A fitting finish to the Chicagoland Vampire Series.
 
What I liked: My absolute favorite thing about not only Blade Bound but the entire series is Merit. So much has happened in her life from the very first book, Some Girls Don’t Bite to this final installment (a little over a year from the first book). She’s been put through the meat grinder so to speak but continues on no matter what happens. I’ve also enjoyed the secondary characters immensely. Merit’s interactions with so many of those characters are what have driven me to continue this series even though I still just can’t connect with Ethan at all. Blade Bound is the first book where I actually liked him. Through 13 books and I finally like the hero. He steps up in this finale and shows he completely trusts Merit to be herself, do her job, and make decisions without his interference. 
 
Ms O’Neill brings back a big bad (did anyone not see that coming) but she was very creative in Sorcha’s return and how she was a bit more cunning than everyone gave her credit for. Sorcha has bided her time and come up with a plot worthy of her “badness”. The mystery around what she has planned for Chicago is inventive and completely keeps Merit and crew off balance.
 
The opening is great! It’s the night before Merit and Ethan’s wedding and I think the tension Ms O’Neill includes adds a punch to the story. Is the wedding really going to go off with a hitch or take place at all? Read it to find out and it’s good/bad type surprise. The wedding scenes had me on the edge of my seat. I mean, really, has anything gone normally when it involves Merit and Ethan getting together?
 
Another part of the wedding is the bachelorette party. With friends like Mallory and Lindsey planning it, Merit is just a bit apprehensive but they know Merit very well and I enjoyed the camaraderie between all the attendees and catering to Merit’s likes and dislikes.
 
The plot was a bit ho-hum to me. I mean, it’s the last book in the series, you pretty much know Merit, Ethan and the crew are going to solve the problem but it’s a pretty frantic pacing and everyone must put their heads together to come up with a plan. Of course, in this series, when does everything go according to plan. I think my biggest surprise was the attitude of the Mayor and other humans in not trusting “the others” at this point in the series. The Vampires et all have saved Chicago so many times, you’d thing they would get the benefit of the doubt.
 
What I didn’t like: I was thinking, last book in the series, it’s got to be fantastic. Well, maybe not plot-wise but so-so. The pacing near the end was extremely frantic, so it felt rushed. This is a case where the paperback edition is cheaper than the e-book so I guess it's you to the reader on the money they can spend.
 
I received an ARC from NetGalley for a fair and honest review.  
 
Overall, I’m glad I read the series because Merit is a heroine to remember. Her interactions with all the other characters are what made the series for me and kept me coming back. So, yes, a fitting ending but not my favorite book in the series.
 
Highly Recommended (only because of Merit)!!

For me to feel completely satisfied with the CHICAGOLAND VAMPIRES’ conclusion, Chloe Neill needed to do three things: 1. Give Merit & Ethan their HEA. 2. Wrap-up the final arc. 3. Go out in style. Did BLADE BOUND pull it off? Yes, yes, and YES!

I liked that the author wasted no time in getting with the weddingpocalypse, and that it wasn’t rushed for pacing reasons or ruined by sorcery. I’d expected the book to end on this note, so it was a nice surprise that readers didn’t have to wait one second longer than the opening pages for something that’s been thirteen volumes in the making. I was also thankful that the ceremony wasn’t a cog in the wheel of plot development, and that the protagonists actually got to enjoy their special day.

This novel followed the same pattern as all of the others that came before it which was another plus because it felt like a Merit & Ethan story. Neill stuck with the familiar instead of trying too hard in an attempt to make history with an unforgettable climax that winds up being somewhat disjointed from the rest of the volumes. There’s a Big Bad, the team does a bit of recon, and then the katanas come out. There were still a few bombshells that kept things interesting.

This series’ quirkiness was out in full force from the literature themed wedding, to Darth Sullivan’s pet name for Merit, and the jokes that ensue when Gabriel’s prophesy takes flight. We also got plenty of moments with the treasured secondary characters, and the epilogue jumps forward by twenty-one months to ensure that no stone is left unturned. I hate goodbyes however, it’s hard to argue with this one when the writing was just so darned good. Chloe Neill, you slay me!

BLADE BOUND closed the door on the CHICAGOLAND VAMPIRES, but another one will soon open on a spin-off!

