Book Review: Glint by Raven Kennedy
Glint had absolutely no business being this addictive considering the entire book is basically Auren being held hostage in a freezing camp while she plots her escape with a big, broody commander watching her every move… and yet I devoured every single page in a couple of days.
The writing in this series is just so easy to get lost in. I was beyond happy that Midas took more of a backseat in this book because that man does nothing but make my blood pressure rise. Give me King Ravinger any day. Dark, brooding, protective, morally gray? Yes please!
One of my favorite things is watching Auren grow. She’s finally starting to see the world for what it is and stepping into her own strength instead of being the weak, gullible girl everyone expects her to be. After everything she’s been through, it’s so satisfying to watch.
The other saddles continue to be absolutely heartless and they irritated me every time they were on the page. As for Queen Malina’s chapters, they mostly felt like a way to break up the story at first, but I can definitely tell she’s being set up for something bigger. I’m just not entirely sure what yet.
All I know is I finished this book and immediately picked up the next one. Raven Kennedy has me in a chokehold.
#bookreview #bookrecs #bookrecommendations #fantasybooks #platedprisonerseries
Wow, just like the original review said, Glint by Raven Kennedy has absolutely no business being this addictive! I found myself completely swept away, turning page after page, eager to see what would happen next. If you're someone who loves to get lost in a dark fantasy with rich character development and a truly unique premise, then you're in for a treat with this one. For those curious about the 'King Midas retelling' aspect, Raven Kennedy takes this ancient myth and twists it into something incredibly compelling and fresh. Auren, our gold-touched protagonist, is far from a passive character, even in her initial 'captive' state. Glint really delves into her journey of 'self-discovery,' peeling back layers of conditioning and trauma. You witness her slowly, painstakingly, find her voice and her strength, which is incredibly satisfying. The 'forced proximity' trope is handled masterfully, highlighting her vulnerabilities while also setting the stage for profound internal and external shifts. It's not just about what happens to her, but how she reclaims herself. And then there's King Ravinger – oh, King Ravinger! He perfectly embodies the 'dark commander' archetype. He's brooding, mysterious, and possesses an undeniable aura of power, yet there are subtle hints of a complex, protective nature beneath the surface. The dynamic between him and Auren is a masterclass in 'slow burn' romance. It’s full of tension and unspoken words, building anticipation with every interaction. While the original review mentioned 'spice,' it's definitely a slow burn in Glint, with the emotional depth taking precedence, making the eventual payoff even more impactful. If you adore morally gray characters who challenge your expectations, Ravinger will definitely captivate you. Beyond the magnetic characters, Glint is steeped in political intrigue, 'lies & betrayal.' The world-building expands significantly from the first book, introducing more factions and the complexities of power. You start to understand the roles of the 'other saddles' and Queen Malina’s chapters, which initially might seem like breaks, are clearly setting up a much larger, intricate game that will unfold throughout the series. It adds so much depth to the narrative, making it more than just a character drama. Speaking of the overall presentation, the 'Glint Raven Kennedy cover' itself is a piece of art. The gold lettering and dark, intricate branches perfectly encapsulate the book's dark fantasy essence and its themes of gilded cages and hidden power. It truly sets the mood before you even open the pages. For those who prefer listening, I’ve heard fantastic things about the 'Glint audiobook' narration. Many agree it brings the characters and the vivid world to life in an immersive way, making it an excellent option if you want to experience Auren's journey and the 'rise of the raven' saga on the go. This series is more than just a few books; it’s an entire experience that Raven Kennedy has crafted, full of raw emotion, significant character growth, and a plot that keeps you guessing. If you're looking for an unforgettable read that will put you in a chokehold (in the best way!), Glint is absolutely it.
