Another book that hit the spot! The plot in this series has such a way of keeping me reading, it's insane. It feels like every chapter gives you something that makes it so you just HAVE to read more, which I love. And with the total cliffhanger from the last book, I was dying to see where Eve and Levi were headed next... which was, of course, through another series of twists and turns when it comes to Malgrave's politics.

With their lives far more separated at the start of this book, I enjoyed reading more about their differences in lifestyle and what they stand for. Funny enough, I think they believe in the same thing more than they realize... and yet, they still serve opposing forces. Every clash and interaction between them is as exciting as ever. I love how Eve didn't simply drop everything for Levi's sake, even after everything they've been through in book one. Instead, there's a tug of war in both her heart and mind, of Eve just trying to do what's right and also protect the man she loves, which felt so genuine and admirable- even if she doesn't see it that way. And the way she gains respect of Levi's crew was perfect. Her skills really shone bright and she proved herself when she didn't even mean to, which was way better than her just gaining status because of her relationship or something.

Levi was also torn throughout this story, and I love how his more vulnerable moments didn't feel too forced. He might walk and talk like a typical arrogant antagonist, but really has a way of proving who he is at his core and being there for his people. And geez, with everything thrown his way from all angles all the time, I was stressed for the man. The way it all played out and tied together was honestly impressive and super enthralling.

The author has a great way of introducing threats that feel high stakes and real. There is never a dull moment in these books. Once again, the writing style isn't really my favorite, as it can often feel a bit dry or bland. But the meat of the story is why I'm here and it never fails to deliver. Enemies to lovers back to enemies to lovers strikes again, and in the best way possible. I can't wait to continue reading to see how the King of Metal continues to rule, and how Eve deals with more personal matters. Ugh, the plot is just so good, I eat it up everytime!

Out of all the books in my TBR, something in my gut drew me to this story in particular, and boy am I grateful for that because it had me hooked! The way I binged this all in one night because I simply couldn't put it down is unreal. An easily digestible yet thrilling read with a plot twist at the end that had my jaw on the floor. I'm already itching to read the next book and see where the MC's romance takes off next.

Eve's character, for me, was refreshing and loveable. It's typical to go into an enemies-to-lovers and expect both characters to have a strong sense of pride, of course. But I really enjoyed how she went about things when wanting to screw him over, and how she stood her ground whenever she could. The way she would justify her efforts in helping Levi to make her actions seem more morally right to herself felt so genuine, a great reflection of representing how someone like Levi probably became himself. Eve is also someone who enjoys fighting, is unafraid to tap into her femininity, and is overall unashamed about her lifestyle and tastes, which I loved. It was great to see a female main character that wasn't a cliché of either being oh-so-innocent or a complete stereotypical tomboy that complains about dresses. We root for her based off of what we know about this society and what we've seen Levi do around town, which is great. The plot twist at the end/how it all wrapped up was really just a chef's kiss from me, and I can't wait to read more of her character and her moral dillhema.

And of course, Levi is here to suit all of our morally grey needs. A dark soul willing to do whatever it takes to get what he wants- but of course, he still cares about the innocent and keeps them out of it when he can. I was so glad this wasn't a typical captive scenario where one person is simply helpless/in distress. Instead, their love story plays out like a pawn game of them both trying to get what they want and falling for eachother during the process. Levi is the type of villain you can't help but cheer for, especially when he's up against the other dark mages... and the hints at his backstory and moments of softness make him loveable and entertaining all together.

I'm not someone who cares too much for smut, but there are a few scenes in here that laced in rather nicely and show off their dynamic quite well! (The over the shoulder part was a bit forced in my opinion, but hey, I was still turning every page to see where it went.)

Is the worldbuilding in this book the most astounding thing in the world? No. Did the narrative voice sometimes feel dry or repetitive? Yes. But at the end of the day, I was still hooked and drawn into this story chapter by chapter, surprised with every turn it took, and enthralled with would happen next. It exceeded my expectations and was a scrumptious read, even with it's flaws.

Pick this book up if you're hungry for an enemies-to-lovers story that will draw you in with every page. It's filled with wit and lust and a delightful battle between two people constantly at eachother's throats, all while working their way to the top. Can't wait to read the next book in this series and see where they go next!

this is why i'm in therapy