Book: Blood-Stained Kisses by L. Renee Richard
Reviewed by Weird | weird.reads.books
Rating: 3.5/5
This dark romance scratched the itch for a quick, bingeable read without dropping me into something super heavy. Dani and Vic are tangled up in the kind of dark secrets that weld themselves into an unbreakable bond. It’s neighbors-to-lovers with a second chance vibe that stretches across about 12 years, told in three parts with roughly four-year time jumps. We basically watch them live separate lives then collide again.
Dani’s early choice was frustrating, but it also made sense for who she is and what she’s trying to survive. This book doesn’t shy away from heavier topics. It handled grief/loss of losing a loved one and the aftermath of a home touched by domestic violence genuinely, and that resonated with me.
And as a Latina, I loved seeing Latine representation in a dark romance. Seeing people who reflect my culture is something I want to seek out more intentionally (and share and promote louder), so I’m grateful Richard created BIPOC main characters. It gave me that reminder to be a better advocate.
The chemistry was electric. When the spice hits, it hits . There’s a masquerade moment that’s just delicious. chef’s kiss
That said, a few things weren’t for me. The miscommunication trope is doing a lot of heavy lifting here, and it drives most of the conflict. I also would’ve loved to see more of Vic’s darker edge beyond him being described as cold and closed off once he becomes a doctor. And the reunion doesn’t fully address the elephant in the room of not communicating, so if the miscommunication trope is a hard no for you, definitely go in with caution. I honestly think some of the clunkier beats would’ve smoothed out if the book had been a bit longer.
Overall, I had a good time with this one. The chemistry, the fun side characters, and the little hit of vigilante justicereally worked for me. If you want a lighter dark romance that reads fast and keeps the tension high, pick this up.
Thank you to The Author Agency and L. Renee Richard for the eARC. All opinions are my own.