Invidious (Marked Book 2) by Bianca Scardoni
Bianca Scardoni has done it again- taken me on a riveting roller coaster of a ride that left me panting for more. Invidious is the second book in the marked series and picked up right where Inception (My favorite book of 2015! See my review here) left off. I kept telling myself to reread Inception before I started this, it has been 7+ months after all, but I couldn’t wait and dove right in. I have a terrible memory when it comes to books-I read at least one per week, usually- but this story was written so beautifully that I was brought back up to speed without it seeming like a redundant retelling of what happened in book 1.
I mean, just look at these covers! Who wouldn’t want to read these books based on the covers, alone?!?
Jemma is one strong chick. She’s dealing with a centuries old vampire trying to kidnap her for her special blood, her best friend is missing-taken by said vampire, her one true love has turned against her and betrayed her. Yet she pulls herself out of the misery and stands strong, putting her personal issues aside for the good of her friend.
After several twists and turns, things seem to be working out- then the bottom drops out yet again.
The story is engaging and gripping, the writing flawless. The character development is wonderful- who knew I’d end up liking Dominic? Though I am firmly and irrefutably on Team Trace, I can see the pull. Dominic is dangerous and calculating, yet there’s good inside him. He does everything he can to help and protect Jemma. She should be leery of his ulterior motives…..
The romance in the book, though it doesn’t go too far, is steamy enough to make my heart race and cause butterflies to erupt in my stomach on more than one occasion. That first bud of lust is exciting and I could feel it through the excellent writing of the author.
There is some cattiness on Jemma’s part when it comes to Nikki. Let’s remember, though, that despite the terrible burden of responsibility placed on her that she IS still a teenager. I felt her reactions were honest and believable.
Invidious is a great follow up to Inception, a must-read! Five very well-earned stars!
