Look. I adore this book. This series is quickly becoming a comfort fave. But if the author continues to dangle this romance in front of our noses for another entire book with no resolution until the very, very end of the series, I will riot. Riot, I tell you. I thought it was a trilogy but someone I know said the author mentioned it’s now 4 books in an IG reel??? (Unverified, I’m not sure where this information is >> https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBeUlx-PQmx/?igsh=MWFhZmkxbTkyYWxyaA%3D%3D) But I love these two main characters so much that it would be a shame to dangle “true love” in front of us readers for 3 books without actually getting to enjoy a romance between these two ALONG with the story.

Honestly, Trystan and Evie reminded me of the Tenth Doctor and Rose Tyler — driving me utterly mad with shippy <insert NOW KISS smooshing faces together gif> feelings and absolutely zero resolution. Torture, is what that is.

(I docked ¼ star off for emotional damage from unresolved tension.)

HOWEVER.

Part of me wishes I had been reading this on Kindle, because there were so many lines or moments of witty banter that I wanted to highlight. My favorite chapter beginnings were when Trystan was thinking, FUCK, FUCK, FUCK. The first chapter like this, I was cackling. Actually sent my friend a text with a picture of the page saying “Love chapters that start like this.”

Especially when it’s because a love interest is on his bed or in his bedroom/safe place.

But Trystan, honey, GET. IT. TOGETHER. YOU. FUCKING. IDIOT.

And of course, destiny monster said a Thing™, so now he’s all up in his fucking head about it, and they can’t be together and need to spend time apart. I D I O T. And it’s also been a roller coaster for Evie, which she does not deserve at all.

I LOVE the development of the side characters, especially Becky — and then the way Becky and Evie’s rivals (?) to friendship is written. It’s not petty and catty, like some female relationships are often represented; it’s true respect and appreciation. Well done. I also love little sister’s part in the story, her child’s innocence, cleverness, and delight.

I hate that her love and trust was used by their father — what a truly despicable man. I hope he gets destroyed.

The way the author dangled little teasers for us throughout this book without any further exploration was truly devious (aside from the main romance).

I’m definitely intrigued about the way Trystan’s magic has changed and seems to be attaching itself to Evie — of course he’s going to be a giant DumbDumb about it instead of considering why this might be happening and exploring the possibilities. The True Love Kiss™ implication, especially after it was revealed that the antidote wasn’t given to Evie, feels like an obvious plot device for this series. (I’m not complaining, to be fair.) It’s riddled with delightful tropes used in hilarious ways — little sister locking people in cupboards anyone?? The hints about Evie and magic, especially with her dagger, have been conveniently ignored, so I look forward to reading about that. I’m sure there are more, but I didn’t take notes while reading, lol.

I feel like there are other things I wanted to write about this, but that’s it for now. I might return later. Basically, though, I really enjoy this series. I think I’ll have a greater appreciation for everything once it’s complete and I can reread knowing how it resolves. I’m already excited about it. 

ALSO, FOUND FAMILY. LOVE.