Of Blood & Light

I read the ebook version a little over a year ago and had some issues at the time. Luckily, many were solved by having access to an audiobook! I did not previously have the benefit of a pronunciation guide, so having someone say names, phrases, etc. out loud kept them from being such a distraction to the flow of the story. It is unabridged, so you get everything from the print version. There are two narrators, which is definitely my preference, and also some sound effects. It can also be sped up quite a bit without issue. Like my first read, I enjoyed the premise, but there was a lot going on, and that made it difficult to follow at times.

Thanks to Yaypub and NetGalley for an ALC of this audiobook for an honest review.

This audiobook was AMAZING!!
Dual narration done in the BEST way possible
The most outstanding part to me was the sound effects? And music ??? Which was done at the begging of almost every chapter and helped set the scene amazingly well. The fact that muffled voices/voices behind doors or distant actually sounded it????
The story itself was so amazing. So different to ANY Arthurian re-telling l've ever read. The characters and their development over the course of the book was so well done.
ALSO. PET CAPYBARA??????
The ONLY negative thing I have to say about this book is that I felt like it was rushed? Like I feel like so so much happened in this book and I would have loved for it to be split over at least three books to be able to immerse in the story more.
But this was an absolutely wonderful story and I'm so grateful to netgalley and the publishers for allowing me to get an arc audio. This is my second favourite audiobook ever

*of Blood and Light* takes readers on an imaginative journey across universes, blending Victorian elements, Arthurian legend, and magic. The story centers on River Greer, who, after the loss of her sister, is abducted and thrust into the world of Thule—a richly crafted realm where magic and mystery reign. Thule’s very existence is threatened by a blight, and River’s arrival plays a key role in its salvation. Alongside Hadrian Landevale, a knight battling his own demons, she embarks on a journey that intertwines fate and secrets.

One of the novel’s standout elements is its world-building. Monk creates a vivid, original setting, complete with its own language and a unique magic system. These details bring Thule to life and give the book a depth that fantasy lovers will appreciate. The characters are likeable, though the romance between River and Hadrian can feel a bit forced at times. Despite this, their bond evolves as the story progresses, adding tension to the plot.

The narration by Sarah Kisko and Brennen Blotner elevates the story, with exquisite delivery that captures the essence of the characters. Their narration is particularly immersive—you can sometimes hear the pages turning as they reads, which adds an extra layer of intimacy to the audiobook experience.

Overall, *The Book of Blood and Light* offers an inventive plot, engaging characters, and exceptional world-building. Though the romance could have been more organic, the magic and adventure make this a highly enjoyable read for fantasy fans.

*I received a copy of the audiobook from Netgalley*

I am so glad I asked for the ARC of this audiobook because it was so good! It was honestly a production with sound effects and music infused. Great narrator voices as well. There was a time or two where the additional sounds didn't seem to quite fit but overall it felt like an immersive audio.

I found this story so refreshing! I loved every second of it and I could not finish it fast enough. Give me three more! All the characters were likable, especially our 2 mains. Was there misogyny? Yes, but it aligned with the setting. There's a little bit of spice and it was done really tastefully (in my opinion).

I also felt like there was plenty of book left after the climax. I hate when a story hits its peak and 2 chapters later it's over and super rushed.

I honestly think this may be my favorite book of the year and this is book 150 for me. Seriously listen to the audio!

Arc review (audio book)

I really enjoyed this more then I thought.
It’s fantasy/scifi/urban

Tropes:
Slow burn
Found family
Lost family
Mystical animals
World jumping
Unique magic system (science)

The narrators done great they were picked so well.
I loved that this book was just it a stand alone and it had the perfect beginning middle and end. It was all compacted so well into 1 book.

This had everything a fantasy book needed and was such a refreshing listen.

Well done C Monk

Thank you netgalley, yaypub and CMonk for the arc

I honestly loved it!!!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley for this ALC in return for my honest review. The start of this book is fantastic as you are tossed into the chaos of the main character, River, being kidnapped. This had me invested in the story very early on and I only wish that momentum would have continued. While the world building that followed was important, it felt like it dragged on a bit which left me a little bit bored.

I did enjoy all the ties to the knights of the round table but with modern flares thrown in. I felt like the world Monk created had a very Steampunk vibe and I was all here for that.

As far as the audio recording, I loved Sarah Kisko’s portrayal of River. Her voice matched exactly what I had in my head for that character. Unfortunately, Brennen Blotner’s voice just didn’t fit Hadrian for me. I did enjoy his portrayal of the other male characters though.

Overall, I did enjoy this story. I feel it read more YA than I was expecting but it was still a fun ride.

