Review: People to Follow

People to Follow by Olivia Worley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note I received an advanced copy of this book from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley.

"In Real Life" is the hottest new reality show that dares to challenge social media's biggest influencers to disconnect from the virtual world and live without filters for three intense weeks. With legions of loyal followers eagerly watching, IRL promises to be the opportunity of a lifetime for its contestants. The cast includes Elody, an impulsive Instagram model; Kira, a former child star turned fitness influencer; Logan, a disgraced TikTok celebrity with a hidden past; and Max, a YouTuber known for exposing fellow creators.

However, what was meant to be a golden opportunity quickly turns into a nightmare. When the production crew mysteriously vanishes, and one of their own meets a tragic end, these nine budding influencers find themselves stranded in an isolated location with a lifeless body and no way to contact the outside world. As if that weren't enough, they begin receiving ominous messages from an enigmatic Sponsor, who threatens to reveal their darkest secrets. It becomes chillingly clear that they've been drawn into a deadly game, and one of their fellow contestants might be the puppeteer pulling the strings.

I have a soft spot for whodunnit murder mysteries, and this one had me hooked from the start. What stood out were the characters, each bringing their unique quirks and personalities to the table. Among them, Kira and Corrine struck me as the most grounded and relatable, while Max appeared to be genuinely trying, even if he couldn't fully escape his documentary-maker persona. Logan, on the other hand, came across as somewhat adrift.

Kira Lyons, the fitness influencer, impressed me with her down-to-earth nature, a breath of fresh air amidst the online fame frenzy. However, Elody Hart's excessive use of "likes" grated on my nerves at times.

Despite these quirks, the storytelling was top-notch. The author kept me guessing, and I found myself oscillating between different theories about the identity of the murderer. The element of suspense was expertly woven into the narrative, making this murder mystery a compelling and enjoyable read.

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Review: The Crew

The Crew by J.M. Hewitt
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Canelo via NetGalley.

Ella finds solace in her nomadic life, working on a luxurious superyacht, which allows her to escape her past and embrace a fresh start among like-minded individuals. Each summer, she returns to her chosen family, the crew of the Ananke. However, the previous summer was marred by tragedy when a deckhand, Ashley, met a fatal accident. Ashley had been charismatic, skilled, and beloved by all, making her loss particularly devastating.

Despite the crew's grief, the Captain believes the best way to heal is to reunite the team on the Ananke once more. However, they soon discover that Ashley had been harboring secrets and living a double life. As they set sail again, it becomes evident that the events of the previous summer were shrouded in deception. The crew must unravel the truth, as they suspect that someone may have gotten away with murder. This thrilling and suspenseful story keeps readers on the edge of their seats and is ideal for fans of Catherine Cooper and Cameron Ward.

As a devoted fan of the hit TV series "Below Deck," my excitement for this yacht-themed thriller was palpable. The initial chapters seemed promising, with a female captain who had years of sobriety under her belt, reminiscent of the show's captivating dynamics, I thought the author was a fan of the show too. However, my enthusiasm quickly deflated as I delved deeper into the story.

First and foremost, the glaring contradictions in the crew composition left me perplexed. With a potential guest capacity of twelve onboard, having only two deckhands raised immediate questions about the yacht's operation. Moreover, their inexplicable intoxication hindering anchor work during a charter contradicted the professional standards expected in the yachting industry. Charter guests are typically served with utmost care, and crew members are expected to maintain their focus and sobriety during charters.

The misalignment continued as a green/third stewardess was tasked with anchor duties, an unlikely scenario on a real superyacht. In reality, a green stewardess would predominantly handle tasks such as laundry and cabin cleaning rather than crucial deck responsibilities. The inexperienced stewardess accompanying guests on an excursion, especially in her first week on the job, was another departure from reality. Also, how does a foster child acquire a diving certification and expertise?

Furthermore, the crew's behavior during the ongoing charter struck me as implausible. The crew engaging in romantic relationships and neglecting their duties seemed inconceivable in a professional yachting setting. Especially since they were excessively drinking WHILE on charter?!?!

Ashley's excessive paranoia added another layer of incredulity to the narrative. AND the Captain calling herself captain in the third person was just annoying!

