I read BLOOD DEBTS last year, so i did a quick reread to get reacquainted with the world and all the dynamics and magical systems it was comprised of before beginning this book. I'm so glad I did because I was pulled straight back into the world Terry Benton-Walker had created and found myself intrigued all over again like I'd never previously read a word of it.

Like its predecessor, BLOOD JUSTICE has Cris & Clement as its main protagonists (although we get some other POVs to move the story along) and was so masterfully written that I kept forgetting that the main protagonists were teenagers(which I usually avoid like the plague in books).

Also, it had so many twists, turns, fascinating story elements (that just blew my mind) and priceless gems that were super relatable (especially for a WOC like me). One of my faves being:

" …Before, when someone described a man as “tall, dark, and handsome,” I would always imagine someone like Winston Duke or John Boyega; but it was only recently that I learned they really meant white men with dark hair, a five-o’clock shadow, and a face that’s as enthralling as it is untrustworthy—..."

🤣🤣 THE ACCURACY of that alone made me laugh so hard.

Moving on, I must note that BLOOD JUSTICE was a bit on the darker side with more secrets, machinations, death, mayhem and all around chaos caused by magic users across all the branches and interfering gods and their hidden agendas.

This made for a rollercoaster ride I couldn't get enough of. At some points I even had to pause because it got so intense but at NO time was it boring or predictable. I absolutely loved every single thing about this (even when I was frustrated to no end about some of the silly decisions of some characters).

Full disclosure, the ending of the previous book was difficult to forgive Terry for, but I had faith that in this follow up book, things would be sorted out.

I got my wish for the most part , but in what I’m beginning to think is quintessential Terry Benton-Walker style, I was left with another truckload of questions, heartache and with my jaw literally on the floor at the final sentence of this book.

But tell me why I LOVED EVERY SINGLE MOMENT OF IT?? Sigh, I’m apparently a glutton for emotional distress because I shall be first in line for the next installment!

It is going to be so good!! 😩😩

Thank you NetGalley and Tor Teen for the e-arc!
I don't think I have ever been as excited for a sequel than with a series! The first book in the series was an absolute masterpiece and I just could not wait to start this addition! Every time I read this book I remember how impressive the authors ability to weave the secrets and twists is. This book is no exception. This book really takes where we left off in the first book and add so much more detail to the world and the characters. I love that we get to see more from some of our supporting characters!

Blood Justice is, predictably, about justice. But it's about what happens when it's been denied. Or when it's taken so long that you become frustrated and desperation sinks in. How it can twist and boil inside you until it's all you think about. And even when we think it's justice, it can still not be enough. What happens when we pursue it and finally attain it only for it to not be enough?

Blood Justice took me on such a crazy journey! It’s been a while since I read Blood Debts, but I feel the author did a great job integrating the past details with this book that all the previous details came back to me so easily. The secrets, plot twists, and “justice” ran rampant throughout the story. The things the characters did for said “justice”, the ones they loved, and their family was admirable but also concerning. I think the characters were impulsive but I also think with their age, it made sense for them to react with their feelings.

I couldn’t stop reading because I didn’t want to miss a detail. The final 10% of the book literally had my heart racing!! The way Clement and Cristina were so in sync for majority of the story, the new wrinkle in their relationship will be interesting. Like who can *eye* trust?!Awesome job on this one!

Blood Debts was a five star read for me in 2023. I was absolutely enthralled with the world building, the political intrigue, the diversity of the characters, and the commentary on social justice and cultural heritage.So I couldn’t wait to read Blood Justice; however, this sequel fell really short of every standard its predecessor set and it made me so sad.

The world building was mostly done in Blood Debts, but it’s nicely expanded on just the right amount in this book. We get a bit of a deeper dive into some of the supporting characters in the overall storyline too, which is always nice (and Benton-Walker manages to do this without taking away necessary page time from our trio of main characters, which is no mean feat).

Where I ran into some issues was with the political intrigue, which went from genuinely compelling in Blood Debts to feeling a bit closer to something out of a teen drama in this book, and with the pacing of this book. Act one of this book moves so slowly it’s hard to engage with this book at all at first. In act two, a lot of the scenes start to feel repetitive and the book starts to feel like it’s walking in circles. By the time you’re in the middle in the third act, you realize the book is out of surprises and the book has definitely gone on too long.

