minerva_library's Reviews (78)

At the library where I work, this book got massively popular (not only due to the movie) but as it is a Battle of the Books selection for the local elementary schools. The movie trailer looked so cute, and I kept hearing good things about it. I loved the short chapters of this book as it helped the pacing as the book explored multiple seasons on the island. In the back of the book, there were included sketches of the author's original idea of what Roz and Brightbill should look like, which are fun to compare to the movie's adaptation of Roz. However, when I started (and then ended) the book, I was unaware it was a series, and I was SHOOK and SAD to see it ended on a cliffhanger when I was fully under the impression that it was a standalone novel.

Jumping off from the

identity reveal at the end of the first book

Poppy is left reeling and feeling betrayed at the information that's been held back from her. With numerous attempts

to get away from Hawke (now Prince Casteel) after he reveals he plans to marry Poppy

- once again showing that she doesn't want to be a damsel in distress - Poppy has to reckon with the consequences of her actions. By uncovering the secrets of what it actually means to be a Maiden, Poppy can't in good conscious continue on with her role in the ascension. 

On the side of Poppy and

her romance with Hawke/Prince 'Cas' Casteel

I do like that this second book of the series doesn't rush through Poppy's feelings. She doesn't immediately forgive or come to terms with Hawke's reveal and accept his plan. I appreciate books that let characters sit with their emotions especially as in this novel the hits keep coming for Poppy with her own

identity reveal and power discovery

. 

I had to double check my text threads with my best friend, but I was in fact live reviewing it for her as I read - since she was the one who asked I read it. I sped through this book, but not in the way that I feel I didn't absorb it. As there was much to absorb! 

Unlike Sarah J. Mass' other series that I typically recommend as "spicy with a side of political intrigue" this is definitely the opposite - "political intrigue with a side of romance" rather than spice. At work, Mass' other series "A Court of Thornes and Roses" is shelved in Adult Fantasy, whereas this series is shelved with Young Adult Fiction. The romance in this novel is much more low-key and slow burning, which I appreciated considering the amount of lore and political conflict that is thrown at readers within the first 10 chapters alone. Within those first few chapters (that I originally listened to on a road trip rather than read), I felt invested to the main cast of 3-4 characters and their well-being. 

I devoured this book and finished it in one day. I can see myself reading it again and taking my time. I loved the world this book introduced, and the attention to detail in the characters roles (and therefore their restrictions and responsibilities) within that world. I loved how we as the reader were also learning with Poppy these intricate parts of the world that she's not really supposed to be privy to. 

When I watch movies and tv shows, I'm often guessing the endings, or the next story beat and that can often be boring. But I can say with confidence that the ending of this book surprised me - in the best way! Plus, the spice-to-plot ratio was spot on, especially for what essentially is forbidden romance.

I enjoyed the way the author introduced a unique variant of vampires into her world. It was a good twist on a loved paranormal trope.

Poppy is a Maiden, chosen by the gods to help ascend the next generation of youth. A vague concept as it's meant to also be ingrained as almost a religious and honored event within the world. Tropes I noticed (and loved) within this book are: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, miscommunication, not so distressed damsel, and

identity reveals

.

This picture book by Brandon Sanderson and Kazu Kibuishi is delightful! The art is vibrant and colorful, and the story is enjoyable with every turn on the page being enjoyable. It was recommended to me by a Librarian at work who's a fan of Sanderson.

This is one of those romance books that I quickly devoured, but after a few months, I wasn't left with any lasting emotions towards it. I know I enjoyed it, I know I enjoyed the awakening in the characters and how that fueled their intimate relationship, but I can't quite say that even the names of the characters stuck with me. Now that doesn't mean I wouldn't enjoy reading it again or even reading other titles by the author. It was a spicy read, and I enjoyed the change up in tropes as it's not often I read hockey romance.

My dad first recommended this to me. He knew I have enjoyed dark elements with a twist in comics before, and anthropomorphic characters. I know some people don't enjoy the "villain" also being the protagonist, but I enjoy shows like Dexter and similar. I enjoyed the art and how it was soft but just there in the background, like something out of the corner of your eye, something unnerving was there to be seen. The sharp contrast of the bold colors (like the blood on the cover) to the green of the trees. 

This book is definitely a case of the spice basically pushes the plot. Spice is MMMF and starts early on (like first chapter or so) and though it's not necessarily a "bodice-ripper" it's also not for the faint of heart, or those that want an intricately plotted novel. It did have (limited) world-building that the plot and the characters were immersed in, and I liked that this wasn't necessarily a damsel in distress female protagonist either. 

Probably not suited for those that don't enjoy erotica material for the sake of erotica as the plot isn't overly complex, and in-fact depends entirely on the intimacy of the characters. However, I enjoyed what world-building, political conflict, and urban fantast elements were woven into this novel.