Queen of Myth and Monsters (Adrian X Isolde, 2)

Book two of the Adrian X Isolde series succumbs to the sedate pace of a middle series book. We uncover more information about the various goddesses vying for power, the conflicting religious views, and the cultural differences between territories. Having regained some of her memories from her former life as Yesenia, Isolde struggles with reconciling the actions of the past with the consequences of the present. Adrain is also grappling with the opportunity cost of being gifted his long-lost love along with his role as an incarnate. As the two strive to protect their kingdom and reclaim Isolde’s home, the lies between friends and foe blur significantly, leaving all characters in a murky grey.

The majority of the story focuses on world backstory and moving players into new positions. The first two-thirds of the book was rather drawn out with an emphasis on telling us about characters versus developing the characters through action. There are strong themes of men fearing powerful women, oppression, strength, and the ability to persevere. It wasn’t until the final third where the story picks up, and motives become more defined. Ultimately leaving the reader on a tantalizing cliffhanger.