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There are rare occasions when a plot, characters, dialogue, and backdrop align to make an inspiring book. This is one of those times. This book was a tumultuous, all-encompassing love story. I fell in love with every aspect of this book.
Both Hazel and Harold held such depth. I had to keep reminding myself that Hazel was only 17 and Harold 20. Though both were naïve, they had a fortitude of strength and maturity. Placed in an impossible situation, they find love can be found in the most unlikely places. The love scenes between the couple melted me! They were so passionate! These scenes were some of the best I have read in a while – swoon-worthy! The journey the couple made from strangers to being hopelessly in love took my breath. There were such tender moments, but also moments with tension.
The secondary characters were the strongest I have read. These characters were poignant and vibrant. It was as much a joy to read about them as it was Harold and Hazel. The situations of Patrick and Agnes struck such a chord with me. Both had secrets that society would ruin them. Their plights were written with such dignity and respect. Patrick was very special to me. His journey through the book had me laughing, crying, and hoping for his happiness. I had a nana who was a spitfire. Harold’s nana reminded me so much of her. She had spunk laced with a fragility that made her so visceral. Harold’s father and a notorious rake were splendid antagonists. The characters knitted together to create a beautiful backdrop to Harold and Hazel’s love story.
The plot was intricate and engaging. I was caught on page one. The story unfolded beautifully at just the right pace. The plot explored a plethora of topics, from family obligations versus responsibility to the delicate intricacies of different types of love.
This was an intimate exploration of responsibility and love. There were so many obstacles for this couple. I was laughing and crying throughout the entire book. Ms. Golden made me care for these characters; I was 100% invested. I believe the most challenging part in creating a great novel is being able to be authentic. The movement of the plot and characters needs to be organic. This book captures that perfectly. I love this series, and I feel this installment the strongest yet. The author created a world that I want to visit again and again.
I received a gifted copy of this ARC from the author. This is my honest, voluntary review.
This is the fifth installment in the Enchantresses series. I have been reading them out of order, but I have still thoroughly enjoyed them. I had the chance to beta read this book and fell in love with it then. There is such great world building in them. This was the best book yet in the series. It will definitely be in the running for my ARC book of the month!