I have read this book already and enjoyed it very much, but I love listening to the audiobooks afterwards to see how someone else would tell the story and pronounce the names. I enjoyed this book the first time around, but I'm enjoying the audiobook way more because of the narrators and the background noises that add to the story to make it more realistic.

This is one of the best audiobooks I have ever listened to! The cinematic nature of the audio was incredible, and the background sounds, inflection, and tone of the narrator's voice were great! I love it when you have a male and female narrator to read the different parts.
Story-wise, I loved that too. Imagine being kidnapped and landing on another planet with unicorns, capybaras, and magic because that is what happens to River. River soon discovers that her lost mother was from this mysterious planet and that her long-lost twin may be here too. With hints of Arthurian legend, romance, and adventure, I couldn't wait to find out what would happen next. I 10/10 recommend this book! The duck scene in the epilogue had me rolling on the floor laughing, and that is all I will say.

Of Blood and Light is absolutely Brilliant. A fast paced action packed tale of magical adventure.

Absolutely steller world building in this book with a fantastic backstory that is well laid out for the reader. Super characters you will absolutely fall in love with.

I loved this book… it was totally immersive you will be consumed into this wonderful world through this fantastical journey throughout this book.

A flawed main character, but one full of love. This is a love story full of hardships and unlikely pairs that I could not put down. I did like the book and the trials they had to go through in this magical world of Thule. The main character does not know how to fight, but she does have a brain on her and she does not need to. With an inquisitive mind that has her constantly asking questions of this world she's been thrust in to, she can unravel the mystery behind her mother and sister's disappearance and the blight that is ravaging the world of Thule.

The world of Thule takes one back to a different time. A time where, even the main character thinks, is outdated, misogynistic, and full of magic and wonder. While I wish we would have used River's brain more in the story, she is more outspoken than her Thulian counterparts, and she assists in changing the world of Thule for the better in the end, if not marginally.

River starts out being a reserved sister who is going to school for cellular biology. She is by no means dumb. When thrust into the world of Thule, she quickly shucks off the expectations of women, kind of. Again, here is another point in which I wish that she wasn't so keen to keep quiet, play the part of her docile sister, and perpetuate the stereotypes of oppression that the world of Thule promotes. While she is outspoken, it is only to a select few and at other times, she puts herself into a box that is rather uncomfortable for her to make others happy. I would have even been okay with the idea of her flaunting pants throughout the book instead of just at the end when it was time for her to go back to Earth.

However, you have to pick your battles and that was something that River was familiar with. In the end, she picked the correct battles because not only was she able to save her sister, but she was able to change the Knights of the Round table and move them into, while not a modern era, a more progressive time than they had previously been in.

In the end, when I had time to listen to the book, I found it difficult to put down. While I might not agree with all of River's decisions, I love a flawed character as they are more human in the end and easier to relate to. I like the way it was written and the flow of the book. I especially love the way the story was narrated, mostly the duet narration. I will definitely be looking up more of C. Monk's books in the future to see what else she has in store.

Loved this, unique concepts, well written and magic system. No heavy info dumping. Audiobook has dual voices. If you loved Jupiter ascending you'll enjoy this.

(I listened to this on Audio so apologies if I butcher the names.)

I’ve never read a story quite like this. It is Arthurian in nature, but with a Sci-Fi element sort of. The story does not feature Arthur or Merlin, though they did previously live in the world of Thule.

Our FMC is a young woman named River who is kidnapped and taken to Thule. She learns she was mistaken for Isolde, the runaway wife of a man named Lord Hadrian. All River wants is to return to Earth to her sister Sage, who is deathly ill. She soon finds out that Thule is facing some problems of their own. When Sage meets Hadrian, pieces start to fall into place for both of them. The people of Thule contain a light in their blood called ichor, and there is a blight on the land causing it to vanish.

I give kudos to the author for featuring some of a made-up Thule language, and for making the MMC Hadrian a gentleman, and not a growling, controlling Alpha. A breath of fresh air, to be sure.

I listened to the audiobook. The voices were great! This story is very well written. The characters were well written. It captures you and makes you want to finish.

I gave Book of Blood and Light five stars! The world-building was chef’s kiss—the depth and detail completely pulled me in. I was really impressed by how well the backstory was woven into the narrative. And the capybara pet? Such a fun, random touch that added great comic relief.

I listened to the audiobook, and the sound effects were a fantastic addition that really made the world come alive for me. Hadrian and River’s romance felt authentic, especially with their shared loyalty and willingness to do anything for their people. While the romance was well-developed, I wouldn't have minded a little more spice between them. Overall, it was an excellent, well-rounded story with humor and heart!

