The Blood Moon rises. The Blood Veil falls. The Tournament begins.
Every generation, at the coming of the Blood Moon, seven families in the remote city of Ilvernath each name a champion to compete in a tournament to the death.
The prize? Exclusive control over a secret wellspring of high magick, the most powerful resource in the world–one thought long depleted.
This year, thanks to a salacious tell-all book, the seven champions are thrust into worldwide spotlight, granting each of them new information, new means to win, and most importantly: a choice – accept their fate or rewrite their story.
But this is a story that must be penned in blood.
Having read books by both of these authors, I was ecstatic when I heard they were teaming up to write a series together. That the main characters are villains? I could barely contain my excitement – morally gray characters are my favorites.
Monsters couldn’t harm you if you were a monster, too.
This quote represents the philosophy of some of these families when it comes to bestowing beliefs upon their children. Talk about your twisted parenting styles. From a young age, a few of these seven characters knew they were the chosen champions of their family. If that title was up for grabs, some of them even campaigned for it. They were extensively trained in spells and magic, knowing that they may eventually face their friends, boyfriends, or girlfriends from the other families in the tournament and have to kill them.
Control of high magick is what they’re fighting for, and I liked that no one completely understands how it works or the consequences of every spell. Throughout the story the characters learn maybe everything isn’t as they were taught, and there’s a complex puzzle to be solved. A way they don’t all have to die.
Seven participants in the tournament and four POVs are a lot to keep up with, but each of these characters is distinct and well-crafted. I have to say Alistair, the predicted champion, and Gavin, the underdog, are my favorites. Alistair’s story is especially tragic, and I just wanted to hug him. Gavin wants to show his family and the rest of the town he’s not a loser and makes some bold choices to prove it. Just when I thought I knew these characters, game-changing twists had my head spinning. Considering they’re all villains, I should have known better than to make assumptions.
Wicked, dark, and full of surprises, this is an addictive series, and I won’t rest easily until I get my hands on the next book. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Books and Such 
That’s interesting–all the leads are villains. What an intriguing concept. It certainly has my curiosity piqued. Thanks, Teri.
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Right? I was immediately on board with the concept. It’s not something I’ve come across before. Who can you trust? No one.
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What an interesting story idea. This sounds like a riveting read, Teri. Thanks for sharing!
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I’d been waiting for this one a while, Jan. Two fantastic authors and one amazing concept!
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Great review! Definitely want to check this one out!
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This was one of my most anticipated reads this year, Evelyn, and it sure didn’t disappoint!
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Yay for an awesome reading experience. Sounds like Foody and Herman nailed it. Good review, Teri!
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They sure did, Priscilla. I had high expectations when I heard about the two of them teaming up, and they exceeded them.
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A super review, Teri. Thanks for sharing.
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Thanks, John!
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Great concept. Thanks for your insights, Teri. Hugs on the wing.
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It sure was, Teagan – grabbed my attention right away. Not sure what that says about me considering they’re all villains, lol. Hugs to you and Crystal!
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I’m going to have to get this one. It sounds too good to pass up. Excellent review as always ❤️
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I think you’ll really like this one, Tessa. I’m so excited for the second one. And thanks!
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I kind of like villains. They tend to subvert my expectations.
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I’m also an occasional villain fan – Loki! – and some of these were pretty easy to like. I’m surprised it took so long to come up with a concept like this one.
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Monsters couldn’t harm you if you were a monster, too.
Great line! This sounds like a good thriller, Teri, thanks!
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Right? There were so many quotable lines in the book, Jacquie. Some I reread several times.
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I love flawed characters and wonderfully crafted villains too, Teri. This book sounds awesome, especially that you didn’t see a few twists coming. Another book to add to my TBR pile. Thanks!
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I could easily see you being a fan of this series, Diana. And there were flaws galore with these characters.
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I wishlisted it, Teri. I expect I’ll take a few weeks in January to pour through some “mainstream” books on my wishlist. They’re stacking up!
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Hi TEri, an interesting sounding book. Thanks for sharing about it.
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It was at the top of my list of anticipated books this year, and it certainly didn’t disappoint, Robbie.
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