The First Covenant Novel (Covenant Series) (Volume 1)

I began reading Half-Blood by Jennifer L. Armentrout just after finishing Obsidian, which was a stellar read. I have to say that while I did enjoy reading this book, I was somewhat disappointed with the similarities between Half-Blood and the Vampire Academy series. As a new fan of Richelle Mead, I was pretty dumbfounded with the obvious similarities.

Half-Blood tells the story of a sort of demigod race. Pure Hematoi have exceeding strength and powers. The offspring of Hematoi and Humans however do not. They have two options in life: to be trained as a warrior and protector of the Hematoi, called a Sentinel, or be forced into servitude. For Alexandria, serving the Hematoi has never been an option.After her mom took her out of the Covenant academy to take out on the run, she returns to school finding herself far behind her classmates and in need of some extra help. The school assigns Aiden, a particularly gifted Sentinel, to train her. From there, romance, danger and adventure ensue!

Now I've read enough reviews online of this book gushing over the fact that Half-Blood is a slightly altered version of the Vampire Academy books, I'm not going to spend my review talking about this. It's been said, it did bother me, but I was prepared and I tried focusing on Half-Blood as separate work... which sort of worked...

While this book didn't blow me out of the water, I still enjoyed reading it. The romance between instructor and student was interesting and I really liked the character Alexandria. While she does have a huge chip on her shoulder, she also has a strength that I like to see in the heroines that I read about.

I don't think I'll be continuing on in the series, but I was happy that I read this book. Armentrout's writing always brings a smile to my face and warms my heart. That's all folks.

Happy Reading :)

5 out of 10

This book had it all - descendants of the Hematoi (Gods), a caste system of Pures vs. Half Bloods, tragedy, suspense, a war against Daimons and of course forbidden love. This was a great book and the perfect way to open up the series. It didn't end with a cliffhanger but it ended in a way that makes you want more and you look forward to the next book (which I downloaded before I started writing this). This book is a must read.

Jennifer Armentrout is my new favorite writer!! Half-Blood is extremely well written, fun, exciting, sexy, sweet...I could go on and on! I CANNOT wait to read the next book in this series!

I have also read her other series, The Lux novels, and I'm in love with those too!! I am counting down the days for the next book in that series! I highly, highly recommend it!!

Jennifer, you are one talented writer! I am looking forward to reading ALL your books!

This was a really interesting a different story from others I read. It didn't move me the way the Lux series did though. I wish there was more of the wittiness you saw in the other books. It's definitely a story I want to continue to read.
I felt bad for the no-relationships between pures and halves. That's some BS right there! You would think the no, no would be to mix with humans!
So interested to see what is going to happen with the Appolyans!

So, I really enjoyed this. I likes how much spunk Alex had... that she wasn't afraid to tell someone off. I much prefer someone who is a rebel and gets into trouble than the all too popular Mary Sue character that couldn't find her own ass with a flashlight and a map. Give me a spunky chick with a dirty mouth who isn't afraid to kick some butt any day.

I will definitely be reading on in this series, I can't wait to find out what happens!

Jennifer is a creative writer! She creates this world where anything can and will happen. She sets the stage for this series with Daimon and gives us a glimpse into the world few know about.In the ending of Daimon we see what Alex's mother was trying to protect her from.

In Half Blood Alex is upset with her mother for always moving around and never staying in one place. It is hard for Alex to make and keep friends so she is excited when she has been able to stay in this one place for a while. Alex even manages to get a boyfriend.She even manages to stay out of trouble and promises her mother that she will be more cautious around her friends.

Then one night Alex's world changes and she soon finds out what her mother was talking about when she referred to having enemies that want to kill them. Alex's mother is attacked and she is forced to run just like her mother has always prepared her to do. Alex flees and can only think of one place to go but getting there will take some time and money. As Alex flees from the only home she has known she is confused and saddened by what has happened and she is also confused because she is not so sure about the place she is running to. She is not sure they will take her back with open arms but her choices are either go back or learn to survive on her own.

As Alex tries to get back to the only place of safety she knows she is attacked by Daimons and must fight her way to survival. She meets up with some roughest Daimons and they call her by name and she knows that she must fight to the death but something unexpected happens and as she is fighting off the Daimons she gets help from the one person she never thought she see again and that is Aiden.

