Bryce's life is turned upside down when a demon murders her closest friends. When similar crimes continue to occur despite the accused being behind bars, Bryce decides to take the investigation into her own hands. Hunt is a Fallen angel who is enslaved to the Archangels he once attempted to overthrow who's been offered an irresistible deal to help Bryce find the murderer and he will obtain freedom. As Bryce and Hunt team up together, they discover a dark power that threatens everything they hold dear.

I feel like I'm one of the last people to dive into this popular series (although I'm sure I'm not). It took me a few chapters to gain my bearings to this new urban setting but once I had a grip on things, what's not to love here?! HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD is rife with action, emotion, secrets, romance, and mystery. I seriously couldn't put it down.

I loved that this book is told in multiple POV in the third person, which contrasts from SJM's previous series that primarily focus on one sole POV. I adored how the storytelling transitioned seamlessly from one character's POV to the next. Bryce as the FMC was an excellent choice - she's a badass, smart, feisty, and capable. She's a bit naive and immature but I think there's room for her character to grow within this series. Hunt makes for a great MMC - he's witty, confident, fierce, and he's been through the wringer. I really liked the dynamic Hunt and Bryce build over the course of this book. Special mention to two of my favourite side characters: Syrinx and Lehabah  - they're both stars and I love them so much.

I really enjoy SJM's writing style, her world-building, and her plot progression. I will say that the world-building was very heavy as the setting and scene is set but it all comes together as the story progresses. The plot feels fast-paced, twisty, and is very compelling making it hard to put down. I had several jaw-dropping moments as I read this and I am so excited to see what's in store in CC2!