Book: A Magic So Deadly by Vasilisa Drake
Reviewed by plotdrunk
Rating: 4.5/5
I received an ARC from the author for this book, and I also had the privilege of reading A Bargain So Bloody (book 1 of this series) as an ARC as well. I am so happy to report that Vasilisa continues to write one HELL of a cliffhanger.
I'm not going to spoil anything, but the ending completely blindsided me (in the best possible way!). I've got a million questions, but I have enough faith in the character arcs and the way the series has been built that I trust that everything will ultimately make sense. The twists don't feel like they're just there for shock value - now I just need book 3 so I can see where we pick up next!
It was so nice to see our cast of characters again and meet some new faces as well. Raphael continues to be one of my favorite morally grey MMCs. He is unapologetically devoted and protective, but it feels genuine and not overbearing or controlling. Though he "terrifying" to everyone, he really is just a big softy. Samara's journey did feel a little repetitive at times, even though they totally make sense in context. However, as I got deeper into the book, I did wish she could stop fighting her circumstances and finally move forward. I also loved getting to see Thea's POV, and her magic really helped expand the world further. I can't wait to learn more about her magic, as well as the other kinds of witch magic.
This series continues to hit a lot of the things I love most about this genre - morally grey men, political intrigue, slow burn romance, and characters who make really frustrating choices but for understandable reasons. And after that cliffhanger, there is zero question that I will be reading book 3 as soon as I can get my hands on it!