Aiden fights alongside her with some of his friends and they manage to kill all the Daimons but Alex gets hury and Aiden saves her. When she wakes up she thinks she is dreaming because she is in Aidens arms and he is protecting her. When she finally wakes up she asks Alex what happened and what is going to happen to her. Aiden tells her he is not sure but she will find out soon enough because they will be back at the school where she will find out what will become of her.

When she reaches the school she finds that some things have changed and others have not. She finds that her best friend is still there and he wants to pick up where they left off and she realizes that he has her back. Alex also realizes that she still has the same enemies from when she left all those years ago. Alex will have to fight to stay alive and she will have to make a decision that will ultimately make or break her. She will also receive some news that will ROCK her world and she will have to decide what she is going to.

Come along on a PHENOMENAL journay with Alex and Aiden and few other characters that are sure to leave you breathless! Jennifer has created a story where things can go either way and the choses Alex makes will either make her or break her. Alex will have to chose who to love and who to trust. She will have to let go of someone very special to her and she will have to hide her true feelings for the one person she can not have.

Favorite Quote: Hot tingles spread through me as his lips moved against my ear. "You should tell me to stop." I didn't say a word.

Aiden made a deep sound in his throat. His hand slid up my back, leaving a trail of fire in its wake, and his lips moved across my cheek, stopping to hover above mine. I forgot how to breathe, and most importantly, how to think. He moved, ever so slightly, and his lips brushed across mine once, and then twice. It was such a soft, beautiful kiss, but when the kiss deepened, it wasn't a shy one. This was one of dangerously pent-up need, a desire that'd been denied far too long.

Holy Cannoli, I finally read Half-Blood, and yeah. I get the hype.

Jennifer knocked it out of the park with this debut. It was fun, sexy, action-packed, and made me laugh. Seriously, can you ask for more in a book? I loved all the little details, too. Her friendship with Caleb was sweet and refreshing. Why I loved that her best friend was a dude so much--and that there was zero potential for hook up, he was simply her good, loyal friend--is beyond me, but it was one of my favorite parts of this book. And that is saying something with a fierce protagonist like Alex, and not one but two freaking hotties in the mix.

Alex. She simply rocks. Funny, personable, and chock full of flaws. Love her! I got her and respected her, and enjoyed living in her head. She grew as a character throughout the book, and still has PLENTY of room to grow in the series. Perfectly executed . . . don't have much more to say about that.

Moving on to the men.

Aiden, Aiden, Aiden, you are a hottie. And Jennifer is right, one of the reasons we ladies love him so much is because he always says and does the right thing. It might not be real life, and certainly is the opposite of Daemon in Obsidian, but it's okay. I don't need my fictional men to be completely realistic--they just have to swoon me, and baby, he does. But, I have to admit, as much as I love me some Aiden--and I do!--I think at this moment, having *just* finished the book, I may be Team Seth. (don't throw tomatoes!). I don't know what it is, maybe it is the love affair I have going on with my literary bad boys, but from the moment he graced the page, I was hooked. I couldn't wait for him to get more screen time, and whenever Alex said something sarcastic or mean to him, I wanted to hug him LOL. But really, that sarcastic banter is what made me love them so much. It is really a lot like Katy and Daemon in Obsidian--the fierce reaction and chemistry, the connection and the annoyance. It lit up the book for me, and has me twitching in my seat to read PURE now . . . which, by the way, they expect us to wait until APRIL to read!?! I don't know if I can make it . . .

Seriously, Jennifer, you are awesome sauce and I stand in awe still. Can't wait to follow your career--I know it is going to be a long one, filled with adventure :-)

Just read the first to books and the prequel Daimon for the 2nd time, and for the 2nd time I couldn't put it down. Cried when she told Aiden she loved him and he broke her heart and when Caleb died...such great stories, and I'm 30, makes me feel young again lol! Plus these young adult books aren't so full of all the pages of sexual drab that can get old. Counting down the days for the 3rd book and the novella...Thanks for a great read Jennifer!

I am absolutely in love with the Covenant series. I was hooked on this book from the moment I started to read it. I loved the characters and how different Aiden and Alex were from eath other but how that fueled their attraction. I loved the forbidden romance because it makes you want to see them together so badly. The balance between the action and the romance was done perfectly and I think Jennifer Amrentrout is a wonderful writer.

