I was gripped from the very start where we met Medra (FMC) who was confused, completely naked, in an unfamiliar world covered in dirt and blood. Then in steps Blake (MMC), a charismatic vampire who found Medra and instantly gave off a 'don't touch what is mine vibe'.

We are taken along Medra journey having to navigate this new world and new situation she is forced into.

This book is New Adult Dark Academia fantasy romance with Hogwarts vibes but with vampires, a forced bond, very slow burn romance which is glorious.

**Thank you Entangled Publishing for this eARC in exchange for an honest review*

NO SPOILERS, General Review Below.

If you have not read the Blood of a Fae quadrilogy, I would highly suggest reading that first as it gives some insight into the main character, Medra, and her past/her reactions and emotions in this novel. It is not absolutely necessary though, and this can be read as a standalone series.

On Wings of Blood is a Dark Academia Fantasy novel set in a world where Vampires and Humans live together, albeit not completely harmoniously and on a very shaky level of “trust.” Medra falls into this world (quite literally) after the events of the last Blood of a Fae novel, and this is where our story begins. Medra is brought to the BloodWing Academy, where she meets friends, makes enemies, and has to hide her true nature from everyone around her. Medra might be out of her element in this new world, but that will not stop her from being more than the Elite Vampire families bargained for. With a grumpy MMC at her side, she slowly grows into her new destiny, but we will have to wait until the next novel to find out how that will fully manifest!

I am extremely excited to read the second novel when it releases and cannot wait to see what fate awaits Medra!

So. Medra has fallen in from another planet/world and is now a reverred Dragon Rider in a world full of Vampires. She doesn't know what that means (neither do we) or what could end up happening to her. She is forced into a betrothal in a political game where the stakes are essentially drink the blood, or be drank from. Or well, death.

The first part of this book had me very intruiged, and I wanted to know where we were going here. The story from here on is set in a school, and I will admit the world building of a school was a little dreary for me. I persevered and definitely was hooked once the FMC and MMC started becoming more entertwined.

I would say this book is a 3.5, but rounded up to a 4. It has great potential as a series and I can't want to see where this goes. We've got politics, enemies to lovers to enemies, love triangles, games/trials and a few loveable sidekicks. As always, don't get too attached to anyone - you know where that ends up.

If you're a fan of Zodiac Academy, but want some dragons in the mix - I'd say this is for you.

At the end of the day - Yes. I will be coming back for more.

Book marketed as a mixture of Harry Potter and Fourth Wing? Sign me up!
Except… I didn’t want a copy of those books. This wasn’t just Harry Potter vibe but felt like a straight-up copy of some things. Four houses with the same personalities. The characters have the same/similar names.
As a Harry Potter fanatic, I just can’t.
I’ll go read one of my hundreds of fanfic downloads instead.

what a book!!! I am so ready for book 2 and for Pendragon and Blake’s story to continue. Fast paced book, never had a dull moment. I loved the suspense, and that plot twist!! I loved Pendragons personality, she was a feisty, badass FMC who stood her ground, questioned authority and wouldn’t back down. She was sassy and witty, especially with Blake. Blake, the MMC and Pendragons betrothed, he was something else. The bad boy with a heart. He was selfish and selfless all at the same time. He definitely wants power, but I think power in a sense that will do those around him good. But how could you not fall for him?? It was a Slowburn romance. A enemies go possible lovers back to enemies, maybe?? We will hopefully see in book 2. The world building was simple that I didn’t feel overwhelmed, but I know that I know is going to get deeper in the next book. We don’t see to much of each house, but we know enough for the story to keep us hooked it. I really liked this book and cannot wait for book 2!

This is perfect for those who enjoyed Fourth Wing, Acotar, Harry Potter and love a good dark romantasy!

Fun but not memorable. I saw such high ratings for this and was very excited, and while I can see the comparisons to Zodiac Academy... I was left wanting. The writing was both slow and fast, with parts of the pacing feeling inconsistent. I didn't get the appeal of the male lead, I don't know if he could redeem himself, and the worldbuilding had a lot of flaws.

