BOOK 1 : HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
Part 1: Introduction to the World
The story takes place in Crescent City, a bustling city where humans, Fae, shifters, angels, and other supernatural beings live together. The protagonist, Bryce Quinlan, is a half-Fae, half-human who works at an antiquities gallery. She leads a carefree life, partying with her friends, especially her best friend, Danika Fendyr, the leader of a wolf shifter pack.
However, everything changes when a demon brutally murders Danika and Bryce’s other close friends, leaving Bryce devastated. The case is investigated by Micah Domitus, the Archangel who rules the city, but it remains unsolved.
Part 2: Two Years Later
Bryce, still haunted by the murders, is now a shell of her former self. She’s drawn into the investigation when a series of new killings happen, eerily similar to Danika’s murder. Bryce is tasked with helping find the culprit and is paired with Hunt Athalar, a fallen angel with a dark past. Hunt is enslaved to Micah as punishment for his involvement in a failed rebellion.
Part 3: Bryce and Hunt's Investigation
As Bryce and Hunt work together, they uncover secrets about Danika’s last days and discover that Danika was hiding something huge. They learn about a dangerous magical artifact known as the Horn of Luna, a lost relic with immense power. The horn could have been used to summon the demon that killed Danika, and it may be connected to an underground rebellion against the ruling class of angels.
While investigating, Bryce and Hunt's relationship deepens. Bryce starts to trust Hunt despite his violent reputation, and Hunt grows protective of Bryce as he learns about her hidden strength and vulnerability.
Part 4: The Truth Unveiled
The investigation leads them to shocking revelations. They discover that Micah Domitus has been plotting to use the Horn of Luna to gain power, intending to wipe out the rebels and establish an authoritarian rule over Crescent City. It is revealed that Danika had stolen the Horn and tried to hide it to stop Micah’s plans.
Micah confronts Bryce, and in a heart-pounding climax, Bryce fights him to protect the city and avenge her friends. She uses the Starborn Light, an ancient power within her that she didn’t know she possessed, to defeat Micah.
Part 5: The Aftermath
In the aftermath of the battle, Bryce finally has some closure regarding Danika's death. The city begins to heal from the destruction caused by Micah’s plans. Bryce and Hunt’s relationship solidifies, and they start building a future together.
The book ends on a hopeful note, but with plenty of mysteries and threats still lingering in Crescent City, setting up the series for the next installment.
***WORLD MAP***
***Chapter Recaps***
In the world of Crescent City, there are four powerful houses, each representing different beings and forces aligned under ancient gods. These houses form a foundational part of the society’s structure in Midgard, created in 33 V.E. by the Imperial Senate in the Eternal City. Here’s a look at each house and the beings they encompass:
1. House of Earth and Blood
- Patron Deity: Cthona (Goddess of Earth and Life) and Luna (Goddess of the Moon) for some.
- Inhabitants: Includes shifters (like wolves and other animal forms), humans, witches, ordinary animals, and many others who share a connection to the earth.
- Purpose: Represents the bond with nature, bloodlines, and the living aspects of the earth.
2. House of Sky and Breath
- Patron Deity: Solas (God of Light) and, occasionally, Luna for some.
- Inhabitants: Primarily Malakim (angels), Fae, elementals, sprites, and others blessed by Solas, though some sprites lost their status after betraying the house during the Fall.
- Purpose: Embodies the power of the sky, wind, and celestial influences. This house includes beings connected to light, breath, and air.
3. House of Many Waters
- Patron Deity: Ogenas (Goddess of Waters)
- Inhabitants: River-spirits, mer (mermaids and similar creatures), water beasts, nymphs, kelpies, and nøkks (water spirits).
- Purpose: Reflects the domain of water, oceans, rivers, and all aquatic elements of life, along with beings uniquely connected to the depths and mysteries of the seas.
4. House of Flame and Shadow
- Patron Deity: Urd (Goddess of Fate and Death)
- Inhabitants: Includes dark and powerful creatures such as Daemonaki (demons), Reapers, wraiths, vampyrs, draki (fire-breathing creatures), dragons, necromancers, and many unnamed dark entities.
- Purpose: Represents the darker forces of magic, shadow, death, and chaos. It is the house of those connected to fire and the mysteries of the afterlife.
Note on Sprites: Once part of the House of Sky and Breath, sprites lost their status as punishment for their role in the Fall, the event that led to the fall of the Vanir civilization. They are now considered "Lowers," a lower social standing that many sprites resent.
These four houses govern all life in Midgard and set the tone for the alliances, conflicts, and mystical hierarchy that define the world of Crescent City.
CHAPTER 1 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter One of House of Earth and Blood, we meet Bryce Quinlan, a half-Fae with striking wine-red hair, who works at Griffin Antiquities, a small gallery that houses rare and magical items. It's a Thursday, which she knows only because her best friend, Danika Fendyr, is pounding on the door, a routine she relies on to keep track of the days. Bryce can tell it’s Danika from the fierce knock and the metallic-purple nails she knows would be at the end of Danika’s fist—a quirky detail that marks her friend’s wild, unpolished style.
Bryce, seated at her desk in the gallery, checks the security camera feed before letting Danika in. Griffin Antiquities, though it looks modest from the outside, is fortified with advanced spells and high-tech surveillance, guarding the precious books and artifacts in its basement archives. The gallery is a safe haven of sorts, built to protect its rare collection. Bryce, though sharp-eared from her Fae heritage, has to rely on this surveillance to see who’s at the door since there are no exterior windows.
When Bryce finally opens the heavy door, she is greeted by a waft of dry, hot air and Danika, who looks as if she’s been rolling in dirt and reeks of metal and ammonia. With her silvery blond hair streaked in amethyst, sapphire, and rose, Danika looks like a mess, her once-sleek braid now tangled and dirty. The two exchange playful banter as Danika steps into the cool gallery, shrugging off her sword—a large, leather-bound weapon—and tossing it into the closet, much to Bryce's dismay. Bryce warns her that Jesiba Roga, the gallery’s powerful and terrifying owner, will throw her belongings in the dumpster if she finds them lying around.
Jesiba, a 400-year-old enchantress aligned with the House of Flame and Shadow, is not to be crossed. Rumored to answer directly to the Under-King, she’s a dangerous sorceress who can transform people into animals if they annoy her, a reputation that keeps Bryce careful in her interactions. Jesiba’s collection of small animals in tanks and terrariums always leaves Bryce wondering if they were once humans who had crossed Jesiba.
As Bryce and Danika continue their lighthearted back-and-forth, Danika mentions that she’s in town for a meeting with the City Heads, a rare occurrence that makes Bryce raise an eyebrow. Meetings of this level are typically reserved for serious matters, especially those involving Micah Domitus, the Archangel who rules Crescent City. Each Head of the city controls a specific domain, like the Prime of the wolves in Moonwood, the Autumn King in Five Roses, and the notorious Viper Queen in the Meat Market. Together, these seven leaders make up the power hierarchy in Lunathion, also known as Crescent City.
Danika reveals the reason for her unusually tense attitude: Philip Briggs, a notorious human rebel with a mission to incite war between humans and Vanir, is being released from prison due to a technical error. Danika and her Pack of Devils had apprehended Briggs while he was planning a bombing at the White Raven, one of the city’s busiest nightclubs. The news that such a dangerous man is being set free, despite the havoc he could wreak, leaves Bryce shaken. Briggs's goal is to spread the human rebellion from the cold, war-torn north, where conflict against the Vanir rages, down into their territory in Valbara.
As Danika heads down to the gallery’s basement archives for a shower, Bryce reflects on her friend's rebellious, headstrong nature, especially her tense relationship with her mother, Sabine, the Alpha of the Scythe Moon Pack. Sabine, who was supposed to inherit the family’s ancient sword, was publicly humiliated when it instead went to Danika on her eighteenth birthday, a symbol of her destiny and power within the wolf shifters. Bryce recalls the pride and weight that Danika carries as the leader of the Pack of Devils, one of the most elite shifter units in the city’s Auxiliary, who protect the city from both mortal and supernatural threats.
In the archives, Danika greets Syrinx, a mischievous chimera that Jesiba had bought to assist Lehabah, the fiery little sprite who guards the gallery’s treasures. Despite being told he isn’t a pet, Syrinx spends most of his time basking in the attention he gets from Bryce and Danika.
Before Bryce can join Danika downstairs, the gallery phone rings—it’s Jesiba. With her usual commanding tone, Jesiba warns Bryce to remind Danika not to leave her things lying around. Bryce, no stranger to Jesiba’s wrath, promises to pass along the message. Jesiba’s parting words echo through the line: “Tell Danika that if she keeps using the supply closet as her locker, I’ll turn her into a lizard.”
This first chapter sets up the vibrant world of Crescent City, filled with complex political dynamics, magical forces, and the deep bond between Bryce and Danika. Their friendship is at the heart of Bryce’s world, and it’s clear that life in this city is far from simple, with rebellion simmering on the horizon and dangerous powers at play in the shadows.
CHAPTER 1 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
As Chapter Two unfolds, Bryce juggles work at Griffin Antiquities, managing her boss Jesiba’s strict reprimands, handling a fussy client, and replying to messages from Danika’s pack. Her texts with Connor and Nathalie—Danika’s Second and Third in command—show their concern over how Danika is handling Philip Briggs’s imminent release.
Soon, Danika reappears in her powerful wolf form, a formidable presence with her large, fur-covered body and intense caramel eyes. As she transforms back into her human self, they leave the gallery together. Danika is both frustrated and determined, eager to take matters with Briggs into her own hands, though Bryce tries to reassure her that the city’s leaders will keep an eye on him. Danika’s growing responsibilities and tensions with her mother, Sabine, weigh heavily on her.
Their walk takes them toward the Heart Gate in the Old Square, one of seven Gates designed centuries ago as communication devices. The Gate, made of quartz and bearing a gold dial pad, is now a popular tourist attraction. Danika proposes they make a wish, a small tradition between the two friends. Bryce makes a playful wish about Danika’s need for a manicure, lightening the mood.
As they reach the square’s edge, Danika shares that Bryce’s half-brother Ruhn will be at her meeting with the City Heads, where they’ll discuss Briggs. Danika promises Bryce that she’ll keep her informed. They share a heartfelt farewell, with Bryce urging Danika to be careful.
In this chapter, the depth of Bryce and Danika’s friendship shines through, underscored by the looming threat of Briggs’s release and the tensions in Crescent City. Bryce’s protectiveness and Danika’s determination foreshadow the dangers they both may soon face. The chapter ends with the two going their separate ways, each carrying the weight of what’s to come.
CHAPTER 3 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter Three of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce returns home from work, only to find her apartment filled with Danika and her pack, the Pack of Devils. The lively group’s laughter and howls echo down the stairwell, effectively ruining Bryce's hopes for a quiet night. Inside, she’s met by the familiar faces of the pack, including Connor Holstrom, Danika’s Second, who lounges comfortably on her favorite spot on the couch. The wolves fill her home with energy and a sense of family, despite Bryce’s grumbling.
Bryce learns that Ithan Holstrom, Connor's younger brother and a star sunball player, scored the winning goal at the evening’s game. She exchanges a quick, teasing message with Ithan, illustrating their close bond. But her real concern lies with Danika and the intense meeting she had regarding Philip Briggs, the human rebel recently released on a technicality. As Bryce speaks with Danika in the kitchen, she senses something weighing heavily on her friend. Danika, however, deflects, hinting that Sabine, her mother and the ruthless Alpha of the Scythe Moon Pack, was especially critical, even accusing Danika of negligence regarding the murder of two CCU students near Luna’s Temple during the recent blackout.