This book is so well written. The story caputured my interest right from the beginning and I couldn't put it down. It was so refreshing to read a "paranormal romance" book that is not about vampires or angels for a change. Don't hesitate to purchase this book and while you're at it you may as well purchase the rest of the books in the series because you are going to want to read them! Armentrout's writing is well thought out, and she is able to keep the story going at a good pace without feeling like you are missing any piece of the storyline. The Covenent series has everything you would want, action, suspense, mystery, romance, and a strong female lead. I HIGHLY recommend you read it!!!

"Need covers itself with love, but need... need is never love. Always beware of the one who needs you. There is always a want behind a need, you see."

Holy crap this book is AWESOMENESS! Jennifer Armentrout takes Greek Mythology and develops an outstanding storyline! From horrid monsters to a kick ass heroine!

Alexandria Andros is a half blood who is taken from the Covenant by her mother for reasons she doesn't know. When tragedy strikes she must find a way back to her home all the while avoiding the Daimon's hunting her. As a half blood she is able to see Daimons for what they really are and not for what they portray. As a half blood she has no other power then the ability to kick Daimon ass. She was born and breed to do just that. Protect the Pure's from Daimons. When she finally makes it to the Covenant she realizes things aren't going to be easy for her. She is training to catch up on her combative skills and trying to follow the Covenant rules. There's one rule that's the hardest for her. Relationships between Half's and Pure are forbidden.

Unfortunately, Alex has fallen for Aidan St. Delphi. Aidan is a Pure.

Aidan is a Sentinel for the Covenant. A guard that protects all Pure's from the Daimons. He isn't like most Pure's though. He isn't a snob, doesn't believe he's better then the Half's. Aidan is everything a girl wants. Everything Alex loves. He is protective, smart, badass, sweet, caring, and gorgeous. The one thing about Aidan? He is a Pure. Which means he is off limits to Alex.

As Aidan trains Alex so that she can enter the Covenant for school they both fight against what they both feel. All the while trying to figure out what is going on and why the Daimons are coming after her. When they finally do figure it out Alex will have to make a decisions. Kill someone she loves of let them kill her in order to protect everyone else she loves. Read to find out...

This book is totally badass! I loved that every character had a personality and everyone of them were kick ass in their ways.

If you love Greek mythology, a kick ass heroine, a HOT male lead and lots of action this is the book for you! Pick it up and read it! You will not be disappointed!

[...]

I found Half-Blood to be extremely predictable yet unexpectedly addictive. I'd definitely classify it as fluff, but it still has the ability to hold your attention.

Jennifer Armentrout tells a tale of a Half-Blood girl who is special, the Pure she is in love with and the Apollon she can't escape from. Pures are off-springs of demi-gods and Half-Bloods are offspring of pure bloods and humans, the caste doesn't make much sense to me since demi-gods are off-springs of gods and humans - so Pures have human blood in them, but the politics behind it is Pures are higher ranking and to avoid mixing blood it is forbidden for a Half-Blood and a pure to have romantic relationships.

Alex (our protagonist) was on the run with her mother, unaware of why her mother took her from the protection of the Covenant - their home - when they were attacked and her mother lost. As the story continues we learn why her mother ran way and the meaning of the strange connection between Alex and Seth - the Apollon - who was my favourite character in the book.

My biggest complaint about this story is the characters. With the exception of Seth, I couldn't love the main characters. Alex was just forever feisty and she didn't seem to grow as a character. Aiden - the forbidden love interest - was completely flat; I couldn't really picture him in my head and found his character a little monotonous. Seth, even though he was the typical bad-boy character, was a refreshing change to the others. I'm not unusually a fan of the cocky bad-boy character because they all seem to be the same, but Seth works.

I wouldn't say the story was fast paced but it kept me engaged enough to want to know what would happen next and this was the main reason for me liking the story. I think Jennifer Armentrout did a neat job with the way she intertwined mythology into her story and I'd love to find out what happens in the end. I'd say Half-Blood is a quick read for a long trip.

Jennifer Armentrout's books are a treat for those who have a longstanding love of good stories with a heroine you want to be & a boy you'd marry if only he were real. The Covenant series is no exception. You'll stay up late to finish one more chapter until you realize your eyes are burning & you're on the last one.

I enjoyed this book from the very first sentence. Alex is awesome (even if her actions can sometimes be stupid) and I love how she takes charge. Aiden is absolutely swoon worthy and Seth makes me laugh. I love Caleb, Alex's best friend and partner in crime. I also really enjoy how they're descended from Gods. Jennifer Armentrout's writing style really draws you in and I can't wait to read more from her.

