To Break a Dark Cage (The Iron Crystal, #3)

by Kathryn Ann Kingsley

[Nadz@Totally Addicted to Reading]

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.'TO BREAK A DARK CAGE,' is the third book in Kathryn Ann Kingsley's Iron Crystal series. The fantasy setting and magical elements present in 'Charm a Dark Prince' (book 1) resonates throughout the series. If you're seeking a fantastic adventure featuring a strong female protagonist and a dark prince who may not be as he appears, then the Iron Crystal world is the ideal destination.

In the aftermath of the tragedy that struck in "To Bind a Dark Heart," the residents of Avalon reels from the devastating events and the shocking revelation that Gwendolyn's cat is, in fact, the Ash Demon. Mordred now faces the task of purging Avalon of the Ash Demon's malevolent presence. His immediate concern, though, is safeguarding Gwendolyn — and his own heart by extension. The logical solution appears to be sending her back to Earth. Yet, unbeknownst to both, Avalon has its own designs, and Gwendolyn's return to Earth is not part of them.

In this latest installment, I had hoped Mordred and Gwen would finally communicate and cease keeping secrets from each other. But true to form, they kept silent, secrets piled up, and trust issues lingered. Despite my growing frustration with them, I couldn't help but love them both. Gwen has transformed from the frightened Kansas girl in "To Charmed a Dark Prince", into a self-assured heroine. Mordred has come to realize that good intentions did not justify the methods employed to keep the elementals in check.

"To Break a Dark Cage" may not have matched the first two books in suspense and action, but it was still an enjoyable read. Sure, there were a few letdowns. These, however, didn't stop it from being a magical trip into the mystical world of Avalon.

The book ended with a cliffhanger, but the note on which it ended came as no surprise—I anticipated it. Now, the big question is whether Gwen will use her new gift to curb the elementals' thirst for violence and power. All in all, it's a worthy addition to the series and a must-read for fantasy romance enthusiasts.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading