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House of Blood and Roses #0.5

Crown of Blood and Duty

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The duty of any princess is to do what she's told, but when Agnes is assigned a new bodyguard, all of that goes out of the window. The last person Agnes ever expected to be employed as her sworn shield is the man she left behind when she was forced to become a vampire, but now he's not only in her life, but always there, reminding her of what they once shared. And what they can no longer have.

Hector never thought he'd see Agnes again, and now fate has brought them back together, he's not sure he's going to be able to let her go, even if he knows he should.

With the King determined to find a political match for Agnes, time is ticking and the two of them have to decide what's more important to them - love or duty.

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Crown Of Blood And Duty is a standalone connected to the House Of Blood And Roses series. It is a steamy vampire romantasy featuring a forbidden second chance m/f romance, vampires, and vampire royalty.

76 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 28, 2024

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About the author

Laura Greenwood

503 books1,493 followers
Laura is a USA Today Bestselling Author of paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and fantasy romance. When she's not writing, she drinks a lot of tea, tries to resist French macarons, and works towards a diploma in Egyptology. She lives in the UK, where most of her books are set. Laura specialises in quick reads, with healthy relationships and consent positive moments regardless of if she's writing light-hearted romance, mythology-heavy urban fantasy, or anything in between.

You can check out Laura's Website here:
www.authorlauragreenwood.co.uk

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
Profile Image for Lola.
1,744 reviews269 followers
August 2, 2024
I received a free copy from the author through Booksprout and voluntarily reviewed it.

I was excited to hear about this new series by one of my favorite authors and jumped on the chance to read this prequel. Crown of Blood and Duty is set before the first book in the series and tells the story of vampire princess Agnes who realizes her new sworn shield is the man she loved and never thought she would see again after she became a vampire. Now they are both vampires and Agnes has to marry someone else.

I liked seeing a bit about this world of vampire politics and the bit of world building involving dhampirs and how vampires are created. Agnes has to marry for political reasons, but she's still in love with Hector. I liked the second chance type of romance with how they fell in love 4 years ago and only now meet again when they're both vampires and he's assigned as her guard.

I liked reading about Agnes and Hector. It was clear how much they cared for each other and it was fun to see them rekindling their romance. I also liked the glimpses I got from how they first fell in love. It was sad how Agnes has to marry someone else and I was eager to see how they would find a way around this. The ending is well done and I liked the resolution. It also made me look forward to the first book in the series and more of this world.

To summarize: This was a great prequel to the series, I liked reading about Agnes and Hector and seeing them rekindling their romance after 4 years apart and thinking they would never see each other again. I was eager to see how they would find a way to be together as Agnes is supposed to marry for political reasons. I liked the ending and how things got resolved. It was a nice introduction to this world with vampires and politics among the houses and I look forward to the first book!
2,033 reviews5 followers
August 31, 2024
This is an interesting take on a vampire love story. Agness left the love of her life to become a vampire. She never thought she would see him again. Hector is back in her life as her shield. Their love is renewed but will duty get in the way again.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,600 reviews8 followers
August 31, 2024
Reviewed the wrong book. I will update when I finish this one.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Victoria Golby.
912 reviews8 followers
September 2, 2024
Her duty is to marry, his is to protect her until she does

This is a lovely start to a new series by Laura Greenwood; introducing us to a new realm of characters with vampires, court politics, love, dreams and a touch of humor.

Agnes is still getting used to living in the vampire king's court after discovering he was her dad four years ago at the last Golden Moon ball, when she was turned. When there are threats to the royal family she is assigned a sworn shield but didn't expect it to be the man she never thought she'd see again after she discovered she was a dhampir and became a vampire.

When Hector is assigned the duty of being the princess' personal guard he didn't realise she was the girl he'd loved before he'd been turned. But as a princess it is her duty to marry for political reasons and as a guard with no vampire family he knows he's only protecting her until she does. But after a scare one evening they acknowledge their feelings for each other have never gone away; but can they find a way to be together?

