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The Edge of Glass #2
To Dance with Death
Not yet published
Expected 4 Aug 26In the epic conclusion to the fantasy romance duology that began with A Dance of Lies, Vasalie must journey to the realms of the dead to restore the memories of her beloved king and stop a mounting war.
Once a spy for the ruthless King Illian, Vasalie sacrificed herself to kill him and prevent a prophesied war. But Illian’s brother, Anton—the king she allied with and began to love—struck a deal with Moranya, the goddess of the underworld, to bring Vasalie back. The his compassion, his memories of her, and all the events of the past six weeks.
Now stripped of the truth, Anton believes his friends betrayed him and accepts Moranya’s offer to rule the kingdom of the dead. But with the kingdom he leaves behind on the brink of civil war, and her cruel father threatening to invade, Vasalie realizes only Anton can reunite a fractured realm.
To save her world and the man she was coming to love, Vasalie must journey to the underworld and reclaim him. But the Anton she finds is the worst version of the arrogant, debauched king she once thought he was. To restore him, she’ll have to restore his memories first… even if it means sacrificing her own heart.
Once a spy for the ruthless King Illian, Vasalie sacrificed herself to kill him and prevent a prophesied war. But Illian’s brother, Anton—the king she allied with and began to love—struck a deal with Moranya, the goddess of the underworld, to bring Vasalie back. The his compassion, his memories of her, and all the events of the past six weeks.
Now stripped of the truth, Anton believes his friends betrayed him and accepts Moranya’s offer to rule the kingdom of the dead. But with the kingdom he leaves behind on the brink of civil war, and her cruel father threatening to invade, Vasalie realizes only Anton can reunite a fractured realm.
To save her world and the man she was coming to love, Vasalie must journey to the underworld and reclaim him. But the Anton she finds is the worst version of the arrogant, debauched king she once thought he was. To restore him, she’ll have to restore his memories first… even if it means sacrificing her own heart.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication August 4, 2026
44 people are currently reading
5341 people want to read
About the author
Brittney Arena
2 books5,544 followersWith a background in both brand and visual design, Brittney has always found solace in art. However, after a challenging health journey, she turned to writing, and what began as a coping mechanism evolved into a journey of exploration, allowing her to traverse new worlds from wherever she might be.
When she’s not penning tales, Brittney spends her time obsessing over k-dramas, playing with her camera, and waging war against ungodly amounts of pet hair. She currently resides in North Carolina with her husband and two pups, and is always ready for the next adventure, whether it be on page or in real life. A Dance of Lies is her debut novel.
She is represented by Jennifer Azantian at Azantian Literary Agency.
When she’s not penning tales, Brittney spends her time obsessing over k-dramas, playing with her camera, and waging war against ungodly amounts of pet hair. She currently resides in North Carolina with her husband and two pups, and is always ready for the next adventure, whether it be on page or in real life. A Dance of Lies is her debut novel.
She is represented by Jennifer Azantian at Azantian Literary Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 267 reviews
April 3, 2026
➸ 5 stars
𓈀 𓄹𓂃 thank you to netgalley, random house publishing / del rey and of course, brittney arena, for the advanced readers copy!! <3
✨ forced proximity
🪞 second chance romance
🔹 fall in love again and again
🪞 yearning
✨ glittering underworld court
this review will contain spoilers for book one, especially in the quotes!!
“If I must die, in his arms is where I want to be. Between his lips is where I want to exhale my last breath.”
this book was one of my most anticipated reads of the year and i loved every second of it. i immediately fell in love with a dance of lies and i can say the same for its sequel, to dance with death. this duology has truly become one of my favorites.
a dance of lies was a book that caught me by surprise; it was unlike anything i’ve ever read before and i could not predict one thing. going into this book i had no clues how things would play out, how the characters would solve all the problems, how this story would progress. now that ive finished the book i can say my answer would simply just be beautiful. immediately picking up from where book one left off, we are thrown back into all the politics and sacrifice that occurred during the ending of book one. we follow our lovely vasalie and our lovely side character trying to figure out how to stop war from breaking out and trying to get a certain someone back. everything seemed impossible yet the progression was so intricately woven together into a beautiful story.
“When I hold you, I feel like something I’ve lost has been returned,”
i was so immersed in this story, it felt like i was THERE while reading the book. i found the underworld setting so cool and the descriptions were amazing!! one of my favorite parts of the book was exploring ansa, the scenes of vasalie and anton secretly exploring the city will forever remain in my mind, i loved them so much!!! vasalie and anton are one of my favorite couples ever and every time i think about them my mind just plays the words “fall in love again and again” in the background because they are the literal DEFINITION of those lyrics. there was so so much yearning and adoration for each other; they will forever stay in my heart.
“You, have driven me mad. Mad with all the ways I want to punish you, please you. You occupy every corner of my mind, every chamber of my heart, and I am tortured because of it. I have never wanted someone so much in my life. Be with me, Vasalie. I need to make you understand what I feel for you.”
“Vasalie, you have altered my very existence. My world is made brighter from your presence. I am fortunate to so much as hold you. Disappointment is not a word in my vocabulary—not with you.”
“I love you, Minnow.”
their love is so so precious to me and i’m currently tearing up rereading these quotes again!!!! and i did shed some tears when i read the word minnow bc i am so emotional over them I LOVE THEM SO MUCH!!! i could reread these books again and again and i feel like each time i would love them even more. this duology is everything to me. this book is art.
(more) favorite quotes:
“A flush paints her cheeks, flaring brighter. Is that a temper he detects? Oh, please let it be a temper.”
“We all saw how infatuated he was with you at the Gathering. And it wasn’t mere physical attraction, Vasalie. It ran much deeper than that. I don’t think even a Fate could erase what drew him to you in the first place.”
“How very fast your heart beats for me, dancer.”
“Anger spurs it, Majesty.”
“His mind and memories may have changed, but the heart of my king—my immortal king—still beats.”
“Shall I lend you a cravat to wipe up all that drool? You must have been dreaming of something rather delicious. I do hope it was me.”
“His heart is wounded, enclosed in a shield of glass, but I need only find a crack where I might pry my way in.”
“What will you give me in return?”
“I don’t have much to give,”
“I disagree. There are a great many things you refuse to give me.”
“Such as?”
“A kiss. At a time of my choosing.”
“And in this moment, he is so irrevocably beautiful that my lungs refuse to fill, and I can do nothing but watch him. Long for him. He shines tonight—not from his jewelry, his decadent attire, but wholly from within. It’s as if coming home lit him up like the lanterns along the water’s edge.”
“I wish, so badly, that I could tell him that every angle of him is worthy of being loved. Even the worst ones. Even now. He reminded me of that when I needed it most—reminded me that all my scratches and dents, all the marred facets and shards that cracked deep into my soul, were what made me art. Like his stained glass—broken fragments fitted back together again to make something infinitely more lovely.”
“A mosaic of beautiful imperfections, and yet his heart still radiates, and so does his passion, his humor. His brilliance.“
“You loved him even as he was, and he, in turn, fell in love with you once more.”
“Admiring me so thoughtfully, are you?”
“Committing every detail to memory,”
“Soak in every moment. That, I would do. But not just today. Here and now, caught in the sea-glass green of his eyes, I vow to myself—and then to him, later, in the privacy of our bedchamber—that I will cherish every moment together. I will cherish his smiles, his concerns, his jokes, his tears. I will value every day waking up to him, knowing that this future is balanced on the edge of a knife. That it almost wasn’t ours. Every second of our future was fought for, and I will never forget it.”
“It is the most precious of belongings, no? Time affords us the ability to make moments and memories that shape us to our very selves. I might return to a world of pain, but I wouldn’t want to miss out on all the things I want to do before I die.”
𓈀 𓄹𓂃 thank you to netgalley, random house publishing / del rey and of course, brittney arena, for the advanced readers copy!! <3
✨ forced proximity
🪞 second chance romance
🔹 fall in love again and again
🪞 yearning
✨ glittering underworld court
this review will contain spoilers for book one, especially in the quotes!!
“If I must die, in his arms is where I want to be. Between his lips is where I want to exhale my last breath.”
this book was one of my most anticipated reads of the year and i loved every second of it. i immediately fell in love with a dance of lies and i can say the same for its sequel, to dance with death. this duology has truly become one of my favorites.
a dance of lies was a book that caught me by surprise; it was unlike anything i’ve ever read before and i could not predict one thing. going into this book i had no clues how things would play out, how the characters would solve all the problems, how this story would progress. now that ive finished the book i can say my answer would simply just be beautiful. immediately picking up from where book one left off, we are thrown back into all the politics and sacrifice that occurred during the ending of book one. we follow our lovely vasalie and our lovely side character trying to figure out how to stop war from breaking out and trying to get a certain someone back. everything seemed impossible yet the progression was so intricately woven together into a beautiful story.
