* I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
One of my favorite parts about this book is how different it is from the previous books in this series.
Don’t get me wrong–I love this series. But my favorite parts are learning more about this world and how it works. And while the past four books have been in small places with only a few people, this book introduces the big city of Aglian, which is full of trade and offers a more privileged viewpoint of the monster problem plaguing this world.
While our main characters think they’re going to get a relaxing evening off from their hunting duties, we as readers know there is always a monster to defeat. I found it very interesting to see how the city’s past ties in with its monster problem and how my knowledge of the monsters evolves with the information in this book.
I also found it very interesting that we finally meet Magden. This was a character referenced in the very first book in the series as an experienced hunter who was supposed to go on Eric’s mission, but who hadn’t returned from his previous mission. And while I believe readers aren’t supposed to like Magden, especially with his portrayal in this book, I am very interested in his character. He seems like an important character who will have more of an impact as we continue on with the series, and I’d love to see how he grows alongside the story.
The ending of this book, however, has me throwing down the gauntlet. I will acquiesce that it’s probably a good thing for me to have such strong feelings over the ending of this book. And, fortunately, there is an ocean separating the author and I. But I hope Alexander Lound can feel my glare through his screen.
Still, my feelings on this series should be obvious. If you haven’t been reading this series and need a reason to pick it up, I definitely recommend it! And if you aren’t sure about committing to a five-books-and-counting long series, I do want to ease your fears by pointing out that each installment is less than 100 pages. Even the most casual of readers can easily get into this series and join me in my emotional damage.