Twisted Iron Marks

Things are not going well for Bran. This is book 2 in the Bitter Legacies series by Hailey Turner. What a great follow-up to book number 1. I didn't like this one as much as I liked book 1, those fae are nasty creatures and I felt so sorry for Bran. I guess that's a me problem. The narrator, Gary Furlong, had another stellar performance. Boy, Hailey had us on the edge of our seats just waiting to see what she had in store for these guys next. Poor Bran had the toughest time and I hope the next book will see him not so used and abused. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. An old foe is discovered, the witch council delivers some ultimatums, Bran and Cillian on the run, the collar must be worn at all times for Bran's protection, thank heavens for Bran's familiar

Brilliant listen, read by Gary Furlong. After the recap chapter at the beginning, the story goes straight back to the high level of tension established in the first book. This is a story dominated by morally ambiguous sides and causes, with both factions capable of horrific cruelty towards the other, while the two main characters are caught between their respective worlds. At this point, at least, the book doesn’t present its main characters as leaders for good. Instead, they’re simply trying to survive without losing their own sense of right and wrong in the process. It feels very much like a development book in some ways: the sides are being drawn, adversaries defined and alliances negotiated. I found myself particularly drawn towards Bran’s cause, and the completely unequal balance of power that threatens his relationship with Cillian. It’s a trope that does appeal to me, and I think it’s explored well here, with a genuine understanding of the grey areas the author is working within. That said, the trigger warnings for this book should definitely be checked carefully. There are some very dark themes and scenes, and I think the word “dubious” could probably be disregarded as an adverb! The audiobook itself is read flawlessly, as you would expect from Gary Furlong. He’s a top-level professional and an absolute pro at bringing this kind of story to life.