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A red sun rises on Anatoliene…
Fueled by their losses and driven by an unnamed force hidden deep within the shadows, the Tzel expose themselves and the Unseen race to humanity. More powerful than ever, they vow to eliminate the Liorah once and for all, even if it means destroying the entire city in the process.
A new threat lingers…
Faced with the consequences of her actions in the marsh, Lacey Talanton is now trapped. Unable and unwilling to leave Anatoliene, she finds herself at the center of the conflict between the forces of Darkness and Light. More dire, however, is the state of her own mind as she tries to reconcile the truth of her new reality with the lies that have upended her world.
But time is not on her side…
Torn between truth and lies, shadow and light, love and hate, Lacey finds herself staring down impossible odds that cannot be overcome until she accepts the fate becoming clearer to her every day. But as a storm closes in and war rages on, threatening to break her entirely, one question Where do you stand and who do you fight when right looks wrong and dark looks light?
Fueled by their losses and driven by an unnamed force hidden deep within the shadows, the Tzel expose themselves and the Unseen race to humanity. More powerful than ever, they vow to eliminate the Liorah once and for all, even if it means destroying the entire city in the process.
A new threat lingers…
Faced with the consequences of her actions in the marsh, Lacey Talanton is now trapped. Unable and unwilling to leave Anatoliene, she finds herself at the center of the conflict between the forces of Darkness and Light. More dire, however, is the state of her own mind as she tries to reconcile the truth of her new reality with the lies that have upended her world.
But time is not on her side…
Torn between truth and lies, shadow and light, love and hate, Lacey finds herself staring down impossible odds that cannot be overcome until she accepts the fate becoming clearer to her every day. But as a storm closes in and war rages on, threatening to break her entirely, one question Where do you stand and who do you fight when right looks wrong and dark looks light?
- GenresFantasy
444 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 21, 2024
3 people are currently reading
95 people want to read
About the author
R.V. Wilbur
7 books97 followersR.V. Wilbur has been in love with reading ever since she received her first Little Golden Book library at the age of two. A love of words soon followed and, after publishing selected poems, she drafted her first book at the age of thirteen. Despite all of this she is still somehow terrible at writing blurbs, so this is about all you get. She currently resides in North Carolina with her husband, two children, and of course her black cat Rory Pond. And she's probably drinking coffee. No, she is definitely drinking coffee.
Follow her on Instagram @RVWilburAuthor for all writing updates!
Follow her on Instagram @RVWilburAuthor for all writing updates!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 24, 2024
4.5 stars
Fight is an emotional and amazing journey through grief and love.
After the events in Flight, Lacey is struggling to find her place. She is grieving the loss of the two men closest to her because of her own actions - Jackoby her friend, and Finn, the man she thought she knew and loved. While Lacey doesn't regret the choice she made at the Marsh, she doesn't seem to know how to move on from the events of that day. She hates lying to her friends, but it's the only way to keep herself, and Finn, safe from both the Tzel and Liorah. The new president has put Lacey and Finn back on the night shift, and the time together is making Lacey's convictions waver. Should she give in to her feelings for Finn, which while changed in so many ways, still run deep? Or do all the lies and hurt from the past few months run deeper? What side will Lacey fall on when things start to feel out of control, and who can she really trust, including herself?
I LOVED this book so much! I finished Flight, and was so thankful that I had the eARC of Fight waiting for me to start immediately. This book really lives up to its name. Lacey is fighting a lot in this book - her feelings of regret, her feelings towards Finn, the Tzel and Liorah, and her past and future. Our girl is struggling - she is working through her grief and seeing thoughts of Jackoby in her dreams being forces to relive and confront her choices. She is forced to keep working with Finn, who she wants nothing to do with at all. Meanwhile, she is starting to question the Tzel and their behaviors, and considers what she was taught about them and the Liorah, and questioning her own place in this war. She wants to keep her friends safe, so she starts to pull away from everyone. I see so many of the same behaviors in myself, so much of this book really resonated with me. I also adored Finn so freaking much. He is such a complex character - he's not perfect, he has his own issues to work through, but his loyalty to Lacey is unwavering. I wanted these two to work through their issues so badly, but trust is hard to repair when it's been shattered. They definitely need to put in the work if we are going to get our happy ending for this couple.
This book has a decent conclusion (unlike the ending of Book 1 that left me breathless and screaming!) so I feel like we are in a good place heading into Book 3. I am so excited I finally had a chance to read this book, and I am very much looking to the conclusion of this incredible series.
Thank you so, so much to the author, R.V. Wilbur, for the advanced copy of this amazing story! All opinions are my own.
Fight is an emotional and amazing journey through grief and love.
After the events in Flight, Lacey is struggling to find her place. She is grieving the loss of the two men closest to her because of her own actions - Jackoby her friend, and Finn, the man she thought she knew and loved. While Lacey doesn't regret the choice she made at the Marsh, she doesn't seem to know how to move on from the events of that day. She hates lying to her friends, but it's the only way to keep herself, and Finn, safe from both the Tzel and Liorah. The new president has put Lacey and Finn back on the night shift, and the time together is making Lacey's convictions waver. Should she give in to her feelings for Finn, which while changed in so many ways, still run deep? Or do all the lies and hurt from the past few months run deeper? What side will Lacey fall on when things start to feel out of control, and who can she really trust, including herself?
I LOVED this book so much! I finished Flight, and was so thankful that I had the eARC of Fight waiting for me to start immediately. This book really lives up to its name. Lacey is fighting a lot in this book - her feelings of regret, her feelings towards Finn, the Tzel and Liorah, and her past and future. Our girl is struggling - she is working through her grief and seeing thoughts of Jackoby in her dreams being forces to relive and confront her choices. She is forced to keep working with Finn, who she wants nothing to do with at all. Meanwhile, she is starting to question the Tzel and their behaviors, and considers what she was taught about them and the Liorah, and questioning her own place in this war. She wants to keep her friends safe, so she starts to pull away from everyone. I see so many of the same behaviors in myself, so much of this book really resonated with me. I also adored Finn so freaking much. He is such a complex character - he's not perfect, he has his own issues to work through, but his loyalty to Lacey is unwavering. I wanted these two to work through their issues so badly, but trust is hard to repair when it's been shattered. They definitely need to put in the work if we are going to get our happy ending for this couple.
This book has a decent conclusion (unlike the ending of Book 1 that left me breathless and screaming!) so I feel like we are in a good place heading into Book 3. I am so excited I finally had a chance to read this book, and I am very much looking to the conclusion of this incredible series.
Thank you so, so much to the author, R.V. Wilbur, for the advanced copy of this amazing story! All opinions are my own.
May 8, 2024
Just finished reading this heartbreaking beauty and oh my goodness 😮💨…. Talk about feels!! This is the second book of Renee’s The Virtues Trilogy and it picks up after a very surprising plot twist and cliffhanger in book one.
In this book, the characters are trying (and failing) to pick up the pieces after heartbreaking and traumatizing events that occurred in book one. The author does an amazing job of portraying heavy and complex emotions such as grief, loss, and depression within multiple characters. Their journeys in this story will break your heart and little by little it’ll be pieced back together… only for you to be thoroughly wrecked again 😂😭🫠.
