Book Review Blog: Bride by Ali Hazelwood
Vampires, werewolves, and a marriage of convenience with bite.
Ali Hazelwood trades test tubes for bloodlines in Bride, her bold foray into the world of paranormal romance. If you’ve ever wondered what Hazelwood’s signature banter, tension, and slow-burn chemistry would look like in a supernatural setting—this book is your answer. And it does not disappoint.
Plot Summary (Spoiler-Free):
Misery Lark—vampire royalty and reluctant political pawn—is forced into an arranged marriage with a werewolf Alpha, Lowe Moreland, to broker peace between two historically hostile species. Misery has no intention of playing the obedient bride; her true purpose lies in a secret mission of her own. But Lowe is not the beast she expected. He’s calculating, respectful, brooding, and frustratingly attractive. As their alliance deepens and old secrets unravel, Misery must choose between duty, vengeance, and a love she never thought possible.
What Works:
- World-building: Hazelwood crafts a rich paranormal universe where politics, magic, and ancient rivalries shape every move. Vampires and werewolves feel both classic and fresh in her hands.
- Misery Lark: A fierce, sarcastic, and emotionally guarded protagonist. Her voice is sharp and vulnerable, layered with trauma, strength, and just enough sass to make you root for her.
- Lowe Moreland: The perfect broody Alpha. He’s powerful but patient, intense but emotionally intelligent—a rare combo in the realm of fictional werewolves.
- The romance: It’s slow-burn with enemies-to-lovers flair, complete with tension-filled standoffs, forced proximity, and a marriage that starts cold but simmers with undeniable heat.
- Themes of autonomy and trust: Beyond romance, the novel explores consent, personal agency, and the cost of loyalty—making it more than just a supernatural love story.
What Might Not Work for Everyone:
- The first few chapters are heavy on lore and setup, which might feel overwhelming to some readers not familiar with fantasy/paranormal genres.
- Hazelwood’s switch from STEM romance to paranormal might not be for everyone—but it shows off her range impressively.
Final Thoughts:
Bride is sultry, suspenseful, and unapologetically dramatic—in the best way possible. With razor-sharp dialogue, emotionally charged stakes, and just the right amount of gothic flair, this is Ali Hazelwood like you’ve never seen her before. Fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses, From Blood and Ash, or classic vampire-werewolf tales will feel right at home—and pleasantly surprised.
Rating: 5/5 stars
Have you sunk your teeth into Bride yet? What did you think of Misery and Lowe’s sizzling dynamic?
.jfif)
.png)