That's What I'm Talking About
I generally review romance, paranormal and urban fantasy. I tend to pick review books that I want to read, so generally my reviews will be positive. I always give my honest opinion: good, bad, and indifferent.
Note: on my blog I use a letter grading system. I've listed the ratings below. For sites with stars, I have listed the equivalent rating. If I didn't finish the book, I will not rate it with stars.
A+ Personal Favorite (5 stars)
A Loved It (4.5 or 5 stars)
A- Enjoyed A Lot (4 or 4.5 stars)
B+ Liked It A Lot (4 stars)
B Liked It -- Recommend (4 stars)
B- Liked It -- But I had a few small issues (3 or 3.5 stars)
C+ Liked It -- But I had issues (3 or 3.5 stars)
C Finished It -- Liked some, didn't like some (3 stars)
C- Finished It -- Liked a little, didn't like a lot (2 or 2.5 stars)
D Not A Big Fan (2 stars)
E Don’t Waste Your Time (1 star)
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TW: Reading this book was like watching a Train Wreck
DNF: Did Not Finish
updated July 9, 2015
Currently reading
Review: The Kraken King Part 6
My Rating: A+, Personal Favorite
Originally posted at That’s What I’m Talking About
Review copy provided by publisher.
The Kraken King and the Crumbling Walls opens with Ariq and Zenobia’s return from captivity to the Red City. They are welcomed back and into Ambassador Auger’s home where all of their friends are relieved to see the pair alive. The pair share the truth of their captivity and who is behind the marauder attacks. Unfortunately, while the pair were detained, Ambassador Auger urged the Empress to send warships to stop the marauders. Now it is up to Ariq to persuade the Empress with the truth and compel her to stop the pending attacks that would kill thousands of innocents.
Ariq and Zenobia are easily one of the best romantic couples I have ever read. Their mutual affection and respect shines in The Kraken King and the Crumbling Walls. What makes this part my favorite to date is watching how the pair has matured and has fallen in sync with one another. They aren’t all “lovey-dovey,” or co-dependent, but rather share an admiration for one another that transcends the chaos around them, as well as the expectations of society. Once again, sharing the story from both Zenobia and Ariq’s point-of-views affords the reader the opportunity to see deep into the souls of the characters, creating a bond that is elusive and special.
Beyond the amazing romantic storyline, this part lays out the plot for the remaining story: stopping the warships from attacking Krakentown and other shoreline communities. The story is rich with political maneuvering as Ambassador Auger and Ariq discuss how best to approach the Empress. I appreciate that there is no easy solution, and that all of the potential ramifications are reviewed. I did find myself a bit lost on the layout of the Red City and what the quarantine was all about, but an excellent rundown by Ms. Brook helped my understanding tremendously.
PLEASE NOTE THIS SECTION HAS SPOILERS:
The part ends with true crumbling walls as Ariq and Zenobia are finally fully together. I admire the conscious effort on Zenobia’s part to let down her walls and trust Ariq completely. Their union is almost elegant - they are so perfect together. Their love is completely sexy on an emotional level. I feel bound to this couple, and my heart beats with theirs. It’s such lovely way to end this part… knowing there is so much to accomplish, but that they can take the time to love one another - because without the love, there isn’t much worth fighting for.
END SPOILERS
The Kraken King and the Crumbling Walls is simply perfect. From start to end, the romance, humor, and political intrigue is sublime. There is a severe threat building, and with limited time left, I am hanging on to the edge, waiting to find out what happens next!
