In Elle Kaelee's Burning Glass, the second book in the Glass Wings series, Hadley continues her fight for survival after a harrowing kidnapping. Haunted by translucent wings and a shadowy alter ego, she finds refuge in the mountains, only to be targeted by the powerful Goddess Ayuvedha. Ayuvedha desires Hadley's unique abilities to conquer both Earth and the mystical realm of Myilrosis. As Hadley grapples with her fragmented identity and burgeoning powers, she faces a devastating choice: align with the Goddess's treacherous plan or forge her own path. With the Kinnari and Vrae forming an alliance against them, the fate of two worlds rests precariously on Hadley's shoulders, setting the stage for an epic clash of power and destiny.
Review Burning Glass
Oh my goodness, where do I even begin with Burning Glass? This book was a rollercoaster! Elle Kaelee has crafted a truly unique fantasy world, brimming with captivating characters and a plot that twists and turns so unexpectedly, I found myself gasping aloud more than once. The first book, Glass Wings, set the stage beautifully, but Burning Glass takes everything to a whole new level of intensity. It's dark, it's gritty, and it's utterly addictive.
Hadley's journey in this installment is nothing short of breathtaking. She's still grappling with her newfound powers and the trauma of her kidnapping, making her vulnerability incredibly relatable, even amidst the fantastical elements. Watching her navigate her complex relationships, especially the morally grey ones, kept me completely invested. You'll find yourself questioning loyalties and allegiances at every turn, because Kaelee masterfully portrays characters who are far from black and white. They're flawed, they're selfish, and yet, you still find yourself rooting for many of them, even as they commit questionable acts.
I especially appreciated the blend of dark fantasy elements with moments of genuinely hilarious humor. The contrast keeps the story from becoming too heavy, offering a much-needed breath of fresh air amidst the intense emotional turmoil. It reminded me a bit of the delightful absurdity found in Good Omens, a unexpected but welcome touch. The author's clever writing keeps you guessing; just when you think you’ve predicted the next plot twist, BAM, something completely unexpected happens. It's brilliantly unpredictable!
The supporting cast is equally compelling. Reifoel, for example, is an absolute scene-stealer, providing much-needed comic relief with his witty remarks. On the other hand, characters like Arryn… well, let's just say I developed a strong dislike for him. His actions had me yelling at the book (maybe not literally, but you get the idea!). This only highlights the depth of Kaelee's character development; she creates individuals you truly care about, whether you love or hate them. The emotional range she evokes is phenomenal – I laughed, I cried, I screamed, and I found myself completely emotionally drained by the end. The complex relationships and the author's ability to make you deeply care about even the 'villainous' characters are what truly elevate the story.
And the cliffhanger! Oh, the cliffhanger! I won't spoil it, but let's just say I'm already impatiently awaiting the next book. The ending left me with a burning desire to know what happens next. Burning Glass is not just a fantasy adventure; it's a deeply emotional and thought-provoking exploration of love, loss, power, and the complexities of human nature, all wrapped up in a deliciously dark and unpredictable package. If you enjoy richly detailed worlds, morally grey characters, and plot twists that will leave you reeling, then this is absolutely a must-read. Prepare for an unforgettable journey.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.78 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 342
- Publication date: 2024
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