A Book Obsession..: Early Review: Dark Heart of Magic by Jennifer Estep

Early Review: Dark Heart of Magic by Jennifer Estep

, by Kt Clapsadl

Dark Heart of Magic by Jennifer Estep

Black Blade #2

Something Wicked This Way Comes...

As a thief, I stick to the shadows as much as possible. But when the head of the Sinclair Family picks me to compete in the Tournament of Blades, there's no escaping the spotlight—or the danger.

Even though he's my competition, Devon Sinclair thinks I have the best shot at winning what's supposed to be a friendly contest. But when the competitors start having mysterious "accidents," it looks like someone will do anything to win—no matter who they hurt.

As if I didn't have enough to worry about, mobster Victor Draconi is plotting against Devon and the rest of my friends, and someone's going around Cloudburst Falls murdering monsters. One thing's for sure. Sometimes, humans can be more monstrous than anything else...

I really enjoy Lila's character. She's grown and accomplished so much already and we're only the 2nd book in. It makes me even more eager to see what she can become in future books. She's no longer the skittish thief we met in the first book, but a loyal and dare I say trusting member of the family. Previously I felt like she had one foot out the door at all times but in DARK HEART OF MAGIC she seems much more settled. And considering everything that happens in this book and what's brewing next, this settled-ness happened just in time.

I really enjoy the mix of urban fantasy and mobster families in this series. And the rivalry and machinations between the families seemed to only get thicker if that's possible. It's one of those situations where you just immerse yourself and watch the sparks fly. And boy did they fly in this book! I figured out the mystery pretty early on, but that didn't detract from my enjoyment at all. It was fun to see each new revelation make me think more and more I was correct in my guess at the culprit. And then the final showdown, whew! What a doozy.

If you're looking for a fun and action packed read with great characters, an interesting world, and plenty of machinations, look no further than DARK HEART OF MAGIC. It's guaranteed to please.

(Received a copy from the publisher)

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