Overall I liked this book. This first book did remind me of vampire academy series, but it was still a good book. It definitely gets better as you read the rest of the series, especially if you like all things Greek gods and vampires.

Half-Blood tells us the story of Alexandria....an child of a mortal and a Hematoi (also known as demi-god)....This story follows along with Alex and she experiences life. Relationships, love, anger, hate, suspense, drama...this book has it all....Jennifer Armentrout is an amazing writer...I have no idea how it took me so long to read her work...She weaves her stories in a way that will stay with you forever...

This is my new favorite series. Half-Blood sucked me in and I couldn't stop reading. I cannot wait for the final installment. Yes, there are quite a few similarities to Vampire Academy (which was my favorite series) but the story is not the same and there are no vampires! While Alex infuriates me to no end, I was still drawn into her world and genuinely care about all of the characters. Awesome read.

I purchased this book on the Kindle, at the price of $4.
It was definitely worth it.

The book is engaging and well-written.
The action, dialogue, and plot are all exciting or funny or interesting.

The main protag is a brave young girl, thrown into a world of monsters, losing her mother.

She is brave and likeable, although she doesn't have too much character development.

Ah, what to say about this absolutely amazing debut?! Well for one it will rock your socks off, two is uber fantasic, so much so that you can't put it down & third it's supercalifragilisticexpialidocious (yep, I went there)! Alright now that I have that out of my system on to the actual review of Half-Blood.

I was first grabbed my the Prequel & couldn't wait for the release of Half-Blood, book #1 of the Covenant series. If you haven't read Daimon (The Prequel) you will still get the story, plot & all the goodness but Daimon gives you the background as to what happened when Alex & her mother fled the security of the Covenant 3 yrs ago. Half-Blood starts out right where the prequel left off which is awesome, some books I've read there is a gap in time but not here.

The love in this novel is heart wrenching, it's not the instalove that some characters have & I love that about it. Here we have 2 people who love each other but know the consequences of showing that love, or letting anyone find out about. The mythology that is tied into this is amazing. The names all have a special meaning to them that relate to the storyline. The cover art on Half-Blood has a big meaning behind it, as soon as I saw it I knew why it was that way. If you haven't, read Daimon & you'll understand.

The way that Jennifer has written this is like you are right there along with Alex throughout her journey, in training, fighting, & her feelings about love. Half-Blood brings you an action packed, love swooned, & emotional story. I absolutely cannot wait for Pure to be released. The ending wasn't a cliff-hanger, but it does leave alot open to be discussed & figured out later in the series. I absolutely loved this book & highly recommend it to everyone.

Ok, now I'm going to give you some background on the characters that you'll be reading about in this book.

Alex, a half blood, is super stubborn, has a smart mouth, a no-hold back attitude & at times can get in over her head. She is faced with ALOT during this novel & holds it in well. Because she knows that showing any type of feelings or emotions will make others look down on her, especially her uncle & the pure bloods. While she is hiding those things on the outside she is dealing with them internally, just showing how strong of a person she is. Alex is given a 2nd chance at the Covenant to see if see can get caught back up with the other students before fall & Aiden is her Instructor. She knows that half & pures are to have no feelings towards each other but can't help but be attracted to Aiden (I mean who couldn't?!) She knows of the consequences that she would be faced with but doesn't care when he is close to her.

Aiden, a pure blood is a Sentinel for the Covenant. He is one of 3 that vouches to keep Alex there. He offers to train her to get her ready by the fall semester. He is super hot, charming, a complete gentleman...did I mention that he has the fire element? Yea that makes him even hotter! He is very careful around Alex, not letting his feelings or emotions show but she can see them every once in a while. He does his best with dealing with her out of control self, but eventually that guard he had up is being broken down. He as well knows the consequences of what would happen if anything was to come about with him & Alex (or any half blood for that), and those consequences would only be taken out on the half blood, nothing to happen to the pure. He is the mature, think before you act type guy. His brother on the other hand is the easy going, like to party type guy, a complete opposite.

Alex's best friend, Caleb, as well a half blood, is such a great guy. He is there for Alex from the time that she comes back. He knows her so well (as any best friend should), he knows when she doesn't want to talk about certain things & knows exactly how to cheer her up no matter how crappy her day has been. Caleb faces some major things with Alex & after it all, he is there to help her deal with the aftermath. In all honesty Caleb reminds me of my best friend Justin.

