paulineerika 's review for:

This Wicked Fate by Kalynn Bayron

4.0

adventurous challenging emotional hopeful reflective sad fast-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Complicated

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

---

Everything that I was missing in the first book, especially in terms of pacing and backstory, really came out in this book. The mythology was established and the characters moved quickly (obviously) to deal with the cliffhanger set forth in the last book. But even with all the action happening, the connections between the characters continued to grow and develop. Obviously, Marie and Bri were wonderful, but I also really loved how Bri's relationship with her newfound family was portrayed. It wasn't an instant "everything is fine and I forgive you for all the lies and mystery," but nor was it bitter and resentful. It was cautious and warm and everything I would have wanted to see. 

One minor quibble is how Karter was handled. I understand Bri's feelings of betrayal and how emotional it all was, but I thought Karter deserved a little more sympathy for what he went through. I know he made bad choices, but it felt like he was also a victim who didn't have great choices to begin with. I did appreciate that he's at least given a chance at redemption.