A review by pencilknot
Threads That Bind by Kika Hatzopoulou

5.0

"I think the people we love can be cruel. Our love doesn't absolve them. Nor should it."

5 stars

This book was the perfect combination of my favourite things: a unique world and magic system, heart-pounding action scenes, a slowly unraveled mystery, and compelling and flawed characters.

Despite it being a reread, I constantly waited with bated breath for the reveals and climactic battles. Along the way, I remembered bits and pieces, but it was still shocking when it all came together. It's rare for me when rereading a mystery gives me the same excitement as the first time, but this book kept me engaged. It was truly case where the buildup to a key event constantly mentioned in the story actually paid off.

I loved the Ora sisters dynamic, and found each sister such interesting characters. I could understand how their years together resulted in their individual flaws and strengths, and how they each played an important role in the story. Although I was more focused on the plot rather than the romance, Io and Edei had a cute side-plot romance that brought some enjoyable fluffy moments.

With all the new revelations, I'm curious to see how all the plot threads will be wrapped up in the second book!