This was a lot! A lot of good things! Fascinating and action-packed fantasy. Intriging world building and well written story performed by great narrators. It fits well for the Autumn books season.
The maincharcters was interesting and the plot was solid - and it takes you to a planet far far away...

Post on IG (one_fairy_tale_at_the_time) the 26.nov 2024

Original review posted on my blog: https://lnholmeswriter.wordpress.com/?p=117177&preview=true&_thumbnail_id=117181

Rating: 4.5 stars

You ever pick up a book that starts off with an interesting, if familiar, premise, and then something completely unexpected pops up out of nowhere, leaving you squinting at the page like you’re trying to examine the quality of a jewel through the glass of a dirty fish bowl? Now imagine that happening multiple times in one book, your reader mind bombarded with aliens, magic, nobility, dinosaurs, gods, romance, Arthurian legend, Victorian fashion—heck even capybaras. You’re going to think to yourself, multiple times as you return to the book over and over, What did I just read?

Well, those feelings of bemusement and curiosity surfaced within me as I read Camilla Monk’s OF BLOOD & LIGHT, and I have to say that it *checks notes*…

…completely worked for me.

How, you ask?

Well first, let me tell you that OF BLOOD & LIGHT is about a young woman named River, who also happens to be a caregiver for her sister Sage. When the book opens, River is riding in the back of an ambulance, and Sage, who is the patient being transported, is suffering from failing lungs. When they get to the hospital, Sage is taken to a room for treatment while River checks in. A doctor approaches River, telling her he will now take her to see Sage. When River follows him, the “doctor” kidnaps her and forces her into a portal that leads to an entirely new planet (Thule).

Wait, what did you just read?

But wait, there’s more. On Thule, things get wild fast. Not only is this a planet with a people stuck in the Victorian era, but they are also Arthur’s people, as in KING ARTHUR’S people. Oh and there’s magic. But, it’s not really magic. It’s more like energy and life force contained within the blood of the people and the living things of Thule. But there’s also lightning and fire and shape-shifters and— and—it’s magic. Let’s be real. I don’t care what the Duke of Caid says.

Oh yeah, the Duke. He’s the love interest. And that gets very complicated, very fast for River. No spoilers, but suffice it to say that River’s family and the Duke of Caid are intertwined in complicated ways, and it’s not just River’s growing fondness for the Duke that makes her want to explore the secrets kept on Thule. I wasn’t super interested in the romantic scenes, honestly, but that wasn’t because the scenes weren’t well-crafted. Romance just isn’t normally my cup of tea, and those scenes would most likely satisfy readers who are interested in the romance aspects of a book.

Anyway, exploring Thule was probably my favorite part. Monk has a gift for description, and I found myself listening to lines in the audiobook with a sense of lingering awe. It almost made me feel like a kid again, getting so wrapped up in the story. There is a scene where water acts in an unexpected way and dinosaurs are involved… I know, I know: What did you just read? It sounds weird, but it was actually really cool. I’m going to think about that part of the book for a long time.

Despite all the wacky, there is definitely violence, misogyny, and other darkness within this story, but I think Monk did a great job of balancing that negative material with humor. River is basically an alien on Thule and her ignorance of Thule’s language, style, and customs makes for some hilarious situations and friction between characters. And let’s not forget the capybaras. Their cute mayhem had me grinning like an idiot.

Goofy capybaras aside, River is ultimately what sold me on this book. Her love for her sisters motivates her. Even as she falls in love, she keeps her head as she fights to return to earth and to Sage. Love coupled with responsibility is a consistent motif throughout this book, and I think Monk does a great job of explaining how complicated all of that can truly be.

So, how could a book about so many science fiction, fantasy, and romance topics/tropes, all blended together, possibly work? I don’t have a good answer for that, but Monk still managed to pull it off. This book is zany, but it’s also hilarious, smart, lush, and—at times—even deep. I cared about River and her sisters, and I was very interested in the world of Thule. If you want a book that will make you think, make you laugh, and make you enjoy storytelling again, consider giving OF BLOOD & LIGHT a try.

Disclaimer: I received a free, audiobook copy of OF BLOOD & LIGHT in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to Camilla Monk and NetGalley for the opportunity.

I’m not normally a fan of Aurthurian set books. But wanting an audiobook I thought I would give this a chance. I’m really glad I did. This uses the basics of Aurthurian mythology, and takes it in a very unique Victoriana meets modern world way. The themes are familiar fantasy but the whole as I say is unique. Also very entertaining, lots of humour, interesting characters, a little adult romance, a father in law and lots more, including the antics of a capybara with a wilful streak. This can be enjoyed as a standalone, but is also book one in a series. Thank you to Yaypub and NetGalley for the audio ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.