It’s not that I don’t love this series. I do. It’s a wonderful story that doesn’t pull punches and has a great deal of diversity. It has a lot to say and Benton-Walker has a great way of saying it. This sequel didn’t do the story, as a whole, any favors.

I was provided a copy of this title by NetGalley and the author. All thoughts, opinions, views, and ideas expressed herein are mine and mine alone. Because of the three star or lower rating this review will not be appearing on my social media.Thank you.

File Under: LGBTQ Fantasy/Urban Fantasy/Book Series/YA FantasyYA Fiction

This was amazing! First off , you might could read as a stand alone but there's so much you would benefit from if you read the first book first. That being said, I absolutely loved this one just as much as the first book. I keep forgetting the series is young adult. Cris and Clem seem older but at times react like a teenager would. It's got a little darker in this book. So much power for Cris to have and she has learned to use it well. The characters are written really well. Some are ones you will love to hate. I'm having trouble writing this because I don't want to ruin anything for others. The position for queen of the Gen council is being fought for and mama is in jail for a crime she didn't commit. Cris steps up and takes responsibility temporarily. Meanwhile, people are being killed and an ancient being may be on the prowl. Were the killings done by him , mama or someone else? There's so many suspects I wasn't sure. There's also some really scary parts. This author is better than Stephen King. The ending blew me away! So much happened in the last few chapters. I never saw any of it coming. Terry's writing makes you feel like everything is real, even the magical so when it gets dark, not just outside, you feel like it's really happening or could. This makes for a good read. All during a full moon too. I slept with the light on.

Thank you to NetGalley , Tor Publishing and the author Terry Benton-Walker for my copy

I loved Blood Debts and was so excited to receive an advanced copy of Blood Justice. I loved the continuation of this story, but struggled with some of the pacing. I felt like some parts dragged and it took me a little while to get fully into the story. I also struggled with some of the choices characters were making. I wasn't the biggest fan of Cris in the first book, and I really struggled with her in this one as well. I know this was intentional and I'm glad to see that towards the end she was turning things around. Of course Valentina was as selfish and delusional as she was in the first book. Then theres Clem and Yves. I love them both so much and it honestly physically pained me to read them struggle so much in this book. I hope we get to see them happy and healthy in the next book *fingers crossed*. The ending left me anxiously awaiting the next installment, can't wait to see what awaits these characters!

This is the continuation from the first book and I felt it went even darker and more unflintching. I felt at one part that it was taking to long to show some consequences of actions but it shows what happens with pent up hurt and rage. I found the second book just as interesting as the first and was happy that we got to see more of what the characters were going to do next.

BLOOD JUSTICE by Terry J. Benton-Walker is a fantastic conclusion to BLOOD DEBTS. The immersive New Orleans setting is always a joy to read, and this sequel delves deep into the politics of the magical world and the characters' psyches as they deal with some dark situations. It's long for a YA book but never loses its drive. The characters go through a lot, and the themes of (in)justice, power, racism, and family are strong throughout. It's a really solid conclusion, and I look forward to see what this author does next in the YA age bracket.

Nine months may have passed since the events of "Blood Debts" (book #1), but this incredible story is just getting started. "Blood Justice" unapologetically and unflinchingly unleashes generations of grief and pain, tip-toeing the morally gray line as justice, in its many shapes and forms steeped in blood, weariness, and pride, begins its mortal and godly reign.

In "Blood Justice," there's another daunting and deadly mystery to uncover on top of everything else coming at Cris, Clem, and their family from seemingly all sides. With very little to go off from, they have a lot on their plates to deal with before it's too late and their family loses the throne again.

Cris is fed up with all the injustices and lack of accountability against her, her family, and black folks for centuries, so feels the only solution is to take matters into her own hands. Anger continues to burn within her even after collecting a blood debt. She still feels her family is owed justice from other people who have wronged them and have gotten away with it.

Clem's anxieties are wearing him thin as he desperately searches for answers to his troubles virtually on his own. Clem is a gentle soul and I wish I could give him the biggest hug, so he'd always know how loved he genuinely is. The end of his storyline stomped my feelings to bits (I tried really hard not to cry).