Blade Bound is the final installment for Merit and Ethan.  For me, it was the perfect way to end their journey.  It brought their story full circle.  I loved how it had references to when they first met and how their love evolved. I couldn't put this book down and even though I loved the ending, I still didn't want it to be over.

Merit has grown so much even though it had only been a year.  She had discovered what she was capable of and found the love of her life.  She has an inner strength and loyalty that really matches no other.

I love Ethan.  He has also grown since meeting Merit.  He had learned how love affects people and how it effects everything in his life.  Ethan has always known what Merit is made of and made sure that she had the opportunity to become the person she was meant to be.

Blade Bound also had all the characters that we have grown to love throughout this series.  From Luc and Lindsey, Jeff and Merit's grandfather to Catcher and Mallory.  And yes Catcher is still tying to get a Lifetime movie made out of their story.

This story has everything in it that makes the Chicagoland Vampire Series so great.  I really like how it highlights that fact that the humans and vampires still do not have a great relationship but the vampires will find a way to save the city.  I also couldn't get enough of their wedding.  It touched on everything that makes them so great together.  I'm sad that this series has ended but I'm looking forward to the spinoff series and hope for some cameos.

I started the Chicagoland Vampires series seven years ago so reading the series finale feels like saying goodbye to old friends. I put it off for as long as I could. In Merit’s world, it’s been about a year and a half. (I know, crazy.) 

Blade Bound begins four months after Midnight Marked when the Cadogan crew defeated sorcerer Sorcha Reed only to see her escape from police custody. When people in Chicago start hearing voices that cause violent outbursts, Merit and friends think Sorcha’s magic might be responsible. And since one of those outbursts was aimed at Merit inside Cadogan House they have to get involved even if it interferes with their wedding plans.

Sorcha is not my favorite villain in the series. She’s not an evil mastermind so much as an entitled brat. I would have liked to see some loose end from an earlier book come back to bite them. And there’s an element of Sorcha’s magic that doesn’t quite work for me. But then there’s this other part that’s just so cool it mostly makes up for it. It’s as if the author thought, “What’s the one thing these characters haven’t fought yet?” and found a way to work it in. 

Blade Bound starts with a wedding and ends more or less the way you’d expect if you’ve been following the series from the beginning. But in between Neill finds opportunities to check in on just about everyone and revisit events from earlier books. My favorite is the time that Jonah taught Merit how to jump off a building. I’m still a little bit Team Jonah despite the last six books of Sullivan swooniness so I’m happy that Jonah got in on the action as much as he did.

Blade Bound also provides plenty of swoon worthy Ethan moments. He’s more often a man in love than a badass Master Vampire, which gives Merit a chance to shine as a badass in her own right. She’s come a long way in that year and a half. It’s nice to see her relationships mature, not just with Ethan but with Mallory and even with her family to some extent.

I enjoyed Blade Bound even though I didn’t think there were any surprises. It’s a sentimental story rather than one that wows, but I think fans of the series will be pleased with how well the nostalgia is woven in to the new. And as much as I hate to leave Merit behind, I’m happy with where she wound up.

All series eventually must come to an end and that includes the Chicagoland Vampires series even though fans do not want to see it go. After all, who wants to say goodbye to the characters we have grown to love and have seen them grow from the beginning to the end in every possible way? Yet, at the same time, fans know that its time to end Merit and Ethan’s story and long journey because let’s face it, they have gone through a lot and deserve their HEA.

Blade Bound starts off with everybody getting ready for the up coming wedding of Merit and Ethan. Although, it includes security all over the place since there’s a high chance that Sorcha, the evil sorceress from Midnight Marked, will finally show up and cause some trouble. Of course it doesn’t take long for the first sign of trouble show up, a vampire sneaks into Cadogan House and is plagued with something that is making him go crazy. It’s also causing him to hear voices and he nearly attacks the first person who bumped into which is Merit. It’s not just him, others begin to act strange due to unknown power that’s causing a mental attack causing the violent behavior. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that Sorcha has returned and is bent on causing chaos in Chicago. Now Merit, Ethan, and company must hurry and stop Sorcha before she causes another disaster that may destroy the peace between supernaturals and humans in Chicago.

Overall, Blade Bound was a fitting end to the Chicagoland Vampires series. I have to admit, I did not expect the wedding to be so soon in this novel but it was and boy was it the wedding of the year. Also, it was good to see Chloe Neill wrap up many things in this final installment. Although, Chloe Neill has promised to revisit this world with the up coming spin off series so we might see our favorite characters again. Personally, I do not know who will be in this spin off series but the epilogue does show us two likely candidates or possibly the next pairing of the spin off series! Now we just have to wait and see if its them.

