So much angst, so much pining, so much secrecy.
Continuing the dark, relevant and serious themes of the last book, like coping, abuse, image, expectations, family, guilt, social hierarchy and more - this one takes it further with grief, stages of sorrow and betrayal.
I loved the character development in both Theo and Kade individually, but also together.
Theo has started to truly see how outcasted Kade is, how he is treated - also by Theo himself, and how he can't stand it while still struggling to change it - because of the image and expectations burdening on him.
Kade is doing everything in his power for Theo. He is starting to use his own experiences, memories and feelings, to guide and support Theo, to not let him fall and become like Kade himself did, although he sometimes fumbles in dark, trying his best to see it fail.
They have become so much for one another and it was intense to see them both pining, yearning and denying what is between them.
The undying support of Kade was beautifully sincere and the protectiveness of Theo so utterly satisfying.
"You don't touch him," Theo growled around his fangs. "Got that? None of you touch him. He's mine."
It is not the most perfect piece of literary fiction, but it is simply such an indulgent and very enjoyable story.
The struggles of the characters, the pace and the suspense so well balanced, with added humour and remarks to cheer up the mood here and there.
Like with the last book, I very much enjoy how these characters are so well-delivered. They are truly teenagers - with the complicated moods, emotions, reactions and confusion that brings. Trying to keep their secrets, yet looking for an adult to turn to (which truly is difficult in this town).
And while I'm not entirely sure what I feel about the big reveal of the secret of Theo and Kade and their bond, I am so invested in their story, their very characters, their escapades and there future, that it isn't a detail/trope that bothers me.