REVIEW: Blood Vow by J.R. Ward

Blood Vow is second entry to the BDB spin-off series Black Dagger Legacy. The Black Dagger Brotherhood continues to train the best of the best to join them in the deadly battle against the Lessening Society. Among the new recruits, Axe proves to be a worthy fighter—and also a loner isolated because of personal tragedy. When an aristocratic female needs a bodyguard, Axe takes the job, though he’s unprepared for the animal attraction that flares between him and the one he is sworn to protect.

For Elise, who lost her first cousin to a grisly murder, Axe’s dangerous appeal is exhilarating and a distraction from her grief. As they delve deeper into her cousin’s death, and their physical connection grows into so much more, Axe fears that the secrets he keeps and his tortured conscience will tear them apart.

Axe and Elise are the main romantic entanglement of the book. Fans of Ward's books know what is in store--lots of sexy time, angst, self doubt and then a mostly happily ever after conclusion for the couple.

The side narrative is a continuation of Rhage and Mary's story from The Beast when an unexpected visitor threatens their newfound family putting everyone on edge.  

Overall, I enjoyed the book. It was an engaging, quick read with all the highs I typically associate with the author and the series.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars