The World Within

I continue to appreciate the unique fantasy elements in the newest installment of the Weirdwater series. The staples of swords and dragons from the genre don't feature, but the world that author Dani Finn is able to build still feels very much fantastical. The World Within also incorporates many elements of steampunk, and not just in the form of an “olli,” an in universe and sometimes vibrating sex toy.

Continuing on after Unpainted, the story can be read as both a stand alone or as part of the larger series. The title shares a name with the new business returning characters have opened. Though, business doesn't really do the complex they've built justice. High end sex shop meets consultation and education meets mind and body health spa. The location features so prominently, it's almost like another character. It also serves as the impetus behind the romantic leads of the story first meeting.

I very much enjoyed reading the books that came before this one in the series, but I think I would have enjoyed reading The World Within more as a stand alone. Enough detail and world building is given that fresh readers shouldn't be confused joining with this as the first chapter. As a returning reader though, I felt that some of the continuing characters didn't completely match up with themselves in the new story. Some of the terminology also seemed to change a bit from one novel to the next.

Rich description and immersive world building continue to be highlights of the Weirdwater series. In a way, it's almost too good because when the veneer slips even a little, it's made more apparent by comparison. A few modern colloquialisms slip in with this one that I don't remember happening much in the previous novels. This and a personal preference for romances that don't seem like instant love also contributed to my rating.

Readers looking for a high spice story involving fantasy elements with LGBTQ+ characters will enjoy The World Within. If fantasy only involves high, world-ending stakes and sword slinging, this isn't the read for you. Compelling characters, a sweet romance, and a lavish world make this a book worth grabbing!