Monk’s Welcome to Thule transports readers to an enchanting blend of Arthurian legend and Victorian mystery, with a dash of capybara charm for good measure. Following River Greer’s abrupt journey to the fantastical world of Thule, readers are drawn into a world where every revelation feels essential and where her evolving dynamic with Hadrian—equal parts tension and warmth—adds richness to the story.

However, while the journey is captivating, the book's last quarter loses some of its steam. The pacing drags slightly toward the end, and the epilogue, unfortunately, felt nonsensical (why was there a duck added here?!) and could have been skipped without loss. Still, I’m invested in these characters and this world enough to return for book two in the Thule cycle. For those worried about a cliffhanger, don’t stress—book one ends in a place where you can relax while waiting for the next installment.

A strong start to what promises to be an intriguing series, perfect for fans of richly layered fantasy.

THANK YOU to NetGalley & The Publisher for allowing me a free copy in exchange for an honest review!

A solid 4.5 stars, rounded down! I enjoyed this book quite a bit. It felt like yet another Romantasy that "did it better than ACOTAR" (using this because it's the biggest one on the market rn), but I can only compare book 1 to book 1 considering this series is just taking off (though this is definitely better in terms of writing style, which probably plays into it the most for me as this is nearly CRINGE FREE lol).

I think the reason I want to round down instead of up, is something with the chemistry of the characters, and the somewhat languid twists in the book. This could be just my perception, but generally the twists hit less - with a "thud" - than I've experienced in other books. Thats not to say they weren't good, because they were, and there are parts I ADORE. But overall, for book 1's build and resolution, I left feeling satiated, not completely mind blown.

Absolutely hat off to this author for making up her own language in here. I mean, it felt believable, complicated, and she 100% has a running dictionary of things. Got to the point I personally was recognizing words in full sentences which was like, a great experience as a reader. I also appreciated her acknowledgements in the back of the book with full disclosure on how she created it.

Something else I appreciated - The King Arthur lore drop was 🔥. What an interesting take on the story, and the changes made to it fit so perfectly within this world, I like this version of it a lot better lol.

As for the chemistry with the characters -- The "love" aspects between certain characters didn't quite feel believable. There either wasn't enough build up/experiences, or not enough time with the characters spent alone together to fully feel justified? Though everything between their interactions was well written, including the spice🌶️, and I especially liked the descriptions of their bond. It felt a little "mate" like without falling into the new Romantasy trope of "mates". I am hoping in book 2 that doesn't become a thing because I'll be disappointed lol. Frankly, it ends up feeling a lot nicer knowing characters aren't "fated" for each other, and simply share a genuine connection.

All that being said, 4.5 stars !! (Come on - let me rate .5 stars already!)

Refreshingly surprised with this (kind-of) dual timeline, otherworldly, royalty…not royalty…novel that highlights: romance, family saga, otherworldly creatures, fight til the death massacres… and…so much more!!

I’m not really sure what I was expecting with this new to me author, but…it was terrific! And, it sounds like there will be more coming in this series…so…yay!!

River is living in current day Canada with her Dad and her little sister…who is very ill. When she is rushed to the hospital, River follows, but gets caught up with meeting one of the docs…
Next thing she knows…she’s not in Kansas anymore! 🫣. (Ontario really…)

This. Is. The. Opening!!!!! 😮

As she’s trying to get her bearings and figure out what the heck is going on…well, she starts to meet people from this other world…. One that exists in the late 1800’s. One that closed off any way of getting back to earth centuries ago… One that she thinks might have just what her sister needs…to live!

And…one that has a very unique language…and…capybaras! I’ve only seen them in a game I play online!! So, color me happy!!

Ok. That’s all I’m giving you. And trust me, this is just a drop in the bucket. The audiobook is 17+ hours!! 😮👀

4 1/2 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 for me, rounded up to 5!

#OfBloodAndLight (The Thule Cycle, #1) by #CamillaMonk and narrated nicely by #SarahKisco and #BrennenBlotner.

Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #Yaypub for an ARC of the audiobook which is due to be released on 10/31/24…so, very soon! Look for it then!


