This audiobook was AMAZING!!
Dual narration done in the BEST way possible
The most outstanding part to me was the sound effects? And music ??? Which was done at the begging of almost every chapter and helped set the scene amazingly well. The fact that muffled voices/voices behind doors or distant actually sounded it????
The story itself was so amazing. So different to ANY Arthurian re-telling l've ever read. The characters and their development over the course of the book was so well done.
ALSO. PET CAPYBARA??????
The ONLY negative thing I have to say about this book is that I felt like it was rushed? Like I feel like so so much happened in this book and I would have loved for it to be split over at least three books to be able to immerse in the story more.
But this was an absolutely wonderful story and I'm so grateful to netgalley and the publishers for allowing me to get an arc audio. This is my second favourite audiobook ever

*of Blood and Light* takes readers on an imaginative journey across universes, blending Victorian elements, Arthurian legend, and magic. The story centers on River Greer, who, after the loss of her sister, is abducted and thrust into the world of Thule—a richly crafted realm where magic and mystery reign. Thule’s very existence is threatened by a blight, and River’s arrival plays a key role in its salvation. Alongside Hadrian Landevale, a knight battling his own demons, she embarks on a journey that intertwines fate and secrets.

One of the novel’s standout elements is its world-building. Monk creates a vivid, original setting, complete with its own language and a unique magic system. These details bring Thule to life and give the book a depth that fantasy lovers will appreciate. The characters are likeable, though the romance between River and Hadrian can feel a bit forced at times. Despite this, their bond evolves as the story progresses, adding tension to the plot.

The narration by Sarah Kisko and Brennen Blotner elevates the story, with exquisite delivery that captures the essence of the characters. Their narration is particularly immersive—you can sometimes hear the pages turning as they reads, which adds an extra layer of intimacy to the audiobook experience.

Overall, *The Book of Blood and Light* offers an inventive plot, engaging characters, and exceptional world-building. Though the romance could have been more organic, the magic and adventure make this a highly enjoyable read for fantasy fans.

This book immediately reminded me of the Outlander series. I am giving this book 3 stars as it wasn’t exactly original and followed the typical paranormal fantasy tropes. I am not inclined to read the second book.

I read the ebook version a little over a year ago and had some issues at the time. Luckily, many were solved by having access to an audiobook! I did not previously have the benefit of a pronunciation guide, so having someone say names, phrases, etc. out loud kept them from being such a distraction to the flow of the story. It is unabridged, so you get everything from the print version. There are two narrators, which is definitely my preference, and also some sound effects. It can also be sped up quite a bit without issue. Like my first read, I enjoyed the premise, but there was a lot going on, and that made it difficult to follow at times.

Thanks to Yaypub and NetGalley for an ALC of this audiobook for an honest review.