“When I hold you, I feel like something I’ve lost has been returned,”
i was so immersed in this story, it felt like i was THERE while reading the book. i found the underworld setting so cool and the descriptions were amazing!! one of my favorite parts of the book was exploring ansa, the scenes of vasalie and anton secretly exploring the city will forever remain in my mind, i loved them so much!!! vasalie and anton are one of my favorite couples ever and every time i think about them my mind just plays the words “fall in love again and again” in the background because they are the literal DEFINITION of those lyrics. there was so so much yearning and adoration for each other; they will forever stay in my heart.
“You, have driven me mad. Mad with all the ways I want to punish you, please you. You occupy every corner of my mind, every chamber of my heart, and I am tortured because of it. I have never wanted someone so much in my life. Be with me, Vasalie. I need to make you understand what I feel for you.”
“Vasalie, you have altered my very existence. My world is made brighter from your presence. I am fortunate to so much as hold you. Disappointment is not a word in my vocabulary—not with you.”
“I love you, Minnow.”
their love is so so precious to me and i’m currently tearing up rereading these quotes again!!!! and i did shed some tears when i read the word minnow bc i am so emotional over them I LOVE THEM SO MUCH!!! i could reread these books again and again and i feel like each time i would love them even more. this duology is everything to me. this book is art.
(more) favorite quotes:
“A flush paints her cheeks, flaring brighter. Is that a temper he detects? Oh, please let it be a temper.”
“We all saw how infatuated he was with you at the Gathering. And it wasn’t mere physical attraction, Vasalie. It ran much deeper than that. I don’t think even a Fate could erase what drew him to you in the first place.”
“How very fast your heart beats for me, dancer.”
“Anger spurs it, Majesty.”
“His mind and memories may have changed, but the heart of my king—my immortal king—still beats.”
“Shall I lend you a cravat to wipe up all that drool? You must have been dreaming of something rather delicious. I do hope it was me.”
“His heart is wounded, enclosed in a shield of glass, but I need only find a crack where I might pry my way in.”
“What will you give me in return?”
“I don’t have much to give,”
“I disagree. There are a great many things you refuse to give me.”
“Such as?”
“A kiss. At a time of my choosing.”
“And in this moment, he is so irrevocably beautiful that my lungs refuse to fill, and I can do nothing but watch him. Long for him. He shines tonight—not from his jewelry, his decadent attire, but wholly from within. It’s as if coming home lit him up like the lanterns along the water’s edge.”
“I wish, so badly, that I could tell him that every angle of him is worthy of being loved. Even the worst ones. Even now. He reminded me of that when I needed it most—reminded me that all my scratches and dents, all the marred facets and shards that cracked deep into my soul, were what made me art. Like his stained glass—broken fragments fitted back together again to make something infinitely more lovely.”
“A mosaic of beautiful imperfections, and yet his heart still radiates, and so does his passion, his humor. His brilliance.“
“You loved him even as he was, and he, in turn, fell in love with you once more.”
“Admiring me so thoughtfully, are you?”
“Committing every detail to memory,”
“Soak in every moment. That, I would do. But not just today. Here and now, caught in the sea-glass green of his eyes, I vow to myself—and then to him, later, in the privacy of our bedchamber—that I will cherish every moment together. I will cherish his smiles, his concerns, his jokes, his tears. I will value every day waking up to him, knowing that this future is balanced on the edge of a knife. That it almost wasn’t ours. Every second of our future was fought for, and I will never forget it.”
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a great way to finish the duology. A dance of lies was one of the few recent romantasies that I feel are truly original and bring something that I haven't seen a thousand times before, and as you can imagine and I absolutely loved it. I'm very happy to be able to review to dance with death as an ARC(and so many months before!!) and I'm happy to say it loved up to my expectations.
I can say that almost everything that I loved in the first one is present here, the atmosphere is still superb, the descriptions and dialogues are great, I love love love the banter and the romance is next level. The setting, or should I say the setting of most of the story, is very different and I love that. In the beginning I was a little afraid it would be one of those sequels where the couple is separated for 80% of the story which I HATE, but I knew this author wouldn't disappoint me like that.
The only thing I can point out that wasn't a big problems but I feel like I need to say just in case you're like me and this is somewhat important to you: the side characters are not as prominent here. I only say this because I feel like the cast of characters was something the first book did perfect, and I just wanted to see a little more of them here, but I understand that's just a preference thing. Also, I feel like there was a tone shift, not a bad thing just different.
(Maybe a little spoiler ahead, not really but if you don't want to risk it skip this paragraph)I went on a journey with the ending because does everyone get the perfect happiest ending?!? But then I thought: what the hell with real life being the way it is let the fictional characters be as happy as possible, why not.
If you liked the first book, or you're looking for a good romantasy, go read it immediately!!
Thank you Netgalley and Del Rey for the ARC.
I can say that almost everything that I loved in the first one is present here, the atmosphere is still superb, the descriptions and dialogues are great, I love love love the banter and the romance is next level. The setting, or should I say the setting of most of the story, is very different and I love that. In the beginning I was a little afraid it would be one of those sequels where the couple is separated for 80% of the story which I HATE, but I knew this author wouldn't disappoint me like that.
The only thing I can point out that wasn't a big problems but I feel like I need to say just in case you're like me and this is somewhat important to you: the side characters are not as prominent here. I only say this because I feel like the cast of characters was something the first book did perfect, and I just wanted to see a little more of them here, but I understand that's just a preference thing. Also, I feel like there was a tone shift, not a bad thing just different.
(Maybe a little spoiler ahead, not really but if you don't want to risk it skip this paragraph)I went on a journey with the ending because does everyone get the perfect happiest ending?!? But then I thought: what the hell with real life being the way it is let the fictional characters be as happy as possible, why not.
If you liked the first book, or you're looking for a good romantasy, go read it immediately!!
Thank you Netgalley and Del Rey for the ARC.
February 18, 2026
4.25⭐️ this was a perfect ending to an amazing duology. We pick up where book 1 left us hanging.
This is a true slow-burn. Which fed my soul.
Ms Arena knows how to tug at the heart strings. And she can write some good banter and yearning!!
I don’t want to give too much away, since you need to read book 1 first and too much of what I loved would spoil it.
I will forever adore this duet. Please, give this series a chance if you like fmc’s who are a bit on the softer side, disability rep, and the “bad boy” exterior with a gooey center.
Thank you Bloomsbury and Brittany Arena for the e-arc.
This is a true slow-burn. Which fed my soul.
Ms Arena knows how to tug at the heart strings. And she can write some good banter and yearning!!
I don’t want to give too much away, since you need to read book 1 first and too much of what I loved would spoil it.
I will forever adore this duet. Please, give this series a chance if you like fmc’s who are a bit on the softer side, disability rep, and the “bad boy” exterior with a gooey center.
Thank you Bloomsbury and Brittany Arena for the e-arc.
March 17, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this e-ARC releasing August 2026.
This is the second part of the duology, following A Dance of Lies, which I was also very grateful to ARC read and loved. I am so happy with how the author chose to write this book - and it was sooo good. A little slow to start, but then I couldn’t put it down.
This book picks up shortly after the first ends, Vasalie is brought back from the dead after Anton makes a deal with death herself. In making this deal, death takes all his memories of Vasalie and the happenings of the last months - including all the politics, betrayals etc. She takes away what made him good - which in part is his love for Vasalie. Locked up for his own good, he thinks all his friends and allies have betrayed him. On the other hand, Vasalie must leave him to continue their mission to let the syndicate know of her father’s treachery and Illians betrayal (before his death) - to try and prevent all out war. But her father is always two steps ahead - arguing his way out of the accusations. So the syndicate decides that Anton has 30 days to present himself to them and validate the accusations (that he can’t remember), and that Vasalie is to go back to her father’s household. There in starts the time clock that sees Vasalie going to any depths to get to Anton and break the curse dealt to him by death, prevent war and defeat her tyrant of a father.
This is the second part of the duology, following A Dance of Lies, which I was also very grateful to ARC read and loved. I am so happy with how the author chose to write this book - and it was sooo good. A little slow to start, but then I couldn’t put it down.
This book picks up shortly after the first ends, Vasalie is brought back from the dead after Anton makes a deal with death herself. In making this deal, death takes all his memories of Vasalie and the happenings of the last months - including all the politics, betrayals etc. She takes away what made him good - which in part is his love for Vasalie. Locked up for his own good, he thinks all his friends and allies have betrayed him. On the other hand, Vasalie must leave him to continue their mission to let the syndicate know of her father’s treachery and Illians betrayal (before his death) - to try and prevent all out war. But her father is always two steps ahead - arguing his way out of the accusations. So the syndicate decides that Anton has 30 days to present himself to them and validate the accusations (that he can’t remember), and that Vasalie is to go back to her father’s household. There in starts the time clock that sees Vasalie going to any depths to get to Anton and break the curse dealt to him by death, prevent war and defeat her tyrant of a father.
March 27, 2026
4.5 ⭐️/5
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.
I didn’t think I could love this sequel more than the first—but I did.
If you love LONGING, YEARNING ( I MEAN A YEARNING FMC) and emotional intensity, this absolutely delivers. SO DEEPLY ROMANTIC, I am swept away and in love with the world, the story and our main couple..
A perfect conclusion to a must-read duology for anyone who enjoys deeply romantic stories in enchanting settings. I NEED MY PHYSICAL COPY ASAP PLEASE!!!!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.
I didn’t think I could love this sequel more than the first—but I did.
If you love LONGING, YEARNING ( I MEAN A YEARNING FMC) and emotional intensity, this absolutely delivers. SO DEEPLY ROMANTIC, I am swept away and in love with the world, the story and our main couple..
A perfect conclusion to a must-read duology for anyone who enjoys deeply romantic stories in enchanting settings. I NEED MY PHYSICAL COPY ASAP PLEASE!!!!
February 25, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
🫶🏽 Summary:
To Dance with Death is the conclusion to the A Dance of Lies duology, following Vasalie as the cost of sacrifice finally comes due. With the realm on the brink of war and the man she loves lost to the underworld, Vasalie is forced to do the unthinkable: descend into Death’s domain to reclaim what was taken and try to restore what was broken.
As gods, kings, and old enemies move their pieces, Vasalie must navigate shifting alliances, dangerous bargains, and truths that cut deeper than any blade. The underworld reveals its own rules, its own cruelties, and its own twisted sense of justice and not everyone who returns is the same as they were before.
This is a story about love tested by loss, memory, and power, about choosing hope in the face of impossible odds, and about whether saving the world is worth the pieces of your heart it may cost.
🖤 Vibes:
💀 Journey to the underworld
👑 Queen energy FMC
🖤 Love tested by sacrifice
🔥 High-stakes romantic fantasy
🕯️ Gods, death, and dangerous bargains
🗡️ Political tension & looming war
💔 Memory loss / changed lover
🌒 Dark fantasy atmosphere
✨ Found family & purposeful side characters
⚔️ Fate vs. choice
😭 Emotional damage (but in a cathartic way)
🌹 Bittersweet → hopeful payoff
📝 My Review:
Wow. I knew after I finished the first book that I had to jump straight into the second, and I’m so thankful to NetGalley and Del Rey for allowing me an ARC copy. This book doesn’t come out until August 4th, 2026, but wow… it is absolutely worth the wait.
We continue the story with Vasalie and Anton, and can I just say 👸🏻 she is a literal queen. The way Illian comes back into play in this book and how she handles him? Major boss energy. We also get to learn so much more about the underworld and what it means to deal with Death, and honestly, I feel like the way Brittney wrote this was really unique within the romantic fantasy genre.
There were twists and turns I genuinely did not expect, and I loved that every single character served a purpose in the story. Nothing felt wasted. It all came together in a way that made the world feel fuller and more complete.
And that ending… it absolutely tore me up. Everything turned out in such a perfect, almost fairytale way… everything I wanted to happen, happened exactly how it should have by the end. The part with the codex coming into play literally wrecked me.
Without spoiling anything, I’ll just say this: if you loved the first book, you will absolutely love this one. We get new settings, deeper character development, and a chance to truly understand even the most unloved characters.
🫶🏽 Summary:
To Dance with Death is the conclusion to the A Dance of Lies duology, following Vasalie as the cost of sacrifice finally comes due. With the realm on the brink of war and the man she loves lost to the underworld, Vasalie is forced to do the unthinkable: descend into Death’s domain to reclaim what was taken and try to restore what was broken.
As gods, kings, and old enemies move their pieces, Vasalie must navigate shifting alliances, dangerous bargains, and truths that cut deeper than any blade. The underworld reveals its own rules, its own cruelties, and its own twisted sense of justice and not everyone who returns is the same as they were before.
This is a story about love tested by loss, memory, and power, about choosing hope in the face of impossible odds, and about whether saving the world is worth the pieces of your heart it may cost.
🖤 Vibes:
💀 Journey to the underworld
👑 Queen energy FMC
🖤 Love tested by sacrifice
🔥 High-stakes romantic fantasy
🕯️ Gods, death, and dangerous bargains
🗡️ Political tension & looming war
💔 Memory loss / changed lover
🌒 Dark fantasy atmosphere
✨ Found family & purposeful side characters
⚔️ Fate vs. choice
😭 Emotional damage (but in a cathartic way)
🌹 Bittersweet → hopeful payoff
📝 My Review:
Wow. I knew after I finished the first book that I had to jump straight into the second, and I’m so thankful to NetGalley and Del Rey for allowing me an ARC copy. This book doesn’t come out until August 4th, 2026, but wow… it is absolutely worth the wait.
We continue the story with Vasalie and Anton, and can I just say 👸🏻 she is a literal queen. The way Illian comes back into play in this book and how she handles him? Major boss energy. We also get to learn so much more about the underworld and what it means to deal with Death, and honestly, I feel like the way Brittney wrote this was really unique within the romantic fantasy genre.
There were twists and turns I genuinely did not expect, and I loved that every single character served a purpose in the story. Nothing felt wasted. It all came together in a way that made the world feel fuller and more complete.
And that ending… it absolutely tore me up. Everything turned out in such a perfect, almost fairytale way… everything I wanted to happen, happened exactly how it should have by the end. The part with the codex coming into play literally wrecked me.
Without spoiling anything, I’ll just say this: if you loved the first book, you will absolutely love this one. We get new settings, deeper character development, and a chance to truly understand even the most unloved characters.
February 19, 2026
I really enjoyed A Dance of Lies last year, so I was excited to jump back into this world and spend more time with the characters. And while I did like this sequel overall, it just didn’t reach the same level for me as the first book.
The beginning and the ending were definitely the strongest parts. The first 20% pulled me in right away, and the final stretch was fast paced and packed with action. But the middle really dragged for me. It actually took me over a week to finish, and I ended up reading two other books in between because I kept losing momentum.
A big part of the issue was the shift in focus. Most of the story takes place in the underworld and centers almost entirely on Vasalie and Anton. What made the first book so engaging for me was the rich cast of secondary characters and all the political intrigue. Those elements are mostly missing here, and I really felt that absence. I missed Copelan, who is barely present in this book. The opening worked well because we still had some of those interactions, but as the story progresses, everything narrows and becomes much more isolated.
I also found parts of the middle quite repetitive. A lot of the interactions between the main characters revolve around relationship drama, which didn’t feel as compelling as the more politically driven plot of the first book. The central conflict, Anton losing his memory, also ended up being resolved in a way that felt a bit too simple given the stakes.
The ending picked things up again, and I enjoyed it much more than the middle. It’s much more dynamic, though I can see some readers feeling that the political resolution is rushed. Considering how important that aspect was in the first book, wrapping it up so quickly felt a little underwhelming.
Overall, I’m still glad I got to return to these characters and this world. I just wish the sequel had kept more of the political depth and strong supporting cast that made the first book stand out, instead of leaning so heavily into a more typical romantasy direction.
Thank you NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing Plc for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The beginning and the ending were definitely the strongest parts. The first 20% pulled me in right away, and the final stretch was fast paced and packed with action. But the middle really dragged for me. It actually took me over a week to finish, and I ended up reading two other books in between because I kept losing momentum.
A big part of the issue was the shift in focus. Most of the story takes place in the underworld and centers almost entirely on Vasalie and Anton. What made the first book so engaging for me was the rich cast of secondary characters and all the political intrigue. Those elements are mostly missing here, and I really felt that absence. I missed Copelan, who is barely present in this book. The opening worked well because we still had some of those interactions, but as the story progresses, everything narrows and becomes much more isolated.
I also found parts of the middle quite repetitive. A lot of the interactions between the main characters revolve around relationship drama, which didn’t feel as compelling as the more politically driven plot of the first book. The central conflict, Anton losing his memory, also ended up being resolved in a way that felt a bit too simple given the stakes.
The ending picked things up again, and I enjoyed it much more than the middle. It’s much more dynamic, though I can see some readers feeling that the political resolution is rushed. Considering how important that aspect was in the first book, wrapping it up so quickly felt a little underwhelming.
Overall, I’m still glad I got to return to these characters and this world. I just wish the sequel had kept more of the political depth and strong supporting cast that made the first book stand out, instead of leaning so heavily into a more typical romantasy direction.
Thank you NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing Plc for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
February 23, 2026
Five enthusiastic stars for To Dance with Death, the beautiful conclusion to the epic duology by Brittney Arena.
Immediately back into this story with book 2, like I’d only set it down yesterday. (Who could forget the court dancer to the king who was thrown into a dungeon for two years and then forced into espionage for a man she despises?) it begins with a whisper of mystery. Secret tunnels. Danger. You will be hooked before you even settle into your chair.
At first, this book felt like a vibe shift from the first, different realm, different tone, different atmosphere, until suddenly it was exactly everything I loved before, and I was kicking my feet at how good it was.
Vasalie continues to be one of my favourite kinds of heroines: resourceful, observant, resilient. She doesn’t just survive—she thinks. She adapts. She endures.
And the tension? The missing memories trope is always delicious, but here it was exquisitely done. I was on the edge of my seat devouring every interaction. The “leaning”. The almosts. The charged proximity. When he calls her, “a persistent little miscreant.” 🤣❤️ Banter and yearning in perfect balance.
But the ending. It’s been a LONG time since I cried happy tears at a book (I am not a crier). This one touched my heart, deeply. Self-sacrificing love conquering absolutely everything no matter the cost.
This duology was perfect for me: romantic, tense, mysterious, and ultimately deeply satisfying. One of my favourite reads of the year, and one I will absolutely dance back to again.
Thanks to NetGalley and Del Rey / Random House for this Advance Readers Copy, thrilled to read this early!
Immediately back into this story with book 2, like I’d only set it down yesterday. (Who could forget the court dancer to the king who was thrown into a dungeon for two years and then forced into espionage for a man she despises?) it begins with a whisper of mystery. Secret tunnels. Danger. You will be hooked before you even settle into your chair.
At first, this book felt like a vibe shift from the first, different realm, different tone, different atmosphere, until suddenly it was exactly everything I loved before, and I was kicking my feet at how good it was.
Vasalie continues to be one of my favourite kinds of heroines: resourceful, observant, resilient. She doesn’t just survive—she thinks. She adapts. She endures.
And the tension? The missing memories trope is always delicious, but here it was exquisitely done. I was on the edge of my seat devouring every interaction. The “leaning”. The almosts. The charged proximity. When he calls her, “a persistent little miscreant.” 🤣❤️ Banter and yearning in perfect balance.
But the ending. It’s been a LONG time since I cried happy tears at a book (I am not a crier). This one touched my heart, deeply. Self-sacrificing love conquering absolutely everything no matter the cost.
This duology was perfect for me: romantic, tense, mysterious, and ultimately deeply satisfying. One of my favourite reads of the year, and one I will absolutely dance back to again.
Thanks to NetGalley and Del Rey / Random House for this Advance Readers Copy, thrilled to read this early!
March 3, 2026
Far too soon for a full review, but this was everything.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
March 22, 2026
•••
“Through this, I have learned that love does not erase pain. But real love, true love, makes it all worth it. It is a different kind of healing but healing all the same.”
If I could, I would give this duology 6/5 stars. That’s how much I loved it. It’s hard to put into words the way this book made me feel. There was so much there… it is deep and rich and just full of life. There are struggles and pain and sacrifice, yet also triumphs and joy. The writing style is so eloquent and just draws you in. I was sad when the story ended because I want so much more of this author’s writing.
To write such a deep and compelling story about life and death and make it a book hard to put down- that is some talent there.
I honestly can’t say too much about this book without giving spoilers, but let me just say that if you picked up book one and loved it, then you will love this one just as much. The characters are so well-defined and there’s so much depth to each of them. There’s no feeling of characters being glossed over as I sometimes find in books. It doesn’t feel as though you’re rushing to the end of the book, but it also doesn’t drag at all. The pace is perfect. The love story is break-taking. It’s a story of healing, self-discovery and strength.
I’m so glad I preordered this book because it will be one I definitely plan to reread.
•sacrificial love
•journey to the underworld
•dangerous bargains
•dark fantasy
•memory loss
•illness rep
•found family
•slow burn romance
•high-stakes romantasy
•politics and war
•bittersweet/emotional
CW: at least 15 uses of the word d-mn, a handful of other words used throughout the book, death, murder, lies, talk of f debauchery, chronic pain, disability, imprisonment,
Note: one cracked door scene in chapter 35 (obvious what is happening but not very explicit, and easy to skip)
Thanks to NetGalley and Brittney Arena for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
•••
“Through this, I have learned that love does not erase pain. But real love, true love, makes it all worth it. It is a different kind of healing but healing all the same.”
If I could, I would give this duology 6/5 stars. That’s how much I loved it. It’s hard to put into words the way this book made me feel. There was so much there… it is deep and rich and just full of life. There are struggles and pain and sacrifice, yet also triumphs and joy. The writing style is so eloquent and just draws you in. I was sad when the story ended because I want so much more of this author’s writing.
To write such a deep and compelling story about life and death and make it a book hard to put down- that is some talent there.
I honestly can’t say too much about this book without giving spoilers, but let me just say that if you picked up book one and loved it, then you will love this one just as much. The characters are so well-defined and there’s so much depth to each of them. There’s no feeling of characters being glossed over as I sometimes find in books. It doesn’t feel as though you’re rushing to the end of the book, but it also doesn’t drag at all. The pace is perfect. The love story is break-taking. It’s a story of healing, self-discovery and strength.
I’m so glad I preordered this book because it will be one I definitely plan to reread.
•sacrificial love
•journey to the underworld
•dangerous bargains
•dark fantasy
•memory loss
•illness rep
•found family
•slow burn romance
•high-stakes romantasy
•politics and war
•bittersweet/emotional
CW: at least 15 uses of the word d-mn, a handful of other words used throughout the book, death, murder, lies, talk of f debauchery, chronic pain, disability, imprisonment,
Note: one cracked door scene in chapter 35 (obvious what is happening but not very explicit, and easy to skip)
Thanks to NetGalley and Brittney Arena for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
•••
February 21, 2026
how will i ever read another book after experiencing such incredible writing and storytelling from brittney? this was the most perfect example of a sequel done well. i was truly truly truly enamoured every single page. my emotions went on a ride that is for sure.
to dance with death picked up right where a dance of lies left, and i was immediately sucked right back into the world. vas is one of the strongest fmcs i have ever read, both mentally and with the chronic pain she lives with day to day. this duology means so much to me to feel seen and be able to a relate to a character who is constantly faced with invisible pain. the representation is so important and sheds a light on a topic that is not always given the attention it deserves. and anton… down bad even with no memories? CARRYING HER because he sensed her pain. he is the standard.
i also loved the yearning from vas, it made the plot all the more compelling. and yes it was a slow burn but the pay of was beyond worth it. i couldn’t part with my kindle for the last 40% of the book. there is nothing i can fault honestly, this duology has forever changed me for the better.
brittney arena please write more books asap, i don’t think i can live without the magic you create.
thank you so much del rey and brittney for the e-arc, i am so so so grateful.
to dance with death picked up right where a dance of lies left, and i was immediately sucked right back into the world. vas is one of the strongest fmcs i have ever read, both mentally and with the chronic pain she lives with day to day. this duology means so much to me to feel seen and be able to a relate to a character who is constantly faced with invisible pain. the representation is so important and sheds a light on a topic that is not always given the attention it deserves. and anton… down bad even with no memories? CARRYING HER because he sensed her pain. he is the standard.
i also loved the yearning from vas, it made the plot all the more compelling. and yes it was a slow burn but the pay of was beyond worth it. i couldn’t part with my kindle for the last 40% of the book. there is nothing i can fault honestly, this duology has forever changed me for the better.
brittney arena please write more books asap, i don’t think i can live without the magic you create.
thank you so much del rey and brittney for the e-arc, i am so so so grateful.
March 4, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for the arc! Spoilers ahead:
I finished the first book in this duology, A Dance of Lies, around July last year and thought it was okay. Nothing too exciting, yet it kept me reading. I would say it’s the same with To Dance with Death.
After the cliffhanger of the first book, I wanted to get my hands on the next book to get some closure. And closure we got. While I love me a happy ending, I’m honestly not sold on it.
First off - Vasalie, she drove me mad. She already made me furious in the first book. Every few pages, she is described as this super fragile, tiny woman. Literally walking up two floors had her almost fainting - but then she constantly continues to surpass herself. Basically every dance seemed to be flawless, she had no problem running away from guards chasing her and literally fought in a war.
