Review: Solid series
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 04 29, 2013
I have read the first three books in the Blood Destiny series, and found them very engaging. The heroine, Mackenzie, is aware of her many flaws and seeks to control them instead of giving in to them all the time, which I always appreciate.The first rwo books, I felt, were stronger. I've lived in England, so the colloquial language didn't bother me -- except for the many "whilsts," as another reviewer mentioned. I do not recall hearing British people say "whilst" so much, but that is a small thing. I do remember their fondness for using the F-bomb, which the heroine employs frequently.The third book, BloodRage, as others have noted does veer a bit into Harry Potter territory, not just with the school, but how the heroine is treated. I also found it strange that, when a mean prank is pulled, the long-lasting effects are rarely mentioned. For example, whilst (ha) not trying to give anything away, an unwanted and severe change in appearance isn't a concern for...anyone, even when going to a fancy party. Hope that wasn't too vague.**POSSIBLE SPOILERS***Things that didn't work for me:I didn't think the deaths at school were neccessary, and the ending felt a bit rushed.I don't remember seeing an explanation of what the bad bogey was doing at the school (Mack found signs of it in a clearing) and why.I couldn't imagine why Mack would wait around for the Magic Police --for hours!-- after she knew there was nothing she could do for her friend.At times, I felt Mack foolishly disregarded information from others, or simply didn't ask what her fate would be at the hands of the Alpha. And that particular fear got a bit tiring.It was not clear to me why the Alpha would be interested in Mack. She is disrespectful, insulting, dishonest and hurtful to the point of abusive to him.I found it odd that Mack would give the precious book, that specifically keeps showing up to her, to someone else to translate because it's "too hard."All in all, I found the writing to be very good quality, the world building quite good, and the characters engaging. The quibbles I have with the third book are actually a good sign, because it shows I'm invested enough in the characters to question their behavior. (If I didn't care, I'd be like, "Whatever.")I appreciate Ms. Hunter's use of language and description. I think she is a very good writer, and I fully intend to buy the next book in the series.