It is the best kind of torture if you’re a reader who likes to feel for flawed and relatable characters and to be invested in their journeys.
There’s so much more I can say about this book, but since this is book 2 and I want you to read book 1, I’ll just add: there are multiple characters in this found family that you are sure to love and root for, the writing is beautiful, the romance is angsty with great banter, and just 👏 read 👏 this 👏 series👏!! 😂🙃. I seriously can’t wait for book 3!
I highly recommend this series if you love:
🖤unique world and magic (light vs. dark)
🖤morally grey characters
🖤tortured heroine
🖤grief and mental health rep
🖤found family 🥹
🖤trauma/healing
🖤prophecies and dream sequences
🖤angsty romance with great banter
In this book, the characters are trying (and failing) to pick up the pieces after heartbreaking and traumatizing events that occurred in book one. The author does an amazing job of portraying heavy and complex emotions such as grief, loss, and depression within multiple characters. Their journeys in this story will break your heart and little by little it’ll be pieced back together… only for you to be thoroughly wrecked again 😂😭🫠.
It is the best kind of torture if you’re a reader who likes to feel for flawed and relatable characters and to be invested in their journeys.
There’s so much more I can say about this book, but since this is book 2 and I want you to read book 1, I’ll just add: there are multiple characters in this found family that you are sure to love and root for, the writing is beautiful, the romance is angsty with great banter, and just 👏 read 👏 this 👏 series👏!! 😂🙃. I seriously can’t wait for book 3!
I highly recommend this series if you love:
🖤unique world and magic (light vs. dark)
🖤morally grey characters
🖤tortured heroine
🖤grief and mental health rep
🖤found family 🥹
🖤trauma/healing
🖤prophecies and dream sequences
🖤angsty romance with great banter
May 17, 2024
You know when you pick up a book and you know it's going to be a series that sticks with you for life?
That's the Virtues Trilogy.
Fight, the second book in the series, begins after the giant cliffhanger ending of book one. RV Wilbur writes in a way that evokes visceral emotions as we journey through the painful aftermath of Lacey and Finn's choices in Flight. I felt the betrayal, mourning, heartbreak, and slivers of joy right alongside them.
This book was also not without its own jaw-dropping twists, turns, and moments of horror. When I tell you that this book put me back together, filled me with a crushing sense of existential dread, ripped my heart out, stomped it flat, re-inflated it with a tiny hand pump, and then left me unable to cope with reality for a few days...
You should read it!
That's the Virtues Trilogy.
Fight, the second book in the series, begins after the giant cliffhanger ending of book one. RV Wilbur writes in a way that evokes visceral emotions as we journey through the painful aftermath of Lacey and Finn's choices in Flight. I felt the betrayal, mourning, heartbreak, and slivers of joy right alongside them.
This book was also not without its own jaw-dropping twists, turns, and moments of horror. When I tell you that this book put me back together, filled me with a crushing sense of existential dread, ripped my heart out, stomped it flat, re-inflated it with a tiny hand pump, and then left me unable to cope with reality for a few days...
You should read it!
May 21, 2024
Infinity stars ♾️⭐️oh my god this book! What a heartbreaking and healing journey it has been. The pure emotions that came from each and every page was written by a mastermind.
The plot development, the twists, the betrayals!! The found family between Lacey and the girls between Lacey and the others. Carson!! I loved him so much and the dynamic he brought into the story.
Lacey and Finn wow these two have my whole heart, I will never not shut up about their love story it is raw, it is broken and it’s fractured these two broken people and the way they fight just to belong just to be LOVED!!!! What a beautifully written love story.
The best thing though about Fight is Lacey. Her character growth in Flight was amazing but in Fight it’s outstanding her pain and the depth of her fractures are just pure heartbreak but wow I was here for her feminine rage her character growth from beginning to end was EXCELLENT!!
I’m in awe with everything about this book, the writing, the plot, the characters, the excellent pacing, the continued world building just everything about this book is superb. Forever a favourite ❤️
The plot development, the twists, the betrayals!! The found family between Lacey and the girls between Lacey and the others. Carson!! I loved him so much and the dynamic he brought into the story.
Lacey and Finn wow these two have my whole heart, I will never not shut up about their love story it is raw, it is broken and it’s fractured these two broken people and the way they fight just to belong just to be LOVED!!!! What a beautifully written love story.
The best thing though about Fight is Lacey. Her character growth in Flight was amazing but in Fight it’s outstanding her pain and the depth of her fractures are just pure heartbreak but wow I was here for her feminine rage her character growth from beginning to end was EXCELLENT!!
I’m in awe with everything about this book, the writing, the plot, the characters, the excellent pacing, the continued world building just everything about this book is superb. Forever a favourite ❤️
July 18, 2024
Honestly, 4⭐️ may have been generous because wow was that book heavy on my soul. I almost wish Lacey just got over herself a little quicker. Also:
This series description had me so excited to jump into a world of overwhelming fantasy. However, aside from the veil and small bits of Clarion senses… there wasn’t much that was fantastical? It felt as the Tzel and Liorah were their ethnicities or just rival gangs and had nothing to do with shadows or pure light running through their veins?
However, these characters have seriously wormed their way into my heart. Bax!!! Finn?!?! Even Cayle. With the ending of this book, I have high hopes for the next one.
This series description had me so excited to jump into a world of overwhelming fantasy. However, aside from the veil and small bits of Clarion senses… there wasn’t much that was fantastical? It felt as the Tzel and Liorah were their ethnicities or just rival gangs and had nothing to do with shadows or pure light running through their veins?
However, these characters have seriously wormed their way into my heart. Bax!!! Finn?!?! Even Cayle. With the ending of this book, I have high hopes for the next one.
May 11, 2024
ARC Review 💞
R.V. Wilbur has done it again. She has made me feel more emotions in a book than I imagined possible. I laughed, cried, got angry, confused, concerned, cheered, and felt numb.
The emotion that R.V. Wilbur provokes out of me is equally shocking and impressive. It’s real, raw, and relatable. I mean it when I say no book has ever made me feel this way before.
These books feel like heartbreak & home.
Like you’re in the chaos, but there’s a calm settling over you.
Does that make sense? Maybe, maybe not. But it does to me.
Fight took many different twists & turns, all of which I did not expect or see coming. I was on the edge of my seat, biting my nails, clenching my jaw, forgetting to breathe, gasping out loud, and shedding some tears.
I can’t give away much since it’s a sequel, but please let me say you will NOT be disappointed by reading the Virtues trilogy.
5 ⭐️ & Renee is an auto by author for me now. I cannot get enough of her storytelling.
Here are a few of my favorite quotes from Fight:
•”You can’t protect or save anyone without sacrifice. You can’t love others without letting go of your own selfishness.”
•”I want to live a quiet life.”
•”I surrender”
•”’I’m trying.’ Winnie smiled back, her own tears escaping. ‘Sometimes that’s all you can do. And it’s enough.’”
Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to need to stare at a blank wall for the next 7 business days to process everything I just read.
R.V. Wilbur has done it again. She has made me feel more emotions in a book than I imagined possible. I laughed, cried, got angry, confused, concerned, cheered, and felt numb.