Despite this I didn't DNF so I must have enjoyed parts of it, and I am a sucker (haha) for a vampire book.

I really enjoyed Briar Boleyn’s first series so I knew going in I would probably love this book. That being said, it was COMPLETELY different from that series but I was right, I did love this book.

The premise is amazing, the idea that Medra survived her sacrifice in Empress of Fae made me so happy. Medra, however, is not particularly happy with the situation she has found herself in. In a new world completely different from her own, and she finds herself betrothed to a vampire in a vampire controlled society, in an elite vampire school, where she is looked at as less than. Needless to say, a fae princess would be pissed and pissed she is. And I loved it that she stayed that way. She never gave in and weakened. She stood strong.

Blake, Medra’s betrothed, presents as such an arrogant bully, reminiscent of the heirs in Zodiac Academy but by the end of the book, I didn’t hate him, which is saying a lot considering where we started with him. He had some good character growth that I appreciated and he and Medra have chemistry, even though he’s blonde.

The friendship with Florence was a lifesaver for Medra at Bloodwing Academy and I just loved Naveen. I sensed a friendship brewing with Visha so that will be interesting to explore. And the dragons… that ending…. I’m ready for more.

I felt this book set up the story and world well and I can’t wait to read the next books.

Dark romance academia book with the MMC with Draco Malfoy vibes❤️❤️❤️❤️ loved this book SO MUCH. The world building and plot development was bomb af.

I love Briar Boleyn's books - always dark (but not too dark), exciting, and full of steamy romance. They're great reads, every time.

I loved everything about this book. Harry Potter meets Fourth Wing and add in a little bit of blood sucking and you got yourself a whole new world to enter and never want to escape. The characters were easily likable and the academy was a thrill. I'm looking forward for the second book to come out. Highly recommend picking this one up.

Many thanks to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and the author for letting me have an E-ARC of this book. Al opinions expressed down below are what I think of the novel. Many thanks for the opportunity to give my honest review of this book.
Rating- 5 stars
(E-ARC)
As soon as I saw the cover and the blurb of this book, I knew I had to apply on Netgalley for the book. On Wings of Blood by Briar Boleyn is a dark fantasy romance book with bully elements (check additional trigger warnings) which follows a half-fae called Medra Pendragon who falls into another world. Medra is told that she has dragon blood and is quickly made to marry Blake Drakhallow. A family who everyone looks towards. Medra is then forced to study at Bloodwing Academy- a school full of vampires where the vampires rule everything and the blightborns (humans) are just the pawns. But there are no dragons left. Not even a single one.

This book was everything. This book was rich with world building throughout and really explored the history and the way the world worked. I really enjoyed learning about the different houses, the classes they took and the history behind how the world came to be. The amount of notes and theories I made about whilst reading was great. I really was able to get my teeth into this book and I can not wait to read more in the series. I can not wait for it to be expanded on in future books.

As this was my first book by this author, I did find at times that I was confused about the main character. She had came from another world and I quickly established that the author had done a series called Queen of Roses. I learnt quite a lot about what had happened in the previous world. I felt confident that I could read this book without knowing what happened in that series. I did also feel like I was spoiled way too much for the series beforehand. It was not mentioned when applying for the book- so please be aware that the character is from a previous series but can be read if you haven't read it.

The banter between Medra and Blake was so funny at times. Before getting properly in the book, the first few scenes they both had I just knew that I would come to love both of them. The banter and the way they just spoke to each other. He was so whipped throughout the novel and I was so happy that we got to see his POV at times. It did only feel like a sprinkle but I wish we had more and poteinally other characters such as Theo and Visha. The way he had a little nickname called little dragon made me melt so much.. I was not expecting the twist at the arena and vouch never to trust the quiet ones ever again. The emotions that went through me at that scene and the way I felt so sorry for Blake. He is so misunderstood by so many people.