While I hoped for an authentic yacht thriller inspired by "Below Deck," the story's deviations from the reality of the industry left me wanting more consistency and believability. Nevertheless, the book offered some suspense and intrigue, but it struggled to capture the essence of the world it sought to portray. If you know nothing about the yachting industry then this is the book for you.

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Review: Velvet Night

Velvet Night by Jo Goodman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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Review: The Night Before Christmas

The Night Before Christmas by Alex Pine
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Avon Books UK via NetGalley.

In this chilling Christmas thriller set in the fells of Cumbria, the usual hunters become the hunted. On Christmas Eve, four trail hunters mysteriously vanish, prompting a frantic race against time to locate them before nightfall, when the plummeting temperatures could prove fatal. The search efforts yield a grim discovery: the first body is not merely frozen in the snow but brutally murdered, signaling that a sinister hunt has begun. As a snowstorm descends, the lives of three individuals hang precariously in the balance. The pressing question remains: can the killer be apprehended before the trail goes cold?

This marks the fourth installment in the series, I missed out on the third book but I have read all of the other ones. I didn't feel like I missed anything by not reading the third book though.

DCI Walker continues to shine as a compelling character, possessing the invaluable qualities of level-headedness and composure, especially in the face of crisis. These attributes contribute significantly to his appeal and the narrative's coherence.

The storyline wasted no time in grabbing my attention right from the outset, immersing me in the investigation surrounding the disappearance of these men. As the plot unfolds, a striking revelation emerges: all the missing individuals are fox hunters. This adds a compelling layer to the investigation, raising questions about whether they were specifically targeted. The narrative maintains a fluid momentum, navigating a path replete with twists, turns, and an abundance of potential suspects. While I had my suspicions, Alex Pine managed to outmaneuver me again, leaving me delightfully baffled by who the killer was.

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Review: Good Bad Girl

Good Bad Girl by Alice Feeney
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A Write to Review

Note: I received an advanced copy of this audiobook from Macmillan Audio via NetGalley.

In this gripping tale, a disturbing connection emerges between a decades-old crime and a recent murder in a care home. The narrative unfolds twenty years after a baby was abducted from a stroller, when an elderly woman named Edith finds herself confined to a nursing home, albeit with plans to escape. Within this facility, Patience works tirelessly, forming a unique bond with Edith, despite harboring numerous secrets.

Patience, however, isn't forthcoming with the truth, even as she forges a connection with Edith, who is grappling with her own estranged daughter, Clio. Meanwhile, a new, ominous presence is about to intrude upon Clio's life, and their intentions appear far from benevolent.

With mutual distrust simmering between the characters, these women are thrust into a perplexing mystery that involves three suspects, two murders, and one victim. As they navigate the treacherous waters of their shared predicament, they must untangle the enigma surrounding the vanished baby, the grief-stricken mother, and the intricate connections that bind them all together.

I typically haven't been one to embrace the world of audiobooks; something about them just never quite clicked with me, often leading to irritation with the narrator's voice. Nevertheless, I've made several attempts over the years to bridge the gap, and I find myself doing so once more. In this particular case, I must admit that the narrator proved to be an exception—clear in articulation and less annoying than some of my previous encounters.

However, my struggle with this audiobook primarily stemmed from its plot, which felt like a tangled web of confusion throughout. While the storyline remained somewhat decipherable, the intricate interconnections among its elements left my head spinning. It seemed that the author didn't provide a clear and tactful roadmap for readers to navigate this narrative landscape. While I wouldn't categorize the overall story as unpleasant, it leaned more toward the uneventful and, at times, bordered on the mundane.

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Review: Thin Air

Thin Air by Kellie M. Parker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group via NetGalley.

A suspenseful locked-door young adult thriller, twelve contestants embark on a flight to Paris, seeking opportunities that may change their lives forever. However, this seemingly promising journey takes a deadly turn.

Among the passengers is seventeen-year-old Emily Walters, a boarding school student who's been granted the chance of a lifetime. She's competing for a substantial cash prize that could not only cover her college tuition but also rescue her family from poverty. Yet, as soon as they board the private jet bound for Europe, Emily senses a sinister undercurrent. It becomes apparent that someone is willing to go to extreme lengths to claim victory.

