This is the second book in the Gilded Blood trilogy. If you'd like to check out my review for Inked first, you can find it here.
Well now, that was unexpected. Although I had high expectations for this book, I was still blown away. Rener is a great author and totally had me hooked from the get-go. I love the way Talia's mother comes across and that she is the alpha and omega of this story, getting both the first and last words...
On to the actual adventure. Holy Fae-Cr*p on Lembas Bread! That was an insane ride with more twists than you can shake a stick at and some fabulous developments. I'm not usually a big fan of plot-driven narratives, but this one sure is one that hit the nail on the head for me. I love the characters enough and their issues were well portrayed and kept the momentum of the plot going very well. There were several occasions where I didn't see how Talia could ever get out of the situation, but she bumbled her way through it all. It's actually kind of refreshing having a story where the character is just fine as she is, no need to change. She isn't perfect, but her imperfections make her endearing and definitely were part of what made me root for her through it all. I respect Rener for sticking to her guns and keeping Talia the way she is. It's not pretty, but it is a worthwhile message. No matter what happens, even when the love of your life is trapped in eternal darkness, his life being leeched from him and you're the plaything of an evil, controling incubus who dominates the fae realm and now wants to dominate the human realm, if you think on your feet and try hard enough, you might just get through with a few scrapes and bruises. By woe betide the one who gives up. That would definitely spell the end of everything.
In terms of characters, I think this is the serise with my all-time favourite animal side-kick. Biscuit takes the biscuit (or almond as the case may be). This phoenix/bird of paradise mash up is a fabulous character with so much personality radiating off the pages. The half-baked birdie conversations he has with Talia are hilarious and sweet and simply adorable.
If you enjoy stories about the fae, this one will definitely keep you happy. It's an entirely new take on the old material. You'll recognize most of the creatures by name, but that's pretty much where it ends. The worldbuilding is superb and I'm a particular fan of Rener's blood-type magic in this series. It's very unique and quite inventive, but the rules are well-laid-out and really solidify the structure of everything else. It's a wonderful, fast-paced read with some really amazing softer moments. There are some steamier moments, but there isn't actually anything I'd consider overly indecent. There's a memory of a sex scene that helps the character get through a really difficult time and come to some important realisations. Can we begrudge her that? No, I don't think so. Besides, it was nice to have something racy but not full-on pornographic.
Now, the only problem? I have to wait a couple of months before the next one comes out.
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