With Hearts of Flame (Deluxe Limited Edition): A Dark Academia Romantasy Novel of Vampires and Dragons Featuring Stenciled Edges and Illustrated Endpapers (Bloodwing Academy, 4)
Briar Boleyn
Circus of the Damned: An Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter Novel
by Laurell K. Hamilton
About this book
Stakes are higher than ever for Anita Blake as a brutal undead turf war erupts in St. Louis. When a rogue master vampire arrives to challenge the local hierarchy, the city becomes a lethal chessboard. Caught in the center is Anita, a formidable vampire hunter whose professional expertise is pushed to the absolute limit. She must navigate complex political alliances while struggling to survive a world where the line between predator and prey is constantly shifting.
This pulse-pounding installment of the iconic urban fantasy series dives deep into the supernatural underworld, masterfully balancing gritty action with steamy tension. As the powerful Master Vampire Jean-Claude attempts to claim Anita for his own, she finds herself drawn to Richard Zeeman, a charming science teacher who seems like a grounded escape from her dangerous reality. Their budding connection introduces a captivating enemies-to-lovers dynamic, though Anita soon discovers that Richard is hiding secrets of his own.
For fans of paranormal romance, this story is a quintessential read, blending visceral battles with the slow-burn intensity of shifter lore and hidden identities. Whether you are craving high-stakes political intrigue or a complicated, heart-pounding romance, this novel delivers a dark, immersive experience that will keep you guessing until the final page.
- Publication Date
- May 25, 2026
- ASIN
- B002R85K76
Reader Reviews
June 17, 2020
I first read Circus of the Damned by Laurell K. Hamilton back in 2009. Now it’s 2020, and I’m glad I got a chance to reread it because I couldn’t remember this book. It was like reading the book for the first time. It was great to read this book, feeling like it’s brand new. Anita is dealing with Jean-Claude still on giving her the last two marks to be his human servant. Anita is again saying no. Unfortunately, she’s got to deal with other Master Vampires in her city now that want her as their...
September 27, 2025
I decided to start reading these book because my hubby talked highly of the series. I've not been disappointed. Great read and keeps you on your toes. )
January 17, 2017
This book is not one of my favorite from the series. Book is well written great story a lot of killing. Anita gets to kill a million year old vampire saving the day and the city. However Anita is very prejudiced in this book. I know that she is fighting her attraction to the Master of the City, Jean Claude, but she is always rude to him. She acts like she is better than he is. It would take me awhile to list the instances where I found her rude. Here is just a few near the end. In the end they...
January 6, 2026
I’ve read every one of Laurell’s books once. Recently I went back to the beginning to reexperience Anita’s life. I am so glad I did! Laurell’s writing is rich. Her characters worm their way into your head and take up residence. Rereading these books is joyous. If you haven’t read any of Laurell’s work yet, START. You will not be disappointed. )
September 6, 2016
“Most women complain that there are no single, straight men left. I’d just like to meet one who’s human.” This has to be one of my favorite books in the Anita Blake series. This is where it seems that the shifter world starts getting a more prominent spot in the Anitaverse, which just adds an additional layer of complications, and fun, to the series. It’s also where you first meet Richard, who is totally dreamy and wonderful, at least for now. This is also where you start noticing that Anita...
