When you blend together the urban fantasy and dystopian genres, you get Avalon!
Adventure, mystery, a society with plenty of secrets, lethal attraction.

If I were to describe this book using only two words, that would be: adventurous and unpredictable. In our book review community, usually the more we read, the easier it becomes to guess plot points or the direction of a novel; yet, this book surprised me. Although it employs certain tropes and urban fantasy elements I've encountered before, it uses them in a creative manner which, in return, makes the reading experience better. In addition to fantasy elements, there is romance in this book, which is explored well alongside the plot and it doesn't distract. Rather, I found its contribution electric.

The setting was immersive. We find ourselves at this technologically advanced city - we're talking about some Matrix-level equipment here, including my favorite bit: the infamous Card, which apparently includes everything there is to know about a person, has their accounts, works as a phone and laptop etc. It sounded both so convenient and utterly terrifying. The setting was gripping, urging you to mentally explore the place you're reading about. The descriptions worked and I felt like I could picture everything in detail. At this city, humans co-exist with Fae - particularly, the Fae that were exiled and 'punished' by having both wings and powers removed so as to remain peaceful. Forced to work for the entertainment of humans. Are things as peaceful as humans make them sound? Not really. The stakes were high, which contributed a lot to the mystery and adventure aspect of this book. The desire to figure out what's going on was huge.

A gripping navigation of the night streets of this city, viewing it through the eyes of Bree - who is of important social status - as she gets closer to Kohl - one of the Fae. Night-time perusing, open and honest conversations, constant challenging of one another. Bree undergoes a big journey, she comes to realise many things, questions her beliefs. Her character development was evident and I enjoyed the way she stood her ground. Kohl was such a fascinating character and one unlike the usual male leads in urban fantasy. Instead of the untouchable Fae, we get one with vulnerabilities, smart, with so much heart and the need to vitally support his people. I enjoyed the side characters as well! I wish we could get a bit more time with them but I also know we might meet them in the subsequent books.

-- Some of the topics in here, specifically those regarding the conditions and treatment of the Fae characters, can be quite heavy so keep that in mind going into this!

My only complaint is that the ending felt a bit abrupt (in a: I wanted a bit more manner). As each book is supposed to wrap up the story of a certain couple, I didn't feel like Bree and Kohl's story was entirely complete. Although there was some conclusion, we're left with the feeling that so much still needs to be addressed and dealt with. Especially with regards to certain villains. The next book will take place primarily in the Seelie realm/court, so I wonder if there is going to be an overarching plot in addition to the individual plots? That would certainly explain this particular ending, which although abrupt was still sweet!

I would recommend the book if you're in the mood for a fast-paced urban fantasy! I wonder when we're get the sequel!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All aforementioned opinions are my own!