I really enjoyed the start of this new series and loved meeting Agnes' brothers who I am sure we'll see more of in the series, I also loved the hint that Agnes and Hector's story isn't over.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Goddess of Chaos.
2,664 reviews12 followers
August 24, 2024
“He's the one whose life is on the line, so he's the one who gets to choose.”

Agnes’ life was turned upside down four years ago, and now her father is turning it upside down again, but this time she’s a little bit older, and there’s a chance she might be able to come out of the turmoil happy… maybe… if she doesn’t stand alone.

Hector is a no one, always has been, but for once in his life that is putting him exactly where he wants to be… or maybe just a few steps away from where he wants to be… is that close enough?

This done n one story introduces a new Universe, and with the Vampires comes their culture and rituals. The majority of it is simple to understand and follow along with, there are one or two things that gradually unfold for the reader, but it is clear holds meaning for everyone in this Universe.

I enjoyed how this story established the Universe, and helped me get to know the main characters, Agnes’ brothers, and the key aspects of the world they are living in.
Profile Image for Diana Lindoff.
1,092 reviews9 followers
August 29, 2024
CROWN OF BLOOD AND DUTY is a standalone book related to the House Of Blood And Roses series by Laura Greenwood. Ms Greenwood always manages to bring the characters to life. This short story is a great introduction to House Of Blood And Roses setting up this world of  Vampires, their culture and rituals.

The last person Agnes ever expected to be employed as her sworn shield is the man she left behind when she was forced to become a vampire. When Agnes became a vampire she left the love of her life behind. Now he's her sworn shield man here in her new life. When Agnes left, Hector thought he'd never see her again. But now he's her Protector.

When her father starts planning a political marriage for her, Agnes and Hector need to decide what's more important to them - love or duty.  If they choose love and are caught together, Hector is the one that will pay the price for their love.

Agnes and Hector's story is a quick read  with an ending that leaves the potential for more in the future. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
870 reviews
September 13, 2024
Agnes has recently learned that she is a vampire. Now she lives in a castle with her vampire family. She is shocked to learn that her father is going to marry her off for political power. She is further shocked to learn that her new guard is her childhood sweetheart. Is there a way for her to be with the man she loves or will she have to marry the man of her father’s choosing?

This is a very short story so the characters don’t get a lot of growth. The author introduces readers to the world of vampires and the politics. I think the solution the author gave to Agnes’ dilemma was good. I was left wondering what would happen next for Agnes so I was glad that the author left it open for Agnes to be in future books so readers can learn her fate.

This is a simple, quiet story that takes place in a world with humans and vampires and the people live in castles. This is a second chance romance. I look forward to reading more of this series in the future to see where the author goes with this world.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Michelle.
1,038 reviews7 followers
August 24, 2024
A quick but satisfying read. Agnes is a vampire princess in a gilded cage reunited with her love from before her turning Hector. When her father is about to sell her off to the highest bidder she is desperate to find a way out and to keep the love that’s walked back into her life.
This story kinda feels like if Bridgestone was crossed with Twilight. It’s got the historical romance with the fun of vampires. I really liked the groundwork laid here for the upcoming books. And I thought the was vampires come to be is quite interesting. I’m hoping in future books we get to see a Golden Moon Ball. A little spice add to the danger and star crossed romance. All in all an exciting read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving this review.
Profile Image for LeMiliere.
2,706 reviews14 followers
August 31, 2024
I received a free copy of this compelling and enjoyable story and enjoyed it so much that I had to download the published version to keep it in my library.

It's an intriguing second chance story with its different idea about how vampires are made, well I should probably say some vampires.

I loved the characters, especially Bea. Her story is so full of uncertainty and apprehension that it's addictive. I just had to know what was going to happen next and I stayed awake much longer than intended so I could discover how her and Hector's story would progress.