The emotion that R.V. Wilbur provokes out of me is equally shocking and impressive. It’s real, raw, and relatable. I mean it when I say no book has ever made me feel this way before.
These books feel like heartbreak & home.
Like you’re in the chaos, but there’s a calm settling over you.
Does that make sense? Maybe, maybe not. But it does to me.
Fight took many different twists & turns, all of which I did not expect or see coming. I was on the edge of my seat, biting my nails, clenching my jaw, forgetting to breathe, gasping out loud, and shedding some tears.
I can’t give away much since it’s a sequel, but please let me say you will NOT be disappointed by reading the Virtues trilogy.
5 ⭐️ & Renee is an auto by author for me now. I cannot get enough of her storytelling.
Here are a few of my favorite quotes from Fight:
•”You can’t protect or save anyone without sacrifice. You can’t love others without letting go of your own selfishness.”
•”I want to live a quiet life.”
•”I surrender”
•”’I’m trying.’ Winnie smiled back, her own tears escaping. ‘Sometimes that’s all you can do. And it’s enough.’”
Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to need to stare at a blank wall for the next 7 business days to process everything I just read.
October 5, 2024
This book will completely turn what you think you know about this world in its end. The writing is absolutely stunning.
Pure poetry. It completely broke me. And put me back together again. It is one of those books that you throw across the room, then run to pick it back up because you have to know how it ends. My poor little heart is shriveled and broken and I don't know if I'll ever love a book again.
Long story short, Highly recommend. A must read for lovers of urban fantasy and heart wrenching romance.
Pure poetry. It completely broke me. And put me back together again. It is one of those books that you throw across the room, then run to pick it back up because you have to know how it ends. My poor little heart is shriveled and broken and I don't know if I'll ever love a book again.
Long story short, Highly recommend. A must read for lovers of urban fantasy and heart wrenching romance.
May 10, 2024
This book. I can't even put into words how it made me feel. Well, I can't put it into any other words than that you will enjoy every bittersweet, hopeful, beautiful, healing, and transforming moment of reading this book.
And I don't say that lightly.
I don't know what it is about books that reach into my soul, pick at the pieces and traumas of life in the best way leading towards true healing, and make my heart feel at once broken and whole. But I truly loved every moment of reading this book.
It reminds me of what it means to be brokenly and beautifully human, but also wraps up all the broken pieces of grief, trauma, betrayal in hope, deep seated love, and redemption.
If you love Crescent City and urban fantasy, this is your series. If you love books that cause emotional damage while also offering beautiful glimpses of hope and healing, this is your book. If you love beautiful love declaration dialogue, THIS IS YOUR BOOK (seriously, the dialogue is just absolutely beautiful. So well done).
The path to healing is rarely a straight path and never easy, but it is ALWAYS worth it. This is a lesson this series shows in droves and does so beautifully.
Thank you to the author for the advanced reader copy of this book. This review is voluntarily written and the thoughts and opinions contained in this review are my own.
Content Warning: mostly closed door s*x (focus on feelings over explicit, though there is some explicit), language, violence, torture, death, m*rder, attempted su*cide via overdose, grief
And I don't say that lightly.
I don't know what it is about books that reach into my soul, pick at the pieces and traumas of life in the best way leading towards true healing, and make my heart feel at once broken and whole. But I truly loved every moment of reading this book.
It reminds me of what it means to be brokenly and beautifully human, but also wraps up all the broken pieces of grief, trauma, betrayal in hope, deep seated love, and redemption.
If you love Crescent City and urban fantasy, this is your series. If you love books that cause emotional damage while also offering beautiful glimpses of hope and healing, this is your book. If you love beautiful love declaration dialogue, THIS IS YOUR BOOK (seriously, the dialogue is just absolutely beautiful. So well done).
The path to healing is rarely a straight path and never easy, but it is ALWAYS worth it. This is a lesson this series shows in droves and does so beautifully.
Thank you to the author for the advanced reader copy of this book. This review is voluntarily written and the thoughts and opinions contained in this review are my own.
Content Warning: mostly closed door s*x (focus on feelings over explicit, though there is some explicit), language, violence, torture, death, m*rder, attempted su*cide via overdose, grief
May 21, 2024
I cried y’all... I cried a lot. There was a lot going on in this book and it’s hard for me to get into too many details because it would spoil things for those who haven’t read book 1. So Fight picks up where we left off in Flight (that damn cliffy and that plot twist!) and let me tell you... be prepare to hurt! We follow Lacey as she goes through... well, everything but for the sake of naming things… let’s call it hēll! Heartbreak, betrayal, sadness, grief, anger, name it, she goes through it all...
Character development is on point, I absolutely loved Lacey’s growth, how she tried to pick the million pieces of herself up even after hitting rock bottom. The pace is perfect too - you won’t be out of breath, but it isn’t slow either. Check out the carousel for some quotes (I had so many it was hard to choose!).
I highly recommend picking up this series if you like:
⚡️Urban fantasy
⚡️Dystopian world
⚡️Mental health rep
⚡️Found family ❤️🩹
⚡️Light vs dark
⚡️Betrayal
⚡️Trauma healing
⚡️Prophecies
💜Huge thanks to RV Wilbur for providing me an eARC of her book in exchange for an honest review. Can’t wait for book 3!
Character development is on point, I absolutely loved Lacey’s growth, how she tried to pick the million pieces of herself up even after hitting rock bottom. The pace is perfect too - you won’t be out of breath, but it isn’t slow either. Check out the carousel for some quotes (I had so many it was hard to choose!).
I highly recommend picking up this series if you like:
⚡️Urban fantasy
⚡️Dystopian world
⚡️Mental health rep
⚡️Found family ❤️🩹
⚡️Light vs dark
⚡️Betrayal
⚡️Trauma healing
⚡️Prophecies
💜Huge thanks to RV Wilbur for providing me an eARC of her book in exchange for an honest review. Can’t wait for book 3!
June 3, 2024
R.V. Wilbur's stunning follow-up to Flight will devastate you in all the best ways. Emotional and raw, this book explores betrayal, grief, and forgiveness. RV is going to give you a powerful ending, but she is going to make you suffer first!
The characters:
Lacey, Finn, Bax, and the rest of the gang are back at it. I love how realistic these characters are. Lacey's journey is an easy one to empathize with as she works through her own choices, regrets, loss, and betrayal. It was a rough journey to watch at times, but so on truthful at its essence. I love seeing Lacey become a little bit stronger each time she meets a new challenge.
The plot:
The struggles between warring sides continues to bubble over in the aftermath of the Marsh incident. The characters' insights into their current predicament leads to a fast-paced, psychologically twisty narrative that is hard to put down.
This gritty, raw urban fantasy at its finest and you do not want to miss this one.
The characters:
Lacey, Finn, Bax, and the rest of the gang are back at it. I love how realistic these characters are. Lacey's journey is an easy one to empathize with as she works through her own choices, regrets, loss, and betrayal. It was a rough journey to watch at times, but so on truthful at its essence. I love seeing Lacey become a little bit stronger each time she meets a new challenge.
The plot:
The struggles between warring sides continues to bubble over in the aftermath of the Marsh incident. The characters' insights into their current predicament leads to a fast-paced, psychologically twisty narrative that is hard to put down.