All in all, I really enjoyed this book and I am super excited for book 2. From the world building, relationships and friendships, from vampires and other supernatural elements I am excited to jump back into this world. I am already obsessed and need more of this world.

This was such an incredible read! I couldn’t put it down and absolutely fell in love with both the main characters and the side characters—they were all so well-written and compelling. The story had me hooked from the very first page, and I loved every twist and turn. If you’re a fan of Fourth Wing, Harry Potter, or anything with an exciting mix of magic, adventure, and unforgettable characters, this book is definitely a must-read. It has all the right elements to keep you on the edge of your seat!

What to expect:
- Dragons and Vampires
- Enemies to lovers
- Academy
- Bullies, including mmc
- Trials
- Arranged marriage
- Touch her and you die
-Low spice rating

The book blurb: I’m Medra Pendragon—the last of the dragon riders, or so they claim. The thing is, there are no dragons left. Not a single one. But somehow, that hasn’t stopped the vampires from deciding I’m worth capturing. Now I’m trapped at Bloodwing Academy, a place where the highbloods control everything, and blightborn like me? We're nothing more than blood to fuel their power, pawns in their cruel games.

But that’s not even the worst of it. Enter Blake Drakharrow. Cold, arrogant, and ridiculously handsome. He’s been making my life hell ever since we met, and now, thanks to some ancient curse, we’re bound by an unbreakable betrothal. He acts like I belong to him, but I won’t go down without a fight.

I really enjoyed this book! I'm not always the biggest fan of vampires, but this book drew me in! I absolutely loved the setting of an academy; the description was right where it definitely gave Harry Potter and Fourth Wing vibes. Also, that romance? Loved! Would 100% recommend to fans of romantasy.

Thank you so much to netgalley and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

1 ⭐️

The premise of this book sounded so engaging and exciting, but after reading, I was less than impressed.

The plot drug on and only about middle way was I even remotely interested.

I didn’t find any of the characters with the exception of naveen and the librarian to be likable.

I wouldn’t recommend this read, unless you are ok with a very slow burn.

"Harry Potter" meets "Zodiac Academy" with a dash of romance and betrayal? Sign me up!

"On Wings of Blood" is an addictive new-adult romantasy with an academic setting. This book has something for everyone: a morally gray love interest, vampires, training scenes, a strong FMC, and the type of friendship that makes you want to wrap the characters in a warm hug. I LOVED reading this book. It's a solid 4 stars!

One of my favorite things about "On Wings of Blood" is the academy setting. It gives off Hogwarts vibes, only darker and with more tension! We're talking about a gothic castle near the sea, crazy first-year classes, rival houses, and deadly competitions. I also looove how the author makes the setting matter to the plot. Everything—from the tunnels beneath the academy to the dragon statues in the courtyard—comes together for an unforgettable ending that I never saw coming.

And speaking of unforgettable... Can we take a moment to admire Blake Drakharrow? This book gives off Dramione vibes in the best way possible! Blake (our morally gray vampire love interest) is cold, calculating, and ruthless when it comes to maintaining control of House Drakharrow. But he's also very protective of Medra (our female MC). I love how Medra softens Blake's edges without undermining the sharper parts of his vampiric nature. Given the way this book ends, I'm curious to see how their relationship changes in book 2!

I really enjoyed this book! Most of it passed in a fever dream because I couldn't put it down. The only reason I'm giving it 4/5 stars is because of some inconsistencies with the writing style. It ranges from the character names changing between sentences (ex: introducing someone as Coregon but calling him Coregan in the next line) and repeating the same adjectives (Ex: "Her long hair fell in long narrow braids" and "You probably saw him yesterday, standing at Viktor's shoulder in the great hall yesterday"). Butttt I read an ARC of this book, and I'm sure most of these will be fixed by its release date!

Overall, I really enjoyed "On Wings of Blood". For me, it's a solid 4-star read! I highly recommend this to fans of dark academia, vampires, morally gray characters, and "Harry Potter" (but make it spicy!). And THE ENDING! I need book 2 asap.