Valentina takes control of her life and sets her sights on taking back the crown/throne she feels is rightfully hers…by any means necessary.

The contrast between Cris and Valentina's character development was interesting because of how they dealt with their anger and responded to their perceived injustices.

Valentina calmly schemes and forms alliances while slowly reconciling with her past that had negatively impacted her the most. She's finally getting a small taste of the love and attention she should have had growing up that only her paternal grandmother ever gave her. It may affect her but doesn't deter her from her goals nor pierce the new walls she's built around herself.

Meanwhile, Cris stews in rage that she doesn't know how to properly deal with/make sense of, a storm that escalates in dark and otherworldly moments that had me very concerned as the story progresses.

You usually see the opposite pathways happening with two such characters, so it was fascinating how the author flipped what we expect of the good, bad, and gray on its head. This made the story even more riveting.

I also loved that gods have active agency in this story. One in particular who had been a haunting presence behind the scenes throughout the story I was so intrigued and horrified of because I had never seen this type of character characterized in such a way that the author has done. I liked how distinct this character was and how much influence they'll have on the story going further. So well-written!

As for the ending…there are no words that can properly convey just how frightfully epic and chaotic it was. The climactic scene and falling resolution are great examples of how to leave readers an emotional wreckage yet wanting more. I appreciated the bit of comic relief with a certain grandmother after the grisly mayhem that just took place. And the final line of the story - *chef's kiss* - was a perfect and impactful ending.

"Blood Justice" is a beast of a sequel that doesn't hold back. The anger, hatred, and grief was palpable. The unchecked greed and lust for power were bone-chilling and sinister. Several characters speaking their truths filled in missing pieces of the story so far and provided more details about how events led to the current situation. I'm glad I held onto the family tree I made while reading book one because it was very much needed here (at least for me) despite only a couple of new characters being introduced.

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this story because this series isn't for the faint of heart. "Blood Debts" was a difficult read for me yet it left me in awe of what the author was able to accomplish. "Blood Justice" was also a challenging read but its voice took on a much different tone and was exquisitely complex in terms of the writing and execution of the plot.

Terry J. Benton-Walker's writing is strong. He has created such a deeply compelling, dark, and magical YA contemporary urban fantasy. I look forward to returning to New Orleans in book three!

Thanks again Tor Teen and NetGalley for the e-arc to read in exchange for an honest review!

Phew!!! Y'all this one was a ride that I would do all over again!!! The author put his foot all up and through this sequel and I truly hope there's another book to come!!! We need it!!
If you liked Blood Debts, you're going to love this installment in the series. We pick up a few months after culminating events of book 1 and really get to dive into the consequences of actions and the fallout that happens of both sides. What I loved most about this book is that everything is not clear-cut. Everyone is a bit morally grey and can find justifications for their actions if they either dig deep enough into the past, or not to far beyond the reasons for their own present-day actions. The magic, pain, anger, vengeance, and even love is amped up in this installment and we watch these teens navigate the loss, anger, and, grief, that was haphazardly tossed unto them, without any regard to the long-term effects on their mental. and emotional health. This one is a banger and everyone needs to read it!!!

Amazing!! I was hooked from the first few pages and it kept me wanting to know what was going to happen next. I loved the first book in the series and was seriously hyped for book 2 and a chance to revisit these characters and to see the fallout from the events at the end of book 1 and it did not disappoint. I have to say the standout for me in this one was Cris. She was a such a badass and I felt every emotion with her, the anger, frustration, fear, confusion. The social commentary was also amazing. There were several lines that hit me right in the gut. I NEED the next book like now!! So I will definitely be impatiently waiting.

Cris and Clem made many sacrifices to restore what their family rightfully deserves, but the battle for the throne was only the beginning of darker and more violent times that will put not only the family but the entire magical world in danger.

I really enjoyed the previous volume and couldn't wait to jump into this one, but it felt like the author was trying to see what other violent thing he could cram into the story. I get that it's a reflection of the world and it does make some excellent points about how people of color are treated, I just would have enjoyed any lightness whatsoever in the story to show that there's hope. Instead, it's like a race to one-up the previous chapter with violence and how awful people are.

