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Blood Like Magic #2
Blood Like Fate
Voya fights to save her witch community from a terrible future.
Voya Thomas may have passed her Calling to become a full-fledged witch, but the cost was higher than she’d ever imagined.
Her grandmother is gone.
Her cousin hates her.
And her family doesn’t believe that she has what it takes to lead them.
What’s more, Voya can’t let go of her feelings for Luc, sponsor son of the genius billionaire Justin Tremblay—the man that Luc believes Voya killed. Consequently, Luc wants nothing to do with her. Even her own ancestors seem to have lost faith in her. Every day Voya begs for their guidance, but her calls go unanswered.
As Voya struggles to convince everyone—herself included—that she can be a good Matriarch, she has a vision of a terrifying, deadly future. A vision that would spell the end of the Toronto witches. With a newfound sense of purpose, Voya must do whatever it takes to bring her shattered community together and stop what's coming for them before it’s too late.
Even if it means taking down the boy she loves—who might be the mastermind behind the coming devastation.
Voya Thomas may have passed her Calling to become a full-fledged witch, but the cost was higher than she’d ever imagined.
Her grandmother is gone.
Her cousin hates her.
And her family doesn’t believe that she has what it takes to lead them.
What’s more, Voya can’t let go of her feelings for Luc, sponsor son of the genius billionaire Justin Tremblay—the man that Luc believes Voya killed. Consequently, Luc wants nothing to do with her. Even her own ancestors seem to have lost faith in her. Every day Voya begs for their guidance, but her calls go unanswered.
As Voya struggles to convince everyone—herself included—that she can be a good Matriarch, she has a vision of a terrifying, deadly future. A vision that would spell the end of the Toronto witches. With a newfound sense of purpose, Voya must do whatever it takes to bring her shattered community together and stop what's coming for them before it’s too late.
Even if it means taking down the boy she loves—who might be the mastermind behind the coming devastation.
480 pages, Hardcover
First published August 9, 2022
131 people are currently reading
11345 people want to read
About the author
Liselle Sambury
10 books1,950 followersLiselle Sambury is the Trinidadian-Canadian author of the Governor General’s Literary Awards Finalist, Blood Like Magic. Her work spans multiple genres, from fantasy to sci-fi, horror, and more. In her free time, she shares helpful tips for upcoming writers and details of her publishing journey through a YouTube channel dedicated to demystifying the sometimes complicated business of being an author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 505 reviews
November 10, 2024
**4.5-stars rounded up**
When I read Blood Like Magic in 2021, I was blown away by Sambury's writing. She drew me in from the very start and I was 100% invested in that book.
The perfect blending of SFF elements, along with phenomenal character work, easily made that novel one of my favorites of the year.
To say I have been eagerly awaiting the release of this sequel, Blood Like Fate, would be putting it extremely mildly.
This is a chunky monkey and it is so full of deep, moving, thought-provoking content, I was left in awe upon completion. Sambury left no stone unturned in the exploration of these characters and their lives.
At the start of this story, Voya's family is still reeling from the choices she made at the end of the first book.
For Voya, those were the toughest decisions she has ever made in her life and now she is suffering the consequences. Her closest relationships have been shattered, but she must continue on.
Voya has been named the Matriarch of her witch family; their highest position. Even at such a young age, she is now the official leader of the Thomas family, but how can she be?
Voya doesn't feel capable, she questions herself and feels like all the adults in her life are questioning her as well. Voya feels they aren't taking her seriously. Is that true, or are Voya's own insecurities getting the best of her?
It is an extremely uncomfortable and uncertain position for her to be in.
Making matters worse is that fact that Voya's love interest, Luc, has completely cut her out of his life. For Voya, it feels like she is losing on all fronts.
Then she has a horrifying vision, one that if it comes to pass could mean total destruction for the witch community. It could mean the death of her entire family.
Confusing Voya is Luc's presence in the vision. Could he be involved in some way? Is he out to get her revenge on her by punishing her family?
Calling on the ancestors and the greater witch community, Voya begins to investigate the vision. If there is a way to stop it, she must figure it out. She cannot allow that vision to become reality.
It's my understanding that Blood Like Magic is a duology. This did end with a satisfying conclusion, but I will admit, I will be sad if this is all I ever get with these characters.
You cannot read these two books and come away feeling like you are not a part of the Thomas family. I was so impressed with how intricate Sambury got with these characters. You come away feeling like you know not only these characters, but through the ancestors, their history as well.
There is a lot of action, a very serious plot involved in both of these books, but for me, the character work definitely stole the show.
Even though this is a futuristic story, I loved how inclusive it was and how many current themes and issues were interwoven into it. It touches upon things such as gender identity, mental health, generational trauma and a whole host of familial issues.
I thought that every topic Sambury tackled, she handled with grace and skill. Nothing overshadows the overall plot of the story, but enhances it in a truly lovely way.
If I were to offer forth any critiques on this novel, I would say that for me, this one felt a little long. Not in the fact that I felt there was extra content included that could have been cut, I wouldn't have cut anything. I just felt like it dragged on a bit too long.
I almost feel like this story could have been better served if it had been made a trilogy versus a duology. Of course, this is completely personal opinion, but I certainly wouldn't have minded a whole other book in this series.
Overall though, I absolutely loved these two books. I cannot even express to you how impressed I am by Liselle Sambury's work.
She blew me away with this duology full of heart, Black girl magic and a level of depth rarely obtained in the genre. I highly recommend these books!
Thank you so much to the publisher, Margaret K. McElderry, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I appreciate the opportunity to provide my thoughts.
When I read Blood Like Magic in 2021, I was blown away by Sambury's writing. She drew me in from the very start and I was 100% invested in that book.
The perfect blending of SFF elements, along with phenomenal character work, easily made that novel one of my favorites of the year.
To say I have been eagerly awaiting the release of this sequel, Blood Like Fate, would be putting it extremely mildly.
This is a chunky monkey and it is so full of deep, moving, thought-provoking content, I was left in awe upon completion. Sambury left no stone unturned in the exploration of these characters and their lives.
At the start of this story, Voya's family is still reeling from the choices she made at the end of the first book.
For Voya, those were the toughest decisions she has ever made in her life and now she is suffering the consequences. Her closest relationships have been shattered, but she must continue on.
Voya has been named the Matriarch of her witch family; their highest position. Even at such a young age, she is now the official leader of the Thomas family, but how can she be?
Voya doesn't feel capable, she questions herself and feels like all the adults in her life are questioning her as well. Voya feels they aren't taking her seriously. Is that true, or are Voya's own insecurities getting the best of her?
