A dangerous alliance between a Vampyre bride and an Alpha Werewolf becomes a love deep enough to sink your teeth into in this new paranormal romance from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Love, Theoretically and The Love Hypothesis.
Author: Ali Hazelwood
Release Date: February, 6th 2024
Genre: Fantasy
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 3
Official Description:
Misery Lark, the only daughter of the most powerful Vampyre councilman of the Southwest, is an outcast—again. Her days of living in anonymity among the Humans are over: she has been called upon to uphold a historic peacekeeping alliance between the Vampyres and their mortal enemies, the Weres, and she sees little choice but to surrender herself in the exchange—again...
Weres are ruthless and unpredictable, and their Alpha, Lowe Moreland, is no exception. He rules his pack with absolute authority, but not without justice. And, unlike the Vampyre Council, not without feeling. It’s clear from the way he tracks Misery’s every movement that he doesn’t trust her. If only he knew how right he was….
Because Misery has her own reasons to agree to this marriage of convenience, reasons that have nothing to do with politics or alliances, and everything to do with the only thing she's ever cared about. And she is willing to do whatever it takes to get back what’s hers, even if it means a life alone in Were territory…alone with the wolf.
Warning : This article might contain spoilers !!
#1: First thoughts Bride Ali Hazelwood
Absolutely LOVED it. I had this book on my TBR list for a while now, reading other reviews and wasn't sure if this was for me and I am so glad I finally picked it up.
First of all - the book is hilarious. Just on the first page, I started laughing out loud which almost never happens, so - really - kudos to you Ali Hazelwood!
The story is set in a world where humans, werewolves and vampires navigate a delicate state of truce between species that requires one representative of each species (humans & vampires) to be sent to enemy-territory as "Collateral". The story follows our FMC Misery (yes, that is her name), a vampire, who was once a "Collateral" in human territory. Her so far isolated life takes an unexpected turn when she is slated to marry Lowe, the Alpha of the werewolves, as part of a new peace agreement.
She is first reluctant to be used yet again as pawn in her fathers political mischief but then agrees when she suspects that Lowe might have information on her sole & currently missing friend Serena.
The world-building, while intricate, is skillfully presented, striking a perfect balance that keeps the focus on character and relationship development.
#2: Characters & Romance
Her journey from isolation to love is both heartwarming and hilarious. Her interactions with Lowe, initially marked by mistrust, gradually evolve into a slow-burn romance filled with tension, respect, and undeniable chemistry. The author expertly crafts their relationship, making it a delightful mix of humor, passion, and genuine connection.
Also the steam is incredible. I love it when the tension feels so real that I get a knot in my gut. The scene where Lowe "marks" her is just beyond... Just for the quality and amount of scenes at the end of the book, I will give it a solid 🌶️🌶️🌶️ out of 5.
#3: Final Thoughts
The pacing of the book is spot-on, with enough world-building to intrigue without overwhelming, a slew of plot twists that keep the story engaging, and well-developed characters. The side characters, particularly Ana, Lowe's sister, add even more depth and charm to the narrative. I also really appreciated the form of the book. While it's written in single POV by our FMC Misery - each chapter begins with a snippet of Lowe's thoughts & feelings which gives us just enough of a hint of his point of view.
This paranormal romance is a perfect mix of humor, steamy romance, and well-executed plot twists. If you enjoy deadpan snark, intense sexual tension, and a marriage of convenience, this book is a must-read. Ali Hazelwood's writing, much like Misery's name, may seem unconventional at first, but it quickly becomes a charming and integral part of the story.
I have researched everywhere if this book is supposed to be a standalone or might have a sequel - and so far have found nothing. I really, really hope we will get more books within this world!!
If you liked this review of Bride by Ali Hazelwood or have any questions or comments, let me know !
Disclaimer: I have added an affiliate link for your convenience so you can directly purchase the book if you are intrigued. This also means that I will receive small commission. This does not affect inclusion in my reviews or the overall rating of the book.
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