A review by theawkwardbookw
Chaos & Flame by Tessa Gratton, Justina Ireland

4.0

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*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review*

Darling Seabreak is the last surviving member of the House of Sphinx, taken in by House Kraken after the death of her parents. Her adoptive father is kidnapped by House Dragon, and she will stop at nothing to get him back and murder those who took him. On the rescue mission, she is captured by Talon Goldhoard, War Prince of House Dragon who wants only to protect his brother Caspian, the High Prince Regent.

Although slow at times, I was gripped by this story. I read it in one sitting, as I was that invested in what was going to happen next. I thought the concept of the boon magic (abilities) and how a lot of the characters had their own unique ones was really intriguing. The prologue explaining Caspian's powers was so interesting, I NEEDED to continue reading to know who the girl was and what her role would be. I love how through out the whole book, the reader was constantly trying to figure out if Caspian was going mad or not. I loved how he became increasingly more unhinged as the story progressed. I just want to know more about him, and hope there is a stronger focus on him in the next book.

This is told in alternating POVs of Darling and Talon, which I enjoyed being able to see inside both of their heads. I will say I didn't quite believe their romance, but I didn't entirely hate it either. I am a fan of enemies to lovers - so I did enjoy it... I just think it was far too short of an enemies period, especially since Talon's house MURDERED Darling's family... I think it should have been more of a slow-burn, longer period for me to truly enjoy their romance. I liked Darling, she was a warrior through and through and didn't take shit from her enemies. She is definitely the grumpy to Talon's sunshine. I loved Talon, a sweet little cinnamon roll playing the part of a War Prince. I really liked his relationship with Caspian, and how fiercely he protected him. He will kick the ass of anyone who tries to hurt his loved ones and I loved that about him. I loved the banter between the characters, especially Talon and Darling. They're so witty and funny.

This ends on such a cliffhanger and I'm definitely intrigued with where the story will go... I am looking forward to the next book in the series!