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This is a first for me by this author and it definitely won't be the last! I loved the whole deal with the mystery, sci-fi, and the splash of romance! Beginning with River she is in the back of the ambulance with her sister Sage as they are rushing to the hospital because Sage is having difficulty breathing. While waiting in the waiting room River's dad shows up and with the hospital's policies only one visitor per patient River is left waiting in the waiting room. However, soon someone she thought was a doctor or a nurse comes in and directs her to follow them to Sage and she trusts them and goes. Only to find out they are kidnapping her and taking her far far away to a place called Thule.
Once she is in Thule she is taken to the home of her "husband" who is her twin sister's husband. They work together to try to solve the mystery of how and why she is Thule and then how they can beat an unknown disease that is overtaking the land and trying to play at politics because they think she is her sister and traveled to the earth and abandoned her husband. Hence, they wish to charge her with those crimes. I loved all the mythology I also loved all the character development and everything in between! This is not a book you can pay attention to half-heartedly this book needs your full attention to follow along and see what is going on and what is next. There are parts in this book that will have you laughing such as the attacking duck, parts that will pull at your heartstrings, and then parts that will enrage you and make you want to get justice for River and her sisters.
I listened to the audiobook and it was an experience all its own, I loved how it had different voices and the voices fit the characters and everything in between!
Thank you Netgalley and Yaypub for the opportunity to listen and review this one!

This book was really good on many levels. It had wonderful world building, great plot line, and a little romance in there as well. I loved how captivating it was in the very first paragraph - it kept me on the edge and I had to keep listening. I did find it initially hard to get an full understanding of all the Knights of the Table and how the politics played out - but I am not very familiar with Arthurian legend - so this would be easier for someone who had more of that background. I REALLY liked how it was narrated and the sound effects throughout the book. The narrators were great at different voices and it read more like a play than a book.

One of the best parts was the ending - I loved the epilogue and how it wrapped the story up well. There could still be another book coming in this series (though I've searched and can't find a release date) but I also feel like this can end right here and I would be happy with that!

My only issue with this book is that I wish it was more of a time traveling book than a world jumping - the fact that some of the characters are "aliens" is weird to me in a fantasy world and I felt that made it more difficult to get into that mind set at the beginning.

Well this book took me by surprise! Somehow merging intergalactic travel with Arthurian lore to create an epic and strange world! River Greer got her chronically ill sister to the hospital after a particularly bad spell. Sage is taken back and their father goes back to sit with her while River does paperwork. A strange doctor comes to take her to visit her sister, but actually ends up kidnapping her and taking her across a bridge to a literal different planet where she’s taken into custody by a hot, silver haired knight, who she is allegedly married to?! Turns out, River’s twin sister Flo who disappeared with her mom on a family trip to Muir Woods over a decade ago, had been ferried to this strange place and was made a duchess by marrying this mysterious knight, Hadrian, who sits at the round table. Yes, that round table.
She meets her uncle, her and Hadrian try to investigate and find out where Flo has gone, and how this mysterious blight is affecting the land and its ichor (their magic/life force), there is a dance, some water wolves, and a whole lot of chaos and sexual tension!
This book kept me engaged and curious, laughing and crying. I also think it can stand alone, tho it shows as part of a series. The audio performance was excellent as well!

I am so blown away by how much I loved this book! Such a different and refreshing take on romantasy. The use of Arthurian legend along with an MMC that isn't the overdone "morally grey brute" makes this story such a breath of fresh air. I LOVE the narrators, they really emphasized the emotion and attitude of the characters. I also really like the combination of an urban/modern world and a more vintage/dated world. I think Rivers reactions to discovering this new realm match how most of us would feel in that situation. The pacing was a tad slow at times, but the story was so enthralling. Will definitely be recommending this book (especially audio!) to others.

This book/ audiobook was a wild ride honestly. I loved it. Did it take me a little while to understand what was happening yes, but I couldn’t put it down. I found myself wanting more and NEEDING more as soon as I possibly could. It was fun, fresh and something different in the fantasy realm of things. Quote QUITE excited for the next story.

This was one hell of a slow burn fantasy Sci fi, but man, I ate it up! I really enjoyed it and can't wait to read more from this author.

I listened to the audiobook for this one, and the narrators did a fantastic job 👏
I always love a duet audiobook

𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘎𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘓𝘊!

“Follow River on her epic, and at times bewildering journey to a world shaped by legends and magic, where everything is possible . . . except going home.”

Of Blood and Light follows River Greer on an intergalactic journey. There’s mystery. There’s romance (low/mild spice). There’s family drama.

Mix Star Wars with a Hallmark Movies and Mysteries plot. Appropriate for YA.

Thank you to NetGalley and C. Monk for the ARC in return for the honest review.