I love to see disability and diversity in books, but it made absolutely no sense for Vasalie to keep conquering it all.
Anton - the highlight of the book. He was funny and vigilant, soft yet stubborn. But: why did I have to read 400 pages of Vasalie trying to get him to remember his past life, when he had her codex right from the beginning to recollect his memories? I‘m also not convinced how he suddenly went from wanting to jump Vasalie‘s bones to being deeply in love with her. It wasn’t a process, it was like a switch had been flipped. Meh.
Straight to the war now. The war was so minimally mentioned that it did not have the impact it was supposed to have. During those few pages, Vasalie quickly saved them all and it was already over.
While I’m glad I got the closure I wanted, this lacked suspense and action for me. Everything worked out way too easily in everyone‘s favor.
I finished the first book in this duology, A Dance of Lies, around July last year and thought it was okay. Nothing too exciting, yet it kept me reading. I would say it’s the same with To Dance with Death.
After the cliffhanger of the first book, I wanted to get my hands on the next book to get some closure. And closure we got. While I love me a happy ending, I’m honestly not sold on it.
First off - Vasalie, she drove me mad. She already made me furious in the first book. Every few pages, she is described as this super fragile, tiny woman. Literally walking up two floors had her almost fainting - but then she constantly continues to surpass herself. Basically every dance seemed to be flawless, she had no problem running away from guards chasing her and literally fought in a war.
I love to see disability and diversity in books, but it made absolutely no sense for Vasalie to keep conquering it all.
Anton - the highlight of the book. He was funny and vigilant, soft yet stubborn. But: why did I have to read 400 pages of Vasalie trying to get him to remember his past life, when he had her codex right from the beginning to recollect his memories? I‘m also not convinced how he suddenly went from wanting to jump Vasalie‘s bones to being deeply in love with her. It wasn’t a process, it was like a switch had been flipped. Meh.
Straight to the war now. The war was so minimally mentioned that it did not have the impact it was supposed to have. During those few pages, Vasalie quickly saved them all and it was already over.
While I’m glad I got the closure I wanted, this lacked suspense and action for me. Everything worked out way too easily in everyone‘s favor.
March 30, 2026
Thank You to Del Rey for sending me this NetGalley E-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely adored this ending it was an incredible conclusion to the duology and I absolutely just love Brittney’s lyrical writing.
Something I wish was if maybe there was a little more flow to the story sometimes the time jumps just didn’t flow too well for my tastes and there were some points in the book that felt slightly forced and I also wish we saw more of the background characters as the deaths felt very secondary to the main plot of the book. But overall I really enjoyed this book and well done to Brittney for completing the series!
I absolutely adored this ending it was an incredible conclusion to the duology and I absolutely just love Brittney’s lyrical writing.
Something I wish was if maybe there was a little more flow to the story sometimes the time jumps just didn’t flow too well for my tastes and there were some points in the book that felt slightly forced and I also wish we saw more of the background characters as the deaths felt very secondary to the main plot of the book. But overall I really enjoyed this book and well done to Brittney for completing the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
April 2, 2026Another absolute stunning cover!!
My most anticipated release of 2026 for sure!
My most anticipated release of 2026 for sure!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you, thank you, thank you so much to NetGalley, DelRey publishing and the phenomenal Brittney Arena for the e-ARC in exchange for honest review.
Oh.
My.
Gosh.
Can I give this book eleventy billion stars? Because I want to! Everything about this book was completely and totally perfect and I had full body chills when I finished reading it! I stayed up entirely too late finishing it and just wanted to cry all the happy tears at the conclusion!
Okay, first of all, Brittney, THANK YOU for the recap! I just finished an ADOL reread so everything was nice and fresh but this is so nice for being able to pick up book 2 without having to reread book 1.
The prose in this book is beyond gorgeous. I pictured everything in my head and I want to live in this book. The way the dance numbers are described is some of the most beautiful writing I've ever had the privilege of reading! The architecture, the scenery, the clothes were all so well described.
Now, Vasalie and Anton! My sweeties! I was really nervous about how things were going to go down after the cliffhanger in A Dance of Lies. The romance and getting to see it all happen again had me kicking my feet up and squealing! I can't even pick my favorite quotes because there's so many and I don't want to spoil anything. And their ending was utter perfection! (Have I said how perfect this book is? 🤣)
The world building, the lore, the politics, the expansion of the locations and the magic were all so well done! My favorite part was Vasalie coming more into her power and belief in herself and her accomplishments.
I adored the new characters (well, most of them, looking at you Dahlia. Don't mess with Anton and Vasalie!) and also appreciated that we got to see our favorites from A Dance of Lies.
I cannot say enough good things about this book. The disability rep, the romance, the writing, everything. And the ending was everything I've ever needed. I don't even know how to stop talking about it long enough to post this review!
This book felt like falling in love on a warm Spring day. I want to bottle up this feeling and bask in this book until the end of time. I will be shouting from the rooftops for everyone to read this book until the end of time. Thank you, thank you, thank you Brittney for these characters and sharing their story. I cannot wait to see what you write next!!!
Oh.
My.
Gosh.
Can I give this book eleventy billion stars? Because I want to! Everything about this book was completely and totally perfect and I had full body chills when I finished reading it! I stayed up entirely too late finishing it and just wanted to cry all the happy tears at the conclusion!
Okay, first of all, Brittney, THANK YOU for the recap! I just finished an ADOL reread so everything was nice and fresh but this is so nice for being able to pick up book 2 without having to reread book 1.
The prose in this book is beyond gorgeous. I pictured everything in my head and I want to live in this book. The way the dance numbers are described is some of the most beautiful writing I've ever had the privilege of reading! The architecture, the scenery, the clothes were all so well described.
Now, Vasalie and Anton! My sweeties! I was really nervous about how things were going to go down after the cliffhanger in A Dance of Lies. The romance and getting to see it all happen again had me kicking my feet up and squealing! I can't even pick my favorite quotes because there's so many and I don't want to spoil anything. And their ending was utter perfection! (Have I said how perfect this book is? 🤣)
The world building, the lore, the politics, the expansion of the locations and the magic were all so well done! My favorite part was Vasalie coming more into her power and belief in herself and her accomplishments.
I adored the new characters (well, most of them, looking at you Dahlia. Don't mess with Anton and Vasalie!) and also appreciated that we got to see our favorites from A Dance of Lies.
I cannot say enough good things about this book. The disability rep, the romance, the writing, everything. And the ending was everything I've ever needed. I don't even know how to stop talking about it long enough to post this review!
This book felt like falling in love on a warm Spring day. I want to bottle up this feeling and bask in this book until the end of time. I will be shouting from the rooftops for everyone to read this book until the end of time. Thank you, thank you, thank you Brittney for these characters and sharing their story. I cannot wait to see what you write next!!!
February 28, 2026
Brittney Arena has done it again🥹🩵✨
A Dance of Lies was one of my favorite books I read last year, so when I got early access to To Dance with Death, it shot up to the top of my TBR. It is such a beautiful, phenomenal conclusion to Vasalie and Anton’s story. Again, Brittney did such a great job describing the world and setting, and I really enjoyed exploring the underworld and some of the more magical/mythological elements of the story. I also really liked seeing some inventions/technological advancements that you don’t see in a typical fantasy world! I loved Vasalie and Anton, of course, Vasalie being so strong of mind and faithful and Anton being his charming and flirtatious but also noble and kind self, and I loved watching them fall in love again. I also really loved Sundar! I honestly don’t remember him much from book one, but he was hilarious and such a girl’s girl for Vasalie and her romance woes. I really just cannot express how much I loved this story, and the ending was absolutely perfect. I can’t wait to get a copy of this book in my hands, and I can’t wait to see what Brittney Arena writes next!
Content Notes: One cracked door scene in chapter 35 (you know what’s happening, but it is not written explicitly - very Rebecca Ross style). Some mild language. Trigger warning for chronic pain/disability, imprisonment, war, and death.
Thank you to Brittney Arena, Del Rey, and NetGalley for sending me an eARC of this book! All thoughts and opinions above are my own.
A Dance of Lies was one of my favorite books I read last year, so when I got early access to To Dance with Death, it shot up to the top of my TBR. It is such a beautiful, phenomenal conclusion to Vasalie and Anton’s story. Again, Brittney did such a great job describing the world and setting, and I really enjoyed exploring the underworld and some of the more magical/mythological elements of the story. I also really liked seeing some inventions/technological advancements that you don’t see in a typical fantasy world! I loved Vasalie and Anton, of course, Vasalie being so strong of mind and faithful and Anton being his charming and flirtatious but also noble and kind self, and I loved watching them fall in love again. I also really loved Sundar! I honestly don’t remember him much from book one, but he was hilarious and such a girl’s girl for Vasalie and her romance woes. I really just cannot express how much I loved this story, and the ending was absolutely perfect. I can’t wait to get a copy of this book in my hands, and I can’t wait to see what Brittney Arena writes next!
