On the reread I liked this better! It probably helps that I read the source material. It's a solid book and I definitely plan on reading the sequel.

CW: slavery, violence, death, murder, drugging, alcohol use, and deception

So, I got an ARC of this. Decided I wasn't that into it and put it aside. Then Owlcrate chose this book for January and I decided to give it another try!

Overall, it was a good start to a series. The characters were interesting. The plot had a good clip to it. There was a good amount of twists and turns. The ending was satisfying; no huge cliffhanger but it was open for more to the story.

But... It was just lacking for me. I didn't love it. I liked it. I never got that attached to the characters and I found the romance between Cayo and Amaya very forced. Plus, the story felt like there were almost too many twists for my liking and that made me get a little bored by the end.

So, it was a fine book that I enjoyed reading, but I don't know if I can see myself picking up the next book.