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ashlightgrayson's review
adventurous
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.25
This book was delayed multiple times, so I was happy when I was able to purchase the e-book this month after such a long wait. Unfortunately, this book seemed rushed and I could tell by reading it. The first book had fast pacing, but at least the main characters had time to get to know each other and develop a romantic relationship. Dhuro is a lot more unlikeable than Veron and it feels like he wasn't given time to grow as a character because the story was so short. I would have liked him a lot more if he had. Arabella and him are disagreeable with each other at the beginning of the book and the transition to having a romantic relationship felt like it came out of nowhere. Dhuro and her had argued viciously and they transitioned to a romantic and sexual relationship before his previous behavior towards her was properly addressed. They also didn't spend enough time together for me to be convinced of the extent of their feelings for each other. I think this would have worked out better if it had just been left at "they like each other" rather than trying to sell us on "they are head over heels in love". I believe the potential for the being in love should have been left out in the open. The story was disappointing, unfortunately. I really wanted to like Dhuro more. I usually like the grumpy jerk with a heart of gold, but it seems this was not the one for me.
Since they get married at the end (in part for external but mutually convenient reasons) it would have been more satisfactory if they were entering married life with the hope that their infatuation would turn into love. In the world of arranged marriages, that seems a lot more realistic and wouldn't have completely suspended my disbelief in the story. I also don't think every romance needs to end with marriage. Sometimes an ending with potential for a stronger long lasting love is okay for me. This is just my opinion on how I think the story could have ended on a better note.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Minor: Blood and Death
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