Emily's challenges multiply as she grapples with keeping an eye on her best friend's flirtatious boyfriend while guarding her own dark secrets. The contest takes a chilling turn when contestants start losing their lives.

With shifting loyalties and concealed truths emerging, Emily must navigate a web of deception to identify who to trust and who might be orchestrating their demise. Her survival hinges on uncovering the deadly secrets hidden among the passengers before she becomes the next victim.

The journey through this book was a rollercoaster of emotions, filled to the brim with angst that could be felt on every page. The depth and complexity behind the characters' motivations and the execution of their plans were nothing short of overwhelming, but surprisingly, the story remained incredibly entertaining. Amidst the chaos, there was a labyrinth of twists and turns that kept me perpetually on edge. Trying to pinpoint the true villain in the narrative was like navigating a maze, and I relished the suspense it created. The final twist added a satisfying layer to the tale, even though I couldn't help but feel that the ending arrived a little abruptly, given the intense buildup that preceded it.

As a curious side note, I couldn't help but compare the foundation president's voice to the narrator who delivers the safety announcement at the onset of Disneyland's Indiana Jones ride.

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Review: Saving the Schindler's Daughter: How Courageous Women Rescued an Orphaned Girl from French Concentration Camps

Saving the Schindler's Daughter: How Courageous Women Rescued an Orphaned Girl from French Concentration Camps by Douglas Boyd
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Pen & Sword, Pen & Sword History via NetGalley.

Lore Schindler's harrowing journey began at the age of ten when her father, a dentist named Harry, was arrested by the Gestapo in Berlin and sent to Sachsenhausen concentration camp. Her mother, Grete, secured his release by forfeiting all their possessions to the Nazi regime, leaving the family with a mere 10 Marks each. Crossing the border, they endured degrading strip searches.

Lore's ordeal unfolded in French concentration camps, where her mother and father tragically succumbed to the harsh conditions. Orphaned and ailing in the vast Gurs camp, she was saved by prisoner-nurse Schwester Käte. However, had it not been for the compassion of two sisters, Elsie and Marthe Liefmann, who "adopted" her, found sustenance, and ensured she ate, Lore might have perished from starvation. Elsbeth Kasser, a Swiss-German social worker, also played a vital role by offering her milk and Swiss cheese to help nurse "the thinnest girl in the camp" back to health. Elisabeth Hirsch, another social worker, used a forged identity card to facilitate Lore's escape from the camp, ultimately taking her to La Maison de Moissac, a sanctuary for refugee children in southwestern France, overseen by her sister Shatta Simon.

In Moissac, Lore was among several hundred children hidden from Nazi occupiers and French fascists who sought to send them to Polish death camps. When danger loomed in Moissac, Lore found refuge with pianist Hélène Gribenski in a remote village. As circumstances grew perilous once again, they relocated to a primitive forest-dwelling, awaiting the Allied victory.

The remarkable tale of Lore's survival owes its debt to these courageous women who risked their lives to safeguard hers. After the war, she found love in an Israeli kibbutz and eventually settled in New York with her American husband, where she worked as a librarian at the Brooklyn Public Library. Her borrowers never suspected the terrifying ordeals she had endured during her adolescence and the challenges of her formative years in a foreign land whose language she could not even speak.

The sheer resilience and unyielding spirit with which Lore navigates the unfathomable hardships and atrocities that beset her are nothing short of inspirational. Beyond Lore's remarkable journey, the book also illuminates the unsung heroes who emerged from the shadows, risking everything to save countless lives. Their acts of valor and compassion, detailed within these pages, serve as a poignant reminder of the incredible capacity for humanity's nobility, even amidst the darkest of times.

It's essential to clarify that the book isn't connected to the Schindler of 'Schindler's List.' Nonetheless, this book offers a powerful and emotionally resonant journey through a lesser-known but equally important chapter in history.

