This is an absolutely gorgeous stand alone. I haven’t read The Hollow Gods series, but I didn’t find myself lacking for background or history.

In a sea of enemies/friends/rivals to lovers, a story about an established couple was like a breath of fresh air. The dynamic between the couple was that gorgeous, a beautiful depiction of two people who care very deeply for each other, and who decide to pick each other first every time. The way they lean on each other, and the desire to become a better person for their love is a glorious thing to read about.

As for the plot, again we don’t see a lot of Slavic folklore in popular romantasy, and the urban noir setting that wrapped so deliciously around traditional folk tales was so different from anything I’ve read recently. It was a perfect stand alone, a glorious mix of tension, spice, intrigue and romance.

The side characters were well rounded and developed, and I found myself caring about them as much as I did the main character, even the little non verbal house spirit has a special place in my heart.

An easy five star read, and I cannot wait to discover more of this authors back catalogue.

The characters were good, but I struggled to get invested in the story. It was not a bad read, but it was not my favorite.

I want to say that I started Wildblood without having read the other books set in the same world. I usually don't do this because I'm always worried I will miss some parts of the story or cannot understand the characters fully.

After finishing this book, I'm confident in saying that it's still better to read the Chaos Cycle Duology before venturing into this story. Don't get me wrong, you can totally start from here as I did, but I felt like I was missing some pieces while reading, especially when it came to the characters' relationships.

I think the magic part is perfectly explained, as is the world in which the story is set. The writing style is enjoyable, sometimes a bit too descriptive, but it's necessary for those who have not read the duology, and I appreciated it.

Kai is one of the most interesting main characters I've ever read about. He's complicated, and the development he undergoes during the book is moving. Once again, I felt like I would have appreciated it even more if I had known his whole story from book one.

Overall, I loved the dark mood of the story and its complex characters. While I enjoyed the plot, I felt the book was more focused on Kai's character development.

I was excited for Wildblood, the concept was unique and I loved the cover artwork.. however, the story itself fell a bit flat for me. I didn't engage properly with the writing style and struggled to connect with the MCs. I ended up putting this book down halfway through and then coming back to it a couple of weeks later to finish it. It was an interesting read but it just didn't keep me as the reader, very engaged.

There's just something about a feral, tough as shit brawler that I just LOVE! So I enjoyed Wildblood from the get go; with a character like Kai Donovan, how could I not??
I felt it was a little slow at the beginning though- making sure the world and lore made sense to new readers and such. I didn't know this was a companion novel before starting and wish I had of read the Chaos Cycle Duology beforehand, though it still flows well as a standalone.
I LOVED Vrana's writing style too. Reading through this was like a punch to the gut; hard hitting statements and insights and metaphors. If I ever get my hands on a physical copy it'll be full of highlighted pages.
I loved the unhindered gory violence, the wild and imaginative magic, the gritty urban setting, the characters and of course, lil Ripper.
Highly recommend!!

I had to DNF at 30% as I couldn’t get in to it.

The writing was good and the world building too, I just couldn’t connect to the story - I felt, as a reader, we just dived in the middle and not the beginning. The FMC and the MMC were already lovers, they both had their trials which they were trying to solve separately. I didn’t see any correlation between the two and they weren’t helping each other so it made no sense to me.

I wish I had known this was kind of part of a series going in. I still had a pretty good time, but I feel like I would have appreciated it more knowing that. Which is totally my fault, it was at the end of the description I didn't read lol. I would compare this to a Jay Kristoff style novel, and I liked it for sure, but I've come to discover I don't necessarily love gritty fantasies as much as I like softer ones with less action. That's on me, though, and the novel was still enjoyable!

I’m sorry I had to DNF this.

The majority of the story takes place before the book begins. It’s marketed as a standalone, but reads like a sequel. Instead of experience much of the story, you’re just told about it. I didn’t enjoy that.

The story has potential, and the writing isn’t bad, but I would have preferred to read the story that comes before this one.

Wild Blood
By A. J. Varna.

Sexy, gritty and dark.

This book is all of things and more.
I found it took me a while to get into the storyline. But once I did…. I was there for the ride.

I loved Kia’s character and his development throughout the narrative. A dark, lovable and gritty character.

Fantastic banter and lots of snappy scenes to sink your teeth into.

A brilliantly layed out plotline that will have you on the edge of you seats….

A wickedly intriguing and immersive experience.

Wildblood
Easy 5 stars!
Let me Start by saying what an absolute gem this book was, I've seen it posted about in a Facebook group a few times and thought I would try my luck at the eArc and boy it did not disappoint.

This book is a companion novel to a duology The Chaos Cycle, which I was unaware of until I began reading. It did not negatively impact my reading experience. The author provides sufficient world-building and character backstory, to enable this to be read as a standalone. ( like I did)
I could not put this book down, it was so entertaining! The plot was solid, the writing was beautiful, and I absolutely loved the two main characters and the love they have for each other.

The book contains a significant amount of graphic violence and gore, which may be disturbing to some readers.
I want more of Kai and Miya so I will definitely be picking up the authors previous books.

I loved this book. I started it and before I could finish, I read the books that came before it — The Chaos Cycle Duology. I cannot get enough of this couple. The inner-growth of both was insanely satisfying. The fact that the story represents a woman strong enough to demand change and a man who’s willing to work through his trauma is great. The storyline flowed really well. Ive been recommending it to everyone who will listen.

Damn, this was such a wild ride. This book had me in a choke hold. The mythology behind the story, the magic mixed with a real world, it was amazing! But, what had me reeling was Kai going to therapy to understand why he was hurting those he loved, apart from deeply hurting himself. Is letting go of your fears to be the monster you need to be to protect those you love. Miya is a wonderful character, and their relationship was beautifully constructed.
Wonderful book, and I can't recommend it enough!

