Now my problem with the Spice is the way it is used towards the end of the book as a catalyst for the big events to finally start taking place.

There are MAJOR events happening beyond the bubble of our two MC's reprieve, yet they completely and utterly ignore them for about 3/4 of the book. But if you truly love AURIP, have wanted to know every last detail about these chars and honestly just crave basking in the moments of their glory, then this book is immensely satisfying. Book 3 of this adult fantasy series continues in this epic story inspired by the myth of King Midas, fae, fated romance, and insurmountable greed. If there’s something you crave, if there’s some freedom you want to try the taste of, then you will do it, and I will be right there with you. The books spends all this time building up Slade's character, placing so much emphasis on his views and treatment of Auren, only to have him completely and utterly flip the switch at this pinnacle moment.I’m now in a strange kingdom surrounded by liars, with no allies of my own, but I won’t sit idly by and let myself wither.

The character development is so fantastic and you get so drawn into your favorite characters and how they change. I get that Auren has always needed to hide her powers, but one would think the Conflux (Trial) would at least be an opportunity for her to finally tell her story to the world. The last quarter of the book though is where the story shines because now it’s all coming together for a finale that leaves us begging for the next book. I’ve learned my lesson with trusting manipulative kings, so why does my chest constrict every time he’s near?Another fantastic book and what an ending setting things up for what I am sure will be an exciting finale!

If you think Rhysand from ACOTAR series deserves a bad name for his "morally grey" moves, this scene that Raven has written completely shatters any moral high ground Slade previously stood upon. Raven Kennedy made this hurt so good and now I have to wait a year before I can read the next book in the series. With romance, intrigue, and danger, the gilded world of Orea will grip you from the very first page. DISCLOSURE:This post may contain affiliate links where we receive a small commission - at no extra cost to you - when you make purchases through the links.The quote I led with is a prime example of issues; depicting a tender, heartwarming moment, on the one hand these glimpses into Rip and Auren's daily life are sweet and rewarding, but they do very little to advance the greater storyline.