Cristina and Clement Trudeau have conjured the impossible: justice.
They took back their family’s stolen throne to lead New Orleans’ magical community into the brighter future they all deserve.
But when Cris and Clem restored their family power, Valentina Savant lost everything. Her beloved grandparents are gone and her sovereignty has been revoked―she will never be Queen. Unless, of course, someone dethrones the Trudeaus again. And lucky for her, she’s not the only one trying to take them down.
Cris and Clem have enemies coming at them from all directions: Hateful anti-magic protesters sabotage their reign at every turn. A ruthless detective with a personal vendetta against magical crime is hot on their tail just as Cris has discovered her thirst for revenge. And a brutal god, hunting from the shadows, is summoned by the very power Clem needs to protect the boy he loves.
Cris’s hunger for vengeance and Clem’s desire for love could prove to be their family’s downfall, all while new murders, shocking disappearances, and impossible alliances are changing the game forever.
Welcome back to New Orleans, where gods walk among us and justice isn’t served, it’s taken.
The sequel to Blood Debts, Blood Justice by Terry J. Benton-Walker is an addictive drama, full of vengeance, trauma and thirst for power. What makes it so powerful is the way the story delves into the rage and powerlessness of generational trauma and racism, both overt and subversive. It shows how power is abused and withheld from people of color and how the system protects those in power instead of allowing for justice. That powerful message infuses the narrative with authenticity and emotion.
Beyond those themes, the intrigue and drama along with the magical elements are addictive, especially as you see the way the gods stalk Cris and Clem. Their bond and friendship is emotional but also a shining beacon of hope as is Clem’s love for Yves and Cris’ friendships. While nobody in this novel is perfect, it is hard not to side with Cris and Clem. Valentina is equally charismatic as she reconnects with her mother while her desire for power to survive is relatable.
If you love drama infused with supernatural, magical elements where Gods walk among mankind, this is the perfect story to read. The ending whetted my appetite for more and I love how magic is used not just to help but also hinders the characters. The price of power is clear in this novel and justice cannot be taken for granted.
Rating: 5 out of 5 shadows