"If it spared someone pain, if it honored their wishes, why not be the monster they needed?"

Greatly enjoyed. I was confused as this was the first book I’ve read by this author, but the plot was explained in a wonderful way. Every part of this book was very interesting and I will definitely be buying when it releases.

I have to start by telling you, this book made me so freaking happy!
I mean, it also kept me on my toes guessing, reminded me that many people fucking suck - but many more are truly wonderful, it will get you hot (depending on how immune - or not - to 🌶🌶 you are), make you angry, remind you that found family is one of the best kinds, and also, kitty - if you've ever had an orange cat you know!!

For the first time (properly) since we met him in The Hollow Gods, we get to dive into Kai's head (with him as the only resident!) and Vrana skillfully tugs on the threads of repressed memory, ptsd, anguish, intrusive thoughts, and hopelessness before weaving these multiple strands into a single tale that affects so many more people than just Kai and taking us into the recesses of memory and nightmares, the underworld of the Russian mob, and back out into the light.

Being back with Kai, Miya, and the gang felt a lot like heading home, I think about the chaos duology a lot and I really enjoyed getting to see Kai's story and learn more about him. I've always appreciated his snark and sass, as it's really rather refreshing in a character and I always felt the way he is devoted to Miya ran deeper than simply fate. Seeing his vulnerability and his turmoil in Wildblood will really strike a chord for a lot of people. BUT...it also serves as a reminder that even if you feel like you are beyond repair, or that you are undeserving of even simple kindness, help is there, even if it is just one person telling you they've always got your back, and that's the real beauty of this book.

Wildblood is out on October 29th. Go. Go now!

A very fun read! Overall I enjoyed this seeing that it follows our man Kai. Fighting off monsters and the mob that are slightly terrifying. This book made it so enjoyable to read but maybe that’s just my experience when it comes to horror/fantasy books!

This is marketed pretty strongly as a standalone novel, which it 100% is not. This is a sequel. It has predetermined relationships and plot intricacies that places it extremely firmly in sequel territory, meaning that I was lost or disinterested in the plot the entire time. None of this held any meaning to me, and I couldn't connect with Miya or Kai. These two have a vast history that I would've loved to read about before picking this up. Even things I relate to, and love - urban fantasy vibes, PTSD, ADHD, wolf and lamb mythology and metaphors. But, why would I want to jump into a story that has already built up 2/3rds of its common lore? My lack of investment and the poor marketing killed this before it could thrive, for me. I wouldn't have picked up the ARC if I had known there were 2 other published novels to read, which is partially on me; explaining the 3 stars when I personally wouldn't have given it any.

The DNF is not at all due to quality. I enjoyed what I read, but I couldn't connect to what I read. I may read the first two in the future to give a better review, but I couldn't in good faith keep reading this one.

Also, the cover art on this is phenomenal.

This was a sold fantasy book. I found it quite slow to start off but it picked up the pace and got quite interesting after.

I would like to thank NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A.J. Brana's "Wildblood" is a complex and gripping tale set in a vividly crafted world that is sure to captivate fans of dark fantasy fiction. The novel's crisp writing and enticing worldbuilding are its strongest suits, immediately drawing readers into a richly imagined setting. However, the narrative's density might occasionally overwhelm, demanding close attention to fully appreciate its intricacies.

The story revolves around two main characters, Kai and Miya, whose relationship is as central to the plot as it is tumultuous. Kai, a werewolf, and Miya, a Dreamwalker, have been bound by survival for five years. Their connection is intense, marked by moments of endearing interaction but overshadowed by a toxic dependency that can feel caustic. Kai’s rough demeanor and unresolved trauma from his parents' deaths add layers to his character, though his constant anger can be exhausting to witness.

Miya’s role as a Dreamwalker introduces intriguing elements to the narrative, yet her character sometimes feels overshadowed by Kai’s turmoil. Their journey to find Cealan Carver, another Dreamwalker, serves as the primary plot driver. However, the story branches into multiple subplots that dilute its impact. Themes of trauma, self-discovery, and acceptance are interwoven but not always cohesively, leaving readers questioning the central message.

The action scenes are vividly depicted and often graphically violent, which might be too intense for some readers, particularly those sensitive to themes of abuse. The portrayal of Kai and Miya’s relationship might also be triggering for survivors of domestic abuse, as it often mirrors the dynamics of a co-dependent and enabling partnership.

Despite these challenges, "Wildblood" has its moments of brilliance. Some exchanges between Kai and Miya are genuinely heartwarming, providing a reprieve from the darker aspects of the story. The concept of Kai as a god-made flesh and the hinted reincarnation of gods adds an intriguing mythological layer, though it is not fully explored, leaving a sense of unfinished potential.

Overall, "Wildblood" is a book with significant strengths in worldbuilding and action but falters in thematic clarity. It’s a story that might find a more fitting expression as a manga or graphic novel, where its intense visual elements could shine. For readers who enjoy dense, action-packed dark fantasy with flawed but relatable characters, "Wildblood" is worth a read, but it may not resonate with everyone.

IMPORTANT: Wildblood is a companion novel to The Chaos Cycle Duology. It can be enjoyed as a standalone, though familiarity with the duology may enrich the reader's experience.

A riveting fantasy adventure that captures your imagination. The author masterfully blends magic, adventure, romance and intrigue into an unforgettable story. Highly recommending it!

This was 3.5 stars for me

Urban fantasy
Betrayals
Lots of creatures from different folklore

Additionally it is quite spicy so if you don’t like spice I wouldn’t recommend

I found the start quite slow but got into it about 30% in!