While I enjoyed this book I felt very deflated when it came to certain parts of the story where I needed "more" to make it go to that "other" place for me! I say this in regards to Ceri and Rio finding out they were destined for each other along with the disappointment I felt towards the battle, I was hoping for something more elaborate and nail biting! Overall I loved the enemies to lovers relationship of Ceri and Rio as well as all of our other characters, especially Hamish, and it will stick with me for some time! ☺️ 3.5/5

I am enjoying the heck out of this series! The first book laid a strong foundation of information about this world and the fascinating cast of characters. The author really has the perfect blend of world-building but still telling a story. This book carries that forward really well. It doesn't just rehash the first book - it builds on it and allows the mythology and overall story line to grow.

Ceri and Rio start off as anything but friends. They are on opposite sides of the page - separated primarily by Rio's dislike and prejudice towards Ceri. Rio's feelings, in many ways, it just really didn't make sense. He comes off seeming like a judgmental jerk most of the time (as he did in the first book). The author really had to work hard to rehab his character! Ceri is sweet and comes across as very innocent.

She and Rio are definitely hot together - but will have some work to do if they want to grow into true partners. They definitely come together strongly by the end of the book - but they still have a ways to go.

This book is definitely action packed and advances the overall story and mythology quite a bit! I am excited to see where this series goes.

I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.

Warrior by Tam DeRudder Jackson is the second book in the Talisman series and delivers more of the magic, mythology, gods and warriors we were introduced to in book one! I’m enjoying the concept behind this evolving series and there’s no lack of happenings to keep the reader intrigued. Everything that happens, does so for a reason, it’s just a matter of discovering what that reason is. I love the Celtic element of these books and the setting in the Highlands is magical. Great characters, imaginative world building and a captivating plot ensure an entertaining read. I’m excited for more from this author.