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4.28 AVERAGE
4.28 AVERAGE
while this one wasn’t as transcendently magical as the first one for me, IT WAS STILL REALLY F*CKING BEAUTIFUL, Y’ALL.
this is such an underrated duology, especially if you like lyrical prose, an absolutely devoted simp of an MMC, and exquisitely cultivated historic vibes and global settings.
the magic of book one was in its simplicity, i think – while you have these ever changing time periods and shifts in circumstances, it always came back to the two core characters and how they cope with those circumstances and as they gently, softly, and carefully fall in love with one another. IT’S JUST SO BEAUTIFUL. and this sequel is also very much that, but it was made a bit more complicated with other gods and new lore coming into play. if you found the first book a bit boring, this sequel might be more your style, as there’s a lot more going on beyond a simple, elegant character study through time. there are a lot more fantasy elements, but it doesn’t sacrifice any of the romance, so it’s a good compromise for those of you who need more going on than just time traveling through history.
ultimately this is a fantastic, beautifully written magical duology about a woman who eats a peach and is granted immortality, and the struggles and triumphs of the human experience throughout time, and the ways in which those experiences would shape the soul and spirit of those fated to witness each one.
it’s moving, a bit haunting, and painfully romantic. pick up this duology if you’re down with a more slow paced character study, love a good history reference, and especially if you liked addie larue.
this is such an underrated duology, especially if you like lyrical prose, an absolutely devoted simp of an MMC, and exquisitely cultivated historic vibes and global settings.
the magic of book one was in its simplicity, i think – while you have these ever changing time periods and shifts in circumstances, it always came back to the two core characters and how they cope with those circumstances and as they gently, softly, and carefully fall in love with one another. IT’S JUST SO BEAUTIFUL. and this sequel is also very much that, but it was made a bit more complicated with other gods and new lore coming into play. if you found the first book a bit boring, this sequel might be more your style, as there’s a lot more going on beyond a simple, elegant character study through time. there are a lot more fantasy elements, but it doesn’t sacrifice any of the romance, so it’s a good compromise for those of you who need more going on than just time traveling through history.
ultimately this is a fantastic, beautifully written magical duology about a woman who eats a peach and is granted immortality, and the struggles and triumphs of the human experience throughout time, and the ways in which those experiences would shape the soul and spirit of those fated to witness each one.
it’s moving, a bit haunting, and painfully romantic. pick up this duology if you’re down with a more slow paced character study, love a good history reference, and especially if you liked addie larue.
adventurous
emotional
medium-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
screaming, crying, throwing up. I loved this book, I loved this duology. I have a new book boyfriend. And now I really want a peach.
I was so happy to be given the opportunity to read the ARC for this book. I find Raeta’s writing style so enchantingly poetic and romantic. I think I finally understand what people mean when they say something is written for the ‘female gaze’.
I loved the first book, “Peaches and Honey”, in this duology. I was so engrossed with the first book that I devoured it in just two sittings. With the “Pits and Poisons” sequel, however, I intentionally paced myself, reading it slowly chapter by chapter over a number of days so I could really immerse myself and savour the story.
I won’t share any details of what happens to Anna and Khiran to avoid plot spoilers – leave it to the interested to read and find out. I guarantee it will tug at your heartstrings, in a good way. Just like the first book in this duology, the sequel continues with the same visceral emotions as we travel through time with Anna and Khiran, sharing their tenderness, deep love and of course also the ever-present fear of being found out and losing each other.
We get to experience a few iconic historic events through Anna and Khiran’s eyes and they are so well written that you can easily picture yourself being there in that place and time with them.
The pacing of this book was another highlight for me. It’s slow burn, unrushed yet with twists that keep you on the edge of your seat. I found myself constantly wondering if Anna and Khiran will successfully evade being captured, and what fate awaits them if they don’t.
In conclusion, “Pits and Poisons” is beautifully written, filled with emotions, and will leave a lasting impression. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy historical romance novels with a bit of magic. Now, I need to go and add Raeta’s other books to my “to be read” list.
I loved the first book, “Peaches and Honey”, in this duology. I was so engrossed with the first book that I devoured it in just two sittings. With the “Pits and Poisons” sequel, however, I intentionally paced myself, reading it slowly chapter by chapter over a number of days so I could really immerse myself and savour the story.
I won’t share any details of what happens to Anna and Khiran to avoid plot spoilers – leave it to the interested to read and find out. I guarantee it will tug at your heartstrings, in a good way. Just like the first book in this duology, the sequel continues with the same visceral emotions as we travel through time with Anna and Khiran, sharing their tenderness, deep love and of course also the ever-present fear of being found out and losing each other.
We get to experience a few iconic historic events through Anna and Khiran’s eyes and they are so well written that you can easily picture yourself being there in that place and time with them.
The pacing of this book was another highlight for me. It’s slow burn, unrushed yet with twists that keep you on the edge of your seat. I found myself constantly wondering if Anna and Khiran will successfully evade being captured, and what fate awaits them if they don’t.
In conclusion, “Pits and Poisons” is beautifully written, filled with emotions, and will leave a lasting impression. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy historical romance novels with a bit of magic. Now, I need to go and add Raeta’s other books to my “to be read” list.
After reading some other reviews that led me to believe my feelings were accurate, I DNF'd this pretty early. It wasn't hitting the same way as the first book, and I was not (surprisingly) interested in the boss god story (which is weird because I tend to love mythology/gods stories).
reflective
medium-paced
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Enjoyment level: 5 ⭐
Plot: 4 ⭐
Characters: 5 ⭐
Spice:
Plot: 4 ⭐
Characters: 5 ⭐
Spice:
adventurous
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
N/A
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
I really liked the first 100 pages then it kinda fell flat and I kept getting bored.
I overall like the story and the characters!
This is for my historical fiction girlies and my girls that like reading slower paced books.
I overall like the story and the characters!
This is for my historical fiction girlies and my girls that like reading slower paced books.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Much like the first instalment, the conclusion of this duology has touched my heart, brought a tear to my eye and had me hooked from the very first page.
In this book, Anna and Khiran are on the run from the vindictive First. However, even with the high stakes, the focus of the book remains on the characters, their relationships with time, immortality, life, and, of course, with one another, giving us a chance to further explore just how far simple kindness, genuine compassion and unconditional love can shape the world and touch those around you. Very much a character driven story and I, personally, love those!
Raeta’s obvious care for her characters shines through in her beautiful writing, making you care for them just as much as she does. Anna and Khiran will definitely stay with me for some time to come.
Much like the first instalment, the conclusion of this duology has touched my heart, brought a tear to my eye and had me hooked from the very first page.
In this book, Anna and Khiran are on the run from the vindictive First. However, even with the high stakes, the focus of the book remains on the characters, their relationships with time, immortality, life, and, of course, with one another, giving us a chance to further explore just how far simple kindness, genuine compassion and unconditional love can shape the world and touch those around you. Very much a character driven story and I, personally, love those!
Raeta’s obvious care for her characters shines through in her beautiful writing, making you care for them just as much as she does. Anna and Khiran will definitely stay with me for some time to come.