The Wounded

by Lauren Nicolle Taylor

[shannonmiz]

Full review can be found here

In this, the third book of The Woodlands series, I had hoped that the momentum would continue, but a lot of "middle" books just can't keep up the same level of excitement while still having enough suspense left for the pending final book. This is unequivocally not the case for The Wounded. This book somehow managed to outdo its predecessors, not a small feat considering how wonderful I found them both.

First, the action does not stop. But not in that annoying, can't-keep-up kind of way, in that perfect flow way. There is enough down time in the book so that the reader doesn't feel overwhelmed, but never too much as to cause the mind to wander. There were twists and turns that I truly never saw coming (and admittedly, one or two that I did, but that is to be expected), and lots of questions answered while still leaving enough unanswered for the final book.

Then there is the character development. I feel like we see a lot of growth, and more importantly, a lot of reflection. I love that Rosa and Joseph are both flawed, and that they both realize that they are flawed. During the course of the events in the book, I could actually picture a real person having the same emotions and inner turmoil as Rosa and Joseph. I like that they weren't always feeling the bravest, or the most in control. It made them much more likable and relatable. In addition, the supporting characters were wonderful as always. There is something special about each of them, and it makes you truly invested in each one, not only in Rosa and Joseph.

In addition, the writing itself was absolutely lovely. I have always enjoyed the way Lauren writes, but the writing in The Wounded was absolutely exceptional. I had vivid images in my head the entire time, and it was an absolute pleasure to be reading the book. Quite simply, I did not want it to end.

*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.