Nura better have a gruesome death in the next book.

Idk if it Broadbent’s writing or just perfect timing but these books have had me tearing up after months of being emotionally detached from the books I’ve read.

In my experience, the author was masterful in defying the expectations I had.

From the first mention of the ‘extinct’ fae in the first book, I knew they’d play a huge role in the series going forward. But how it played out still surprised and enthralled me.

I immediately liked Aefe and was engaged in her story. I liked that it was unclear whether her story was from thousands of years ago or if it was happening at the same time as the main storyline. I especially liked how distinctly different Aefe’s character was from Tisaanah. The worst part of Aefe’s storyline is that we didn’t get more of it! I wanted to know how her ‘father’ took control of her mother’s mind. I wanted to see her sister defy her father’s expectations and rise up against his tyranny. I wanted to get to know Aefe’s bio-dad and find out why he didn’t go after them. I was desperately waiting for Aefe to finally let herself be truly vulnerable with someone and to be loved in return. I couldn’t help but root for her, even when I began to suspect who she would become.

I ended the first book adamant that Reshaye was just true evil and simply too dangerous to be allowed to exist. Now I find myself hoping Reshaye will find peace and love.

I immediately loved Caduan and hoped he would become one of the true heroes of the story. I definitely didn’t expect him to become the greatest, most vindictive, tyrannical fae-overlord with plans for complete human-genocide.

In the first book, I was sure that Nura would get a redemption arc. I was also sure that Broadbent would fail to move me with that redemption arc. I was not expecting Nura to get even worse. Now it seems she is one of the ultimate villains of the story.

I still adore Max… but I was disappointed with how the author had him treat Moth. I would think he would be better with kids considering how many younger siblings he had. After he yelled at Moth, I just needed him to hug him and say, “I’m sorry. I just never wanted this for you.” That’s it! Moth being General Maxintarius Farlione’s assistant was a great opportunity to develop both their characters. During the first book, I assumed they had some more positive interactions that we were not seeing. I was excited to see more of their sweeter moments. If the interactions we have seen are all of them… there’s no way a kid would not be afraid/hate Max.

In contrast, I love how Max and Tisaanah’s relationship is written. Sometimes the romance can get boring once the main couple gets together, but I did not feel that way with them. I liked that Max stayed true to character in being kind of awkward and ‘bad with words,’ and yet his love and devotion is clear. It was the perfect torture for them to get that little taste of happiness in the cottage. (I don’t think ill get over the loss of the cottage and garden)

I am slightly disappointed we didn’t get more of Serel. I wanted to see him and Tisaanah regain their friendship and I was excited for awkward/funny interactions between him and Max. His brief moments are great… “He looks at you like he wants to eat you. Slowly. With his tongue.”
I also wanted more Sammerin. He gives major Kieran vibes (from Blood and Ash by JLA).
And Tisaanah is so SO reminiscent to Phedre (from Kushiel’s Dart).
Also wtf happened to the hummingbird girl??

I’m DNFing. There is absolutely nothing wrong with this book, I just did not care about the plot or the characters.

That ending