Layla's Reviews > Cress

~ 4.5 stars ~

This was amazing. After having a mediocre experience with Scarlet, I didn’t expect much, though I was told that this one was much better, with it being the favorite of many, and I think it’s safe to say that I was not disappointed. It was enjoyable and I don’t really have any big critiques I can think of right off the top of my head ( other than a certain 2 characters and relationship that were a minor part of this book ).

I’ve also watched Tangled and an unfathomable amount of time, which enhanced my experience. The only reason I’m not giving it a full 5 stars is because I decided when the year started to only give 5 stars to my absolute all time favorites, which as much as I loved this, it is not. Also the whole Africa thing. The way it was portrayed and how vague and convenient it is with the location and just in general their journey through it. The world-building could use some help.




What I liked:

• the characters:

Wolf: Kinda useless. I have absolutely no interest in him. But he was sedated for half of it, so we’re all good. Yay.

Scarlet: She was also barley in this book, so double yay for that.

Levena: I don’t know what to make of her, other than the fact that she is very clearly a person that is manipulative and is good at doing so. I’m going to be reading the novella soon, so hopefully her villain origin story isn’t disappointing. I feel like that one is one that people either hate or love, and no in between.

Iko: She’s so adorable, I need more Iko. We stan Iko.

Torin: I have no reason to add him to this list other than to mention that his back must ache from carrying the entire Eastern Commonwealth while Kai is busy doing whatever he does. Yearn for Cinder?

Jacin: I have no opinion on him. He’s not even developed enough for me to have one, which I suppose will happen in the next book, as he is meant to be Winter’s love interest.

Winter: She’s crazy but in an endearing way. I look forward to reading more from her.

Sybil: She just… y e e t. That was totally random and uncalled for.

Kai: I like him as a character. And his “in constant confusion” aura, because same.

Cinder: She is a character that I love, and her sarcasm just elevates her character for me. I can’t wait to see how she steps up to her role of Princess Selene.

Thorne: I enjoyed reading from him so much. One of my favorites in this series, and I’m only saying “one of” because I’m too indecisive. But yeah, he’s amazing and very lovable.

Cress: Our leading lady in this book, and one that I was immediately interested in. She’s an absolute cinnamon roll, smart, strong, and so easy to love.



•the relationships:

Scarlet x Wolf: Don’t care. Other than the “sHe’s My aLpHa” thing which makes me laugh because of how stupid it is.

Cinder x Kai: Their reunion scene was somehow exactly how I imagined it. It was awkward, but cute, and Cinder shot Kai. And they are no longer in denial of their feelings, which, finally!

Cress x Thorne: So cute. This ship needs to sail, and needs to sail now. Their dynamic is one I am completely here for. The only thing I'm disappointed in is that there was no frying pan scene.

And finally, sorry, I must add this…

Kai x Levena: Planning to kill your husband, once you have aquired what you want, and the title, after the wedding, because he is useless to you is kind of a power move. Why are we so against this again? You know...good for her. I may dislike her, but at least she knows what she wants...


•the plot: Lot’s of fun. I just sped through this book, and I’m liking the direction things are going.

• Thorne goes out of his way to get Iko and an escort-droid. It was both hilarious and precious at the same time.

• Again, Cinder shooting Kai. Nothing yells “true love” more than that.

• Wedding crashing. We love that.




Final Thoughts: So far my favorite, which just makes me more excited for Winter. It was very enjoyable, this series in general is, and now excuse me while I check my library every couple of hours to see when my copy will be ready.



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