Forsaken Island by Sharon Hinck

Young/New Adult Fantasy

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Forsaken Island (Dancing Realms #2) by Sharon Hinck

4.5 STARS, New/Young Adult Fantasy with Clean Romance, My format: hard cover

Goodreads Synopsis | Buy on BookShop | Buy ebook on Kobo

Books in Dancing Realms series: #1 Hidden Current

Carya and Brantley are given the task of exploring a new island to help find and bring resources back to Meriel. But the island is full of a mind-control horror that they were not prepared for.

Personal Review:

I really enjoyed going back into this world of magical dance, but not quite as much as the first book. I think some of the magic of the first book seemed to be missing, but it was still really enjoyable.

I love the cult vibes of this and the first book. This one was very creative in the differences in the villages (on the new island) and how their unique talents would come out. I found myself being drawn towards certain villages. I loved how well the different personalities were portrayed pre- and post-convening. The concept of the convenings was interesting and I was really bothered when the people (and a certain lovable person) lost their ability to love for a time.

The romance was definitely super slow burn, but really it was super sweet. Both main characters are a little stoic in their own ways, so the time it takes for them to share their affection for each other makes sense for them but I was also getting a little impatient. However, all of the relationships were well done and I'd feel comfortable with my pre-teen daughters reading this series so far.

The pace of the book was in the "cozy" category. I felt that it lagged a little for me, but I think I'm in a fast-paced mood at the moment. It probably would have been just right for when I’m in my cozy mood :).

Content Warnings:

injuries, death of a beloved animal