On Wings of Blood Read Along | Week Two

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Week Two Thoughts on On Wings of Blood

We’re halfway through our read along of ON WINGS OF BLOOD by Briar Boylen, and wow—that ending to this section gave us a serious jolt, didn’t it?

Blake’s POV Finally Arrives

Let’s start with the big one: we finally get Blake’s point of view, and it adds so much more depth. His rebellion, his anger, his loyalty to his sister and mother—and yes, even the soft edges forming around Medra—all make him far more compelling.

I’m extra into his hatred of Regan, for obvious reasons.

His reflection on Medra, before and after his friend’s betrayal, was a highlight. He’s just as drawn to her fire as we are, and the slow build of attraction is finally taking shape. Honestly? His struggle feels more raw and interesting than Medra’s right now.

Is Medra Being Pulled in Too Many Directions?

Medra seems stretched thin—dragons, her past, her place in the kingdom, Blake, the academy, the politics…it’s a lot.

And I think that’s part of my issue: the story is strong, but it’s doing a little too much at once.

We’re still getting heavy exposition halfway through the book. The world-building feels over-explained, and I’m not a reader who needs hand-holding. Let me connect the dots. Let me experience the world organically instead of being spoon fed.

Repetition, Repetition…Repetition

Another gripe: we’re seeing the same ideas repeated multiple times—shown, then told, then told again. I get why the author wants each moment to land, but the repetition takes me out of the story. As the ruthless editor I am, fluff instantly grates on my nerves.

Blake’s Family, Marcus, and Rising Tension

Despite all that, I’m deeply intrigued by Blake’s mother, the mystery around her, and the lingering influence of his deceased father.

I want more Marcus—specifically, more tension, danger, and that creeping dread of what he might do next.

The Consort Games: Needed or Not?

The Consort Games feel like another ritual to throw Medra into danger, and I’m not sure the plot needs another trial layered on top of everything else. But I’m holding my judgment until I see where this goes.

Medra’s Mom & That Fascinating Twist

The storyline with Medra’s mother seeping into her mind is genuinely compelling. It’s creepy, emotional, and adds a rich thread of mystery.

Predictions & Hopes

Here’s what I’m hoping for in the next chapters:

• Medra’s powers returning—or evolving.

• Regan getting knocked down a peg (manifesting this).

• The smolder finally hitting a spicy peak—come on, they’re killing me.

• Tanaka finally stepping into the spotlight—he’s mentioned enough times that something big has to be coming.

And of course, I’m dying to see if anyone discovers Medra’s true identity—and whether she’s destined to bring back the dragons. Blake’s disappearing act and those dragon tattoos have me suspicious of his connection to them too.

Your Turn!

Alright, fellow readers—your turn.
What did you notice this week?
What made you grin, groan, or roll your eyes?

Tell me everything in the comments below.

I’ll see you next week as we read up to Chapter 45.
Until then, happy reading!