I really enjoyed Book 1 of the series, The Better Part of Darkness. The world building was complex and fleshed out. And the cast was intriguing. But, it took me a while to warm up to Charlie Madigan, the protagonist. She was extremely stubborn and in denial throughout most of the book. I still pulled for her, though, mostly because Kelly Gay described how much Charlie loved her daughter so well. I couldn't help but empathize with Charlie when all her emotions were so heart felt, well reasoned and well described.
This sequel seemed like a completely different book. After finishing, I felt like I had watched a blockbuster action film. A lot happens. There are relationship changes, fire fights, deaths, world saving/world dooming, etc. There's still a pretty cast in an extensive and detailed world. But, Charlie just stopped developing. Her massive stubbornness and unchanging denial was incredibly frustrating. In fact, the entire cast seemed to be superficially described with superficial reactions. I just stopped caring about her and everyone else after awhile.
**SPOILERS**
For example, if my extremely attractive/available/siren partner just voice fucked me against my will, I'd be more than just a little embarrassed and feeling awkward. I'd be angry, scared, conflicted, and maybe even a little ashamed. But no, Charlie promises herself she won't become one of those (aka Siren groupies), decides to forget about it for awhile and goes on to save the world instead.
**END SPOILERS**
Honestly, I'm not really looking forward to Book 3. I don't want to see how Charlie's relationships are forced to adapt to her inability to change. In the end, I want to see a protagonist that is challenged by the people around her and made better for it.
I think Karen Marie Moning has ruined me for PNR forever. Shadowfever was just that good.
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