The Red Lily is the second installment in the "Vampire Blood" series and this is a continuation of the world building that we received within book one. I became so intrigued by the first book, although I did feel like book one was super rushed, whereas with "The Red Lily" it actually felt like a much more smoother pace in comparison. I am not sure if it was just due to the fact that this is the companion novel moving forward with the series, whereas there was quite a bit happening in the first book and it could be overwhelming but I definitely enjoyed this one so much more.

The characters that we are introduced to within "The Red Lily" are so relatable and solid. I guarantee that these characters will charm you so easily. The hero is what I would term an alphamellow or alpha cinnamon roll. I love how committed he is to the heroine and to his cause. But also very protective and a badass when he is fighting as well. He is so encouraging of the heroine and just uplifts her in the best of ways while also instilling his need to see her protected. There is something so valuable in how Juliette Cross writes her characters, they come off the pages as being compelling in ways that makes you want to know them on a deeper level.

The plot of the story was fascinating. I was so intrigued by the world building and how much more we get in this installment. You also will be on the edge of your seat with this story, especially in the later half. Whew, some of these scenes are wild and intense. So fair warning, that there is some crazy moments, and if you want to know the crazy moment with the heroine (just leave a comment and I will tell you, as I don't want to spoil it for you for those who haven't had a chance to pick this one up yet. I am honestly so excited to see what retelling will we get next.

As far as the retelling themes in this one, I absolutely adored the Red Riding Hood connections to the retelling. This is a retelling that just isn't done very often and I just adored it so much. What we get with this one is seeing the way in which the hero has a aura of mystery and broodiness to his character. but we also get the relationship with the heroine and her wolves and she does have a grandmother. So lots of fun unique hints that relate directly with the fairytale.

Overall I was fascinated with The Red Lily and I can't wait to see what the next installment will bring to the series! ( )

3.5 stars
For the first 2/3 of the book almost nothing happens. I really struggled to connect to the story, found myself getting distracted and putting it down constantly and having to force myself to go back to it. This confused me as I really like this heroine and hero, their romance and all we learned for the macro plot. The last 1/3 had a lot packed into it: pretty much all the action and all the furtherance of the series plot. As a warning - it is pretty violent, but it didn't feel over the top or put in for shock value. I appreciate that Cross hasn't just said the villains are evil, she shows us what they are doing that is driving the motivations of our heros and heroines. Even though I struggled to continue through the book, I am glad I did and will continue with the series. ( )

Nikolai and Sienna have redefined the concepts of soulmates and whirlwind romances. With barely any interaction they still haunt each other's dreams.The Queen's plans for The Black Lily and their supporters may be nefarious and dangerous, but Nikolai is the most dangerous creature that Sienna has ever been around because he has absolute power over her heart and the same goes for Nikolai. No one else will ever do because Nikolai will never be the same without Sienna. Oooh and that awesome twist towards the end. Man, I can't wait to see what these two are going to get up to in future books.

I received an Advanced Reader's Copy from the Publisher via NetGalley for voluntary review consideration. ( )

“Be true to who you are and who you are meant to be.”

The Red Lily is the second installment in Juliette Cross, Tales of the Black Lily.

I had goosebumps while reading and am in awe. The first book was a creative marvel and then comes The Red Lily. Sienna and Nikolai will having you falling in love all over again.

I loved both Sienna and Nikolai. These two have thought of nothing but each other, though they don’t know it, not until they come together for the cause of The Black Lily. The chemistry is strong and they can’t fight their feelings for long even with danger around every turn.

The Red Lily builds you up, pulls you in and then, hits you with heart stopping events. Just when you think you have your emotions under control and nothing more can surprise you, BAM the author hits you again. This book will not let you put it down. The love story is beautiful, the authors storytelling is skillful, the pictures described where vivid, and the emotions just come off the pages.

I was taken on an action-packed, emotional journey, with some gut wrenching moments that had me in tears, along with some sweet and heartfelt moments, and several surprises along the way… Add it all up and you have a mind-blowing, unforgettable, and extraordinary romantic adventure.

Don’t wait to pick up this amazing series. Book one was the retelling of Cinderella and this one was the retelling of Red Riding Hood. I can’t wait to see what comes next.

Rated: 5 Stars

*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy provided by Entangled Publishing, LLC via NetGalley with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.


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Juliette Cross’ THE RED LILY is an excellent follow-up to the first book in the Vampire Blood series, THE BLACK LILY. Lieutenant Nikolai is now a known traitor to the vampire crown, supporting the Black Lily. He sets out on a dangerous task with the red-hooded Sienna to gain followers for the cause. This fairy tale PNR is suitable for adult audiences.

I love how this series is a different take on traditional fairy tales. The plot is clever and exciting. Arabelle and Prince Marius are building an army to fight against the vampire monarchy. Sienna leaves her beloved wolves and woods behind her as she helps Nikolai recruit supporters. There is romance, danger, conspiracy, and adventure at every turn. I love the wolves and their part in the story. We learn the history behind the wolves and vampires.

The characters are well-developed and complex. I like Sienna. We discover some interesting things about her and her past. Nikolai is brave, honorable, and just. They both grow throughout the story. They have fantastic chemistry.

THE RED LILY was skillfully-written. The novel was thrilling from beginning to end. I like how the story ended, and I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book. ( )