reviews are growth

Below is a review done by a Reedsy reader. Is it a good review? Yes. Does it offer constructive criticism? Also, yes. These are the kind of reviews I truly appreciate. It offers me insight into what the reader enjoyed about the book and what aspects could be improved on. This was a new animal for me, writing this book. The murder investigation, the dating app, stalker male character. So I expected to see some sort of issues, and now I know where I can make changes for the next book. 

All of that said, here is the full review for you all to read, and THANK YOU to the reviewer, Satabdi Mukherjee. To see more of her reviews on Reedsy, CLICK HERE. 

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Alainna MacPherson’s A Shield of Blood & Honor is the first entry in her Vlathe City Series, a dark‑edged urban fantasy novel that blends mystery, romance, and supernatural intrigue.

The story follows Ros, a woman striving to build a life without compromising her moral compass or revealing the secrets she carries—secrets that, as the book frequently reminds readers, “aren’t just mine to keep.”

When a mass murder suddenly pushes her into the spotlight she has tried to avoid, Ros becomes entangled in a dangerous web of investigations, personal history, and reluctant alliances.

The book’s premise is immediately compelling: Ros is forced to rely on a stranger to help keep her past hidden even as other “unfortunate events” unfold. Her best friend also signs her up for a dating app, injecting an unexpected dose of humor and chaos into an otherwise tense plotline.

As Ros juggles nightly dates, an intense investigator on her tail, and the hunt for a killer, the novel develops a layered narrative that oscillates between action, supernatural politics, and interpersonal drama.

"However, the novel is not without its weaknesses. "

One of the strengths of the novel is its world‑building, which is original, engaging, and full of potential. The highlights of the book are its action‑packed pacing, accessible prose, and compelling supernatural elements, making it entertaining and unpredictable.

The presence of dragons, magical dynamics, and morally gray characters adds texture to the setting, making Vlathe City feel like a gritty, enchanted urban sprawl where danger is constant and loyalties are questionable.

However, the novel is not without its weaknesses. There are issues with continuity and pacing, particularly in the opening chapters. These early chapters occasionally cause readers to pause in confusion rather than stay immersed in the story.

Also, the male lead’s overly controlling behavior early in the book is putting off—selecting Ros's food and drink, tracking her through hacking, and falling into “insta‑love” within minutes. While this behavior tapers off, it remains a divisive aspect of character development that may not appeal to all readers.

"The book balances humor and tension, and its supernatural elements add flair without overwhelming the human story at its core."

Despite these flaws, A Shield of Blood & Honor offers an entertaining, fast‑paced urban fantasy experience. Ros is a relatable protagonist forced to confront uncomfortable truths while navigating danger, romance, and self‑preservation.

The book balances humor and tension, and its supernatural elements add flair without overwhelming the human story at its core.

Overall, MacPherson’s novel will likely appeal to fans of character‑driven urban fantasy with romantic subplots and high‑stakes mystery. While some structural refinements could strengthen the narrative, the book’s imaginative world‑building and emotional tension lay a promising foundation for future installments in the Vlathe City Series.

For readers seeking a fresh urban fantasy with grit, secrets, and a touch of chaos, this debut is worth exploring.
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