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Review: Saving the Schindler's Daughter: How Courageous Women Rescued an Orphaned Girl from French Concentration Camps

Saving the Schindler's Daughter: How Courageous Women Rescued an Orphaned Girl from French Concentration Camps by Douglas Boyd
My rating: 3 of 5 stars



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Review: Versailles

Versailles by Elizabeth Massie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars



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Review: Wolf In Waiting

Wolf In Waiting by Rebecca Flanders
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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Review: The Wishing Hour

The Wishing Hour by Jewel Adams
My rating: 2 of 5 stars



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Review: Winter Born

Winter Born by Sherrilyn Kenyon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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Review: The Wind Blows Backward

The Wind Blows Backward by Mary Downing Hahn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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Review: Whispers in the Woods

Whispers in the Woods by Helen R. Myers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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Review: Whisper of Scandal

Whisper of Scandal by Nicola Cornick
My rating: 3 of 5 stars



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Review: Zoo

Zoo by James Patterson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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Review: You Can Write a Romance

You Can Write a Romance by Rita Clay Estrada
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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Review: Writing Romances: A Handbook by the Romance Writers of America

Writing Romances: A Handbook by the Romance Writers of America by Romance Writers of America (Organization)
My rating: 5 of 5 stars



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Review: A Wrinkle in Time

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars



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Review: The Wreckers

The Wreckers by Iain Lawrence
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I remember reading this as a kid and really enjoying the suspense of the story, it was really an on-the-edge-your-seat kind of plot.

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Review: When Marrying a Scoundrel by Kathryn Smith

When Marrying a Scoundrel by Kathryn Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sadie Moon, a former heartbroken waif turned renowned fortune-teller, had long moved on from her dashing husband, Jack Friday, who left her to seek his fortune. Unexpectedly, their paths cross again in an unlikely location: London's most exclusive house of pleasure. Jack, now wealthy and successful, realizes he still harbors intense feelings for Sadie, despite the broken promise she made to wait for him.

The book starts off a bit slow and I was initially disappointed because I was expecting Archer's story. However, the book is still well-written and gradually picks up pace. It presents a compelling second-chance romance trope that I loved.

Smith's writing style is enchanting, and her ability to create lovable characters shines through once again. Sadie, the spirited and vulnerable protagonist, quickly wins readers' hearts, while Jack's enduring love for her is both heartwarming and believable. As the story unfolds, the couple's journey to rediscover their love is intertwined with a mysterious plot that keeps the readers engaged.

The reunited lovers plot device is executed effectively, showcasing the emotional struggles and conflicting feelings of both Sadie and Jack. It's evident why each character feels abandoned, and the exploration of their trust issues adds depth to their relationship. Despite some frustrations with the protagonists' actions, the overall enjoyment of the book remains intact, as the rekindled romance takes center stage.

Overall, the story delivers a fun and refreshing romance, demonstrating Kathryn Smith's talent for crafting engaging stories. The book successfully portrays the complexities of love and the power of second chances, making it a delightful read for fans of the genre.

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Review: Word Painting: A Guide to Writing More Descriptively

Word Painting: A Guide to Writing More Descriptively by Rebecca McClanahan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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Review: When Seducing a Duke by Kathryn Smith

When Seducing a Duke by Kathryn Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rose Danvers attends a lavish masked ball with a singular goal in mind: to capture the attention of Greyden Kane, the Duke of Ryeton. Despite the potential scandal, Rose is determined to experience more than just a fleeting kiss from the alluring duke.

Greyden is captivated by the stunning woman in burgundy attire. Her resemblance to someone he holds dear touches his icy heart, stirring emotions he thought long dormant. However, Greyden believes their passionate encounter was a mistake and resolves to find Rose a suitable husband, guided by the principles of propriety.

Unwilling to be treated as a mere pawn, Rose refuses to be married off for the sake of appearances. She is resolute in her pursuit to seduce Greyden completely, seeking not only his bed but also his hand in marriage. All she needs is for Greyden to say yes and fulfill her deepest desires.

What truly stands out in this novel is the author's attention to detail and her ability to bring the Victorian era to life. The lush descriptions of lavish ballrooms, intricate gowns, and the rigid etiquette of the time period create an immersive reading experience. It is evident that Smith has done her research, capturing the essence of the era with authenticity.

The characters are well-developed, each with their own unique charm and depth. Rose is a determined and spirited heroine, unafraid to pursue her desires. Grey, on the other hand, is a brooding and complex hero with a past that haunts him. Their chemistry sizzles on the pages and their journey from initial attraction to a deep emotional connection is beautifully portrayed.