It is an extremely uncomfortable and uncertain position for her to be in.
Making matters worse is that fact that Voya's love interest, Luc, has completely cut her out of his life. For Voya, it feels like she is losing on all fronts.
Then she has a horrifying vision, one that if it comes to pass could mean total destruction for the witch community. It could mean the death of her entire family.
Confusing Voya is Luc's presence in the vision. Could he be involved in some way? Is he out to get her revenge on her by punishing her family?
Calling on the ancestors and the greater witch community, Voya begins to investigate the vision. If there is a way to stop it, she must figure it out. She cannot allow that vision to become reality.
It's my understanding that Blood Like Magic is a duology. This did end with a satisfying conclusion, but I will admit, I will be sad if this is all I ever get with these characters.
You cannot read these two books and come away feeling like you are not a part of the Thomas family. I was so impressed with how intricate Sambury got with these characters. You come away feeling like you know not only these characters, but through the ancestors, their history as well.
There is a lot of action, a very serious plot involved in both of these books, but for me, the character work definitely stole the show.
Even though this is a futuristic story, I loved how inclusive it was and how many current themes and issues were interwoven into it. It touches upon things such as gender identity, mental health, generational trauma and a whole host of familial issues.
I thought that every topic Sambury tackled, she handled with grace and skill. Nothing overshadows the overall plot of the story, but enhances it in a truly lovely way.
If I were to offer forth any critiques on this novel, I would say that for me, this one felt a little long. Not in the fact that I felt there was extra content included that could have been cut, I wouldn't have cut anything. I just felt like it dragged on a bit too long.
I almost feel like this story could have been better served if it had been made a trilogy versus a duology. Of course, this is completely personal opinion, but I certainly wouldn't have minded a whole other book in this series.
Overall though, I absolutely loved these two books. I cannot even express to you how impressed I am by Liselle Sambury's work.
She blew me away with this duology full of heart, Black girl magic and a level of depth rarely obtained in the genre. I highly recommend these books!
Thank you so much to the publisher, Margaret K. McElderry, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I appreciate the opportunity to provide my thoughts.
May 5, 2022
I'm so excited to share this sequel with you! I hope that you'll find some of the things you enjoyed in Blood Like Magic, but also discover some of the new things in this novel. And in case you were wondering, this is a duology, so this is the final book in the series.
As I have done before, if you need them, I have the content warnings here. If I end up thinking of any I may have missed later on, I'll update this.
Content Warnings: Gun violence, reference to police violence, discussion of and character with an eating disorder, blood/gore/violence, death, substance abuse/addiction, mentions of child neglect, sickness/infection
As I have done before, if you need them, I have the content warnings here. If I end up thinking of any I may have missed later on, I'll update this.
Content Warnings: Gun violence, reference to police violence, discussion of and character with an eating disorder, blood/gore/violence, death, substance abuse/addiction, mentions of child neglect, sickness/infection
August 12, 2022
This is the only YA book I bought so far. Out of all the new releases and books, which I was completely hooked on, and wanted to splurge, but I had a budget, I went into the bookstore with one goal in mind: get this book, pay for it, and walk out of the bookstore.
I wasn’t disappointed.
Samsbury achieves what most writers can’t do in a sequel or duology: have the story feel authentic and fresh, nor changing it to something run down and overused.
The cover wasn’t terrible or cheesy, it complemented the first one, and I liked it for a change. That’s one of the reasons why I was so drawn into getting this book, but that’s a very ridiculous reason.
I liked the tech filled world mixed with magic, and that’s essentially what this book was like. Magical and enchanting.
Yeah, Samsbury makes her world rich with gadgets and gizmos, and blood rituals to magical stakes. Sure, that pulls you in. But mostly, I was here for Voya.That girl is the main reason I got this book to. I relate to her struggles of wanting to be strong, useful, and capable. But she doesn’t fit in with her family and every choice she makes pulls her further away from them. She isn’t the best and she certainly has a lot to learn. But that’s what a teenager has to go through right?
Ultimately, Liselle pulls no punches as she wraps up Voya’s story, and the stakes are even higher here as Voya has to navigate a torn world where no one believes in her, and she has to fight for herself. The road isn’t easy, she’s been hurt and she struggles, but she emerges, healing and loved. That’s the best part of this story to me.There doesn’t need to be flashy arcs or a sexy romance.
On all counts, Samsbury wrote an excellent sequel and finale, and for once, it actually felt fresh and well concluded. This is how magic and fantasy works, this is how a story works. And this book nailed it all. In my book, this is a story that will stay on my bookshelves with all the other unique books I have. And it’s one I will be keeping for myself.
I wasn’t disappointed.
Samsbury achieves what most writers can’t do in a sequel or duology: have the story feel authentic and fresh, nor changing it to something run down and overused.
The cover wasn’t terrible or cheesy, it complemented the first one, and I liked it for a change. That’s one of the reasons why I was so drawn into getting this book, but that’s a very ridiculous reason.
I liked the tech filled world mixed with magic, and that’s essentially what this book was like. Magical and enchanting.
Yeah, Samsbury makes her world rich with gadgets and gizmos, and blood rituals to magical stakes. Sure, that pulls you in. But mostly, I was here for Voya.That girl is the main reason I got this book to. I relate to her struggles of wanting to be strong, useful, and capable. But she doesn’t fit in with her family and every choice she makes pulls her further away from them. She isn’t the best and she certainly has a lot to learn. But that’s what a teenager has to go through right?
Ultimately, Liselle pulls no punches as she wraps up Voya’s story, and the stakes are even higher here as Voya has to navigate a torn world where no one believes in her, and she has to fight for herself. The road isn’t easy, she’s been hurt and she struggles, but she emerges, healing and loved. That’s the best part of this story to me.There doesn’t need to be flashy arcs or a sexy romance.
On all counts, Samsbury wrote an excellent sequel and finale, and for once, it actually felt fresh and well concluded. This is how magic and fantasy works, this is how a story works. And this book nailed it all. In my book, this is a story that will stay on my bookshelves with all the other unique books I have. And it’s one I will be keeping for myself.