This gritty, raw urban fantasy at its finest and you do not want to miss this one.
April 28, 2025
I literally have no words to express how deeply this hit my soul! Renée is a brilliant writer that had my emotions on her puppet string during this entire book. If you love an emotional read with a unique battle of darkness versus light, PLEASE start this trilogy. This book started right where the emotional cliffhanger of book one left off and when I say that I did not get to catch my breath during this entire second book, I am NOT joking!
My emotions are raw and I lived every heartbreaking experience and utter joy that Lacey went through during this installment. Her reactions are so real and even though I was screaming at her sometimes in my head, I completely understood her choices and FELT them with her!
I was already hardcore Team Finn during Flight (book one) and THIS man…. utter perfection! You will never convince me otherwise. I highlighted every single word that man uttered to Lacey and I just wanted to grab him and hold him and keep him all to myself!
I LOVED so many of the characters and enjoyed getting more from some of my favorites in the first book. There is so much I want to say about some of them but I do not want to spoil one single minute of this for anyone so just trust me that you need to pick this series up!
The last 20% escalated all my emotions to another level. I sobbed, and I mean sobbed!, and then I kinda healed, and then my adrenaline was pumping and that TWIST! OMG! Sooooooo good! I NEED the next book! In the meantime, I will be mentally preparing myself to handle the emotions that I know will come along with it!!
****
Re-read in preparation for the final book releasing next month! This series is absolutely incredible! This was already 5 stars on my first read and I loved it even more the second read through. This series should be on everyone's list! Just incredible!
My emotions are raw and I lived every heartbreaking experience and utter joy that Lacey went through during this installment. Her reactions are so real and even though I was screaming at her sometimes in my head, I completely understood her choices and FELT them with her!
I was already hardcore Team Finn during Flight (book one) and THIS man…. utter perfection! You will never convince me otherwise. I highlighted every single word that man uttered to Lacey and I just wanted to grab him and hold him and keep him all to myself!
I LOVED so many of the characters and enjoyed getting more from some of my favorites in the first book. There is so much I want to say about some of them but I do not want to spoil one single minute of this for anyone so just trust me that you need to pick this series up!
The last 20% escalated all my emotions to another level. I sobbed, and I mean sobbed!, and then I kinda healed, and then my adrenaline was pumping and that TWIST! OMG! Sooooooo good! I NEED the next book! In the meantime, I will be mentally preparing myself to handle the emotions that I know will come along with it!!
****
Re-read in preparation for the final book releasing next month! This series is absolutely incredible! This was already 5 stars on my first read and I loved it even more the second read through. This series should be on everyone's list! Just incredible!
May 18, 2024
There is no way to convey just how much this book wrecked my soul. It’s a masterpiece. You must read it. Ugh I will try and form more words when I can- but all I can say is Renee: well done- you got me in the best possible way. I could not put this book down. You do not want to miss out on this series- I PROMISE.
May 13, 2025
You all need this heartbreakingly beautiful story in your lives.
I have no words right now after finishing Fight, because I am still in awe over this story and these characters. R.V. did not make it easy for them.
Fight picked up right where Flight left off. We got some new insight, met some new characters and there even is some new POV.
I felt every emotion that the characters went through. I was laughing, crying and cheering from the sidelines.
Lacey is one of my favorite FMC ever. Her struggle, her growth and her strength throughout this book is something I will remember forever. The found family she surrounded herself with- the girl gang. Lacey as a character is so inspiring. I can't wait to see what she does in book 3.
Sweet, beautiful Finn. I will protect you and your tea forever. I think I highlighted almost everything Finn said. He is the ultimate book boyfriend.
SHOUTING FROM THE ROOFTOPS: YOU NEED TO READ THE VIRTUES TRILOGY!
Reread May 2025: Every time I read this, I am in awe of the growth of Lacey. Her struggles and then her strength that she comes out with on the other other side is so inspiring.
I love this series so much!
I have no words right now after finishing Fight, because I am still in awe over this story and these characters. R.V. did not make it easy for them.
Fight picked up right where Flight left off. We got some new insight, met some new characters and there even is some new POV.
I felt every emotion that the characters went through. I was laughing, crying and cheering from the sidelines.
Lacey is one of my favorite FMC ever. Her struggle, her growth and her strength throughout this book is something I will remember forever. The found family she surrounded herself with- the girl gang. Lacey as a character is so inspiring. I can't wait to see what she does in book 3.
Sweet, beautiful Finn. I will protect you and your tea forever. I think I highlighted almost everything Finn said. He is the ultimate book boyfriend.
SHOUTING FROM THE ROOFTOPS: YOU NEED TO READ THE VIRTUES TRILOGY!
Reread May 2025: Every time I read this, I am in awe of the growth of Lacey. Her struggles and then her strength that she comes out with on the other other side is so inspiring.
I love this series so much!
June 1, 2024
This book was emotional, gritty and kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I caught myself holding my breath, feeling my heart break, and trying to wrap my mind around the twists and turns! Renee does an amazing job of planting all the Easter eggs and we love her for it! I cried, I screamed, I melted and swooned, and ultimately I screamed some more! This series is one you’ll never forget and you’ll never see what’s coming next! I absolutely recommend this book to everyone!
What you can expect:
enemies to lovers to enemies to…
hidden identities and prophecies
heartbreak and swoon
mental health rep
found family
emotional damage
What you can expect:
enemies to lovers to enemies to…
hidden identities and prophecies
heartbreak and swoon
mental health rep
found family
emotional damage
April 19, 2024
“ It was then that she realized she was not trapped inside her nightmare. She was the nightmare. And there would be no escape for any of them ever again. “
Once again blown away by Renée’s writing. This book had SO. MUCH. EMOTION. poured into it. After being left reeling from the cliff hanger ending Flight, I mentally prepared myself for tears and anguish and she definitely delivered (in the best way possible though).
We follow what is left of a group of friends turned family going through some pretty serious grief, and trying to navigate not only the loss of their friends- but also the tipping of the ice berg that has left a huge conflict threatening to tear apart the entire city. Learning that neither side is black and white, good or bad… and sometimes the side you think you should pick isn’t necessarily the right choice at all.
We follow Lacey as she navigates her own struggles, emotions, and healing journey… and Finn as he tries his best to reconcile their relationship after betraying everyone he claims to love. Many secrets are uncovered, and prophecies are brought to light. It’s up to their group, and inevitably Lacey herself, to mend the divide and restore balance.
The tension and spice definitely kicked up in this one, but it’s that slow burn kinda spice *wink*. We get SO MANY good moments and words said between Lacey and her friends, which I absolutely adored. Bax and Cayle turned into two of my favorite characters. Bax threw us some absolute bomb lines. And we get to enjoy some super hilarious and sarcastic banter from a certain someone you wouldn’t expect *cough cough redacted cough cough*.
Overall this book completely shattered my heart a million times (once again in the best way), and is pretty intense overall (also in the best way). It had me sitting up in bed due to suspense and plot twists, saying “no freakin way!!!”
I loved every moment of this one and cannot wait to watch how powerful our friends become, and get the epic ending I know is coming. It will be SO worth the wait!
