This is my first book by TJ Rose, and it did not disappoint. I do not often read urban fantasy anymore, but this book hit so many of my faves that I wanted to give it a shot. It’s got mystery and drama, magic and danger and romance, fantastic characters, and supernatural abilities.
Cinn, Julien, Darcy, and Elliot are all wonderfully written. Darcy and Elliot make the perfect counter balance to the MCs, with snark and banter that often left me laughing. Cinn has this juxtaposition of innocence and knowledge gained from a rough life. Julien is the “princeling,” privileged in both skill and upbringing. They do embody this shadow and light concept so well. Their relationship is tricky, both pushing against the other in their own way. I’m eager to see how they are able to fit their pieces together.
The author has done a great job of creating a world that is both complex and understandable. I enjoyed the version of magic she described, with motes and magical technology. I am interested to read more about it and how it works.
The book contains a lot of content, but the story is fairly contained. There wasn’t much advancement, more of a background and learning about the world and the characters. I am interested to see how the story progresses in book 2. While this one doesn’t end on a typical cliffhanger, it’s clearly more of a pause than a finale. Had I know that going in, I might have waited until the next book was out to begin the series. Mainly because I’m impatient 😂 That said, I will happily pick up book 2 as soon as it drops so that I can delve into this world again.
If you enjoy action-packed, fun-filled urban fantasy MM romance, follow the links to find out more.
🕯️alternate magical world
✨fantasy academic institute
🕯️sweet and spicy MM romance
✨hurt/comfort
🕯️opposites attract
✨ghosts & graveyards
🕯️very scary monsters
✨group of friends on a mission
🕯️a dash of dark academia
✨ & that demon cat…