A beautifully narrated audiobook which was a joy to follow, although sometimes a bit disorienting if you ask me. All in all it was an experience you'll want to listen to for yourself. The sound effects were helping build the story and atmosphere of the surroundings. 3.5/5 stars

Like nothing I've read before!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️.🫑(Lots of angst and 2 mild intimate scenes)
🧙🏻‍♂️ Arthurian legend with a unique magic system!
⚔️ Lots of action and adventure
🫂 Found family, sort of (avoiding spoilers 😉)

This was such a unique read and was packed with so much action and adventure! Our FMC River, a modern young woman living in Toronto, finds herself thrown into a world of Arthurian legends she never could have imagined called Thule! She forms alliances with some of the knights of the round table to prove her innocence for crimes she hasn't committed and desperately trying to get back to Toronto. Throughout this whirlwind of a completely new world (language, magic, capybaras, and all!) River discovers deeply guarded secrets about herself, the dwindling prosperity of Thule, and how they're connected. We have a swoon-worthy MMC, Sir Hadrian, who gives Maxantarius vibes from Daughter of No Worlds. There are some spectacular side characters who I hope we see again that offer many different avenues for further additions to book 1. Sorry if my review seems a bit vague but I'm trying to not spoil anything because there are sooo many unexpected plot twists 🤯 This book is so under hyped and I can't wait to get my fellow readers onto this wild ride!

✨ Thank you Netgalley for the audiobook version of OBAL, all views are honest and my own. The dual narrators were fantastic and they really captured the essence of River and Hadrian. The use of minimal sound effects was also very well done and added depth to the experience while listening ✨

Sage is very ill in hospital when her sister River is kidnapped and taken across the universe to Thule. Here she will encounter her missing sister’s husband Hadrian Lavendale of Caid. The adventure starts and there will be lots of excitement, fear, adventure and love. River and Hadrian are both in danger.

Excellent well written and well narrated novel (I listened to the audiobook). Great characters over two very different worlds. Can River save her sisters and the future of Thule? Book one of the series so much more to look forward to.

Thank you NetGalley and Yaypub for the ARC of this audiobook for my honest review

Really fascinating, well written and entertaining. The story was unique and I really enjoyed the world we got to explore within this book. I loved the relationship and the writing was incredible. I could see and feel everything. The audio book was also amazing the sound effects were really well done. My only issue with the book is my fault not the books but I struggled to wrap my head around all the politics and the explanations to what was going on, but I’m just dumb it’s not at all the books fault. I recommend.

I'll be publishing my review on Goodreads and StoryGraph 23rd November and on Tik tok most likely will add to a monthly wrap up post with review the beginning of December.

This book has it all. Welcome to Thule! Action, adventure, romance, humor await you. The narrators for the audio book are amazing. The world building is equally as amazing, and I can’t wait for another. It really was a breath of fresh air as far as fantasy Arthurian type stories go.

What's not to love about a world of Arthurian legend, romance, capybaras, and magic (yes, Hadrian. Magic)? Also can we take a moment for a new language being developed for this book??

Camilla Monk creates captivating characters in this novel. River Green is a phenomenal protagonist. She is brave when she has to be yet flawed and understandably in need of care after spending so long caring for everyone else. Hadrian's stoic and intense mask hides his true love for the land and his people. Their attraction is a little jarring at first given (view spoiler), but it makes sense given their experience. Even the minor characters are beautifully developed and left me wanting to know more!

The magic system is intriguing without being too complex, and I loved diving into a new twist on old legends. This was my first foray into Arthurian legend and I am sold! The book was just twisty and turny enough to keep me guessing, but I wished the major faceoff had drawn out just a little more. I enjoyed the relationships built throughout, but I wanted a little more action and even more conflict (I'm a sucker for a brawl, what can I say). I want to know more about Lancelot and ichor and everything Thulish. I loved getting to know more about the knights and customs, and I especially enjoyed getting to learn about the Children of Mordred. I wouldn't mind a spinoff featuring them!

It took me a little time to get into the female narration of this book, but I really loved the male voice. By the end, I thought they were the perfect complements to one another. I also really enjoyed the audio production and the variety of sound effects. It really added to the feel of the story.

I hope this isn't the end of the Thule cycle! I want more. More Juvenal. More Sfjona.

*I was provided an arc of this audiobook via Netgalley in exchange for my review. *

I legitimately binged Of Blood & Light like no other book this year. I want to scream my praises of this book from the rooftop so that all those stuck reading mediocre social media touted books can have a taste of an actual glorious read.

It is fantastically written while expertly combining all the romantasy and spice (not too much and without the cringe), with the epic world building and lore from high fantasy and a dash of urban fantasy. Camilla Monk has become an auto-read author for me after this book. I’m so impressed and I can’t say enough how her writing is top notch and a mile above many in this genre.

