Bloodguard by Cecy Robson

Rating: 4.5 ⭐️/5I loved the premise of this book! I was so excited to have a MMC as the primary POV for the first time in a really long time. Leith was brutal and gentle in a Rowan Whitehorn but gladiator kinda vibe.There was also a lot of complex interworkings of politics and held important lessons about power and government. I thoroughly enjoyed the twists and turns, some of the plot twists were INSANE and unexpected. Robson did a fine job with the character arcs in this story.The only thing that I think could have been improved on was the relationships. I think some of the spicier scenes fell a bit flat for me as there wasn’t a lot of build up or burn.I thought this was a solid and unique fantasy novel!

I need more pages!!!!Not a terrible cliffhanger, but I want More!!!Y'all, listen. This book is the perfect type of story that would be absolutely incredible on the big screen 🤩Blood, gore, monsters, a dragon (right out the gate) lots of non-humans, royal politics, plots, deception, a touch of spice, dual POV.Just greatness!! I was happy, I was sad, I was angry. Lol banter.This was everything I was hoping it would be 💚

Bloodguard, the first installment in the 𝔒𝔩𝔡 𝔈𝔯𝔱𝔥 series, has a striking hardcover with sprayed edges that drew me in instantly. I hoped the story within would match the book's stunning exterior. Unfortunately, it didn’t meet my expectations. While the premise intrigued me, the execution fell flat.The story follows Leith of Grey, a gladiator who volunteers to protect his sister, and Maeve, a determined heroine striving to reclaim her grandmother’s throne while uncovering the truth behind her murder. Both characters face compelling challenges, yet their development feels incomplete. The plot struggles with pacing issues, dragging in parts and rushing through others. I often felt lost, as though I had been dropped in the middle of a story with no solid introduction or backstory.The world-building also left much to be desired. While hints of a rich, layered world are present, the details were sparse. As a reader, I longed for more vivid descriptions and deeper immersion into the setting and characters' motivations.Despite these drawbacks, fans of fast-paced, high-stakes fantasy may still find enjoyment here. While I won’t rush to read the next installment, Bloodguard might be worth a try for readers who enjoy ambitious fantasy series.2.5 stars

This book was so unique and exciting! I haven’t found a fantasy book with a gladiator element yet and this one definitely delivers! The world-building is so cool! I felt like I could envision the gardens, creatures, and towns so vividly! This book definitely kept me on the edge of my seat until the last page! There was definitely some tragedy and conflict throughout this book, but the ending was happy overall and I loved it! It is a stand alone book in this series and ends on a positive note :)I also enjoyed the MMC and FMC trade off between chapters. I think it flowed nicely and didn’t feel one-sided.This is definitely one of my favorite books to date! :) I wouldn’t be surprised if we saw this book converted to a movie or series! ❤️

What a book!! Wow.First off, I finished this book within a day. This book had a hold of me that my husband couldn’t even pry out of my hands!Secondly, I did have a few tears throughout, so check the trigger warnings!Thirdly, the twists, turns, and even jaw dropping moments had me in a chokehold!This book is amazing and you will fall in love with the MMC, and wish to be the FMC!This book has a wonderful blend of fantasy, romance, literal trials, hope, and betrayal that will bring you to your knees.. but it was worth it!!I hope the second book takes off where the ending of this book is because it is quite the cliff hanger!

I see what other reviewers mean about the abrupt ending. I would have liked an epilogue touching on what became of the other characters. All in all though this was a great read! The pacing was phenomenal... didn't want to put the book down! I loved all of the characters Maeve helped along the way all the other gladiators, and I want to know more about them and what happens to them. Definitely hope that Giselle and Caelen's story will be written. Great character growth and relationship growth. Lots of action and interesting creatures. I also hope to hear what becomes of Arrow and all the ways the kingdom changes under new rule. Highly recommend!