4.5 stars

The Chicagoland Vampires series comes to an end with a bang!
I have been following this series ever since the first book came out. I really enjoyed Blood Bound as a final story with Merit as a protagonist. I know I will miss not only her but all the secondary characters that made the series so special.

Chicagoland is not the best UF (Urban Fantasy) out there, at times I wish we had followed a socndary character's POV (Point if View), just because it seemed more interesting.  However Merit and co.'s adventures did keep me coming back for more, even if it was to find out was going on with Mal and Catcher, Gabriel, Jeff, Malik, Luc and Lindsey, Jonah and so on...

All in all, I feel Blade Bound might be the best entry to the series and solid ending. I am glad to know there will be a spin-off and in my eyes there are options for it... I actually wish we get both lol

Blade Bound is a must read of you are a fan of the Chicagoland Vamp series! There is a lot of action and swoon-worthy moments. Here's to more adventures in this great world! 

(review will be posted on amazon when the book is released)

Merit and Ethan have had their ups and downs and have always come out on top but now they are up against some ancient magics that might just do them in for good. 

Vampires, werewolves, sorcery oh my! What more could a girl ask for? 

It is undeniable that Ethan’s and Merit’s love is a love that will survive the test of time...making it even harder to say goodbye to Merit, Ethan and crew. Neill has created a bunch of characters, primary as well as secondary characters, that have bloomed into life through her talented imaginings. Even though Blade Bound provides the perfect closure, this is going to be difficult to any Chicagoland Vampires’ fan.

Blade Bound is a meaty and addicting conclusion to the Chicagoland Vampires series. I abso-freaking-lutly, loved it.

I’m hopeful that even though Ethan’s and Merit’s story has ended that Neill will revisit this world with a spin off series.

I received this ARC copy of Blade Bound from Berkley Publishing Group. This is my honest and voluntary review. This book is set for publication April 25, 2017.

My Rating: 5 stars
Written by: Chloe Neill
Series: Chicagoland Vampires 
Sequence in Series: Book 13
Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Berkley 
Publication Date: April 25, 2017
ISBN-10: 0451472349
ISBN-13: 978-0451472342
Genre: Urban Fantasy

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Everything about BLADE BOUND felt like a satisfying progression towards closure. From the humans' animosity towards the supernaturals of Chicago, to Ethan and Merit's relationship, old prophecies, as well as closure of past threats. I was hooked from the first page until the very last word. Trust me when I say this is one action packed, emotional, and more than satisfying read. 

We finally get the much anticipated wedding that has been building since the very first page of this series. Sure, Merit and Ethan started out as all but enemies, but the writing was on the wall...and after 13 books I can say that it's FINALLY time. Let me just say it was everything I had hoped for and suited the characters and the vampires well. Of course, in true Chicagoland style, there's plenty of chaos and danger abound in-between all the wedding happiness, and it made for an excellent balance.

BLADE BOUND was one heck of a series ending book. While I'm sad to see this much loved come to a close, I couldn't have asked for a better send off. Chicagoland fans will absolutely love BLADE BOUND. Bravo Ms. Neill, Bravo!

Here it is, the final installment of the Chicagoland Vampires series. Merit and Ethan have come through a lot, and in this book, they face even more. Let me say upfront that I thought this was a fitting ending to a great series. Was it perfect? No, but I’ll get to that. The book had the action, suspense, fun, character interaction, snarky-ness, and great writing we’ve come to expect from this series. We were able to see how far all the characters have come since the very beginning, and how overcoming their problems (hello, Mallory) have made them stronger. I really liked that the wedding was a part of the book and not tacked on at the end, and that we could actually get through it without any “big-bads” coming out of the woodwork. Of course, almost immediately after was fair game. Like I said before, the book wasn’t perfect. It seemed a little subdued, had a little less action, and the actual conflict took a while to get started. And, without out saying much because I don’t want to spoil anything, I figured out rather quickly how the prophesy was going to come to fruition and her “test” wasn’t as fitting as I would have liked. The ending also seemed a little too rushed but with an epilogue which I loved. These are all very minor things and I forgive them because I think this book was a great ending to a great series. There is obviously going to be a spin-off series with one/a couple of the characters introduced towards the end (yay!) which I confirmed as I was writing this. If you are a long-time fan, I think you will love this. If you haven’t read the series, start from the beginning for a wonderful series. Highly recommend! Thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the e-copy of the book which I voluntarily reviewed. This same review will be posted on both Goodreads and Amazon.