I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the author and Netgalley; all opinions are my own.

4.5
Love. Loved. Loved this book!!

A fantasy dark acadamia that just kept getting better and better!
I'll admit I struggled to begin with as I felt it was a little slow but after a few chapters it picked up and I didn't want to put it down.

It's mostly told from Medras POV but we get some Blake POV chapters which is great.

I loved the Blood Of A Fae Series in which we first met the character Medra but I'd say you don't need to read it to understand and enjoy this story as it explains enough of her back story.

Eagerly awaiting for book 2 to see what dumbass decisions Blake makes and what happens next now certain things have happened.

Neville is adorable even if his description is slightly terrifying for when hes fully grown, I need more of him in book 2

On Wings of Blood is the latest release by the very imaginative Briar Boleyn. It is the first book in the Bloodwing Academy series. I loved getting to know Medra’s character more in this story. The story was a bit different than I was expecting, but I loved it. It had me laughing and crying at different times throughout the story. It is full of unforgettable characters, some that you will love and some that you will love to hate. I love Medra’s independence, strength, and her willingness to fight for what is right. Be forewarned that it ends in a cliffhanger. I can’t wait to read what happens next.

⭐⭐.5 | 2.5 stars rounded up

Thank you to NetGalley and Starwater Press for the opportunity to read this book!

I was very excited to read On Wings of Blood based on the blurb, but it unfortunately fell flat for me. I loved the concept of a lone dragonrider in a school of murderous vampires, but I struggled to connect with any characters - including the FMC and MMC. I didn't find their connection to be believable or engaging enough for me to care what happens to them.

I also couldn't get away from the glaring similarities to Harry Potter, which drew me out of the story each time. I understand that this series is inspired by Harry Potter, but I believe it could have been executed in a way that felt like less of fanfiction and more of its own tale.

I think think this series has excellent potential, but ultimately, this book was not for me.

*an advanced digital copy was received from NetGalley in return for an honest review*

Wow, this book had me completely enthralled. The stunning cover and captivating premise—a mix of magic, vampires, and dragons—immediately drew me in. Add a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance, and I was hooked!

The story follows Medra Pendragon, a blightborn girl thrust into a new world where she's revealed to be the last of the dragon riders. Forced to attend Bloodwing Academy and become the consort of the gorgeous yet dangerous Blake Drakharrow, Medra must navigate a treacherous society ruled by vampires while trying to survive.

Medra is a badass heroine, and I loved reading from her perspective. Her fierce passion and refusal to back down make her incredibly relatable, especially as she struggles to adapt to a world where vampires dominate, and her own power feels limited. Her outsider status means readers get to discover this fascinating world alongside her, which adds a unique layer to the narrative.

Blake’s dual POV chapters offer a glimpse into the Drakharrow house’s secrets, revealing cracks in the seemingly perfect vampire hierarchy. He’s brooding, mysterious, and undeniably intriguing. While I enjoyed the tension between Medra and Blake, I wish there had been more moments of quiet yearning and interaction outside the main plot to deepen their connection.

The world of Bloodwing Academy is addictive. The four powerful houses, each with its own legacy, colors, and extinct dragon breed, create a vivid backdrop filled with power plays and intrigue. It’s a richly layered world that perfectly sets up the series. While the pacing was fast and occasionally skipped significant time jumps, it kept me engaged without feeling overly rushed.

All in all, this book was a thrilling ride, blending action, romance, and magic seamlessly. Fans of Zodiac Academy, Fourth Wing, Harry Potter, and vampire lore will absolutely devour it. I have a feeling this series will become a favorite for romantasy lovers, and I can’t wait to see where the story goes next!

Thank you again, NetGalley, for the ARC!

Another excellent read from Briar Boleyn. Loved the premise.
Warning: this is quite graphic. Please be sure to check the trigger warnings before reading.