The Awakening

Blood and Kisses Book 2

Fiction - Fantasy - General
442 Pages
Reviewed on 02/21/2025
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    Book Review

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

The Awakening: Blood and Kisses Book 2 by Danielle Paquette-Harvey dives into what happens when love and destiny collide. Nathan, a half-vampire hybrid, is shattered when the person he loves is ripped away from him, sending both his human and wolf sides into chaos. As he searches for answers, he uncovers betrayals and a shocking truth about his past that changes everything. At the same time, Caleb comes to terms with the fact that he’s not just anyone—he’s the son of a goddess, and now she’s using him as her weapon against those who have defied her. Meanwhile, Elaine learns something about elven history and sets out on a risky quest to bring back lost magic, even if it means waking up dragons that were supposed to be gone forever. With the world on the edge of destruction, enemies have to become allies in this story of love, betrayal, and fate hanging in the balance.

Danielle Paquette-Harvey does a great job blending romance, fantasy, and action without making anything feel over-the-top or shallow. The way she mixes vampire and werewolf lore with fresh, new mythology makes the story feel different from the usual supernatural tales. The romance helps shape the characters and push the story forward. The world-building is rich and detailed, with magic that makes sense and feels like a real part of the world instead of just being there for convenience. I also really liked how she juggles different characters and storylines without making any of them feel less important. Everything builds up naturally, leading to twists that feel surprising but also totally earned. Themes of sacrifice, identity, and figuring out who you really are add extra depth, making this more than just another paranormal romance. If you’re into stories with action, deep connections, and high-stakes magic, I'd certainly recommend it. Overall, The Awakening is a gripping, emotional read that fans of the first book will love, while also drawing in new readers with its unique take on fantasy and romance.