All The Right Reads

Fiction Recommendation Experts

2026 Book Review: Reluctant

by Kendrai Meeks

A Fantasy, 2017 by Tulipe Noire Press, 278 Pages 

What I Didn’t Like:

  • There are some ideas introduced here that are for world building but they bring big questions about the past of the main character. Presumably, this will all be answered as the series unravels but for right now it feels like you missed something important. I see why this has prequels. 
  • Abrupt ending. This is the first in a series and it definitely ends quickly, presumably to continue on book 2. Very little is solved. 
  • Some of the characters are very flat at this point in the series. I don’t know much about anyone and they all feel very cliche right now. Again, that’s likely to change with the series. 

What I Did Like:

  • Geri is a solid character. While we don’t know what made her turn away from her family (not fully) we understand her sense of right and wrong which means we can agree with her decision anyway. She’s definitely a strong enough character to carry this series.
  • The lore of werewolves, hoods, vampires, and slayers is deep enough to support the series and intriguing enough to carry readers through it. I liked the twist of introducing science to the mix, it brings something interesting to the idea.
  • As a setup for a series, this book is strong. Enough is introduced to keep you hooked. I’m grateful I have the entire set! 

Who Should Read This One:

  • Fantasy fans who want strong characters and good myth development.

My Rating: 4 Stars

  • As a stand-alone this wouldn’t work but it does set up the series well!

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