This continuation of the Beauty and the Beast retelling is simply fabulous. So many subtle elements of the Disney version are taken and twisted into something entirely new and barely recognisable, but when you look closely enough, they're all there. I absolutely love how this team of authors manages to make something so entirely new and gripping out of the classic fairytale, and definitely did such unexpected things to make it into its own thing while still allowing it to be a fairytale re-imagining. I love that!
So, the characters are awesome and this volume gives both Zaina and Einar's points of view, which made it so much more thrilling and gripping. The story is an absolute page turner and the twisty plot had me biting my nails more often than not. The stakes are so high! And there were honestly times I didn't know how either of these two adorable, flawed characters would make it through in one piece (and there were times where they didn't quite...but no spoilers!).
I particularly love the message of this duet, that we can be strong and independent, but when things get really rough it's best to team up with people we can trust. Some things simply cannot be done alone and asking for help might be daunting, but it's necessary if you're going to succeed. Knowing to find the balance--or to excel at the tightrope walk--is the key to achieving the things that really matter. It's a wonderful message and conveyed in such a beautiful way. Definitely awesome!
I also adore how the relationship between Einar and Zaina develops. There's a lot of very well written tension, and they finally get to know each other properly, which helps with all that about working together.
This duet is definitely one of my favourite Beauty and the Beast re-imaginings because it simply has it all, and is so utterly novel with some really intriguing worldbuilding. I'm looking forward to the next one, which looks like it'll introduce a new character and expand on some of the other cultures. Can't wait!
Check out my review of the first book in series, Of Thorns and Beauty here.
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