family were let off too easy and she wishes to seek her own justice.

Clems justice is also on a personal level as he just wants Yves back. But at what cost.

The Moon God, and Oberyn, have eyes on the twins and their actions, which either of could have disasterous consequences for not just their family and community, but the magical community as a hole

A Dark trip down a path of family, vengeance and the thin line between right and wrong.... was a great book and I enjoyed it even more than the first one..... now where's book 3!!

Thank you to NetGalley and Tor for a review copy of this book, all opinions my own

I give this a solid 3.7. I still loved it like the first one which I gave a 4 but, it’s always something about the second that always seems like something is missing. The drama in the story just seemed too over the top and a little corny. I did not hate it but, I didn’t love it in the end. Reading through the book was easier and I would still continue the series considering everything.

I was ecstatic to receive an ARC for the sequel to Blood Debts, Blood Justice. Magic, family drama, murder, political intrigue? Blood Justice has it all. The Trudeau family has reclaimed their rightful place as the head of the Gen Council but they are fighting to keep it. Reeling from the events in Blood Debts, the Cris and Clem are dealing with their own issues. Clem is trying to save the boy he loves, but what cost and Cris is tired of the injustices and sets about enacting her own Blood Justice. All while, murders are happening and they must figure out who the murderer is before their family faces the the same injustices that her grandparents experiences. I love the development of Cris and Clem, while they still do not make the best decisions, they are stepping into their own. The plot keeping me going, racing to see what happens and the twists are cliffhangers! I can't wait to continue the series.

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for an ARC.

I absolutely adored "Blood Justice" by Terry J. Benton-Walker, the riveting sequel to "Blood Debts." This book is a rollercoaster of black rage and a relentless pursuit of justice, diving deeper into the intricate lives of Cristina and Clement Trudeau. Benton-Walker masterfully expands the lore of this magical world, introducing new and formidable threats that kept me on the edge of my seat. I fell in love with the characters all over again as their stories evolved, especially with Cristina and Clement whose growth and complexity are truly captivating.

The danger in "Blood Justice" is palpable, with enemies lurking around every corner and the stakes higher than ever. The way Benton-Walker weaves together the unresolved issues from the previous book while introducing new challenges is nothing short of brilliant. The ending left me craving for more, eager to see where the series will go next. The themes of vengeance, love, and power are expertly explored, making this book a must-read for fans of urban fantasy. Benton-Walker's storytelling is as compelling as ever, and I can't wait to see what happens next in this thrilling series.

In "Blood Justice," Benton-Walker has crafted a tale that not only entertains but also delves deep into the human psyche, exploring the lengths we are willing to go to for justice and revenge. This book is a testament to Benton-Walker's skill as a storyteller, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating and thought-provoking read.

This book was PHENOMENAL. I enjoyed this book way more than the first one. The exploration of racism, white supremacy, THE AUDACITY OF SOME PEOPLE WHO THINK THEY DESERVE SOMETHING THEY DONT, the homophobia, the way money and power are at the core of this book and how everything gets scrambled and crazy real quick do to these factors but so much more.

We go deeper into the magic, the story that our characters are driving by their pain, trauma, secrets, generational trauma and, how everyone deals with it differently. Cris goes through such an escalate of emotions since she lost her father, was wronged by her best friends family and, got her revenge; the way she goes about, it shows us that sometimes we get to a turning point that could either turn us into the worst or best version of ourselves. Clement also goes through so much. He really went through it with everything that happens with his boyfriend and the moon king (also, I loved how they interconnected that to another mystery in the story)

Even though these twins were not my cup of tea in the first book, I got to appreciate them more in this book and definitely could put myself in their shoes because of how much they do suffer. Valentina, girly, you were something else; you are my most hated and liked character. She really knows how to work the power game and is willing to do ANYTHING to get what she wants; I can actually respect that. These books would benefit from having shorter chapters but, still really enjoyed it.

I HOPE WE GET ONE MORE BOOK BECAUSE HELLO THAT ENDING AND ALL WE HAVE TO RESOLVE???????? This was a whole ass ride.

This book was amazing the way the author goes right into the second book where he left off in the first and the way each chapter is action packed. There wasn’t a boring or slow point in this whole book . Loved it 🥰

I hate to say this…but what did I just read. I loved Blood Debts but unfortunately Blood Justice is a no go for me. It’s a sophomore slump in my opinion. The plot was all over the place. I absolutely love the author catching me up on details I’ve forgotten since I read the last book but I feel there was too much retelling and not enough showing. There are a lot of characters and I’m aware of the main characters focus but OMG. For this book’s length, there should be some payoff. I’m sorry but I’m thoroughly disappointed. ARC was provided by Tor Teen via NetGalley. I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

He’s done it again! I love this follow up to Blood Debts. It touches on everything from pain and anger to unconditional love and back again. The fact that Terry J. Benton-Walker can make you feel the emotions of rage and sorrow that are written in words on these pages is a testament to his strength and growth as a writer.

In the background is the beautiful, historic city of New Orleans that adds to the overall essence of Blood Justice. The drama is never ending and the magical elements kick it up an additional notch.

I cannot wait for book 3! I love this series!!

I received an ARC from Netgalley for an honest review.
I had been waiting for this sequel since reading Blood Debts and it did not disappoint! Book 3 better be getting here sooner rather than later.

The sequel to Blood Debts, Blood Justice by Terry J. Benton-Walker is an addictive drama, full of vengeance, trauma and thirst for power. What makes it so powerful is the way the story delves into the rage and powerlessness of generational trauma and racism, both overt and subversive. It shows how power is abused and withheld from people of color and how the system protects those in power instead of allowing for justice. That powerful message infuses the narrative with authenticity and emotion.
Beyond those themes, the intrigue and drama along with the magical elements are addictive, especially as you see the way the gods stalk Cris and Clem. Their bond and friendship is emotional but also a shining beacon of hope as is Clem’s love for Yves and Cris’ friendships. While nobody in this novel is perfect, it is hard not to side with Cris and Clem. Valentina is equally charismatic as she reconnects with her mother while her desire for power to survive is relatable.
If you love drama infused with supernatural, magical elements where Gods walk among mankind, this is the perfect story to read. The ending whetted my appetite for more and I love how magic is used not just to help but also hinders the characters. The price of power is clear in this novel and justice cannot be taken for granted.