What a fantastic read! I was so happy to dive back into the world of A.J. Demas writing again. This book has everything: a great romance arc, interestWhat a fantastic read! I was so happy to dive back into the world of A.J. Demas writing again. This book has everything: a great romance arc, interesting characters and political shenanigans that fit into the plot seamlessly and add some tension to the story.
The setting is again in some fantasy version of an ancient Mediterranean country. The world building is great! It’s not overly detailed, but rather plays on the knowledge of Ancient times the reader brings into the story. Still, the world feels rich and authentic. You can almost feel the evening sun on your skin.
The overall lighthearted plot still leaves room for serious discussions about slavery and the struggle of the main characters to find their place as freed slaves.
The two main characters and their evolving romance make up the main part of the story. I did enjoy reading their journey from acquaintances to lovers. Nikias and Kallion are both loveable and I found myself cheering for them early on.
The political, let’s call it, sub-plot gets resolved towards the end, without taking up to much space. It might come off as rushed, but I liked how it was resolved. For me the mix of romance and political sub-plot was just right.
And finally, Food! So much FOOD in this book! Prepare to get hungry while reading!
So, all in all this book is already one of my favorite reads this year. If you haven’t read A.J. Demas yet, you are missing out! Honey and Pepper is a very good book to start with though. So, give it a try ...more
I read this in one go on a relaxing, summer sunday and I really loved it. It was fast-paced, easy and flowing writing that kept you hooked. A perfect I read this in one go on a relaxing, summer sunday and I really loved it. It was fast-paced, easy and flowing writing that kept you hooked. A perfect read, if you just want to relax and let a story sweep you away.
Only thing that prevented the 5 Stars are certain unresolved things towards the end that were just left hanging or being forgotten about? But anyway, it is still a lush little read for anyone who wants a quick and easy romance novel :) ...more
A very generous two stars... The first half had some really good moments that I enjoyed, but I nearly DNFed at the second half. This book tries very haA very generous two stars... The first half had some really good moments that I enjoyed, but I nearly DNFed at the second half. This book tries very hard to resemble a Becky Chambers story with added Jeff Vandermeer weirdness, but sadly fails both. I think all the other 2 star reviews already point out the issues... I'm sad and disappointed. There was so much potential just from the setting. But in the end you are left with an unresolved mess of a story that comes off as patronizing and moralizing in the worst ways. ...more
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