5 ⭐ CW: violence, murder, imprisonment, slavery mentions, racism/microagressions, rape mention, death of a parent mention 

Bloodmarked by Tracy Deonn is book 2 in the Legendborn Cycle. Well, this was my most anticipated book of the year, and I was not disappointed! I screamed out loud several times, and was glad to have a couple people to yell at about it as I read. Honestly, I'm struggling with how to write this review without spoiling anything. Here goes. 

We pick up with Bree Matthews after the events of last book, after the Ogof when Nick goes missing with his father and Bree discovers who the true Scion of Arthur is. Bree is struggling with her new abilities, and can't seem to get a grasp on them without being barraged with Arthur constantly trying to steer the car. So. Much. Happens. Bree has confusing feelings for Sel and Nick (let's be real here, the only solution is a poly relationship between these three). Alice is the real MVP of this book and representing Onceborns everywhere. 

Sel is trying not lose himself to his demon blood with Nick there for him to fulfill his Oath. A whole lot more stuff happens that has me yelling every chapter. There is so much grief in these pages: for lost parents, friends, and the ancient grief of generational trauma, specifically for descendants of the enslaved. The history of slavery and the lingering affects are prominent in this series, and serves as an acknowledgement of that suffering thrust upon those who had no control over their histories. 

 
How am I supposed to wait for the next book now?!