Her characters are multidimensional and you make instant connections and investments in the story. Their depth of personality, feelings and character development are spot on and relatable. I found myself lost in the story and invested in their feelings, thoughts and actions.

I LOVED the subtle science and geekery added in, as well as the linguistic charms of the fictional language (based on actual languages!), the humor, historical fiction flare and CAPYBARAS! The Arthurian Victorian magic of the world C. Monk has created just did it for me and I’m here for the sequel!

I’m still shocked that after reading hundreds of romantasies and fantasy books since this books release, that I didn’t know about it until now. It blows all the overhyped booktok and bookstagram romantasies out of the water.

Please read if you value writing at its finest. This is all the best of fantasy first romance with a fully filled out immersive story. I literally have nothing negative to say about it other than I need book two in my hands asap!

I also want to add that I listened to the audiobook as well and it is one of the best executions I’ve listened to. Both narrators were excellent and the subtle sound effects made the story come alive. It was a thoroughly enjoyable listen!

Now I just need for this book to go viral… and maybe a special edition or two for my shelves!

***Huge thank you to NetGalley for the audio ARC, this has been the best ARC read ever!***

I listened to this via audiobook, provided by netgalley.

I really enjoyed this book. It was rich with Arthurian lore, space travel, and high fantasy themes that I found refreshing. The worldbuilding and magic system were fascinating especially when tied into the Arthurian legends as we know them on earth.

The writing style was a combination of lyrical and modern that I loved, and the interspersed humor was a great touch that really helped to pull me through the occasional slow bit.

I love the narrators, Sarah and Brennan. This book is phenomenal as even with Sarah narrating, Brennan voices the male characters. There are even some bonus sound effects at the beginning of some chapters!

The storyline is pretty good. I will admit that the beginning hooks you in with a mystery, but it slowed down right away for me and took me a couple of days to get through the first 10 chapters or so. After that, I could barely stop listening and finished this within two days.

This new series has got me pining for the second to come out! We start in the modern world and are transported into a fantasy world of Arthurian lore and magic. I can't wait for the next one!!

Thank you to NetGalley for this audiobook ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This book was a 3.75/5 for me!
The book felt kind of like a modern Bridgeton story. The FMC is send to another planet where they live in 1800s. There is some misogyny in this book, while fitting in the place and time, I personally had hoped that the FMC would have fought back a little. Overall it's a good book! I enjoyed it. Some minor dislikes for me personally were the modern slang used. I felt like the author was trying to connect to the youth too much with using slang, I had to google some references because I did not get them. I also think the timespan of this book was wayy to short, that this took place in one! week is baffling to me. The characters were interesting and the narrators were incredible. I liked the world building and I am curious to see how the story continues in the next book!
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an ALC!

This is the first auto book that I have listened to that has sound effect and music playing in the background as it is being read. It was a bit destructing at the beginning of every chapter however it did as to the mental picture of what the author was describing on what was happening.

Aside from that it was a mystery, enemy to lovers romance.

River is taken from her world because she is set up to take the fall of her sisters crimes in a different world. Thule. But the one thing that the people setting her up didn’t account for was Hadrian. Rivers sisters husband. Hadrian found something very off about who he thought was his wife. Only to find out she wasn’t who he thought she was.

Together River and Hadrian figure out what is going on in an adventure to save Thule from certain turmoil.

Along the way River found out her sisters secrets and the reason why Flow and her mother disappeared.

Not going to lie, I didn’t really know what to expect for this book, but I was pleasantly surprised! Who can mix ‘aliens’ with Arthurian legends to modern-day AND bodice-ripping vibes? Camilla Monk. That’s who! lol… She somehow made it all WORK and did it well at that. Probably one of my most memorable reads this year. The audiobook version was soooo good. The narrators fully embraced their characters and made the story fun and engaging. The story was refreshing, full of depth, and I’m swooning over Hadrian and even more over River. You’ll stop a few times and think, ‘what the… am I reading?’ but you’ll follow. Thule and capybaras and unicorns and the Knights of the Round Table… ALL of it; even this mystical language. I don’t know exactly what he’s saying but I UNDERSTAND. ;) Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to more from C. Monk.

Of Blood and Light" by C. Monk is a fresh and captivating fantasy that blends modern-day elements with Victorian charm.

The blending of modern-day humor with a Victorian setting brought a lot of laughs, particularly as River tried to navigate the formalities of Thule. It was a fun and unexpected contrast I didn’t know I needed!

