Final Rating:
Date of Completion: 19/11/2022
Cover:
The vibrant colour scheme is stunning and provides a lovely link to the design of the previous book. I am thrilled to see both Bree and Sel on this cover, but I am not a fan of their outfits and the bottom half of this design. This might just be me nit-picking, but I would have preferred a close-up of their faces like the previous cover.
Writing:
Between the Order, the powers and the war, I was once again stunned by the intricate and creative world Tracy Deonn creates. Not even the blocks of information used to deliver the worldbuilding or my slight confusion around the intricacies of the powers could detract from the incredible world. Besides this, the story is brought to life through a vivid writing style that covers multiple senses and Bree’s emotions.
Wishes are the dangerous mind games we play with ourselves. The only way to win is not to play.
Storyline:
With the complex world and previous events quickly outlined at the start of the story, there are heaps of information to wade through before things pick up. The story that emerges is heavier and darker than its predecessor, as Bree faces an uncertain path littered with betrayals and danger. Themes of racism and identity are also explored, providing lots to consider and enriching the storyline. However, despite the action and numerous twists, I gradually lost interest as the storyline seemed drawn out and aimless. Things finally pick up again as the climax approaches, and the unexpected final twists make me eager to see where the story goes next.
Main character:
Bree’s headstrong personality is evident from the start and consistent with the previous book. Sadly, it only made her seem selfish and ignorant in this story. I was also annoyed by Bree’s helplessness, as it made her a character with a lot of talk but little action. I did, however, appreciate the raw and realistic nature of Bree’s character, as this made it easy to connect with her.
half a heart is not enough to live a whole life
Secondary characters:
Out of the countless characters who pop in and out of the story, Sel, Will and Alice stand out due to their significant roles. While I loved Will and Alice for their sweet and supportive presence, I went back and forth between hating and liking Sel. On the one hand, he is so frustratingly coarse, but on the other hand, I could not help feeling bad for his character. Surprisingly, I liked Nick more in this story as his sweet and caring nature shines through despite his small role.
Romance:
I spent most of this story leaning towards Nick due to Sel’s obnoxiousness. The angst and drawn-out friction between Bree and Sel were unnecessary and could easily have been avoided. These silly two eventually redeem themselves, and I am now torn!
Narration:
The narration was lovely, with different tones and voices that fit the story.
In the end, there are several things I liked and disliked in ‘Bloodmarked’. The captivating world and themes? I liked. The drawn-out storyline? I disliked. The romance? I disliked, then liked. Even so, I did enjoy this story and thought it was a good read. Those who liked this should also check out The Theft of Sunlight by Intisar Khanani.
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