Reviews

Of Tainted Heart by Olivia Wildenstein, Katie Hayoz

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tahliad_reads's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging dark mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

thebookishbesties's review

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5.0

This second installment was full of twists and surprises at every turn. Cadence, Slate, and gang are back to try and complete their mission. Slate is so full heartache and things to overcome, his development to the end of the story was nothing short of wonderful.
I loved watching Cadence’s growth as well. Testing limits and breaking out of the naivety role.

Katie and Olivia are a powerful writing duo and this series does not disappoint.

aliceruth's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging dark emotional mysterious sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

kaitlynfolk's review

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1.0

DNF at 25%

This is feeling like the same plot as the first book. The first one was good enough, I was hoping for more from this one. Ultimately I just can’t get into it.

plushprose's review

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5.0

Overall Rating: 5/5
Spice: 0/5
Plot: 5/5
Romance: 5/5
World-Building: 5/5

Things I loved:
* Slate Ardoin takes my #1 spot of things I loved about this book - again. He is seriously the best character - for several reasons. His persistence, his dedication, his rough around the edges attitude, his love for all things cacti. He is up there in top favorite male book characters - I am talking alongside the Rhysands and Casteels of the world. He is witty, sarcastic and quite unique with his curse words. Most importantly he is dedicated to getting through everything in the book and fighting with everything he has to make sure him and his found family are safe and together. The love story between him and Cadence won me over in this book. I won’t spoil it, but trust me, you need to see their love story unfold because it is *chefs kiss*.
* Cadence really shines in this book. Her personality is on full display and everything she does is very Cadence. She is strong willed and clever but she also handles some really tough things in stride and it’s nice to see that in a book character. She keeps pushing forward no matter what.
* The plot twist in this book literally shocked me and hooked me in for the rest of the wild ride. I literally was sitting with my mouth hanging open. When you get to it, you’ll know and then have to finish the rest of the book in one sitting or you won’t know peace until you do!
* Justice for Alma and Bastian - I needed more of my precious babies in this book. I love them as sidekicks to our main characters and I swear I could read a book just about them.

Things I liked:
* The action in this book is top tier. I almost thought the trials were a little too easy in the first book. Our characters struggled but got through pretty well for the most part. This book takes that and goes, haha you thought it was easy? Here have this. The action, the things the characters have to go through in this book - all amazing. It kept me on the edge of my seat.
* The magic and world building in this are fantastic. It’s modern day but still has that magical feel and there’s nothing in the book that is hurt by it being modern day. I think it makes it feel more real to me!

Things:
* My things column remains the same as the first book. Papa de Morel is my least favorite character, by far. This book solidifies that and boy oh boy do we get to learn a lot about ole Papa in this one. It’s a wild ride but it has a satisfying conclusion, at least.
* Adrien just rubs me the wrong way still, Quatrefoil crew or not. He’s there and he’s doing stuff but he could definitely be kicked out of the crew and I wouldn’t complain. Your miles may vary with him though!

Overall, this is a fantastic conclusion to this series. I wish it wasn’t over - that is how much I loved these characters and this world. But the ending makes up for it and didn’t leave me hanging. Just wanting more of these wonderful characters! This book is a fun, exciting ride. Highly, highly recommend!

literareally's review against another edition

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4.0

Both authors have produced a very well built and thought of story plot. The mystery and web of controversy are sewn flawlessly.

From book one to two, I have enjoyed how this magical town takes its root in me. I love Cadence’s pure and loving heart, Adrien’s protective soul, Gaelle’s motherly care and love, and Slate’s broken yet faithful heart.

The chemistry between Cadence and Slate is electrifying. A touch seems to translate into more while reading it. That’s how good the romance has been set but, take note, doesn’t revolve majorly on romance.

So, I really love Slate. Super rooting for him. I love his broken and flawed character. His rough upbringing and experiences strengthens him and makes him guarded but he never loses his heart. It shows how he protects and loves Bastian. And I love how as the story progresses he opens and welcomes everything.