Thank you Renée for allowing me to be part of your team and supporting you through this story. I love you and this story so much and I am so glad I can help spread the love!
Once again blown away by Renée’s writing. This book had SO. MUCH. EMOTION. poured into it. After being left reeling from the cliff hanger ending Flight, I mentally prepared myself for tears and anguish and she definitely delivered (in the best way possible though).
We follow what is left of a group of friends turned family going through some pretty serious grief, and trying to navigate not only the loss of their friends- but also the tipping of the ice berg that has left a huge conflict threatening to tear apart the entire city. Learning that neither side is black and white, good or bad… and sometimes the side you think you should pick isn’t necessarily the right choice at all.
We follow Lacey as she navigates her own struggles, emotions, and healing journey… and Finn as he tries his best to reconcile their relationship after betraying everyone he claims to love. Many secrets are uncovered, and prophecies are brought to light. It’s up to their group, and inevitably Lacey herself, to mend the divide and restore balance.
The tension and spice definitely kicked up in this one, but it’s that slow burn kinda spice *wink*. We get SO MANY good moments and words said between Lacey and her friends, which I absolutely adored. Bax and Cayle turned into two of my favorite characters. Bax threw us some absolute bomb lines. And we get to enjoy some super hilarious and sarcastic banter from a certain someone you wouldn’t expect *cough cough redacted cough cough*.
Overall this book completely shattered my heart a million times (once again in the best way), and is pretty intense overall (also in the best way). It had me sitting up in bed due to suspense and plot twists, saying “no freakin way!!!”
I loved every moment of this one and cannot wait to watch how powerful our friends become, and get the epic ending I know is coming. It will be SO worth the wait!
Thank you Renée for allowing me to be part of your team and supporting you through this story. I love you and this story so much and I am so glad I can help spread the love!
May 20, 2024
This is a spoiler free review, just overall thoughts and feelings. Fight is Book 2 in the Virtues Trilogy. If you haven't read Flight (Book 1,) I am going to go ahead and recommend it to you right now. This book is perfect for fans of Crescent City and Dystopian/Urban fantasy.
Urban Fantasy
Dystopian
Morally Grey Characters
Secret Identity
Found Family
Grief and Mental Health Rep
I am speechless. The Virtues Trilogy is a series that will do that to you. I can't begin to describe all the emotions I'm feeling. This book ripped my heart out and stitched it right back up. I am BAWLING my eyes out right now. Needless to say, I absolutely loved it.
Renee's writing is so beautiful. She created a story that touched my heart so deeply. I felt the characters come alive on the page. Even though this book was a devastating time for our main character Lacey, it also provided a huge sense of healing. I cried so many times for her in this book.
Fight showed the painful side of what being "human" feels like. She is so deserving of love.
One of my favorite parts of this series is the relationship between Lacey and the girls. Lara Olivia, Annette, and Winnie are the most incredible friends. I love how supportive they are of Lacey.
I will never get over this series or this book. I honestly don't know how I'm going to move on until the next book. Thank you so much Renee for an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Favorite Quotes from Fight (a bit spoilery, but out of context)
"Even knowing how it ends. Even if I knew it would cost me everything-cost me you- I would do it all over again. I would take a thousand scars, let them bleed me dry, to be loved by you one more time."
"I am a murderer, a liar, and a traitor. But I will always belong to you."
"You're a survivor, and you have survived by fighting. So fight for yourself."
Urban Fantasy
Dystopian
Morally Grey Characters
Secret Identity
Found Family
Grief and Mental Health Rep
I am speechless. The Virtues Trilogy is a series that will do that to you. I can't begin to describe all the emotions I'm feeling. This book ripped my heart out and stitched it right back up. I am BAWLING my eyes out right now. Needless to say, I absolutely loved it.
Renee's writing is so beautiful. She created a story that touched my heart so deeply. I felt the characters come alive on the page. Even though this book was a devastating time for our main character Lacey, it also provided a huge sense of healing. I cried so many times for her in this book.
Fight showed the painful side of what being "human" feels like. She is so deserving of love.
One of my favorite parts of this series is the relationship between Lacey and the girls. Lara Olivia, Annette, and Winnie are the most incredible friends. I love how supportive they are of Lacey.
I will never get over this series or this book. I honestly don't know how I'm going to move on until the next book. Thank you so much Renee for an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Favorite Quotes from Fight (a bit spoilery, but out of context)
"Even knowing how it ends. Even if I knew it would cost me everything-cost me you- I would do it all over again. I would take a thousand scars, let them bleed me dry, to be loved by you one more time."
"I am a murderer, a liar, and a traitor. But I will always belong to you."
"You're a survivor, and you have survived by fighting. So fight for yourself."
May 15, 2024
This book is an emotional rollercoaster so strap in and hold on tight!
The story pickups where Flight ended, please do yourself a favor and read the first book in this series to truly appreciate Fight. You get action and heartbreak right out of the gate.
Lacey is thrown into a harsh reality that she was not prepared for, and frankly neither was I. Her character growth from the first book is so nice to see, she is not perfect, and she suffers from emotional distress as one does when you go through what she goes through! I cannot stress enough that you need to read the TW in the beginning of this book to truly appreciate the range of emotions she gets put through.
Finn is complicated, selfless MC, frustrating, caring, badass tea drinker of a cinnamon roll that I have ever had the pleasure of reading. He had me crying at times. His fight for the greater good has consequences that he is ready to pay at a very high personal cost.
There are twists and turns, new POV's, girl power, grief, hope and acceptance. Renee does an amazing job of giving you all the feels, then punching you in the heart with the angst.
This book grips your emotions and doesn't' let go until the very last chapter and even then, you are left wondering how will it all end?
Please be mindful of the TW in the beginning of this book and enjoy this amazing adventure!
R.V. Wilbur Fight
The story pickups where Flight ended, please do yourself a favor and read the first book in this series to truly appreciate Fight. You get action and heartbreak right out of the gate.
Lacey is thrown into a harsh reality that she was not prepared for, and frankly neither was I. Her character growth from the first book is so nice to see, she is not perfect, and she suffers from emotional distress as one does when you go through what she goes through! I cannot stress enough that you need to read the TW in the beginning of this book to truly appreciate the range of emotions she gets put through.
Finn is complicated, selfless MC, frustrating, caring, badass tea drinker of a cinnamon roll that I have ever had the pleasure of reading. He had me crying at times. His fight for the greater good has consequences that he is ready to pay at a very high personal cost.
There are twists and turns, new POV's, girl power, grief, hope and acceptance. Renee does an amazing job of giving you all the feels, then punching you in the heart with the angst.
This book grips your emotions and doesn't' let go until the very last chapter and even then, you are left wondering how will it all end?
Please be mindful of the TW in the beginning of this book and enjoy this amazing adventure!
R.V. Wilbur Fight
May 18, 2024
4.5 ⭐
We return to Anatoliene with our protagonist Lacey and the battle between Light and Darkness.
Inner conflict, grief over loss, confusion and guilt are the feelings that grip Lacey after the events of the first book. She pushes everything and everyone away, unable to bear that she could lose another person. The sense of betrayal and mistrust she has toward Finn , make her close in even more.