Seth...well he's the Apollyon. Everyone looks up to him & are always stunned in his presence...except Alex. She is being herself. Seth is brutally honest & a little cocky, but sometimes that's a good thing right? Alex & Seth share their moments (not gonna tell you what they are, your gonna have to read the book hehe). He has some pretty neat elemental things he can do, being the Apollyon & all. There wasn't that much interaction with Seth but I'm pretty sure there will be alot more of Seth in Pure.

The author is a fantastic writer. I really connected with the main character Alex and often caught myself laughing and smiling at her smart remarks and retorts. I felt like I was there- the story is interesting and keeps you on the edge of your seat! I love both main guys in this novel and look forward to seeing where the relationships lead... would definitely recommend and can't WAIT for book 2!! :)

The storyline was just ok. Nothing really special. But I felt the emotions, which is more than I can say for other books.
I really like the fact that the main character is a female and she ha a male friend with no romantic entanglements. Does not happen often, specially in YA books.
Going to keep reading just to find out what happens but don't feel the pull to devour the books like I usually do when I fall in love with a series.

Jennifer Armentrout begins this series with a bang--major action from page one that just doesn't quit. Great story-telling that weaves Greek mythology, forbidden love, suspense and danger, all into one wonderful story. I could not put it down. Would recommend this book for young adults and for some of us not-so-young adults. Fun, fun reading.

Despite having heard numerous wonderful things about this book I stubbornly put off reading it. I made a mistake. Half-Blood is a very unique enjoyable read and I quickly fell in love with the world of the Covenant series. Ms. Armentrout masterfully combines a new twist on Greek mythology with creatures that one could call vampires. How awesomely genius is that? This book has so many aspects that I love and number one is the characters are all seriously kick-butt. Alex is training to be a Sentinel and learning how to do some serious damage to the daimons (and some of her fellow classmates) that have made her life a living hell. You have to love a strong female lead who can take care of herself. Onto the guys! Many readers are tired of love-triangles, but I just can't get enough of them. Half-Blood doesn't really develop one, but I can see one in the future of the series. I'm torn in this book between Aiden the Pure (smoking hot and completely forbidden) sentinel who takes her under his tutelage and Seth (whom I won't give any spoilers about). Other than the characters and potential romance triad of the story is the world that is created in the Covenant. Readers are thrown into the world of the Covenant, but Ms. Armentrout effortlessly and naturally introduces this new world and is able to keep readers up to speed. This world is strongly based on a rigid class system and class systems fascinate me. I cannot wait to see the evolutions of the characters, the world, and laws as this series progresses. I eagerly await the next installment to arrive in my mailbox and give this book a 5 STAR rating.

Freaking awesome!!! JLA is the master I swear. This book grabbed me and didn't let go until the end. I immediately went to search for the rest of this series. This book has swoon worthy H/h. Be prepared for action, adventure and a budding romance that was just magic.

Half-blood was an amazing novel! Definitely a one sitting book!! The whole story jumps out at you and you're on this fast paced ride!! Aiden St. Delphi is my new book boyfriend! ❤️ I loved him since page 4 when he walked through the flames!!! Totally recommend this book!!

Loved this book so much (bought it in paperback) that when I finished I went ahead and purchased all the remaining books in the series for my kindle.
Young Adult series, great characters, and if you're tired of the whole vampire/warewolf/faerie thing going on today, this series is a fresh new approach to fantasy.

Love this book and the entire series. I love Jennifer L. Armentrout's strong, snarky female heroines. You have to be able to commit some time to this series though - because you will NOT want to stop reading.

This whole series is wonderful! Keeps you reading well into the night. One of those series where you buy the next book without even blinking because you will pay to find out what happens next. I liked the Lux Series a little better but this one is right on par.

Although the main female character is annoying (to me at least), of all the young adult books I've read so far, Aiden is my favorite male lead. It is so nice to come across a strong male character that doesn't have to be rude or obnoxious to get his point across. Interesting storyline and world the author has created. My only complaint is that I can't imagine that any pure would be careless enough to get pregnant to a non-pure with the possible consequence of having their child going in to servitude. I really love this series and can't wait to see what happens next.

This series is amazing. I enjoyed it so much that I read it twice. I may read it again one day! The beginning of an epic love story is here- forbidden love, rejection, heartbreak, but somehow still hope shines through. It's an excellent beginning to the series.