May 2, 2023
guys this series. THIS SERIES!!
this author has 110% solidified herself on my “favourite authors” list, because i adored the first book in this series, and this sequel did NOT let me down.
my god, the characters in this duology?!?! they’re so powerful because they’re so intensely realistic, and i actually cannot rave enough about the development of each and every character - even the side characters. each character was so wonderfully developed and unique, and our MC was incredibly powerful in so many ways. her growth in this book?? phenomenal.
and the magic… wow the magic. it’s just as gory and brutal and interesting as book 1, with the same fascinating sci-fi futuristic technology, and i really loved the way that the author wove both elements into this series. this book had me constantly guessing and theorising on what was going on - I was obsessed! this is not a small book, but i finished it in about 2 days, even around university. OBSESSED.
such an amazing series, and this book was a brilliant conclusion to the duology!!! so highly recommended, you have no idea. if you’ve read this series then please talk to me about it!!!
this author has 110% solidified herself on my “favourite authors” list, because i adored the first book in this series, and this sequel did NOT let me down.
my god, the characters in this duology?!?! they’re so powerful because they’re so intensely realistic, and i actually cannot rave enough about the development of each and every character - even the side characters. each character was so wonderfully developed and unique, and our MC was incredibly powerful in so many ways. her growth in this book?? phenomenal.
and the magic… wow the magic. it’s just as gory and brutal and interesting as book 1, with the same fascinating sci-fi futuristic technology, and i really loved the way that the author wove both elements into this series. this book had me constantly guessing and theorising on what was going on - I was obsessed! this is not a small book, but i finished it in about 2 days, even around university. OBSESSED.
such an amazing series, and this book was a brilliant conclusion to the duology!!! so highly recommended, you have no idea. if you’ve read this series then please talk to me about it!!!
July 18, 2022
4.5* Honestly? This is one of the best YA duologies I've read in a long time.
Liselle Sambury has created a near futuristic world that brilliantly pulls our present day into a future that's incredibly captivating. The historical elements and the way Liselle weaves the history of her characters into their present is equally captivating and adds a wonderful depth and dimension to the world, the characters and the story as a whole, with the focus on family dynamics and generational trauma being, once again, superb and such a highlight of this series.
Blood Like Magic was one of my favourite fantasy reads of 2021 and I'm beyond excited that Blood Like Fate met all my expectations. It was gripping and heartfelt, crammed with unique magic, high stakes, fabulous character development, wonderfully explored relationships, and characters I absolutely adored. I also thought the topic of mental health was dealt with a sensitivity I really enjoyed and appreciated.
Despite this being a hefty book, I couldn't put it down and flew through it with ease and excitement. This is a truly excellently written duology and one I honestly couldn't recommend more highly. I would also happily read book after book set in this world and following these characters. (Yes, this is me saying I'd like two separate spin offs from both Keis and Keisha's POV's please...)
TW: discussions of and character with an eating disorder, addiction, gun violence and reference to police violence
Liselle Sambury has created a near futuristic world that brilliantly pulls our present day into a future that's incredibly captivating. The historical elements and the way Liselle weaves the history of her characters into their present is equally captivating and adds a wonderful depth and dimension to the world, the characters and the story as a whole, with the focus on family dynamics and generational trauma being, once again, superb and such a highlight of this series.
Blood Like Magic was one of my favourite fantasy reads of 2021 and I'm beyond excited that Blood Like Fate met all my expectations. It was gripping and heartfelt, crammed with unique magic, high stakes, fabulous character development, wonderfully explored relationships, and characters I absolutely adored. I also thought the topic of mental health was dealt with a sensitivity I really enjoyed and appreciated.
Despite this being a hefty book, I couldn't put it down and flew through it with ease and excitement. This is a truly excellently written duology and one I honestly couldn't recommend more highly. I would also happily read book after book set in this world and following these characters. (Yes, this is me saying I'd like two separate spin offs from both Keis and Keisha's POV's please...)
TW: discussions of and character with an eating disorder, addiction, gun violence and reference to police violence
June 21, 2023
Fantastic followup to Blood Like Magic and conclusion to the duology! There were so many twists and turns, Voya's story had me on the edge of my seat. In many ways this is a book about family in all of its messiness. The hardship, the conflict, but also the love and support. I'm also such a fan of how this blends magic and sci-fi technology in really cool ways. I won't spoil anything but I thought this was a very satisfying conclusion and it really kept my attention.
December 7, 2022
After feeling quite slumpish in both reading life and other and was hopeful to like this one and I did. Not quite five stars but a really good series
September 6, 2024
2023 reads: 372/350
in this sequel to blood like magic, voya is struggling to balance her new role of matriarch with the grief of the loss of her grandmother and the rage from her cousin, whose life she ruined to save the family’s magic. what’s more, she experiences a vision of the end of witches in toronto, and must do whatever she can to prevent this from happening.
book one blew me away, so i was so excited to quickly get my hands on this sequel. in this book, voya is stepping into her new powers and her role as matriarch, and it’s not easy at all. she’s the only one with two powers, yet this unique trait is not enough to stop her family from questioning her authority or to encourage them to help. voya has to learn how to navigate this new life of being a leader. i loved going on this journey with her and how everything turned out. i can’t wait for more books from this author!
in this sequel to blood like magic, voya is struggling to balance her new role of matriarch with the grief of the loss of her grandmother and the rage from her cousin, whose life she ruined to save the family’s magic. what’s more, she experiences a vision of the end of witches in toronto, and must do whatever she can to prevent this from happening.
book one blew me away, so i was so excited to quickly get my hands on this sequel. in this book, voya is stepping into her new powers and her role as matriarch, and it’s not easy at all. she’s the only one with two powers, yet this unique trait is not enough to stop her family from questioning her authority or to encourage them to help. voya has to learn how to navigate this new life of being a leader. i loved going on this journey with her and how everything turned out. i can’t wait for more books from this author!
December 10, 2023
The sound you just heard in the distance was me shrieking with absolutely satisfied delight as I turned the last page.
Thank you so very much to Simon and Schuster Canada for the early copy!
I'm going to hide the rest of my review in a spoiler tag because it is kind of inevitable that I will bring up details from the first book, but if this is where you do get off the train, please know that this book was incredible and I highly encourage you to read the whole series if it hasn't landed on your radar yet.
Thank you so very much to Simon and Schuster Canada for the early copy!
I'm going to hide the rest of my review in a spoiler tag because it is kind of inevitable that I will bring up details from the first book, but if this is where you do get off the train, please know that this book was incredible and I highly encourage you to read the whole series if it hasn't landed on your radar yet.
September 15, 2022
Overall, a fantastic YA duology. I did feel like the plot of the second book wasn't quite as compelling as book 1, and the pacing of the final act was a bit off (it felt like it was dragging at times but also certain big moments ended so abruptly). I also do think that in general, this duology could've been tighter - there's a lot of filler moments that I wasn't sure we needed, but I liked these characters enough that I didn't mind them. Liselle Sambury has officially made it onto my list of authors that I will most definitely be checking out in the future, and I am excited to see what her next few projects brings!