I love that this is a second-chance romance as well, I loved Hector and Bea together and wanted them to find their HEA, but Ms Greenwood kept me guessing
Profile Image for Linda (ellsky) Jackson.
308 reviews6 followers
July 30, 2024
A quick glimpse into the court life of Agnes, a recently turned vampire, and her forbidden romance with Hector, her guard. I loved the descriptions of the environment they lived in, and the types of people they had to deal with, especially Agnes' father and step-mother. There were some twists and some tidbits of what the greater universe is like in this world, and I'm very eager to see what will come next in the regular series, which will focus on different characters. This book left me feeling very warm and fuzzy about the characters and the direction their lives will go in. A great series prequel.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Manuela Molteni.
324 reviews3 followers
September 1, 2024
If you’re already a fan of Laura Greenwood’s work, then you know the drill—buckle up, because “Crown of Blood and Duty” does not disappoint. This prequel to her “House of Blood and Roses” series introduces us to Princess Agnes and her brooding new bodyguard, Hector, in a whirlwind of political intrigue, forbidden love, and vampiric drama. In a world where noble vampire families are more interested in power plays than love matches, poor Agnes is basically a pawn. But don’t think she’s going to take it lying down!

The romance between Agnes and Hector is intense and fast-paced, with all the high stakes you'd expect when the Vampire King’s daughter falls for her bodyguard. The looming threat of a brutal, arranged marriage adds just the right amount of tension, and Greenwood masterfully builds a world where emotions and danger are constantly at odds.

Honestly, I devoured this in one sitting, and I'm not even sorry. With side characters like Marcus and Linc adding layers to the plot, I’m absolutely dying to see where this goes next. Bring on the drama, the romance, and of course, more of Agnes and Hector!
Profile Image for chesirern.
595 reviews20 followers
August 31, 2024
Crown of Blood and Duty (House of Blood and Roses) by Laura Greenwood is a paranormal romance novel. This is a prequel novel to a new series.i am very excited to start new series by this author. She writes amazing novels and this prequel is no different. It gives me hope this series is going to be full of be excitement, adventure, intrigue and romance.

Princess Agnes is a vampire and has a new sworn shield a man and vampire she never thought she would see again. Problem is she is betrothed to someone else. We learn about vampire politics, dhampirs and even see if Agnes and Hector will find a way out of this.

A great start to a new series. I can not wait to dive in and read more.
Profile Image for TaniaRina Valdespino.
108 reviews8 followers
August 1, 2024
Leaving the palace is ofttimes the fantasy
Duty to the kingdom is one thing; allowing oneself to be pawned off to an inappropriate marriage partner is quite another. There have got to be more considerations than a few short-term benefits when it comes to choosing a royal consort.
Wonder how Daddy’s gonna handle the handing off of his daughter…

This standalone (prequel?) does set the tone for the following book. The family saga continues in “Rite Of Blood And Secrets” (expected late August) with another couple.
Profile Image for Sentinelle23.
1,173 reviews25 followers
August 4, 2024
💔 Magnificent!

Princess Agnès was trying hard to read her book, her mind elsewhere, and felt a very bad feeling.

It was at this moment that her father the King announced his imminent visit to her.

Very surprised, the princess accepted...

÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷

Magnificent start to the series for this beautiful story of thwarted love.

The two main characters of Hector and Agnès are very successful.

I will follow with great attention the dangerous adventures of Agnès and Hector.

I highly recommend.
3,891 reviews29 followers
August 27, 2024
Crown Of Blood And Duty by Laura Greenwood is a good, and enjoyable steamy vampires fantasy forbidden second chance romance read. The story has a great entertaining world building story line that is unpredictable, and has an easy to read story line. The characters are great, wonderful, and they have great chemistry. This story is a very entertaining romance read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
123 reviews2 followers
August 29, 2024
I really enjoyed Crown of Blood and Duty. The House of Blood and Roses world is and interesting take on vampires, and the characters themselves are fun to follow. Agnes and Hector's story is a quick to read stand-alone with an ending that leaves the potential for more in the future, and I do hope that the author continues their story. In the meantime, I'm looking forward to starting the main House of Blood and Roses series. I recommend this book to fans of vampire romance.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
464 reviews2 followers
August 12, 2024
What happens when you find yourself as a princess? Then your father tells you he is marrying you off to the family that can give the biggest bang for the family? I have been introduced to 5 vampires, and do not like any of them. Our apartments have been invaded by intruders and I am given a protector. Who knew that Hector was a protector?.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for L KQ.
2,770 reviews12 followers
August 29, 2024
Her Guard Shield