This book is a journey toward rebirth and self-forgiveness. And a journey of acceptance and reconquest. Together with the protagonist, we learn how to fight and face life again after a loss, how to live as oneself, and how to mature. Lacey learns that she cannot isolate herself to avoid pain because isolation is already a loss. Moreover, life goes on, the war goes on, and things get even more complicated. It is not always just one side of the story and Lacey begins to realize that not everything is as the Tzels told her. And you can't tar all the grass with the same brush.
Together with her great roommate friends and Finn, she reopens herself to the world and struggles to discover who she really is and who she can become. For the war is still going on and now more than ever there is a need to fight.
The revelation in the final pages left me speechless, I honestly had not imagined it and was pleasantly surprised because it promises to be a great story for a perfect conclusion to this trilogy in the next book.
Thanks to the author for eARC.
We return to Anatoliene with our protagonist Lacey and the battle between Light and Darkness.
Inner conflict, grief over loss, confusion and guilt are the feelings that grip Lacey after the events of the first book. She pushes everything and everyone away, unable to bear that she could lose another person. The sense of betrayal and mistrust she has toward Finn , make her close in even more.
This book is a journey toward rebirth and self-forgiveness. And a journey of acceptance and reconquest. Together with the protagonist, we learn how to fight and face life again after a loss, how to live as oneself, and how to mature. Lacey learns that she cannot isolate herself to avoid pain because isolation is already a loss. Moreover, life goes on, the war goes on, and things get even more complicated. It is not always just one side of the story and Lacey begins to realize that not everything is as the Tzels told her. And you can't tar all the grass with the same brush.
Together with her great roommate friends and Finn, she reopens herself to the world and struggles to discover who she really is and who she can become. For the war is still going on and now more than ever there is a need to fight.
The revelation in the final pages left me speechless, I honestly had not imagined it and was pleasantly surprised because it promises to be a great story for a perfect conclusion to this trilogy in the next book.
Thanks to the author for eARC.
April 29, 2024
I’m gonna say it. Renee’s books are not talked about enough.
I am forever happy I signed up for a book tour for the first book, Flight, in 2023. I’m not usually a “here and now” type of reader. If there are cell phones I don’t wanna read it BUT Renee pulled me out of my comfort zone with this PNR/fantasy read and I’ll never be the same.
As you can probably gather I loved Flight and the wait for this book, Fight, has been a long and torturous one.
I can say, if you have read book one, you won’t be agonized by another evil cliffhanger, thank the gods BUT excuse me Renee all those twist in the last 25% I was crying and raging right up till the last page.
Picking up this book was hard with the revelations were are left with at the end of book one. There is so much hurt, betrayal and secrets that I was worried how these characters could find themselves again.
Renee gives us just the right amount of tortured angst turned inner acceptance. We are back to a little of a slow burn but Lacey and Finn needed to break to realize what they are to and for each other and that was t something that could be glazed over.
Really, I urge you my lovely review reader. Give this series a chance.
I am forever happy I signed up for a book tour for the first book, Flight, in 2023. I’m not usually a “here and now” type of reader. If there are cell phones I don’t wanna read it BUT Renee pulled me out of my comfort zone with this PNR/fantasy read and I’ll never be the same.
As you can probably gather I loved Flight and the wait for this book, Fight, has been a long and torturous one.
I can say, if you have read book one, you won’t be agonized by another evil cliffhanger, thank the gods BUT excuse me Renee all those twist in the last 25% I was crying and raging right up till the last page.
Picking up this book was hard with the revelations were are left with at the end of book one. There is so much hurt, betrayal and secrets that I was worried how these characters could find themselves again.
Renee gives us just the right amount of tortured angst turned inner acceptance. We are back to a little of a slow burn but Lacey and Finn needed to break to realize what they are to and for each other and that was t something that could be glazed over.
Really, I urge you my lovely review reader. Give this series a chance.
June 12, 2024
“You will always feel the way you do about me. And maybe it makes me a villain because I love that. I love that I will torture you for the rest of our lives like you will torture me. I meant forever. Even if I can’t have you, I still mean forever. Because if I’m going to become nothing more than a memory, I’m going to make sure that’s exactly how long I burn in your mind.”
Picking a quote for this review was unbelievably difficult because there were just SO many good ones!!! I fell hard for this book, head over heels because it was just so emotionally gut wrenching. It made me cry, it made me scream, it made me keep reading until there was nothing left to read.
This book had me guessing till the very end and even though I had my suspicions, there was nothing even remotely predictable about the way things played out. I love when a book keeps me on my toes and I kept glancing down at the percent left and saying “how are we this close to the end?!”
I’m absolutely in love with this series and I can’t wait to see what else R.V. Wilbur gives us next!!!
Picking a quote for this review was unbelievably difficult because there were just SO many good ones!!! I fell hard for this book, head over heels because it was just so emotionally gut wrenching. It made me cry, it made me scream, it made me keep reading until there was nothing left to read.
This book had me guessing till the very end and even though I had my suspicions, there was nothing even remotely predictable about the way things played out. I love when a book keeps me on my toes and I kept glancing down at the percent left and saying “how are we this close to the end?!”
I’m absolutely in love with this series and I can’t wait to see what else R.V. Wilbur gives us next!!!
May 21, 2024
« Who did this to him? »
Fight is book 2 of the virtue trilogy, a debut fantasy series by R.V Wilbur
I was fortunate enough to receive ARCs for both books and let me start off by saying that I already noticed a growth in @nightowlloft writing from book 1 to book 2. I already found her writing enjoyable in Flight and in Fight there was a certain fluidity that got added which made the book a breeze to read.
The characters went through so much in this one and their grief, trauma, journey was so well written that you couldn’t help but really feel their anguish.
I love Bax, Finn is basically cat at this point (IYKYK) and what else? Oh yeah, I KNEW IT! I spent the whole book at the edge of my seat waiting for the revelation cause I KNEW IT.
Keeping it short so I don’t spoil anything but read this series if you love : Found family, betrayal, slow burn, the shadow hunters, fantasy, tortured heroine, morally grey MCs
Thank you @nightowlloft for the ARC ☺️
June 4, 2024
✨𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄✨
📖: Fight (The Virtues Trilogy, Book 2)
⚡️: Now available!
Lacey is reeling in the aftermath of betrayal, guilt, and loss. Haunted by her past, her choices, and vivid dreams, can she pick up the broken pieces of heart to seek the answers to questions that can change the trajectory of the war?
Tropes/themes
🤕 Tortured MCs
🩶 Morally grey MCs
🤫 Secret Identities
🤝 Unlikely Allies
🗣️ Tension and Banter
❤️🩹 Mental health rep
😴 Dream Sequences
💫 Prophecies
“𝘍𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘣𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘐 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”
“𝘐 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘢 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘴, 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘣𝘭𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘥𝘳𝘺, 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦.”
Lacey and Finn are so beautifully broken and this installment highlights the slow mending of their minds and spirits. They face many challenges as their warring hearts must come to terms with their intertwined and precarious fates.
Renée infuses so much emotional depth in Fight. I felt the anguish of each character so viscerally and was reeling with every reveal and plot twist. This found family also shines throughout this story and I’m crossing my fingers and clutching my heart as they all fight for a better future in the final installment.
