Book: The Iron Flower

The Iron Flower
Book 2 in the Black Witch Chronicles
by Laurie Forest

Publisher: Harlequin TEEN

Release Date: September 18, 2018

Format: ARC from NetGalley

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Elloren and her friends find themselves looking over their shoulders as the Gardnerian forces gain influence and the Mage Council rulings become more anti-Icaral. Elloren finds herself more desperate to right the wrongs and protect everyone that she loves.

This book left me angry and frustrated at the injustices that occurred (again). Elloren has very much grown from a passive character to a woman full of action. She is still ‘powerless’ throughout the book, still hated by the Icaral, but despite these challenges she perseveres. I can’t help but like this progression to her character. With how things ended I can’t wait to see how far she has progressed in the next book.

There were times where the plot got a bit predictable, but I still got swept up by all the emotions that occurred during those moments. With all the events that occurred in the book, Elloren was able to bond with all her friends more. There were moments of peaceful banter and moments of grief. We were able to learn more of all the existing Icarals and meet a few more Icarals to learn their customs and beliefs.

The romance is still as angsty as the first one; however, the love triangle is not as prevalent anymore. Elloren is able to get closure and make a decision about the type of person she wanted to be with. I am curious on how this romance will play out with the obstacles in their path.

Read on September 11, 2018