Blade Bound marks the end of an era that started in 2009 with Some Girls Bite in a series that has seen ups and downs over the course of thirteen books. 

I'm always apprehensive to read series enders, especially when those series are so near and dear to me like the Chicagoland Vampires. Not only is it sad to see these characters that I (and other readers) have become accustomed to getting at least one book released every year (sometimes 2 plus novellas), there's an amazing amount of trepidation to find out if the author will end the series satisfactorily. The ends are always a gamble. 

So how do things stack up with Blade Bound? Well, I felt like there was a lot of ground that needed to be addressed / covered. Maybe not a lot of ground per se, but some big important things that I know I wanted to see tackled before we say goodbye (or at least goodbye for now). 

First, things in Midnight Marked, were left open when evil sorceress Sorcha Reed escaped from her imposed prison. So, it's no big guess as to say that everyone is kind of waiting for Sorcha to make her appearance again. They're just wondering what kind of revenge she's going to enact on those who ruined her initial plans. 

Then, there's Merit and Ethan's long-time-coming nuptials. Since the beginning of the series these two have been an UF couple staple. Even through the rough times, they've deserved their happily-ever-after. I was happy with the time that Chloe Neill took to show their happy day on the page. Even though she peppers it throughout with shots of unsettlement. Everyone knows that the lull in bad things happening can only last for so long. For me, Ethan and Merit finally getting to say their "I do's" was inevitable. But that's not saying I didn't enjoy it. If anything, Blade Bound just showed their relationship, and the future of their relationship, growing even stronger. Probably the strongest we've ever seen it within the series. Yes, they've been a committed couple for a few books now, but they've still had their struggles. Here, their relationship felt more mature. 

This, then, brings me to the final thing I needed to see tied-up in Blade Bound. Something involving a certain prophecy given by Gabriel Keene the leader of the North American shifters back in the book Twice Bitten. This was a big one for me because for roughly ten books now this prophecy has been looming in the background of all actions and decisions made by Merit and Ethan. That one day they would be parents to the first vampire-born child. 

With everything that has happened and ends up happening in the course of this book, Merit begins to question whether or not she would want to bring a child into a world that has seen its fare share of evil and danger. 

Since all of these topics are covered within the story (in one way, shape, or form), I didn't really feel like there was anything unpredictable about how events proceeded. No unforeseen twists thrown in as a parting farewell. This isn't necessarily a bad thing. I don't really believe the place for throwing in new twists and tantalizing storylines is in the final book in a series. It is precisely for tying up the remaining storythreads. Answering long-standing questions. 

I enjoyed what Chloe Neill chose to focus on: namely, what I felt, was getting back to that core four person relationship in Merit, Ethan, Catcher, and Mallory. These four started out the series somewhat begrudgingly working together. Of course Catcher and Mallory formed their own unit almost immediately while Merit and Ethan took a bit longer to get their acts together. Things diverged for the friends somewhat when Mallory went through her evil phase around the Drink Deep timeline. So probably my most unexpected, yet happy-it-happened thing from Blade Bound was that I was finally happy with the footing Mallory and Merit are on since the beginning of the series. 

In fact, a lot of this book felt like we were coming full circle. Yes, we get a glimpse, or even a mention, of pretty much all pertinent events that have occurred throughout the series, but the main focus is on Chicago itself and vampires in particular. Having the vampire population ousted by Celina just before events in the first book have caused quite the whirlwind, and to think this series, from beginning to end, only takes place within the span of a little over a year's timeframe. In that context there's a lot that happens, so it was nice to see things kind of getting back to basics as the case may be. 

Overall, I enjoyed Blade Bound. While I wasn't utterly surprised by how things wind up, it was a good read. One I equally didn't want to put down, but also didn't want to finish because that would mean the end. 

Now, I know that Chloe Neill is doing a spin-off series. At this point I don't think it's been revealed who the spin-off will follow, but reading the end of Blade Bound gives a possible clue. My interest is definitely piqued. No, I'm not going to even post my guess here so I guess we'll have to wait and see on publication day.