The supporting cast, particularly Grey's brother Archer, adds depth and intrigue to the story. The sibling bond between Grey and Archer is heartwarming, and readers will eagerly anticipate Archer's own story (I hope he gets one!), which promises to be as captivating as this one.

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Review: The Temptation by Alisa Valdes

The Temptation by Alisa Valdes
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Shane's life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Travis, a captivating cowboy who appears out of nowhere and saves her from a car accident. The instant connection between them is undeniable, and Shane begins to believe in the existence of soul mates. However, she soon learns that Travis is a spirit from the afterlife, and their love is governed by strict rules set by the Underworld. As they navigate their forbidden romance, they must resist the temptations that could jeopardize their souls. This captivating tale blends elements of love, the supernatural, and thrilling suspense, leaving readers yearning for the next installment in the Kindred trilogy.

Although I wanted to enjoy this book more, there were a few significant flaws that detracted from my overall experience. Firstly, the instant romance between the main characters felt contrived. Their immediate and intense love was later justified by the concept of being soulmates, but it came across as clichéd and lacking depth. Secondly, the characters seemed too perfect, while the villains were overly evil. This lack of nuance resulted in a predictable storyline without any surprising twists or shades of grey. I wanted more depth in the character development and plot.

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New Blog Site

 It is time.  I am switiching over to wordpress.  This was a hard decision and I am still trying to work out all of the formatting and everything but I am excited for the growing possiblities. 

Please subscrive to my new A Write to Review site on Wordpress!

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ARC Review: Puzzle House: A Novel by Duncan Ralston

Puzzle House: A Novel by Duncan Ralston
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

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Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Wicked House Publishing via NetGalley.

Six strangers converge upon the enigmatic Puzzle Master Alexei Vasiliev's residence for the reading of his will, setting the stage for a captivating mystery in 'Puzzle House.' Among this eclectic group are Vasiliev's soon-to-be-ex-wife, a virologist haunted by his past actions, and a convicted murderer granted a day's reprieve. Their potential windfall: a share of Vasiliev's staggering $150 million fortune, provided they partake in his final enigma.

The choice is stark: depart the house empty-handed or accept the challenge of unraveling the interconnected escape rooms concealed within. Yet, beneath the surface of Puzzle House, a malevolent undercurrent surges. The seemingly innocuous puzzles turn perilous, and the participants realize that their journey through the rooms may be a life-and-death matter. Someone, somewhere, observes their every move, manipulating them, sowing discord. As their survival hangs in the balance, they grapple with a haunting question: is this a sadistic game orchestrated by a gleeful tormentor, or something far more sinister?

Initially, the book holds promise, sparking excitement as readers attempt to decipher the intricate puzzles alongside the contestants. However, the narrative takes a rapid and unexpected plunge into the bizarre. By the story's conclusion, words fail to convey the full scope of the surreal journey. This book emerges as one of the most peculiar books I've encountered in quite some time.

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ARC Review: A Teenage Girl in Auschwitz: Basha Freilich and the Will to Live

A Teenage Girl in Auschwitz: Basha Freilich and the Will to Live by Douglas Wellman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

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Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from BQB Publishing via NetGalley.

In January 1943, young Basha Anush, just fourteen years old, and her family endured the harrowing experience of being forcibly taken from their Pruzhany, Poland home by Nazi soldiers, then transported to the notorious Auschwitz concentration camp. Tragically, within a matter of days, five members of her family succumbed to the horrors of the camp, leaving Basha to face two-and-a-half years of unimaginable abuse, a grueling death march into Germany, and months of wandering alongside other displaced girls as the Third Reich crumbled. Remarkably, throughout this ordeal, she held fast to a last-minute promise she made to herself: to survive and share her story with the world.

This memoir is an unflinching account of one young girl's indomitable spirit amid humanity's darkest hours. Basha Anush's storytelling is a testament to the human capacity for hope and strength in the direst of circumstances. This book is a profoundly moving and thought-provoking narrative that reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of a promise kept.