Huge thanks to R.V. Wilbur and Bound By Mischief for the ARC opportunity. This is my honest and voluntary review
📖: Fight (The Virtues Trilogy, Book 2)
⚡️: Now available!
Lacey is reeling in the aftermath of betrayal, guilt, and loss. Haunted by her past, her choices, and vivid dreams, can she pick up the broken pieces of heart to seek the answers to questions that can change the trajectory of the war?
Tropes/themes
🤕 Tortured MCs
🩶 Morally grey MCs
🤫 Secret Identities
🤝 Unlikely Allies
🗣️ Tension and Banter
❤️🩹 Mental health rep
😴 Dream Sequences
💫 Prophecies
“𝘍𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘣𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘐 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”
“𝘐 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘢 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘴, 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘣𝘭𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘥𝘳𝘺, 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦.”
Lacey and Finn are so beautifully broken and this installment highlights the slow mending of their minds and spirits. They face many challenges as their warring hearts must come to terms with their intertwined and precarious fates.
Renée infuses so much emotional depth in Fight. I felt the anguish of each character so viscerally and was reeling with every reveal and plot twist. This found family also shines throughout this story and I’m crossing my fingers and clutching my heart as they all fight for a better future in the final installment.
Huge thanks to R.V. Wilbur and Bound By Mischief for the ARC opportunity. This is my honest and voluntary review
May 31, 2024
After seeing so much hype on bookstagram about Flight, I knew I had to read this series, and it did not disappoint!!! In fact, I am now hyped up after finishing Fight!
Fight is the second book in the Trilogy – and it is not a standalone. Be sure to read Flight first as it sets the scene, builds the world and characters, which is important because Fight continues directly where they left off – so if you haven’t read Flight, you will feel lost.
This book is aptly named, as the themes of fight/struggle are strong, as is loss, trauma betrayal, love and redemption. You feel all these emotions as you allow yourself to be emersed in this brilliant novel! Renee creates a world and characters that are so easy to love. Yes you will find yourself talking to the book as you read!
Go read it!!! 5 stars for this fantasy romance.
Fight is the second book in the Trilogy – and it is not a standalone. Be sure to read Flight first as it sets the scene, builds the world and characters, which is important because Fight continues directly where they left off – so if you haven’t read Flight, you will feel lost.
This book is aptly named, as the themes of fight/struggle are strong, as is loss, trauma betrayal, love and redemption. You feel all these emotions as you allow yourself to be emersed in this brilliant novel! Renee creates a world and characters that are so easy to love. Yes you will find yourself talking to the book as you read!
Go read it!!! 5 stars for this fantasy romance.
May 20, 2024
I feel like everyone should join me in my pain and read this beautiful trilogy. Holy cow, I'm still reeling from this book, just like when I finished reading Flight. Woof. This one put me on a roller coaster ride of emotions.
Renee continues to do a great job portraying all these difficult emotions these characters are facing as they are trying to pick up the pieces from the end of Flight. There is so much grief, anger, confusion, romantic tension, and complicated emotions and I FELT THEM. I felt them all. I hurt for Lacey, I hurt for Finn, I hurt for everyone.
There were so many twists and turns and I loved every minute of it. I cannot wait for the final book to see how everything turns out. Do not snooze on this trilogy. All the applause...all of it.
Renee continues to do a great job portraying all these difficult emotions these characters are facing as they are trying to pick up the pieces from the end of Flight. There is so much grief, anger, confusion, romantic tension, and complicated emotions and I FELT THEM. I felt them all. I hurt for Lacey, I hurt for Finn, I hurt for everyone.
There were so many twists and turns and I loved every minute of it. I cannot wait for the final book to see how everything turns out. Do not snooze on this trilogy. All the applause...all of it.
August 10, 2024
After the events of the marsh, things are sliding around in self- motion and Lacey is left bereft, feeling she can only drift along with the flow. Consumed by a deep-set grief that she has no need to fake, she needs to keep the real reasons behind it hidden and keep pretending if she wants to keep herself and those closest to her alive.
The recent changes to the political landscape of Anatolene have made it a dangerous place, for both Tzel and Liorah as the events at the end of Flight are used as a catalyst by the newly appointed president Otto Donovan to reveal the two opposing sides of Light and Darkness and put warfare on the table, with no further need for pretence.
Lacey is stuck between feelings of guilt for her own actions, notwithstanding the fact that they were forced upon her; grief for the enormous loss suffered by the Tzel, resentment, and anger for being put in such a situation by those she cared about the most.
As Jackoby haunts her dreams, Lacey is forced to face her own feelings about the whole sorry mess, unpicking and processing everything, which will ultimately allow her to move past her trauma.
But life moves on outside Lacey's inner turmoil, proving that everything is fair game in love and in war. Rules are turned upside down, adding additional layers to Lacey's already turbulent life.
No matter how much Lacey wants to escape reality and her dreams alike, she will have no choice but to dig deeper into her dreams and uncover more about her past. Which might be the only way for her to move forward and find her role in the conflict that is raging within Anatolene, between Lacey and Finn and within Lacey herself.
💭 I found Fight to be quite a hard book to read, not because of the quality of the writing, which I have absolutely nothing but praise for, but because this is a book that is driven by feelings rather than plot. And those feelings are anything but light and happy.
Reading about raw and deeply set grief that is as layered as the story itself, is not easy, and although I am not a writer myself, I can appreciate the skill that goes behind getting all that across in a way that not only carries the plot, but also makes it compelling enough to keep readers hooked.
Lacey's inner struggles are presented through physical and spiritual manipulation in the many dream sequences, which I found a very interesting way of her processing tragedy, while breaking up the story and moving it forward through some interesting dialogue and character development.
Through these sequencs, characters who were previously presented in a certain way are flipped on their heads allowing for sass and really good banter from an unexpected source, which broke up the stressful nature of the feeling-driven parts of the story, speeding up the pace in points where it might have otherwise felt like a struggle.
The multi- layered aspects of the characters, some of whom are delved into much further than how they were presented in book one, and the new characters who were introduced in this book, are exceptional and it takes some rare skill to be able to turn what you knew about someone completely on its head and get away with it.
The plot carries the fake dating trope like it's never been done before.
The political landscape and intrigue explored in this book is very well developed exploring the principle that there can be light in darkness, just as there is darkness in light and due to this, even the most initially apparently heinous events can have a flip side and redemption is possible if you keep an open mind and you are able to see things behind face value.
I absolutely loved the plot twist, which left me gobsmacked and incredibly excited for the third installment in this series, and I expect the wait to be just as torturous as it was for this one.
Thank you R.V. Wilbur for sharing this ARC in exchange of an honest and unbiased review.
The recent changes to the political landscape of Anatolene have made it a dangerous place, for both Tzel and Liorah as the events at the end of Flight are used as a catalyst by the newly appointed president Otto Donovan to reveal the two opposing sides of Light and Darkness and put warfare on the table, with no further need for pretence.
Lacey is stuck between feelings of guilt for her own actions, notwithstanding the fact that they were forced upon her; grief for the enormous loss suffered by the Tzel, resentment, and anger for being put in such a situation by those she cared about the most.
As Jackoby haunts her dreams, Lacey is forced to face her own feelings about the whole sorry mess, unpicking and processing everything, which will ultimately allow her to move past her trauma.