Blade Bound is the Thirteenth and final installment in Chloe Neill's Chicagoland Vampires series. It is a series that began in 2009, and got better and better as time flew by. Some Girls Bite was the book which kicked off my blogging career. It would take a few more years until Gizmos Reviews really came to life, but in the meantime, it was Chicagoland Vampires that had me looking forward to the next book in the series, and the next, and the next one after that. It was this series that brought my love of the library back to life after I suddenly lost my job and found myself on disability.

Yes, time really did fly by for Merit, Ethan, Mallory, Catcher, Jeff, Grandfather Merit, Malik, Lindsey, and Luc. There were plenty of laughs, tears, screams of rage when we though we were betrayed by the author, and many, many villains too numerous to mention that tested Merit and Cadogan House to their limits. We watched as Merit became an unwilling, bitter, and angry young vampire who lashed out at everyone, including one Ethan (Darth) Sullivan, to the woman she has become today who is fierce, stands Sentinel to her House, and is madly, deeply in love with Ethan. She has also accepted being a vampire who carries a deadly katana and kicks ass. She also has many true and worthy friends who she can honestly count on. 

When it comes down to what drives this series, it is Merit's humor, her selflessness to help those she loves even at the expense of her own life. It is Merit who is a vampire, but really is just like many of us in her enjoyment of food. There have been a whole lot of mentions about food in this series Mallocakes. Chicago Hot Dogs. Pizza, and of course, Chocolate. Our girl Merit can't go a day without her helping of Chocolate. I am still waiting for someone to create Mallocakes for readers of this series. It is Merit, (& Mallory) who in the end, stands and delivers one of the best endings for a series that I've read in a very long time. 

Chicagoland Vampires may be about a group of vampires, but, it is also about love, and friendship, and a prophecy that has been hanging over Merit's head ever since Gabriel Keene predicted something so profound, and so unbelievable for Merit and Ethan, that nobody, I think, really believed we would see that day come. So, in the end, this series doesn't go out in a whimper like so many before. It goes out with a Holy F*&^! The author wrote one of the best stories of this entire series if I dare say so. She brings all of Merit's allies together for one tremendous fight for their lives, and yet another test to prove to stupid humans that they are Chicago, and they desire the respect for dying while protecting them time and time again.

P.S. - You really need to read this book. Not only for what happens between the pages, which was amazing enough. But, for what happens after the final page is turned. I think you will all love it, that is if you haven't already read the book.

PPS - Did I fail to mention Merit & Ethan's wedding day? Do you really think that the author would let them actually have a nice and quite and peaceful day to celebrate forever together? Should I mention that I really loved Merit and Mallory's interaction in this book? Mallory has more than made up for her trip to the dark side. Welcome back, Mal! 

PPPS - I really, really want to rate this book with 5 stars! If I get more than 10 comments, I will!

Series enders are necessarily bittersweet and I've been waiting for this one forever (pretty sure I've been reading this series for nearly ten years!).  So, yes, I had high expectations but I also was waiting for so many things to be wrapped up in this last book.  And, yes, ostensibly, all the threads were wrapped up but I can't help but feel disappointed by this end. If there is one thing I can point to it's that it tried too hard - it tried too hard to be funny, it tired too hard to be spectacular in the supernatural, it tried too hard to be romantic. And it failed a bit on all accounts.  Without spoiling you for the series if you haven't yet read it (and you absolutely should!), there was a prophecy throughout the latter half of the series.  I've been waiting anxiously for this prophecy - as to how it would occur - and it felt like a complete afterthought. Although I won't forget this last book, and yes everything wrapped up in it, my fondest memories from this series won't come from this book. That being said, this is still one of my overall favorite urban fantasy novels and I think everyone should read it!

Blade Bound comes out later this month on April 25, 2017, and you can purchase HERE. While I'm sad to see this series end, it definitely felt like it was time after thirteen books and I can't wait to read what Chloe does next! #MEthan forever !

"Not to mention the fact that she's narcissistic and unpredictable. She has changed the weather. Endangered the lives of millions. Brought the city to a standstill because she could." He glanced at Mallory. "Because you didn't let her have her way at Towerline." 

"She's acting like a hormonal teenager," Lindsey said. "She is basically the worst Sweet Valley High novel ever written."

It was an overall enjoyable ride with Merit and Ethan. I always find it hard to review the final book of a series and this is no different in this case.  I will try to make it short and sweet without giving anything away.

