11/19/2021 ★★★★☆
10/28/2024 ★★★★☆

I stand by my original rating after this re-read. That’s not entirely true… My original rating on Goodreads looks like it was 4 stars, but elsewhere I have it down as 5. I’m not sure if I changed it here after thinking about it for a few days or what happened, but, either way, I’m sticking with 4 stars.

This story really does just suck you in from the get go. It’s such an interesting twist on Midas, and even though not a TON really happens in this book, I found myself still unable to put it down and flying though it. I love Auren. I can’t exactly tell you why though. She’s so naive it hurts. Which could be because I’m on the outside looking in. My heart hurts for her for this entire story, maybe that’s why I find myself so attached. I also just want to grind Midas under my shoe to be quite honest with you.

I have some issues with how over the top everyone is. It’s a little bit much, and I do find myself rolling my eyes every now and then as it feels extremely unreal and melodramatic. I definitely found myself disassociating in a few parts and had to bring myself back to the story.

But, I love the politics that were introduced at the end, and I was so excited to see this story take a step away from the “saddles” and toward a bit deeper of a story line. Also, looking forward to the development with Rip, because let's be real, we all know where that’s going.