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Review: Taken by the Night by Kathryn Smith

Taken by the Night by Kathryn Smith
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In this paranormal romance, a centuries-old vampire finds himself drawn into a dangerous investigation at a renowned London brothel. The protagonist, who has learned to avoid emotional entanglements, becomes enticed by Ivy, the daughter of the establishment's infamous Madam. Despite his reservations, he is unable to resist her charms. As they delve deeper into the mystery surrounding the murders of Ivy's friends, their passionate connection intensifies. However, their budding relationship is threatened by a formidable evil that surpasses even the power of the undead.

Despite the promising premise and unique take on the Jack the Ripper case, this book still falls short of the first one. The lack of chemistry between the main characters, Saint and Ivy, hinders the development of their romantic relationship. Moreover, the discomfort arises from an immortal vampire being sexually drawn to a woman he has known since childhood. The story's predictability further detracts from its overall impact, although it does offer a fair share of steamy scenes. While it may not live up to expectations, readers seeking explicit content may find some enjoyment in the book.

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Review: Night of the Huntress by Kathryn Smith

Night of the Huntress by Kathryn Smith
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In this vampire-themed story, Bishop, a vampire of 700 years, longs for a peaceful existence. However, convincing humans that vampires are not monsters proves to be a challenging task, especially with the presence of vampire hunters like The Reaper. Marika, who believes a vampire killed her mother, leads a group determined to eradicate these creatures. Unbeknownst to everyone, Marika herself is half-vampire. In her quest for vengeance, she captures Bishop, hoping he can lead her to the vampire responsible for her mother's death. As Bishop remains in captivity, secrets about Marika's past unravel, challenging her beliefs. Together, Marika and Bishop must confront their shared enemies while also facing the truth of their love. The story delves into their race against time for survival and the discovery of their intertwined destinies.

I found the second installment of the series to be somewhat underwhelming compared to the first. The main characters, Marika and Bishop, didn't resonate with me as much, and the overall storyline fell short of my expectations. While the author attempted to create a balance of vulnerability and strength in Marika, it didn't quite come together convincingly. Similarly, Bishop's portrayal as a warrior lacked distinct qualities that set him apart from the protagonist in the previous book. I still plan to continue with the series.

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Review: Be Mine Tonight by Kathryn Smith

Be Mine Tonight by Kathryn Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In this paranormal romance, Chapel, an immortal being, shares his centuries-long journey and his encounter with Prudence Ryland, a young woman seeking the Holy Grail. Chapel, haunted by his past, finds himself drawn to Prudence and must decide whether to reveal his immortality and the eternal kiss that could save her life but come at a great cost. The story explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of immortality.

Kathryn Smith's novel takes a unique approach to vampire lore, intertwining it with Arthurian legend, the Knights Templar, and biblical references. The story offers a blend of traditional vampire elements that fans of the genre will appreciate. It serves as an engaging introduction to a series with the promise of more to come. Smith's writing skillfully weaves a beautiful and emotionally resonant love story, showcasing her talent as an author.

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Review: Captured (The Captive, #1) by Erica Stevens

Captured by Erica Stevens
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Aria, torn from her family and familiar woods, finds herself captured and facing a grim fate as a potential blood slave to the ruling vampire race. Her greatest fear is not death itself but being chosen for this horrifying role. Concealing her true identity from the monstrous captors becomes her paramount concern, as she is already marked as a rebel. Aria's involvement with the rebellion runs deep, a secret that must remain hidden from the vampires at all costs.

In a twist of fate, Aria's world is upended when a vampire named Braith intervenes and claims her as his own, postponing her execution. However, Aria knows that her reprieve is temporary, as Braith will eventually drain and destroy her. Complicating matters, she discovers that Braith is a prince from the royal family responsible for the war that led to humanity's downfall, reducing them to servitude and slavery.

Determined to harbor hatred towards the prince and resist him at every turn, Aria is astonished by Braith's unexpected kindness and gentle demeanor. Torn between her loyalty to the rebellion and her blossoming love for her greatest adversary, Aria wrestles with a monumental decision: choosing between the life she has always known and a love she never anticipated finding.

What a book! I loved it from the moment it started. The tension building up and the ending was amazing. I like the war that Aria had to battle within herself for what she had gone through her whole life and what she currently was feeling. This book had a slight Beauty and the Beast aspect to it and the back and forth between Braith and Aria was tension-filled.

I can't wait to read the second!

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