Oh.my.WORD! Where do I even start??? Forewarning: Please excuse all gushing because this book was AWESOME!

Seriously though, I really don't know where to start. At first, when I started reading, I worried that I wasn't going to be able to get into this book. There was a lot of technicality - being introduced to the difference between half bloods, pures and daimons and the world they lived in. But once I got past all of that introductory stuff, I could NOT put. it. down!!! Crack book doesn't even begin to define Half Blood for me! No joke, I stayed up waaaay too late reading last night, and then didn't even shower or put my contacts in before finishing it this morning. Yeah, it was THAT amazing!

I found Half Blood to be easy-reading; and by that, I mean the author uses a very natural flow of conversation, movement, characterization - it was like stepping right into Alexandria's (protagonist's) head. You knew exactly what she was thinking, seeing, hearing, and feeling. I didn't find distracting fluff that took away from the story line, and I found myself totally lost in Alex's life and world.

Speaking of Alex's world. I know some have compared this book to Vampire Academy (which, honestly, I've never read), but I've never read anything quite like this. You have your pure bloods, which are closest to the gods. Then there are the half bloods, which are the children of a pure and a mortal (apparently, since pures don't believe in divorce, and they don't marry for love, they often have affairs). Then you have your daimons, which are pures who have been drained of all their aether (their life force) and then fed aether by the daimon that has drained them.

But this is so much more than an amazing world and amazing characters. There's also the amazing connection and interest in Alex. I teared up at the end of the book (no joke!) and it's going to take some serious discipline to NOT jump right into the next book of the series (I have other books that I've promised reviews on), because that's what I want to do. I want to find out what happens next. I want to find out what happens after Alex turns 18, how she's going to handle her training during the school year, how things are going to change in the Covenant training. AAAAGGGHHH! Must. Practice. Self. Control!

This book is seriously addicting. It took a try or two to get into it but after I did, I could not put it down! I'm a fan of mythology. Greek, Roman, you name it.

Every character in this book is believable. Alex, strong willed yet vulnerable. Aiden, honest and dutiful. Seth, cocky as heck. Armentrout does a beautiful job weaving this story. It is a quick read and it will leave you wanting more. So prepare to buy the next one.

jennifer Armentrout is among my favorite writers. Right after I finish reading the LUX series, read "Waiting for You", and having read the reviews about this series, I had no doubt I had to stop whatever I was doing or reading and start with this series.

Starting this book, it took me a while be connected with the story. Many factors influenced my tardiness to really feel identified with the protagonists. However, people say sometimes tragedy help bring together families, friends and even enemies. And tragedy was what made me connect with Alex. The Loss of her mother, feeling desolate at such a young age, my overprotective mother instincts awaken. I cried, I felt her pain, I wanted to hold her, and then I knew I couldn't leave her alone.
As the story was developing, I had no doubt that this series would keep me sitting on my couch for hours, but not only that, would occupy my mind trying to figure out how to unfold it.

Aiden.... already added to my list of favorite males (exhale), I can only say that he does make the best, perfect, outstanding, gorgeous, kickass counterpart for Alex. Since I can't be with him (FIGURATEVILY SPEAKING) because that would make me a cougar, I will just say....DARNET!

This is the second book in the series, and although to me, it has not been strong enough, i understand that as an introduction to the story to later unfold, it fulfilled its purpose. I'm starting "Pure" immediately I finish writing this review.
Furthermore, I have to say, It is a story full of action, love, hope, survival, inner strength, confidence and the faith that no matter how bad weather is, or how negative our lives can become ... there is always a option to make it better.

If you have read Vampire Academy, you will see the obvious similarities. The characters and the story-line parallel in a lot of ways. If you liked VA then you might like this as well. There were a lot of differences, but I just couldn't help thinking how Alex/Rose and Aiden/Dimitri had too many similar conversations and found themselves in situations that were therefore predictable. Richelle Mead already wrote this type of story... there is even a character named Richelle in the book if I recall correctly.
I liked that Alex wasn't too connected to a 'Lissa' type character because I found Lissa somewhat boring (VA). It's more like Adrian mixed with Lissa created Seth for this book, and it's more interesting that way. It's a different dynamic.

That said, I will likely read the next one. I hope there are more differences that take the story on its own path.