November 26, 2023
3/5 stars, this felt like a really long audiobook
While the first book in this series wasn't my favorite, because it was a duology and I thought there was room for me to like the sequel more, I finished this on audiobook this year. I think that my feelings about this book were pretty much the same as the first one, there were just lots of things that didn't entirely create a well-done story in my opinion.
One thing that is good about this book, and the previous book, is the depiction of family and generational trauma. I think this is one of the best things because each moment, it's so obvious that family is so important to Voya and they value her just as much. Does it get complicated at times? Absolutely, but that is what family is and I think it does a great job of representing this. Alongside this, generational trauma is also depicted very well in this series, and how people attempt to break it to create a better situation for themselves and family members.
I will say that I enjoyed Voya's character more in this book than in the last one, she has grown quite a lot but I enjoyed she was still growing too, this shows that even all-powerful witches are not perfect and still have things to learn. However, the overall plot just felt very drawn out and it was such a long book for what was happening in my opinion. I had the same problem with the last book, and part of it might just be the writing style that the author employs. This is the part of the story that affects my opinion the most unfortunately, because the plot is such an integral part of everything.
Voya's family was also well thought out in this book too, I felt more connected to them than I did in the second book. They were all a lot more involved in the plot and I felt that some of them had more autonomy. The other witch families and their relationships to one another were very interesting as well, the dynamics were cool to see even if frustrating at times.
However, the plot twists I felt were really not for me. I remember sitting there at the ending and wondering how they came about, and I felt like some of the things that occurred were a bit of a cop-out. Even the ending to Voya's relationship with the boy she likes was a little annoying in my opinion, as I'd never liked their relationship in the first place, but there were even more twists involved with it that felt more complicated.
[TW: gun violence, eating disorder representation, blood and gore, death of loved ones, substance abuse and addiction representation, child neglect mentioned, sickness]
While the first book in this series wasn't my favorite, because it was a duology and I thought there was room for me to like the sequel more, I finished this on audiobook this year. I think that my feelings about this book were pretty much the same as the first one, there were just lots of things that didn't entirely create a well-done story in my opinion.
One thing that is good about this book, and the previous book, is the depiction of family and generational trauma. I think this is one of the best things because each moment, it's so obvious that family is so important to Voya and they value her just as much. Does it get complicated at times? Absolutely, but that is what family is and I think it does a great job of representing this. Alongside this, generational trauma is also depicted very well in this series, and how people attempt to break it to create a better situation for themselves and family members.
I will say that I enjoyed Voya's character more in this book than in the last one, she has grown quite a lot but I enjoyed she was still growing too, this shows that even all-powerful witches are not perfect and still have things to learn. However, the overall plot just felt very drawn out and it was such a long book for what was happening in my opinion. I had the same problem with the last book, and part of it might just be the writing style that the author employs. This is the part of the story that affects my opinion the most unfortunately, because the plot is such an integral part of everything.
Voya's family was also well thought out in this book too, I felt more connected to them than I did in the second book. They were all a lot more involved in the plot and I felt that some of them had more autonomy. The other witch families and their relationships to one another were very interesting as well, the dynamics were cool to see even if frustrating at times.
However, the plot twists I felt were really not for me. I remember sitting there at the ending and wondering how they came about, and I felt like some of the things that occurred were a bit of a cop-out. Even the ending to Voya's relationship with the boy she likes was a little annoying in my opinion, as I'd never liked their relationship in the first place, but there were even more twists involved with it that felt more complicated.
[TW: gun violence, eating disorder representation, blood and gore, death of loved ones, substance abuse and addiction representation, child neglect mentioned, sickness]
August 7, 2022
4.5*
Blood Like Fate is a wonderful sequel that I was really excited for! I adored Blood Like Magic , and was very eager to jump back into this world. It did not disappoint! As with its predecessor, the story did start out a little slow, but once it got going, I was yet again hooked by Voya and her family. I feel like I gave a lot of the reasons for loving this series in my review of the first book, and I hate to just repeat myself, so. We'll keep this one short and sweet.
The thing I loved the most about this sequel is Voya's growth. She grew a lot during the first book too, but this one took it to the next level. Voya had to find her strength time and time again to save both herself and her family. She had doubts along the way, so many self doubts. But her learning to overcome them was such a joy to read!
As with the first book, family is by far the biggest focus in this one. Obviously there are other relationships that are tested and cultivated, but the familial one takes center stage. I thought it was so great that we not only got to see Voya's character growth, but that of her family as well. They all felt very well developed, and I loved that each member had their own story and personality.
The events in this sequel are very high stakes, even more than the first book. Without giving away too much, Voya must quite literally save her family and herself from death. And it isn't simple, or cut-and-dry. First she needs to figure out what is happening within the witch community, then how to stop it. Makes for a very exciting reading experience!
Bottom Line: A wonderful follow up to the first book, I was wholly satisfied with this excellent conclusion!
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
Blood Like Fate is a wonderful sequel that I was really excited for! I adored Blood Like Magic , and was very eager to jump back into this world. It did not disappoint! As with its predecessor, the story did start out a little slow, but once it got going, I was yet again hooked by Voya and her family. I feel like I gave a lot of the reasons for loving this series in my review of the first book, and I hate to just repeat myself, so. We'll keep this one short and sweet.
The thing I loved the most about this sequel is Voya's growth. She grew a lot during the first book too, but this one took it to the next level. Voya had to find her strength time and time again to save both herself and her family. She had doubts along the way, so many self doubts. But her learning to overcome them was such a joy to read!
As with the first book, family is by far the biggest focus in this one. Obviously there are other relationships that are tested and cultivated, but the familial one takes center stage. I thought it was so great that we not only got to see Voya's character growth, but that of her family as well. They all felt very well developed, and I loved that each member had their own story and personality.
The events in this sequel are very high stakes, even more than the first book. Without giving away too much, Voya must quite literally save her family and herself from death. And it isn't simple, or cut-and-dry. First she needs to figure out what is happening within the witch community, then how to stop it. Makes for a very exciting reading experience!
Bottom Line: A wonderful follow up to the first book, I was wholly satisfied with this excellent conclusion!
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
July 22, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
“The only thing I know for sure is that we won’t be alone anymore. We’re a community. We’re more than one family. We’re a coven. And we survive.”
Wow. What a journey. I might have been stabbed a few times along the way, but was it worth it? Fuck yes.
