In M.J. Haag's Desire (Tales of Snow), Kellen strikes a desperate bargain: her help in exchange for the freedom of her sister, held captive by seven enigmatic men of the glade. Bound by a cryptic vow, these men refuse to reveal the true cost of her assistance, plunging Kellen into the forbidden art of spellcasting. As she masters her newfound power, a dangerous attraction blooms, blurring the lines between her duty and her desires. Faced with impossible choices, Kellen must navigate a treacherous path between rescuing her sister and surrendering to the allure of the cursed men who hold the key to her heart – and her destiny. This captivating tale blends magic, forbidden romance, and high stakes in a world where love and duty collide.
Review Desire
Wow, where do I even begin with Desire (Tales of Snow)? Let me just say, M.J. Haag absolutely knocked it out of the park with this one! If you loved Despair, prepare to have your socks completely blown off because this sequel is even more captivating, intense, and utterly unputdownable. Seriously, I devoured this book in a single sitting; I completely lost track of time, neglecting even the most basic necessities like food (don't judge!).
The boldness of the seven brothers, their unwavering loyalty to Kellen, and their growing relationships with her are utterly enthralling. Haag masterfully crafts this complex web of love, duty, and magic, leaving you breathlessly turning the pages to uncover what happens next. Kellen's journey is one of incredible personal growth. Watching her embrace her power, navigate her complex feelings, and confront her destiny was both empowering and deeply moving. She's not just a damsel in distress; she's a strong, resilient protagonist who takes charge of her own fate, and that’s incredibly refreshing.
The plot itself is a masterclass in suspense. The mystery surrounding Kellen's task, the looming threat of the Foul Queen, and the ever-present danger kept me on the edge of my seat. The pacing is perfect – never dragging, always engaging. Haag’s world-building continues to shine, adding layers of intrigue and depth to this already richly imagined world. The magic system is fascinating and seamlessly integrated into the narrative, and the romantic elements are sizzling hot without ever overshadowing the compelling plot. Yes, it's definitely spicier than the first book, but the romance feels organic and essential to the story, not just a gratuitous addition.
Several reviewers mentioned that reading the Tales of Cinder series beforehand enhances the experience, and I wholeheartedly agree. While you can certainly enjoy Desire as a standalone, having the backstory of Kellen’s twin sister provides a deeper understanding of the overarching conflict and adds significant emotional weight to Kellen’s journey. It’s like getting a sneak peek into the interconnectedness of these two incredible series.
The ending, oh my goodness, the ending! It left me utterly speechless, wanting more and desperate for the next installment. Haag expertly sets up an epic battle, leaving you craving answers and hungering for the resolution. It’s a testament to her skill as a writer that she leaves you simultaneously satisfied and utterly desperate for more. The cliffhanger is perfectly executed, leaving you with that delicious blend of anticipation and anxiety that makes for the best kind of reading experience.
In short, Desire is a phenomenal read. It's a captivating blend of fantasy, romance, and thrilling adventure that will leave you breathless. If you're a fan of retellings with a twist, steamy romance, and strong female leads, then you absolutely must add this to your TBR pile. You won't regret it. Five stars, easily.
Information
- Dimensions: 5.25 x 0.62 x 8 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 246
- Publication date: 2024
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