ARC Book Review: A Vow of Shadow and Blood by Charlene Antrobus
- Megs
- Dec 7, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 7
A Vow of Shadow and Blood
Charlene Antrobus
Blood Vows, #1
Publisher: Lotus Ink
Published Date: October 15, 2025
Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Paranormal
512 Pages
Date Read: December 6-7, 2025
Format: 📱
Source: Author ARC / Book Sirens
As always, if you prefer a spoiler free review please read my quick review instead of the in depth review below.
About the Book
Adina Barron was born into and owned by Blackwood House to serve high class vampires. Adina has been hiding her sister's secret and trying to keep her safe from the vampires. But Adina has also been hiding her own secret; her blood can poison vampires. After revealing this secret to a stranger she is forced to make a choice, either kill the vampire prince or let her sister die. While trying to find the opportunity, Adina hears of a war on the rise. One thing is clear, she must choose between her sister, her heart, and her kingdom.
Quick Review (Spoiler Free)
I powered through this book. I could not put it down. My heart was in my throat about ¼ of the way into the book, again about ⅔ of the way into it, and again at the end. The suspense and anticipation had me in a chokehold. At 3am, I had to make myself put this down. I did not see the twist coming with this one and I need book #2, like yesterday. Our MCs interactions had me screaming like a true slow burn should. I can’t wait to continue this story!
Now, let's get into the details!!
Are. You. Kidding. Me. Charlene!!
I powered through this book. I could not put it down. My heart was in my throat about ¼ of the way into the book, again about ⅔ of the way into it, and again at the end. The suspense and anticipation had me in a chokehold. At 3am, I had to make myself put this down.
I did not see the twist coming with this one and I need book #2, like yesterday. Our MCs interactions had me screaming like a true slow burn should. And while I feel like there was an “insta-love” component to the story, it still felt like a good enemies to lovers versus a petty rivalry which tends to be labeled as enemies. The pacing felt appropriate for the events that occurred. And, while there was so much going on in this book, it did not feel like it was too crammed in.
My only real complaint is that I wanted more relationship development to the MCs. The fight to avoid the relationship even though they are sworn enemies is represented; however, I wanted more of a turning point for Adina. I wanted the events that happen to start to win her over vs the way it just fell into place (she is human, he is a vampire, and a magical component involved is all I can say without spoilers).
I would like to thank Charlene Antrobus for this eARC opportunity!
Comments