I’m truly proud of Voya and the development she undergoes across both books. I feel like I’ve gone on this journey with her where I felt every emotion she felt; all the grief, hopelessness, anger, prejudice, and eventually the triumph. She’s never been able to catch a break, and when she does, it is the most cathartic, triumphant feeling ever. Voya can have my whole heart — she easily has one of my favorite character developments of all time. I love that she always strives to find a way to push past barriers and find an alternative solution to the tough hurdles she has to confront without ever compromising her morality. She stays true to herself the entire time and it’s what makes her a one of a kind Matriarch. I have so much love for her.
Voya’s family continues to drive me INSANE where I’ve had to take a deep breath and set aside my kindle, but I still love them with all my heart. As I mentioned in my previous review, this family is messy as hell, but at the end of the day, they are Voya’s flesh and blood and fight and argue as they might, they will always stand beside Voya when the time calls for it. This is easily my favorite book about family ever.
I love that this love also extended to Voya’s community and how the sequel explores the bridging of said community since they were so divided in the first book.
The sequel really tested my sanity as well. There were a lot of emotional rifts in this one that are intended to hurt and sting, and I got so angry and hurt by so many of the characters. It carves out your heart and impales you before it heals you, but the journey was so worth it. The amount of times this book stabbed and healed me needs to be studied.
Luc, my SHAYLA. I really don’t want to spoil anything, but I love this man so much. I truly believe he would do anything for Voya.
Liselle continues to throw in crazy plot twists too. No context, but get you a psychopath turned comedic relief. That was not on my 2025 bingo list.
I initially had issues with this sequel, and then when things came together, I was GAGGED and immediately rushed back to reread certain scenes and then I enjoyed the book soooo much more. I don’t know if I’m dumb or if Liselle is a mastermind, or both, but wow.
I really love how the novel normalizes mental health, getting help, and validating one’s emotions. The ending left me satisfied where it felt like a warm hug, but done in a way that didn’t feel like it was artificial or wrapped up in a nice bow. There’s redemption, people recovering from PTSD, and normalizes how everyone is at different stages of recovery and normalizes that. Not everyone is forgiven so easily too and that’s okay, too.
In summary, I need everyone to pick up this duology right now 🫵🏻
“The only thing I know for sure is that we won’t be alone anymore. We’re a community. We’re more than one family. We’re a coven. And we survive.”
Wow. What a journey. I might have been stabbed a few times along the way, but was it worth it? Fuck yes.
I’m truly proud of Voya and the development she undergoes across both books. I feel like I’ve gone on this journey with her where I felt every emotion she felt; all the grief, hopelessness, anger, prejudice, and eventually the triumph. She’s never been able to catch a break, and when she does, it is the most cathartic, triumphant feeling ever. Voya can have my whole heart — she easily has one of my favorite character developments of all time. I love that she always strives to find a way to push past barriers and find an alternative solution to the tough hurdles she has to confront without ever compromising her morality. She stays true to herself the entire time and it’s what makes her a one of a kind Matriarch. I have so much love for her.
Voya’s family continues to drive me INSANE where I’ve had to take a deep breath and set aside my kindle, but I still love them with all my heart. As I mentioned in my previous review, this family is messy as hell, but at the end of the day, they are Voya’s flesh and blood and fight and argue as they might, they will always stand beside Voya when the time calls for it. This is easily my favorite book about family ever.
I love that this love also extended to Voya’s community and how the sequel explores the bridging of said community since they were so divided in the first book.
The sequel really tested my sanity as well. There were a lot of emotional rifts in this one that are intended to hurt and sting, and I got so angry and hurt by so many of the characters. It carves out your heart and impales you before it heals you, but the journey was so worth it. The amount of times this book stabbed and healed me needs to be studied.
Luc, my SHAYLA. I really don’t want to spoil anything, but I love this man so much. I truly believe he would do anything for Voya.
Liselle continues to throw in crazy plot twists too. No context, but get you a psychopath turned comedic relief. That was not on my 2025 bingo list.
I initially had issues with this sequel, and then when things came together, I was GAGGED and immediately rushed back to reread certain scenes and then I enjoyed the book soooo much more. I don’t know if I’m dumb or if Liselle is a mastermind, or both, but wow.
I really love how the novel normalizes mental health, getting help, and validating one’s emotions. The ending left me satisfied where it felt like a warm hug, but done in a way that didn’t feel like it was artificial or wrapped up in a nice bow. There’s redemption, people recovering from PTSD, and normalizes how everyone is at different stages of recovery and normalizes that. Not everyone is forgiven so easily too and that’s okay, too.
In summary, I need everyone to pick up this duology right now 🫵🏻
December 26, 2022
4.5 starssss
OMG what a beauty. a stunner. an icon.
Voya Thomas, you will always be famous. WOW!
I'm so stunned. what a book! What a duology! Well done, Liselle Sambury.
This was one long book but it was worth it. My word. In this book, Voya is now a matriarch, the youngest one in her community for centuries, and she has to deal with all that responsibility and command the respect of the people around her. She also has to deal with the consequences of her choices at the end of book 1 while dealing with a new looming threat over the lives of her family and her community.
This book was so well written and the twists spun me. The characters were so alive and their relationships were so alive. It was so layered and so emotional and Voya had to deal with so much internally and externally. My heart ached for her so many times while reading this.
The biggest theme this book explored was family, in so many ways and on so many levels. It wasn't just Voya's family, it was also Luke's family, and the other families in the community. I love that so much! The romance was also SO sweet.
The book was long and at some point, I felt it was dragging and repetitive but in the end it was worth it because there were so many moving pieces and the author was building up to so many jaw-dropping reveals.
I love black girl fantasies so much and this baby was no exception. Voya dealing with so much power, leaning into that power, leaning into her family, and finally learning how to be a leader? My word. I was living!
The audiobook was narrated by one of my faves, Joniece Abbott-Pratt and of course, she delivered.
If you have read book 1, go read this sequel NOW and if you haven't, go read this duology NOW!
OMG what a beauty. a stunner. an icon.
Voya Thomas, you will always be famous. WOW!
I'm so stunned. what a book! What a duology! Well done, Liselle Sambury.
This was one long book but it was worth it. My word. In this book, Voya is now a matriarch, the youngest one in her community for centuries, and she has to deal with all that responsibility and command the respect of the people around her. She also has to deal with the consequences of her choices at the end of book 1 while dealing with a new looming threat over the lives of her family and her community.
