by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland

A Fantasy, 2024 by Berkley, 352 Pages

What I Didn’t Like:

• These two main characters were a bit frustrating. Neither of them would just open up about how they were feeling which really drags the romance plot for no reason. 
• This one had less of the beautiful fantasy element and magic than I was looking for after the first one in the beginning. Probably because it was established in the first one, it didn’t really get a focus here until later in the story. 
• Not really a negative, more a note. This one is spicier than the first one so be ready for that. 

What I Did Like:

• The opening set up the POV character beautifully. Whether you’re reading this one alone or after reading the first, it makes you feel instantly connected to the main character. 
• The voices of the two main characters for this series so far are different in the best way. I feel like you could give me a sample chapter from either book and I’d be able to tell you which sister’s POV this was. Wonderfully done!
• The focus and attention on bipolar disorder and PTSD after trauma and abusive relationships was incredibly well done. Teal spends this book healing and you felt that pain and healing with her through the whole thing. Beautiful in the best way. 

Who Should Read This One:

• Fans of the first one, obviously. You left book 1 ready for Teal’s story and you won’t be disappointed. 
• Fantasy fans, this series is so pleasing. The magic system is well built and the journey is intriguing. 
• Romance fans, this series is also for you! Both books so far have had romance elements. This one specifically has friends to lovers, healthy relationship after trauma, and fake dating (sort of). 

My Rating: 5 Stars

• Again the blend between fantasy and romance is so well done here it will please fans of both genres.