Review of Glow of the Everflame (Kindred’s Curse, #2) by S. M. Gaither
As a lover of cliffhangers and compelling characters, Glow of the Everflame captivated my attention from the moment I cracked open its pages. The second installment in S. M. Gaither’s Kindred’s Curse series not only builds on the gripping tension of the first book but also expands the universe in ways I couldn’t have anticipated. With such a compelling tagline—“We’re not reborn in the flames. We’re revealed”—I was eager to see how Diem would navigate her way through her new reality.
After the explosive events that left us hanging at the end of Heart of the Everflame, this sequel plunges us straight into Diem’s turmoil. I deeply appreciated how the narrative paints her grappling with denial, grappling with the precarious balance of grief, identity, and new responsibilities. Her interactions, particularly with Luther—who I can’t get enough of—breathe more life and complexity into their relationship. Luther, with his sheer loyalty, reminded me a bit of beloved characters from previous reads, evoking both admiration and protectiveness in me as a reader.
The themes of love, betrayal, and the concept of found family resonate throughout, but what truly had me cheering was Gaither’s masterful writing. The way she crafts each scene is almost poetic at times, invoking raw emotions that spill off the page. I found myself lost in beautifully written passages—there’s something magical about the world-building that feels both expansive and intimately relatable. The world around Diem is carefully constructed, revealing layers that feel rewarding to uncover gradually.
However, I’ll admit, there were moments when the pacing felt a bit rushed. Important character developments and romantic progressions sometimes seemed stifled by the quick turn of events. I longed for more moments to savor Diem’s growth and the blooming romance, especially since the central action spans only about 30 days. It left me wanting to sit with these characters just a little longer to fully experience their pain and joy.
Regarding the characters, the evolution of Diem is still a work in progress for me. I appreciate her flawed nature, but there were times when her stubbornness created unnecessary conflict with those around her. That said, I found myself invested in her journey—not just for her resilience but for the unwavering support she finds from her chosen family. Luther’s selfless nature contrasts beautifully with Diem’s journey towards self-love, making their dynamic thrilling to follow.
As for the ending? While it felt somewhat rushed, it did propel me into a frenzy of anticipation for the next installment. I can’t help but be excited for what’s next—who isn’t curious about the fate of characters you’ve come to care for so deeply? My only hope is that the pacing will allow for more emotional depth for all involved, especially as tensions rise.
In conclusion, if you adore fantasy infused with rich character development, betrayal, and swoon-worthy slow-burn romance, then Glow of the Everflame is an absolute must-read. This book is not just a sequel; it’s an invitation into a world where love walks hand in hand with betrayal, and loyalties are tested. I left the book feeling both exhilarated and desperate for more, and I suspect you will too. So go ahead, dive in. You won’t regret it! 💖
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