by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti

5 out of 5 stars

In Ruthless Fae, the second installment of the Zodiac Academy series, Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti deliver an intense continuation of Darcy and Tory Vega's journey. After surviving the brutal trials of their first year, the Vega twins are more determined than ever to claim their place in the Fae world and retaliate against the Celestial Heirs.

One of the book's greatest strengths is its focus on the twins' resilience and cunning. Darcy and Tory's character development continues to shine as they adapt to the ruthless environment of Zodiac Academy. Their strategic approach to dealing with the Heirs, opting for stealth and subtle sabotage, adds a thrilling layer of intrigue to the narrative. The shift from direct confrontation to more covert operations highlights their growth and ingenuity.

The world-building remains a strong point, with the authors expanding on the intricate lore and social dynamics of the Fae realm. The elemental magic system continues to fascinate, and the deeper exploration of astrological influences enriches the story. The twins' rare ability to harness all four elements becomes even more significant as they navigate the treacherous landscape of the academy.

The pacing of Ruthless Fae is fast and engaging, with a well-balanced mix of action, strategy, and character moments. The tension between the Vega twins and the Celestial Heirs escalates, making for some gripping and emotionally charged scenes. The narrative effectively captures the high stakes and the constant threat looming over the protagonists.

However, the book's focus on revenge and sabotage comes with its own set of challenges. The bully-romance theme, which was a point of contention in the first book, persists in this sequel. While some readers might appreciate the evolving dynamics between the characters, the bullying aspects can still be off-putting. Nonetheless, the promise of the series improving in this regard gives hope for future installments.

In conclusion, Ruthless Fae is a compelling follow-up to The Awakening, offering a blend of strategy, magic, and resilience. The Vega twins' journey continues to captivate, and their determination to outwit their adversaries adds an exciting twist to the story. Fans of the series will find much to enjoy in this sequel, despite some lingering issues with the bully-romance theme. Overall, Ruthless Fae solidifies the Zodiac Academy series as a must-read for fans of magical academies, astrology, and strong, resourceful heroines.

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