But life moves on outside Lacey's inner turmoil, proving that everything is fair game in love and in war. Rules are turned upside down, adding additional layers to Lacey's already turbulent life.
No matter how much Lacey wants to escape reality and her dreams alike, she will have no choice but to dig deeper into her dreams and uncover more about her past. Which might be the only way for her to move forward and find her role in the conflict that is raging within Anatolene, between Lacey and Finn and within Lacey herself.
💭 I found Fight to be quite a hard book to read, not because of the quality of the writing, which I have absolutely nothing but praise for, but because this is a book that is driven by feelings rather than plot. And those feelings are anything but light and happy.
Reading about raw and deeply set grief that is as layered as the story itself, is not easy, and although I am not a writer myself, I can appreciate the skill that goes behind getting all that across in a way that not only carries the plot, but also makes it compelling enough to keep readers hooked.
Lacey's inner struggles are presented through physical and spiritual manipulation in the many dream sequences, which I found a very interesting way of her processing tragedy, while breaking up the story and moving it forward through some interesting dialogue and character development.
Through these sequencs, characters who were previously presented in a certain way are flipped on their heads allowing for sass and really good banter from an unexpected source, which broke up the stressful nature of the feeling-driven parts of the story, speeding up the pace in points where it might have otherwise felt like a struggle.
The multi- layered aspects of the characters, some of whom are delved into much further than how they were presented in book one, and the new characters who were introduced in this book, are exceptional and it takes some rare skill to be able to turn what you knew about someone completely on its head and get away with it.
The plot carries the fake dating trope like it's never been done before.
The political landscape and intrigue explored in this book is very well developed exploring the principle that there can be light in darkness, just as there is darkness in light and due to this, even the most initially apparently heinous events can have a flip side and redemption is possible if you keep an open mind and you are able to see things behind face value.
I absolutely loved the plot twist, which left me gobsmacked and incredibly excited for the third installment in this series, and I expect the wait to be just as torturous as it was for this one.
Thank you R.V. Wilbur for sharing this ARC in exchange of an honest and unbiased review.
May 23, 2024
Okay, I need to know how this trilogy ends! This book was an emotional rollercoaster, and while I loved it all, it hurt my heart, too.
Lacey's journey throughout this book was difficult. She really struggled with the events from the end of book 1 - what to do now, how she should act, and who she should trust. She was broken and healing wasn't easy.
I love a good plot twist and this one made my jaw drop. I am so invested in these characters and I can't wait to see what happens in the final book. This was an amazing read, but I need there to be a HEA!
Lacey's journey throughout this book was difficult. She really struggled with the events from the end of book 1 - what to do now, how she should act, and who she should trust. She was broken and healing wasn't easy.
I love a good plot twist and this one made my jaw drop. I am so invested in these characters and I can't wait to see what happens in the final book. This was an amazing read, but I need there to be a HEA!
May 20, 2024
Wow… this book really took me through it. The stages of grief, slow burn tension, you name it! There is a lot to unpack from this story, but I think I will just mention my two favorite parts:
1. Finn. His character is SO interesting. Just when I think I have him figured out, there is more mystery. He is complicated, morally grey, and so fun to root for. I love a character who can take me by surprise and I feel his storyline is really well written.
2. The ending. It’s been a while since an ending has gotten me. Probably since Flight tbh 😂 There isn’t much I love more in life than literally screaming at a good twist.
I really love this series. It’s unlike anything have read before and I know I am always in for a ride when I open these books. Can’t wait for the next!!
Read this book if you like
- enemies to lovers
- crying over a book
- mysterious, morally grey men
- badass FMC
- urban fantasy
- unique magic systems
- slowwwwww burn
- found family
Thank you for an ARC of this wonderful book!!
1. Finn. His character is SO interesting. Just when I think I have him figured out, there is more mystery. He is complicated, morally grey, and so fun to root for. I love a character who can take me by surprise and I feel his storyline is really well written.
2. The ending. It’s been a while since an ending has gotten me. Probably since Flight tbh 😂 There isn’t much I love more in life than literally screaming at a good twist.
I really love this series. It’s unlike anything have read before and I know I am always in for a ride when I open these books. Can’t wait for the next!!
Read this book if you like
- enemies to lovers
- crying over a book
- mysterious, morally grey men
- badass FMC
- urban fantasy
- unique magic systems
- slowwwwww burn
- found family
Thank you for an ARC of this wonderful book!!
May 22, 2024
Fight had me in all of my feelings. Lacey was once again relatable to the point where I had to pause multiple times to recenter myself. The way she navigates the challenges and mental struggles are so beautifully written and so realistic.
And that ending… let’s just say that this is only the second book to make me sit there and want to scream at how intense it was. I literally had to ask if I was reading correctly at one point bc the twists were so good and I couldn’t believe it 💀🤣🙃 but it was true and I continued to scream then was put back together by yet another twist… just to be twisted again. I lay down prostrate in awe when it was over. It’s all written so beautifully well.
While technically the second in a trilogy, Fight acts as a conclusion to a duology that was started on Flight, answering a lot of the big questions while not leaving you on a cliffhanger for the unanswered ones left. I cannot wait for book three!!!
And that ending… let’s just say that this is only the second book to make me sit there and want to scream at how intense it was. I literally had to ask if I was reading correctly at one point bc the twists were so good and I couldn’t believe it 💀🤣🙃 but it was true and I continued to scream then was put back together by yet another twist… just to be twisted again. I lay down prostrate in awe when it was over. It’s all written so beautifully well.
While technically the second in a trilogy, Fight acts as a conclusion to a duology that was started on Flight, answering a lot of the big questions while not leaving you on a cliffhanger for the unanswered ones left. I cannot wait for book three!!!
May 22, 2024
🩵💜ARC REVIEW💜🩵
Wow… where do I begin? I’ve had to wait a few days to gather my thoughts on this book because it takes you on SUCH an emotional rollercoaster… and it was so very perfect🥹
That’s all I have to say really… the writing was perfect, the plot, the romance, THE BANTER, the twist & turns, the found family, the themes, & the character development were just perfect.
I don’t want to get into many specifics because this book is the second in a trilogy & I don’t want to spoil.
But the way that each character deals with the aftermath of the end of book 1 had me in TEARS, I bawled idk how many times I ended up crying… the writing was so perfect & poetic & easy to read. Renee has outdone herself, she really really has. This urban fantasy/dystopian world is so layered and morally grey I cannot wait to see how it all ends in book 3💜
Wow… where do I begin? I’ve had to wait a few days to gather my thoughts on this book because it takes you on SUCH an emotional rollercoaster… and it was so very perfect🥹
That’s all I have to say really… the writing was perfect, the plot, the romance, THE BANTER, the twist & turns, the found family, the themes, & the character development were just perfect.
I don’t want to get into many specifics because this book is the second in a trilogy & I don’t want to spoil.
But the way that each character deals with the aftermath of the end of book 1 had me in TEARS, I bawled idk how many times I ended up crying… the writing was so perfect & poetic & easy to read. Renee has outdone herself, she really really has. This urban fantasy/dystopian world is so layered and morally grey I cannot wait to see how it all ends in book 3💜
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