Book Review - A Strange Hymn by Laura Thalassa

A Strange Hymn by Laura Thalassa

WOAH. I forgot how good this series was until I read this book. A Strange Hymn is the second book in The Bargainer Series by Laura Thalassa. I thought that Rhapsodic, the first book, was good, but this sequel was much better.

This book continues Callie's story. She is recovering from the trauma of being kidnapped by the Fauna king and saved by Des, her soulmate, from the first book. Now she's living in the Night Kingdom, which Des rules over, and learning to use her new wings. Des helps train her to become a proper fighter since she's now in the land of the Fae and her siren glamour doesn't work there. Over time, she becomes a formidable fighter and a woman worthy of a queen's title. 

I adored this book because although it isn't very plot-heavy (until the end which OMG I can't believe what happened), it provides so much insight into the characters. We learn so much more about Des's past. Although he still has a mysterious air about him, we learn about his childhood and where he came from. I also have so much respect for Callie. She works through her trauma and is one of the strongest female main characters that I've read about. I just can't explain how much I love these characters, and all the side characters are great too. And the relationship between Des and Callie is so healthy. I have not seen a healthier depiction of a romantic relationship in a fantasy story before. There is so much respect and trust between them both and it's so refreshing to see. 

I think the storyline of this series so far is so enthralling. The plot twists and turns and keeps me guessing at every step. I cannot believe the shocking ending and the major reveal that someone thought to be dead is actually alive. I can't say much more without spoiling it, so I just have to suggest that you read this series. It's well worth it.