Alex has been away from the Covenant for years, but after a family tragedy, she wants nothing more than to go back to the school. Now more than ever, she wants to become a Sentinel and fight daimons. But the laws of half-bloods, pures, and daimons are changing, and Alex is wrapped up in the changes. She'll question everything she thought she knew.

Alex is a character I immediately identified with. She doesn't like following rules. She likes to think she's totally badass, and yet she falls prey to her emotions like any teenage girl. Between her feelings for Aiden and her family issues, Alex is a lot like a mortal girl. But her desire to learn to fight daimons and her drive to become a Sentinel proves that she's one tough half-blood.

I can't wait for PURE, the next book in the Covenant series. Big things have already happened to Alex, but her future promises to hold even more surprises.

Oh.my.WORD! Where do I even start??? Forewarning: Please excuse all gushing because this book was AWESOME!

Seriously though, I really don't know where to start. At first, when I started reading, I worried that I wasn't going to be able to get into this book. There was a lot of technicality - being introduced to the difference between half bloods, pures and daimons and the world they lived in. But once I got past all of that introductory stuff, I could NOT put. it. down!!! Crack book doesn't even begin to define Half Blood for me! No joke, I stayed up waaaay too late reading last night, and then didn't even shower or put my contacts in before finishing it this morning. Yeah, it was THAT amazing!

I found Half Blood to be easy-reading; and by that, I mean the author uses a very natural flow of conversation, movement, characterization - it was like stepping right into Alexandria's (protagonist's) head. You knew exactly what she was thinking, seeing, hearing, and feeling. I didn't find distracting fluff that took away from the story line, and I found myself totally lost in Alex's life and world.

Speaking of Alex's world. I know some have compared this book to Vampire Academy (which, honestly, I've never read), but I've never read anything quite like this. You have your pure bloods, which are closest to the gods. Then there are the half bloods, which are the children of a pure and a mortal (apparently, since pures don't believe in divorce, and they don't marry for love, they often have affairs). Then you have your daimons, which are pures who have been drained of all their aether (their life force) and then fed aether by the daimon that has drained them.

But this is so much more than an amazing world and amazing characters. There's also the amazing connection and interest in Alex. I teared up at the end of the book (no joke!) and it's going to take some serious discipline to NOT jump right into the next book of the series (I have other books that I've promised reviews on), because that's what I want to do. I want to find out what happens next. I want to find out what happens after Alex turns 18, how she's going to handle her training during the school year, how things are going to change in the Covenant training. AAAAGGGHHH! Must. Practice. Self. Control!

This book is seriously addicting. It took a try or two to get into it but after I did, I could not put it down! I'm a fan of mythology. Greek, Roman, you name it.

Every character in this book is believable. Alex, strong willed yet vulnerable. Aiden, honest and dutiful. Seth, cocky as heck. Armentrout does a beautiful job weaving this story. It is a quick read and it will leave you wanting more. So prepare to buy the next one.

jennifer Armentrout is among my favorite writers. Right after I finish reading the LUX series, read "Waiting for You", and having read the reviews about this series, I had no doubt I had to stop whatever I was doing or reading and start with this series.

Starting this book, it took me a while be connected with the story. Many factors influenced my tardiness to really feel identified with the protagonists. However, people say sometimes tragedy help bring together families, friends and even enemies. And tragedy was what made me connect with Alex. The Loss of her mother, feeling desolate at such a young age, my overprotective mother instincts awaken. I cried, I felt her pain, I wanted to hold her, and then I knew I couldn't leave her alone.
As the story was developing, I had no doubt that this series would keep me sitting on my couch for hours, but not only that, would occupy my mind trying to figure out how to unfold it.

Aiden.... already added to my list of favorite males (exhale), I can only say that he does make the best, perfect, outstanding, gorgeous, kickass counterpart for Alex. Since I can't be with him (FIGURATEVILY SPEAKING) because that would make me a cougar, I will just say....DARNET!

This is the second book in the series, and although to me, it has not been strong enough, i understand that as an introduction to the story to later unfold, it fulfilled its purpose. I'm starting "Pure" immediately I finish writing this review.
Furthermore, I have to say, It is a story full of action, love, hope, survival, inner strength, confidence and the faith that no matter how bad weather is, or how negative our lives can become ... there is always a option to make it better.