In their banter, Danika brings up Bryce’s date with her human boyfriend, Reid. Connor’s jealousy is evident, though he tries to hide it. There’s tension between Bryce and Connor, especially when he casually suggests they should go on a date. Bryce firmly shuts down the suggestion, rejecting the idea of dating a wolf and warning Connor off with humor and bluntness.
Before leaving, Bryce heads to her room, taking a moment to reflect on her complicated feelings about dancing, a passion that has remained close to her heart despite setbacks. She dresses up in a skintight gray dress, feeling both confident and a little self-conscious under the pack’s scrutiny as she prepares to meet Reid. Bryce exchanges a final “Light it up” with Danika—a familiar goodbye between them, signaling their friendship’s deep bond. Danika’s added “Love you” lingers with Bryce as she steps into the lively Crescent City night, conflicted but ready to embrace whatever the evening holds.
This chapter deepens the camaraderie Bryce shares with Danika and the pack while foreshadowing the lingering threat of Briggs’s release and Bryce’s ambivalent relationship with both her human and supernatural worlds.
CHAPTER 4 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter Four of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce reluctantly heads out to a fancy dinner at The Pearl and Rose with her boyfriend, Reid. The lavish setting only amplifies her discomfort; this high-end restaurant is a reminder of all that frustrates her about Crescent City’s elite. Waiting for Reid, who arrives forty-five minutes late, Bryce downs two glasses of expensive wine, mulling over a message from Connor. In his text, Connor confesses his feelings, expressing how much he wants to give them a chance at a relationship—a thought that unsettles and intrigues her.
When Reid finally shows up, he’s indifferent and absorbed in his phone, talking vaguely about business with malakim investors and the conflict in Pangera, the ongoing war that continues to threaten their world. Bryce realizes how disconnected they are, especially as he’s unfazed by her attempts at conversation. Finally fed up, she dumps him on the spot, leaving with the wine bottle and shooting a parting jab at a sneering Fae noblewoman and her human companion. Her irritation at Reid is heightened by her resentment toward the city’s social structure, where beings like the Fae and malakim hold power and often look down on half-breeds like herself.
With her evening open, Bryce calls her friends Fury and Juniper and arranges to meet them at the White Raven, a popular club. While waiting, she considers Connor’s text and impulsively agrees to a date with him, scheduling it for Saturday. She feels a thrill at Connor’s flirtatious response, revealing his eagerness and charm.
Bryce’s friend Fury arrives, slipping a knife to Bryce’s throat in greeting, a playful but serious reminder of how deadly Fury is. The two exchange banter, and Fury warns Bryce against a dangerous new party drug called Synth that’s circulating in the city, underscoring the constant risks in their world. As they prepare to meet Juniper and revel in the club’s electric energy, Bryce embraces the thrill of her freedom, ready to dance and let go of the tensions and questions weighing on her.
This chapter highlights Bryce's frustration with Crescent City's social divides and deepens her bond with her friends, who bring both lightness and protection to her life. It also marks a shift as she opens up to Connor’s advances, allowing herself to imagine something more.
CHAPTER 5 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter Five of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce revels in a wild night out at the White Raven with her friends, Fury and Juniper, letting loose with dancing, drinks, and drugs. Bryce is utterly consumed by the euphoria of the music and movement, losing herself in the energy of the club. Juniper, abstaining from the substances, nonetheless joins her in dancing with joyful abandon, perfectly in sync with Bryce, as if they were two halves of a whole. But as Bryce eventually stumbles home, hazy from the night, she has no idea her world is about to shatter.
Back at her apartment building, Bryce struggles to enter, disoriented by the drugs still coursing through her. She finally gets inside, only to sense something terribly wrong—the reek of blood fills the air. Bryce forces herself to focus, realizing the apartment door is already open and the enchanted lock mangled. Her heart sinks as she takes in the scene inside: Danika and her pack have been brutally slaughtered. Connor, Thorne, and the others lie scattered in pieces, victims of a violent attack.
Overwhelmed with horror, Bryce tries to call for help but hears a noise from the hallway. She grabs a piece of a broken table and pursues the assailant, who has retreated to the trash chute. Running down to the street, Bryce catches sight of the creature—a terrifying, translucent-skinned demon—feasting on an angel. Fueled by rage and adrenaline, she launches an attack, wielding the table leg against the monster, but not before it wounds her. The creature slips away, leaving Bryce to confront the dying angel as he lies broken and bleeding.
In her despair, Bryce tries desperately to save him, calling Crescent City Rescue and screaming his phone number into the line, hoping they’ll be able to locate them quickly. The chapter ends with Bryce drenched in blood, her life and sense of safety ripped apart as she’s left in the horrifying reality of what just transpired.
CHAPTER 6 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter Six of House of Earth and Blood, Isaiah Tiberian and Hunt Athalar observe a devastated Bryce in the interrogation room after the massacre. Bryce looks completely broken, appearing more like a survivor of war than a witness, and she’s been silent since her arrival. Despite being brought in as a witness rather than a suspect, her emotional and physical state render her nearly unresponsive. Hunt, known as the Umbra Mortis or "Shadow of Death," is also disturbed by the brutality he witnessed in the alley.
Isaiah reviews Bryce’s background with Hunt, noting her minimal power level and the shocking fact that she attempted to save Connor with her bare hands despite her injuries. The two soldiers reflect on the futility of Bryce's efforts to save anyone, given the sheer destruction the unknown demon unleashed. Hunt is particularly enraged that the creature responsible left no trace for him to hunt down, unlike his usual targets. As they discuss the scene, Isaiah reveals that Philip Briggs has been arrested as a suspect, as the brutal attack occurred on the same day he was released.
The tense mood escalates when Sabine Fendyr, Danika's mother and the Prime Apparent of the wolves, storms in, furious with Bryce and accusing her of stealing Danika’s heirloom sword. She’s overcome with rage and grief, blaming Bryce for still being alive while Danika and her pack are not. Isaiah and Hunt attempt to calm her down, but Sabine storms off, leaving Hunt and Isaiah to manage Bryce’s interrogation.
Viktoria, a wraith and fellow member of the elite triarii, enters to question Bryce. Viktoria tries to coax Bryce into recalling details of the night and brings up the hauntingly explicit messages between Bryce and Danika that show their close bond. When audio from the hallway outside Bryce’s apartment plays, revealing Danika’s last moments as she begged for her life, Bryce finally breaks, exploding in rage and grief, flipping over the interrogation table and hurling the chair.
Hunt approaches her cautiously, showing a rare gentleness as he offers her a way out. Just then, Naomi Boreas calls, ordering Isaiah to release Bryce, as Ruhn Danaan, Bryce’s cousin and Crown Prince of the Fae, has intervened. Soon after, Ruhn arrives, furiously demanding to know why Bryce was detained and clashing with Hunt, who provokes him. Ruhn makes it clear that the Fae intend to protect Bryce, leaving Hunt and Isaiah frustrated with the bureaucracy complicating their investigation.
As Bryce leaves, still shattered, Isaiah and Hunt conclude that her survival could mark her as a future target for powerful forces in the city, and they vow to keep tracking any signs of the mysterious demon that caused the massacre.
CHAPTER 7 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter Seven of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce ventures to the Bone Quarter alone, in the stillness of dawn, to say goodbye to Danika in her own way. The Bone Quarter, a mist-covered realm on the opposite shore of the Istros River, is the final resting place for souls deemed worthy to pass into the sacred isle. As she kneels before the towering ivory gates made from the ribs of a leviathan, Bryce feels hollow, her life overtaken by grief and silence after Danika’s death.
Bryce’s anguish is compounded by the hostility from the wolves, including Ithan, who leaves her a hurtful message forbidding her from attending Danika's Sailing—a ceremony where Danika’s soul would be sent across the river for judgment. After days spent in a hotel room with her mother, Bryce finally leaves, numb and weighed down by sorrow, choosing instead to honor Danika by visiting the gates of the Bone Quarter.
As she kneels in the oppressive silence, the mist begins to tighten and the temperature drops, signaling the approach of an ancient presence from within the Bone Quarter. This powerful being, a guardian of the dead, emerges from the fog, casting a chilling atmosphere as Bryce lifts her gaze, unflinchingly confronting the sacred and dreadful unknown.
CHAPTER 8 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
Chapter 8 of House of Earth and Blood picks up twenty-two months after the devastating events that shattered Bryce's life. We find Bryce at the White Raven club, attempting to distract herself with a casual fling. Despite the adrenaline and noise, she feels the hollow echo of her past, only barely keeping her pain buried beneath flirtation and bravado. Her encounter with a lion shifter, and then with the wealthy vampire Maximus Tertian, briefly distracts her until she has to defend herself against Maximus’s unwanted advances.
Just when she’s nearly caught in an uncomfortable situation, her half-brother, Ruhn Danaan, intervenes, signaling a tense family connection. Bryce, guarded and resilient, brushes off Ruhn’s protectiveness, making it clear she values her independence, even if that means keeping herself distanced from her powerful brother and their shared, complicated ties to the Autumn King. Despite their banter, Ruhn warns Bryce about keeping out of trouble, especially with the upcoming Summit—a critical meeting where political powers gather to address Republic affairs. Their father wants all Fae on their best behavior, but Bryce's resentment toward the Autumn King is palpable.
Returning to her apartment alone, Bryce confronts the emptiness that still lingers after Danika’s death. Her pet, Syrinx, provides her only comfort as she navigates her grief and the feeling of being haunted by the life she once had. Danika’s will, which funded Bryce’s luxurious apartment, is a constant reminder of her best friend and the painful legacy left behind. Despite the glamour and freedom she projects, Bryce's life is still shadowed by loss and the haunting memories of what she’s lost.
CHAPTER 9 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
Chapter 9 of House of Earth and Blood opens with a grim scene that introduces us to Hunt Athalar, an angel bound by his role as an enforcer for the Archangel Micah Domitus. Hunt, wielding his sword, executes a brutal task in a dingy apartment, slaying a group of Vanir who had incurred Micah’s wrath. Despite the male’s pleas for mercy, Hunt’s focus is unwavering, leaving him drenched in blood and grim resolve.
Later, Hunt returns to the Comitium barracks under the cover of night, his visor and suit coated with the remnants of his grim work. Here, he encounters some of his comrades in the elite triarii, a group led by Micah, including Naomi, Viktoria, and Justinian. Justinian's casual remark about the blood on Hunt’s suit underscores his colleagues' acceptance—or resignation—to the violence Hunt is often forced to execute. Naomi informs him that Micah has another mission for him and Isaiah in the Old Square the next day.
As Hunt cleans up, we get glimpses into his dark history and torment. He recalls the failed rebellion he led with his lover, Shahar, who sought to dismantle the oppressive hierarchies under the Asteri. After Shahar’s death, her twin sister, Sandriel, took possession of him, forcing him into decades of torment and obedience.
Despite his current role in Crescent City, Hunt’s freedom is far from within reach. Micah has promised that Hunt can earn it back by fulfilling a death-for-death tally for each life he took in the rebellion. After four years, he’s only accounted for eighty-two of the over two thousand lives he’s been held responsible for. The violence he carries out for Micah’s orders has hollowed him, leaving him a shadow of his former self.
This chapter delves deep into Hunt's psyche and moral conflict, showing how his once-idealistic spirit has been beaten down by centuries of oppression, pain, and servitude. Each task brings him no closer to freedom, yet Hunt persists, haunted by his past and bound by his bloody present.
CHAPTER 10 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
Chapter 10 of House of Earth and Blood begins with Bryce at her gallery job, attending to a Fae couple browsing through high-end artifacts, each item steeped in ancient history. She carefully maintains her polite facade, yet inwardly muses on the pressure of arranged marriages and royal bloodlines, drawing a quiet contrast between her life and her distant royal Fae relatives like her half-brother, Ruhn.
