A review by natashaleighton_
A Power Unbound by Freya Marske

adventurous emotional mysterious 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

5.0

Freya Marske’s spellbindingly lush, plot twisty (and satisfyingly steamy) conclusion to The Last Binding trilogy was an action packed, emotional rollercoaster of a read that I never wanted to end! 

Continuing the high stakes, magic based escapades of A Restless Truth and A Marvellous Light, we follow Lord Hawthorn as he reluctantly joins Violet and Maud in their search for the final piece of The Last Contract. But the search, (which involves wading through a magically booby trapped house) proves fruitless and unfortunately for Hawthorn, the group need the expertise of magic repelling journalist (and sometimes thief) Alanzo “Alan” Rossi. 

The argumentative Alan knows just how to get under Hawthorn’s aristocratic skin and the pair soon clash. What they didn’t plan on however, was the deep, infuriating (and utterly scorching) attraction that builds between them. 

But when their enemies’ scheme to seize all of England’s magic (in a power grab that could spell the end of every magician in Britain) comes to a head at Hawthorn’s ancestral home— Hawthorn, Alan and their rag tag group of allies will go to any lengths to stop it… even if it means risking their lives (and magic) in the process.

I’d been eagerly anticipating this, ever since devouring the Agatha Christie meets Downton Abbey deliciousness of the previous instalment, A Restless Truth last year. And I’m so very happy to report that it surpassed ALL of my expectations!  

Blending lush, lyrical prose and beautifully descriptive world building, with magically plot twisty (high stakes) action and a spicy, enemies to lovers romance (that’s bound to set pulses racing)—Marske proves herself a master of her craft.

The seamlessness with which she weaves themes of privilege, power and class inequality without losing any of the sexy, cosy found family vibes had me thoroughly impressed. I do however think the pacing could’ve been a little slower at times—if only so I could properly process the many shocking revelations and action packed scenes we encounter (and there are quite a few.)

I really loved the character development (it’s one of my favourite aspects of Marske’s writing) and was especially happy with the depth and complexity we explore in Lord Hawthorn. Arrogant and selfish when first introduced in A Marvellous Light, I’d been fully prepared to hate him when he returned in A Restless Truth. Instead, I found myself endeared to his reluctant nature and eager for answers surrounding the mystery of his past (and refusal to use magic.) Thankfully we do get those answers, which I felt made Hawthorn a far more relatable and emotionally complex character. 

Alan, our other protagonist (and rival/love interest of Hawthorn’s) was incredibly well written too. His home life and family dynamics, however brief really helped to understand his opposition to the upper classes and those born into privilege like Hawthorn, but who choose not to use it to enact change or help those less fortunate. 

Overall, a thrilling and utterly compelling conclusion that murder mystery loving, Historical Fantasy Romance fans are bound to find satisfying. 

Also, thanks to Blackcrow PR and Tor UK for the finished copy and my spot on the upcoming tour. 
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