Fate (My Blood Approves, #2) Summary & Key Insights

Amanda Hocking's "Fate," the sequel to "My Blood Approves," continues the story of Sarafina Demille, a young woman grappling with her newfound identity as a powerful vampire and her complex relationships within the secretive vampire society. The central plot revolves around Sarafina's struggle to reconcile her humanity with her increasingly vampiric nature, all while navigating treacherous political intrigue and dangerous enemies.

The story picks up shortly after the events of the first book, with Sarafina still adjusting to her transformed life and her intense, forbidden love for Damon, a member of the elite, ancient vampire family, the Valerius. Her connection to Damon is a major driving force of the plot, tested by the ongoing power struggles within the vampire world and the persistent threat posed by the enigmatic and malevolent Lucian. Lucian, a powerful vampire with his own agenda, represents the darker aspects of vampirism and serves as the primary antagonist, constantly maneuvering to undermine Sarafina and Damon’s relationship and seize control.

A crucial plot point involves the prophecy surrounding Sarafina, which foretells her pivotal role in the fate of the entire vampire community. This prophecy makes her a target, not only for Lucian but also for various factions within the vampire society itself, some of whom believe she is a threat, while others see her as a potential savior. This ambiguity surrounding her destiny adds layers of complexity to Sarafina's journey.

Key characters aside from Sarafina and Damon include the various members of the Valerius family, each with their own motivations and secrets. There's also the presence of other vampires, both allies and enemies, whose allegiances shift throughout the narrative, creating a dynamic and unpredictable environment. Sarafina’s human friend, from the previous book, continues to play a significant role, although now her knowledge is limited by her inability to penetrate the hidden vampire world.

Overarching themes in "Fate" include the exploration of free will versus destiny, the nature of good and evil within a supernatural context, and the complexities of love and loyalty in a dangerous world. Sarafina's internal conflict between embracing her vampire nature and retaining her humanity is a central theme, mirroring the larger conflict between the different factions within the vampire society itself. The book also explores the themes of power, betrayal, and the enduring strength of love in the face of adversity. The ending leaves the reader with a sense of unresolved tension and sets the stage for further conflict in subsequent books, leaving Sarafina's fate—and the fate of the vampire world—hanging precariously in the balance.