Bryce’s Tuesday is further complicated when Hunt Athalar and Isaiah Tiberian show up, demanding entry to discuss a murder case. With her boss Jesiba’s rules against legionaries on the premises, Bryce initially resists. However, Hunt’s remark about “a murder” forces her to relent. Once inside, they reveal the real purpose of their visit: the brutal murder of Maximus Tertian, eerily similar to the horrific deaths of Danika Fendyr and her pack two years prior. Hunt and Isaiah's questioning pushes Bryce to revisit painful memories and question the integrity of past assumptions, particularly that Philip Briggs—currently imprisoned—had been behind the summoning of the demon that killed Danika.
During their tense exchange, Bryce learns that Micah Domitus, the powerful Archangel and Governor, is on his way to question her further, heightening her anxiety and leaving her grappling with old wounds that seem far from healed. As she relays these events to Jesiba over the phone, we see a more vulnerable side of Bryce, who is now thrust into a mystery that once shattered her life, with no idea how deep the danger may run.
CHAPTER 11 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 11 of House of Earth and Blood, the tension peaks as Bryce welcomes Micah Domitus, the Governor and powerful Archangel, into the gallery. Bryce, feeling the heavy press of his intimidating presence, attempts to remain composed while Micah, along with Hunt Athalar and Isaiah Tiberian, takes charge of the situation.
As Micah settles in, Bryce initiates a video call with Jesiba Roga, her boss, who joins the meeting from a lavish hotel suite. Jesiba, the mysterious sorceress, subtly tests Micah's motives, suggesting he may have used the murder case as an excuse to interact with Bryce. In a chilling response, Micah explains the seriousness of the meeting and mentions a second, previously unshared connection between the recent murder of Maximus Tertian and the horrific deaths of Danika Fendyr and her pack two years ago.
As Bryce's anxiety rises, Micah drops a bombshell: he expects Bryce to investigate and identify the true murderer. The chapter ends with this shocking revelation, positioning Bryce at the center of a case she thought was closed, yet which now threatens to unravel her past grief and put her in grave danger.
CHAPTER 12 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 12 of House of Earth and Blood, the stakes soar as Micah Domitus, the Archangel, formally assigns Bryce the task of investigating the murders of Danika and her pack. Micah reveals a critical development: not only might Philip Briggs have been wrongfully convicted, but the latest murder shares a deeper link to Danika. It turns out that Maximus Tertian and Danika knew each other, and Bryce's presence at both crime scenes raises Micah's suspicions.
Though Jesiba challenges the Archangel’s motives, she reluctantly agrees to let Bryce help with the case, securing compensation in return. As Micah presses Bryce, he alludes to the upcoming Summit and the arrival of Sandriel—a notoriously ruthless Archangel and past captor of Hunt. The revelation visibly rattles Hunt, as Sandriel’s presence brings painful memories of his enslavement and the promise of additional torment with her second-in-command, Pollux Antonius, in tow.
Despite her resentment, Bryce accepts the challenge, expressing a fierce desire for justice. Hunt is appointed to protect her, effectively turning him into her guard and partner on this harrowing investigation. As Bryce shows Micah and his triarii out of the gallery, she and Hunt exchange a tense but begrudging truce, with Hunt advising her to start making lists of suspects and locations linked to Danika’s last days. Bryce, however, dismisses him coolly, reinforcing her independence.
The chapter closes on a fraught note, setting up a dynamic and reluctant partnership between Bryce and Hunt. Both face a complex task that grows darker with the shadow of Sandriel’s imminent arrival, the mystery of the demon, and Bryce’s simmering determination to unearth her friend’s true killer.
CHAPTER 13 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 13 of House of Earth and Blood, tensions escalate as Hunt Athalar and Isaiah confront Micah on the rooftop, questioning his decision to enlist Bryce in solving Danika’s murder. Micah, however, reveals his desperation, making an unexpected offer to Hunt: if he solves the case before the upcoming Summit, Micah will lower Hunt’s life sentence to only ten more kills—a shocking bargain that brings Hunt’s freedom within reach.
As they speak, Micah warns Hunt to keep things “professional” with Bryce, adding a crude reminder of his authority. Isaiah’s loyalty to Hunt shows as he suggests ways to keep him out of the Comitium and away from Sandriel and Pollux during their month-long visit. This small reprieve gives Hunt a sense of temporary relief, yet he remains wary of Bryce, seeing her as a potential suspect until she proves otherwise.
Back inside the gallery, Bryce faces her own turmoil. After dismissing her heels and contending with her boss Jesiba’s sharp reminder of her priorities, she grapples with the weight of investigating Danika’s death. Despite her resentment, Bryce resolves to find her friend’s killer—even if it means working alongside the reluctant Hunt. The looming mystery, along with hints of connections between the victims, leaves Bryce both shaken and determined. But amid her steely resolve, she is haunted by memories of Connor’s messages and the weight of her loss.
As Bryce plans to inform her friends Juniper and Fury (though Fury’s silence continues to hurt), she keeps to Micah’s directive of secrecy, wary of potential dangers around her. With grim determination, Bryce steels herself to face whatever challenges lie ahead, even as she senses the silence and dark unknown accompanying her descent to the gallery’s archives.
CHAPTER 14 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 14 of House of Earth and Blood, we gain insight into Ruhn Danaan's tense relationship with his father, the Autumn King. The chapter opens with Ruhn entering his father’s grandiose study, filled with artifacts and magical devices, a setting that starkly contrasts with the cold, calculating demeanor of the King. His father’s disinterest in the brutal murder of Maximus Tertian and recent revelations about Danika’s death further alienate Ruhn, who is tasked with handling additional patrols to ensure the Fae's safety. He reluctantly delivers updates on the situation and assures his father of Bryce’s alibi, an explanation that’s met with barely concealed disdain.
The interaction quickly turns to politics and lineage. The Autumn King expresses dissatisfaction with the Fae's weakening power and pushes Ruhn toward a politically advantageous marriage with Hypaxia Enador, the newly crowned witch-queen. Despite his defiance, Ruhn is reminded that his father’s authority leaves him little choice. This conversation also brings up the Luna’s Horn, a lost artifact with ancient ties to the Fae. Though believed powerless, the Autumn King insists on its recovery, seeing it as a symbol of strength and heritage.
Throughout this exchange, Ruhn reflects on his complicated family dynamics—his estranged relationship with his father and the loss of warmth from his childhood interactions with Bryce. His mother, once a noble Fae, remains confined to a life of silent obedience, a reality that shapes Ruhn’s perception of loyalty and love. Yet despite the Autumn King’s unyielding commands, Ruhn clings to a powerful secret he has kept since his Oracle visit at thirteen: the prophecy that "The royal bloodline shall end with you, Prince."
CHAPTER 15 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 15 of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce is juggling her desire for privacy and normalcy with the looming investigation into Danika and Tertian's murders. As she tries to settle in for a night of relaxation, her chimera Syrinx alerts her to Hunt Athalar watching from a nearby rooftop. Irritated but defiant, Bryce mocks his surveillance before retreating behind closed curtains, but Hunt is quick to remind her of their duties. Their banter reveals their mutual annoyance, with Bryce resisting Hunt’s intimidating presence and orders, and Hunt, likewise, struggling with her dismissive attitude.
Their ongoing exchanges highlight Hunt’s frustration at being forced into this protection duty. He tries intimidating Bryce, reminding her that she is tasked with investigating her friend’s murder. Bryce, however, is not so easily swayed, and a sense of tension arises as they continue their battle of wills. They both challenge each other’s control, a dynamic that’s made more complicated by Bryce’s reluctant acknowledgment of Hunt's presence—and perhaps the value he might bring in facing a potential killer.
Back in Griffin Antiquities, Bryce’s interactions with Lehabah, the fire sprite, add depth to her character. Lehabah’s wish to be free contrasts with Bryce’s understanding of the cost of that freedom, as well as her own desire for escape. Through Lehabah, we see Bryce’s care and protective nature, as well as the darker side of the Vanir hierarchy, which subjects beings like sprites and chimeras to strict control and ownership.
Bryce’s attention soon shifts back to her task. She prepares for the next step in her investigation, bracing herself for Hunt’s reaction to her next move—a risky choice that underscores her defiance and determination. This chapter illustrates Bryce’s resilience, her complex relationships with those around her, and the building tension as the investigation deepens.
CHAPTER 16 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 16 of House of Earth and Blood, Ruhn takes a breather from his father’s overbearing commands by smoking mirthroot with his friend Flynn. High on the potent substance, Ruhn slips into a relaxed, dreamlike state until he’s interrupted by his sister, Bryce. Her unexpected visit throws him off guard, especially given the tension in their past interactions and the serious reason she’s there.
Bryce wastes no time, bypassing his questions to get to the point: she’s looking for information on the Viper Queen and any movements the Aux may have tracked. Ruhn is stunned by her determination, especially as her involvement in the investigation puts her directly at odds with the Autumn King’s orders for her to stay out of the spotlight. Though reluctant, Ruhn confirms that there’s little intel on the Viper Queen’s whereabouts but warns Bryce against getting involved. Bryce, however, is resolute and dismisses his concerns. She’s determined to find Danika’s murderer, whatever the risks, and seems prepared to face whatever consequences her father may impose.
Their conversation highlights the contrasting personalities and shared defiance between Bryce and Ruhn. Bryce’s fierce independence and single-mindedness mirror Ruhn’s more cautious, steady approach. However, the family ties are evident in the way they challenge authority and carry a quiet loyalty toward one another despite their differences.
After she leaves, Ruhn’s mood darkens as he confronts Hunt Athalar outside the house, who is tailing Bryce under orders to protect her. Tension spikes as Ruhn and Hunt trade barbs, each testing the other’s patience and power. Though an actual fight is averted, the encounter leaves Ruhn frustrated and wary of Hunt’s intentions, especially as the Umbra Mortis has a reputation for both obedience and ruthlessness.
The chapter ends with Ruhn contemplating a connection between the murders, Luna’s missing Horn, and the Autumn King’s sudden interest in retrieving it. The alignment of these elements gnaws at him, hinting at a deeper conspiracy that will likely test both his and Bryce’s limits as they pursue their respective investigations.
CHAPTER 17 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 17 of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce surprises Hunt with her resourcefulness, presenting a list of suspects she compiled while doing her own investigating. She reveals that Maximus Tertian had a girlfriend who worked at the nail salon Bryce had visited—a connection Bryce exploited to learn more about Tertian’s social circle and possible motives behind his murder. Bryce even uncovered that Tertian’s girlfriend occasionally did the Viper Queen’s nails, giving her insight into the Queen's indirect connection to Danika.
Hunt is initially frustrated, believing Bryce’s earlier behavior was aimless, but her findings put him on high alert, especially given the Viper Queen’s power and potential ability to summon demons. Hunt advises that they should approach the Viper Queen cautiously, but Bryce insists on a more direct approach. She suggests that observing her cousin Ruhn’s behavior—particularly his conversations with their father, the Autumn King—could yield useful information. Although Hunt is initially resistant, Bryce’s determined approach ultimately wins out, prompting him to consider using unconventional surveillance methods, despite the legal implications.
Later, Bryce decides to secretly visit the Viper Queen, taking extra precautions to avoid Hunt’s surveillance by slipping out of her apartment undetected. She rides her scooter into the Meat Market, a dark and dangerous district filled with shady vendors and illicit goods. However, as she arrives, Hunt drops down dramatically, cracking the cobblestone street with his landing. Furious at her risky behavior and clear disregard for his authority, he makes it known that her actions have pushed his patience to the limit.
