Bride by Ali Hazelwood

*** Review ***

I’m not a huge fan of paranormal romance. There, I said it. But when I discovered that Ali Hazelwood, the mastermind behind the captivating contemporary romance Love, Theoretically and the swoon-worthy The Love Hypothesis, was venturing into the realm of vampires and werewolves, my curiosity got the better of me. Could she weave her magic in a world teeming with supernatural creatures and complex alliances? Bride provided the answer, and I’m delighted to say, it was a resounding yes.

Over the past few months, I’ve traversed Hazelwood’s literary landscape, experiencing the highs of contemporary romance and the nostalgia of young adult love. Now, with Bride, I found myself immersed in a paranormal tapestry that surpassed my expectations. Hazelwood, it seems, can spin a love story in any setting, and I am here for it!

Bride introduces us to Misery Lark, the only daughter of the most powerful Vampyre councilman in the Southwest. A character seemingly destined to navigate the shadows, Misery is thrust into the limelight as she becomes the linchpin in a historic peacekeeping alliance between Vampyres and their mortal enemies, the Weres. It’s a marriage of convenience, a political maneuver to maintain a delicate balance in a world where trust is as rare as a blood moon.

My initial skepticism about paranormal romance soon dissipated as I delved into Hazelwood’s world. She took the traditional vampire and shifter lore, flipped it on its head, and presented a narrative that was as enthralling as it was unexpected. Weres, Vampyres, and humans coexist in a delicate dance, their interactions marred by centuries-old mistrust. Political turmoil becomes the catalyst for the action, compelling Misery to marry Lowe Moreland, the enigmatic Alpha of the Weres.

While I may prefer the simplicity of vampire romance in a world where humans remain blissfully unaware, Hazelwood’s intricate universe won me over. It’s a world where Vampyres are born, not made, and the dynamics between the supernatural beings are as complex as the characters themselves. The author’s ability to craft a world that feels both fantastical and authentic is a testament to her storytelling prowess.

And then there’s Misery Lark. Hazelwood has once again defied stereotypes, presenting readers with a heroine who is not only intelligent and resourceful but also delightfully quirky. Misery possesses a unique skill set, blending magical fingers that can navigate the intricacies of computer coding with a determined spirit that refuses to conform to societal expectations. She’s a breath of fresh air in a genre often plagued by clichés.

The story unfolds with action-packed sequences, intricate world-building, and mysteries that extend beyond the romantic entanglements. Lowe and Misery’s connection, though born out of necessity, evolves into a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance that tugs at the heartstrings. The chemistry between them is palpable, their journey filled with tension, disbelief, and moments of pure wonder.

Beyond the surface allure of forbidden love and enemies-to-lovers dynamics, Bride delves into the complexities of power, alliances, and the consequences of navigating the treacherous terrain between mortal enemies. The introduction of the Loyals, a group seeking revenge against Lowe, adds a layer of moral ambiguity, challenging the characters and readers alike.

The mystery surrounding Misery’s missing friend adds an additional layer of intrigue, keeping readers guessing until the final pages. The narrative unfolds like a tapestry, revealing the intricacies of Lowe’s family history and Misery’s inner circle, all while maintaining a pulsating sense of suspense.

In conclusion, Bride stands as a testament to Ali Hazelwood’s prowess in delivering a paranormal romance that transcends the genre’s conventions. With a blend of intricate world-building, compelling characters, and a suspenseful plot, this novel has secured its place among my top romance reads of the year. Ali Hazelwood has once again proven that, regardless of the subgenre, her storytelling prowess knows no bounds. Bride is a symphony of supernatural elements, love, and redemption, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of its readers.