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ashleyvharris's review
adventurous
dark
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
A solid and compelling sequel to Ruined.
Avenged was full of political alliances, murder conspiracies, and backstabbing. Where Ruined was heavily focused on Emelina and Casimir’s enemies-to-lovers romance, Avenged turned up the stakes by putting everything at risk. Tintera kept me on the edge of my seat by hinting at changing loyalties, new alliances, and impending betrayals throughout the novel. Some never came to fruition, but even the possibilities made me anxious.
One of the strongest points of this story was Aren. He was such a lovely character in Ruined and he really got a chance to shine here. His development as a Ruined, a friend, and a love interest only makes me root harder for him. He deserves a happy ending!
Tintera has managed to give these characters dynamic relationships and personalities that are believable. Em’s love for Olivia is at constantly at odds with her fear of her. Em’s desire to take care of her sister is always apparent, but Tintera’s writing makes it easy to empathize with her over the horrific acts she witnesses.
I’ll be damned if Casimir didn’t grow on me. While he fell a little flat for me in the first installment, he experiences a lot of growth here as a friend, partner, and leader. His willingness to learn from Em and others around him and grow from the mistakes of his family have me squarely on Team Cas now. His friendship with Galo and the hint of one with Aren is endearing too. I sincerely hope the finale sees him get a happy ending with Emelina.
Avenged is an intense, fast-paced sequel full of political games and changing alliances.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Murder, War, Violence, Injury/Injury detail, and Blood
Moderate: Confinement, Kidnapping, and Medical trauma
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