This chapter deepens the dynamic between Bryce and Hunt, illustrating her independent, unorthodox investigative style and her willingness to face danger head-on, even if it means defying Hunt’s orders. Hunt’s concern over her risky approach shows his growing investment in both the case and Bryce’s safety, creating an increasingly tense part
CHAPTER 18 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 18 of House of Earth and Blood, Hunt catches up with Bryce in the dangerous Meat Market district, furious that she snuck out and ignored his instructions. Despite his scolding, Bryce dismisses him, coolly pointing out that she knows exactly what she’s doing. She deftly navigates the underground maze of vendors and dealers, introducing Hunt to a few familiar faces before leading him to a sketchy satyr who deals in various summoning salts.
Their target is the highly illegal obsidian salt, a substance powerful enough to summon dangerous demons—something likely connected to the killer they’re hunting. Bryce uses her wits and a series of threatening remarks to coerce the satyr into lowering his price from an exorbitant fifty thousand to ten thousand gold marks. With help from her boss, Jesiba Roga, she finalizes the deal and successfully obtains the salt.
Just as they’re about to leave, they come face-to-face with the enigmatic Viper Queen herself. The queen’s striking appearance, with snake-like eyes and a golden jumpsuit, signals that this isn’t a simple encounter. As Hunt and Bryce stare her down, the tension in the air foreshadows that their interaction with her will be anything but straightforward.
Bryce’s bold approach reveals her shrewdness and tenacity, while Hunt’s reluctant admiration for her tactics begins to take root. This chapter highlights Bryce’s readiness to defy protocol and push boundaries to get what she needs, even if it means venturing into the heart of the underworld and confronting Crescent City’s most dangerous figures.
CHAPTER 19 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 19 of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce and Hunt engage with the formidable Viper Queen in a tense meeting that reveals new insights and challenges. The chapter opens with Bryce and Hunt confronting the Queen in the dark, gritty underbelly of the Meat Market. Despite the danger, Bryce exudes confidence and manages to navigate the meeting with her usual blend of charm and boldness.
The Viper Queen immediately notices the obsidian salt in Bryce's possession, and the interaction that follows is laced with veiled threats and gamesmanship. Bryce learns that the Viper Queen knew Danika, albeit as a potential threat rather than a close ally. Though the Queen admits they had a “working relationship,” she denies involvement in Danika’s murder and even provides a flash drive with her alibis for the night of both Danika’s death and Maximus Tertian’s. The Queen’s guarded comments suggest she is more focused on protecting her own interests and power in the Meat Market, where she senses tension mounting.
Before they leave, the Viper Queen drops a cryptic piece of advice: to "look toward where it hurts the most" for answers. Though Hunt is quick to dismiss it as manipulation, Bryce considers it, believing there might be truth in it. Her determination to follow the lead hints at her resilience and willingness to face painful truths. Hunt, skeptical of the Viper Queen but trusting Bryce’s instincts, reluctantly agrees to continue investigating together.
The chapter ends with Bryce ready to dive deeper into the mystery, leaving Hunt both impressed and wary. The dynamic between them continues to evolve, especially as Hunt begins to see Bryce as a competent partner rather than a reckless nuisance.
CHAPTER 20 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 20 of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce wrestles with painful memories as she dives deeper into her investigation. The chapter opens with her reflecting on the Viper Queen's cryptic advice to "look toward where it hurts the most," which stirs unresolved emotions about Danika's final days. Attempting to gain insight, Bryce revisits her emails with Maximus Tertian but finds them bland and unhelpful, forcing her to confront memories she’s tried to avoid. Bryce’s friend and fire sprite Lehabah tries to offer advice, albeit with a side of humor over her fascination with Hunt Athalar.
As Bryce contemplates the challenge of making a list of Danika's last movements, she unexpectedly calls Hunt for help. He arrives at her gallery and encounters Lehabah, who is immediately enamored with him, adding light-hearted banter to the otherwise somber scene. Lehabah reveals more about Bryce's softer side, particularly her love for her pet chimera, Syrinx, whom she rescued and freed from a grim future. The conversation subtly reflects Bryce's own battle with being "trapped," paralleling her deeper emotional struggles over Danika's death.
Hunt proves to be a steady presence for Bryce, gently guiding her through her painful memories with questions about her friend. Starting with small recollections, like their tattoo experience and shared meals, Hunt coaxes her to recall Danika's activities. Despite her initial resistance, Bryce begins to piece together a timeline of Danika’s last week, noting moments of laughter and companionship as well as Danika’s seemingly ordinary activities around town.
The chapter concludes with a message from Bryce’s cousin Ruhn, who cryptically requests to meet her at Luna’s Temple, hinting that it’s a rare place in the city free from surveillance. Bryce suspects it’s connected to her meeting with the Viper Queen and is curious enough to accept the invitation. Hunt decides to accompany her, adding an extra layer of tension as they prepare to meet Ruhn in a setting bound to yield more secrets.
CHAPTER 21 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 21 of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce confronts Ruhn in Luna's Temple about whether the Autumn King might be involved in Danika's murder or in summoning the kristallos demon. Ruhn assures her that while their father is a cruel man, he wouldn’t kill Danika. He believes the Autumn King’s real interest lies in using the search for Luna’s Horn as an opportunity to elevate the Fae’s standing. Despite this, Bryce is skeptical and questions why Ruhn is helping her, suspecting he has his own motives. Their conversation is tense, with Bryce still harboring anger over past hurtful comments Ruhn made, reflecting the deep rift in their relationship.
Once back at the gallery, Bryce is greeted by a slew of messages from Jesiba demanding her immediate return, where Bryce deals with an unpleasant client. Despite her efforts to uncover new information on the Horn in the gallery’s archives, she finds nothing useful, leaving her with lingering questions about Danika’s connection to the mystery.
Throughout the day, Bryce struggles emotionally, forced to confront painful memories of her friend as she completes a list of Danika’s last known whereabouts. Hunt, who seems to sense her need for solitude, keeps a respectful distance. As the day winds down, Hunt silently follows her and Syrinx home, providing her a comforting but quiet presence. Exhausted by the mental and emotional toll of the day, Bryce falls asleep almost immediately, carrying the weight of unresolved questions and painful memories.
CHAPTER 22 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In this chapter, Bryce confronts Ruhn about whether their father, the Autumn King, might be responsible for Danika's murder or for summoning the kristallos demon. Ruhn insists the Autumn King wouldn’t have killed Danika, though Bryce remains skeptical. She questions why Ruhn would want to help her, and he explains that he’s genuinely concerned for the city’s safety, though Bryce mocks his "Chosen One" persona. The exchange brings up old wounds as Bryce recalls hurtful things Ruhn once said, highlighting the deep-seated resentment between them. Bryce ultimately decides they can work together, but it won't change their strained relationship.
Returning to the gallery, Bryce deals with messages from Jesiba demanding her return and a difficult client whose advances she has to fend off. Her search for information on Luna’s Horn proves frustrating, as the gallery’s databases reveal little more than what she already knows. Even Lehabah, with her extensive gossip knowledge, is unaware of anything helpful.
Later, Hunt retreats to the rooftop to contact Micah and Isaiah about the Horn, giving Bryce the space she needs. Inspired by the Viper Queen's advice to "look where it hurts the most," Bryce reluctantly revisits the painful task of mapping out Danika’s last known activities, hoping it will reveal more about her friend’s connection to the Horn. The emotional toll of the day weighs on her, leaving her utterly drained. Hunt quietly follows her and Syrinx home, sensing her need for silent companionship. Bryce collapses into bed, exhausted, as the weight of the investigation continues to bear down on her.
CHAPTER 23 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In this chapter, Bryce tries to keep herself together while managing Jesiba's errands, including retrieving a file from Jesiba's private computer, which is kept offline and away from the gallery's main network. The computer is located in Jesiba’s office, a space as intimidating as the sorceress herself, with the Godslayer Rifle mounted behind her desk as a chilling reminder of her power. Bryce seizes an opportunity to ask if Jesiba has heard anything new about Luna’s Horn, but Jesiba remains silent on the matter.
Bryce’s day quickly spirals downward when Hunt calls to inform her of another brutal murder, likely linked to the kristallos demon. She’s reluctant to go, haunted by memories of Danika’s death, but Hunt’s persistence leads her to the crime scene. There, she’s met with the gruesome sight of a young acolyte from Luna’s Temple, her body reduced to pulp, mirroring the horrors Bryce witnessed two years ago. Ruhn, who’s also at the scene, tries to shield Bryce, but she fiercely rejects his help, not wanting to be coddled or pitied. Tension rises between Ruhn and Hunt, with each blaming the other for Bryce’s involvement.
Overwhelmed by memories and unable to escape the past’s grip, Bryce finds herself spiraling. She’s filled with rage, guilt, and the growing fear that their visit to the temple may have indirectly led to the acolyte’s death. In an attempt to calm her, Hunt keeps pace with her down the street, drawing Bryce back from the brink of a breakdown. He finally confronts her, asking how she managed to survive the kristallos demon when so many others have died by its hand. The conversation takes a shocking turn when Hunt reveals that Micah himself had been attacked by the kristallos, a revelation that catches Bryce completely off guard.
This chapter deepens Bryce’s trauma, her distrust of those around her, and her struggle with unresolved grief and anger. With the revelation about Micah, Bryce realizes that the stakes of this mystery are even higher than she thought, pushing her closer to the truth while simultaneously reopening old wounds.
CHAPTER 24 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
Inside the White Raven, the music pounded, and the air was thick with sweat, perfume, and the faintest trace of old spilled drinks. The bass thrummed through Bryce's bones, grounding her in the present, away from the storm of memories she’d just walked through. But it couldn’t drown out the echoes in her mind, nor the sharp pang of loss that hit her as she crossed the threshold into the dark, pulsing club where she’d spent so many nights with Danika.
She made her way through the crowd, weaving between people dancing and the bartenders mixing drinks at a breakneck pace. Her mind kept replaying that moment in the alcove, the words Danika had spoken to her, and the impossible weight of those final messages. Yet, as she pushed through the crush of bodies, something within her steadied, like she’d made a decision she wasn’t fully aware of yet.
The VIP lounge upstairs was quieter, the beats more muted, as if the sound couldn’t quite penetrate the heavy curtains draping the section. Her usual charm slipped back into place like a second skin, masking the rawness beneath. She put on a confident smile, making her way toward a door tucked into the far corner.
The door guard, a hulking lion shifter she’d seen more than once during her visits, raised a questioning brow, but she flashed him a cool look. “I'm expected,” she lied smoothly, glancing at the faint glow of her phone as if she’d received a message confirming it.
The lion shifter eyed her, then the phone, but eventually shrugged, stepping aside. Bryce walked past him with a steady breath, feeling the press of Hunt’s presence still somewhere outside. It wouldn’t take long before he swooped down, demanding answers and trying to pry into whatever she was up to.
But this—this was her own. A piece of a puzzle she needed to solve on her terms.
She stepped through the door and into the quiet back room, shutting out the noise of the club behind her. It took a moment for her eyes to adjust to the dim light, but she squared her shoulders as she faced the small, round table at the center of the room. A figure sat in the shadows, waiting, their features obscured.
Bryce didn't bother with pleasantries. She slid into the chair opposite, crossing her arms as she studied the person sitting across from her. The air seemed to pulse with an unspoken tension.
"Let's talk about Danika," Bryce said, her voice low and edged with steel. "And why you wanted to meet here, now of all times."
CHAPTER 25 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
This intense chapter begins with an explosion at a club, shattering Bryce’s fragile sense of normalcy. Bryce, Hunt, and Ruhn are caught in the chaos, and Bryce instinctively shields her friend Juniper from the blast. When the dust settles, Bryce is left disoriented and rattled, struggling to process the shock. Juniper, shaken and furious, confronts her for risking herself, pointing out that Bryce has not yet made the Drop and could easily have died.
Hunt takes Bryce to Ruhn’s house to recuperate. As he helps her clean up, he notes the deep scar on her thigh, which she’s never had healed, a lasting reminder of her trauma. They share a brief moment of unspoken connection, underscored by Hunt’s concern for her well-being and Bryce’s vulnerability. She admits she threw herself over Juniper to protect her ballet career, demonstrating her selflessness and loyalty.
