I found the magic consequences new. Have read many fantasy books over the years and can’t recall magic taking a toll on the user.
Characterization is fair. Have read better and worse. Devon’s writing, first person Allie, does a lot of repeating but I kind of figured that is the way a lot of us think and so the stories kind of added a
familiarization, at least in my way of thinking.

The romance part, guess I don’t know what to say. Have not been a reader of romance novels and don’t like a lot of graphic sexual activity in what I read. I thought Devon sparked an interest, did a tease but maybe didn’t satisfy many readers with the culmination of her romantic/sexual scenes but again, I found it OK. The second book had virtually no sexual activity.

I’d say more, but it’d venture into spoiler territory.

I think it’s true that she is somewhat of a standard UF protagonist, but I did find the author’s voice different enough and pleasant enough. Looking forward to the next.

And thanks karmelrio for the link to Smart Bitches. Very illuminating – not just the tattoos but to see so many with the same pose.

Love this site! Thanks!

The way that the magic is used in the story is refreshing in that it has consequences (which is not to say that its refreshing because the magic having consequences is a trope deeply rooted in fantasy but is often not articulated well in more of the modern stories).

I think this was another reason. It’s a trope I’m very familiar with, in various books and in various incarnations, so it didn’t help with my “I’ve read this book before, haven’t I?” reaction.

Also, what’s with the covers with overly tattooed women? Is that a new thing? I hope not. I don’t object to tattoos but completely body covered or a significant piece of the body like these arms, is a turn off for my interest in reading the book. Unless, they slide off her body and morph into little demon’s which I loved in Marjorie Liu’s first book in her new series (can’t think of the name right now). Maybe others would think this is a spoiler and if you don’t want to answer, I’ll understand, but do they have a signficance?

Thanks!