Okay I admit to thinking this was the usual Nora Roberts magical trilogy story for most of this book. Not unpleasantly since I have read and enjoyed every single one. But I should have known to expect something different after Chronicles of the One. Unfortunately, most of the difference lies in the pacing and the last 100 pages only.

Breen and most of the characters are types we've seen before that this author does so well. The story of a hidden past and a legacy tied to magic and another world is as well. But in some ways it never gets old. I love as always the depth of description of Ireland and in this case of the other world too. The usual formula for her trilogies is 6 main characters that will pair up into couples over the course of the trilogy. Each having their own conflict with whatever bad guy while dealing with their relationship issues. There were elements and signs of that but its not where the story lead us.

There is LGBTQIA+ rep that up until the last 100 pages or so I really though were there as window dressing. Marco and Sally in particular. That cliff hanger ending though told me I was wrong. Which I'm glad for but I do wonder where this is going. I'm sad there was no big conflict to be had between the major forces. So I guess this will play out over the course of several books. Maybe even more than 3 since there is no indication that I saw. And as always I love the magical elements that draw from modern witchcraft as well as folklore and legend.

Overall, this books lies somewhere between comfortable old friend and surprising new acquaintance. That sounds cheesy but I don't know how else to put it. But I am looking forward to the next installment. I was sent an ARC of The Awakening by St. Martin's Press in exchange for an honest review.