Ruhn arrives, revealing that the bombing appears to be the work of human rebels, possibly connected to Philip Briggs and the Keres sect, which Danika had previously taken down. Disturbingly, they find a symbol of the Horn on the crate that contained the explosive, suggesting it may have been a warning related to their investigation.
As tensions rise, Bryce and Hunt reluctantly decide they must visit Briggs in prison to get answers, fearing that the acolyte’s murder and the club bombing are part of a larger plan to deter them from searching for the Horn. Ruhn shares the news that his father, the Autumn King, has ordered Bryce to have a guard with her at all times, supposedly to avoid any “messy situations” before the Summit. Bryce defies the King’s orders by choosing Hunt as her guard instead of Ruhn, asserting her independence and refusing to be controlled.
Before they leave, Ruhn makes a deal with Bryce: he can search her gallery’s library for information on the Horn in exchange for her using his tech-savvy friend Declan to investigate Danika’s last movements. As Bryce and Hunt exit, she mocks the Autumn King, telling Ruhn to relay the message that his control over her is futile. Meanwhile, Ruhn endures a tense call from the King, who hints at his right to punish Ruhn for divulging royal matters. The King’s ominous words weigh heavily on Ruhn, underscoring the complexity of their family ties and his own haunting Oracle prophecy that “the royal bloodline shall end with you.”
This chapter delves into the characters’ personal struggles—Bryce’s trauma, Hunt’s loyalty, and Ruhn’s sense of duty and family conflict. The stakes are raised as their investigation into the Horn appears to be putting them directly in the rebels’ crosshairs, and they’re forced to confront the possibility that their lives, and the city itself, may be on the brink of disaster.
CHAPTER 26 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
This chapter is steeped in tension and vulnerability as Bryce and Hunt return to her apartment after the bombing. Hunt notices Bryce’s bare feet, revealing the impact of the night’s chaos, but he’s careful not to push her, understanding she needs space. Once inside her home, Bryce’s trauma from Danika’s death resurfaces, admitting to Hunt that she’d planned to make the Drop with Danika, anchored by Connor and Thorne. This significant moment reveals how much Bryce has sacrificed, shutting out both joy and purpose in a life suspended by grief.
Hunt’s empathy shines as he carefully tends to Bryce, questioning her choices but respecting her need for privacy. He asks if she and Danika were ever romantically involved—a question Bryce answers with sorrowful clarity, speaking instead of her complicated connection with Connor and her lost light after the Pack’s death. The impact of that night has left a permanent scar, physically and emotionally, that Bryce continues to carry.
Later, when Bryce’s mother calls, Hunt realizes the depth of Bryce’s isolation: she downplays her trauma and danger, protecting her mother from worry. This wall of secrecy and self-reliance is something Hunt recognizes all too well. Bryce’s desperation for justice compels her to confess that she can’t find peace until Danika’s killer is found, leading Hunt to reveal his own haunting deal with Micah—to exchange deaths for the lives lost in his past. Their honesty forms an unspoken bond, highlighting their shared burdens and desperation for closure.
As Hunt settles into the guest room, he finds himself drawn to personal photos, seeing Bryce as a child and glimpsing the resilience of her adoptive family. A photo of Bryce and Danika atop a desert mountain captures a moment of their friendship and quiet strength. In this final scene, Hunt observes how they seemed like soldiers, marked by their loyalty and courage, forging a profound, bittersweet connection. This revelation softens Hunt’s view of Bryce, as he realizes the depth of her grief and love, solidifying their determination to find justice in an unforgiving world.
CHAPTER 27 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
This chapter opens with Hunt jolting awake, weapon in hand, only to find Syrinx, Bryce’s mischievous pet, playfully swatting at him. Despite the moment’s levity, Hunt’s protective instincts and constant vigilance reveal his warrior mindset, even in safe spaces. Soon after, Bryce’s best friend, Juniper, unexpectedly arrives, sparking a humorous, awkward encounter as she takes in Hunt’s shirtless presence and Bryce’s less-than-modest nightwear. The casual, teasing interaction between Hunt and Juniper offers a refreshing glimpse into Bryce’s support system, showing the ease and warmth in their friendship despite recent strains.
When Juniper leaves, Bryce and Hunt spar verbally in a light-hearted yet revealing exchange about boundaries. Bryce’s term “alphahole”—her playful dig at Hunt’s protective, “take charge” attitude—introduces a cheeky commentary on their dynamic. Hunt counters her criticism by pointing out her own habit of parading around in revealing outfits, challenging her assumptions and defenses. Their banter hides a deeper vulnerability, as both seem determined to avoid acknowledging their growing bond.
As Hunt pushes for a set of keys and inclusion in her apartment’s enchantments, Bryce resists but ultimately sees the necessity, signaling a reluctant acceptance of his role as protector. Their exchange is punctuated by Bryce’s humor, frustration, and Hunt’s mock “dominance.” Beneath their quips lies an unspoken connection, grounded in mutual respect and their shared dedication to finding Danika’s killer.
The chapter ends with Hunt asserting their new arrangement: “Anywhere you or I go, we go together,” and Bryce’s exasperated acceptance. It’s a statement that marks their evolution from reluctant allies to companions navigating a shared mission. This shift, underscored by humor and growing familiarity, hints at a deeper trust building between them—one that may prove essential as their investigation intensifies.
CHAPTER 28 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
This chapter dives deeper into the investigations surrounding the stolen Horn and Bryce’s past with her cousin Ruhn, opening with a patrol-like walk to the gallery with Hunt trailing behind Bryce. Their conversation is laced with subtle revelations about their pasts: Bryce hints at her fraught relationship with Ruhn and their shared resentment toward her father, while Hunt shares a bit about his past under Sandriel, exposing a raw vulnerability that resonates with Bryce. Their growing connection becomes more evident as they share jokes, particularly Bryce’s playful wish for “bigger boobs” when she was thirteen, a moment that unexpectedly breaks the tension and highlights the mutual support growing between them.
At Griffin Antiquities, Ruhn joins them in the expansive, eerie library, where he’s struck by the depth of resources available. The library’s enchantments come alive as Bryce warns him to handle the collection carefully. The trio’s dynamic, filled with Hunt and Ruhn’s light antagonism and Bryce’s quips, adds levity to their tense research. Lehabah, the fire sprite, brings a playful element by fawning over Ruhn’s “Chosen One” status, contrasting with the trio’s intense focus on finding the kristallos demon’s origin and understanding the Horn’s true power.
Their findings reveal that the Horn, once wielded by powerful Starborn Fae, can only be activated by the starlight essence, though the Horn is thought to be permanently broken. Ruhn theorizes that their current case might involve two separate individuals: one who has stolen the Horn and another who commands the kristallos demon, complicating their investigation further. This revelation creates a sense of urgency, and they agree to consult the Oracle—a daunting decision given both Bryce and Ruhn’s traumatic past encounters.
Bryce’s momentary reflections on Danika reveal more of her pain and guilt over Danika’s murder, along with her deep-seated resentment toward those she believes may have wronged her friend. The chapter ends with a series of emails between Bryce and Hunt, bantering about their next steps. As Bryce exits, Lehabah’s comment about the warmth of having company touches Bryce, hinting at her loneliness, even amid her friends and family. With each chapter, Bryce’s barriers seem to be breaking down, and her bond with Hunt is growing, underscoring the dual nature of their partnership: one that is both professional and personal, both dedicated to finding justice for Danika and something more intimate.
CHAPTER 29 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
This chapter intensifies the bond between Bryce and Hunt while exposing more of Hunt’s haunted past. As they walk through the Comitium to reach Hunt’s barracks, Bryce draws attention effortlessly, even receiving some appreciative stares from the legionaries around them. Hunt, however, is all business, seemingly on guard from any threats and maintaining a watchful eye over her. His concern becomes more evident when Bryce teases him about his intimidating reputation, hinting at his past trauma and isolated life.
Inside his small, impersonal barracks room, Hunt allows a rare glimpse into his life and pain. Bryce’s gentle questioning opens up his story about losing his mother and enduring heartbreak with Shahar. For her part, Bryce manages to draw out the irony of Hunt's warrior reputation and loneliness, even jokingly labeling him an “alphahole,” though she subtly acknowledges her understanding of his pain. They share small moments of connection that reveal mutual respect, and Hunt’s trust in Bryce seems to deepen as they discuss the circumstances of his past and his resentment toward the Archangels who have wronged him.
As they prepare to leave, Isaiah calls with news: they’re cleared to speak to Briggs in a few days, and the Oracle will see Hunt tomorrow. Yet, just as they return to the main Comitium lobby, a powerful presence fills the space, forcing everyone around them to bow in reverence. All eyes turn to the figure at the glass doors: an Archangel, accompanied by Micah. The chapter concludes with palpable tension, leaving Hunt and Bryce standing in stark contrast to the bowed crowd, staring into the face of immense power and an uncertain threat.
CHAPTER 30 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In this chapter, Bryce proves her audacious wit, taking a bold stance in the face of two Archangels, Sandriel and Micah, right in the Comitium lobby. When Sandriel, a figure deeply entwined with Hunt’s painful past, unexpectedly arrives, Hunt’s reaction is visceral. He freezes, caught in a cocktail of rage and terror, while everyone around him, including Isaiah, kneels in respect. Bryce quickly steps in, defusing the tension by playing up her party-girl persona, snapping selfies with the Archangels and pulling Hunt back toward the elevator. Her antics cleverly redirect the awkward spotlight away from Hunt, making it seem like an overenthusiastic visit rather than anything confrontational.
Micah, however, doesn’t let Bryce’s performance go without comment, stopping her before the elevator doors close to invite her to dinner. She declines, delivering a direct, "Not interested," that leaves him momentarily stunned. Once inside the elevator, Hunt thanks her for her quick thinking, though he’s wary of Micah’s potential reaction to her rejection. She dismisses it, insisting they’re even for the help he gave her after the club bombing.
As they make their way back to her apartment, Hunt opens up about the impact of his past with Sandriel and her Second, Pollux. He warns Bryce to avoid Pollux, hinting at the depths of his cruelty. Bryce takes it in stride, assuring him that she plans to steer clear of the Archangels altogether. Their banter continues, exposing their evolving comfort with each other, even as they debate over Hunt’s invitation to the Oracle the next day. Bryce, however, leaves Hunt to face that daunting appointment alone, relishing the thought of him going without her support.
This chapter subtly shows how Bryce's unexpected empathy and audacity are chipping away at Hunt’s walls, setting the stage for their complex bond and mutual respect to deepen as they continue to work together.
CHAPTER 31 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In this chapter, Hunt’s life as the Governor’s assassin is painfully exposed, a dark side he cannot avoid or soften. After receiving an abrupt call from Micah, Hunt is forced to leave Bryce and fulfill a brutal assignment, carrying out yet another execution. While the victim is hardly innocent, his desperate plea for mercy is a haunting reminder of the toll these acts have taken on Hunt’s soul. For Hunt, the moments leading up to and following each kill feel numb, distant, leaving him as nothing more than “an instrument of death.”
Hunt’s return to Bryce’s apartment is a stark contrast to the bloody work he’s left behind. The casual ease he found in talking to her earlier now feels impossibly remote, weighed down by his latest kill. Bryce, perceptive as ever, notices his struggle and offers a quiet gesture of normalcy by recording the sunball game for him, a small sign of care that tightens something in Hunt’s chest. Though he’s not ready to face her or her questions, he manages a brief “good night” before retreating into the privacy of his room, leaving Bryce aware of his hidden burden but powerless to ease it.
This chapter poignantly reveals the conflict between Hunt’s role as Micah’s weapon and his desire for a different life, one where he could find comfort and companionship, free from the bloodstained chains that hold him in place.
