I waited months for this book, so I knew my expectations were high, and maybe I set myself up for disappointment because of that.

It keeps much of the essence of the first book, with the familiar characters and the magic. The beginning was thrilling, but after that, the rhythm dropped. While there were interesting moments and new bits of information, it felt like the story dragged on, leaving me wondering if we really needed an entire book for that.

The romance, in particular, was exhausting. I understand it's a slow burn, but how many times can they be interrupted? How often can they promise to be together in high-stakes moments, only to overthink everything again? It was the same repetitive monologue, filled with dumb excuses for why they can’t be together.

Then there are countless subplots and new characters that ultimately go nowhere—they don't contribute to the main story at all. I think the ending was meant to be a big plot twist or revelation, but it felt like something we already knew from the start of the book.

I love Trystan and Evie, and the little family they've built in their office, but I can’t help feeling that a middle book wasn’t necessary.