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A review by theravenkingx
Valour by John Gwynne
adventurous
dark
fast-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? It's complicated
5.0
And the reader releases a breath he didn't know he was holding. (Yes, I have never related more to this line before-I think finally understood the feeling.)
If 'Malice' is a cozy, character-driven tale of a chosen one, then 'Valour' is an adrenaline-fueled sequel that leaves you gasping for air. It cranks up the stakes and delivers an action packed plot, giving you barely a moment to breathe!
Reading this book felt like speeding at 90 on a 60 mph road. I had to focus to soak in all the details and keep up with the relentless pace. But wow, what a ride!
So much was happening in this book-it felt like one gut punch after another. Every single page was packed with action, betrayal, and high-stakes drama. I barely had a moment to process the gravity of what was unfolding; it was only after finishing the book that I could finally breathe and reflect. While this made the reading experience incredibly addictive, it also left me feeling like I was robbed of the chance to fully cherish and mourn certain events. I wish the pacing had been slightly slower to allow the emotional impact to truly land as the events unfolded. That is my only critique.
The sequel excelled at expanding on the richness and complexities of this world. The character development and plot progression combined to create an immersive and addictive experience. While it toys with familiar tropes and much of it is predictable, it ignites strong emotions because it is so well written and plotted. The author knows how to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
This installment introduced even more POVs, with several side characters truly shining. Nathair's mother and Cwyen had particularly epic development arcs, leaving me excited to see what’s next for them. Maquin (Kastell's companion) is another character that stood out but his chapters became somewhat repetitive and less engaging as the story progressed. That said, the majority of the characters' journeys were highly enjoyable, and I found myself unable to put the book down during the final 25%. The intensity of those last chapters was absolutely gripping.
Overall, it's a solid sequel, and this series is quickly becoming my all-time favorite
If 'Malice' is a cozy, character-driven tale of a chosen one, then 'Valour' is an adrenaline-fueled sequel that leaves you gasping for air. It cranks up the stakes and delivers an action packed plot, giving you barely a moment to breathe!
Reading this book felt like speeding at 90 on a 60 mph road. I had to focus to soak in all the details and keep up with the relentless pace. But wow, what a ride!
So much was happening in this book-it felt like one gut punch after another. Every single page was packed with action, betrayal, and high-stakes drama. I barely had a moment to process the gravity of what was unfolding; it was only after finishing the book that I could finally breathe and reflect. While this made the reading experience incredibly addictive, it also left me feeling like I was robbed of the chance to fully cherish and mourn certain events. I wish the pacing had been slightly slower to allow the emotional impact to truly land as the events unfolded. That is my only critique.
The sequel excelled at expanding on the richness and complexities of this world. The character development and plot progression combined to create an immersive and addictive experience. While it toys with familiar tropes and much of it is predictable, it ignites strong emotions because it is so well written and plotted. The author knows how to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
This installment introduced even more POVs, with several side characters truly shining. Nathair's mother and Cwyen had particularly epic development arcs, leaving me excited to see what’s next for them. Maquin (Kastell's companion) is another character that stood out but his chapters became somewhat repetitive and less engaging as the story progressed. That said, the majority of the characters' journeys were highly enjoyable, and I found myself unable to put the book down during the final 25%. The intensity of those last chapters was absolutely gripping.
Overall, it's a solid sequel, and this series is quickly becoming my all-time favorite