Content Notes: One cracked door scene in chapter 35 (you know what’s happening, but it is not written explicitly - very Rebecca Ross style). Some mild language. Trigger warning for chronic pain/disability, imprisonment, war, and death.
Thank you to Brittney Arena, Del Rey, and NetGalley for sending me an eARC of this book! All thoughts and opinions above are my own.
February 25, 2026
4.5⭐️
Thank you Del ray, netgalley and Brittney for and ARC of this book - it made my whole year to be chosen to read and review a copy of my most anticipated release early 🖤
What a fantastic end to such a beautiful duology. The premise, plot and characters will always be one of the most unique and underrated in a heavy saturated genre.
This book was so emotionally driven, every single page was filled with pain, betrayal and neglect but also yearning, faith and determination. The characters arcs were such a string display of character growth. And the love story continued to be a slow burn with the BEST banter. Anton is that MMC
“Through this, I have learned that love does not erase pain. But real love, true love, makes it all worth it. It is a different kind of healing but healing all the same.”
Thank you Del ray, netgalley and Brittney for and ARC of this book - it made my whole year to be chosen to read and review a copy of my most anticipated release early 🖤
What a fantastic end to such a beautiful duology. The premise, plot and characters will always be one of the most unique and underrated in a heavy saturated genre.
This book was so emotionally driven, every single page was filled with pain, betrayal and neglect but also yearning, faith and determination. The characters arcs were such a string display of character growth. And the love story continued to be a slow burn with the BEST banter. Anton is that MMC
“Through this, I have learned that love does not erase pain. But real love, true love, makes it all worth it. It is a different kind of healing but healing all the same.”
March 19, 2026
4 ⭐️
It was so fun to return to these characters and finish this story. I flew through it, and the tension at times between Anton and Vasalie was *chef's kiss*...BUT. But, but, but. This wasn't the 5 star read that I had hoped it would be as much as I hate to say it.
For starters, I'm not a huge fan of the memory loss trope, so I was already a little iffy right out of the gate. This is obviously a personal preference, so I'm not knocking a star off for this alone. But I also didn't feel that the plot hit a climax where I was just absolutely immersed in the story. Any conflict that was presented seemed to be smoothed over pretty quickly, or it didn’t give you enough of a backstory to truly care in the first place. I was interested, but I found myself a little underwhelmed at times. I guess what I'm trying to say, is that I didn't feel that this story wasn’t as gripping as the first.
In no way would I say this is a bad book, quite the contrary, as I did truly enjoy it- the debut just simply outshined the sequel for me.
Huge thanks to Brittney Arena, Del Rey, and NetGalley for the chance to read the advanced digital copy.
It was so fun to return to these characters and finish this story. I flew through it, and the tension at times between Anton and Vasalie was *chef's kiss*...BUT. But, but, but. This wasn't the 5 star read that I had hoped it would be as much as I hate to say it.
For starters, I'm not a huge fan of the memory loss trope, so I was already a little iffy right out of the gate. This is obviously a personal preference, so I'm not knocking a star off for this alone. But I also didn't feel that the plot hit a climax where I was just absolutely immersed in the story. Any conflict that was presented seemed to be smoothed over pretty quickly, or it didn’t give you enough of a backstory to truly care in the first place. I was interested, but I found myself a little underwhelmed at times. I guess what I'm trying to say, is that I didn't feel that this story wasn’t as gripping as the first.
In no way would I say this is a bad book, quite the contrary, as I did truly enjoy it- the debut just simply outshined the sequel for me.
Huge thanks to Brittney Arena, Del Rey, and NetGalley for the chance to read the advanced digital copy.
Read
March 23, 2026Thank you for this ARC from NetGalley, Brittney Arena and DelRay.
I will provide a detailed review closer to the release date!
I will provide a detailed review closer to the release date!
March 4, 2026
To Dance with Death
I fell in love with Vasalie and Anton in Dance of Lies and I was somewhat nervous about what their journey would be in To Dance with Death. Brittney evacuated the ability to conclude an ending within a duo logy beautifully.
I loved the growth that Vasalie takes during To Dance with the Death. She really comes into herself and becomes even more brave and determined with what she has to take on which is proving her friends are innocent and trying to get Anton to come back to he truly is. I think what always is palpable between these two characters are their tension and banter between each other and that is different within this book as he is not his true self. (Not a bad thing) I think I also questioned who the real villain was. I loved the exploration of Moryana and her motivations.
I loved seeing Vasalie have to navigate Realm of Souls and try to break the curse that is set up them as I felt just like the first book there was equally stakes with impending war that was brought on from the first book. She also still has to battle her body and the consequences of being in a realm where she isn’t meant to be Obviously there is swoon worthy and kicking of the feet scenes within Anton and Vasalie.( might have to do with a waterfall) We also get to see Anton’s POV throughout the book which I enjoyed.
Britany continues to expand this world and the lore with beautiful writing and amazing atmosphere. She truly ties the story in and I enjoyed learning more about the curse the one responsible for it I loved getting all my favorite tropes and getting a little bit more found family. She truly outdid herself within this sequel. It did take me personally a little bit to fully get invested but picked up and I couldn’t put it down. I overall really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see what Britney writes next.
I fell in love with Vasalie and Anton in Dance of Lies and I was somewhat nervous about what their journey would be in To Dance with Death. Brittney evacuated the ability to conclude an ending within a duo logy beautifully.
I loved the growth that Vasalie takes during To Dance with the Death. She really comes into herself and becomes even more brave and determined with what she has to take on which is proving her friends are innocent and trying to get Anton to come back to he truly is. I think what always is palpable between these two characters are their tension and banter between each other and that is different within this book as he is not his true self. (Not a bad thing) I think I also questioned who the real villain was. I loved the exploration of Moryana and her motivations.
I loved seeing Vasalie have to navigate Realm of Souls and try to break the curse that is set up them as I felt just like the first book there was equally stakes with impending war that was brought on from the first book. She also still has to battle her body and the consequences of being in a realm where she isn’t meant to be Obviously there is swoon worthy and kicking of the feet scenes within Anton and Vasalie.( might have to do with a waterfall) We also get to see Anton’s POV throughout the book which I enjoyed.
Britany continues to expand this world and the lore with beautiful writing and amazing atmosphere. She truly ties the story in and I enjoyed learning more about the curse the one responsible for it I loved getting all my favorite tropes and getting a little bit more found family. She truly outdid herself within this sequel. It did take me personally a little bit to fully get invested but picked up and I couldn’t put it down. I overall really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see what Britney writes next.
March 30, 2026
4.25 ⭐️
Thank you so much to the publisher, author and NetGalley for an early copy of this book. I read an arc of the first book A Dance of Lies and knew I couldn’t wait for the second book!!!
This was a perfect and very satisfying conclusion to this story. I loved every minute of it and even stayed up late into the night just to read because how on earth was I supposed to put this book down?!
Some of the things you can expect to find in this story are:
• Dual POV
• Tension & Yearning
• Forced Proximity
• Forgotten Memories
• One Bed
• Fast Pacing
While book one in this duology gave us a lot of political intrigue, betrayals and plot twists with a sprinkle of romance, this book really upped the ante with the romance!! I was a giddy, giggling mess while reading this book.
I really enjoyed that Vasalie and Anton’s romance was at the forefront this time around. It felt all consuming and you truly see the depth of their connection and how they find themselves drawn to one another despite their circumstances. I’d say that the overall theme of this book is “love conquers all”. There was so much longing and yearning which is everything I wanted and more! My heart was aching for them to find their way through this curse. Anton and Valasie are truly the definition of “I will love you in every lifetime”. 🥹🥹
One thing I didn’t care for was the change in scenery especially with so much conflict happening in the land of the living. We spend a lot of time in Morta’s Liar which is fun and cool for a while to see another side of this realm and the court dynamics there… HOWEVER about 60-70% of this story takes place there. I would’ve like to see more of them in Ansa but this is a minor flaw to me.
I love this book and this duology soooo much and need everyone to join in on my obsession with Valasie and Anton!
Thank you so much to the publisher, author and NetGalley for an early copy of this book. I read an arc of the first book A Dance of Lies and knew I couldn’t wait for the second book!!!
This was a perfect and very satisfying conclusion to this story. I loved every minute of it and even stayed up late into the night just to read because how on earth was I supposed to put this book down?!
