I adored this book, even more than book one! I had no idea going in that even though they're in the same universe that there would literally be overlap between the books. That discovery was such a treat! Our main character, Arlo, is that perfect type of headstrong stubborn that I adore in my characters, refusing to take anything either at face value or lying down, even death itself. Though it's mostly single POV, every now and then we are gifted with Faenir's POV as well, just enough that we truly don't end up missing a single moment of the story. My heart bursts with happiness! The Hades and Persephone 'retelling' part of this is also brilliant because Ben has completely twisted the tale into a moment in a larger universe and story. The complexities were wild and I actually found this book far more immersive and intense than I was expecting it to be. I even shed a few tears at one point.



Knowing what I know now about this book, would I still read it if I went back in time?
Yes!!!


 See below for the four criteria I use to decide whether and when to read a book



CHARACTERS: It's almost impossible not to root for Arlo and Faenir, both from enemies-to-lovers and as individuals. Arlo's drive and determination even in the face of death are so commendable. He'll do anything to take care of his sister, even if he isn't perfect about it. He's brash, brave, headstrong and stubborn, but driven by a beautiful heart that truly shines throughout the book as secrets are uncovered. As for Faenir, he's written in such a way that even as a master of death (re: his fae magic rules death), all you want to do is reach out and hold him, even at the very beginning, which is exactly what he can't have. He's touch-starved and has hidden his compassion so far down beneath his metaphorical armor because his entire life he's been painted to be a monster. And he's willing to be so if it means protecting those he loves. He's immensely powerful and yet that power doesn't go to his head. The two of them truly work so well together.



PLOT: In order to protect the human realm, the fae choose mates from the humans once a year. In order to succeed to the fae throne, the royal family must also have a human mate. But Faenir kills with his touch, so it appears impossible he'll ever ascend a throne he doesn't even want. But when he meets Arlo, shockingly Arlo doesn't die from his touch, the only person who doesn't. The secret of why is part of the mystery, but throughout the book, Arlo and Faenir need to come to terms with whether it's possible for them to have a relationship at all. Truly enemies-to-lovers, the duo navigates their shifting feelings for one another while mysterious attempts on Arlo's life occur. In this background of court politics, the two struggle to find a way to stay together before time runs out.




EMOTIONAL INTENSITY: There is no good/bad here. Sometimes I just want a low-investment entertainment read whereas other times a high-stakes 'I need a therapist to recover' is what I need.

4:5/high. Higher than I was expecting, honestly. This book deals with death in multiple ways as well as being incredibly immersive as well. Definitely be prepared.


CATHARTIC FULFILLMENT: Is the emotional journey worth it? Do I finish this book feeling that I've crested the wave of the climactic moment and everything has been settled, leaving me settled and fulfilled? 

100%. Guh. Just guh. The climactic moment was absolutely brilliant and had me on the edge of my seat. And the end of the book had me in shock and then squealing with excitement. I'm so happy.