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I still loved the characters and Napoleonic backdrop but this follow up didn’t quite capture my attention like the first. The deepening mystery and love story are still working as I enjoy the world and Kit Brightling/Rian Grant. However, I found myself frustrated that once again we were removed from the interesting crew dynamic and ship for constant new plot point after new plot point. I really would love a story that simply stays on the Diana.
Kit and Rian are once again partnered on a mission to help prevent a war and when that doesn't work out, they become a part of the war. Kit's magical abilities are growing and Rian is in love with her, both are situations that freak her out.
I'm not sure why exactly but I just didn't enjoy this story as much as book 1, Kit felt a bit more childish this time around which made me care less about her and the story in general, but I am still curious about what comes next so we will see what book 3 brings when it comes out.
I'm not sure why exactly but I just didn't enjoy this story as much as book 1, Kit felt a bit more childish this time around which made me care less about her and the story in general, but I am still curious about what comes next so we will see what book 3 brings when it comes out.

I was caught up by the gripping action, the colorful characters, and it was nail-biting all through to the end.
Gerard Rousseau has escaped from his island prison to resume his plans to dominate the continent. Captain Kit Brightling and the intrepid crew of the Diana are hot on his tail. Kit runs into some trouble when she spots her old nemesis, La Boucher, apparently risen from the dead. The handsome Rian Grant comes to the rescue and the two of them team up to hunt down the renewed threat.
Kit learned more about her alignment and how to use it. She was thrown into a lot of situations where she had to change her view about things. We also get a small glimpse into Kit’s past, where she might be from. It was great to see Kit grow and discover more about herself, with Grant the solid rock to support her. And Kit and Grant were just so adorable together.
This story has the same vivid descriptions and excellent character development that made the first book stand out for me. The action was more focused this time and it was more intense because of that.
To me this is a sort of amalgamation of the Regency era in England, steam punk, and magic. It’s best to start with the first book in the Captain Kit Brightling series, The Bright and Breaking Sea. That’s where all the world building takes place, and we are introduced to the Captain, her crew, Grant, and their enemies.
I can definitely recommend this series if you’re interested in fantasy, romance, and excitement. I couldn’t put it down and I sure hope there’s more to come.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Random pull from the library, didn't realize it was 2nd in a series, but still enjoyed it! Doesn't feel like i missed out starting at #2.
adventurous
inspiring
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
adventurous
funny
relaxing
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
adventurous
challenging
emotional
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
slow-paced
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
This book did not pull me in like the first did. It was an honestly disappointing follow-up to a fantasic novel. I didn't enjoy the romance aspect this time - it felt forced, predictable, and sloppily written at times.
There were redeeming moments, but not enough to make the book actually enjoyable overall. However, the ending was interesting enough that I am curious about the series continuing.
There were redeeming moments, but not enough to make the book actually enjoyable overall. However, the ending was interesting enough that I am curious about the series continuing.