CHAPTER 32 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In this chapter, Hunt steps into the Oracle’s foreboding temple, burdened by the dark act he was forced to commit the previous night. The room’s pungent, oppressive scents and the Oracle’s enigmatic presence create a surreal atmosphere, amplifying the weight of Hunt’s visit. The Oracle, a majestic, eerie sphinx, speaks with a mix of grace and malice, revealing only glimpses of the future as she summons cryptic messages from the gods.
Hunt’s questions about the stolen Horn yield chilling answers. The Oracle reveals that the Horn, though broken, can still be repaired and used—not just to seal doorways but to open them, including the notorious Northern Rift. This revelation raises the stakes significantly, as it hints at dangerous, unknown forces eager to breach the boundary between worlds.
When she unexpectedly calls Hunt by his birth name, Orion, memories of his mother and past flood back, filling him with a sense of vulnerability. This moment is one of unguarded exposure for Hunt, as the Oracle probes his past and subtly warns him about his connection to Bryce. Her parting words, advising him to stay away from Bryce, leave him reeling, especially given the loyalty he’s begun to feel toward her.
The Oracle’s cryptic warning and eerie insight into Hunt’s past and future further entangle him in the mystery, as he grapples with the knowledge of the Horn's true potential and the disturbing implication that forces beyond his understanding are at play.
CHAPTER 33 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In this chapter, the gravity of the situation intensifies as Bryce, Hunt, and Ruhn process the Oracle’s revelation about the Horn’s potential to open the Northern Rift. They piece together that whoever stole the Horn might be looking to unleash chaos by opening portals, possibly even bringing Hel’s forces to Midgard. The stakes become even clearer: if the Horn can be repaired, the consequences could be catastrophic.
Hunt and Bryce’s dynamic continues to evolve, as Hunt presses Bryce on her past, particularly her haunting visit to the Oracle at thirteen. Bryce’s admission about how the Oracle went blind after seeing her future, and her subsequent rejection by her father, lays bare the deep emotional scars she carries. Hunt, surprisingly empathetic, is one of the few to see through Bryce’s strong exterior, though she initially pushes back when he shows concern over her reaction to these memories.
Their conversation about Danika’s death shifts when Hunt mentions the ancient vase depicting the kristallos demon, which suggests it might be possible to kill the creature with brute force. Bryce, however, doubts the vase’s accuracy, given the brutal massacre of Danika and the Pack of Devils. The weight of her friends’ loss is palpable as she recalls their joyful, carefree moments and mourns the emptiness left in their wake.
In a rare vulnerable moment, Bryce confides in her sprite friend Lehabah, who gently suggests that Bryce might find solace in new friendships. Though Bryce brushes it off, the chapter closes with a sense that her armor might be softening, bit by bit. Meanwhile, the upcoming confrontation with Philip Briggs looms, promising more revelations—or perhaps more questions.
CHAPTER 34 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In this chapter, Hunt and Bryce continue unraveling Danika’s mysterious involvement with Briggs and the conspiracy surrounding the Horn. The unsettling visit to Philip Briggs in the Comitium’s dark and sterile cellblock forces them to face grim truths. Despite Briggs’ twisted ideals, he reveals a surprising admiration for Danika, suggesting she may have sympathized with the rebellion’s cause—or at least questioned Vanir dominance. Briggs hints that Danika might have allowed some rebels to escape during the raid, but Hunt and Bryce struggle to reconcile these claims with the friend Bryce knew.
After the tense encounter, Hunt wrestles with memories of his own past rebellion with Shahar and draws haunting parallels between himself and Briggs. He confides in Bryce about the brutal torture he endured in the Asteri dungeons, recounting how hatred once fueled him but that something has shifted. Bryce offers him reassurance, emphasizing that, unlike Briggs, he has a good heart and was driven by a different kind of conviction.
They end up back at Bryce’s apartment, where their banter and growing comfort around each other reach a high point. Hunt’s uncharacteristic backward sunball hat amuses Bryce, and their light teasing brings some warmth to their grim investigation. Realizing they may have overlooked key footage from Luna’s Temple, Hunt suggests revisiting the video from the night the Horn was stolen, possibly shedding new light on Danika’s last days. Their teamwork—and tension—build as they resolve to find someone capable of unlocking the answers hidden in the footage.
CHAPTER 35 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In this chapter, Bryce and Hunt meet up with Ruhn, Flynn, and Declan at the sniper shooting range, adding a new level of intensity to their investigation. Amidst the thumping music and casual banter, they present Declan with a task to analyze footage from Luna’s Temple on the night the Horn was stolen. Declan, intrigued by the request, agrees, though he warns that finding anything new from the two-year-old footage may be challenging.
When Flynn dares Bryce to prove her shooting skills, she delivers a jaw-dropping performance, landing three precise shots in the same spot on the target. Hunt, captivated, matches her skill with a single bullet through her mark, creating a silent exchange of mutual respect and recognition between them. For the first time, both see each other in a deeper, unfiltered light.
Their moment is interrupted when Hunt receives a call from Isaiah: there has been another murder, this time in Asphodel Meadows. The team is once again thrust back into the dark reality of their investigation, reminded that each piece of the puzzle must fall into place to catch the killer before more lives are lost.
CHAPTER 36 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In this chapter, Bryce and Hunt arrive at the crime scene in a gritty alley of Asphodel Meadows, where a brutal murder has just taken place. Hunt, sensing Bryce’s lingering unease, reassures her, offering his support as they wade deeper into the investigation. Bryce remains determined, despite her discomfort, especially when she realizes that this murder happened near ley lines, powerful magical channels that crisscross the city and connect its Gates. This pattern suggests that the ley lines may play a role in the demon’s summoning.
Ruhn, Declan, and Flynn offer their assistance, though Declan issues Bryce a caution about Hunt’s reputation as the Governor’s deadly enforcer. Still, Bryce stands firm, trusting Hunt more each day as they work together to solve these murders.
As they leave, Hunt opens up about his past with Shahar, his first love and the leader of the angel rebellion against the Asteri. Despite the heartbreak, he feels bound to her memory, and while Bryce hides her feelings, his words clearly stir something in her.
Their conversation is abruptly interrupted when they encounter Sabine, Danika’s mother, who unleashes a cruel barrage of insults on Bryce, even demanding Danika’s sword. Hunt remains close, ready to defend Bryce, but she pleads for him to let it go, not wanting a scene. Afterward, Hunt flies her home, vowing to bring the killer to justice.
Later that evening, Declan calls with a critical breakthrough: he’s uncovered a sophisticated alteration in the surveillance footage from the night the Horn was stolen. The person responsible for handling the footage? None other than Sabine Fendyr, raising shocking suspicions around Danika’s mother and her potential involvement in the mystery surrounding the Horn.
CHAPTER 37 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In this chapter, Bryce and Hunt grapple with the disturbing revelation that Sabine, Danika’s mother, might be behind the recent murders. Reflecting on Sabine’s authority over video footage and her disdainful comments about Danika, they wonder if Sabine could have killed her own daughter to keep her quiet about something like the Horn’s theft. However, Bryce struggles to reconcile the image of Sabine she’s known with that of a murderer.
Hunt reaches out to Isaiah, recalling what Sabine had said the night Danika died. Her words hinted at contempt and regret, painting a picture of a mother who might have had motives for silencing Danika permanently. Hunt offers his theory that Sabine might be using the killings to disrupt Governor Micah’s reputation—possibly even aligning with Sandriel to undermine him at the Summit. Bryce, however, is skeptical of Sabine having such grand ambitions, thinking her pettier than that.
The weight of everything finally overwhelms Bryce, and she decides to go for a run, hoping it will help her clear her head. Hunt insists on accompanying her, and they run through the city, Bryce trying to process the brutal possibility of Sabine’s involvement. Her old leg injury flares up, but she keeps pushing herself, refusing to stop despite the pain. Hunt notices her struggle but doesn’t push her to talk, choosing to stay close by, offering silent support.
Back at the apartment, Hunt’s concern for Bryce’s injury shows, but she brushes him off, hiding how deeply Sabine’s potential betrayal affects her. As she limps to her room, the weight of their discovery and Bryce’s unrelenting drive highlight the strength—and the scars—that have shaped her.
CHAPTER 38 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In this chapter, Ruhn visits a medwitch clinic to gather information on how Luna’s Horn might be repaired, hoping to gain some insight into healing methods. The clinic, run by the sister of the medwitch he met at the crime scene, is a serene space filled with light, soft music, and soothing scents, a stark contrast to the urgency of his mission. The medwitch, a captivating figure with a calm demeanor, immediately impresses him with her intelligence and straightforward nature.
During their discussion over tea, Ruhn probes her for answers, asking whether there could be any way to treat a magical object like Luna’s Horn as if it were a living entity, perhaps through medical techniques like lasers or even grafts. The medwitch suggests that modern healing advancements may hold possibilities for repairing such an artifact, implying that a combination of old and new practices might apply. When Ruhn brings up an ancient phrase describing the Horn’s repair—“light that is not light, magic that is not magic”—she hints that there may indeed be technologies advanced enough to blur the line between magic and science.
The conversation also touches on her recent loss of the old witch-queen, Hecuba, and Ruhn brings up Hypaxia, the new queen, wondering if she might know more. However, he learns that Hypaxia is deep in mourning, unavailable until the Summit.
As Ruhn leaves, the medwitch’s parting words linger in his mind, subtly hinting at a connection he doesn’t fully understand. He realizes, too late, that he never caught her name—an oversight that stays with him long after the meeting ends.
CHAPTER 39 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 39 of House of Earth and Blood, Ruhn Danaan visits a medwitch clinic to inquire about the ancient Luna’s Horn artifact, hoping to find a method to repair it. The clinic's peaceful, lavender-scented environment is a stark contrast to his usual chaotic settings, and Ruhn is struck by the serene beauty and intelligence of the medwitch attending to him. Although she is filling in for her sister, the medwitch is clearly skilled and calm, immediately understanding the importance of Ruhn’s inquiry.
Ruhn explains his need to restore a broken magical artifact from the First Wars, which, according to legend, could only be fixed by "light that was not light, magic that was not magic." The medwitch suggests that modern medical technology—like lasers, transplants, or grafts—might offer a way to treat a magical object as if it were a living thing. Though this insight renews his hope, she admits her knowledge leans more towards traditional healing rather than modern science. She also gently warns him to proceed carefully, acknowledging the dangers that surround Luna's Horn.
Ruhn then asks if her queen might have answers, and the medwitch reveals a brief moment of sorrow at the recent passing of Queen Hecuba. She mentions that the new queen, Hypaxia, is currently in mourning and won’t see visitors until the upcoming Summit, hinting that Ruhn might meet her there.
Leaving the clinic, Ruhn feels both captivated by the medwitch and weighed down by the mystery surrounding the Horn. This chapter deepens the intrigue around the Horn’s repair and reveals Ruhn’s growing interest in the medwitch, even as he realizes he left without asking her name.
CHAPTER 40 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 40 of House of Earth and Blood, Hunt and Bryce receive critical information from Viktoria about the kristallos demon. After two days of searching, Viktoria discovers suspicious temperature fluctuations near Moonwood and the Den, particularly a drop to seventy-seven degrees in just two seconds, indicating a possible summoning event. A single, blurry photo shows a clawed foot, similar to the one Bryce remembers vividly from her own terrifying encounter with the kristallos.
Isaiah arrives first to inform Hunt that Viktoria found something crucial and is waiting at her lab. During the conversation, Isaiah shares that Sandriel's presence is creating fear among their ranks, adding stress to the already tense environment with her imminent and unpredictable ally Pollux. Meanwhile, Micah remains a looming threat, as he’s quick to impose punishments if the investigation falters.
