A review by ljamison01
The Carver by Penelope Sky

dark emotional mysterious sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

In this second book of the Fifth Republic we have Bastien and Fleur still trying to work things out. Fleur is trying to divorce her husband who won’t let her go. Fleur is doubting that she wants to be all in with Bastien since he has basically told her I’m all in so you need to be all in. So the first part is Fleur’s struggle to decide can she be all in. The next part of the book really gives us some background on Bastien and why he is the way he is. This section was really vital to understanding the conflict between him and his brother which I assume will resolve in the next book. The book ends with Bastien defending Fleur and starting a war in the Fifth Republic. 
Bastien reminds me so much of Bartholomew (from the book Barbarian) a man who is so upfront and transparent you can’t help but love them. For the woman they love they lay it all on the line. They are willing to go all in and give their all. Penelope Skye has this amazing ability to create male characters who are tough, morally grey, tender and arrogant all rolled together and yet we love each and every one of them. I love her books not just because she writes amazing stories but because her male characters are men I would love to know.