Chaos breaks out and Chicago is once, more in danger. The gang are right in the middle and willing to help, but not everything goes smooth and they once again end up being the target for humans. It gets so bad.

anyways, I think for an ending of an serious I was overwhelmed I'm still unsure If I like the way it was all tied up as an over all sense. 

for all the fans of this series, you are either going to love it or be disappointed.
 
I will end it here lovers;
“I am your husband, and your friends, and you lover. And I am also a soldier. I am a vampire. I am monster, in no small part.” The Emerald shifted, transmuted to quicksilver- one element battling another. “And if I must show them in that order ti protect you, I will. Should it come to that, God have mercy on their souls. Because I will have none.”

4.5 Stars
This thirteenth book is the big finish for the Chicagoland Vampires series. Readers who have been along for this wild ride have been though many trials and tribulations with Merit, Ethan, and their friends in each book of the series. There are always high expectations for grand finales and for the most part, this book meets them. We have seen quite a build-up to Merit and Ethan’s engagement and wedding; happily, the actual event does not disappoint. The wedding was really very well done and left a tear or two in my eye. Vampires and Merit’s prominent parents know how to throw a wedding in high style. And because this is Merit, you know things will not stay calm or sane very long. 

Everyone in Chicago, supernatural and humans alike, has been on edge since the evil sorceress Sorcha disappeared. When people start behaving strangely as an unknown power focuses a mental attack causing chaos and bizarre behavior, it seems to be a harbinger of her return. All of Chicago is now at risk and when the wicked witch roars back onto the scene, everything that held promise for Merit and Ethan, including Gabriel’s prophecy for a vampire child, is put in danger. Every one of Merit, Ethan, as well as Mallory and Catcher’s, skills will be tested in this epic battle. All of the supernatural community as well as the humans has a part to play in this as for once, they work together to save their city.

The action is intense and as usual, Merit takes things and her life to the brink much to Ethan’s dismay. The vampires and other supernaturals are still dealing with some prejudice and blame, but finally there seems to be some genuine cooperation happening with the politicos including the mayor who has mostly just given them grief and placed responsibility for the cities’ problems until recently on them. While there are some twists and turns, this book is mainly about bringing the storyline to fruition in a satisfying way. All in all, BLADE BOUND gives a good end to the series with an epilogue that shows a glimpse of their life to come with all of its interesting possibilities.

After 13 books, the Chicagoland Vampires series is wrapping up - or more precisely, Merit and Ethan's story is. In book time, it has only been a year since Merit was turned vampire against her will, and she and Ethan have packed a lot of living into those 12 short months. Not only have they waged pretty much non-stop battle against several supernatural baddies, and saved Chicago on more than one occasion, they have also had to fight the prejudices of the very people they try so hard to protect.

There is a lot going on in Blade Bound, both supernaturally and personally, for Merit and Ethan. But the weird thing is, for 90% of the story, it didn't feel like a finale to me. There is tons of action, lots of drama, some humor and snark, and a long-awaited celebration, but most of it felt to me more like a step towards the end of the series more than the end itself, if that makes any sense. I only got a sense of "The End" in the prologue, which sort of left things feeling rushed. Granted, I really liked the prologue - it was my favorite part of the whole book - but it just didn't give me the epic finale I was hoping for.

To be fair, I have a weird relationship with Chicagoland Vampires. I want to love it. I have tried to make myself love it. It has everything I like in an urban fantasy, it checks all of the boxes, but I could never get above a solid liking for it. I liked Merit and Ethan, but I enjoyed the supporting cast more. I can't even blame a hotly debated even in one of the earlier books that turned a lot of people off - I was like that from the start. And it was no different for Blade Bound. I wanted to love it, I wanted to get really involved in Ethan and Merit's last story, but I couldn't get above a solid liking. I read most of the book hoping for a clue about who the spin-off will be about, and it might've been teased in the final few pages, but I can't be sure yet. Kind of a let down, but if I am right it could be all kinds of fun.

So, to sum up, Blade Bound had lots going on, but it lacked a bit of the "big book" feel I was expecting. There are some epic events, but squeezing that much in made things feel a little rushed. I got what I was hoping for in the finale, but it was only in the last few pages. If I was doing the star review thingy, I would say a solid 3.

