Mostly Charming

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kdmcwilley Avatar

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I won a copy of the first book in the Kingdom of Exiles series and largely enjoyed about 3/4ths of the book.

Pros:
1) The book is easy to read and flows well.
2) I really like the types of people and creatured who live in the world that we were introduced to (e.g. assassins, charmers, etc.)
3) Any romance has time to develop and feelings are not fully explored after just the first page or two. There is a clear plot that is not fully centered on romance.
4) There are twists and turns, but they do not seem forced for a fantasy novel.

Cons:
1) Much like some tv shows, I started to lose some interest when the feelings were (in my opinion) overly rehashed and explored. I do not mind romance, but prefer the emphasis remain on the fantasy and not the romance. It seems like the focus completely shifted at the 50% mark. And I only enjoy a certain percentage involving introspection of feelings.
2) (Note: Vague, but some hints at spoilers ahead) To be purposefully vague so as to not give major plot points away - there is a point where a bargain is made. I am not sure why Noc would not discuss the terms with Leena prior to making a deal. I am not sure why Leena would not assist with exactly what to bargain or make the bargain herself with her own creature.
3) This book definitely has major cliff hangers in the hopes the reader will continue.