As a devoted fan of dark adult fantasy romance, I was eager to dive into the fourth installment of the Plated Prisoner series, Glow. The series has enchanted me with its unique blend of mythology and emotional depth, and I couldn’t resist the alluring depiction of Auren’s journey toward self-discovery and empowerment. The initial premise, with its captivating nuance about Auren rising from the ashes of her gilded lies, pulled me in.
Glow did not disappoint. The world-building is as intricate and immersive as ever. I was particularly captivated by Auren’s character development as she learns to wield her power amidst political turmoil and personal chaos. The author, Raven Kennedy, skillfully tackles the nuances of recovery and transformation; Auren’s journey is both painful and beautifully depicted, resonating deeply with me.
The romance between Auren and Slade Ravinger is another highlight. Their chemistry is electric, and the exploration of their emotional complexities is beautifully woven throughout the narrative. The weighty themes of trauma, resilience, and the exploration of strength through vulnerability are powerful, as evidenced by Auren’s feeling of being a “road to Midas.” This relatable struggle to reclaim autonomy while entwined with another strong character is especially poignant.
However, while many elements of the book are praiseworthy, I would be remiss not to mention a couple of drawbacks that stood out to me, echoing sentiments shared by other readers. Some parts felt repetitive, which may cause the pacing to drag at times, particularly at the beginning. A reviewer noted Auren’s wallowing during a significant portion of the story—something that resonated with me as I found it frustrating at times as well. Yet, I understand that Auren’s emotional journey requires patience and repetition as part of her healing process.
The pacing was another recurring piece of feedback. Reading through, I often felt that the slow build-up worked in tandem with the narrative, offering deeper insight into Auren and Slade’s characters. However, I did find myself longing for the more action-driven pace of previous entries in the series, particularly during some slower chapters. Yet, I appreciated the moments that allowed me to absorb the characters’ heartbreak and slow growth toward empowerment.
One of the things I particularly loved is how this book emphasizes that you don’t have to be cruel to be strong. Auren’s evolution from being a tool for others to realizing her self-worth feels particularly relevant and timely. The thematic richness shines through many of the powerful quotes, like, “You don’t have to be cruel to be strong. You don’t have to be mean to seem brave.” This deeply resonated with my own experiences and made me reflect more profoundly on healing.
The book culminates in a cliffhanger that leaves you breathless, serving as a testament to Kennedy’s ability to craft an explosive climax. I could hardly contain my excitement for the next installment. Despite its pacing issues, Glow solidified the Plated Prisoner series as one of my all-time favorites. I can’t wait to see what the next book, Gold, has in store for us.
In conclusion, Glow is an emotional roller coaster that combines romance, fantasy, and personal growth in an unforgettable package. Even with its slower pacing and repetitive elements, the depth of Auren’s character and the complexities of her relationship with Slade more than make up for it. I would recommend this to fans of dark fantasy romance, especially those who enjoy richly developed characters and emotional catharsis. It’s a story of not just survival, but also of emerging from one’s own darkness—an empowering journey that millions will undoubtedly relate to. I’m thrilled to have experienced this part of Auren’s journey, and I eagerly await her next chapter.