Some of the things you can expect to find in this story are:
• Dual POV
• Tension & Yearning
• Forced Proximity
• Forgotten Memories
• One Bed
• Fast Pacing
While book one in this duology gave us a lot of political intrigue, betrayals and plot twists with a sprinkle of romance, this book really upped the ante with the romance!! I was a giddy, giggling mess while reading this book.
I really enjoyed that Vasalie and Anton’s romance was at the forefront this time around. It felt all consuming and you truly see the depth of their connection and how they find themselves drawn to one another despite their circumstances. I’d say that the overall theme of this book is “love conquers all”. There was so much longing and yearning which is everything I wanted and more! My heart was aching for them to find their way through this curse. Anton and Valasie are truly the definition of “I will love you in every lifetime”. 🥹🥹
One thing I didn’t care for was the change in scenery especially with so much conflict happening in the land of the living. We spend a lot of time in Morta’s Liar which is fun and cool for a while to see another side of this realm and the court dynamics there… HOWEVER about 60-70% of this story takes place there. I would’ve like to see more of them in Ansa but this is a minor flaw to me.
I love this book and this duology soooo much and need everyone to join in on my obsession with Valasie and Anton!
April 6, 2026
✨2.5 stars ✨
“Vasalie, I think I will keep you forever. Would that be all right with you?”
This review may contain spoilers for book 1 ‘A Dance of Lies’ please read on with caution.
What to expect in this
* Sequel to ‘A Dance of Lies’
* Dual POV
* Romantic fantasy
* Life/death
* Political intrigue
* Memory loss
* Fates
First off, thank you to Del Rey for the e-arc copy of this book through netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
I was super stoked to get back into this series as I adored book one.
In the first book, I absolutely loved seeing Vasalie and Anton relationship grow and Vasalie grow as a character so this book was an interesting one in far as direction take.
I’ll say it straight out, I’m not the biggest fan of the amnesia/memory loss trope. I think a lot of the time it dissolves the whole previous past development and I think that in this case, it’s kinda showing that. In this case, Antons memory loss made him a completely different person and I wasn’t the biggest fan.
It took me a little while to kind of catch my bearings and dive back into the story but I feel that Part 2 was where I was vibing the most. I felt that this is where we got most of the romantic tension and unravelling secrets which I always like.
I will say that this book was a bit of a hit or miss moment unfortunately (it’s killing me to say it). I think the book would have benefitted from more revelation moments between Anton and Vasalie rather than an all of a sudden “I remember!” (that’s not actually how it went but like you get my jist)
Unfortunately, not a win for me but 100% see where people are going to love this! There was some epic romantic scenes in this I will admit!
Check TWs and CWs
Happy reading 🤍
“Vasalie, I think I will keep you forever. Would that be all right with you?”
This review may contain spoilers for book 1 ‘A Dance of Lies’ please read on with caution.
What to expect in this
* Sequel to ‘A Dance of Lies’
* Dual POV
* Romantic fantasy
* Life/death
* Political intrigue
* Memory loss
* Fates
First off, thank you to Del Rey for the e-arc copy of this book through netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
I was super stoked to get back into this series as I adored book one.
In the first book, I absolutely loved seeing Vasalie and Anton relationship grow and Vasalie grow as a character so this book was an interesting one in far as direction take.
I’ll say it straight out, I’m not the biggest fan of the amnesia/memory loss trope. I think a lot of the time it dissolves the whole previous past development and I think that in this case, it’s kinda showing that. In this case, Antons memory loss made him a completely different person and I wasn’t the biggest fan.
It took me a little while to kind of catch my bearings and dive back into the story but I feel that Part 2 was where I was vibing the most. I felt that this is where we got most of the romantic tension and unravelling secrets which I always like.
I will say that this book was a bit of a hit or miss moment unfortunately (it’s killing me to say it). I think the book would have benefitted from more revelation moments between Anton and Vasalie rather than an all of a sudden “I remember!” (that’s not actually how it went but like you get my jist)
Unfortunately, not a win for me but 100% see where people are going to love this! There was some epic romantic scenes in this I will admit!
Check TWs and CWs
Happy reading 🤍
March 14, 2026
I was skeptical going into this because I really don’t like the memory loss trope and I hate when the main characters are split up 😩 BUT this one did it so well! The memory loss trope worked really well and allowed Anton to be as deliciously charismatic as when we first met him and kept the tension between him and Vas at an all time high.
I really enjoyed that we got some POV chapters from Anton that progressed the plot well and kept the story moving forward nicely. It was also just a bonus to see the man yearn despite the cocky exterior 😂
I loved all the scenes in the ‘underworld’. I thought they were so much fun and allowed us readers to have some playful moments while still keeping the stakes high.
I really appreciated the continued conversations and thoughts around bodies, how they are capable of so much while also being prisons. They allow us to express ourselves and hide from the world. The idea of loving and accepting our bodies in their multifaceted, dichotomous ways was one I really related to and I thought chronic pain was depicted really well with a lot of thought and intent.
“Through this, I have learned that love does not erase pain. But real love, true love, makes it all worth it. It is a different kind of healing but healing all the same.”
A really enjoyable sequel and conclusion that wrapped up everything in a satisfying way and forced me to shed a couple tears 😭 a wonderful story of healing and self discovery around strength 🙌
Thank you so much to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed that we got some POV chapters from Anton that progressed the plot well and kept the story moving forward nicely. It was also just a bonus to see the man yearn despite the cocky exterior 😂
I loved all the scenes in the ‘underworld’. I thought they were so much fun and allowed us readers to have some playful moments while still keeping the stakes high.
I really appreciated the continued conversations and thoughts around bodies, how they are capable of so much while also being prisons. They allow us to express ourselves and hide from the world. The idea of loving and accepting our bodies in their multifaceted, dichotomous ways was one I really related to and I thought chronic pain was depicted really well with a lot of thought and intent.
“Through this, I have learned that love does not erase pain. But real love, true love, makes it all worth it. It is a different kind of healing but healing all the same.”
A really enjoyable sequel and conclusion that wrapped up everything in a satisfying way and forced me to shed a couple tears 😭 a wonderful story of healing and self discovery around strength 🙌
Thank you so much to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 21, 2026
First, thank you to NetGalley and Brittney for this eARC! I am forever grateful for being a part of the street team
Now this. This is how you write the second book in a duology. Just like in ADOL, the writing is enchanting and the atmosphere created is so incredibly immersive. I found myself in the scenes with the characters because of how drawn into the story I was and the strong connections I felt towards the characters. I couldn’t put this book down.
The story continues on with where we left off in ADOL and I felt my heart shatter all over again. I’m so glad this wasn’t like other series where our MCs are separated the majority of the book. In fact, this was even more heartbreaking. I felt Vasalies grief and pain over the predicament and wanted to rage alongside her. Watching them interact physically hurt my heart.
As the story continues, we don’t see any big twists or betrayals and the fact that this book was incredible without that speaks to the writing and story. We do learn that not all villains are truly villains in the end, which I loved.
The conclusion to the story was a perfect HEA. We have closure between all of the characters that definitely had me tearing up. If you’re looking for a completed duology that is beautifully written, captivating, includes tropes that are done so well, and a MMC that swoons like no other than look no further and be ready for this finale in August 🩷
Now this. This is how you write the second book in a duology. Just like in ADOL, the writing is enchanting and the atmosphere created is so incredibly immersive. I found myself in the scenes with the characters because of how drawn into the story I was and the strong connections I felt towards the characters. I couldn’t put this book down.
The story continues on with where we left off in ADOL and I felt my heart shatter all over again. I’m so glad this wasn’t like other series where our MCs are separated the majority of the book. In fact, this was even more heartbreaking. I felt Vasalies grief and pain over the predicament and wanted to rage alongside her. Watching them interact physically hurt my heart.
As the story continues, we don’t see any big twists or betrayals and the fact that this book was incredible without that speaks to the writing and story. We do learn that not all villains are truly villains in the end, which I loved.
The conclusion to the story was a perfect HEA. We have closure between all of the characters that definitely had me tearing up. If you’re looking for a completed duology that is beautifully written, captivating, includes tropes that are done so well, and a MMC that swoons like no other than look no further and be ready for this finale in August 🩷
March 30, 2026
I couldn't believe it when I was given access to a review copy of this book, A Dance of Lies was one of my favourite books of 2025 and such a brilliant debut! The romance was amazing and the world building epic, following the cliffhanger I was desperate to get on to this next book 💖
I found it to be a bit of a slow start, mostly because I didn't reread A Dance of Lies prior, which meant it took me a while to reorient myself with the characters and smaller plot points- the inclusion of a book 1 recap though was brilliant! Once I had gotten into the book I finished it in nearly one sitting, I was absolutely hooked once again on Anton and Vasalie's story. I feel that this story centred less on them this time and the Fate of Morta took a bigger role which I definitely enjoyed following all of my questions from the previous book- I would have liked to spent a little more time with Anton and Vasalie towards the end of the book and relished in the romance a little longer 💌
The world building continues to be brilliant and I SO want to visit Ansa (for now I will visit in my dreams!), Brittney Arena creates something magic with such care and balance that makes it an easy and addictive reading experience ✨
I cannot wait to see what she writes next, I will be reading and rereading this duology though that's for sure 🥰
4.5 Stars 🌟
Thank you so much to Bloomsbury for my e-ARC of this amazing read!
