Book Review: Throne of Secrets (Prince of Sin, #2) by C.M. Talarico
From the moment I stumbled upon Throne of Secrets, I was intrigued. The tantalizing promise of a hellish domain ruled by gluttony, along with a loose reimagining of Cinderella, was hard to resist. C.M. Talarico has brought us back to this captivating world where our darker desires intertwine with unlikely romance, and I was here for every moment of it.
In this spinoff, we step into the twisted realm of Gluttony, where our charming yet flawed prince Gabrielle reigns. He’s not your typical brooding prince; instead, he’s thrown into a chaotic world of ice dragons and unexpected journalist intrigues. Adriana, our fiercely determined protagonist, is a journalist just trying to survive and report on the bizarre happenings of her world—like a dating competition that doubles as a power move in the depths of hell. Their banter? Absolutely 11/10! I found myself smiling as I read their exchanges, filled with wit and an undercurrent of longing.
The world Talarico has crafted feels both expansive and immediate, allowing readers to feel the weight of the characters’ pasts while they navigate the present. But I admit, while I adored the dynamic between Gabrielle and Adriana, there were moments where the plot took unexpected turns that veered perilously close to absurd. The twist regarding their memories felt outlandish and, frankly, a bit nonsensical, which tempered my enthusiasm. However, I can’t deny that these “flaws” are part of what makes the story entertaining. Sometimes, it’s okay to revel in the chaos, especially when there’s a talking baby dragon involved!
The writing style stands out for blending dark themes with lighthearted banter. Talarico’s voice often reminds me of a clever combination of Talia Hibbert and Julia Quinn—if Lady Whistledown took a plunge into the depths of hell! And while the pacing may stumble a bit towards the conclusion, the journey there made it worthwhile. The steamy scenes felt more polished compared to earlier works, leaving me pleasantly surprised rather than cringing.
Another highlight was the reflection on personal struggles, such as financial struggles and familial abuse, which added depth amidst the fantastical elements. The blend of reality and fantasy gave the reader much to chew on, making Adriana’s journey more relatable in a world filled with hellish chaos.
For anyone who loves vibrant characters, unexpected twists, and a touch of dark whimsy, Throne of Secrets is a must-read. It’s the second in the Prince of Sin series, and while you could read it standalone, the connections to the wider universe are deeply rewarding, as are the complex character arcs. I came away not just entertained but eager for the next installment, curious about what adventures lie ahead for Gabrielle and Adriana.
If you’re looking for an escape filled with laughter, passion, and unique world-building, this book will sweep you off your feet. Despite its flaws, it left me with a warm feeling and a longing for more, and I can’t wait to see where Talarico will take us next!
Discover more about Throne of Secrets (Prince of Sin, #2) on GoodReads >>