Format:
Audiobook.
Note: The series has been combined into a box set, both ebook & audio. I grabbed mine on Kobo, but it’s distributed widely.
Publisher’s Synopsis:
Neither Laurent nor Beast ever considered that they would make another pact with a devil, but in the spur of the moment, the temptation becomes too great, and they decide on one more deal.
This time, with Mr. Magpie.
What they get, though, might prove to be more than they can handle. The danger to the human world has already been a strain on their relationship, but Magpie’s gift brings out the worst in both Laurent and Beast. Confronted with each other’s flaws, they need to decide if, despite what they’ve been through together, maybe they’re just not meant to be.
Point of view:
3rd person. Alternating perspectives between Laurent & Beast. Epilogues from the other pairs.
Rellim’s Thoughts:
Note: These books do not stand alone. While each book follows the relationship of one couple, there’s a storyline threaded throughout all of them. They need to be listened to in order starting with Laurent and the Beast. Also, reviews may contain spoilers to previous books.
I’m utterly devastated by this book, and not in a good way. While in some ways it was good, it was completely inconsistent with all the previous books of the series. For the most part this reads like a somewhat dramatic New Adult RomCom.
With the exception of the epilogues – this was from Beast & Laurent’s perspectives. Most of the dark and twisted was replaced with sophomoric jokes and insufferable immaturity by Laurent and sometimes Beast. While I get that Laurent is still acclimating to current times and a relationship – his behavior is the antithesis of what he demanded from Beast. He dismissed his partner’s wishes, feelings, and needs at every turn with unending petulance. I get that one of Laurent’s choices was needed as catalyst for the ending, but the minutiae of that took up more than 1/2 the book.
The conclusion of the “Battle against Baal” was anticlimactic. Events happen that are never addressed & left hanging. The epilogues, in particular, felt like the authors were concentrating more on launching a new spin-off series than they were with satisfactorily ending this one.
Narration:
Joel Leslie was absolute perfection throughout this entire series. He didn’t get to show off his talents as much this time as Beast & Laurent took up almost all of the dialogue – but he was still flawless.
About the author:
K.A. Merikan are a team of writers who try not to suck at adulting, with some success. Always eager to explore the murky waters of the weird and wonderful, K.A. Merikan don’t follow fixed formulas and want each of their books to be a surprise for those who choose to hop on for the ride.
You can connect with K.A. Merikan here:
About the narrator:
Joel Leslie is a UK transplant, growing up with American parents in a British commonwealth. A classically trained actor with an MFA in theatre from USC, he is often cast for his unique ability to deliver native, authentic combinations of American and British sounds. His great range and ability to bring characters to life with honesty, wit and versatility delights producers and listeners alike.
You can connect with Joel Leslie here:
Rellim Reads 