I found it to be a bit of a slow start, mostly because I didn't reread A Dance of Lies prior, which meant it took me a while to reorient myself with the characters and smaller plot points- the inclusion of a book 1 recap though was brilliant! Once I had gotten into the book I finished it in nearly one sitting, I was absolutely hooked once again on Anton and Vasalie's story. I feel that this story centred less on them this time and the Fate of Morta took a bigger role which I definitely enjoyed following all of my questions from the previous book- I would have liked to spent a little more time with Anton and Vasalie towards the end of the book and relished in the romance a little longer 💌
The world building continues to be brilliant and I SO want to visit Ansa (for now I will visit in my dreams!), Brittney Arena creates something magic with such care and balance that makes it an easy and addictive reading experience ✨
I cannot wait to see what she writes next, I will be reading and rereading this duology though that's for sure 🥰
4.5 Stars 🌟
Thank you so much to Bloomsbury for my e-ARC of this amazing read!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*I received an ARC via Netgalley*
I tried to read this slowly, to savour every moment because I really did not want to say goodbye to the characters and the story. I didn't have much success with that though as much like the first book this was addictive and I couldn't put it down!
The story picks up where book one left off, and I greatly appreciated the recap at the beginning. In terms of pacing I do think this was slower than the previous book, but I wouldn't say that's a bad thing. There is a lot of plot progression within the first 20% which does start to slow after, but it makes sense and kept me hooked throughout. I absolutely adored the world building in this, there was so much to learn and I truly loved the direction the story went in.
I loved seeing the characters again, especially Vasalie. I really enjoyed the descriptions of her dancing (and of course the amazing dresses). The yearning in this book was great, and fans of slow-burn romance will be very happy reading this.
This was a fantastic ending to the story, everything wrapped up well, and I really enjoyed every page. Truly a satisfying ending. This is a duology I will read again and again.
Big thanks to Bloomsbury for letting me have an early copy. I'm incredibly grateful, and I'm excited to see the characters and stories Arena writes in the future.
I tried to read this slowly, to savour every moment because I really did not want to say goodbye to the characters and the story. I didn't have much success with that though as much like the first book this was addictive and I couldn't put it down!
The story picks up where book one left off, and I greatly appreciated the recap at the beginning. In terms of pacing I do think this was slower than the previous book, but I wouldn't say that's a bad thing. There is a lot of plot progression within the first 20% which does start to slow after, but it makes sense and kept me hooked throughout. I absolutely adored the world building in this, there was so much to learn and I truly loved the direction the story went in.
I loved seeing the characters again, especially Vasalie. I really enjoyed the descriptions of her dancing (and of course the amazing dresses). The yearning in this book was great, and fans of slow-burn romance will be very happy reading this.
This was a fantastic ending to the story, everything wrapped up well, and I really enjoyed every page. Truly a satisfying ending. This is a duology I will read again and again.
Big thanks to Bloomsbury for letting me have an early copy. I'm incredibly grateful, and I'm excited to see the characters and stories Arena writes in the future.
March 30, 2026
Thank you so much to Bloomsbury for the ARC, this honestly made my whole year🫶🏽
Where to even begin with this book… i had certain expectations prior to starting this book, especially with this being a duology, it being the second AND last book & it’s safe to say that this book surpassed all my expectations in the best way possible. From the world to the characters, the storyline, plot, pacing, the found family and the romance?! this book was absolutely everything. This book explores love through different lenses and in different ways: platonic, romantic, familial - it explores love as the messy but beautiful feeling that it is. Following Anton and Vasalie’s story - even Mercy and Kastiel - it was such a beautiful journey😩 their stories gave me life & keeps me so hopeful in experiencing this for myself. I could sit here and go on and on and on about how much this book impacted me and how it means everything to me but I fear this will become essay length😭 all in all, this book gave me everything i needed and more & made me experience so many different emotions in different points of the story. I love how this book made me feel - it has truly reminded me of why i love reading & how words and the skill of storytelling is so powerful❤️.
Where to even begin with this book… i had certain expectations prior to starting this book, especially with this being a duology, it being the second AND last book & it’s safe to say that this book surpassed all my expectations in the best way possible. From the world to the characters, the storyline, plot, pacing, the found family and the romance?! this book was absolutely everything. This book explores love through different lenses and in different ways: platonic, romantic, familial - it explores love as the messy but beautiful feeling that it is. Following Anton and Vasalie’s story - even Mercy and Kastiel - it was such a beautiful journey😩 their stories gave me life & keeps me so hopeful in experiencing this for myself. I could sit here and go on and on and on about how much this book impacted me and how it means everything to me but I fear this will become essay length😭 all in all, this book gave me everything i needed and more & made me experience so many different emotions in different points of the story. I love how this book made me feel - it has truly reminded me of why i love reading & how words and the skill of storytelling is so powerful❤️.
March 10, 2026
ARC Review
3.5⭐️
Following the events of the first book, Anton has lost all his memories of Vasalie and believes he has been betrayed. He agrees to leave and rule the Kingdom of the dead, leaving Vasalie to try and bring him back and restore his lost memories.
After finding the first book quite boring, I wasn’t sure what to expect with this one but I thoroughly enjoyed it!
I found the “amnesia” storyline heartbreaking and it made me really sad for Vasalie.
We get to visit a lot of different places which made the whole story feel more magical than book 1 which I enjoyed. There were some twists and reveals that kept me on my toes
Overall, this was a really nice ending to their story and I enjoyed this one much more than the last book!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for the eARC.
3.5⭐️
Following the events of the first book, Anton has lost all his memories of Vasalie and believes he has been betrayed. He agrees to leave and rule the Kingdom of the dead, leaving Vasalie to try and bring him back and restore his lost memories.
After finding the first book quite boring, I wasn’t sure what to expect with this one but I thoroughly enjoyed it!
I found the “amnesia” storyline heartbreaking and it made me really sad for Vasalie.
We get to visit a lot of different places which made the whole story feel more magical than book 1 which I enjoyed. There were some twists and reveals that kept me on my toes
Overall, this was a really nice ending to their story and I enjoyed this one much more than the last book!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for the eARC.
February 21, 2026
Solid duology all around.
I enjoyed book 1 better because book 2 has a trope I’m not personally a fan of and the entire plot revolved around it. I knew this going in and I wanted to finish the story either way because I grew attached to the characters, but I really hoped that particular issue would be resolved faster so we could have focused more about the political intrigues in the story.
Still, overall a very enjoyable read that’s perfect if you want low spice and a lot of character deep dives. Vas and Anton make for good protagonists and the slow burn is slooooooow.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc!
I enjoyed book 1 better because book 2 has a trope I’m not personally a fan of and the entire plot revolved around it. I knew this going in and I wanted to finish the story either way because I grew attached to the characters, but I really hoped that particular issue would be resolved faster so we could have focused more about the political intrigues in the story.
Still, overall a very enjoyable read that’s perfect if you want low spice and a lot of character deep dives. Vas and Anton make for good protagonists and the slow burn is slooooooow.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc!
April 4, 2026
4.25 ⭐️
I liked this even more than the first book. You can really see how much Brittney Arena has grown as a writer. Her debut was already great, but this felt more polished and immersive.
I loved the underworld court setting and the romance plot included one of my favorite tropes, which made it such a fun read. The atmosphere and character dynamics really pulled me in.
I do wish we got a bit more time with some of the characters from book one, but this wrapped up the duology in a really satisfying way. I would definitely read more in this world.
✨ Thank you to Del Rey and NetGalley for the ARC! ✨
I liked this even more than the first book. You can really see how much Brittney Arena has grown as a writer. Her debut was already great, but this felt more polished and immersive.
I loved the underworld court setting and the romance plot included one of my favorite tropes, which made it such a fun read. The atmosphere and character dynamics really pulled me in.
I do wish we got a bit more time with some of the characters from book one, but this wrapped up the duology in a really satisfying way. I would definitely read more in this world.
✨ Thank you to Del Rey and NetGalley for the ARC! ✨
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