Agnes is set to have a political marriage but still longs for the love she left behind when her father, the Vampire King, brought her to court. Years later, she finds herself reunited with Hector, who is now her guard. Their story was sweet and exciting as they navigated through the challenges set forth to them. It was a short and enjoyable read.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tahnia Ross.
2,086 reviews9 followers
August 31, 2024
Agnes and Hector grew up thinking they were human, not realizing they were dhampir. Then Agnes goes before the Golden Moon and becomes a vampire, having to leave Hector behind. Four years later, Hector becomes the sworn guard for Agnes. This quick read is sweet, romantic, and has a bit of steam, ending in a HEA. Very highly recommended.

I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kira.
1,316 reviews
September 3, 2024
I adored this bodyguard, second chance romance, vampire themed read Crown of Blood and Duty! This book takes place in the shared House Of Blood And Roses universe. Agnes and Hector were adorable! Not only do they have a history, but when they get together again, the sparks turn into a full blown ember. This is a really quick read leaving me wanting more from these two, so I hope to see a continuation or perhaps an update about them in future books.
3,753 reviews12 followers
August 2, 2024
Set in a world of vampires, Agnes finds out she is a princess and the story begins when she is assigned a new guard. And one she loved in the past. There is some easy drama, danger, and a choice she must make to get the future she wants. A cute easy story with some light steam. An easy story to begin a series that hints at what might come next at the end. A quick easy read.
Profile Image for Rachel.
1,975 reviews95 followers
August 7, 2024
Crown Of Blood and Duty is the prequel to Laura Greenwood's House of Blood and Roses series. This is my first fantasy by Laura and I'm not disappointed. Close siblings, forbidden love, messy royal politics, and of course the steam. To think this is just a taste of what's to come. This quick little read was a good tease, I am excited for the rest of the series.
Profile Image for Sherryle.
1,298 reviews
August 8, 2024
The beginning is just starting! I'm looking forward to this new series so very much. Agnes & Hector are a beautiful couple brought back together by the will of being in a royal household. She's finds her true love again after leaving her human home & being put into her father's castle.

Enjoy reading this just like I did!
August 25, 2024
Listen to your heart! I liked the story, the problem with what is expected of you and what you think is right. It is not always easy to deal with it. I am amazed at how the author always manages to maintain the suspense and bring the characters to life. This short story is a great introduction to a sequel and I am looking forward to the next book
1,376 reviews8 followers
August 29, 2024
Agnes and Hector were in love but separated by her position in life. Her father is about to choose her husband for her - but Hector has been made her personal guard, and their feelings have not changes. Will they be able to follow their hearts? Love the characters and the story line!!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
895 reviews
September 1, 2024
An amazing story, companion of the “House of Blood and Roses” series.
I like both Agnes and Hector, and the fact that they choose to defy the king and society customs and make their own choises.
Can’t wait to read of them again in the series.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
886 reviews2 followers
September 7, 2024
Crown of Blood and Duty is the prequel to the House of Blood and Roses series by Laura Greenwood. I am very excited to start a new series by Ms. Greenwood, she is one of my favorite authors and never fails to make me feel all the feels and does it so well!! I can't wait to dive into more of this world!!

Profile Image for Debbie Eyre.
5,122 reviews104 followers
September 11, 2024
This is a great second chance romance, a steamy vampire romantasy with vampires and vampire royalty. A well written, intriguing read that draws you in as the author introduces us to their world of vampires and how some of them are made. Agnes and Hectors story is enjoyable and hopefully we will come across more with them.
Profile Image for Rowan Creech.
1,055 reviews11 followers
August 10, 2024
This is a great prequel to a very promising series taking place in the world of vampires which is always one of my favorite types of books to read. This book shows the potential heat and. action that is promised to come in the future books.
Profile Image for Debbie Benson.
6,114 reviews21 followers
August 25, 2024
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. It is an interesting setting for this series where rules seems to have all the control. I'm glad Agnes and Hector were reunited and found a way to marry and to be happy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews

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