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4.16 AVERAGE
4.16 AVERAGE
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Brandi Elise Szeker’s third installment of the Emerald Lake Asylum series, The Puppeteer and the Poisoned Pawn, is an emotional rollercoaster that grips your soul and refuses to let go. The story delves deeper into Skylenna’s journey, following her as she faces betrayal, heartbreak, and unimaginable grief, all while uncovering the sinister truths of her past.
Spoiler Warning: Major Plot Points Ahead!
This book wrecked me in the best way possible. Skylenna’s transformation from a compassionate, hopeful girl into someone hardened by trauma and betrayal is both heartbreaking and masterful. The tragedy that pushes her to embark on her solo journey was gut-wrenching, and I genuinely bawled my eyes out for what felt like forever. Those 10 agonizing chapters of grief left me curled up on the couch, questioning everything.
But as painful as it was, this book also showcased Skylenna’s resilience and growth. Seeing her take control of her fate, no longer a pawn but the puppeteer of her own destiny, was incredibly empowering. Her descent into darkness, while tragic, felt inevitable and brilliantly written.
The plot twists were another highlight. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, Brandi pulled the rug out from under me. The shocking revelations about Dessin, Kane, and Skylenna’s past were beyond anything I could have imagined. It’s rare for a book to truly surprise me, but this one managed to do so again and again.
I also fell deeper in love with the entire cast of characters. Dessin/Kane and their complex, layered personalities tugged at my heartstrings, while the supporting characters—friends, allies, and even the lost souls of Emerald Lake Asylum—added so much depth and richness to the story. Ruth and Warrose, in particular, have me praying for more of their story in the next books.
Even though this is a dark romance and not the spiciest series in the genre, it doesn’t need explicit scenes to deliver intensity. The emotional weight, the sharp dialogue, and the unrelenting tension between characters more than make up for it.
Final Thoughts:
The Puppeteer and the Poisoned Pawn is a masterpiece of dark romantasy. It’s a gut-punch of emotion, a stunning exploration of trauma and resilience, and a thrilling ride full of unexpected twists. Brandi Elise Szeker has created a world and cast that feels so vivid and real, I can’t help but root for each of them.
This book left me broken, hopeful, and desperate for more. If you haven’t picked up this series yet, you’re missing out on an unforgettable reading experience.
Finished in one day lol. This series just keeps getting better! I laughed during this book, SOBBED, had anxiety, all the feels. Emphasis on SOBBED. I couldn’t put this one down. This series has taken me by surprise in the best way.
And ending on another cliffhanger, touché. Can’t wait to start book 4!
And ending on another cliffhanger, touché. Can’t wait to start book 4!
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
tense
fast-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
You know the gif where the guy is sitting there rapidly blinking? That was me this entire book, just wildly overcome with disbelief.
**Spoiler FREE review!**
The Puppeteer and The Poisoned Pawn is book three in the dark romantasy series by @brandibookthought. While book 2 left me with so many questions and — to be honest — hella confused, book 3 answered EVERYTHING and gave clarity to an incredible plot line. Brandi has phenomenal way with describing the events and emotions happening within the story. So well that the reader feels as if they are living alongside of the characters. I cannot wait for book 4.
**Spoiler FREE review!**
The Puppeteer and The Poisoned Pawn is book three in the dark romantasy series by @brandibookthought. While book 2 left me with so many questions and — to be honest — hella confused, book 3 answered EVERYTHING and gave clarity to an incredible plot line. Brandi has phenomenal way with describing the events and emotions happening within the story. So well that the reader feels as if they are living alongside of the characters. I cannot wait for book 4.
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-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:
Complicated
heartbreakingly good
This book keeps you on your toes 100% of the time. You get to learn about the past and you get to see a different side to all the characters. Of course Brandi leaves you on a huge cliff at the end as always
This book keeps you on your toes 100% of the time. You get to learn about the past and you get to see a different side to all the characters. Of course Brandi leaves you on a huge cliff at the end as always