Book Review: House of Bane and Blood by Alexis L. Menard

Alexis Menard knocked this book out of the park. I loved it. House of Bane and Blood had many of my favorite tropes—enemies to lovers, and magic in a real-world setting. “Two households, both alike in dignity” (thank you, Mr. Shakespeare).

Set in the age of steam, Camilla is the heiress of her family’s company, but the company has amassed substantial debt. Her brothers decide to set up an arranged marriage for her that will bolster their coffers and allow them to settle their debts.

What none of them were counting on was a move by their long-time enemy to insert himself into their situation and claim their sister for his own.

This book is delightfully dark and steamy. Nico and Camilla are deliciously wicked to one another as they unravel each other’s secret as their slow-burn relationship intensifies.

Menard does an excellent job world building in this story. Lynchaven has a rich history and reminds me a little of Leigh Bardugo’s Grishaverse, so if you enjoyed those books, I think you should give House of Bane and Blood a chance. 

I will warn you… the characters Menard has crafted jump off the page and will have you deeply invested in this story so go ahead and prepare to buy the second book as well, or you will end up like me having to wait for it to arrive, wondering what’s next in this brilliant series.