All that said, it's still an incredibly engaging story that makes you care about the characters and what's happening to them so I'm definitely going to follow the story. I'm just hoping that there's some much-needed lightness coming.

Happy thanks to NetGalley and Tor Teen for the early read!

Thank you to Netgalley for a digital ARC of this book.


I initially approached Blood Justice, the second installment in the Blood Debts series, expecting it to conclude as a duology. However, to my pleasant surprise, as I neared the 90% mark, I discovered that the story was far from reaching its conclusion.

The action seamlessly continues from where book one left off, and the author skillfully incorporates subtle reminders into the first few chapters. These gentle prompts are particularly useful for readers who may have taken a break since reading the first book or, like myself, struggle with memory retention.

Continuing the narrative style of the first book, Blood Justice maintains its engaging multiple perspectives, a feature I greatly appreciate. Each character is intricately developed, ensuring clarity of their roles and contributions to the story. There are no mere placeholders; every character serves a purpose, with ample page time devoted to the main protagonists. This dynamic keeps me fully engrossed and prevents any hint of boredom from creeping in. By the time I reached a quarter of the way into the book, I found myself unable to set it down. I'm sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for book three!

I must admit, Blood Justice delivered. Again, this is all subjective and my sole opinion.

Blood Justice is book 2 (!) of the Blood Debts series by Terry J. Benton-Walker. I do not think it fell prey to the second book syndrome that many books in series fall under. Instead, it was a good development of characters and plot. By one third of the way in, I knew that this story of the two main character siblings was not going to be concluded in this book (completely unfair *sarcasm*). The author expanded on the two other minor characters and their POV versus Blood Debts (book 1), and it added additional flavor and build up the background to help connect the pieces.

As an adult, I need to remember that this is a YA fiction, and therefore the teenager characters are the story drivers. It reminds me of the CW's Riverdale: teenagers being rash, impulsive, emotional, which drives them to take action without much foresight. So if that is something that truly is a reader's ick, then move on to the next read.

Anyways... Blood Justice picks up several months after Blood Debts end. The FMC has a taste for revenge that seems like it has no end. The MMC is trying to fix the problems he created. Together they are trying to solve the bigger mystery of who killed a prominent figure in their community. There's of course magic, love, backstabbing friends, and kidnappings. It's impossible to not enjoy this story.

Thank you Netgalley and Tor Teen for allowing me to read this advanced copy. 4 out of 5 stars. Can't wait for the next book in the series!

The best follow up to a debut book there is. There are secrets that are constantly being revealed and you can’t guess the next moment that is going to happen.

An exciting sequel to blood debts! The character’s pov and different voices feel more developed. It added a dynamic feeling to the ongoing political drama. It’s an exciting YA fantasy series to delve into :)

Blood Justice picks up several months after the ending of Blood Debts and all the simmering emotions and rage that has been building in those months comes to life in this book and I loved it. Cris is back in touch with her magic and getting justice on those who wronged her in book one. I loved seeing her wield all this magic, she is so powerful! Then there Clem who’s trying to fix his spell from book one (won’t spoil it but iykyk) and is having trouble with our new villain the Moon King. I like the story of the Moon King and think he’ll make a great villain and can’t wait to see what he does in the next book, especially after that ending. But we still have our original villain, Valentina Savant, who also makes a great villain to Cris and with all her plotting in this book, I’m interested to see where she and Cris end up. Then on top of all this magic, there’s another mystery to be solved, this time it’s a murder that Cris and Clem will do anything to solve.

Overall, this is a great ya fantasy and I highly recommend the series!

Read if you like…
•magic
•multiple pov
•mystery
•gods and demons

Terrifying story on alien first contact and full of body horror. This thing is nightmare fuel!

I think you’ll love the mystery and the complex characters. Ophelia and Ethan really leap off the page. The images are stark and compelling and the tension is palpable.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy. These opinions are my own.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I got this as an ARC from Netgalley. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!! I loved this way better than the first book. I can’t believe what Cris has became in this book. I felt bad for Cris and Clem when their mom was thrown in jail but I don’t want to spoil the book so that is all I will be saying.