As Hunt and Bryce travel to the lab through the rain, Bryce’s tension lessens with Hunt’s coaxing and banter, especially when he dares her to look around, offering a rare view of the storm-washed city. When they reach Viktoria’s office, they are introduced to her as if meeting for the first time, though Bryce is reminded of her chilling initial encounter with Viktoria as a wraith.
Viktoria shows them the evidence of the demon’s movements: the creature lingered around the Den but didn’t enter, suggesting it may have been tracking a scent. Viktoria confirms that the last detected location was the Rose Gate in FiRo before the demon vanished, leaving the investigators with both valuable clues and unanswered questions.
As Bryce relives the horror of the demon’s attack, Hunt provides silent reassurance by placing a comforting hand on her thigh, grounding her as they absorb Viktoria’s report. Though the investigation hasn’t reached a clear conclusion, Bryce knows they’ll be out hunting that night, determined to track down the demon and uncover the truth behind the escalating danger in Crescent City.
CHAPTER 41 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 41 of House of Earth and Blood, Hunt and Bryce continue their investigation into the kristallos demon despite relentless rain, which clears the streets but complicates any chance of following the demon’s scent. Their first stop is Bryce’s gallery, where Bryce struggles to wrangle a terrified Syrinx. Hunt intervenes, using his wind powers to lift the chimera, and Bryce, impressed by his control, momentarily seems taken aback. They finally transport Syrinx home, change, and head to the Rose Gate—the last known location of the demon according to Viktoria's surveillance.
At the Gate, Bryce subtly struggles with pain in her leg, a lingering issue from Hunt’s battlefield treatment. Hunt bites back any comments, not wanting another lecture on “domineering alphahole behavior.” As they examine the area, Bryce suspects the demon might have left the city. Hunt has a different theory, pointing out a nearby sewer grate. He suggests that the demon has been using the sewer system, hidden from view while still moving freely across the city.
When Bryce suggests entering the sewer, Hunt insists on waiting until they have more weapons, given the potential dangers of encountering both the demon and possibly Sabine in those close quarters. Instead, they decide to check with Hunt’s contact in the Many Waters to see if any corpses or unusual sightings have turned up along the Istros River.
The chapter concludes with lighthearted banter as Hunt teases Bryce about the Starlight Fancy toys she keeps in her linen closet. Bryce reveals the sentimental value of her childhood unicorns and pegasus toys, explaining how they helped her feel accepted by other kids despite her mixed heritage. This intimate moment ends with Bryce catching Hunt blushing and teasing him further about “snooping” for vibrators. They share a laugh as she leaves, adding a playful edge to their growing bond amid the tension of the case.
CHAPTER 42 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 42 of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce and Hunt head to the Istros River to meet Tharion Ketos, a mer male and Captain of Intelligence for the River Queen. Tharion is an old friend of Hunt’s, and his charm quickly becomes apparent as he flirts openly with Bryce, much to Hunt’s irritation. Bryce and Tharion exchange banter, establishing a lighthearted connection, while Hunt steers the conversation back to business, asking Tharion for help gathering information about the kristallos demon and any strange activity linked to it in the river.
Tharion agrees to investigate discreetly, and when Bryce mentions the demon’s origins—bred by the Star-Eater himself—Tharion’s amusement vanishes. He promises to report back if he uncovers anything. As he departs, he leaves Bryce and Hunt to watch a funeral boat heading towards the Bone Quarter, a grim reminder of the reapers and the Under-King’s dominion over souls.
Back at the gallery, the tension between Hunt and Bryce deepens. Their flirtation grows bolder, with Bryce teasing Hunt about her tattoo and her childhood toys, even hinting at the possibility of a hidden tattoo of Jelly Jubilee. They share an intense moment that neither quite acknowledges, but both feel, as they seem on the brink of something more. However, Hunt shifts back to business, asking for ideas to gather intel on Sabine without directly confronting her.
Finally, Bryce suggests a bold and dangerous plan: to take the questions to Sabine herself, hinting at a direct confrontation as their only way forward.
CHAPTER 43 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 43 of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce and Hunt venture into the wolves' Den in Moonwood to gather information from the wolves, hoping to confirm Bryce’s suspicion that Sabine may have played a role in Danika's death. The sight of the Den brings back painful memories for Bryce, especially seeing the pups and the familiar grounds where she spent time with Danika.
Amelie Ravenscroft, the new Alpha of the Black Rose Pack, greets them with hostility and disdain, taunting Bryce about her past and Danika’s death. Despite the tension, Hunt’s calm presence and sharp remarks keep the situation from escalating into a full-blown confrontation. Bryce endures Amelie’s insults until Ithan Holstrom, Connor’s younger brother, arrives to escort them inside.
Seeing Ithan, now a powerful young wolf, is excruciating for Bryce. She is overwhelmed by memories of Connor and the guilt she feels over the events of that terrible night. Ithan’s bitterness towards her is apparent, as he blames her for the distraction he believes led to his brother’s death. Bryce battles these memories and emotions as they are taken to Sabine’s office, where the encounter grows even more intense.
In her typical cold and domineering manner, Sabine dismisses their concerns, denying that Danika had any connection to the Horn's theft. However, her defensiveness hints that she may know more than she lets on. Bryce manages to remain composed, though her resentment toward Sabine, and her grief for Danika, boil within her.
After their tense meeting, Bryce and Hunt leave the Den, with Ithan’s final words haunting her: “You never deserved him.” His condemnation is a sharp blow, underscoring her unresolved guilt. Bryce, though, is firm in her anger toward Sabine, and as they walk away, she and Hunt are taunted by Amelie and the Black Rose wolves. Despite the pain, Bryce steels herself, determined to find justice for Danika—no matter what it takes.
CHAPTER 44 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 44 of House of Earth and Blood, Hunt and Bryce try to strategize their next steps in the investigation, but the emotional toll of the morning’s visit to the Den lingers heavily. They know Sabine lied about Danika’s presence at the temple, and while Bryce urges Hunt to simply arrest her, he cautions her against rushing into action without a solid plan, knowing the potential fallout could be catastrophic.
Over lunch, Bryce opens up to Hunt, sharing how difficult the past two years have been. She reveals the aftermath of Danika's death: relentless public shaming, harassment, and online hatred, particularly over the leaked messages from the night of Danika’s murder. Even the wolves, led by Amelie, continue to antagonize her, some even creating a cruel song that mocks her.
Hunt, visibly angered by the cruelty she’s endured, expresses a rare empathy, understanding the cost of public disgrace himself. Their conversation drifts to lighter subjects, and Bryce mentions how her father, Randall, a former sharpshooter, trained her in weapons and self-defense. She recalls, with some pride, her teenage determination to leave home and win her freedom, even challenging Randall in a physical fight to prove herself.
The lightheartedness fades, however, when Hunt begins to think about the footage of Danika’s death. He watches Bryce in the surveillance video, struggling through her haze of drugs, fighting for her friend in raw, desperate anger. Seeing her bravery stirs a deep respect in him, and he realizes the weight of her loss and the depth of her loyalty to Danika. As he reflects on the Bone Quarter and Danika’s Sailing, he is struck by the steadfastness of Bryce’s love and loyalty for her friend—qualities he recognizes as rare and powerful.
Alone on the roof, Hunt wonders what it would be like to have someone as fiercely loyal as Bryce by his side.
CHAPTER 45 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 45 of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce tries to unwind at home after the emotionally taxing day at the Den. Her best friend, Juniper, calls, gently encouraging her to return to dance by joining a casual class, but Bryce deflects, reluctant to revisit that part of her life. Though Juniper insists that Danika would want her to dance, Bryce sidesteps the suggestion, feeling the loss of her old self acutely.
When Hunt heads out for a rare night at the bar with Isaiah and Viktoria, he still makes Naomi keep an eye on Bryce. However, as he had predicted, Bryce soon slips out of her apartment, unable to stand the oppressive silence. Despite her promise to stay in, she heads to the night garden for some fresh air, unknowingly giving Hunt and Naomi a chase.
Finally catching up to her, Hunt confronts Bryce in the garden, frustrated that she broke her word. The two share a tense but electric moment as they banter. Bryce admits that sometimes she can’t stand the silence, her only friend being Juniper, who’s often busy. Hunt can see through her carefree façade, sensing her loneliness and need for distraction.
Just as their connection deepens, they’re interrupted by a sudden attack. A kristallos demon ambushes them, striking Hunt and biting into his shoulder, the danger crashing through the intensity of their unspoken feelings.
CHAPTER 46 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 46 of House of Earth and Blood, Hunt and Bryce are ambushed by a kristallos demon while walking in the night garden. Hunt instinctively prioritizes Bryce’s safety, pushing her out of the way before the demon slams into him, leaving Bryce shaken as she watches the brutal fight unfold. Despite Hunt’s injuries and his lightning nullified by the demon’s venom, they work together to kill the creature, Bryce even stepping in to deliver the final blow as Hunt dismembers it to ensure it stays down.
Naomi and other angels from the 33rd arrive with a medwitch, who uses mithridate leeches to extract the venom from Hunt’s wounds. As Hunt recovers, Micah appears, surveying the scene. After burning the demon’s body to prevent any evidence from leaking, Micah listens to Hunt and Bryce’s suspicions about Sabine. Though Micah demands more evidence before taking action, his glacial demeanor underscores his seriousness, warning Hunt not to “screw this up.”
Rattled and exhausted, Hunt and Bryce prepare to leave, but Ruhn arrives just after they depart. While examining the kristallos’s blood, he encounters the same medwitch, who hints at having ancient knowledge of the demon. Before he can get answers, she leaves on her broom, hinting she has uncovered something potentially useful for him.
CHAPTER 47 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 47 of House of Earth and Blood, Hunt and Bryce barely make it back to Bryce’s building before a storm hits, drenching them completely. Despite the rain, Hunt holds Bryce a bit longer than necessary, his hands lingering at her waist as he gently caresses her ribs. There’s an unspoken tension between them, intensified by their brush with death and the closeness they share in the moment. Bryce embraces him, admitting how glad she is that he’s alive, and Hunt responds by nestling his face into her neck, reveling in her scent and touch.
Their connection deepens as Bryce tilts her neck, silently inviting him closer, and Hunt loses himself in the sensation, kissing her gently as his hands begin to explore further. Just as their intimacy escalates, the moment is shattered when the rooftop door slams open. Hunt quickly draws his gun, only to find Sabine, Danika’s mother, standing there. Sabine’s enraged presence disrupts their closeness, and her harsh words and warning look make the intensity of the encounter suddenly fade into tension.
CHAPTER 48 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 48 of House of Earth and Blood, the confrontation between Hunt, Bryce, and Sabine takes an intense and unexpected turn on Bryce’s rain-soaked rooftop. Hunt and Sabine both have weapons drawn—Hunt's gun is aimed at Sabine’s head, while Sabine has her gun pointed directly at Bryce’s heart. Hunt calculates his options, painfully aware that a shot to Bryce’s heart would be fatal, and positions himself protectively behind her, trying to shield her as best he can.
Bryce, undeterred by Sabine’s threatening stance, accuses her of being behind Danika’s death, stealing the Horn to undermine her daughter, and using the kristallos demon to cover her tracks and humiliate Micah. Sabine’s reaction, however, isn’t what they expect. Rather than retaliating, Sabine’s expression shifts to one of utter shock and disbelief, and she vehemently denies the accusations. Sabine’s raw anger and disgust are palpable as she denies any involvement in Danika’s murder or the Horn's theft.
Then, in a stunning revelation, Sabine claims that she wasn’t working against Danika but rather trying to protect her. She delivers the bombshell: Danika was the one who stole the Horn.
