Book Review: Enchantra (Wicked Games, #2) by Kaylie Smith
As a lover of fantasy worlds steeped in enchantment, I was beyond excited to dive back into the captivating realm of Enchantra, courtesy of Kaylie Smith. The first book in the Wicked Games series set the bar high, but this sequel? It absolutely soared! With a perfect blend of tension, romance, and adventure, it’s a riveting continuation that kept me on the edge of my seat.
The story picks up with Genevieve "Vivi" Grimm and Rowin, the shadow-drenched hero, entangled in a deadly game where the stakes couldn’t be higher. Here, the concept of a marriage of convenience transforms into a journey of self-discovery for both characters. Vivi, cunning and fiercely independent, navigates her tumultuous past while facing Rowin’s silent, tortured soul—together, they create a dynamic that is as fiery as it is heartfelt.
The writing style is vibrant and immersive, with a pacing that seamlessly blends thrilling action sequences with reflective moments. Smith excels in weaving humor into her character interactions, making their banter some of the best I’ve read in a long time. For instance, their hilarious exchanges about the absurdities of their predicament had me giggling uncontrollably. “I’m sure you could do worse,” Rowin quips when Vivi expresses her reluctance to marry a stranger—a moment that sums up the tension and fun at play beautifully.
The characters themselves are incredibly well-developed. Vivi’s growth from battling her inner demons to finding strength in vulnerability is inspiring. There’s a quote that resonated deeply with me: “She had a Devil’s game to play. And this time, she wouldn’t be leaving until she won.” It encapsulates the heart of the narrative—a testament to fighting for one’s worth and embracing personal demons. And then there’s Rowin, who, under layers of mystery and shadows, reveals a tender, loyal nature that made me swoon. The way he stands by Vivi, proclaiming, “She’s mine,” encapsulates that protective love that makes romance so compelling.
One of my favorite elements is the setting—an enchanted Italian estate, complete with masquerade balls and hedge mazes. It creates a perfect backdrop for the intrigue and thrills of a deadly game of hide and seek, enhancing the immersive experience further. Smith’s vivid descriptions allowed me to feel like I was right there, navigating the twists and turns alongside the characters.
With themes of love, family, and self-acceptance woven throughout, Enchantra is not just about magic and danger; it’s about finding one’s place in a world that can feel cold and dark. The supporting cast, particularly the seven cursed siblings, adds more intrigue and I’m already buzzing with excitement for who might take center stage in the future.
If you’re a fan of romantic fantasy with well-crafted characters, an engaging plot, and enough witty banter to make you smile, this book is for you. Trust me when I say, the heart-stopping ending and hints at future twists left me gasping—like a true thriller should!
This reading experience was a delightful escape, and I can’t wait to see where Kaylie Smith takes us next in this enchanting series. Whether you’re ready to tackle your own demons or simply looking for a captivating tale of love and courage, Enchantra is a must-read! 💜✨
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