Amanda Rodriguez

<b> One of my favorite Fantasy reads ever! </b> <i>She is bonded to a spirit who demands her blood. She serves a mother-in-law who resents her power. She meets a man who challenges everything she's ever believed. </I> In A Bond of Briars, Caitrin will do just about anything to flee her very powerful mother. She is descended from a family recognized for their blood-oaths, but Caitrin has seen both the positive and lethal sides to this magic. She thinks getting married will finally be her way out, but after her husband dies, she’s at a loss. When she is given the chance to follow her mother in law to her home country, a land where blood-magic is forbidden, she is ready to hide her power for a chance at a simpler life. But the spirit she’s bound to has other plans, and her bond grows stronger, Caitrin must prove her blood magic isn't dangerous or suffer the consequences of the truth being discovered. This story is one of the best fantasy romances I’ve ever read. The world building is unique and the magic system digestible. Erin Phillips writes so visually, that I feel immersed in her world. I loved the integration of Gaelic terms to set this story. There were nods to Cinderella and a Beauty and The Beast (the ending scene 😭♥️) The romance between Caitrin and Callen is inspired by Ruth and Boaz, so if you know their story, it’s exciting to see the parallels play out. I really enjoyed the interactions between Caitrin and her MIL Meara, and felt that their tension was a great way for us to learn the depths of these characters. 🫑 This book is full of romance but is not explicit. There are sweet kissing scenes and talks of seduction. ⚔️ This is fantasy, and therefore murder, death, magic, spirits, are throughout, but the gore is minimal. I honestly can’t say enough great things about this book. PLEASE READ IT. I need to talk to anyone about it 😂. And be sure to follow @erinphillipsauthor because she is currently writing a Count of Monte Christo retelling that I am SO EXCITED FOR.