This book was so well written and the twists spun me. The characters were so alive and their relationships were so alive. It was so layered and so emotional and Voya had to deal with so much internally and externally. My heart ached for her so many times while reading this.
The biggest theme this book explored was family, in so many ways and on so many levels. It wasn't just Voya's family, it was also Luke's family, and the other families in the community. I love that so much! The romance was also SO sweet.
The book was long and at some point, I felt it was dragging and repetitive but in the end it was worth it because there were so many moving pieces and the author was building up to so many jaw-dropping reveals.
I love black girl fantasies so much and this baby was no exception. Voya dealing with so much power, leaning into that power, leaning into her family, and finally learning how to be a leader? My word. I was living!
The audiobook was narrated by one of my faves, Joniece Abbott-Pratt and of course, she delivered.
If you have read book 1, go read this sequel NOW and if you haven't, go read this duology NOW!
August 1, 2022
Another absolute gem of a book from Liselle Sambury. It’s rare that a sequel will live up to its predecessor, but Blood Like Fate certainly did. I loved seeing different sides of the characters and the big focus around mental health was also well developed. I’m sad though that this is the final book in the series because this series was unlike any other.
September 28, 2022
“So much of our blood has been laced through with suffering. So much that it’s become our motto: We suffer and we survive.
Now this is my family.
And I want the blood that I pass on to know the joy more than the pain.
To think of blood and intent, and see their own hands reaching out, making something new. Something better than whatever came before.”
2.5 stars? 3? Ugh I hate that I didn’t enjoy this one.
Now the Matriarch of her family of witches, Voya Thomas knows she has to step up and be the leader they need. But she is still caught up on Luc and everything that happened with him, and grieving the death of her beloved grandmother. Now, there is a sickness taking hold amongst the witches, and Voya has a terrifying vision of the future as it stands. She will do anything to make sure that future doesn't come true - even if her worlds collide again, and Luc is behind it all.
I think that I am outgrowing YA. Which is the saddest thing, because it used to be my absolute favourite thing in this world. This is the kind of YA that just does NOT do it for me anymore, and I think a large part of it is the angst.
Voya in this book is SO negative. She can't do this, she can't do that, she's a terrible Matriarch, she has let everyone down, etc.
And this internal dialogue. Never. Fucking. Ends.
I empathized with her for a while but I seriously could not handle it by the midpoint of this book. She is so caught up in all this doubt and angst that she can't see past it, and that isn't a fun way to spend a book.
And the plot here is circular as hell. Voya needs to call a meeting. She does, she goes, she goes off with Eli to look into things. Rinse and repeat. Like okay, we get it, this is how the witch world works I guess. But again, did not make for interesting reading material.
I loved the world that book one created. I just feel like this book did not go in the direction it could have to really harness the potential there. The combination of technology and magic is so, so cool. I just wish that the execution matched the creativity of that world.
Now this is my family.
And I want the blood that I pass on to know the joy more than the pain.
To think of blood and intent, and see their own hands reaching out, making something new. Something better than whatever came before.”
2.5 stars? 3? Ugh I hate that I didn’t enjoy this one.
Now the Matriarch of her family of witches, Voya Thomas knows she has to step up and be the leader they need. But she is still caught up on Luc and everything that happened with him, and grieving the death of her beloved grandmother. Now, there is a sickness taking hold amongst the witches, and Voya has a terrifying vision of the future as it stands. She will do anything to make sure that future doesn't come true - even if her worlds collide again, and Luc is behind it all.
I think that I am outgrowing YA. Which is the saddest thing, because it used to be my absolute favourite thing in this world. This is the kind of YA that just does NOT do it for me anymore, and I think a large part of it is the angst.
Voya in this book is SO negative. She can't do this, she can't do that, she's a terrible Matriarch, she has let everyone down, etc.
And this internal dialogue. Never. Fucking. Ends.
I empathized with her for a while but I seriously could not handle it by the midpoint of this book. She is so caught up in all this doubt and angst that she can't see past it, and that isn't a fun way to spend a book.
And the plot here is circular as hell. Voya needs to call a meeting. She does, she goes, she goes off with Eli to look into things. Rinse and repeat. Like okay, we get it, this is how the witch world works I guess. But again, did not make for interesting reading material.
I loved the world that book one created. I just feel like this book did not go in the direction it could have to really harness the potential there. The combination of technology and magic is so, so cool. I just wish that the execution matched the creativity of that world.
January 5, 2024
absolutely obsessed with this duology I need everyone to read it immediately
July 21, 2023
This book was so satisfying. Getting to see the growth within Voya, her family, and role as a matriarch in her community was everything 😭😭😭 Again, Liselle Sambury is not shying away from any topics or family dynamics. This was an easy 5 star read for me.
June 5, 2024
I loved coming back into this story! It was more of what I loved from the first book.
The first half of the book did feel slower as it focused on the drama of Voya’s family and the other witch families. And I was even more frustrated with characters this time around.
But it was all worth it once the plot started to kick in! The stakes were even higher this time and the reveals were even better! There were many moments I was on the edge of my seat and didn’t know who to trust. I also liked that we got to see more of the magic in practice.
The book also does amazing character work. We get to see Voya’s development even more. Other characters also get some good arcs while illustrating different themes concerning mental health, family, and power. The story explores character motivations and the consequences of our choices really well.
I absolutely love the world the author created and the story she told! This is a great duology!
The first half of the book did feel slower as it focused on the drama of Voya’s family and the other witch families. And I was even more frustrated with characters this time around.
But it was all worth it once the plot started to kick in! The stakes were even higher this time and the reveals were even better! There were many moments I was on the edge of my seat and didn’t know who to trust. I also liked that we got to see more of the magic in practice.
The book also does amazing character work. We get to see Voya’s development even more. Other characters also get some good arcs while illustrating different themes concerning mental health, family, and power. The story explores character motivations and the consequences of our choices really well.
I absolutely love the world the author created and the story she told! This is a great duology!
July 25, 2022
I received an ARC from Edelweiss
TW: fatal house fire, disordered eating, reference to domestic abuse, biological warfare
4
This was a good ending to a great book! I'm glad to be able to revisit these characters and this world. After the cliff hanger of Blood Like Magic, I definitely I needed some resolution.
This book's mystery aspect made it easy to get invested in. There was a good amount of tension, and the twistiness of the plot kept things interesting. The stakes were definitely high, they didn't come down at all from the high stakes of the first book. The escalation in some ways felt a bit dramatic, but within the context they made sense, and continued driving the main obstacle of the plot forward.
