Master of Iron

JUST as good as the first one, I have to say.

Once again the anxiety rep is top tier, I really do think it's my favorite thing about these books. There are plenty of other things about them that I enjoy, but I can tell this story was lovingly crafted by an author who really does understand what it's like to struggle with something like this. The difficulties that Ziva faced over the course of the plot within herself; not feeling worthy of happiness, frustration over how the anxiety affected her and her ability to enjoy life, worrying that she would just be a burden on others and that no one would have the patience to deal with it, deal with her-

It really hit home for me.

Besides that, the plot was tense and enjoyable. This book was STRESSFUL, but it was fulfilling at the same time. I was on the edge of my seat pretty much the entire time, and the friendship/family vibes were IMMACULATE. Both of the couples learning that communication is truly what makes or breaks a relationship was also a very nice touch, and refreshing to find in a book nowadays when so many of them tend to lean on the miscommunication trope for more conflict.

All in all, a solid book. Tricia Levenseller knows what she's doing. 

I did not enjoy this book. I read the first one also - Blade of Secrets. my primary frustration is that the POV character has constant anxious thoughts and has to learn and relearn the same stuff. The subplots are the same as the full plot. The repetition and the annoying tone of the POV character's headspace did not work for me.

However, I'll give this book praise for talking about sex and relationships positively (there is no sex in the book), including clear statements about consent, equal partnership, changing your mind, and protecting both parties.

A very satisfying conclusion. Battle scenes were well done; usually I find myself skimming such portions as being pointlessly long.