CHAPTER 49 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 49 of House of Earth and Blood, Sabine drops another bombshell on Bryce and Hunt, revealing that Danika, not Sabine, stole the Horn. The truth hits Bryce like a shockwave, and Hunt’s protective arm around her is all that keeps her grounded. Sabine coldly explains that she had covered up Danika’s theft by swapping the footage from Luna’s Temple, describing her daughter’s actions as reckless and arrogant—a trait she blames Bryce for encouraging.
Sabine’s cruelty doesn’t stop there. She makes it clear that she had intended to teach Hunt and Bryce a lesson for their meddling by staging her ominous appearance on Bryce’s rooftop. She dismisses their accusation that she sent the kristallos demon after them, claiming instead that she had been waiting on the rooftop to give them a real warning, with Amelie Ravenscroft watching from across the street to ensure Sabine’s plan went undisturbed.
When Bryce questions why Danika would steal the Horn, Sabine’s answer is full of contempt, describing Danika as a "brat" who likely stole it out of a thrill to see if she could get away with it. Bryce’s world is turned upside down by this revelation, and the cold, calculated way Sabine describes Danika’s faults stirs up an explosive mixture of anger and sorrow in Bryce.
Sabine issues her final threat, promising to kill them if they jeopardize Danika’s legacy, then leaps off the roof with the deadly grace of a wolf, leaving Hunt and Bryce alone to grapple with the staggering truth of what they’ve just learned.
CHAPTER 50 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 50 of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce and Hunt grapple with the devastating revelation about Danika’s role in the theft of the Horn. Bryce is profoundly affected by the news, her spirit dulled as she withdraws into a muted routine. Hunt, too, feels the weight of the truth, knowing how deeply it impacts her, but gives her the space she needs to process the implications of Sabine’s revelation.
Ruhn visits to check in on their progress, sharing a lead from a medwitch he knows about a synthetic healing compound that might be able to repair the Horn. The discovery hints at the possible means of restoration, but the purpose behind Danika's theft remains elusive. Ruhn learns about the shocking news regarding Danika’s supposed theft, which shakes him as well. As they all discuss theories, Ruhn suggests that the kristallos demon’s magic-negating abilities might stem from its connection to the ancient Star-Eater and the blood of the first Starborn Prince.
Later, an unexpected message from Tharion reveals even darker secrets. Bryce and Hunt receive a chilling photo of a dryad’s body found in a sobek lair, bearing eerily familiar wounds marked by a venom similar to the kristallos demon’s. Tharion’s report details that the mer have discovered several such bodies in recent months, their injuries seemingly inflicted by the kristallos venom but with a different intent than the savage attacks on Danika and the Pack of Devils.
This discrepancy leads Bryce to a disturbing realization: the kristallos demon may not have been the true killer of Danika and her pack. She theorizes that something far worse might have been summoned on the night of the murders, and that multiple demons may have been involved in a complex, deadly plot. As the weight of this new mystery settles, Bryce suggests they consult with someone who could provide further insight—but warns Hunt not to "go ballistic" over her choice. The chapter ends with a mounting sense of dread as Bryce and Hunt brace themselves to confront what might be the true horror behind Danika’s death.
CHAPTER 51 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 51 of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce takes a bold step, summoning Aidas, the Prince of the Chasm, in a bid to uncover the truth about Danika’s murder. Despite Hunt’s protests, she meticulously prepares for the ritual, crafting protective circles with obsidian salt. Hunt is both intrigued and horrified when the room’s temperature plummets, signaling Aidas’s arrival, but Bryce remains remarkably composed.
To Hunt’s astonishment, Aidas is not monstrous but almost ethereal, with long blond hair, opal eyes, and a refined presence. The exchange between Aidas and Bryce reveals a mysterious connection between them—she met him as a child, finding comfort in his unexpected visit when she was upset over her estranged father. Aidas, however, offers only vague clues to their questions, hinting that the kristallos demon’s activity may not originate from Hel. The prince’s cryptic advice—to “run the tests again” and “find what is in-between”—suggests that they may have overlooked something vital.
Bryce’s call to Declan confirms that key evidence from Danika’s murder was never analyzed with advanced Fae technology due to the Autumn King’s interference. Furious, she races out, determined to confront her father, with Hunt in hot pursuit, aware that their investigation might finally be on the brink of a breakthrough.
CHAPTER 52 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 52 of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce’s frustration with the Autumn King reaches a peak as she confronts him, seeking answers about his refusal to allow Fae resources in Danika’s investigation. The confrontation, blocked by guards, is cut short when Hunt appears to support her, radiating power. Ruhn and his friends arrive soon after, attempting to deescalate, but Bryce’s resentment deepens as she realizes the lengths her father would go to in controlling her life and legacy.
Disturbed, Bryce ends up at Lethe, a bar that holds memories of her past and her relationship with Danika. As she drinks, Hunt joins her, showing a rare moment of care by bringing her a healing tonic for her injured leg. Their conversation grows tense as Bryce deflects Hunt’s attempt to empathize, mocking his past with Shahar. Hunt leaves, but they later reconnect in the apartment, where Bryce cooks dinner as an apology, finally opening up about her insecurities and her struggles since Danika’s death.
In a raw exchange, they both reveal their unresolved trauma: Bryce shares how Danika made her feel whole, while Hunt admits his own regrets about a life forced into violence. Their connection grows deeper, setting the stage for a potential partnership beyond their investigation.
Later, as Bryce drifts to sleep, Aidas reappears in the form of a cat, urging her again to make the Drop and seek him out. His cryptic messages hint at hidden power and an unresolved destiny, fueling Bryce’s determination to uncover the mysteries surrounding her and Danika’s deaths.
CHAPTER 53 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 53 of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce wakes up to a gloomy, rainy morning that mirrors her mood. Taking her pet chimera, Syrinx, for a walk, she encounters an unpleasant hoptoad that makes her think of Lehabah’s disdain for the creatures. Bryce returns to find Hunt cooking breakfast, and he gently insists she eats, noting her recent lack of appetite. After some grumbling, she accepts his meal, appreciating his care but masking it with sarcasm.
Hunt then heads to Viktoria with a bag of Danika's clothes for testing with the Mimir tech, hoping for clues about the real killer. He adds a list of dangerous demons to check against, each name sending a chill down his spine. Viktoria remarks on Hunt’s unusual insistence to keep the clothes safe, and he brushes it off with his usual dry humor, even though his anxiety about the findings lingers.
Later, Hunt shares an evening of distraction with Bryce as they binge-watch a trashy reality show. The lighthearted evening pulls them closer as they settle in side by side on the couch, and even playful touches are laced with unspoken connection.
The next morning, Hunt gets an unexpected call from Micah, summoning him to his office. His face hardens as he knows this meeting might be about their unauthorized investigation. With a quiet farewell, he decides to fly Bryce to work, sensing a storm brewing with his demanding master.
CHAPTER 54 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 54 of House of Earth and Blood, Hunt’s day takes a dark turn when Micah calls him into his office to chastise him for investigating Danika’s death, especially running Fae tests on old evidence. Micah’s threat is clear: he expects obedience and results and implies that Sandriel, Hunt’s former master, is interested in taking Hunt back. To reinforce his authority, Micah hands Hunt a list of targets to kill, a grim reminder of his status as a slave forced to obey or face severe consequences.
While Hunt is sent off on this brutal mission, Bryce is left to worry. She feels in her gut that something is wrong when Hunt doesn’t respond to her messages, and her concern grows throughout the day. As the hours pass with no word, she finally reaches out to her brother Ruhn, unable to shake the dread settling over her.
Late that night, Hunt finally returns, covered in blood and silent, barely acknowledging Bryce as he heads straight to the shower. Bryce follows him, finding him sitting on the shower floor, struggling to cope with the horrors he has committed under orders. Moved by compassion, Bryce turns down the scalding water and gently washes him, comforting him in his vulnerability. The moment is deeply intimate, filled with a quiet tenderness as Bryce reassures him of his worth and humanity.
Once clean, Bryce helps him into bed, intending to leave, but Hunt stops her with a silent plea to stay. She agrees, stroking his hair until he falls asleep, providing the solace he so desperately needs. Later, Hunt awakens, finding himself cradled in her lap, overwhelmed by the care she has shown him. For the first time in a long while, he feels at peace, warmed by Bryce’s presence as he drifts back to sleep, her touch a reminder of hope and comfort amidst the darkness he endures.
CHAPTER 55 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 55 of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce wakes up to find herself tucked back into her bed, realizing Hunt must have moved her after she fell asleep comforting him the previous night. Relieved to see him resting peacefully, she heads to the kitchen and soon finds herself lost in a tangle of emotions, considering her unresolved issues with her brother, Ruhn, and facing her friend Juniper's frustration over missed opportunities in dance. The tensions simmering from last night fade as Hunt joins her in the kitchen, brewing up a flirty exchange over breakfast that sends them both reeling, reigniting the connection they almost acted on earlier. But as desire nearly pulls them together, a burnt breakfast abruptly ends the moment, and Bryce escapes, both flustered and grateful.
At the gallery, Bryce and Hunt receive an ominous call from Jesiba, introducing a new creature to the library—a menacing nøkk, whose unsettling presence rattles Lehabah. Attempting to distract themselves from its unsettling stare, they dive back into the investigation. Viktoria later contacts Hunt with crucial information. Testing on Danika’s clothing reveals traces of a strange, synthetic substance, Synth, that straddles the line between organic, technological, and magical—a potent hybrid drug that’s hit the streets in high doses. Synth's ingredient list, notably including obsidian salt, raises the disturbing possibility that it could empower those without magic to summon demons, a theory that both horrifies and intrigues Bryce.
As they return to Bryce’s apartment, Hunt urges her to connect with her family, pushing aside their investigation for just one night. He reveals a painful story of his mother’s death, sharing with Bryce his deep sorrow over a life cut short and ignored by the powerful angels she served. Bryce’s empathy bridges the gap between them, and she finally settles into her kitchen for a video call with her parents. Just as Hunt wonders if he's in over his head with his growing feelings for Bryce, the video call connects—and Bryce’s mother, sensing the charge in the air, pointedly questions her daughter about the need for “liquid courage” for her guest.
CHAPTER 56 RECAP - HOUSE OF EARTH AND BLOOD
In Chapter 56 of House of Earth and Blood, Bryce and Hunt sit down for a video chat with Bryce’s parents, Ember Quinlan and Randall Silago. Ember, a grounded and formidable presence, wastes no time in pressing Bryce and Hunt on their arrangement. Hunt skillfully manages Ember’s suspicion, smudging the truth about the investigation without revealing the full danger of their work. Bryce’s father, Randall, also recognizes Hunt’s military past, which only deepens his quiet watchfulness as he gauges Hunt's character. Although Randall is wary of Hunt, both parents show genuine love and concern for Bryce, highlighting the deep bond and protectiveness her family feels.
Their conversation takes a personal turn when Ember discovers that Bryce still suffers from pain in her leg, a lingering reminder of her injury from a kristallos demon attack years ago. Hunt, tired of Bryce’s stubbornness about ignoring her pain, discloses her condition to her parents, sparking an immediate reaction from Ember. Bryce tries to brush it off, but her parents insist that she see a medwitch, rekindling Bryce’s frustration with Hunt’s meddling. Tensions mount when Ember calls Bryce directly afterward, revealing deep-seated fears and traumas stemming from a past experience with an older Vanir male. She warns Bryce about trusting Hunt, a reminder of the precarious balance in their relationship.
Ember’s final words about Bryce's unresolved grief for Danika hit a raw nerve. She confronts Bryce’s need to honor her late friend’s memory, a pain Bryce has buried by clinging to her independence and work. Ember’s piercing remark that Danika would not want her friend to suffer cuts through Bryce’s defenses, exposing the depth of Bryce’s guilt and sorrow. Left reeling, Bryce is forced to face her lingering wounds, both physical and emotional, as her mother’s words linger with a painful truth.