I also really appreciated this chance to see Voya-post trial, and explore her powers. Voya as matriarch is a totally different person than the Voya of the first book, and that's clear within pages. The struggles she faces and how she overcomes then felt like great progress in the continuation of her arc.
However, in regards to Voya's powers, I was a bit let down. There's such a focus on Voya's powers being incredible and new and yet they're so underpowered it feels a bit ridiculous. I was hoping for the powers to feel more exciting and stronger, but they're incredibly narrowed.
This did also have a little "second book syndrome". The plot is dragged out and goes in circles too often, and much of the reveals happen at least 50 pages longer than they've been made basically definitive and clear to the readers. I think this book should have been shorter and it would have cut away a lot of the repetitive nature.
TW: fatal house fire, disordered eating, reference to domestic abuse, biological warfare
4
This was a good ending to a great book! I'm glad to be able to revisit these characters and this world. After the cliff hanger of Blood Like Magic, I definitely I needed some resolution.
This book's mystery aspect made it easy to get invested in. There was a good amount of tension, and the twistiness of the plot kept things interesting. The stakes were definitely high, they didn't come down at all from the high stakes of the first book. The escalation in some ways felt a bit dramatic, but within the context they made sense, and continued driving the main obstacle of the plot forward.
I also really appreciated this chance to see Voya-post trial, and explore her powers. Voya as matriarch is a totally different person than the Voya of the first book, and that's clear within pages. The struggles she faces and how she overcomes then felt like great progress in the continuation of her arc.
However, in regards to Voya's powers, I was a bit let down. There's such a focus on Voya's powers being incredible and new and yet they're so underpowered it feels a bit ridiculous. I was hoping for the powers to feel more exciting and stronger, but they're incredibly narrowed.
This did also have a little "second book syndrome". The plot is dragged out and goes in circles too often, and much of the reveals happen at least 50 pages longer than they've been made basically definitive and clear to the readers. I think this book should have been shorter and it would have cut away a lot of the repetitive nature.
October 9, 2022
I don’t want to say too much as this book is a sequel, but I was hooked onto the sequel within the first chapter. I wasn’t exactly sure how this equal was going to go, especially because the first one wrapped up so beautifully. But I really liked the Direction the author took. And most importantly, I found this duology was paste very well. A lot of times I feel like duologies either need a third book, or should’ve stayed a standalone and this one was perfect as a two book series.
The representation of this book is one of the main highlights. From mental health to race, culture and history. Not to mention this book is set in the near future of Toronto Canada 🇨🇦. As someone who was born and grew up in Toronto, it was the perfect balance of nostalgia (actual places I have been) well still staying true to be set in the future. The author did an amazing job creating the setting and making it believable.
This book focusses on a lot of things, family, friendship, mental health, race and more. Although there is romance in this book it is not the highlight and nor does it need to be.
As mentioned before, I don’t wanna say too much as this is the sequel but, I highly recommend this geology to anybody who likes urban fantasy, witches and representation with a hint of sci-fi and romance. I am blown away that this duology is a debut.
The representation of this book is one of the main highlights. From mental health to race, culture and history. Not to mention this book is set in the near future of Toronto Canada 🇨🇦. As someone who was born and grew up in Toronto, it was the perfect balance of nostalgia (actual places I have been) well still staying true to be set in the future. The author did an amazing job creating the setting and making it believable.
This book focusses on a lot of things, family, friendship, mental health, race and more. Although there is romance in this book it is not the highlight and nor does it need to be.
As mentioned before, I don’t wanna say too much as this is the sequel but, I highly recommend this geology to anybody who likes urban fantasy, witches and representation with a hint of sci-fi and romance. I am blown away that this duology is a debut.
February 8, 2023
3.5 stars. I really like how Voya had to deal with the consequences of her own actions while still getting support from her family. Much like the first book, I feel like the pacing was off. I also just wish we had actually seen more of Luc.
July 13, 2024
3.5/5
To be honest, I was really disappointed with this book.
I really love the first book. The romance was AMAZING, I really felt connected to all the main and side characters, I loved the whole world development. The plot was pretty entertaining too, even if it got a little slow at some parts.
Sadly, I feel like this book was just a step down from all of those things.
The thing I was most excited for going into this was the romance. The last book ended with the two of them not speaking to each other, and since I loved the romance so much I knew I had to read the next one. Plus, another relationship I really loved was also in that situation.
I don't really know why, but the romance fell so flat for me. Maybe it was because we were kinda promised a whole real enemies to lovers thing (like actually trying to kill each other type of stuff), and then we didn't really get that??? Or maybe it was just because Luc was in this book so little? (actually I really doubt it's that bc I LOVE a slow burn). Whatever it was, I really wasn't feeling the romance. Which considering that was my favorite part of the first book, that was really disappointing.
Also a lot of the side characters I'd come to love in the first book were kind of just there. Like they had plot lines going on but... idk they just weren't that important/interesting? I was honestly really disappointed with how Keis's character was dealt with too. She took such a backseat in this book somehow, even though she was in it so much. Like she really just had no personality or development.
And I honestly just didn't care about any of the new characters added. Like I could genuinely not tell you a single fact about any of the new matriarchs added. Honestly, I couldn't tell you the difference between Torrin, Avery, and the other one (i don't feel like reopening the book and finding her name tbh). They all just blended together in my head. 🤷
ALSO THE WHOLE PLOT LINE ABOUT ELI BEING LUC:
Honestly I already kinda guessed it was something like that (which is a bad sign bc I make a point to not try to figure out plot twists bc I always feel like it ruins the book). It also made me a little angry because all the scenes with Eli I just kinda zoned out and NOW KNOWING IT WAS ACTUALLY LUC makes me realize I really missed all the scenes between Voya and Luc.
Also this book felt SO much slower than the last one. AND THE ENDING WAS SO ANTICLIMACTIC!!!!! LIKE WHAT WAS THAT ABOUT. Tbh everything was just really anticlimactic.
All in all, this wasn't a bad book (even though my review might make it seem like I think that), but the problem is that it was basically just a step down in every regard to the last book. If you want to know what was good about it, look at the review I wrote for the first one, and then read this one to fine all the things I didn't like about it. :)
To be honest, I was really disappointed with this book.
I really love the first book. The romance was AMAZING, I really felt connected to all the main and side characters, I loved the whole world development. The plot was pretty entertaining too, even if it got a little slow at some parts.
Sadly, I feel like this book was just a step down from all of those things.
The thing I was most excited for going into this was the romance. The last book ended with the two of them not speaking to each other, and since I loved the romance so much I knew I had to read the next one. Plus, another relationship I really loved was also in that situation.