While I usually gravitate toward pure fantasy worlds, the mix of contemporary and Victorian elements was a delightful change of pace. The intricate descriptions of Thule’s languages and landscapes painted such a vivid picture, it felt like I was there with River.

The plot twists kept me hooked, and though the spice level is minimal, the story itself was compelling enough to hold my attention. It had a graphic novel meets fantasy-dystopian vibe that felt unique and exciting.

If you’re looking for an engaging read with a mix of romance, fantasy, and fresh twists on familiar tropes, I’d definitely recommend giving Of Blood and Light a try!

The story follows River Greer, a modern teenager who is unexpectedly transported from Earth to Thule—a magical, mythic world steeped in love, intrigue, and danger. In Thule, she encounters Hadrian Landevale, a duke struggling with personal and political issues. His wife has mysteriously disappeared, and their world has an ominous blight, and River's arrival only adds to the chaos.

As River navigates this uncharted realm, she uncovers key truths about herself that might hold the power to save Thule—but no spoilers here!

Key Tropes:
* (My favorite) Enemies-to-Lovers: The fiery tension between River and Hadrian is undeniable.
* Forced Proximity
* Arthurian Legend
* Victorian Setting
* Parallel Universe
* (My other favorite) Magical Bloodline: This was my personal favorite! The concept of magic as a healing, connective force was refreshing and added an emotional layer to the story.

This was a fresh take on fantasy that had familiar tropes but new plots! The character dynamics definitely kept me intrigued!

It took me a little bit to really get into it, but I enjoyed Of Blood and Light. I listened to the audiobook, and I only had two issues with it…

1. It was a duet, and there were several points throughout where the female narrator had recorded what the male narrator was supposed to say, and either it was said twice, or they just didn’t fix it to replace his audio with hers.
2. The male narrator was kinda mid. He did good as far as different accents for the fmc’s dad vs “his grace”, but he didn’t really change anything up for the other men of Thule, and sometimes I didn’t realize “his grace” wasn’t the one talking.

There were a lot of names that were extremely similar, and sometimes I would get lost on what exactly was happening with who. Not sure if that would have been easier to distinguish if I had read it vs listened to it.

I will say that I probably would have rioted if River and Hadrian had not gotten together in the end. I did absolutely love their story together.

My only other real issue was that it felt like the fight against the big bad was anticlimactic and rushed. I feel like it could have been drawn out more and been much more difficult for the main characters to get rid of. That specific part was a bit of a flop.

All-in-all, though… I did enjoy the book as a whole and would recommend it to others. :)

I want more!! Of Blood & Light by C. Monk was a truly engrossing book. It is just book #1 of The Thule Cycle - I'll be waiting (im)patiently!
River Greer is very protective of her sick little sister, Sage. One night, River rushes Sage to the hospital via ambulance, but River is abducted and is taken to an entirely new world. The worldbuilding, in fact, was stellar - ummm, capybaras? Sign me up!! It was also cool how this world shut off Earth decades ago, and the trinkets from Earth now capture a high cost. The MMC Hadrian was not awesome at first, but as he opened up and the reader learned why he is the way he is, I grew to love him.

I LOVE River as a FMC. She is a baddie, and her sense of humor is so fun. Adventure, great dynamic between the main characters and a story line unlike any I had read before - a total win.

Sarah Kisko and Brennen Blotner did a wonderful job bringing life to the narration - great pitch and speed.

I loved this book! The characters I fell in love especially with River she was such a smart independent woman. I was rooting for her and Hadrian to get together in the end. The adventure and action in this made me where I could not put this down. I finished it in 3 days which is a new for me to finish that fast. I can’t wait for more in this series to come out.

Thank you to NetGalley & Yaypub for letting me listen to the ALC - I devoured the last 50% of this book, nothing could make me put it down!

Our FMC River is taken from her sisters bedside in the hospital, and transported to a parallel universe called Thule - which happens to be full of Arthurian lore! There she meets "his grace" Hadrian, and must pretend to be his wife to make it through this mysterious new world (and you just KNOWWWW that forced proximity is good!!!).

The world building was so vivid & intriguing (did somebody say pet capybaras?), and I loved the modern humour in a Victorian-esque setting! Some of it was a bit silly & goofy - but in a way that sort of reminds me of Zodiac Academy which is one of my favourite series!

I did listen to the audiobook, and I must say as a British person listening there are definitely some dodgy accents... But if you can look past them, it's definitely a good listen! There are a lot of people & places, so did get a little confusing at times, but I'm also not very clued up on Arthurian legends so maybe if you knew slightly more it wouldn't be as overwhelming!