In the Shadow of a Hoax

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. (via Netgalley)

I requested this one, not realizing it was the second in a series. After reading the first, I started this. The series overall was a but smuttier than I expected lol but I enjoyed it overall. I liked that this one picked up with a different sister and her story. I feel like this one had more action compared to the first but it was nice to see some of the characters return for this one. Curious to see where the series goes!

This is an amazing fantasy romance sequel for In the shadow of a wish. I highly recommend it if you enjoy the genre. I loved the character development for the two main characters, their journey into being the best version of themselves and the fantasy elements of the story. It has a good amount of humor throughout the book that keeps things lighter that is a good contrast for the seriousness of some other times.
I liked the way the relationship is formed. Tarley and Lachlan learn to work as a team, get to know each other even in the most delicate aspects of one another, and it was interesting that they don't hide from being vulnerable.
I was dazed by how much I loved the main characters. Tarley doesn´t allow her fears stop her and she ends up being way funnier than I expected. I think that her character was very well executed. And Lachlan is absolutely charming, kind of boyish at some points but quickly learns to view things that matter with more mature eyes. Still charming at the end.
I loved the spice in the story. It adds up to their romance in a good way and it's a good amount of spice without getting the story plotless.
There are also alluring side characters, just to mention some: the whole Fairview family, some characters from book one (really good to see them again), and new ones like Trevis and new friends.
In addition to an excellent romance story, there is a mystery going on surrounding the Fairview family, which is getting thicker and thicker by the minute and I can't wait to get some answers in the next book.
So, a five stars read for me. It became one of my favorite books! and I hope you give it a chance.