To Bleed a Crystal Bloom

Crystal Bloom, Book 1

De: Sarah A. Parker

Narrado por: Chelsea Stephens, Troy Duran

"What a pretty flower to keep locked in a big, rocky tower."

Nineteen years ago, I was plucked from the heart of a bloody massacre that spared nobody else.

Small. Fragile. An enigma.

Now ward to a powerful High Master who knows too much and says too little, I lead a simple life, never straying from the confines of an imaginary line I've drawn around the castle grounds.

Stay within. Never leave.

Out there, the monsters lurk. Inside, I'm safe...though at a cost far greater than the blood I drip into a goblet daily. Toxic, unreciprocated love for a man who's utterly unavailable.

My savior. My protector.

My almost executioner.

I can't help but be enamored with the arcane man who holds the power to pull my roots from the ground. When voracious beasts spill across the land and threaten to fray the fabric of my tailored existence, the petals of reality will peel back to reveal an ugly truth. But in a castle puddled with secrets, none are greater than the one I've kept from myself.

No tower is tall enough to protect me from the horror that tore my life to shreds.

To Bleed a Crystal Bloom is a dark Rapunzel reimagining full of immersive imagery and breathtaking angst.

©2022 Sarah A. Parker (P)2022 Podium Audio

I need book 2

This was surprisingly good. Couldn't stop listening. stayed up all night LOL. Can't wait for book 2.

Good

Hesitant about this book but glad I got it. Can’t wait for book 2 & 3 on audible! Story line was a bit confusing to follow also

The ending!!!

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the ending. I was not connecting/liking the MC very much because it felt like it was the same issue on repeat. But dang that ending was so good and made it worth it!

Darkly beautiful and deliciously forbidden

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
0/Slow Burn 🔥

♡ Dark Fantasy Romance
♡ Rapunzel Re-imagining
♡ Slow Burn
♡ Forbidden Desires
♡ Gaurdian/Ward
♡ Bl00dletting

NEW FAVORITE FANTASY ROMANCE 🙌

I don't even know where to start with this one. The writing was beautiful, full of prose, without being obnoxiously pretentious. The world building is unique, yet we still don't know too much about it at this point in the story.

I adore a forbidden romance trope, and what can be more forbidden than falling in love with the man who saved you as a child and practically raised you. The angst, the push and pull, the heated glances.

The story was utterly enthralling, and I cannot wait until I am able to read the next book.

✨️Side note: the audio narration is PERFECTION.

Undecided

The story of To Bleed a Crystal Bloom is captivating and rich with intrigue. The worldbuilding is lush, pulling you into a setting that feels both magical and perilous. The plot weaves mystery and suspense masterfully, keeping me turning the pages late into the night. The side characters often shine, bringing depth and complexity to the narrative. For those who enjoy dark fantasy with an edge, this book offers plenty to love.
Unfortunately, the main character is the book’s weakest link. I found her immature, cowardly, and bratty to a fault—traits that made it difficult to root for her or fully invest in her journey. While some of her flaws may be intentionally crafted to allow room for growth, her actions often felt more grating than endearing. At times, her immaturity disrupted the story’s otherwise compelling flow, leaving me frustrated and detached.
Despite my struggles with the protagonist, I enjoyed the story overall. The compelling plot and immersive worldbuilding make this book worth reading, even if the FMC’s personality may alienate some readers. I would recommend it for those who prioritize story and atmosphere over character likability, but with the caveat that patience with the FMC is required.