That's What I'm Talking About

My Rating:  A, Loved It

Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About

Review copy provided by publisher.

For frame of reference, this part starts with Chapter 16 of The Kraken King. 

I just have to start by saying... OMG... Zenobia's letter is freakin' hilarious. Each section opens with one of her letters, each being spectacular, but this one is the best yet. 

This week’s installment opens with Ariq and Zenobia, captured and separated. Ariq is on a ship, supposedly leading Admiral Tatsukawa, his brother’s father, to a massive war machine. Meanwhile, Zenobia is on a separate ship with General Ghazan Bator, heading in a different direction. Tatsukawa and Bator think that by holding Zenobia captive, Ariq will disclose the location of the weapon, but as we all know, Ariq would never put so many innocent people in danger. I feel I need to put a “spoiler alert” on this review because I do reveal whether or not each escapes and if they reunite. So, if you do not want to know that information, do not read further!

The Kraken King and the Iron Heart shares with readers an in-depth look at both Ariq and Zenobia, and the reader is treated to some wonderful emotion-filled prose. First, the story centers on Ariq. The opening chapter gives careful detail and vivid descriptions of Ariq’s escape and all that he feels during those moments. We learn that Ariq is incredibly loyal and how serious he takes his vows, especially to Zenobia. I truly fell in love with Ariq at this moment. In addition, I appreciate how his impeccable honor is imbedded into his every thought and action. 

Meanwhile, Zenobia takes the reader on some highs and ultimate lows as she experiences capture by Bator and life on his vessel. She has amazing fortitude, and I am impressed with how she keeps her wit about her when Bator will do anything to break her spirit. I love when she jokes that she didn’t get paid for Nipponese translation of her book. However, Bator does something unbelievably cruel, and my heart ached for Zenobia. This scene was well-written and emotionally difficult for me as I experienced Zenobia’s pain.

Yet Zenobia hardens her resolve and the reader is treated to an incredibly exciting, punctuated with humor, escape and the reunion of Zenobia and Ariq. Once the pair are alone and on their way back to the Red City, the story takes the perfect time to allow a true emotional bond to develop between the couple. The story does a great job of slowing down the pace at just the right time, yet building anticipation for what is to come next. 

When reading any book, I tend to highlight my favorite passages, but rarely do I add quotes to my review. However, when Ariq thought these words, I just swooned so hard, and I was compelled to share my favorite quote with you:

“He hadn’t known that simply holding her in his arms would feel like a gift.” 

Overall, The Kraken King and the Iron Heart is my favorite part of the book to date. The story slowed down after its initial burst of action, giving the couple some quality alone time and building a beautiful romance. I adore that Ariq put his heart and intentions out there, and the couple share some very hot personal moments. However, as the personal intensity shifted, it makes way for a powerful ending that is in stark contrast to the slower tempo held for the bulk of the tale.  I cannot wait to get my hands on Part VI.