My end of 2016 and debut of 2017 were with Chloe Neill’s books, Phantom Kiss and Blade Bound, and let me tell you that I love these books. 
Blade Bound is the final book in the series and I appreciate that, I don’t like series that has too much books, mostly because authors sometimes lost themselves in the process. It was not the case for Chicagoland Vampires series, this series is awesome and this final book is the perfect conclusion to it, with action, love, happiness, friendship and hope. 
Merit and Ethan are incredible, their love for each other is beautiful, and their trust in each other is marvelous. It’s because of this series that I read and blog in English and I’m pleased to tell that I grow up with these characters, I see them evolves to be better people and it’s amazing. 
In this review I will just tell you my feelings because I don’t know where you are in this series or even if you read it yet. If that’s the case you are missing a great series with wonderful characters. 
Merit is faithful to herself, her mission is to protect Ethan and her house, she still loves food and chocolate. She is ready to die to save her home and her city even if she will look for an alternative effectively.
Ethan is still as arrogant but I find that in this volume his fear is even more evident, that of losing Merit and not being able to give her the normal life she wishes but he manages very well all this and I admire him even more. I like its spread about Merit and the food.
Merit and Ethan really form an adorable couple, their happiness is visible and even if sometimes some doubts are in their thoughts, they are quickly discarded. They trust themselves and have a real relationship of love and friendship and see them ultimately happy, warm my heart.
Catcher and Mallory are also very present in Blade Bound, I love this couple from the beginning, and they have crossed the obstacles with panache and love. The friendship between Mallory and Merit is a highlight of this series, they have experienced ups and downs but in the end they will always be present for each other.
Lindsey and Luc are the 3rd couples that I appreciate, Luc is so geek and Lindsey so crazy, I find that they complement perfectly. Luc is someone who likes the job well done and who assumes the responsibilities in case of failure. He can be very angry with himself, even if he isn’t guilty, I appreciate this trait and it’s also for this reason that he’s at his post as Captain of the Guard. Lindsey has made me laugh a lot, her humor and joy are contagious and I really like this character.
It will be very hard not to see these fantastic characters again but the series has to end and it ends in beauty.
Chloe Neill is an artist, she gave life to charming characters and didn’t hesitate to make them live all sorts of harder events than the others and I am delighted to have spent 5 years in their company. I saw them evolve, love, tear, get lost and gain self-confidence. They made tough choices but they are still staying strong and united.
Thank you Chloe for this wonderful adventure and I will re-read this series with joy.

I LOVED IT!!! 

This was not a disapointing ending to the series. Although I am sad to see them go. I am hoping that maybe she would consider doing a spin off from this series. I'm not ready to leave the Chicagoland Vampire world behind just yet. The first portion of this book was so sweet and touching. It is what this series has been leading up to for those who are Methan fans like myself. It was picture perfect and I loved it so much.

The meat and potatoes of this story though is your typical Chicoland vampire MO where Merit and Ethan go to save the day and the city of Chicago from distraction from Sorcha and a magical Dragon......yes I said it, a dragon that Sorcha has conjured up through magic she has been syphaning. 
This book has a lot of action and lots of kick ass scenes and I loved all of it.

We FINALLY see the prophecy come into play and it was really cool how she wrote it to be. I was on the fence with the prophecy thing because on one hand it would be so cool for this to happen for Ethan and Merit but then on the other I couldn't see a plausible way of it to happen since it has never happened in the history of vampires. I should not have doubted Chloe Neill creative brain though.

This was a very satisfying end to the series. I will miss Merit and Ethan, Cather and Mallory. Really though whole crew. I am still coming to terms that there are no more new adventures to come but it's a bitter sweet ending. It's had a good run for a series and I am very glad I stumbled acrossed this series a few years ago.

I had put off reading this book because I didn't want Merit and Ethan's storyline to end. I was in denial. This can't be the final book! Unfortunately it is, but Chloe Neill didn't disappoint. A rollercoaster of emotions followed me throughout the entire book. Merit stands strong as Sentinel and Ethan as Master of the Cadogan House. By the end of the novel, all the loose ends throughout the series had been woven back into the storyline and the finale receives my stamp of approval. As I wait to read the spin off series, I can always go back and reread the Chicagoland Vampires series again.

I have enjoyed the whole series. I held high expectations for the final installment and was a little let down. The pace was off and the story got bogged down. It just lost some of the creativeness and the dialog was not as witty as in the past. It just lost it's edge.