I don't really know why, but the romance fell so flat for me. Maybe it was because we were kinda promised a whole real enemies to lovers thing (like actually trying to kill each other type of stuff), and then we didn't really get that??? Or maybe it was just because Luc was in this book so little? (actually I really doubt it's that bc I LOVE a slow burn). Whatever it was, I really wasn't feeling the romance. Which considering that was my favorite part of the first book, that was really disappointing.
Also a lot of the side characters I'd come to love in the first book were kind of just there. Like they had plot lines going on but... idk they just weren't that important/interesting? I was honestly really disappointed with how Keis's character was dealt with too. She took such a backseat in this book somehow, even though she was in it so much. Like she really just had no personality or development.
And I honestly just didn't care about any of the new characters added. Like I could genuinely not tell you a single fact about any of the new matriarchs added. Honestly, I couldn't tell you the difference between Torrin, Avery, and the other one (i don't feel like reopening the book and finding her name tbh). They all just blended together in my head. 🤷
ALSO THE WHOLE PLOT LINE ABOUT ELI BEING LUC:
Honestly I already kinda guessed it was something like that (which is a bad sign bc I make a point to not try to figure out plot twists bc I always feel like it ruins the book). It also made me a little angry because all the scenes with Eli I just kinda zoned out and NOW KNOWING IT WAS ACTUALLY LUC makes me realize I really missed all the scenes between Voya and Luc.
Also this book felt SO much slower than the last one. AND THE ENDING WAS SO ANTICLIMACTIC!!!!! LIKE WHAT WAS THAT ABOUT. Tbh everything was just really anticlimactic.
All in all, this wasn't a bad book (even though my review might make it seem like I think that), but the problem is that it was basically just a step down in every regard to the last book. If you want to know what was good about it, look at the review I wrote for the first one, and then read this one to fine all the things I didn't like about it. :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2023
(3.75*) While it didn't quite match up to Blood like magic for me, I was still in love with this story. I'll be honest, I took a bit longer to pick this up than anticipated just because I have read a few duology sequels recently that left me heart broken with disappointment, but this was a very good and natural flow from the first.
The pacing felt a bit off, and as another reviewer mentioned the plot was a bit circulator. I did love seeing people be held accountable while still being able to grow though
The pacing felt a bit off, and as another reviewer mentioned the plot was a bit circulator. I did love seeing people be held accountable while still being able to grow though
Want to read
August 9, 2021I want more of this world, pretty please 😍
September 30, 2024
This is the second half of a duology and I think it closed out the story well.
Here’s what I liked:
*Narrator: great emoting, pleasant voice, did her best to distinguish between characters (there were a lot)
*the characters
*the variety of the magic
*the sci-fi aspects and it still felt real
*the path of the FMC
*complexities of the family history and relationships
*character growth (not just main characters)
*themes of healing, community, breaking through labels
I wasn’t a total fan of:
*i wanted more magic
*FMC’s weakness was still focused on heavily throughout…like the first book, i get why but could have done with less
Overall, I enjoyed this and I love where the story ended. I recommend giving this one a read!
Here’s what I liked:
*Narrator: great emoting, pleasant voice, did her best to distinguish between characters (there were a lot)
*the characters
*the variety of the magic
*the sci-fi aspects and it still felt real
*the path of the FMC
*complexities of the family history and relationships
*character growth (not just main characters)
*themes of healing, community, breaking through labels
I wasn’t a total fan of:
*i wanted more magic
*FMC’s weakness was still focused on heavily throughout…like the first book, i get why but could have done with less
Overall, I enjoyed this and I love where the story ended. I recommend giving this one a read!
May 17, 2024
** TRIGGER WARNING: Gun Violence, Eating Disorder**
UGH I LOVED this story so much.
I finished it in two days. This world that Liselle Sambury created was something that was of awe. It had me sitting back and wondering if this could ever happen. What I love is that there was a deep incorporation of the past and present involved in the black history of this story. Aside from the rich black history, I love that Sambury made it so naturally with the LGBTQIA+ characters. Their own plights and feelings of identity felt so real and easy to consume (I know that that can be taken in the wrong way, but some writers don't do well with writing LGBTQIA+ characters without making them fall into poor stereotypes).
With the exception of Justin and, at times, Johan, Sambury had me feeling so many deep emotions about each of the characters and their experiences. Though I did not cry, I did catch myself getting pretty emotional while reading the story.
If you are wondering if you should read this book, I highly recommend you do.
UGH I LOVED this story so much.
I finished it in two days. This world that Liselle Sambury created was something that was of awe. It had me sitting back and wondering if this could ever happen. What I love is that there was a deep incorporation of the past and present involved in the black history of this story. Aside from the rich black history, I love that Sambury made it so naturally with the LGBTQIA+ characters. Their own plights and feelings of identity felt so real and easy to consume (I know that that can be taken in the wrong way, but some writers don't do well with writing LGBTQIA+ characters without making them fall into poor stereotypes).
With the exception of Justin and, at times, Johan, Sambury had me feeling so many deep emotions about each of the characters and their experiences. Though I did not cry, I did catch myself getting pretty emotional while reading the story.
If you are wondering if you should read this book, I highly recommend you do.
September 22, 2022
I loved this follow up to Blood like magic so much!! Set in contemporary Toronto (which is so rare and refreshing!) and following a family of Black Canadian witches. Voya has unexpectedly become the head of her family and is tasked with bringing together the community of witches in the city (of which there are great divides). Full of family pain and trauma, some romance and lots of magic and suspense. This YA fantasy has something for everyone and is perfect for fans of the Legendborn series by Tracy Deonn. Amazing on audio too narrated by Joniece Abbott-Pratt! I am excited to read whatever comes next from talented Canadian author Liselle Sambury!
October 18, 2022
I’m not saying I’ve made loving this series a personality trait, but when a coworker saw me check this out the other day she said “I was wondering why you hadn’t picked that up yet.” Lol.
I really enjoyed this sequel! It was so interesting to see Voya learn to find her way in this new role and really embrace the community around her. The storyline in this was a little more mystery-centered and while there were a couple of things I predicted, Sambury delivered some really good twists too.
I feel like this series is so underrated and I need y’all to pick it up asap!
I really enjoyed this sequel! It was so interesting to see Voya learn to find her way in this new role and really embrace the community around her. The storyline in this was a little more mystery-centered and while there were a couple of things I predicted, Sambury delivered some really good twists too.
I feel like this series is so underrated and I need y’all to pick it up asap!
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