If you have read Vampire Academy, you will see the obvious similarities. The characters and the story-line parallel in a lot of ways. If you liked VA then you might like this as well. There were a lot of differences, but I just couldn't help thinking how Alex/Rose and Aiden/Dimitri had too many similar conversations and found themselves in situations that were therefore predictable. Richelle Mead already wrote this type of story... there is even a character named Richelle in the book if I recall correctly.
I liked that Alex wasn't too connected to a 'Lissa' type character because I found Lissa somewhat boring (VA). It's more like Adrian mixed with Lissa created Seth for this book, and it's more interesting that way. It's a different dynamic.

That said, I will likely read the next one. I hope there are more differences that take the story on its own path.

Alex has been away from the Covenant for years, but after a family tragedy, she wants nothing more than to go back to the school. Now more than ever, she wants to become a Sentinel and fight daimons. But the laws of half-bloods, pures, and daimons are changing, and Alex is wrapped up in the changes. She'll question everything she thought she knew.

Alex is a character I immediately identified with. She doesn't like following rules. She likes to think she's totally badass, and yet she falls prey to her emotions like any teenage girl. Between her feelings for Aiden and her family issues, Alex is a lot like a mortal girl. But her desire to learn to fight daimons and her drive to become a Sentinel proves that she's one tough half-blood.

I can't wait for PURE, the next book in the Covenant series. Big things have already happened to Alex, but her future promises to hold even more surprises.

Very well written and lots of action. A series you can really sink your teeth into! I thought the two main characters would be the same (but different) as another series I just read by Jennifer Armentrout (the Lux series, which was amazing!), but they were quite different and I found myself hooked right away!

It's official. I am addicted to this series. Hook, line and sinker.
Immediately after reading Daimon by Jennifer L. Armentrout I started in on Half Blood because I needed to know more. So I hoped it was as good as its prequel and I'm happy to report it was even better. Half Blood pulls you in from the very first page and will keep you reading until the bitter end. Armentrout picks up the story right where Daimon leaves off (and if you read Daimon there's no way you forgot that cliff hanger) with the same candid and witty dialogue along with descriptions that make you feel like your right beside Alex.
Alex is now back at the Covenant and thrown into the mix with a few wonderful new characters. Daimon exposed her for being a softie underneath the "tough as nails" mask she used to adjust to her new experiences. So it was nice to see her back with her friends, frenemies, and Aiden of course her swoon worthy pure blood crush. Which is forbidden and throughout the book they have some very heart wrenching moments that make you wish for immediate results. Caleb's is another half-blood brought in as Alex's number one partner in crime who totally is a friend I'd want to have. The way Armentrout keeps their way of conversing to just them was amazing and added another element to the book and their friendship. Of course there's the girl you love to hate back at the Covenant to add some flair and give Alex an outlet for frustration and sarcastic comments.
Half Blood has a lot of similarities with Richelle Mead's Vampire Academy series. The illicit and forbidden love, the Covenant and the Academy, even the cool set of friends and off course Daimons but Jennifer L. Armentrout definitely takes her plots up a notch. I enjoyed reading Daimon and Half Blood a lot more than Vampire Academy. This series is certainly at the top of my reading list. As long as she keeps telling her stories flawlessly with creative backstories and exciting plots, I will always be a fan.

I have read two books to this serious already and I am so hooked I can't wait to read the other books. By the way I have read vampire academy books and this book is different so don't be discouraged to read this series please it to good to miss out on!!!.

After first discovering Jennifer's books by reading White Hot Kiss, I immediately fell in love with her writing and characters. I fell even more in love with her after reading Obsidian. She has became one of my favorite authors and I will read anything she writes. But, I will have to say this isn't my favorite book/series by her. I just didn't fall in love with the male characters in this one like I did with Daemon and Roth. Alex, our heroine, also wasn't my favorite female character. With that being said, this book is a solid 4 stars and I will continue reading the series to see what happens next. The Greek mythology part of this makes it interesting. I enjoyed Seth and I can't wait to see more of him. A lot of people complain that this book is very similar to the Vampire Academy books, but I haven't read them, so I can't comment on that. I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy Greek mythology, for those who want a good paranormal romance novel, and for any fans of Jennifer Armentrout.

A poorly written copy of Vampire Academy. Boring and shallow. Stealing a plot and following it by 80% did not help Ms Armentrout, as the rest 20% which were her own completely ruined it.
I want my money back. I've already paid for this book - Vampire Academy.
I really hope the author of this gets sued.