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3.97 AVERAGE


4.5 stars! The world building in this book is so good and the characters are so unique. I can’t wait to start the next one.

Okay, so I am flittering between a 3-3.5 stars for this one but can’t quite decide how I feel about it. On the one hand, this book included some things I loved and I really like both of these authors, but on the other, it felt like it was trying to be something it’s not.

What did I like?
- First of all, the characters. I really thought Candence and Slate were both unique and interesting characters. Their dynamic was great, I thought they were both very witty and I could see a growing romance between them well.
- I liked the concept of the story. I always like books where the characters have to solve a puzzle or go and search for something to solve a puzzle.
- I thought the pacing of the story was great and I did fly through this book easily.

I think one of my main issues with this book was the sudden bursts of info dumping and then nothing for ages and another dump of info. I couldn’t really picture the town they were in and I wanted more backstory of the locals opinions on magic etc. I felt like we as the reader were told a lot but not shown anything.
I also think what happens/revealed about Candence’s father was very predictable and from the first chapter I knew something was wrong. I feel like the book might have worked better if his character didn’t look so shady in the first place.

Overall, a decent, well written light fantasy book that had some really good elements to it. I would pick up the second book as I’m curious after that ending.
I received this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I loved this book! I was expecting dark academia, and was pleasantly surprised that it was not that! While the characters are associated with the university, the challenges they face and the twists the book takes are unpredictable and keep you on the edge of your seat. The magic system is so unique, and I love the characters and their relationships. I was also excited for the romance aspects of the story, and that it wasn’t quite a love triangle but kept you guessing in the beginning still!

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.

Story: 5 ⭐️
Steam: 1

4.25
adventurous mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This was a lovely audiobook to listen to. It was easy to understand and the story was fun, interesting and adventurous. What I liked was that Slate and Cadence had their own telling voice. Slate was spoken by a male and Cadence by a female. I'm really excited about the second book and can't wait to listen to it!

Full review can be found at BiteIntoBooks

I have read two books in Olivia Wildensteins Boulder Wolves Series, and loved it. I was really excited to read this book, where she combines her writing-powers with another author. I had not heard of Katie Hayoz, but I'm a fan after this book and I can't wait what they write together for the second book in this series!

This was my first Netgalley audiobook (also requested the ebook later because I wasn't sure how to spell a few words

I liked the magical system that was built and the events surrounding the magic. I like reading Cadence's point of view, but I had a hard time liking Slate. He did eventually grow on me, but some of his inner comments/thoughts just had me eye-rolling at his character.

I'm also have mixed feelings with one of the twists at the end for a character. I felt the realization came out of left field.